to be â—ound neither will they seek it any other where he alone must be the GOD of their Salvation And therefore they wait and look out â—or Him and encourrage themselves with the Hope of a happy Outgate My GOD will hear me They will wait upon the LORD that hideth His Face and will look for Him Isa 8 17. Meditating on that Word Isa 45.22 Look unto me and be ye saved all the ends of the Earth Though they dare not say they have atâ—ained that Lively Hope yet they know that â—hey are at the right Door therefore will not give over but resolves so long as there is Life or Breath in them to hang at the cheeks of GOD's gates come of it what will Thus Hope preseâ—ves the Soul from dispair or givâ—ng over the Cause as desperate and from sayâ—ng with that wicked king 2 King 6.33 This evil is of the LORD why should I wait for â—he LORD any longer 4. Some being enviroâ—ed with temptations and thick clouds may conclude that they are cast off and say in â—heir haste that the LORD hath forgotten â—hem and cast tâ—em off Yea and say roundâ—y that there is no Hope that their Hope is perished from the LORD Lam 3.18 Isa 40.27 Ezek 37.8 And that they are cuâ— off Psal 31.22 And that all Men are lyers Psal 116.10 11 And with Iob Chap 17 15. 19 10 And where is now my Hope Mine Hope hath he removed like a tree Yet notwithstanding of all this they will not quite nor sell their Interest of Christ and Heaven but reckon it their great priviledge that they are out of hell and that GOD renews his Mercys to them day by day this they recall to mind therefore have they Hope Lam 3.21 Vse Since there is such a noble and excellent Grace every way so necessary and profiâ—able Surely it is our great concâ—rnment anâ— interest to try and search narrowly whithâ—â— we have it or not Many phansie they haveâ— true lively Hope and alas it is but a clatch up and imaginary hope they die with a lie iâ— their Right Hand Again others who havâ— really this Hope in their Soul notwithstanding entertaìn suspicious that all is wrong witâ— them and therefore cry out that their Strengtâ— and Hope in GOD is departed Therefor wâ— shall speak a word to both And 1 All havâ— not a True and Lively Hope who say theâ— have it There is a generation that is reallâ— without Hope Eph 2.12 Who yet phansie they have a sure and well grounded Hopeâ— But the hope of many shall â—erish with themselves Pro 11.7 Iob. 18.13.14 Alâ—â— this ill grounded hope will not support the Man that hath it What is the hope of the Hypocrite though he hath gained when God taketh away hisSoul saith Iob. ch 27.8.2 It must be undoubtedly a sad and lamentable Disappoinment of their Expectations many shall meet with when their Hope shall forsake them and sink under them as the broken reed of Egypt And what more lamentable then to credit the stress of their immortal Souls in a rotten â—reed and to phansie when Death shall come to Land in Glory and yet for them and their Hope uâ—â—erly to perish Oh! how shall their former Hope augment their irrecoverable and eternal Misery and rende their condition more lamentable then they had never had such a Hope 3. Shall not this disappointment occasion great confusion of Faces Shall it not fare with them as with the Troops of â—ema and the Companies of Sheba â—o that they shall be ashamed and conâ—ounded becâ—use they had hoped Job 6.19 20. Many pass now for great Christians and have a hope they will not quite with which shall fill their Faces with conâ—usion when they come to see that their Hope hath been but a meer Dream 4. Is it not a terrible plague and judgement to be so far possessed with blindness as not only to be ignorant where we are but to dreaâ— and phansie that we walk on a sure and even ground whereas puffed up with vain presumption we are walking on the very sides of the pit not knowing but every step may land us in Eternity and so in everlasting confusion Alas how lamentable is it to see people feeding upon ashes and turned aside with a deceitful heart so that they cannot deliver their Soul Nor say is there not a lie in my right hand Isa 44.20.5 Providing the mâ—ssing of our hope were of small importance the matter were not so great But to miss and be disappointed of Glory of Eternal Salvation of the Fellowship of GOD Eternally O how dreadful must that be how can such a loss ever be repaired what can man give for the Redemption of his Soul Or what shall hâ— give in exchange thereof what thing imaginable can repair this irrepairable Loss 6. Providing this loss could ever be recovered it were the more supportable But when this one Loss and disappointment can never be again repaired what a terrible bussiness then to rest here in time on a false hope which with them will perish and give up the Ghost their being noâ— returning again to make amendment of by gone miscarriages O! Then should not every Soul â—eriously consider how greatly it is thâ—â— Interest to ponder and narrowly to examine on what ground their Hope resteth Now â—or helping such out of their self deceitfulness who fancy they have the right Hope and are yet strangers thereto And for easing such who cannot be convinced that their Hopâ— is of the right kind I shall in short propose some Marks whereby the one and and the other may try themselveâ— 1. Mark Let every one try how they came by their Hope that Hope which is born with us and hath alwise lodged in us and kept us in peace since we came into the World providing we have no other cannot be of the right stamp For hope is a fruit of the Spirit For we through the Spirit wait for the Hope of Righteousness by Faith Gal 5 5. There is no abounding in hope but through the power of the holy Ghost Rom. 15.13 The strength of nature or edâ—cation cannot help us here Our Lord Jesus Christ himself and GOD even our Fathâ—r must give us good hope through Grace 2 Thes 2.16 This hope is from no natural extraction it is of Divine Extract 2. Mark True and lively Hope is ever grounded upon Christ's Righteousness and Resurrection Therefore it is a waiting For the hope of Righteousness by Faith Gal 5.5 Awaiting for what is hoped for through the Righteousness of â—hrist or only by vertue of that Righteousness of Jesus Christ which is laid hold on by Faith so that the hope of Glory is founded thereon We are begotten again unto a lively hope by the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 1 Pet 1 3. So that the hope which is not upon Christ which is not built on his Deaâ—h and Resurrection and upon his imputed Righteousness but on something within
Invasions So is Christs Reâ—gniâ— as Head Law-giver and great Commandâ— in the Souls of his People by hâ—s Laws aâ—â— Statutes So is he said to Reign over the house 〈◊〉 Iacob Luk 1.33 with 1 Joh 4 4. 2. As the Master of a Family in his owâ— House where he dwells with Contentmenâ— Ease Satisfaction Pleasure and Delight 〈◊〉 beholding his House Even so Christ â—welâ— in the Hearts of his People Eph 3.17 Aâ—â— therefore called his own house Heb 3.6 And an habitation of God through the Spirit Eph â— 22. Christ standing before the door promiseth to such as will open to him to come it Revel 3.20 3. Christ is in the Believer as a Tradseman in his Shop doing the Work of his Calling I say so is Christ advancing the Work oâ— Grace in the Believer for beliveth in them Gal 2.20 And if Christ be in you the body iâ— dead because of sea but the Spirit is Life becausâ— of Righteousness Rom 8 10. As the GOD this World that is the Devil is and dwelâ— in them to whoâ— the Gospel is hid and whâ— are lost blinding the minds of them whicâ— believe not 2 Cor 4.3 4. And as the prince 〈◊〉 the power of the air that evil spirit doth worâ— in the Children of disobedience Ephes 2 2â— Even so Christ having cast out this strong man comes to the heart and takes possession â—hereof and worketh therein what is well pleasing in his eyes 4. Like into one in his obtained possession â—nd in his Garden delighâ—ing himself in the â—njoyment of what he hath gotten and purchased Even so is Christ in Believers havâ—ng purchased them unto himself and that with his own Blood pâ—ssâ—ssing them as his own and there delighâ—eâ—h he himself as in his Garden Song 6.2 My Beloved is gone down â—nto his Garden to the beds of Spices to feed in â—he Gardens and to gather Lillies So that this Expression Christ in you holds â—orth 1 Christ reco0ncilled with them by Faith He stands no more at the door knockâ—ng but he is let in and there is peace betwixt Him and â—hem he is come in 2. Christs â—nward Affection to them He cannot but love â—hem in whom he dwells and abides In whose bosome he layeth his head and in whose Heart he hath his Throne 3 â—hrists â—pecial acknowledging them â—o be his ransomâ—d Ones for his peculiar Treasure for his House and constant dwelling Place 4. Christs working in them the work of Holyâ—ess and drawing in them more and more â—vely Draughts and Lineaments of his new â—mage that the new Man of Grace may be â—tronger and stronger they made more and â—ore conformable to the Prince of their Salvtion in all the Graces of the Spirit 5. Christs reigning and sweying his Scepter in the Soul And that his Laws are obeyed his Statutes followed and that there is no willing subjection to any other Master That Christ having cast out the old tyrant usurper he is acknowledged as the Alone and Lawful Soveraign 6 Christs resting himself in his Love to them For where he loves there iâ— his resting place there he makes his abode 7. Christs being in them as their life the Fountain and Well spring of all Life and Operations Gal 2.20 8. In a word It holds sorth â—hat Christ is in them to do in and for them to bring them up to Glory to lead them through difficulties to strengthen them against opposition to comfort them against discouragements and to support them under crosses and so in the end to bring them home Question But how is He in the Believer I Answer He is there not only as GOD For so is he over all neither is he there meerly as Man For he is so in Heaven at the Right Hand of the Father where he must abide until the times of restitution of all things which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his Holy Prophets since the World began Acts. 3.21 Buâ— as Mediator not in Person but by his Viceroy and great Lord keeper of his Room the Holy Ghost For he is the Comforter that â—hall ever abide with us And for whom Christ prayed the Father and wâ—â—m he was â—o send Ioh 14.16 17.26 Ioâ— 15.26 and 16.7.13 Question But is it by the Spirit himself that Christ lives and abides in the Believer Or is â—t alone by the Graces Effects and Operations of the Spirit Answer By whatever of the two it be by this way of Christs in dwelling is every way strong ground of Consolation and affords solide Joy and a sure well grounded Hope of Glory Notwithstanding there are several Expressions in Scripture that seems to plead â—or the Spirit himself As 1. The Believer is said to be the Temple of God of the Holy Ghost 1 Cor 3.16 17. and 6.19 Which gives to know more than that they have his Graces as the design ground of the Apostles reasoning holds forth Know ye not that ye are the Temple of God And that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you If any man defile the Temple of God him shall God destroy For the Temple of God as holy which Temple ye are Here three times they are called GODS Temple And not only so but as if the Apostle would further lay forth the business he adds And that the Spirit of GOD dwelleth in you All which may be said very properly of a Person and more properly than of any work wrought by the Spirit To the same purpose the Apostle speaketh 1 Cor 6.19 What know ye not that your body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you which ye have of God The Holy Ghost is said to be in them as a Temple 2. The Spirit is spoken of as a Gift with a dâ—fference from his Works and Effects oâ— Grace Because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given us Rom 5.5 Here is the Grace of Love wrought by the Holy Ghost And moreover the Apostle sayes that it is by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us So that the Holy Ghost himself is given as a special Gift besides that of his Fruit and Operations in the Soul Compared with Ezek 36.27 And I will put my Spiriâ— within you 3. Christ promises to send him in hâ—â— Room and mentions him alwayes as a Person that he will send to dwell and abide with them to work in them â—o saith he Iob. 14.16 17. And I will pray the Father and he shall givâ— you another comforter that he may abide with yoâ— for ever So that it is the Comforter himselâ— that he promiseth here and not simply hâ—â— Comforts And who is this Comforter Eveâ— the spirit of Truth whom the World cannot receive because it seeth him not neither knoweth him bâ—â— ye know him And as if this were not sufficienâ— he adds further for he dwelleth with yoâ— and shall be in you And yet further v. 26. Buâ— the Comforter which is the Holy
Ghost whom the Father will send in my Name He shall teach you all things So that the Comforter himself as distinguished from his teaching is promised here And Ioh 15.26 He is also promised as contradistinguished from his Operations and testifying oâ— Christ. 4. The Believer is said to have the Spirit So that they belong not to Christ who have not have the Spirit of Christ Rom 8.9 He is said to dwell in them Rom 8.11 1 Cor 3.16 2 Tim 1.14 To be with them Ioh 14.17 And to be in them Rom 8.11 By his Spirit that dwelleth in you 5. Not only doth the Spirit help our infirmities which is through Grace But the Spirit himself is said to make intercession for us with groaninos which cannot be uttered which aÌ„pears to be somewhat other that is given them then the meer Graces of the Spirit And that because there immediately follows And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit Rom 8.27 6. The Believer is said to be sealled with the holy Spirit oâ— promise And he is the earnest of our Inheritance Eph 1.13 14. And given as a seal and Pledge Eph 4.30 The earnest of the Spirit is given in their hearts 2 Cor 1.22 So also 2. Cor 5.5 which seems to hold out more than his Fruits 7. Therefore the Believer is commanded not only not to quench the Spirit Ephes 5. 19. which may have respect to his Operations and Indrawings of Grace in the Soul But also not to grieve the Spirit Ephes 4.30 Which seems to import the dwelling of the Spirit in them 8. It is by vertue of this Union betwixt the Spirit and the believer that their very dust is raised up in the last day so that God by the Spirit that dwelleth in them shall quicken their mortal bodies Rom 8.11 This Spirit then that dwelleth in them must be somewhat else then his Graces for by these the mortal bodies are not quickened And he is called the Spirit of Him that raised up Iesus from the dead 9. He is said to be sent forth into their Heaâ—ts crying Abba Father Gal 4.6 10. David prayeth expresly Psal 51.11 That the LORD would not take his Holy Spirit from him Vse 1. This is a noble point of Truth and full of many grounds oâ— Comfort And how could Believers other wayes then rejoyce providing this Union betwixt Christ and them were believed Did they know that Christ were in them keeping house in them dweling with them with joy and satisfaction would it not make them sing under all adversity And that upon a four fold account 1. Upon the account of the great Honour which iâ— brought to them thereby even to them who formerly were meer cages of unclean spirits and yet still have much coorruption abiding in them That the King of Zion who is King of kings LORD of Lords Heir of all the Brightness oâ— his Fathers Glory and the express Image of his Person Heb 1.3 Who is the Image of the invisible GOD the first borne of every Creature Col 1.15 That he I say should come and loege with them lodge in their Heart within their Soul That he whom the Heaven of heavens cannot contain that is High and Lofty who dwells in Eternity should live with such a One and be united with such O what incomprehensible Honour is this Elizabeth cryed once with great admiration And whence is this to me that the Mother of my Lord should come to me Luke 1.43 And may not the Believer with much more admiration cry out And whence is this to me that my Lord himself should come to me And not only so but come to me and dwell and abide with me 2. Here is great comfort on the account of profit and advantage Have they the Heir of all things so near to them and with them living in them what can they then want For if Christ be theirs all things are theirs life death â—hings present and things to come 1 Cor 3.22 23. Hath GOD given Christ and shall he not with him also freely give us all things Rom â— 32 And what can they lack that have all things what can they want who have Him in them in whom dwells all the fullness of the God head bodily Col 2.9 What want they who have Heaven And can they want Heaven within them who have Christ within them They are compleat in him Col 2.10 Which is â—he Head of all principality and power 3. Here is comfor upon the account of safety Who or what can harm them who have preservation or salvation wiâ—hin them Christ the Author of Eternal Salvation within them O what security for them in whom he is What can tribulation or distress or famine or nâ—kedness or peril or sword do to such can they separate him who is become a Habitation for Christ from the love of GOD which is in Christ Jesus No no can the ship drown wherein Christ is Can fire or water harm a Soul who is a Habitation for Christ What can satan do against Christs lodging Can he or dare he cast it down 4. Here is Comfort upon the account of security and tranquility For who can weaken and endamage their right to Glory that allready have begun Glory in the soul to wit Christ the hope of Glory can satan or the world make such an one miserable No surely greater is He that is in them then he that is in the world 1 Ioh 4.4 What surer pledge of Heaven and Salvation can the soul have then a begun possession What is Heaven other then a life of Communion with GOD in the nearest and strictest degreâ— And 〈◊〉 stricteâ— Union can any have with Christ than to have him in them Vse 2 Unbelievers and strangers â—o Christ may hence gather these princâ—pal Points for their better improvement oâ—â—he â—oresaid Truths 1. Have nâ— mean â—houghâ—s â—f â—he life and state of Bâ—lievâ—rs You sâ—e to what they are â—xâ—lâ—ed hâ—wever contempâ—able in the eyes of â—he World despise you such an incomprehensiâ—le â—â—ch advantage Iâ— is no such despicâ—ble and mean Life as you phansie Have then a higher esteem thereof if you would be truely Wise. 2. Again on the other hand ponder seriously what a fearful and mâ—serable condiâ—ion iâ— is wherâ—in ye are who are strangeâ—s to Christ And in place of Christ in you the Hâ—pe of Glory ye have satan â—n you working thâ— wâ—â—ks of darkness blinding the mind left the light of the glorious Gospel â—f Christ who is the Image of God shouuld shine unto you 2 Cor 4 4. Beâ—ng without Christ â—o ye have no hope strangers from the Covenants â—f promise and without God Ephes 2 21. Without a Leader and Commander Isa 55. Without Protectâ—on or â—oy and wâ—thout â—ll that â—s good 3 Do noâ— only think on it â—ut dwell on the thoughts of it until that your â—earts be wroughâ— up to a real sorrow and â—rief that ye have been so long in such a conâ—ition
Fountain of Life within them and the Bread of Life Therefore are they to present their bodies a living sacrifice unto GOD Rom 12.1 And shew forth themselves as lively stones built up a Spiritual House 1 Pet 2 â—5 6 They must also make this evident by their Zealous way of walking seeing Christ hath a loathing at lukewarmness Rev 3 15 16. That they are Zealous of good Works Tit. 2.14.7 Their Christian carriage should fill them with Joy and Gladness as delighting themselves in the Law of the LORD and rejoycing in serving and pleasing of him 8. They must walk in the fear of the LORD and be in his fear all the day long and carry themselves circumspectly and tenderly as in the sight of Jesus Christ who is in them and locketh upon them wherever they be and in whatever they are doing 9. Is Christ come into their Souls to work his work then theâ— should not suffer him to be idle buâ— gâ—ve him employment He accounts Employment the greatest Friendship and best Reception that we give him To wit 1. That he teach and lead them in the wayes of GOD Thus he getts Employment as a Prophet 2. That he command and lead them as a King Whâ—reas â— corruptions diverts from following the Dictaâ—es of his Spirit He is given for a leader and commander to the People Isa 55.4 And for that end he must be employed 3. Thaâ— he wâ—sh â—hem from their daâ—ly poluâ—ions seeing he iâ— a fountain opened to the House of David and to the â—nhabitants of Jâ—rusalem for sin and uncleanness Zach 13.1 His blood cleanseth us from all sin 1 Joh 1.7 And he is faithful c â— 9.4 That he pray for them as an Advocate with the Father being a Propitiation or atâ—onement for their sins 1 Ioh 2.1 2. Seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Heb 7.25 5. That he renew sanctity them wholly in Spirit Soul and Body that he renew them wholly in the inward Man So that the new Man of Grace may grow and corruption may be brought under 6. That he strengthen them with all might according to his Glorious power unto all patience and long sâ—ffering with Joyfullness Col 1.11 That he may grant them according to the riches of his Glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the Inner-man Ephes 3.16 That they may be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might Ephes 6.18.7 That he may refresh and enliven theâ— when sicking and fainting under fears weakness outbreakings of corruption hidings of the Lords Face or such like 8. In a woâ—d that he may make them confident of this very thing that he who hath begun a good work in â—hem will peâ—form it until the day of Iesâ—s Christ Phil 1.6 That in him they may perfect their Holiness in the fear of Gâ—D 2 Cor 7.1 That so the work may be Câ—owned to his Glory That they may be presented to him A glorious Church not having spot or wrinkle but that they should be Holy and without blemish Ephes. 5.27 10. Seeing Christ is so near them that he himself is in them so they should have their retreat to him in all their difficulties for help and deliverance And that 1. when distempered wiâ—h doubtings and discouragements anâ—nt their State present frame or Duties For with him is the Fountain of Life and in his Light shall we see Light Psal. 36 9.2 When they are assaulted with sinking disâ—ouragements so that they cannot stand and subsist under their burdens For in him alone and in the strength of his power can they be strengthned He can make them renew their strength and mount up with Wings as Eagles to run and not be wearied Isa 40.31 3. Or when disordered with outward losses or crosses For he only can make up all their losses and fully satisfy being an incomparable portion Ier. 10.16.4 When they are confounded with fears whether from the breaking forth of Corruptions or from the deceitfulness of their own Heart the cuningness of Satan the weakness of Grace the accusations of Conscience c. Seeing he is a present help upon all occasions and easily with a blink of his Countenance can drive away all these clouds and grounds of fear Having now giâ—en some Observations of these words Christ in you We come now to speak of them in so far as they are the ground of the hope of Glory And so they teach us that Christ in the Soul is a most sure clear and certain ground of a lively hope of Glory which we shall manifest and confirm with these Scriptural Reasons 1. All such in whom Christ is and Lives He hath purchased and bought with his Blood Gal. 2.20 Christ liveth in me saith he and then addeth Who loved me and gave Himself for me Such are bought with a price both Soul and Body 1 Cor. 6.20 And seeing Christ hath bought them so Dear and taken possession of them as of his peculiar Treasure what is there that can afford ground once to call in question or doubt of their Salvation they are bought unto Glory and Glory is purchased unto them and Christ possesseth them as such and so they are certain of Glory 2. There is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Iesus Rom. 8.1 And who are in Christ the same hath Christ in them as is clear from what folâ—ows in that Text ver 9.10.3 That Christ is in the Soul sayes that however they were once without Christ yet now are they made â—igh by the Blood of Christ Who is our Peace â—nd hath reconciled us unto God Ephes 2.12 13 14 16. Reconciled Souls shall certainly possess Glory 4. Christ is called our Life And our Life is hide with him in God Col. 3.3 4. They then that have him in them may be â—ssured of Eternal Life 5. Such in whom Christ lives shall be Filled with all the fulness of God as we see Ephes. 3.17 19. That is until begun Grace here be perfected in Glory hereafter where we shall be filled fully and compleatly with the fulness of God enjoying his presâ—nce in immediate Communion with him so full as we shall be able to contain Ioh. 17.23 24.6 Christ is made for all such Wisdom Righteousness Sanctification and Redemption 1 Cor. 1.30 How then can they be deprived of Salvation 7. Such are the Children of God as the Apostle saith Rom. 8. Who are led by the Spirit have the Spirit oâ— Christ in them ver 9 10 11. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God they are the Sons of God ver 14 And if Children then Heirs Heirs of God and joynt Heirs with Christ ver 17. So that Christ in them must be a certain and sure hope of Glory 8. Providing Christ be in them then The Spirit is Life saith the Apostle Rom. 8.10 Because of Righteousness That is their Soul and Spirit is already living by vertue of Christs Righteousness and the Life of Glory
pleasant and delectable â—o us here We only shall make mention of the most principal ones As 1 It is a Life of greaâ— Joy and Gladness They shall obtainjoy and gladness Isa. 35.10 and 51 8. Then thâ—s Gladness is great it shall be an unspeakably glorious Joy 1 Pet. 1.8 For then they shall see him seeing the joy which now they have when they love him whom they see not and believe on an unseen Christ is inexpressible and full of Glory How much more inexpressibly full of Glory shall they then be when they come to embrace him whom their Soul loveth whom now they enjoy alone by Faith Spiritual Joy and Gladness in the Holy Ghost is the very beginings of it in time Rom. 14.17 It is here a Fruit of the Spirit Gal. 5.22 It is an exceeding great joy 1 Pet. 4.13 That when his Glory shall be revealed ye may be glad also with exceeding joy It is an everlasting joy â—sa 35.10 and 51.11 The very earnest thereof here enjoyed far surpâ—steth the laughing joy of the wicked Psal. 4 7 It is a peculiar joy a rejoycing in the gâ—adness of his Nation Psal. 106.5 Here is Fulness of joy Psal 16.11 2. It is a Life of clear Sight we shall know no more in part but know even as we are known 1 Cor. 13.12 And We shall see him as he â—s 1 Joh 3.2 Now we see darkly through a Glaâ—s But then face to face 1 Cor. 13.12 In the Light of Glory there is no Daâ—kness The Soul no sooner enters the threshold of Glory but it is delivered from all Damps Mists Clouds and Imperfections and capacitate more fully and distiâ—ctly to receive the Outtings of Light â—verlastingly flowing from that Fountain of Light who dwelleth In the Light which no man can approach unto 1 Tâ—m 6.16 Not that the Soul shall then be in case to behold Gods being whom no man hath seen or caâ— see He remains for ever God Invisible 1 Tim 1.17 And the Believer a finite Creature and sâ— incapable to behold the Being of God whicâ— is Infinite and Invisible But they shall be admitted to such nearness and enjoy such immediate Manifestations and Beams flowing froâ— the Fountain of Glory that it shall be as a seâ—ing of him face to face and a knowing of him as we are known in comparison of what here enjoyed Undoubtedly our Understandinâ— though never so deep shall be there compleaâ—ly satisfied and that is enough and may satisâ—â—â— us 3. That Glory hath a wonderful transforâ—ing vertue as appeareth from 1 Iohn 3.2 〈◊〉 shall be like Him that is like unto Christ 〈◊〉 whom the Apostle speaks there for we shaâ—â— see him as he is The discoveries of God in thâ— Land of Glory shall transform us and iâ— print in the Soul those Heavenly Accompliâ—â—ments which shall make us like unto him Tâ—â— Divine rayes proceeding from that Object 〈◊〉 received by the Soul shall make it so farâ—â— capable conformable to the Object caâ—â—â—ing alongst with them a transforming Poâ—â—â— and Vertue They shall imprint in the Souâ—â— lively Copy of the Glorious Communicaâ—â— Vertues after a more Clear full Heavenly 〈◊〉 visible way and in a far greater measure 〈◊〉 here Though even here the Glory of the Lord being seen as in a Glass changeth the Believer Into the same Image from Glory to Glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord 2 Cor. 3.18 This is a powerful operative Glory a continual refreshing Glory 4. That Glory filleth up the spacious desires and out-stretched uptakings of the Soul so that the Soul living in Glory can complain of no wants but is compleatly satisfied Ps. l7. 15 I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy likeness Then shall all the corners of the wide and vastly enlarged Soul be fully satisfied There shall be no Hunger and Thirst there after wants for all shall be enjoyed what the Soul can desire This teacheth us 1 st That all the good to be enjoyed there shall be real and not apparent only and imaginary 2 ly It shall be a most fit and suteable good other wayes it could never satisfy superfluity of Water is satisfying to a Fish because in its Element yet could not be so to man who lives in another Element 3 ly There shall be no scarcity of â—hat suteable and convenient good but a fulness that shall answer all the extended desires of the Soul 4 ly That the Soul shall possess and enjoy this â—ullness that it may be satisfied therewith and get all its wanâ—s filled up thereby 5. In â—hat Glory the Believer is admitted to more close Fellowship with God For there they are admitted to stand before the Throne of God Revel 7.15 There it is that they shall fully possess Him as their Portion and thaâ— familiarly For they â—tand there as Ministers oâ— State attending the Kings own person Then behold they Hâ—s Face and live and do rejoyce iâ— the Light of his Countenance day and nighâ— They are made Pillars in the Temple of God and they shall go no more out Rev. 3.12 Glorâ— is their House and Element They could noâ— live without thâ—t Glory They could noâ— breath without His Company He dwells among them even He that sitteth upon t thâ— Throne Revel 7.15 There the great Tabernacle of God is with men whereof this Tabernacle enjoyed by them in the Church Militanâ— is but a smâ—ll resemblance There it is when that word shaâ—l be made good and lively whicâ— we have Revel 21.3 And I heard a great voicâ— out of Heaven saying Behold the Tabernacle 〈◊〉 God is with men and He will dwell with them anâ— they shall be his People and God himself shall bâ— with them and shall be their God The Believeâ— there lyeth in the Bosome of God there it 〈◊〉 that They shall see his Face and his Name shall bâ— in their Foreheads Revel 22 4. 6. In Glory they shall have near Communioâ— wiâ—h Jesus Christ their Head their Husbanâ— their Brother their Lord and King Then they are with Christ and enjoy Him Phil. 1 23. 2 Cor. 5.8 And â—hat for ever and ever 1 Thess 4.17 He lives with them and feed them The Lamb which is in the midst of the Throne shall feed them and shall lead them Rev. 7 17. They shall sit with him there upon his Throne Revel 3.21 There got they the Morning Star Revel 2.28 There do they eat of the hidden Manna Rev. 2.17 Here the Soul is put to long for nearness with Christ and complain of clouds interrupting the Beams of His Love But there they shall see Him to their Contentment and Satisfaction For they shall be continually with the Lord and follow the Lamb whithersoever He goeth Revel 14.4 There shall the Iâ—habitanâ—s of Glory be partakers of the Marriage of the Lamb Revel 19 7 8. 7. In Glory their Work and Imployment shall be to serve God and the Lamb day and night in his Temple Revel 7 15. and 22.3 And to praise
our selves be it never so specious or excellent as an honest heart as they phansie outward holiness blamelessness victory over corruptions singular devotion or whatever it be of that nature will be but aâ— the giving up of the Ghost and come far short of helping or relieving the poor Soul 3. Mark True and lively Hope as it is sounded upon Faith so they go hand in hand togeâ—her 1 Pet 1.21 Who by him do believe in God that raised him up from the dead and gavâ— him Glory that your Hope and Faith might be iâ— God Hope without Paith laying hold upon â— crucified Saviour according to the tenor oâ— the Covenant is but a meer dream Hope cannot stand but upon the pillar of Faith Therefore the Church first embraceth GOD as her Portion then she wins to the solid exercise of Hope Lam 3 24. The Lord is my portion sayeth my soul therefore will I hope in him 4. Maâ—k Where there is a real Hope oâ— Glory there will be a leaning on GOD and committing of our Souls to him for through bearing through all the difficulties Wyndings and turnings in our way Ouâ— hope is coâ—tinually in GOD Psal. 39.7 Others trusteâ— in their Riches they gathered and heaped it uâ— But for David he sayes And now Lord whâ— wait I for My hope is in Thee compared wiâ—â— Psal 71.5 David on this foundation pressâ— to be delivered out of the hands of the wicked because he had alwayes been his hope For he sayeth Thou art my hope O Lord God thou art my trust from my youth Thus casts he all his cares and burdens on the LORD and this was his constant way and continual practise He had no other hope neither acknowledged any other knowing that he was happy that had the GOD of Jacob for his help and whose hope was in the LORD his GOD Psal 146.5 5. Mark Where there is a Reall and Lively Hope of Glory desires after bewitching pleasures will grow cold And now what wait I for saith David Psal 39.7 My hope is in Thee He saw nothing in the World worthy his attendance for his hope he had established it on a sure and sufficient Object he betook himself not to these who said who will shew us any Good Psal 4.6 O! When the heart through hope hath fastened it self on GOD how little values it all the vanity of a perishing world The sight of Glory which they have through hope darkens that lustre and beauty which others see in the perishing things of a world whose eyes being of the same substance with the world are earthly 6. Mark This true Hope is accompanied with a careful endeavour to keep all the Commandments of GOD LORD sayeth David Psal 119.166 I have hoped for thy Salvation and done thy Commandments True hope is an enemy to a careless life and is accompanied with tenderness and earnestness Hope sets the Soul a running Act. 26.7 Vnto which promise our twelve Tribes instantly serving GOD day and night hope to come 7. Mark Hope will sit down down well satisfied on GODS bare Word As Abraham who against hope believed in hope Rom 4.18 And how often sayeth David that he hoped in GODS Word Psal 119.49.114 Psal 130 5. Hope will keep the Soul in Life even when all things seems contradicting the very Promises and to say it is vain to wait any more 8. Mark Hope is a purifying Business 〈◊〉 Job 3.3 It sets the Soul a work to wash iâ—self in the Blood of Christ and makes the Souâ— to labour in the strength of Jesus to get sin kâ—lled the desires of the flesh and mind brought under and the Soul sanctified So that they will wrestle with GOD by Faith in Prayer to be made fit to have an Interest of the Inheritance of the Saints in Light 9. Mark Hope makes the Soul silent anâ— satisfied under great temptations David Psal 38. was under sore trialls the LORD chastned him his an wâ—sâ—stuck fast in him his hand pressed him sore both Soul and Body did bear thâ— marks that GOD was contending with him foâ— sin Yea his heart was oveâ—whelmed withiâ— him and his strengâ—h bâ—â—ailed him And eveâ— when it was thus with him inwardly enemieâ— without were seeking his Life laying snares â—or him and seeking his hurt What was â—t then that quieted and calmed him at this time and made him carry as a man that heareth not and in whose mouth there are no reprooffs but even that which immediately follows For in thee O Lord do I hope Having laid down these Marks wheâ—eby Men may try whither they have an Interest in this lively Hope or not So I would advise such who see ground of fears because without this lively Hope seriously to consider and lay these following things to heart As 1. It is required that the Soul through its dwelling on the thoughts of this so great a Bussiness be more sensible of and affected with the missings of this Grace of Hope Consider what a miserable condition the Soul is in which is without hope in the World and how lamentable their case is who have no other hope then a hope that will perish which will but prove to them as a spiders web and so faill them in their greatest need 2. Be convinced â—erein that through your self you shall never attain unto a lively Hope You must again be be gotten unto this Hope It is wholly and only the Work of GODS Spirit neither nature nor any natural advantages can help you thereto 3. Let the thoughts of your hopeless condition stir you up to self humiliation before the LORD which is the only way to be exalted in due time 4. Foresake all ground of hope iâ— your self So the poor hath hope Job 5.16 For whatever it is in your self you bottom oâ— ground your hope upon it will be sound to be but a â—lippery and â—inful â—oundation And the more you build thereon it shall be the worsâ— 5. Lay hold on Christ as he is offered in the Gospel and cleave to him by Faith For Hope is begotten in the womb of Faith All hope noâ— grounded on Faith and flowing from it is buâ— a meer phansie and chimera 6. Having laid hold on Christ as he is offered in the Gospel and so resting on him for Salvation wait for the breathings influences of the Spirit on the Soul in the careful and earnest undertaking and pursuit of the means that your head may be lifted up thereby in hope For encouradgement thereto observe these following things 1. This lively Hope in the Soul will calm many storms and keep the Soul in aâ— even and stayed posture under sharp and sad dispensations and the multitude of shakingâ— and changings It will deliver the Soul from many disquieting fears and make the Soul sleep sweetly under them all and lift up its head above difficulties so that it shall be freed from perplexities or be secure because there is hope Job 11.18.2 This will encourage to constancy in duty
notwithstanding of opposition in the way Hope will never suffer the heart to sink it will be a cork to the poor Soul which wiâ—l make it swime through the jaws and gulfs of the greatest opposition and most insupperable like difficulties When other â—hings as so many weights and heavy loads would bear down the Soul Hope will draw and hold it up that it go not to the ground Or in case the Soul is at any time over charged and brought under water as it were to the â—rink of hell Hope notwithstanding will recover again the Soul out of the very womb of â—ell and will it make it look out towards the Temple 3. Hope hardens a man and makes him prooff against the day of battel It encourageth and strengtheneth the Soul Thereâ—y he can run through a troop for he knows â—hat his head is secured well covered and guarded with the helmet of Hope the Helmet of Salvation 1 Theâ— 5.8 Eph 6.17.4 Hope â—s a strong guard against temptations What values a man the great offers of the World who has a Lively Hope of Heaven The fear of death worldly losses and the greatest of â—ufferings will not once shake him who hath the Hope of Eternal Life The hope of a betâ—er Resurrection will make them refuse to accept of a deliverance upon unworthy or base â—erms 5. Hope assures us of Heaven whereâ—ore we find that Heaven is often laid out to us by Hope Eph 1.18 4.4 Col 1.5 Tit 2.13 Heb 6.18 It is The Anchor of â—he Soul both sure and stedfast and which entereth into that within the vail whether the forerunner is for us entered Heb 6.19 20.6 Hereto should these words encourage us Psal 147 11. The LORD taketh pleasure in them thaâ— fear him in those that hope in his mercy 7. Aâ— hope is needful necessary and useful whilâ— passing through the valley of sorrow and tearâ—â— so also when drawing near the end of our journey and when pale death comes to look us iâ— the face For the Righteous hath hope in his death Pro 14.32 When the hope of the Hypocrite and unrighteous person giveth up the Ghost and foresaketh him in his greatest straiâ— even then will the Hope of the Righteous comfort and bear up his head Yea when death the king of terrors hath done its worst anâ— conveyed the Soul into Eternity Hope thoâ— may take its leave of the Soul as having no more service to do it 1 Cor 13.13 Yet wiâ—â— attend the corps of the Believer to the grave and be a bed unto his dust Psal 16.9 Uâ—til the morning of the Resurrection dawn Again as to those who really have thâ— Hope and yet cannot be convinced thereoâ— I would say these few things 1. It is not strange that such who are begotten again into a Lively Hope be now anâ— then brought to doubtings through these 〈◊〉 such like grounds As 1. Because sad noâ— strange like dispensations are measured out unto them by GOD this makes the Church 〈◊〉 out Lam 3.18 And I said my strength anâ— my hope is perished from the Lord See v. 1.2 This occasioned Iob also to say that his hope was removed like a tree or rooted out of the ground Iob 19 8.9 10.2 Because there is â—ant of growth in Grace and Mortificaâ—ion for â—hey hear that hope is a purifying Grace and â—hey can find no advancing in that work 3. Because they miss the other above mentioned Fruits of a Lively Hope But 2. Hope is like to other Graces not alwayes alike visible sometimes so clouded and â—id that it cannot be easily seen or discovered And in a very little it may appear again when the cloud and â—hick mist is over as we â—ee Lam 3.18 There the Church comâ—lains that her strength and hope was perishâ—d from the Lord yet she sayeth a little after This I recal to my mind therefore have I hope And again v. 26. It is good that a man should â—oth hope and quietly wait for the Salvation of the â—ord The holy Man Iob cryâ—th out as one â—hat hath no hope He hath destroyed me on every â—â—de and I am gone and mine hope hath he reâ—oved like a tree And nevertheless before all is â—one and he end his reckonings he getâ—eth his head lifted up on high and hope brings â—im so above that he triumphs Chap 19. â— 25.26 27. For I know that my Reâ—eemer liveth and though after my skin worms â—estroy this body yet in my flâ—sh shall I see God c. 3. Hope as have other Graces hath its degrees There is a full assurance of hope Heb. 6.11 And there is a weak Hope that cannot see farr being accompanied with many doubtings discouragements fears c Nevertheless a weak hope may be a true hope being on an Evangelical ground Hope may be lively in respect of its root yet weak and sickly in respect of its present frame and operations 4. It is not therefore safe â—o conclude that there is no hope because there is no full assurance of Hope or Actual Lively Vigorouâ— or stronge Hope 5. It were better to make an impartial enquiry according to the forementioned Marks And search and see if ever you had any thing of a True and Lively Hope of Glory through CHRIST And providing you have ever had it you may then be confident that the root remains for the Gifts and Calling of GOD are without repentance Rom. 11 29. Question But what shall he do who is brought to suspect all what formerly has been wrought in his Soul looking on it all as false work How I say shall such win to any clearness concerning their Hope or what shall they do for strengthening of the same Answer Such would lay to heart and well improve these following Considerations As 1. As Hope it self is the Gift of GOD and not their own work So is also the clear discovery of this Hope in the Soul his Gift and a new Gift The observation whereof should make the Soul fix its eye on the Soveraignity and Freeness of God who may bestow His Gifts as He will and depend on God for Light to â—ee and discern things which are given him of GOD 2 As the first lively Acting of Hope is a fruit of the Spirit of Life and floweth from the Spirit of Life in them So all the after actings depend on continual influences from Heaven These considerations should humble them under the impression of an absolute and Soveraign Lord And should stir them up to search and see wherein they have provoked GOD â—o hold in his Influences in the continual out-goings of Hope and withdraw his Light whereby they might be in case to discern the being of Hope in the Soul even when but wâ—ak in its operations 3. Such are to humble themselves before â—he LORD in the sense of their naturall frailty and inability As likewayes of their unrighteousness and transgressions whereby they have provoked the LORD to leave them in the dark 4.
being of him And can do no more without him than a body without a Head And therefore there must be a near Union betwixt us and him 4 Under the similitude of an Union betwixt the Foundation and the Building 1 Pet 2.4.6 The Believer is built on him as lively stones Christ is the chief corner stone of that Building and it is in him that all the building fiâ—ely framed together groweth up into an holy Temple in the Lord In whom they also are builded together for â—nhabittation of God through the Spirit Ephes 2.21 22. Which manifests that the Believer cannot subsist wiâ—hout him more then a house can stand without a foundation And therefore â—hey must lean on him and be firmely united â—o him other wayes they can neither stand nor â—ubsist 5. Under the similitude that is betwixt the Body and the Cloathing or Armour The Believer is said to put on the LORD Jesus Christ Rom 13.14 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ Gal 3. â—7 And he is put on as Cloath to defend from â—he cold and to cover their nakâ—dness and â—lso for addorning So also is he puâ— on as Arâ—our for defending us against all spiritual enemies 6. Under the similitude that is betwixt the Accused and his Advocat betwixâ—â—he principal Debtor and his Cautione who are as one person in Judgement Therefore it is that the Believer is blessed with all Spiritual Blessings in Christ Eph. 1.3 Being choosen in him v. 4. They are crucified with him in a legal sense Gal 2.20 They are dead with him Rom 6 8. Col 2.20 Buryed with him by Baptism unto death Rom 6.4 Quickened together and raised up together and made to sit together in Heavenly Places Ephes. 2.5.6 Planted together in the likeness of hiâ— Death and shall be also in the likeness of his Resurrection Rom 6 5. Yea and their Life is bid with him in God Col 3 3. So are they said to be heirs and joynt heirs with him Rom â— 17 All which palpably hold forth a real and legal Union betwixt Christ and Belivers to their Joy Comfort and satisfaction Christ being their Cautioner stands oblidged for them and answers in Judgement for them as a Head and publick person appearing for them As Adam was in respect of his posterity so â—his second Adam this last Adam as he is called 1 Cor 15.45 47. Who is a quickening Spirit and Lord of Heaven he appears as a Head and publick person all his Spiritual posterity he binds and oblidges himself for them in a Covanant with GOD And having satisfiâ—d â—or them he is risen from the dead and became the first fruits of them that slâ—pâ— And in him shall all his Spiritual seed be made alive v. 22 3. This Vnion is held out to us in some other Expressions which are most pathetick and condescending As when Christ and they are called one seed Gal 3.16 One Body 1 Cor 12.13.27 1 Cor 6.16.17 And make up one Mystical Christ 1 Cor 12.12 4. This Vnion is inward It is a mutual in-being for as here he is said to be in us and Rom 8.10 Gal 2.20 2 Cor 13.5 Ephes 3.17 So we are said to be in him Rom 8.1 1 Cor 3 1. 2 Cor 1.21 and 5.17 and 12.2 Rom 16.7 Philip 3.9 and. 4. â—1 He in us and we in him Ioh 14.20 O how wonderful and inconceiveable is this Vnion 5. This Vnion hath some likness and resemâ—lance with that Union which is betwixt the â—ather and Christ Ioh 17.11.21.22 That they all may be one as thou Father art in me and in thee and again that they may be one even as we are one 6. This Vnion is not only between Christ â—nd the Souls of Believers but also between Christ and their Bodies For their Bodies are said to be Temples of the Holy Ghost 1 Cor â— 19 And by the vertue of this Union their dead Bodies shall be again raised in the last â—ay For if we believe that Iesus died and rose â—gain even so them which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him 1 Thes. 4.14 7. This Vnion is not only near and inward but also durable lasting Therefore he is noâ— only in us but dwelleth in us Ephes 3.17 And we are said to abide in him Joh 15 6.7 And as we are dead in Christ 1 Thes 4.14 Rev 14.13 Even so in Christ shall we be made alive 1 Cor 15.22 And with him 1 Thes 4.14 So that death cannot loose that knot otherwayes the hope and comforâ— of the Believer which proceedeth from thiâ— Union were loose and unsure For if in thiâ— life only they had hope in Christ they were of all men most miserable 1 Cor 15.19 with Rom. 8.11 8. As it is excellent near and inward so greatly useful There being no life strength working moving growth or fruitfullness without it If any Man have not the Spirit oâ— Christ he is none of his Rom 8.9 Chrisâ— Jesus must be in us except we be Reprobateâ— 2 Cor 13.5 9. We must be careful not to have perverted uptakings of this Vnion betwixt Chrisâ— and a Believer or of Christs In being in a Believer That is we are not to have carnal uptakings thereof As it were such an Union as between the clay the thing formed thereof oâ— betwixt the vessel and the water that is in it 〈◊〉 betwixâ— things confounded and mixed togetheâ— in one Nor are we to take it up in a way anâ— wayes derogatory thereto As if it were a substantial Vnion such as there is among thâ— Persons of the Trinity or between Christs GOD-â—had and Manhood Nor should we think prophanlie of it as if it were a meer phansie or notion But we are so to apprehend it as a real tho Mystical Mysterious and Spiritual Union having Real and Spiritual Effects in Life and Death and after Death to wit Peace with God Reconciliation Redemption Remission of sins Justification Adoption Approaching to God with Confidence Santification Comfort Joy in the Holy Ghost a Joyful Resurrection and Eternal Glory 10. As this Union is Spiritual in it self so â—t is made up through a Spiritual Bond of Means For as it is through Faith on our part Eph 3.17 So through the Spirit on his part the which is promised in the New Covenant Ezek 36 27. Isa 59 21. Christ hath promised to send him Ioh. 15.26 And he must abide with us for ever Iâ—hn 14.16 Therefore Christ and they are called one Spirit 1 Cor 6.16 17. But to come more particularly to the purpose we shall now point out and demonstrate â—n what respect he is to be in the Beliâ—ver Christ in you We may apprehend Christ to be â—n the Believer in these respects 1. As a King in his Kingdom siâ—ting upon his Throne Ruling and Defending it by his Laws â—nd Statutes preserving it by his Wisdom from intestine Ruptures Divisions and Bâ—oylâ— and by his strength and mighty Powâ—r froâ— Outlandish
we keeped thereâ—â— Iude v. 21. And may abound yet more and morâ— Phil. 1.9 4. Providing we be carnally minded this will chase him out of the Soul Because the Carnal mind is enmity against God Rom. 8.7 5. Providing we give free access to inward Corruption that will exceedingly grieve him For he is come exprâ—sly into the Soul to break that yoke of bondage And to deliver the poor Soul from the Tyranny of Sin And when man willingly subjects unto his unreconcilable enemies it is a direct and open declaring and proclaiming our unwillingness to intertain him longer in the Soul and a seeking these beastly self and Soul-ruining Lusts and Desires above him Anâ— that cannot but grieve him when he sees Satans company more prized then his 6 Providing we disesteem and undervalue his Doctrine Leading Counsel and Advice resisting his Motions and trâ—mpling on his Laws This will make him weary of his Lodging when we are not so ready as formerly to do what a Friend desires us and when not so willing to take his Advice and to follow it then it is a Symptome that we are jealous of him and wearied of his company 7 Providing we be lazie and sloathful in Duty This will grieve the Spirit because he is dishonoured thereby and in effect declared to be a dry sapless Root when the branches in him are seen without Fruit notwithstanding oâ— all their fair leaves 6. Is Christ so affable and gracious that he takes up lodging in poor Souls Then they should heartily welcome him and let him know so much And that 1. By giving him the Throne and the head of â—he Table with the best place in the House for he is worthy He is the Lord of Hosts the Master the Husband the kindly Suitor Hereby we manifest our high esteem and burning Love towards Hâ—m as knowing that none is to be compared wiâ—h him 2. To make him the more welcome we should call in all our scattered Desires and wandering Affâ—ctionâ— which now are spent and set loose in hunting after the scum of empty shaddowy Vanities and gâ—ther them in and direct them all towards him as to the Center As being only worthy of aâ—l Love and Affectâ—on for He is altogether aâ—d wholly Lovely Song 5 16 And the Desire of all Nations Hag. 2.7 3. We should to the uâ—termost of our Power lay out our selves 〈◊〉 Him sparing no cost nor Labour to pleasâ— Him and to evidence our sincere affections towards him 4. We should give him his whole will and Command over us and over what is ours so that all our Power Wisdom Will Conscience Memory Affections c. With all the Members of our Body attend his Command so as he might ever freely take and dispose of us and ours according to his good pleasure without opposition or gainsaying whereby he might be the more freely Master of the House and freely make usâ— of all according to his Will 5. We shâ—uld side with him against all that would oppose him in our Souls And by his Auâ—hority and through his Strength we should put to the door all that are enemies to him and his Interest in our Soulâ— were it the right eye or the cutting â—ff of the right hand if in opposition to him 6. We should with cheerfulness and outstreched Hearts run in the wayes of his Commandments and do his will with delight and readiness and seek to know what might please or displease him thaâ— the one might be done and the other eshewed whatever might follow thereupon 7. Hath Christ so far honoured the poor Believer as to come under a roof with him yea as to come into his Heart to dwell and abide there And should they not sâ—â—k all occasions again to honour him Namely 1. They should put the Crown upon his Head and behold King Solomon with the Crown wherewith his Mother crowned him in the day of his Espousals and in the day of the gladness of his Heart 2. They should earnestly and carefully observe all the Precepts and Ordinances in the Woâ—shâ—p whereby he is publicklâ— and solemnly served and honoured in the World This is the honour and open Testimony of Respect he calls for The sons of Eli honoured him not thus neâ—ther Nadab and Abâ—hu nor Vzza nor the Bethshemites wherefore his fierce anger was powered forth against them 3. They should recommend him to the Love and Esteem of others speaking good of him in all Companies laying forth his Beauty and desireableness at the Bride doth Song 2. And so engaging and perswading others to love him 4. They would so carry themselves that others that look upon them may see a desireable Lovelyness and Beauty in Christianity That is by walking chearfully in the wayes of GOD that others may not be scarred therefrom through their sad and dejected carriage as if there were no reason of Joy and Gladness of heart in the Service of GOD and as is he were an unkindly and hard Master whom they serve 8. Is Christ himself within the Believer then surely they are called to walk so that all that notice them may distinctly see and freely say that such have not only been with Christ but that they are continually with him and he with them and that he lodges and lives in their Souls And for that effect 1. They should have a care that they be not conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of their minds Rom 12.2 That it might be manifest that they serve another Master then the world serves and that they are moved and led by another Spirit 2. Their hearts should be lifted up in the wayes of the Lord As it was with the Heart of that good King 2 Chron 17.6 3. Their walk and carriage should be singular Heavenly and Spiritual as being above the World and the vanities thereof as having their Hearts and desires in Heaven Where Christ sitteth on the Right Hand of GOD Col 3.1 And as having their Conversation in Heaven Phil 3.20 And as it becometh the Gospel Phil 1.27 Having Christ in them so should they be dead and crucified to the World 4. Thus having Christ in them whose eyes are at a flâ—me of fire who sees their whole carriage and knows the frame of their Hearts they should endeavour in their whole carriage and walk to be upright and without hypocrisy that they may present themselves pleasant before him who sees the secrets of of the Heart For our rejoycing is this saith the Apostle 2 Cor 1.12 The Testimony of our conscience that in simplicity and Godly sincerity noâ— with fleshly wisdom but by the Grace of GOD we have had our conversation in the World c. Wherefore laying aside all guile and hypocrisies 1 Pet 2.1.5 They should then make it appear that Christ is in them by serving him after a lively manner So it is not sufficient to follow Dutiâ—s but to perfoâ—m them as living in Christ or as having Christ living in them as having the
ungrounded hope that all will be well with them at last 2. For reproof to Believers who have this assured ground of hope nevertheless improves it not for their comfort and encouragement But holds themselves up with doubtings and scruples concerning their Right and Inheritance taking heed to the lying whisperings and temptations of Satan and so lives in Terrors sinful Fears and Unbelief whereby they wrong and grieve the noble Spirit who hath taken up quarters in their Soul even for that end among others that they might have a lively hope of Glory and thereby be supported under the pressure of Terrors and Feaâ—s strengthened against thâ— Soul troubling injections and heart-disturâ—ing temptations of Satan and comforted against all discouragements Vse 4. Thâ—s Doctrine â—olds out these following Duties to the Unbeliever As 1. They ought to Labour to have this Truth deeply rooted in their Hearts that before Christ be in them they can have no well grounded hope ever to see God in Glory 2. That herein they are to be convinced of the necessity of giving ear unto the Call of the Gospel and to give obedience thereunto which is as we shall after hear that we receive Christ the Prince of Life in our Souls 3. That therefore there should be nothing so desirable to them as to have Christ living and working in their Souls and to rest on nothing less for a satisfying ground of the hope of Glory Vse 5. This Truth holds out unto us the sure ground of the consolation of Believers in whom Christ is O! what cause of gladness and rejoycing have they go as it will with them in the World For though the World frown upon them neverthelesâ— they may rejoyce in the Hope of the Glory of God whatâ—ver ground of sorrow they may otherwayes have as they see how it fares with them in the World yet when they look within and beholds the footsteps of Christ walking within them and the Fruits of his living and abiding in them so may they raise up themselves with unspeakable and excellent joy Objection But it may be asked how comes it then that even such are more filled with fears and anxieties then others concerning their Eternal Happiness and lively hope and are continually in fears and doubting possessing their Life often in sorrow Ans. 1. It is one thing to have Christ in us and another thing to see him in us This is a new and different Gift And God may give the one when he thinks good to with-hold the other 2. The Lord may thus for wise and holy ends measure out his Favours As he is a Soveraign so he is also wise he doth what he will and yet doth all in deep Wisdom for wise and holy ends The Lord may have a high and Soveraign hand in this business and may find â—t necessar so to keep them humble tender waâ—chful and diligent in Duties For he sees that readily did they see how rich they were they would forget boâ—h God and themselves not being well ballâ—ssed to carry such a high Topsail and that thus they might come to boast and turn secure and give too much advantage to Satan to assault and overcome them 3. They may readâ—ly have a sinful hâ—nd therein themselves And that 1 When they give too much heed to the lying Injections and temptations of Satan It is not safe to entertain discourse with such an enemy who is a Lyar and a Murderer from the beginning He is too great a Sophist and Disputer for us 2. When they give too much way to corruption which darkens all and gives Satan advantage and occasion to accuse of Hypocrisy and to alledge and say providing Christ be in you how is it so and so 3 When by the false Injections of Satan they Nick-name the work of Christ in them consenting to the reproaches of the enemy and joyning with him in affording Objections against all the work of Grace in their Soul And thus having filled their mind with prejudices against themselves through the instigation of Satan they are not in case either to receive or accept of any right Information concerning their Souls 4. It may also fâ—ll out through their misunderstanding the true Nature and work of Grace and of Christs being in them imagining that nothing can be called or reckoned Christ in the Soul but an exceeding great out-letting of the Spirit carrying the Soul over all difficulties accompanied with great joy and gladness and with an eminent and great degree of Sanctification Vse 6. This Truth exceedingly calls for a narrow Tryal viz. If Christ be in us or not And because it is a material business we shall therefore speak the more to it 1. We shall lay forth some false Marks by which many deceive themselves both on the one hand and on the other 2. We will give you some true Marks where you may judge in this matter In speaking to the false Marks we must have our eye upon two sorts of Persons and so speak to the Marks whereupon each goes to work and deceives themselves Some have Christ really dwelling in their Soul and yet nevertheless imagine that it is not so upon â—uch and such grounds that they perceive in â—hemselves which they judge cannot consist â—ith Christs living in them Others again have â—ot Christ in them notwithstanding imagine â—hat he is in them by reason of such and such â—hings which they judge to be real Marks of â—hrists being in them And both the one and â—he other are deceived with false grounds As to the First viz. Such who have Christ â—eally in them and nevertheless will not be â—onvinced thereof They may mistake on these â—nd the like grounds 1. Because they are no wayes like to these â—aints whereof the Scriptures make mention 〈◊〉 whom was the Spirit of Christ Neither like â—ose who now live who have Christ in them â—s if forsooth all were Christians of the â—â—me Magnitude Age Strength and Liveliâ—ess As if there were not in Christs Family young Children as well as old young Centinels as well as Lively Strong and great Warriors 1 Cor. 3.1 1 Ioh. 2.13 14. A Child hath real Life and is a man though not a strong and able man yea the very Child in the Mothers Belly hath real Life and so many Children in Christ go to Heaven for he carries the Lambs iâ— his Bosome Isa 40 11. 2. Because they find not the Operations of the Spirit in them That is likewayes no true mark For he may be in the Soul and yet may be hide from the Soul the Lord judging it fittest it should be so that he may hide pride from their eyes and they as was said may be keep'd humble and sobbing all their dayes The Spirit bloweth where he listeth and after what manner he will 3. Because they are dayly full of Fears and Jealousies that all is not right with them Hence they conclude that providing Christ were really in them then all their Questionings would
that effect 5. Mark Where Christ is there He gets the Heart for there he lives Ephes. 3 17. So that what evâ—â— it bâ—â—hat presents its self to the Soul though never so taking yet He has still the precedency disposing and chief room unless it be for a time that the Soul may be over poured and carried away with some lâ—st or other These that have Christ in them they Confess that Iesus is the Son of God 1 Joh 4.15 And so altogether Matchless For all such dwell in Him and He in them So that He is unto them White and Ruddy the chiefest among ten thousands Song â— 10 And whatever is his is altogether lovely ver 16. For unto them which believes He is precious 1 Pet. â— 7 I acknowledge this love and esteem will not alwayes be the same nor appear in the like degree Nevertheless it is for the most part pâ—edomining and reigning and where these â—hings are not so it is a sad token that Christ hath not as yet taken up his abode 6 Mark Where Christ is there is a forsaking of all former Lovers for now they have changed Masters They shall say to their former Idoles get you hence as if they were so many menstruous cloaths Isa 30.22 Then they say with Ephraim What have we to do any more with Idoles Hos 14 8. For where he comes all these must give place to him as being worthy of all There old J liveth no more Gal 2.20 But where the old lovers keep their possâ—ssion where the old idoles the old sinns have the old esteem and the old service and not as yet cast out with loathing and shame it is not as yet â—ight there Christ when he comes binds the old man sets the old Tyrant that possessed the Soul out of doors 7. Mark Where Christ is there is a compleat change that word is realy felt 2. Cor 5.17 If any man be in Christ he is a new creature Now is he as he were in another world drawing his breath in another element They are no more the folks they were They that are Christs have Crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts Gal. 5 24. They look on those lusts and affections as their enemies and declares themselves enemies against them wars against them in root and branch and against all their motions whether they be sinful aâ—fections and passions such as these whereby the mans Mind doth suffer and is troubled and affected with or whether they be sinful lusts such as these stirred up by fleshly carnal Baits and Pleasures as motions to Intemperance uncleanness c. Now those who are Christs are said to cruciâ—y and put to death all these because they have engaged themselves by profession and Covenant Sealed in Baptism so to do Rom. 6.3 4. And have actually begun thâ—s woâ—k so that though this Body of corrupâ— flesh be in them yet through the Spirit Rom. 8.13 And by imitating his Cross Rom. 6 5. They are upon the work of Morâ—ifying it suppressing the endeavours and smoothering the â—ffects of it Rom. 6.12 They resolve now to walk in newness of Life Rom. 6.4 From this time forth they have a new understanding renewed in the Spirit of their mind no more sâ—bject to the Dominion of fleshly Lusts whicâ— is enmity against God They â—ave a new will which is now flexible to Godâ— will and Command neither doth it now rebel as formerly They have new Desires new Inclinations new Work new Ends before â—â—em new Followship no more Fellowsâ—ip wiâ—h the unfruitâ—ul works of Darkness 8. Mark Where Christ is there is a resting on him for Liâ—e and leaniâ—g on him for Righteousness Adopâ—ion Justification and Sâ—â—vation wiâ—h â—aul Phil 3.9 Who desired to be found iâ— him not having his own Righteousness which is of the Law but that which is through the faith of Christ the Righteousness which is of GOD by Faith The Soul inâ—ends to live thâ—ough this way alone to râ—st in to hide himselâ— in Christ until â—o speak so a bitt oâ— the Man cannot be seen that when he is calleâ— for it may be answered LORD I am in Christ not having my own Righteousness If Christ be in you saith Paul the Spirit iâ— Life â—ecause of Râ—ghteousness Rom 8.30 The Soul resolves alone to live through this way through his Righteousness I◠〈◊〉 LORD â—ave we Righteousness and strenâ—â—â— say they Isa 54.24 In the LORD expâ—câ— they only to be Justifiâ—d and to Glory â— 2â— 9. Mark Where Christ is there is a grea◠〈◊〉 to eshâ—w sin Joh 3.6 Whosâ—eâ—er 〈◊〉 in him sinneâ—h not To wit with that 〈◊〉 as formerly They may be overtaken in a fault as Gal 6.1 But â—hey are not wâ—llingly intangled again with the yoke of bondage Gâ—l â— 1 Somâ—times they may be carried away with the stream of a temptation as David and Peter yet they give not themselves willingly deliberatly over to the will of their Lustâ— But even when corruption has the upper hand there is a party within them that protesteth against that course and usurpation Rom 7. That which they do they would not and that which they do not they would willingâ—y do The Spirit warreth against the flâ—sh Gal 5.17 Hereby it is that â—â—ey walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit Rom 8.1 10. Mark Where Christ is there is a real fast resolute care endeavour to keep the Commandments of Christ 1 Joh 3.24 And he that keepeth his Commandments dwelleth in him and he in him And again 1 Joh 2.5 Hereby they know that they are in him because they keep his word They will cast at none of his Laws but have respect unto all his Commandments Psal 119.6 This is their work and design to be conformable in all things to his Law and their faillings are the cause of much sorrow unto them 11. Mark In whom Christ is they live in Love as in their Element 1 Joh 4.16 And we have known and believed the Love that GOD hath to us GOD is love and he that dwelleth in Love dwelleth in GOD and GOD in him Also 1 Joh 4.13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him and he in us because he hath given us of his Spirit A humble and condescending Spirit a tender and simpathizing Spirit a Spirit of Wisdom and counsel a Spirit oâ— Knowledge and of the Fear of the LORD We may see what for a Spirit it is that is given unto Christ without measure Isa 11.2 Where it is called the Spirit of Wisdom and Vnderstanding the Spirit of Counsel and Might the Spirit of Knowledge and of the Fear of the LORD So that these who have Christ living in them are more or less partakers of this Spirit For they are one Spirit with Christ their darkness is in part removed their pride killed and they made more conformable to Christ their Head and Husband 12. Mark Who have Christ in them they walk after the Spirit Rom 8.1 That is they have
in respect of the many glorious and remarkable Effectâ— and Fraâ—s which it hath whereof we shall give these â—ew instaneâ—s 1. By the Gospel there is a Church gathered out of the VVorld which shall stand to the end of the VVorld in dâ—spiâ—e of all â—he Oâ—position Men and Dâ—vils shall make against it VVhat a Mystery oâ— Pâ—wer was here when a few Fishers without the help of Humane Learning and without the â—ssiâ—tance of Humane Advantages through Preaching and continual Suâ—fering carried on the Gospel of Christ So that it was spread throuâ—h the world and continueth to this day noâ—withstanding of all the Oppositions that the Gates of Heâ—l can do against it through Emperors higher Powâ—â—s with inferiour Magistrats corrupt Church-men c. who through Subtility and Violence laboured totally to root out the same 2. By the Gospel Men were brought out of themselves to seek Râ—ghteousness and Justification in another yea in a Crucified and Despised Mediator and made willing directly contrary their Nature and deep rooted Inclination of Heart which is continually looking out for Help and Delivery in themselves to forsâ—ke their own Righteousness and all which formerly they counted Gain and to flâ—e to Christ Jesus for all and to lay hold on Him Faith that only they may be justified in Him 3. This Gospel learns the Soul alone to depend on Christ for Help in every Duty whereunto they aâ—e called and to see their Sâ—rengâ—h only to be in Him and in the Strengâ—h of His Right Arm O! a 〈◊〉 Myâ—â—ery to â—lesh and Blood 4. This Gâ—spel mâ—kes Mâ—n to forsake all Relations and Interests foâ— Chrâ—st Mat 10.37 38. Luk 14 26. VVha◠〈◊〉 Mystery of Pâ—wer must be here 5. This Gâ—sâ—â—l mâ—kes Mâ—n to fâ—rsake their Idâ—ls 〈◊〉 Bosome sins and Evilâ— which formerly â—â—ey loved as their livâ—s and to plâ—ck ouâ—â—heir â—â—ght Eyes and to cut off â—heir right Hands Mat 5. 29 30. Mat. 18 8 9. Mark 9.45.6 Thâ— Gospel makes a Man suffer all things and thâ—â— cheerfully were it even Death is self for Christ and Hâ—s Truths and to forsake all that is deâ—â— unto him yea the world Act. 20 24. Reve. 12.11 1 Vse Certainly the serious pondering 〈◊〉 â—hese Might justly cause us stand astonisheâ— Neither could we forbear from wondering providing we noticed what wonderful Goodness Mercy and infinit Condescendency iâ— herein held forth in the Lord 's bringing to light these Mysteries and His keeping up thâ— fairest and clearest Discoveries thereof for ouâ— days or that orders our time in the worlâ— thus to be when the Sun of Righteousnesâ— with His full and bright Beams shineth in ouâ—â—orizon 2 Vse The Consideration of the Lord opening up these Mysteries in our days caâ—â— for great thankâ—ulness from us O how shoulâ— our Hearts praise and magnify Him who haâ—â— thus brought Life and Immortality into lighâ— The Angels sung when this Evangelick day fiâ—â— brake up and counted it their honour to 〈◊〉 the fiâ—st News thereof to a Company of pooâ— Shepherds Luk. 2.10 11. And the Angel saâ—â— unto them fear not for behold I bring you goâ—â— Tydings of greaâ— joy which shall be to all peopâ—◠〈◊〉 unto you is born this day in the City of David a Saviour which is Christ the Lord. Luk 2.31 whereupon Anna the Prophetess gave Thanks likewise unto the Lord and spake of Him to all that looked for redemption in Jerusalem Mary cried forth said My Soul doth magnify the Lord and my Spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour Luk. 1.46 47. Zacharias when his Tongue was loosed spake and praised God Luk 1 64 And again Vers 68 69. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel â—or He hath visited and redeemed His People And hath raised up a horn of Salvation for us in the house of His Servant David c. 3 Vse This requires that we should lâ—ment and weep over the sad condition of thâ—se 1. That have not so much as the outward Revelations of these Mysteries amongst them who notwithstanding of all this Light sit in Darkness and live in the Land of the shaddow of Death O! Pray for the coming of Christ's Kingdom that the People â—hat wâ—lk iâ— Darkness may see a gâ—eat light and that the light may shine upon thâ—se thaâ— dwell in the Land of the shadow of Death Isa 9 2.2 As also the sad estate of those that hear the outward sound thereof buâ— knows no more of the lively Power and Operation of this Mâ—sterâ— then there were no such thing Whom the God of this World hath blinded lest the light of the Glorious Gospel should shine unto them 2 Cor. 4 4. 4 Vse This Doctâ—ine requires 〈◊〉 we walk sutably under these greaâ— Mâ—â—cies pâ—ovided and purchased unto us and improve thâ—m accordingly And more especially 1. Thâ—â— we esteem and account highly of this unspeakable Favour the Mystery of the Gospel which is the Grace of God and the discovery of Life and Immortality 2. That we be herein tender and watchful that we neither do nor say any thing which may be to the Dishonour of thâ—s Mystery But that in all things we walk woâ—thy of the Gospel 3. That we should be Zealous in standing up for the Defence oâ— this Gospel which is such a Mystery we should be always ready to buy the Truth and upon no account to sell it 4. That we receive the Gospel into our Hearts believing and welcoming the same not judging it enough that we hear the sound thereof without fiâ—ding and experimentally knowing the lively and strong Effects and Operations of the same in the Soul 5. That we in the preâ—ching and ye in the hearing of the Gospel continually look upon it as a Mystery and therefore should beware of judging ourselves in a capacity to reach unto the ground of this so great a Depth or to measure the samâ— by our scrimp natural Understandings or shâ—llow Capacities and so to cast at all we cannot fathom or attempt to cast it in our Câ—lins and Form O! indeed a heavy Sin a bold daring and presumpâ—uouâ— counterfeiâ—ing of â—hâ— King's Coyn and a givâ—ng out of our Counterfeit mixed clipped Mettal instead of the Kâ—ng's true Coyn. 6. That we sâ—eâ—ng it 's a Mystery and so far above the reach of our Capacities should seek unto the LORD alone for Light we should go to Hâ—m as the Author thereof and should go to Christ who is given for a Light that this Sun of Righteousness who is the real substance of this Mystery might clear up our Understanding with the Sun Beams of His light and make us in some measure to know what the Riches of the Glory of this Mystery is and that He might drive away the Clouds of Ignorance and Prejudices whereby this light is keeped from us Hereby we should evidence our believing that this is a Mystery through our faithâ—ul and continual dependence on this Fountain of Light that we may see this Mystery of Light in His Light Of the Glory
according to my Gospel and the preaching of Iesus Christ according to the Revelation of the Mystery which was kept secret since the World began be Glory Rom 16 25 27.5 The Gospel hath a transâ—oâ—ming and changing power cloathing the Heirs of Hell with begun Glory and changing them into the Image of GOD 2 Cor. 3 18. But we all with open face beholding as in â— glass the Glory of the Lord are changed into thâ— same Image from Glory to Glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 6. In a word it is the Instrument of Salvation and therefore called the Gospel of Salvation Ephes 1.13 It is the savour of Life unto Life 2 Cor. 2.16 Before we â—pply this we shall speak a litle to the other part to wit The Riches of Glory Of the Riches of Glory There is not only a Glory to be seen in the Gospel but thereis an exceeding great Excellency of Glory which points forth the singularness and excellency thereof And this will appear First Providing we compare this Glory with other things which either are but such in the esteem of Men or that really have Gloâ—y in muâ—â— less than that Glory which shineth forth â—ere 1. Compare it with that which the Men of this World ordinarly esteem Glorious as greatness of Power and Authority stately Buildings many Servants great and multiplied Titles oâ— Honour and such like Alas what a poor spectacle is all â—he glittering Glory of this World which hath no realiâ—y in it but consists in a meer imagination and the meer blossomings of a â—oving Fancy and fruit of a light and creazie Brain Alas how lean sober and empty is this so called and fancied Glory wherewith the Children of this World are so bewitched taken up with childâ—sh admiration eager gaping and hot pursuing after the same What is it in comparison of this Glory which shineth in the Gospel What is here that should take up the Soul of Man that knoweth what real Glory is What can these ouâ—ward borrowed imaginary Garnishinâ—s do to the real amending and feliciâ—ating of a poor immortal Soul What is here â—or quieâ—ing a raging and disordered Conscience What is here which can make the poor Creature sing when pale Death looks him in the face and when wrestling with the King of Terrors Yea will not the thoughts of all these things wherein the Soul formerly boasted but add to his sorrow and augment his grief now when he seeth he must forsâ—ke all and live in darkness eternally For when he dieth he shall carry nothing away his Glory shall noâ— descend after him Psal. 49.17 What signifiâ—â—h â—hen the Glory of his House how great soâ—ver it be What is the Glory of Great Ones when the Lord kindleâ—h under the same a burning like the burning of a fire Isa. 10.16 Nebuchadnezzar had a Kingdom and Majesty and Glory and Honour so that all People Nations and Languages trembled and fearrd before him whom he would he slew and whom he would he kept alive and whom he would he set up and whom he would be put down Dan 5 18 19. But a poor lamentable Glory was it that could not desend him from the greaâ—est Misery that ever a King or Prince was brought unto Vers. 20 21. But when his heart waes lifted up and his mind hardened in pride he was deposed from his Kingly throne and they took his Glory from him And he was driven from the â—ons of Men and his Heart was made like the Beasts and his dwelling was With thr wild Asses they fed him with gross like Oxen and his Body was wet with the dew of Heaven till he knew that the Most high GOD ruled in the Kingdom of Men and that He appointeth over it whomsoever He will See also Isa. 5.14 Therefore Hell or the Grave hath inlarged hee self and opened her mouth without measure and their glory and their multitude and their pomp and he that rejoiceth shall descend into it How vain and empty then â—ust that Glory be which thus dieth out with a fiâ— by stink How far inferiour to this rich and excellent Glory 2. Compare the Gospel Glory with the great and real Glory of Heaven and Earth this piece of Work of the only wise Creator And it will very far surmount these in Glory The noble Fabrick of Heaven and Earth replinished with such variety of Creatures carries clear evidences of the glorious Wisdom Power of Him who hath made the same out of Nothing and sustaineth them continually by the Word of His Power For He spake and it was done He commanded and it stood fast Psal. 33.9 For the Pillars of thâ— Earth are the Lords and He hath set the World upon them 1 Sam. 2.8 He hath established them Psal 89.2 And formed them Psal 90 2. Who can once look upon this Fabrick being so curious in all its points and proportions without observing singular Glory whâ—ch hold forth the Glory of the great Master Builder Who can look upon the Heavens and observe how admirably they are garnished and indented with so many glorious shining Creatures and not fall a wondering at the rare Building and its excellent Contrivance Who can behold the Sea that terrible and vast Creature the dry Land the Hills the Valleys with their pleasant Rivers and watery Rivolets with all their fair and fruitful Inclosures the spacious vast and bowling VVilderness with all their various different and numerous Inhabitants the VVater with its Fishes the Air above with its Fowls And not behold I say a special ravishing Glory therein But O! what is all â—his Glory in comparison to that Glory which shineth in the Gospel The Flowers springs out of â—he Earth and spreads forâ—h â—ts Glory but suddenly it is cut down and withereth so shall the Heavens and the Earth pass away they shall perish yea all of them shall wax old like a Garment and as a Vesture shaâ—l they be changed Psal. 102.26 But this Glory which shines forth in the Gospel is an eveâ—lasting Glory Great was the VVisdom of GOD which shined forth in creating all things of nothing but in the Gâ—spel The manifold Wisdom of God is maâ—e known Ephes. 3 10. 3. Compare the Glory of the Gospel with the first Covenant made with Adam in the state of Innocency so shall there appear here a singular Glory I confess it was a Glorious Business to see that rational Creature Man in a Covenant of Friendship wiâ—h his Maker For there was wonderful Condescendency on GOD's part in that He came under the Bond of the Covenant and under Obligations of a rich Promise unto the Creature in case of Obedience which otherwayes he was indebted to his Creator by vertue of His Creation And pleasant was it to behold the Wheels of the Soul of Man besmeered with the promise of the rich Recompense of Reward But the Glory of the Gospel Covenant daâ—kens that as the rising of the Sun darkeneth the sparkling light of the
wonderful Love and free Grace of GOD who hath sought after the Gentiles in Clemency and Mercy who had been so long debarred And establâ—shed usiâ—â— the Faith of the great things promsed unto â—ut in â—he Word now 〈…〉 to see the old Prophesies and 〈…〉 were 〈…〉 als◠〈…〉 〈…〉 our unâ—o 〈…〉 pâ—ay for them upon 〈…〉 gâ—ven on their accâ—un◠〈◊〉 the Lord in due time will accomplâ—sh Aâ—d besides it should make us lay to Heart ouâ— Duty in managing aright tâ—â— Priâ—iledge in the thankful acknowledgâ—ment of the Lord 's undeserved Love herein and by hearty embracing and welcoming this Offer and to walk worthy oâ— the same in all holy Conversation to the Glory of GOD. Quâ—st But providing it be asked Wheâ—her all the Gentiles see the Glory and know the Richer of the Glory of this Mystery I Answer No For all have not the pâ—eaching of the Gâ—spel among â—hem If it be â—urther asked If all thâ—se to whom thiâ— Gospel is preached see â—hâ—s Glory I Answer No. But only the Saints among the Gentiles as appâ—arâ— from Vers 26 This is made manifest to the Saints Where we see that it is aâ—â—ne â—he Sainâ—s who have obtained Gâ—ace to beliâ—ve this Gâ—spel and not every one who hears iâ— preached who dâ—scern the Riches of the Glory of this Mystery which is in the Gospel For 1. Unto some he preaching of the glad Tydings of the Gospel is the savor of Death unto Death 2 Cor. 2.16 And unto their corrupâ—ed and prejudicated Understanding it savours as a dead Carion wherein their Souls hath no pleasure yea it is as Dâ—ath so that their rejecting of the Gospel and their averseness from it proves their Death and 〈◊〉 2. Unto some it is but foolishness as it was unto the Greeks 1 Cor. 1.23 And matter of Mocking and Derision as the Doctrine of the Resurrection was unto these of Athens Act. 17.32 Many have no better opâ—nion of the Ambassadours of Christ who are sent to preach the Gospel 〈◊〉 Festâ—s of Paul Act. 26.24 And of the Believers of the Gospel than the Pharisees had of the Multitude Ioh. 7 49.3 Unto some Christ is a Rock of Offence and the preaching of the Gospel of Christ is a stumbling Block unto them even as unto the Iews who stumbled at the stumbling Stone and rock of Offence 1 Cor. 1. â—3 Rom 9.32 33. Even as Christ Himself was for the fall of many so the preaching of the Gosâ—el is the occasion of the ruine of many 4. Many will not hear the Gospel with Faith and therefore it cannot profiâ— them Not being mixed with Faith in thâ—m that heard it Heb. 4.2 Neither will they receive it in Love nor receive the Love of the Trâ—â—h 2 Thess. 2.10 And thereforâ— saâ—â—â—oe 〈◊〉 â—hemselves unto thâ— Righteousness of God held out unto them therein Rom. 10.3 They will not suffer the Word of Instruction to get any room in their Souls but they receive this Grace of GOD in vain and through unbelief they reject it they will not obey this form of Doctrine nor yeild themselves Servants thereunto 5. The GOD of this World hath so blinded the Minds of them which believe not that the Light of the glorious Gospel of of Christ who is the Image of GOD cannot shine unto them So that they can discern nothing of the Glory of the same 2 Cor 4.4 And some blinded by a Judgement from GOD are therefore no Co-partners of this Revelation Math. 11.25.6 Some see a glance some daâ—k half glimmerings of this Glory but discern not the glory of this Mystery they get some sight which may occasion some litle work and operation in them nevertheless they continwe strangers unto the true spiritual Glory thereof For 1 They may see so much therein as may engage them to a profession of the same for a time in a fair day when iâ— is accompanied with no persecution But â—ven as the stony ground having no deepnesâ— of Earth wheâ— persecution comes they immediatly forsake the Gospel and turn their back upon it Math. 13. 2 They may readily see so much in it as makes them willingâ—â— to part with somewhat but not that inâ—â— which will make them willing to forsake 〈◊〉 for Christ The cares of the World doth not only choak all again but creats a mist in their Eyes which totally cloudeth and darkneth this Glory 3 They may see that which may inwardly affect them as Agrippa to be almost Christians Act. 26. and no more 4 They may readily have some general knowledge of the Letter and out-side thereof and may be great Doctors and learned Preachers and nevertheless wholly strangers unto the Power and Life of the same 5 Yea they may attain some resemblance thereof and as it were some glorious sparklings such as the Apostle speaks of Heb 6.4 5. But alone unto True Believers the Lord maketh known and manifesteth this Glory and maketh them to see the Riches of the Glory of this Mystery These see it to whom He discovereth those Secreets which are kept hid from the wise of the World They sâ—e it who see that Glory which changeth the Soul so that thereby they are changed into the same Image from Glory to Glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Cor. 3.18 But what is that sight they get which others are Strangers unto Ans. 1. They see a special necessary good which deeply affecteth the Heart Others only win at some Conceptions that goeth no further than the Head 2. They see something directly applicable unto to their case and condition and is very sutâ—able unto them whereâ—â— others look on these things aâ— more the concernment oâ— others than themselves 3. They see the good is coâ—pleat all-sufficient necessary and satisfying which is held out in this Gospel and therefore they seek not after more proviâ—ing they obtain that they judge their Lot is faâ—len unto them in pleasant places and that tâ—ey have goodly Heritage 4. They see somewhat of that Soul-ravishing profound Counsel of Redemption wherein all the Persons of the Triâ—ity are engaged to carry on and perfâ—ct the same and â—â—ey see herein such Glory that it makes them long for Heaven that they might obtain a more broad and wide look oâ— that divine mysterious on-carrying of the waâ— of Salvaâ—ion wherein so much of GOD and of His glorious Attributâ—â— in such a lofty way doth appear 5. Th◠〈…〉 that therein 〈◊〉 reache◠〈…〉 Soul aâ—d makeâ—h them that 〈…〉 〈…〉 〈…〉 and soul giving their 〈…〉 as beâ—ng alâ—ogether pâ—ecious 〈◊〉 Soul satisfying 6. They see that which makes them 〈◊〉 willing and 〈…〉 all and â—â—ll every thing 〈…〉 once they 〈…〉 invaluable 〈◊〉 7. They seâ— that Light which hath that powâ—â— and force therein that bringeth under their irregular love to the World and all other Vanities together with the strong Corruptions that molest them 1 Vse It needs then be no strange business that there are so â—ew that highly esteem of this
Gospel and that so many undervalue and contemn it seeing there are so few real Saints who alone can see the glory and singulaâ— Excellâ—ncy of this Gospel Oh! it is a sealled 〈◊〉 even unto them who 〈◊〉 hear it 〈…〉 the ouâ—ward â—hâ—ll and 〈…〉 sweet and deliâ—aâ— kirnel 〈◊〉 2 Vse Behold here â—he Touch-stone whereby every one must â—â—â—mine himself and judge of Himself whâ—â—her 〈◊〉 be in the Faith or not This special sight and discovery is alone peculiar to Believeâ—s the Spirit of Light which they have received in the Gospel makes them now see another sight than formerly they could apprehend or understand O the depth of Wisdom Power Love Grace Righteousness and Mercy which we now daily more and more discover O what heavenly and divine Glory shines therein and â—haâ— in the very meanest of all Christ's Precepts Otheâ—s take but a carnal and general look of thâ—se Ordinances and therefore not so tender nor so zealouâ— of them who can bear with the mixtures and Inventions of Men amongst them and can fancy a Beauty Decency and Consistency in these Inventions whereas there is nothing in them but a vile deformity And as for the substance of the Gospel the glad Tydings of Peace Reconcîliation with GOD it is unto them an indifferent business far from being all their Salvation all their desire Their Hearts cannot embrace the Gospel as the glorious Manifestation of the Son of GOD which brings to Light Life and Immortality They see not the Glory of GOD in the Face of Jesus Christ. Wo then to such who have not more knowledge of this Business Then 1. A literal speculative knowledge of this Glory of GOD which pusseth up and filleth the Soul with wind and vanity and never sinketh deep into the Soul 2. A tickling outward Motion with somewhat of acquired knowledge that only affecteth the person as the lovely Song of one that hath a pleasant Voice Ezek. 33.32 Their Ears are tickled with the new Tydings of Salvation and of a Mediator to preserve them from the Wrath of GOD and that is all 3. Who have no more than some small tastings in the time of a Communion or at some oâ—her solemn occasion that takeâ— more on them than ordinary but is instantly suffocate without taking further root 4. Wo also to such that have but some Light that forceth to some half works and to some raw wisheâ— that all might be better some Flashes of Resolutions and hasty Undertakings which occasioneth somewhat that looketh like a change thô â—las their Heart in the interim is cleaving to their Abominations and going out continually after their Covetousness To whom God would make known c. These words may have respect both to the outward manifesting of the Mystery of this Gospel Truth As as also to the making known and discovering of this Truth of the Gospel effectualy on the Heart which is more especially here to be understood because that this Revealed Mystery is calldd Christ in them the Hope of Glory In respect of both these the Words hold forth two thingâ— First That this Revelation is of GOD. Secondly That it is an Act of His free Grace and free Love As to the First to wit The outward making known of the Gospel which we shall pass in a word We see that as this Gospel is alone of GOD Who is the Author thereof so the outward publishing of the same dependeth on His free Grace and Will so that he sends it to whom He will and to whom He will He sends it not see Act. 16.7 The Spirit suffered not Paul and his Companions to go unto Bithynta However Satan and his Instruments may have a hand therein nevertheless we are to look mostly to GOD Who has the chief hand in iâ— Who followeth His own Resolution sending the Gospel where He has any to bring in thereby be it one Soul or moe or to 〈◊〉 one lost Groat or one wandering Shâ—â—p which finding incapacitate either to leâ—d or drive He taketh it on His Shoulders rejâ—ycing Luk 15.5 Christ went oveâ— to the Gâ—daâ—ens â—or one poor Soul Paul 〈◊〉 charged to abide at 〈…〉 the 〈…〉 Gospel of Salvâ—â—ion and thâ—t 〈◊〉 〈…〉 the publishiâ—g of 〈…〉 time and place wâ—er◠〈…〉 Providence of GOD have ou◠〈…〉 That we abase our selves in 〈…〉 be ashamed of our unsuteable 〈…〉 Him Who hath sought us ou◠〈…〉 many Thousands whereas we 〈…〉 as any only thâ—t He 〈◊〉 give â—â—â—vidence of the freeness of His 〈…〉 3. That we walk more 〈…〉 benefit that He 〈…〉 the 〈◊〉 when 〈…〉 The consideâ—â—â—ion 〈…〉 as to â—ear 〈…〉 the removâ—â—â— the 〈…〉 us as He 〈…〉 Revel 2.4 Tha◠〈…〉 GOD 's Soveraign tâ— who singularly in this disposeth as He will Our carnal Hearts are sometimes ready to rise against Him and to wonder wherefore He suffers so many rich Nations to be so long without one Word of the Gospel of Salvation and suffers it to remain there where the People iâ— wearied thereof and would willingly be quite of it But His Will should answer all such Objections in us and settle all such Distempers in our Hearts We must be satisfied herein for He doth what He will in Heaven and Earth and gives no account of what He doth As to what relates to the other part which is here principally to be understood we learn First That it is GOD alone Who can make known unto the Soul the Glory and Riches of this Mystery and doâ—h effectually publish and reveal it This requires the revealing of the Arm of the Lord. Isa. 53.1 For Flesh and Blood cannot do it but the Father which is in Heaven Math. 16.17 And the Spirit Ephes. 3.5 The God of our Lord Iesus Christ the Father of Glory must give unto us the Spirit of Wisdom in the knowledge of Him Ephes. 1.17 see Vers. 9. Therefore the Spirit is promised for that effect Ioh. 14.26.1 Cor. 2.10 11 12. Gal. 1.16 This appears further from the natural state of Mankind who cannot know these Mysteries without a divine powerful Revelation Manifestation of the same in them For 1. Natural Men are by Nature blind without knowledge lying and living in darkness And whaâ— can they then discern â—n these Mâ—steries Revel 3.17 Luk 4.18.1 Pet. 2.9 Act. 26.18 Isa 42.7 They are in darkness and darkness hath blinded their Eyes 1 Ioh. 2 11. They walk in Darkness and ly in Daâ—kness 1 Ioh. â— 6 1 Ioh. 2.9 They are of Darkness 1 Thess. 5.5 They are called Darkness it self Ephes 5.8 Yea under the power of Darkness Col. 1.13 2. Therefore they are under a natural Impotency and Unfiâ—ness to understand the things of GOD. 1 Cor. 2 14. The natural Man receiveth not the things of the â—pirit of God for they are foolishness unto him neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned 3. Besides this natural Impotency in the Understanding to take up and know these Mysteries there is also an acquired moral
undeserved Love towards us in this Mystery in respect of the very outward making known of the same to us when Kingdoms and Nations more preferrable than we ly still in Darkness or have corrupted and undone these Truths by their Errors 2 That we with all â—hankfulness heartily acknowledge this Mystery and walk humbly under the sense of this undeserved favour We are to fear the Lord and His Goodness as also to meditate what an account we have to give for these rich Mercies lest we misimprove the same and turn His Grace unto Wantonness seriously laying to Heart that it shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorah in the day of Judgement than for such who have had these Manifestations and this Light among them and notwithstanding have desired Darkness ratheâ— than Light 2. Vse For warning unto such to whom the Lord in a saving way hath made known the Riches of Glory by bringing it into their Soul with power and efficacy Namely 1. They should walk worthy of such Grace and Love by carrying themselves humbly before Him remembring their Nativity and the Rock from whence they are hewed that free free Grace may get the Honour of all 2. They should live in the admiration of this rich and free Grace of GOD What were you or your Fathers House that GOD should have cast His Eye upon you What could He see more in you than in others who yet 〈◊〉 in Darkness without these saving Discoveries 3. They ought to endeavour to commend the Riches of this Grace and Goodness to others to speak good of Him who hath been so good to them 4. They ought to make use of these Discoveries which GOD hath given them for the advantage of others doing their outmost to win others and to hold out somewhat of that Light to others that they may be brought in thereby But I hasten now to the Last Point in this Verse to wit That Christ iâ— the Soul is the riches of the Glory of this Mystery made known in the Gâ—spel Which is Christ in you saith he This Truth contains these three Particulars First That a Soul-union wiâ—h Christ is the first Intention chief Scope and Dâ—sign of the Gospel This principally is intended therein that Christ may be near hand and within the Soul A Second is That in this Union consists the Riches of the Glory of the Gospel thereby is this Riches made known and here is their Center For the Soul that is in possession of this Union is likeways partaker of the Riches of this Glory Thirdly That this Union of the Soul with Christ or the bringing of Christ unto the Soul is only the Work of GOD for He maketh known thâ— Riches of the Glory of the Gospel As to the First of these Truths we are to observe these two Things 1 That until â—he Gospel come unto a Soul with power and efficacy the Soul is without Christ. 2. That the Gospel is the Instrument of GOD whereby this Union between Christ and the Soul is carried on and this is the end and design thereof The First which is here premised is clear from Ephes 2.12 before the Gospel came to the Ephesians among the Miseries wherein they were this was the chief that as they were withouâ— Gâ—D so also wiâ—hout Christ when the Gospel fiâ—st comes among a Peâ—ple it finds them fitting in Daâ—knâ—ss and in the regâ—on and shadow of Death Mat. 4 16 â—sa 9 2. And under the power of Satan Act 26.18 Therefore it was the principal work of the Apostles where they came to preach Christ Act. 9 20. and 8 5 Vse This being sufficiently clear we are to leaâ—n thus to make use of it As 1. Earnestly to seek â—fter more solid and real Convictions of these Tâ—uths Many yet lying in Nature and before whom the Light of the Gospel hath never shined in its power dream notwithstanding that they have Christ in them as well as others and so deceive their own Souls and disappoint the great end of the Gospel A full conviction hereof should dispose Folk more earnestly to give ear unto the preaching of the Gâ—spel 2. These Fools must not imagine iâ— sufficient that they have the outward Ordinances of the Gospel and under the administration of the same For unless the Gospel do come in pâ—wer and in the evidence of the Spirit unto â—hâ—m theâ— may nevertheless abide without Christ Yea and until they fiâ—d this in them they will certainly continue Christless and Graceless 3. They are called then to cry unto the Lord that He would reveal his Arm in the preaching of the Gospel that they may not longer continue in in their sâ—d and lamentable Condition The Second is That this Gospel and the administration of the same is the appointed Means whereby this spiritual and saving Union is carried on and that this is its princâ—pal end and dâ—sign appears from these Gâ—ounds 1 st Here is the Offâ—r of this Reconciliation and Union held â—orth Christ comes in the preaching of the Gospel And 1. He tells what is His Father's Miâ—d and Will namely that they should accept of Him believe in Him and let Him into â—he Soul for this is the great Commandment and so much called for duty Ioh. 6.29 This is â—he work of GOD that ye believe on â—im whom He hath sent 1 Ioh. 3.23 And this His Commandment that we should believe on the Name of His Son Jesus Christ. 2. He entreateth them in His Father's Nâ—me to come to open unto Him that He might come and take up His Habitation with them Isa â—5 1 Revel 3.20.3 He prâ—sses and drives on His Request Suâ—e and Desire with many Arguments and Motives as we have evidenced formerly 4. He removes all the Difficulties out of the way by answering all Objections preventing all Discouragements O how full is the Gospel of this 5. He upbâ—aids them that they come not unto Him Joh. 5.4 Ye will not come to me that ye might have Life 6. He waits patiently with much Longanimity upon them â—â—newing His Suteâ— Cries and Intreaties Aâ— which is palpable in the administration of thâ— Gospel whereby appears sufficiently thâ—â— this Union betwixt Christ and the Soul is thâ— great design and end of the Gospel 2 dly Herein the Gospel the Conditions arâ— cleared and laid open whereupon this Union must be accomplished Namely 1. That wâ— forsake all other Lovers and be fully satisfied that thereis a separation between us and them for we must foresake our Fathers House providing we will â—ave the King greatly to take pleasure in us Psal 45.10 11.2 That we receive Him freely without Money and without Pâ—ice Isa. 55.1 2.3 That we receive Him wholly even as He offereth Himselâ— to be married unto us that is as a Priest Prophet and King for we must receive all of Him and not â— part of Him Joh. 1.12.4 That we receive Him fully without reserve absolutely without exception seeing He is altogether Lovely and
a new counsellour a new leaâ—er to lead them in all their wayes they walk now in the strength of the LORD being strong in him and in the power of his might Ephes 6.10 They have new principles and new Motives to their work They go now to their Duties upon another ground and for other ends then formerly aâ—d this is not at some times at starts and siâ—s but in a more serious constant and resolute manner For they walk after the Spirit 13 Mark These who have this Spirit of Christ in them they live by Faith â—nd depend upon him for Grace Strength Iâ—fluences and Life that they may sâ—rve him in their naâ—ural ordinary and civil Conversations as well as in their Christian Life That they may be for him and forâ—his Glory in all their eating drinking sleeping walking wiâ—hin and without house in their ordinary calling work and Imployment as well as in the hearing of the Word and in Prayer The Life which they now live in the flâ—sh is by Faith Galâ— 2.20 14 Mark These that have Christ in them are of a broken and contriâ—e Spirit they dare not arrogantly look up to GOD they lyin the dâ—st and cry guilty glorifying GOD and taking shame unto themselves He dwells with him that is of a contrite humble Spirit Isa 57 15. Such a Heart is his second Throne whereas the proud he sees a far off 15. Mark Who have Christ in them they get something of a publick Spirit That mind is in part in them which also was in Christ Phil 2.5 So that they havâ— a heart to lay out themselves more effectually for Zion then formerly Christs cause and the Suffâ—rings of his people lyes nearer theiâ— heart then their own things From these Marks we may try and see iâ— we have ground to think that Christ is really in us or not Now we come in the Third place to speak of these words Christ in you the Hope of Glory n so farr as they are the riches of the Glory of this Mysterie which is now made manifest among the Gentiles which will lead us to speak of the first part of the verse wherein as we said in the beginning is a praise and high commendation of the Gospel on several accounts As 1. Being a Mysterie 2. A Mystery that hath Glory in it 3. A Mystery that hath the Riches of Glory in it 4. A Mysterie now made manifest among the Gentiles 5. Tho so nevertheless the Riches of the Glory of this Mysterie is not made manifâ—st to all the Gentiles nay not unto all that hear the Gosâ—â—l but to the Saints mentioned verse 26.6 And that according to the good pleasurâ— of GOD Tâ— whom GOD would make known 7. So thâ—â— it is aloâ—e GODâ— work to make known this Mysterie For the opening up of this Businesâ— we shall first speak a word concerning every one of these paâ—ticulars severally And then to all joyntly holding â—his forth To wit that Christ in the Believer is the Hope of Glory First then the Gospel is a Mysterie consider it the Doctrine of the Gospel is a Divine deâ—p Mysterious Truth therefore it is called the Mysterie of the Gospel Ephes 6.19 we may undeâ—stand that it is called a Mysterie in these respects 1. In respect of the first finding of it out â—he Gospel was not at first â—ound out by men 〈◊〉 Angels never could they have fallen upon 〈◊〉 It went far above the reach of their capaciâ—â—es to find out the way how the condemned â—â—nner should again be reconciled unto GOD â—â—is only is the invention of GOD therefore 〈◊〉 is called the Mysterie of his will Ephes 1.9 〈◊〉 Mystery unto which he gave a being out of â—â—s own good will and pleasure He willed it â—nd therefore it was â— The Gospel is a Mystery in respect of the discoâ—ery and making known thereof As no flesh â—ould have found it out so no flesh could have â—allen on such a way until it pleased the LORD â—o make it known flesh and blood hath not â—evealed it Math 16.17 Yea the Angels â—ould not have revealled it for they were strangers thereunto and came to the knowledge â—hereof by the Church Eph 3.10 By the Churc was the manifold wisdom of GOD to wit in the mystery of the Gospel made known unto the Principalites and powers in Heavenly places therefore we hear that the Angels are present in the Assemblies of GODâ— people 1 Cor 11.10 and Peter â—els us 1. Pet 1.12 That â—he Angels are desirouâ— to look into these things Tim 3.16 Seen of Angels giving us to know so much They looked up with desire and satisfaction as seeing something new in Him which formerly they had not seen 3. The Gospel is a Mystery in respect of the way and manner of its manifestation For it was not wholy at once revealed buâ— by degrees the more to hold forth the worth and excelency â—hereof for fiâ—st darkly revealed and maniâ—ested to Adam in this The seed of the woman shall bruise the head of the Serpent Gen 3.14 15 Then 2ly It was a litle more clearly discovâ—red unto Abraham Isaac and Iacob These weâ—e the old stock of Belivers And this was also â—hrough promises when the LORD said unâ—o Abraham â—hat he should be the father of many Nations Gen 15.5 6. And that in hiâ— all families of â—he earth should be blessâ—d Gen 12.3 and 18.18 and 22.18 Such like prâ—mâ—ses we fiâ—d made unto Isaac Gen 26 4 And unto Iacob Gen 28 14. And thâ—â— was the verâ— Gospel as Paul declareth Gal 3.8 And Peter Act. 3.25 3ly It was yet more clearly discovered unto Moses and uâ—to the peoâ—le which Gâ—D then separated for himself in typs shadowes â—ffâ—rings â—â—d â—nd otheâ— figures and legal ceremonies all which held forth the way of Salvaâ—ion through a câ—ucâ—fiâ—d Mediator 4ly Then was â—his business more clearly discoveâ—ed unto David â—o that the good â—hâ—ngs of the Gospel are 〈◊〉 the sure mercies of David Act 13.32 â—3 â—4 compared with Psal. 2 6. Isa 55.3 Psâ—l 16.11.5 After that Christ is now come 〈◊〉 whole business is more fully and distinctly manifested then ever In respect of which clearness the Gospel is now said in a special way to be made manifest and revealed and formerly shut up kept secret Rom 16.25.26 Now to him that is of Power to stablish you according to my Gospel and the preaching of Iesut Christ according to the revelation of the Mystery which was kept secret since the world began buâ— now is made manifest see also Ephes 3.3.5 See also the verse that goeth before my text as the subjâ—ct of this present Treatise Col 1.26 4. The Gospel is a Mystery in respâ—ct of the Instruments that reveal iâ— GOD himself first revealed it unto Adam Abraham Isaac and Iacob And men who had immediaâ—e Inspiraions were imployed in this work Now at last his own Son Jesus Christ is imployed in this Embassagâ— Heb 2 3 5. It is a Mystery in respect