be_v discover_v by_o constancy_n in_o obedience_n under_o all_o trial_n bless_a be_v the_o man_n that_o endure_v temptation_n for_o when_o he_o be_v try_v he_o shall_v receive_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n which_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v to_o they_o that_o love_v he_o the_o law_n require_v unsinning_a obedience_n as_o the_o condition_n of_o life_n the_o gospel_n accept_v of_o sincerity_n but_o if_o that_o be_v want_v there_o be_v no_o promise_n that_o give_v right_a to_o the_o reward_n now_o sincerity_n imply_v such_o a_o entire_a love_n of_o god_n as_o make_v a_o person_n submit_v to_o all_o duty_n command_v in_o his_o law_n and_o all_o trial_n appoint_v by_o his_o providence_n a_o high_a example_n we_o have_v of_o this_o in_o abraham_n when_o he_o be_v command_v to_o offer_v up_o his_o only_a son_n isaac_n and_o by_o his_o own_o hand_n for_o a_o burn_v offer_v this_o be_v to_o kill_v a_o double_a sacrifice_n at_o one_o blow_n for_o the_o life_n of_o abraham_n be_v bind_v up_o in_o isaac_n he_o live_v in_o he_o more_o dear_o than_o in_o himself_o all_o his_o joy_n all_o his_o posterity_n by_o sarah_n have_v die_v in_o isaac_n what_o resentment_n what_o resistance_n of_o nature_n do_v he_o suffer_v yet_o present_o he_o address_v himself_o to_o perform_v his_o duty_n who_o ever_o see_v a_o more_o glorious_a victory_n over_o all_o the_o tender_a and_o powerful_a passion_n of_o human_a nature_n o_o unexampled_a obedience_n be_v a_o original_a without_o any_o precedent_n to_o imitate_v and_o without_o a_o copy_n to_o succeed_v it_o after_o this_o clear_a infallible_a testimony_n of_o his_o sincerity_n the_o angel_n declare_v from_o heaven_n now_o i_o know_v that_o thou_o fear_v god_n see_v thou_o have_v not_o withhold_v thy_o son_n thy_o only_a son_n from_o i_o and_o it_o be_v say_v concern_v the_o follower_n of_o the_o lamb_n that_o they_o love_v not_o their_o life_n unto_o the_o death_n the_o love_n of_o christ_n that_o animate_v they_o in_o all_o their_o suffering_n be_v sweet_a than_o life_n and_o strong_a than_o death_n indeed_o there_o be_v a_o wonderful_a difference_n in_o the_o behaviour_n of_o the_o martyr_n under_o suffering_n but_o in_o all_o the_o same_o persevere_v grace_n be_v evident_a though_o work_v various_o some_o in_o the_o most_o beautiful_a flower_n of_o their_o age_n encounter_v fire_n and_o sword_n tormentor_n and_o torment_n with_o that_o sensible_a joy_n with_o those_o song_n of_o praise_n to_o christ_n as_o if_o they_o see_v the_o heaven_n open_a with_o st._n stephen_n and_o their_o saviour_n ready_a to_o receive_v and_o crown_v they_o but_o many_o other_o as_o paul_n chrysostom_n testify_v go_v to_o the_o tribunal_n to_o the_o theatre_n to_o death_n with_o many_o appearance_n of_o fear_n upon_o hear_v the_o wild_a beast_n roar_v they_o be_v strike_v with_o horror_n at_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o executioner_n and_o the_o instrument_n of_o torment_n they_o be_v pale_a and_o tremble_a the_o flesh_n seem_v to_o cry_v out_o o_o let_v this_o cup_n pass_v from_o i_o yet_o weak_a and_o faint_a it_o follow_v the_o spirit_n that_o correct_v the_o natural_a desire_n with_o not_o my_o will_n but_o thou_o be_v do_v as_o the_o moon_n in_o eclipse_n though_o obscure_a yet_o go_v on_o in_o a_o regular_a course_n as_o when_o it_o be_v full_a of_o light_n by_o the_o reflection_n of_o the_o sun_n so_o those_o desolate_a martyr_n though_o as_o it_o be_v forsake_v and_o deprive_v of_o the_o bright_a beam_n of_o comfort_n yet_o persevere_v in_o their_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n when_o one_o word_n to_o renounce_v christianity_n will_v have_v save_v they_o no_o torment_n can_v force_v it_o from_o they_o but_o they_o patient_o endure_v all_o now_o in_o these_o the_o combat_n of_o nature_n be_v visible_a and_o the_o admirable_a power_n of_o grace_n they_o first_o overcome_v their_o own_o fear_n the_o reluctancy_n of_o the_o carnal_a part_n their_o affection_n to_o what_o ever_o be_v desirable_a in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v the_o noble_a victory_n and_o then_o the_o cruelty_n of_o their_o persecutor_n in_o they_o be_v verify_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n here_o be_v the_o patience_n of_o the_o saint_n here_o be_v they_o that_o keep_v the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o the_o faith_n of_o jesus_n but_o how_o many_o appear_v faithful_a while_o their_o faith_n be_v not_o to_o be_v show_v by_o difficult_a work_n and_o prove_v by_o suffering_n the_o seed_n that_o fall_v on_o the_o stony_a ground_n spring_v up_o as_o hopeful_a as_o the_o seed_n in_o the_o good_a ground_n at_o first_o but_o when_o tribulation_n come_v it_o wither_v away_o want_v the_o root_n of_o sincerity_n and_o that_o which_o be_v sow_v among_o thorn_n be_v choke_v by_o the_o care_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n some_o lust_n in_o the_o heart_n interweave_v with_o the_o affection_n and_o cause_n apostasy_n how_o many_o from_o glorious_a beginning_n have_v make_v a_o lamentable_a end_n not_o only_o mercenary_n in_o religion_n who_o zeal_n be_v a_o foreign_a complexion_n not_o spring_v from_o a_o inward_a principle_n of_o life_n and_o health_n relinquish_v even_o the_o profession_n of_o godliness_n when_o their_o gain_n cease_v but_o some_o who_o have_v think_v themselves_o sincere_a yet_o in_o time_n of_o danger_n their_o resolution_n like_o sick_a feather_n drop_v away_o as_o the_o foolish_a builder_n that_o compute_v not_o the_o charge_n of_o his_o design_a work_n begin_v to_o raise_v a_o magnificent_a structure_n but_o unable_a to_o finish_v it_o lay_v the_o foundation_n in_o his_o own_o shame_n they_o repent_v their_o choice_n of_o heaven_n when_o they_o see_v what_o it_o must_v cost_v they_o and_o will_v save_v the_o world_n with_o the_o loss_n of_o their_o soul_n other_o that_o begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n and_o with_o raise_v affection_n set_v out_o in_o the_o way_n of_o godliness_n yet_o by_o the_o allurement_n of_o sensual_a lust_n and_o temptation_n and_o therefore_o with_o great_a pudicit_fw-la gild_n leave_v their_o first_o love_n and_o end_n in_o the_o flesh._n they_o fall_v from_o high_a profession_n but_o receive_v by_o soft_a pleasure_n feel_v not_o the_o fall_n these_o be_v never_o sincere_a and_o never_o have_v a_o right_a to_o heaven_n they_o take_v up_o sudden_a resolution_n not_o ground_v in_o serious_a and_o deep_a thought_n and_o for_o a_o flash_n be_v hot_a and_o active_a but_o with_o great_a levity_n return_v to_o their_o former_a lusts._n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o of_o such_o it_o have_v be_v better_a for_o they_o they_o have_v not_o know_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n than_o to_o turn_v back_o and_o voluntary_o to_o forsake_v it_o it_o be_v observe_v that_o boil_a water_n take_v off_o from_o the_o fire_n congeal_v more_o strong_o than_o that_o which_o be_v never_o heat_v because_o the_o subtle_a part_n be_v evaporate_v by_o the_o fire_n the_o more_o terrestrial_a part_n remain_v be_v more_o capable_a of_o cold._n so_o those_o who_o have_v feel_v the_o power_n of_o the_o word_n in_o their_o affection_n and_o afterward_o lose_v that_o holy_a heat_n become_v more_o harden_v in_o their_o sin_n god_n just_o withdraw_v his_o grace_n and_o the_o evil_a spirit_n that_o be_v expel_v for_o a_o time_n return_v with_o seven_o worse_a and_o aggravate_v his_o tyranny_n to_o conclude_v since_o the_o certainty_n of_o salvation_n be_v conditional_a if_o we_o persevere_v in_o a_o holy_a state_n let_v we_o beware_v of_o a_o corrupt_a confidence_n and_o a_o vicious_a dejection_n of_o spirit_n the_o trust_n in_o ourselves_o or_o distrust_v god_n to_o prevent_v the_o trust_n in_o ourselves_o consider_v 1._o the_o most_o excellent_a creature_n be_v by_o the_o instability_n of_o nature_n liable_a to_o defection_n subject_n to_o a_o corruptive_a change_n of_o this_o the_o fall_v angel_n be_v a_o dreadful_a example_n who_o of_o their_o own_o motion_n untempted_a sin_v in_o heaven_n 2._o the_o danger_n be_v great_a of_o fall_v away_o when_o they_o be_v urge_v and_o solicit_v by_o a_o violent_a or_o grateful_a temptation_n thus_o our_o first_o parent_n fall_v and_o lose_v more_o grace_n in_o a_o hour_n then_o can_v be_v recover_v by_o their_o posterity_n in_o all_o age_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n 3._o when_o there_o be_v supervenient_a corruption_n in_o the_o creature_n that_o incline_v they_o with_o earnest_a propensity_n to_o forbid_a thing_n and_o take_v flame_n from_o every_o spark_n the_o danger_n be_v extreme_a like_o a_o besiege_a city_n that_o be_v in_o great_a hazard_n of_o take_v by_o assault_n from_o without_o and_o conspiracy_n from_o within_o let_v we_o therefore_o be_v very_o watchful_a over_o our_o heart_n and_o sense_n and_o keep_v as_o much_o as_o be_v possible_a at_o a_o safe_a distance_n from_o temptation_n and_o be_v very_o diligent_a in_o the_o use_n of_o all_o holy_a mean_n to_o
christian_n the_o conviction_n of_o a_o future_a state_n be_v not_o so_o clear_a and_o strong_a as_o to_o govern_v their_o heart_n and_o life_n how_o many_o of_o eminent_a intellectual_a faculty_n be_v stupid_a as_o to_o their_o great_a interest_n and_o spend_v themselves_o about_o trifle_n and_o be_v equal_o tractable_a to_o eternal_a ruin_n as_o the_o ox_n to_o the_o slaughter_n he_o that_o be_v destitute_a of_o the_o illuminate_a grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v blind_a and_o can_v see_v afar_o off_o now_o by_o the_o analogy_n between_o the_o corporal_a and_o the_o intellectual_a faculty_n we_o may_v understand_v in_o some_o measure_n how_o the_o mind_n be_v illuminate_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o as_o to_o the_o act_n of_o see_v two_o thing_n be_v requisite_a 1._o external_n light_n in_o the_o air_n without_o which_o the_o colour_n figure_n and_o beauty_n of_o object_n be_v not_o visible_a to_o the_o sharp_a eye_n but_o lie_v obscure_v under_o impenetrable_a darkness_n 2._o internal_a light_n in_o the_o eye_n in_o which_o the_o visive_a power_n consist_v if_o this_o be_v extinguish_v the_o clear_a light_n of_o heaven_n be_v of_o no_o use_n for_o the_o discovery_n of_o thing_n thus_o the_o understanding_n be_v enable_v to_o see_v spiritual_a thing_n 1._o by_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o object_n in_o this_o respect_n life_n and_o immortality_n be_v bring_v to_o light_n by_o the_o gospel_n till_o that_o bright_a discovery_n be_v make_v of_o eternal_a blessedness_n it_o be_v above_o the_o desire_n and_o hope_n of_o sinful_a man._n coelum_fw-la homo_fw-la nec_fw-la optare_fw-la poterat_fw-la ex_fw-la ignorantia_fw-la nec_fw-la sperare_fw-la ex_fw-la propriae_fw-la miseriae_fw-la conscientia_fw-la 2._o by_o the_o inward_a enlighten_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n that_o remove_v the_o ignorance_n prejudice_n and_o inadvertency_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o as_o scales_n darken_v its_o sight_n and_o dispose_v it_o to_o perceive_v the_o verity_n and_o excellency_n of_o spiritual_a and_o future_a thing_n though_o not_o with_o comprehensive_a evidence_n yet_o with_o that_o assurance_n that_o no_o doubtfulness_n or_o suspense_n remain_v concern_v they_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o faith_n be_v express_v in_o scripture_n by_o prudence_n wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n whereby_o a_o man_n know_v the_o ground_n and_o motive_n of_o his_o judgement_n and_o action_n and_o sin_n be_v call_v folly_n for_o as_o when_o the_o understand_a faculty_n either_o from_o the_o indisposedness_n of_o the_o organ_n as_o in_o idiot_n or_o from_o the_o disorder_n of_o fancy_n by_o the_o inflammation_n of_o the_o humour_n as_o in_o distract_a person_n can_v weigh_v and_o compare_v and_o therefore_o make_v a_o perverse_a judgement_n of_o thing_n so_o the_o carnal_a mind_n by_o not_o due_a measure_n and_o ponder_v judge_n false_o of_o spiritual_a thing_n if_o something_o no_o big_a than_o the_o hand_n be_v put_v before_o the_o eye_n it_o will_v intercept_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o heaven_n and_o he_o that_o not_o consider_v the_o property_n of_o thing_n near_o and_o distant_a shall_v conclude_v that_o piece_n to_o be_v big_a than_o the_o heaven_n be_v just_o repute_v a_o fool._n and_o the_o folly_n of_o carnal_a man_n be_v more_o gross_a who_o prefer_v thing_n present_a to_o sense_n before_o what_o be_v future_a and_o of_o everlasting_a consequence_n to_o the_o soul_n but_o there_o be_v some_o action_n which_o if_o do_v by_o a_o natural_a will_v be_v count_v folly_n yet_o be_v do_v by_o those_o who_o in_o the_o reputation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v wise_a be_v esteem_v prudent_a but_o they_o be_v the_o most_o deplorable_a folly_n now_o as_o the_o restore_n the_o laesum_fw-la principium_fw-la the_o break_a mind_n to_o its_o sound_a state_n whereby_o it_o be_v able_a to_o consider_v discern_v and_o conclude_v of_o thing_n according_a to_o their_o nature_n such_o be_v the_o action_n of_o god_n spirit_n upon_o the_o corrupt_a mind_n clarify_n and_o enlighten_v it_o so_o that_o it_o receive_v full_a conviction_n by_o the_o clear_a mark_n of_o divine_a authority_n shine_v in_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o the_o great_a and_o precious_a promise_n therein_o contain_v and_o cause_v it_o by_o a_o steady_a application_n of_o the_o thought_n to_o see_v the_o vast_a difference_n between_o what_o be_v temporal_a and_o eternal_a how_o despicable_o light_v all_o the_o vanity_n of_o this_o world_n be_v find_v when_o put_v in_o the_o balance_n against_o the_o infinite_a inestimable_a happiness_n of_o the_o next_o in_o short_a the_o renew_a mind_n know_v spiritual_a thing_n according_a to_o their_o nature_n and_o quality_n believe_v esteem_v and_o determin_n that_o they_o be_v of_o eternal_a moment_n and_o absolute_o necessary_a for_o the_o happiness_n of_o man._n and_o as_o when_o the_o natural_a faculty_n of_o see_v be_v perish_v it_o be_v irreparable_a by_o human_a skill_n and_o without_o a_o miracle_n can_v never_o be_v restore_v so_o the_o intellectual_a faculty_n when_o darken_v by_o sinful_a lust_n without_o the_o renew_n power_n of_o the_o spirit_n can_v never_o know_v spiritual_a thing_n as_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v know_v therefore_o as_o the_o blind_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n who_o despair_v of_o help_n from_o the_o physician_n hear_v of_o the_o miraculous_a power_n of_o christ_n importunate_o beg_v his_o heal_a mercy_n so_o let_v we_o pray_v to_o the_o light_n and_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n but_o in_o a_o more_o noble_a and_o high_a sense_n lord_n that_o we_o may_v receive_v our_o sight_n let_v we_o with_o the_o most_o zealous_a affection_n call_v upon_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n that_o he_o will_v give_v unto_o we_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n be_v enlighten_v that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o call_v and_o what_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o inheritance_n in_o the_o saint_n 2._o the_o efficacious_a influence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v requisite_a to_o change_v the_o will_n that_o with_o a_o free_a and_o full_a consent_n it_o may_v desire_v and_o prosecute_v the_o spiritual_a eternal_a good_n without_o this_o the_o conviction_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v not_o powerful_a enough_o to_o convert_v the_o soul_n from_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n to_o choose_v heaven_n there_o may_v be_v a_o enlighten_v conscience_n without_o a_o renew_a heart_n though_o the_o judgement_n assent_v that_o god_n be_v the_o supreme_a good_a yet_o till_o the_o heart_n be_v circumcise_v the_o sensuality_n of_o the_o affection_n take_v away_o divine_a love_n that_o direct_v the_o life_n to_o god_n as_o our_o bless_a end_n can_v never_o possess_v it_o suppose_v that_o man_n have_v a_o sensible_a and_o strong_a assurance_n of_o the_o eternal_a state_n hereafter_o if_o all_o those_o who_o live_v godly_a in_o a_o visible_a manner_n ascend_v with_o elias_n to_o heaven_n and_o if_o all_o who_o continue_v in_o their_o sin_n visible_o descend_v into_o hell_n as_o corah_n and_o his_o company_n be_v swallow_v up_o alive_a by_o the_o earth_n before_o the_o israelite_n if_o man_n can_v hear_v the_o joyful_a exultation_n of_o the_o saint_n above_o their_o high_a praise_n of_o god_n and_o hear_v the_o desperate_a cry_n and_o deep_a complaint_n of_o the_o damn_a if_o one_o according_a to_o the_o desire_n of_o the_o rich_a man_n be_v send_v from_o hell_n and_o with_o his_o fiery_a tongue_n shall_v preach_v a_o sermon_n of_o those_o torment_n not_o describe_v they_o at_o a_o distance_n but_o by_o a_o sensible_a demonstration_n in_o himself_o yet_o this_o alone_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o draw_v off_o their_o heart_n from_o the_o deceitful_a happiness_n of_o this_o world_n and_o fasten_v they_o on_o the_o perfect_a and_o eternal_a happiness_n in_o the_o next_o indeed_o they_o can_v not_o then_o indulge_v their_o lust_n so_o secure_o but_o they_o will_v be_v stranger_n to_o the_o life_n of_o god_n such_o a_o inveterate_a alienation_n of_o heart_n be_v in_o man_n from_o real_a holiness_n till_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n by_o a_o directive_n persuasive_a light_n that_o represent_v the_o truth_n and_o goodness_n of_o spiritual_a thing_n transform_v the_o soul_n and_o make_v it_o spiritual_a in_o its_o valuation_n and_o affection_n it_o be_v inward_o averse_a from_o grace_n and_o glory_n the_o lord_n direct_v our_o heart_n into_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o into_o the_o patient_a wait_a for_o christ_n when_o he_o shall_v come_v to_o be_v glorify_v in_o his_o saint_n and_o admire_v in_o all_o they_o that_o believe_v finis_fw-la finis_fw-la beatitudo_fw-la est_fw-la bonorum_fw-la omnium_fw-la complexio_fw-la secretis_fw-la omnibus_fw-la malis_fw-la cicer._n cicer._n quicquid_fw-la illis_fw-la congesseris_fw-la non_fw-la finis_fw-la erit_fw-la cupiditatum_fw-la sed_fw-la gradus_fw-la sen._n sen._n nullum_fw-la
fruitful_a in_o plant_n and_o flower_n but_o its_o riches_n be_v in_o mine_n of_o precious_a metal_n the_o vein_n of_o marble_n hide_v in_o its_o bosom_n true_a grace_n appear_v in_o sensible_a action_n but_o its_o glory_n be_v within_o senec._n the_o sincerity_n of_o aim_n the_o purity_n of_o affection_n the_o impress_n of_o the_o spirit_n on_o the_o heart_n the_o interior_a beauty_n of_o holiness_n be_v only_o see_v by_o god_n beside_o such_o be_v the_o humility_n of_o eminent_a saint_n that_o the_o more_o they_o abound_v in_o spiritual_a treasure_n the_o less_o they_o show_v as_o the_o heavenly_a body_n when_o in_o near_a conjunction_n with_o the_o sun_n and_o full_a of_o light_n make_v the_o least_o appearance_n to_o our_o sight_n but_o all_o their_o excellency_n shall_v then_o be_v in_o view_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v reveal_v in_o they_o and_o how_o attractive_a be_v the_o divine_a likeness_n to_o a_o holy_a eye_n how_o will_v it_o ravish_v the_o saint_n to_o behold_v a_o immortal_a loveliness_n shine_v in_o one_o another_o their_o love_n be_v mutual_a and_o reflexive_a proportionable_a to_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o a_o equal_a constant_a flame_n be_v preserve_v by_o pure_a material_n every_o one_o be_v perfect_o amiable_a and_o perfect_o enamour_a with_o all_o now_o can_v we_o frame_v a_o full_a conception_n of_o happiness_n than_o such_o a_o state_n of_o love_n wherein_o whatever_o be_v pleasant_a in_o friendship_n be_v in_o perfection_n and_o whatever_o be_v distasteful_a by_o man_n folly_n and_o weakness_n be_v abolish_v the_o psalmist_n break_v out_o in_o a_o rapture_n behold_v how_o good_a and_o pleasant_a it_o be_v for_o brethren_n to_o dwell_v together_o in_o unity_n love_n be_v the_o beauty_n and_o strength_n of_o society_n the_o pleasure_n of_o life_n how_o excellent_a be_v the_o joy_n of_o the_o bless_a when_o the_o prayer_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v accomplish_v that_o they_o all_o may_v be_v one_o as_o thou_o father_n be_v in_o i_o and_o i_o in_o thou_o that_o they_o also_o may_v be_v one_o in_o we_o god_n be_v absolute_o one_o in_o his_o glorious_a nature_n and_o will_n and_o therefore_o unalterable_o happy_a and_o their_o inviolable_a union_n in_o love_n be_v a_o ray_n of_o the_o essential_a unity_n between_o the_o sacred_a person_n there_o be_v no_o division_n of_o heart_n and_o tongue_n as_o in_o this_o babel_n but_o the_o most_o perfect_a and_o sweet_a concord_n a_o eternal_a agreement_n in_o temper_n and_o inclination_n there_o be_v no_o envious_a comparison_n for_o love_n that_o affective_o transform_v one_o into_o another_o cause_v the_o glory_n of_o every_o saint_n to_o redound_v to_o the_o joy_n of_o all_o every_o one_o take_v his_o share_n in_o the_o felicity_n of_o all_o and_o add_v to_o it_o such_o be_v the_o power_n of_o that_o celestial_a fire_n wherein_o they_o all_o burn_v that_o it_o melt_v and_o mix_v soul_n in_o such_o a_o entire_a union_n that_o by_o complacence_n and_o a_o intimate_a joy_n the_o blessedness_n of_o all_o be_v as_o it_o be_v proper_a to_o every_o one_o as_o if_o every_o one_o be_v place_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o and_o all_o in_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o one_o if_o in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a christian_n in_o the_o earthly_a jerusalem_n the_o band_n of_o charity_n be_v so_o strict_a that_o it_o be_v say_v the_o multitude_n of_o believer_n be_v of_o one_o heart_n and_o one_o soul_n how_o much_o more_o intimate_v and_o inseparable_a be_v the_o union_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o jerusalem_n above_o where_o every_o one_o love_v another_o as_o himself_o it_o be_v record_v of_o alexander_n that_o enter_v with_o hephestion_n his_o favourite_n into_o the_o pavilion_n of_o darius_n his_o mother_n than_o his_o prior_n she_o bow_v to_o the_o favourite_n as_o have_v a_o great_a appearance_n of_o majesty_n think_v he_o to_o be_v alexander_n but_o advise_v of_o her_o error_n she_o humble_o beg_v his_o pardon_n to_o who_o the_o generous_a king_n reply_v 3._o you_o do_v not_o err_v mother_n this_o be_v also_o alexander_n such_o be_v their_o affection_n that_o whoever_o be_v take_v of_o they_o the_o other_o be_v take_v in_o he_o the_o less_o ascend_v in_o the_o great_a without_o degrade_n the_o great_a in_o the_o less_o this_o be_v a_o copy_n of_o the_o holy_a love_n of_o the_o bless_a but_o with_o the_o same_o difference_n as_o between_o the_o description_n of_o a_o star_n with_o a_o coal_n and_o its_o beauty_n in_o its_o proper_a aspect_n and_o where_o all_o be_v love_n all_o be_v delight_n o_o how_o do_v they_o enjoy_v and_o triumph_v in_o the_o happiness_n of_o one_o another_o with_o what_o a_o unimaginable_a tenderness_n do_v they_o embrace_v what_o reciprocation_n of_o endearment_n be_v between_o they_o o_o their_o ravish_a conversation_n and_o sweet_a intercourse_n for_o their_o presence_n together_o in_o heaven_n be_v not_o a_o silent_a show_n in_o the_o transfiguration_n moses_n and_o elias_n talk_v with_o christ._n with_o what_o excellent_a discourse_n do_v they_o entertain_v one_o another_o if_o david_n feel_v such_o inward_a pleasure_n from_o the_o sense_n of_o god_n favour_n that_o he_o can_v not_o restrain_v the_o expression_n of_o it_o but_o invite_v the_o saint_n come_v and_o hear_v all_o you_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v tell_v you_o what_o he_o have_v do_v for_o my_o soul_n certain_o in_o heaven_n the_o bless_a with_o overflow_a affection_n recount_v the_o divine_a benefit_n the_o admirable_a method_n whereby_o the_o life_n of_o grace_n be_v begin_v preserve_v and_o carry_v on_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o temptation_n the_o continual_a succession_n of_o mercy_n in_o the_o time_n of_o their_o hope_n and_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o in_o the_o time_n of_o their_o enjoyment_n how_o joyful_o do_v they_o concur_v in_o their_o thanksgiving_n to_o god_n for_o the_o goodness_n of_o creation_n in_o make_v they_o reasonable_a creature_n capable_a to_o know_v love_n and_o enjoy_v he_o when_o they_o may_v have_v be_v of_o the_o low_a order_n in_o the_o wholesphere_n of_o being_n for_o his_o compassionate_a care_n and_o providence_n over_o they_o in_o this_o world_n but_o especial_o for_o his_o sovereign_n and_o singular_a mercy_n in_o elect_v they_o to_o be_v vessel_n of_o honour_n for_o his_o powerful_a grace_n in_o rescue_v they_o from_o the_o cruel_a and_o ignominious_a bondage_n of_o sin_n for_o his_o most_o free_a love_n that_o justify_v they_o from_o all_o their_o guilt_n by_o the_o death_n of_o his_o only_a son_n and_o glorify_v they_o with_o himself_o they_o be_v never_o weary_a in_o this_o delightful_a exercise_n but_o continual_o bless_v he_o for_o his_o mercy_n that_o endure_v for_o ever_o we_o may_v judge_n by_o the_o saint_n here_o when_o they_o be_v in_o a_o fit_a disposition_n to_o praise_n god_n what_o fervour_n they_o feel_v in_o their_o unite_a praise_n of_o he_o in_o heaven_n the_o psalmist_n in_o a_o ecstasy_n call_v to_o all_o the_o part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o join_v with_o he_o the_o lord_n reign_v let_v the_o heaven_n rejoice_v and_o the_o earth_n be_v glad_a let_v the_o sea_n roar_v let_v the_o field_n be_v joyful_a and_o all_o that_o dwell_v therein_o he_o desire_v that_o nature_n shall_v be_v elevate_v above_o itself_o that_o the_o dead_a part_n be_v inspire_v with_o life_n the_o insensible_a feel_v motion_n of_o joy_n and_o those_o that_o want_v a_o voice_n break_v forth_o in_o praise_n to_o adorn_v the_o divine_a triumph_n with_o what_o life_n and_o alacrity_n will_v the_o saint_n in_o their_o bless_a communion_n celebrate_v the_o object_n of_o their_o love_n and_o praise_n the_o seraphim_n about_o the_o throne_n cry_v to_o one_o another_o to_o express_v their_o zeal_n and_o joy_n in_o celebrate_v his_o eternal_a purity_n and_o power_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o goodness_n o_o the_o unspeakable_a pleasure_n of_o this_o concert_n when_o every_o soul_n be_v harmonious_a and_o contribute_v his_o part_n to_o the_o full_a music_n of_o heaven_n o_o can_v we_o hear_v but_o some_o echo_n of_o those_o song_n wherewith_o the_o heaven_n of_o heaven_n resound_v some_o remain_v of_o those_o voice_n wherewith_o the_o saint_n above_o triumph_n in_o the_o praise_n in_o the_o solemn_a adoration_n of_o the_o king_n of_o spirit_n how_o will_v it_o inflame_v our_o desire_n to_o be_v join_v with_o they_o bless_a be_v those_o that_o be_v in_o thy_o house_n they_o always_o praise_v thou_o 2._o the_o fullness_n of_o joy_n in_o heaven_n be_v undecay_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o be_v always_o equal_a and_o those_o be_v the_o beatific_a object_n reveal_v and_o the_o uninterrupted_a contemplation_n of_o it_o whilst_o we_o be_v here_o below_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n as_o to_o our_o perception_n and_o sense_n have_v ascension_n and_o declination_n access_n and_o recess_n and_o our_o earth_n
a_o discern_a eye_n see_v reason_n enough_o to_o part_v with_o all_o that_o he_o may_v gain_v the_o pearl_n of_o price_n the_o grace_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o apostle_n declare_v his_o resolute_a contempt_n of_o the_o concurrence_n of_o all_o the_o prerogative_n either_o the_o law_n or_o the_o world_n can_v afford_v he_o that_o he_o may_v have_v a_o interest_n in_o christ_n the_o reconciler_n and_o restorer_n of_o man_n to_o the_o favour_n and_o fellowship_n of_o god_n but_o what_o thing_n be_v gain_v to_o i_o those_o i_o count_v loss_n for_o christ_n yea_o doubtless_o i_o count_v all_o thing_n but_o loss_n for_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o jesus_n christ_n my_o lord_n for_o who_o i_o have_v suffer_v the_o loss_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o do_v count_v they_o but_o dung_n that_o i_o may_v win_v christ._n the_o glorious_a gospel_n be_v the_o bright_a and_o most_o pleasant_a light_n that_o ever_o shine_v upon_o the_o world_n a_o revelation_n of_o the_o deep_a wisdom_n and_o most_o admirable_a love_n wherein_o the_o combination_n of_o god_n holy_a and_o wonderful_a counsel_n for_o our_o salvation_n be_v unfold_v and_o according_o st._n paul_n with_o the_o great_a life_n of_o affection_n set_v forth_o his_o value_n of_o it_o and_o by_o full_a and_o most_o vilify_a expression_n reject_v all_o thing_n in_o comparison_n of_o it_o 2._o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o heavenly_a choice_n be_v discover_v by_o a_o zealous_a observance_n of_o the_o mean_n requisite_a in_o order_n to_o it_o inanimate_a thing_n incline_v to_o rest_v in_o their_o centre_n the_o rational_a intend_v and_o pursue_v it_o the_o bless_a end_n when_o value_v and_o respect_v according_a to_o its_o worth_n excite_v and_o direct_v the_o affection_n and_o endeavour_n in_o that_o order_n and_o measure_n as_o be_v proportionable_a to_o its_o excellency_n and_o the_o difficulty_n of_o obtain_v it_o there_o may_v be_v a_o naked_a estimation_n and_o some_o desire_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n simple_o consider_v yet_o the_o will_v remain_v incomplete_a and_o undetermined_a in_o its_o choice_n for_o the_o end_n in_o conjunction_n with_o the_o mean_n be_v propound_v to_o we_o and_o the_o carnal_a man_n will_v not_o consent_v to_o the_o mean_n he_o dislike_v the_o holiness_n of_o religion_n and_o will_v rather_o forfeit_v heaven_n than_o submit_v to_o such_o strict_a term_n though_o with_o balaam_n in_o a_o fit_a of_o devotion_n he_o say_v o_o that_o i_o may_v die_v the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o that_o my_o last_o end_n may_v be_v like_o he_o yet_o from_o indulgence_n to_o his_o sensual_a inclination_n he_o will_v not_o live_v as_o the_o righteous_a all_o his_o wish_n of_o true_a happiness_n be_v soon_o strangle_v by_o the_o predominant_a love_n of_o some_o vanity_n it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o israelite_n they_o despise_v the_o pleasant_a land_n 14._o not_o absolute_o in_o itself_o for_o it_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o all_o land_n abound_v with_o thing_n for_o the_o support_n and_o delight_n of_o man_n but_o consider_v its_o distance_n a_o wilderness_n waste_v and_o wild_a interpose_v and_o the_o enemy_n to_o be_v encounter_v they_o do_v not_o think_v it_o worthy_a of_o undergo_a such_o hazard_n and_o difficulty_n the_o land_n of_o canaan_n be_v a_o type_n of_o heaven_n both_o with_o respect_n to_o its_o pleasantness_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o israelite_n obtain_v it_o their_o title_n to_o it_o be_v derive_v from_o the_o rich_a bounty_n of_o god_n therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o land_n of_o promise_n but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v possess_v by_o conquest_n thus_o the_o celestial_a canaan_n be_v the_o pure_a gift_n of_o god_n but_o the_o actual_a enjoyment_n of_o it_o be_v obtain_v by_o victorious_a resistance_n against_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o carnal_a man_n despise_v this_o pleasant_a land_n the_o promise_n be_v inseparable_o join_v with_o precept_n of_o duty_n and_o obedience_n from_o which_o they_o be_v averse_a but_o he_o that_o choose_v sincere_o be_v joyful_a and_o vigorous_a in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n for_o acquire_v his_o most_o desire_a good_a ardent_a affection_n like_o elijah_n chariot_n of_o fire_n ravish_v the_o soul_n above_o this_o sensible_a world_n to_o the_o place_n where_o god_n dwell_v in_o glory_n zeal_n animate_v his_o endeavour_n as_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o heart_n diffuse_v the_o spirit_n into_o the_o artery_n to_o convey_v life_n to_o all_o part_n of_o the_o body_n one_o thing_n say_v the_o inflame_a psalmist_n have_v i_o desire_v of_o the_o lord_n that_o will_v i_o seek_v after_o that_o i_o may_v dwell_v in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n all_o the_o day_n of_o my_o life_n to_o behold_v the_o beauty_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o inquire_v into_o his_o temple_n the_o sensual_a man_n be_v range_v abroad_o for_o satisfaction_n and_o shoot_v all_o the_o game_n that_o cross_v his_o eye_n but_o the_o soul_n that_o have_v a_o discover_v light_n and_o feel_a heat_n of_o the_o divine_a beauty_n unite_v all_o its_o desire_n in_o god_n and_o with_o affection_n to_o a_o ecstasy_n belong_v for_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o and_o the_o endeavour_n be_v in_o some_o proportion_n to_o the_o desire_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o from_o the_o day_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n until_o now_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n suffer_v violence_n and_o the_o violent_a take_v it_o by_o force_n some_o previous_a ray_n of_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n appear_v in_o his_o ministry_n and_o produce_v such_o a_o holy_a ardency_n in_o those_o convert_v that_o with_o all_o resolution_n diligence_n and_o earnestness_n they_o seek_v to_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o blessedness_n reveal_v lazy_a desire_n easy_a prosecution_n sluggish_a attempt_n discover_v that_o the_o heart_n be_v not_o thorough_o engage_v for_o the_o spiritual_a eternal_a good_n when_o the_o end_n be_v true_o design_v it_o will_v give_v law_n to_o the_o action_n this_o be_v visible_a in_o man_n who_o be_v whole_o lead_v by_o sense_n how_o sagacious_a how_o solicitous_a be_v they_o to_o accomplish_v their_o end_n and_o base_a design_n they_o try_v all_o way_n either_o by_o fine_a dissimulation_n or_o toilsome_a industry_n to_o obtain_v their_o desire_n no_o time_n be_v too_o much_o in_o their_o gainful_a affair_n or_o voluptuous_a enjoyment_n they_o transform_v the_o night_n to_o lengthen_v out_o the_o day_n for_o their_o profit_n they_o vail_v the_o day_n to_o lengthen_v out_o the_o night_n for_o their_o ease_n and_o pleasure_n but_o alas_o heaven_n be_v only_o regard_v by_o the_o by_o as_o if_o the_o intellectual_a soul_n be_v only_o give_v to_o dwell_v with_o the_o body_n on_o earth_n the_o place_n of_o its_o banishment_n and_o direct_a affair_n here_o below_o and_o not_o to_o lead_v in_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n the_o place_n of_o its_o nativity_n and_o prepare_v for_o another_o world_n the_o work_n of_o salvation_n be_v follow_v with_o that_o remiss_a degree_n of_o affection_n as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o slight_a matter_n whether_o perform_v or_o neglect_v these_o person_n carry_v their_o conviction_n in_o their_o bosom_n for_o they_o be_v ardent_a and_o active_a to_o obtain_v inferior_a and_o infinite_o less_o concern_v end_n but_o with_o that_o cold_a application_n mind_v the_o superior_a noble_a end_n of_o man_n that_o it_o be_v whole_o frustrate_a which_o plain_o show_v it_o be_v never_o serious_o intend_v by_o they_o 3._o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o heavenly_a choice_n declare_v itself_o in_o the_o temper_n and_o frame_v of_o our_o heart_n with_o respect_n to_o all_o temporal_a thing_n in_o this_o world_n for_o our_o main_a and_o happy_a end_n be_v establish_v that_o it_o consist_v not_o in_o secular_a riches_n and_o honour_n and_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n but_o in_o the_o clear_a vision_n of_o god_n the_o blessedness_n of_o the_o spirit_n it_o follow_v that_o all_o present_a thing_n be_v in_o our_o use_n so_o far_o good_a or_o evil_n and_o to_o be_v desire_v or_o not_o as_o they_o be_v profitable_a or_o prejudicial_a to_o our_o obtain_n salvation_n as_o they_o conduct_v or_o divert_v we_o from_o heaven_n a_o wise_a christian_a look_n on_o temporal_a thing_n not_o through_o the_o glass_n of_o disorder_a passion_n that_o be_v impetuous_a and_o impatient_a for_o what_o be_v grateful_a to_o they_o but_o with_o reference_n to_o his_o future_a happiness_n he_o consider_v the_o train_n of_o temptation_n that_o attend_v a_o exalt_a condition_n and_o desire_v such_o a_o portion_n of_o these_o thing_n as_o may_v redound_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o giver_n and_o be_v improve_v for_o his_o own_o salvation_n this_o purity_n of_o affection_n our_o saviour_n teach_v we_o for_o in_o his_o divine_a form_n of_o prayer_n the_o true_a directory_n of_o our_o desire_n be_v set_v down_o in_o a_o admirable_a order_n all_o
sound_v and_o perfect_a health_n that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o his_o art_n he_o that_o seek_v for_o honour_n or_o riches_n be_v not_o content_a with_o a_o mediocrity_n of_o success_n but_o drive_v on_o his_o affair_n to_o the_o full_a period_n of_o his_o desire_n a_o ardent_a lover_n of_o learning_n with_o a_o noble_a jealousy_n strive_v to_o excel_v other_o in_o knowledge_n in_o short_a no_o man_n design_n and_o belong_v for_o a_o thing_n as_o his_o happiness_n but_o will_v use_v all_o diligence_n to_o gain_v the_o present_a and_o full_a possession_n of_o it_o therefore_o it_o can_v be_v imagine_v that_o any_o person_n sincere_o propound_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o heaven_n as_o his_o end_n but_o love_n will_v make_v he_o fervent_a and_o industrious_a to_o be_v as_o heavenly_a as_o be_v possible_a here_o he_o will_v strive_v by_o bless_a and_o glorious_a gradation_n to_o ascend_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o aim_n and_o desire_n to_o be_v holy_a as_o god_n be_v holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n to_o be_v pure_a as_o christ_n be_v pure_a we_o have_v a_o admirable_a instance_n of_o this_o in_o st_n paul_n who_o declare_v 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 which_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forth_o unto_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v before_o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o price_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n his_o progress_n be_v great_a yet_o that_o do_v not_o make_v he_o slack_v in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o his_o end_n he_o labour_v to_o attain_v the_o precedent_n of_o our_o saviour_n to_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o his_o death_n and_o life_n to_o apprehend_v christ_n entire_o and_o perfect_o as_o christ_n have_v apprehend_v he_o he_o be_v very_o diligent_a to_o improve_v the_o divine_a image_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n from_o hence_o we_o may_v discover_v the_o vanity_n of_o their_o hope_n that_o be_v of_o lukewarm_a affection_n in_o religion_n the_o abhor_a character_n of_o laodicea_n who_o esteem_v it_o a_o prudent_a principle_n as_o convenient_a for_o their_o carnal_a ease_n and_o interest_n not_o to_o be_v earnest_a in_o follow_v holiness_n vice_n in_o mediocrity_n be_v tolerable_a with_o they_o only_o the_o excess_n be_v condemn_v they_o content_v themselves_o with_o a_o mediocrity_n in_o religion_n and_o be_v presumptuous_a and_o secure_a as_o the_o church_n that_o say_v i_o be_o rich_a and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o they_o boast_v as_o if_o they_o have_v find_v out_o the_o temperate_a region_n between_o the_o burn_a line_n and_o the_o freeze_a pole_n they_o account_v all_o that_o be_v above_o their_o degree_n in_o religion_n to_o be_v furious_a or_o indiscreet_a zeal_n and_o all_o below_o to_o be_v dead_a cold_a profaneness_n they_o censure_v those_o for_o hypocrisy_n or_o unnecessary_a strictness_n who_o be_v visible_o better_a and_o stand_v upon_o proud_a comparison_n with_o those_o who_o be_v visible_o worse_o and_o thus_o set_v off_o themselves_o by_o tax_v other_o but_o how_o easy_o do_v man_n deceive_v and_o damn_v themselves_o can_v we_o have_v too_o much_o of_o heaven_n upon_o the_o earth_n can_v we_o become_v too_o like_o god_n when_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o he_o be_v our_o duty_n and_o felicity_n indeed_o moral_a virtue_n consist_v in_o a_o mediocrity_n not_o of_o the_o habitual_a quality_n but_o of_o the_o affection_n and_o action_n between_o the_o vicious_a extremity_n fortitude_n consist_v in_o the_o mean_a between_o cowardice_n and_o rash_a boldness_n but_o how_o much_o the_o more_o confirm_v the_o courageous_a habit_n be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o a_o man_n excel_v in_o that_o virtue_n liberality_n consist_v between_o a_o indiscreet_a profuseness_n and_o sordid_a avarice_n patience_n between_o a_o soft_a delicacy_n and_o stupid_a insensibility_n thus_o philosophic_a virtue_n glory_n in_o its_o beauty_n as_o pure_a and_o entire_a between_o two_o vicious_a deformity_n and_o the_o religion_n of_o many_o be_v paganism_n dress_v up_o in_o a_o christian_a fashion_n but_o this_o mediocrity_n only_o belong_v to_o inferior_a virtue_n that_o respect_v thing_n of_o create_a limit_a goodness_n and_o be_v determine_v according_a to_o the_o worth_n of_o their_o nature_n but_o divine_a grace_n respect_v a_o object_n supreme_o good_a and_o their_o perfection_n consist_v in_o their_o most_o excellent_a degree_n and_o the_o most_o intense_a affection_n and_o operation_n that_o be_v lead_v to_o it_o faith_n in_o its_o obedience_n hope_v in_o its_o assurance_n love_n in_o its_o ardour_n can_v never_o exceed_v when_o the_o object_n be_v infinite_a a_o mediocrity_n be_v vicious_a humility_n can_v never_o descend_v too_o low_a nor_o love_n ascend_v too_o high_a for_o reflect_v upon_o our_o natural_a and_o moral_a imperfection_n that_o we_o be_v raise_v from_o nothing_o that_o we_o be_v defile_v and_o debase_v with_o sin_n we_o can_v have_v too_o low_a thought_n of_o ourselves_o and_o since_o god_n the_o sovereign_n be_v infinite_a in_o perfection_n and_o infinite_o amiable_a be_v the_o object_n no_o bound_n or_o measure_n must_v be_v set_v to_o our_o affection_n but_o with_o all_o our_o unite_a power_n all_o the_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o the_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o the_o mind_n and_o with_o all_o the_o strength_n we_o must_v love_v he_o and_o please_v he_o and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v belove_v of_o he_o there_o be_v other_o will_v acknowledge_v their_o defect_n and_o tell_v you_o they_o do_v not_o pretend_v to_o eminent_a sanctity_n to_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o martyr_n nor_o aspire_v to_o their_o degree_n in_o glory_n they_o be_v content_a with_o a_o low_a place_n in_o heaven_n and_o less_o strict_a religion_n be_v sufficient_a for_o their_o purpose_n this_o deceit_n be_v strengthen_v by_o popery_n that_o enervate_v and_o dissolve_v many_o of_o our_o saviour_n precept_n by_o teach_v they_o be_v not_o law_n oblige_v all_o christians_n to_o obedience_n that_o will_v attain_v to_o eternal_a life_n but_o counsel_n of_o perfection_n if_o they_o be_v not_o do_v it_o be_v no_o sin_n and_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o meritorious_o entitle_v to_o a_o rich_a crown_n and_o though_o man_n by_o impure_a indulgency_n please_v their_o sensual_a affection_n yet_o by_o taste_v purgatory_n in_o the_o way_n they_o may_v come_v to_o heaven_n on_o easy_a term_n than_o a_o universal_a respect_n to_o god_n command_n and_o a_o equal_a care_n to_o observe_v they_o but_o death_n will_v confute_v all_o these_o feeble_a wretched_a pretence_n for_o though_o the_o saint_n above_o shine_n with_o a_o unequal_a brightness_n as_o the_o star_n differ_v in_o glory_n yet_o none_o be_v there_o but_o saint_n and_o those_o who_o do_v not_o mourn_v under_o their_o imperfection_n and_o unfeigned_o desire_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v better_a be_v never_o real_o good_a the_o slothful_a servant_n that_o do_v not_o waste_v but_o neglect_n to_o improve_v his_o talon_n be_v cast_v into_o outer_a darkness_n there_o be_v different_a degree_n of_o punishment_n in_o hell_n but_o the_o least_o miserable_a there_o be_v miserable_a for_o ever_o in_o short_a it_o be_v a_o perfect_a contradiction_n a_o prodigy_n for_o any_o man_n to_o think_v he_o be_v sincere_a in_o his_o choice_n and_o prepare_v in_o his_o affection_n for_o the_o pure_a glorious_a felicity_n in_o heaven_n that_o do_v not_o labour_n to_o cleanse_v himself_o from_o all_o pollution_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n chap._n v._n the_o choice_n of_o heaven_n must_v be_v early_o the_o pretence_n of_o man_n delay_v repentance_n the_o infinite_a danger_n of_o it_o second_o the_o choice_n of_o eternal_a felicity_n must_v be_v early_o in_o the_o prime_n of_o our_o day_n the_o rule_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o reason_n bind_v we_o to_o remember_v our_o creator_n in_o our_o youth_n to_o pay_v to_o he_o the_o first_o fruit_n of_o our_o time_n and_o strength_n when_o we_o be_v surround_v with_o entice_a object_n and_o the_o sense_n be_v entire_a and_o most_o capable_a to_o enjoy_v they_o when_o the_o elect_a power_n be_v it_o their_o vigour_n then_o it_o be_v just_a we_o shall_v live_v to_o god_n obey_v he_o as_o our_o lawgiver_n and_o prefer_v the_o fruition_n of_o he_o in_o heaven_n the_o reward_n of_o obedience_n before_o as_o the_o pleasure_n of_o vanity_n it_o be_v very_o honourable_a and_o please_a to_o god_n to_o give_v the_o heart_n to_o he_o when_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o world_n strong_o solicit_v to_o withdraw_v it_o it_o be_v a_o high_a endearment_n of_o the_o soâ—_n to_o he_o when_o his_o excellency_n be_v prevalent_a in_o the_o esteem_n and_o affection_n above_o all_o the_o charm_n of_o the_o creature_n and_o it_o be_v a_o unspeakable_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o
a_o imposthume_n a_o flux_n of_o rheum_n stop_v respiration_n kill_v the_o body_n without_o any_o presage_a sign_n of_o death_n as_o if_o the_o roof_n and_o all_o the_o chamber_n shall_v fall_v within_o the_o house_n while_o the_o wall_n be_v stand_v and_o how_o many_o unforeseen_a accident_n and_o therefore_o inevitable_a put_v a_o sudden_a period_n to_o life_n be_v it_o not_o then_o the_o true_a wisdom_n to_o be_v early_o in_o our_o work_n for_o heaven_n when_o the_o season_n be_v certain_o short_a and_o uncertain_o continue_v and_o the_o omission_n be_v irreparable_a therefore_o the_o gospel_n represent_v the_o come_n of_o our_o judge_n under_o different_a image_n of_o surprisal_n of_o a_o thief_n that_o by_o the_o favour_n of_o the_o night_n break_v into_o the_o house_n of_o a_o master_n that_o return_v from_o abroad_o unexpected_a to_o call_v his_o servant_n to_o a_o account_n of_o a_o bridegroom_n that_o make_v his_o nuptial_a entrance_n at_o a_o unthought_a of_o hour_n when_o the_o wise_a and_o foolish_a virgin_n be_v asleep_a conscience_n be_v slumber_v in_o the_o good_a and_o stupefy_v in_o the_o bad_a to_o keep_v we_o always_o vigilant_a and_o prepare_v for_o that_o hour_n that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o time_n and_o beginning_n of_o eternity_n 2._o suppose_v life_n be_v continue_v yet_o sinner_n can_v have_v no_o rational_a hope_n that_o they_o shall_v sincere_o repent_v for_o 1._o save_v repentance_n be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o be_v it_o likely_a that_o those_o who_o have_v be_v insensible_a of_o the_o loud_a and_o earnest_a call_v of_o the_o word_n that_o have_v be_v inflexible_a to_o the_o gracious_a method_n of_o providence_n lead_v they_o to_o repentance_n shall_v at_o last_o obtain_v convert_v grace_n the_o gale_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v very_o transient_a and_o blow_v where_o he_o please_v and_o can_v it_o be_v expect_v that_o those_o who_o have_v wilful_o and_o often_o resist_v his_o pure_a motion_n shall_v by_o a_o exuberant_a favour_n receive_v afterward_o more_o powerful_a grace_n to_o over-rule_v their_o stubborn_a will_n and_o make_v they_o obedient_a our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o to_o he_o that_o have_v shall_v be_v give_v but_o to_o he_o that_o neglect_v the_o improve_n spiritual_a treasure_n that_o which_o he_o have_v shall_v be_v take_v away_o there_o be_v special_a season_n of_o grace_n as_o the_o pass_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o way_n where_o the_o blind_a man_n sit_v which_o neglect_v be_v irrecoverable_o lose_v god_n have_v threaten_v that_o his_o spirit_n shall_v not_o always_o strive_v with_o rebellious_a sinner_n and_o then_o their_o state_n be_v remediless_a this_o may_v be_v the_o case_n of_o many_o even_o in_o this_o life_n who_o be_v insensible_a of_o their_o misery_n as_o consumptive_a person_n decline_v by_o degree_n lose_v their_o appetite_n colour_n and_o strength_n till_o at_o last_o they_o be_v hopeless_a so_o the_o withdrawing_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v gradual_a his_o motion_n be_v not_o so_o frequent_a nor_o strong_a and_o upon_o the_o continue_a provocation_n of_o sinner_n final_o leave_v they_o under_o that_o most_o fearful_a doom_n he_o that_o be_v filthy_a let_v he_o be_v filthy_a still_o he_o that_o be_v unrighteous_a let_v he_o be_v unrighteous_a still_o and_o thus_o punish_v they_o on_o this_o side_n hell_n as_o he_o do_v the_o damn_a by_o give_v they_o over_o to_o sin_n nothing_o therefore_o be_v more_o dangerous_a than_o the_o usual_a excuse_n for_o the_o delay_n of_o repentance_n it_o be_v write_v as_o with_o a_o sun_n beam_n that_o god_n will_v gracious_o pardon_v repent_v sinner_n but_o it_o be_v no_o where_o aug._n promise_v that_o he_o will_v give_v repentance_n to_o those_o who_o secure_o break_v his_o law_n upon_o a_o corrupt_a confidence_n they_o will_v repent_v at_o last_o it_o be_v a_o bloody_a adventure_n to_o indulge_v their_o carnal_a affection_n as_o if_o they_o have_v infallible_a assurance_n the_o word_n of_o god_n confirm_v by_o his_o oath_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o die_v in_o a_o impenitent_a state_n 2._o suppose_v the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v not_o total_o withdraw_v yet_o by_o every_o day_n continuance_n in_o a_o evil_a course_n the_o heart_n be_v more_o harden_v against_o the_o impression_n of_o grace_n and_o more_o incapable_a of_o return_v to_o god_n it_o be_v therefore_o the_o subtlety_n of_o the_o old_a serpent_n to_o make_v the_o entrance_n of_o sin_n easy_a for_o he_o know_v that_o after_o sometime_o it_o will_v plead_v a_o right_a by_o prescription_n and_o with_o difficulty_n be_v eject_v custom_n be_v a_o second_o nature_n and_o have_v a_o mighty_a power_n either_o in_o that_o which_o be_v good_a or_o evil_n can_v the_o aethiopian_a change_n his_o skin_n can_v the_o leopard_n change_v his_o spot_n then_o may_v you_o who_o be_v accustom_v to_o do_v evil_a do_v good_a if_o sin_n in_o its_o infancy_n can_v make_v such_o resistance_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n be_v foil_v in_o his_o motion_n to_o rescue_v the_o soul_n from_o its_o bondage_n how_o much_o more_o when_o it_o be_v grow_v into_o a_o confirm_a habit_n therefore_o the_o apostle_n urge_v so_o emphatical_o to_o day_n while_o it_o be_v call_v to_o day_n hear_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n lest_o any_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n 3._o how_o uncertain_a be_v it_o whether_o god_n will_v accept_v the_o address_n of_o such_o at_o last_o we_o be_v command_v to_o seek_v the_o lord_n while_o he_o maybe_o find_v and_o to_o call_v upon_o he_o while_o he_o be_v near_o the_o limitation_n imply_v if_o the_o season_n be_v neglect_v he_o will_v hide_v his_o face_n for_o ever_o now_o in_o case_n of_o great_a moment_n and_o hazard_n what_o diligence_n what_o caution_n shall_v be_v use_v 1._o how_o derogatory_n be_v it_o to_o his_o majesty_n to_o offer_v to_o he_o the_o dregs_o of_o our_o age_n the_o relic_n of_o a_o licentious_a careless_a life_n spend_v in_o the_o work_n of_o vanity_n be_v this_o to_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n 16._o contempt_n provoke_v superior_n as_o much_o as_o actual_a injury_n and_o how_o vilify_n be_v it_o of_o his_o excellent_a greatness_n that_o man_n lavish_o waste_v the_o best_a of_o their_o time_n upon_o their_o lust_n and_o the_o world_n and_o when_o through_o weakness_n of_o age_n or_o the_o violence_n of_o a_o disease_n they_o can_v no_o more_o relish_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n then_o only_o to_o seek_v his_o favour_n and_o presume_v upon_o it_o as_o if_o he_o can_v not_o be_v happy_a without_o they_o and_o it_o be_v his_o interest_n to_o receive_v they_o if_o you_o offer_v the_o blind_a for_o a_o sacrifice_n be_v it_o not_o evil_a and_o if_o you_o offer_v the_o lame_a and_o the_o sick_a be_v it_o not_o evil_a offer_v it_o now_o to_o thy_o governor_n will_v he_o be_v please_v with_o thou_o to_o accept_v thy_o person_n say_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n 2._o consider_v what_o sincerity_n or_o moral_a value_n be_v in_o religion_n that_o mere_o proceed_v from_o bitter_a constraint_n it_o be_v a_o rule_n in_o law_n falsum_fw-la est_fw-la eam_fw-la peperisse_fw-la cui_fw-la mortuae_fw-la filius_fw-la extractus_fw-la est_fw-la it_o be_v not_o a_o natural_a birth_n when_o the_o child_n be_v extract_v from_o the_o dead_a mother_n it_o be_v not_o genuine_a piety_n that_o be_v only_o extort_a by_o the_o rack_n whilst_o the_o heart_n full_a of_o aversion_n and_o reluctancy_n do_v not_o true_o consent_v pure_a religion_n flow_v uncompelled_a from_o love_n to_o god_n it_o be_v the_o dregs_n that_o come_v forth_o with_o press_v it_o be_v observe_v of_o the_o israelite_n that_o when_o god_n slay_v they_o they_o seek_v he_o 36._o and_o return_v and_o inquire_v early_o after_o god_n but_o it_o be_v add_v nevertheless_o they_o do_v flatter_v he_o with_o their_o mouth_n and_o they_o lie_v to_o he_o with_o their_o tongue_n for_o their_o heart_n be_v not_o right_a with_o he_o neither_o be_v they_o steadfast_a in_o his_o covenant_n when_o sinner_n be_v plunge_v in_o deep_a distress_n when_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n sit_v upon_o their_o eyelid_n they_o may_v with_o plentiful_a effusion_n of_o prayer_n and_o tear_n desire_v god_n to_o receive_v they_o to_o heaven_n not_o to_o serve_v he_o there_o not_o to_o enjoy_v the_o divine_a presence_n but_o as_o a_o sanctuary_n from_o revenge_a justice_n as_o a_o refuge_n from_o hell_n and_o will_v such_o desire_n prevail_v what_o swell_v the_o confidence_n of_o sinner_n but_o unworthy_a notion_n of_o god_n as_o if_o a_o force_a and_o formal_a expression_n to_o he_o be_v sufficient_a to_o reconcile_v his_o offend_a majesty_n 3._o there_o be_v nothing_o render_v man_n more_o unworthy_a of_o mercy_n than_o continuance_n in_o sin_n upon_o presumption_n of_o a_o easy_a pardon_n at_o last_o this_o be_v the_o most_o common_a deceitful_a principle_n upon_o which_o they_o build_v their_o hope_n
as_o their_o action_n that_o bear_v the_o image_n of_o their_o mind_n clear_o manifest_a they_o think_v that_o god_n be_v so_o gracious_a such_o a_o lover_n of_o soul_n so_o easy_a to_o be_v entreat_v that_o upon_o their_o die_a prayer_n lord_n remember_v i_o in_o thy_o kingdom_n the_o answer_n will_v be_v to_o day_n shall_v thou_o be_v with_o i_o in_o paradise_n now_o this_o presumptuous_a indulgence_n give_v the_o deep_a grain_n to_o their_o sin_n and_o make_v they_o more_o uncapable_a of_o pardon_n chrysostome_n observe_v that_o judas_n be_v encourage_v to_o betray_v his_o master_n presume_v on_o his_o lenity_n goodness_n and_o benignity_n which_o consideration_n intolerable_o aggravate_v his_o treason_n and_o confound_v his_o hope_n there_o be_v a_o dreadful_a threaten_n against_o those_o who_o reject_v the_o invitation_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o prosperity_n and_o when_o the_o righteous_a judge_n come_v to_o sentence_n and_o execution_n be_v earnest_a suppliant_n for_o mercy_n 1_o because_o i_o have_v call_v and_o you_o refuse_v i_o have_v stretch_v out_o my_o hand_n and_o no_o man_n regard_v but_o you_o have_v set_v at_o naught_o all_o my_o counsel_n and_o will_v none_o of_o my_o reproof_n i_o will_v also_o laugh_v at_o your_o calamity_n and_o mock_v when_o your_o fear_n come_v when_o your_o fear_n come_v as_o a_o desolation_n and_o your_o destruction_n as_o a_o whirlwind_n when_o distress_n and_o anguish_n come_v upon_o you_o then_o shall_v they_o call_v upon_o i_o but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v they_o shall_v seek_v i_o early_o but_o shall_v not_o find_v i_o for_o they_o hate_v knowledge_n and_o do_v not_o choose_v the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n a_o doleful_a case_n beyond_o all_o possible_a expression_n when_o the_o sinful_a creature_n forsake_v of_o all_o comfort_n below_o addresses_z to_z heaven_n for_o relief_n and_o meet_v with_o derision_n and_o fury_n scorn_n and_o indignation_n the_o foolish_a virgin_n careless_a to_o prepare_v for_o the_o bridegroom_n come_v in_o vain_a at_o last_o discover_v their_o want_n of_o oil_n in_o vain_a solicit_v the_o wise_a virgin_n for_o a_o supply_n in_o vain_a knock_v at_o the_o door_n cry_v lord_n lord_n open_a unto_o we_o the_o answer_n be_v severe_a and_o peremptory_a i_o know_v you_o not_o and_o they_o be_v for_o ever_o exclude_v from_o spiritual_a joy_n 3._o i_o will_v add_v further_o how_o incongruous_a it_o be_v to_o delay_v the_o solemn_a work_n of_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n till_o the_o time_n of_o sickness_n this_o be_v a_o affair_n wherein_o our_o transcendent_a interest_n be_v concern_v and_o shall_v be_v perform_v in_o our_o most_o calm_a and_o sensible_a condition_n when_o we_o be_v most_o capable_a of_o reflect_v upon_o our_o way_n and_o make_v a_o exact_a trial_n of_o ourselves_o and_o return_v to_o god_n by_o a_o holy_a change_n of_o our_o life_n now_o that_o the_o time_n of_o sickness_n be_v not_o a_o convenient_a season_n for_o this_o work_n be_v sad_o evident_a for_o some_o disease_n be_v stupify_a and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v benumb_v in_o a_o dull_a captivity_n so_o that_o the_o sick_a man_n only_o perceive_v with_o his_o animal_n faculty_n some_o disease_n be_v torment_v and_o cause_v a_o great_a disorder_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o whole_o distract_v the_o thought_n from_o consider_v his_o spiritual_a state_n when_o the_o storm_n be_v at_o the_o high_a and_o the_o pilot_n so_o sick_a that_o he_o can_v give_v no_o direction_n the_o ship_n be_v leave_v to_o the_o fury_n of_o the_o wind_n and_o escape_v by_o maracle_n when_o there_o be_v a_o tempest_n in_o the_o humour_n of_o the_o body_n and_o the_o soul_n by_o sympathy_n be_v so_o discompose_v that_o it_o can_v apply_v itself_o serious_o to_o prepare_v for_o the_o divine_a tribunal_n what_o danger_n of_o be_v lose_v and_o pass_v from_o a_o short_a agony_n to_o everlasting_a pain_n beside_o suppose_v the_o sickness_n more_o tolerable_a yet_o how_o unfit_a be_v a_o person_n weak_a and_o languish_a veget._n when_o sense_n and_o conscience_n be_v both_o afflict_v to_o encounter_v with_o the_o cruel_a enemy_n of_o soul_n all_o that_o true_o seek_v peace_n with_o god_n must_v expect_v fierce_a anger_n and_o war_n from_o satan_n therefore_o it_o be_v a_o point_n of_o necessary_a wisdom_n while_o we_o be_v possess_v of_o health_n and_o strength_n to_o be_v in_o a_o heavenly_a preparation_n against_o his_o assault_n 4._o consider_v how_o uncomfortable_a it_o be_v to_o delay_v repentance_n till_o age_n and_o sickness_n when_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o be_v not_o so_o evident_a and_o acceptable_a in_o evil_a day_n and_o the_o approach_n of_o death_n it_o be_v very_o hard_a to_o discover_v the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o heart_n whether_o repentance_n proceed_v from_o holy_a principle_n whether_o the_o sorrow_n then_o express_v be_v godly_a for_o sin_n or_o mere_o natural_a for_o punishment_n whether_o the_o good_a resolution_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o a_o permanent_a fidelity_n or_o of_o violent_a fear_n that_o will_v vanish_v the_o cause_n be_v remove_v when_o the_o invitation_n to_o sin_n cease_v there_o may_v remain_v a_o secret_a undiscerned_a love_n to_o it_o in_o the_o heart_n which_o be_v the_o centre_n of_o corruption_n and_o root_n of_o apostasy_n the_o snake_n that_o seem_v dead_a in_o the_o cold_a revive_v by_o the_o fire_n the_o inordinate_a affection_n that_o seem_v mortify_v when_o the_o sensitive_a faculty_n be_v disable_v for_o carnal_a enjoyment_n may_v have_v inward_a life_n and_o will_v soon_o be_v active_a and_o vigorous_a in_o the_o presence_n of_o temptation_n and_o that_o a_o deathbed_n repentance_n be_v usual_o deceitful_a appear_v from_o hence_o that_o not_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o who_o recover_v from_o dangerous_a disease_n be_v faithful_a in_o performance_n of_o their_o most_o sacred_a vow_n to_o god_n how_o many_o have_v a_o sentence_n of_o death_n in_o themselves_o and_o under_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v express_v the_o great_a detestation_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o resolve_v as_o they_o think_v sincere_o that_o if_o god_n will_v spare_v they_o to_o reform_v their_o way_n to_o become_v new_a refine_a creature_n exemplary_a in_o all_o holy_a conversation_n yet_o the_o danger_n be_v over_o their_o heat_n of_o devotion_n expire_v as_o they_o revive_v and_o their_o lust_n recover_v strength_n with_o their_o body_n and_o have_v be_v suppress_v only_o by_o fear_n be_v more_o fierce_a in_o their_o return_n their_o heart_n be_v as_o marble_n that_o in_o rainy_a wether_n seem_v dissolve_v into_o water_n but_o it_o be_v only_o from_o the_o moisture_n of_o the_o air_n and_o remain_v as_o hard_o as_o ever_o all_o their_o promise_n of_o reformation_n be_v ineffective_a as_o violent_a and_o void_a now_o if_o these_o person_n have_v die_v before_o this_o visible_a trial_n and_o discovery_n they_o have_v pass_v into_o another_o world_n with_o the_o reputation_n of_o true_a penitent_n deceive_v other_o with_o their_o prayer_n and_o tear_n and_o liberal_a promise_n the_o outward_a sign_n of_o repentance_n and_o deceive_v themselves_o by_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o a_o alarmed_a conscience_n therefore_o minister_n ought_v to_o be_v very_o circumspect_a in_o apply_v the_o promise_v of_o mercy_n to_o person_n in_o such_o a_o state_n for_o a_o error_n in_o that_o kind_n have_v fearful_a consequence_n a_o little_a opiate_n divinity_n may_v quiet_v the_o mind_n for_o a_o time_n but_o the_o virtue_n of_o it_o will_v be_v soon_o spend_v and_o the_o presumer_n perish_v for_o ever_o but_o suppose_v a_o die_a person_n with_o true_a tear_n and_o unfeigned_a persevere_v affection_n return_n to_o god_n can_v he_o have_v a_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o his_o sincerity_n indeed_o the_o searcher_n and_o judge_n of_o heart_n will_v accept_v he_o but_o how_o doubtful_a and_o waver_a be_v his_o hope_n what_o anxious_a fear_n be_v in_o his_o breast_n lest_o he_o build_v upon_o a_o sandy_a foundation_n and_o how_o dreadful_a be_v it_o to_o appear_v before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n and_o expect_v a_o uncertain_a sentence_n but_o sinner_n still_o please_v themselves_o in_o this_o that_o god_n have_v effectual_o call_v some_o at_o the_o last_o hour_n and_o they_o may_v find_v the_o same_o favour_n with_o other_o to_o this_o i_o answer_v 1._o it_o be_v true_a we_o have_v some_o rare_a admirable_a instance_n of_o god_n mercy_n and_o grace_n the_o die_a thief_n and_o some_o other_o which_o show_n it_o be_v possible_a with_o god_n to_o abolish_v the_o most_o vicious_a confirm_a habit_n in_o a_o short_a time_n and_o by_o a_o swift_a conversion_n to_o prepare_v a_o sinner_n for_o heaven_n but_o these_o example_n be_v not_o to_o be_v draw_v into_o consequence_n for_o the_o encouragement_n of_o any_o in_o their_o sin_n a_o prince_n will_v not_o endure_v that_o his_o symp._n free_a favour_n shall_v be_v make_v a_o
image_n of_o our_o suffer_a redeemer_n that_o we_o may_v be_v crown_v with_o his_o glory_n how_o many_o christian_n esteem_v themselves_o honour_v in_o the_o disgrace_n and_o bless_v in_o the_o injury_n they_o suffer_v for_o christ_n and_o with_o a_o invincible_a patience_n and_o astonish_a joy_n endure_v the_o most_o cruel_a persecution_n though_o yet_o the_o human_a nature_n in_o they_o be_v as_o tender_v and_o sensible_a of_o pain_n as_o in_o other_o but_o the_o natural_a aversion_n and_o repugnance_n to_o suffering_n be_v overrule_v by_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o rational_a will_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o the_o reward_n attend_v it_o they_o give_v a_o most_o convince_a sensible_a testimony_n how_o much_o more_o valuable_a heaven_n be_v than_o this_o present_a world_n willing_o expose_v themselves_o to_o all_o evil_a here_o and_o rejoice_v in_o hope_n of_o a_o glorious_a issue_n in_o short_a the_o reward_n of_o obedience_n be_v a_o triumphal_a crown_n and_o where_o there_o be_v no_o victory_n there_o can_v be_v no_o triumph_n and_o where_o no_o combat_n no_o victory_n and_o where_o no_o enemy_n no_o combat_n therefore_o we_o be_v command_v to_o fight_v against_o our_o internal_a enemy_n our_o corrupt_a affection_n to_o kill_v the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o encounter_v and_o overcome_v by_o humility_n and_o meek_a submission_n the_o cruelty_n of_o malicious_a enemy_n without_o we_o in_o a_o direct_a order_n of_o obtain_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n and_o a_o believer_n that_o have_v heaven_n in_o taste_n and_o expectation_n will_v easy_o renounce_v the_o most_o pleasant_a and_o willing_o endure_v the_o sharp_a temptation_n for_o the_o bless_a reward_n of_o his_o obedience_n chap._n xii_o the_o gospel_n threaten_v hell_n to_o all_o that_o prefer_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n before_o heaven_n how_o congruous_a and_o powerful_a a_o motive_n this_o be_v to_o work_v on_o carnal_a men._n the_o misery_n of_o a_o everlasting_a hell_n represent_v 4._o consider_v if_o man_n choose_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v but_o for_o a_o season_n before_o heaven_n that_o infinite_o exceed_v this_o world_n than_o a_o everlasting_a hell_n shall_v be_v their_o portion_n there_o be_v no_o middle_a state_n in_o the_o next_o world_n no_o tolerable_a mediocrity_n but_o two_o contrary_a state_n yet_o alike_o in_o this_o that_o the_o happiness_n and_o misery_n be_v equal_o infinite_a and_o eternal_a and_o by_o the_o most_o wise_a righteous_a will_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o inseparable_a connexion_n between_o the_o choice_n and_o action_n of_o man_n here_o and_o their_o future_a condition_n for_o ever_o the_o equity_n of_o this_o can_v be_v deny_v without_o renounce_v the_o light_n of_o reason_n for_o when_o by_o a_o chain_n of_o consequence_n sinful_a pleasure_n be_v link_v with_o eternal_a punishment_n threaten_v in_o the_o divine_a law_n he_o that_o will_v enjoy_v those_o forbid_a pleasure_n bind_v himself_o to_o suffer_v all_o the_o pain_n annex_v to_o they_o and_o it_o be_v just_a that_o those_o who_o err_v without_o excuse_n shall_v repent_v without_o remedy_n now_o the_o threaten_n of_o eternal_a punishment_n be_v the_o most_o proper_a argument_n to_o work_v on_o carnal_a secure_a sinner_n 1._o because_o they_o be_v more_o capable_a to_o conceive_v of_o the_o torment_n of_o hell_n than_o the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n storm_n and_o darkness_n be_v more_o easy_o draw_v by_o a_o pencil_n than_o a_o calm_a bright_a day_n fire_n and_o brimstone_n be_v very_o painful_a to_o sense_n and_o the_o imagination_n strong_o represent_v its_o vehemence_n in_o torment_v the_o body_n and_o what_o a_o evil_a the_o uncessant_a remorse_n of_o the_o guilty_a conscience_n will_v be_v hereafter_o be_v in_o part_n understand_v by_o the_o secret_a accusation_n and_o twinge_n of_o self-condemning_a sinner_n here_o but_o they_o be_v absolute_o stranger_n to_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o delight_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o contemplation_n and_o love_n of_o god_n the_o peace_n and_o contentment_n of_o conscience_n in_o his_o favour_n they_o can_v without_o experience_n know_v how_o good_a the_o lord_n be_v no_o more_o than_o see_v a_o taste_n to_o discourse_v to_o they_o of_o the_o spiritual_a pleasure_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o divine_a presence_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o the_o saint_n that_o be_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n and_o serve_v he_o day_n and_o night_n in_o his_o temple_n be_v to_o speak_v with_o the_o tongue_n of_o a_o angel_n unintelligible_a thing_n aug._n their_o affection_n and_o mind_n and_o language_n be_v confine_v to_o sensible_a thing_n the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_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 there_o may_v be_v in_o a_o carnal_a person_n a_o conception_n of_o heaven_n as_o a_o refuge_n from_o misery_n and_o some_o smother_a confuse_a thought_n of_o its_o felicity_n as_o the_o idea_n of_o light_n and_o colour_n in_o one_o blind_a from_o his_o birth_n but_o only_o the_o pure_a in_o heart_n can_v see_v god_n as_o in_o the_o perfect_a vision_n of_o glory_n in_o heaven_n so_o in_o the_o imperfect_a reflection_n of_o it_o in_o the_o gospel_n 2._o carnal_a man_n be_v more_o dispose_v to_o be_v wrought_v upon_o by_o represent_v the_o torment_n of_o hell_n than_o the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n for_o we_o can_v love_v but_o what_o be_v know_v nor_o enjoy_v but_o what_o be_v love_v and_o as_o the_o purification_n of_o the_o heart_n from_o vicious_a affection_n be_v the_o best_a mean_n to_o clear_v the_o mind_n so_o the_o illustration_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v very_o influential_a to_o warn_v the_o heart_n the_o true_a conception_n of_o heaven_n in_o its_o amiable_a excellency_n will_v convey_v such_o a_o sweetness_n as_o to_o change_v hatred_n itself_o into_o love_n and_o of_o this_o only_o prepare_v soul_n be_v capable_a but_o those_o who_o be_v sink_v into_o sense_n be_v without_o relish_n of_o spiritual_a felicity_n and_o be_v either_o allure_v or_o terrify_v only_o with_o that_o be_v pleasant_a or_o painful_a to_o sense_n it_o be_v record_v as_o the_o unparalleled_a folly_n of_o nero_n suet._n that_o when_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o cut_v his_o own_o throat_n to_o avoid_v the_o fury_n of_o the_o multitude_n he_o break_v forth_o into_o great_a expression_n of_o sorrow_n what_o a_o excellent_a artist_n he_o die_v it_o be_v not_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o roman_a empire_n that_o so_o much_o trouble_v he_o as_o that_o so_o much_o skill_n in_o music_n die_v with_o he_o he_o value_v himself_o more_o as_o a_o fiddler_n than_o a_o emperor_n thus_o carnal_a man_n with_o a_o folly_n infinite_o more_o prodigious_a when_o death_n be_v near_o be_v not_o so_o much_o affect_v with_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o crown_n of_o glory_n and_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n as_o with_o their_o leave_v the_o present_a world_n and_o its_o vanity_n this_o make_v death_n intolerable_o bitter_a till_o the_o love_n of_o god_n inflame_v and_o purify_v the_o heart_n the_o fruition_n of_o his_o glory_n be_v not_o esteem_v nor_o desire_v a_o seraphim_n send_v from_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n with_o a_o flame_a coal_n from_o the_o altar_n touch_v the_o lip_n of_o the_o holy_a prophet_n and_o his_o heart_n be_v present_o melt_v into_o a_o compliance_n with_o the_o divine_a will._n but_o if_o a_o rebel_n angel_n that_o burn_v with_o another_o fire_n than_o of_o divine_a love_n be_v dispatch_v from_o hell_n with_o a_o coal_n from_o that_o altar_n where_o so_o many_o victim_n be_v offer_v to_o divine_a justice_n as_o there_o be_v damn_v soul_n and_o touch_v obdurate_a unreformed_a sinner_n that_o they_o may_v have_v a_o lively_a sense_n what_o it_o be_v to_o burn_v for_o ever_o this_o be_v the_o most_o congruous_a and_o effectual_a way_n to_o reclaim_v they_o like_o stubborn_a metal_n they_o be_v only_o make_v pliant_a by_o the_o fire_n indeed_o the_o fear_n of_o hell_n though_o raise_v to_o the_o high_a degree_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o convert_v a_o sinner_n thorough_o to_o god_n for_o that_o religion_n that_o be_v the_o mere_a effect_n of_o fear_n will_v be_v according_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o its_o principle_n with_o resistance_n and_o trouble_n waver_v and_o inconstant_a when_o the_o violence_n of_o the_o fear_n be_v lessen_v whereas_o that_o which_o be_v from_o the_o inclination_n of_o love_n and_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o desire_a good_a be_v full_o voluntary_a and_o persevere_v as_o a_o scholar_n that_o apply_v himself_o to_o learn_v by_o the_o constraint_n of_o fear_n his_o study_n be_v uneasy_a and_o whilst_o he_o be_v read_v his_o fancy_n transport_v he_o to_o other_o thing_n and_o when_o his_o task_n be_v finish_v he_o present_o run_v to_o play_n but_o a_o lover_n of_o
future_a state_n where_o the_o misery_n be_v extreme_a and_o nothing_o remain_v to_o allay_v it_o that_o the_o damn_a shall_v be_v in_o love_n with_o the_o unhappy_a good_a of_o simple_a be_v and_o not_o choose_v a_o absolute_a extinction_n if_o it_o may_v be_v if_o any_o one_o shall_v be_v so_o foolish_a to_o think_v that_o custom_n will_v render_v that_o state_n more_o tolerable_a he_o may_v find_v a_o terrible_a confutation_n of_o his_o vain_a fancy_n indeed_o continuance_n under_o light_a evil_n may_v arm_v the_o mind_n with_o patience_n to_o bear_v they_o but_o in_o great_a extremity_n it_o make_v the_o evil_a more_o ponderous_a and_o intolerable_a he_o that_o be_v torture_v with_o the_o stone_n or_o on_o the_o rack_n the_o long_o the_o torture_n continue_v the_o less_o able_a he_o be_v to_o sustain_v it_o in_o short_a as_o the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n be_v infinite_o more_o ravish_a that_o the_o bless_a be_v without_o fear_n of_o lose_v it_o so_o the_o misery_n of_o hell_n be_v proportionable_o torment_v that_o the_o damn_a be_v absolute_o destitute_a of_o hope_n of_o a_o release_n o_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o live_a god_n who_o live_v for_o ever_o and_o can_v punish_v for_o ever_o now_o the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o this_o misery_n be_v the_o most_o proper_a and_o powerful_a mean_n to_o awaken_v indulgent_a sinner_n and_o make_v they_o resolve_v to_o cut_v off_o the_o right_a hand_n and_o pluck_v out_o the_o right_a eye_n to_o part_v with_o the_o dear_a lust_n rather_o than_o be_v expose_v to_o it_o according_a to_o the_o judgement_n of_o sense_n will_v any_o one_o in_o his_o wit_n choose_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o most_o intense_a and_o exquisite_a pleasure_n for_o a_o year_n and_o afterward_o be_v content_a to_o burn_v in_o a_o furnace_n for_o a_o day_n much_o less_o to_o enjoy_v they_o for_o a_o day_n and_o to_o burn_v for_o a_o year_n what_o stupid_a beast_n be_v they_o who_o for_o momentary_a delight_n incur_v the_o fiery_a and_o eternal_a indignation_n of_o god_n do_v we_o provoke_v the_o lord_n to_o jealousy_n be_v we_o strong_a than_o he_o try_v but_o the_o finger_n with_o the_o flame_n of_o a_o candle_n or_o touch_v but_o a_o hot_a coal_n you_o will_v soon_o discover_v your_o weakness_n but_o alas_o how_o hardly_o be_v man_n induce_v to_o exercise_v their_o mind_n on_o this_o terrible_a object_n he_o think_v least_o of_o hell_n who_o have_v most_o reason_n to_o consider_v it_o so_o unwilling_a be_v the_o carnal_a heart_n to_o have_v represent_v to_o it_o the_o evil_a to_o come_v yet_o this_o be_v the_o first_o motive_n that_o compel_v sinner_n to_o change_v their_o course_n and_o turn_v from_o sin_n to_o holiness_n from_o the_o creature_n to_o god_n the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n be_v spiritual_a and_o divine_a as_o be_v before_o observe_v have_v no_o attractive_a influence_n upon_o their_o affection_n will_v never_o convert_v and_o reform_v any_o but_o the_o torment_n of_o fire_n be_v most_o evident_a and_o vehement_a to_o sense_n be_v strong_o represent_v by_o the_o imagination_n and_o affect_v carnal_a men._n how_o many_o abound_v with_o vicious_a obstinate_a habit_n that_o by_o solemn_a and_o believe_a thought_n of_o the_o unquenchable_a fire_n have_v feel_v the_o miracle_n upon_o the_o three_o child_n in_o the_o furnace_n renew_v in_o themselves_o their_o strong_a cord_n burn_v asunder_o and_o all_o their_o power_n restore_v to_o the_o freedom_n of_o duty_n the_o bless_a liberty_n of_o obedience_n the_o truth_n be_v if_o god_n have_v not_o form_v hell_n for_o the_o punishment_n of_o sin_n and_o only_o prepare_v the_o celestial_a kingdom_n for_o the_o reward_n of_o holiness_n the_o bless_a angel_n will_v be_v the_o sole_a possessor_n of_o it_o and_o heaven_n will_v be_v as_o empty_a of_o human_a soul_n as_o it_o be_v full_a of_o glory_n so_o foolish_o and_o violent_o be_v the_o corrupt_a nature_n of_o man_n draw_v by_o what_o be_v please_v to_o sense_n though_o with_o the_o certain_a loss_n of_o the_o most_o precious_a and_o eternal_a good_a thing_n in_o the_o divine_a treasury_n but_o the_o belief_n that_o within_o a_o little_a time_n nothing_o will_v remain_v of_o their_o sinful_a pleasure_n but_o the_o never_o die_a worm_n and_o ever_o live_a flame_n make_v they_o considerative_a of_o their_o imminent_a danger_n and_o as_o it_o be_v by_o necessity_n to_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n as_o a_o secondary_a object_n to_o escape_v from_o hell_n as_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o loadstone_n when_o encompass_v and_o arm_v with_o iron_n be_v increase_v and_o draw_v a_o far_o great_a weight_n than_o when_o it_o be_v single_a thus_o the_o attractive_n of_o heaven_n be_v more_o powerful_a to_o move_v our_o obdurate_a heart_n when_o enforce_v from_o the_o terror_n of_o hell_n in_o this_o respect_n the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v the_o begin_n of_o wisdom_n of_o the_o active_a and_o best_a wisdom_n that_o direct_v we_o in_o the_o way_n to_o blessedness_n chap._n xiii_o the_o last_o direction_n earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n to_o enlighten_v our_o mind_n to_o believe_v the_o eternal_a world_n and_o effectual_o turn_v our_o will_n to_o desire_v and_o prosecute_v the_o blessedness_n to_o come_v have_v a_o discovery_n so_o clear_a and_o certain_a in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n of_o the_o everlasting_a recompense_n in_o the_o next_o world_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n prepare_v by_o god_n to_o show_v his_o excellent_a glory_n to_o his_o faithful_a servant_n where_o love_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n dwell_v for_o ever_o and_o of_o the_o infernal_a prison_n where_o despair_n and_o rage_n and_o sorrow_n and_o whatever_o be_v signify_v under_o the_o terrible_a allusion_n of_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n be_v ordain_v by_o divine_a justice_n for_o the_o wicked_a it_o may_v be_v just_o hope_v that_o all_o man_n will_v by_o a_o holy_a violence_n take_v heaven_n and_o by_o the_o swift_a motion_n flee_v from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v the_o instinct_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o light_n of_o reason_n excite_v they_o to_o secure_v their_o most_o precious_a interest_n can_v there_o be_v a_o expectation_n desire_n or_o capacity_n in_o man_n of_o enjoy_v a_o blessedness_n beyond_o what_o be_v infinite_a and_o eternal_a and_o can_v there_o be_v any_o evil_n so_o formidable_a as_o everlasting_a misery_n now_o both_o these_o object_n be_v set_v before_o man_n and_o propound_v to_o their_o choice_n and_o we_o be_v infallible_o assure_v from_o god_n himself_o that_o all_o who_o be_v sincere_a and_o constant_a in_o their_o choice_n and_o pursuit_n shall_v obtain_v heaven_n and_o that_o none_o shall_v be_v cast_v into_o hell_n but_o those_o who_o choose_v it_o and_o therefore_o most_o worthy_o suffer_v it_o but_o o_o astonishment_n if_o with_o a_o serious_a eye_n we_o regard_v the_o course_n of_o man_n action_n it_o be_v visible_a that_o incomparable_o the_o great_a number_n of_o christian_n in_o profession_n love_v death_n and_o hate_v eternal_a life_n not_o that_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o the_o reasonable_a creature_n to_o do_v this_o direct_o with_o a_o explicit_a aim_n but_o virtual_o and_o by_o interpretation_n they_o intend_v happiness_n but_o choose_v misery_n for_o he_o that_o voluntary_o break_v the_o law_n of_o god_n choose_v the_o know_a penalty_n of_o its_o violation_n he_o that_o prefer_v this_o perish_a world_n before_o heaven_n reject_v it_o in_o the_o most_o contumelious_a manner_n and_o such_o be_v the_o depravation_n of_o man_n since_o his_o fall_n the_o mind_n be_v divert_v by_o vain_a thought_n and_o the_o heart_n prepossess_v with_o sensual_a desire_n that_o till_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n be_v renew_v and_o his_o original_a affection_n to_o the_o supreme_a good_a be_v revive_v and_o restore_v by_o divine_a grace_n he_o be_v regardless_o of_o it_o and_o only_o apply_v himself_o to_o what_o be_v please_v to_o sense_n therefore_o a_o most_o necessary_a duty_n incumbent_a upon_o we_o be_v by_o humble_a and_o fervent_a prayer_n to_o address_v ourselves_o to_o god_n for_o his_o spirit_n to_o enlighten_v our_o mind_n that_o we_o may_v believe_v the_o reality_n and_o greatness_n of_o the_o eternal_a reward_n and_o to_o reform_v our_o will_n that_o we_o may_v feel_v its_o attractive_a force_n both_o these_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v requisite_a that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n as_o our_o chief_a felicity_n may_v be_v the_o regent_n principle_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o life_n 1._o for_o this_o end_n the_o holy_a spirit_n convince_v man_n thorough_o of_o the_o reality_n and_o greatness_n of_o a_o invisible_a happiness_n indeed_o the_o heathen_n see_v something_o of_o this_o as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o dream_n they_o have_v some_o transient_a glance_n and_o volatile_a wish_n concern_v it_o but_o miserable_o weak_a and_o ineffectual_a and_o in_o the_o most_o of_o