christ_n tender_v the_o lord_n christ_n be_v of_o holy_a pure_a undefiled_a eye_n pure_a than_o to_o behold_v iniquity_n can_v think_v the_o lord_n will_v accept_v of_o such_o a_o forlorn_a soul_n as_o thou_o that_o have_v so_o curse_o rebel_v against_o he_o o_o no_o say_v the_o soul_n i_o dare_v not_o conceive_v god_n will_v look_v upon_o i_o who_o be_o such_o a_o curse_a wretch_n alas_o poor_a soul_n thou_o think_v this_o to_o be_v poverty_n of_o spirit_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v curse_v pride_n thou_o will_v have_v some_o ground_n of_o confidence_n in_o thyself_o that_o the_o lord_n shall_v accept_v of_o thou_o and_o thou_o think_v it_o great_a humility_n in_o thyself_o like_o another_o peter_n what_o jesus_n christ_n wash_v my_o foot_n now_o what_o near_a likeness_n be_v here_o between_o this_o pride_n of_o spirit_n and_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n all_o the_o difference_n be_v here_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v true_o poor_a desire_v never_o to_o have_v any_o thing_n in_o himself_o to_o rest_v upon_o the_o soul_n have_v no_o hope_n of_o ever_o have_v any_o thing_n as_o it_o be_v in_o itself_o and_o alas_o this_o difference_n be_v hardly_o discern_v thus_o also_o if_o you_o go_v to_o sincerity_n of_o obedience_n say_v the_o soul_n though_o i_o do_v fail_v in_o my_o purpose_n yet_o i_o hope_v my_o heart_n be_v sincere_a towards_o god_n in_o all_o that_o i_o do_v and_o that_o be_v give_v as_o another_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n i_o say_v it_o be_v true_a but_o the_o question_n be_v how_o we_o shall_v discern_v it_o from_o the_o mere_a work_n of_o ignorance_n sincerity_n be_v a_o single_a eye_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o to_o his_o honour_n and_o glory_n in_o what_o thou_o do_v but_o according_a to_o the_o soul_n judgement_n a_o soul_n act_v mere_o by_o the_o principle_n of_o ignorance_n may_v have_v a_o single_a eye_n at_o god_n glory_n rom._n 10.2_o 3._o the_o jew_n have_v a_o zeal_n for_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o so_o they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n hence_o the_o soul_n will_v say_v i_o think_v i_o have_v sincerity_n of_o heart_n but_o i_o do_v not_o certain_o know_v i_o may_v be_v deceive_v thus_o in_o these_o chief_a thing_n there_o be_v such_o a_o nearness_n that_o we_o can_v scarce_o discern_v the_o jewel_n from_o the_o counterfeit_n ii_o in_o regard_v those_o holy_a disposition_n inclination_n and_o habit_n of_o grace_n do_v proper_o proceed_v from_o some_o kind_n of_o evidence_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n and_o according_a to_o the_o clearness_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n so_o do_v these_o grace_n increase_n and_o according_a as_o the_o soul_n union_n be_v eclipse_v so_o do_v they_o decrease_v to_o begin_v with_o that_o which_o most_o promise_v seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o that_o be_v to_o mourner_n whence_o do_v true_a mourn_v for_o sin_n in_o the_o soul_n proceed_v be_v it_o not_o from_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n yea_o from_o some_o sight_n of_o the_o soul_n propriety_n in_o christ_n at_o least_o thus_o far_o from_o some_o sight_n of_o probable_a interest_n in_o christ_n be_v it_o not_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n behold_v first_o the_o curse_a nature_n of_o sin_n indeed_o the_o horridness_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o sin_n never_o appear_v but_o in_o the_o precious_a glass_n of_o the_o lord_n bowel_n of_o mercy_n to_o poor_a loveless_n soul_n iii_o in_o regard_n the_o right_a nature_n and_o truth_n of_o those_o holy_a quality_n or_o habit_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v discern_v but_o from_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n and_o that_o in_o these_o respect_n 1._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v not_o a_o full_a conformity_n in_o those_o holy_a quality_n inherent_a in_o thy_o heart_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n that_o do_v command_v those_o holy_a quality_n shall_v i_o begin_v at_o the_o low_a which_o be_v sincerity_n of_o heart_n in_o the_o soul_n obedience_n unto_o god_n the_o soul_n can_v seldom_o i_o may_v say_v never_o see_v a_o conformity_n in_o his_o obedience_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n the_o rule_n be_v in_o eph._n 6.5_o 6._o it_o be_v speak_v concern_v servant_n but_o it_o hold_v in_o every_o duty_n servant_n be_v obedient_a to_o they_o that_o be_v your_o master_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_v in_o singleness_n of_o your_o heart_n as_o unto_o christ_n not_o with_o eye-service_n as_o men-pleasers_a but_o as_o the_o servant_n of_o christ_n do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n from_o the_o heart_n true_a sincerity_n in_o obedience_n to_o any_o command_n it_o be_v a_o singleness_n of_o heart_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n a_o single_a eye_n that_o be_v have_v respect_n to_o nothing_o but_o christ_n alone_o the_o species_n of_o all_o the_o vision_n of_o that_o eye_n with_o which_o he_o respect_v the_o duty_n be_v take_v from_o jesus_n christ_n alone_o now_o how_o far_o short_a shall_v a_o soul_n see_v itself_o of_o a_o conformity_n to_o the_o rule_n when_o can_v the_o soul_n say_v his_o heart_n be_v single_a to_o christ_n in_o prayer_n or_o in_o any_o ordinance_n now_o in_o regard_n the_o soul_n may_v behold_v at_o all_o time_n so_o great_a a_o difference_n in_o the_o holy_a quality_n inherent_a in_o his_o heart_n to_o the_o rule_n that_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v bring_v to_o a_o full_a conformity_n to_o those_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o heart_n can_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n the_o truth_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o truth_n of_o they_o can_v appear_v in_o themselves_o without_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o imperfection_n of_o the_o soul_n sight_n to_o discern_v the_o depth_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n any_o know_a soul_n judge_v itself_o to_o be_v far_o unable_a to_o search_v the_o depth_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n jer._n 17_o 9_o the_o heart_n be_v deceitful_a above_o all_o thing_n and_o desperate_o wicked_a who_o can_v know_v it_o thence_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n have_v never_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o any_o holy_a quality_n in_o himself_o from_o the_o quality_n itself_o to_o answer_v all_o the_o objection_n of_o a_o carnal_a heart_n because_o that_o remain_v unanswered_a the_o heart_n be_v deceitful_a 2._o in_o regard_v the_o truth_n of_o those_o holy_a quality_n appear_v only_o as_o they_o do_v proceed_v from_o faith_n therefore_o unless_o the_o soul_n discern_v and_o know_v they_o to_o be_v fruit_n of_o faith_n it_o can_v conclude_v they_o to_o be_v holy_a quality_n hebr._n 11.6_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n now_o he_o that_o discern_v faith_n discern_v union_n with_o christ_n therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o sight_n of_o union_n before_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o holy_a quality_n answ_n 3._o the_o three_o negative_a answer_n be_v this_o that_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n can_v be_v evidence_v by_o any_o thing_n do_v or_o effect_v by_o the_o soul_n or_o that_o can_v be_v effect_v and_o do_v whether_o we_o look_v upon_o work_n internal_a or_o work_v external_a whether_o we_o look_v upon_o the_o inward_a move_n of_o the_o affection_n to_o to_o god_n or_o whether_o we_o look_v upon_o the_o expression_n of_o those_o affection_n that_o be_v the_o break_v out_o of_o those_o affection_n into_o prayer_n and_o constant_a intercession_n with_o god_n into_o read_v and_o hear_v and_o attend_v upon_o ordinance_n into_o holiness_n express_v in_o the_o conversation_n by_o none_o of_o these_o can_v the_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v clear_v and_o evidence_v yet_o for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o this_o these_o three_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v 1._o i_o do_v not_o mean_v that_o no_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n either_o inward_a or_o outward_a do_v by_o the_o soul_n be_v a_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n though_o no_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v able_a to_o clear_v the_o union_n and_o evidence_n it_o yet_o the_o work_n may_v be_v a_o evidence_n in_o itself_o the_o inward_a act_n of_o faith_n be_v a_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n where_o the_o soul_n be_v able_a to_o understand_v that_o act_n of_o faith_n to_o be_v of_o the_o right_a nature_n the_o word_n of_o god_n require_v faith_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n 2._o i_o do_v not_o mean_a neither_o in_o this_o conclusion_n that_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n may_v be_v evidence_v without_o the_o soul_n behold_v any_o work_n either_o inward_a or_o outward_a in_o itself_o for_o infallible_o and_o necessary_o in_o the_o soul_n behold_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n it_o do_v
any_o further_a than_o the_o spirit_n concur_v with_o the_o light_n reveal_v now_o 1._o the_o spirit_n cause_v the_o soul_n to_o be_v fill_v with_o a_o holy_a complacency_n in_o behold_v the_o precious_a divine_a light_n that_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v 2._o the_o spirit_n move_v a_o insatiable_a thirst_n in_o the_o soul_n after_o the_o continuance_n of_o that_o precious_a divine_a light_n shine_v from_o the_o gospel_n into_o his_o poor_a obscure_a heart_n 3._o the_o spirit_n melt_v the_o heart_n by_o the_o behold_v that_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n put_v into_o it_o so_o as_o the_o heart_n be_v make_v most_o precious_o tender_a and_o pliable_a and_o flexible_a to_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n in_o every_o thing_n 2._o the_o spirit_n impel_v constrain_v the_o soul_n to_o believe_v strong_o the_o lord_n rule_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o believer_n by_o the_o royal_a sceptre_n of_o his_o word_n but_o not_o as_o the_o word_n be_v bare_o reveal_v unto_o a_o soul_n in_o the_o letter_n of_o it_o but_o as_o the_o word_n be_v bring_v into_o the_o heart_n by_o his_o own_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o when_o the_o spirit_n sway_v not_o the_o sceptre_n of_o the_o word_n in_o their_o heart_n the_o word_n lose_v its_o imperial_a royal_a authority_n that_o it_o have_v over_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o the_o soul_n lie_v not_o under_o so_o strong_a a_o obligation_n to_o any_o duty_n as_o it_o do_v when_o the_o spirit_n bring_v the_o word_n to_o the_o heart_n 3._o the_o three_o act_n be_v the_o enable_v the_o soul_n powerful_o to_o believe_v according_a to_o that_o in_o phil._n 2.13_o by_o he_o we_o receive_v both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v that_o be_v both_o the_o disposition_n and_o the_o act_n of_o the_o disposition_n both_o a_o inward_a bent_n of_o spirit_n to_o believe_v and_o power_n also_o to_o act_v that_o disposition_n this_o be_v that_o mighty_a power_n that_o work_v in_o those_o that_o believe_v eph._n 1.19_o so_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o can_v only_o believe_v waver_o that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v his_o despicable_a loveless_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v by_o the_o powerful_a ability_n of_o the_o spirit_n infuse_v into_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n be_v able_a to_o receive_v it_o fix_o to_o believe_v it_o undoubted_o unquestionable_o without_o the_o least_o inconstancy_n for_o the_o present_a that_o the_o bless_a god_n of_o love_n will_v out_o of_o his_o own_o free_a love_n accept_v his_o despicable_a loveless_a soul_n into_o the_o near_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o himself_o through_o he_o that_o be_v the_o exciting_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n there_o be_v now_o the_o five_o and_o last_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o soul_n for_o that_o end_n to_o be_v open_v which_o be_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n attestation_n the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o be_v to_o say_v his_o witness_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v certain_o infallible_o in_o its_o cleave_v to_o lord_n jesus_n admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o it_o be_v the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o only_o to_o show_v the_o immutability_n of_o his_o counsel_n concern_v believe_a soul_n and_o the_o infallibility_n of_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o their_o soul_n cleave_v to_o he_o but_o it_o be_v also_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o show_v more_o than_o sufficiency_n the_o unchangableness_n of_o his_o counsel_n to_o such_o soul_n according_a to_o that_o precious_a place_n hebr._n 6.17_o the_o lord_n will_v more_o abundant_o to_o show_v the_o immutability_n of_o his_o council_n exit_fw-la abundanti_fw-la as_o beza_n translate_v the_o original_a the_o lord_n have_v a_o precious_a good_a will_n to_o show_v in_o a_o way_n more_o and_o beyond_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o believe_a soul_n the_o impossibility_n of_o their_o soul_n fail_v of_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 he_o do_v therefore_o now_o add_v his_o bless_a spirit_n to_o be_v the_o comforter_n of_o believe_a soul_n not_o only_o in_o a_o degree_n that_o be_v necessary_a for_o they_o for_o which_o end_n all_o those_o four_o former_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o soul_n be_v appoint_v but_o the_o lord_n appoint_v the_o spirit_n to_o be_v a_o comforter_n beyond_o what_o be_v necessary_a and_o therefore_o after_o the_o spirit_n have_v give_v to_o believe_a soul_n a_o clear_a evidence_n of_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o as_o thereby_o the_o spirit_n have_v fill_v their_o soul_n with_o strong_a consolation_n yet_o the_o lord_n appoint_v the_o spirit_n to_o add_v a_o high_a work_n which_o be_v its_o attestation_n this_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v that_o you_o shall_v find_v eph._n 1.13_o in_o who_o also_o after_o that_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n or_o as_o the_o word_n may_v be_v render_v in_o who_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v which_o import_v the_o near_a conjunction_n of_o these_o two_o bless_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o the_o immediate_a follow_v of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n upon_o the_o spirit_n excitation_n of_o their_o soul_n to_o believe_v and_o this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v that_o you_o find_v also_o in_o 2_o cor._n 1.21_o 22._o now_o he_o that_o establish_v we_o with_o you_o in_o christ_n and_o have_v anoint_v we_o be_v god_n who_o have_v also_o seal_v we_o and_o give_v we_o the_o earnest_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o this_o you_o shall_v find_v also_o eph._n 4.30_o grieve_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n by_o which_o you_o be_v seal_v unto_o the_o day_n of_o redemption_n and_o so_o rom._n 8.16_o the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n thaâ_n we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n now_o lest_o any_o shall_v question_v whether_o the_o spirit_n do_v thus_o work_v in_o a_o witness_v way_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a to_o clear_v the_o interpretation_n of_o most_o of_o those_o place_n from_o some_o other_o gloss_n that_o be_v frequent_o put_v upon_o they_o it_o be_v true_a say_v some_o the_o scripture_n speak_v of_o the_o seal_v work_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o soul_n but_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v only_o that_o by_o grace_n and_o holy_a disposition_n that_o the_o spirit_n communicate_v unto_o believe_v soul_n it_o do_v confirm_v soul_n in_o the_o certainty_n of_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n so_o that_o by_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o beliveâs_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n be_v only_o mean_v believer_n receive_v the_o precious_a work_v of_o the_o spirit_n in_o their_o heart_n in_o holy_a habit_n and_o dipsosition_n for_o answer_v i_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v frequent_o mean_v in_o scripture_n the_o holy_a disposition_n infuse_v by_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n into_o believe_a soul_n and_o i_o must_v acknowledge_v also_o that_o the_o grace_n or_o holy_a habit_n infuse_v by_o the_o spirit_n in_o believe_a soul_n be_v speak_v of_o as_o witness_n unto_o soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o indeed_o it_o be_v questionless_a that_o a_o effect_n may_v witness_v its_o own_o proper_a cause_n and_o the_o scripture_n speak_v express_o that_o the_o work_n of_o god_n be_v witness_v of_o god_n act._n 14.17_o and_o so_o christ_n work_n be_v witness_n of_o his_o godhead_n john_n 5.36_o yet_o this_o be_v not_o that_o which_o be_v primary_o intend_v in_o the_o former_a scripture_n by_o the_o spirit_n seal_v the_o believe_a soul_n which_o may_v appear_v to_o you_o by_o two_o or_o three_o reason_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n seal_v the_o believe_a soul_n be_v declare_v to_o follow_v the_o soul_n act_n of_o believe_v in_o order_n of_o nature_n as_o in_o eph._n 1.13_o in_o who_o after_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v or_o in_o who_o you_o believe_v be_v seal_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n now_o all_o the_o precious_a holy_a habit_n that_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n infuse_v into_o any_o soul_n be_v in_o order_n of_o nature_n infuse_v before_o there_o be_v any_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n though_o the_o believe_a act_n in_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v be_v contemporary_a that_o be_v at_o one_o and_o the_o same_o time_n yet_o the_o infuse_v of_o all_o the_o holy_a habit_n and_o disposition_n into_o the_o soul_n must_v be_v conceive_v to_o have_v a_o precedency_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n before_o there_o can_v be_v a_o believe_a act_n i_o confess_v some_o and_o those_o learned_a one_o too_o have_v imagine_v that_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n shall_v work_v as_o a_o external_a
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 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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 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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
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 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these_o jealousy_n and_o suspicion_n must_v be_v this_o renew_v believe_v act_n this_o renew_a confidence_n in_o that_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n wherein_o he_o tender_a christ_n in_o general_a to_o every_o sinner_n in_o regard_n these_o bless_a effect_n the_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v natural_o beget_v in_o soul_n be_v only_o make_v visible_a to_o these_o believe_a soul_n again_o by_o that_o mean_n 3._o in_o regard_v both_o the_o incapacity_n of_o soul_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o evidence_n and_o the_o unsutableness_n of_o soul_n for_o trial_n also_o be_v remove_v by_o that_o renew_v believe_v act_n in_o regard_n those_o distemper_n be_v heal_v these_o be_v heal_v two_o way_n first_o by_o a_o more_o general_a influence_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n second_o by_o a_o more_o particular_a influence_n first_o by_o a_o more_o general_a inffuence_n of_o the_o believe_a act_n into_o those_o distemper_n the_o believe_a soul_n close_v with_o the_o lord_n 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
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
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 ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_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
a_o treatise_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n wherein_o be_v declare_v what_o this_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v and_o many_o false_a ground_n of_o union_n discover_v in_o which_o these_o two_o weighty_a quest_n be_v large_o handle_v viz._n i._o how_o soul_n do_v attain_v the_o first_o certain_z infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n ii_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 know_v certain_o and_o infallible_o that_o their_o evidence_n of_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 from_o the_o devil_n translation_n of_o himself_o into_o angelical_a glory_n by_o j._n l._n 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 except_o you_o be_v reprobate_n 2_o cor._n 13.5_o london_n print_v for_o j._n hancock_n at_o the_o three_o bibles_n in_o popes-head-alley_n in_o cornhill_n 1680._o the_o content_n the_o occasion_n of_o the_o word_n and_o open_n of_o they_o doct_n that_o the_o purpose_n and_o intetn_n of_o god_n in_o discover_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n unto_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v that_o he_o may_v gather_v together_o their_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o by_o virtue_n of_o their_o union_n they_o may_v be_v one_o with_o the_o father_n as_o he_o and_o christ_n be_v one_o p._n 5._o three_o question_n answer_v quest_n what_o be_v this_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n what_o be_v it_o to_o be_v one_o with_o jesus_n christ_n answer_v 1_o negative_a 2_o affirmative_o p._n 6._o quest_n 2._o how_o can_v the_o revelation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n bring_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o he_o answer_v 1_o negative_o 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whether_o we_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n four_o thing_n to_o urge_v the_o necessity_n of_o know_v it_o p._n 29_o this_o great_a question_n propound_v 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 answ_n 1._o negative_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n can_v be_v evidence_v these_o way_n 1._o not_o 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 p._n 32._o 2._o not_o by_o any_o thing_n inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n p._n 34._o 3._o not_o by_o any_o thing_n do_v or_o effect_v by_o the_o soul_n or_o that_o can_v be_v effect_v and_o do_v p._n 38._o 4._o not_o from_o the_o outward_a revelation_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n clear_v in_o three_o particular_n p._n 45._o some_o question_n answer_v before_o the_o affirmative_a answer_n quest_n 1._o whether_o all_o those_o evidence_n from_o something_o thus_o inherent_a in_o themselves_o and_o do_v they_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v rot_v and_o unsound_a and_o no_o evidence_n p._n 47._o answer_v 1._o negative_o 1._o they_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o faith_n p._n 49._o 2._o they_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o knowledge_n p._n 49._o answ_n 2._o affirmative_o those_o may_v be_v improper_o call_v evidence_n be_v evidence_n of_o opinion_n p._n 50._o five_o thing_n to_o be_v note_v about_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n quest_n 2._o why_o do_v the_o scripture_n propound_v the_o soul_n obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o its_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 p._n 56._o quest_n 3._o to_o what_o purpose_n be_v all_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o quality_n inherent_a in_o soul_n and_o to_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o heart_n see_v union_n with_o christ_n can_v be_v evidence_v from_o it_o answer_v p._n 60._o 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 only_o a_o man_n can_v claim_v right_a to_o the_o promise_n answer_v p._n 66._o the_o use_n of_o conditional_a promise_n open_v in_o four_o particular_n p._n 69._o answ_n 2._o the_o affirmative_a answer_n how_o a_o soul_n may_v know_v his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n four_o premise_n p._n 71._o the_o question_n must_v be_v concern_v assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o not_o of_o knowledge_n it_o divide_v itself_o into_o two_o question_n 1._o how_o soul_n do_v obtain_v the_o first_o certain_z infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n 2._o by_o what_o mean_n 3._o in_o what_o manner_n quest_n from_o whence_o do_v soul_n obtain_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n answ_n there_o be_v but_o one_o only_a proper_a ground_n substantial_o and_o that_o be_v the_o lord_n own_o free_a promise_n clear_v in_o three_o particular_n p._n 80._o quest_n but_o it_o be_v not_o from_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o condition_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o promise_n of_o christ_n that_o a_o soul_n receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n p._n 82._o under_o what_o notion_n the_o promise_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o condition_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v in_o 5._o particular_n p._n 87._o two_o thing_n to_o clear_v those_o text_n that_o seem_v to_o make_v the_o promise_v run_v upon_o conidition_n open_v in_o many_o particular_n p._n 91._o quest_n but_o do_v not_o the_o lord_n reveal_v first_o these_o grace_n that_o he_o describe_v his_o own_o people_n by_o to_o be_v in_o such_o soul_n and_o then_o through_o the_o sight_n of_o they_o clear_a to_o soul_n that_o he_o have_v give_v they_o the_o lord_n christ_n out_o of_o his_o own_o good_a will_v alone_o through_o the_o promise_n from_o p._n 96._o to_o 105._o quest_n how_o can_v the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n can_v have_v the_o first_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n see_v there_o be_v no_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o discover_v his_o own_o will_n to_o accept_v any_o one_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n answer_v p._n 105._o quest_n 2._o by_o what_o mean_n do_v a_o soul_n receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n four_o premise_n the_o positive_a answer_n p._n 113._o 118._o three_o joint_n concur_v cause_n and_o what_o they_o be_v p._n 119._o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v the_o principal_a most_o immediate_a cause_n of_o the_o promise_v evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n p._n 123._o clear_v in_o 4._o particular_n quest_n 3._o in_o what_o manner_n do_v a_o soul_n receive_v the_o first_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n 5._o premise_n p._n 130._o the_o positive_a answer_n in_o open_v five_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 1._o the_o spirit_n illumination_n 2._o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o spirit_n conviction_n of_o the_o conscience_n 4._o the_o spirit_n excitation_n 5._o the_o spirit_n attestation_n or_o witness_n unto_o the_o soul_n p._n 132._o 1._o the_o spirit_n illumination_n p._n 133._o this_o consist_v 1._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 2._o in_o the_o removal_n of_o all_o impediment_n these_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n i._o principle_n of_o darkness_n of_o which_o there_o be_v 8._o open_v in_o many_o particular_n p._n 136._o to_o 178._o ii_o dark_a distemper_n six_o of_o they_o open_v p._n 178._o to_o 233._o 2._o the_o spirit_n
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 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gracious_a etc._n etc._n use_v i._o by_o way_n of_o information_n be_v it_o thus_o that_o the_o lord_n intent_n and_o purpose_n in_o reveal_v the_o precious_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o draw_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o then_o hence_o we_o may_v see_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o doleful_a dreadful_a and_o too_o too_o common_a abuse_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n how_o be_v the_o gospel_n tread_v under_o foot_n by_o a_o multitude_n of_o soul_n how_o far_o do_v they_o come_v short_a when_o they_o come_v to_o attend_v upon_o gospel_n ordinance_n how_o few_o consider_v that_o christ_n have_v appoint_v his_o ordinance_n to_o draw_v their_o wretched_a corrupt_a obstinate_a heart_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o consider_v the_o neglect_n of_o desire_v a_o conformity_n to_o this_o intent_n of_o god_n in_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o profanation_n of_o the_o precious_a ordinance_n of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o pollution_n of_o the_o great_a name_n of_o god_n in_o his_o ordinance_n 2._o consider_v what_o a_o mockery_n and_o dissimulation_n thy_o attendance_n upon_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v unto_o god_n every_o ordinance_n of_o god_n be_v appoint_v for_o god_n to_o be_v worship_v in_o and_o thou_o by_o thy_o attend_v upon_o a_o ordinance_n profess_v thou_o do_v worship_n god_n now_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o worship_n god_n whilst_o he_o be_v ignorant_a or_o regardless_o of_o the_o intent_n of_o god_n in_o a_o ordinance_n 3._o thy_o neglect_n of_o this_o great_a intent_n of_o god_n in_o his_o ordinance_n be_v a_o direct_a contrary_a walk_v unto_o god_n in_o come_v to_o a_o ordinance_n thou_o do_v come_v with_o some_o intent_n or_o other_o it_o be_v inseparable_a from_o a_o rational_a creature_n upon_o a_o deliberate_a act_n to_o work_v for_o some_o end_n now_o if_o thou_o do_v always_o come_v with_o a_o intent_n and_o have_v neglect_v the_o intent_n of_o god_n it_o follow_v direct_o it_o be_v a_o contrary_n walk_v to_o 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scripture_n be_v it_o be_v nothing_o but_o this_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n make_v one_o it_o be_v christ_n alone_o that_o be_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n of_o the_o scripture_n therefore_o hence_o we_o may_v learn_v how_o to_o read_v and_o hear_v the_o scripture_n the_o way_n be_v to_o make_v christ_n the_o punctum_fw-la the_o centre_n of_o every_o line_n that_o when_o we_o find_v nothing_o of_o christ_n we_o be_v far_o from_o read_v the_o scripture_n look_v upon_o the_o type_n ceremony_n genealogy_n all_o lead_n to_o christ_n vii_o hence_o learn_v what_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o those_o infinite_a wise_a counsel_n of_o god_n from_o before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v what_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o angel_n desire_v to_o pry_v into_o the_o end_n of_o all_o be_v to_o bring_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n viii_o hence_o learn_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o near_a sympathy_n of_o affection_n between_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o those_o soul_n upon_o who_o the_o gospel_n have_v have_v its_o right_a effect_n why_o be_v christ_n honour_n the_o soul_n honour_n and_o christ_n advancement_n the_o soul_n advancement_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o affliction_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v christ_n affliction_n the_o dishonour_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v christ_n dishonour_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o where_o there_o be_v such_o a_o nearness_n of_o relation_n there_o will_v be_v a_o nearness_n of_o affection_n ix_o hence_o learn_v the_o intrinsical_a specifical_a difference_n between_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o draw_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o manifest_a communion_n between_o soul_n and_o christ_n already_o unite_v 1_o cor._n 10_o 16._o thence_o it_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n to_o be_v make_v between_o person_n that_o partake_v of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n though_o not_o of_o those_o that_o partake_v of_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n every_o soul_n be_v a_o suitable_a subject_n to_o have_v the_o gospel_n preach_v because_o every_o soul_n by_o nature_n be_v a_o separate_a soul_n and_o therefore_o have_v need_n to_o be_v bring_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o only_o some_o few_o soul_n that_o be_v suitable_a subject_n may_v partake_v of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n because_o they_o be_v those_o that_o do_v manifest_a a_o soul_n to_o have_v communion_n therefore_o they_o presuppose_v union_n use_v ii_o the_o second_o use_n be_v a_o word_n of_o admonition_n see_v the_o purpose_n of_o god_n in_o reveal_v gospel_n truth_n be_v to_o gather_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n let_v this_o warn_v every_o soul_n from_o heaven_n to_o take_v heed_n how_o he_o hear_v the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o be_v a_o good_a caution_n the_o holy_a ghost_n give_v eccl._n 5.1_o keep_v thy_o foot_n when_o thou_o go_v to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n he_o mean_v take_v heed_n and_o watch_v over_o the_o affection_n intent_n and_o purpose_n of_o your_o soul_n when_o you_o approach_v near_o to_o god_n in_o any_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n then_o beware_v your_o affection_n swerve_v not_o from_o god_n there_o be_v three_o great_a miscarriage_n in_o come_v to_o gospel_n ordinance_n 1._o a_o carelessness_n and_o mindlesness_n of_o the_o nature_n end_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n in_o approach_v to_o they_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o most_o soul_n in_o a_o congregation_n as_o of_o those_o act_n 19.32_o in_o that_o great_a assembly_n the_o most_o part_n know_v not_o wherefore_o they_o be_v come_v together_o consider_v of_o two_o thing_n in_o this_o wretched_a miscarriage_n of_o heart_n in_o attend_v upon_o the_o gospel_n first_o this_o heedless_a frame_n of_o spirit_n be_v a_o contempt_n of_o god_n himself_o when_o the_o great_a god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n send_v a_o precious_a embassage_n to_o thy_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n and_o cry_v to_o thou_o come_v and_o be_v one_o with_o i_o in_o a_o mediator_n and_o thou_o sit_v careless_o neither_o mind_v nor_o regard_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o embassage_n how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o thou_o to_o cast_v high_a contempt_n upon_o god_n second_o it_o be_v the_o high_a indignity_n and_o affront_n that_o can_v be_v offer_v in_o that_o kind_n to_o the_o glorious_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n 2._o the_o second_o great_a miscarriage_n of_o heart_n be_v the_o take_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o soul_n in_o attain_v other_o end_n by_o gospel_n
ordinance_n beneath_o or_o without_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n as_o when_o the_o soul_n aim_v at_o no_o high_a end_n than_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n or_o some_o reformation_n of_o life_n or_o draw_v the_o heart_n to_o the_o performance_n of_o some_o duty_n of_o worship_n as_o private_a prayer_n read_v or_o the_o like_a then_o the_o heart_n walk_v contrary_a to_o god_n in_o gospel_n ordinance_n here_o be_v two_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v first_o while_o thy_o soul_n satisfy_v itself_o in_o any_o of_o these_o thou_o do_v remain_v a_o disobedient_a one_o to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n let_v thy_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n be_v what_o it_o will_v let_v thy_o reformation_n be_v outward_a and_o inward_a as_o thou_o conceive_v the_o prayer_n thou_o perform_v be_v what_o they_o will_v so_o long_o as_o thou_o take_v contentment_n without_o behold_v the_o union_n complete_v between_o christ_n and_o thy_o soul_n thou_o be_v still_o a_o disobedient_a one_o to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o dram_n of_o spiritual_a obedience_n in_o all_o those_o duty_n but_o the_o great_a command_n be_v neglect_v thou_o be_v a_o rebel_n still_o to_o the_o crown_n of_o heaven_n second_o thou_o be_v a_o stranger_n to_o all_o true_a gospel_n worship_n without_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o john_n 15.5_o without_o i_o that_o be_v while_o your_o soul_n be_v disjoin_v from_o i_o it_o be_v not_o only_o mean_v without_o my_o aid_n but_o without_o a_o union_n with_o i_o thou_o be_v as_o far_o from_o right_n pray_v and_o hear_v in_o a_o manner_n as_o ever_o while_o thou_o be_v void_a of_o this_o union_n 3._o the_o three_o miscarriage_n be_v in_o the_o order_n of_o the_o working_n of_o the_o affection_n towards_o god_n in_o gospel_n ordinance_n that_o be_v the_o fix_v the_o intention_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o obtain_v any_o other_o end_n through_o gospel_n ordinance_n before_o obtain_v union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n the_o soul_n once_o sensible_a of_o the_o want_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n behold_v his_o state_n a_o divide_a estate_n between_o christ_n and_o his_o soul_n many_o time_n belong_v after_o a_o union_n but_o propound_v to_o himself_o a_o disorderly_a way_n of_o obtain_v it_o he_o propound_v the_o gain_n of_o holiness_n and_o holy_a qualification_n as_o the_o mean_n to_o attain_v this_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n say_v the_o soul_n while_o i_o remain_v thus_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o gain_v union_n be_v it_o possible_a such_o a_o filthy_a heart_n while_o it_o remain_v thus_o shall_v be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n christ_n now_o here_o i_o meet_v with_o a_o question_n that_o will_v be_v propound_v by_o the_o soul_n quest_n be_v union_n with_o christ_n the_o first_o intent_n of_o god_n in_o reveal_v gospel_n truth_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n require_v there_o shall_v first_o be_v a_o mortify_n of_o corruption_n a_o draw_v the_o heart_n from_o sin_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o cut_n off_o from_o the_o old_a stock_n that_o it_o may_v be_v ingraft_v into_o the_o new_a vine_n jesus_n christ_n answ_n in_o answer_v this_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n first_o to_o be_v premise_v premise_v 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v this_o that_o the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a proper_a object_n of_o the_o soul_n faith_n so_o that_o we_o be_v not_o to_o inquire_v whether_o the_o lord_n may_v have_v any_o secret_a intent_n in_o his_o own_o bosom_n sometime_o to_o lay_v a_o soul_n exceed_v low_a and_o rend_v and_o tear_v the_o heart_n with_o sorrow_n first_o as_o intend_v to_o use_v these_o terror_n in_o the_o soul_n instrumental_o to_o draw_v it_o into_o union_n premise_v 2._o second_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o i_o speak_v only_o of_o the_o proper_a union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n when_o we_o ask_v whether_o it_o be_v the_o first_o effect_n the_o lord_n intend_v the_o gospel_n shall_v have_v upon_o the_o heart_n now_o these_o two_o thing_n premise_v i_o shall_v answer_v the_o question_n affirmative_o that_o the_o first_o effect_n that_o god_n intend_v the_o gospel_n shall_v have_v upon_o the_o heart_n be_v the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o lord_n intend_v that_o before_o he_o intend_v the_o draw_v of_o the_o soul_n from_o any_o sin_n before_o he_o intend_v the_o draw_v it_o to_o any_o holiness_n before_o he_o intend_v so_o much_o as_o to_o draw_v it_o to_o prayer_n there_o be_v nothing_o to_o be_v imagine_v that_o the_o lord_n intend_v to_o be_v wrought_v in_o the_o heart_n by_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n before_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o four_o particular_n 1._o the_o lord_n propound_v the_o lord_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n lie_v dead_a in_o sin_n immediate_o to_o be_v receive_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v thou_o poor_a lose_a soul_n that_o be_v now_o dead_a in_o sin_n that_o be_v utter_o lose_v do_v thou_o hear_v and_o receive_v the_o son_n of_o my_o bosom_n the_o lord_n christ_n to_o mediate_v between_o thou_o and_o i_o and_o to_o be_v a_o day_n man_n to_o lay_v his_o hand_n upon_o we_o both_o and_o whereas_o there_o be_v now_o a_o division_n between_o thou_o and_o i_o i_o will_v be_v reconcile_v to_o thou_o and_o will_v be_v thou_o and_o thou_o shall_v be_v i_o we_o have_v a_o notable_a place_n in_o ezek._n 16.6_o 8._o say_v god_n thy_o father_n be_v a_o amorite_n and_o thy_o mother_n be_v a_o hittite_n and_o when_o i_o pass_v by_o thou_o and_o see_v thou_o pollute_v in_o thy_o own_o blood_n i_o say_v unto_o thou_o when_o thou_o be_v in_o thy_o blood_n live_v and_o when_o i_o pass_v by_o thou_o and_o look_v upon_o thou_o behold_v thy_o time_n be_v the_o time_n of_o love_n not_o only_a wherein_o he_o propound_v his_o love_n but_o set_v his_o love_n then_o i_o enter_v into_o a_o covenant_n with_o thou_o say_v the_o lord_n god_n and_o thou_o become_v my_o if_o the_o lord_n enter_v into_o covenant_n with_o the_o soul_n while_o it_o lie_v in_o its_o blood_n and_o as_o it_o be_v in_o its_o blood_n the_o lord_n receive_v it_o into_o covenant_n than_o the_o covenant_n of_o marriage_n must_v needs_o be_v propound_v to_o the_o soul_n while_o it_o lie_v thus_o dead_a in_o sin_n i_o may_v add_v rom._n 4.4_o 5_o 6._o &_o rom._n 5.10_o even_o when_o we_o be_v enemy_n he_o do_v reconcile_v we_o to_o himself_o there_o be_v the_o union_n of_o agreement_n hold_v forth_o there_o be_v no_o middle_a state_n that_o god_n call_v the_o soul_n unto_o between_o enmity_n and_o amity_n but_o there_o be_v a_o immediate_a passage_n from_o enmity_n into_o union_n into_o a_o state_n of_o agreement_n therefore_o say_v the_o apostle_n eph._n 2.1_o you_o have_v he_o quicken_v who_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n if_o jesus_n christ_n convey_v life_n into_o they_o when_o they_o be_v dead_a then_o he_o be_v propound_v to_o they_o as_o life_n also_o even_o while_o they_o be_v dead_a 2._o there_o lie_v a_o injunction_n upon_o the_o soul_n at_o the_o present_a to_o receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n into_o union_n while_o he_o lie_v dead_a in_o his_o sin_n this_o be_v the_o command_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v that_o be_v that_o you_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n who_o he_o have_v send_v and_o take_v he_o into_o union_n with_o your_o soul_n and_o say_v he_o this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n now_o none_o deny_v but_o the_o command_n of_o receive_v christ_n into_o union_n lie_v upon_o soul_n dead_a in_o sin_n for_o the_o present_a and_o none_o dare_v affirm_v that_o god_n command_v the_o soul_n to_o walk_v in_o disobedience_n to_o his_o great_a and_o high_a command_n while_o he_o shall_v walk_v in_o obedience_n to_o a_o inferior_a command_n now_o every_o moment_n the_o soul_n receive_v not_o christ_n into_o union_n it_o continue_v in_o disobedience_n now_o who_o can_v be_v so_o blockish_a as_o to_o conceive_v the_o lord_n allow_v the_o soul_n to_o stay_v one_o moment_n in_o disobedience_n to_o any_o command_n and_o if_o so_o than_o the_o lord_n require_v that_o the_o soul_n shall_v receive_v jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n that_o moment_n that_o he_o be_v propound_v 3._o it_o appear_v because_o there_o can_v no_o spiritual_a act_n proceed_v from_o the_o soul_n without_o union_n complete_v say_v christ_n john_n 15.5_o without_o i_o the_o word_n be_v ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d that_o be_v separate_z from_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o the_o least_o holy_a spiritual_a motion_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v can_v be_v put_v forth_o by_o the_o soul_n while_o it_o remain_v without_o union_n the_o dead_a branch_n can_v bring_v forth_o fruit_n say_v christ_n every_o branch_n that_o be_v not_o in_o i_o wither_v a_o dead_a
that_o do_v hear_v the_o relation_n of_o it_o and_o do_v careful_o reflect_v upon_o his_o own_o heart_n but_o must_v be_v satisfy_v about_o his_o union_n but_o our_o experience_n tell_v we_o this_o that_o the_o most_o understand_a soul_n about_o union_n be_v hard_a to_o be_v satisfy_v about_o their_o union_n thus_o you_o have_v the_o negative_a part_n of_o the_o answer_n open_v now_o before_o i_o proceed_v to_o the_o affirmative_a there_o be_v another_o question_n will_v be_v cast_v in_o upon_o the_o neck_n of_o this_o que._n 1._o but_o may_v the_o soul_n say_v if_o none_o of_o these_o can_v evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v all_o those_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n that_o they_o have_v receive_v from_o something_o thus_o inherent_a in_o themselves_o and_o do_v upon_o they_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n rot_a and_o unsound_a and_o no_o evidence_n must_v we_o now_o cast_v away_o all_o our_o thought_n of_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v former_o gather_v from_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o qualification_n inherent_a in_o our_o soul_n before_o i_o come_v to_o answer_v this_o question_n i_o must_v first_o premise_v two_o or_o three_o thing_n 1._o that_o the_o soul_n have_v not_o conceive_v either_o quality_n inherent_a in_o his_o soul_n or_o work_v do_v by_o his_o soul_n as_o the_o cause_n of_o his_o union_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o these_o shall_v be_v the_o unite_n mean_v between_o christ_n and_o thy_o soul_n that_o have_v draw_v the_o lord_n christ_n to_o come_v into_o thy_o heart_n and_o to_o dwell_v in_o thou_o and_o so_o to_o cause_v thou_o to_o dwell_v in_o he_o this_o be_v no_o less_o than_o gross_a popery_n to_o make_v any_o thing_n in_o ourselves_o the_o cause_n of_o union_n 2._o i_o also_o premise_v that_o thou_o have_v not_o take_v quality_n inherent_a in_o thyself_o or_o work_v do_v by_o thyself_o as_o the_o ground_n upon_o which_o thou_o do_v believe_v thy_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o be_v a_o very_a dangerous_a sandy_a foundation_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o build_v upon_o this_o be_v to_o ground_v a_o divine_a faith_n upon_o a_o humane_a ground_n to_o ground_v a_o certain_a conclusion_n upon_o a_o poor_a changeable_a ground_n and_o this_o be_v to_o make_v thy_o faith_n of_o no_o long_o last_v than_o the_o constancy_n of_o thy_o heart_n in_o such_o work_n or_o the_o constancy_n of_o thy_o sight_n in_o behold_v such_o disposition_n in_o thy_o heart_n this_o be_v both_o unsafe_a and_o exceed_v dangerous_a 3._o i_o must_v premise_v that_o thou_o mistake_v not_o the_o ground_n of_o thy_o evidence_n conceive_v thyself_o to_o receive_v thy_o evidence_n from_o quality_n inherent_a in_o thyself_o or_o work_v do_v by_o thyself_o when_o thou_o receive_v it_o from_o a_o promise_n of_o free_a grace_n alone_o it_o may_v be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n when_o the_o lord_n declare_v to_o thou_o his_o willingness_n to_o accept_v of_o thy_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o let_v thou_o see_v thy_o heart_n close_v with_o that_o gracious_a tender_a he_o at_o the_o same_o time_n let_v thou_o see_v such_o holy_a disposition_n in_o thy_o soul_n as_o the_o consequence_n of_o thy_o union_n thence_o it_o may_v be_v thou_o do_v conclude_v thy_o evidence_n be_v from_o these_o when_o it_o be_v from_o something_o in_o the_o first_o place_n before_o work_n but_o if_o the_o question_n be_v demand_v whether_o thy_o qualification_n thus_o consider_v be_v evidence_n i_o answer_v negative_o and_o affirmative_o first_o they_o be_v no_o right_a kind_n of_o evidence_n 1._o they_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o faith_n that_o which_o be_v a_o evidence_n unto_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n must_v be_v some_o truth_n of_o god_n reveal_v unto_o faith_n with_o such_o a_o authority_n that_o for_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o speaker_n and_o revealer_n of_o that_o truth_n the_o soul_n do_v believe_v it_o and_o close_o with_o it_o now_o in_o that_o manner_n the_o word_n alone_o be_v proper_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n assurance_n of_o faith_n must_v always_o have_v a_o divine_a ground_n to_o build_v upon_o now_o there_o be_v no_o divine_a ground_n but_o a_o divine_a word_n and_o thy_o own_o disposition_n and_o grace_n be_v no_o divine_a but_o a_o humane_a ground_n 2._o they_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o knowledge_n knowledge_n be_v the_o assent_n of_o the_o understanding_n to_o a_o necessary_a truth_n build_v upon_o a_o unchangeable_a ground_n or_o reason_n now_o the_o union_n of_o thy_o soul_n with_o christ_n can_v never_o be_v right_o take_v as_o a_o necessary_a truth_n build_v upon_o thy_o own_o work_n as_o the_o unchangeable_a reason_n of_o it_o for_o as_o you_o have_v hear_v no_o work_n do_v by_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v a_o unchangeable_a reason_n upon_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v build_v such_o a_o truth_n as_o this_o that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n in_o regard_n thou_o be_v never_o yet_o full_o certain_a of_o the_o right_a nature_n of_o those_o thy_o work_n or_o of_o those_o disposition_n in_o thy_o soul_n from_o whence_o thou_o do_v gather_v those_o thought_n of_o thy_o union_n with_o christ_n second_o i_o answer_v affirmative_o they_o may_v be_v improper_o call_v evidence_n and_o they_o may_v have_v beget_v a_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n in_o thy_o soul_n though_o not_o a_o evidence_n of_o knowledge_n opinion_n be_v the_o assent_n of_o the_o understanding_n to_o some_o truth_n propound_v upon_o the_o sight_n of_o probable_a ground_n and_o reason_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o thing_n propound_v now_o the_o sight_n of_o thy_o gracious_a disposition_n and_o qualification_n may_v be_v a_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n to_o thy_o soul_n that_o be_v they_o may_v have_v afford_v some_o probable_a argument_n of_o thy_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o from_o thence_o may_v have_v fly_v these_o three_o effect_n of_o it_o 1._o thence_o may_v have_v rise_v a_o quiet_a and_o calm_a in_o the_o soul_n a_o cessation_n from_o those_o perturbation_n and_o tumult_n the_o soul_n be_v disquiet_v with_o former_o 2._o hence_o may_v flow_v some_o refreshment_n a_o hope_n of_o possibility_n to_o the_o poor_a sink_a soul_n bring_v admirable_a refreshment_n much_o like_o a_o man_n be_v ready_a to_o suffer_v shipwreck_n at_o sea_n see_v but_o a_o ship_n come_v towards_o he_o gives_z him_z hope_v of_o be_v take_v in_o 3._o from_o hence_o may_v arise_v some_o flit_a joy_n though_o christ_n do_v but_o pass_v by_o as_o it_o be_v and_o the_o soul_n do_v but_o see_v his_o face_n through_o a_o crevice_n it_o refresh_v his_o heart_n thus_o far_o they_o may_v be_v evidence_n of_o opinion_n unto_o soul_n but_o there_o be_v divers_a thing_n that_o must_v be_v note_v about_o this_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n lest_o we_o mistake_v for_o though_o i_o dare_v not_o say_v but_o these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n in_o many_o soul_n may_v prove_v such_o that_o in_o the_o utmost_a issue_n of_o they_o may_v hold_v to_o eternity_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o without_o great_a danger_n to_o the_o safety_n and_o comfort_n of_o such_o soul_n therefore_o observe_v i._o that_o these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n in_o soul_n do_v yet_o fall_v short_a of_o raise_v those_o soul_n into_o a_o full_a conformity_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o scripture_n about_o and_o concern_v evidence_n of_o union_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n can_v rise_v to_o that_o fullness_n of_o certainty_n and_o that_o strength_n of_o confidence_n that_o the_o rule_n concern_v evidence_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n do_v require_v soul_n to_o be_v raise_v to_o when_o this_o opinion_n be_v raise_v to_o the_o high_a degree_n there_o can_v be_v a_o full_a certainty_n now_o the_o scripture_n require_v soul_n to_o attain_v a_o full_a confidence_n about_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n heb._n 10.22_o 2._o in_o regard_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n consolation_n in_o these_o evidence_n be_v lay_v upon_o a_o ground_n disagree_v to_o the_o rule_n the_o rule_n be_v only_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v now_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v be_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v immutable_a ground_n upon_o which_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v build_v heb._n 6.17_o 18._o 3._o in_o regard_v the_o consolation_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v unsuitable_a in_o measure_n and_o degree_n to_o that_o which_o god_n intend_v for_o his_o people_n soul_n he_o intend_v full_a consolation_n to_o they_o a_o plerophery_a of_o consolation_n but_o how_o weak_a be_v those_o comfort_n that_o flow_v from_o those_o weak_a fluctuate_a inherent_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n quality_n or_o the_o work_n of_o those_o quality_n ii_o you_o must_v note_v about_o these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n that_o no_o soul_n may_v just_o satisfy_v or_o content_v itself_o with_o only_a those_o evidence_n of_o
open_v and_o that_o be_v this_o que._n 3._o to_o what_o purpose_n be_v all_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o quality_n inherent_a in_o soul_n and_o to_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o heart_n see_v union_n with_o christ_n can_v be_v evidence_v from_o they_o answ_n 1._o for_o answer_v first_o there_o be_v no_o promise_n the_o lord_n make_v to_o any_o quality_n inherent_a in_o a_o soul_n as_o a_o condition_n upon_o which_o the_o promise_n shall_v be_v fulfil_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v there_o be_v no_o promise_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v to_o any_o quality_n so_o or_o in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o upon_o the_o lord_n behold_v that_o quality_n in_o the_o soul_n he_o shall_v repute_v himself_o bind_v to_o fulfil_v that_o promise_n or_o to_o convey_v that_o mercy_n include_v in_o the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n nor_o do_v the_o be_v of_o the_o quality_n lie_v any_o such_o engagement_n upon_o god_n to_o perform_v it_o every_o promise_n be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o the_o lord_n hold_v forth_o in_o christ_n for_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o bundle_n of_o promise_n all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n bind_v up_o in_o one_o be_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n so_o that_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n consist_v of_o so_o many_o article_n of_o agreement_n between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n shall_v prove_v no_o covenant_n of_o grace_n if_o any_o of_o those_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o a_o quality_n as_o a_o condition_n upon_o which_o the_o lord_n be_v bind_v to_o perform_v the_o promise_n ans_fw-fr 2._o second_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n to_o quality_n inherent_a in_o soul_n be_v not_o make_v to_o quality_n as_o quality_n that_o be_v not_o as_o they_o be_v good_a disposition_n and_o good_a inclination_n not_o as_o they_o be_v work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n beget_v in_o such_o soul_n all_o inherent_a quality_n in_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v under_o a_o twofold_a notion_n either_o as_o they_o be_v quality_n that_o be_v as_o they_o be_v affection_n and_o disposition_n in_o a_o soul_n or_o they_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v as_o they_o put_v a_o soul_n into_o such_o a_o state_n or_o condition_n as_o they_o make_v a_o soul_n either_o in_o a_o good_a condition_n or_o a_o bad_a condition_n now_o no_o soul_n may_v look_v upon_o any_o one_o promise_n that_o god_n have_v make_v to_o any_o one_o quality_n and_o look_v upon_o that_o quality_n in_o his_o heart_n as_o that_o good_a quality_n that_o good_a disposition_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v bind_v himself_o by_o promise_n to_o convey_v such_o or_o such_o mercy_n or_o benefit_n as_o for_o example_n shall_v i_o name_v most_o of_o the_o conditional_a promise_n in_o the_o word_n you_o will_v find_v none_o of_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o quality_n be_v make_v to_o they_o as_o quality_n but_o as_o to_o a_o state_n of_o want_n and_o penury_n and_o misery_n out_o of_o which_o the_o lord_n promise_v refreshment_n ease_n and_o relief_n out_o of_o the_o bowel_n of_o his_o own_o mercy_n 1._o to_o begin_v with_o thirst_a one_o that_o notable_a place_n in_o isa_n 55.1.2_o ho_o every_o one_o that_o thirst_v come_v you_o to_o the_o water_n and_o he_o that_o have_v no_o money_n come_v you_o buy_v and_o eat_v yea_o come_v buy_v wine_n and_o milk_n without_o money_n and_o without_o price_n come_v say_v he_o take_v all_o suitable_a refreshment_n for_o your_o poor_a thirsty_a soul_n there_o be_v christ_n hold_v forth_o to_o thirsty_a one_o in_o all_o the_o precious_a privilege_n tender_v to_o soul_n in_o christ_n yet_o this_o be_v not_o make_v to_o thirsty_a one_o as_o thirst_v be_v a_o quality_n or_o grace_n flow_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o that_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o thirst_a soul_n as_o thirst_v after_o jesus_n christ_n or_o as_o thirst_v be_v a_o quality_n will_v appear_v in_o three_o particular_n in_o that_o the_o person_n to_o who_o those_o glorious_a privilege_n be_v tender_v in_o christ_n be_v person_n void_a of_o any_o quality_n or_o grace_n proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o any_o holy_a quality_n as_o it_o do_v appear_v from_o the_o text_n that_o they_o have_v not_o any_o one_o right_a desire_n after_o receive_v any_o holiness_n for_o 1._o they_o be_v say_v to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v thirst_v after_o false_a refreshment_n dig_v break_v cistern_n for_o their_o soul_n to_o drink_v of_o they_o spend_v their_o money_n for_o that_o which_o be_v no_o bread_n that_o be_v their_o desire_n and_o endeavour_n they_o be_v the_o jew_n that_o seek_v for_o justification_n by_o the_o law_n and_o ceremony_n 2._o they_o be_v such_o as_o thirst_v to_o supply_v their_o want_n in_o a_o wrong_a way_n and_o be_v neglecter_n of_o jesus_n christ_n they_o spend_v their_o labour_n and_o desire_n after_o wrong_a object_n that_o which_o be_v not_o bread_n thing_n that_o can_v not_o profit_v and_o these_o be_v the_o person_n to_o who_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v and_o therefore_o it_o can_v not_o be_v make_v to_o any_o quality_n 3._o the_o same_o promise_n be_v hold_v forth_o to_o every_o soul_n equal_o whether_o thirst_v or_o not_o thirst_v this_o you_o may_v see_v rev._n 22.17_o let_v he_o that_o be_v a_o thirst_n come_v there_o be_v the_o same_o promise_n yea_o let_v whosoever_o will_v come_v and_o take_v of_o the_o water_n of_o life_n free_o every_o one_o under_o heaven_n be_v join_v under_o as_o equal_v a_o notion_n as_o the_o thirsty_a one_o therefore_o the_o promise_n can_v be_v make_v unto_o thirsty_a one_o as_o have_v such_o a_o quality_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o but_o as_o poor_a and_o penurious_a soul_n in_o a_o sad_a condition_n not_o know_v how_o to_o get_v their_o soul_n refresh_v and_o their_o want_n relieve_v so_o again_o mat._n 5_o 6._o where_o the_o promise_n seem_v to_o have_v more_o colour_n to_o be_v make_v to_o a_o quality_n as_o a_o quality_n bless_a be_v they_o that_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o righteousness_n for_o they_o shall_v be_v fill_v this_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o soul_n as_o hunger_a and_o thirst_v after_o righteousness_n as_o holy_a disposition_n in_o their_o soul_n but_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o they_o only_o as_o be_v needy_a and_o penurious_a as_o be_v in_o want_n and_o extremity_n therefore_o you_o shall_v observe_v in_o the_o promise_n they_o shall_v be_v fill_v what_o be_v promise_v nothing_o to_o the_o quality_n itself_o but_o to_o the_o supply_n of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o poor_a soul_n 2._o if_o you_o observe_v the_o promise_n make_v to_o humble_a soul_n groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n they_o be_v not_o make_v to_o any_o soul_n as_o groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n or_o as_o groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n be_v a_o quality_n or_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o for_o example_n look_v that_o promise_n mat._n 11.28_o come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o labour_n and_o be_v heavy_a lade_v and_o i_o will_v give_v you_o rest_n now_o say_v the_o soul_n i_o be_o burden_v and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v have_v rest_n and_o here_o i_o be_o persuade_v many_o a_o soul_n sit_v down_o in_o his_o be_v burden_v and_o not_o in_o his_o come_n to_o christ_n and_o so_o sit_v down_o short_a of_o christ_n now_o that_o this_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o soul_n burden_v as_o burden_v but_o as_o be_v in_o a_o sad_a condition_n ready_a to_o sink_v under_o grievous_a pressure_n appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v nothing_o promise_v by_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n remain_v in_o his_o present_a estate_n the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o rest_n and_o ease_n to_o the_o poor_a burden_a soul_n but_o how_o not_o as_o the_o soul_n remain_v in_o his_o present_a estate_n but_o through_o his_o come_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n come_v unto_o i_o and_o you_o shall_v have_v rest_n that_o be_v receive_v i_o as_o the_o only_a refuge_n of_o your_o soul_n and_o by_o receive_v i_o by_o faith_n your_o soul_n shall_v have_v rest_n 2._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v nothing_o promise_v in_o this_o promise_n to_o be_v give_v to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o future_a more_o than_o to_o other_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o for_o the_o present_a burden_a under_o sin_n whatever_o be_v hold_v forth_o in_o this_o promise_n to_o soul_n groan_v under_o their_o burden_n be_v hold_v forth_o in_o other_o text_n to_o soul_n not_o groan_v under_o their_o burden_n in_o as_o equal_v a_o manner_n there_o can_v but_o two_o thing_n be_v hold_v forth_o first_o a_o invitation_n to_o believe_v but_o there_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
three_o in_o what_o manner_n those_o mean_n produce_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n quest_n 1._o the_o first_o question_n be_v from_o whence_o soul_n attain_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n answ_n i_o answer_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o only_a peculiar_a ground_n substantial_o from_o whence_o soul_n can_v expect_v to_o receive_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n and_o that_o be_v the_o lord_n own_o free_a promise_n pass_v out_o of_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n alone_o to_o poor_a despisable_a soul_n wherein_o the_o lord_n reveal_v his_o willingness_n to_o confer_v or_o bestow_v the_o lord_n christ_n upon_o their_o soul_n now_o that_o this_o free_a promise_n alone_o be_v the_o infallible_a ground_n from_o whence_o soul_n can_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n will_v appear_v in_o these_o three_o particular_n i._o in_o regard_v a_o divine_a word_n must_v be_v the_o proper_a adequate_a object_n of_o a_o divine_a faith_n and_o every_o particular_a act_n of_o divine_a faith_n must_v have_v a_o divine_a word_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o in_o rom._n 10.17_o the_o whole_a gospel_n consider_v as_o the_o gospel_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o word_n from_o which_o faith_n come_v that_o be_v the_o word_n which_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o faith_n not_o that_o it_o be_v the_o bare_a hear_n of_o it_o that_o produce_v faith_n but_o through_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n the_o lord_n reveal_v that_o word_n unto_o soul_n to_o be_v a_o true_a infallible_a foundation_n for_o soul_n to_o build_v upon_o and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n past_a out_o from_o god_n as_o a_o promise_n unto_o soul_n be_v make_v a_o ground_n of_o true_a hope_n unto_o soul_n say_v david_n psal_n 119.49_o remember_v thy_o word_n that_o be_v thy_o promise_n unto_o thy_o servant_n upon_o which_o thou_o have_v cause_v i_o to_o hope_v now_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n thus_o consider_v be_v the_o only_a proper_a object_n of_o divine_a faith_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o it_o can_v only_o be_v from_o a_o divine_a promise_n that_o a_o soul_n can_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n ii_o in_o regard_n there_o must_v be_v a_o revelation_n from_o god_n of_o his_o free_a donation_n and_o give_v christ_n unto_o a_o soul_n that_o must_v be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o act_n of_o every_o assure_v faith_n it_o must_v be_v through_o some_o light_n and_o apprehension_n the_o soul_n have_v of_o the_o lord_n free_a will_n concern_v his_o soul_n that_o christ_n and_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v one_o that_o any_o act_n of_o assure_v faith_n can_v go_v out_o of_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o may_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_n faith_n respect_n thing_n only_o as_o they_o be_v reveal_v by_o speech_n from_o some_o person_n or_o other_o and_o respect_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o person_n speak_v as_o the_o ground_n and_o foundation_n upon_o which_o it_o act_n that_o be_v upon_o which_o faith_n do_v believe_v thus_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o lord_n speak_v be_v the_o ground_n of_o sarahs_n faith_n heb._n 11.11_o so_o the_o ground_n of_o paul_n faith_n be_v express_v thus_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o that_o he_o be_v able_a now_o the_o lord_n reveal_v his_o mind_n concern_v the_o eternal_a condition_n of_o such_o soul_n only_o in_o his_o promise_n thence_o it_o follow_v necessary_o there_o must_v be_v some_o revelation_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n or_o the_o lord_n donation_n or_o give_v christ_n to_o the_o soul_n before_o there_o can_v follow_v any_o act_n of_o assure_v faith_n 2._o it_o appear_v in_o regard_n faith_n proper_a exercise_n consist_v only_o in_o receive_v whence_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o scripture_n that_o believe_v and_o receive_v be_v both_o put_v for_o one_o ordinary_o john_n 1.12_o and_o chap._n 3.33_o so_o that_o of_o necessity_n for_o every_o right_a exercise_n of_o any_o act_n of_o faith_n there_o must_v be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o something_o give_v that_o may_v be_v receive_v by_o a_o soul_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v of_o indispensable_a necessity_n that_o there_o be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o the_o lord_n give_v christ_n to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o it_o before_o there_o can_v be_v a_o act_n of_o assure_v faith_n in_o the_o soul_n iii_o it_o must_v be_v from_o the_o promise_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n there_o must_v be_v a_o particular_a infallible_a certainty_n to_o faith_n eye_n in_o the_o ground_n from_o whence_o faith_n of_o assurance_n or_o faith_n of_o evidence_n do_v act_n faith_n work_v only_o as_o a_o receiver_n can_v receive_v no_o full_a certainty_n or_o have_v any_o full_a confidence_n in_o itself_o of_o any_o thing_n to_o be_v effect_v or_o do_v than_o it_o see_v manifest_a from_o the_o ground_n from_o whence_o it_o take_v that_o confidence_n or_o assurance_n now_o the_o promise_n alone_o be_v the_o infallible_a certainty_n to_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n yea_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o his_o own_o unchangeable_a counsel_n have_v determine_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o other_o certainty_n but_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n rom._n 4.16_o therefore_o it_o be_v of_o faith_n that_o it_o may_v be_v by_o grace_n to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o promise_n may_v be_v sure_a to_o all_o the_o seed_n and_o that_o be_v the_o answer_n to_o the_o first_o question_n from_o whence_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n which_o you_o see_v be_v only_o from_o the_o divine_a promise_n but_o yet_o here_o be_v another_o question_n soul_n will_v cast_v in_o before_o we_o answer_v the_o second_o by_o what_o mean_n quest_n but_o may_v the_o soul_n say_v be_v it_o not_o from_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o condition_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o promise_n of_o christ_n that_o a_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n it_o be_v true_a it_o must_v be_v from_o a_o promise_n but_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o the_o near_a ground_n the_o proximate_a ground_n but_o the_o remote_a ground_n the_o further_a off_o ground_n and_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o promise_n fulfil_v in_o the_o heart_n be_v the_o near_a ground_n and_o the_o immediate_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o its_o union_n for_o answer_v to_o it_o there_o be_v divers_a thing_n to_o be_v premise_v and_o then_o to_o come_v to_o the_o direct_a answer_n of_o the_o question_n prem_n 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o it_o be_v a_o general_a receive_v division_n of_o the_o promise_n that_o they_o be_v either_o absolute_a or_o conditional_a absolute_a make_v and_o found_v upon_o the_o will_n of_o god_n alone_o and_o so_o to_o be_v accomplish_v only_o according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n and_o because_o he_o will_n or_o else_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o some_o particular_a condition_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o soul_n upon_o which_o the_o lord_n do_v also_o fulfil_v the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n now_o this_o division_n divide_v the_o promise_n into_o a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n so_o it_o be_v all_o one_o with_o that_o know_a division_n promise_v legal_a and_o promise_n evangelical_a promise_v according_a to_o the_o law_n and_o promise_n according_a to_o the_o gospel_n prem_n 2._o second_o i_o shall_v premise_v that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n proper_o call_v conditional_a promise_n there_o be_v not_o one_o condition_n include_v in_o the_o whole_a covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o which_o any_o one_o promise_n be_v make_v so_o that_o the_o division_n of_o the_o promise_n into_o promise_n absolute_a and_o promise_n conditional_a can_v hold_v right_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o every_o promise_n consider_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v all_o absolute_a promise_n that_o be_v the_o revelation_n of_o god_n will_v to_o soul_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v simple_o and_o full_o determine_v to_o accomplish_v according_a to_o the_o manner_n and_o order_n and_o latitude_n wherein_o he_o do_v propound_v they_o unto_o soul_n and_o that_o without_o any_o impediment_n or_o interruption_n so_o that_o whatever_o can_v possible_o intervene_v yet_o the_o lord_n will_v shall_v prevail_v in_o perform_v the_o promise_n thence_o you_o shall_v observe_v jer._n 31.32_o that_o the_o new_a covenant_n call_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o love_n be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o old_a covenant_n god_n make_v with_o the_o jew_n as_o a_o nation_n in_o that_o it_o be_v a_o covenant_n whole_o absolute_a contain_v nothing_o but_o promise_n which_o the_o lord_n intend_v to_o
thing_n be_v thus_o clear_v the_o question_n that_o the_o soul_n propound_v can_v stand_v the_o question_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v not_o from_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o condition_n to_o which_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v and_o fulfil_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o soul_n do_v conclude_v his_o right_n to_o the_o promise_n and_o so_o have_v his_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v no_o condition_n in_o the_o whole_a covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o which_o god_n have_v make_v any_o promise_n it_o can_v be_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v from_o the_o sight_n of_o any_o such_o condition_n that_o a_o soul_n shall_v have_v his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o then_o the_o question_n will_v be_v resolve_v into_o this_o question_n quest_n but_o say_v the_o soul_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n first_o reveal_v those_o grace_n that_o he_o describe_v his_o own_o people_n by_o to_o be_v in_o soul_n and_o then_o through_o the_o sight_n of_o they_o clear_a to_o soul_n that_o he_o have_v give_v they_o the_o lord_n christ_n out_o of_o his_o own_o good_a will_v alone_o through_o the_o promise_n and_o so_o it_o must_v be_v through_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o grace_n as_o god_n describe_v to_o be_v in_o his_o people_n that_o a_o soul_n must_v see_v himself_o to_o be_v one_o of_o god_n people_n answ_n 1._o now_o to_o this_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o lord_n do_v reserve_v to_o himself_o his_o own_o liberty_n concern_v his_o own_o particular_a word_n from_o whence_o he_o do_v reveal_v to_o soul_n infallible_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o lord_n do_v not_o bind_v himself_o from_o a_o reveal_n unto_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o some_o word_n describe_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o people_n unite_v unto_o christ_n nor_o from_o some_o word_n only_o invite_v soul_n unto_o christ_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o evidence_n unto_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n without_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n in_o some_o measure_n or_o degree_n that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n describe_v the_o lord_n own_o people_n by_o when_o the_o lord_n reveal_v his_o own_o free_a gift_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o soul_n he_o do_v reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o willing_a accept_n of_o christ_n so_o give_v and_o that_o be_v all_o one_o as_o if_o i_o shall_v say_v the_o soul_n see_v his_o own_o faith_n and_o so_o consequent_o do_v see_v such_o grace_n to_o be_v in_o his_o soul_n answ_n 3._o three_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v never_o reveal_v any_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o any_o soul_n as_o the_o ground_n or_o cause_n of_o evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v two_o thing_n intend_v in_o this_o first_o that_o the_o lord_n never_o reveal_v those_o grace_n in_o soul_n to_o be_v that_o which_o give_v the_o soul_n right_a to_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n the_o lord_n never_o manifest_v unto_o any_o soul_n that_o because_o there_o be_v such_o and_o such_o holy_a disposition_n or_o precious_a heavenly_a quality_n that_o he_o have_v communicate_v to_o he_o that_o therefore_o he_o be_v incline_v towards_o he_o and_o be_v willing_a to_o confer_v the_o lord_n jesus_n upon_o he_o or_o to_o accept_v he_o into_o union_n through_o christ_n but_o the_o lord_n reveal_v himself_o willing_a to_o accept_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o christ_n as_o they_o be_v consider_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o poor_a despicable_a worthless_a soul_n without_o the_o least_o good_a disposition_n or_o holy_a inclination_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v imagine_v in_o their_o heart_n second_o the_o lord_n never_o reveal_v those_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n that_o be_v the_o lord_n do_v not_o manifest_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o because_o there_o be_v such_o grace_n or_o such_o precious_a habit_n in_o his_o soul_n therefore_o upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o believe_v the_o lord_n free_a sender_n and_o free_a gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n to_o it_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o make_v those_o grace_n to_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n faith_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n hope_v and_o comfort_n shall_v rest_v upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o god_n shall_v discover_v to_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v cause_v the_o soul_n by_o discover_v grace_n to_o be_v in_o he_o to_o bottom_v its_o hope_n upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n than_o shall_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v the_o object_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o faith_n shall_v not_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v but_o rather_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n see_v now_o the_o scripture_n never_o propound_v any_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o faith_n consider_v the_o quality_n as_o be_v inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v out_o of_o all_o question_n the_o scripture_n propound_v believe_v without_o the_o sight_n of_o any_o of_o those_o quality_n as_o that_o which_o every_o soul_n ought_v to_o seek_v after_o with_o his_o great_a strength_n john_n 20.29_o second_o shall_v the_o lord_n manifest_a grace_n to_o be_v in_o soul_n first_o so_o as_o to_o bottom_v the_o hope_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n than_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o settle_v the_o faith_n of_o such_o soul_n upon_o a_o immutable_a unchangeable_a ground_n the_o spirit_n itself_o in_o all_o its_o working_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o person_n in_o who_o it_o work_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o manner_n and_o time_n of_o such_o working_n be_v well_o compare_v by_o christ_n to_o the_o wind_n that_o blow_v where_o and_o when_o it_o list_v and_o so_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o working_n of_o those_o grace_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v changeable_a thing_n and_o shall_v the_o lord_n ground_n the_o faith_n of_o a_o soul_n upon_o a_o changeable_a ground_n he_o shall_v walk_v contrary_a to_o he_o reveal_v will_n heb._n 6.18_o he_o have_v give_v two_o immutable_a ground_n his_o word_n and_o oath_n the_o lord_n will_v be_v there_o shall_v be_v everlasting_a constant_a unchangeable_a ground_n upon_o which_o every_o act_n of_o faith_n shall_v be_v build_v in_o relation_n to_o the_o lord_n christ_n that_o there_o may_v be_v unmoveable_a and_o unchangeable_a consolation_n answ_n 4._o four_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o lord_n may_v and_o do_v to_o some_o soul_n reveal_v grace_n to_o be_v in_o they_o before_o he_o do_v evidence_n unto_o their_o faith_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o lord_n may_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v some_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n some_o break_a heartedness_n for_o sin_n some_o precious_a change_n before_o he_o do_v assure_v unto_o their_o faith_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o then_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n to_o be_v note_v for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o conclusion_n first_o that_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o reveal_v the_o truth_n of_o such_o grace_n to_o be_v in_o such_o a_o soul_n unquestionable_o so_o as_o to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o conclude_v from_o thence_o the_o acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o dreadful_a storm_n of_o fear_n and_o terror_n that_o may_v be_v rise_v upon_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v much_o allay_v but_o alas_o there_o will_v be_v many_o a_o wave_n go_v over_o the_o soul_n still_o second_o that_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n hold_v equal_a proportion_n with_o that_o evidence_n the_o lord_n give_v to_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n or_o of_o the_o lord_n free_a gift_n of_o christ_n to_o he_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o grace_n and_o the_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n run_v parallel_v together_o they_o be_v dark_a and_o clear_a together_o hold_v one_o equal_a proportion_n and_o therefore_o until_o god_n assure_v the_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v willing_a to_o accept_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n have_v not_o a_o unquestionable_a assurance_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o his_o soul_n answ_n 5._o it_o be_v not_o the_o discovery_n of_o grace_n in_o a_o poor_a doubt_a soul_n but_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a uncontrollable_a will_n to_o receive_v a_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n faith_n be_v assure_v of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n be_v assure_v of_o his_o union_n with_o he_o now_o this_o
i_o shall_v desire_v to_o clear_v from_o divers_a particular_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o immediate_a ground_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o promise_n or_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n unto_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n therefore_o say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 4.16_o it_o be_v of_o faith_n that_o it_o may_v be_v by_o grace_n to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o promise_n may_v be_v sure_a to_o all_o the_o seed_n and_o that_o the_o immediate_a ground_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o promise_n must_v be_v gift_n alone_o appear_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o regard_n the_o foundation_n of_o all_o must_v be_v grace_n eph._n 1.6_o 7._o that_o we_o may_v be_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o grace_n therefore_o in_o ezek._n 16.62_o 63._o i_o will_v establish_v my_o covenant_n with_o thou_o and_o thou_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o be_o the_o lord_n there_o be_v the_o absolute_a promise_n what_o be_v the_o end_n that_o thou_o may_v remember_v and_o be_v confound_v and_o never_o open_v thy_o mouth_n any_o more_o because_o of_o thy_o shame_n when_o i_o be_o pacify_v towards_o thou_o for_o all_o that_o thou_o have_v do_v say_v the_o lord_n this_o be_v strange_a one_o will_v think_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v ashamed_a and_o consounded_a when_o god_n be_v pacify_v and_o reveal_v himself_o to_o be_v pacify_v but_o here_o be_v the_o mystery_n of_o it_o the_o lord_n lay_v grace_n as_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o his_o way_n towards_o they_o purposely_o that_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o that_o god_n communicate_v to_o soul_n may_v be_v to_o himself_o alone_o second_o in_o regard_n there_o can_v be_v nothing_o else_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n there_o be_v but_o two_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v ground_n of_o certainty_n it_o must_v be_v either_o grace_n in_o god_n or_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n either_o the_o love_n of_o god_n or_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v thing_n see_v ad_fw-la therefore_o not_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n heb._n 11.1_o 2._o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o absolute_a will_n of_o god_n must_v be_v the_o only_a ground_n of_o assurance_n in_o regard_n faith_n can_v discern_v no_o certainty_n of_o god_n difference_v one_o soul_n from_o another_o but_o what_o the_o word_n of_o god_n reveal_v now_o the_o word_n of_o god_n reveal_v no_o other_o ground_n of_o the_o lord_n difference_v one_o soul_n from_o another_o but_o only_o his_o own_o will_n rom._n 9.12.18_o 3._o in_o regard_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o soul_n right_a of_o receive_v christ_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o do_v whole_o depend_v upon_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v secret_o allure_v the_o heart_n from_o those_o dark_a vision_n of_o christ_n to_o embrace_v he_o true_o so_o as_o there_o be_v a_o real_a union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n yet_o the_o soul_n can_v judge_v aright_o of_o his_o receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n so_o tender_v to_o be_v give_v to_o his_o soul_n till_o he_o see_v that_o he_o do_v receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n upon_o the_o right_a ground_n 4._o in_o that_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n duty_n to_o receive_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n in_o that_o order_n wherein_o the_o lord_n manifest_v his_o give_v of_o his_o gift_n now_o the_o order_n wherein_o the_o lord_n propound_v his_o gift_n be_v first_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o then_o the_o gift_n of_o all_o grace_n as_o the_o adjunct_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o thence_o the_o lord_n invite_v the_o soul_n and_o command_v the_o soul_n first_o in_o order_n to_o receive_v christ_n that_o so_o it_o may_v partake_v of_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n and_o all_o those_o disposition_n of_o holiness_n the_o soul_n belong_v for_o 5._o in_o that_o the_o lord_n judge_v it_o sufficient_a for_o assure_v the_o waver_a tremble_v soul_n of_o a_o poor_a sinner_n fear_v the_o indignation_n of_o god_n against_o he_o for_o his_o sin_n you_o shall_v read_v gen._n 3.15_o that_o all_o the_o promise_n that_o god_n give_v to_o adam_n when_o out_o of_o question_n the_o poor_a man_n be_v in_o great_a distress_n be_v only_o this_o that_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n a_o mere_a discovery_n of_o his_o absolute_a free_a will_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o thing_n in_o soul_n themselves_o that_o he_o will_v deliver_v sole_o by_o a_o way_n devise_v by_o his_o own_o wisdom_n by_o a_o mediator_n by_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o humane_a nature_n and_o conquer_a the_o power_n of_o hell_n that_o do_v then_o hold_v poor_a soul_n captive_a can_v adam_n have_v receive_v no_o evidence_n nor_o no_o assurance_n of_o the_o lord_n accept_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o again_o in_o christ_n from_o that_o promise_n the_o soul_n of_o adam_n have_v be_v leave_v altogether_o comfortless_a there_o be_v no_o description_n give_v by_o god_n of_o any_o grace_n that_o his_o own_o spirit_n do_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o such_o that_o he_o have_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o himself_o 6._o in_o regard_v the_o pattern_n hold_v forth_o in_o scripture_n of_o such_o as_o have_v receive_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n from_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n from_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o will_n alone_o to_o do_v good_a unto_o their_o soul_n in_o gen._n 15.6_o 7_o 8_o compare_v with_o rom._n 4.18_o 19_o you_o shall_v see_v abraham_n the_o father_n of_o all_o believer_n he_o receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n blessing_n he_o in_o christ_n which_o be_v all_o one_o with_o take_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n only_o by_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a will_n towards_o he_o another_o pattern_n you_o see_v isa_n 6.5_o 6_o 7_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o wretchedness_n cry_v out_o woe_n be_v i_o i_o be_o undo_v etc._n etc._n a_o seraphim_n fly_v unto_o he_o have_v a_o live_a coal_n in_o his_o hand_n which_o he_o take_v off_o the_o altar_n and_o lay_v it_o upon_o his_o mouth_n you_o must_v conceive_v it_o be_v do_v in_o a_o vision_n and_o say_v lo_o this_o have_v touch_v thy_o lip_n and_o thy_o iniquity_n be_v take_v away_o and_o thy_o sin_n purge_v here_o be_v a_o absolute_a promise_n of_o the_o lord_n free_a love_n to_o isaiah_n it_o give_v he_o no_o character_n at_o all_o but_o tell_v he_o his_o iniquity_n be_v take_v away_o and_o this_o satisfy_v the_o soul_n of_o isaiah_n as_o you_o may_v see_v v._o 8._o by_o his_o readiness_n to_o obey_v the_o command_n of_o god_n here_o i_o be_o send_v i_o and_o the_o case_n be_v every_o way_n parallel_n only_o this_o particularize_v the_o person_n of_o isaiah_n whereas_o other_o promise_n be_v hold_v forth_o general_o but_o yet_o every_o particular_a soul_n be_v as_o full_o include_v and_o the_o promise_n be_v as_o absolute_o speak_v to_o every_o soul_n receive_v it_o as_o it_o be_v unto_o isaiah_n and_o it_o be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o shine_v forth_o in_o the_o promise_n that_o do_v put_v as_o much_o particularity_n and_o do_v as_o much_o particularize_v the_o promise_n to_o any_o one_o soul_n as_o this_o promise_n be_v particularise_v to_o isaiah_n in_o a_o vision_n so_o that_o it_o be_v from_o the_o lord_n absolute_a will_n alone_o that_o the_o soul_n receive_v a_o full_a ground_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o first_o branch_n of_o the_o 5_o conclusion_n the_o second_o branch_n of_o the_o five_o conclusion_n be_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o scrupulous_a soul_n doubtful_a of_o his_o union_n that_o do_v thus_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n now_o the_o discovery_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n still_o dark_a in_o his_o union_n can_v be_v in_o order_n the_o first_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n though_o at_o the_o very_a same_o instant_n the_o soul_n may_v by_o the_o discover_n of_o those_o grace_n see_v his_o union_n and_o conclude_v his_o union_n from_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n yet_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n this_o be_v not_o the_o immediate_a ground_n that_o give_v the_o certainty_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v i._o in_o regard_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n can_v be_v first_o receive_v of_o a_o soul_n by_o faith_n as_o a_o soul_n be_v gracious_a or_o by_o the_o soul_n be_v consider_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o soul_n that_o
have_v any_o grace_n or_o holy_a habit_n or_o quality_n inherent_a in_o he_o but_o the_o first_o sight_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n former_o dark_a about_o his_o union_n must_v have_v respect_n and_o relation_n to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o who_o the_o gift_n be_v manifest_v else_o the_o gift_n can_v be_v close_v with_o as_o suitable_a thence_o it_o must_v be_v manifest_v as_o a_o gift_n of_o a_o mediator_n to_o a_o poor_a despicable_a and_o desperate_a rebellious_a wretch_n against_o the_o high_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o mediate_v with_o the_o great_a commander_n of_o heaven_n for_o pardon_v to_o such_o a_o poor_a despicable_a rebel_n it_o must_v be_v receive_v as_o a_o gift_n of_o a_o day_n man_n that_o may_v lay_v his_o hand_n upon_o both_o partay_v upon_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n as_o at_o difference_n to_o make_v up_o a_o union_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n in_o open_v the_o work_n of_o receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n by_o faith_n consider_v the_o soul_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o ungodly_a one_o in_o the_o receive_n of_o it_o rom._n 4_o 5._o ii_o it_o can_v be_v that_o the_o discovery_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v first_o in_o order_n to_o such_o a_o soul_n in_o regard_n the_o first_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o have_v hitherto_o set_v in_o darkness_n must_v be_v a_o manifestation_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o those_o very_a grace_n and_o the_o grace_n themselves_o consider_v as_o give_v be_v no_o proper_a object_n of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o can_v give_v no_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n but_o it_o be_v only_o the_o promise_n wherein_o the_o lord_n hold_v forth_o his_o free_a will_n both_o to_o christ_n and_o those_o grace_n that_o must_v be_v the_o only_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n can_v receive_v the_o evidence_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n thus_o you_o have_v the_o first_o question_n open_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o what_o mean_v the_o lord_n use_v to_o make_v the_o promise_n efficacious_a for_o this_o end_n to_o give_v the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o before_o we_o come_v to_o answer_v this_o question_n there_o be_v another_o question_n to_o be_v open_v that_o arise_v from_o the_o former_a quest_n but_o say_v the_o soul_n can_v the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n can_v have_v the_o first_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n see_v there_o be_v no_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o discover_v his_o own_o will_n to_o accept_v any_o one_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n all_o the_o absolute_a promise_n say_v the_o soul_n be_v make_v to_o the_o church_n and_o people_n of_o god_n but_o the_o lord_n in_o those_o absolute_a promise_n do_v not_o reveal_v the_o particular_a soul_n that_o be_v his_o own_o therefore_o how_o can_v i_o or_o any_o other_o know_v that_o i_o be_o the_o particular_a soul_n in_o the_o promise_n there_o be_v no_o particularise_v of_o any_o soul_n answ_n for_o answer_v to_o this_o question_n i_o shall_v first_o open_v what_o be_v general_o grant_v by_o every_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o premise_v for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o thing_n and_o then_o lie_v down_o two_o conclusion_n for_o the_o full_a answer_n of_o the_o question_n pre._n 1._o first_o it_o be_v general_o grant_v by_o all_o that_o it_o be_v by_o virtue_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n of_o accept_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o soul_n be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n the_o absolute_a promise_n alone_o be_v like_o jacob_n ladder_n it_o be_v the_o heavenly_a ladder_n upon_o which_o the_o lord_n christ_n alone_o come_v down_o into_o any_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o absolute_a promise_n that_o be_v the_o precious_a golden_a chain_n that_o bind_v the_o lord_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o soul_n to_o christ_n that_o the_o precious_a marriage_n knot_n of_o union_n be_v only_o knit_v by_o that_o chain_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o if_o it_o be_v not_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n than_o the_o absolute_a good_a will_n unto_o soul_n be_v not_o the_o primary_n or_o first_o ground_n of_o union_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o soul_n for_o the_o promise_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o revelation_n or_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n good_a will_n concern_v soul_n now_o thence_o it_o be_v if_o it_o be_v not_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n that_o soul_n be_v unite_v than_o it_o be_v not_o primary_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v from_o eternity_n and_o so_o union_n with_o christ_n shall_v not_o be_v a_o mercy_n flow_v down_o from_o the_o fountain_n of_o the_o lord_n elective_a love_n but_o rather_o the_o first_o and_o primary_n cause_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n shall_v be_v from_o something_o in_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o so_o quite_o contrary_a to_o the_o stream_n of_o scripture_n truth_n it_o shall_v be_v of_o he_o that_o will_v and_o run_v and_o not_o of_o he_o that_o show_v mercy_n 2._o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o then_o there_o must_v be_v some_o grace_n acceptable_a to_o god_n presuppose_v to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n before_o union_n with_o christ_n unto_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o promise_n of_o union_n with_o he_o it_o must_v be_v either_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o conditional_a promise_n or_o a_o absolute_a promise_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v now_o if_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o condition_n or_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o such_o a_o holy_a quality_n must_v be_v conceive_v to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n as_o be_v acceptable_a unto_o god_n now_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a there_o can_v be_v any_o holy_a quality_n conceive_v to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n acceptable_a to_o god_n before_o union_n then_o either_o the_o soul_n must_v receive_v some_o holy_a quality_n that_o flow_v not_o from_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o deny_v the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v contrary_a to_o that_o in_o col._n 1.9_o and_o john_n 1.16_o or_o else_o we_o shall_v conclude_v that_o some_o grace_n some_o holy_a quality_n shall_v be_v convey_v into_o the_o soul_n that_o shall_v not_o be_v convey_v by_o virtue_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n and_o so_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o communication_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n still_o remain_v a_o stranger_n to_o god_n 3._o if_o there_o be_v the_o least_o quality_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n before_o union_n than_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v a_o belove_a one_o of_o god_n out_o of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v by_o his_o dear_o belove_a son_n alone_o in_o who_o the_o lord_n be_v well_o please_v pre._n 2._o that_o the_o first_o proper_a act_n of_o faith_n in_o union_n be_v ever_o by_o or_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o application_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n unto_o their_o particular_a soul_n that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o if_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o union_n be_v not_o by_o particular_a application_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n then_o the_o devil_n faith_n shall_v hold_v equal_a proportion_n to_o the_o faith_n of_o soul_n unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n the_o devil_n themselves_o do_v as_o full_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o all_o those_o precious_a absolute_a promise_n as_o any_o unite_a soul_n and_o do_v as_o full_o expect_v the_o certain_a accomplishment_n of_o they_o unto_o the_o church_n of_o god_n 2._o then_o shall_v the_o soul_n dependence_n upon_o jesus_n christ_n be_v without_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o suitable_a ground_n for_o the_o dependence_n the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n can_v have_v no_o ground_n but_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n in_o regard_n all_o those_o grace_n that_o be_v describe_v in_o any_o word_n of_o god_n that_o shall_v seem_v to_o be_v conditional_a promise_n those_o be_v not_o discover_v at_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o unless_o the_o absolute_a promise_n prove_v a_o particular_a ground_n to_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n that_o the_o soul_n in_o that_o absolute_a promise_n see_v the_o lord_n particular_o tender_v himself_o to_o accept_v it_o into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o ground_n for_o that_o dependence_n prem_n 3._o it_o be_v also_o grant_v that_o this_o particular_a application_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n unto_o soul_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
with_o himself_o conclu_n 2._o there_o be_v as_o great_a a_o fullness_n of_o sufficiency_n in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o there_o be_v to_o give_v the_o soul_n a_o ground_n of_o particular_a dependence_n upon_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o union_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o particular_n 1._o in_o regard_n confidence_n of_o the_o particularity_n of_o the_o promise_n be_v of_o the_o essence_n and_o be_v both_o of_o faith_n of_o dependence_n and_o faith_n of_o assurance_n take_v away_o particular_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n particular_a will_n towards_o such_o a_o particular_a soul_n to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o you_o destroy_v the_o faith_n of_o adherence_n take_v away_o the_o particular_a confidence_n and_o there_o remain_v nothing_o but_o a_o bare_a general_a belief_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v tender_v 2._o both_o the_o confidence_n in_o the_o say_v of_o dependence_n and_o faith_n of_o assurance_n be_v of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o kind_n though_o indeed_o that_o the_o confidence_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v when_o he_o once_o act_v faith_n by_o way_n of_o assurance_n differ_v gradual_o that_o be_v in_o many_o degree_n from_o the_o faith_n of_o dependence_n and_o adherence_n yet_o they_o be_v both_o of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o kind_n they_o be_v both_o substantial_o the_o same_o they_o be_v but_o a_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o take_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n he_o receive_v of_o he_o only_o this_o differ_v in_o a_o circumstance_n of_o time_n that_o faith_n of_o assurance_n act_v that_o confidence_n by_o way_n of_o the_o time_n past_a that_o the_o lord_n out_o of_o his_o good_a will_v alone_o have_v receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n whereas_o that_o confidence_n that_o be_v in_o the_o act_n of_o dependence_n or_o adherence_n may_v work_v thus_o that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v now_o at_o this_o present_a to_o receive_v my_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n now_o all_o man_n grant_v that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n be_v sufficient_a to_o build_v say_v of_o adherence_n or_o dependence_n upon_o otherwise_o you_o must_v take_v away_o all_o ground_n upon_o which_o a_o soul_n must_v believe_v and_o you_o must_v leave_v a_o soul_n under_o a_o command_n to_o believe_v have_v no_o bottom_n upon_o which_o to_o set_v his_o faith_n we_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o the_o open_n of_o the_o second_o question_n and_o that_o be_v quest_n 2._o by_o what_o mean_n do_v a_o soul_n receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n it_o have_v be_v determine_v that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n to_o give_v the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o every_o poor_a despicable_a loveless_a forlorn_a soul_n that_o will_v receive_v he_o be_v the_o only_a unchangeable_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n do_v first_o gather_v the_o certain_a infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n but_o now_o say_v the_o soul_n by_o what_o mean_n be_v the_o promise_n make_v efficacious_a for_o this_o end_n how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o bare_a absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n do_v manifest_a to_o the_o particular_a soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o question_n i_o must_v first_o premise_v divers_a thing_n for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o it_o and_o then_o lie_v down_o the_o answer_n in_o positive_a conclusion_n prem_n 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n have_v a_o fullness_n of_o sufficiency_n in_o itself_o to_o discover_v at_o all_o time_n to_o every_o particular_a soul_n in_o what_o condition_n soever_o under_o what_o temptation_n in_o what_o cloud_n and_o darkness_n soever_o that_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v to_o receive_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o he_o shall_v accept_v the_o good_a will_n of_o god_n and_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o though_o indeed_o the_o promise_n work_v this_o effect_n very_o rare_o in_o soul_n yet_o at_o all_o time_n the_o promise_n have_v that_o sufficiency_n in_o itself_o and_o there_o be_v no_o addition_n make_v by_o god_n to_o the_o promise_n neither_o by_o word_n nor_o light_n neither_o by_o way_n of_o particularise_v soul_n nor_o by_o way_n of_o comprehensiveness_n to_o make_v it_o conclude_v soul_n neither_o do_v the_o soul_n build_v upon_o any_o thing_n add_v to_o the_o promise_n but_o the_o promise_n itself_o be_v the_o absolute_a ground_n that_o the_o soul_n always_o build_v upon_o in_o receive_v evidence_n from_o it_o now_o because_o the_o promise_n itself_o do_v not_o at_o every_o time_n and_o in_o every_o condition_n manifest_a unto_o that_o soul_n thus_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o who_o it_o have_v evidence_v his_o union_n therefore_o think_v some_o soul_n it_o be_v something_o superad_v to_o the_o promise_n and_o some_o again_o be_v ready_a on_o the_o other_o side_n to_o conclude_v from_o the_o position_n itself_o that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n shall_v give_v the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o it_o must_v be_v from_o some_o revelation_n of_o god_n that_o be_v add_v to_o the_o promise_n a_o kind_n of_o revelation_n of_o the_o soul_n name_n to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o so_o the_o soul_n shall_v not_o build_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o upon_o some_o superadded_a revelation_n but_o neither_o of_o both_o these_o must_v be_v conceive_v but_o the_o promise_n have_v always_o a_o sufficiency_n of_o light_a to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o only_o this_o promise_n of_o god_n or_o discovery_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o be_v lay_v as_o the_o tower_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n must_v have_v a_o wise_a master_n builder_n to_o lay_v it_o it_o be_v with_o this_o foundation_n as_o with_o other_o foundation_n when_o the_o timber_n be_v hew_v and_o square_a fit_n for_o a_o groundsel_n it_o must_v have_v a_o wise_a master_n builder_n to_o lay_v it_o for_o a_o foundation_n so_o the_o soul_n must_v have_v instruction_n from_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n to_o lay_v this_o foundation_n so_o as_o he_o may_v see_v his_o assurance_n stand_v firm_a upon_o it_o prem_n 2._o second_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o whatsoever_o be_v employ_v by_o god_n in_o a_o subordination_n to_o his_o will_n for_o the_o effect_v any_o end_n that_o be_v intend_v by_o god_n that_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o produce_v or_o effect_v such_o a_o end_n this_o i_o premise_v that_o we_o may_v understand_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o mean_n when_o we_o say_v by_o what_o mean_n be_v this_o promise_n make_v sufficient_a to_o give_v the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n god_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v as_o the_o primary_n efficient_a cause_n upon_o which_o all_o thing_n have_v their_o dependence_n and_o all_o thing_n employ_v by_o god_n for_o effect_v that_o be_v inferior_a cause_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n himself_o they_o be_v call_v mean_n though_o in_o respect_n of_o create_a cause_n some_o such_o inferior_a cause_n may_v be_v call_v a_o principal_a cause_n so_o that_o whatever_o be_v employ_v by_o god_n for_o effect_v this_o end_n of_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v effectual_a for_o that_o use_n prem_n 3._o three_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a and_o various_a mean_n that_o do_v common_o concur_v together_o for_o effect_v one_o and_o the_o same_o end_n though_o they_o have_v divers_a relation_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o work_v diverse_o for_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o there_o may_v be_v divers_a kind_n of_o influence_n from_o divers_a thing_n to_o one_o and_o the_o same_o end_n and_o whatever_o have_v influence_n into_o the_o end_n come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o cause_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o principal_a cause_n it_o come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o mean_n so_o in_o this_o great_a matter_n of_o evidence_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o may_v and_o do_v concur_v for_o effect_v that_o bless_a end_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o draw_v from_o the_o absolute_a promise_n the_o conclusion_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n though_o those_o various_a thing_n work_v in_o a_o various_a manner_n and_o one_o have_v influence_n into_o the_o end_n and_o another_o have_v another_o influence_n and_o so_o be_v look_v at_o as_o divers_a in_o relation_n to_o this_o great_a matter_n of_o assurance_n prem_n 4._o four_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o there_o be_v four_o or_o five_o
distinction_n about_o cause_n or_o mean_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v understand_v for_o understand_v this_o question_n by_o what_o mean_v the_o promise_n be_v make_v sufficient_a to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o the_o soul_n must_v understand_v the_o distinction_n between_o the_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n and_o the_o less_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n though_o there_o be_v proper_o unto_o every_o action_n but_o one_o principal_a cause_n yet_o in_o respect_n of_o instrumental_a cause_n there_o may_v be_v many_o thing_n that_o may_v have_v the_o respect_n of_o efficient_a cause_n for_o the_o produce_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n though_o there_o can_v be_v but_o one_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a neither_o unless_o it_o be_v coordinate_a 2._o you_o must_v understand_v that_o the_o mean_n or_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n be_v divide_v again_o into_o natural_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n and_o artificial_a the_o natural_a instrumental_a cause_n be_v that_o which_o work_v by_o its_o own_o natural_a inbred_a virtue_n that_o be_v by_o a_o proper_a disposition_n of_o its_o own_o and_o by_o a_o power_n that_o it_o have_v in_o itself_o without_o dependence_n upon_o any_o create_a cause_n though_o nothing_o that_o be_v a_o instrumental_a cause_n can_v be_v say_v to_o work_v by_o his_o own_o virtue_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o principal_a efficient_a cause_n 3._o you_o must_v understand_v that_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v again_o either_o as_o those_o that_o be_v mediate_a cause_n or_o immediate_a cause_n the_o mediate_a efficient_a cause_n be_v that_o which_o contribute_v something_o to_o the_o produce_v the_o effect_n that_o be_v that_o which_o have_v some_o influence_n into_o the_o great_a effect_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n either_o direct_o or_o indirect_o though_o it_o be_v but_o a_o far_o off_o there_o be_v many_o immediate_a thing_n that_o come_v between_o that_o make_v up_o the_o soul_n evidence_n the_o immediate_a cause_n that_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o work_v so_o immediate_o that_o nothing_o intervene_v between_o the_o effect_n which_o be_v the_o soul_n assurance_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o which_o have_v the_o last_o stroke_n as_o i_o may_v say_v that_o be_v proper_o the_o immediate_a cause_n that_o which_o be_v once_o effect_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o soul_n do_v immediate_o and_o without_o intermission_n of_o time_n draw_v the_o conclusion_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o immediate_a efficient_a cause_n 4._o instrumental_a cause_n be_v such_o as_o either_o solitary_a efficient_a cause_n or_o combine_v efficient_a cause_n that_o be_v such_o cause_n as_o work_v by_o themselves_o without_o other_o to_o produce_v such_o a_o effect_n or_o else_o such_o as_o work_v by_o other_o cause_v not_o without_o respect_n there_o be_v a_o efficient_a cause_n alone_o and_o a_o concause_n with_o another_o and_o both_o contribute_v assistance_n to_o the_o same_o thing_n 5._o these_o efficient_a instrumental_a cause_n be_v divide_v again_o into_o subordinate_a cause_n or_o coordinate_a cause_n that_o be_v such_o instrumental_a cause_n that_o though_o they_o work_v together_o be_v in_o a_o subordination_n to_o one_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n or_o else_o such_o as_o produce_v a_o equal_a power_n joint_o together_o for_o the_o effect_v the_o same_o thing_n it_o be_v then_o that_o efficient_a instrumental_a cause_n be_v subordinate_a when_o one_o have_v the_o supremacy_n and_o all_o have_v dependence_n upon_o one_o though_o many_o thing_n have_v influence_n into_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o they_o be_v coordinate_a when_o they_o have_v equal_a dependence_n one_o upon_o another_o one_o not_o be_v able_a to_o work_v without_o another_o now_o all_o these_o distinction_n of_o cause_n must_v be_v understand_v for_o a_o right_n clear_a understanding_n of_o this_o question_n by_o what_o mean_v a_o soul_n do_v attain_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n now_o these_o thing_n be_v premise_v i_o shall_v lay_v down_o the_o answer_n in_o positive_a conclusion_n answ_n 1._o first_o i_o answer_v direct_o to_o the_o question_n that_o there_o be_v divers_a mediate_v and_o less_o principal_a cause_n that_o do_v afar_o off_o help_v something_o for_o the_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o absolute_a promise_n there_o be_v divers_a such_o cause_n that_o be_v partly_o artificial_a and_o partly_o natural_a of_o this_o nature_n i_o may_v reckon_v up_o divers_a as_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n in_o the_o open_n and_o clear_v the_o nature_n the_o largeness_n of_o the_o extent_n and_o the_o excellency_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n to_o a_o soul_n likewise_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o sacrament_n either_o of_o baptism_n or_o the_o lord_n supper_n the_o element_n of_o water_n in_o one_o be_v appoint_v by_o christ_n himself_o in_o the_o use_n of_o it_o to_o discover_v the_o soul_n partake_v of_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n by_o be_v bury_v in_o the_o water_n and_o to_o signify_v the_o soul_n partake_v of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n by_o rise_v out_o of_o the_o water_n and_o so_o consequent_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o death_n and_o life_n consequent_o seal_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o jesus_n christ_n die_v for_o he_o and_o live_v for_o he_o so_o the_o other_o sacrament_n the_o element_n of_o bread_n and_o wine_n be_v appoint_v by_o jesus_n christ_n to_o signify_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o break_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o effusion_n of_o his_o blood_n and_o the_o application_n of_o those_o element_n to_o he_o be_v element_n by_o which_o his_o body_n shall_v be_v refresh_v and_o clear_v be_v appoint_v to_o show_v the_o life_n and_o nourishment_n of_o his_o soul_n to_o be_v from_o christ_n alone_o these_o sacrament_n in_o their_o right_a institution_n may_v be_v instrumental_a immediate_a cause_n afar_o off_o to_o contribute_v to_o a_o soul_n something_o of_o his_o union_n so_o prayer_n meditation_n and_o christian_a conference_n inquire_v into_o the_o freeness_n of_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o latitude_n of_o it_o and_o every_o spiritual_a ordinance_n of_o god_n wherein_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n be_v bring_v to_o any_o remembrance_n may_v contribute_v something_o to_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n which_o be_v proper_o artificial_a cause_n not_o natural_a but_o of_o a_o mix_a kind_n partly_o artificial_a and_o partly_o natural_a and_o all_o these_o be_v in_o this_o kind_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n they_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v mean_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n attain_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o it_o be_v very_o seldom_o if_o i_o may_v not_o say_v never_o but_o god_n use_v one_o of_o these_o mean_n to_o clear_v up_o to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v common_o âââeived_v that_o there_o be_v three_o more_o immediate_a joint_n concur_v cause_n to_o make_v up_o to_o the_o soul_n the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n from_o the_o promise_n though_o those_o forename_a mean_n do_v work_v instrumental_o for_o that_o end_n yet_o there_o be_v some_o that_o do_v work_v more_o inward_o that_o be_v common_o receive_v to_o be_v joint_a cause_n work_v for_o one_o and_o the_o same_o end_n i_o mean_v for_o assure_v the_o soul_n from_o the_o promise_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o i._o the_o irradiation_n i_o mean_v the_o bright_a shine_a light_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v set_v up_o as_o a_o precious_a heavenly_a lamp_n that_o shine_v so_o clear_o into_o the_o dark_a soul_n that_o it_o make_v the_o soul_n see_v in_o a_o sensible_a way_n that_o he_o do_v receive_v the_o promise_n and_o embrace_v the_o lord_n jesus_n give_v in_o that_o promise_n faith_n give_v the_o soul_n such_o a_o feel_a experience_n that_o it_o do_v receive_v the_o promise_n of_o jesus_n christ_n give_v even_o when_o it_o be_v receive_v of_o it_o his_o soul_n grasp_v jesus_n christ_n so_o powerful_o as_o he_o feel_v his_o arm_n grasp_v jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o promise_n ii_o there_o be_v the_o conclusion_n renew_v conscience_n draw_v by_o the_o strength_n of_o spiritual_a and_o experimental_a reason_n that_o the_o promise_n be_v unto_o his_o particular_a soul_n and_o that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n as_o appear_v from_o the_o promise_n the_o truth_n of_o it_o appear_v from_o rom._n 8.16_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n bear_v witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v son_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o two_o fold_v witness_n the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o our_o spirit_n which_o can_v be_v nothing_o but_o the_o renew_a understanding_n or_o conscience_n that_o give_v the_o testimony_n and_o both_o of_o they_o witness_n at_o one_o
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 tâât_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
in_o that_o propriety_n he_o be_v not_o satisfy_v fear_n and_o doubt_n arise_v of_o lose_v it_o again_o can_v the_o soul_n see_v union_n with_o christ_n unless_o the_o voice_n say_v thus_o i_o be_o thou_o and_o will_v never_o separate_v from_o thou_o it_o will_v give_v no_o true_a comfort_n the_o soul_n will_v be_v more_o afraid_a of_o the_o loss_n of_o that_o happiness_n then_o rejoice_v in_o the_o present_a good_a enjoy_v 3._o it_o will_v appear_v in_o regard_n there_o be_v nothing_o sufficient_a to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n from_o the_o promise_n satisfy_o but_o the_o spirit_n there_o must_v be_v a_o equal_a authority_n in_o the_o revelation_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o that_o that_o be_v in_o the_o revelation_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o sin_n gild_n and_o subjection_n to_o everlasting_a damnation_n before_o the_o soul_n can_v receive_v any_o satisfaction_n or_o any_o true_a freedom_n from_o those_o dreadful_a horror_n that_o possess_v a_o soul_n upon_o the_o true_a revelation_n of_o his_o dreadful_a estate_n of_o sin_n woe_n and_o misery_n now_o its_o apparent_a that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n alone_o that_o reveal_v with_o power_n the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o soul_n through_o his_o own_o sin_n and_o therefore_o unless_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v come_v again_o with_o another_o voice_n which_o have_v as_o great_a a_o power_n to_o pronounce_v the_o absolution_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o condemnation_n through_o christ_n the_o soul_n can_v never_o receive_v any_o satisfaction_n nor_o be_v free_a from_o receive_v the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n in_o himself_o four_o the_o scripture_n itself_o testify_v that_o it_o be_v the_o proper_a peculiar_a office_n of_o the_o spirit_n i_o need_v quote_v only_o that_o one_o place_n rom._n 8.16_o the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n when_o he_o will_v rise_v to_o the_o high_a evidence_n he_o rise_v to_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n there_o be_v two_o or_o three_o thing_n in_o the_o text_n that_o will_v clear_v it_o that_o it_o must_v be_v mean_v the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o and_o that_o by_o a_o special_a peculiar_a application_n of_o the_o promise_n 1._o it_o be_v say_v it_o be_v the_o spirit_n itself_o intimate_v it_o be_v not_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n nor_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o sometime_o the_o spirit_n be_v take_v in_o scripture_n but_o in_o a_o way_n of_o distinction_n from_o grace_n he_o put_v the_o emphasis_n upon_o it_o the_o spirit_n itself_o that_o witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n intimate_v that_o it_o be_v the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n who_o office_n it_o be_v thus_o to_o witness_n to_o the_o soul_n 2._o he_o put_v it_o as_o a_o distinct_a witness_n it_o witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n 3._o it_o be_v by_o particular_a application_n it_o witness_v to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n it_o witness_v adoption_n now_o we_o can_v believe_v our_o adoption_n without_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o from_o a_o word_n and_o therefore_o that_o can_v be_v nothing_o but_o the_o application_n of_o the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n thus_o you_o have_v the_o second_o question_n open_v that_o be_v by_o what_o mean_v a_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n there_o be_v a_o three_o question_n quest_n 3._o in_o what_o manner_n do_v the_o soul_n receive_v the_o first_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v conclude_v from_o the_o first_o question_n that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n receive_v any_o poor_a despicable_a loveless_n forlorn_a soul_n that_o will_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o first_o infallible_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n evividence_n of_o union_n and_o it_o be_v eonclude_v that_o there_o be_v various_a mean_n that_o do_v concur_v together_o to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v his_o union_n from_o this_o absolute_a promise_n though_o there_o be_v one_o immediate_a mean_n that_o work_v in_o the_o promise_n assure_v the_o soul_n faith_n in_o the_o promise_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n the_o question_n now_o remain_v how_o this_o mean_n do_v produce_v this_o end_n or_o how_o the_o lord_n work_v in_o and_o through_o these_o mean_n to_o make_v the_o absolute_a promise_n efficacious_a and_o effectual_a to_o manifest_v to_o the_o poor_a doubt_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n for_o the_o open_n of_o it_o i_o must_v premise_v something_o for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o it_o and_o then_o lie_v down_o the_o answer_n to_o it_o in_o positive_a conclusion_n prem_n 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o all_o the_o influence_n that_o any_o mean_n whatsoever_o do_v contribute_v unto_o the_o evidence_n unto_o any_o doubtful_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n only_o produce_v the_o same_o kind_n of_o effect_n in_o that_o soul_n that_o do_v receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o suppose_v it_o be_v through_o seek_v the_o face_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v at_o one_o time_n bring_v to_o mind_v the_o absolute_a promise_n in_o the_o clearness_n of_o light_n it_o hold_v forth_o and_o make_v application_n of_o that_o promise_n for_o the_o satisfy_n of_o the_o soul_n about_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o suppose_v another_o time_n the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v appoint_v by_o god_n for_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o end_n still_o there_o be_v the_o same_o effect_n beget_v by_o these_o various_a mean_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v enable_v to_o receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n prem_n 2._o second_o i_o shall_v premise_v that_o all_o the_o influence_n that_o any_o mean_n do_v contribute_v for_o the_o evidence_n from_o the_o promise_n the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v comprehend_v under_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n alone_o so_o that_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o word_n or_o of_o prayer_n or_o any_o ordinance_n towards_o the_o effect_n of_o that_o bless_a end_n in_o the_o soul_n may_v proper_o be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o regard_n those_o mean_n contribute_v not_o the_o least_o in_o themselves_o otherwise_o than_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n employ_v they_o as_o his_o own_o instrument_n for_o assure_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o faith_n in_o christ_n from_o the_o promise_n prem_n 3._o three_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o assure_v the_o soul_n faith_n of_o union_n in_o the_o promise_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v not_o limit_v himself_o to_o any_o constant_a particular_a order_n in_o assure_v unto_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o promise_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v true_o the_o spiritual_a wind_n that_o blow_v where_o and_o how_o it_o list_v there_o be_v no_o limitation_n propound_v in_o the_o word_n whereby_o it_o shall_v appear_v the_o spirit_n shall_v bind_v himself_o to_o work_v in_o the_o same_o order_n in_o all_o soul_n to_o evidence_n to_o they_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o in_o like_a manner_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v set_v no_o bound_n to_o himself_o of_o any_o degree_n of_o those_o effect_n that_o it_o do_v produce_v to_o soul_n whereby_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v efficacious_a to_o assure_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o it_o work_v various_o in_o the_o heart_n prem_n 4._o four_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o the_o explication_n of_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o spirit_n work_v in_o assure_v to_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o promise_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o the_o full_a and_o life_n of_o it_o be_v altogether_o unspeakable_a and_o inexpressable_a sure_o that_o in_o 1_o cor._n 2.9_o be_v mean_v only_o of_o those_o gospel_n joy_n that_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o this_o union_n that_o eye_n never_o see_v nor_o ear_n never_o hear_v neither_o do_v it_o ever_o enter_v into_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n as_o man_n to_o conceive_v the_o thing_n that_o god_n have_v lay_v up_o for_o those_o that_o love_v he_o and_o likewise_o well_o may_v that_o place_n be_v apply_v that_o no_o man_n know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 2.11_o 12._o neither_o do_v any_o man_n or_o angel_n know_v those_o secret_a discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n mind_n and_o open_v of_o his_o heart_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n who_o he_o do_v assure_v from_o the_o promise_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n prem_n 5._o there_o be_v a_o five_o premise_v though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_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 haââ_n ãâã_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
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
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
to_o the_o soul_n too_o soon_o yet_o it_o be_v dangerous_a and_o destructive_a to_o many_o soul_n that_o they_o do_v believe_v their_o own_o salvation_n by_o christ_n too_o soon_o they_o do_v fancy_n to_o themselves_o that_o though_o they_o be_v vile_a sinner_n yet_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v a_o saviour_n and_o they_o hope_v to_o be_v save_v by_o jesus_n christ_n this_o indeed_o be_v the_o common_a principle_n that_o the_o devil_n use_v as_o his_o grand_a snare_n wherein_o he_o catch_v many_o soul_n now_o there_o be_v two_o way_n whereby_o soul_n may_v conceive_v dangerous_o and_o destructive_o their_o own_o salvation_n by_o christ_n too_o soon_o 1._o when_o they_o conceive_v they_o shall_v certain_o attain_v heaven_n and_o glory_n by_o jesus_n christ_n without_o have_v a_o eye_n or_o respect_n to_o any_o other_o benefit_n by_o christ_n now_o indeed_o do_v the_o soul_n conceit_n his_o salvation_n by_o christ_n too_o soon_o when_o it_o neglect_v all_o the_o benefit_n that_o be_v propound_v by_o jesus_n christ_n and_o neglect_v the_o behold_v the_o manner_n how_o jesus_n christ_n be_v propound_v and_o confuse_o look_v unto_o the_o end_n alone_o which_o be_v heaven_n and_o glory_n and_o fancy_n to_o himself_o that_o he_o shall_v attain_v these_o by_o he_o though_o indeed_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n faith_n may_v be_v fix_v upon_o one_o particular_a benefit_n that_o be_v propound_v in_o jesus_n christ_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n before_o his_o eye_n be_v fix_v upon_o another_o benefit_n and_o thereupon_o it_o be_v true_o say_v that_o jesus_n christ_n as_o he_o be_v a_o saviour_n and_o as_o he_o save_v be_v the_o primary_n object_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v the_o very_a first_o object_n of_o the_o first_o act_v of_o the_o soul_n faith_n yet_o this_o be_v still_o but_o only_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n and_o not_o in_o order_n of_o time_n that_o be_v thus_o the_o soul_n can_v right_o have_v his_o eye_n of_o faith_n upon_o one_o benefit_n to_o be_v attain_v by_o jesus_n christ_n but_o he_o must_v have_v his_o eye_n upon_o all_o other_o benefit_n also_o propound_v in_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v suitable_a to_o his_o poor_a needy_a soul_n 2._o a_o soul_n conceit_v his_o salvation_n by_o christ_n too_o soon_o when_o he_o conceive_v that_o he_o shall_v attain_v heaven_n by_o christ_n without_o look_v for_o any_o thing_n to_o be_v effect_v by_o christ_n upon_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o nothing_o can_v dash_v in_o sunder_o their_o confidence_n and_o hope_n though_o their_o conscience_n tell_v they_o their_o nature_n be_v the_o same_o and_o their_o practice_n the_o same_o that_o ever_o it_o be_v yet_o you_o must_v conceive_v it_o be_v only_o herein_o that_o this_o conceit_a salvation_n by_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v too_o soon_o 1._o in_o that_o it_o be_v preposterous_a it_o be_v a_o draw_v conclusion_n without_o premise_n that_o be_v without_o any_o thing_n to_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n upon_o then_o a_o soul_n conceive_v right_o when_o he_o conceive_v first_o it_o be_v god_n will_n that_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v mediate_v between_o god_n and_o his_o soul_n and_o take_v away_o all_o the_o cause_n of_o offence_n and_o displeasure_n and_o then_o the_o soul_n conclude_v therefore_o i_o must_v needs_o be_v save_v by_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o if_o this_o conceit_n of_o the_o soul_n salvation_n by_o christ_n do_v arise_v from_o the_o soul_n give_v credit_n to_o any_o word_n of_o god_n upon_o which_o he_o do_v build_v this_o conceit_n than_o it_o be_v only_o say_v to_o be_v too_o soon_o in_o regard_n of_o order_n that_o be_v in_o regard_n of_o order_n of_o nature_n for_o indeed_o as_o for_o order_n of_o time_n this_o give_a credit_n to_o such_o a_o word_n of_o god_n as_o hold_v forth_o salvation_n to_o he_o by_o christ_n might_n and_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n at_o the_o give_a credit_n to_o the_o other_o word_n of_o god_n in_o reveal_v his_o union_n to_o be_v effect_v by_o the_o father_n through_o christ_n 2._o observe_v that_o this_o conceit_v their_o salvation_n by_o christ_n be_v no_o application_n of_o christ_n to_o their_o own_o soul_n tender_v or_o offer_v as_o a_o saviour_n by_o god_n a_o soul_n may_v conceit_v salvation_n by_o christ_n and_o yet_o never_o receive_v he_o as_o a_o saviour_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o god_n offer_v the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o a_o complete_a saviour_n heb._n 7.25_o he_o be_v able_a to_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a all_o that_o come_v unto_o god_n by_o he_o to_o the_o uttermost_a even_o unto_o perfection_n that_o be_v to_o save_v they_o exact_o in_o all_o thing_n from_o all_o evil_n and_o from_o all_o fear_n and_o danger_n that_o can_v possible_o accrue_v now_o he_o that_o conceit_v not_o that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v save_v he_o from_o all_o kind_n of_o evil_n guilt_n and_o misery_n that_o his_o soul_n be_v cast_v into_o do_v not_o conceit_n jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v his_o complete_a saviour_n and_o so_o apply_v christ_n too_o soon_o 2._o the_o salvation_n that_o god_n tender_v by_o jesus_n christ_n when_o he_o tender_v he_o as_o a_o saviour_n be_v twofold_a first_o from_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o deliver_v and_o redeem_v the_o soul_n from_o his_o obligation_n unto_o punishment_n now_o this_o salvation_n in_o scripture_n be_v call_v reconciliation_n which_o be_v the_o remove_v the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n that_o shall_v bind_v it_o over_o to_o everlasting_a punishment_n and_o bring_v the_o soul_n into_o a_o state_n of_o amity_n and_o unity_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o primary_n cause_n why_o christ_n receive_v his_o name_n mat._n 1.21_o his_o name_n shall_v be_v call_v jesus_n for_o he_o shall_v save_v his_o people_n from_o their_o sin_n second_o god_n tender_v by_o christ_n to_o save_v soul_n from_o the_o pollution_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o apply_v christ_n right_o as_o a_o saviour_n apply_v he_o thus_o he_o see_v the_o lord_n tender_v the_o lord_n christ_n as_o one_o that_o have_v triumph_v over_o sin_n and_o obtain_v a_o glorious_a conquest_n over_o hell_n and_o death_n and_o then_o he_o see_v the_o lord_n invite_v his_o soul_n to_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o he_o may_v be_v partaker_n of_o the_o conquest_n and_o thereupon_o his_o heart_n close_v with_o the_o tender_a and_o give_v credit_n to_o it_o there_o be_v a_o seven_o principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o lord_n christ_n must_v not_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o soul_n too_o much_o in_o a_o way_n of_o comfort_n darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n it_o be_v common_o receive_v by_o many_o that_o comfort_n be_v more_o dangerous_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o meddle_v with_o than_o lie_v under_o horror_n and_o terror_n still_o they_o common_o illustrate_v it_o by_o this_o similitude_n say_v they_o some_o drop_n of_o aquavitae_n may_v be_v exceed_o helpful_a to_o a_o poor_a faint_a spirit_n it_o may_v revive_v a_o man_n in_o a_o swoon_n but_o pour_v in_o of_o much_o may_v overcome_v a_o man_n and_o choke_v the_o natural_a vital_a heat_n and_o so_o endanger_v a_o man_n life_n just_o thus_o say_v they_o it_o be_v with_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o heart_n be_v sink_v and_o faint_v and_o press_v down_o through_o fear_n of_o the_o anger_n and_o displeasure_n of_o god_n against_o he_o for_o sin_n it_o may_v be_v good_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o have_v some_o drop_n of_o the_o precious_a water_n flow_v down_o from_o the_o bosom_n of_o jesus_n christ_n but_o say_v they_o if_o you_o pour_v in_o too_o much_o you_o may_v endanger_v the_o soul_n life_n to_o eternity_n this_o be_v another_o hellbred_a principle_n to_o prevent_v the_o soul_n sight_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v two_o ground_n of_o this_o principle_n first_o that_o the_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n too_o much_o for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n may_v make_v the_o soul_n presumptuous_a thus_o they_o prove_v it_o say_v they_o the_o apply_v the_o law_n too_o much_o to_o the_o soul_n and_o open_v the_o terrible_a wrath_n and_o indignation_n of_o god_n too_o much_o may_v make_v the_o soul_n despair_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o open_n and_o apply_v the_o glorious_a privilege_n of_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o comfort_v the_o soul_n too_o much_o may_v put_v it_o upon_o a_o desperate_a rock_n of_o presumption_n second_o a_o second_o ground_n be_v this_o that_o the_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o the_o comfort_v of_o the_o soul_n too_o much_o will_v too_o soon_o dry_a up_o the_o penitent_a tear_n it_o will_v soon_o seal_v up_o the_o spring_n of_o sorrow_n and_o mourn_v that_o be_v break_v up_o in_o the_o soul_n now_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o to_o be_v a_o
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 sunder_o those_o chain_n wherewith_o the_o soul_n be_v clog_v by_o sin_n to_o everlasting_a destruction_n and_o in_o a_o word_n for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o soul_n happiness_n both_o here_o and_o for_o eternity_n now_o i_o shall_v answer_v direct_o to_o that_o first_o foundation_n upon_o which_o this_o first_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v build_v and_o i_o say_v it_o be_v impossible_a that_o the_o apply_v of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o the_o comfort_v of_o the_o soul_n shall_v make_v the_o soul_n in_o danger_n to_o miscarry_v through_o presumption_n but_o rather_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v the_o great_a preservative_n against_o presumption_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o or_o four_o particular_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o more_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v enlarge_v through_o the_o application_n of_o christ_n the_o more_o clear_a be_v that_o curse_a root_n of_o self-confidence_n root_v out_o of_o the_o heart_n the_o comfort_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o 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 fullness_n of_o god_n this_o fullness_n of_o god_n can_v be_v wrought_v by_o nothing_o but_o by_o the_o full_a comprehension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o all_o his_o comfort_n ii_o in_o regard_n it_o raise_v the_o soul_n thought_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o a_o transcendent_a manner_n and_o fill_v the_o heart_n with_o a_o high_a estimation_n of_o he_o when_o the_o soul_n apply_v most_o incomprehensive_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o all_o his_o privilege_n for_o the_o refresh_n of_o his_o soul_n then_o do_v the_o soul_n see_v most_o large_o into_o the_o incomprehensive_a gulf_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o when_o the_o soul_n see_v jesus_n christ_n most_o clear_o as_o altogether_o incomprehensible_a then_o be_v the_o heart_n fill_v with_o the_o high_a thought_n that_o can_v be_v of_o jesus_n christ_n iii_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o the_o comfort_v of_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o large_a manner_n that_o can_v be_v do_v beget_v a_o more_o 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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 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apprehension_n of_o a_o defect_n of_o comfort_n in_o the_o lord_n christ_n suitable_a to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o present_a can_v be_v a_o spring_n or_o head_n from_o whence_o the_o stream_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n flow_v godly_a sorrow_n must_v arise_v from_o the_o clear_a most_o spiritual_a sin_n now_o you_o see_v the_o clear_a discern_v of_o sin_n in_o a_o spiritual_a manner_n do_v arise_v from_o the_o clear_a discern_v of_o those_o enlarge_a comfort_n through_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o indeed_o as_o those_o increase_n so_o do_v godly_a sorrow_n increase_v the_o great_a comfort_v soul_n be_v the_o great_a mourning_n soul_n now_o you_o see_v the_o foundation_n be_v too_o weak_a to_o bear_v up_o this_o principle_n and_o also_o that_o it_o will_v appear_v to_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n
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 soul_n with_o too_o large_a a_o comprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a riches_n of_o all_o excellency_n that_o be_v treasure_v up_o for_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o to_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o comfort_n too_o much_o this_o way_n do_v also_o direct_o oppose_v the_o scripture_n 1._o it_o be_v common_o the_o frequent_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n for_o the_o saint_n that_o they_o may_v have_v the_o full_a comprehension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o their_o soul_n eph._n 1.17_o 18._o he_o pray_v that_o their_o understanding_n may_v be_v enlighten_v that_o they_o may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o call_n that_o be_v that_o they_o may_v know_v the_o glorious_a thing_n that_o they_o be_v call_v to_o in_o jesus_n christ_n so_o eph._n 3.18_o he_o will_v have_v they_o know_v the_o exceed_a riches_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o they_o that_o believe_v he_o will_v have_v they_o comprehend_v the_o dimension_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n to_o they_o 2._o it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o all_o his_o people_n may_v have_v fullness_n of_o joy_n john_n 15.11_o these_o thing_n have_v i_o speak_v unto_o you_o that_o your_o joy_n may_v be_v full_a that_o be_v also_o the_o apostle_n prayer_n rom._n 15.13_o the_o god_n of_o hope_n fill_v you_o with_o all_o joy_n and_o peace_n in_o believe_v that_o you_o may_v abound_v in_o hope_n through_o the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 3._o it_o be_v according_a to_o the_o degree_n wherein_o the_o soul_n comprehend_v the_o excellency_n treasure_v up_o in_o jesus_n christ_n for_o his_o soul_n that_o it_o partake_v of_o the_o excellency_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v change_v into_o the_o the_o likeness_n of_o christ_n 1_o john_n 3.2_o so_o that_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n that_o clear_o contradict_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o say_v the_o soul_n must_v not_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n too_o much_o that_o be_v with_o too_o large_a a_o comprehension_n of_o the_o 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 be_v apply_v by_o other_o for_o comfort_v their_o soul_n too_o much_o i_o mean_v to_o affirm_v to_o any_o particular_a soul_n that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n with_o his_o glorious_a privilege_n be_v he_o this_o be_v apply_v jesus_n christ_n for_o comfort_v they_o too_o much_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a in_o regard_n it_o be_v out_o of_o god_n way_n though_o these_o two_o caution_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v yet_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v remove_v before_o there_o can_v be_v a_o certain_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v one_o principle_n of_o darkness_n more_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o a_o soul_n must_v discern_v his_o peculiar_a right_n to_o darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o interest_n in_o the_o particular_a promise_n before_o he_o believe_v it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o meaning_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v 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 false_a foundation_n because_o there_o can_v be_v no_o interest_n nor_o right_v the_o soul_n can_v have_v to_o one_o promise_n of_o god_n before_o the_o soul_n be_v bind_v to_o believe_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o first_o promise_n be_v jesus_n christ_n himself_o and_o the_o very_a primary_n object_n of_o faith_n be_v jesus_n christ_n himself_o this_o you_o shall_v observe_v gen._n 3.15_o the_o first_o promise_n that_o be_v give_v to_o adam_n be_v that_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o promise_n of_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o when_o the_o promise_n be_v first_o renew_v to_o abraham_n it_o be_v in_o these_o word_n in_o thy_o seed_n shall_v all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v bless_v what_o be_v that_o seed_n it_o be_v jesus_n christ_n gal._n 3.16_o so_o the_o apostle_n in_o their_o preach_v lay_v jesus_n christ_n as_o the_o first_o 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 observe_v the_o gross_a darkness_n and_o blindness_n in_o conceive_v invite_a promise_n not_o to_o be_v able_a to_o give_v assurance_n to_o a_o soul_n faith_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o or_o three_o thing_n 1._o then_o the_o soul_n must_v conceive_v that_o those_o promise_n that_o the_o lord_n propound_v in_o the_o invite_a of_o the_o soul_n to_o christ_n may_v not_o be_v believe_v with_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n and_o assurance_n now_o 1._o thence_o the_o soul_n must_v conceive_v that_o some_o portion_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n have_v not_o sufficient_a authority_n to_o be_v believe_v undoubted_o by_o the_o soul_n now_o what_o a_o high_a indignity_n be_v offer_v to_o god_n in_o entertain_v such_o a_o thought_n that_o any_o
one_o jota_n or_o tittle_n from_o the_o great_a god_n shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o command_v a_o fullness_n of_o belief_n from_o every_o soul_n 2._o the_o soul_n make_v all_o these_o invite_a promise_n to_o be_v mere_o in_o vain_a for_o if_o these_o invite_a promise_n do_v not_o sufficient_o reveal_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v a_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n that_o have_v be_v at_o enmity_n to_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o soul_n believe_v it_o with_o firmness_n of_o confidence_n than_o they_o be_v altogether_o useless_a they_o can_v be_v no_o incentive_a and_o motive_n to_o invite_v the_o soul_n to_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o the_o soul_n must_v say_v thus_o that_o those_o invite_a promise_n may_v not_o lawful_o be_v apply_v particular_o unto_o particular_a soul_n with_o that_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n now_o herein_o be_v great_a injury_n do_v to_o the_o truth_n as_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o the_o soul_n must_v deny_v those_o portion_n of_o the_o word_n to_o be_v believe_v by_o any_o one_o soul_n under_o heaven_n now_o herein_o the_o soul_n show_v much_o impudence_n and_o boldness_n to_o set_v limit_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n where_o he_o be_v please_v to_o set_v no_o limit_n 2._o then_o those_o invite_a promise_n shall_v not_o be_v the_o object_n of_o justify_v faith_n according_a as_o it_o do_v justify_v for_o questionless_a that_o which_o be_v call_v justify_v faith_n according_a as_o it_o do_v justify_v or_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o it_o in_o that_o justify_n way_n that_o do_v particular_o apply_v those_o promise_n to_o the_o particular_a soul_n 3._o there_o be_v one_o imagination_n more_o of_o the_o soul_n upon_o which_o it_o ground_n this_o conceit_n that_o the_o invite_a promise_n of_o god_n be_v no_o ground_n of_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o a_o soul_n may_v with_o a_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n believe_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o be_v to_o receive_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o yet_o the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o time_n be_v doubtful_a and_o question_v of_o his_o union_n all_o that_o be_v possible_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o say_v in_o this_o be_v only_o thus_o much_o that_o a_o soul_n may_v believe_v with_o all_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o take_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n habitual_o though_o not_o actual_o and_o so_o be_v question_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n though_o he_o do_v believe_v it_o habitual_o but_o alas_o this_o come_v nothing_o to_o the_o purpose_n for_o indeed_o though_o it_o may_v be_v say_v true_o that_o a_o soul_n have_v the_o habit_n of_o faith_n to_o believe_v it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o take_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n yet_o a_o soul_n can_v be_v say_v proper_o habitual_o to_o believe_v this_o for_o indeed_o the_o weak_a believer_n that_o have_v the_o low_a degree_n of_o faith_n have_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n from_o whence_o this_o habit_n of_o faith_n proceed_v and_o so_o he_o do_v in_o some_o degree_n believe_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o promise_n thus_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o first_o kind_n of_o beam_n the_o devil_n forge_v to_o cast_v into_o the_o soul_n eye_n there_o be_v a_o second_o kind_n of_o beam_n of_o darkness_n and_o those_o be_v dark_a distemper_n though_o the_o devil_n grand_a policy_n be_v to_o keep_v false_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n judgement_n whereby_o the_o soul_n may_v discern_v all_o in_o a_o false_a way_n that_o god_n propound_v to_o he_o yet_o he_o have_v another_o policy_n to_o flee_v to_o and_o that_o be_v distemper_n in_o the_o heart_n now_o these_o be_v also_o dangerous_a and_o keep_v the_o soul_n from_o assurance_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n while_o those_o remain_n in_o the_o soul_n therefore_o that_o be_v a_o second_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o pluck_v out_o those_o dark_a distemper_n and_o these_o be_v also_o divers_a the_o first_o dark_a distemper_n be_v spiritual_a pride_n it_o be_v natural_a pride_n work_v spiritual_o though_o sometime_o it_o be_v spiritual_a pride_n distemper_n dark_a distemper_n and_o that_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o humour_n or_o swell_v in_o the_o spirit_n or_o it_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o lift_v up_o the_o spirit_n in_o a_o crossness_n and_o averseness_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n this_o the_o devil_n cause_v to_o grow_v like_o a_o wen_n upon_o the_o soul_n spiritual_a eye_n whereby_o he_o prevent_v the_o soul_n see_v what_o the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o to_o he_o there_o be_v two_o special_a working_n of_o this_o distemper_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v prevent_v from_o discern_v what_o the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o 1._o it_o incline_v the_o soul_n to_o have_v his_o thought_n take_v up_o chief_o in_o look_v after_o and_o seek_v out_o some_o excellency_n and_o goodness_n in_o the_o soul_n itself_o whereupon_o it_o may_v stay_v its_o soul_n and_o uphold_v its_o sink_a spirit_n and_o hence_o you_o shall_v observe_v though_o the_o heart_n little_a mind_n it_o and_o think_v itself_o far_o enough_o off_o from_o pride_n the_o soul_n eye_n be_v always_o upon_o his_o own_o prayer_n and_o duty_n of_o worship_n upon_o his_o own_o tear_n mourn_v and_o groan_v upon_o the_o desire_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o its_o working_n towards_o god_n upon_o his_o own_o hunger_a and_o thirst_v after_o god_n and_o all_o the_o soul_n complain_v of_o under_o this_o distemper_n be_v common_o that_o which_o a_o soul_n will_v little_o think_v proceed_v from_o pride_n that_o he_o can_v find_v any_o goodness_n in_o himself_o whereas_o if_o the_o truth_n be_v find_v out_o and_o the_o heart_n search_v to_o the_o bottom_n he_o think_v he_o have_v much_o goodness_n 2._o it_o make_v the_o heart_n averse_a to_o the_o thought_n of_o receive_v all_o that_o ever_o he_o shall_v have_v only_o through_o mere_a gift_n alone_o the_o proud_a heart_n will_v not_o be_v behold_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o all_o but_o will_v have_v all_o in_o his_o own_o way_n hence_o arise_v a_o threefold_a distemper_n 1._o the_o soul_n insnarle_v itself_o in_o the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o promise_n and_o interpret_v all_o the_o promise_n against_o itself_o thence_o the_o soul_n think_v concern_v every_o promise_n it_o be_v but_o give_v to_o aggravate_v my_o condemnation_n 2._o hence_o arise_v a_o conclusion_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o must_v not_o nay_o sometime_o that_o it_o will_v not_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n till_o it_o find_v such_o and_o such_o disposition_n as_o the_o soul_n conceive_v necessary_a to_o be_v in_o itself_o say_v the_o soul_n if_o i_o can_v find_v my_o heart_n enlarge_v towards_o god_n and_o my_o deadness_n and_o coldness_n remove_v if_o i_o can_v find_v a_o mighty_a fervency_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n in_o my_o heart_n i_o can_v think_v indeed_o that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n may_v belong_v to_o i_o so_o that_o here_o the_o soul_n sit_v wait_v for_o and_o pursue_v after_o something_o that_o he_o may_v bring_v with_o he_o to_o the_o lord_n christ_n that_o he_o may_v come_v with_o his_o penny_n to_o take_v his_o pennyworth_n of_o that_o which_o god_n propound_v in_o jesus_n christ_n 3._o from_o this_o averseness_n to_o receive_v all_o from_o free_a grace_n arise_v a_o neglect_n and_o disregard_n of_o search_v into_o the_o promise_n what_o they_o hold_v forth_o propound_v the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n alas_o say_v the_o soul_n what_o be_v this_o to_o i_o none_o of_o these_o promise_n belong_v to_o i_o now_o thence_o the_o soul_n be_v keep_v in_o his_o doleful_a blindness_n and_o darkness_n through_o want_n of_o gaze_v upon_o the_o promise_n and_o look_v upon_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n it_o hold_v forth_o a_o second_o distemper_n be_v the_o rashness_n and_o unadvisedness_n of_o the_o soul_n this_o rashness_n be_v a_o unadvised_a sudden_a draw_v up_o determination_n concern_v the_o soul_n condition_n distemper_n dark_a distemper_n without_o a_o due_a examination_n of_o the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n draw_v that_o determination_n and_o without_o a_o due_a weigh_v of_o those_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o thence_o in_o the_o balance_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n questionless_a this_o be_v none_o of_o the_o least_o distemper_n nor_o none_o of_o the_o least_o beam_n that_o the_o devil_n keep_v in_o the_o soul_n eye_n it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o most_o secret_a dangerous_a snare_n that_o the_o devil_n catch_v the_o foot_n of_o soul_n in_o to_o put_v they_o upon_o look_v on_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n out_o of_o a_o rational_a way_n i_o know_v no_o great_a difference_n between_o true_a faith_n and_o the_o hypocrite_n temporary_a
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
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
either_o in_o his_o heart_n or_o life_n 1._o to_o convince_v he_o of_o all_o his_o voluntary_a defect_n by_o discern_v how_o the_o principle_n of_o other_o christian_n be_v improve_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n the_o soul_n may_v convince_v himself_o of_o his_o wilful_a defect_n that_o he_o that_o have_v receive_v the_o same_o principle_n shall_v walk_v so_o far_o contrary_a to_o god_n 2._o the_o soul_n may_v endeavour_v to_o convince_v itself_o of_o all_o his_o unsuitable_a walk_n to_o his_o profession_n by_o gaze_v upon_o the_o brightness_n of_o that_o principle_n of_o christianity_n profess_v by_o other_o christian_n that_o shine_v forth_o in_o their_o conversation_n 3._o the_o soul_n may_v endeavour_v to_o convince_v itself_o of_o his_o own_o unsutableness_n in_o his_o walk_n to_o his_o engagement_n unto_o god_n 4._o and_o last_o of_o his_o unsuitableness_n to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n v._o every_o soul_n ought_v to_o endeavour_v to_o break_v his_o own_o heart_n for_o any_o disproportion_n he_o can_v discern_v between_o his_o own_o life_n and_o the_o life_n of_o other_o christian_n between_o his_o own_o grace_n and_o their_o grace_n there_o be_v many_o precious_a soul-melting_a argument_n that_o a_o soul_n may_v help_v itself_o to_o towards_o the_o break_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n for_o any_o unsuitable_a walk_n towards_o jesus_n christ_n by_o measure_v his_o own_o life_n and_o grace_n with_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o christian_n 1._o the_o soul_n may_v be_v help_v to_o a_o clear_a sight_n of_o the_o transcendency_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n grace_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o soul_n 2._o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o superlative_a degree_n of_o the_o perverseness_n of_o his_o heart_n to_o god_n see_v the_o disproportion_n between_o himself_o and_o other_o christian_n he_o may_v say_v lord_n what_o a_o curse_a crooked_a hellish_a perverse_a heart_n have_v i_o 3._o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o height_n of_o dishonour_n do_v to_o jesus_n christ_n by_o he_o when_o he_o shall_v see_v that_o those_o that_o he_o profess_v himself_o to_o be_v fellow_n member_n with_o so_o bear_v up_o the_o brightness_n of_o the_o image_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o their_o conversation_n and_o then_o reflect_v upon_o himself_o and_o see_v scarce_o so_o much_o as_o any_o spark_n of_o that_o glorious_a image_n of_o christ_n to_o shine_v forth_o in_o he_o 4._o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o inward_a holy_a shame_n to_o seize_v upon_o it_o to_o see_v the_o growth_n and_o increase_n of_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n his_o brethren_n and_o see_v himself_o so_o barren_a so_o empty_a and_o poor_a vi_o every_o soul_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o pass_v the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n against_o his_o own_o soul_n from_o a_o discovery_n of_o any_o unsutableness_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n to_o the_o heart_n and_o life_n of_o other_o christian_n vii_o a_o soul_n may_v measure_v himself_o so_o far_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o as_o to_o draw_v quicken_a argument_n from_o thence_o to_o awaken_v his_o heart_n to_o more_o watchfulness_n diligence_n and_o circumspection_n 1._o from_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o christian_n excel_v his_o own_o a_o soul_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o propound_v to_o himself_o the_o lord_n separation_n of_o his_o soul_n as_o only_o peculiar_a to_o himself_o as_o well_o as_o the_o soul_n of_o those_o that_o so_o much_o excel_v he_o in_o grace_n 2._o a_o soul_n may_v from_o thence_o propound_v to_o himself_o the_o lord_n predestination_n of_o he_o to_o as_o full_a a_o a_o participation_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n as_o any_o of_o those_o that_o he_o see_v excel_v he_o in_o grace_n from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v argue_v with_o god_n why_o shall_v other_o have_v such_o a_o large_a spark_n of_o grace_n from_o christ_n when_o i_o be_o so_o empty_a and_o poor_a and_o have_v scarce_o any_o thing_n of_o christ_n 3._o a_o soul_n may_v from_o hence_o find_v out_o this_o argument_n that_o the_o glory_n and_o honour_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o much_o depend_v upon_o his_o soul_n as_o upon_o the_o soul_n of_o other_o christian_n that_o so_o far_o excel_v he_o in_o grace_n 4._o the_o soul_n may_v from_o thence_o propound_v to_o himself_o a_o necessity_n of_o conformity_n between_o all_o the_o member_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o thereby_o awaken_v his_o heart_n to_o strive_v for_o the_o height_n of_o perfection_n or_o grace_n that_o he_o discern_v in_o any_o christian_n viii_o and_o last_o the_o soul_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o keep_v a_o constant_a view_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o all_o other_o christian_n within_o his_o sight_n with_o a_o constant_a reflection_n upon_o his_o own_o heart_n so_o as_o to_o provoke_v he_o to_o jealousy_n to_o a_o kind_n of_o emulation_n lest_o other_o christian_n shall_v magnify_v and_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n by_o a_o suitable_a conversation_n more_o than_o he_o thus_o you_o see_v how_o far_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o any_o christian_n to_o measure_v himself_o by_o other_o christian_n by_o their_o heart_n and_o life_n their_o grace_n and_o duty_n the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v when_o a_o soul_n measure_v himself_o by_o other_o christian_n become_v a_o dark_a sinful_a distemper_n or_o when_o a_o soul_n measure_v himself_o too_o too_o much_o by_o other_o christian_n so_o that_o by_o measure_v himself_o by_o other_o he_o keep_v himself_o from_o that_o bless_a heavenly_a light_n that_o shall_v shine_v into_o his_o heart_n whereby_o he_o may_v receive_v satisfaction_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v four_o way_n how_o this_o measure_n a_o man_n self_n by_o other_o christian_n become_v a_o dark_a distemper_n i._o when_o a_o man_n make_v his_o conformity_n to_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o other_o christian_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o faith_n either_o in_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o consent_v to_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n reveal_v or_o else_o in_o the_o renew_a exercise_n of_o faith_n again_o upon_o any_o occasion_n that_o be_v thus_o when_o the_o soul_n conceive_v himself_o to_o have_v good_a ground_n to_o hope_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v willing_a to_o accept_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n when_o he_o see_v the_o same_o holiness_n and_o activity_n of_o spirit_n for_o god_n the_o same_o heavenliness_n and_o spirituality_n the_o same_o precious_a disposition_n work_v in_o their_o strength_n in_o his_o soul_n to_o god_n that_o he_o discern_v to_o be_v in_o other_o christian_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o soul_n conceive_v himself_o to_o have_v no_o good_a ground_n to_o believe_v the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n in_o christ_n when_o he_o discern_v a_o great_a disproportion_n between_o his_o heart_n and_o other_o christian_n when_o he_o behold_v his_o own_o heart_n dead_a and_o other_o christian_n lively_a his_o own_o heart_n shut_v up_o and_o other_o enlarge_v in_o all_o their_o faculty_n towards_o god_n this_o distemper_n be_v both_o exceed_a sinful_a and_o exceed_v dark_a when_o it_o grow_v once_o to_o this_o 1._o it_o be_v a_o proportion_v the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o grace_n and_o holiness_n in_o that_o soul_n yea_o the_o soul_n by_o this_o make_v the_o eternal_a unchangeable_a love_n of_o god_n to_o be_v alterable_a various_a and_o changeable_a according_a to_o the_o alteration_n and_o variation_n of_o man_n heart_n 2._o it_o be_v a_o vail_n and_o eclipse_v at_o least_o if_o not_o a_o nullify_n the_o freedom_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o poor_a loveless_a despicable_a soul_n it_o be_v a_o make_v the_o lord_n love_v to_o depend_v upon_o the_o grace_n and_o holiness_n in_o soul_n and_o to_o be_v convey_v into_o soul_n upon_o that_o ground_n 3._o it_o make_v the_o soul_n nullify_v undervalue_v and_o wretched_o disparage_v all_o the_o precious_a promise_n in_o god_n bless_a book_n the_o soul_n make_v those_o unchangeable_a word_n of_o god_n insufficient_a to_o support_v and_o uphold_v a_o poor_a sink_n trouble_a lade_a soul_n and_o to_o satisfy_v it_o concern_v god_n will_v to_o receive_v it_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 4._o it_o be_v a_o depart_n from_o the_o precious_a spring_n of_o consolation_n dig_v by_o the_o omnipotent_a god_n for_o thirsty_a soul_n and_o a_o choose_v a_o poor_a empty_a dry_a brook_n ii_o when_o a_o soul_n in_o make_v a_o just_a parallel_n between_o himself_o and_o other_o make_v every_o defect_n that_o he_o behold_v in_o the_o proportion_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n and_o duty_n to_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o other_o christian_n to_o be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n
whence_o to_o draw_v a_o conclusion_n of_o his_o contrary_a state_n to_o the_o state_n of_o other_o christian_n that_o he_o behold_v to_o excel_v he_o in_o so_o a_o high_a a_o measure_n when_o it_o rise_v to_o this_o it_o become_v a_o sinful_a dark_a distemper_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o divers_a thing_n 1._o this_o may_v prove_v a_o measure_n of_o god_n love_n by_o the_o act_n of_o his_o love_n 2._o it_o may_v be_v a_o argue_v mere_o from_o a_o soul_n want_v of_o light_a to_o discern_v god_n good_a will_n to_o he_o in_o christ_n 3._o it_o make_v the_o soul_n draw_v a_o conclusion_n of_o the_o total_a want_n of_o the_o be_v of_o grace_n while_o a_o soul_n thus_o conclude_v because_o he_o see_v no_o grace_n shine_v forth_o in_o himself_o as_o he_o do_v in_o other_o that_o therefore_o he_o be_v not_o belove_v of_o god_n in_o christ_n it_o may_v come_v to_o argue_v in_o this_o manner_n because_o i_o see_v my_o soul_n be_v not_o such_o a_o burn_a and_o shine_a light_n as_o such_o a_o christian_a therefore_o i_o be_o not_o so_o much_o as_o smoke_a flax_n 4._o this_o argument_n from_o the_o defect_n of_o grace_n may_v be_v a_o argument_n from_o the_o soul_n infirmity_n it_o may_v be_v but_o a_o argument_n from_o the_o tyranny_n that_o some_o lust_n have_v exercise_v over_o the_o heart_n to_o the_o conclude_v it_o be_v under_o the_o voluntary_a service_n of_o his_o lust_n 5._o it_o may_v be_v a_o reason_n from_o the_o want_n of_o fruitfulness_n in_o christianity_n to_o the_o want_n of_o christianity_n itself_o and_o the_o want_n of_o all_o fritfulness_n whatsoever_o now_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v about_o to_o draw_v such_o conclusion_n as_o these_o from_o its_o measure_n itself_o by_o other_o christian_n let_v these_o thing_n be_v observe_v 1._o he_o must_v first_o assure_v himself_o that_o the_o defect_n he_o behold_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n be_v a_o sinful_a defect_n four_o thing_n the_o soul_n must_v be_v assure_v the_o defect_n come_v not_o from_o before_o he_o can_v be_v assure_v the_o defect_n be_v sin_n first_o that_o it_o be_v not_o bare_o through_o the_o suspension_n of_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o comfort_a spirit_n of_o christ_n second_o it_o must_v be_v assure_v that_o the_o defect_n he_o behold_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o be_v not_o through_o the_o lord_n suspend_v the_o arbitrary_a influence_n of_o the_o quicken_a spirit_n of_o christ_n you_o must_v conceive_v there_o be_v influence_n that_o be_v for_o the_o soul_n be_v and_o influence_n that_o be_v for_o the_o soul_n well_o be_v these_o influence_n of_o the_o quicken_a spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v for_o the_o soul_n be_v be_v never_o withdraw_v but_o the_o influence_n that_o be_v for_o the_o soul_n well_o be_v be_v communicate_v in_o various_a degree_n to_o various_a soul_n which_o therefore_o i_o call_v arbitrary_a influance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v such_o as_o god_n dispose_v of_o according_a to_o his_o mere_a pleasure_n to_o the_o soul_n in_o divers_a degree_n at_o divers_a time_n and_o to_o divers_a soul_n in_o divers_a time_n three_o the_o soul_n must_v be_v assure_v that_o the_o defect_n he_o behold_v in_o his_o own_o soul_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o christian_n proceed_v not_o only_o from_o the_o defect_n of_o gift_n thar_z other_o furnish_v with_o the_o same_o grace_n enjoy_v above_o he_o gift_n be_v like_o a_o precious_a cundit-pipe_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v appoint_v to_o let_v out_o the_o stream_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n through_o now_o if_o another_o soul_n have_v more_o abundance_n of_o those_o kind_n of_o gift_n more_o readiness_n of_o capacity_n quickness_n of_o understanding_n great_a depth_n in_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o christ_n clearness_n of_o light_n more_o readiness_n of_o expression_n then_o thy_o soul_n may_v be_v deceive_v in_o judge_v a_o great_a degree_n of_o grace_n in_o such_o a_o soul_n than_o in_o thy_o soul_n in_o regard_n he_o have_v a_o great_a opportunity_n of_o expression_n of_o grace_n and_o a_o great_a aptness_n to_o hold_v forth_o grace_n receive_v than_o thou_o have_v four_o the_o soul_n must_v be_v assure_v that_o it_o be_v not_o from_o the_o defect_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o opportunity_n only_o without_o any_o negligence_n of_o any_o mean_n by_o the_o soul_n that_o his_o defect_n of_o grace_n proceed_v from_o 2._o the_o soul_n must_v be_v assure_v that_o those_o defect_n that_o he_o behold_v in_o himself_o be_v such_o defect_n as_o be_v altogether_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o state_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n whatever_o give_v a_o true_a and_o sufficient_a demonstration_n of_o its_o cause_n must_v be_v a_o effect_n that_o proceed_v proper_o from_o such_o a_o cause_n only_o that_o can_v proceed_v from_o another_o cause_n 3._o the_o soul_n must_v be_v also_o sure_a that_o spiritual_a rashness_n and_o wilfulness_n or_o ignorance_n or_o temptation_n do_v not_o overcloud_v his_o judgement_n in_o his_o search_v out_o and_o try_v the_o defect_n in_o the_o soul_n therein_o i_o shall_v advise_v to_o three_o thing_n 1._o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o be_v sure_a that_o he_o trust_v not_o his_o own_o light_n alone_o 2._o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o bring_v all_o thing_n both_o in_o their_o substance_n and_o in_o their_o circumstance_n that_o be_v worthy_a to_o be_v weigh_v to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n alone_o 3._o a_o soul_n must_v endeavour_v that_o his_o judgement_n be_v settle_v by_o god_n that_o be_v thus_o the_o soul_n that_o have_v his_o judgement_n pass_v upon_o his_o own_o defect_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o state_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n must_v endeavour_v to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n to_o bring_v himself_o into_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o heart_n search_v god_n with_o a_o serious_a apprehension_n and_o meditation_n that_o all_o the_o secret_n of_o his_o spirit_n be_v open_a before_o god_n and_o then_o and_o there_o in_o this_o frame_n to_o view_v over_o again_o and_o meditate_v upon_o that_o judgement_n that_o he_o find_v himself_o ready_a to_o pass_v against_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o then_o observe_v whether_o his_o spirit_n then_o dare_v pass_v this_o conclusion_n against_o himself_o iii_o when_o a_o soul_n in_o measure_v himself_o by_o other_o make_v the_o defect_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o to_o be_v the_o matter_n of_o discouragement_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o matter_n of_o impediment_n to_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n that_o be_v when_o the_o soul_n by_o look_v upon_o some_o other_o christian_n and_o behold_v many_o precious_a gracious_a holy_a disposition_n shine_v forth_o like_v so_o many_o star_n in_o the_o low_a orb_n when_o he_o see_v much_o holy_a fire_n drop_v down_o from_o heaven_n into_o their_o heart_n that_o drop_v forth_o in_o their_o conversation_n and_o look_v upon_o himself_o and_o see_v a_o defect_n in_o all_o see_v his_o own_o heart_n overgrow_v with_o dulness_n stupidness_n blockishness_n carelessness_n forgetfulness_n of_o god_n regardlesness_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n make_v these_o defect_n of_o grace_n apprehend_v in_o himself_o matter_n of_o discouragement_n to_o his_o soul_n to_o beat_v it_o off_o and_o to_o keep_v it_o back_o from_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n then_o this_o distemper_n of_o judge_v themselves_o by_o other_o prevail_v too_o far_o 1._o it_o be_v a_o join_n with_o the_o wretched_a corrupt_a opposite_a heart_n against_o christ_n and_o the_o furnish_n the_o soul_n with_o matter_n of_o cavil_n and_o scruple_n against_o the_o bless_a tender_n of_o receive_v the_o love_n of_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o by_o this_o the_o soul_n make_v that_o part_n of_o his_o duty_n that_o he_o seem_v to_o perform_v to_o be_v nothing_o but_o disobedience_n the_o soul_n by_o look_v upon_o the_o grace_n that_o shine_v forth_o in_o any_o christian_n seem_v to_o do_v a_o part_n of_o his_o duty_n because_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n command_v and_o in_o reflect_v upon_o his_o own_o heart_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n seem_v to_o do_v another_o part_n of_o his_o duty_n but_o both_o these_o be_v make_v disobedience_n when_o the_o soul_n make_v the_o defect_n of_o grace_n he_o find_v in_o himself_o when_o he_o look_v upon_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o discouragement_n to_o himself_o in_o exercise_v faith_n 3._o the_o soul_n cross_v god_n in_o his_o high_a end_n which_o be_v to_o make_v the_o excellency_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shine_v forth_o in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o people_n iv_o the_o four_o case_n wherein_o a_o soul_n do_v measure_v himself_o too_o much_o by_o other_o so_o as_o it_o become_v a_o sinful_a distemper_n be_v when_o the_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
embrace_v the_o loveless_a soul_n that_o make_v the_o bowel_n of_o the_o soul_n yern_v towards_o christ_n again_o 4._o the_o soul_n must_v discern_v the_o sufficiency_n of_o the_o promise_n to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o what_o it_o belong_v after_o now_o it_o be_v of_o necessity_n that_o all_o these_o must_v be_v discern_v in_o the_o promise_n of_o acceptance_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n before_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v satisfy_v from_o the_o promise_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n a_o hour_n view_v or_o a_o day_n view_v in_o a_o ordinary_a way_n i_o mean_v unless_o the_o spirit_n cast_v in_o superlative_a light_n extraordinary_a will_v not_o suffice_v a_o soul_n to_o discern_v all_o these_o through_o the_o promise_n ii_o this_o inconstancy_n in_o the_o soul_n resolution_n expose_v the_o soul_n to_o the_o violence_n of_o all_o temptation_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o fight_v against_o the_o temptation_n with_o be_v make_v void_a the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o precious_a word_n of_o god_n eph._n 6.17_o now_o the_o soul_n be_v unsettled_a in_o his_o own_o determination_n concern_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o his_o own_o soul_n in_o particular_a he_o have_v no_o precious_a use_n of_o that_o precious_a sword_n the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o resist_v the_o tempter_n with_o 2._o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n be_v weaken_v i_o mean_v the_o readiness_n of_o the_o disposition_n of_o faith_n to_o be_v in_o exercise_n be_v in_o a_o great_a measure_n hinder_v the_o heart_n be_v more_o indispose_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n by_o how_o much_o the_o seldome_a faith_n be_v draw_v out_o to_o exercise_v 3._o carnal_a reason_n of_o the_o heart_n grow_v strong_a the_o more_o any_o corruption_n prevail_v the_o more_o strength_n it_o get_v sin_n be_v never_o decrepit_a the_o old_a it_o grow_v the_o strong_a it_o grow_v thus_o carnal_a reason_n of_o the_o heart_n grow_v old_a by_o the_o constant_a prevail_a over_o the_o soul_n it_o grow_v strong_a all_o these_o concur_v a_o soul_n be_v in_o a_o dreadful_a measure_n expose_v to_o the_o tyranny_n of_o all_o temptation_n first_o temptation_n that_o batter_v down_o the_o hope_n of_o election_n second_o temptation_n unto_o slavish_a fear_n and_o dread_a and_o horror_n of_o execution_n of_o present_a vengeance_n three_o a_o soul_n be_v expose_v to_o the_o power_n and_o violence_n of_o that_o temptation_n that_o it_o be_v wicked_a abominable_a presumption_n for_o his_o wretched_a soul_n to_o have_v a_o thought_n that_o god_n will_v be_v willing_a to_o accept_v he_o in_o christ_n iii_o through_o that_o inconstancy_n the_o devil_n himself_o be_v provoke_v to_o tempt_v it_o be_v observe_v in_o scripture_n that_o the_o rule_v the_o lord_n give_v concern_v our_o fight_n with_o satan_n be_v to_o resist_v and_o the_o rule_n concern_v fight_v with_o sin_n be_v flee_v 1_o pet._n 5.9_o now_o it_o be_v think_v it_o be_v upon_o this_o occasion_n the_o lord_n give_v this_o rule_n because_o flee_v give_v the_o devil_n advantage_n and_o make_v he_o more_o violent_a in_o his_o temptation_n there_o be_v nothing_o that_o give_v the_o devil_n discouragement_n in_o tempt_v but_o a_o sight_n of_o a_o impossibility_n of_o prevail_v iv_o the_o inconstancy_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o these_o resolution_n and_o determination_n prevent_v the_o increase_n and_o growth_n of_o all_o the_o knowledge_n of_o jesus_n christ_n you_o shall_v observe_v in_o 2_o pet._n 3.18_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n urge_v the_o saint_n to_o grow_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n he_o give_v they_o a_o admonition_n to_o take_v heed_n they_o fall_v not_o from_o their_o own_o steadfastness_n intimate_v thus_o much_o while_o their_o soul_n remain_v unstable_a in_o receive_v and_o give_v credit_n to_o those_o precious_a truth_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v reveal_v there_o can_v be_v no_o growth_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o jesus_n christ_n v._o this_o inconstancy_n of_o the_o soul_n do_v leave_v it_o like_o a_o lose_a one_o in_o a_o mere_a wilderness_n it_o leave_v it_o wander_v in_o devious_a path_n it_o know_v not_o whither_o when_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v thus_o unstable_a concern_v those_o precious_a principle_n forenamed_a the_o soul_n be_v leave_v without_o a_o pilot_n without_o a_o compass_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n know_v not_o how_o to_o steer_v its_o course_n to_o the_o precious_a haven_n of_o happiness_n so_o that_o this_o distemper_n must_v be_v heal_v before_o the_o soul_n can_v discern_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n now_o the_o spirit_n heal_v this_o distemper_n two_o way_n 1._o by_o vouchsafe_v a_o clear_a and_o full_a manifestation_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o those_o precious_a forename_a principle_n by_o cast_v in_o such_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o divine_a light_n as_o make_v the_o truth_n of_o those_o forename_a conclusion_n out_o of_o question_n it_o be_v according_a to_o the_o evidence_n the_o soul_n receive_v of_o a_o truth_n that_o the_o judgement_n be_v settle_v either_o more_o or_o less_o firm_o upon_o it_o now_o the_o spirit_n do_v so_o manifest_a those_o precious_a truth_n and_o so_o clear_v the_o eye_n as_o it_o see_v they_o without_o scruple_n and_o then_o the_o judgement_n begin_v to_o be_v settle_v with_o some_o firmness_n upon_o they_o 2._o the_o spirit_n heal_v it_o by_o a_o continuation_n of_o the_o first_o manifestation_n of_o those_o truth_n so_o that_o a_o fullness_n of_o evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o the_o soul_n conclude_v upon_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o soul_n remain_v in_o a_o fix_a settle_a way_n cleave_v and_o stick_v to_o those_o truth_n so_o conclude_v upon_o now_o thus_o you_o have_v the_o second_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o that_o first_o general_a effect_n of_o it_o upon_o the_o heart_n open_v which_o be_v the_o removal_n of_o all_o impediment_n that_o hinder_v divine_a light_n and_o you_o have_v see_v what_o beam_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o also_o what_o dark_a distemper_n be_v pull_v out_o before_o the_o soul_n be_v fit_a to_o discern_v the_o light_n of_o jesus_n christ_n hold_v forth_o now_o the_o three_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o illumination_n be_v the_o spirit_n act_v by_o its_o own_o power_n the_o divine_a light_n communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v necessary_a not_o only_o that_o a_o soul_n receive_v a_o faculty_n from_o the_o spirit_n but_o also_o the_o act_n of_o the_o faculty_n too_o though_o all_o act_n of_o the_o renew_a man_n be_v firm_o the_o act_n of_o the_o mind_n yet_o they_o be_v original_o the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o so_o that_o also_o in_o this_o case_n concern_v illumination_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n not_o only_o that_o the_o soul_n have_v a_o see_a eye_n but_o that_o it_o must_v also_o have_v the_o see_v of_o the_o eye_n from_o the_o spirit_n though_o the_o soul_n have_v a_o eye_n dispose_v to_o see_v the_o divine_a light_n that_o the_o promise_n discover_v yet_o there_o must_v come_v in_o a_o power_n from_o the_o spirit_n also_o whereby_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v enable_v to_o act_v that_o very_a power_n receive_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o clear_v eye_n it_o have_v a_o fitness_n to_o see_v any_o colour_n but_o it_o must_v be_v act_v by_o the_o rational_a soul_n otherwise_o the_o inward_a disposition_n of_o the_o soul_n effect_n nothing_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n the_o eye_n see_v not_o in_o sleep_n because_o the_o rational_a soul_n be_v bind_v up_o as_o it_o be_v in_o its_o operation_n thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o divine_a man_n though_o influence_n be_v communicate_v from_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v a_o spiritual_a eye_n right_o dispose_v to_o see_v spiritual_a object_n yet_o there_o must_v be_v also_o the_o spirit_n power_n to_o act_v that_o very_a eye_n that_o be_v so_o dispose_v to_o see_v the_o spiritual_a object_n so_o that_o thus_o the_o spirit_n come_v in_o by_o a_o renew_a power_n and_o as_o it_o be_v blow_n up_o those_o holy_a spark_n of_o divine_a light_n that_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v they_o to_o work_v in_o their_o own_o proper_a natural_a way_n to_o make_v they_o see_v that_o precious_a divine_a light_n that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o lord_n discover_v to_o the_o poor_a dark_a soul_n thus_o you_o see_v the_o first_o work_n or_o the_o first_o effect_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v upon_o soul_n towards_o the_o reveal_n to_o they_o from_o the_o promise_n that_o they_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n irradiation_n the_o spirit_n irradiation_n ii_o we_o be_v now_o to_o proceed_v to_o the_o second_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o soul_n in_o
the_o evidence_n to_o they_o from_o the_o promise_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o that_o be_v the_o manifestation_n or_o irradiation_n of_o the_o promise_n itself_o or_o of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v two_o way_n how_o the_o spirit_n do_v reveal_v any_o thing_n to_o a_o soul_n the_o 1._o be_v by_o infuse_v of_o divine_a light_n the_o second_o be_v by_o manifest_v the_o object_n to_o that_o divine_a light_n it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a light_n communicate_v to_o the_o faculty_n of_o discern_v that_o inable_v it_o to_o discern_v a_o thing_n present_o but_o there_o must_v be_v also_o a_o enlighten_v and_o manifest_v of_o the_o object_n to_o be_v discover_v unto_o that_o light_n communicate_v the_o most_o acute_a eye_n that_o be_v of_o the_o great_a perspicuity_n and_o clearness_n can_v discern_v nothing_o any_o further_a than_o the_o thing_n themselves_o be_v present_v to_o they_o so_o that_o the_o spirit_n in_o evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o promise_n must_v cast_v as_o it_o be_v beam_n of_o light_n some_o kind_n of_o holy_a ray_n from_o the_o promise_n itself_o upon_o the_o eye_n as_o well_o as_o light_v into_o the_o eye_n to_o discern_v the_o light_n that_o be_v cast_v upon_o the_o eye_n that_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o a_o soul_n at_o one_o time_n shall_v discern_v the_o very_a heart_n of_o christ_n towards_o he_o in_o the_o promise_n or_o in_o the_o gospel_n and_o at_o another_o time_n look_v upon_o the_o same_o word_n the_o same_o promise_n with_o the_o same_o diligence_n and_o yet_o it_o not_o so_o much_o as_o give_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o a_o imperfect_a hope_n or_o a_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o way_n of_o adherence_n and_o this_o be_v from_o a_o different_a manifestation_n of_o this_o irradiation_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n now_o this_o manifestation_n or_o irradiation_n do_v consist_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o the_o spirit_n present_v the_o gospel_n or_o the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n we_o be_v not_o sufficient_a of_o ourselves_o to_o think_v any_o thing_n as_o of_o ourselves_o 2_o cor._n 3.5_o there_o must_v be_v as_o well_o a_o application_n of_o the_o object_n to_o the_o eye_n as_o a_o application_n of_o the_o eye_n to_o the_o object_n and_o yet_o both_o must_v be_v also_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n therefore_o john_n 14.26_o it_o be_v put_v as_o a_o part_n of_o the_o office_n of_o the_o comfort_a spirit_n or_o the_o evidence_a spirit_n to_o bring_v the_o precious_a thing_n that_o christ_n have_v speak_v to_o his_o disciple_n to_o their_o remembrance_n again_o 2._o the_o spirit_n do_v evidence_n the_o promise_n or_o the_o gospel_n that_o it_o have_v present_v to_o the_o eye_n it_o bring_v it_o to_o remembrance_n and_o then_o open_v it_o and_z reveals_z the_o very_a nature_n and_o intent_n of_o it_o you_o must_v conceive_v there_o be_v a_o twofold_a evidence_n of_o thing_n there_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o narration_n and_o a_o evidence_n of_o the_o matter_n itself_o now_o the_o gospel_n be_v always_o evident_a in_o matter_n of_o narration_n that_o be_v as_o speak_v from_o the_o mouth_n of_o god_n in_o his_o write_a word_n but_o the_o gospel_n be_v very_o inevident_a in_o regard_n of_o the_o matter_n or_o of_o the_o thing_n itself_o it_o be_v a_o hide_a mystery_n so_o dark_a a_o riddle_n as_o can_v be_v find_v out_o without_o the_o help_n of_o the_o spirit_n itself_o now_o though_o the_o evidence_n only_o of_o narration_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v sufficient_a to_o excite_v the_o soul_n to_o act_v faith_n by_o way_n of_o adherence_n and_o recumbency_n upon_o god_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o excite_v the_o soul_n to_o act_v faith_n by_o way_n of_o assurance_n divers_a thing_n there_o be_v 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 light_n first_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n first_o it_o present_v and_o evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o lord_n christ_n full_o unquestionable_o and_o everlasting_o take_v away_o all_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n from_o every_o soul_n that_o shall_v embrace_v he_o you_o shall_v observe_v rom._n 8.33_o 34._o that_o it_o be_v through_o the_o knowledge_n of_o this_o that_o the_o faith_n of_o paul_n take_v wing_n first_o to_o mount_v above_o in_o a_o triumphant_a way_n say_v he_o what_o shall_v we_o say_v to_o these_o thing_n what_o thing_n thing_n that_o he_o have_v before_o speak_v of_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o epistle_n especial_o chap._n 5._o where_o he_o have_v make_v it_o appear_v clear_o that_o where_o sin_n do_v abound_v grace_n do_v much_o more_o abound_v superabound_a abound_v without_o measure_n in_o that_o grace_n do_v triumph_n over_o sin_n through_o jesus_n christ_n now_o say_v he_o what_o shall_v we_o say_v to_o these_o thing_n he_o stand_v in_o admiration_n at_o the_o thought_n of_o it_o and_o then_o begin_v to_o say_v who_o shall_v lay_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o god_n elect_v here_o faith_n begin_v to_o triumph_v from_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n complete_a removal_n of_o all_o sin_n from_o every_o soul_n that_o do_v embrace_v he_o now_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v divers_a thing_n to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o i._o the_o spirit_n make_v it_o evident_a that_o the_o lord_n christ_n take_v upon_o he_o to_o be_v surety_n for_o every_o soul_n that_o will_v embrace_v he_o he_o become_v the_o surety_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n heb._n 7.22_o the_o spirit_n make_v the_o soul_n discern_v that_o christ_n step_v into_o his_o father_n to_o undertake_v to_o be_v bind_v to_o pay_v all_o the_o debt_n for_o every_o soul_n that_o shall_v hereafter_o embrace_v he_o and_o herein_o the_o spirit_n be_v wont_v to_o evidence_n two_o thing_n concern_v the_o suretyship_n of_o christ_n 1._o that_o christ_n undertake_v to_o be_v a_o surety_n of_o the_o whole_a covenant_n for_o soul_n that_o he_o undertake_v to_o fulfil_v all_o that_o justice_n or_o mercy_n itself_o shall_v require_v to_o be_v fulfil_v for_o those_o soul_n for_o who_o he_o undertake_v 2._o that_o he_o become_v such_o a_o surety_n as_o he_o undertake_v to_o pay_v the_o debt_n alone_o hence_o isa_n 49.8_o he_o be_v call_v the_o covenant_n itself_o intimate_v that_o the_o whole_a covenant_n concern_v take_v away_o sin_n be_v only_o between_o god_n the_o father_n and_o jesus_n christ_n hence_o it_o be_v say_v 2_o cor._n 5.19_o god_n be_v in_o christ_n reconcile_n the_o world_n unto_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o trespass_n to_o they_o ii_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v that_o christ_n as_o mediator_n stand_v in_o the_o relation_n of_o a_o common_a person_n and_o take_v upon_o he_o to_o represent_v all_o the_o person_n of_o those_o that_o shall_v hereafter_o believe_v on_o he_o so_o that_o whatever_o satisfaction_n he_o shall_v give_v to_o his_o father_n justice_n in_o regard_n of_o sin_n shall_v be_v not_o only_o in_o stead_n of_o satisfaction_n to_o be_v give_v to_o the_o father_n by_o the_o soul_n themselves_o but_o also_o to_o be_v do_v as_o it_o be_v in_o their_o stead_n to_o be_v account_v as_o if_o they_o themselves_o have_v give_v satisfaction_n this_o the_o spirit_n may_v evidence_n from_o the_o promise_n from_o some_o such_o place_n as_o 1_o cor._n 15.48_o which_o show_v that_o jesus_n christ_n stand_v as_o a_o common_a person_n in_o stead_n of_o all_o those_o that_o shall_v believe_v on_o he_o as_o adam_z the_o first_o man_n stand_v as_o a_o common_a person_n to_o represent_v all_o those_o that_o shall_v come_v out_o of_o he_o or_o from_o such_o a_o place_n as_o that_o rom._n 5.14_o where_o the_o old_a adam_n be_v call_v a_o type_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v to_o come_v the_o second_o thing_n the_o spirit_n clear_v be_v the_o thing_n themselves_o do_v by_o jesus_n christ_n in_o those_o relation_n unto_o soul_n as_o he_o stand_v as_o a_o common_a person_n and_o as_o the_o surety_n for_o those_o that_o shall_v hereafter_o believe_v on_o he_o i._o therein_o the_o spirit_n come_v to_o clear_v the_o effusion_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n the_o offering_n himself_o by_o death_n as_o a_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n thence_o you_o shall_v observe_v the_o first_o thing_n paul_n instance_v in_o when_o he_o let_v his_o faith_n look_v upon_o the_o remove_n of_o all_o sin_n be_v christ_n die_v say_v he_o in_o a_o holy_a triumph_n of_o faith_n who_o shall_v condemn_v why_o christ_n have_v dye_v as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v how_o shall_v either_o carnal_a reason_n or_o conscience_n or_o unbelief_n or_o justice_n or_o law_n or_o hell_n or_o devil_n bring_v any_o accusation_n against_o our_o soul_n see_v jesus_n christ_n have_v die_v he_o have_v offer_v up_o himself_o by_o death_n as_o a_o
without_o itself_o in_o any_o of_o the_o motion_n of_o his_o love_n whatever_o so_o that_o thence_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v a_o deny_v of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o godhead_n to_o conceive_v that_o god_n shall_v look_v out_o of_o himself_o for_o any_o argument_n any_o motive_n any_o incentive_a that_o shall_v either_o excite_v or_o incline_v the_o divine_a will_n to_o any_o motion_n of_o love_n whatever_o to_o ward_n any_o creature_n ii_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v the_o absolute_a will_n of_o the_o father_n alone_o to_o be_v the_o first_o principle_n and_o also_o the_o only_a cause_n of_o admission_n of_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o both_o the_o purpose_n of_o god_n to_o accept_v soul_n into_o union_n and_o also_o the_o execution_n of_o that_o his_o purpose_n do_v depend_v only_o upon_o the_o lord_n bare_a will_n and_o good_a pleasure_n according_a to_o that_o in_o eph._n 1.5_o 6_o compare_v with_o ver_fw-la 9_o iii_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v the_o lord_n christ_n willingness_n to_o accept_v of_o soul_n into_o union_n to_o be_v only_o do_v through_o the_o commission_n that_o he_o receive_v from_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o his_o father_n will_v concern_v such_o soul_n according_a to_o that_o in_o john_n 6.37_o 38._o when_o he_o say_v he_o will_v reject_v no_o one_o soul_n in_o no_o wise_a under_o no_o consideration_n whatever_o he_o give_v this_o reason_n for_o i_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n not_o to_o do_v my_o own_o will_n but_o the_o will_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o there_o be_v a_o five_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cause_v to_o shine_v forth_o from_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o be_v light_n five_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n the_o admirable_a and_o incomprehensible_a fullness_n of_o all_o perfection_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o be_v comprehend_v in_o this_o tender_a of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n to_o every_o particular_a soul_n that_o will_v accept_v it_o notwithstanding_o those_o former_a beam_n of_o divine_a light_n there_o be_v a_o two_o fold_v necessity_n for_o the_o spirit_n to_o cause_v this_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n also_o to_o sparkle_v before_o the_o soul_n eye_n i._o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o fullness_n of_o sufficiency_n to_o produce_v act_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n and_o assurance_n and_o in_o this_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o spirit_n cast_v this_o beam_n of_o light_n also_o before_o the_o soul_n eye_n to_o open_v the_o incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o love_n that_o the_o soul_n soul_n can_v imagine_v he_o shall_v have_v the_o least_o necessity_n of_o ii_o to_o excite_v and_o quicken_v the_o affection_n to_o more_o enlarge_v operation_n or_o working_n though_o there_o have_v be_v a_o former_a apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o love_n in_o the_o tender_a of_o the_o union_n yet_o there_o be_v no_o answerable_a work_n of_o affection_n towards_o the_o union_n unless_o there_o be_v that_o very_o actual_a vision_n now_o when_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o affection_n towards_o the_o union_n tender_v be_v but_o small_a than_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o its_o act_n of_o faith_n by_o way_n of_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o in_o a_o small_a degree_n therefore_o it_o be_v in_o this_o respect_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_v the_o absolute_a complete_a incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o love_n that_o be_v include_v in_o the_o tender_a of_o union_n and_o this_o the_o spirit_n do_v in_o divers_a particular_n 1._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n tender_v of_o pass_v over_o himself_o and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o himself_o whole_o unto_o soul_n through_o this_o union_n with_o christ_n for_o the_o evidence_n this_o the_o spirit_n only_o bring_v to_o remembrance_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o the_o promise_n according_a to_o the_o lord_n own_o abstract_n and_o compendium_n that_o he_o have_v make_v of_o they_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o god_n have_v say_v he_o will_v be_v the_o soul_n god_n in_o christ_n here_o be_v two_o particular_n include_v under_o this_o one_o depth_n first_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v that_o the_o high_a interest_n that_o be_v possible_a to_o make_v a_o soul_n capable_a of_o in_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o god_n himself_o be_v offer_v to_o be_v pass_v over_o to_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o tender_a of_o union_n second_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v that_o the_o lord_n offer_v in_o this_o tender_a of_o union_n to_o interest_n the_o soul_n in_o himself_o with_o such_o a_o interest_n as_o shall_v be_v most_o suitable_a for_o the_o full_a communication_n of_o himself_o to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v as_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a for_o god_n to_o love_v the_o soul_n as_o it_o shall_v be_v proper_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n to_o be_v love_v himself_o 2._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v lay_v the_o high_a obligation_n upon_o himself_o to_o be_v the_o soul_n own_o in_o all_o that_o he_o be_v in_o his_o pass_n over_o himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n through_o that_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v by_o bring_v to_o remembrance_n the_o lord_n asseveration_n and_o protestation_n and_o high_a oath_n that_o he_o add_v unto_o that_o his_o word_n that_o declare_v he_o to_o pass_v over_o himself_o unto_o soul_n through_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n hebr._n 6.13_o 3._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n establish_v the_o transaction_n of_o himself_o and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o himself_o over_o to_o the_o soul_n through_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n upon_o his_o own_o will_v alone_o on_o purpose_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o fullness_n of_o all_o love_n contain_v in_o he_o three_o particular_a end_n the_o spirit_n may_v bring_v to_o the_o soul_n remembrance_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o first_o that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o possibility_n of_o a_o alteration_n of_o that_o perfect_a love_n of_o he_o to_o a_o soul_n through_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o any_o power_n or_o possibility_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o holy_a ghost_n affirm_v rom._n 11.9_o the_o lord_n election_n of_o love_n to_o be_v mere_o establish_v upon_o his_o own_o will_n for_o that_o end_n that_o the_o election_n may_v stand_v be_v not_o of_o work_n but_o of_o grace_n that_o be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v certain_a be_v unchangeable_a so_o as_o the_o soul_n wickedness_n and_o wretchedness_n rise_v to_o what_o height_n soever_o yet_o it_o may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o alteration_n in_o that_o perfect_a love_n so_o rom._n 9.16_o second_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o fullness_n of_o love_n and_o to_o make_v a_o constant_a immutable_a ground_n for_o his_o people_n faith_n to_o rest_v upon_o he_o for_o the_o perfection_n of_o of_o his_o love_n towards_o they_o this_o the_o spirit_n may_v reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n from_o that_o in_o hebr._n 6.17_o 18._o the_o lord_n be_v say_v to_o add_v the_o confirmation_n of_o his_o oath_n that_o there_o may_v be_v two_o immutable_a ground_n in_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o god_n to_o lie_n three_o that_o his_o people_n may_v have_v a_o sufficient_a satisfactory_a consolation_n from_o that_o fullness_n of_o his_o love_n in_o all_o necessity_n upon_o all_o occasion_n and_o at_o all_o time_n that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n they_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n 4._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n undertake_v to_o effect_v in_o and_o for_o the_o soul_n the_o whole_a transaction_n of_o himself_o over_o unto_o the_o soul_n through_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o his_o own_o love_n alone_o eph._n 2.5_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o salvation_n be_v attribute_v to_o nothing_o but_o love_n the_o spirit_n reveal_v this_o two_o way_n first_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v engage_v himself_o by_o promise_n to_o effect_v the_o transaction_n of_o himself_o over_o unto_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o his_o love_n isaiah_n 41.10_o 11._o second_o the_o spirit_n remember_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o necessity_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v impose_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n to_o effect_v it_o john_n 10.16_o 5._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v undertake_v the_o suitable_a temper_v and_o dispose_n of_o the_o soul_n for_o all_o suitable_a walk_n in_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v tender_v this_o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v evidence_n from_o that_o in_o jer._n 31.33_o where_o the_o lord_n reveal_v it_o to_o be_v the_o very_a covenant_n this_o shall_v be_v my_o covenant_n or_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o love_n that_o i_o will_v promise_v this_o be_v part_n of_o god_n love_n to_o soul_n
exod._n 3.15_o this_o be_v my_o name_n for_o ever_o and_o this_o be_v my_o memorial_n to_o all_o generation_n that_o be_v to_o say_v this_o be_v the_o distinction_n whereby_o i_o will_v be_v know_v to_o all_o generation_n that_o i_o be_o the_o god_n that_o send_v out_o a_o redeemer_n to_o lose_v sinner_n which_o implicit_o and_o virtual_o include_v thus_o much_o as_o if_o god_n shall_v say_v my_o own_o honour_n the_o high_a title_n of_o my_o glory_n shall_v fail_v if_o i_o fail_v of_o embrace_v every_o loveless_a sinner_n through_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o will_v accept_v i_o and_o thence_o you_o shall_v observe_v when_o the_o lord_n make_v the_o clear_a revelation_n of_o himself_o to_o moses_n exod._n 34.6_o 7._o the_o very_a name_n whereby_o he_o call_v himself_o be_v that_o which_o include_v all_o that_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n reveal_v to_o sinner_n the_o lord_n pass_v by_o he_o and_o proclaim_v the_o lord_n merciful_a and_o gracious_a long-suffering_a slow_a to_o anger_n and_o abundant_a in_o goodness_n and_o truth_n keep_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n here_o be_v the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o lord_n own_v to_o be_v the_o name_n of_o his_o honour_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v have_v to_o be_v his_o title_n whereby_o he_o will_v be_v distinguish_v from_o other_o and_o whereby_o he_o will_v be_v know_v unto_o soul_n two_o thing_n must_v be_v open_v for_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o sufficient_o to_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o soul_n first_o it_o must_v be_v open_v that_o the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v virtual_o contain_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n second_o that_o particular_a soul_n may_v have_v security_n unto_o themselves_o from_o that_o name_n of_o god_n and_o may_v safe_o through_o believe_v look_n upon_o the_o honour_n of_o his_o name_n as_o engage_v to_o they_o to_o fulfil_v what_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v first_o it_o must_v be_v open_v that_o the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o whatever_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v be_v include_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v open_v it_o from_o that_o of_o exod._n 34.6_o 7._o which_o god_n own_v as_o his_o name_n there_o be_v eight_o title_n that_o the_o lord_n assume_v to_o himself_o that_o make_v up_o in_o the_o lord_n account_v his_o name_n wherein_o he_o will_v be_v know_v unto_o soul_n i._o the_o first_o title_n of_o his_o honour_n that_o concur_v to_o the_o make_v up_o of_o his_o name_n be_v merciful_a the_o lord_n merciful_a which_o include_v two_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v bowel_n of_o pity_n and_o compassion_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v precious_a disposition_n unto_o infinite_a compassion_n natural_o dwell_v in_o god_n the_o word_n be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o in_o jer._n 31.21_o which_o may_v be_v render_v bowel_n 2._o it_o include_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v ready_a to_o act_v those_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n towards_o soul_n drown_v in_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o most_o extreme_a misery_n misery_n and_o mercy_n be_v relative_n and_o according_a to_o the_o depth_n of_o misery_n so_o be_v the_o height_n of_o the_o work_n of_o mercy_n now_o under_o that_o very_a one_o title_n be_v comprehend_v the_o sum_n and_o substance_n of_o all_o that_o the_o gospel_n discover_v there_o be_v but_o one_o voice_n that_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n speak_v in_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v full_a of_o bowel_n of_o pity_n and_o compassion_n towards_o every_o loveless_a sinner_n that_o will_v accept_v his_o compassion_n tender_v ii_o the_o second_o title_n of_o god_n be_v gracious_a this_o imply_v two_o thing_n 1._o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o loveless_a sinner_n into_o favour_n 2._o the_o acceptance_n of_o miserable_a one_o into_o favour_n mere_o out_o of_o the_o freedom_n of_o the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o favour_n from_o motive_n out_o of_o his_o own_o bosom_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o desert_n therefore_o the_o whole_a voice_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v by_o grace_n you_o be_v save_v iii_o the_o three_o title_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o the_o honourable_a name_n of_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n long_o suffer_v or_o as_o it_o may_v be_v render_v he_o be_v slow_a to_o anger_n here_o be_v two_o thing_n include_v 1._o it_o imply_v a_o long_a time_n of_o forbearance_n in_o god_n to_o execute_v judgement_n upon_o sinner_n according_a to_o their_o own_o demerit_n 2_o pet._n 3.9_o 2._o it_o imply_v that_o that_o forbearance_n to_o execute_v judgement_n upon_o sinner_n according_a to_o their_o sin_n be_v on_o purpose_n that_o sinner_n may_v be_v accept_v into_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o prevent_v the_o execution_n of_o judgement_n isa_n 30.18_o iv_o the_o four_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n honour_n be_v the_o lord_n abundant_a in_o goodness_n or_o excel_v in_o kindness_n that_o imply_v three_o thing_n 1._o the_o complete_a fullness_n of_o all_o goodness_n that_o can_v be_v necessary_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v treasure_v up_o by_o god_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o christ_n for_o soul_n 2._o it_o imply_v a_o transcendency_n of_o all_o supply_n for_o empty_a soul_n to_o be_v in_o himself_o through_o christ_n it_o imply_v a_o superlative_a fullness_n a_o fullness_n that_o be_v more_o than_o sufficient_a a_o fullness_n that_o infinite_o exceed_v what_o ever_o a_o soul_n can_v want_v 3._o it_o imply_v the_o readiness_n and_o facility_n of_o god_n to_o be_v dispense_n that_o goodness_n unto_o soul_n v._o the_o five_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n name_n be_v that_o he_o be_v abundant_a in_o truth_n truth_n do_v not_o here_o imply_v justice_n and_o righteousness_n but_o it_o imply_v faithfulness_n in_o god_n to_o be_v true_a according_a to_o the_o revelation_n of_o himself_o so_o that_o truth_n imply_v the_o certainty_n the_o infallibility_n of_o the_o lord_n fulfil_v unto_o soul_n whatever_o he_o promise_v to_o be_v treasure_v up_o in_o himself_o for_o they_o vi_o there_o be_v a_o six_o title_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o the_o lord_n honour_n that_o be_v his_o reserve_n or_o his_o keep_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o this_o imply_v two_o thing_n 1._o a_o large_a comprehensiveness_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n to_o be_v comprehend_v multitude_n of_o miserable_a undo_v sinner_n keep_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o it_o be_v a_o synechdochical_a speech_n a_o finite_a number_n be_v put_v for_o a_o infinite_a vii_o there_o be_v a_o seven_o title_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o the_o lord_n honour_n and_o that_o be_v forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n here_o be_v three_o several_a expression_n that_o in_o a_o large_a sense_n point_n at_o the_o same_o thing_n every_o iniquity_n be_v a_o transgression_n and_o every_o transgression_n be_v a_o sin_n yet_o certain_o something_o be_v intend_v by_o the_o bless_a god_n in_o proclaim_v his_o 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be_v render_v thus_o forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n and_o in_o purify_n he_o will_v not_o purify_v or_o in_o absolve_v will_v not_o absolve_v not_o mention_v either_o wicked_a one_o or_o guilty_a one_o or_o any_o person_n whatever_o for_o indeed_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o contradiction_n shall_v the_o word_n run_v thus_o the_o lord_n forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n and_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n clear_v the_o guilty_a therefore_o i_o shall_v hold_v to_o the_o word_n as_o they_o may_v be_v most_o near_o render_v that_o be_v forgive_a sin_n and_o cleanse_v from_o sin_n he_o will_v not_o cleanse_v visit_v the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n and_o then_o if_o you_o observe_v this_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n honour_n be_v only_o thus_o much_o that_o he_o be_v the_o lord_n forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n and_o upon_o who_o he_o will_v visit_v the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n 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helpless_a 2._o the_o credit_n and_o honour_n of_o the_o lord_n ever_o bless_a mame_n be_v engage_v that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o free_a receive_n of_o the_o most_o loveless_a soul_n into_o love_n and_o favour_n that_o have_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v abominable_a to_o the_o bless_a pure_a eye_n of_o god_n within_o he_o you_o see_v the_o second_o title_n of_o his_o honour_n be_v the_o lord_n gracious_a that_o be_v receive_v into_o favour_n free_o undeserving_a wretch_n undesired_a wretch_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o thing_n in_o they_o so_o that_o when_o the_o poor_a scrupulous_a soul_n shall_v begin_v to_o fear_v that_o there_o be_v not_o ground_n enough_o in_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n for_o he_o to_o roll_v himself_o into_o that_o bless_a open_a bosom_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n with_o a_o confidence_n of_o the_o willingness_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n into_o favour_n than_o he_o may_v behold_v the_o credit_n and_o honour_n of_o his_o name_n to_o be_v engage_v for_o the_o soul_n security_n to_o assure_v it_o that_o the_o most_o forlorn_a soul_n that_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o sin_n that_o can_v do_v nothing_o else_o but_o sin_n may_v be_v free_o admit_v into_o that_o bosom_n of_o his_o love_n to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o all_o favour_n and_o all_o kindness_n whatsoever_o 3._o the_o credit_n and_o honour_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a name_n be_v engage_v for_o the_o bear_n with_o the_o most_o crooked_a soul_n in_o his_o crookedness_n for_o a_o season_n and_o his_o wait_a to_o receive_v the_o most_o crooked_a soul_n into_o favour_n and_o love_n the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n you_o see_v be_v long-suffering_a that_o be_v he_o that_o bear_v long_o before_o he_o execute_v any_o wrath_n hence_o the_o credit_n of_o the_o lord_n name_v be_v engage_v to_o secure_a soul_n of_o what_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v in_o three_o particular_n 1._o to_o secure_v the_o sinner_n of_o acceptance_n into_o favour_n that_o have_v most_o desperate_o and_o rebellious_o for_o a_o long_a time_n neglect_v grace_n and_o mercy_n 2._o hence_o the_o credit_n of_o the_o lord_n name_v be_v engage_v for_o the_o continuance_n of_o his_o favour_n towards_o the_o most_o crooked_a perverse_a heart_n notwithstanding_o his_o crookedness_n so_o that_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v a_o impossibility_n for_o sin_n or_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n to_o force_v the_o soul_n from_o the_o bless_a bosom_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n where_o it_o have_v once_o take_v up_o its_o rest_n 4._o the_o credit_n of_o the_o lord_n name_v be_v engage_v to_o secure_v the_o empty_a soul_n of_o all_o fullness_n of_o grace_n and_o mercy_n that_o be_v suitable_a to_o his_o necessity_n to_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o the_o soul_n embrace_v he_o the_o gospel_n say_v eph._n 3.8_o there_o be_v unsearchable_a riches_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o lord_n call_v his_o name_n abundant_a in_o goodness_n what_o be_v the_o difference_n between_o these_o two_o riches_n be_v nothing_o but_o goodness_n or_o good_a thing_n consider_v as_o they_o be_v in_o abundance_n and_o you_o see_v the_o lord_n name_v be_v call_v abundant_a in_o goodness_n so_o that_o here_o the_o credit_n of_o the_o lord_n name_v be_v engage_v to_o secure_v the_o soul_n against_o all_o that_o can_v possible_o be_v object_v in_o regard_n of_o his_o own_o emptiness_n poverty_n and_o nothingness_n so_o that_o 1._o in_o case_n the_o soul_n fear_v it_o have_v no_o strength_n to_o yield_v obedience_n to_o what_o the_o lord_n command_v and_o thereupon_o begin_v to_o fear_v that_o all_o the_o gospel_n discover_v to_o he_o shall_v be_v make_v of_o no_o effect_n present_o through_o believe_v the_o soul_n may_v behold_v not_o only_o that_o the_o gospel_n have_v
reveal_v a_o fullness_n of_o all_o goodness_n and_o so_o strength_n itself_o to_o the_o soul_n but_o he_o may_v behold_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v call_v himself_o by_o that_o name_n of_o abundant_a in_o goodness_n 2._o the_o soul_n be_v secure_v by_o the_o credit_n of_o the_o lord_n name_v against_o all_o fear_n of_o his_o not_o prevail_v with_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v partaker_n of_o that_o mercy_n and_o love_n and_o goodness_n that_o the_o gospel_n discover_v he_o may_v behold_v the_o lord_n name_v to_o be_v abundant_a in_o goodness_n not_o only_a goodness_n but_o abound_v have_v more_o than_o a_o fullness_n so_o that_o it_o shall_v run_v over_o into_o empty_a soul_n like_o river_n abound_v with_o water_n free_o overflow_a his_o bank_n 5._o the_o credit_n of_o the_o lord_n name_v be_v engage_v to_o a_o complete_a perfect_a fulfil_n of_o his_o reveal_n mercy_n and_o goodness_n towards_o loveless_a sinner_n his_o name_n you_o see_v be_v abundant_a in_o truth_n so_o that_o god_n 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gospel_n discover_v and_o that_o be_v the_o six_o particular_a seven_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v give_v in_o his_o bless_a word_n precedent_n example_n and_o pattern_n suitable_a to_o the_o case_n and_o state_n of_o every_o soul_n upon_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v already_o effect_v whatever_o mercy_n and_o love_v the_o gospel_n discover_v to_o forlorn_a despicable_a loveless_a sinner_n the_o lord_n have_v so_o abound_v and_o superabound_v in_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o own_o love_n that_o out_o of_o the_o bowel_n of_o those_o his_o compassion_n towards_o loveless_a sinner_n he_o have_v condescend_v beneath_o himself_o and_o his_o own_o superexcellent_a majesty_n to_o give_v all_o kind_n of_o security_n whatever_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v give_v to_o poor_a doubt_v spirit_n concern_v his_o gospel-love_n there_o be_v eight_o particular_a case_n wherein_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v pattern_n and_o example_n unto_o soul_n which_o case_n comprehend_v all_o kind_n of_o estate_n and_o temper_n that_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o any_o soul_n to_o be_v under_o i._o in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o superlative_a height_n of_o soul_n wickedness_n the_o be_v plunge_v into_o a_o bottomless_a ocean_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o abomination_n and_o pollution_n that_o be_v imaginable_a in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n have_v give_v eminent_a pattern_n first_o if_o you_o look_v into_o that_o place_n 1_o cor._n 6.9_o 10._o and_o read_v over_o the_o black_a bill_n of_o almost_o all_o kind_n of_o abomination_n that_o be_v there_o reckon_v up_o fornicatour_n idolater_n adulterer_n effeminate_a abuser_n of_o themselves_o with_o mankind_n thief_n covetous_a drunkard_n reviler_n extortioner_n and_o you_o shall_v see_v v._o 11._o that_o some_o that_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o black_a bill_n of_o all_o pollution_n be_v wash_v sanctify_a justify_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n all_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n be_v discover_v unto_o they_o for_o say_v the_o text_n such_o be_v some_o of_o you_o another_o pattern_n the_o lord_n leave_v 2_o chron._n 33.11_o 12_o 13._o of_o manasseh_n who_o heap_v up_o wickedness_n upon_o wickedness_n yet_o the_o lord_n make_v he_o a_o pattern_n of_o gospel-love_n and_o mercy_n another_z you_o have_v in_o paul_n in_o 1_o tim._n 1.15_o one_o drink_v up_o the_o blood_n of_o saint_n like_o water_n one_o blaspheme_v jesus_n christ_n offer_v all_o kind_n of_o injury_n and_o indignity_n to_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o yet_o the_o lord_n do_v show_v forth_o all_o long-suffering_a that_o be_v all_o kind_n of_o love_n manifest_v in_o patience_n and_o forbearance_n and_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o through_o christ_n and_o this_o he_o do_v on_o purpose_n that_o he_o may_v leave_v it_o as_o a_o experiment_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n to_o they_o who_o shall_v hereafter_o believe_v on_o he_o to_o life_n everlasting_a so_o act._n 2.30_o those_o that_o have_v wash_v their_o malicious_a and_o envious_a hand_n in_o the_o innocent_a blood_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v not_o exclude_v from_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n so_o if_o you_o look_v into_o the_o doleful_a story_n of_o our_o first_o fall_n by_o eve_n who_o do_v first_o provoke_v the_o anger_n and_o indignation_n of_o god_n yet_o she_o be_v make_v a_o pattern_n of_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n gen._n 3.15_o ii_o the_o second_o case_n wherein_o god_n have_v give_v pattern_n be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o unbelief_n the_o potency_n and_o prevalency_n of_o unbelieve_a disposition_n i_o shall_v propound_v but_o two_o pattern_n to_o you_o in_o this_o case_n first_o of_o david_n who_o under_o the_o rage_n of_o unbelief_n psal_n 116.11_o say_v in_o his_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n that_o those_o prophet_n that_o have_v reveal_v to_o he_o from_o the_o mouth_n of_o god_n that_o he_o shall_v inherit_v the_o kingdom_n be_v but_o dissembler_n notwithstanding_o he_o have_v be_v satisfy_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o message_n come_v from_o god_n the_o second_o pattern_n be_v in_o unbelieving_a thomas_n john_n 20.24_o 25_o 26._o that_o will_v not_o believe_v the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n except_o he_o shall_v see_v in_o his_o hand_n the_o print_n of_o the_o nail_n and_o thrust_v his_o hand_n into_o his_o side_n yet_o gospel_n love_n and_o mercy_n be_v discover_v to_o he_o vers_n 27._o under_o this_o case_n come_v in_o these_o two_o case_n of_o soul_n wherein_o they_o be_v much_o perplex_v 1._o in_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n not_o feel_v the_o lord_n by_o his_o almighty_a power_n draw_v their_o heart_n to_o believe_v say_v the_o poor_a perplex_a soul_n sure_o the_o lord_n draw_v all_o that_o he_o intend_v shall_v come_v to_o christ_n through_o believe_v but_o alas_o say_v the_o soul_n i_o do_v not_o see_v that_o god_n have_v draw_v my_o heart_n therefore_o sure_o god_n have_v not_o choose_v i_o to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o gospel_n grace_n and_o love_n now_o the_o spirit_n may_v witness_v from_o hence_o that_o there_o have_v be_v a_o soul_n as_o much_o under_o the_o dominion_n of_o unbelieve_a disposition_n as_o his_o unbelieving_a spirit_n yet_o the_o bowel_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o restrain_v from_o they_o 2._o here_o come_v in_o that_o case_n of_o the_o weakness_n of_o affection_n and_o desire_n towards_o believe_v and_o of_o the_o strong_a inclination_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o receive_v security_n of_o the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o make_v he_o the_o object_n of_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n from_o something_o that_o shall_v be_v visible_a and_o sensible_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v also_o a_o common_a case_n of_o soul_n that_o they_o can_v discern_v any_o disposition_n in_o their_o heart_n to_o believe_v the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o receive_v they_o into_o the_o bosom_n
of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n from_o the_o bare_a word_n of_o god_n alone_o but_o if_o they_o can_v see_v any_o fruit_n of_o that_o love_n and_o mercy_n in_o their_o bosom_n than_o they_o think_v they_o shall_v believe_v you_o see_v the_o spirit_n have_v here_o in_o this_o case_n also_o evidence_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v afford_v a_o real_a experiment_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n to_o a_o soul_n in_o the_o case_n of_o unbelieving_a thomas_n who_o be_v not_o only_o incline_v to_o see_v ground_n of_o believe_v in_o a_o visible_a way_n from_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o eye_n and_o the_o feeling_n of_o his_o hand_n but_o he_o be_v resolve_v to_o have_v it_o that_o way_n or_o no_o way_n unless_o i_o see_v thus_o and_o thus_o i_o will_v not_o believe_v iii_o a_o three_o case_n wherein_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v precedent_n be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o loathsome_a horrible_a dreadful_a and_o most_o hateful_a imagination_n work_v in_o the_o heart_n against_o god_n in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n have_v not_o leave_v himself_o without_o some_o experimental_a witness_n of_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n now_o the_o case_n be_v very_o high_a i_o find_v a_o experiment_n of_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n discover_v in_o a_o case_n that_o be_v as_o high_a in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n have_v leave_v jesus_n christ_n himself_o as_o a_o pattern_n his_o heart_n and_o spirit_n be_v perplex_v and_o trouble_v with_o as_o hateful_a horrible_a imagination_n propound_v to_o he_o as_o ever_o be_v propound_v to_o any_o soul_n in_o matth._n 4.6_o 9_o the_o devil_n propound_v to_o he_o that_o he_o shall_v murder_v himself_o if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n cast_v thyself_o down_o second_o that_o he_o shall_v presume_v upon_o his_o father_n promise_n to_o he_o and_o be_v careless_a of_o walk_v according_a to_o his_o father_n will_n say_v the_o devil_n he_o have_v say_v that_o his_o angel_n shall_v have_v charge_n over_o he_o lest_o he_o shall_v dash_v his_o foot_n against_o a_o stone_n there_o be_v a_o three_o sort_n of_o thought_n propound_v to_o his_o imagination_n worse_o than_o these_o and_o that_o be_v that_o he_o shall_v worship_v the_o devil_n what_o more_o hateful_a and_o horrible_a thought_n can_v be_v inject_v into_o any_o bosom_n than_o this_o to_o worship_v the_o devil_n himself_o now_o under_o this_o general_n be_v comprehend_v these_o two_o particular_a case_n 1._o there_o be_v comprehend_v the_o case_n of_o all_o blasphemous_a thought_n that_o be_v wont_a to_o perplex_v distress_a soul_n that_o if_o a_o soul_n shall_v say_v within_o himself_o sure_a never_o any_o object_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v ever_o have_v such_o hellish_a thought_n as_o be_v present_v to_o my_o mind_n such_o thought_n as_o my_o heart_n tremble_v to_o name_n the_o spirit_n may_v then_o bring_v to_o the_o soul_n remembrance_n this_o precious_a pattern_n of_o christ_n the_o devil_n inject_v into_o his_o pure_a mind_n thought_n that_o be_v as_o dreadful_o derogatory_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o lord_n high_a majesty_n thought_n that_o have_v as_o much_o of_o the_o poison_n of_o hell_n in_o they_o as_o ever_o think_v that_o be_v inject_v into_o thy_o curse_a heart_n 2._o under_o this_o come_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o temptation_n concern_v self_n murder_n or_o self_n destruction_n in_o this_o case_n the_o spirit_n may_v bring_v to_o remembrance_n the_o lord_n christ_n himself_o as_o the_o soul_n precedent_n or_o pattern_n the_o lord_n let_v he_o be_v perplex_v with_o temptation_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n iv_o a_o four_o case_n be_v the_o want_n of_o all_o sensible_a manifestation_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o quicken_a and_o revive_v or_o in_o comfort_v in_o this_o case_n you_o may_v take_v the_o dear_o belove_v one_o of_o god_n david_n psal_n 22._o wherein_o indeed_o he_o speak_v typical_o relate_v to_o christ_n especial_o yet_o also_o speak_v but_o the_o thought_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n at_o that_o time_n too_o say_v he_o v._o 1._o my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o why_o be_v thou_o so_o far_o from_o help_v i_o and_o from_o the_o word_n of_o my_o roar_n and_o v._o 14._o so_o psal_n 77.3_o 4._o i_o remember_v god_n and_o be_v trouble_v i_o complain_v and_o my_o spirit_n be_v overwhelm_v etc._n etc._n another_o pattern_n the_o lord_n give_v we_o of_o the_o holy_a man_n job_n he_o cry_v out_o chap._n 6.4_o the_o arrow_n of_o the_o almighty_a be_v within_o i_o the_o poison_n whereof_o drink_v up_o my_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n so_o chap._n 13.24_o 25_o 26._o wherefore_o hide_v thou_o thy_o face_n and_o hold_v i_o for_o thy_o enemy_n etc._n etc._n now_o under_o this_o come_v in_o two_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o soul_n 1._o the_o case_n of_o the_o defect_n of_o all_o the_o working_n of_o the_o quicken_a spirit_n into_o the_o soul_n 2._o under_o this_o come_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n want_v the_o manifest_v light_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o reveal_v the_o gospel_n in_o its_o beauty_n and_o glory_n to_o its_o soul_n so_o that_o if_o any_o soul_n want_v this_o manifest_v light_n of_o the_o spirit_n shall_v begin_v to_o cast_v off_o all_o confidence_n and_o to_o waver_v and_o stagger_v and_o doubt_v lest_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o be_v willing_a to_o accept_v it_o to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o gospel_n love_n then_o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v sometime_o bring_v to_o remembrance_n these_o eminent_a pattern_n of_o those_o who_o be_v in_o the_o very_a same_o temper_n under_o the_o same_o want_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v real_o the_o object_n of_o that_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o the_o gospel_n in_o christ_n reveal_v v._o a_o five_o case_n be_v the_o case_n of_o fruitlesness_n inefficacy_n of_o the_o breathe_n of_o the_o soul_n after_o god_n in_o prayer_n in_o this_o case_n also_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v eminent_a pattern_n those_o two_o forename_a one_o both_o job_n and_o david_n you_o shall_v find_v to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o same_o case_n job_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 on_o the_o left_a hand_n where_o he_o do_v work_v but_o i_o can_v behold_v he_o etc._n etc._n his_o meaning_n be_v he_o use_v all_o kind_n of_o mean_n the_o utmost_a diligence_n in_o seek_v after_o god_n but_o he_o will_v not_o be_v find_v so_o if_o you_o look_v upon_o david_n psal_n 22.2_o o_o my_o god_n i_o cry_v in_o the_o day_n time_n but_o thou_o hear_v not_o and_o in_o the_o night_n season_n i_o be_o not_o silent_a so_o that_o here_o god_n show_v soul_n a_o experiment_n of_o some_o who_o be_v in_o the_o same_o case_n and_o yet_o object_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n vi_o a_o six_o case_n be_v the_o inability_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o pour_v out_o request_v that_o in_o isa_n 63.17_o will_v show_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v leave_v his_o whole_a church_n as_o a_o pattern_n in_o that_o case_n why_o have_v thou_o make_v we_o to_o err_v from_o thy_o way_n and_o harden_v our_o heart_n from_o thy_o fear_n these_o soul_n complain_v of_o the_o lord_n suffer_v such_o senslesness_n and_o blockishness_n of_o spirit_n to_o be_v upon_o they_o as_o make_v they_o unsuitable_a for_o every_o duty_n of_o the_o lord_n worship_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o these_o be_v object_n of_o mercy_n and_o love_n vii_o a_o seven_o case_n be_v the_o behold_v all_o argument_n that_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v imagine_v in_o a_o soul_n against_o those_o promise_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o the_o gospel_n tender_v in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n have_v give_v that_o precious_a pattern_n of_o abraham_n who_o he_o choose_v to_o be_v the_o pattern_n of_o all_o believer_n rom._n 4.18_o 19_o he_o against_o hope_n believe_v in_o hope_n that_o be_v against_o all_o ground_n and_o reason_n and_o argument_n of_o hope_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v though_o he_o see_v all_o possibility_n against_o that_o promise_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v he_o concern_v the_o messiah_n to_o come_v through_o his_o loin_n to_o be_v his_o lawful_a seed_n by_o sarah_n yet_o notwithstanding_o he_o believe_v though_o he_o see_v his_o own_o body_n dead_a and_o the_o deadness_n of_o sarahs_n womb_n yet_o it_o be_v say_v v._o 20._o he_o stagger_v not_o at_o the_o promise_n through_o unbelief_n his_o spirit_n do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o waver_v under_o this_o general_n may_v be_v comprehend_v these_o three_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o soul_n 1._o the_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n think_v himself_o to_o be_v the_o most_o unlikely_a under_o heaven_n to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n the_o soul_n consider_v
the_o property_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n to_o communicate_v all_o its_o perfection_n so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v be_v communicable_a and_o also_o see_v every_o soul_n embrace_v gospel-discovery_n be_v the_o proper_a object_n to_o which_o that_o perfection_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n be_v to_o be_v communicate_v thence_o the_o spirit_n may_v cause_v the_o soul_n to_o conclude_v that_o the_o lord_n stand_v engage_v by_o the_o inseparable_a property_n of_o his_o divine_a nature_n to_o make_v every_o such_o soul_n accept_v gospel_n discovery_n to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o high_a mercy_n and_o compassion_n now_o from_o hence_o the_o spirit_n may_v give_v the_o soul_n full_a security_n of_o the_o fulfil_n the_o gospel_n discovery_n into_o his_o bosom_n whatever_o objection_n it_o be_v possible_a for_o the_o wisdom_n of_o hell_n and_o the_o corrupt_a heart_n to_o make_v against_o it_o all_o the_o objection_n that_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v imagine_v by_o the_o extract_n and_o quintessence_n of_o all_o wisdom_n that_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n say_v no_o more_o but_o this_o concern_v the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v a_o miserable_a lose_v undo_v soul_n if_o the_o soul_n object_n the_o superlative_a height_n of_o his_o own_o wickedness_n if_o iâ_n object_v the_o long_a continuance_n in_o its_o wickedness_n if_o it_o object_v the_o wretched_a contempt_n of_o mercy_n and_o love_v tender_v if_o it_o object_v the_o want_n of_o holiness_n the_o want_n of_o every_o good_a disposition_n imaginable_a if_o it_o object_v the_o most_o curse_a crookedness_n and_o enmity_n of_o heart_n against_o the_o bless_a tender_n of_o love_n and_o begin_v to_o draw_v these_o conclusion_n from_o these_o premise_n therefore_o sure_o gospel_n discovery_n can_v be_v fulfil_v into_o my_o bosom_n if_o i_o shall_v rely_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o fulfil_n of_o they_o yet_o the_o soul_n in_o all_o these_o objection_n say_v but_o this_o one_o thing_n i_o be_o a_o poor_a miserable_a despicable_a wretch_n in_o the_o depth_n of_o misery_n now_o than_o the_o spirit_n may_v manifest_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o in_o its_o accept_n those_o gospel_n discovery_n it_o shall_v be_v the_o proper_a object_n of_o all_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n so_o that_o god_n shall_v be_v engage_v by_o the_o inseparable_a property_n of_o his_o own_o nature_n to_o let_v out_o his_o transcendent_a bowel_n of_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n in_o their_o freedom_n of_o work_v towards_o the_o soul_n so_o as_o to_o fill_v it_o with_o the_o fullness_n of_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n and_o thence_o the_o spirit_n may_v convince_v the_o soul_n that_o either_o he_o must_v conclude_v that_o his_o finite_a misery_n exceed_v the_o infiniteness_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n or_o else_o the_o soul_n must_v conclude_v that_o notwithstanding_o all_o objection_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v yet_o in_o his_o accept_n the_o gospel_n discovery_n they_o shall_v infallible_o be_v fulfil_v to_o the_o utmost_a into_o his_o bosom_n 3._o hereby_o the_o spirit_n may_v manifest_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v engage_v by_o all_o his_o sweet_a contentment_n his_o most_o please_a delight_n that_o he_o natural_o take_v in_o behold_v the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o perfection_n towards_o poor_a imperfect_a creature_n to_o supply_v every_o want_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v imagine_v to_o be_v in_o any_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v the_o property_n of_o the_o lord_n nature_n to_o be_v dispense_n of_o his_o fullness_n to_o empty_a one_o so_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n infinite_a delight_n to_o behold_v those_o stream_n of_o his_o fullness_n run_v down_o in_o a_o suitable_a way_n into_o their_o soul_n now_o the_o spirit_n may_v manifest_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v engage_v by_o that_o his_o own_o contentment_n that_o he_o natural_o take_v in_o behold_v his_o own_o perfection_n communicate_v unto_o other_o to_o communicate_v all_o suitable_a succour_n relief_n help_n and_o comfort_n to_o every_o such_o soul_n as_o shall_v embrace_v those_o gospel_n discovery_n 5._o a_o five_o engagement_n the_o lord_n have_v lay_v upon_o himself_o to_o fulfil_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v that_o every_o particular_a soul_n that_o shall_v and_o will_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v the_o peculiar_a choose_a object_n of_o the_o lord_n high_o most_o unspeakable_a everlasting_a delight_n and_o contentment_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o word_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n take_v such_o infinite_a pleasure_n in_o his_o own_o as_o in_o psal_n 147.11_o the_o lord_n take_v pleasure_n in_o those_o that_o fear_v he_o in_o those_o that_o hope_v in_o his_o mercy_n i_o pray_v observe_v it_o in_o this_o be_v comprehend_v every_o soul_n that_o do_v in_o the_o low_a degree_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n this_o manifest_v that_o the_o soul_n that_o do_v in_o the_o most_o tremble_a timorous_a way_n but_o reach_v out_o a_o feeble_a hand_n of_o hope_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o that_o rich_a mercy_n tender_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o it_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o lord_n pleasure_n and_o contentment_n even_o those_o soul_n that_o be_v far_o from_o draw_v any_o conclusion_n only_o they_o cast_v out_o the_o anchor_n of_o hope_n and_o venture_v their_o lose_a perish_v soul_n upon_o the_o rock_n of_o mercy_n that_o be_v discover_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 1._o the_o spirit_n may_v reveal_v they_o to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o high_a most_o superlative_a everlasting_a delight_n and_o contentment_n that_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o high_a delight_n that_o god_n take_v in_o any_o object_n out_o of_o himself_o the_o same_o superlative_a delight_n that_o the_o father_n take_v in_o jesus_n christ_n as_o mediator_n he_o take_v in_o the_o soul_n unite_v to_o he_o 2._o every_o such_o soul_n be_v destinate_a to_o be_v the_o object_n wherein_o the_o lord_n will_v as_o it_o be_v concentre_v together_o in_o one_o all_o the_o bless_a motion_n of_o his_o own_o delight_n and_o contentment_n jesus_n christ_n mystical_o consider_v that_o be_v consider_v with_o his_o body_n of_o holy_a angel_n and_o soul_n of_o those_o that_o be_v lose_v sinner_n unite_v to_o he_o be_v the_o very_a centre_n wherein_o all_o the_o line_n of_o the_o lord_n delight_n and_o contentment_n meet_v perfect_o together_o in_o one_o now_o every_o soul_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v take_v into_o the_o perfect_a unity_n of_o the_o mystical_a body_n become_v through_o its_o union_n into_o the_o mystical_a body_n as_o it_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o centre_n wherein_o all_o the_o line_n of_o the_o delight_n of_o god_n meet_v together_o there_o be_v four_o kind_n of_o the_o lord_n delight_n that_o every_o such_o soul_n that_o embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n of_o 1._o every_o such_o soul_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n of_o all_o the_o high_a everlasting_a delight_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v in_o the_o let_v out_o his_o love_n in_o its_o perfection_n towards_o any_o thing_n without_o himself_o the_o lord_n most_o natural_a peculiar_a delight_n be_v in_o love_n because_o his_o essence_n and_o be_v be_v love_n now_o every_o such_o soul_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n of_o the_o high_a perfection_n of_o love_n consider_v as_o one_o of_o that_o mystical_a body_n hence_o it_o be_v say_v zeph._n 3.17_o he_o will_v rejoice_v over_o thou_o with_o joy_n he_o will_v rest_v in_o his_o love_n that_o be_v to_o say_v he_o will_v take_v satisfaction_n and_o contentment_n to_o his_o own_o soul_n in_o love_v of_o thou_o for_o indeed_o delight_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o love_n in_o rest_n as_o desire_n be_v love_n in_o motion_n 2._o every_o such_o soul_n so_o consider_v be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o the_o most_o superlative_a delight_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v in_o the_o actual_a communication_n of_o his_o goodness_n it_o be_v so_o natural_a for_o god_n who_o be_v goodness_n itself_o to_o be_v communicate_v his_o goodness_n to_o other_o that_o his_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o pleasure_n and_o contentment_n in_o the_o let_v forth_o of_o his_o goodness_n 3._o every_o such_o soul_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o the_o delight_n and_o contentment_n that_o the_o lord_n take_v in_o himself_o in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o transcendent_a glory_n of_o his_o own_o supereminent_a excellency_n now_o there_o be_v no_o other_o object_n than_o that_o mystical_a body_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o object_n of_o any_o of_o the_o delight_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v from_o the_o contemplation_n of_o his_o own_o superlative_a glory_n see_v his_o own_o excellency_n that_o he_o contemplate_v upon_o be_v no_o other_o than_o he_o communicate_v to_o that_o mystical_a body_n so_o that_o all_o the_o delight_n pleasure_n and_o contentment_n that_o the_o lord_n can_v receive_v from_o the_o precious_a view_n of_o the_o brightness_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n
vile_a of_o the_o body_n of_o the_o gospel_n embracer_n 1_o cor._n 15.43_o it_o be_v sow_o in_o dishonour_n it_o be_v raise_v in_o glory_n it_o be_v sow_o in_o weakness_n it_o be_v raise_v in_o power_n there_o shall_v be_v the_o exact_a form_n and_o feature_n the_o perfection_n of_o comeliness_n and_o sweet_a proportion_n a_o most_o admirable_a congruent_a symmetry_n of_o all_o the_o part_n there_o shall_v be_v the_o sweet_a please_a mixture_n of_o the_o lovely_a colour_n of_o red_a and_o white_a there_o shall_v be_v a_o continual_a actuate_a to_o the_o life_n both_o these_o colour_n and_o part_n so_o as_o they_o shall_v be_v preserve_v in_o a_o perpetual_a orient_a freshness_n yea_o the_o material_n of_o beauty_n through_o the_o unspeakable_a cheerfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n within_o and_o through_o the_o admirable_a excellency_n that_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v raise_v to_o shall_v be_v so_o actuate_v to_o the_o very_a life_n that_o the_o very_a beauty_n of_o the_o body_n shall_v sparkle_n and_o glitter_v as_o bright_a as_o the_o bright_a glister_a beam_n of_o the_o sun_n in_o the_o firmament_n dan._n 12.3_o ii_o the_o scripture_n reveal_v the_o high_a perfection_n to_o be_v put_v upon_o their_o soul_n it_o be_v a_o work_n infinite_a and_o endless_a to_o search_v into_o the_o various_a glorious_a excellency_n and_o faculty_n wherewith_o every_o soul_n embrace_v gospel-discovery_n shall_v be_v endue_v our_o capacity_n be_v narrow_a here_o concern_v the_o soul_n we_o know_v little_a of_o it_o and_o of_o its_o original_a yet_o thus_o much_o we_o may_v affirm_v of_o it_o from_o the_o scripture_n that_o every_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v adorn_v with_o the_o most_o suitable_a perfection_n and_o excellency_n that_o it_o be_v capable_a of_o the_o understanding_n shall_v be_v extraordinary_o and_o supernatural_o irradiate_v with_o the_o high_a illumination_n the_o large_a comprehension_n the_o will_n shall_v be_v extend_v to_o the_o most_o perfect_a operation_n towards_o god_n himself_o all_o the_o motion_n of_o it_o work_v in_o their_o perfection_n terminative_o upon_o god_n alone_o which_o indeed_o be_v the_o very_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n so_o as_o the_o height_n of_o the_o soul_n perfection_n shall_v be_v every_o way_n answerable_a and_o proportion_v to_o the_o superexcellent_a glory_n wherewith_o their_o body_n shall_v be_v endue_v and_o adorn_v iii_o from_o what_o the_o scripture_n reveal_v concern_v the_o beautify_v the_o body_n with_o such_o high_a perfection_n and_o the_o beautify_v of_o the_o soul_n also_o i_o may_v add_v a_o word_n by_o consequence_n that_o a_o most_o admirable_a unspeakable_a glory_n shall_v appear_v in_o the_o person_n of_o those_o gospel-embracer_n when_o a_o body_n fill_v with_o such_o perfection_n and_o a_o soul_n raise_v in_o a_o manner_n infinite_o high_a shall_v be_v unite_v into_o one_o to_o make_v up_o one_o person_n o_o what_o honour_n and_o majesty_n will_v shine_v from_o the_o very_a countenance_n of_o such_o a_o person_n when_o stephen_n stand_v before_o the_o face_n of_o the_o council_n through_o a_o sweet_a vision_n of_o heaven_n open_v his_o countenance_n appear_v like_o the_o face_n of_o a_o angel_n but_o o_o what_o beam_n of_o majesty_n honour_n beauty_n and_o glory_n will_v glitter_v from_o the_o person_n of_o gospel_n embracer_n when_o they_o shall_v be_v inhabitant_n in_o the_o palace_n of_o heaven_n itself_o now_o all_o this_o admirable_a perfection_n wherewith_o every_o sinner_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n shall_v thus_o be_v clothe_v be_v but_o the_o effect_n and_o consequence_n of_o the_o precious_a eternal_a determination_n of_o god_n to_o make_v every_o unlovely_a sinner_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n to_o be_v as_o one_o of_o the_o diamond_n that_o shall_v stand_v to_o glitter_v in_o the_o crown_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n 7._o there_o be_v a_o seven_o engagement_n that_o the_o spirit_n also_o may_v reveal_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v lay_v upon_o himself_o in_o respect_n of_o himself_o to_o fulfil_v all_o gospel-discovery_n into_o the_o bosom_n of_o every_o unlovely_a sinner_n that_o shall_v embrace_v he_o and_o that_o be_v this_o every_o such_o unlovely_a sinner_n that_o shall_v and_o will_v accept_v the_o gospel-discovery_n be_v choose_v from_o eternity_n to_o be_v a_o royal_a inhabitant_n of_o the_o sacred_a palace_n of_o the_o empyrean_a heaven_n there_o to_o attend_v the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n perpetual_o to_o behold_v the_o brightness_n of_o his_o glory_n and_o majesty_n when_o the_o lord_n who_o from_o eternity_n subsist_v only_o in_o himself_o do_v please_v from_o the_o motion_n of_o his_o own_o will_v alone_o to_o create_v a_o world_n to_o be_v a_o goodly_a theatre_n wherein_o he_o will_v manifest_v his_o power_n bounty_n goodness_n and_o love_n than_o do_v that_o bless_a majesty_n please_v to_o compose_v on_o purpose_n that_o vast_a empyrean_a heaven_n and_o to_o beautify_v and_o adorn_v it_o with_o the_o most_o exquisite_a excellency_n and_o transcendent_a glory_n to_o make_v it_o shine_v with_o the_o bright_a beam_n of_o majesty_n and_o glory_n that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o sacred_a palace_n for_o himself_o wherein_o he_o resolve_v to_o communicate_v himself_o most_o beatifical_o to_o the_o noble_a creature_n elect_a saint_n and_o angel_n and_o wherein_o he_o purpose_v to_o discover_v the_o most_o transparent_a beam_n of_o his_o unspeakable_a majesty_n and_o glory_n that_o ever_o creature_n shall_v behold_v now_o in_o like_a manner_n the_o lord_n also_o determine_v that_o every_o of_o the_o soul_n of_o mankind_n who_o he_o foresee_v shall_v fall_v into_o a_o perish_v lose_v condition_n accept_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o shall_v be_v one_o of_o his_o household_n servant_n admit_v into_o his_o bless_a presence-chamber_n in_o who_o he_o will_v delight_v himself_o by_o reveal_v his_o incomprehensible_a glory_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o you_o shall_v find_v in_o scripture_n that_o the_o kingdom_n be_v say_v to_o be_v give_v to_o those_o gospel_n embracer_n luke_n 12.32_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o saint_n be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o inheritance_n incorruptible_a that_o fade_v not_o away_o 1_o pet._n 3_o 4._o and_o hence_o it_o be_v also_o that_o every_o gospel_n embracer_n be_v say_v to_o be_v a_o heir_n of_o heaven_n rom._n 8.17_o and_o heir_n of_o a_o kingdom_n jam._n 2.5_o all_o these_o scripture_n compare_v together_o abundant_o evidence_n that_o every_o such_o gospel_n embracer_n be_v choose_v to_o be_v a_o royal_a inhabitant_n of_o the_o sacred_a palace_n of_o the_o empyrean_a heaven_n now_o that_o they_o be_v choose_v to_o dwell_v there_o on_o purpose_n that_o they_o may_v attend_v and_o behold_v the_o beauty_n of_o his_o own_o majesty_n and_o glory_n this_o be_v abundant_o evidence_v from_o many_o scripture_n christ_n himself_o speak_v it_o in_o john_n 17.24_o father_n i_o will_v that_o they_o who_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o be_v with_o i_o where_o i_o be_o that_o they_o may_v behold_v my_o glory_n which_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o now_o the_o glory_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v so_o interweave_v with_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o father_n that_o they_o can_v be_v the_o beholder_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o christ_n except_o they_o be_v also_o beholder_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o father_n and_o again_o in_o that_o 1_o john_n 3.8_o now_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o it_o do_v not_o yet_o appear_v what_o we_o shall_v be_v but_o we_o know_v that_o when_o he_o 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 from_o these_o scripture_n joint_o consider_v we_o may_v conclude_v i._n that_o every_o gospel_n embracer_n be_v choose_v to_o behold_v the_o brightness_n of_o his_o majesty_n and_o glory_n by_o behold_v the_o divine_a essence_n itself_o 1._o he_o be_v choose_v to_o behold_v the_o bless_a sweet_a simplicity_n and_o indivisible_a unity_n of_o the_o godhead_n to_o discern_v the_o lord_n and_o to_o see_v he_o to_o be_v as_o one_o most_o pure_a simple_a act._n 2._o every_o gospel_n embracer_n be_v choose_v to_o behold_v the_o sacred_a and_o secret_a mystery_n of_o the_o holy_a trinity_n to_o behold_v that_o one_o indivisible_a essence_n of_o god_n consist_v in_o three_o manner_n of_o way_n to_o see_v three_o subsistence_n and_o but_o the_o same_o essence_n 3._o every_o such_o soul_n be_v choose_v to_o behold_v the_o eminency_n of_o the_o divine_a essence_n they_o be_v choose_v to_o behold_v a_o transcendency_n of_o all_o imaginable_a perfection_n that_o ever_o their_o eye_n behold_v to_o be_v comprise_v in_o that_o one_o divine_a essence_n with_o absolute_a perfection_n 4._o they_o be_v choose_v to_o behold_v the_o divine_a essence_n in_o all_o its_o most_o glorious_a operation_n they_o be_v choose_v to_o be_v admit_v into_o the_o presence-chamber_n of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n so_o as_o to_o behold_v all_o the_o record_n of_o heaven_n
it_o constrain_v it_o to_o receive_v that_o clear_a infallible_a demonstration_n that_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n give_v of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v his_o stubborn_a rebellious_a unworthy_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n indeed_o by_o the_o spirit_n illumination_n and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v a_o most_o unquestionable_a demonstration_n give_v of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v any_o one_o particular_a soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o if_o he_o will_v accept_v he_o but_o in_o the_o work_n of_o conviction_n be_v most_o proper_o the_o mighty_a overpower_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n constrain_a it_o to_o receive_v the_o demonstration_n conviction_n be_v proper_o the_o silence_v all_o cavil_n doubt_n of_o contradiction_n of_o the_o mind_n against_o any_o truth_n propound_v and_o a_o make_n of_o it_o undeniable_a to_o it_o that_o it_o dare_v not_o make_v any_o objection_n or_o raise_v any_o one_o cavil_v more_o to_o what_o the_o lord_n propound_v to_o his_o particular_a loveless_n soul_n but_o to_o sit_v down_o satisfy_v and_o confess_v the_o truth_n of_o what_o the_o lord_n propound_v to_o he_o to_o confess_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n indeed_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v one_o with_o himself_o in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o enjoy_v everlasting_a communion_n with_o he_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o spirit_n thus_o convince_a the_o soul_n beside_o its_o illumination_n and_o its_o irradiration_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o it_o and_o that_o in_o two_o respect_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o mind_n or_o understanding_n and_o second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o conscience_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o mind_n the_o power_n of_o corruption_n have_v so_o captivate_v the_o mind_n and_o understanding_n that_o both_o the_o illumination_n of_o it_o and_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o mind_n will_v be_v ineffectual_a shall_v not_o the_o spirit_n strike_v in_o to_o make_v up_o the_o soul_n conviction_n there_o be_v a_o four_o fold_v disposition_n in_o the_o mind_n that_o do_v cause_v a_o kind_n of_o necessity_n of_o this_o conviction_n of_o the_o spirit_n beside_o the_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o mind_n i._o there_o be_v a_o wretched_a unteachableness_n that_o natural_o possess_v all_o our_o mind_n there_o be_v not_o only_a darkness_n possess_v the_o mind_n but_o a_o opposition_n against_o the_o receive_n light_n now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o disposition_n of_o our_o mind_n natural_o we_o be_v unapt_a to_o receive_v any_o thing_n the_o spirit_n reveal_v shall_v there_o not_o be_v a_o further_a power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o heart_n ii_o there_o be_v a_o most_o superlative_a incredulity_n that_o remain_v in_o our_o mind_n the_o god_n of_o the_o world_n have_v blind_v the_o mind_n 2_o cor._n 4.4_o not_o by_o a_o privative_a extinction_n of_o light_n infuse_v that_o be_v beyond_o the_o devil_n power_n but_o by_o a_o positive_a darkness_n a_o positive_a ignorance_n by_o persuade_v the_o mind_n of_o all_o to_o believe_v other_o principle_n such_o as_o contradict_v those_o bless_a principle_n of_o divine_a truth_n now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o incredulity_n that_o possess_v our_o mind_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n that_o the_o spirit_n shall_v have_v a_o further_a work_n upon_o the_o soul_n than_o bare_a illumination_n and_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n iii_o there_o be_v a_o indisposition_n in_o our_o mind_n to_o receive_v any_o thing_n that_o they_o can_v comprehend_v now_o all_o the_o glorious_a discovery_n in_o that_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v incomprehensible_a thence_o the_o mind_n will_v receive_v none_o of_o those_o precious_a discovery_n though_o the_o spirit_n do_v irradiate_a the_o gospel_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o it_o if_o another_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n shall_v not_o come_v in_o upon_o the_o heart_n to_o convince_v the_o soul_n of_o it_o iv_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a enmity_n in_o the_o mind_n against_o those_o divine_a truth_n rom._n 8.7_o the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n now_o this_o curse_a enmity_n dwell_v in_o the_o unregenerate_a part_n make_v its_o constant_a opposition_n with_o all_o its_o power_n and_o strength_n against_o all_o that_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v and_o so_o all_o the_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o the_o mind_n will_v be_v ineffectual_a shall_v not_o another_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n come_v in_o to_o conquer_v the_o curse_a enmity_n and_o to_o constrain_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v those_o demonstration_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v the_o loveless_n soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o as_o a_o thing_n undeniable_a second_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o it_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o conscience_n also_o the_o conscience_n be_v a_o register_n may_v and_o power_n place_v by_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o understanding_n be_v what_o conscience_n be_v to_o record_v all_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o whole_a man_n and_o to_o discover_v the_o equity_n or_o iniquity_n of_o they_o and_o to_o determine_v of_o they_o either_o with_o the_o soul_n or_o against_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o conscience_n be_v also_o so_o corrupt_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o this_o conviction_n of_o the_o spirit_n beside_o this_o illumination_n and_o irradiation_n for_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v titus_n 1.15_o now_o there_o be_v two_o that_o be_v the_o most_o eminent_a work_n of_o conscience_n i._o to_o discover_v the_o equity_n or_o iniquity_n of_o any_o thing_n propound_v to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v do_v or_o of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v do_v by_o the_o soul_n now_o in_o this_o the_o conscience_n be_v dreadful_o corrupt_a here_o the_o conscience_n call_v iniquity_n equity_n and_o equity_n iniquity_n call_v good_a evil_n and_o evil_a good_a natural_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n now_o thence_o there_o be_v necessity_n of_o this_o conviction_n of_o the_o spirit_n also_o in_o regard_n the_o conscience_n will_v never_o determine_v that_o it_o be_v good_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o receive_v those_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o it_o unless_o the_o spirit_n overpower_v the_o corrupt_a conscience_n and_o convince_v it_o of_o the_o equity_n of_o receive_v it_o ii_o the_o second_o act_n of_o conscience_n be_v to_o determine_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v already_o do_v by_o the_o soul_n its_o work_n be_v to_o accuse_v and_o excuse_v the_o soul_n both_o in_o its_o do_v of_o thing_n and_o after_o the_o do_v of_o they_o now_o conscience_n be_v so_o dreadful_o corrupt_v natural_o that_o like_o a_o corrupt_a judge_n or_o a_o bribe_a judge_n it_o accuse_v when_o it_o shall_v excuse_v and_o excuse_v when_o it_o shall_v accuse_v it_o free_v the_o guilty_a and_o condemn_v the_o innocent_a now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o corruption_n of_o the_o conscience_n though_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v illuminate_v the_o soul_n in_o part_n for_o its_o never_o high_a and_o then_o present_a the_o gospel_n to_o the_o enlighten_v understanding_n and_o give_v clear_a manifestation_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o christ_n yet_o the_o corrupt_a conscience_n will_v never_o determine_v with_o the_o soul_n to_o excuse_v the_o soul_n in_o receive_v those_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o it_o but_o will_v and_o will_v perpetual_o accuse_v the_o soul_n as_o a_o presumptuous_a wretch_n unless_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v exercise_v this_o convince_v power_n upon_o the_o conscience_n even_o after_o the_o work_n of_o the_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o conviction_n draw_v clear_a unquestionable_a demonstration_n for_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o gospel_n to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v a_o infallible_a certainty_n that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v that_o particular_a despicable_a forlorn_a sinner_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o and_o it_o consist_v also_o in_o the_o command_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o determination_n whereby_o it_o silence_v all_o cavilling_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o put_v a_o holy_a constraint_n upon_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n to_o receive_v that_o determination_n as_o true_a and_o undeniable_a so_o that_o the_o spirit_n make_v he_o to_o confess_v with_o his_o own_o mouth_n that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n that_o even_o this_o my_o forlorn_a loathsome_a despicable_a unlovely_a soul_n shall_v be_v one_o with_o himself_o for_o ever_o this_o be_v the_o spirit_n conviction_n which_o be_v the_o three_o work_n of_o the_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 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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 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for_o that_o believe_a soul_n to_o question_v his_o own_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n unto_o all_o eternity_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n i._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o have_v this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o confidence_n of_o his_o everlasting_a cleave_v unto_o christ_n as_o there_o be_v of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o adhere_v to_o he_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v tender_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v as_o perfect_o and_o as_o clear_o contain_v and_o include_v in_o they_o strength_n to_o enable_v soul_n to_o embrace_v and_o accept_v those_o promise_n as_o they_o do_v contain_v in_o they_o a_o fullness_n and_o alsufficiency_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n for_o those_o soul_n that_o do_v embrace_v they_o the_o lord_n that_o have_v say_v it_o be_v 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as_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o give_v he_o power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n john_n 1.12_o now_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o will_v to_o close_v with_o christ_n in_o union_n and_o communion_n that_o be_v tender_v to_o it_o be_v the_o very_o receive_v of_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o in_o that_o very_a act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v include_v the_o soul_n credence_n or_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v confident_a of_o the_o lord_n accept_n of_o it_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o the_o soul_n cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o he_o it_o be_v only_o because_o of_o such_o a_o word_n of_o promise_n from_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n to_o which_o the_o soul_n give_v credit_n or_o which_o the_o soul_n believe_v 3._o in_o this_o act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v a_o resignation_n of_o the_o soul_n whole_o unto_o christ_n such_o as_o that_o which_o be_v speak_v of_o in_o 2_o tim._n 1.12_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v that_o which_o i_o have_v commit_v unto_o he_o that_o be_v to_o say_v i_o know_v who_o word_n it_o be_v that_o i_o give_v credit_n to_o and_o that_o i_o be_v so_o confident_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o i_o lean_v my_o soul_n upon_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o word_n for_o its_o everlasting_a happiness_n so_o that_o then_o in_o this_o act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v include_v that_o mutual_a interchangable_n covenant_v that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n require_v from_o soul_n in_o accept_n the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v 4._o in_o this_o very_a act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v include_v a_o full_a dependence_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o christ_n a_o hang_v the_o soul_n upon_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o word_n so_o that_o indeed_o all_o the_o act_n that_o the_o gospel_n require_v from_o soul_n be_v include_v in_o this_o one_o act_n of_o confidence_n that_o be_v produce_v by_o this_o 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jesus_n his_o accept_n it_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o cleave_v to_o he_o the_o very_a act_n of_o confidence_n be_v the_o act_n of_o the_o soul_n cleave_v to_o he_o answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v further_o that_o whenever_o the_o spirit_n by_o its_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n do_v beget_v that_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v accept_v it_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o than_o the_o soul_n can_v question_v his_o own_o adhere_n unto_o christ_n any_o more_o than_o he_o question_n the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o faith_n be_v or_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o it_o do_v equal_o beget_v a_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o everlasting_a cleave_v unto_o christ_n to_o the_o confidence_n that_o it_o do_v beget_v of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o the_o soul_n adhere_v to_o he_o and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n be_v concern_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o whole_a gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n or_o of_o all_o the_o promise_n the_o spirit_n in_o the_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n clear_v that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o have_v the_o whole_a glorious_a work_n of_o the_o union_n of_o loveless_n sinner_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o have_v its_o sole_a dependence_n upon_o himself_o so_o that_o it_o manifest_v believe_v strength_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n full_o to_o be_v tender_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o well_o as_o union_n with_o christ_n himself_o be_v tender_v now_o than_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n which_o follow_v this_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v as_o large_a as_o its_o irradiation_n work_n i_o mean_v the_o spirit_n do_v in_o a_o 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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 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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 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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
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 soul_n then_o be_v its_o contentment_n in_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n infinite_a unspeakable_a then_o do_v it_o rejoice_v yea_o triumph_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n rom._n 5.3_o thus_o through_o this_o testimony_n unto_o sense_n add_v to_o the_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n the_o soul_n be_v even_o set_v down_o with_o one_o foot_n as_o it_o be_v into_o the_o great_a city_n of_o the_o king_n of_o heaven_n sweet_o expect_v his_o full_a fruition_n of_o that_o transcendent_a glory_n that_o it_o solace_v itself_o in_o the_o sweet_a expectation_n of_o till_o time_n shall_v come_v that_o faith_n and_o expectation_n shall_v cease_v and_o sight_n and_o vision_n shall_v only_o take_v place_n thus_o you_o see_v what_o the_o sealing-witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v unto_o sense_n there_o be_v now_o some_o caution_n that_o of_o necessity_n must_v be_v give_v to_o you_o believe_v soul_n to_o prevent_v any_o sad_a mistake_n about_o this_o great_a mystery_n caution_n 1_o 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
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 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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
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
his_o union_n with_o christ_n without_o sufficient_a ground_n from_o the_o lord_n bless_a word_n now_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o danger_n of_o miscarry_v be_v fill_v with_o fear_n yea_o prone_a to_o fear_v where_o no_o cause_n of_o fear_n be_v every_o thing_n make_v a_o man_n already_o in_o fear_n to_o be_v more_o afraid_a fear_v cloud_n the_o understanding_n with_o darkness_n and_o make_v every_o thing_n seem_v black_a and_o dreadful_a so_o that_o thence_o believe_v soul_n be_v suitable_a object_n for_o the_o devil_n to_o work_v upon_o by_o that_o persuasion_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n be_v a_o delusion_n v._o every_o believe_a soul_n do_v pry_v and_o search_v into_o the_o rottenness_n and_o unsoundness_n and_o hypocrisy_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o discern_v some_o degree_n both_o of_o unsoundness_n and_o rottenness_n and_o hypocrisy_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o devil_n employ_v his_o power_n against_o the_o believe_a soul_n in_o regard_n he_o have_v a_o foundation_n whereupon_o to_o build_v his_o curse_a suggestion_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v delude_v now_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o depth_n of_o the_o devil_n policy_n be_v employ_v to_o persuade_v unbelieving_a soul_n of_o their_o certain_a reconciliation_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n upon_o these_o ground_n i._o because_o self-flattery_n have_v a_o high_a throne_n erect_v in_o every_o unbeliever_n heart_n there_o be_v a_o curse_a principle_n of_o self-love_n that_o natural_o possess_v every_o heart_n and_o from_o thence_o proceed_v this_o wretched_a principle_n of_o self-flattery_n a_o powerful_a inclination_n to_o speak_v please_a thing_n to_o our_o own_o soul_n now_o from_o the_o power_n of_o self_n flattery_n in_o unbeliever_n heart_n 1._o there_o proceed_v a_o inward_a aversion_n or_o turn_v their_o heart_n away_o from_o all_o fear_n and_o doubt_n of_o their_o own_o acceptation_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n it_o be_v a_o thorn_n in_o their_o side_n and_o a_o thistle_n in_o their_o eye_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v but_o cast_v in_o a_o doubt_n whether_o they_o be_v join_v to_o the_o lord_n in_o christ_n or_o be_v still_o in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n 2._o from_o the_o power_n of_o self-flattery_n proceed_v also_o a_o indisposition_n in_o every_o unbeliever_n heart_n to_o examine_v the_o ground_n whereupon_o he_o build_v his_o confidence_n and_o hope_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n 3._o from_o the_o power_n of_o this_o self-flattering_a proceed_v also_o a_o readiness_n in_o the_o heart_n to_o give_v credit_n to_o all_o vain_a hope_n and_o curse_a suggestion_n from_o hell_n to_o his_o unbelieve_a soul_n now_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o strength_n of_o self-flattering_a in_o unbelieve_a soul_n as_o it_o be_v back_v with_o these_o three_o attendant_n the_o depth_n and_o policy_n of_o hell_n be_v employ_v to_o persuade_v unbelieving_a soul_n that_o they_o be_v unquestionable_o accept_v of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o shall_v everlasting_o be_v save_v by_o he_o ii_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n be_v concern_v unbelieving_a soul_n to_o delude_v they_o with_o false_a hope_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o dreadful_a spiritual_a blindness_n fall_v upon_o every_o unbelieving_a soul_n whereby_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n have_v his_o advantage_n to_o lead_v the_o blind_a soul_n to_o those_o curse_a path_n of_o darkness_n first_o there_o be_v a_o privative_a blindness_n fall_v upon_o unbelieving_a soul_n second_o a_o positive_a blindness_n first_o there_o be_v a_o privative_a blindness_n that_o be_v various_a blindness_n privative_a blindness_n i._o there_o be_v a_o inability_n in_o the_o unbelieving_a soul_n to_o discern_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o celestial_a mystery_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n all_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n be_v but_o dark_a to_o a_o soul_n who_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n 2_o cor._n 4.4_o the_o god_n of_o the_o world_n have_v blind_v the_o mind_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v not_o and_o 1_o cor._n 2.14_o the_o natural_a man_n can_v discern_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v but_o there_o be_v a_o more_o peculiar_a blindness_n upon_o a_o unbelieving_a soul_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n than_o in_o most_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n beside_o because_o the_o mystery_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n have_v supernaturalness_n in_o it_o and_o be_v more_o contrary_a to_o carnal_a reason_n thence_o it_o be_v no_o great_a difficulty_n to_o persuade_v the_o soul_n that_o a_o false_a groundless_a qualification_n be_v the_o true_a believe_a act_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n require_v that_o this_o blind_a confidence_n be_v that_o strength_n of_o assurance_n that_o the_o lord_n command_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v through_o faith_n ii_o there_o be_v such_o a_o privative_a blindness_n in_o a_o unbelieving_a soul_n that_o there_o be_v a_o inability_n a_o insufficiency_n to_o discern_v in_o any_o degree_n the_o infinite_a transcendent_a excellency_n of_o their_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n the_o most_o eagle-eyed_a carnalist_n that_o ever_o proceed_v from_o the_o loin_n of_o adam_n the_o most_o accurate_a disputant_n the_o most_o deep_o sight_v politician_n never_o see_v the_o least_o glimpse_n of_o the_o transcendent_a excellency_n of_o a_o divine_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n likewise_o the_o multltude_n of_o unbeliever_n they_o conceive_v of_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o a_o carnal_a way_n apprehend_v that_o it_o shall_v save_v they_o from_o torment_n and_o that_o it_o shall_v bring_v they_o to_o some_o kind_n of_o joy_n they_o know_v not_o what_o nor_o how_o now_o thence_o the_o depth_n of_o satan_n policy_n be_v active_a in_o persuade_v their_o soul_n that_o they_o be_v certain_o one_o of_o christ_n iii_o there_o be_v such_o a_o privative_a blindness_n in_o unbelieve_a soul_n as_o disenable_v they_o to_o conceive_v of_o the_o infinite_a danger_n of_o the_o loss_n of_o union_n the_o multitude_n of_o unbelieve_a soul_n apprehend_v nothing_o but_o some_o restless_a torment_n that_o will_v seize_v upon_o they_o in_o case_n they_o fail_v of_o union_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n now_o from_o their_o ignorance_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o the_o loss_n of_o union_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o their_o thought_n be_v little_o take_v up_o about_o their_o union_n iv_o such_o a_o privative_a blindness_n be_v fall_v upon_o unbelieving_a soul_n that_o there_o be_v a_o inability_n in_o their_o soul_n to_o discern_v the_o matter_n and_o ground_n of_o suspicion_n that_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o receive_v their_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n enmity_n against_o god_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o enmity_n be_v the_o ground_n whereupon_o suspicion_n be_v build_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o accept_v their_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o unbelieving_a soul_n discern_v not_o that_o enmity_n wherewith_o their_o heart_n be_v fill_v against_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n thence_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n be_v employ_v to_o persuade_v they_o that_o they_o be_v certain_o join_v unto_o the_o lord_n jesus_n v._o there_o be_v such_o a_o privative_a blindness_n fall_v upon_o unbelieving_a soul_n as_o that_o there_o be_v a_o utter_a inability_n in_o they_o to_o discern_v the_o ground_n and_o occasion_n of_o suspicion_n that_o their_o hope_n of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v delusion_n common_o the_o experience_n of_o that_o wretched_a guile_n and_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o corrupt_a treacherous_a false_a heart_n be_v the_o original_n of_o those_o suspicion_n that_o their_o union_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n this_o unbeliever_n can_v discern_v and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n work_n against_o unbelieve_a soul_n in_o persuade_v they_o of_o their_o certain_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n when_o as_o they_o be_v utter_o stranger_n to_o he_o blindness_n positive_a blindness_n second_o there_o be_v a_o positive_a blindness_n also_o that_o be_v a_o multitude_n of_o false_a principle_n and_o notion_n of_o darkness_n doctrine_n of_o devil_n possess_v the_o mind_n of_o every_o unbelieve_a soul_n common_o unbeliever_n mind_n be_v possess_v with_o wretched_a principle_n that_o sure_o god_n will_v damn_v none_o of_o those_o who_o himself_o create_v or_o with_o that_o principle_n that_o if_o man_n do_v what_o they_o can_v sure_o god_n will_v accept_v they_o the_o lord_n will_v take_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n or_o else_o that_o principle_n that_o such_o strictness_n severity_n and_o austerity_n of_o life_n such_o a_o height_n of_o holiness_n constant_o in_o all_o their_o way_n be_v not_o require_v of_o god_n man_n may_v be_v save_v without_o such_o strictness_n of_o holiness_n now_o from_o this_o positive_a darkness_n there_o be_v some_o suitableness_n in_o
the_o spirit_n of_o unbelieve_a soul_n to_o receive_v that_o suggestion_n that_o they_o be_v certain_o join_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o reconcile_v to_o the_o father_n when_o they_o be_v still_o at_o enmity_n that_o be_v the_o second_o a_o dreadful_a blindness_n that_o be_v fall_v upon_o unbelieving_a soul_n 3_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n work_v in_o unbelieve_a soul_n to_o persuade_v they_o of_o their_o certain_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o regard_n every_o seem_a counterfeit_a shadow_n of_o holiness_n appear_v glorious_a in_o a_o unbelieving_a eye_n every_o vain_a empty_a shadow_n of_o holiness_n or_o holy_a duty_n appear_v very_o glorious_a to_o a_o soul_n under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n who_o eye_n the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n have_v blind_v through_o unbelief_n there_o be_v two_o principal_a reason_n why_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n work_v against_o unbelieve_a soul_n to_o persuade_v they_o that_o they_o be_v certain_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n i._o by_o the_o prevail_a of_o this_o suggestion_n unbelieving_a soul_n be_v bind_v with_o adamantine_a chain_n in_o the_o devil_n slavery_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o power_n of_o all_o the_o bless_a invitation_n and_o the_o most_o sweet_a soul-melting_a exhortation_n unto_o union_n and_o amity_n and_o agreement_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v prevent_v the_o unbelieving_a soul_n than_o look_v upon_o himself_o as_o no_o object_n of_o any_o of_o those_o precious_a invitation_n because_o he_o think_v he_o be_v already_o unite_a to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o in_o regard_v the_o restrain_v power_n of_o all_o the_o lord_n menace_n and_o threaten_n to_o the_o act_n of_o enmity_n be_v prevent_v so_o that_o the_o soul_n say_v within_o itself_o upon_o every_o threaten_n from_o the_o lord_n word_n that_o it_o be_v not_o to_o he_o he_o hope_v jesus_n christ_n have_v make_v peace_n for_o he_o god_n and_o his_o soul_n he_o hope_n be_v reconcile_v in_o christ_n 3._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v enmity_n against_o the_o brightness_n and_o lustre_n and_o beauty_n of_o holiness_n excite_v and_o stir_v up_o in_o that_o unbelieving_a soul_n against_o the_o conversation_n of_o all_o those_o soul_n that_o profess_v union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n who_o walk_v in_o a_o high_a pitch_n of_o holiness_n than_o his_o soul_n walk_v in_o that_o it_o eclipse_n and_o condemn_v his_o life_n and_o virtual_o judge_v he_o still_o to_o be_v a_o stranger_n to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o void_a of_o union_n with_o he_o 4._o by_o the_o prevail_a of_o this_o suggestion_n with_o unbelieve_a soul_n they_o be_v even_o devote_v unto_o blindness_n their_o heart_n endeavour_n to_o expound_v the_o truth_n in_o a_o suitable_a way_n to_o themselves_o yea_o their_o heart_n work_v with_o a_o kind_n of_o infinite_a enmity_n against_o every_o truth_n that_o they_o can_v prevent_v that_o contradict_v their_o false_a hope_n and_o soul_n delude_v joy_n ii_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o devil_n policy_n against_o unbelieve_a soul_n be_v to_o persuade_v they_o of_o their_o certain_a union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n the_o false_a hope_n the_o soul-deluding_a confidence_n of_o such_o unbelieve_a soul_n be_v a_o most_o mighty_a mean_n to_o strengthen_v the_o hand_n of_o wickedness_n it_o be_v the_o most_o powerful_a orator_n to_o persuade_v other_o unbelieve_a soul_n to_o proceed_v from_o one_o degree_n of_o wickedness_n to_o another_o without_o restraint_n of_o their_o wicked_a heart_n from_o their_o full_a swing_n in_o their_o curse_a way_n pre._n 6._o six_o there_o be_v a_o six_o premise_v and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n do_v exercise_v a_o mighty_a power_n upon_o soul_n to_o effect_v that_o politic_a design_n of_o he_o in_o cast_v they_o into_o a_o fool_n paradise_n of_o imaginary_a spiritual_a safety_n in_o delude_v they_o with_o vain_a hope_n of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n when_o they_o be_v stranger_n and_o enemy_n to_o he_o this_o power_n that_o the_o devil_n exercise_v upon_o soul_n for_o that_o end_n be_v threefold_a first_o there_o be_v a_o power_n that_o he_o exercise_v upon_o the_o mind_n or_o understanding_n second_o a_o power_n he_o exercise_v upon_o the_o conscience_n three_o a_o power_n he_o exercise_v upon_o the_o passion_n or_o affection_n first_o the_o devil_n exercise_v a_o mighty_a power_n upon_o the_o mind_n and_o understandinng_n of_o soul_n mind_n satan_n power_n upon_o the_o mind_n to_o delude_v they_o concern_v their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o understanding_n be_v to_o the_o soul_n as_o the_o compass_n to_o the_o ship_n if_o the_o compose_v be_v mar_v the_o ship_n may_v be_v easy_o guide_v into_o a_o devour_a gulf_n instead_o of_o a_o safe_a harbour_n if_o the_o understanding_n be_v once_o delude_v the_o soul_n may_v easy_o steer_v his_o course_n towards_o the_o gulf_n of_o everlasting_a woe_n instead_o of_o that_o bless_a haven_n of_o everlasting_a happiness_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o devil_n exercise_v a_o mighty_a power_n upon_o the_o understanding_n and_o mind_n of_o soul_n to_o corrupt_v and_o delude_v those_o now_o this_o power_n that_o he_o exercise_n upon_o the_o understanding_n be_v also_o various_a there_o be_v eight_o degree_n or_o various_a act_n of_o the_o devil_n power_n exercise_v upon_o the_o mind_n and_o understanding_n of_o soul_n to_o delude_v they_o about_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n i._o the_o first_o act_n of_o the_o devil_n power_n upon_o the_o understanding_n be_v his_o forgery_n invention_n and_o suggestion_n of_o false_a reason_n rot_a argument_n and_o fallacious_a mean_n from_o his_o high_a endeavour_n to_o persuade_v soul_n of_o their_o certain_a infallible_a reconciliation_n or_o union_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n when_o they_o be_v separate_v by_o a_o brazen_a wall_n of_o enmity_n from_o he_o there_o be_v six_o or_o seven_o false_a reason_n and_o rot_a argument_n that_o he_o do_v ordinary_o suggest_v unto_o believe_a soul_n from_o whence_o he_o insinuate_v to_o they_o false_o their_o certain_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 1._o he_o suggest_v to_o the_o understanding_n of_o some_o soul_n their_o vast_a difference_n and_o disagreement_n from_o other_o soul_n and_o thence_o secret_o insinuate_v to_o they_o that_o certain_o they_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o those_o that_o be_v join_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o the_o devil_n suggest_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o delude_v pharisee_fw-mi luke_n 18.12_o 13._o 2._o the_o devil_n suggest_v unto_o some_o other_o soul_n their_o enjoyment_n of_o special_a peculiar_a privilege_n different_a from_o the_o privilege_n that_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o world_n enjoy_v and_o thence_o also_o insinuate_v into_o they_o their_o certain_a infallible_a reconciliation_n to_o god_n and_o acceptance_n with_o he_o in_o christ_n this_o the_o devil_n suggest_v to_o those_o self-deceived_n jew_n john_n 8.37_o 38._o say_v they_o we_o be_v abraham_n child_n and_o thence_o certain_o think_v they_o we_o must_v be_v god_n child_n also_o 3._o the_o devil_n suggest_v to_o some_o other_o soul_n their_o moral_a duty_n and_o act_n of_o righteousness_n and_o from_o thence_o insinuate_v to_o they_o that_o they_o be_v certain_o accept_v with_o god_n in_o christ_n this_o fallacious_a argument_n be_v that_o whereby_o the_o devil_n persuade_v the_o young_a man_n mention_v mat._n 19.20_o that_o his_o estate_n be_v a_o estate_n of_o spiritual_a safety_n thus_o also_o be_v those_o poor_a blind_a jew_n delude_v by_o satan_n hellish_a sophistry_n rom._n 10.3_o they_o reject_v the_o righteousness_n that_o be_v by_o christ_n that_o be_v free_o tender_v to_o they_o upon_o this_o ground_n that_o their_o own_o righteousness_n their_o outward_a observation_n of_o the_o law_n be_v sufficient_a for_o their_o justification_n before_o god_n and_o acceptance_n with_o he_o 4._o the_o devil_n suggest_v to_o some_o other_o soul_n their_o constant_a diligent_a use_n of_o the_o lord_n ordinance_n appoint_v for_o they_o to_o worship_v the_o lord_n in_o by_o this_o kind_n of_o false_a argument_n do_v the_o old_a sophister_n deceive_v those_o poor_a delude_a soul_n luke_n 13.26_o say_v they_o we_o have_v eat_v and_o drink_v in_o thy_o presence_n and_o thou_o have_v teach_v in_o our_o street_n that_o be_v they_o have_v the_o near_a communion_n with_o he_o in_o his_o ordinance_n they_o be_v diligent_a hearer_n of_o the_o word_n and_o wait_v upon_o he_o wherever_o he_o bring_v a_o message_n to_o they_o 5._o the_o devil_n suggest_v to_o other_o soul_n their_o forward_a profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o thence_o insinuate_v into_o they_o that_o sure_o in_o their_o perseverance_n in_o that_o profession_n they_o shall_v be_v admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o lord_n be_v at_o peace_n with_o they_o their_o state_n be_v good_a enough_o this_o be_v the_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 union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o confidence_n fail_v a_o multitude_n of_o objection_n and_o reason_n this_o way_n and_o that_o way_n arise_v in_o the_o soul_n every_o one_o of_o these_o objection_n scruple_n and_o reason_n be_v like_o a_o mote_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o prevent_v his_o clear_a discern_v of_o what_o the_o light_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n put_v upon_o it_o now_o by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n those_o objection_n reason_n and_o scrupling_n be_v silence_v and_o suppress_v and_o so_o a_o precious_a clearness_n be_v maintain_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o readiness_n to_o discern_v whatever_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n the_o spirit_n shall_v cause_v to_o shine_v forth_o from_o that_o precious_a word_n that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v it_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o when_o this_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n fail_v it_o make_v the_o soul_n uncapable_a for_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n the_o act_n of_o this_o very_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o very_a matter_n of_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v actual_o to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o when_o the_o act_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n cease_v then_o be_v the_o very_a matter_n from_o whence_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_a to_o the_o soul_n sense_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n take_v away_o how_o shall_v the_o bless_a spirit_n cause_v the_o believe_a soul_n to_o see_v its_o self_n believe_v when_o there_o be_v not_o the_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o the_o habit_n of_o any_o kind_n of_o holiness_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_a to_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o be_v in_o itself_o but_o it_o be_v the_o act_n of_o any_o holiness_n whatever_o that_o the_o spirit_n do_v cause_v the_o soul_n 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
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 say_v wherefore_o then_o be_v the_o command_v give_v by_o god_n to_o prove_v and_o examine_v ourselves_o whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o say_v and_o so_o consequent_o to_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o our_o union_n with_o christ_n if_o we_o must_v not_o be_v dubious_a and_o anxious_a whether_o the_o evidence_n of_o our_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v true_a or_o no_o before_o we_o proceed_v ro_o the_o trial_n and_o examination_n of_o they_o answ_n 1._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o question_n by_o the_o way_n brief_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o these_o command_n of_o soul_n examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n be_v give_v universal_o to_o all_o soul_n on_o purpose_n that_o delude_a soul_n by_o the_o try_v and_o prove_v themselves_o may_v discover_v their_o own_o delusion_n and_o discern_v their_o lie_a confidence_n of_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o these_o command_n be_v give_v on_o purpose_n to_o believe_a soul_n to_o maintain_v the_o life_n of_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v they_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o the_o confidence_n that_o they_o be_v admit_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n these_o command_n be_v occasion_n to_o soul_n true_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o review_v over_o the_o ground_n of_o their_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v they_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o lord_n actual_a admission_n of_o they_o into_o union_n now_o the_o more_o the_o soul_n view_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o confidence_n the_o more_o it_o view_v that_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n that_o reveal_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v even_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o case_n he_o accept_v it_o and_o by_o the_o soul_n gaze_v upon_o that_o bless_a word_n it_o discern_v more_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o certainty_n infallibility_n and_o unchangeableness_n of_o that_o word_n and_o the_o more_o frequent_o and_o full_o the_o soul_n discern_v that_o the_o strong_a be_v its_o confidence_n in_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o he_o will_v admit_v even_o that_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o thence_o there_o be_v more_o occasion_n for_o the_o bless_a spirit_n to_o irradiate_a rhe_n soul_n believe_v act_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o see_v and_o feel_v itself_o to_o believe_v aright_o by_o which_o mean_v the_o actual_a confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n admission_n with_o christ_n live_v and_o be_v maintain_v in_o its_o strength_n 3._o these_o command_n be_v give_v that_o there_o may_v be_v more_o preparedness_n against_o all_o assault_n that_o be_v make_v from_o hell_n against_o those_o soul_n through_o this_o examination_n believe_v soul_n have_v their_o confidence_n maintain_v in_o its_o life_n and_o strength_n and_o so_o be_v fortify_v against_o temptation_n because_o it_o discern_v clear_o the_o foundation_n upon_o which_o his_o own_o confidence_n stand_v 4._o the_o lord_n give_v these_o command_n on_o purpose_n to_o draw_v forth_o into_o exercise_n all_o manner_n of_o holy_a disposition_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n this_o be_v do_v by_o the_o renew_a view_n of_o that_o light_n that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n or_o unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thenââ¦_n be_v the_o precious_a subjection_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n act_v then_o be_v the_o correspondent_a love_n of_o the_o soul_n answerable_a to_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o soul_n draw_v out_o in_o its_o strength_n then_o be_v all_o the_o thirsting_n after_o near_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n act_v pre._n 3._o three_o a_o three_o thing_n to_o be_v premise_v be_v this_o that_o there_o be_v many_o sinful_a distemper_n incident_a to_o believe_v soul_n in_o the_o time_n when_o they_o be_v doubtful_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n which_o whenever_o they_o do_v prevail_v in_o any_o soul_n during_o their_o prevalency_n they_o do_v incapacitate_v those_o soul_n 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 there_o be_v especial_o four_o of_o those_o sinful_a distemper_n incident_a unto_o believe_v soul_n at_o such_o a_o time_n 1._o there_o be_v a_o impatiency_n and_o frowardness_n of_o spirit_n under_o the_o obscurity_n of_o that_o truth_n of_o their_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n incident_a to_o every_o believe_a soul_n indeed_o our_o spirit_n be_v natural_o impatient_a under_o every_o burden_n but_o when_o any_o arrow_n from_o the_o almighty_a be_v shoot_v into_o the_o conscience_n or_o any_o arrow_n from_o hell_n stick_v fast_o there_o i_o mean_v any_o doubtfulness_n any_o terror_n and_o fear_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o their_o conceive_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n then_o be_v their_o spirit_n in_o a_o superlative_a manner_n prone_a to_o fret_v and_o vex_v and_o fume_n by_o the_o prevail_a of_o unruly_a passion_n thus_o david_n under_o the_o doubtfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n fulfil_v a_o promise_n make_v to_o he_o break_v out_o into_o most_o dreadful_a impatience_n in_o 1_o sam._n 27.1_o i_o shall_v one_o day_n perish_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o saul_n so_o in_o psal_n 116.11_o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n so_o psal_n 31.22_o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n i_o be_o cut_v off_o from_o before_o thy_o eye_n so_o the_o holy_a man_n job_n chap._n 3.3_o and_o chap._n 6.8_o 9_o now_o during_o the_o prevalency_n of_o this_o distemper_n of_o impatiency_n and_o frowardness_n of_o spirit_n under_o doubt_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o evidence_n their_o spirit_n be_v make_v uncable_a of_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o be_v two_o way_n how_o this_o sinful_a distemper_n do_v incapacitate_v soul_n for_o the_o just_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n 1._o it_o do_v prevent_v a_o serious_a deliberate_a view_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o they_o have_v receive_v by_o draw_v out_o the_o intention_n of_o their_o spirit_n to_o look_v upon_o the_o ground_n of_o their_o fear_n of_o the_o falseness_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n when_o any_o passion_n prevail_v in_o any_o spirit_n it_o draw_v out_o the_o whole_a strength_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o way_n now_o the_o intention_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v draw_v out_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o object_n of_o his_o fear_n the_o ground_n of_o his_o doubt_n and_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o suspicion_n of_o the_o falseness_n of_o his_o union_n by_o this_o the_o soul_n be_v make_v unsuitable_a to_o take_v any_o right_n deliberate_a
view_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n 2._o impatiency_n of_o spirit_n under_o the_o doubtfulness_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v occasion_n every_o seem_a opposition_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n to_o appear_v great_a than_o it_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n thence_o it_o be_v frequent_a with_o soul_n under_o this_o distemper_n every_o suggestion_n from_o hell_n bear_v such_o weight_n upon_o the_o spirit_n as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o fume_n upon_o every_o such_o suggestion_n conceive_v there_o be_v abundant_a argument_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o union_n whereas_o upon_o the_o examination_n of_o the_o same_o objection_n by_o the_o same_o soul_n with_o a_o quiet_a calm_a spirit_n those_o objection_n appear_v to_o be_v invalid_a to_o have_v no_o weight_n nor_o scarce_o any_o colour_n whereby_o they_o shall_v manifest_v the_o falseness_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n ii_o the_o second_o sinful_a distemper_n be_v a_o irrationality_n that_o the_o soul_n subject_n itself_o to_o in_o all_o the_o conclusion_n that_o it_o draw_v up_o against_o itself_o now_o whenever_o a_o believe_a soul_n subject_n himself_o to_o this_o sinful_a distemper_n that_o he_o endeavour_v not_o to_o suppress_v every_o affection_n of_o hope_n fear_v or_o joy_n which_o be_v not_o found_v upon_o some_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n than_o the_o soul_n do_v make_v itself_o uncapable_a of_o examine_v and_o try_v just_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o soul_n will_v of_o necessity_n be_v irrational_a in_o all_o its_o conclusion_n but_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v irrational_a in_o its_o confusion_n it_o be_v uncapable_a of_o a_o just_a trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n it_o be_v uncapable_a of_o compare_v that_o bless_a golden_a rule_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n and_o his_o own_o evidence_n together_o 2._o in_o regard_v the_o thought_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v all_o distract_a when_o any_o thing_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o thought_n for_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o union_n that_o soul_n without_o examination_n immediate_o entertain_v some_o hope_n again_o when_o any_o thing_n be_v object_v to_o the_o soul_n to_o prove_v the_o falseness_n of_o his_o evidence_n immediate_o again_o the_o soul_n entertain_v fear_n without_o examine_v the_o reality_n of_o what_o be_v object_v against_o his_o evidence_n and_o those_o hope_n and_o fear_n continue_v interchangeable_o work_v make_v such_o distraction_n in_o the_o soul_n thought_n that_o it_o make_v it_o uncapable_a for_o any_o deliberate_a view_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n 3._o the_o three_o sinful_a distemper_n be_v a_o rashness_n hastiness_n or_o suddenness_n of_o spirit_n thus_o some_o doubt_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o former_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n because_o of_o some_o backslide_n from_o god_n that_o they_o be_v conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o will_v sudden_o from_o such_o a_o place_n as_o that_o heb._n 6.4_o conclude_v that_o they_o have_v sin_v presumptuous_o and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o renew_v they_o again_o by_o repentance_n or_o unto_o repentance_n the_o word_n run_v thus_o for_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o those_o who_o be_v once_o enlighten_v and_o have_v taste_v of_o the_o heavenly_a gift_n and_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o have_v taste_v the_o good_a word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v if_o they_o fall_v away_o to_o renew_v they_o again_o unto_o repentance_n whereas_o do_v those_o soul_n examine_v the_o intent_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o these_o word_n it_o be_v easy_o to_o discern_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n intend_v those_o who_o final_o apostatise_v from_o god_n not_o intend_v any_o slip_n and_o fall_v and_o backslide_n that_o be_v incident_a to_o every_o believe_a soul_n be_v there_o but_o a_o just_a examination_n of_o this_o portion_n of_o the_o word_n by_o collect_v it_o and_o compare_v with_o another_o word_n that_o will_v testify_v many_o saint_n to_o have_v have_v their_o fall_n and_o backslide_n after_o their_o taste_n of_o the_o heavenly_a gift_n and_o after_o their_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n ââ¦ly_o in_o a_o high_a way_n than_o the_o spirit_n mean_v here_o he_o mean_v here_o by_o partake_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n only_o some_o participation_n of_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n other_o scripture_n testify_v david_n and_o abram_n to_o have_v have_v their_o fall_n yea_o almost_o every_o saint_n after_o their_o taste_n of_o the_o heavenly_a gift_n and_o yet_o to_o be_v renew_v again_o by_o repentance_n now_o this_o distemper_n do_v make_v the_o soul_n uncapable_a of_o a_o just_a examination_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n 2_o way_n i._o in_o regard_v this_o rashness_n make_v the_o soul_n uncapable_a of_o discern_v the_o depth_n of_o satan_n whereby_o he_o endeavour_v to_o obscure_v the_o truth_n of_o every_o believer_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o sinful_a rashness_n occasion_n the_o soul_n only_o to_o take_v a_o superficial_a of_o whatever_o be_v suggest_v or_o propound_v now_o satan_n suggestion_n have_v some_o sparkle_a of_o angelical_a glory_n some_o varnish_n of_o truth_n and_o holiness_n so_o that_o every_o suggestion_n of_o hell_n whilst_o the_o distemper_n of_o rashness_n prevail_v in_o the_o soul_n can_v but_o be_v judge_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o build_v a_o doubt_n and_o scruple_n upon_o and_o then_o satan_n be_v always_o watchful_a to_o maintain_v a_o dispute_n that_o he_o once_o begin_v with_o the_o soul_n to_o make_v reply_n against_o whatever_o can_v be_v object_v against_o his_o first_o suggestion_n every_o of_o these_o objection_n of_o satan_n they_o will_v be_v count_v sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o rash_a soul_n to_o draw_v another_o safe_a conclusion_n or_o to_o strengthen_v the_o soul_n in_o the_o draw_v its_o former_a false_a conclusion_n 2._o this_o rashness_n also_o beget_v a_o confusion_n in_o the_o soul_n the_o soul_n draw_v conclusion_n upon_o conclusion_n upon_o every_o seem_a ground_n and_o one_o conclusion_n maintain_v contradict_v another_o a_o contradition_n of_o hope_n contradict_v a_o conclusion_n of_o fear_n and_o there_o be_v no_o examination_n through_o the_o domineer_a power_n of_o rashness_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o one_o and_o the_o falseness_n of_o the_o other_o these_o conclusion_n begin_v to_o fight_v in_o the_o soul_n at_o once_o yea_o multitude_n of_o conclusion_n seem_v contrary_a each_o to_o other_o 4._o the_o four_o distemper_n that_o do_v incapacitate_v a_o soul_n for_o the_o just_a trial_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n be_v a_o prejudicial_a conceit_n against_o his_o own_o evidence_n even_o before_o any_o examination_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n this_o be_v the_o sad_a distemper_n that_o prevail_v in_o asaph_n psal_n 77.2_o my_o soul_n refuse_v to_o be_v comfort_v he_o do_v refuse_v to_o receive_v any_o evidence_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v faithful_a but_o certain_o this_o be_v the_o distemper_n of_o the_o church_n lamen_n 3.17_o 18._o thou_o have_v remove_v my_o soul_n far_o off_o from_o peace_n i_o forget_v prosperity_n or_o rather_o as_o it_o be_v render_v by_o some_o i_o forget_v god_n it_o be_v most_o probable_a she_o refuse_v to_o entertain_v any_o of_o those_o thought_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v yet_o be_v gracious_a hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o soul_n under_o the_o power_n of_o this_o distemper_n do_v study_n to_o wind_v themselves_o from_o under_o the_o power_n of_o any_o truth_n that_o shall_v lay_v hold_n upon_o their_o heart_n so_o as_o to_o answer_v their_o objection_n and_o cavil_n against_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o this_o distemper_n do_v make_v soul_n uncapable_a while_o it_o prevail_v of_o a_o just_a examination_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o own_o exidence_n in_o regard_n it_o cause_v slighty_a unworthy_a thought_n of_o their_o own_o union_n pre._n 4._o four_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o whenever_o any_o soul_n be_v decline_v from_o or_o decay_v in_o his_o former_a activity_n and_o operation_n of_o holiness_n he_o be_v then_o unsuitable_a to_o examine_v and_o to_o try_v just_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n he_o be_v unsuitable_a in_o these_o five_o respect_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o light_n of_o manifestation_n from_o the_o spirit_n be_v always_o suspend_v when_o the_o heart_n be_v in_o this_o decay_a temper_n in_o holiness_n when_o ever_o any_o heart_n decay_n in_o holiness_n his_o first_o original_a decay_n be_v in_o the_o activity_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o precious_a believe_a disposition_n of_o the_o will_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 it_o be_v impossible_a the_o soul_n shall_v have_v any_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n see_v the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n do_v whole_o depend_v upon_o the_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n 2._o in_o regard_v all_o the_o opposite_a power_n of_o corruption_n in_o his_o soul_n unto_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v renew_v in_o some_o degree_n their_o tyranny_n over_o the_o soul_n yea_o not_o only_o so_o but_o all_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n that_o do_v oppose_v the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v then_o furnish_v with_o renew_a argument_n and_o objection_n against_o the_o poor_a soul_n acceptance_n into_o union_n yea_o with_o such_o objection_n as_o nothing_o can_v answer_v but_o say_v itself_o as_o for_o example_n 1._o then_o carnal_a reason_n '_o mouth_n be_v fill_v with_o new_a matter_n of_o objection_n against_o the_o soul_n union_n carnal_a reason_n that_o say_v former_o thou_o be_v a_o rebel_n a_o enemy_n that_o have_v continue_v thus_o many_o year_n in_o enmity_n therefore_o can_v be_v admit_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n can_v now_o say_v more_o thou_o have_v now_o deal_v unfaithful_o with_o god_n thou_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n a_o bacstslider_n it_o be_v impossible_a that_o the_o lord_n that_o bear_v thy_o enmity_n and_o rebellion_n shall_v bare_v thy_o falseness_n and_o hypocrisy_n 2._o natural_a distrust_n of_o god_n curse_a jealousy_n and_o suspicion_n of_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n do_v renew_v their_o tyranny_n also_o when_o holiness_n decay_v now_o natural_a distrust_n and_o curse_a jealousy_n of_o god_n can_v say_v what_o do_v thou_o think_v it_o be_v possible_a for_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n who_o be_v so_o just_a who_o have_v say_v he_o will_v avenge_v himself_o upon_o those_o that_o go_v on_o in_o their_o wickedness_n shall_v ever_o accept_v theâ_n into_o reconciliation_n with_o himself_o 3._o the_o corrupt_a conscience_n renew_v his_o tyrannize_a power_n when_o the_o soul_n decay_n in_o 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
satisfy_a power_n of_o the_o manifest_v light_n unto_o his_o faith_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v now_o again_o in_o this_o renew_a act_n gain_v a_o sight_n and_o manifestation_n of_o that_o satisfy_a power_n in_o a_o manifest_v truth_n that_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v acept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o thence_o the_o lord_n discern_v the_o causelesness_n of_o his_o own_o prejudicial_a thought_n and_o opinion_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n and_o so_o consequent_o abhor_v himself_o in_o that_o he_o dishonour_v the_o bless_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n 5._o through_o the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o this_o believe_a act_n that_o decay_n in_o holiness_n which_o do_v make_v the_o soul_n unsuitable_a to_o take_v a_o just_a impartial_a trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v repair_v that_o appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o the_o mind_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v fill_v with_o all_o the_o notion_n conception_n and_o apprehension_n from_o whence_o holy_a act_n do_v arise_v be_v maintain_v and_o increase_v and_o through_o the_o defect_n of_o which_o holiness_n decay_v and_o consume_v in_o any_o soul_n these_o holy_a notion_n from_o whence_o holiness_n proceed_v be_v principal_o these_o that_o there_o be_v a_o fullness_n of_o all_o love_n and_o mercy_n tender_v free_o by_o god_n to_o this_o poor_a unlovely_a soul_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v so_o infinite_o rich_a in_o his_o love_n that_o he_o do_v pass_v over_o all_o that_o can_v be_v suitable_a for_o the_o poor_a empty_a soul_n free_o to_o it_o in_o christ_n now_o it_o be_v impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v a_o renew_a believe_v act_n without_o these_o notion_n be_v bring_v fresh_a to_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n 2._o all_o the_o holy_a affection_n be_v excite_v also_o to_o a_o renew_a exercise_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o renew_a act._n all_o the_o affection_n be_v under_o the_o command_n of_o these_o two_o love_n and_o hatred_n now_o both_o these_o be_v excite_v to_o a_o renew_a exercise_n and_o that_o with_o a_o mighty_a strength_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o renew_a act._n love_n towards_o god_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o very_o reflect_v of_o the_o lord_n love_v cast_v upon_o the_o soul_n upon_o god_n again_o the_o act_n of_o love_n always_o proceed_v from_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o soul_n now_o in_o the_o believe_a act_n there_o be_v a_o actual_a view_n of_o the_o infinite_a unspeakable_a riches_n of_o love_n to_o the_o unlovely_a forlorn_a soul_n and_o thence_o love_n be_v draw_v forth_o in_o its_o very_a strength_n towards_o god_n again_o likewise_o hatred_n which_o command_v the_o other_o part_n of_o the_o affection_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o displicency_n than_o be_v in_o the_o will_n against_o any_o object_n whatever_o which_o affection_n do_v natural_o proceed_v from_o the_o soul_n love_n now_o therefore_o the_o hatred_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v proper_o against_o sin_n and_o whatever_o be_v contrary_a to_o god_n and_o his_o will._n in_o the_o same_o degree_n that_o love_n act_n in_o the_o soul_n towards_o god_n in_o the_o same_o degree_n do_v hatred_n work_v towards_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o god_n now_o by_o the_o stir_v up_o of_o these_o two_o all_o the_o other_o holy_a affection_n also_o be_v excite_v into_o their_o exercise_n thence_o the_o decay_n of_o holiness_n be_v sweet_o repair_v and_o the_o soul_n put_v into_o a_o suitable_a temper_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o all_o the_o lord_n ordinance_n and_o appointment_n for_o his_o people_n soul_n to_o enjoy_v communion_n with_o himself_o in_o be_v also_o mediate_a and_o second_v mean_n of_o the_o delivery_n of_o those_o soul_n from_o the_o dreadful_a tyranny_n of_o the_o fear_n and_o jealousy_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n be_v delusion_n thus_o prayer_n conference_n meditation_n hear_v the_o word_n be_v all_o secondary_a mean_n to_o wait_v for_o the_o spirit_n to_o breath_n in_o power_n from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n in_o this_o renew_a believe_v act_n and_o to_o continue_v the_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o you_o see_v a_o sufficient_a mean_n leave_v for_o these_o distemper_a or_o decline_v soul_n that_o be_v either_o uncapable_a or_o unsuitable_a for_o a_o just_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n to_o deliver_v they_o from_o fear_n and_o terror_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v delusion_n now_o in_o regard_n the_o question_n be_v about_o a_o matter_n so_o practical_a i_o shall_v therefore_o turn_v the_o last_o answer_n into_o a_o kind_n of_o advise_v beseech_v and_o entreat_v every_o distemper_a or_o decline_v soul_n in_o holiness_n to_o take_v this_o course_n to_o strive_v for_o deliverance_n of_o his_o soul_n from_o 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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
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
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 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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
suitable_a for_o believe_v soul_n that_o there_o be_v a_o night_n and_o a_o day_n as_o well_o in_o the_o spiritual_a life_n as_o in_o the_o natural_a life_n aught_o to_o be_v a_o ground_n to_o maintain_v a_o lively_a hope_n that_o when_o it_o be_v night_n day_n may_v break_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n unquestionable_o to_o nourish_v and_o cherish_v such_o a_o lively_a hope_n 3._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o its_o former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o obstruct_v itself_o in_o the_o obscurity_n darkness_n and_o dreadful_a blindness_n of_o his_o own_o mind_n the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o say_v within_o himself_o o_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n irradiate_v the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n how_o clear_a how_o unquestionable_a be_v it_o to_o my_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n bless_a will_n to_o receive_v my_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n if_o i_o will_v embrace_v he_o and_o though_o i_o have_v now_o the_o same_o word_n to_o testify_v the_o same_o thing_n to_o my_o soul_n yet_o how_o dark_a be_v it_o to_o my_o soul_n for_o the_o present_a how_o hard_o be_v it_o for_o my_o poor_a blind_a mind_n to_o receive_v and_o apprehend_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o receive_v this_o my_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n 4._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o instruct_v itself_o in_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o lord_n way_n towards_o believe_a soul_n from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v learn_v that_o the_o lord_n carry_v on_o the_o soul_n towards_o full_a communion_n with_o himself_o through_o christ_n as_o well_o by_o sensible_a decay_n in_o communion_n as_o by_o sensible_a increase_v in_o communion_n and_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v instruct_v itself_o that_o joy_n and_o peace_n ravishment_n of_o spirit_n triumph_v act_n of_o faith_n be_v not_o so_o inseparable_a from_o believe_v soul_n but_o that_o they_o may_v be_v want_v that_o 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word_n to_o say_v o_o how_o infinite_a be_v the_o necessity_n of_o hang_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n continual_o for_o the_o constant_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n into_o this_o my_o dark_a heart_n 6._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o collect_v holy_a plea_n and_o precious_a argument_n to_o intercede_v with_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n for_o the_o return_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n unto_o his_o soul_n this_o be_v the_o constant_a practice_n of_o all_o the_o saint_n who_o have_v enjoy_v any_o experience_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n and_o kindness_n they_o do_v endeavour_v to_o engage_v the_o lord_n to_o return_v when_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v absent_a many_o be_v the_o argument_n that_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v collect_v from_o the_o former_a enjoyment_n of_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o plead_v with_o the_o majesty_n 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soul_n say_v when_o thy_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n have_v the_o precious_a operation_n upon_o my_o heart_n what_o a_o bless_a concurrence_n be_v there_o in_o this_o my_o crooked_a opposite_a will_n to_o this_o thy_o holy_a will_n o_o what_o a_o union_n of_o love_n be_v there_o between_o this_o thy_o majesty_n and_o my_o opposite_a heart_n how_o impatient_a then_o be_v my_o soul_n of_o any_o disagreement_n between_o my_o will_n and_o thy_o will_n how_o ready_o be_v my_o heart_n dispose_v for_o any_o thing_n thy_o bless_a majesty_n command_v but_o now_o alas_o lord_n now_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n be_v suspend_v what_o a_o disagreement_n be_v there_o between_o thy_o majesty_n will_n and_o my_o will_n how_o straight_o and_o narrow_a and_o weak_a and_o feeble_a be_v the_o inclination_n of_o my_o heart_n now_o to_o obedience_n to_o thy_o bless_a will_n lord_n may_v the_o soul_n say_v have_v respect_n to_o thy_o own_o honour_n send_v down_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n into_o this_o dark_a heart_n 3._o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v how_o high_o the_o bless_a name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v and_o magnify_v in_o his_o heart_n when_o that_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n continue_v its_o bless_a operation_n to_o evidence_n actual_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n from_o who_o the_o lustre_n and_o glory_n of_o these_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v now_o eclipse_v may_v argue_v with_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o send_v down_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n again_o to_o his_o dark_a soul_n 4._o even_o when_o the_o orient_a brightness_n and_o heavenly_a lustre_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n be_v eclipse_v and_o darken_v yet_o then_o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v the_o capaciousness_n and_o enlarge_v openness_n of_o his_o heart_n towards_o communion_n with_o god_n while_o the_o orient_a lustre_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v actual_o remain_v now_o from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v gather_v strength_n of_o argument_n to_o appear_v before_o the_o lord_n to_o petition_v the_o return_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n again_o to_o his_o soul_n the_o soul_n may_v plead_v that_o the_o suitableness_n and_o right_a disposition_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n depend_v upon_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n 5._o even_o when_o the_o orient_a brightness_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n be_v eclipse_v and_o obscure_v yet_o then_o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v how_o glorious_o the_o lovely_a beauty_n and_o soul_n enamour_v brightness_n of_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n be_v transparent_a through_o he_o when_o the_o heavenly_a lustre_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n do_v actual_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n now_o from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v gather_v a_o precious_a argument_n whereby_o he_o may_v lay_v a_o engagement_n upon_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o send_v down_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n again_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v plead_v that_o the_o lustre_n and_o heavenly_a beauty_n of_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n to_o be_v manifest_v through_o he_o depend_v upon_o his_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n 6._o when_o the_o cammand_a power_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v cease_v for_o the_o present_a to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n yet_o then_o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v that_o the_o tender_a compassionate_a bowel_n of_o god_n have_v move_v within_o he_o and_o yearned_a towards_o his_o soul_n former_o now_o from_o thence_o the_o feeble_a almost_o faint_v droop_a soul_n may_v still_o gather_v more_o strength_n and_o lift_v up_o its_o head_n again_o to_o claim_v the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n to_o
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 truââ¦_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
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 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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 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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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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
be_v indeed_o to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o christ_n yea_o that_o his_o soul_n be_v already_o lodge_v in_o that_o precious_a bosom_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n than_o the_o soul_n behold_v such_o a_o unspeakable_a preciousness_n in_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o he_o wait_v upon_o such_o a_o unbeliever_n such_o a_o crooked_a opposite_a wretch_n so_o long_o that_o the_o soul_n set_v down_o silent_o to_o admire_v and_o be_v swallow_v to_o the_o depth_n in_o admiration_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o soul_n amaze_a brightness_n appear_v in_o the_o soul_n eye_n in_o the_o independence_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v when_o that_o bright_a 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 the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o soul_n see_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o move_v the_o heart_n of_o god_n to_o have_v thought_n of_o love_n towards_o he_o nothing_o that_o incline_v his_o bless_a will_n to_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n but_o only_o his_o precious_a disposition_n only_o his_o eternal_a thought_n of_o kindness_n that_o old_a love_a kindness_n of_o he_o from_o eternity_n then_o the_o soul_n say_v as_o david_n in_o 1_o sam._n 7.21_o for_o thy_o word_n sake_n and_o according_a to_o thy_o own_o heart_n have_v thou_o do_v all_o these_o great_a thing_n to_o make_v thy_o servant_n know_v they_o then_o the_o believe_a soul_n say_v though_o my_o wretched_a unbelieve_a heart_n can_v not_o trust_v thou_o yet_o for_o thy_o word_n sake_n thou_o have_v fulfil_v it_o according_a to_o thy_o own_o heart_n thou_o have_v do_v it_o o_o lord_n what_o can_v thy_o pure_a eye_n behold_v in_o this_o forlorn_a soul_n of_o i_o what_o can_v have_v move_v the_o lord_n think_v the_o soul_n but_o his_o own_o bless_a will_n to_o choose_v such_o a_o useless_a such_o a_o unserviceable_a such_o a_o unprofitable_a such_o a_o barren_a such_o a_o foolish_a yea_o such_o a_o cross_a heart_a wretch_n as_o i_o 3._o the_o glorious_a irresistible_a power_n of_o the_o lord_n eternal_a love_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o loveless_a soul_n shine_v glorious_o when_o once_o the_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n that_o discover_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n how_o many_o curse_a contradiction_n think_v a_o believe_a soul_n do_v the_o love_n of_o christ_n suffer_v from_o my_o soul_n how_o often_o do_v my_o vile_a believe_a heart_n give_v the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n the_o lie_n how_o many_o year_n do_v i_o sleight_v this_o i_o stop_v my_o ear_n i_o hearken_v to_o none_o of_o his_o bless_a tender_n yet_o than_o he_o bore_v my_o ear_n and_o constrain_v i_o to_o hear_v o_o think_v the_o soul_n what_o a_o froward_a perverse_a heart_a wretch_n have_v i_o be_v to_o this_o dear_a god_n of_o i_o certain_o think_v the_o soul_n if_o rebellion_n if_o enmity_n if_o the_o work_n of_o a_o devil_n heart_n can_v have_v oppose_v it_o it_o have_v be_v turn_v away_o from_o i_o four_o the_o orient_a brightness_n of_o the_o lord_n infallible_a truth_n shine_v before_o the_o soul_n these_o beam_n of_o the_o lord_n glory_n shine_v in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n before_o the_o soul_n eye_n but_o there_o be_v multitude_n of_o the_o ãâã_d of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o also_o with_o these_o shine_v in_o the_o same_o moment_n into_o the_o same_o soul_n when_o a_o light_n proceed_v from_o god_n to_o discever_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n then_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o contrive_v the_o design_n of_o redemption_n by_o christ_n appear_v then_o do_v the_o very_a beauty_n of_o justice_n itself_o appear_v in_o the_o lord_n contrive_v the_o redemption_n of_o loveless_a soul_n in_o such_o a_o way_n wherein_o justice_n and_o mercy_n may_v meet_v together_o and_o kiss_v each_o other_o so_o that_o indeed_o a_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n that_o incompass_v the_o soul_n round_o about_o that_o the_o soul_n stand_v amaze_v and_o astonish_v gaze_v upon_o those_o beam_n of_o glory_n that_o appear_v shine_v forth_o from_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n into_o his_o soul_n ii_o a_o second_o act_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n wherein_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v in_o the_o soul_n be_v a_o sensible_a apprehension_n and_o estimation_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v infinite_o worthy_a to_o receive_v all_o prefection_n of_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o praise_n for_o ever_o now_o this_o precious_a god_n sanctify_v act_n be_v also_o the_o infallible_a necessary_a effect_n of_o such_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n as_o do_v true_o shine_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n into_o any_o soul_n to_o discover_v his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o be_v effect_v in_o david_n heart_n upon_o the_o prophet_n discover_v of_o the_o promise_v make_v in_o jesus_n to_o he_o in_o 2._o sam._n 7.26_o let_v thy_o name_n be_v magnify_v for_o ever_o say_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n be_v the_o god_n over_o israel_n yea_o this_o act_n be_v infallible_o produce_v in_o a_o believe_a soul_n by_o every_o visible_a motion_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n or_o love_n towards_o the_o soul_n so_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o exod._n 15.20_o miriam_n cry_v to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o daughter_n of_o judah_n sing_v you_o to_o the_o lord_n for_o he_o have_v triumph_v glorious_o so_o rev._n 4.10_o 11._o the_o four_o and_o twenty_o elder_n fall_v down_o that_o sit_v before_o he_o upon_o the_o throne_n say_v thou_o be_v worthy_a o_o lord_n to_o receive_v glory_n and_o honour_n and_o power_n now_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n that_o follow_v upon_o the_o soul_n vision_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o do_v necessary_o produce_v this_o apprehension_n or_o estimation_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n 1._o upon_o the_o soul_n discovery_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o be_v lively_o enlarge_v act_n of_o love_n produce_v in_o the_o soul_n every_o renew_a vision_n of_o love_n inflame_v the_o believer_n heart_n with_o love_n again_o correspondent_o now_o from_o those_o quicken_v and_o enlarge_v act_n of_o love_n do_v arise_v necessary_o high_a estimation_n and_o glorious_a conception_n of_o the_o majesty_n god_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v he_o infinite_o to_o receive_v honour_n and_o glory_n for_o ever_o 2._o upon_o the_o soul_n discern_v his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o follow_v a_o apprehension_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o follow_v a_o apprehension_n of_o the_o soul_n owe_v all_o that_o he_o be_v and_o enjoy_v unto_o god_n by_o way_n of_o retribution_n now_o from_o a_o soul_n apprehension_n that_o he_o owe_v more_o than_o he_o be_v or_o have_v unto_o god_n he_o conceive_v he_o infinite_o worthy_a to_o receive_v honour_n and_o glory_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o from_o all_o the_o creation_n he_o himself_o can_v never_o render_v glory_n sufficient_a therefore_o he_o esteem_v it_o to_o be_v but_o equal_a that_o the_o whole_a creation_n shall_v join_v together_o to_o exalt_v this_o bless_a majesty_n iii_o the_o three_o act_n in_o a_o believe_a soul_n wherein_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v be_v a_o sensible_a apprehension_n of_o the_o dispicableness_n worthlesness_n and_o nothingness_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o all_o that_o the_o circumference_n of_o the_o earth_n afford_v without_o god_n and_o in_o comparison_n of_o god_n now_o this_o god-exalting_a act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v also_o the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o such_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n to_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n then_o indeed_o be_v the_o soul_n a_o worm_n and_o no_o man_n then_o be_v he_o empty_a and_o poor_a yea_o absolute_o nothing_o without_o communion_n with_o that_o his_o god_n yea_o then_o be_v all_o the_o creation_n but_o mere_a shadow_n fly_v vanity_n without_o that_o god_n in_o christ_n then_o do_v the_o quintessence_n of_o all_o the_o beauty_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n if_o it_o can_v be_v abstract_v appear_v but_o as_o the_o drop_n of_o the_o bucket_n as_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o balance_n yea_o as_o vanity_n without_o that_o god_n in_o christ_n thus_o in_o psal_n 8.4_o upon_o the_o psalmist_n apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a glory_n of_o god_n he_o immediate_o cry_v out_o into_o admiration_n of_o the_o nothingness_n of_o man_n lord_z what_o be_v man_n iv_o the_o four_o act_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n wherein_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v be_v the_o soul_n actual_a prostration_n or_o subjection_n of_o all_o its_o power_n and_o possibility_n at_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o lord_n glorious_a majesty_n now_o this_o precious_a god_n sanctify_v act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v the_o
necessary_a infallible_a effect_n of_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n into_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n indeed_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o such_o a_o discovery_n to_o a_o believe_a soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n precede_v the_o sweet_a act_n of_o subjection_n of_o himself_o whole_o at_o the_o foot_n of_o god_n 1._o in_o regard_n then_o when_o such_o a_o light_n shine_v into_o the_o soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n apprehend_v a_o infinite_a disproportion_n between_o that_o which_o he_o owe_v to_o god_n and_o his_o ability_n and_o capacity_n to_o pay_v to_o he_o he_o apprehend_v man_n and_o angel_n be_v never_o sufficient_a to_o render_v to_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o his_o benefit_n bestow_v upon_o his_o loveless_a soul_n 2_o it_o appear_v to_o that_o soul_n while_o there_o be_v such_o a_o discovery_n of_o that_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o infinite_a injury_n to_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o a_o thought_n of_o his_o heart_n shall_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o his_o bless_a will_n the_o heart_n say_v within_o itself_o so_o sweet_o have_v the_o lord_n pass_v over_o himself_o and_o all_o his_o fullness_n to_o this_o empty_a loveless_a soul_n of_o i_o that_o it_o be_v such_o a_o accurse_a requital_n as_o may_v incense_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v incomplacable_a shall_v my_o heart_n be_v withhold_v from_o give_v one_o subjection_n to_o he_o that_o thence_o the_o soul_n be_v constrain_v by_o a_o irresistble_a power_n by_o ineffable_a band_n of_o love_n to_o yield_v all_o precious_a subjection_n to_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n v._o the_o five_o and_o last_o act_n that_o must_v concur_v together_o with_o all_o the_o four_o former_a to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v the_o soul_n take_v up_o a_o full_a acquiescense_n or_o rest_n and_o contentment_n in_o god_n alone_o it_o be_v a_o infinite_a unspeakable_a injury_n to_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o one_o desire_n one_o inclination_n in_o the_o heart_n shall_v be_v a_o vagrant_a to_o wander_v hither_o and_o thither_o to_o seek_v for_o its_o satisfaction_n out_o of_o god_n now_o this_o precious_a god-exalting_a act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v necessary_o certain_o and_o infallible_o produce_v by_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n into_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thus_o you_o shall_v observe_v it_o be_v in_o david_n psal_n 63.3_o 4_o 5._o thy_o love_a kindness_n be_v better_a than_o life_n my_o soul_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v as_o with_o marrow_n and_o fatness_n it_o shall_v be_v contentment_n enough_o for_o he_o to_o enjoy_v his_o love_n only_o thus_o these_o five_o act_n which_o concur_v together_o to_o the_o exalt_v of_o the_o lord_n bless_a name_n be_v all_o the_o necessary_a and_o certain_a effect_n of_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n into_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v to_o it_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o whatever_o soul_n be_v partaker_n of_o such_o a_o bless_a beam_n of_o the_o light_n of_o heaven_n as_o do_v true_o discover_v from_o god_n to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n he_o have_v these_o precious_a god-exalting_a act_n necessary_o produce_v in_o his_o soul_n whereby_o that_o light_n that_o shine_v into_o his_o soul_n discover_v itself_o to_o have_v its_o original_n from_o god_n there_o be_v a_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o great_a end_n of_o god_n from_o eternity_n from_o whence_o a_o soul_n that_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v satisfy_v evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n may_v gather_v another_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o that_o be_v the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o those_o believe_a soul_n this_o be_v that_o you_o read_v of_o eph._n 1.4_o 5._o he_o have_v choose_v we_o in_o christ_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v holy_a have_v predestinate_v we_o unto_o the_o adoption_n of_o child_n through_o jesus_n christ_n to_o himself_o to_o the_o praise_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o grace_n that_o be_v to_o the_o end_n that_o his_o glorious_a love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n may_v be_v make_v manifest_a through_o we_o to_o give_v praise_n to_o the_o lord_n to_o declare_v the_o excellency_n of_o god_n to_o publish_v and_o tell_v abroad_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n now_o the_o very_a end_n unto_o which_o god_n predestinate_v believe_v soul_n be_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o love_n to_o the_o end_n they_o shall_v be_v like_o silver_n trumpet_n to_o sound_v aloud_o and_o proclaim_v his_o glory_n so_o that_o then_o this_o be_v the_o great_a end_n of_o god_n from_o eternity_n in_o his_o love_n to_o believe_v soul_n that_o they_o may_v be_v like_o so_o many_o golden_a pillar_n whereupon_o the_o lord_n may_v write_v the_o glorious_a excellency_n of_o his_o love_n in_o great_a character_n that_o other_o may_v read_v it_o thence_o of_o necessity_n this_o must_v be_v the_o effect_n and_o consequence_n in_o some_o degree_n of_o the_o lord_n communication_n of_o love_n unto_o believe_v soul_n all_o the_o working_n of_o his_o love_n necessary_o tend_v in_o order_n to_o their_o ultimate_a end_n so_o that_o then_o a_o second_o reason_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n may_v demonstrate_v to_o himself_o that_o the_o light_n that_o himself_o have_v receive_v to_o discover_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v real_o from_o god_n be_v this_o that_o the_o precious_a light_n that_o shine_v into_o his_o dark_a soul_n to_o reveal_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v necessary_o and_o certain_o effect_v the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o he_o now_o that_o exaltation_n of_o god_n consist_v only_o in_o this_o in_o the_o soul_n declare_v or_o manifest_v the_o brightness_n and_o perfection_n of_o those_o excellency_n to_o be_v in_o god_n that_o god_n have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o he_o in_o his_o precious_a word_n but_o herein_o we_o must_v descend_v down_o into_o particular_n first_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o brightness_n the_o lustre_n the_o perfection_n that_o the_o lord_n discover_v in_o that_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n be_v manifest_v through_o the_o believe_a soul_n and_o make_v conspicuous_a before_o other_o by_o the_o believe_a soul_n thence_o it_o be_v you_o shall_v observe_v in_o psal_n 50.23_o say_v god_n who_o so_o offer_v praise_n glorifi_v i_o now_o the_o offering_n praise_n be_v nothing_o else_o take_v strict_o but_o a_o sincere_a humble_a declaration_n of_o the_o glorious_a working_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v and_o mercy_n to_o poor_a despicable_a worm_n it_o be_v but_o a_o publish_n the_o glorious_a work_n of_o god_n and_o speak_v of_o the_o excellency_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n thence_o in_o isa_n 43.7_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o god_n be_v say_v to_o be_v create_v for_o the_o lord_n glory_n which_o they_o accomplish_v by_o show_v forth_o his_o praise_n v._o 21._o it_o be_v by_o make_v manifest_a what_o the_o excellency_n of_o god_n in_o himself_o be_v now_o than_o god_n be_v exalt_v in_o a_o believe_a soul_n when_o the_o excellency_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n reveal_v to_o sinner_n be_v make_v manifest_a through_o the_o soul_n this_o be_v do_v three_o way_n 1._o when_o the_o soul_n do_v give_v a_o real_a practical_a testimony_n to_o the_o fullness_n and_o perfection_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o a_o unlovely_a sinner_n now_o this_o the_o believe_a soul_n do_v practical_o declare_v in_o four_o or_o five_o thing_n first_o by_o rejoice_v full_o and_o glorious_o in_o that_o love_n when_o the_o heart_n can_v rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n in_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n then_o be_v the_o bless_a name_n of_o god_n exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n in_o regard_n the_o soul_n than_o declare_v practical_o and_o give_v a_o real_a testimony_n to_o other_o believe_a soul_n and_o to_o the_o world_n too_o that_o the_o bless_a god_n of_o heaven_n be_v true_a that_o his_o love_n be_v according_a to_o what_o he_o declare_v in_o his_o bless_a word_n that_o his_o love_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n contain_v all_o kind_n of_o happiness_n contentment_n glory_n and_o excellency_n that_o be_v desirable_a by_o a_o believe_a soul_n so_o far_o as_o be_v suitable_a for_o he_o second_o when_o the_o soul_n can_v despise_v and_o disregard_n all_o kind_n of_o difficulty_n whatsoever_o for_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o sweet_a fruit_n and_o work_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o
the_o lord_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n must_v necessary_o thus_o crucify_v the_o heart_n to_o all_o thing_n so_o as_o to_o be_v alive_a to_o god_n in_o christ_n only_o both_o in_o regard_n the_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o doleful_a sinful_a miscarriage_n of_o his_o heart_n about_o every_o of_o those_o thing_n what_o sad_a snare_n they_o be_v to_o his_o spirit_n and_o also_o he_o behold_v the_o emptiness_n and_o nothingness_n by_o compare_v thing_n temporal_a with_o thing_n eternal_a and_o he_o behold_v a_o full_a object_n of_o all_o contentment_n wherein_o all_o the_o desire_n of_o his_o soul_n may_v be_v concern_v together_o in_o one_o wherein_o be_v all_o happiness_n that_o his_o spirit_n can_v breathe_v after_o and_o he_o may_v bless_v himself_o in_o the_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o it_o v._o the_o five_o mean_n whereby_o the_o soul_n experimental_o manifest_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v so_o as_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o he_o be_v the_o fullness_n of_o contentment_n that_o the_o soul_n take_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n only_o in_o the_o absence_n of_o all_o thing_n else_o now_o even_o this_o also_o be_v produce_v by_o such_o a_o light_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n yea_o so_o powerful_a be_v this_o contentment_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o absence_n of_o all_o thing_n else_o effect_v by_o such_o a_o light_n of_o heaven_n discover_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o soul_n while_o the_o beauty_n and_o lustre_n of_o that_o light_n remain_v take_v not_o only_o its_o full_a contentment_n but_o even_o more_o than_o contentment_n even_o glory_v in_o his_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o want_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o you_o may_v see_v rom._n 5.1_o 2._o be_v justify_v hy_z faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o we_o glory_n in_o tribulation_n also_o we_o glory_v that_o be_v we_o make_v our_o boast_n of_o god_n we_o bless_v ourselves_o in_o he_o we_o be_v able_a to_o set_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o opposition_n to_o all_o thing_n else_o and_o even_o in_o tribulation_n themselves_o to_o triumph_v and_o glory_n to_o conceive_v ourselves_o so_o fill_v with_o excellence_n that_o we_o even_o boast_v ourselves_o of_o he_o so_o that_o thus_o all_o those_o precious_a act_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n whereby_o he_o declare_v and_o manifest_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n so_o as_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n by_o that_o mean_n all_o those_o act_n be_v necessary_o and_o infallible_o produce_v by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o light_n from_o heaven_n that_o do_v discover_v to_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o so_o it_o appear_v that_o this_o may_v be_v a_o second_o reason_n from_o whence_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v prove_v that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n because_o it_o cause_v the_o name_n of_o god_n to_o be_v exalt_v through_o he_o thus_o we_o have_v open_v the_o first_o way_n of_o the_o soul_n manifestation_n of_o that_o glorious_a love_n to_o be_v in_o god_n that_o god_n have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o himself_o that_o be_v by_o the_o soul_n manifest_v that_o unspeakable_a fullness_n to_o be_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o despicable_a sinner_n that_o all_o perfection_n and_o glorious_a excellency_n whatever_o that_o can_v be_v suitable_a to_o a_o soul_n be_v complete_o contain_v in_o it_o 2._o second_o a_o soul_n do_v manifest_v that_o glorious_a love_n to_o be_v in_o god_n which_o god_n have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o himself_o unto_o despicable_a sinner_n by_o discover_v or_o manifest_v such_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n to_o be_v in_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n as_o nothing_o can_v prevent_v and_o hinder_v or_o turn_v away_o that_o love_n when_o a_o soul_n shall_v declare_v that_o the_o infinite_a multitude_n of_o wickedness_n that_o his_o soul_n heap_v up_o before_o his_o knowledge_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n that_o abound_v in_o his_o soul_n now_o yet_o be_v no_o hindrance_n to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o his_o unlovely_a soul_n yea_o when_o the_o soul_n shall_v triumph_v against_o imperfection_n as_o paul_n do_v against_o tribulation_n and_o say_v apparent_o who_o shall_v separate_v this_o loathsome_a soul_n of_o i_o from_o that_o precious_a love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n shall_v my_o deadness_n hardness_n vanity_n looseness_n shall_v my_o stubborn_a opposite_a backslide_a disposition_n my_o hopocritical_a false_a treacherous_a disposition_n separate_v this_o loveless_a soul_n of_o i_o from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n nay_o in_o all_o these_o infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o jesus_n christ_n never_o cease_v its_o work_n nay_o so_o glorious_a be_v the_o freedom_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o it_o break_v through_o all_o such_o opposition_n as_o my_o vile_a heart_n make_v against_o it_o then_o be_v the_o name_n of_o god_n exalt_v in_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o love_n through_o the_o soul_n thus_o do_v paul_n exalt_v god_n when_o he_o have_v be_v acknowledge_v that_o in_o he_o that_o be_v in_o his_o flesh_n dwell_v no_o good_a thing_n rom._n 7.8_o that_o not_o a_o spark_n not_o a_o disposition_n not_o a_o inclination_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n dwell_v in_o he_o and_o declare_v the_o mighty_a operation_n of_o the_o law_n of_o his_o member_n which_o be_v the_o curse_a disposition_n of_o his_o heart_n against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n which_o be_v the_o bless_a disposition_n in_o his_o heart_n to_o comply_v with_o god_n when_o thus_o i_o say_v he_o declare_v that_o the_o law_n that_o be_v in_o his_o member_n be_v so_o full_a of_o power_n and_o might_n that_o it_o maintain_v a_o strong_a battle_n against_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o that_o it_o wound_v he_o and_o make_v he_o a_o slave_n and_o vassal_n to_o that_o curse_a disposition_n yet_o than_o he_o exalt_v god_n by_o this_o occasion_n break_v out_o thus_o rom._n 8.1_o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n mark_v that_o word_n now_o now_o see_v the_o vile_a rebellious_a disposition_n of_o my_o vile_a heart_n can_v turn_v away_o the_o working_n of_o the_o lord_n free_a love_n now_o see_v though_o my_o heart_n maintain_v war_n against_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o such_o war_n as_o lead_v my_o soul_n captive_a also_o and_o even_o enslave_v and_o enthrall_v and_o vassalage_v i_o under_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n though_o it_o be_v thus_o yet_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n can_v never_o cease_v it_o working_n he_o thus_o declare_v to_o the_o whole_a world_n in_o a_o kind_n of_o triumph_v way_n that_o the_o freedom_n of_o god_n love_n be_v so_o absolute_a and_o perfect_a that_o even_o now_o though_o there_o be_v such_o opposition_n make_v against_o the_o working_n of_o it_o by_o the_o vile_a crooked_a heart_n yet_o there_o can_v never_o be_v a_o turn_n away_o of_o that_o love_n never_o a_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n draw_v out_o by_o god_n against_o any_o soul_n that_o accept_v that_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n this_o manifestation_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o freedom_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o nothing_o can_v prevent_v and_o turn_v away_o that_o love_n from_o any_o soul_n that_o embrace_v it_o this_o be_v manifest_v three_o way_n through_o which_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n 1._o this_o be_v manifest_v by_o the_o soul_n sensible_a free_a acknowledgement_n of_o its_o abhor_a vileness_n and_o loathsomeness_n when_o the_o lord_n tender_v his_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o it_o yea_o when_o the_o lord_n receive_v his_o unlovely_a soul_n into_o the_o dear_a sweet_a embrace_n of_o his_o love_n when_o the_o soul_n shall_v ready_o and_o free_o declare_v nothing_o but_o enmity_n opposition_n contradiction_n to_o the_o bless_a god_n of_o heaven_n to_o have_v be_v in_o his_o vile_a heart_n when_o that_o bless_a news_n come_v down_o from_o heaven_n to_o his_o hopeless_a soul_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v ready_a and_o willing_a to_o admit_v of_o reconciliation_n peace_n and_o agreement_n and_o love_n to_o be_v between_o his_o soul_n and_o himself_o this_o indeed_o be_v a_o high_a exaltation_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n
in_o respect_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o his_o love_n that_o he_o reveal_v to_o be_v in_o himself_o to_o such_o unlovely_a sinner_n when_o thus_o the_o soul_n shall_v declare_v to_o the_o everlasting_a honour_n of_o god_n that_o true_a and_o faithful_a be_v his_o word_n he_o love_v upon_o his_o own_o will_v only_o and_o show_v mercy_n to_o who_o he_o will_v and_o because_o he_o will_n and_o thence_o you_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v a_o high_a dishonour_n to_o the_o name_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n for_o any_o soul_n to_o make_v any_o claim_n to_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o any_o quality_n or_o disposition_n whatever_o that_o be_v in_o their_o own_o soul_n whereby_o they_o be_v difference_v as_o they_o conceive_v from_o other_o soul_n and_o they_o have_v right_a to_o claim_v that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n when_o other_o soul_n may_v not_o claim_v it_o this_o be_v a_o pollution_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n by_o its_o vilify_n the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o freedom_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n 2._o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o the_o soul_n be_v by_o the_o soul_n unwavering_a unshaken_a confidence_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o his_o word_n to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o the_o sweet_a bosom_n of_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n notwithstanding_o all_o the_o loathsomeness_n and_o forlornness_n of_o the_o worthless_a soul_n when_o the_o soul_n manifest_v his_o confidence_n in_o that_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n then_o be_v the_o name_n of_o god_n exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n say_v with_o paul_n 2._o tim._n 1.12_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v trust_v notwithstanding_o all_o this_o the_o wretched_a and_o most_o accurse_a wickedness_n of_o my_o vile_a heart_n i_o know_v he_o be_v true_a and_o faithful_a he_o will_v let_v his_o love_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n work_n according_a as_o he_o have_v discover_v it_o free_o from_o the_o disposition_n of_o his_o own_o will_v only_o notwithstanding_o all_o my_o wickedness_n and_o mark_v it_o iâ_n this_o one_o of_o the_o prime_a reason_n why_o jesus_n christ_n in_o that_o pattern_n of_o all_o prayer_n that_o he_o have_v free_o give_v we_o common_o call_v the_o lord_n prayer_n have_v command_v all_o soul_n and_o so_o believe_v soul_n to_o pray_v constant_o for_o forgiveness_n of_o their_o trespass_n for_o pardon_v of_o sin_n because_o through_o that_o act_n perform_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v constant_o exalt_v through_o the_o believe_a soul_n i_o do_v believe_v that_o plead_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n by_o believe_a soul_n be_v much_o mistake_v some_o soul_n dark_o and_o blind_o i_o have_v like_a to_o have_v say_v superstitious_o plead_v for_o the_o use_n of_o those_o very_a word_n forgive_v we_o our_o trespass_n as_o though_o no_o believinng_a soul_n can_v perform_v his_o duty_n without_o the_o repetition_n of_o those_o word_n and_o other_o soul_n from_o a_o abhorrency_n of_o the_o blindness_n and_o darkness_n of_o those_o that_o thus_o plead_v for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o bare_a word_n utter_o reject_v that_o petittion_n that_o jesus_n christ_n have_v give_v we_o as_o a_o pattern_n whereby_o to_o frame_v our_o petition_n determine_v it_o utter_o unlawful_a to_o make_v such_o a_o petition_n or_o such_o a_o request_n but_o certain_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o make_v the_o request_n right_o consider_v it_o may_v give_v light_a both_o to_o the_o one_o and_o to_o the_o other_o to_o give_v they_o to_o conceive_v aright_o how_o and_o why_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v pray_v and_o beseech_v the_o lord_n to_o pardon_v his_o transgression_n though_o understanding_n through_o believe_v that_o they_o be_v already_o pardon_v there_o be_v two_o thing_n that_o must_v concur_v together_o for_o the_o make_n of_o that_o request_n the_o first_o be_v a_o remember_v the_o lord_n of_o his_o precious_a promise_n wherein_o he_o offer_v reconciliation_n peace_n and_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o sinful_a despicable_a soul_n there_o must_v be_v in_o the_o thought_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n make_v the_o request_n aright_o a_o actual_a apprehension_n that_o god_n have_v offer_v unto_o his_o soul_n reconcliation_n by_o christ_n and_o so_o remission_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n free_o by_o christ_n and_o questionless_a there_o ought_v to_o be_v some_o declare_v of_o that_o promise_n also_o before_o the_o lord_n though_o sometime_o more_o brief_o sometime_o more_o large_o sometime_o in_o one_o manner_n sometime_o in_o another_o yet_o a_o remember_v of_o the_o lord_n of_o that_o his_o precious_a word_n second_o there_o must_v be_v a_o sincere_a desire_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o his_o heart_n and_o mind_n may_v consent_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n as_o speak_v to_o his_o particular_a soul_n and_o consequent_o a_o desire_n to_o trust_v to_o the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o fulfil_v that_o his_o precious_a word_n even_o to_o his_o particular_a soul_n full_o so_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o present_v the_o request_n a_o right_n must_v upon_o the_o apprehension_n of_o his_o own_o most_o accurse_a vileness_n turn_v his_o eye_n to_o that_o sweet_a tender_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o peace_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n say_v secret_o at_o least_o o_o lord_n thou_o have_v speak_v it_o that_o thy_o will_n be_v to_o remit_v the_o sin_n to_o pass_v by_o the_o enmity_n of_o every_o rebellious_a soul_n that_o will_v accept_v the_o reconciliation_n thou_o do_v tender_a in_o christ_n and_o then_o the_o heart_n must_v proceed_v far_o say_v o_o lord_n see_v thou_o have_v speak_v it_o fulfil_v that_o thy_o word_n to_o this_o rebellious_a sinful_a soul_n of_o i_o my_o soul_n desire_v to_o trust_v to_o thy_o truth_n to_o fulfil_v it_o o_o let_v it_o be_v fulfil_v let_v that_o enmity_n be_v remove_v and_o that_o reconciliation_n be_v establish_v between_o thou_o and_o my_o soul_n 3._o the_o three_o way_n of_o the_o soul_n manifestation_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o freedom_n that_o be_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o despicable_a sinner_n by_o which_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n be_v by_o the_o soul_n maintain_v the_o same_o confidence_n of_o he_o in_o the_o lord_n truth_n to_o vouchsafe_v to_o be_v in_o love_n with_o his_o unlovely_a soul_n through_o christ_n notwithstanding_o all_o infirmity_n weakness_n imperfection_n and_o perverse_a crookedness_n that_o his_o heart_n shall_v discern_v a_o fresh_a to_o be_v in_o himself_o now_o when_o the_o soul_n after_o humble_a acknowledgement_n of_o those_o curse_a disposition_n in_o his_o corrupt_a heart_n shall_v still_o act_v and_o manifest_v that_o precious_a confidence_n then_o do_v the_o soul_n give_v glory_n to_o the_o lord_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o freedom_n that_o be_v in_o his_o love_n then_o do_v the_o soul_n declare_v that_o nothing_o can_v turn_v away_o or_o cause_n to_o cease_v the_o working_n oâ_n that_o infinite_a free_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n than_o the_o soul_n declare_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v build_v upon_o no_o other_o foundation_n but_o his_o precious_a will_n and_o that_o it_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v lovely_a and_o amiable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n that_o ever_o incline_v the_o heart_n of_o god_n to_o six_o his_o love_n upon_o the_o soul_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a thence_o it_o be_v that_o those_o soul_n pollute_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o before_o other_o also_o who_o confidence_n shake_v and_o waver_v upon_o the_o sight_n of_o every_o new_a infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n who_o confidence_n be_v cast_v away_o upon_o the_o sight_n of_o every_o new_a crooked_a disposition_n work_v in_o their_o heart_n upon_o every_o disposition_n to_o deadness_n vanity_n looseness_n by_o this_o they_o vail_v the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o freedom_n of_o love_n that_o be_v in_o god_n through_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n and_o declare_v in_o effect_n the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o foul_a towards_o god_n yea_o the_o soul_n declare_v in_o effect_n virtual_o at_o least_o that_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v that_o be_v in_o christ_n increase_n and_o diminish_v according_a to_o the_o holiness_n or_o unholiness_n that_o he_o discern_v in_o his_o own_o heart_n hence_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v believe_v foul_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o christ_n intercession_n to_o come_v bold_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n heb._n 4.15.16_o that_o the_o
name_n of_o god_n may_v be_v exalt_v through_o believe_a soul_n by_o hold_v forth_o the_o glorious_a freedom_n of_o that_o riches_n of_o love_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n now_o we_o shall_v show_v you_o that_o this_o exaltation_n of_o god_n in_o this_o manifestation_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o freedom_n of_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n be_v the_o necessary_a inseparable_a infallible_a effect_n of_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n into_o any_o dark_a heart_n to_o reveal_v to_o that_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o must_v be_v open_v by_o show_v you_o those_o three_o act_n of_o believe_a soul_n whereby_o they_o do_v thus_o manifest_v the_o glorious_a freedom_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o they_o that_o these_o three_o act_n be_v necessary_o and_o certain_o produce_v in_o soul_n by_o discern_v a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v to_o they_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n first_o that_o sensible_a and_o free_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o soul_n abhor_a vileness_n even_o when_o the_o tender_a of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o jesus_n christ_n be_v make_v to_o it_o yea_o when_o the_o lord_n grasp_v it_o in_o the_o everlasting_a arm_n of_o his_o love_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n even_o this_o sensible_a and_o free_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o soul_n most_o curse_a wickedness_n be_v the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o a_o soul_n receive_v a_o light_n from_o heaven_n to_o evidence_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n this_o you_o may_v see_v 1_o tim._n 1.14_o paul_n tell_v we_o that_o he_o be_v before_o a_o blasphemer_n and_o a_o persecutor_n and_o injurious_a yet_o to_o i_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v exceed_v abundant_a not_o only_o abundant_a have_v more_o than_o a_o fullness_n of_o love_n but_o exceed_v abundant_a abound_v in_o the_o most_o superlative_a degree_n in_o the_o most_o inconceivable_a manner_n so_o the_o three_o and_o four_o chapter_n to_o the_o roman_n seem_v to_o be_v write_v for_o that_o very_a purpose_n in_o a_o great_a measure_n to_o prove_v nothing_o but_o vileness_n to_o have_v be_v in_o those_o soul_n who_o the_o lord_n accept_v into_o the_o bosom_n of_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n thus_o the_o apostle_n endeavour_v to_o draw_v forth_o free_a acknowledgement_n of_o their_o abhor_a vileness_n while_o he_o be_v remember_v they_o of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o they_o we_o shall_v make_v it_o appear_v in_o some_o particular_n that_o the_o free_a sensible_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o soul_n abhor_a wickedness_n when_o the_o lord_n tender_v his_o love_n in_o christ_n be_v the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o receive_v a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n 1._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o actual_a view_n of_o the_o most_o accurse_a wretchedness_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o power_n of_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o shine_v from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n any_o beam_n of_o true_a light_n that_o shine_v into_o a_o soul_n be_v but_o a_o discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n message_n in_o its_o clearness_n extent_n and_o latitude_n it_o be_v but_o a_o open_n and_o expound_v clear_o and_o satisfy_o to_o the_o soul_n capacity_n the_o message_n of_o glad_a tiding_n that_o christ_n send_v to_o poor_a despicable_a sinner_n now_o that_o glad_a tiding_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o message_n of_o reconciliation_n to_o every_o soul_n that_o will_v accept_v it_o and_o thence_o it_o can_v be_v but_o the_o same_o light_n must_v present_v to_o the_o soul_n view_v the_o sight_n of_o his_o enmity_n and_o opposition_n of_o heart_n it_o can_v not_o be_v but_o at_o the_o same_o moment_n when_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v his_o own_o reconciliation_n to_o god_n in_o christ_n he_o must_v apprehend_v his_o own_o enmity_n former_o to_o god_n in_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o in_o ezek._n 36.31_o in_o the_o prophet_n foretell_v the_o bless_a covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o shall_v be_v establish_v between_o god_n and_o soul_n he_o do_v also_o prophecy_n that_o those_o with_o who_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v establish_v they_o shall_v remember_v their_o own_o evil_a way_n and_o do_n that_o be_v not_o good_a and_o shall_v loathe_v themselves_o in_o their_o own_o sight_n for_o their_o iniquity_n and_o abomination_n now_o any_o beam_n of_o precious_a light_n from_o heaven_n thus_o necessary_o present_v to_o the_o soul_n a_o actual_a view_n of_o its_o own_o abhor_a vileness_n thence_o it_o can_v but_o dispose_v that_o believe_a soul_n for_o sensible_a and_o free_a acknowledgement_n of_o that_o unspeakable_a vileness_n of_o he_o when_o the_o tender_a of_o that_o love_n come_v to_o he_o 2._o in_o regard_v every_o beam_n of_o light_n enable_v the_o soul_n to_o comprehend_v his_o sinfulness_n and_o most_o accurse_a wickedness_n more_o large_o and_o full_o it_o cause_v he_o to_o behold_v the_o height_n and_o depth_n and_o length_n and_o breath_n of_o his_o own_o wickedness_n according_a to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n apprehend_v against_o who_o the_o soul_n have_v sin_v so_o be_v the_o soul_n apprehension_n or_o comprehension_n of_o the_o height_n of_o his_o own_o vileness_n now_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o light_n never_o shine_v so_o clear_o and_o transparent_o upon_o any_o soul_n as_o it_o do_v when_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n come_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n to_o discover_v the_o glorious_a riches_n of_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o dispicable_a unlovely_a soul_n admit_v the_o loveless_a worthless_a soul_n into_o the_o near_a union_n so_o that_o thence_o there_o can_v never_o be_v such_o full_a comprehension_n of_o his_o own_o sinfulness_n as_o there_o be_v in_o the_o very_a moment_n when_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n upon_o the_o soul_n 3._o in_o regard_v the_o affection_n be_v all_o draw_v forth_o to_o work_v in_o their_o strength_n against_o the_o soul_n sinfulness_n by_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v forth_o that_o manifestation_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v beget_v answerable_a correspondent_a working_n of_o love_n in_o the_o soul_n towards_o god_n again_o now_o those_o working_n of_o love_n in_o the_o soul_n towards_o god_n draw_v forth_o the_o working_n of_o all_o the_o other_o affection_n against_o the_o soul_n sinfulness_n love_n and_o hatred_n work_v towards_o their_o contrary_a object_n in_o like_a degree_n in_o the_o very_a same_o measure_n that_o the_o act_n of_o love_n be_v draw_v out_o towards_o god_n in_o the_o same_o measure_n be_v the_o hatred_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o loathe_n and_o abhor_v of_o the_o sinful_a disposition_n draw_v out_o this_o david_n declare_v psal_n 119.103_o that_o upon_o his_o taste_v the_o sweetness_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n which_o be_v the_o act_n of_o love_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o david_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n he_o hate_v every_o false_a way_n ver_fw-la 104._o and_o vain_a thought_n for_o 13._o his_o love_n and_o hatred_n wrought_v equal_o alike_o towards_o their_o object_n his_o love_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n make_v he_o hate_v whatever_o be_v contrary_a to_o it_o now_o the_o love_n of_o the_o soul_n towards_o god_n be_v draw_v out_o in_o its_o superlative_a degree_n of_o act_v by_o that_o clear_a discovery_n from_o heaven_n that_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n be_v one_o and_o thence_o likewise_o all_o the_o affection_n can_v but_o work_v in_o their_o high_a degree_n against_o all_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o the_o soul_n both_o hatred_n of_o the_o sinful_a disposition_n sorrow_n and_o melt_a and_o break_v of_o heart_n in_o remembrance_n of_o it_o anger_n displeasure_n and_o indignation_n against_o it_o fear_n and_o dread_n of_o those_o iniquity_n have_v power_n over_o it_o now_o thence_o it_o can_v be_v but_o the_o same_o beam_n of_o light_n discover_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n shall_v necessary_o produce_v sensible_a and_o free_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o soul_n abhor_a vileness_n see_v it_o fill_v the_o heart_n with_o the_o work_n of_o strong_a affection_n against_o his_o own_o sinfulness_n apprehend_v 4._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v constant_a act_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n while_o the_o glory_n of_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o heaven_n shine_v into_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v such_o renew_a operation_n of_o say_v continues_z while_o that_o light_n shine_v into_o a_o soul_n that_o discover_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o there_o seem_v during_o the_o continuation_n of_o that_o light_n into_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v but_o one_o extend_v draw_v forth_o act_n of_o faith_n now_o see_v there_o be_v those_o constant_a
worthless_a unlovely_a sinner_n by_o manifest_v such_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o sinful_a soul_n as_o that_o love_n be_v subject_a to_o no_o variation_n alteration_n or_o shadow_n change_n when_o the_o soul_n so_o walk_v as_o he_o declare_v practical_o that_o the_o rich_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o unworthy_a soul_n be_v the_o same_o yesterday_o and_o to_o day_n and_o the_o same_o for_o ever_o the_o foundation_n thereof_o stand_v firm_a and_o unmoveable_a like_a mount_n zion_n that_o can_v be_v move_v then_o do_v the_o brightness_n of_o the_o lord_n glorious_a love_n shine_v through_o the_o soul_n so_o as_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o it_o thus_o god_n glorify_v himself_o before_o the_o eye_n of_o balak_n through_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o false_a prophet_n balaam_n to_o give_v testimony_n to_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o people_n israel_n by_o send_v that_o message_n to_o balaam_n numb_a 23.19_o god_n be_v not_o a_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v lie_v neither_o the_o son_n of_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v repent_v that_o be_v not_o like_o the_o son_n of_o man_n that_o his_o thought_n shall_v change_v what_o he_o have_v speak_v shall_v it_o not_o come_v to_o pass_v his_o word_n concern_v his_o people_n shall_v certain_o be_v fulfil_v so_o likewise_o when_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o prophet_n malachi_n intend_v to_o lift_v up_o his_o name_n in_o his_o people_n heart_n mal._n 3.6_o he_o discover_v to_o they_o his_o precious_a thought_n of_o love_n concern_v they_o in_o declare_v the_o come_n of_o jesus_n christ_n with_o the_o bless_a effect_n of_o it_o and_o say_v he_o i_o be_o the_o lord_n i_o change_v not_o therefore_o the_o son_n of_o jacob_n be_v not_o consume_v so_o the_o church_n exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n by_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o his_o love_n to_o she_o lament_v 3.22.22_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 now_o a_o soul_n manifest_v the_o unchangeableness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o his_o unworthy_a soul_n by_o its_o constancy_n and_o unmoveableness_n in_o that_o precious_a confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v once_o raise_v in_o his_o heart_n by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o doubtless_o it_o be_v for_o that_o end_n that_o believe_v soul_n may_v thus_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o his_o love_n towards_o they_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v prepare_v unchangeable_a ground_n unmoveable_a rock_n for_o the_o foot_n of_o their_o faith_n to_o stand_v upon_o he_o have_v add_v his_o oath_n to_o his_o word_n heb._n 6.17_o 18._o that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n by_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o god_n shall_v lie_v they_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n that_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n tender_v it_o be_v for_o this_o end_n that_o he_o have_v give_v those_o unchangeable_a ground_n for_o faith_n to_o build_v upon_o 1._o that_o those_o eclipse_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n love_n in_o christ_n in_o its_o unchangeableness_n by_o the_o constancy_n of_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n may_v be_v prevent_v sure_o it_o be_v the_o bowel_n of_o the_o compassion_n of_o our_o tender_a god_n in_o christ_n that_o wrought_v towards_o the_o unlovely_a soul_n that_o cause_v he_o to_o stoop_v down_o so_o low_a as_o to_o add_v a_o oath_n to_o his_o word_n which_o give_v no_o security_n in_o itself_o to_o a_o soul_n more_o but_o only_o a_o full_a security_n to_o our_o unbelieve_a heart_n in_o our_o low_a apprehension_n of_o god_n that_o thereby_o the_o precious_a consolation_n of_o his_o people_n may_v not_o change_v and_o it_o be_v the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o god_n in_o the_o working_n of_o those_o compassion_n that_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o own_o love_n may_v not_o be_v veil_v by_o the_o unconstancy_n and_o fickleness_n of_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n so_o as_o soul_n shall_v declare_v by_o believe_v when_o their_o heart_n be_v fill_v with_o holy_a act_n that_o there_o be_v a_o glorious_a love_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n and_o when_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o liveliness_n of_o those_o holy_a act_n in_o their_o heart_n shall_v cease_v that_o then_o they_o shall_v again_o declare_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v withdraw_v again_o from_o they_o 2._o that_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o love_n in_o its_o unchangeableness_n may_v shine_v forth_o in_o its_o brightness_n with_o transparent_a glory_n so_o as_o the_o soul_n under_o the_o sad_a defect_n of_o holy_a act_n and_o working_n in_o his_o own_o heart_n may_v still_o declare_v the_o precious_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o unlovely_a to_o be_v the_o same_o sound_v upon_o his_o own_o will_v only_o which_o can_v never_o be_v move_v the_o constancy_n and_o unmoveableness_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o his_o confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n beget_v be_v always_o the_o effect_n of_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o heaven_n to_o reveal_v to_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n so_o long_o as_o the_o light_n continue_v shine_v into_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o lustre_n and_o glory_n this_o you_o may_v observe_v of_o paul_n in_o 2_o cor._n 5.5_o 6._o have_v receive_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o spirit_n what_o then_o we_o be_v always_o confident_a of_o everlasting_a communion_n with_o god_n that_o be_v we_o be_v confident_a at_o all_o time_n constant_o our_o confidence_n be_v unmoveable_a yea_o doubtless_o see_v the_o spirit_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n shine_v into_o any_o soul_n be_v but_o a_o act_n of_o the_o conform_v office_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o can_v be_v but_o that_o light_a shine_a from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n must_v necessary_o establish_v the_o heart_n in_o that_o confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o so_o long_o as_o that_o light_n remain_v the_o confidence_n must_v remain_v also_o and_o that_o in_o its_o power_n and_o strength_n thus_o you_o have_v the_o first_o way_n open_v how_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o a_o soul_n which_o be_v by_o the_o soul_n bear_v testimony_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o record_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v to_o his_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n by_o the_o soul_n manifest_v the_o same_o glory_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o sinful_a soul_n that_o god_n himself_o have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o he_o second_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o soul_n manifestation_n that_o a_o incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o purity_n and_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o god_n god_n have_v reveal_v himself_o in_o his_o word_n not_o only_o to_o be_v holy_a but_o holiness_n itself_o amos_n 4.2_o the_o lord_n have_v swear_v by_o his_o holeness_n that_o be_v he_o have_v swear_v by_o himself_o he_o have_v discover_v such_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n to_o be_v in_o he_o that_o he_o have_v a_o absolute_a unspeakable_a abhorrency_n of_o all_o that_o be_v cross_a and_o contrary_a unto_o holiness_n in_o its_o perfection_n hab._n 1.13_o yea_o the_o brightness_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o he_o exod._n 15.11_o now_o then_o be_v the_o name_n of_o god_n exalt_v through_o a_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n conceive_v of_o god_n as_o thus_o excellent_a and_o wonderful_a in_o holiness_n when_o the_o soul_n declare_v before_o the_o world_n that_o his_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v purity_n and_o holiness_n itself_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o holy_a angel_n be_v say_v to_o cry_v to_o the_o lord_n holy_a holy_a be_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n isa_n 6.3_o and_o also_o the_o office_n of_o the_o dispenser_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v describe_v rev._n 4.8_o 9_o by_o their_o cry_a night_n and_o day_n without_o cease_v holy_a holy_a holy_a lord_n god_n almighty_a it_o be_v for_o this_o reason_n because_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v when_o there_o be_v such_o manifestation_n and_o declaration_n of_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n to_o dwell_v in_o god_n now_o a_o soul_n may_v manifest_v this_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n to_o dwell_v in_o god_n these_o three_o or_o four_o several_a way_n i._o by_o a_o precious_a sensible_a acknowledgement_n of_o a_o infinite_a disproportion_n and_o disagreement_n in_o his_o most_o holy_a exact_a exquisite_a action_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v most_o mighty_o assist_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_v holy_a
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 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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 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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
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 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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 their_o will_n conform_v to_o the_o lord_n will_n 3._o they_o be_v constant_o complain_v of_o the_o want_n of_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n in_o the_o compliance_n of_o their_o will_n with_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n this_o david_n intimate_v when_o cry_n out_o 51.12_o restore_v to_o i_o the_o joy_n of_o thy_o salvation_n and_o establish_v i_o with_o thy_o free_a spirit_n he_o apprehend_v his_o spirit_n to_o be_v much_o under_o bondage_n and_o thraldom_n and_o with_o much_o earnestness_n he_o desire_v communion_n with_o god_n again_o 4._o hence_o those_o soul_n be_v always_o sad_o complain_v in_o their_o act_n of_o pure_a obedience_n of_o their_o want_n of_o fixedness_n and_o stability_n of_o the_o working_n of_o the_o disposition_n of_o their_o will_n to_o comply_v with_o god_n will_n 5._o you_o shall_v hear_v they_o complain_v of_o the_o weakness_n and_o imperfection_n of_o the_o inward_a act_n of_o the_o most_o pure_a obedience_n that_o their_o soul_n render_v of_o the_o 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
spirit_n of_o christ_n complain_v to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o he_o but_o to_o do_v be_v not_o yet_o present_a that_o when_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n begin_v to_o work_v the_o law_n of_o the_o flesh_n oppose_v it_o by_o which_o complaint_n he_o do_v in_o effect_n but_o breath_n after_o a_o more_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o christ_n which_o may_v not_o only_o beget_v a_o compliance_n in_o his_o will_n to_o the_o lord_n holy_a will_n but_o may_v also_o carry_v it_o forth_o to_o perfection_n that_o may_v cause_v his_o soul_n not_o only_o to_o bring_v forth_o the_o bud_n of_o holiness_n but_o the_o ripe_a fruit_n of_o it_o and_o his_o complaint_n be_v but_o the_o desire_v of_o a_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v the_o disposition_n infuse_v by_o the_o spirit_n may_v overcome_v the_o law_n of_o the_o member_n that_o be_v the_o corrupt_a disposition_n that_o be_v natural_o in_o he_o so_o that_o his_o soul_n may_v be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n over_o sin_n iii_o hence_o also_o it_o be_v that_o soul_n enjoin_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n be_v constant_o inquire_v into_o and_o search_v to_o find_v out_o the_o secret_a iniquity_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o principle_n be_v firm_o root_v in_o they_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o revelation_n that_o discover_v to_o they_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n oâ_n any_o soul_n thence_o they_o be_v always_o conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o a_o depth_n of_o wickedness_n that_o secret_o possess_v their_o heart_n they_o be_v search_v after_o the_o secret_a wickedness_n those_o veil_a and_o enclose_a iniquity_n that_o their_o heart_n will_v even_o lock_v up_o as_o it_o be_v in_o dark_a dungeon_n that_o the_o soul_n may_v never_o discern_v iv_o hence_o soul_n enjoin_v their_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v call_v in_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o heart_n search_v god_n to_o find_v out_o their_o iniquity_n for_o they_o according_a as_o you_o shall_v find_v david_n psal_n 139.23_o 24._o search_v i_o o_o god_n and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n the_o holy_a man_n meaning_n be_v that_o the_o lord_n shall_v so_o search_v he_o as_o to_o make_v he_o understand_v his_o own_o heart_n and_o to_o know_v his_o own_o thought_n see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o and_o lead_v i_o in_o the_o way_n everlasting_a thus_o he_o cry_v that_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n may_v pierce_v through_o his_o heart_n to_o discover_v all_o his_o wickedness_n and_o contrary_a walking_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o then_o god_n may_v send_v down_o a_o conquer_a power_n to_o deliver_v he_o from_o those_o corruption_n and_o lead_v he_o into_o the_o path_n of_o holiness_n that_o be_v into_o a_o full_a conformity_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n v._o hence_o it_o be_v 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 so_o delight_v with_o the_o precious_a heavenly_a light_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n in_o its_o discovery_n of_o the_o soul_n unholiness_n and_o in_o its_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n concern_v the_o soul_n sure_o it_o be_v from_o hence_o that_o david_n in_o psal_n 19.10_o be_v so_o delight_v with_o the_o lord_n word_n that_o he_o profess_v it_o be_v sweet_a than_o the_o honey_n and_o the_o honey_n comb_n to_o he_o because_o it_o reveal_v the_o precious_a will_n of_o god_n to_o he_o and_o discover_v his_o own_o heart_n to_o he_o and_o thence_o be_v a_o help_n to_o conform_v his_o will_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n that_o be_v the_o only_a satisfy_a object_n of_o his_o soul_n desire_n vi_o hence_o it_o be_v also_o that_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v so_o frequent_o breathe_v after_o the_o time_n of_o their_o dissolution_n it_o be_v in_o regard_v their_o soul_n never_o attain_v the_o fullness_n of_o rest_n that_o satisfy_a object_n of_o their_o desire_n till_o the_o time_n of_o their_o dissolution_n hence_o they_o groan_v be_v burden_v with_o iniquity_n and_o secret_o cry_v out_o o_o when_o shall_v i_o be_v worship_v of_o god_n pure_o when_o shall_v i_o be_v free_a from_o this_o body_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o bless_a union_n of_o will_n between_o thou_o and_o i_o that_o this_o my_o vile_a corrupt_a will_n shall_v never_o oppose_v and_o contradict_v thy_o will_n more_o so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a from_o experience_n that_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v occasion_n the_o soul_n necessary_o to_o declare_v that_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n yea_o likewise_o it_o be_v evident_a also_o from_o reason_n that_o the_o spirit_n discovery_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n do_v necessary_o cause_v the_o soul_n itself_o to_o be_v satisfy_v with_o no_o portion_n of_o holiness_n but_o a_o full_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n evidence_n of_o any_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n do_v cause_n the_o soul_n to_o discern_v clear_o that_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n and_o subjection_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v infinite_o due_a from_o every_o creature_n whenever_o that_o precious_a light_n shine_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o revelation_n into_o the_o soul_n than_o the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o such_o high_a thought_n of_o the_o transcendency_n of_o the_o lord_n glory_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n be_v convince_v that_o every_o creature_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n owe_v absolute_a perfect_a subjection_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n now_o hence_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v satisfy_v with_o any_o degree_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v less_o than_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o conformity_n and_o likewise_o hence_o the_o soul_n be_v constrain_v to_o declare_v that_o absolute_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v ought_v only_o to_o be_v the_o centre_n whereon_o the_o soul_n shall_v rest_v ii_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v cause_n the_o soul_n to_o apprehend_v so_o clear_o the_o ravish_a beauty_n and_o unspeakable_a lustre_n of_o the_o holiness_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v that_o thence_o a_o full_a subjection_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o bless_a holy_a will_n appear_v as_o the_o high_a thing_n that_o can_v be_v desirable_a by_o any_o soul_n that_o sweet_a discovery_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n unto_o a_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n make_v the_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o be_v so_o clothe_v with_o a_o garment_n of_o love_n and_o make_v the_o soul_n apprehend_v such_o a_o height_n and_o depth_n and_o length_n and_o breadth_n of_o love_n to_o be_v in_o god_n towards_o forlorn_a unlovely_a sinner_n that_o thence_o the_o will_n of_o god_n appear_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v so_o good_a towards_o poor_a sinner_n as_o the_o very_a beauty_n of_o it_o make_v a_o full_a conformity_n in_o that_o will_n in_o a_o manner_n infinite_o desire_v by_o the_o soul_n yea_o the_o soul_n be_v then_o so_o strong_o convince_v of_o the_o absolute_a goodness_n of_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o its_o motion_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n can_v take_v no_o rest_n nor_o contentment_n while_o his_o will_n disagree_v from_o that_o pure_a holy_a will_n that_o be_v so_o absolute_o good_a in_o all_o its_o motion_n iii_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v to_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v establish_v that_o bless_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o most_o superlative_a happiness_n of_o every_o soul_n consist_v in_o perfect_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o unity_n and_o community_n of_o will_n between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o spirit_n light_v cast_v into_o the_o dark_a soul_n to_o discover_v the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n the_o heavenly_a brightness_n and_o glitter_a resplendent_a glory_n of_o the_o lord_n goodness_n so_o shine_v round_o about_o the_o soul_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n discern_v clear_o that_o that_o the_o high_a and_o most_o supreme_a degree_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o any_o soul_n must_v necessary_o consist_v in_o the_o conjunction_n and_o communion_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o that_o infinite_a goodness_n in_o the_o soul_n near_o and_o large_a participation_n of_o it_o thence_o that_o bless_a principle_n be_v root_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o union_n and_o communion_n of_o
christ_n so_o that_o then_o only_o when_o the_o spirit_n do_v actual_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n with_o most_o clearness_n and_o perspecuity_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n then_o do_v all_o the_o engagement_n that_o believe_a soul_n apprehend_v that_o god_n have_v say_v upon_o they_o to_o bind_v they_o to_o exalt_v god_n in_o his_o holiness_n come_v upon_o they_o with_o power_n and_o force_v so_o as_o a_o constraint_n come_v upon_o the_o spirit_n the_o soul_n be_v draw_v as_o it_o be_v by_o cord_n to_o study_v and_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o his_o holiness_n as_o for_o instance_n first_o when_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n be_v actual_o at_o that_o time_n sensible_a that_o he_o be_v choose_v from_o eternity_n to_o be_v a_o vessel_n of_o honour_n into_o who_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v pour_v that_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n holiness_n may_v appear_v so_o that_o then_o the_o soul_n stand_v strong_o bend_v through_o the_o strength_n of_o this_o engagement_n god_n have_v lay_v upon_o he_o to_o lift_v up_o the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o his_o holiness_n and_o to_o make_v the_o holiness_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n appear_v second_o when_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n be_v actual_o sensiblâ_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v create_v he_o anew_o for_o that_o for_o end_n that_o he_o may_v glorify_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o holiness_n according_a to_o that_o in_o eph._n 2.10_o we_o be_v all_o his_o workmanship_n create_v unto_o good_a work_n that_o be_v create_v unto_o holiness_n to_o fruit_n of_o holiness_n and_o so_o consequent_o to_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n holiness_n three_o when_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v actual_o sensible_a that_o the_o very_a end_n of_o god_n in_o the_o communication_n of_o any_o of_o his_o holiness_n unto_o he_o be_v the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o holiness_n through_o the_o soul_n thus_o then_o in_o regard_n the_o spirit_n evidence_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n do_v occasion_n a_o be_v actual_o sensible_a of_o deep_a engagement_n lay_v upon_o he_o by_o god_n to_o be_v exalt_v he_o in_o his_o holiness_n thence_o the_o spirit_n evidence_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 with_o god_n do_v make_v it_o to_o participate_v in_o some_o degree_n of_o the_o lord_n holiness_n so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n that_o this_o three_o testimony_n concern_v the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o the_o lord_n holiness_n whereby_o he_o be_v exalt_v through_o any_o soul_n be_v the_o necessary_a certain_a infallible_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 4._o the_o four_o way_n whereby_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n by_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o holiness_n be_v this_o when_o a_o soul_n do_v declare_v that_o a_o perfection_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n in_o every_o thing_n aught_o to_o be_v the_o only_a satisfy_a object_n of_o the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n now_o even_o this_o precious_a god_n magnyfy_v act_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n be_v also_o the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n thus_o you_o shall_v observe_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n produce_v this_o bless_a effect_n in_o paul_n heart_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n do_v vouchsafe_v the_o clear_a revelation_n and_o most_o soul-ravishing_a testimony_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n phil._n 3.12_o 13_o 14._o brethren_n i_o count_v not_o myself_o to_o have_v apprehend_v but_o this_o one_o thing_n i_o do_v forget_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n of_o the_o price_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n here_o be_v four_o or_o five_o thing_n the_o apostle_n testify_v to_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n for_o the_o exalt_v of_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o holiness_n and_o so_o consequent_o testify_v it_o to_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o he_o reveal_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n first_o he_o testify_v his_o estimation_n of_o himself_o that_o he_o do_v account_v himself_o as_o yet_o to_o be_v altogether_o imperfect_a unholy_a i_o count_v not_o myself_o to_o have_v apprehend_v he_o testify_v that_o the_o power_n and_o virtue_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v not_o yet_o full_o make_v manifest_a in_o his_o soul_n that_o be_v the_o sin_n mortify_v virtue_n of_o the_o death_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o quicken_a and_o enliven_a virtue_n of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o yet_o full_o attain_v to_o in_o his_o soul_n second_o he_o testify_v that_o the_o only_a end_n upon_o which_o the_o eye_n of_o his_o soul_n be_v fix_v be_v '_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n unto_o christ_n the_o fullness_n of_o a_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o he_o tell_v you_o ver_fw-la 12._o he_o follow_v after_o that_o he_o may_v apprehend_v that_o for_o which_o also_o he_o be_v apprehend_v of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o also_o he_o tell_v we_o ver_fw-la 14._o he_o press_v forward_o towards_o the_o mark_n and_o ver_fw-la 10_o that_o the_o only_a end_n of_o his_o be_v to_o know_v christ_n that_o be_v to_o know_v he_o experimental_o in_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o death_n and_o the_o power_n of_o his_o resurrection_n have_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o glory_n virtue_n and_o power_n of_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n so_o that_o herein_o he_o testify_v that_o his_o soul_n stand_v resolve_v to_o be_v satisfy_v with_o no_o degree_n of_o holiness_n and_o therein_o by_o consequence_n testify_v that_o nothing_o but_o the_o fullness_n of_o likeness_n to_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v ever_o satisfy_v three_o he_o testify_v that_o all_o his_o labour_n and_o endeavour_n after_o this_o experience_n of_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v account_v by_o he_o as_o nothing_o i_o forget_v say_v he_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o ver_fw-la 13._o not_o that_o his_o soul_n be_v forgetful_a of_o those_o precious_a experience_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v he_o of_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n in_o kill_v his_o sin_n and_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n in_o enliven_a his_o soul_n but_o he_o mind_v not_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o ãâã_d of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n that_o his_o soul_n be_v partaker_n of_o so_o as_o to_o please_v himself_o with_o thought_n that_o he_o have_v attain_v to_o what_o he_o be_v command_v he_o mind_v they_o not_o so_o as_o to_o satisfy_v himself_o with_o that_o measure_n though_o questionless_a the_o measure_n be_v very_o large_a see_v he_o testify_v often_o that_o he_o be_v more_o than_o a_o conqueror_n over_o all_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n and_o that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n strengthen_v of_o he_o and_o that_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o abound_v and_o ready_a to_o want_v his_o heart_n be_v dispose_v in_o a_o holy_a temper_n in_o all_o condition_n ready_a to_o sanctify_v god_n in_o all_o his_o providence_n yet_o say_v he_o i_o forget_v all_o those_o that_o be_v i_o do_v not_o so_o remember_v they_o as_o to_o satisfy_v myself_o that_o i_o have_v attain_v so_o much_o the_o whole_a form_n of_o the_o expression_n be_v but_o a_o allusion_n to_o runner_n in_o a_o race_n that_o never_o look_v how_o many_o pace_n of_o ground_n they_o have_v pass_v over_o so_o as_o to_o hinder_v they_o from_o run_v to_o the_o mark_n but_o they_o keep_v their_o eye_n single_o fix_v upon_o the_o mark_n that_o they_o be_v to_o attain_v to_o so_o say_v he_o forget_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o four_o he_o testify_v that_o the_o strength_n of_o all_o his_o affection_n the_o whole_a intention_n of_o his_o soul_n be_v bend_v towards_o the_o attain_n the_o fullness_n of_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o virtue_n and_o power_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n this_o he_o testify_v ver_fw-la 13._o reach_v forth_o unto_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o breathe_v forth_o still_o in_o a_o metaphorical_a way_n he_o allude_v to_o runin_n a_o race_n that_o run_v without_o stretch_a arm_n reach_v forth_o towards_o the_o mark_n the_o word_n in_o the_o original_a be_v ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d ãâã_d which_o beza_n render_v contend_v