Seed Isa 66.22 else there would be a great Inconsistency New Palates will find sweetness in this new Meat and new Wine else it will be lost upon them 11. The New Creature fits Persons for Death and Heaven To these to live is Christ and to dye gain Phil. 1.21 Living and Dying these are the Lord's Rom. 14. It s this that renders Persons meet for that heavenly Inheritance Col. 1.12 No Eyes can see God but of those that are pure in Heart Mat. 5.8 These and only these are wrought for this self-same thing 2 Cor. 5.5 Heaven is not like Noah's Ark that had clean and unclean Creatures brought into it Without Holiness no man shall see the Lord Heb. 12.14 Frogs came into Pharoah's Court but no unclean thing can enter Heaven Rev. 21.9 A sensual Pallate cannot taste the sweetness of that Wine in our Father's Kingdom Matth. 26.29 For its New Wine and renewed Souls are capable of taking pleasure in it O happy Soul that hath got Christ in the Arms of his Faith and in his Heart by this New Nature he may lift up his Head and say with Simeon Now Lord lettest thou thy servant depart in Peace according to thy Word for mine Eyes have seen thy Salvation Luk. 2.29 30. And is not this available to Souls 12. Yea this New Creature is Heaven begun it is a considerable part of Heaven Holiness is a considerable Happiness it s the Seed and Embryo of that heavenly state Grace and Glory as they are joyned in a blessed connexion Psal 84.10 So they differ but in degree not in Specie Grace is Glory begun Glory is Grace consummated Grace is the Bud Glory is the Flower this New Creature is the Key of Paradise the inlet into Glory yea it is Salvation already 2 Tim. 1.9 Who hath saved us and called us This blessed work of the New Creature is a quickning together with Christ and raiseth us up together and makes us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus And thus we are saved in our Representative Eph. 2.5 6 7. yea this Divine Principle is an Heaven begun not only as a Pledge but part of it The Scripture often tells us that God's Children have Eternal Life John 17.3 And this is 1. in precio in price for it is a purchased Possession Eph. 1.14.2 in promisso in promise for God hath promised Eternal Life to all that obey him Heb. 5.9.3 in semine in Seed this Water within the Believer is a Well springing up to Eternal Life John 4.14.4 in pignore in pledge and pawn this is called sometimes the Seal of the holy spirit Eph. 1.13 14. Sometimes the Earnest which is part of the thing to be enjoyed Sometimes the Witness of the Spirit which never bears its testimony to a Lye 1 John 5.10 He that believeth in thâ— Son of God hath the witness in himself for thâ— holy spirit beareth witness with our Spirits Româ— 8.16 And in these respects the New Creature is available in such a manner as no externaâ— Gospel-privileges or worldly enjoyments are to the Children of men Thus much for the third Head Chap. V. Some Inferences by way of Question aâ— Answer from the Premises FOr the Practical Improvement of this greâ— Truth I shall keep close to the Methâ— which the Holy Ghost prescribes in all Truthâ— 2 Tim. 3.16 All Scripture is given by Inspiratâ— of God and is profitable for Doctrine for Reproâ— for Correction for Instruction in Righteousneâ— These are the Uses I shall make of this point 1. Doctrine or Information of the Judgmeâ— that our Minds may be informed in points fit 〈◊〉 be known Now there may be inquiry into Seven Poinâ— about this Doctrine of the New Creature whiâ— I shall reduce to Question and Answer 1. Quest Whether is the framing of this Nâ—â—reature in the Soul miraculous The Reason of this Question is because we have compared it to yea â—ewed a precedency above the first Creation which was a Miracle therefore it should seem that this also must be so Answ 1. Some things are Miracles yet not 〈◊〉 Creation as Stephen seeing Jesus at God's Right hand Acts 7. Or barren Sarah's conceiâ—ing Gen. 2 1. or the Sun 's going back or standing still Isa 38. For then Nature is only exâ—ended 2. Some things both a Miracle and a Creation as the Virgin Mary's conceiving and â—earing a Son yet remaining a Virgin Luke 1. â—5 Manna was both a Miracle and a Creation Exod. 16.22.3 Some things seem a Miracle as an Eclipse of the Sun seems a Miâ—acle to ignorant People but Mathematicians now the Cause 4. Some things are a Creation yet not a Miracle as the Conversion of a â—oul the subject is a rational Soul and so caâ—ble of a Principle of Grace and had once â—od's Image but it s lost and is recovered by 〈◊〉 Spiritual Creation of that which Man had â—st by his fall and folly and so 't is called 2. Quest Whether is there any Inclination in â—an towards this New Creation Or whether there 〈◊〉 any Spark of Good left in man upon his fall that â—ing improved by his Natural Faculties and diliâ—nce may grow up to a New Creature For it may â—m there is in man a Natural Conscience prompting â—n to good excusing him in doing it drawing him â—m Evil and accusing him upon the committing it 〈◊〉 Rom. 2.14 15. Answ 1. Those 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 as Grecians call them common notices or Anâ— ticipations of Good are not in the Will but 〈◊〉 the Mind not in the Affections but Conscience nec vero cordis nomen pro sede affectuum seâ— tantum pro intellectu capitur Calv. in loc It was not ingraven in their Will to chuse it but the power of some Truths flashed in their Eyes thaâ— they could not but know them and have soâ— general liking of them so they could not bâ— know that Adultery and Stealing are naughtâ— the contrary good 2. But whether these weâ— left in man's Heart after the Fall as Relicks 〈◊〉 God's Image or introduced by God's Providence afterwards for the good of mankind aâ— to maintain Peace and Intercourse in Societiâ— is much disputed Mr. Capel of Tempt thinâ— the latter However 3. All our Protestâ— Writers affirm with the Scriptures that Maâ— Nature is universally depraved against 〈◊〉 Socinians that hold the Nature of Man is 〈◊〉 corrupted but say whatsoever Spot or Vicâ— in Man proceeds from frequent Acts of Sâ— and Custom in Sinning without the interâ— corruption of his Nature But the Scriptâ— tell us of Man's total degeneracy In me saâ— Paul i. e. in my Flesh dwells no good thing Roâ— 7.18 Our mind and conscience is defiled Tit. 1. â— There is none righteous no not one of all the race Mankind Rom. 3.9 10. And therefore neâ— a Sanctification throughout in Soul Spirit and Bâ— 1 Thes 5.23 Yea 4. There 's an utter imâ— tency in Man to renew himself Rom.
it to eternal happiness in the Enjoyment of God 1. Because such a Person may be and is in the Old Adam and is yet under the Old Covenant which brings a Curse and being out of Christ the Second Adam Gal. 3 10-13 All that he hath doth enjoyeth is accursed to him for every man must either keep the Law and satisfie for the breach of it in his own Person or another that is able must do it for him and that 's none but Christ our Surety and Chrst doth it not for any but such as by Faith have interest in him now he that is not a New Creature hath no interest in Christ for if any man be in Christ i. e. related to Christ intitled to him he is a New Creature 2 Cor. 5.17 And he that is not graffed in this true Vine and doth not partake of the root and fatness of this Olive-tree can bear no Fruit John 15.1 5. Rom. 11.17 Do nothing to any purpose nor improve any Privilege to his Spiritual profit for he is a dead Branch cast forth and withered and cast into the Fire John 15.6 Though he was in Christ by Profession yet because he was not planted in Christ by possession of him he is a woful cast-away he is graffed in a wrong Stock to be fruitful here or to shoot up as high as Heaven at last now we cannot be accepted but in the beloved Eph. 1.6 And without Faith in Christ it 's impossible to please God Heb. 11.6 for the first man Adam was made a living Soul and by his Fall himself and his Posterity are become dead condemned Sinners but the last Adam is made a quickning Spirit i. e. Christ becomes a Principle of Life to all his Spiritual Offspring and he will own none but such see 1 Cor. 15.45 49. 2. Because such Souls want the sanctifying operations of the Holy Ghost and we find that the offering up of the Gentiles is only acceptable by being sanctified by the Holy Ghost Rom. 15.16 God will own nothing from Men but what hath the Breathings of the Spirit in it For God knoweth the Mind of the Spirit Rom. 8.26 27. The least interpellations thereof in his Children though but a groaning that cannot be uttered is accepted by God but the most eloquent Rhapsodies and loudest Vociferations of graceless Souls are rejected by the Lord For if any man have not the Spirit of Christ he is none of his Rom. 8.9 11 14. Here we read of the Spirit of God dwelling in Believers and As many as are led by the Spirit of God they and indeed none else are the Sons of God God will own none for his but them that have this stamp this seal upon them so 2 Cor. 1.22 VVho hath also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our Hearts and this is the Earnest of our Inheritance Ephes 1.13 14. Now all external Ordinances Privileges and Performances amount not to this and the Scripture tells us that He is not a Jew i. e. a sincere Christian for its an Old-Testament Title given to a New-Testament Saint that is one outwardly neither is that Circumcision which is outward in the Flesh but he is a Jew which is one inwardly and Circumcision is that of the Heart in the Spirit and not in the Letter whose praise is not of men but of God Rom. 2.28 29. There lies the Life and Vitals of our Religion the Tree must first be good or it can never bring forth good Fruit Operari sequitur Esse working attends the being of a thing If men be not good they can never do good now it is not any thing External that can make Persons good it must be the hidden man of the Heart 1 Pet. 3.4 that constitutes a Person good So Reason makes a Man not Jewels or outward Ornaments thus Grace constitutes a Christian not outward Privileges As nothing that is without a man can defile a man Mark 15. So nothing without can cleanse him I shall briefly apply this point and so pass to the next Is this so That the Richest Privileges and most Glorious Professions avail not any Man except he be a New Creature Then It follows that Religion consists not in Negatives but Positives It s false arguing to say I am not a Jew not a Turk no Heathen and therefore a good Christian nay it s not enough to say I am no Swearer Drunkard Whoremogner therefore a Saint good enough this was the Fallacy of the Pharisees Luke 18.11 God I thank thee that I am not as other men Extortioners Unjust Adulterers or even as this Publican Alas this would not do God disowned him Christianity consists in something positive Little Children saith the Apostle let no man deceive you he that doth righteousness is righteous even as he is righteous 1 John 3.7 Christ became the Author of Eternal Salvation unto all them and only them that obey him Heb 5.9 Alas Persons may gull and beguil themselves with airy Notions and Speculations of free Grace Christ's merits and trusting God and so build Castles in the Air which will drop with them into Hell for without practical Godliness they will be deceived and die with a Lye in their Right Hand Mistake not I say not that free Grace or Christ's Blood is but a fansie or that a Soul can be saved without them or that he that believeth with a Gospel sincere Faith shall miss of Heaven but many snatch at these and espouse a meer Chimaera a Fancy or Notion of these while they have not a Principle in their Hearts or the Power of Godliness in their Lives I may say with the Apostle Can Faith save thee No no such a Faith without Works is dead James 2.4 20. And being lifeless 't is lost thou must have something that hath existence 2. That Christianity doth not lie in meer Externals If men have no more Religion then is visible to others they have not that which will serve their turn true Godliness is a hidden mystical thing Our Life is hid with Christ in God Col. 3.3 It s a Pearl in the Shell it s an hidden Spring that moves the visible Hand God's Children are hidden Ones Psal 83. King 's in a disguise It appears not yet what they shall be 1 John 3.2 The best and worst of a real Saint is not obvious to mens view The King's Daughter is all glorious within Psal 45.13 If Privileges and Profession did denominate a Saint we might infallibly tell who should be saved but a Child of God hath two sides one God-wards another Men-wards A Merchant's Wares are in back Shops the best Goods are often under Deck In the hidden parts saith David thou shalt make me to know VVisdom Psal 51.6 Hypocrites are painted Sepulchres that outwardly appear beautiful but within are full of dead mens Bones and of all uncleanness Mat. 23.27 You must look at Internal Principles not at external Professions or Privileges 3. There is such a
and sanctified by the Spirit born of the Spirit and are Temples of the Holy Ghost 1 Cor. 6.11 19. Nothing can search or reach the Heart but the Holy Ghost The Spirit searcheth all things yea the deep things of God 1 Cor. 2.10 and deep things of Men. An Angel is too short-sighted to see into Man's Heart too short-handed to reach the Conscience or make a New Creation God alone turns Stones into Flesh God shall enlarge Japheth and he shall dwell in the Tents of Shem Gen. 9.27 It is an Act of Power to make a People willing Psal 110.3 or Volunteers No man can come to Christ except the Father which sent him draw him Job 6.44 And God reacheth forth the Hand of the Spirit to attract Hearts to himself 6. The proper immediate Effect of this Work that is a change into a new Frame or Course by which the Sinner becomes new or another than what he was before this is the formalis Ratio genuine necessary Attendant yea intrinsick nature of this which we call the New Creature 2 Cor. 5.17 Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature old things are past away behold all things are become new The Faculties are the same but new Qualities are put in as in a Lute the Strings are the same but 't is set to a new Tune In a River the Water is the same but 't is put into a new Channel the Bowl hath got a new Byass So the Convert said to the tempting Harlot Ego non sum Ego I am not I or as Paul said of himself who was before a Blasphemer a Persecutor but I obtained mercy 1 Tim. 1.13 i. e. converting Grace hath changed me Thus the same Apostle saith of the Corinthians Such were some of you but ye◠are washed but ye are sanctified 1 Cor. 6.11 Oh what a mighty change doth Grace make from Lying to Fearing an Oath from vain speaking to Holy Discourse from carelesness to the greatest concernedness about Soul affairs yea from Darkness to Light Eph. 5.8 From Death to Life from Satan to God Acts 26.18 The Man is now got into a new World as one observes from Ezek. 11.19 I will give them one Heart which that I may do I will cast it a new in order to this I will melt and soften it as one that hath many pieces of old Silver by them casts them into the Fire melts them and molds them into one Bowle Thus doth God with the divided Heart in renewing it and framing it for his use 7. Here 's yet further the compleatness of this Change it s not some external Acts Motions Conversation nor only Internal Cogitations Affections Workings of the Will and Conscience but the description goes further even to the State Constitution Relation of the Man and therefore I add changing the whole man from an old state to a new for every Man and Woman hath a state before God therefore Paul sends Timothy to know the state of the Philippians Phil. 2.19 This imports not a transient Act but a settled abiding Frame continued Relation Sinners are by Nature Children of wrath Eph. 2.3 Limbs of Satan Heirs of Hell this new Mold makes them Children of God Members of Christ Heirs of Heaven yea it puts them into an habitual tendency towards Heaven and heavenly things which is a kind of a second Nature in them this moves the holy Soul acting like it self as naturally upwards as a Stone moves downward therefore it s called a Divine Nature 2 Pet. 14. the acting follows the being of a thing Make the Tree good and the Fruit will be good Mat. 12.33 If a Watch be not well made it will never go well They say of the Peacock roast him as much as you will yet when cold his Flesh will be raw again So force a Carnal Heart to the highest strain of seeming Piety yet it will come to its old Complexion because there 's not a new Nature fill a Pond full of Water it will abate if there be not a Spring to supply it The New Creature is united to Christ and receives grace for grace John 1.61 8. Here 's the Pattern Copy Example according to which this New Creature is moulded it is the Soul 's being transformed into the divine likeness this Image of God consists in Knowledge in the Intellectual Faculties Righteousness in the Will Holiness in the Affections Col. 3.10 And have put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the Image of him that created him Eph. 4.24 That you put on the new man which after God is created in Righteousness and true Holiness or holiness of truth As the Work of Grace in the Heart is a true Copy or Transcript of the Divine Image they agree as the Face in the Glass doth with the Face of the Man that looks in it or as the Image in the Wax with the Sculpture in the Seal from which it is derived Godliness is Godlikeness Summa Religionis est imitari quem Colis The Summ and Substance of our Religion is to imitate whom we worship not that its possible to be like God with a perfection of degree but Sincerity Be ye perfect as your Father in Heaven is perfect Mat. 5.48 A Child hath the parts of a Man though not the bulk for the New Creature is in a daily increase and tendeth to perfection as a small Seed hath vertually the bigness of a grown Tree though little in its self But the Christian is like God man only can beget a man like himself So the Spirit only doth beget the Christian like God Now Divines Journal Christian Bemon part 2. pag. 173. take notice of a double Likeness a bare Similitude Snow and Milk are both white alike yet are not the Image one of another 2. Derivation deduced from another and so the Picture which is drawn every Line by the Face of a Man this is properly the Image of a man after whose Likeness it is made Thus by Holiness the Christian becomes the Image of Christ Rom. 8.29 Whom he did foreknow he also did predestinate to be conformed to the Image of his Son 9. There 's the Rule of this New Creature which is expressed by turning the Heart and Life to the Rule of the Word this either refers to the manner of framing the New Creature or the Rule by which the New Creature acts and moves being once formed As to the former the New Creature receives the Stamp Signature and Impression of the Word Rom. 6.17 But God be thanked that ye were the servants of sin But ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered unto you Or as it is more properly in the Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 into which you were delivered i. e. the Soul is the Metal the Word is the Mould into which the Sinner is cast and thereby receives a new Stamp formed into a new Shape which naturally issues it self into a new
or good Works done by man nay it also excludes Faith it self as the work of man any otherwise then as laying hold on Christ's Righteousness But this I affirm that this New Creature or the best Inherent Righteousness cannot justifie a Sinner before God's Tribunal For a Man is not justified by the works of the Law but by the Faith of Jesus Christ Gal. 2.16 And lest any should say it was by the Works only of the Ceremonial Law it s apparent the Apostle includes the Moral Law that observance thereof cannot justifie for the Gentiles were never bound to the Ceremonial Law yet he proves both Jews and Gentiles to be both under sin Rom. 3 9.-2.28 30. and both alike justified by Christ in the way of believing But where there is no Law there is no Transgression Rom. 4.15 Besides that Law that shews Sin is the moral Law For by the Law is the knowledge of sin Rom. 3.20 And 't is that Law that drives us out of Self to Christ and therefore it can never justifie us God hath nailed up that Door that none since the Fall can enter into Happiness by Law-Righteousness This way to Heaven is like the Northern Passage to the Indies whoever attempts it is sure to be frozen up before he gets half way thither Obj. But if a legal Righteousness by our own strength will not justifie a Sinner yet this New Creature or the habit or exercise of Evangelical Righteousness will surely justifie The Apostle himself Answers No and he instanceth in two famous Saints in the Old-Testament the one is Abraham the other David Rom. 4.1 6 Faithful Holy Abraham though no Idolater but circumcised offering his Son must not glory in any Habit or Acts of Grace And David though a Man after God's own Heart yet saith Enter not into judgment with thy servant for in thy sight shall no man living be justified Psal 143.2 If the Lord mark iniquity who can stand Psal 130.3 Holy Paul dare not stand in his own Righteousness at God's Bar but in the Righteousness which is of God by Faith Phil. 3.7.8 9. Indeed this imparted or inherent Holiness was infused into the Soul for other Ends than to justifie a Sinner before God from the guilt of any one Sin and yet this New Creature is very available to the Souls of men in these 12 cases 1. This New Creature rectifies the Soul's Faculties that were marred by Adam's Fall The former Structure though once a famous Edifice by the Fall was not only tottering but a ruinous House and lies in Rubbish this New Creation re-edifies it in a more stately sumptuous manner yea it is richly adorned thereby Prov. 1.9 They shall be an Ornament of Grace unto thy Head and Chains about thy Neck Prov. 12.26 ch 17.27 Thereby the Christian is more excellent then his Neighbour and of an excellent Spirit more excellent then himself was he is by this become like the Angels yea like God himself and though he be short of Adam in the degree of Grace yet upon better terms in point of duration and now great Grace is upon all true Believers Acts 4.33 Man by his Fall became like the Beasts that perish Psal 49.12 But this New Creature makes him better then other men All men are level as to God till this New Creation sets a divine Stamp on some The tongue of the Just is as choice Silver but the heart of the wicked is little worth Prov. 10.20 God only hath Soveraignty and Authority to rate his Creatures this is the Estimate he sets on his 2. This New Creature is the fruit and Evidence of Electing-Love this is the legible print of God's Heart from Eternity He hath chosen us Eph. 1.4 that we should be holy This is the proper product of free undeserved Grace Gal. 1.15 God calls by his Grace This is the glorious display of his Banner of Love over Souls In the Old Creation there was the strength of God's Arm in this there is the working of God's Bowels God found all mankind alike involved in Sin and Misery but Grace makes some to differ from others 1 Cor. 46.7 As a curious workman seeing a Forrest overgrowing his Ground marks some Trees designing to make of them some rare pieces of workmanship thus God carves his own Image on a common Log and sets it apart for himself this is an act of discriminating Love and when the Sinner sees it he must cry out Who am I O Lord God that thou hast brought me hitherto 2 Sam. 7.18 By the Grace of God I am what I am 1 Cor. 5.10 This this is a shedding abroad his love in my Heart Rom. 5.5 I read Love in every Line and Letter of this new Impression and doth not this avail a Soul much 3. This New Creation consecrates the Soul to be a receptacle for God and renders the Person acceptable to him God dwells in the humble and holy Heart Isa 57.15 There only he takes up his lodging when he hath perfumed the Heart with Mirrh and Frankincense Cant. 3.6 He lays himself in that sweet Bed Having builded this Mansion-House it becomes an habitation of God through the Spirit a Temple of the Holy Ghost Ephes 2.22.1 Cor. 6.17 19. God hath two Thrones in Heaven and in an Holy Heart The Soul and Body is a Sacrifice holy and acceptable to God Rom. 12.1 Happy Soul that is thus owned by the Great God no matter if men reject you if God accept you if men desert you yet if God possess you you are are happy when God casts out the Devil's baggage and saith This is my Rest for ever here will I dwell for I have desired it Psal 132.14 15. No bad House will be kept there where God dwells for he makes all welcome this is available 4. The first instant of this New Creation commenceth a Communion with God this is a consequence of the former and the peculiar privilege of a Saint Truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son 1 John 1.3 This communion with God is a mystery to most men Every one that hangs about the Court doth not speak with the King many meddle with Duties but meet not with God It is good for me to draw night to God Psal 73.28 How oft doth the Christian cry out Oh when shall I come and appear before God Psal 63.2 This New Creature puts a Biass in the Soul God-wards it naturally mounts the Soul upwards to ingage his heart in approaching to God Jer. 30.21 And the Lord meets him that rejoyceth and worketh Righteousness Isa 64. Birds cannot converse with Men there 's not a suitableness of Nature an Hypocrite cannot dare not come before God Job 13.16 But a Saint dare draw near with boldness through Christ for he is like God and communio fundatur in Similitudine Communion is founded in Similitude 5. This New Creature evidenceth a Soul's interest in Christ and his union to him yea puts the poor Believer in
Nature of this New Creature take this Description of it The New Creature is a supernaturl Work of Gospel-Grace wrought in the Soul of a Sinner by the Word and Spirit of God changing the whole Man from an old state and course into a new thereby transforming it into the Divine Likeness and turning the Heart and Life to the rule of the Word in order to the glory of God and the Souls present and everlasting communion with him This is the New Creature I confess this Description is long but I cannot leave out any of the parts thereof I shall very briefly open the Branches of this description 1. For the general Nature of it I call it a Supernatural Work for it is above the power of nature to produce it it comes from above so he that 's born again John 3.3 Is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 from above This perfect Gift comes down from the Father of Lights James 1.17 That Jerusalem that 's above is the Mother of us all Gal. 4.26 This New Creature is no Herb that grows in Nature's Garden it s a Plant of Paradise Flesh and Blood cannot so much as reveal this to the sons of men Matth. 16.17 Therefore it s no wonder if learned Doctors such as Nicodemus laugh at such Doctrine as Fantastical Fancies and say How can these things be John 3.4 Or like Ezekiel's hearers who saith Ah Lord God they say of me Doth he not speak Parables Ezek. 20.49 For such wisdom is too high for a Fool. Psal 56.9 In God's light only must we see light Experience is the best Mistriss in these Cases We speak wisdom saith the Apostle among them that are perfect But the natural man receives not the things of the spirit of God 1 Cor. 2 6 14. This New Crerture is of a Coelestial Original and must have an heavenly Interpreter 2. In this Description we have the particular Nature of this New Creature I call it a Gospel-Grace it is no branch or fruit of the Old Covenant of Works for the Law maketh nothing perfect There was no Law which could give Life Gal. 3.2 21 28. But the New-Testament Dispensation called the Promise this only produceth the New Creation Objection You 'l say Had not Old-Testament Saints this New Creature Doth not David say Create in me a clean heart Psal 51.10 I Answer Old-Testament-Saints had a New-Testament-Spirit for they without us could not be made perfect Heb. 11.40 The same Gospel belonged to them and us and was preached to both Heb. 4.2 Abraham saw Christ's Day they all partaked of Gospel Grace John 8.56 both in Justification and Sanctification they were but different Editions of the same Gospel-Covenant they were as Children in Minority under Tutors and Governours Gal. 4.1 2 25. Gospel-Saints as Children at Age their state was under the Bond woman in Mount Sinai Ours is of Jerusalem which is free However that Gospel-Promise made known in the Old Testament belongs both to them and us Ezek. 36.26 A new Heart also will I give you and a new Spirit will I put within you This is the proper Gospel-Work in both Dispensations and sincere Believers of Old had experience of it tho' the Veil was upon the Face of Moses 2 Cor. 3.14 15. and the Hearts of Carnal Jews as it is on all Unbelievers to this day but Gospel-Grace renews Souls 3. Here 's the subject in which this New Creature is and that is in the Soul or Heart of a sinner There 's the Seat and Centre of this New Creation it s not meerly external in the Eye or Foot or Hand or Tongue but it s an internal work in the Soul the Christian is renewed in the Spirit of his Mind Ephes 4.23 Behold saith David thou desirest Truth in the inward parts in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know Wisdom Psal 51.6 It s called the hidden man of the heart 1 Pet. 3.4 Not but that it breaks out in Lip and Life but the Root and Spring lies under Ground out of the view of the world as the best Treasures are lock'd up the best Goods are under Deck or as Merchants Wares lie in a back Shop not exposed to the open view of the World A Christians Life is hid with Christ in God Col. 3.3 Hence they are called God's hidden Ones Psal 83.3 And the King's Daughter is all glorious within Psal 45.13 These gracious Souls are like Kings in disguise and it doth not yet appear what they shall be 1 John 3.2 But when the Shell is broken the Pearl will appear all external Changes in men are but the change of the Clothes this the change of the Man and his Manners For he is not a Jew that is one outwardly but inwardly Right Circumcision is that of the Heart in the Spirit not in the Letter whose praise is not of men but of God Rom. 2.20 30. It is wrought by God and known to God who alone searcheth and sees the Heart 4. The Instrumental or Organical Cause of this New Man which is the Word of God Rom. 1.16 This is the power of God to Salvation James 1.18 Of his own Will begat he us by the Word of Truth 1 Pet. 1.23 Being born again not of corruptible seed but of incorruptible by the Word of God which liveth for ever The Word is the Seed which being ingrafted in the Heart springeth up in obedience which is the Flower and visible product of the New Creature yea 't is properly the Gospel-Word Moses or the Law may bring us to the Borders but Joshua leads us into Canaan the terrors of the Law prepare the way as John Baptist but the Word of the Gospel is the door of Faith that takes Souls by the hand and leads them into the Chamber of Presence this is God's method to work this New Man by a powerful Gospel-Sermon so saith blessed Paul 1 Cor. 4.15 I have begotten you in Jesus Christ through the gospel there 's the Instrument Paul I have begotten you the means by the gospel the author in Jesus Christ faith comes by hearing Rom. 10.14 Prov. 8.34 Therefore let all lie at the Gates of Wisdom Expect not this New Creation if you turn your backs on God's Institutions 5. The Efficient Cause is the Holy Ghost The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us Rom. 5.5 Oh what a gracious Tincture doth the Spirit leave upon Hearts what a sweet Breath doth it breath into them which breaths out Love to God and Men How is this New Creature diffused into all the Faculties of the Soul by the Spirit This is both a Seal and an Earnest who hath also sealed us Eph. 6.13 14. and given us the earnest of the Spirit in our Hearts 2 Cor. 1.22 All good is conveyed to us by the Holy Spirit from the Father and the Son especially this Saving Good of Conversion we are born again of Water and of the Spirit John 3.3 8.
far as the Soul is sanctifyed in this Life and compleated to a perfect Man in Heaven It is say Divines 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 a Spiritual Chain wherein all Vertues and Graces are linked concreated with Adam infused into the Christian in this New Creation whereby he hath a power to act as a Christian in this lower World in all Christian Exercises that God in his Word calls him to Four Heads I shall reduce these Tryals of the New Creature to Viz. 1. The Preparatives to it 2. The Parts of it 3. The Properties thereof 4. The Effects and Fruits of it Had I time and room these might be largely insisted upon A Touch of each 1. For the Preparatives or Antecedents that lead to the New Creature not that the Creature can prepare himself for it but the same God that makes it doth something on the Soul to usher it in as the Chaos and Darkness was before the beautiful Fabrick of the World so God works 1. Sence of Sin Wrath and the undone estate the Soul is in this is a New York for formerly the Sinner neiâ—her felt nor feared Evil but thought his State as good as any Bodies doubted not his own Salvation now a Spirit of bondage to fear Rom. 8.5 hath seized on him He is shut up as a Sheep for the Slaughter Gal. 3.22 23 24. The Law is a severe Schoolmaster and worketh Wrath Rom. 8.15 Now the Sinner crys Wo is me I am undone I never thought I had been in this miserable state I see I am a condemned Malefactor at the dreadful Bar of a Sin-revenging Judge my Mouth is stopt I have not a Word to say for my self why Sentence should not be executed upon me Wo is me I am likely to perish for ever 2. A discovery of his helpless state he himself cannot help or deliver himself the whole World cannot it s not within the power of Men or Angels to bring any Relief to his forlorn perishing Soul I am saith the poor Sinner helpless fatherless Hos 14.13 Succourless I am without strength in me dwells no good thing Rom. 5.6 7 18. I could provoke God but I cannot please him Heaven is shut against me and I have no Key to open it Hell gapes for me and I know not how to escape it I hang over Flames I lie in Chains and all the World cannot break them Silver and Gold will not redeem me 1 Pet. 1.18 Great men are vanity good men have no Oyl to spare Matth. 25.9 It I sate upon a Prince's Throne I could not purchase or command a Pardon The redemption of the Soul is precious it ceaseth for ever Psal 49.7 My case grows worse and worse 3. A serious Enquiry after a Remedy when the poor Sinner is thus puzzled and non-plust and knows not which way to turn himself then he begins to ask new Questions not as he was wont Who will shew me any good Psal 4.6 of worldly advantage no but his Tune is turned now he cries Men and Brethren what shall I do Acts 23.16 30. Oh Sirs What shall I do to be saved Oh you Ministers Christian Friends did you ever know any case like mine Is it possible that ever I should find Mercy Is not the Day of Grace past I fear I have committed the Sin against the Holy Ghost Wo is me what Course shall I take I see nothing but bare Walls at home Is there Relief to be found for a poor pining Soul Tell me O tell me what Door I must knock at and how I must knock that I may speed 4. Sad thoughts of heart upon discovery of the Remedy Oh saith the poor Sinner you tell me God is a merciful God forgiving iniquity transgression and sin Exod. 34.6 7. But I spy one Red Letter in his Name that will by no means clear the Guilty Now I am guilty and I have read that the Arms of Justice and Mercy are of equal length both infinite how must Justice be satisfied I am sure not by me in my own Person Well the Gospel tells the Sinner that the Wards of the Lock are changed this Chancery will relieve the condemned Sinner Christ in our room hath suffered and satisfied Justice for us Isa 54.5.1 Pet. 2.24 Yea faith the Soul but how shall I have Interest therein It s answered By Faith Alas saith the Sinner I am but where I was I can no more believe then I can keep the whole Law Oh this unbelieving Heart kills me binds me over to Wrath still I would believe but I cannot my Faith is but Unbelief Mark 9.24 I thought believing was the easiest thing in the World now the Spirit hath convinced me I neither do nor can believe without an Almighty Power John 16.8 Eph. 1.19 I would give all the World that I could believe 5. Obstructions are at last removed a stubborn Will by Grace is made willing in the Day of God's Power Psal 110.3 Now Prejudices are removed though a Nathaniel say Can there any good come out of Nazareth John 1.46 49. Yet if he come and see he will believe This was the Woman of Samaria's case John 49.19 Alas faith the Soul I have been foolish and ready to pick Quarrels at God's way of justifying and saving poor Sinners and said of the Gospel-Dispensation how can these things be But I am at last satisfied that a Revelation from God is not only authentick but most rational but yet I have within me strange Imaginations and high things that exalt themselves against the knowledge of God Well God comes with his Spiritual Weapons and pulls down these strong holds dismounts the Sinner's carnal Confidence and levels these high Mountains of Opposition leads captivity captive 2 Cor. 10.45 And now the Sinner is content that God should take his own method in justifying and saving a Sinner by the Merits of Christ without the least respect to any worthiness in him and there 's much ado to bring the proud Heart to this to forego his own Righteousness 6. Restlesness of Spirit in its present state the Sinner is now heavy laden Matth. 11.28 must have rest somewhere but can enjoy no rest in a sinful state There 's no Peace faith my God to the Wicked Isa 57.21 This is not a state to be rested in faith the trembling Soul I am got off all bottoms I see my old unregenerate state hopeless and deplorable yet I fear I am not centred and anchored on Christ the Rock of Ages Wo is me I am fluctuating on the Waves betwixt Hope and Despair I fear the issue sometimes I spy the Day-break but Clouds and Darkness overwhelm me again however I am not content with these poor Husks of the World in my Christless state in a far Country I will arise and go to my Father Luke 15.17 In this tumultuous Sea I find no bottom for the Sole of my Foot I must make to Ship or Shore none but Christ none but Christ let me have him though with
Cords to hold you in the Devil's Service and drag you down Hâ—llwards Prov. 5.22 This day give an everlasting Farewell to Sin Say to every Idol Get thee hence what have I any more to do with â—ols Isa 30.22 Hos 14.8 If you cannot stâ— up Sin by the Roots yet be sure to cut off its Iâ—ches its true this is not enough but this is soâ—ething and who knows what it may tend to â—nd end in Departing from iniquity 2 Tim. 2. â—â— is one part of the New Creature however you cannot find Mercy except you forsake as well as confess Sin Prov. 28.13 Spare but one Sin and God will not spare thee turn from all Sins and you shall live Ezek. 18.21 If you fall out with Sin there is some hopes and then away with Sinners forsake the foolish and live Prov. 9.6 But a Companion of Fools shall be destroyed Prov. 13.20 There 's no hopes of that Man that delights in vain Company how many have been jear'd or alur'd from hopeful beginnings by loose Companions if ever God begin this New Work upon you this will be the first Evidence of it yea and this is a singular help to it changing your Companions running from the Tents of the Wicked into the Society of the Godly I recommend this in a special manner to all Persons young and old and desire you to read and study Prov. 1.10 to 18. 2.12.20 4.14.18 2 Cor. 6.17 Be sure you joyn with Christian Society open your Cases to them beg their Counsel and Prayers Company is assimilating Sin is infectious Holiness imitable Let Communion of Saints be in your Practice as well as in your Creed New Society is a Sign and Means of new Hearts I despair of your being New Creatures in Old Company 9. Enter into a Solemn Covenant with the Lord by taking God as your chiefest Good and utmost End and by making a Deed of Gift of your selves entirely to the Lord. I shall not much need to inlarge upon this having treated on it fully elsewhere only as its subservient to this design Enter into an Oath and swear the Lord liveth Jer. 4.2 Deut. 26. and avouch him to be yours Do this understandingly solemnly resolutely deliberately Set some time apart set God before thine Eyes make him witness of the singleness of thy Heart that thou takest God the Father to love him trust in him depend on him resign up all to him God the Son as Prophet Priest King to be led by him justified and ruled by his Laws God the Holy Ghost to be enlightned to be fanctified comforted by him and when thou hast thus taken God for thy God and devoted thy self to him Soul and Body thou mayst expect and hope that the Lord will dwell in thee as in his Temple his House cleanse thee from Filthiness adorn thee with Graces enable thee for his Service that all the Persons of the Sacred Trinity will take up their lodging and residence in thy Soul that you may henceforth be an Habitation of God through the Spirit Eph. 2.20 21 22. This imports the New Creature we are speaking of and this is the way to obtain it To give up your selves to the Lord 2 Cor. 8.5 To be ordered according to his pleasure for his glory that he may be glorified both in Soul and Body which are his 1 Cor. 6.19 20. If thou voluntarily subscribe to the Equity of his Articles taking him with all the Sufferings attending the ways of Religion and yieldest up thy whole Interest to his dispose hating the Sins that he forbids practising the Duties that God commands walking in all the Ways of his appointment in his Worship and Ordinances this this is a coming up to the terms of the Covenant of Grace and then thou shalt have the Graces and Privileges of that Covenant which comprehends this New Creation 10. Down on thy Knees and beg this New Creature at the Hands of God say as David Create in me a clean Heart Oh God and renew a right Spirit within me Psal 51.10 Say Lord I am quite marred in the Old Adam and I cannot help my self Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean Not one but thou hast promised in the Gospel to make all things new and in the New Covenant thou promisest a new heart Ezek. 36.6 This is the great Mercy O Lord I want and wait for and I ask thee nothing but what I have under thine own Hand in the Promise Oh that I were partaker of it yea thou hast promised to give thy holy spirit to them that ask it Luke 11.13 Now thy Spirit can sanctifie Hearts as Lightning cleanseth the Air as Fire refines Metals Lord seal up my Soul with the Holy Spirit of Promise set on me thine own Stamp as the Seal leaves its impress on the Wax Lord I shall never be acceptable to thee profitable to Men or comfortable to my self except I be renewed and become a New Creature I cannot without this live to any purpose and I cannot dye with any comfort Objection But God heareth not Sinners their Prayers are abomination Answ If you be resolved to go on in a course of Sinning or pray to gratifie a Lust as a Thief for a Prize you and your Prayers are abominable but if you be repenting returning Sinners and pray for Grace Pardon God will pity you and who knows but he may meet you in Mercy as he did the returning Prodigal Luk. 15.20 Repent then and pray God if perhaps the thoughts of thy Heart may be forgiven thee Acts 8.22 Thou art undone if thou give over Praying many have sped well at his Door and so mayst thou still ask seek and knock Chap. XIII Instructions how those must behave themselves that are indeed New Creatures A Third Head to be insisted upon in this Use of Instruction is to direct sincere Christians that do find by good proof that this New Creature is wrought in them how they should live walk and behave themselves in the World both towards God and Man 1. Use God's appointed means for clearing up the reality of this New Creature it 's one thing to be another thing to know that we are New Creatures Alas some sincere Souls walk at Uncertainties A Letter may be written saith one though it be not sealed So Grace may be writ in the Soul though the Spirit hath not set to its Seal partly to keep the Soul humble partly to punish some Sin But I must not handle the common place of Assurance the possibility the hindrances helps advantages nature or kinds of Assurance but give an hint Are the Figures of Grace ingraven upon the Dial of your Hearts pray and wait for the Sun of Righteousness shining on it that you may better see what time of day it is in your Hearts yet if you grope in the dark you may feel some Characters engraven however give diligence to make first your Calling then your Election sure 2 Pet. 1.10 Your
happiness consists in being and your comfort in knowing you are New Creatures Heb. 6.10 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope to the end Another Text calls for a full assurance of Faith in drawing nigh to God Heb. 10.22 Another speaks of Assurance of understanding yea full Assurance yea Riches of full assurance Col. 2.2 Then indeed thy Heart will be comforted to the purpose O labour after much Grace much Comfort or the joy of the Lord is your strength Neh. 8.10 and will chear up your Hearts in every condition and affliction O Brethren content not your selves to live at Uncertainties or under Doubts but use all means to attain to the highest pitch of Assurance that is attainable in this world 2. Thank God for this rich mercy of the New Creation in your Souls will you bless God for the good Creatures that nourish your Bodies and will you not adore him for this new and more excellent Creature in your inward man Say as the blessed Apostle 1 Pet. 1.3 Blessed be God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again to a lively hope by the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the Dead Next to Christ's blessed Undertakings for you this is the greatest mercy God vouchsafed to you to form Christ in your Souls Alas what were you better then the rest of the corrupt Mass of Mankind that lay in the Ordure of Sin What desert was there in you that you should be raised up to sit with Princes even with the Princes of his People to be made like Angels Surely you that are such Patterns of Mercy must be Trumpets of God's Praise you that were stinking Carcases incarnate Devils to be made by this New Creation a chosen Generation a royal Priesthood an holy Nation a peculiar People what is this for but that you should shew forth the Praises of him who hath called you out of Darkness into his marvelous Light 1 Pet. 2.9 O admire free Grace and say with David Who am I O Lord God and what is my House that thou hast brought me hitherto 2 Sam. 7.18 How many Millions of pretending Christians know nothing of this great Work experimentally this is as Life from the Dead infinitely better then natural Life and all the comforts there of 3. Take heed of declining or Apostasy The New Creature is but a Creature it may fail yea it will fail if not supported by an Almighty Hand and if God be provoked he may justly withdraw and leave us to our selves then we fall as a Staff supported by an Hand its true the Covenant secures real Saints from falling finally but imperfect Grace exposeth them to falling foully as David Peter Be jealous of thy self Blessed is he that feareth always Prov. 28.14 Be not secure that exposeth to Satan's Temptations Sleep levels all the Wise Man is no wiser then a Fool to project his own safety or the Strong Man better than the Weak to defend himself the best of Saints in Spiritual Slumber becomes as Sampson but like another man watch that you enter not into Temptation Matth. 26.41 It 's worth watching to keep the House from Robbing Sleeping one Night may keep thee waking many Nights in Sorrow as it did David The sleepy Christian oft loseth God's Presence as Christ withdrew from the sleepy Spouse Cant. 5.2 4. A sleepy Soul is not capable of improving Christ or Grace put the sweetest Wine in a sleepy Man's Hand it will be spilt And if at any time you take a Nap rouze up your selves gird on your Armour rally your routed Forces Remember whence you are fallen repent do your first Works Rev. 2.5 Awake out of your Lethargy lest it end in Apostasy when thou hast fallen shew this New Creature is in thee by a rebound upwards in renewed Purposes against Sin recover thy Spiritual strength activity and familiarity with God be restless till Matters be set right again like a Bird from its Nest a Stone from its Center or as undigested Meat on a sick Stomach that hath no ease till Sin be pickt up by a Vomit of Repentance and renewed Acts of Faith Look to your selves that we lose not those things which we have wrought but that we receive a full reward 2 John 8. 4. Get this New Creature increased be not content with the habit if you say you have enough you have no Grace your business is to perfect Holiness in the fear of God 2 Cor. 7.1 To grow in Grace that you may be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might 2 Pet. 3.18 2 Tim. 2.1 Dead things grow not Children grow and are fed by that by which they were bred as new born Babes desire the sincere Milk of the Word that you may grow thereby 1 Pet. 2.2 Be often sucking the Breasts and you will grow up to further maturity There is saith one much Scurf on the Face of this new born Babe of Grace which by degrees will wear off as it grows up and so be more discernable growth helps to see its truth blow up this Spark into a Flame and it will be visible An Hypocrite grows not no more than the Hands Arms Legs of a pictured Child on the Wall let it be there never so long Oh strive to grow every day better to grow from strength to strength Psal 84.7 reaching after Perfection in Grace to run the Race set before you to get daily more power against Corruption He is a careful and skilful Physician that evacuates the Disease and corroborates or strengthens the Body you must do both the Old Man and New Creature are like Weights in Ballances as the one ascends the other descends as the Earth and Sea where the one loseth the other gaineth Oh be still on the gaining Hand improve all Mercies Afflictions Ordinances Providences for nourishing this New Creature in your Souls when you are grown most you will still be defective something will still be lacking in your Faith Love Humility 1 Thes 3.10 You know but in part and are not yet ripe 5. Live up to this New Creature live at the rate of Persons so principled walk worthy of God who hath called you into his Kingdom and glory worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called 1 Thes 2.12 Let your Conversation be as becometh the Gospel Eph. 4.1 Phil. 1.27 There 's an Only upon this as a most comprehensive Word you must act above the rate of carnal men Soberly Righteously Godly Tit. 2.12 If you be singled out to be New Creatures what singular thing do you Matth. 5.47 What do you more then others Remember Sirs you are New Creatures an old Heart would have served well enough to have done the Devil's drudgery withal you are new born to higher Employment now you must serve not in the oldness of the Letter but in the newness of the Spirit Rom. 7.6 When the
Temple was built with such curious Care and costly Materials surely it was for Holy Use Sincere Christians are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus to good works Eph. 2.10 Now it becomes you to act as you are it would accent your Sin with a greater Circumflex if you sin that have such a curious Work of the Spirit in your Hearts as none in the World-have besides you you are consecrated Persons and by your Sin you prophane God's Temple other 's Sins are Theft your's Sacrilege because you rob God of what was devoted to him when God breathed such a noble Soul into Man's Body he designed him for higher Acts then meerly Sense as Beasts or to converse with Beasts 1 Cor. 3.3 So Christian thou art of an higher extraction then to walk as Men as carnal Men no Friend as thou hast received Christ so thou must walk in him Col. 2.6 O take heed of Sin it 's contrary to the Divine Nature God hath planted in thee now we know the more unnatural any Act is the more horrid as for a Woman to kill her own Child or a Man to be cruel to his own Flesh Oh take heed of Killing the Babe of Grace in thy Soul by Sin but live up to the Principles and Privileges 6. Attend upon God in all his Institutions and in all put forward for closer communion with him in all Duties and Ordinances as in hearing the Word Prayer Seals of the Covenant Christian Conference Communion of Saints these are the Air that the Christian breathes in the most wholsom for this New Creature Lord I have loved the habitation of thy House and the place where thine Honour dwells Psal 26.8 And he often cries out for the Living God Oh when saith he shall I come and appear before God Nothing lies nearer David's holy Heart then God's presence in his Ordinances Psal 42.1.63 1 2.84.1 2. It is or should be so with the New Creature but oh wait for the Spirit 's wafting over thy Soul to Jesus rest not in Ordinances they are but the Boat or Bridge to carry thy Soul over to God the Ordinance is lost and thy labour is in vain if thou do not enjoy God in Ordinances O labour to see Christ walking in the midst of the golden Candlesticks Rev. 2.1 Be sure you hold Christ in the Galleries Cant. 7.5 Ordinances are the golden Pipes that empty the golden Oyl out of themselves Zech. 4. Be sure that of his fulness you receive and Grace for Grace Joh. 1.16 The Holy Ghost sits in Ordinances as a Minister of State in his Office ready to distribute to every ones case as there is need thou art at the right Door wait his leisure and it shall not be in vain 7. Endeavour to propagate Religion do what thou canst to make others new Creatures thy Relations Neighbours and all thou art acquainted with this is the Duty yea the Property of the new Creature by Prayer Advice Example procuring the help of Ministers Christian Friends 't is true no man can propagate Grace to another it 's not in our own power to effect it but we must endeavour it Oh how Paul was concern'd for his Country-men the wilful unbelieving Jews Rom. 9.10 His Prayers Tears Wishes speak him their cordial Friend who were his bitter Enemies God commanded Abraham that all his House should be circumcised to have him go as far as he could to draw them into affinity with God true Grace makes men love Relations better than ever and causeth natural Affection to run in a spiritual Channel which vents it self for the good of their Souls Be concerned to make a Joynture of the Promises to thy VVife an entail of the Covenant to thy Children this is a thousand times better then leaving them thousands a Year Should not you desire that one Heaven may hold those hereafter that one House hold now Oh tremble to think when your House breaks up of one going to Heaven another to Hell and let your Charity extend it self to all you are acquainted with and let your Practices be convincing and winning to all about you Alas what multitudes are there that are unexperienced in this mighty work yet must feel it or never be happy do what thou canst to call in all to this blessed Feast yet there 's room Luk. 14.22 Hast thou none thou lovest so well as to wish them thy happiness There 's no Envy in Spiritual things the more and merrier and no less chear it will add some Pearls to thy Crown to win Souls If a Neighbour lock'd himself in a Room on design to murder himself wouldst thou not break open the Door and rescue him Oh happy Souls that are imployed and successful in this Soul-Charity I have long ago seen a Book writ by Mr. Reiner of Lincoln called The Rule of the New Creature to which I refer the Reader that can procure it at present I shall summ up my thoughts in these Twenty brief Rules of Direction 1. Reason right and Reckon streight let your Reason be regulated by the Word of God Luke 5.21.1 Pet. 3.15 It must follow Faith not give Law and measure to it be sure your Accounts be squared by the Golden Rule of Scripture 1 Cor. 4.3 Set all streight against the Reckoning Day Rom. 14.12 2. Baulk no Sufferings for Christ to avoid sin against Christ Be content to fill up Christ's Sufferings Col. 1.24 Nay be glad to suffer Matth. 5.11 But tremble to sin Sinless sufferings are sweet Heb. 11.26 But sweet sins will be Bitterness in the end Rev. 2.2 Bear any thing but Sin 3. Profess what you are and be what you profess Rom. 10.10 Matth. 10.32 33. Think not to dissemble with Men for worldly Ends but upon a just Cause and Call own Godliness be indeed Nathaniels John 1.47 Pretend not more then truth God knows the Heart Heb. 4.13 4. Serve God for Service not for Wages or rather let his Service be your Wages Psal 19.11 or reward so it is God himself is the Saints reward Gen. 17.1 Hypocrites make Religion a Mount to ascend to some other End let God be thy all Matth. 6.3 Psal 73.25 5. Be most for God when God seems most against thee its pure Faith and Love to hang closest to an angry God Job 13.15 Hos 6.3 To conceive most hopes through Christ when Sense and Reason make against you this is a Faith to be admired Matth. 15.28 6. Joyn pure Precepts to precious Promises look on Precepts as pure therefore lovely Psal 119.140 Dare not to divorce them though for your Spiritual Interest Heb. 8.10 Rom. 7.12 14 22. See to the Law within you and before you as well as plead the Promises of the Gospel for you 7. Be best when least in Mens sight God and Souls give each other their Loves when alone Cant. 7.12 Psal 17.25 Matth. 6.6 Make God your Witness not Men only Friends are most familiar when they are withdrawn from all other Company 8. Sail