more_o frequent_o require_v of_o or_o attribute_v to_o the_o perfect_a man_n in_o scripture_n than_o zeal_n and_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n and_o no_o wonder_n for_o when_o action_n flow_v at_o once_o from_o principle_n and_o custom_n when_o they_o spring_v from_o love_n and_o be_v attend_v by_o pleasure_n and_o be_v incite_v and_o quicken_v by_o faith_n and_o hope_v too_o how_o can_v it_o be_v but_o that_o we_o shall_v repeat_v they_o with_o some_o eagerness_n and_o feel_v a_o holy_a impatience_n as_o often_o as_o we_o be_v hinder_v or_o disappoint_v and_o as_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n show_v that_o thus_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o be_v there_o innumerable_a instance_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o the_o new_a which_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o thus_o it_o be_v shall_v i_o mention_v the_o example_n of_o our_o lord_n who_o go_v about_o do_v good_a act._n 10.38_o shall_v i_o propose_v the_o labour_n and_o travil_n of_o st._n paul_n these_o pattern_n it_o may_v be_v will_v be_v judge_v by_o some_o too_o bright_a and_o dazzle_a a_o light_n for_o we_o to_o look_v on_o or_o at_o least_o too_o perfect_a for_o we_o to_o copy_n after_o and_o yet_o st._n john_n tell_v we_o that_o he_o who_o say_v he_o abide_v in_o he_o ought_v himself_o also_o so_o to_o walk_v even_o as_o he_o walk_v 1_o joh._n 2.6_o and_o we_o be_v exhort_v to_o be_v follower_n of_o the_o apostle_n as_o they_o be_v of_o christ_n but_o if_o the_o fervency_n of_o christ_n and_o st._n paul_n seem_v to_o have_v soar_v out_o of_o the_o reach_n of_o our_o imitation_n we_o have_v inferior_a instance_n enough_o to_o prove_v the_o zeal_n and_o fruitfulness_n of_o habitual_a goodness_n thus_o david_n say_v of_o himself_o psal_n 119.10_o with_o my_o whole_a heart_n have_v i_o seek_v thou_o and_o josiah_n 2_o king_n 23.25_o be_v say_v to_o have_v turn_v to_o the_o lord_n with_o all_o his_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o his_o may_v how_o fervent_a be_v anna_n woe_n depart_v not_o from_o the_o temple_n but_o serve_v god_n with_o fast_n and_o prayer_n night_n and_o day_n luk._n 2.37_o how_o charitable_a tabytha_n who_o be_v full_a of_o good_a work_n and_o alms-deed_n which_o she_o do_v act._n 9.36_o where_o shall_v i_o place_v cornelius_n with_o what_o word_n shall_v i_o set_v out_o his_o virtue_n with_o what_o but_o those_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n act._n 10.2_o he_o be_v a_o devout_a man_n and_o one_o that_o fear_v god_n with_o all_o his_o house_n which_o give_v much_o alm_n to_o the_o people_n and_o pray_v to_o god_n always_o but_o peradventure_o some_o may_v imagine_v that_o there_o be_v something_o singular_a and_o extraordinary_a in_o these_o eminent_a person_n which_o we_o must_v never_o hope_v to_o equal_v but_o must_v be_v content_a to_o follow_v they_o at_o a_o vast_a distance_n well_o let_v this_o be_v so_o what_o have_v we_o to_o say_v to_o whole_a church_n animate_v by_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o zeal_n what_o be_v we_o to_o think_v of_o the_o church_n of_o macedonia_n who_o charity_n st._n paul_n thus_o magnify_v 2_o cor._n 8.2_o 3._o in_o a_o great_a trial_n of_o affliction_n the_o abundance_n of_o their_o joy_n and_o their_o deep_a poverty_n abound_v to_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n for_o to_o their_o power_n i_o bear_v record_n yea_o and_o beyond_o their_o power_n they_o be_v willing_a of_o themselves_o and_o st._n paul_n declare_v himself_o persuade_v of_o the_o roman_n that_o they_o be_v full_a of_o goodness_n fill_v with_o all_o knowledge_n rom._n 15.14_o and_o of_o the_o corinthian_n he_o testify_v that_o they_o be_v enrich_v in_o every_o thing_n and_o come_v behind_o in_o no_o gift_n 1_o cor._n 1.5_o 6._o that_o they_o do_v abound_v in_o all_o thing_n in_o faith_n in_o diligence_n etc._n etc._n 2_o cor._n 8.7_o i_o will_v stop_v here_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o heap_v up_o more_o instance_n i_o have_v say_v enough_o to_o show_v that_o vigour_n and_o fervency_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n be_v no_o miraculous_a gift_n no_o extraordinary_a prerogative_n of_o some_o peculiar_a favourite_n of_o heaven_n but_o the_o natural_a and_o inseparable_a property_n of_o a_o well_o confirm_v habit_n of_o holiness_n last_o be_v constancy_n and_o steadiness_n the_o property_n of_o a_o habit_n it_o be_v a_o undoubted_a property_n of_o perfection_n too_o in_o scripture_n good_a man_n be_v every_o where_o represent_v as_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o faith_n steadfast_a and_o unmovable_a in_o the_o work_n of_o god_n hold_v fast_o their_o integrity_n in_o one_o word_n as_o constant_o follow_v after_o righteousness_n and_o maintain_v a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n and_o man._n and_o so_o natural_a be_v this_o to_o one_o habitual_o good_a that_o st._n john_n affirm_v of_o such_o a_o one_o that_o he_o can_v sin_v 1_o joh._n 3.9_o whosoever_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n do_v not_o commit_v sin_n for_o his_o seed_n remain_v in_o he_o and_o he_o can_v sin_v because_o he_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n according_o job_n be_v say_v to_o have_v fear_v god_n and_o eschew_v evil_a which_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o the_o constant_a course_n of_o his_o life_n zachary_n and_o elizabeth_n be_v say_v to_o be_v righteous_a walk_v in_o all_o the_o commandment_n of_o god_n blameless_a luk._n 1.6_o enoch_n noah_n david_n and_o other_o excellent_a person_n who_o be_v pronounce_v by_o god_n righteous_a and_o just_a and_o perfect_a be_v say_v in_o scripture_n to_o walk_v with_o god_n to_o serve_v he_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n with_o a_o full_a purpose_n of_o heart_n to_o cleave_v to_o he_o and_o the_o like_a and_o this_o be_v that_o constancy_n which_o christian_n be_v often_o exhort_v to_o watch_v you_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o faith_n quit_v you_o like_o man_n be_v strong_a 1_o cor._n 16.13_o and_o of_o which_o the_o first_o follower_n of_o our_o lord_n leave_v we_o such_o remarkable_a example_n the_o disciple_n be_v say_v to_o have_v be_v continual_o in_o the_o temple_n blessing_n and_o praise_v god_n luk._n 24._o and_o the_o first_o christian_n be_v say_v to_o have_v continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o in_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n act_n 2.42_o thus_o i_o think_v i_o have_v sufficient_o clear_v my_o notion_n of_o perfection_n from_o scripture_n nor_o need_v i_o multiply_v more_o text_n to_o prove_v what_o i_o think_v no_o man_n can_v doubt_v of_o unless_o he_o mistake_v the_o main_a design_n and_o end_v of_o the_o gospel_n which_o be_v to_o raise_v and_o exalt_v we_o to_o a_o steady_a habit_n of_o holiness_n the_o end_n of_o the_o commandment_n say_v st._n paul_n 1_o tim._n 1.5_o be_v charity_n out_o of_o a_o pure_a heart_n and_o of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o of_o faith_n unfeigned_a this_o be_v the_o utmost_a perfection_n man_n be_v capable_a of_o to_o have_v his_o mind_n enlighten_v and_o his_o heart_n purify_v and_o to_o be_v inform_v act_v and_o influence_v by_o faith_n and_o love_n as_o by_o a_o vital_a principle_n and_o all_o this_o be_v essential_a to_o habitual_a goodness_n if_o any_o one_o desire_n further_o light_n or_o satisfaction_n in_o this_o matter_n let_v he_o read_v the_o eight_o chapter_n to_o the_o roman_n and_o he_o will_v soon_o acknowledge_v that_o he_o there_o find_v the_o substance_n of_o what_o i_o have_v hiterto_fw-mi advance_v there_o though_o the_o word_n itself_o be_v not_o find_v the_o thing_n call_v perfection_n be_v describe_v in_o all_o the_o strength_n and_o beauty_n in_o all_o the_o pleasure_n and_o advantage_n of_o it_o there_o the_o disciple_n of_o jesus_n be_v represent_v as_o one_o who_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n as_o one_o who_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n jesus_n have_v set_v free_a from_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n one_o who_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d do_v not_o mind_n or_o relish_v the_o thing_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n one_o in_o who_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n dwell_v he_o do_v not_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n he_o do_v not_o make_v a_o transient_a visit_n but_o here_o he_o reign_v and_o rule_n and_o inhabit_v one_o final_o in_o who_o the_o body_n be_v dead_a because_o of_o sin_n but_o the_o spirit_n be_v life_n because_o of_o righteousness_n and_o the_o result_n of_o all_o this_o be_v the_o joy_n and_o confidence_n the_o security_n and_o transport_v that_o become_v the_o child_n of_o god_n you_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n again_o to_o fear_n but_o you_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n whereby_o we_o cry_v abba_n father_n the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v
clear_a do_v the_o understanding_n grow_v and_o the_o more_o absolute_a its_o authority_n the_o grace_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v comply_v with_o and_o obey_v while_o it_o render_v we_o more_o like_a god_n render_v we_o more_o dear_a to_o he_o too_o and_o one_o favour_n if_o it_o be_v not_o our_o own_o fault_n qualify_v we_o for_o another_o whoever_o shall_v observe_v the_o scripture_n will_v find_v that_o holiness_n and_o illumination_n advance_v with_o equal_a step_n and_o grow_v up_o by_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o maturity_n that_o as_o we_o pass_v on_o from_o the_o infancy_n to_o the_o manhood_n of_o virtue_n so_o do_v we_o from_o the_o first_o rudiment_n of_o wisdom_n to_o the_o height_n and_o mystery_n of_o it_o but_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n lust_n obscure_v and_o eclipse_n the_o light_n within_o sin_n deprave_v and_o corrupt_v our_o principle_n and_o while_o we_o renounce_v our_o virtue_n we_o quench_v or_o chase_v away_o the_o spirit_n into_o a_o malicious_a soul_n wisdom_n shall_v not_o enter_v nor_o dwell_v in_o the_o body_n that_o be_v subject_a unto_o sin_n for_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o discipline_n will_v flee_v deceit_n and_o remove_v from_o thought_n that_o be_v without_o understanding_n and_o will_v not_o abide_v when_o unrighteousness_n come_v in_o wisd_v 1.4_o 5._o 4._o we_o must_v frequent_o and_o constant_o address_v ourselves_o to_o god_n by_o prayer_n for_o the_o illumination_n of_o his_o grace_n there_o be_v nothing_o that_o we_o do_v not_o receive_v from_o above_o and_o if_o the_o most_o inconsiderable_a thing_n be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n from_o what_o fountain_n but_o from_o he_o can_v we_o expect_v illumination_n the_o rapture_n of_o poet_n the_o wisdom_n of_o lawgiver_n the_o noble_a piece_n of_o philosophy_n and_o indeed_o all_o heroic_a and_o extraordinary_a performance_n be_v by_o the_o pagan_n themselves_o general_o attribute_v to_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o the_o old_a testament_n ascribe_v a_o transcendent_a skill_n even_o in_o art_n and_o trade_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o therefore_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o if_o illumination_n be_v attribute_v to_o he_o in_o the_o new_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n be_v essential_a part_n of_o sanctity_n and_o therefore_o must_v proceed_v from_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n we_o must_v therefore_o constant_o look_v up_o to_o god_n and_o depend_v upon_o he_o for_o illumination_n we_o must_v earnest_o pray_v in_o the_o word_n of_o st._n paul_n that_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n will_v give_v unto_o we_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n eph._n 1.17_o this_o dependence_n upon_o god_n in_o expectation_n of_o his_o blessing_n on_o our_o search_n after_o knowledge_n put_v the_o mind_n into_o the_o best_a disposition_n and_o frame_n to_o attain_v it_o because_o it_o natural_o free_v and_o disengage_v it_o from_o those_o passion_n prejudices_fw-la and_o distraction_n which_o otherwise_o entangle_v and_o disturb_v it_o and_o render_v it_o uncapable_a of_o raise_v sedate_n and_o coherent_a thought_n but_o what_o be_v more_o than_o this_o there_o be_v repeat_v and_o express_v promise_v make_v it_o so_o that_o it_o can_v never_o fail_v of_o success_n ask_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v you_o seek_v and_o you_o shall_v find_v knock_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v open_v to_o you_o the_o reason_n of_o which_o be_v add_v if_o you_o then_o be_v evil_a know_v how_o to_o give_v good_a gift_n unto_o your_o child_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v your_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n give_v good_a thing_n or_o as_o it_o be_v luk._n 11._o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o mat._n 7.7_o 11._o if_o any_o of_o you_o lack_v wisdom_n let_v he_o ask_v of_o god_n that_o give_v to_o all_o man_n liberal_o and_o upbraid_v not_o and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v he_o jam._n 1.5_o nor_o do_v i_o doubt_v but_o every_o good_a man_n have_v these_o promise_n verify_v to_o he_o there_o be_v sudden_a suggestion_n unexpected_a manifestation_n extraordinary_a elevation_n of_o mind_n which_o be_v never_o to_o be_v account_v for_o but_o by_o a_o divine_a principle_n nor_o do_v this_o doctrine_n of_o spiritual_a illumination_n or_o irradiation_n in_o the_o least_o diminish_v the_o power_n and_o excellence_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n no_o more_o than_o the_o instruction_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v supersede_n that_o of_o the_o spirit_n for_o we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o the_o spirit_n do_v now_o reveal_v any_o new_a truth_n of_o general_a use_n or_o importance_n since_o the_o canon_n of_o scripture_n will_v on_o this_o supposal_n be_v but_o a_o defective_a rule_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n but_o first_o the_o spirit_n may_v assist_v we_o in_o make_v a_o full_a discovery_n of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n second_o the_o spirit_n may_v help_v we_o to_o form_v clear_a and_o distinct_a notion_n of_o those_o thing_n we_o have_v yet_o but_o a_o imperfect_a and_o general_a knowledge_n of_o and_o to_o fix_v and_o imprint_v they_o in_o more_o last_a as_o well_o as_o more_o legible_a character_n in_o our_o mind_n or_o it_o may_v recall_v to_o our_o remembrance_n such_o thing_n as_o be_v obliterated_a and_o forget_v or_o final_o it_o may_v produce_v in_o we_o a_o more_o earnest_a and_o steady_a application_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n three_o i_o see_v no_o reason_n why_o the_o spirit_n may_v not_o vouchsafe_v we_o particular_a impulse_n direction_n and_o intimation_n upon_o extraordinary_a occasion_n and_o sudden_a emergency_n where_o holy_a writ_n afford_v we_o no_o light_n and_o human_a prudence_n be_v at_o a_o loss_n nor_o do_v any_o thing_n that_o i_o attribute_v to_o the_o spirit_n in_o all_o this_o detract_v or_o derogate_v from_o the_o dignity_n or_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o scripture_n this_o than_o i_o conceive_v be_v what_o the_o spirit_n do_v in_o the_o work_n of_o illumination_n but_o how_o it_o do_v it_o be_v not_o necessary_a nor_o i_o doubt_v possible_a to_o be_v determine_v nor_o ought_v our_o ignorance_n of_o this_o to_o be_v object_v against_o the_o truth_n of_o divine_a illumination_n we_o be_v sure_o we_o understand_v and_o remember_v and_o exercise_v a_o freedom_n or_o liberty_n of_o will_n in_o our_o choice_n resolution_n and_o action_n but_o the_o manner_n how_o we_o do_v this_o be_v a_o enquiry_n that_o do_v hitherto_o for_o aught_o i_o can_v see_v whole_o surpass_v and_o transcend_v our_o philosophy_n i_o will_v here_o close_v this_o chapter_n with_o a_o prayer_n of_o fulgentius_n lib._n 1._o cap._n 4._o after_o he_o have_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o chapter_n disclaim_v all_o pretence_n to_o the_o fetch_v up_o himself_o a_o master_n doctor_n or_o dictator_n to_o his_o brethren_n he_o break_v out_o into_o these_o devout_a and_o pious_a word_n i_o will_v not_o cease_v to_o pray_v that_o our_o true_a master_n and_o doctor_n christ_n jesus_n either_o by_o the_o oracle_n of_o his_o gospel_n or_o by_o the_o conversation_n of_o my_o brethren_n or_o joint-disciple_n or_o else_o by_o the_o secret_a and_o delightful_a instruction_n of_o divine_a inspiration_n in_o which_o without_o the_o element_n of_o letter_n or_o the_o sound_n of_o speech_n truth_n speak_v with_o so_o much_o the_o sweet_a as_o the_o still_a and_o soft_a voice_n will_v vouchsafe_v to_o teach_v i_o those_o thing_n which_o i_o may_v so_o propose_v and_o so_o assert_v that_o in_o all_o my_o exposition_n and_o assertion_n i_o may_v be_v ever_o find_v conformable_a and_o obedient_a and_o firm_a to_o that_o truth_n which_o can_v neither_o deceive_v nor_o be_v deceive_v for_o it_o be_v truth_n itself_o that_o enlighten_v confirm_v and_o aid_n i_o that_o i_o may_v always_o obey_v and_o assent_v to_o the_o truth_n by_o truth_n i_o desire_v to_o be_v inform_v of_o those_o many_o more_o thing_n which_o i_o be_o ignorant_a of_o from_o who_o i_o have_v receive_v the_o few_o i_o know_v of_o truth_n i_o beg_v through_o prevent_v and_o assist_v grace_n to_o be_v instruct_v in_o what_o ever_o i_o yet_o know_v not_o which_o conduce_v to_o the_o interest_n of_o my_o virtue_n and_o happiness_n to_o be_v preserve_v and_o keep_v steadfast_a in_o those_o truth_n which_o i_o know_v to_o be_v reform_v and_o rectify_v in_o those_o point_n in_o which_o as_o be_v common_a to_o man_n i_o be_o mistake_v to_o be_v confirm_v and_o establish_v in_o those_o truth_n wherein_o i_o waver_v and_o to_o be_v deliver_v from_o those_o opinion_n that_o be_v erroneous_a or_o hurtful_a i_o beg_v last_o that_o truth_n may_v ever_o find_v both_o in_o my_o thought_n and_o speech_n all_o that_o sound_n and_o wholesome_a doctrine_n i_o have_v receive_v from_o its_o gift_n and_o that_o it_o will_v always_o cause_v i_o to_o utter_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v agreeable_a to_o itself_o in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o
the_o contrary_n consist_v in_o be_v able_a not_o only_o to_o will_n but_o to_o do_v good_a in_o obey_v those_o commandment_n which_o we_o can_v but_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v holy_a and_o just_a and_o good_a and_o this_o be_v the_o very_a notion_n which_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n give_v we_o of_o it_o joh._n 8._o for_o when_o the_o jew_n brag_v of_o their_o freedom_n he_o let_v they_o know_v that_o freedom_n can_v not_o consist_v with_o subjection_n to_o sin_n he_o that_o commit_v sin_n be_v the_o servant_n of_o sin_n ver_fw-la 34._o that_o honourable_a parentage_n and_o the_o freedom_n of_o the_o body_n be_v but_o a_o false_a and_o ludicrous_a appearance_n of_o liberty_n that_o if_o they_o will_v be_v free_a indeed_o the_o son_n must_v make_v they_o so_o ver_fw-la 36._o i._n e._n they_o must_v by_o his_o spirit_n and_o doctrine_n be_v rescue_v from_o the_o servitude_n of_o lust_n and_o error_n and_o be_v set_v at_o liberty_n to_o work_v righteousness_n if_o you_o continue_v in_o my_o word_n then_o be_v you_o my_o disciple_n indeed_o and_o you_o shall_v know_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o truth_n shall_v make_v you_o free_a ver_fw-la 31_o 32._o final_o not_o to_o multiply_v proof_n of_o a_o truth_n that_o be_v scarce_o liable_a to_o be_v controvert_v as_o the_o apostle_n describe_v the_o bondage_n of_o a_o sinner_n in_o rom._n 7._o so_o do_v he_o the_o liberty_n of_o a_o saint_n in_o rom._n 8._o for_o there_o ver_fw-la 2._o he_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n have_v set_v the_o true_a christian_a free_a from_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n and_o then_o he_o let_v we_o know_v wherein_o this_o liberty_n consist_v in_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o mortification_n of_o the_o body_n of_o sin_n and_o restitution_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o its_o just_a empire_n and_o authority_n if_o christ_n be_v in_o you_o the_o body_n be_v dead_a because_o of_o sin_n but_o the_o spirit_n be_v life_n because_o of_o righteousness_n ver_fw-la 10._o and_o all_o this_o be_v the_o same_o thing_n with_o his_o description_n of_o liberty_n chapter_n 6._o where_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v make_v free_a from_o sin_n and_o become_v the_o servant_n of_o god_n thus_o then_o we_o have_v a_o plain_a account_n of_o bondage_n and_o liberty_n yet_o for_o the_o clear_a understanding_n of_o both_o it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o observe_v that_o they_o be_v each_o capable_a of_o different_a degree_n and_o both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o may_v be_v more_o or_o less_o entire_a complete_a and_o absolute_a according_a to_o the_o different_a progress_n of_o man_n in_o vice_n and_o virtue_n thus_o in_o some_o man_n not_o their_o will_n only_o but_o their_o very_a reason_n be_v enslave_v their_o understanding_n be_v so_o far_o infatuate_v their_o affection_n so_o entire_o captive_v that_o there_o be_v no_o conflict_n at_o all_o between_o the_o mind_n and_o the_o body_n they_o commit_v sin_n without_o any_o reluctancy_n beforehand_o or_o any_o remorse_n afterward_o their_o sâ—ared_a conscience_n make_v no_o remonstrance_n inflict_v no_o wound_n nor_o denounce_v any_o threat_n this_o be_v the_o last_o degree_n of_o vassalage_n such_o be_v say_v in_o scripture_n to_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n other_o there_o be_v in_o who_o their_o lust_n and_o appetite_n prevail_v indeed_o but_o not_o without_o opposition_n they_o reason_v right_o and_o which_o be_v the_o natural_a result_n of_o this_o have_v some_o desire_n and_o wish_n of_o righteousness_n but_o through_o the_o prevalency_n of_o the_o body_n they_o be_v unable_a to_o act_v and_o live_v conformable_a to_o their_o reason_n their_o understanding_n have_v indeed_o light_a but_o not_o authority_n it_o consent_v to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o it_o have_v no_o power_n no_o force_n to_o make_v it_o be_v obey_v it_o produce_v indeed_o some_o good_a inclination_n purpose_n and_o effort_n but_o they_o prove_v weak_a and_o ineffectual_a one_o and_o unable_a to_o grapple_v with_o the_o strong_a passion_n raise_v by_o the_o body_n and_o as_o bondage_n so_o liberty_n be_v of_o different_a degree_n and_o different_a strength_n for_o though_o liberty_n may_v be_v able_a to_o subsist_v where_o there_o be_v much_o opposition_n from_o the_o body_n yet_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o liberty_n be_v most_o absolute_a and_o complete_a where_o the_o opposition_n be_v least_o where_o the_o body_n be_v reduce_v to_o a_o entire_a submission_n and_o obsequiousness_n and_o the_o spirit_n reign_v with_o a_o uncontrolled_a and_o unlimited_a authority_n and_o this_o latter_a be_v that_o liberty_n which_o i_o will_v have_v my_o perfect_a man_n possess_v of_o i_o know_v very_o well_o it_o be_v common_o teach_v by_o some_o that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o state_n but_o i_o think_v this_o doctrine_n if_o it_o be_v thorough_o consider_v have_v neither_o scripture_n reason_n nor_o experience_n to_o support_v it_o for_o as_o to_o those_o place_n rom._n 7._o and_o gal._n 5._o urge_v in_o favour_n of_o a_o almost_o incessant_a strong_a and_o too-frequent_o prevalent_a lust_a of_o the_o flesh_n against_o the_o spirit_n it_o have_v be_v often_o answer_v and_o prove_v too_o that_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o belong_v to_o the_o perfect_a that_o they_o belong_v not_o to_o the_o regenerate_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a those_o text_n that_o represent_v the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n easy_a and_o his_o burden_n light_n which_o affirm_v the_o commandment_n of_o christ_n not_o to_o be_v grievous_a to_o such_o as_o be_v make_v perfect_a in_o love_n do_v all_o bear_v witness_n to_o that_o liberty_n which_o i_o contend_v for_o nor_o do_v reason_n favour_v my_o opinion_n less_o than_o scripture_n for_o if_o the_o perfect_a man_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n if_o he_o be_v transform_v into_o a_o new_a nature_n if_o his_o body_n be_v dead_a to_o sin_n and_o his_o spirit_n live_v to_o righteousness_n in_o one_o word_n if_o the_o world_n be_v as_o much_o crucify_v to_o he_o as_o he_o to_o it_o i_o can_v see_v why_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v easy_a for_o he_o to_o act_v consonant_n to_o his_o nature_n why_o he_o shall_v not_o with_o pleasure_n and_o readiness_n follow_v that_o spirit_n and_o obey_v those_o affection_n which_o reign_n and_o rule_v in_o he_o nor_o can_v i_o see_v why_o a_o habit_n of_o righteousness_n shall_v not_o have_v the_o same_o property_n with_o other_o habit_n that_o be_v be_v attend_v with_o ease_n and_o pleasure_n in_o its_o operation_n and_o action_n it_o be_v true_a i_o can_v easy_o see_v why_o the_o habit_n of_o righteousness_n be_v acquire_v with_o more_o difficulty_n than_o those_o of_o any_o other_o kind_n but_o i_o say_v i_o can_v see_v when_o they_o be_v acquire_v why_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v as_o natural_a and_o delightful_a to_o we_o as_o any_o other_o last_o how_o degenerate_a soever_o age_n past_a have_v be_v or_o the_o present_n be_v i_o dare_v not_o so_o far_o distrust_v the_o goodness_n of_o my_o cause_n or_o the_o virtue_n of_o mankind_n as_o not_o to_o refer_v myself_o willing_o in_o this_o point_n to_o the_o decision_n of_o experience_n i_o be_o very_a well_o assure_v that_o truth_n and_o justice_n devotion_n and_o charity_n honour_n and_o integrity_n be_v to_o a_o great_a many_o so_o dear_a and_o delightful_a so_o natural_a so_o easy_a that_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o determine_v whether_o they_o be_v more_o strong_o move_v by_o a_o sense_n of_o duty_n or_o the_o instigation_n of_o love_n and_o inclination_n and_o that_o they_o can_v do_v a_o base_a thing_n without_o the_o utmost_a mortification_n and_o violence_n to_o their_o nature_n nor_o be_v all_o this_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o if_o we_o again_o reflect_v on_o what_o i_o just_a now_o intimate_v that_o the_o perfect_a man_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n transform_v daily_o from_o glory_n to_o glory_n that_o he_o be_v move_v by_o new_a affection_n raise_v and_o fortify_v by_o new_a principle_n that_o he_o be_v animate_v by_o a_o divine_a energy_n and_o see_v all_o thing_n by_o a_o true_a and_o bright_a light_n through_o which_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n appear_v lovely_a and_o beautiful_a the_o thing_n of_o the_o world_n deform_v and_o worthless_a just_a as_o to_o he_o who_o view_v they_o through_o a_o microscope_n the_o work_n of_o god_n appear_v exact_a and_o elegant_a but_o those_o of_o man_n coarse_a and_o bungle_v and_o ugly_a my_o opinion_n then_o which_o assert_n the_o absolute_a liberty_n of_o the_o perfect_a man_n be_v sufficient_o prove_v here_o and_o in_o chap._n the_o first_o and_o if_o i_o think_v it_o be_v not_o i_o can_v easy_o reinforce_v it_o with_o fresh_a recruit_n for_o the_o glorious_a character_n that_o be_v give_v we_o in_o scripture_n of_o the_o liberty_n of_o
a_o gracious_a master_n and_o thus_o the_o child_n do_v with_o respectful_a love_n meet_v the_o tenderness_n of_o his_o parent_n and_o the_o wisdom_n and_o virtue_n which_o sometime_o raise_v some_o one_o happy_a mortal_a above_o the_o common_a size_n and_o height_n of_o mankind_n do_v not_o sure_o diminish_v but_o increase_v the_o affection_n and_o the_o pleasure_n of_o his_o friend_n that_o enjoy_v he_o again_o the_o nature_n of_o enjoyment_n vary_v according_a to_o the_o various_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o body_n one_o way_n we_o enjoy_v truth_n and_o another_o goodness_n one_o way_n beauty_n and_o another_o harmony_n and_o so_o on_o these_o thing_n consider_v i_o see_v there_o be_v no_o necessity_n in_o order_n to_o make_v god_n the_o object_n of_o our_o fruition_n either_o to_o bring_v he_o down_o to_o any_o thing_n unworthy_a of_o his_o glory_n or_o to_o exalt_v our_o self_n to_o a_o height_n we_o be_v utter_o uncapable_a of_o i_o easy_o see_v that_o we_o who_o love_n and_o adore_v god_n here_o shall_v when_o we_o enter_v into_o his_o presence_n admire_v and_o love_v he_o infinite_o more_o for_o god_n be_v infinite_o amiable_a the_o more_o we_o contemplate_v the_o more_o clear_o we_o discern_v his_o divine_a perfection_n and_o beauty_n the_o more_o must_v our_o soul_n be_v inflame_v with_o a_o passion_n for_o he_o and_o i_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o doubt_v but_o that_o god_n will_v make_v we_o the_o most_o gracious_a return_v of_o our_o love_n and_o express_v his_o affection_n for_o we_o in_o such_o condescension_n in_o such_o communication_n of_o himself_o as_o will_v transport_v we_o to_o the_o utmost_a degree_n that_o create_v being_n be_v capable_a of_o will_v not_o god_n that_o shed_v abroad_o his_o love_n in_o our_o heart_n by_o his_o spirit_n here_o full_o satisfy_v it_o hereafter_o will_v not_o god_n who_o fill_v we_o here_o with_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o spirit_n by_o i_o know_v not_o what_o inconceivable_a way_n communicate_v himself_o in_o a_o more_o ravish_a and_o ecstatick_a manner_n to_o we_o when_o we_o shall_v behold_v he_o as_o he_o be_v and_o live_v for_o ever_o encircle_v in_o the_o arm_n of_o his_o love_n and_o glory_n upon_o the_o whole_a then_o i_o can_v but_o believe_v that_o the_o beatific_a vision_n will_v be_v the_o supreme_a pleasure_n of_o heaven_n yet_o i_o do_v not_o think_v that_o this_o be_v to_o exclude_v those_o of_o a_o inferior_a nature_n god_n will_v be_v there_o not_o only_o all_o but_o in_o all_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v and_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o reflect_v in_o angel_n and_o all_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o heaven_n nay_o in_o all_o the_o various_a treasure_n of_o that_o happy_a place_n but_o in_o far_o more_o bright_a and_o lovely_a charcter_n than_o in_o his_o work_n here_o below_o this_o be_v a_o state_n now_o that_o answer_v all_o end_n and_o satisfy_v all_o appetite_n let_v they_o be_v never_o so_o various_a never_o so_o boundless_a temporal_a good_a nay_o a_o state_n accumulate_v with_o all_o temporal_a good_n have_v still_o something_o defective_a something_o empty_a in_o it_o that_o which_o be_v crooked_a can_v be_v make_v straight_o and_o that_o which_o be_v want_v can_v be_v number_v and_o therefore_o the_o eye_n be_v not_o satisfy_v with_o see_v nor_o the_o ear_n with_o hear_v but_o all_o thing_n be_v full_a of_o labour_n man_n can_v utter_v it_o and_o if_o this_o be_v not_o the_o state_n of_o temporal_a thing_n yet_o that_o one_o think_v of_o solomon_n that_o he_o must_v leave_v they_o make_v good_a the_o charge_n of_o vanity_n and_o vexation_n and_o the_o contrary_n be_v that_o which_o complete_v heaven_n namely_o that_o it_o be_v eternal_a be_v heaven_n to_o have_v a_o end_n that_o end_n will_v make_v it_o none_o that_o death_n will_v be_v as_o much_o more_o intolerable_a than_o this_o here_o as_o the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n be_v above_o those_o of_o earth_n for_o the_o terror_n and_o the_o evil_a of_o it_o will_v be_v to_o be_v estimate_v by_o the_o perfection_n of_o that_o nature_n and_o happiness_n which_o it_o will_v put_v a_o end_n to_o to_o die_v in_o paradise_n amid_o a_o crowd_n of_o satisfaction_n how_o much_o more_o intolerable_a be_v this_o than_o to_o die_v in_o those_o accurse_a region_n that_o breed_v continual_o briar_n and_o bramble_n care_n and_o sorrow_n and_o now_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o every_o one_o will_v ready_o acknowledge_v that_o a_o heaven_n be_v it_o believe_v be_v such_o a_o fruit_n of_o christian_a liberty_n such_o a_o motive_n to_o it_o as_o none_o can_v resist_v do_v i_o believe_v this_o have_v i_o hear_v one_o say_v i_o will_v quit_v my_o trade_n and_o all_o care_n and_o thought_n of_o this_o world_n and_o whole_o apply_v myself_o to_o get_v that_o other_o you_o talk_v of_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o go_v thus_o far_o but_o this_o show_v what_o the_o natural_a influence_n of_o this_o doctrine_n of_o a_o life_n to_o come_v be_v and_o that_o it_o be_v general_o owe_v to_o infidelity_n where_o it_o be_v frustrate_v and_o defeat_v what_o be_v in_o this_o case_n to_o be_v do_v what_o proof_n what_o evidence_n be_v sufficient_a to_o beget_v faith_n in_o he_o who_o reject_v christianity_n and_o all_o divine_a revelation_n he_o that_o hear_v not_o moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n neither_o will_v he_o believe_v though_o one_o rise_v from_o the_o dead_a this_o doctrine_n of_o a_o life_n to_o come_v be_v general_o believe_v by_o the_o gentile_a world_n it_o be_v indeed_o very_o much_o obscure_v but_o never_o extinguish_v by_o the_o addition_n of_o many_o fabulous_a and_o superstitious_a fancy_n so_o strong_a be_v the_o tradition_n or_o reason_n or_o rather_o both_o on_o which_o it_o be_v build_v the_o jew_n universal_o embrace_v it_o the_o general_a promise_n of_o god_n to_o abraham_n and_o his_o seed_n and_o the_o several_a shadow_n and_o type_n of_o it_o in_o the_o mosaic_a institution_n do_v confirm_v they_o in_o the_o belief_n of_o a_o doctrine_n which_o i_o do_v not_o doubt_v have_v be_v transmit_v to_o they_o even_o from_o enoch_n noah_n and_o all_o their_o pious_a ancestor_n nor_o must_v we_o look_v upon_o the_o sadducee_n among_o the_o jew_n or_o the_o epicurean_o among_o the_o gentile_n to_o be_v any_o objection_n against_o this_o argument_n of_o a_o life_n to_o come_v found_v in_o tradition_n and_o the_o universal_a sense_n of_o mankind_n because_o they_o be_v not_o only_o inconsiderable_a compare_v to_o the_o body_n of_o the_o jewish_a or_o pagan_a world_n but_o also_o desertor_n and_o apostate_n from_o the_o philosophy_n and_o religion_n receive_v to_o what_o end_n shall_v i_o proceed_v from_o the_o gentile_a and_o jew_n to_o the_o christian_a be_v christianity_n entertain_v as_o it_o ought_v the_o very_a supposal_n of_o any_o doubt_n concern_v a_o life_n to_o come_v will_v be_v impertinent_a here_o we_o have_v numerous_a demonstratition_n of_o it_o not_o only_o the_o fortune_n of_o virtue_n in_o this_o life_n which_o be_v often_o very_o calamitous_a but_o even_o the_o origine_fw-la and_o nature_n of_o it_o do_v plain_o evince_v a_o life_n to_o come_v for_o to_o what_o end_n can_v the_o mortification_n of_o the_o body_n by_o abstraction_n and_o meditation_n be_v enjoin_v if_o there_o be_v no_o life_n to_o come_v what_o need_n be_v there_o of_o renovation_n or_o regeneration_n by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v there_o no_o life_n to_o come_v one_o will_v think_v '_o the_o common_a end_n of_o this_o natural_a life_n may_v be_v well_o enough_o secure_v upon_o the_o common_a foundation_n of_o reason_n and_o human_a law_n what_o shall_v i_o here_o add_v the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o merit_n of_o jesus_n from_o both_o which_o we_o may_v derive_v many_o unanswerable_a argument_n of_o a_o life_n to_o come_v for_o though_o when_o we_o reflect_v upon_o it_o it_o appear_v as_o much_o above_o our_o merit_n as_o it_o be_v above_o our_o comprehension_n yet_o when_o we_o consider_v that_o eternal_a life_n be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n what_o less_o than_o a_o heaven_n can_v we_o expect_v from_o a_o infinite_a merit_n and_o almighty_a love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n must_v be_v perfect_a as_o himself_o and_o the_o merit_n of_o jesus_n must_v be_v estimate_v by_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o person_n and_o his_o suffering_n he_o that_o can_v be_v wrought_v upon_o by_o these_o and_o the_o like_a gospel-argument_n will_v be_v find_v i_o doubt_v impenetrable_a to_o all_o other_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o argue_v with_o such_o a_o one_o from_o natural_a topic_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v stop_v here_o i_o shall_v now_o pass_v on_o to_o the_o three_o thing_n the_o attainment_n of_o christian_a liberty_n but_o
which_o affirm_v concern_v original_a sin_n thus_o and_o this_o infection_n of_o nature_n do_v remain_v yea_o in_o they_o that_o be_v regenerate_v whereby_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n call_v in_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o some_o do_v expound_v the_o wisdom_n some_o sensuality_n some_o the_o affection_n some_o the_o desire_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v not_o subject_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n for_o this_o must_v not_o be_v understand_v sure_o as_o if_o the_o flesh_n do_v always_o lust_n against_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o regenerate_v but_o only_o that_o the_o regenerate_v themselves_o be_v liable_a and_o obnoxious_a to_o these_o lusting_n which_o on_o supposal_n that_o the_o perfect_a man_n be_v here_o think_v upon_o by_o the_o compiler_n of_o this_o article_n import_v no_o contradiction_n to_o any_o thing_n i_o have_v deliver_v the_o truth_n be_v i_o have_v assert_v no_o more_o concern_v the_o cureableness_n of_o original_a corruption_n than_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o secure_v the_o interest_n of_o holiness_n as_o well_o as_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n i_o have_v too_o often_o have_v occasion_n to_o observe_v that_o the_o state_v our_o obligation_n to_o reduce_v original_a corruption_n too_o lax_o minister_v not_o a_o little_a to_o the_o carnal_a confidence_n of_o supine_n and_o careless_a person_n how_o greedy_o do_v some_o imbibe_n and_o how_o fond_a be_v they_o of_o this_o notion_n that_o the_o flesh_n even_o in_o the_o regenerate_v do_v always_o lust_n against_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o next_o thing_n be_v to_o look_v upon_o their_o darling_n error_n as_o unavoidable_a infirmity_n flow_v from_o the_o uncurable_a distemper_n of_o original_a sin_n to_o the_o end_n therefore_o that_o under_o colour_n and_o pretence_n of_o the_o impossibility_n of_o a_o perfect_a cure_n and_o restitution_n of_o our_o nature_n to_o perfect_a innocence_n and_o unspotted_a purity_n we_o may_v not_o sit_v down_o content_v in_o a_o impure_a state_n and_o never_o advance_v to_o those_o degree_n of_o health_n and_o innocence_n which_o we_o may_v and_o ought_v actual_o arrive_v at_o i_o think_v fit_a here_o to_o guard_v the_o doctrine_n of_o original_a sin_n with_o this_o one_o general_a caution_n that_o we_o be_v very_o careful_a not_o to_o mistake_v contract_v for_o natural_a corruption_n not_o to_o mistake_v a_o super-induced_n nature_n deface_v by_o all_o the_o slime_n and_o mud_n which_o popular_a error_n and_o fashion_n leave_v upon_o it_o for_o original_a nature_n or_o nature_n in_o that_o state_n in_o which_o it_o enter_v the_o world_n it_o be_v i_o doubt_n a_o very_a hard_a thing_n to_o find_v but_o one_o arrive_v at_o any_o maturity_n of_o year_n in_o who_o nature_n be_v the_o same_o thing_n now_o that_o it_o be_v in_o the_o womb_n or_o the_o cradle_n in_o who_o these_o be_v no_o worse_a propension_n than_o what_o necessary_o flow_v from_o the_o frame_n and_o composition_n of_o his_o be_v alas_o our_o original_a depravation_n be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v be_v very_o betimes_o improve_v by_o false_a principle_n and_o foolish_a custom_n by_o a_o careless_a education_n and_o by_o the_o blandishment_n and_o insinuation_n of_o the_o world_n and_o every_o man_n be_v so_o partial_a to_o himself_o that_o he_o be_v very_o willing_a to_o have_v his_o defect_n and_o error_n pass_v under_o the_o name_n of_o natural_a and_o unavoidable_a one_o because_o this_o seem_v to_o carry_v in_o it_o its_o own_o apology_n this_o be_v a_o fatal_a error_n and_o continue_v man_n in_o their_o vice_n nay_o give_v they_o peace_n in_o they_o too_o to_o their_o life_n end_v for_o why_o shall_v not_o a_o man_n forbear_v attempt_v what_o he_o despair_v of_o effect_v to_o prevent_v which_o i_o earnest_o desire_v my_o reader_n to_o consider_v that_o all_o who_o have_v treat_v this_o doctrine_n of_o original_a sin_n with_o any_o solidity_n or_o prudence_n do_v carry_v the_o matter_n as_o far_o at_o least_o as_o i_o have_v do_v they_o teach_v not_o only_o that_o original_a corruption_n may_v be_v prune_v and_o lop_v but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v cut_v down_o mortify_v and_o dry_v up_o that_o since_o no_o man_n can_v assure_v himself_o how_o far_o he_o may_v advance_v his_o conquest_n over_o his_o natural_a corruption_n and_o the_o interest_n of_o every_o man_n safety_n and_o glory_n oblige_v he_o to_o advance_v it_o as_o far_o as_o he_o can_v he_o must_v never_o cease_v fight_v against_o it_o while_o it_o fight_v against_o he_o that_o since_o every_o sin_n be_v so_o far_o mortal_a as_o it_o be_v voluntary_a and_o have_v as_o much_o gild_n in_o it_o as_o freedom_n every_o man_n ought_v to_o be_v extreme_o jealous_a lest_o he_o be_v subject_a to_o any_o vicious_a inclination_n that_o be_v in_o reality_n the_o pruduct_v not_o of_o nature_n but_o of_o choice_n and_o last_o since_o though_o much_o less_o than_o habitual_a goodness_n may_v constitute_v a_o man_n in_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n yet_o nothing_o less_o can_v produce_v perfection_n or_o a_o constant_a assurance_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n therefore_o no_o man_n ought_v to_o acquiesce_v while_o he_o see_v himself_o short_a of_o this_o and_o every_o man_n shall_v remember_v that_o his_o goodness_n ought_v to_o consist_v in_o a_o habit_n of_o those_o virtue_n to_o which_o he_o be_v by_o nature_n the_o most_o averse_a i_o have_v now_o dispatch_v my_o first_o enquiry_n and_o resolve_v how_o far_o original_a sin_n be_v curable_a the_o next_o be_v §_o 2._o how_o this_o cure_n may_v be_v effect_v and_o here_o it_o be_v plain_a what_o we_o be_v to_o aim_v at_o in_o general_a for_o if_o original_a righteousness_n consist_v as_o i_o think_v it_o can_v be_v doubt_v in_o the_o subordination_n of_o the_o body_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n and_o original_a corruption_n in_o the_o subversion_n of_o this_o order_n than_o the_o cure_n must_v consist_v in_o restore_v this_o subordination_n by_o the_o weaken_n and_o reduce_v the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n and_o by_o quicken_a and_o strengthen_v the_o mind_n and_o so_o re-establish_a its_o sovereignty_n and_o authority_n the_o scripture_n according_o let_v we_o know_v that_o this_o be_v the_o great_a design_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o great_a business_n of_o man_n 1_o cor._n 9_o 25._o and_o every_o man_n that_o strive_v for_o the_o mastery_n be_v temperate_a in_o all_o thing_n now_o they_o do_v it_o to_o obtain_v a_o corruptible_a crown_n but_o we_o a_o incorruptible_a and_o this_o st._n paul_n illustrate_v and_o explain_v by_o his_o own_o example_n in_o the_o follow_a word_n i_o therefore_o so_o run_v not_o as_o uncertain_o so_o fight_v i_o not_o as_o one_o that_o beat_v the_o air_n but_o i_o keep_v under_o my_o body_n and_o bring_v it_o into_o subjection_n the_o preference_n give_v to_o the_o care_n and_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n or_o of_o the_o mind_n be_v the_o distinguish_a character_n which_o constitute_v and_o demonstrate_v man_n either_o holy_a or_o wicked_a they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o flesh_n do_v mind_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o spirit_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n rom._n 8.5_o and_o the_o threat_n of_o the_o gospel_n belong_v to_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o flesh_n its_o promise_n to_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o if_o you_o live_v after_o the_o flesh_n you_o shall_v die_v but_o if_o you_o through_o the_o spirit_n do_v mortify_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o body_n you_o shall_v live_v rom._n 8.13_o he_o that_o sow_v to_o his_o flesh_n shall_v of_o the_o flesh_n reap_v corruption_n but_o he_o that_o sow_v to_o the_o spirit_n shall_v of_o the_o spirit_n reap_v life_n everlasting_a gal._n 6.8_o i_o grant_v that_o in_o these_o place_n and_o elsewhere_o very_o common_o as_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v mean_v the_o mind_n enlighten_v and_o aid_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n so_o by_o the_o body_n or_o flesh_n be_v mean_v our_o inferior_a nature_n not_o just_a such_o as_o it_o proceed_v out_o of_o the_o womb_n but_o as_o it_o be_v further_o deprave_v by_o a_o carnal_a and_o worldly_a conversation_n however_o since_o original_a be_v the_o seed_n or_o root_n of_o voluntary_a or_o customary_a corruption_n these_o text_n do_v proper_o and_o direct_o enough_o serve_v to_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n for_o which_o they_o be_v allege_v this_o then_o be_v the_o great_a duty_n of_o man_n this_o be_v the_o great_a end_n which_o he_o be_v always_o to_o have_v in_o his_o eye_n the_o mortify_v the_o body_n and_o entire_o subjugate_a it_o to_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o mind_n here_o the_o christian_a warfare_n must_v begin_v and_o here_o end_n for_o he_o who_o have_v crucify_v the_o body_n with_o the_o lust_n and_o affection_n thereof_o have_v enter_v into_o rest_n as_o far_o as_o this_o life_n
dismiss_v from_o the_o pilgrimage_n of_o this_o world_n and_o from_o the_o corruptible_a tabernacle_n of_o the_o body_n nor_o do_v i_o last_o doubt_n but_o that_o this_o love_n be_v often_o sensible_o transport_v it_o be_v a_o fire_n within_o that_o strive_v to_o break_v out_o and_o exert_v itself_o in_o the_o fruition_n of_o heaven_n it_o be_v a_o rich_a and_o mighty_a cordial_n that_o raise_v nature_n above_o itself_o and_o make_v it_o all_o purity_n all_o glory_n thus_o have_v i_o consider_v the_o extent_n or_o compass_n of_o the_o perfect_a man_n virtue_n and_o the_o sum_n total_a be_v in_o some_o he_o must_v excel_v because_o natural_a and_o easy_a in_o other_o because_o necessary_a universal_a one_o he_o can_v want_v they_o be_v essential_a to_o christianity_n other_o of_o a_o peculiar_a nature_n he_o may_v unless_o his_o circumstance_n exact_v they_o nor_o be_v this_o any_o diminutton_n of_o his_o perfection_n patience_n fortitude_n moderation_n vigilance_n etc._n etc._n be_v the_o virtue_n of_o earth_n not_o heaven_n and_o yet_o none_o think_v the_o bless_a inhabitant_n of_o that_o place_n imperfect_a because_o not_o endow_v with_o habit_n which_o they_o do_v not_o want_v above_o all_o he_o that_o will_v be_v perfect_a must_v abound_v in_o those_o grace_n which_o be_v of_o the_o most_o heroic_a nature_n faith_n love_n and_o humility_n for_o these_o be_v they_o which_o most_o effectual_o exalt_v man_n above_o himself_o and_o above_o the_o world_n which_o inflame_v he_o with_o a_o zeal_n for_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o man_n and_o enable_v he_o to_o surmount_v the_o difficulty_n which_o he_o meet_v with_o in_o prosecute_a this_o glorious_a design_n i_o be_o next_o to_o inquire_v §_o 2._o to_o what_o height_n to_o what_o degree_n of_o virtue_n the_o perfect_a man_n may_v advance_v i_o have_v in_o part_n anticipate_v this_o enquiry_n already_o yet_o can_v forbear_v add_v here_o two_o observation_n first_o that_o reason_n and_o scripture_n seem_v to_o press_v we_o on_o towards_o a_o endless_a progress_n in_o virtue_n and_o yet_o second_o that_o both_o seem_v to_o propose_v to_o we_o such_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n as_o attainable_a beyond_o which_o we_o can_v go_v that_o so_o the_o beginner_n may_v not_o despair_v of_o perfection_n nor_o the_o perfect_a abate_v any_o thing_n of_o their_o vigilance_n and_o their_o industry_n such_o a_o degree_n of_o excellence_n to_o which_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v such_o a_o height_n above_o which_o there_o be_v no_o room_n to_o soar_v if_o apply_v to_o man_n and_o this_o world_n be_v sure_o but_o a_o imaginary_a notion_n to_o dream_v of_o such_o a_o perfection_n be_v to_o forget_v our_o nature_n and_o our_o state_n no_o sagacity_n of_o judgement_n no_o strength_n of_o resolution_n no_o felicity_n of_o circumstance_n can_v ever_o advance_v we_o to_o this_o height_n such_o a_o perfection_n as_o this_o that_o be_v incapable_a of_o any_o increase_n belong_v i_o believe_v to_o god_n alone_o or_o if_o we_o may_v allow_v it_o to_o angel_n we_o must_v certain_o deny_v it_o to_o man_n in_o who_o one_o will_v think_v the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n can_v never_o be_v so_o entre_o subdue_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o place_n to_o extend_v his_o conquest_n or_o render_v his_o victory_n more_o entire_a and_o complete_a and_o in_o who_o one_o will_v think_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v never_o reside_v in_o that_o measure_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v nothing_o to_o be_v add_v to_o his_o fullness_n it_o be_v hard_a to_o conceive_v how_o we_o shall_v study_v the_o systeme_n of_o divine_a faith_n how_o we_o shall_v daily_o reflect_v upon_o our_o life_n and_o action_n without_o grow_v in_o spiritual_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n it_o be_v hard_a to_o conceive_v how_o we_o shall_v give_v god_n the_o world_n and_o ourselves_o repeat_v proof_n of_o our_o integrity_n in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n without_o increase_v our_o strength_n and_o assurance_n and_o love_n must_v natural_o increase_v with_o these_o whence_o it_o be_v that_o st._n paul_n acknowledge_v himself_o not_o yet_o perfect_a resolve_n that_o forget_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forward_o to_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o he_o will_v press_v on_o towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o prize_n of_o the_o high_a call_v of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n phil._n 3.13_o 14._o and_o st._n austin_n resolve_v plenissima_fw-la charitas_fw-la quam_fw-la diu_fw-la hîc_fw-la homo_fw-la vivit_fw-la est_fw-la in_o nemine_fw-la a_o absolute_a plenitude_n of_o charity_n be_v in_o no_o mortal_a upon_o earth_n and_o yet_o if_o we_o come_v to_o fact_n and_o practice_n one_o will_v be_v tempt_v to_o think_v that_o the_o disciple_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n have_v arrive_v at_o that_o state_n wherein_o their_o business_n be_v not_o to_o climb_v high_a but_o rather_o to_o make_v good_a the_o ground_n they_o have_v gain_v what_o can_v render_v st._n paul_n victory_n over_o the_o body_n more_o complete_a who_o assure_v we_o i_o be_o crucify_v with_o christ_n and_o again_o i_o be_o crucify_v to_o the_o world_n and_o the_o world_n be_v crucify_v to_o i_o what_o can_v render_v the_o authority_n and_o dominion_n of_o his_o mind_n more_o absolute_a or_o its_o grace_n more_o consummate_a and_o entire_a who_o can_v say_v with_o truth_n it_o be_v not_o i_o who_o live_v but_o christ_n who_o live_v in_o i_o what_o will_v you_o have_v add_v to_o that_o faith_n and_o love_n which_o make_v he_o ready_a not_o only_o to_o be_v bind_v but_o to_o die_v at_o jerusalem_n which_o make_v he_o long_o to_o be_v dissolve_v and_o to_o be_v with_o christ_n as_o to_o those_o word_n of_o he_o phil._n 3.13_o forget_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forward_o etc._n etc._n they_o relate_v to_o his_o trial_n and_o performance_n to_o his_o peril_n and_o conflict_n not_o to_o his_o attainment_n he_o do_v not_o here_o deny_v himself_o to_o be_v perfect_a though_o that_o may_v well_o enough_o have_v become_v his_o modesty_n and_o humility_n but_o only_o that_o he_o be_v not_o to_o look_v upon_o himself_o as_o already_o at_o his_o goal_n a_o conqueror_n and_o crown_v there_o be_v much_o yet_o behind_o to_o do_v and_o suffer_v notwithstanding_o all_o that_o he_o have_v pass_v through_o this_o be_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o render_v not_o as_o though_o i_o be_v already_o perfect_a as_o to_o st._n austin_n i_o be_o of_o his_o mind_n for_o he_o speak_v comparative_o and_o do_v in_o effect_n no_o more_o than_o affirm_v that_o no_o man_n live_v be_v as_o perfect_a in_o this_o world_n as_o he_o will_v be_v in_o another_o which_o no_o man_n sure_o can_v ever_o doubt_v if_o we_o consult_v reason_n will_v it_o not_o be_v apt_a to_o tell_v we_o that_o as_o every_o be_v have_v its_o bound_n set_v it_o so_o have_v every_o perfection_n too_o that_o there_o be_v a_o stature_n as_o of_o the_o natural_a so_o of_o the_o spiritual_a man_n beyond_o which_o it_o can_v grow_v that_o as_o to_o grace_n no_o more_o can_v be_v infuse_v than_o our_o nature_n be_v capable_a of_o otherwise_o like_v too_o rich_a a_o cordial_n it_o will_v not_o strengthen_v but_o fire_n our_o nature_n or_o like_o too_o dazzle_v a_o light_n it_o will_v not_o assist_v but_o oppress_v our_o faculty_n and_o do_v not_o the_o parable_n of_o our_o master_n countenance_v this_o matth._n 25.2_o wherein_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o god_n give_v to_o one_o five_o talent_n to_o another_o two_o to_o another_o one_o to_o every_o man_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n by_o which_o one_o will_v think_v our_o lord_n insinuate_v that_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n be_v usual_o distribute_v in_o proportion_n to_o the_o capacity_n of_o nature_n and_o that_o he_o who_o improve_v his_o two_o talent_n into_o four_o arrive_v at_o his_o proper_a perfection_n as_o well_o as_o he_o who_o improve_v his_o five_o into_o ten_o it_o be_v as_o absurd_a to_o expect_v that_o the_o perfection_n of_o every_o man_n shall_v be_v the_o same_o as_o to_o expect_v that_o all_o man_n body_n shall_v be_v of_o the_o same_o height_n or_o their_o mind_n of_o the_o same_o capacity_n reflect_v on_o all_o this_o together_o i_o can_v but_o be_v of_o opinion_n that_o some_o have_v actual_o arrive_v at_o that_o strength_n of_o faith_n at_o that_o ardour_n of_o love_n that_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v uncapable_a of_o any_o considerable_a accession_n in_o this_o life_n but_o yet_o new_a occasion_n may_v still_o demand_v new_a virtue_n which_o be_v indeed_o before_o contain_v and_o include_v in_o faith_n and_o love_n but_o not_o otherwise_o than_o as_o fruit_n and_o tree_n be_v in_o their_o seed_n and_o some_o degree_n of_o original_a corruption_n may_v still_o be_v lurk_v in_o the_o
we_o what_o endeavour_n what_o virtue_n be_v necessary_a to_o gain_v a_o incorruptible_a crown_n see_v with_o what_o eagerness_n the_o disciple_n of_o jesus_n press_v towards_o the_o mark_n see_v with_o what_o courage_n nay_o joy_n too_o they_o take_v up_o their_o cross_n and_o follow_v he_o how_o generous_a be_v their_o alm_n so_o that_o the_o riches_n of_o their_o liberality_n be_v conspicuous_a in_o the_o very_a depth_n of_o their_o poverty_n what_o plainness_n and_o singleness_n of_o heart_n what_o grace_n and_o warmth_n what_o peace_n and_o joy_n show_v itself_o in_o their_o conversation_n what_o modesty_n what_o humility_n in_o their_o garb_n deportment_n and_o the_o whole_a train_n of_o life_n how_o frequent_a how_o fervent_a and_o how_o long_o too_o be_v their_o prayer_n and_o retirement_n in_o one_o word_n the_o spirit_n and_o genius_n of_o a_o disciple_n of_o christ_n discover_v itself_o in_o all_o they_o say_v and_o do_v and_o the_o virtue_n of_o their_o life_n do_v as_o evident_o distinguish_v a_o christian_n from_o a_o jew_n or_o pagan_a as_o their_o faith_n how_o lovely_a be_v religion_n then_o how_o full_a its_o joy_n how_o strong_a its_o confidence_n then_o do_v christian_n true_o overcome_v the_o world_n then_o do_v they_o live_v above_o the_o body_n then_o be_v the_o cross_n of_o christ_n more_o delightful_a than_o the_o ease_n or_o honour_n the_o pride_n or_o pleasure_n of_o a_o sinful_a life_n then_o do_v they_o true_o through_o the_o spirit_n wait_v for_o the_o hope_n of_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n let_v we_o now_o compare_v our_o life_n with_o they_o and_o then_o sit_v down_o content_a with_o poor_a and_o beggarly_a attainment_n if_o we_o can_v let_v we_o put_v our_o virtue_n in_o the_o scale_n against_o they_o and_o if_o we_o have_v any_o modesty_n the_o inequality_n will_v put_v we_o out_o of_o countenance_n we_o shall_v blush_v at_o our_o vanity_n and_o shall_v not_o have_v the_o confidence_n to_o expect_v the_o same_o crown_n the_o same_o kingdom_n with_o they_o but_o as_o too_o lax_n a_o notion_n of_o religion_n be_v apt_a to_o beget_v too_o much_o indifference_n and_o unconcernment_n so_o will_v it_o be_v say_v too_o exalt_v a_o one_o be_v apt_a to_o beget_v despair_n which_o be_v a_o second_o and_o no_o less_o obstacle_n of_o perfection_n §_o 2._o many_o there_o be_v who_o form_v their_o judgement_n upon_o the_o slip_v and_o defect_n of_o good_a man_n and_o the_o corruption_n of_o human_a nature_n conceive_v perfection_n to_o be_v a_o mere_a imaginary_a notion_n they_o believe_v indeed_o that_o consider_v how_o apt_a man_n be_v to_o fall_v short_a of_o his_o duty_n it_o be_v very_o fit_a that_o the_o rule_v prescribe_v he_o shall_v be_v exact_a and_o that_o he_o shall_v be_v frequent_o press_v and_o exhort_v to_o perfection_n but_o that_o the_o thing_n it_o self_n be_v too_o too_o difficult_a for_o mortal_a man_n to_o attain_v in_o this_o life_n but_o to_o this_o objection_n i_o must_v oppose_v these_o few_o thing_n which_o i_o believe_v will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o remove_v it_o 1._o the_o beginning_n of_o virtue_n be_v the_o most_o difficult_a part_n of_o it_o the_o near_a we_o approach_v to_o perfection_n the_o easy_a as_o well_o as_o pleasant_a be_v religion_n and_o therefore_o whoever_o startle_v at_o the_o difficulty_n which_o lie_v in_o the_o way_n to_o a_o exalt_a virtue_n have_v as_o much_o reason_n to_o be_v startle_v at_o those_o which_o will_v encounter_v he_o in_o his_o first_o entrance_n upon_o religion_n and_o yet_o these_o must_v be_v conquer_v 2._o the_o avoid_v the_o difficulty_n of_o religion_n do_v but_o plung_v we_o into_o worse_a we_o be_v necessary_o under_o this_o dilemma_n if_o we_o will_v attain_v the_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o the_o mind_n we_o must_v mortify_v and_o reduce_v the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n if_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o propose_v to_o gratify_v the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n and_o enjoy_v the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n we_o can_v do_v so_o without_o offer_v much_o violence_n to_o the_o mind_n and_o if_o this_o be_v so_o if_o such_o be_v the_o war_n and_o opposition_n between_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o body_n that_o there_o be_v no_o way_n to_o a_o true_a and_o well_o settle_a peace_n and_o pleasure_n but_o by_o the_o reduction_n and_o mortification_n of_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o than_o it_o will_v be_v easy_a to_o resolve_v what_o we_o be_v to_o do_v for_o those_o appeal_v which_o atheist_n themselves_o make_v to_o reason_n proclaim_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n to_o be_v the_o ruling_n and_o noble_a part_n of_o he_o beside_o the_o soul_n be_v the_o more_o vital_a the_o more_o tender_a and_o sensible_a part_n of_o we_o and_o consequent_o the_o affliction_n of_o this_o must_v render_v we_o far_o more_o miserable_a than_o any_o hardship_n or_o difficulty_n virtue_n can_v impose_v upon_o the_o body_n 3._o whatever_o be_v the_o difficulty_n of_o virtue_n they_o will_v soon_o vanish_v if_o we_o often_o call_v to_o mind_n that_o peace_n and_o joy_n be_v the_o fruit_n of_o virtue_n but_o shame_n and_o remorse_n of_o sin_n that_o no_o man_n ever_o yet_o do_v not_o repent_v of_o follow_v his_o lust_n unless_o he_o die_v as_o much_o a_o brute_n as_o he_o live_v that_o heaven_n be_v a_o cheap_a purchase_n whatever_o it_o cost_v we_o but_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n a_o very_a dear_a one_o how_o easy_o soever_o we_o come_v by_o it_o and_o final_o that_o we_o be_v not_o our_o own_o master_n there_o be_v a_o god_n to_o who_o we_o stand_v accountable_a for_o our_o action_n and_o consequent_o whether_o we_o will_v or_o will_v not_o we_o must_v either_o undergo_v the_o hardship_n and_o discipline_n of_o virtue_n or_o the_o eternal_a plague_n and_o punishment_n of_o sin_n last_o the_o truth_n be_v this_o opinion_n of_o the_o impossibility_n of_o perfection_n have_v both_o be_v beget_v and_o cherish_v by_o those_o wild_a scheme_n of_o it_o which_o have_v be_v draw_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o flame_a indeed_o but_o a_o indiscreet_a zeal_n but_o i_o have_v here_o recommend_v to_o the_o world_n no_o fantastic_a or_o enthusiastic_a perfection_n i_o have_v advance_v no_o height_n of_o virtue_n but_o what_o many_o do_v i_o hope_v at_o this_o day_n actual_o feel_v and_o experiment_n in_o themselves_o none_o i_o be_o sure_a but_o what_o the_o follower_n of_o the_o bless_a jesus_n actual_o attain_v and_o practice_v be_v you_o follower_n of_o we_o say_v the_o apostle_n as_o we_o be_v of_o christ_n their_o life_n be_v as_o bright_a a_o rule_n as_o their_o doctrine_n and_o by_o their_o own_o action_n they_o demonstrate_v the_o power_n of_o the_o faith_n they_o teach_v they_o do_v not_o like_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n bound_v heavy_a burden_n upon_o other_o and_o not_o move_v they_o with_o their_o finger_n they_o do_v not_o like_o plato_n and_o aristotle_n magnify_v temperance_n and_o modesty_n at_o the_o table_n and_o carnivals_n of_o prince_n nor_o commend_v the_o pleasure_n of_o wisdom_n in_o in_o the_o garden_n of_o epicurus_n but_o they_o live_v as_o they_o teach_v unspotted_a by_o the_o pleasure_n unbroken_v by_o the_o trouble_n of_o the_o world_n modest_a serene_a equal_a and_o heavenly_a mind_v in_o honour_n or_o dishonour_v want_v or_o abundance_n liberty_n or_o prison_n life_n or_o death_n let_v we_o then_o no_o long_o object_n or_o dispute_v but_o with_o faith_n and_o patience_n be_v follower_n of_o those_o who_o have_v inherit_v the_o promise_n be_v encompass_v with_o a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n let_v we_o lay_v aside_o every_o weight_n and_o the_o sin_n which_o do_v so_o easy_o beset_v we_o and_o let_v we_o run_v with_o patience_n the_o race_n that_o be_v set_v before_o we_o look_v unto_o jesus_n the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n who_o for_o the_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n despise_v the_o shame_n and_o be_v set_v down_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n for_o consider_v he_o that_o endure_v such_o contradiction_n of_o sinner_n against_o himself_o lest_o you_o be_v weary_v and_o faint_a in_o your_o mind_n heb._n 12.1_o 2._o i_o have_v do_v with_o those_o who_o endeavour_n to_o soften_v or_o shun_v the_o difficulty_n of_o religion_n not_o to_o conquer_v they_o §_o 3._o there_o be_v other_o who_o will_v look_v upon_o this_o set_n up_o the_o doctrine_n of_o perfection_n as_o a_o design_n against_o the_o pleasure_n of_o mankind_n what_o say_v such_o a_o one_o shall_v i_o let_v go_v my_o present_a pleasure_n out_o of_o my_o hand_n to_o hunt_v after_o i_o know_v not_o what_o and_o i_o know_v not_o where_o shall_v i_o quit_v pleasure_n thaâ—_n be_v every_o where_o obvious_a for_o such_o as_o have_v no_o be_v it_o may_v be_v but_o in_o speculation_n or_o at_o least_o be_v
nazian_n think_v it_o very_o extravagant_a to_o pretend_v to_o be_v perfect_a than_o the_o rule_n and_o exacter_n than_o the_o law_n the_o quaker_n have_v make_v much_o noise_n and_o stir_v about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o perfection_n and_o have_v reflect_v very_o severe_o on_o other_o as_o subvert_v the_o great_a design_n of_o our_o redemption_n which_o be_v deliverance_n from_o sin_n and_o uphold_v the_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n but_o with_o what_o justice_n will_v easy_o appear_v when_o i_o have_v represent_v their_o sense_n which_o i_o will_v do_v very_o impartial_o and_o in_o as_o few_o and_o plain_a word_n as_o i_o can_v mr._n w._n p._n etc._n p._n a_o key_n open_v etc._n etc._n tell_v we_o that_o they_o be_v so_o far_o infallible_a and_o perfect_a as_o they_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n this_o be_v indeed_o true_a but_o it_o be_v mere_a trifle_n for_o this_o be_v a_o infallibility_n and_o perfection_n which_o no_o man_n deny_v who_o believe_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n since_o whoever_o follow_v his_o guidance_n must_v be_v in_o the_o right_n unless_o the_o holy_a ghost_n himself_o be_v in_o the_o wrong_n he_o urge_v it_o be_v true_a a_o great_a number_n of_o scripture_n to_o show_v they_o be_v his_o own_o word_n that_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n from_o sin_n though_o not_o in_o fullness_n of_o wisdom_n and_o glory_n be_v attainable_a in_o this_o life_n but_o this_o be_v too_o dark_a and_o short_a a_o hint_n to_o infer_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o party_n from_o it_o mr._n ed._n burrough_n etc._n burrough_n principle_n of_o truth_n etc._n etc._n be_v more_o full_a we_o believe_v say_v he_o that_o the_o saint_n upon_o earth_n may_v receive_v forgiveness_n of_o sin_n and_o may_v be_v perfect_o free_v from_o the_o body_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n and_o in_o christ_n may_v be_v perfect_a and_o without_o sin_n and_o may_v have_v victory_n over_o all_o temptation_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o we_o believe_v every_o saint_n that_o be_v call_v of_o god_n aught_o to_o press_v after_o perfection_n and_o to_o overcome_v the_o devil_n and_o all_o his_o temptation_n upon_o earth_n and_o we_o believe_v they_o that_o faithful_o wait_v for_o it_o shall_v obtain_v it_o and_o shall_v be_v present_v without_o sin_n in_o the_o image_n of_o the_o father_n and_o such_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n and_o be_v in_o covenant_n with_o god_n and_o their_o sin_n be_v blot_v out_o and_o remember_v no_o more_o for_o they_o cease_v to_o commit_v sin_n be_v bear_v of_o the_o seed_n of_o god_n if_o by_o sin_n here_o he_o mean_v as_o he_o seem_v to_o do_v deliberate_a or_o presumptuous_a sin_n i_o do_v not_o think_v any_o establish_v church_n whether_o protestant_n or_o popish_a teach_v otherwise_o mr._n barclay_n 8._o barclay_n apol._n thes_n 8._o go_v very_o methodical_o to_o work_v and_o first_o set_v down_o the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n then_o confute_v those_o that_o differ_v from_o he_o answer_v their_o objection_n out_o of_o scripture_n and_o last_o establish_v his_o own_o doctrine_n as_o to_o the_o perfection_n which_o he_o assert_n he_o let_v we_o know_v that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v derive_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o it_o consist_v not_o in_o a_o impossibility_n of_o sin_v but_o a_o possibility_n of_o not_o sin_v and_o that_o his_o perfect_a man_n be_v capable_a of_o daily_a growth_n and_o improvement_n when_o to_o this_o i_o have_v add_v that_o he_o speak_v all_o along_o of_o that_o which_o we_o call_v wilful_a sin_n as_o appear_v from_o his_o description_n of_o it_o for_o he_o call_v it_o iniquity_n wickedness_n impurity_n the_o service_n of_o satan_n and_o attribute_n such_o effect_n to_o it_o as_o belong_v not_o at_o all_o to_o what_o we_o call_v sin_n of_o infirmity_n when_o i_o say_v this_o be_v add_v to_o render_v his_o sense_n clear_a i_o can_v ready_o subscribe_v to_o he_o for_o i_o know_v no_o such_o doctrine_n in_o our_o church_n as_o those_o which_o he_o there_o oppose_v namely_o that_o the_o regenerate_v be_v to_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o that_o their_o good_a work_n be_v impure_a and_o sinful_a but_o then_o he_o either_o mistake_v the_o main_a point_n in_o debate_n or_o prudent_o decline_v it_o for_o the_o question_n be_v not_o whether_o good_a man_n may_v live_v in_o mortal_a or_o wilful_a sin_n but_o whether_o good_a man_n be_v not_o subject_a to_o frailty_n and_o infirmity_n which_o be_v indeed_o sin_n though_o not_o imputable_a under_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n whether_o the_o quaker_n be_v not_o in_o this_o point_n pelagian_n i_o do_v not_o now_o inquire_v because_o if_o they_o be_v they_o be_v already_o consider_v two_o thing_n there_o be_v in_o mr._n barclay_n state_n of_o the_o question_n which_o i_o can_v so_o well_o approve_v of_o the_o one_o be_v that_o he_o express_v himself_o so_o injudicious_o about_o the_o growth_n and_o improvement_n of_o his_o perfect_a man_n that_o he_o seem_v to_o forget_v the_o difference_n the_o scripture_n make_v between_o babe_n and_o full_a grow_v man_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o place_n perfection_n so_o low_a in_o reference_n to_o positive_a righteousness_n or_o virtue_n as_o if_o it_o consist_v in_o negative_a only_o or_o cease_v from_o sin_n the_o other_o be_v that_o though_o he_o do_v not_o peremptory_o affirm_v a_o state_n of_o impeccability_n attainable_a in_o this_o life_n yet_o he_o seem_v incline_v to_o believe_v it_o and_o imagine_v it_o countenance_v by_o 1_o joh._n 3.9_o but_o he_o ought_v to_o have_v consider_v that_o whatever_o impeccability_n may_v be_v infer_v from_o that_o text_n it_o be_v attribute_v not_o to_o some_o extraordinary_a person_n but_o to_o all_o whosoever_o they_o be_v that_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n but_o this_o be_v out_o of_o my_o way_n all_o that_o i_o be_o to_o observe_v upon_o the_o whole_a be_v that_o these_o man_n place_n perfection_n especial_o in_o refrain_v from_o sin_n i_o advance_v high_a and_o place_v it_o in_o a_o well-setled_n habit_n of_o righteousness_n and_o i_o believe_v they_o will_v be_v as_o little_o dissatisfy_v with_o i_o for_o this_o as_o i_o be_o with_o they_o for_o assert_v the_o perfect_a man_n free_v from_o sin_n for_o as_o mr._n barclay_n express_v himself_o i_o think_v he_o have_v in_o reality_n no_o adversary_n but_o antinomian_o and_o ranter_n as_o to_o that_o perfection_n which_o be_v magnify_v by_o mystical_a writer_n some_o of_o they_o have_v only_o darken_v and_o obscure_v the_o plain_a sense_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o figurative_a and_o unintelligible_a term_n those_o of_o they_o which_o write_v with_o more_o life_n and_o heat_n than_o other_o man_n ordinary_o do_v recommend_v nothing_o but_o that_o holiness_n which_o begin_v in_o the_o fear_n and_o be_v consummate_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n purify_v the_o heart_n and_o fix_v and_o unite_v man_n to_o his_o sovereign_a good_a that_o be_v god_n and_o i_o be_o sure_a i_o shall_v not_o differ_v with_o these_o there_o be_v i_o confess_v almost_o innumerable_a say_n of_o the_o father_n which_o sufficient_o testify_v how_o little_a friend_n they_o be_v to_o perfection_n in_o such_o a_o notion_n of_o it_o as_o be_v too_o general_o embrace_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n the_o primitive_a spirit_n breathe_v nothing_o but_o humility_n it_o be_v a_o profess_a enemy_n to_o all_o self-confidence_n and_o arrogance_n to_o supererogation_n and_o merit_n and_o it_o invite_v man_n earnest_o to_o reflect_v upon_o the_o sin_n and_o slip_v of_o life_n and_o on_o that_o opposition_n which_o the_o law_n of_o the_o body_n maintain_v against_o the_o law_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o some_o degree_n or_o other_o in_o the_o best_a men._n this_o consideration_n force_v the_o bishop_n of_o condome_n to_o that_o plain_a and_o honest_a confession_n itaque_fw-la justitia_fw-la nostra_fw-la licet_fw-la per_fw-la charitatis_fw-la infusionem_fw-la sit_fw-la vera_fw-la etc._n etc._n though_o our_o righteousness_n because_o of_o that_o love_n which_o the_o spirit_n shed_v abroad_o in_o our_o heart_n be_v sincere_a and_o real_a yet_o be_v it_o not_o absolute_a and_o consummate_a because_o of_o the_o opposition_n of_o concupiscence_n so_o that_o it_o be_v a_o indispensable_a duty_n of_o christianity_n to_o be_v perpetual_o bewail_v the_o error_n of_o life_n wherefore_o we_o be_v oblige_v humble_o to_o confess_v with_o st._n austin_n that_o our_o righteousness_n in_o this_o life_n consist_v rather_o in_o the_o pardon_n of_o our_o sin_n then_o in_o the_o perfection_n of_o our_o virtue_n all_o this_o be_v undoubted_o true_a but_o concern_v not_o i_o i_o never_o dream_n of_o any_o man_n pass_v the_o course_n of_o life_n without_o sin_n nor_o do_v i_o contend_v for_o such_o a_o perfection_n as_o st._n austin_n call_v absolute_a which_o will_v admit_v of_o no_o increase_n and_o
and_o the_o passion_n tender_a it_o be_v more_o easy_a to_o gain_v perfection_n then_o to_o preserve_v it_o when_o a_o profligate_n sinner_n in_o the_o day_n of_o god_n power_n be_v snatch_v like_o a_o firebrand_n out_o of_o the_o fire_n rescue_v by_o some_o amaze_a and_o surprise_v call_v like_o israel_n by_o miracle_n out_o of_o egypt_n i_o wonder_v not_o if_o such_o a_o one_o love_v much_o because_o much_o have_v be_v forgive_v he_o i_o wonder_v not_o if_o he_o be_v swallow_v up_o by_o the_o deep_a and_o the_o lively_a sense_n of_o gild_n and_o mercy_n i_o wonder_v not_o if_o such_o a_o one_o endeavour_n to_o repair_v his_o past_a crime_n by_o heroic_a act_n if_o he_o make_v haste_n to_o redeem_v his_o lose_a time_n by_o a_o zeal_n and_o vigilance_n hard_a to_o be_v imitate_v never_o to_o be_v parllele_v by_o other_o hence_o we_o read_v of_o judah_n love_n in_o the_o day_n of_o her_o espousal_n jer._n 2.2_o and_o of_o the_o first_o love_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n rev._n 2.4_o as_o the_o most_o perfect_a and_o in_o the_o first_o time_n of_o the_o gospel_n when_o man_n be_v convert_v by_o astonish_a miracle_n when_o the_o presence_n and_o example_n of_o jesus_n and_o his_o follower_n when_o the_o perspicuity_n and_o authority_n the_o spirit_n and_o power_n the_o lustre_n and_o surprise_n of_o the_o word_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n dazzle_v overpower_a and_o transport_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n and_o make_v a_o thorough_a change_n in_o a_o moment_n and_o when_o again_o no_o man_n profess_v christianity_n but_o he_o expect_v by_o his_o suffering_n and_o martyrdom_n to_o seal_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o profession_n i_o wonder_v not_o if_o virtue_n ripen_v fast_o under_o such_o miraculous_a influence_n of_o heaven_n or_o if_o assurance_n spring_v up_o in_o a_o moment_n from_o these_o bright_a proof_n of_o a_o unshaken_a integrity_n but_o we_o who_o live_v in_o cold_a climate_n who_o behold_v nothing_o in_o so_o clear_a and_o bright_a a_o light_n as_o those_o happy_a soul_n do_v must_v be_v content_a to_o make_v short_a and_o slow_a step_n towards_o perfection_n and_o satisfy_v ourselves_o with_o a_o natural_a not_o miraculous_a progress_n and_o we_o who_o virtue_n be_v so_o general_o under-grown_a and_o our_o trial_n no_o other_o then_o common_a one_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o expect_v the_o joy_n of_o a_o perfect_a assurance_n till_o we_o go_v on_o to_o perfection_n 2_o as_o perfection_n be_v a_o work_n of_o time_n so_o be_v it_o of_o great_a expense_n and_o cost_n too_o i_o mean_v it_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o much_o labour_n and_o travel_v self-denial_n and_o watchfulness_n resolution_n and_o constancy_n many_o be_v the_o danger_n which_o we_o be_v to_o encounter_v through_o our_o whole_a progress_n towards_o it_o why_o else_o be_v we_o exhort_v to_o learn_v to_o do_v good_a to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 2_o cor._n 7.1_o 2._o to_o be_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o mind_n from_o day_n to_o day_n eph._n 4.23_o to_o watch_v stand_v fast_o to_o quit_v we_o like_o man_n to_o be_v strong_a 1_o cor._n 16.13_o to_o take_v to_o we_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o stand_v against_o the_o wile_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o to_o stand_v eph._n 6.11.13_o to_o use_v all_o diligence_n to_o make_v our_o call_n and_o election_n sure_a 2_o pet._n 1.10_o and_o such_o like_a nay_o which_o be_v very_o remarkable_a these_o and_o the_o like_a exhortation_n be_v address_v to_o christian_n in_o those_o time_n which_o have_v manifold_a advantage_n above_o these_o of_o we_o if_o i_o shall_v say_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o sanctify_a grace_n of_o god_n be_v then_o power_v forth_o in_o more_o plentiful_a measure_n then_o ever_o after_o not_o only_a scripture_n as_o i_o think_v but_o reason_n too_o will_v be_v on_o my_o side_n the_o interest_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n require_v it_o sanctity_n be_v as_o necessary_a as_o miracle_n to_o convert_v the_o jew_n and_o the_o gentile_a but_o beside_o this_o the_o then_o wonderful_a and_o surprise_v light_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o presence_n of_o jesus_n in_o the_o flesh_n or_o of_o those_o who_o have_v be_v eye-witness_n of_o his_o glory_n a_o crowd_n of_o wondrous_a work_n and_o miracle_n the_o expectation_n of_o terrible_a thing_n temporal_a and_o eternal_a judgement_n at_o the_o door_n and_o a_o equal_a expectation_n of_o glorious_a one_o too_o all_o these_o thing_n break_v in_o beyond_o expectation_n upon_o a_o jewish_a and_o pagan_a world_n overwhelmed_a before_o by_o thick_a darkness_n and_o who_o abomination_n be_v too_o notorious_a to_o be_v conceal_v and_o too_o detestable_a to_o be_v excuse_v or_o defend_v can_v not_o but_o produce_v a_o very_a great_a and_o sudden_a change_n now_o therefore_o if_o in_o these_o time_n many_o do_v start_v forth_o in_o a_o moment_n fit_a for_o baptism_n and_o martyrdom_n if_o many_o among_o these_o be_v sudden_o change_v justify_v and_o crown_v i_o wonder_v not_o this_o be_v a_o day_n of_o power_n a_o day_n of_o glory_n wherein_o god_n assert_v himself_o exalt_v his_o son_n and_o rescue_v the_o world_n by_o a_o stretch_a out_o hand_n i_o shall_v not_o therefore_o from_o hence_o be_v induce_v to_o expect_v any_o thing_n like_o at_o this_o day_n but_o yet_o if_o notwitstand_v all_o this_o christian_n in_o those_o happy_a time_n amid_o so_o many_o advantage_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o such_o exhortation_n what_o do_v not_o we_o in_o these_o time_n if_o so_o much_o watchfulness_n prayer_n patience_n fear_v abstinence_n and_o earnest_a contention_n become_v they_o when_o god_n as_o it_o be_v bow_v the_o heaven_n and_o come_v down_o and_o dwell_v among_o man_n what_o become_v we_o in_o those_o day_n in_o the_o dregs_o of_o time_n when_o god_n stand_v as_o it_o be_v aloof_o off_o to_o see_v what_o will_v be_v our_o latter_a end_n retire_v behind_o a_o cloud_n which_o our_o heresy_n and_o infidelity_n schism_n and_o division_n sin_n and_o provocation_n have_v raise_v to_o conclude_v he_o that_o will_v be_v perfect_a must_v not_o sit_v like_o the_o lame_a man_n by_o bethesdah_n pool_n expect_v till_o some_o angel_n come_v to_o cure_v he_o but_o like_o our_o lord_n he_o must_v climb_v the_o mount_n and_o pray_v and_o then_o he_o may_v be_v transform_v he_o may_v be_v raise_v as_o much_o above_o the_o moral_a corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n by_o perfection_n as_o our_o saviour_n be_v above_o the_o meanness_n and_o humility_n of_o his_o body_n by_o his_o glorious_a transfiguration_n these_o two_o observation_n be_v of_o manifold_a use_n for_o many_o expect_v pleasure_n when_o they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o it_o they_o will_v reap_v before_o virtue_n be_v grow_v up_o and_o ripen_v and_o be_v more_o intent_n upon_o the_o fruit_n of_o duty_n than_o the_o discharge_n of_o it_o they_o be_v frequent_o disappoint_v and_o discourage_v other_o there_o be_v who_o mistake_v some_o fit_n and_o flash_n of_o spiritual_a joy_n for_o the_o habitual_a peace_n and_o pleasure_n of_o perfection_n do_v entertain_v too_o early_a confidence_n and_o instead_o of_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n they_o decline_v or_o it_o may_v be_v fall_v away_o through_o negligence_n and_o security_n or_o which_o be_v as_o bad_a the_o duty_n of_o religion_n grow_v tasteless_a and_o insipid_a to_o they_o for_o want_v of_o that_o pleasure_n which_o they_o ignorant_o or_o presumptuous_o expect_v shall_v constant_o attend_v they_o and_o so_o they_o be_v dishearten_v or_o disgu_v and_o give_v back_o which_o they_o will_v never_o do_v if_o they_o do_v right_o understand_v that_o perfection_n be_v a_o work_n of_o time_n that_o a_o settle_a tranquillity_n a_o habitual_a joy_n of_o spirit_n be_v the_o fruit_n only_o of_o perfection_n and_o that_o those_o short_a gleam_n of_o joy_n which_o break_v in_o upon_o new_a convert_v and_o sometime_o on_o other_o imperfect_a christian_n do_v depend_v upon_o extraordinary_a circumstance_n or_o be_v peculiar_a favour_n of_o heaven_n last_o there_o be_v many_o who_o have_v entertain_v very_o odd_a fancy_n about_o the_o attainment_n of_o perfection_n they_o talk_v and_o act_n as_o if_o perfection_n be_v the_o product_n not_o of_o time_n and_o experience_n but_o a_o instant_a as_o if_o it_o be_v to_o be_v infuse_v in_o a_o moment_n not_o acquire_v as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o mere_a arbitrary_a favour_n not_o the_o fruit_n of_o meditation_n and_o discipline_n it_o be_v true_a it_o can_v be_v doubt_v by_o a_o christian_a but_o that_o perfection_n derive_v itself_o from_o heaven_n and_o that_o the_o seed_n of_o it_o be_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n yet_o it_o be_v true_a too_o and_o can_v as_o little_o be_v doubt_v by_o any_o one_o who_o consult_v the_o gospel_n
and_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o best_a man_n that_o we_o must_v watch_v and_o pray_v and_o contend_v labour_n and_o persevere_v and_o that_o long_a too_o ere_o we_o can_v attain_v it_o and_o whoever_o fancy_n himself_o rapt_v up_o into_o the_o three_o heaven_n on_o a_o sudden_a will_v find_v himself_o as_o sudden_o lead_v down_o to_o the_o earth_n again_o if_o he_o do_v not_o use_v his_o utmost_a diligence_n to_o fortify_v his_o resolution_n to_o cherish_v the_o newborn_a flame_n and_o to_o guard_v and_o improve_v his_o virtue_n 3_o it_o may_v be_v object_v against_o the_o account_n i_o have_v give_v of_o the_o growth_n of_o virtue_n that_o when_o i_o come_v to_o the_o maturity_n of_o it_o my_o colour_n be_v too_o bright_a my_o stroke_n too_o bold_a and_o the_o form_n i_o have_v give_v it_o too_o divine_a for_o you_o describe_v it_o will_v one_o say_v as_o if_o man_n now_o grow_v perfect_a have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o to_o enjoy_v god_n and_o himself_o as_o if_o he_o be_v already_o enter_v into_o rest_n and_o do_v actual_o sit_v down_o with_o christ_n in_o heavenly_a place_n as_o if_o in_o a_o word_n virtue_n be_v no_o long_o his_o task_n but_o pleasure_n as_o if_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o to_o rejoice_v continual_o nothing_o further_a to_o press_v after_o nothing_o to_o combat_n nothing_o to_o contend_v with_o whereas_o the_o father_n general_o and_o all_o judicious_a modern_a writer_n seem_v to_o place_n perfection_n in_o nothing_o high_a then_o in_o a_o perpetual_a progress_n towards_o it_o they_o look_v upon_o life_n as_o a_o perpetual_a warfare_n and_o utter_o deny_v any_o such_o height_n or_o eminence_n as_o be_v raise_v above_o cloud_n and_o storm_n above_o trouble_n and_o temptation_n but_o to_o this_o i_o have_v several_a thing_n to_o say_v which_o will_v clear_v my_o sense_n about_o this_o matter_n and_o dispel_v all_o objection_n first_o i_o have_v describe_v the_o last_o stage_n of_o the_o christian_n spiritual_a progress_n which_o i_o call_v a_o state_n of_o zeal_n and_o in_o which_o i_o suppose_v the_o christian_n to_o commence_v perfect_a this_o i_o say_v i_o have_v describe_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n and_o as_o near_o as_o i_o can_v in_o the_o same_o word_n which_o the_o scripture_n do_v second_o i_o do_v not_o pretend_v any_o where_n to_o assert_v that_o there_o be_v any_o state_n in_o this_o life_n raise_v above_o trial_n and_o temptation_n alas_o the_o most_o perfect_a man_n will_v find_v it_o work_v enough_o to_o make_v good_a the_o ground_n he_o have_v gain_v and_o maintain_v the_o conquest_n he_o have_v win_v much_o watchfulness_n and_o labour_n much_o humility_n and_o fear_n and_o many_o other_o virtue_n be_v necessary_a to_o perseverance_n in_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n three_o as_o the_o world_n go_v now_o and_o indeed_o ever_o do_v perfection_n be_v a_o state_n we_o arrive_v at_o very_o late_a and_o all_o the_o way_n to_o it_o full_a of_o labour_n and_o travel_v full_a of_o danger_n and_o difficulty_n so_o that_o upon_o this_o account_n the_o life_n of_o man_n may_v well_o enough_o be_v say_v to_o be_v a_o perpetual_a warfare_n but_o four_o i_o do_v by_o no_o mean_n affirm_v that_o the_o perfect_a man_n be_v incapable_a of_o growth_n and_o improvement_n of_o this_o i_o shall_v have_v occasion_n to_o unfold_v my_o sense_n more_o full_o afterward_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n i_o can_v forbear_v observe_v here_o that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o growth_n of_o a_o imperfect_a and_o a_o perfect_a christian_a for_o suppose_v grace_n to_o be_v always_o increase_v and_o the_o very_a maturity_n of_o virtue_n to_o admit_v of_o degree_n yet_o the_o mark_n and_o distinction_n of_o such_o different_a degree_n be_v so_o nice_a and_o delicate_a that_o the_o advances_n of_o the_o perfect_a man_n be_v scarce_o perceptible_a to_o himself_o without_o the_o close_a and_o strict_a enquiry_n much_o less_o can_v they_o fall_v under_o the_o observation_n of_o other_o the_o first_o change_n of_o a_o sinner_n from_o darkness_n to_o light_n from_o vice_n to_o virtue_n from_o a_o aversion_n for_o god_n and_o goodness_n to_o a_o sincere_a though_o not_o a_o perfect_a love_n of_o both_o be_v very_o palpable_a so_o again_o the_o change_n from_o a_o state_n of_o weakness_n and_o inconstancy_n to_o one_o of_o strength_n of_o conflict_n and_o difficulty_n to_o one_o of_o ease_n and_o liberty_n of_o fear_n and_o doubt_n to_o one_o of_o confidence_n and_o pleasure_n be_v little_o less_o evident_a and_o sensible_a but_o the_o several_a degree_n of_o growth_n afterward_o the_o improvement_n whatever_o they_o be_v of_o a_o mature_a state_n be_v of_o another_o nature_n not_o consist_v in_o a_o change_n but_o addition_n and_o that_o make_v insensible_o here_o therefore_o the_o perfect_a man_n in_o order_n to_o maintain_v the_o peace_n and_o pleasure_n of_o his_o mind_n need_v not_o enter_v into_o a_o nice_a and_o scrupulous_a examination_n of_o the_o degree_n and_o measure_n of_o his_o virtue_n it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o he_o make_v good_a his_o post_n it_o be_v enough_o if_o he_o follow_v the_o advice_n of_o st._n paul_n 1_o cor._n 15.58_o if_o he_o be_v steadfast_a and_o unmoveable_a and_o always_o abound_v in_o the_o work_v of_o the_o lord_n chap._n vi_o of_o the_o mean_n of_o perfection_n shall_v i_o insist_v particular_o on_o every_o one_o of_o the_o mean_n or_o instrument_n of_o perfection_n it_o will_v lead_v i_o through_o the_o whole_a systeme_n of_o religion_n it_o will_v oblige_v i_o to_o treat_v of_o all_o the_o article_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o all_o the_o part_n of_o moral_a righteousness_n for_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v all_o afford_v mutual_a support_n and_o nourishment_n to_o one_o another_o and_o mutual_o minister_v to_o their_o own_o growth_n and_o strength_n and_o prayer_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n not_o to_o mention_v meditation_n psalmody_n conversation_n discipline_n be_v found_v upon_o the_o belief_n of_o all_o the_o mystery_n of_o our_o religion_n and_o consist_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o almost_o all_o christian_a grace_n as_o repentance_n faith_n hope_n charity_n but_o this_o will_v be_v a_o endless_a task_n i_o purpose_v therefore_o here_o only_o to_o lay_v down_o some_o few_o general_n observation_n which_o may_v serve_v for_o direction_n in_o the_o use_n of_o gospel_n means_n point_v out_o the_o end_n we_o be_v to_o aim_v at_o and_o enable_v we_o to_o reap_v the_o utmost_a benefit_n from_o they_o these_o observation_n be_v 1._o the_o practice_n of_o wisdom_n and_o virtue_n be_v the_o best_a way_n to_o improve_v and_o strengthen_v both_o 2._o the_o two_o general_a and_o immediate_a instrument_n as_o of_o conversion_n so_o of_o perfection_n too_o be_v the_o gospel_n and_o the_o spirit_n 3._o the_o natural_a and_o immediate_a fruit_n of_o meditation_n prayer_n eucharist_n psalmody_n and_o good_a conversation_n be_v the_o quicken_a and_o enliven_a the_o conscience_n the_o fortify_v and_o confirm_v our_o resolution_n and_o the_o raise_n and_o keep_v up_o a_o heavenly_a frame_n of_o spirit_n 4._o the_o immediate_a end_n of_o discipline_n be_v the_o subdue_a the_o pride_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o reduce_v the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n 5._o last_o some_o kind_n of_o life_n be_v better_o suit_v and_o accommodate_v to_o the_o great_a end_n of_o religion_n and_o virtue_n than_o other_o i_o will_v very_o brief_o illustrate_v each_o of_o these_o observation_n and_o suggest_v from_o they_o such_o rule_n as_o i_o shall_v judge_v most_o serviceable_a to_o promote_v perfection_n §_o 1._o the_o practice_n of_o wisdom_n and_o virtue_n be_v the_o best_a way_n to_o improve_v and_o strengthen_v both_o this_o be_v a_o proposition_n almost_o self-evident_a for_o beside_o that_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v on_o all_o hand_n that_o the_o frequent_a repetition_n of_o single_a act_n of_o virtue_n be_v the_o natural_a way_n to_o arrive_v at_o a_o habit_n of_o it_o the_o practice_n of_o virtue_n give_v a_o man_n great_a boldness_n towards_o god_n mingle_v joy_n and_o pleasure_n in_o all_o his_o address_n to_o he_o purify_v and_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n and_o entitle_v he_o to_o more_o plentiful_a measure_n of_o grace_n and_o high_a degree_n of_o favour_n if_o you_o continue_v in_o my_o word_n then_o be_v you_o my_o disciple_n indeed_o and_o you_o shall_v know_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o truth_n shall_v make_v you_o free_a joh._n 8.31.3_o to_o he_o that_o have_v shall_v be_v give_v and_o he_o shall_v have_v more_o abundance_n mat._n 13.12_o if_o this_o be_v so_o as_o undoubted_o it_o be_v it_o be_v plain_a that_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v fond_a of_o such_o a_o solitude_n or_o retirement_n as_o cut_v off_o the_o opportunity_n of_o many_o virtue_n which_o may_v be_v daily_o practise_v in_o a_o more_o public_a and_o active_a life_n the_o true_a
anchorite_n or_o hermit_n be_v at_o first_o little_o better_o than_o a_o pious_a extravagant_a i_o will_v not_o say_v how_o much_o worse_o he_o be_v now_o meditation_n and_o prayer_n be_v excellent_a duty_n but_o meekness_n and_o charity_n mercy_n and_o zeal_n be_v not_o one_o jot_n inferior_a to_o they_o the_o world_n be_v a_o excellent_a school_n to_o a_o good_a christian_a the_o folly_n and_o the_o misery_n the_o trial_n and_o temptation_n of_o it_o do_v not_o only_o exercise_v and_o employ_v our_o virtue_n but_o cultivate_v and_o improve_v it_o they_o afford_v we_o both_o instruction_n and_o discipline_n and_o natural_o advance_v we_o on_o towards_o a_o solid_a wisdom_n and_o a_o well-setled_n power_n over_o ourselves_o it_o be_v our_o own_o fault_n if_o every_o accident_n that_o befall_v we_o and_o every_o one_o who_o we_o converse_v with_o do_v not_o teach_v we_o somewhat_o occasion_n some_o wise_a reflection_n or_o enkindle_v some_o pious_a affection_n in_o we_o we_o do_v not_o reflect_v on_o our_o word_n and_o action_n we_o do_v not_o observe_v the_o motion_n of_o our_o own_o heart_n as_o diligent_o as_o we_o ought_v we_o make_v little_a or_o no_o application_n of_o what_o we_o see_v or_o hear_v nor_o learn_v any_o thing_n from_o the_o wisdom_n and_o the_o virtue_n the_o folly_n and_o the_o madness_n of_o man_n and_o the_o consequence_n of_o both_o and_o so_o we_o neither_o improve_v our_o knowledge_n nor_o our_o virtue_n but_o be_v the_o same_o to_o day_n we_o be_v yesterday_o and_o life_n waste_v away_o in_o common_a accident_n and_o customary_a action_n with_o as_o little_a alteration_n in_o we_o as_o in_o our_o affair_n whereas_o be_v we_o mindful_a as_o we_o ought_v of_o our_o true_a interest_n and_o desirous_a to_o reap_v some_o spiritual_a benefit_n from_o every_o thing_n the_o virtue_n of_o good_a man_n will_v enkindle_v our_o emulation_n and_o the_o folly_n and_o madness_n of_o sinner_n will_v confirm_v our_o abhorrence_n for_o sin_n from_o one_o we_o shall_v learn_v content_a from_o another_o industry_n here_o we_o shall_v see_v a_o charm_n in_o meekness_n and_o charity_n there_o in_o humility_n in_o this_o man_n we_o shall_v see_v reason_n to_o admire_v discretion_n and_o command_v of_o himself_o in_o that_o courage_n and_o constancy_n assiduity_n and_o perseverance_n nor_o will_v it_o be_v less_o useful_a to_o we_o to_o observe_v how_o vanity_n expose_v one_o and_o peevishness_n torment_v another_o how_o pride_n and_o ambition_n embroil_v a_o three_o and_o how_o hateful_a and_o contemptible_a avarice_n render_v a_o four_o and_o to_o trace_v all_o that_o variety_n of_o ruin_n which_o lust_n and_o prodigality_n disorder_n and_o sloth_n leave_v behind_o they_o and_o as_o this_o kind_n of_o observation_n will_v fill_v we_o with_o solid_a and_o useful_a knowledge_n so_o will_v a_o diligent_a attention_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o righteousness_n and_o discretion_n in_o all_o the_o common_a and_o daily_a action_n of_o life_n enrich_v we_o with_o true_a virtue_n religion_n be_v not_o to_o be_v confine_v to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o the_o closet_n nor_o to_o be_v exercise_v only_o in_o prayer_n and_o sacrament_n meditation_n and_o alm_n but_o every_o where_n we_o be_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o every_o word_n every_o action_n be_v capable_a of_o morality_n our_o defect_n and_o infirmity_n betray_v themselves_o in_o the_o daily_a accident_n and_o the_o common_a conversation_n of_o life_n and_o here_o they_o draw_v after_o they_o very_o important_a consequence_n and_o therefore_o here_o they_o be_v to_o be_v watch_v over_o regulate_v and_o govern_v as_o well_o as_o in_o our_o more_o solemn_a action_n it_o be_v to_o the_o virtue_n or_o the_o error_n of_o our_o common_a conversation_n and_o ordinary_a deportment_n that_o we_o owe_v both_o our_o friend_n and_o enemy_n our_o good_a or_o bad_a character_n abroad_o our_o domestic_a peace_n or_o trouble_n and_o in_o a_o high_a degree_n the_o improvement_n or_o depravation_n of_o our_o mind_n let_v no_o man_n then_o that_o will_v be_v perfect_a or_o happy_a abandon_v himself_o to_o his_o humour_n or_o inclination_n in_o his_o carriage_n towards_o his_o acquaintance_n his_o child_n his_o servant_n let_v no_o man_n that_o will_v be_v perfect_a or_o happy_a follow_v prejudice_n or_o fashion_n in_o the_o common_a and_o customary_a action_n of_o life_n but_o let_v he_o assure_v himself_o that_o by_o a_o daily_a endeavour_n to_o conform_v these_o more_o and_o more_o to_o the_o excellent_a rule_n of_o the_o gospel_n he_o be_v to_o train_v up_o himself_o by_o degree_n to_o the_o most_o absolute_a wisdom_n and_o the_o most_o perfect_a virtue_n he_o be_v capable_a of_o and_o to_o this_o end_n he_o must_v first_o know_v himself_o and_o those_o he_o have_v to_o do_v with_o he_o must_v discern_v the_o proper_a season_n and_o the_o just_a occasion_n of_o every_o virtue_n and_o then_o he_o must_v apply_v himself_o to_o the_o acquire_v the_o perfection_n of_o it_o by_o the_o daily_a exercise_n of_o it_o even_o in_o those_o thing_n which_o for_o want_v of_o due_a reflection_n do_v not_o common_o seem_v of_o any_o great_a importance_n to_o one_o that_o be_v thus_o dispose_v the_o dulness_n or_o the_o carelessness_n of_o a_o servant_n the_o stubbornness_n of_o a_o child_n the_o soureness_n of_o a_o parent_n the_o inconstancy_n of_o friend_n the_o coldness_n of_o relation_n the_o neglect_n or_o ingratitude_n of_o the_o world_n will_v all_o prove_v extreme_o useful_a and_o beneficial_a every_o thing_n will_v instruct_v he_o every_o thing_n will_v afford_v a_o opportunity_n of_o exercise_v some_o virtue_n or_o another_o so_o that_o such_o a_o one_o shall_v be_v daily_a learning_n daily_o grow_v better_a and_o wise_a §_o 2._o the_o two_o great_a instrument_n not_o of_o regeneration_n only_o but_o also_o of_o perseverance_n and_o perfection_n be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n this_o no_o man_n doubt_n that_o be_v a_o christian_a and_o therefore_o i_o will_v not_o go_v about_o to_o prove_v it_o nor_o will_v i_o at_o present_a discourse_n of_o the_o energy_n and_o operation_n of_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o or_o examine_v what_o each_o be_v in_o its_o self_n or_o wherein_o the_o one_o differ_v from_o the_o other_o it_o be_v abundant_o enough_o if_o we_o be_v assure_v that_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v proper_a and_o sufficient_a mean_n to_o attain_v the_o great_a end_n i_o have_v mention_v namely_o our_o converversion_n and_o perfection_n and_o that_o they_o be_v so_o be_v very_o plain_a from_o those_o text_n which_o do_v express_o assert_v that_o the_o gospel_n contain_v all_o those_o truth_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o clear_a exposition_n of_o our_o duty_n or_o to_o the_o move_a and_o oblige_v we_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o and_o that_o the_o spirit_n imply_v a_o supply_n of_o all_o that_o supernatural_a strength_n be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v that_o be_v necessary_a to_o enable_v we_o not_o only_o to_o will_n but_o to_o do_v that_o which_o the_o gospel_n convince_v we_o to_o be_v our_o duty_n such_o be_v rom._n 8.2_o for_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n jesus_n have_v make_v i_o free_a from_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n 2_o tim._n 3.16_o 17._o all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o correction_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_a thorough_o furnish_v unto_o all_o good_a work_n 2_o cor._n 12.9_o and_o he_o say_v unto_o i_o my_o grace_n be_v sufficient_a for_o thou_o for_o my_o strength_n be_v make_v perfect_a in_o weakness_n most_o glad_o therefore_o will_v i_o rather_o glory_n in_o my_o infirmity_n that_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n may_v rest_v upon_o i_o 1_o pet._n 1.5_o who_o be_v keep_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n through_o faith_n unto_o salvation_n ready_a to_o be_v reveal_v in_o the_o last_o time_n it_o be_v needless_a to_o multiply_v text_n on_o this_o occasion_n otherwise_o it_o be_v very_o easy_a to_o show_v that_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o life_n and_o godliness_n be_v contain_v in_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n that_o what_o ever_o be_v necessary_o to_o be_v wrought_v in_o we_o to_o prepare_v we_o for_o or_o entitle_v we_o to_o eternal_a salvation_n be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o spirit_n this_o truth_n then_o be_v unquestionable_a that_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o two_o great_a instrument_n of_o perfection_n we_o may_v from_o hence_o infer_v two_o rule_n which_o be_v of_o the_o most_o universal_a use_n and_o of_o the_o most_o powerful_a efficacy_n in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o perfection_n 1._o we_o can_v have_v too_o great_a a_o value_n too_o great_a a_o passion_n for_o the_o book_n of_o god_n nor_o fix_v
the_o tender_a sorrow_n of_o contrition_n the_o delight_n of_o praise_n and_o thanksgiving_n the_o adoration_n and_o self-depressions_a of_o a_o profound_a humility_n and_o the_o resolution_n and_o vow_n of_o a_o perfect_a abhorrence_n of_o and_o holy_a zeal_n and_o indignation_n against_o sin_n how_o do_v these_o thing_n mellow_a and_o enrich_v the_o soul_n how_o do_v they_o raise_v it_o high_o and_o high_o above_o the_o corruption_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n through_o lust_n how_o do_v they_o renew_v it_o daily_o and_o make_v it_o a_o partaker_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n the_o repetition_n of_o the_o same_o act_n natural_o beget_v a_o habit_n and_o habit_n be_v the_o strength_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o soul_n for_o it_o be_v a_o disposition_n ripen_v and_o confirm_v by_o custom_n how_o natural_o then_o must_v prayer_n fortify_v the_o mind_n ripen_v good_a disposition_n or_o add_v strength_n and_o perfection_n to_o good_a habit_n since_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o repeat_v exercise_n of_o almost_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o gospel_n repentance_n faith_n hope_n charity_n and_o the_o like_a and_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o prayer_n give_v we_o a_o frequent_a opportunity_n of_o exercise_v those_o virtue_n which_o we_o shall_v not_o otherwise_o be_v so_o often_o oblige_v to_o do_v if_o second_o we_o inquire_v into_o the_o prevalence_n of_o prayer_n with_o god_n we_o shall_v have_v further_a reason_n yet_o to_o resolve_v that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o effectual_a mean_n of_o increase_v our_o spiritual_a strength_n what_o will_v god_n deny_v to_o the_o prayer_n of_o a_o righteous_a man_n he_o may_v deny_v he_o temporal_a thing_n because_o they_o be_v not_o good_a for_o he_o he_o may_v refuse_v to_o remove_v a_o temptation_n because_o this_o be_v often_o a_o occasion_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o his_o servant_n reward_v but_o he_o will_v never_o refuse_v he_o grace_n to_o conquer_v it_o he_o will_v no_o more_o deny_v his_o spirit_n to_o one_o that_o earnest_o and_o sincere_o beg_v it_o than_o the_o natural_a parent_n will_v bread_n to_o his_o hungry_a and_o crave_v child_n and_o no_o wonder_n since_o grace_n be_v as_o necessary_a to_o the_o spiritual_a life_n as_o bread_n to_o the_o natural_a the_o goodness_n of_o god_n be_v more_o tender_a and_o compassionate_a than_o any_o instinct_n in_o human_a nature_n and_o the_o purity_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n more_o zealous_o solicitous_a for_o the_o holiness_n and_o immortality_n of_o his_o child_n then_o earthly_a parent_n can_v be_v for_o a_o sickly_a perish_v life_n of_o they_o thus_o then_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o prayer_n contribute_v wonderful_o to_o the_o strengthen_v and_o establish_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n in_o goodness_n but_o then_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o it_o must_v have_v these_o two_o qualification_n it_o must_v be_v frequent_a and_o incessant_o importunate_n 1._o it_o must_v be_v frequent_a i_o will_v have_v this_o rule_n comply_v with_o as_o far_o as_o it_o may_v even_o in_o our_o state_v regular_a and_o solemn_a address_n to_o god_n but_o because_o business_n and_o several_a obligation_n we_o lie_v under_o to_o the_o world_n do_v often_o press_v hard_a upon_o we_o therefore_o must_v i_o give_v the_o same_o counsel_n here_o which_o i_o do_v before_o under_o the_o head_n of_o meditation_n that_o be_v to_o have_v always_o ready_a and_o imprint_v in_o our_o memory_n several_a text_n of_o scripture_n contain_v the_o most_o weighty_a and_o important_a truth_n in_o the_o most_o pierce_a and_o move_a language_n that_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o form_v these_o on_o a_o sudden_a into_o ejaculation_n in_o which_o our_o soul_n may_v mount_v up_o into_o heaven_n amid_o the_o ardour_n and_o transport_v of_o desire_n and_o praise_n as_o the_o angel_n do_v in_o the_o flame_n of_o manoah_n sacrifice_n 2._o prayer_n must_v be_v incessant_o importunate_a importunate_n it_o will_v be_v if_o the_o soul_n be_v prepare_v and_o dispose_v as_o it_o ought_v that_o be_v if_o it_o be_v disengage_v from_o this_o world_n and_o possess_v entire_o with_o the_o belief_n and_o earnest_a expectation_n of_o a_o better_a if_o it_o be_v humble_v in_o itself_o disclaim_v all_o strength_n and_o merit_n of_o its_o own_o and_o rest_v whole_o on_o the_o goodness_n and_o all-sufficiency_n of_o god_n i_o add_v incessant_o in_o conformity_n to_o the_o parable_n of_o our_o lord_n luke_n 11.8_o and_o 18.5_o and_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o apostle_n 1_o thess_n 5.17_o and_o whoever_o consider_v human_a nature_n well_o and_o remember_v how_o soon_o pious_a motion_n vanish_v and_o how_o little_a they_o effect_v will_v discern_v a_o plain_a reason_n both_o for_o vehemence_n and_o perseverance_n in_o prayer_n for_o vehemence_n that_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v deep_o impress_v by_o pious_a passion_n for_o perseverance_n that_o such_o impression_n may_v not_o be_v effaced_a and_o obliterated_a nor_o let_v any_o one_o fancy_n that_o prayer_n thus_o qualify_v have_v not_o a_o better_a influence_n upon_o god_n as_o well_o as_o upon_o ourselves_o it_o be_v true_a god_n be_v void_a of_o the_o painfulness_n and_o defect_n of_o human_a passion_n but_o not_o of_o the_o perfection_n of_o divine_a one_o woe_n be_v to_o we_o if_o god_n be_v a_o inflexible_a inexorable_a deity_n and_o incapable_a of_o be_v wrought_v upon_o by_o the_o incessant_a importunity_n of_o his_o poor_a creature_n woe_n be_v to_o we_o if_o the_o softness_n and_o the_o tenderness_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n do_v not_o infinite_o exceed_v the_o little_a resemblance_n of_o it_o in_o man._n if_o in_o a_o word_n god_n do_v not_o abound_v in_o goodness_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n more_o easy_o to_o be_v move_v and_o excite_v than_o those_o human_a passion_n that_o bear_v some_o analogy_n to_o they_o next_o to_o conversation_n with_o god_n by_o prayer_n the_o conversation_n of_o good_a man_n do_v wonderful_o contribute_v to_o the_o build_v we_o up_o in_o faith_n and_o virtue_n how_o do_v the_o sense_n and_o experience_n of_o such_o as_o deserve_v our_o esteem_n and_o affection_n settle_v and_o establish_v our_o judgement_n when_o they_o concur_v with_o we_o how_o do_v their_o knowledge_n enlighten_v we_o their_o reason_n strengthen_v our_o faith_n and_o their_o example_n inflame_v we_o with_o emulation_n a_o pious_a friendship_n render_v religion_n itself_o more_o engage_v it_o sanctify_v our_o very_a diversion_n and_o recreation_n and_o make_v they_o minister_v to_o virtue_n it_o mind_v we_o when_o we_o be_v forgetful_a support_v and_o encourage_v we_o when_o we_o faint_v and_o tire_v reprove_v and_o correct_v we_o when_o we_o give_v back_o and_o recall_v we_o into_o the_o right_a path_n when_o we_o go_v out_o of_o it_o this_o be_v or_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o business_n of_o conversation_n the_o end_n and_o advantage_n of_o friendship_n we_o shall_v be_v often_o talk_v together_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n communicate_v and_o lay_v open_a the_o state_n of_o our_o soul_n our_o fear_n our_o hope_n our_o improvement_n and_o defect_n we_o shall_v watch_v over_o one_o another_o comfort_n and_o support_v one_o another_o our_o discourse_n shall_v always_o minister_v new_a warmth_n or_o new_a strength_n to_o our_o holy_a faith_n and_o love_n but_o among_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n there_o be_v no_o one_o do_v so_o much_o corroborate_v and_o nourish_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n as_o the_o holy_a eucharist_n how_o many_o wise_a and_o impartial_a reflection_n do_v the_o preparation_n for_o it_o occasion_n what_o unfeigned_a humility_n and_o what_o a_o profound_a awe_n of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n do_v a_o previous_a self-examination_n beget_v in_o we_o what_o a_o tender_a sense_n of_o the_o divine_a love_n do_v the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o whole_a mystery_n enkindle_v what_o firmness_n and_o resolution_n do_v we_o derive_v from_o fresh_a vow_n and_o repeat_v engagement_n and_o these_o offer_v up_o with_o so_o much_o solemnity_n and_o how_o much_o final_o be_v the_o habit_n of_o holiness_n improve_v by_o that_o spiritual_a pleasure_n which_o the_o sensible_a assurance_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n work_v in_o we_o by_o that_o awe_n and_o holy_a fear_n which_o the_o whole_a action_n leave_v behind_o on_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o zeal_n vigilance_n and_o circumspection_n it_o oblige_v we_o to_o for_o the_o time_n follow_v not_o to_o mention_v here_o how_o the_o participation_n of_o this_o holy_a sacrament_n oblige_v we_o to_o a_o most_o solemn_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n of_o brotherly_a love_n and_o charity_n and_o the_o hope_n of_o immortality_n and_o glory_n here_o in_o a_o word_n we_o prepare_v to_o meet_v god_n as_o we_o will_v do_v in_o death_n and_o judgement_n here_o we_o make_v a_o open_a profession_n of_o our_o holy_a faith_n renounce_v the_o world_n and_o flesh_n
all_o our_o sinful_a or_o vain_a desire_n devote_v ourselves_o to_o the_o service_n of_o jesus_n and_o learn_v to_o expect_v happiness_n from_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o merit_n and_o the_o imitation_n of_o his_o cross_n so_o profound_a be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o this_o institution_n that_o it_o evident_o speak_v god_n the_o author_n of_o it_o and_o proclaim_v the_o too_o common_a neglect_n of_o it_o in_o most_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n a_o in-excusable_a sin_n and_o folly_n 3._o a_o three_o end_n of_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o religion_n be_v the_o raise_n and_o keep_v up_o holy_a and_o devout_a affection_n i_o know_v not_o why_o passion_n be_v so_o common_o undervalue_v and_o disparage_v in_o religion_n unless_o they_o who_o thus_o treat_v it_o mean_v nothing_o by_o it_o but_o a_o short-lived_a and_o superficial_a commotion_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o leave_v no_o print_n or_o relish_v behind_o it_o and_o be_v present_o succeed_v by_o sin_n and_o folly_n holy_a passion_n be_v the_o vigour_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o state_n and_o frame_n of_o the_o mind_n when_o it_o be_v thorough_o move_v and_o affect_v and_o therefore_o to_o form_n to_o one_o self_a religion_n destitute_a of_o passion_n be_v little_o better_a than_o to_o content_v one_o self_n with_o one_o that_o be_v lazy_a lukewarm_a and_o lifeless_a and_o though_o there_o be_v some_o temper_n very_o unapt_a to_o be_v move_v yet_o it_o be_v hard_a to_o imagine_v how_o even_o these_o can_v be_v wrought_v up_o to_o a_o resolution_n or_o that_o resolution_n be_v support_v and_o continue_v without_o their_o be_v affect_v so_o thorough_o as_o to_o feel_v either_o a_o real_a passion_n or_o something_o very_o near_o approach_v one_o it_o be_v a_o excellent_a frame_n of_o spirit_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v easy_o elevate_v and_o transport_v into_o holy_a passion_n and_o i_o find_v that_o all_o those_o virtue_n or_o rather_o act_n of_o virtue_n which_o be_v describe_v to_o the_o life_n and_o which_o be_v by_o all_o judge_v most_o perfect_a and_o lovely_a have_v most_o of_o passion_n in_o they_o how_o warm_a and_o passionate_a be_v the_o love_n of_o david_n for_o his_o god_n what_o flame_n what_o vehemence_n of_o desire_n be_v he_o move_v by_o when_o he_o cry_v out_o psal_n 42.1_o 2._o as_o the_o heart_n pant_v after_o the_o water-brook_n so_o pant_v my_o soul_n after_o thou_o o_o god_n my_o soul_n thirst_v for_o god_n for_o the_o live_a god_n what_o awful_a concussion_n and_o agitation_n of_o spirit_n do_v he_o feel_v when_o he_o thus_o describe_v his_o fear_n my_o flesh_n tremble_v for_o fear_n of_o thou_o and_o i_o be_o afraid_a of_o thy_o judgement_n psal_n 119.120_o what_o affliction_n of_o soul_n what_o tenderness_n of_o heart_n do_v we_o meet_v with_o in_o the_o repentance_n of_o st._n peter_n when_o he_o go_v forth_o and_o weep_v bitter_o of_o mary_n magdalen_n or_o whoever_o that_o woman_n in_o luk._n 7._o be_v when_o she_o wash_v the_o foot_n of_o our_o saviour_n with_o her_o tear_n and_o wipe_v they_o with_o the_o hair_n of_o her_o head_n and_o of_o the_o royal_a psalmist_n when_o he_o water_v his_o couch_n with_o his_o tear_n psal_n 6.6_o nor_o be_v the_o pleasure_n of_o assurance_n less_o sensible_a and_o vehement_a than_o the_o sorrow_n of_o repentance_n when_o the_o first_o christian_n rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o hope_n full_a of_o glory_n shall_v i_o here_o add_v that_o holy_a indignation_n against_o sin_n that_o vehement_a desire_n of_o make_v some_o reparation_n for_o it_o which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n that_o zeal_n and_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o high_a character_n of_o perfection_n itself_o shall_v i_o call_v these_o passion_n i_o must_v not_o for_o though_o they_o have_v the_o heat_n and_o agitation_n of_o passion_n they_o have_v in_o they_o the_o firmness_n and_o steadiness_n of_o a_o habit._n and_o i_o wish_v with_o all_o my_o heart_n that_o all_o those_o other_o excellent_a affection_n of_o soul_n which_o i_o before_o name_v can_v be_v render_v natural_a and_o habitual_a the_o near_a we_o come_v to_o this_o undoubted_o the_o perfect_a i_o doubt_v mortality_n be_v incapable_a of_o any_o such_o height_n but_o the_o more_o frequent_a as_o well_o as_o the_o more_o vehement_a and_o fervent_a the_o better_a certain_o for_o great_a be_v the_o force_n and_o virtue_n of_o holy_a passion_n the_o flame_n of_o love_n refine_v our_o nature_n and_o purify_v it_o from_o all_o its_o dross_n the_o tear_n of_o a_o godly_a sorrow_n extinguish_v all_o our_o carnal_a and_o worldly_a lust_n and_o the_o agitation_n of_o fear_n preserve_v the_o chastity_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v plain_a then_o that_o our_o religion_n ought_v to_o be_v animate_v by_o holy_a passion_n that_o the_o more_o frequent_a and_o natural_a these_o grow_v the_o more_o perfect_a we_o be_v that_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a frame_n of_o spirit_n when_o we_o be_v most_o apt_a to_o be_v sensible_o and_o thorough_o affect_v by_o divine_a truth_n by_o what_o mean_v we_o may_v attain_v to_o this_o be_v now_o brief_o to_o be_v consider_v it_o be_v certain_a that_o great_a and_o important_a wonderful_a and_o glorious_a truth_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o affect_v we_o and_o that_o thorough_o unless_o lust_n or_o infidelity_n have_v render_v we_o stupid_a and_o impenetrable_a and_o that_o gospel_n truth_n be_v such_o be_v no_o doubt_n at_o all_o let_v the_o conviction_n be_v full_a the_o representation_n lively_a and_o the_o truth_n will_v do_v its_o work_n it_o be_v for_o want_n of_o such_o circumstance_n and_o such_o sensible_a notion_n of_o a_o object_n as_o may_v strike_v the_o imagination_n for_o want_v of_o close_a and_o particular_a application_n when_o divine_a truth_n do_v not_o move_v we_o this_o now_o do_v not_o only_o call_v we_o to_o the_o frequent_a meditation_n of_o the_o most_o affect_v subject_n the_o majesty_n and_o omnipresence_n of_o god_n the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n death_n and_o judgement_n heaven_n and_o hell_n but_o it_o show_v also_o how_o to_o model_n and_o form_n our_o meditation_n that_o they_o prove_v not_o cold_a and_o sluggish_a let_v the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n be_v describe_v by_o the_o most_o sensible_a image_n or_o resemblance_n let_v it_o be_v clad_v with_o the_o most_o natural_a circumstance_n let_v it_o be_v make_v as_o particular_a as_o it_o can_v by_o fix_v its_o eye_n upon_o we_o and_o point_v its_o motion_n towards_o we_o but_o above_o all_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n let_v the_o proof_n of_o it_o be_v clear_a and_o strong_a prayer_n be_v a_o exercise_n very_o apt_a to_o move_v the_o passion_n the_o mind_n have_v disengage_v itself_o from_o all_o earthly_a and_o bodily_a affection_n be_v prepare_v for_o the_o impression_n of_o truth_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n it_o draw_v near_o into_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o the_o sense_n of_o this_o shed_v a_o awful_a reverence_n upon_o it_o it_o have_v a_o clear_a calm_a and_o more_o serious_a view_n of_o divine_a thing_n then_o when_o it_o be_v obscure_v and_o disturb_v by_o worldly_a object_n in_o a_o word_n meditation_n be_v in_o this_o exercise_n render_v more_o solemn_a and_o more_o particular_a and_o when_o the_o holy_a fire_n be_v kindle_v in_o the_o soul_n it_o dilate_v and_o diffuse_v itself_o more_o and_o more_o till_o the_o strength_n of_o desire_n the_o vehemence_n of_o holy_a love_n transcend_v the_o weakness_n of_o this_o mortal_a nature_n we_o faint_v under_o the_o passion_n that_o we_o can_v bear_v the_o lord_n supper_n be_v a_o holy_a rite_n wonderful_o adapt_v to_o raise_v excellent_a passion_n here_o christ_n be_v as_o it_o be_v set_v forth_o crucify_a among_o we_o we_o see_v his_o body_n break_v and_o his_o blood_n pour_v forth_o here_o with_o a_o devout_a joy_n we_o receive_v and_o embrace_v he_o by_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o those_o symbol_n of_o his_o body_n and_o blood_n and_o pledge_n of_o his_o love_n the_o soul_n must_v be_v very_o ill_o prepare_v it_o must_v have_v very_o imperfect_a notion_n of_o sin_n and_o damnation_n the_o cross_n of_o christ_n grace_n and_o salvation_n which_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o a_o crow_v of_o holy_a passion_n spring_v up_o in_o it_o at_o this_o sacrament_n hymn_n and_o psalm_n have_v by_o i_o know_v not_o what_o natural_a magic_n a_o peculiar_a force_n and_o operation_n upon_o a_o pious_a mind_n divine_a poetry_n have_v a_o noble_a elevation_n of_o thought_n it_o do_v not_o devise_v and_o counterfeit_v passion_n but_o only_o vent_v those_o which_o it_o feel_v and_o these_o be_v pure_a and_o lovely_a kindle_v from_o above_o therefore_o be_v all_o its_o character_n natural_a its_o description_n lively_a its_o language_n move_v and_o powerful_a and_o all_o be_v
so_o direct_o suit_v to_o a_o devout_a mind_n that_o it_o present_o enter_v it_o moves_z and_o actuate_v it_o inspire_v and_o inform_v it_o with_o the_o very_a passion_n it_o describe_v and_o though_o all_o good_a man_n be_v not_o equal_o move_v in_o this_o duty_n yet_o all_o i_o believe_v be_v more_o or_o less_o move_v it_o be_v very_o much_o the_o business_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o all_o of_o prophetic_a education_n our_o lord_n and_o his_o disciple_n practise_v it_o frequent_o it_o be_v ever_o a_o great_a part_n of_o religious_a joy_n and_o one_o of_o the_o great_a pleasure_n of_o pious_a retirement_n and_o i_o wish_v from_o my_o heart_n the_o esteem_n of_o it_o be_v revive_v in_o our_o day_n i_o persuade_v myself_o it_o will_v add_v much_o to_o the_o warmth_n and_o pleasure_n of_o devotion_n it_o will_v contribute_v to_o introduce_v religion_n into_o our_o family_n and_o for_o aught_o i_o know_v into_o our_o very_a recreation_n and_o friendship_n and_o this_o mind_n i_o that_o as_o i_o have_v under_o every_o forego_n head_n take_v notice_n of_o the_o advantage_n of_o conversation_n so_o i_o shall_v not_o forget_v it_o here_o this_o have_v a_o lively_a influence_n upon_o our_o mind_n and_o always_o kindle_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o gentle_a heat_n and_o do_v we_o but_o accustom_v ourselves_o to_o entertain_v one_o another_o with_o discourse_n about_o another_o world_n do_v we_o mingle_v the_o praise_n of_o god_n with_o the_o feast_n and_o joy_n of_o life_n do_v we_o retire_v to_o our_o country-house_n to_o contemplate_v the_o variety_n and_o riches_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n and_o bounty_n in_o those_o natural_a scene_n of_o pleasure_n which_o the_o country_n afford_v and_o do_v we_o now_o and_o then_o invite_v our_o friend_n to_o join_v with_o we_o in_o offer_v up_o halelujah_n to_o god_n on_o this_o account_n what_o brightness_n and_o serenity_n what_o calm_a and_o pleasure_n will_v this_o diffuse_v through_o all_o our_o soul_n through_o all_o our_o day_n to_o this_o that_o i_o have_v say_v touch_v the_o exciting_a holy_a passion_n i_o will_v only_o add_v one_o observation_n form_v upon_o those_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n jam._n 5.13_o be_v any_o among_o you_o afflict_v let_v he_o pray_v be_v any_o merry_a let_v he_o sing_v psalm_n that_o religion_n must_v be_v accommodate_v to_o nature_n and_o that_o devout_a passion_n will_v soon_o shoot_v up_o when_o they_o be_v engraft_v upon_o a_o natural_a stock_n with_o which_o i_o will_v join_v this_o other_o that_o since_o we_o be_v most_o affect_v by_o such_o truth_n as_o be_v most_o particular_a circumstantiate_v and_o sensible_a and_o therefore_o imprint_v themselves_o more_o easy_o and_o deep_o on_o our_o imagination_n for_o this_o reason_n i_o shall_v recommend_v the_o read_n the_o life_n of_o saint_n and_o excellent_a person_n be_v they_o not_o general_o write_v so_o that_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o desire_v somewhat_o more_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o piety_n in_o the_o learned_a and_o more_o of_o judgement_n in_o the_o pious_a who_o have_v employ_v their_o pen_n on_o this_o argument_n §_o 4._o the_o immediate_a end_n of_o discipline_n be_v the_o subdue_a the_o pride_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o reduce_v the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n by_o discipline_n i_o here_o understand_v whatever_o voluntary_a rigour_n we_o impose_v on_o our_o self_n or_o whatever_o voluntary_a restraint_n we_o lie_v upon_o our_o allow_a enjoyment_n and_o when_o i_o say_v that_o the_o humiliation_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o subjection_n of_o the_o body_n be_v the_o immediate_a end_n of_o both_o i_o do_v not_o exclude_v any_o other_o which_o may_v be_v involve_v in_o these_o or_o result_v from_o they_o now_o of_o what_o importance_n these_o two_o thing_n be_v i_o need_v not_o show_v for_o since_o all_o sin_n be_v distinguish_v in_o scripture_n into_o the_o filthiness_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o flesh_n it_o be_v plain_a that_o the_o pride_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o 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uncertain_o so_o fight_v i_o not_o as_o one_o that_o beat_v the_o air_n but_o i_o keep_v under_o my_o body_n and_o bring_v it_o into_o subjection_n lest_o that_o by_o any_o mean_n when_o i_o have_v preach_v to_o other_o i_o myself_o shall_v be_v a_o castaway_n whoever_o thus_o mortify_v the_o pride_n of_o the_o heart_n whoever_o thus_o bring_v under_o the_o body_n will_v soon_o find_v himself_o true_o set_v free_a and_o master_n of_o himself_o and_o fortune_n he_o will_v be_v able_a to_o run_v the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n and_o to_o advance_v on_o swift_o towards_o perfection_n and_o the_o pleasure_n and_o happiness_n that_o attend_v it_o and_o to_o attain_v these_o bless_a end_n i_o do_v not_o think_v that_o we_o need_v ensnare_v our_o soul_n in_o the_o perpetual_a bond_n of_o monastic_a vow_n i_o do_v not_o think_v that_o we_o be_v to_o expose_v ourselves_o by_o any_o ridiculous_a or_o fantastic_a observance_n there_o be_v i_o say_v no_o need_n of_o this_o for_o we_o may_v as_o oft_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v fit_a retrench_v our_o pleasure_n abate_v of_o the_o show_n and_o figure_n of_o life_n we_o may_v renounce_v our_o own_o will_n to_o comply_v with_o they_o who_o can_v so_o well_o pretend_v either_o to_o authority_n or_o discretion_n and_o if_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v do_v in_o some_o circumstance_n without_o become_a fool_n for_o christ_n that_o be_v without_o that_o tameness_n that_o condescension_n that_o diminution_n of_o ourselves_o which_o will_n never_o comport_v with_o the_o humour_n and_o the_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n here_o be_v still_o the_o more_o room_n for_o mortification_n and_o for_o a_o near_o and_o more_o eminent_a imitation_n of_o the_o bless_a jesus_n provide_v still_o we_o decline_v all_o affectation_n of_o singularity_n and_o when_o we_o practice_v any_o extraordinary_a instance_n of_o self-denial_n we_o be_v ever_o able_a to_o justify_v it_o to_o religious_a and_o judicious_a person_n by_o the_o proposal_n of_o some_o excellent_a end_n fast_v indeed_o be_v plain_o prescribe_v in_o scripture_n and_o though_o the_o obligation_n to_o it_o with_o respect_n to_o its_o frequency_n and_o measure_n be_v not_o the_o same_o on_o all_o yet_o all_o shall_v some_o time_n or_o other_o practice_v it_o as_o far_o as_o the_o rule_n of_o christian_a prudence_n will_v permit_v and_o i_o have_v often_o think_v that_o fast_v shall_v general_o consist_v rather_o in_o abstinence_n from_o please_a meat_n than_o from_o all_o not_o the_o food_n which_o nourish_v our_o strength_n but_o that_o which_o gratify_v the_o palate_n minister_a most_o direct_o to_o wantonness_n and_o luxury_n for_o the_o better_a regulation_n of_o voluntary_a discipline_n i_o propose_v by_o way_n of_o advice_n three_o thing_n 1._o i_o do_v not_o think_v it_o best_o to_o bring_v ourselves_o under_o any_o perpetual_a and_o unalterable_a tie_n in_o any_o instance_n of_o self-denial_n there_o be_v a_o virtue_n in_o enjoy_v the_o world_n as_o well_o as_o in_o renounce_v it_o and_o it_o be_v as_o great_a a_o excellence_n of_o religion_n to_o know_v how_o to_o abound_v as_o how_o to_o suffer_v want_n nay_o what_o be_v more_o all_o voluntary_a austerity_n be_v in_o order_n to_o give_v we_o a_o power_n and_o dominion_n over_o ourselves_o in_o the_o general_a course_n of_o a_o prosperous_a life_n and_o last_o i_o very_o much_o doubt_n when_o once_o a_o man_n have_v long_a and_o constant_o accustom_v himself_o to_o any_o rigour_n whether_o it_o continue_v to_o have_v much_o of_o mortification_n in_o it_o or_o whether_o it_o so_o effectual_o tend_v to_o promote_v our_o spiritual_a liberty_n as_o it_o will_v if_o we_o do_v return_v to_o it_o but_o now_o and_o then_o as_o we_o see_v occasion_n 2._o we_o must_v not_o multiply_v unnecessary_a severity_n and_o that_o no_o man_n may_v think_v
well_o prepare_v for_o it_o how_o shall_v these_o man_n form_v any_o notion_n of_o a_o perfect_a and_o exalt_a virtue_n of_o devout_a and_o heavenly_a passion_n what_o conception_n can_v they_o have_v of_o the_o power_n and_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n of_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n or_o purity_n of_o heart_n or_o the_o diffusion_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o our_o soul_n what_o idea_n can_v they_o entertain_v of_o a_o heaven_n or_o of_o angelical_a pleasure_n and_o beatitude_n in_o a_o word_n the_o religion_n of_o man_n intent_n upon_o this_o world_n when_o they_o pretend_v to_o any_o which_o too_o often_o they_o do_v not_o consist_v especial_o in_o two_o thing_n in_o abstain_v from_o wickedness_n and_o do_v the_o work_n of_o their_o civil_a cal_n and_o how_o far_o they_o may_v be_v sensible_a of_o high_a obligation_n i_o determine_v not_o good_a god_n what_o a_o mercy_n it_o be_v to_o these_o poor_a creature_n that_o it_o be_v the_o fashion_n of_o their_o country_n as_o well_o as_o a_o precept_n of_o our_o religion_n to_o dedicate_v one_o day_n in_o seven_o to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n and_o their_o soul_n but_o have_v i_o not_o often_o teach_v that_o purity_n of_o intention_n convert_v the_o work_n of_o a_o secular_a call_v into_o the_o work_n of_o god_n i_o have_v so_o it_o be_v universal_o teach_v it_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v never_o retract_v it_o but_o ah_o how_o hard_o a_o thing_n be_v it_o for_o a_o worldly_a man_n to_o maintain_v this_o purity_n of_o intention_n how_o hard_o a_o thing_n be_v it_o for_o a_o mind_n eat_v up_o by_o the_o love_n and_o care_n of_o this_o world_n to_o do_v all_o to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n though_o therefore_o i_o can_v retract_v this_o doctrine_n yet_o the_o long_o i_o live_v the_o more_o reason_n do_v i_o see_v for_o qualify_a and_o guard_v it_o with_o this_o caution_n let_v no_o man_n that_o desire_v to_o be_v save_v much_o less_o that_o desire_v to_o be_v perfect_a take_v sanctuary_n in_o purity_n of_o intention_n while_o he_o suffer_v the_o work_n of_o his_o secular_a call_v to_o engross_v his_o soul_n and_o entire_o usurp_v his_o time_n if_o secular_a work_n exclude_v and_o thrust_v out_o of_o door_n such_o as_o be_v proper_o religious_a it_o will_v not_o be_v easy_a to_o conceive_v how_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n shall_v be_v maintain_v how_o any_o wise_a thought_n or_o heavenly_a desire_n shall_v be_v preserve_v in_o such_o man_n or_o how_o final_o those_o who_o have_v utter_o give_v up_o themselves_o to_o the_o wisdom_n of_o this_o world_n shall_v retain_v any_o true_a value_n for_o those_o maxim_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o consist_v the_o true_a wisdom_n that_o be_v from_o above_o all_o that_o i_o have_v say_v against_o a_o life_n of_o business_n may_v with_o equal_a or_o great_a force_n be_v urge_v against_o a_o life_n of_o pleasure_n i_o mean_v that_o which_o they_o call_v innocent_a pleasure_n the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o entangle_v and_o ensnare_v the_o mind_n the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o leave_n in_o it_o a_o peculiar_a relish_n which_o continue_v long_o after_o the_o hurry_n both_o of_o pleasure_n and_o business_n be_v over_o but_o all_o this_o while_n i_o will_v not_o have_v what_o i_o have_v say_v be_v extend_v further_o than_o i_o design_v it_o to_o raise_v scruple_n in_o virtuous_a and_o good_a man_n instead_o of_o reform_v the_o too_o eager_a application_n of_o the_o earthy_a to_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n chap._n vii_o of_o motive_n to_o perfection_n innumerable_a be_v the_o motive_n to_o perfection_n which_o offer_v themselves_o to_o any_o one_o that_o reflect_v serious_o on_o this_o argument_n a_o hearty_a endeavour_n after_o perfection_n be_v the_o best_a proof_n of_o sincerity_n the_o near_a approach_n to_o perfection_n be_v the_o near_a approach_n to_o the_o utmost_a security_n this_o life_n be_v capable_a of_o great_a be_v the_o beauty_n and_o loveliness_n of_o a_o exalt_a virtue_n great_a the_o honour_n and_o authority_n of_o it_o and_o a_o very_a happy_a influence_n it_o have_v even_o upon_o our_o temporal_a affair_n and_o to_o this_o may_v be_v add_v the_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o a_o wise_a mind_n sanctify_a affection_n and_o a_o regular_a life_n beside_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v boundless_a and_o the_o love_n of_o jesus_n be_v so_o too_o and_o therefore_o i_o demand_v not_o a_o lazy_a feeble_a or_o unsteady_a virtue_n but_o a_o strong_a and_o vigorous_a one_o a_o warm_a and_o active_a such_o as_o a_o true_a faith_n great_a hope_n and_o a_o passionate_a love_n do_v natural_o excite_v we_o to_o to_o all_o this_o i_o may_v add_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v always_o press_v on_o and_o advance_v desirous_a to_o communicate_v himself_o to_o we_o more_o and_o more_o plentiful_o if_o we_o be_v not_o backward_o or_o negligent_a ourselves_o but_o these_o and_o many_o other_o enforcement_n to_o the_o duty_n of_o perfection_n shall_v i_o enlarge_v on_o they_o will_v swell_v this_o treatise_n to_o a_o intolerable_a bulk_n nor_o indeed_o be_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o four_o chapter_n where_o i_o treat_v of_o the_o fruit_n of_o perfection_n do_v contain_v such_o motive_n to_o it_o as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o excite_v in_o any_o one_o that_o read_v they_o a_o most_o vehement_a desire_n and_o thirst_n after_o it_o here_o therefore_o all_o that_o i_o think_v fit_a to_o do_v be_v to_o put_v my_o reader_n in_o mind_n of_o another_o life_n in_o the_o glory_n and_o pleasure_n of_o which_o i_o need_v not_o prove_v that_o the_o perfect_a man_n will_v have_v the_o great_a share_n this_o be_v a_o motive_n that_o must_v never_o be_v out_o of_o the_o thought_n of_o the_o man_n that_o will_v be_v perfect_a and_o that_o for_o three_o reason_n which_o i_o will_v but_o just_a mention_n 1._o without_o another_o life_n we_o can_v never_o form_v any_o true_a notion_n of_o a_o perfect_a virtue_n sociable_a and_o civil_a virtue_n may_v be_v support_v by_o temporal_a motive_n and_o frame_v and_o model_v by_o worldly_a conveniency_n but_o a_o divine_a virtue_n must_v be_v build_v upon_o a_o divine_a life_n upon_o a_o heavenly_a kingdom_n the_o reason_n of_o this_o assertion_n be_v plain_a the_o mean_n must_v always_o bear_v proportion_n to_o the_o end_n where_o therefore_o the_o end_n be_v a_o imperfect_a temporal_a good_a there_o need_v no_o more_o than_o imperfect_a unfinished_a virtue_n to_o attain_v it_o but_o where_o the_o the_o end_n be_v heavenly_a and_o immortal_a the_o virtue_n ought_v to_o be_v so_o too_o be_v there_o no_o other_o life_n the_o standard_n and_o measure_n of_o the_o good_a or_o evil_a to_o be_v find_v in_o action_n will_v be_v their_o subserviency_n to_o the_o temporal_a good_a or_o evil_a of_o this_o world_n and_o by_o a_o necessary_a consequence_n it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o prove_v any_o high_a degree_n of_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n purity_n of_o heart_n charity_n and_o the_o like_a to_o be_v true_o virtue_n than_o what_o we_o can_v prove_v true_o necessary_a to_o procure_v the_o good_a or_o guard_v we_o against_o the_o evil_a of_o this_o life_n and_o if_o so_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o conclude_v what_o mean_a and_o beggarly_a kind_n of_o virtue_n will_v be_v produce_v from_o this_o ground_n 2._o without_o another_o life_n all_o other_o motive_n to_o perfection_n will_v be_v insufficient_a for_o though_o general_o speak_v such_o be_v the_o contrivance_n of_o human_a nature_n that_o neither_o the_o common_a good_a of_o civil_a society_n nor_o the_o more_o particular_a good_a of_o private_a man_n can_v be_v provide_v for_o or_o secure_v without_o the_o practice_n of_o sociable_a and_o political_a virtue_n yet_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o not_o only_o in_o many_o extraordinary_a case_n there_o will_v be_v no_o reward_n at_o all_o for_o virtue_n if_o there_o be_v not_o one_o reserve_v for_o it_o in_o another_o world_n but_o also_o in_o most_o case_n if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o future_a pleasure_n that_o do_v infinite_o outweigh_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o this_o life_n man_n will_v see_v no_o obligation_n to_o perfection_n for_o what_o shall_v raise_v they_o above_o the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o or_o above_o the_o love_n of_o the_o body_n if_o when_o they_o die_v they_o shall_v be_v no_o more_o for_o ever_o and_o certain_o our_o mind_n will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o soar_v very_o high_a nor_o shall_v we_o ever_o arrive_v at_o any_o excellence_n or_o perfection_n in_o any_o action_n if_o we_o be_v always_o under_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n 3._o a_o life_n to_o come_v be_v alone_o a_o sufficient_a motive_n to_o perfection_n who_o will_v refuse_v to_o endure_v hardship_n as_o a_o
have_v nothing_o of_o internal_a purity_n or_o solid_a righteousness_n in_o it_o so_o that_o upon_o the_o whole_a the_o jew_z and_o gentile_n be_v alike_o wicked_a only_o the_o wickedness_n of_o the_o jew_n have_v this_o aggravation_n in_o it_o above_o that_o of_o the_o gentile_n that_o they_o enjoy_v the_o oracle_n of_o god_n and_o the_o favour_n of_o a_o peculiar_a covenant_n this_o be_v the_o state_n of_o darkness_n which_o lie_v upon_o the_o face_n of_o the_o jewish_a and_o gentile_a world_n our_o lord_n who_o be_v to_o be_v a_o light_n to_o lighten_v the_o gentile_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o people_n israel_n advance_v and_o establish_v in_o the_o world_n that_o doctrine_n which_o direct_o tend_v to_o dispel_v these_o error_n and_o rescue_v mankind_n from_o the_o misery_n that_o attend_v they_o for_o all_o that_o the_o gospel_n contain_v may_v be_v reduce_v to_o these_o three_o head_n first_o the_o assertion_n of_o one_o only_a true_a god_n with_o a_o bright_a and_o full_a revelation_n of_o his_o divine_a attribute_n and_o perfection_n second_o a_o account_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n or_o the_o worship_n he_o delight_v in_o which_o be_v a_o spiritual_a one_o together_o with_o suitable_a mean_n and_o motive_n in_o which_o last_o be_v contain_v a_o full_a declaration_n of_o man_n supreme_a happiness_n three_o the_o revelation_n of_o one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n through_o who_o we_o have_v access_n with_o boldness_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n through_o who_o we_o have_v obtain_v from_o the_o father_n grace_n and_o pardon_v and_o adoption_n and_o through_o who_o last_o all_o our_o oblation_n and_o performance_n be_v acceptable_a to_o he_o the_o design_n of_o this_o glorious_a manifestation_n be_v to_o open_v man_n eye_n to_o turn_v they_o from_o darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n to_o the_o live_a god_n that_o they_o may_v obtain_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o a_o inheritance_n of_o glory_n these_o than_o be_v the_o truth_n which_o illuminate_v the_o gentile_a and_o jewish_a world_n and_o these_o be_v the_o truth_n which_o must_v illuminate_v we_o at_o this_o day_n these_o dispel_v all_o destructive_a error_n that_o lead_v we_o to_o vice_n or_o misery_n these_o point_n out_o our_o supreme_a felicity_n and_o the_o direct_a way_n to_o it_o these_o open_a and_o enlarge_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n enable_v it_o to_o distinguish_v and_o judge_v with_o a_o unerring_a exactness_n between_o good_a and_o evil_a between_o substantial_a and_o superficial_a temporal_a and_o eternal_a good_n and_o i_o wish_v from_o my_o soul_n whatever_o light_n we_o pretend_v to_o at_o this_o day_n we_o be_v well_o ground_v and_o establish_v in_o these_o truth_n i_o doubt_v notwithstanding_o our_o belief_n of_o one_o god_n and_o one_o mediator_n and_o notwithstanding_o we_o be_v well_o enough_o assure_v that_o god_n who_o be_v a_o spirit_n must_v be_v worship_v in_o spirit_n and_o in_o truth_n and_o notwithstanding_o our_o pretend_v to_o believe_v a_o life_n to_o come_v i_o say_v i_o be_o afraid_a that_o notwithstanding_o these_o thing_n we_o do_v general_o err_v in_o two_o main_a point_n namely_o in_o the_o notion_n we_o ought_v to_o have_v of_o religion_n and_o the_o value_n we_o be_v to_o set_v upon_o the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n for_o who_o that_o reflect_v upon_o the_o pomp_n and_o pride_n of_o life_n upon_o the_o ease_n the_o softness_n and_o the_o luxury_n of_o it_o upon_o the_o frothiness_n and_o the_o freedom_n the_o vanity_n and_o impertinence_n to_o say_v no_o worse_o of_o conversation_n will_v not_o conclude_v that_o either_o we_o have_v renounce_v our_o religion_n or_o form_n to_o ourselves_o too_o complaisant_a and_o indulgent_a a_o notion_n of_o it_o for_o be_v this_o the_o imitation_n of_o jesus_n be_v this_o to_o walk_v as_o he_o walk_v in_o the_o world_n can_v this_o be_v the_o deportment_n of_o man_n to_o who_o the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n be_v crucify_a can_v such_o a_o life_n as_o this_o be_v flow_v from_o those_o divine_a fountain_n faith_n love_n and_o hope_v who_o again_o can_v reflect_v upon_o the_o passion_n we_o discover_v for_o superiority_n and_o precedence_n our_o thirst_n of_o power_n our_o ravenous_a desire_n of_o wealth_n and_o not_o conclude_v that_o we_o have_v mistake_v our_o main_a end_n that_o we_o set_v a_o wrong_a value_n upon_o thing_n and_o that_o whatever_o we_o talk_v of_o a_o eternity_n we_o look_v upon_o this_o present_a world_n as_o our_o portion_n and_o most_o valuable_a good_a for_o can_v such_o a_o tender_a concern_v for_o such_o a_o eager_a pursuit_n after_o temporal_a thing_n flow_v from_o nay_o consist_v with_o purity_n of_o heart_n and_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o a_o desire_n of_o heaven_n whoever_o then_o will_v be_v perfect_a or_o happy_a must_v careful_o avoid_v both_o these_o error_n he_o must_v never_o think_v that_o religion_n can_v subsist_v without_o the_o strength_n and_o vigour_n of_o our_o affection_n or_o that_o the_o bend_v and_o vigour_n of_o our_o soul_n can_v be_v point_v towards_o god_n and_o yet_o the_o air_n of_o our_o deportment_n and_o conversation_n be_v earthy_a sensual_a and_o vain_a conform_v even_o to_o a_o pagan_a pride_n and_o show_v of_o life_n next_o he_o must_v never_o cherish_v in_o himself_o the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n he_o must_v never_o look_v upon_o himself_o other_o than_o a_o stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n in_o it_o he_o must_v never_o be_v fond_a of_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o he_o must_v never_o form_v vain_a design_n and_o project_n about_o it_o nor_o look_v upon_o the_o best_a thing_n in_o it_o as_o ingredient_n of_o our_o happiness_n but_o only_o as_o instrument_n of_o virtue_n or_o short_a repast_n and_o refreshment_n in_o our_o journey_n and_o because_o all_o our_o mistake_n about_o the_o nature_n and_o perfection_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o value_n of_o temporal_a thing_n do_v general_o arise_v from_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o peculiar_a sin_n to_o which_o our_o constitution_n betray_v we_o therefore_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o a_o intimate_a acquaintance_n with_o all_o our_o natural_a propension_n and_o infirmity_n be_v no_o inconsiderable_a part_n of_o illumination_n for_o we_o shall_v never_o address_v ourselves_o hearty_o to_o the_o cure_n of_o a_o disease_n which_o we_o know_v nothing_o of_o or_o to_o the_o rectify_v any_o inclination_n till_o we_o be_v thorough_o convince_v that_o it_o be_v irregular_a and_o dangerous_a 2._o the_o second_o character_n of_o illuminate_a truth_n be_v that_o they_o be_v such_o as_o feed_v and_o nourish_v corroborate_v and_o improve_v the_o mind_n of_o man._n now_o the_o property_n of_o bodily_a strength_n be_v such_o as_o these_o it_o enable_v we_o to_o baffle_v and_o repel_v injury_n to_o bear_v toil_n and_o travel_n to_o perform_v difficult_a work_n with_o speed_n and_o ease_n and_o final_o it_o prolong_v life_n to_o a_o much_o further_a date_n than_o weak_a and_o crazy_a constitution_n can_v arrive_v at_o and_o of_o all_o these_o we_o find_v some_o resemblance_n in_o spiritual_a strength_n but_o as_o much_o more_o perfect_a and_o excellent_a as_o the_o spirit_n be_v above_o the_o body_n those_o truth_n than_o be_v indeed_o illuminate_v which_o enable_v we_o to_o vanquish_v temptation_n to_o endure_v with_o constancy_n and_o patience_n the_o toil_v and_o hardship_n of_o our_o christian_a warfare_n to_o discharge_v the_o duty_n of_o our_o station_n with_o zeal_n and_o vigour_n and_o which_o last_o render_v we_o firm_a steady_a and_o immortal_a and_o these_o be_v the_o glorious_a effect_n which_o be_v attribute_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n hence_o be_v the_o gospel_n call_v the_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n rom._n 1.16_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o we_o read_v of_o the_o armour_n of_o god_n ephesian_n 6.11_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o shield_n of_o faith_n the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n etc._n etc._n to_o intimate_v to_o we_o the_o strength_n and_o virtue_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o that_o it_o bring_v with_o it_o safety_n and_o success_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v say_v to_o quicken_v and_o strengthen_v that_o man_n be_v say_v to_o live_v not_o by_o bread_n alone_o but_o by_o every_o word_n that_o proceed_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o god_n that_o righteousness_n be_v call_v everlasting_a and_o that_o he_o that_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v affirm_v to_o abide_v for_o ever_o to_o teach_v we_o plain_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o steady_a and_o unalterable_a nothing_o durable_a nothing_o eternal_a but_o god_n divine_a truth_n and_o those_o that_o be_v form_v and_o model_v by_o they_o there_o be_v truth_n indeed_o which_o be_v mere_o barren_a and_o vnactive_a which_o amuse_n and_o suspend_v the_o
mind_n but_o never_o benefit_n it_o but_o there_o be_v other_o which_z be_v in_o the_o language_n of_o solomon_n like_o health_n to_o the_o navel_n and_o marrow_n to_o the_o bone_n wisdom_n and_o virtue_n life_n and_o honour_n the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o man_n attend_v they_o where_o ever_o they_o dwell_v and_o these_o be_v the_o truth_n which_o illuminate_v truth_n that_o be_v active_a and_o fruitful_a that_o make_v we_o wise_a and_o good_a perfect_a and_o happy_a such_o as_o we_o have_v a_o mighty_a interest_n in_o such_o as_o have_v a_o strong_a influence_n upon_o we_o such_o as_o give_v a_o new_a day_n to_o the_o understanding_n and_o new_a strength_n and_o liberty_n to_o the_o will_n such_o as_o raise_v and_o exalt_v our_o affection_n and_o render_v the_o whole_a man_n more_o rational_a more_o steady_a more_o constant_a more_o uniform_a these_o be_v the_o truth_n which_o make_v man_n great_a and_o modest_a in_o prosperity_n erect_v and_o courageous_a in_o adversity_n always_o content_a with_o this_o world_n yet_o always_o full_a of_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o better_a serene_a calm_a and_o well_o assure_v in_o the_o present_a state_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o yet_o thirst_v after_o perfection_n maturity_n and_o the_o absolute_a consummation_n of_o righteousness_n in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v now_o the_o truth_n that_o effect_v all_o this_o be_v all_o reducible_a to_o those_o which_o i_o have_v mention_v under_o the_o former_a head_n for_o in_o those_o we_o find_v all_o that_o be_v necessary_a to_o life_n and_o godliness_n to_o virtue_n and_o glory_n in_o those_o we_o find_v all_o that_o be_v necessary_a to_o raise_v and_o support_v true_a magnanimity_n to_o enlarge_v and_o free_v the_o mind_n and_o to_o add_v strength_n and_o courage_n to_o it_o for_o what_o can_v more_o certain_o promote_v all_o this_o than_o immortality_n and_o glory_n what_o can_v be_v a_o sure_a foundation_n for_o the_o hope_n of_o both_o to_o rest_v on_o than_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n himself_o and_o what_o can_v more_o effectual_o reconcile_v and_o ingratiate_v we_o with_o god_n than_o sincere_a universal_a righteousness_n and_o the_o mediation_n of_o his_o dear_o belove_a son_n 3._o the_o three_o character_n of_o illuminate_a truth_n be_v that_o they_o be_v pleasant_a and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o soul_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o royal_a psalmist_n pronounce_v the_o word_n of_o god_n sweet_a than_o the_o honey_n and_o the_o honey_n comb_n that_o he_o ascribe_v to_o it_o delight_n and_o joy_n for_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o it_o rejoice_v the_o heart_n that_o it_o enlighten_v the_o eye_n and_o according_o we_o find_v the_o true_a servant_n of_o god_n not_o only_o continual_o blessing_n and_o praise_v god_n in_o the_o temple_n but_o magnify_v he_o by_o psalm_n and_o hymn_n in_o their_o prison_n and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o tribulation_n but_o when_o i_o reckon_v pleasure_n and_o delight_n among_o the_o fruit_n of_o illumition_n i_o must_v add_v that_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o the_o fit_v and_o flash_n of_o mirth_n and_o the_o serenity_n of_o a_o fix_a and_o habitual_a delight_n between_o the_o titillation_n of_o sense_n and_o the_o solid_a joy_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o last_o between_o the_o pleasure_n of_o fancy_n and_o of_o reason_n and_o when_o i_o say_v illumination_n consist_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o pleasant_a and_o agreeable_a truth_n i_o mean_v it_o of_o rational_a pleasure_n a_o habitual_a tranquillity_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o then_o the_o matter_n be_v beyond_o question_n whatever_o truth_n do_v contribute_v to_o promote_v this_o the_o study_n and_o contemplation_n of_o they_o must_v be_v our_o true_a wisdom_n joy_n when_o it_o be_v solid_a and_o rational_a do_v enlarge_v and_o exalt_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v health_n to_o the_o navel_n and_o marrow_n to_o the_o bone_n it_o render_v we_o more_o thankful_a to_o god_n more_o kind_a and_o courteous_a to_o man._n it_o be_v a_o excellent_a preparation_n to_o invite_v more_o plentiful_o influx_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n hence_o do_v elijah_n call_v for_o a_o musical_a instrument_n when_o he_o desire_v to_o prophesy_v and_o we_o find_v the_o company_n of_o prophet_n rejoice_v with_o hymn_n music_n and_o dance_n all_o outward_a testimony_n of_o the_o inward_a transport_v and_o ravishment_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o as_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o that_o which_o distinguish_v a_o godly_a sorrow_n from_o a_o worldly_a or_o impious_a one_o repentance_n and_o contrition_n from_o the_o agony_n and_o perplexity_n of_o dispair_n be_v the_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n which_o attend_v it_o so_o be_o i_o persuade_v that_o god_n do_v press_v and_o invite_v we_o to_o mourn_v and_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n for_o this_o reason_n not_o exclude_v other_o because_o it_o natural_o lead_v on_o to_o peace_n and_o joy_n a_o soft_a and_o tender_a sorrow_n dissipate_v the_o fear_n and_o distress_n of_o gild_n like_o mild_a and_o fruitful_a shower_n that_o do_v lay_v storm_n in_o a_o word_n there_o be_v no_o such_o powerful_a antidote_n against_o sin_n nor_o spur_n to_o holy_a industry_n as_o holy_a pleasure_n pious_a joy_n or_o spiritual_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n this_o be_v a_o partake_v or_o anticipate_v the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v and_o the_o mighty_a corroboration_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a in_o we_o the_o study_n then_o of_o such_o truth_n be_v true_a wisdom_n and_o illumination_n thus_o far_o will_v consist_v in_o quit_v those_o error_n which_o beget_v melancholy_a superstition_n desperation_n and_o in_o such_o truth_n as_o enlarge_v our_o view_n of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n and_o exhibit_v to_o we_o a_o near_a presence_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o glory_n such_o again_o as_o unfold_v the_o dignity_n of_o human_a nature_n and_o the_o wise_a and_o gracious_a end_n of_o our_o creation_n such_o last_o as_o extend_v our_o prospect_n and_o enlarge_v our_o hope_n support_v our_o frailty_n and_o excite_v our_o vigour_n 4._o the_o last_o property_n of_o those_o truth_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o which_o illumination_n consist_v be_v that_o they_o be_v such_o as_o procure_v we_o a_o reward_n if_o we_o reflect_v upon_o those_o three_o head_n under_o which_o i_o range_v those_o truth_n which_o illuminate_v the_o gentile_a and_o jewish_a world_n we_o shall_v easy_o discern_v how_o well_o they_o fit_v this_o character_n they_o fill_v the_o mind_n with_o joy_n and_o peace_n and_o make_v it_o abound_v in_o hope_n they_o purge_v the_o man_n from_o his_o natural_a corruption_n and_o fortify_v the_o mind_n against_o such_o impression_n from_o outward_a good_a or_o evil_a in_o this_o world_n as_o disquiet_v and_o torment_v the_o sinner_n they_o procure_v he_o the_o protection_n of_o god_n providence_n and_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o this_o life_n and_o they_o invite_v he_o to_o hope_v for_o glory_n and_o pleasure_n in_o another_o far_o above_o any_o thing_n that_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n can_v conceive_v god_n be_v the_o god_n of_o hope_n he_o have_v all_o fullness_n and_o sufficiency_n in_o himself_o and_o therefore_o bless_a must_v all_o they_o be_v who_o have_v the_o lord_n for_o their_o god_n jesus_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o consolation_n he_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n wisdom_n and_o righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n and_o redemption_n happy_a be_v he_o that_o do_v rejoice_v always_o and_o glory_n in_o he_o righteousness_n be_v a_o state_n of_o health_n and_o strength_n of_o perfection_n and_o beauty_n of_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o rest_n and_o hope_n bless_v be_v they_o who_o be_v possess_v of_o it_o who_o be_v make_v free_a from_o sin_n and_o become_v servant_n of_o god_n who_o have_v their_o fruit_n unto_o holiness_n and_o the_o end_n everlasting_a life_n such_o be_v already_o past_a from_o death_n to_o life_n for_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n and_o holiness_n of_o god_n and_o glory_n rest_v upon_o they_o this_o be_v the_o character_n that_o distinguish_v gospel_n knowledge_n from_o all_o other_o sort_n of_o knowledge_n no_o knowledge_n of_o art_n or_o science_n and_o much_o less_o the_o most_o exquisite_a knowledge_n of_o all_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n can_v pretend_v to_o a_o eternal_a reward_n a_o short_a and_o impure_a pleasure_n and_o a_o transcient_a interest_n be_v all_o that_o this_o sort_n of_o knowledge_n can_v bestow_v and_o very_o often_o instead_o of_o pleasure_n and_o profit_n it_o requite_v its_o disciple_n with_o pain_n and_o trouble_n the_o gospel_n only_o contain_v those_o truth_n which_o confer_v life_n and_o immortality_n on_o those_o that_o believe_v and_o obey_v they_o it_o be_v the_o gospel_n alone_o that_o teach_v we_o how_o we_o be_v to_o gain_v the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o it_o be_v god_n alone_o who_o rule_n and_o govern_v
the_o visible_a and_o invisible_a world_n he_o therefore_o alone_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v and_o he_o alone_o be_v to_o be_v love_v fear_v not_o they_o say_v our_o saviour_n matth._n 10.28_o which_o kill_v the_o body_n but_o be_v not_o able_a to_o kill_v the_o soul_n but_o rather_o fear_v he_o who_o be_v able_a to_o destroy_v both_o soul_n and_o body_n in_o hell_n and_o st._n john_n give_v the_o same_o precept_n concern_v the_o world_n love_v not_o the_o world_n neither_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o world_n and_o back_n it_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n for_o the_o world_n pass_v away_o and_o the_o lust_n thereof_o but_o he_o that_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n abide_v for_o ever_o that_o be_v the_o world_n can_v at_o best_a but_o gratify_v for_o a_o moment_n the_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n or_o the_o desire_v of_o a_o sensual_a fancy_n therefore_o love_v it_o not_o but_o love_v the_o father_n who_o after_o the_o dissolution_n of_o the_o vital_a union_n betwixt_o soul_n and_o body_n be_v able_a to_o confer_v life_n and_o happiness_n on_o both_o to_o all_o eternity_n thus_o have_v i_o consider_v the_o character_n of_o illuminate_a truth_n and_o the_o whole_a of_o what_o i_o have_v say_v amount_n to_o these_o two_o thing_n 1._o there_o be_v truth_n of_o very_a different_a kind_n truth_n that_o be_v of_o no_o use_n such_o be_v those_o which_o be_v either_o trifle_a or_o mere_o notional_a and_o can_v have_v no_o influence_n on_o human_a life_n truth_n that_o be_v of_o ill_a use_n such_o be_v those_o of_o which_o consist_v the_o art_n of_o sensuality_n avarice_n vanity_n and_o ambition_n these_o be_v to_o be_v detest_v the_o former_a to_o be_v contemn_v by_o all_o that_o seek_v after_o true_a wisdom_n again_o there_o be_v truth_n of_o a_o inferior_a use_n such_o as_o concern_v our_o fortune_n our_o relation_n our_o body_n and_o these_o may_v be_v allow_v their_o proper_a place_n and_o a_o reasonable_a value_n but_o the_o truth_n which_o concern_v the_o peace_n and_o 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to_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o a_o state_n of_o illumination_n to_o discourse_v 2._o of_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o knowledge_n we_o must_v have_v of_o the_o former_a truth_n to_o show_v what_o sort_n of_o conception_n we_o must_v form_v of_o they_o what_o kind_n of_o assent_n we_o must_v pay_v they_o and_o what_o kind_n of_o consideration_n we_o must_v employ_v about_o they_o as_o i_o have_v therefore_o lay_v down_o the_o property_n of_o those_o truth_n so_o will_v i_o now_o lie_v down_o the_o property_n of_o that_o knowledge_n of_o they_o which_o be_v essential_a to_o illumination_n 1._o illuminate_v knowledge_n must_v be_v deep_o root_v this_o our_o saviour_n have_v teach_v we_o in_o that_o parble_n wherein_o he_o have_v observe_v to_o we_o that_o the_o seed_n which_o have_v not_o depth_n of_o earth_n as_o it_o soon_o spring_v up_o so_o it_o soon_o wither_a and_o dry_v away_o we_o often_o know_v or_o pretend_v to_o do_v so_o the_o rudiment_n of_o our_o religion_n without_o 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knowledge_n which_o have_v no_o deep_a root_n be_v subject_a to_o be_v overthrow_v by_o ever_o blast_v that_o faith_n which_o be_v little_o more_o than_o credulity_n do_v very_o seldom_o stand_v against_o any_o very_a rude_a shock_n now_o the_o ground_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o duty_n be_v full_o and_o clear_o expound_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o here_o especial_o we_o must_v seek_v they_o when_o i_o say_v this_o i_o reject_v no_o collateral_a argugument_n i_o refuse_v no_o foreign_a aid_n which_o contribute_v any_o thing_n to_o confirm_v and_o fortify_v our_o belief_n of_o gospel_n truth_n the_o faith_n of_o st._n thomas_n do_v in_o part_n at_o least_o depend_v upon_o the_o evidence_n of_o sense_n thomas_n because_o thou_o have_v see_v thou_o have_v believe_v joh._n 20.29_o and_o so_o do_v that_o of_o the_o rest_n of_o they_o
who_o be_v eye_n witness_n of_o the_o resurrection_n and_o ascension_n of_o the_o bless_a jesus_n the_o doctrine_n of_o one_o god_n and_o a_o judgement_n to_o come_v may_v receive_v much_o light_n and_o strength_n from_o natural_a reason_n and_o whatever_o establish_v a_o reveal_v truth_n will_v be_v so_o far_o from_o diminish_v that_o it_o will_v increase_v the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o all_o the_o caution_n i_o think_v fit_a to_o give_v here_o be_v that_o we_o be_v sure_a that_o the_o ground_n be_v plain_a and_o firm_a on_o which_o we_o build_v the_o belief_n of_o a_o illuminate_a truth_n philosophy_n in_o many_o case_n be_v clear_a and_o convictive_a st._n paul_n himself_o among_o the_o gentile_n frequent_o appeal_v to_o reason_n but_o too_o often_o we_o call_v our_o fancy_n philosophy_n and_o obtrude_v upon_o the_o world_n the_o wild_a and_o undigested_a theory_n of_o a_o warm_a and_o confident_a imagination_n for_o new_a discovery_n what_o strange_a stuff_n be_v 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corruption_n i_o ever_o suspect_v a_o opinion_n that_o carry_v a_o air_n of_o novelty_n in_o it_o and_o do_v always_o prefer_v a_o vulgar_a truth_n before_o refine_a error_n they_o be_v vulgar_a truth_n which_o like_o vulgar_a blessing_n be_v of_o most_o use_n and_o true_a worth_n and_o sure_o our_o saviour_n think_v so_o when_o he_o thank_v his_o father_n that_o he_o have_v hide_v these_o thing_n from_o the_o wise_a and_o prudent_a and_o reveal_v they_o unto_o babe_n and_o when_o he_o himself_o teach_v the_o people_n with_o power_n and_o authority_n and_o not_o as_o the_o scribe_n he_o do_v advance_v no_o subtle_a theory_n but_o bright_a and_o dazzle_v useful_a and_o convictive_a truth_n this_o mind_n i_o of_o another_o property_n of_o illuminate_a knowledge_n 2._o this_o knowledge_n must_v not_o be_v obscure_a and_o confuse_a but_o distinct_a and_o clear_n where_o the_o image_n of_o thing_n be_v slight_a faint_a and_o vanish_v they_o move_v man_n but_o very_o weak_o and_o affect_v they_o but_o very_o cold_o especial_o in_o such_o matter_n as_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o our_o sense_n and_o this_o i_o persuade_v myself_o be_v one_o chief_a reason_n why_o those_o glorious_a and_o wonderful_a object_n god_n a_o judgement_n to_o come_v heaven_n and_o hell_n do_v strike_v we_o so_o feeble_o and_o operate_v so_o little_a we_o have_v general_o no_o lively_a distinct_a and_o clear_a conception_n of_o they_o it_o be_v otherwise_o impossible_a that_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n dreadful_a and_o amaze_a shall_v excite_v in_o we_o no_o fear_n or_o that_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n infinite_o amiable_a shall_v enkindle_v in_o we_o no_o passion_n no_o desire_n the_o notion_n we_o have_v of_o spiritual_a and_o invisible_a thing_n be_v dim_a dusky_a and_o imperfect_a our_o thought_n pass_v over_o they_o so_o slight_o that_o they_o scarce_o retain_v any_o print_n or_o trace_n of_o they_o now_o this_o sort_n of_o knowledge_n will_v never_o do_v the_o work_n these_o drowsy_a notice_n of_o thing_n will_v never_o ferment_n and_o raise_v our_o passion_n for_o heaven_n high_a enough_o to_o confront_v and_o combat_v those_o we_o have_v for_o the_o world_n from_o hence_o we_o may_v give_v a_o fair_a account_n what_o the_o use_n be_v of_o prophetic_a retirement_n and_o prophetic_a eloquence_n what_o be_v the_o purpose_n of_o all_o those_o scheme_n and_o trope_n which_o occur_v in_o inspire_v write_n and_o why_o the_o best_a of_o man_n have_v ever_o so_o much_o affect_v solitude_n and_o retreat_n from_o the_o noise_n and_o the_o hurry_n of_o the_o world_n serious_n frequent_a and_o devout_a contemplation_n be_v necessary_a to_o form_n in_o our_o mind_n clear_a distinct_a and_o sprightly_a notion_n and_o to_o communicate_v these_o well_o to_o the_o world_n they_o must_v be_v express_v in_o move_a language_n in_o live_a trope_n and_o figure_n ah_o do_v we_o but_o consider_v this_o we_o shall_v sure_o allot_v more_o time_n to_o the_o study_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o we_o shall_v not_o think_v that_o to_o discover_v they_o thorough_o it_o be_v enough_o to_o let_v our_o thought_n glance_v upon_o they_o but_o we_o shall_v survey_v and_o ponder_v they_o with_o all_o the_o exactness_n and_o diligence_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o make_v last_v and_o distinct_a impression_n upon_o we_o can_v we_o know_v by_o intuition_n doubtless_o wonderful_a object_n will_v raise_v very_o extraordinary_a passion_n in_o we_o but_o this_o we_o can_v let_v we_o come_v as_o near_o it_o as_o we_o can_v only_o let_v we_o avoid_v form_v absurd_a and_o false_a notion_n of_o thing_n whilst_o we_o endeavour_v after_o distinct_a and_o clear_a one_o spiritual_a thing_n do_v not_o answer_v corporeal_a like_a face_n to_o face_n in_o a_o glass_n and_o therefore_o though_o to_o give_v some_o light_n to_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o we_o we_o may_v find_v out_o all_o the_o resemblance_n of_o they_o we_o can_v in_o those_o thing_n we_o be_v acquaint_v with_o here_o below_o yet_o we_o must_v still_o remember_v that_o the_o one_o do_v vast_o exceed_v the_o other_o and_o that_o we_o can_v thus_o get_v a_o just_a and_o adequate_a notion_n of_o they_o 3._o this_o knowledge_n must_v not_o be_v in_o the_o understanding_n crude_a and_o undigested_a but_o it_o must_v be_v thorough_o concoct_v and_o turn_v into_o nourishment_n blood_n and_o spirit_n we_o must_v know_v the_o true_a value_n and_o use_v of_o every_o principle_n of_o every_o truth_n and_o be_v able_a ready_o to_o apply_v they_o for_o what_o do_v it_o signify_v how_o important_a truth_n be_v in_o themselves_o if_o they_o be_v not_o so_o to_o i_o what_o do_v it_o avail_v that_o they_o be_v impregnate_v with_o life_n and_o power_n if_o i_o feel_v not_o any_o such_o influence_n of_o what_o use_n be_v the_o knowledge_n of_o gospel_n promise_v to_o i_o if_o i_o reap_v no_o comfort_n from_o they_o or_o the_o knowledge_n of_o gospel_n threat_v if_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o curb_v and_o restrain_v my_o passion_n and_o so_o be_v it_o with_o other_o truth_n what_o will_v it_o avail_v i_o that_o i_o know_v the_o life_n of_o man_n consist_v not_o in_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o thing_n which_o he_o possess_v if_o notwithstanding_o i_o can_v content_v myself_o with_o a_o competency_n that_o righteousness_n be_v the_o chief_a good_a and_o the_o rich_a treasure_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n if_o notwithstanding_o i_o seek_v this_o world_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o it_o with_o a_o more_o early_o and_o passionate_a concern_v that_o sin_n and_o pain_n be_v the_o most_o considerable_a if_o not_o only_o evil_n of_o man_n if_o notwithstanding_o i_o be_v cast_v down_o and_o break_v under_o every_o adversity_n and_o thus_o i_o may_v go_v on_o and_o show_v you_o that_o the_o knowledge_n which_o be_v not_o digest_v into_o nourishment_n be_v if_o not_o a_o burden_n of_o no_o benefit_n to_o we_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o be_v to_o i_o nothing_o worth_a which_o i_o make_v no_o use_n of_o we_o must_v then_o follow_v the_o advice_n of_o solomon_n and_o never_o quit_v the_o search_n and_o meditation_n of_o truth_n till_o we_o grow_v intimate_v and_o familiar_a with_o it_o and_o so_o have_v it_o always_o ready_a for_o a_o guide_n and_o guard_n for_o our_o support_n and_o strength_n and_o for_o our_o delight_n and_o pleasure_n we_o must_v bind_v it_o about_o our_o heart_n as_o he_o speak_v and_o tie_v it_o as_o a_o ornament_n about_o our_o neck_n then_o when_o we_o go_v forth_o it_o shall_v lead_v we_o when_o we_o sleep_v it_o shall_v keep_v we_o and_o when_o we_o awake_v it_o shall_v talk_v with_o we_o for_o the_o commandment_n be_v a_o lamp_n and_o the_o law_n be_v light_a and_o reproof_n of_o instruction_n be_v the_o way_n of_o life_n prov._n 6._o in_o a_o word_n nothing_o can_v render_v the_o most_o important_a truth_n powerful_a and_o operative_a in_o we_o
scripture_n itself_o frequent_o put_v we_o in_o mind_n of_o and_o not_o without_o reason_n because_o the_o devil_n sow_v his_o tare_n among_o the_o wheat_n error_n and_o these_o too_o fatal_a and_o destructive_a one_o be_v frequent_o obtrude_v upon_o the_o world_n for_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o every_o party_n nay_o every_o single_a author_n lay_v the_o stress_n of_o salvation_n on_o their_o peculiar_a and_o distinguish_a opinion_n belove_a believe_v not_o every_o spirit_n but_o try_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n because_o many_o false_a prophet_n be_v go_v out_o into_o the_o world_n 1_o john_n 4.1_o it_o be_v needless_a to_o multiply_v text_n or_o word_n on_o this_o occasion_n when_o the_o peace_n and_o purity_n of_o our_o mind_n the_o rectitude_n and_o happiness_n of_o our_o life_n and_o the_o blessedness_n of_o eternity_n have_v so_o close_a and_o necessary_a a_o dependence_n upon_o the_o doctrine_n we_o imbibe_n that_o we_o hereby_o either_o secure_v or_o forfeit_v they_o who_o see_v not_o unless_o he_o be_v stupid_a and_o infatuate_v that_o great_a care_n and_o solicitude_n be_v necessary_a here_o than_o in_o any_o matter_n whatever_o because_o there_o be_v no_o other_o equal_a moment_n bad_a money_n or_o bad_a ware_n instead_o of_o good_a a_o ill_a title_n or_o conveyance_n instead_o of_o a_o firm_a and_o clear_a one_o may_v impoverish_v we_o bad_a drug_n instead_o of_o good_a may_v infect_v the_o body_n and_o destroy_v the_o health_n but_o what_o be_v all_o this_o to_o the_o dismal_a consequence_n of_o error_n and_o heresy_n which_o impoverish_v and_o infect_v the_o mind_n prevent_v the_o life_n and_o damn_v the_o man_n to_o all_o eternity_n the_o example_n of_o the_o berean_o be_v never_o forget_v and_o indeed_o never_o ought_v to_o be_v on_o this_o occasion_n we_o must_v admit_v nothing_o hasty_o assent_n to_o nothing_o without_o examine_v the_o ground_n on_o which_o it_o stand_v credulity_n precipitation_n and_o confidence_n be_v irreconcilable_a enemy_n to_o knowledge_n and_o wisdom_n 2._o we_o be_v to_o use_v great_a diligence_n and_o industry_n to_o enlarge_v and_o increase_v our_o knowledge_n the_o treasure_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n be_v almost_o infinite_a and_o it_o fare_v with_o those_o that_o study_v they_o as_o with_o a_o traveller_n when_o he_o ascend_v a_o rise_a ground_n every_o new_a step_n almost_o enlarge_v his_o horizon_n and_o present_v new_a country_n new_a pleasure_n to_o his_o eye_n it_o be_v our_o own_o negligence_n if_o we_o do_v not_o daily_o extend_v the_o compass_n of_o our_o knowledge_n if_o our_o view_n of_o thing_n grow_v not_o more_o distinct_a and_o clear_a and_o our_o belief_n of_o they_o more_o firm_a and_o steady_a this_o be_v to_o grow_v in_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n 2_o pet._n 3.18_o this_o be_v to_o have_v the_o eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n open_v eph._n 1.17_o this_o be_v to_o be_v fill_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o understanding_n col._n 1.9_o this_o be_v final_o for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o dwell_v in_o we_o rich_o col._n 3.16_o and_o of_o what_o importance_n this_o be_v be_v manifest_a from_o what_o i_o have_v before_o prove_v namely_o that_o illumination_n consist_v not_o in_o a_o credulous_a and_o ill-grounded_a in_o a_o slight_a and_o superficial_a or_o a_o confuse_a and_o obscure_a or_o imperfect_a sort_n of_o knowledge_n but_o in_o a_o clear_a distinct_a firm_a and_o well_o establish_v one_o and_o the_o acquire_v such_o a_o one_o demand_n a_o very_a diligent_a and_o a_o indefatigable_a study_n of_o the_o word_n of_o life_n to_o fill_v the_o mind_n with_o numerous_a great_a and_o beautiful_a idea_n and_o these_o clear_a and_o distinct_a to_o have_v they_o engrave_v in_o the_o memory_n in_o deep_a and_o last_a character_n to_o have_v they_o lodge_v and_o dispose_v in_o that_o order_n as_o to_o be_v able_a in_o a_o instant_a to_o have_v recourse_n to_o they_o to_o discern_v and_o demonstrate_v plain_o the_o connexion_n and_o dependence_n of_o one_o upon_o another_o and_o the_o unquestionable_a evidence_n of_o each_o this_o be_v a_o work_n of_o time_n and_o labour_n the_o fruit_n of_o a_o regular_a and_o assiduous_a search_n after_o truth_n and_o if_o the_o capacity_n and_o fortune_n of_o all_o man_n will_v not_o suffer_v they_o to_o come_v up_o to_o this_o they_o must_v come_v as_o near_o as_o they_o can_v but_o if_o such_o a_o search_n as_o this_o be_v not_o necessary_a to_o penetrate_v the_o depth_n and_o to_o discover_v the_o beauty_n of_o divine_a truth_n or_o to_o convince_v the_o world_n and_o ourselves_o of_o the_o certainty_n of_o they_o yet_o certain_o without_o it_o we_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o extract_v their_o force_n and_o virtue_n and_o to_o derive_v purity_n and_o nourishment_n from_o they_o which_o be_v the_o next_o thing_n imply_v in_o the_o rule_n lay_v down_o 3._o we_o must_v make_v frequent_a and_o serious_a reflection_n on_o the_o truth_n we_o do_v know_v this_o again_o natural_o follow_v from_o the_o notion_n of_o illumination_n as_o it_o be_v before_o settle_v for_o if_o it_o be_v not_o every_o knowledge_n of_o the_o best_a thing_n that_o suffice_v for_o illumination_n but_o a_o vital_a and_o operative_a one_o that_o be_v a_o well_o ground_v clear_a distinct_a and_o well-digested_a one_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o constant_a daily_a and_o devout_a meditation_n be_v necessary_a to_o illumination_n because_o it_o be_v not_o a_o transcient_a and_o perfunctory_a reflection_n upon_o the_o most_o important_a truth_n it_o be_v not_o a_o fleet_a ramble_a irregular_a and_o desultory_a meditation_n of_o they_o that_o will_v possess_v we_o with_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o knowledge_n to_o imprint_v a_o truth_n in_o lively_a notion_n upon_o our_o mind_n to_o digest_v it_o into_o nourishment_n and_o strength_n and_o make_v it_o mix_v itself_o with_o all_o our_o affection_n and_o all_o our_o action_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o we_o dwell_v upon_o it_o with_o constancy_n and_o delight_n and_o according_o we_o find_v that_o excellent_a and_o elevate_a soul_n both_o under_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o the_o new_a have_v be_v daily_o nay_o almost_o hourly_o conversant_a in_o the_o book_n of_o god_n they_o have_v be_v passionate_o devote_v to_o the_o study_n of_o it_o and_o delight_v more_o in_o it_o than_o in_o treasure_n or_o honour_n than_o in_o the_o most_o profitable_a employment_n or_o engage_v diversion_n of_o life_n it_o be_v this_o kind_n of_o meditation_n on_o god_n on_o jesus_n the_o world_n and_o our_o self_n that_o can_v alone_o acquaint_v we_o thorough_o with_o each_o it_o be_v this_o kind_n of_o meditation_n on_o death_n and_o judgement_n heaven_n and_o hell_n that_o can_v make_v we_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o that_o i_o have_v say_v on_o this_o rule_n amount_v to_o this_o that_o illumination_n be_v not_o to_o be_v attain_v without_o labour_n and_o travel_v it_o be_v indeed_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n but_o such_o a_o one_o as_o he_o will_v never_o bestow_v but_o upon_o those_o who_o ask_v and_o seek_v and_o knock_v divine_a bounty_n and_o human_a industry_n do_v here_o very_a well_o accord_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n general_o join_v they_o together_o and_o it_o be_v boldness_n and_o impiety_n in_o man_n to_o go_v about_o to_o divide_v they_o prov._n 2.4_o 5_o 6._o if_o thou_o seek_v she_o as_o silver_n and_o search_v for_o she_o as_o hide_a treasure_n then_o shall_v thou_o understand_v the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o find_v the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n for_o the_o lord_n give_v wisdom_n out_o of_o his_o mouth_n come_v knowledge_n and_o understanding_n nor_o will_v any_o one_o sure_o think_v it_o much_o to_o devote_v his_o time_n and_o labour_n to_o the_o attainment_n of_o illumination_n for_o what_o be_v there_o that_o can_v more_o just_o challenge_v or_o better_o deserve_v both_o can_v pleasure_n there_o be_v none_o but_o what_o flow_v from_o wisdom_n that_o be_v either_o pure_a great_a or_o last_v can_v business_n what_o business_n can_v be_v of_o great_a importance_n than_o what_o secure_v our_o salvation_n our_o eternity_n wisdom_n then_o be_v the_o principal_a thing_n therefore_o get_v understanding_n prov._n 4.7_o for_o without_o this_o the_o most_o desirable_a possession_n and_o pleasure_n of_o life_n be_v but_o cheat_n and_o illusion_n mischief_n and_o snare_n for_o the_o turn_n away_o of_o the_o simple_a shall_v slay_v they_o and_o the_o prosperity_n of_o fool_n shall_v destroy_v they_o prov._n 1.32_o 3._o that_o we_o act_v conformable_a to_o those_o measure_n of_o light_n which_o we_o have_v attain_v the_o more_o spiritual_a we_o grow_v the_o fit_a we_o be_v for_o the_o residence_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o the_o more_o capable_a of_o his_o influence_n the_o more_o we_o subdue_v all_o inordinate_a affection_n the_o
thing_n appear_v to_o we_o and_o the_o more_o the_o mind_n rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n the_o often_o be_v rapt_v up_o into_o heaven_n and_o as_o it_o be_v transfigure_v into_o a_o more_o glorious_a be_v by_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o ardour_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o more_o flat_a and_o insipid_a be_v all_o earthly_a and_o carnal_a satisfaction_n to_o it_o another_o effect_n that_o attend_v our_o shake_n off_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n and_o our_o devote_v ourselves_o to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n be_v our_o be_v purify_v from_o gild_n the_o stain_n of_o the_o past_a life_n be_v wash_v off_o by_o repentance_n and_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n and_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n contract_v no_o new_a one_o by_o wilful_a and_o presumptuous_a sin_n now_o therefore_o he_o can_v enter_v into_o himself_o and_o commune_v with_o his_o own_o heart_n without_o any_o vneasiness_n he_o can_v reflect_v upon_o his_o action_n and_o review_v each_o day_n when_o it_o be_v past_a without_o inward_a regret_n or_o shame_n to_o break_v off_o a_o vicious_a course_n to_o vanquish_v both_o terror_n and_o allurement_n when_o they_o persuade_v to_o that_o which_o be_v mean_a and_o base_a to_o be_v master_n of_o one_o self_n and_o entertain_v no_o affection_n but_o what_o be_v wise_a and_o regular_a and_o such_o as_o one_o have_v reason_n to_o wish_v shall_v daily_o increase_v and_o grow_v strong_a these_o be_v thing_n so_o far_o from_o merit_v reproach_n and_o reproof_n from_o one_o own_o mind_n that_o they_o be_v sufficient_a to_o support_v it_o against_o all_o reproach_n from_o without_o such_o be_v the_o beauty_n such_o the_o pleasure_n of_o a_o well_o establish_v habit_n of_o righteousness_n that_o it_o do_v more_o than_o compensate_a the_o difficulty_n to_o which_o either_o the_o attainment_n or_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o can_v expose_v a_o man._n last_o he_o that_o be_v free_a from_o gild_n be_v free_a from_o fear_n too_o and_o indeed_o this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n to_o get_v rid_v of_o all_o our_o fear_n not_o by_o deny_v or_o renounce_v god_n with_o atheist_n but_o by_o do_v the_o thing_n that_o please_v he_o he_o that_o be_v true_o religious_a be_v the_o only_a man_n who_o upon_o rational_a ground_n be_v raise_v above_o melancholy_a and_o fear_n for_o what_o shall_v he_o fear_v god_n be_v his_o glory_n his_o boast_n his_o joy_n his_o strength_n and_o if_o god_n be_v for_o he_o who_o can_v be_v against_o he_o neither_o thing_n present_a nor_o to_o come_v neither_o life_n nor_o death_n can_v separate_v he_o from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n there_o be_v nothing_o within_o the_o bound_n of_o time_n or_o eternity_n that_o he_o need_v fear_n man_n can_v hurt_v he_o he_o be_v encompass_v with_o the_o favour_n and_o love_a kindness_n of_o god_n as_o with_o a_o shield_n but_o if_o god_n permit_v he_o to_o suffer_v for_o righteousness_n sake_n happy_a be_v he_o this_o do_v but_o increase_v his_o present_a joy_n and_o future_a glory_n but_o what_o be_v most_o considerable_a death_n itself_o can_v hurt_v he_o devil_n can_v hurt_v he_o the_o sting_n of_o death_n be_v sin_n and_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n be_v the_o law_n but_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n who_o give_v we_o the_o victory_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n for_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o who_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n who_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n these_o consideration_n prove_v the_o present_a condition_n of_o a_o servant_n of_o god_n happy_a happy_a in_o comparison_n of_o the_o loose_a and_o wicked_a but_o in_o comparison_n with_o what_o he_o shall_v be_v hereafter_o he_o be_v infinite_o short_a of_o the_o joy_n and_o glory_n of_o his_o end_n in_o this_o respect_n indeed_o he_o be_v yet_o in_o a_o state_n of_o trial_n and_o trouble_v of_o discipline_n and_o probation_n in_o this_o respect_n his_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n do_v but_o just_a peep_n up_o above_o the_o ground_n the_o fullness_n and_o maturity_n of_o both_o he_o can_v enjoy_v till_o he_o come_v to_o heaven_n and_o this_o be_v §_o 4._o the_o last_o fruit_n of_o christian_a liberty_n that_o heaven_n will_v consist_v of_o all_o the_o blessing_n of_o all_o the_o enjoyment_n that_o human_a nature_n when_o raise_v to_o a_o equality_n with_o angel_n be_v capable_a of_o that_o beauty_n and_o glory_n joy_n and_o pleasure_n will_v as_o it_o be_v like_o a_o fruitful_a and_o ripe_a harvest_n here_o grow_v up_o there_o in_o all_o the_o utmost_a plenty_n and_o perfection_n that_o omnipotence_n itself_o will_v ever_o produce_v be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v controvert_v heaven_n be_v the_o masterpiece_n of_o god_n the_o accomplishment_n and_o consummation_n of_o all_o his_o wonderful_a design_n the_o last_o and_o most_o endear_n expression_n of_o boundless_a love_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o scripture_n describe_v it_o by_o the_o most_o take_v and_o the_o most_o admire_a thing_n upon_o earth_n and_o yet_o we_o can_v but_o think_v that_o this_o image_n though_o draw_v by_o a_o divine_a pencil_n must_v fall_v infinite_o short_a of_o it_o for_o what_o temporal_a thing_n can_v yield_v colour_n or_o metaphor_n strong_a and_o rich_a enough_o to_o paint_v heaven_n to_o the_o life_n one_o thing_n there_o be_v indeed_o which_o seem_v to_o point_v we_o to_o a_o just_a and_o adequate_a notion_n of_o a_o heaven_n it_o seem_v to_o excite_v we_o to_o strive_v and_o attempt_v for_o conception_n of_o what_o we_o can_v grasp_v we_o can_v comprehend_v and_o the_o labour_a mind_n the_o more_o it_o discover_v conclude_v still_o the_o more_o behind_o and_o that_o be_v the_o beatific_a vision_n this_o be_v that_o which_o as_o divine_n general_o teach_v do_v constitute_v heaven_n and_o scripture_n seem_v to_o teach_v so_o too_o i_o confess_v i_o have_v often_o doubt_v whether_o our_o see_v god_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v do_v necessary_o imply_v that_o god_n shall_v be_v the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o fruition_n or_o only_o that_o we_o shall_v there_o as_o it_o be_v drink_v at_o the_o fountain_n head_n and_o be_v near_o and_o dear_a to_o he_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n shall_v ever_o flourish_v in_o his_o favour_n and_o enjoy_v all_o good_a heap_v up_o press_v down_o and_o run_v over_o i_o think_v the_o scripture_n may_v be_v easy_o reconcile_v to_o this_o sense_n and_o the_o incomprehensible_a glory_n of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n incline_v i_o to_o believe_v it_o the_o most_o reasonable_a and_o most_o easy_o accountable_a enjoyment_n and_o especial_o where_o a_o intelligent_a be_v be_v the_o object_n of_o it_o seem_v to_o imply_v something_o of_o proportion_n something_o of_o equality_n something_o of_o familiarity_n but_o ah_o what_o proportion_n think_v i_o can_v there_o ever_o be_v between_o finite_a and_o infinite_a what_o equality_n between_o a_o poor_a creature_n and_o his_o incomprehensible_a creator_n what_o eye_n shall_v give_v on_o the_o splendour_n of_o his_o essential_a beauty_n when_o the_o very_a light_n he_o dwell_v in_o be_v inaccessible_a and_o even_o the_o brightness_n he_o veil_v himself_o in_o be_v too_o dazzle_v even_o for_o cherub_n and_o seraph_n for_o aught_o i_o know_v to_o behold_v ah_o what_o familiarity_n can_v there_o be_v between_o this_o eternal_a and_o inconceiveable_a majesty_n and_o being_n which_o he_o have_v form_v out_o of_o nothing_o and_o when_o on_o this_o occasion_n i_o reflect_v on_o the_o effect_n which_o the_o presence_n of_o angel_n have_v upon_o the_o prophet_n and_o see_v human_a nature_n in_o man_n sink_v and_o die_v away_o because_o unable_a to_o sustain_v the_o glory_n of_o one_o of_o their_o fellow-creature_n i_o think_v myself_o in_o a_o manner_n oblige_v to_o yield_v and_o stand_v out_o no_o long_o against_o a_o notion_n which_o though_o differ_v from_o what_o be_v general_o receive_v seem_v to_o have_v more_o reason_n on_o its_o side_n and_o to_o be_v more_o intelligible_a but_o when_o i_o call_v to_o mind_n that_o god_n do_v not_o disdain_n even_o while_o we_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o probation_n and_o humility_n of_o infirmity_n and_o mortality_n to_o account_v we_o not_o only_o his_o servant_n and_o his_o people_n but_o his_o friend_n and_o his_o child_n i_o begin_v to_o question_v the_o former_a opinion_n and_o when_o i_o have_v survey_v the_o nature_n of_o fruition_n and_o the_o various_a way_n of_o it_o a_o little_a more_o attentive_o i_o whole_o quit_v it_o for_o i_o observe_v that_o the_o enjoyment_n be_v most_o transport_v where_o admiration_n mingle_v with_o our_o passion_n where_o the_o belove_a object_n stand_v not_o upon_o the_o same_o level_n with_o we_o but_o condescend_v to_o meet_v a_o virtuous_a and_o aspire_a and_o ambitious_a affection_n thus_o the_o happy_a favourite_n enjoy_v
this_o chapter_n be_v grow_v much_o too_o big_a already_o and_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o this_o liberty_n which_o i_o have_v so_o long_o insist_v on_o nothing_o more_o need_v to_o be_v add_v but_o the_o observation_n of_o those_o rule_n which_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o follow_a chapter_n for_o whatever_o advice_n will_v secure_v the_o several_a part_n of_o our_o liberty_n will_v consequent_o secure_v the_o whole_a i_o will_v therefore_o close_v this_o chapter_n here_o with_o a_o brief_a exhortation_n to_o endeavour_v after_o deliverance_n from_o sin_n how_o many_o and_o powerful_a motive_n have_v we_o to_o it_o will_v we_o free_v ourselves_o from_o the_o evil_n of_o this_o life_n let_v we_o dam_v up_o the_o source_n of_o they_o which_o be_v sin_n will_v we_o surmount_v the_o fear_n of_o death_n let_v we_o disarm_v it_o of_o its_o sting_n and_o this_o be_v sin_n will_v we_o perfect_v and_o accomplish_v our_o nature_n with_o all_o excellent_a quality_n it_o be_v righteousness_n wherein_o consist_v the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o participation_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n it_o be_v the_o cleanse_n ourselves_o from_o all_o filthiness_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o the_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n that_o must_v transform_v we_o from_o glory_n to_o glory_n will_v we_o be_v master_n of_o the_o most_o glorious_a fortune_n it_o be_v righteousness_n that_o will_v make_v we_o heir_n of_o god_n and_o joynt-heir_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v the_o conquest_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o the_o abound_a in_o good_a work_n that_o will_v make_v we_o rich_a towards_o god_n and_o lay_v up_o for_o we_o a_o good_a foundation_n for_o the_o life_n to_o come_v be_v we_o ambitious_a of_o honour_n let_v we_o free_v ourselves_o from_o the_o servitude_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v virtue_n only_o that_o be_v true_o honourable_a and_o praiseworthy_a and_o nothing_o sure_o can_v entitle_v we_o to_o so_o noble_a a_o relation_n for_o this_o ally_n we_o to_o god_n for_o as_o our_o saviour_n speak_v they_o only_o be_v the_o child_n of_o abraham_n who_o do_v the_o work_n of_o abraham_n the_o child_n of_o god_n who_o do_v the_o work_n of_o god_n these_o be_v they_o who_o be_v bear_v again_o not_o of_o the_o will_n of_o the_o flesh_n or_o of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n these_o be_v they_o who_o be_v incorporate_v into_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v rule_v and_o animate_v by_o his_o spirit_n be_v entitle_v to_o all_o the_o bless_a effect_n of_o his_o merit_n and_o intercession_n these_o be_v they_o in_o a_o word_n who_o have_v overcome_v and_o will_v one_o day_n sit_v down_o with_o christ_n in_o his_o throne_n even_o as_o he_o also_o overcome_v and_o be_v set_v down_o with_o his_o father_n in_o his_o throne_n rev._n 3.21_o good_a god_n how_o absurd_a and_o perverse_a all_o our_o desire_n and_o project_n be_v we_o complain_v of_o the_o evil_n of_o the_o world_n and_o yet_o we_o hug_v the_o cause_n of_o they_o and_o cherish_v those_o vice_n who_o fatal_a wound_n be_v ever_o big_a with_o numerous_a and_o intolerable_a plague_n we_o fear_v death_n and_o will_v get_v rid_v of_o this_o fear_n not_o by_o disarm_v but_o sharpen_v its_o sting_n not_o by_o subdue_a but_o forget_v it_o we_o love_v wealth_n and_o treasure_n but_o it_o be_v that_o which_o be_v temporal_a not_o eternal_a we_o receive_v honour_n one_o of_o another_o but_o we_o seek_v not_o that_o which_o come_v from_o god_n only_o we_o be_v fond_a of_o ease_n and_o pleasure_n and_o at_o the_o same_o time_n we_o wander_v from_o those_o path_n of_o wisdom_n which_o alone_o can_v bring_v we_o to_o it_o for_o in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v this_o christian_a liberty_n that_o make_v man_n true_o free_a not_o the_o be_v in_o bondage_n to_o no_o man_n but_o to_o no_o sin_n not_o the_o do_v what_o we_o listen_v but_o what_o we_o ought_v it_o be_v christian_a liberty_n that_o make_v we_o true_o great_a and_o true_o glorious_a for_o this_o alone_a render_v we_o serviceable_a to_o other_o and_o easie_n to_o our_o self_n benefactor_n to_o the_o world_n and_o delightsome_a at_o home_n it_o be_v christian_n liberty_n make_v we_o true_o prosperous_a true_o fortunate_a because_o it_o make_v we_o true_o happy_a fill_v we_o with_o joy_n and_o peace_n and_o make_v we_o abound_v in_o hope_n through_o the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n chap._n iu._n of_o liberty_n as_o it_o relate_v to_o original_a sin_n whatever_o difficulty_n the_o doctrine_n of_o original_a sin_n real_o be_v involve_v in_o or_o seem_v at_o least_o to_o some_o to_o be_v so_o they_o will_v not_o concern_v i_o who_o be_o no_o further_o oblige_v to_o consider_v it_o than_o as_o it_o be_v a_o impediment_n of_o perfection_n for_o though_o there_o be_v much_o dispute_n about_o original_a sin_n there_o be_v little_a or_o none_o about_o original_a corruption_n the_o reality_n of_o this_o be_v general_o acknowledge_v though_o the_o gild_n the_o sinfulness_n or_o immorality_n of_o it_o be_v controvert_v and_o though_o there_o be_v diversity_n of_o opinion_n concern_v the_o effect_n of_o original_a corruption_n in_o eternity_n yet_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n at_o all_o make_v but_o that_o it_o incite_v and_o instigate_v we_o to_o actual_a sin_n and_o be_v the_o seed-plot_n of_o human_a folly_n and_o wickedness_n all_o man_n i_o think_v be_v agree_v that_o there_o be_v a_o bias_n and_o strong_a propension_n in_o our_o nature_n towards_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n that_o the_o subordination_n of_o the_o body_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o of_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n wherein_o consist_v righteousness_n be_v subvert_v and_o overthrow_v that_o we_o have_v appetite_n which_o clash_n with_o and_o oppose_v the_o command_n of_o god_n not_o only_a when_o they_o threaten_v violence_n to_o our_o nature_n as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o confession_n and_o martyrdom_n but_o also_o when_o they_o only_o prune_v its_o luxuriancy_n and_o extravagance_n that_o we_o do_v not_o only_o desire_v sensitive_a pleasure_n but_o even_o to_o that_o degree_n that_o it_o hurry_v and_o transport_v we_o beyond_o the_o bound_n that_o reason_n and_o religion_n set_v we_o we_o have_v not_o only_o a_o aversion_n for_o pain_n and_o toil_n and_o death_n but_o to_o that_o excess_n that_o it_o tempt_v we_o to_o renounce_v god_n and_o our_o duty_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o carnal_a ease_n and_o temporal_a safety_n and_o final_o that_o we_o be_v so_o backward_o to_o entertain_v the_o belief_n of_o reveal_v truth_n so_o prone_a to_o terminate_v our_o thought_n on_o and_o confine_v our_o desire_n within_o this_o visible_a world_n as_o our_o portion_n and_o to_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o no_o other_o than_o the_o mortal_a and_o corruptible_a inhabitant_n of_o it_o that_o this_o make_v we_o selfish_a and_o sordid_a proud_a and_o ambitious_a false_a subtle_a and_o contentious_a to_o the_o endless_a disturbance_n of_o mankind_n and_o ourselves_o that_o this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o state_n of_o nature_n that_o this_o be_v the_o corruption_n we_o labour_v under_o all_o man_n i_o think_v be_v agree_v and_o no_o wonder_n for_o do_v a_o controversy_n arise_v about_o this_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n to_o appeal_v any_o further_a for_o the_o decision_n of_o it_o than_o to_o one_o own_o experience_n this_o will_v tell_v every_o one_o that_o thus_o it_o be_v in_o fact_n and_o reason_n if_o we_o will_v consult_v it_o will_v tell_v we_o why_o it_o be_v so_o for_o what_o other_o than_o this_o can_v be_v the_o condition_n of_o man_n who_o enter_v the_o world_n with_o a_o soul_n so_o dark_a and_o destitute_a of_o divine_a light_n so_o deep_o immerce_v and_o plunge_v into_o flesh_n and_o blood_n so_o tender_o and_o intimate_o affect_v by_o bodily_a sensation_n and_o with_o a_o body_n so_o adapt_v and_o suit_v to_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n and_o fasten_v to_o it_o by_o the_o charm_n of_o pleasure_n and_o the_o bond_n of_o interest_n convenience_n and_o necessity_n this_o account_n of_o original_a corruption_n agree_v very_o well_o with_o that_o st._n paul_n give_v we_o of_o it_o rom._n 7._o and_o elsewhere_o and_o with_o that_o assertion_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n on_o which_o he_o build_v the_o necessity_n of_o regeneration_n by_o water_n and_o the_o holy_a spirit_n joh._n 3.6_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o flesh_n be_v flesh_n and_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o spirit_n be_v spirit_n have_v thus_o brief_o explain_v what_o i_o mean_v in_o this_o chapter_n by_o original_a sin_n i_o be_o next_o to_o consider_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o how_o far_o this_o distemper_n of_o nature_n be_v curable_a 2._o which_o way_n this_o cure_n be_v to_o be_v effect_v as_o to_o the_o first_o enquiry_n i_o will_v
not_o be_v understand_v to_o proceed_v in_o it_o with_o a_o regard_n to_o all_o the_o regenerate_v in_o general_n but_o only_o to_o the_o perfect_a for_o the_o strength_n of_o original_a sin_n can_v but_o be_v very_o different_a in_o new_a convert_v or_o babe_n in_o grace_n and_o in_o such_o as_o be_v advance_v to_o a_o habit_n of_o righteousness_n this_o be_v premise_v i_o think_v i_o may_v on_o good_a ground_n resolve_v that_o original_a sin_n in_o the_o perfect_a man_n may_v be_v so_o far_o reduce_v and_o master_v as_o to_o give_v he_o but_o very_o rare_a and_o slight_a disturbance_n this_o seem_v to_o i_o evident_a from_o the_o great_a change_n that_o must_v be_v wrought_v in_o he_o who_o be_v convert_v from_o a_o sinner_n into_o a_o saint_n if_o any_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o new_a creature_n old_a thing_n be_v pass_v away_o behold_v all_o thing_n be_v become_v new_a 2_o cor._n 5.17_o and_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o conceive_v this_o new_a nature_n without_o new_a propension_n and_o inclination_n not_o only_o different_a from_o but_o repugnant_a to_o our_o former_a original_a and_o corrupt_a one_o or_o at_o least_o we_o must_v suppose_v this_o new_a creation_n so_o far_o to_o have_v reform_v and_o correct_v the_o man_n that_o original_a corruption_n have_v lose_v the_o strength_n and_o force_n which_o before_o it_o have_v this_o will_v be_v more_o clear_a yet_o if_o we_o observe_v never_o so_o slight_o the_o several_a part_n of_o this_o great_a change_n first_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o excellent_a person_n be_v fill_v with_o a_o unfeigned_a and_o habitual_a sorrow_n for_o and_o detestation_n of_o all_o sin_n i_o hate_v say_v the_o psalmist_n every_o false_a way_n and_o how_o inconsistent_a be_v the_o strength_n and_o heat_v of_o corrupt_a propension_n with_o the_o tear_n and_o aversion_n of_o a_o true_a penitent_n how_o tame_a be_v the_o body_n how_o pure_a the_o mind_n when_o the_o man_n be_v possess_v with_o a_o firm_a and_o holy_a indignation_n against_o sin_n when_o he_o dissolve_v in_o the_o pious_a tenderness_n of_o a_o contrite_a spirit_n next_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o good_a man_n be_v possess_v with_o a_o ardent_a love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n with_o a_o firm_a belief_n and_o a_o steady_a hope_n of_o a_o bless_a eternity_n with_o enlighten_v eye_n he_o behold_v the_o vanity_n of_o all_o earthly_a thing_n and_o admire_v the_o solidity_n the_o weight_n and_o duration_n of_o heavenly_a glory_n he_o be_v rise_v with_o christ_n and_o therefore_o seek_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o where_o christ_n sit_v on_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n he_o have_v set_v his_o affection_n on_o thing_n above_o and_o not_o on_o thing_n on_o the_o earth_n for_o he_o be_v dead_a and_o his_o life_n be_v hide_v with_o christ_n in_o god_n and_o must_v we_o not_o now_o suppose_v such_o a_o one_o cleanse_v and_o purify_v from_o all_o corrupt_a affection_n when_o the_o very_a bend_v of_o his_o soul_n be_v quite_o another_o way_n must_v we_o not_o suppose_v the_o force_n and_o strength_n of_o deprave_a nature_n overpowr_v and_o subdue_v by_o these_o heavenly_a affection_n how_o mortify_v must_v such_o a_o man_n be_v to_o the_o world_n and_o to_o the_o body_n how_o feeble_a be_v the_o opposition_n that_o inferior_a nature_n can_v raise_v against_o a_o mind_n invest_v with_o so_o absolute_a and_o sovereign_a authority_n and_o endow_v with_o light_n and_o strength_n from_o above_o last_o the_o perfect_a man_n have_v not_o only_o crucify_v the_o inordinate_a and_o sinful_a lust_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o body_n but_o have_v also_o obtain_v a_o great_a mastery_n even_o over_o the_o natural_a appetite_n of_o it_o how_o else_o can_v it_o be_v that_o his_o desire_n and_o hope_n be_v in_o heaven_n that_o he_o wait_v for_o the_o lord_n from_o thence_o that_o he_o desire_v to_o be_v dissolve_v and_o to_o be_v with_o christ_n and_o groan_n to_o be_v rid_v of_o the_o corruptible_a tabernacle_n of_o the_o body_n he_o that_o be_v thus_o above_o the_o body_n may_v certain_o be_v conclude_v to_o be_v in_o some_o degree_n above_o even_o the_o most_o natural_a appetite_n he_o that_o have_v set_v himself_o free_a in_o a_o great_a measure_n even_o from_o his_o aversion_n to_o death_n and_o in_o his_o affection_n at_o least_o very_a much_o loosen_v the_o bond_n the_o knot_n that_o untie_v soul_n and_o body_n may_v certain_o very_o reasonable_o be_v presume_v to_o be_v much_o more_o above_o all_o covetous_a ambitious_a or_o wanton_a inclination_n these_o be_v the_o ground_n on_o which_o i_o attribute_v to_o the_o perfect_a man_n so_o high_a a_o degree_n of_o freedom_n from_o original_a sin_n as_o i_o do_v in_o the_o proposition_n lay_v down_o 2_o but_o yet_o i_o do_v not_o in_o the_o least_o think_v that_o the_o most_o perfect_a man_n upon_o earth_n can_v so_o extinguish_v the_o spark_n of_o original_a corruption_n but_o that_o if_o he_o do_v not_o keep_v a_o watch_n and_o guard_n upon_o himself_o they_o will_v gather_v strength_n and_o revive_v again_o and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o be_v plain_a because_o it_o have_v a_o foundation_n in_o our_o very_a nature_n the_o dispute_n concern_v the_o existence_n of_o original_a corruption_n in_o we_o after_o baptism_n or_o regeneration_n be_v methinks_v a_o very_a needless_a one_o for_o if_o it_o be_v about_o the_o notion_n we_o ought_v to_o entertain_v of_o it_o that_o be_v whether_o it_o be_v proper_o sin_n or_o not_o this_o be_v a_o contention_n about_o word_n for_o what_o signify_v it_o by_o what_o name_n we_o call_v this_o remainder_n of_o original_a pravity_n when_o all_o grant_n that_o the_o stain_v and_o gild_n of_o it_o be_v wash_v off_o and_o pardon_v but_o if_o it_o be_v about_o the_o force_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o this_o indeed_o be_v a_o controversy_n of_o some_o moment_n but_o a_o very_a foolish_a one_o on_o one_o side_n for_o to_o what_o purpose_n can_v it_o be_v to_o say_v a_o great_a many_o subtle_a and_o puzzle_v thing_n against_o a_o truth_n that_o every_o man_n feel_v and_o experiment_n at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o upon_o the_o whole_a then_o i_o may_v thus_o describe_v the_o liberty_n of_o the_o perfect_a man_n with_o respect_n to_o original_a sin_n he_o have_v mortify_v it_o though_o not_o utter_o extirpate_v it_o he_o have_v subdue_v it_o though_o not_o exterminate_v it_o and_o therefore_o he_o be_v not_o only_o free_a from_o sinful_a and_o inordinate_a lust_n and_o affection_n but_o also_o in_o a_o far_o great_a measure_n than_o other_o man_n from_o those_o infirmity_n and_o irregularity_n which_o be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o struggle_n and_o ebullition_n of_o original_a sin_n not_o yet_o sufficient_o tame_v he_o have_v advance_v his_o victory_n very_o far_o even_o over_o his_o natural_a appetite_n he_o have_v no_o strong_a inclination_n for_o the_o body_n or_o for_o the_o world_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o it_o than_o such_o as_o become_v a_o man_n that_o be_v possess_v with_o a_o deep_a sense_n of_o the_o vanity_n of_o this_o world_n and_o the_o blessedness_n of_o another_o the_o world_n be_v in_o a_o high_a degree_n crucify_v to_o he_o and_o he_o count_v all_o thing_n but_o dung_n and_o dross_n in_o comparison_n with_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n jesus_n his_o lord_n his_o sorrow_n and_o his_o joy_n his_o desire_n and_o his_o fear_n be_v the_o occasion_n never_o so_o just_a or_o lawful_a pass_v not_o the_o modest_a bound_n of_o a_o wise_a moderation_n he_o desire_v without_o impatience_n care_n and_o contrive_v hope_n and_o pursue_v without_o anxiety_n or_o solicitude_n he_o be_v cautious_a without_o fear_n and_o pusillanimity_n he_o be_v sad_a without_o dejection_n or_o despondency_n and_o pleasant_a without_o vanity_n all_o this_o indeed_o show_v he_o not_o only_o to_o have_v conquer_v sin_n and_o folly_n but_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n also_o his_o natural_a propension_n to_o they_o but_o after_o all_o this_o happy_a creature_n must_v remember_v that_o he_o be_v still_o in_o the_o body_n in_o the_o body_n who_o appetite_n will_v soon_o pass_v beyond_o their_o due_a bound_n if_o he_o be_v indulgent_a or_o careless_a he_o must_v remember_v that_o he_o be_v not_o immutable_o holy_a his_o understanding_n be_v not_o so_o clear_a and_o bright_a but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v deceive_v nor_o the_o bend_v of_o his_o affection_n so_o strong_o set_v upon_o good_a but_o that_o they_o may_v be_v pervert_v and_o therefore_o he_o must_v be_v sober_a and_o vigilant_a and_o fear_v always_o thus_o have_v i_o state_v the_o cureableness_n of_o our_o original_a corruption_n and_o as_o i_o think_v i_o have_v plain_o the_o countenance_n of_o scripture_n so_o i_o do_v not_o see_v that_o i_o in_o the_o least_o clash_n with_o that_o clause_n in_o the_o nine_o article_n of_o our_o church_n
be_v capable_a of_o it_o he_o that_o lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o moral_n here_o do_v build_v upon_o a_o rock_n and_o he_o that_o here_o push_v his_o success_n to_o the_o utmost_a point_n have_v reach_v the_o high_a round_n in_o the_o scale_n of_o perfection_n and_o give_v the_o finish_n stroke_n to_o holiness_n and_o virtue_n this_o i_o say_v then_o he_o that_o will_v be_v free_a must_v lay_v down_o as_o a_o general_a rule_n to_o himself_o from_o which_o he_o must_v resolve_v never_o to_o swerve_v that_o he_o be_v by_o all_o rational_a and_o possible_a method_n to_o diminish_v the_o strength_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o body_n and_o increase_v that_o of_o the_o mind_n by_o this_o we_o ought_v to_o judge_v of_o the_o convenience_n or_o inconvenience_n of_o our_o worldly_a fortune_n by_o this_o we_o be_v to_o determine_v of_o the_o innocence_n or_o malignity_n of_o action_n by_o this_o we_o be_v to_o form_n and_o estimate_v our_o acquaintance_n and_o conversation_n and_o by_o this_o we_o be_v to_o judge_v of_o the_o bend_a and_o tendency_n of_o our_o life_n by_o this_o we_o be_v to_o regulate_v our_o diversion_n by_o this_o we_o may_v resolve_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o degree_n of_o our_o pleasure_n whether_o lawful_a whether_o expedient_a or_o not_o and_o in_o one_o word_n by_o this_o we_o may_v pass_v a_o true_a sentence_n upon_o the_o degree_n and_o measure_n of_o our_o natural_a affection_n there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a enough_o that_o prove_v not_o so_o to_o i_o and_o there_o be_v such_o a_o latitude_n in_o the_o degree_n and_o measure_n of_o duty_n and_o deviation_n from_o it_o that_o it_o be_v a_o very_a hard_a matter_n in_o several_a case_n to_o define_v nice_o and_o strict_o what_o be_v lawful_a or_o unlawful_a but_o i_o be_o sure_a in_o all_o case_n this_o be_v a_o wise_a and_o safe_a rule_n that_o we_o be_v to_o aim_v at_o the_o strengthen_v the_o authority_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o weaken_v the_o force_n and_o power_n of_o our_o carnal_a appetite_n by_o consequence_n every_o man_n ought_v to_o examine_v himself_o by_o what_o art_n by_o what_o practice_n the_o light_n of_o his_o understanding_n come_v to_o be_v obscure_v the_o authority_n of_o his_o reason_n weaken_a and_o the_o tenderness_n of_o his_o conscience_n to_o be_v so_o much_o blunt_v and_o wear_v off_o and_o when_o he_o have_v discover_v this_o he_o must_v avoid_v these_o thing_n as_o temptation_n and_o snare_n he_o must_v shun_v these_o path_n as_o those_o that_o lead_v to_o danger_n and_o death_n and_o whatever_o he_o find_v to_o have_v a_o contrary_a tendency_n these_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o he_o must_v do_v these_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o he_o must_v study_v contrive_v and_o follow_v how_o happy_a will_v a_o man_n be_v how_o perfect_a will_v he_o soon_o grow_v if_o he_o do_v conduct_v himself_o by_o this_o rule_n how_o little_a need_n will_v he_o have_v of_o outward_a comfort_n how_o little_a value_n will_v he_o have_v for_o power_n and_o honour_n for_o the_o state_n and_o pride_n of_o life_n how_o little_o will_v he_o hunt_v after_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sense_n what_o peace_n shall_v he_o maintain_v within_o when_o he_o shall_v do_v nothing_o that_o be_v repugnant_a to_o the_o reason_n of_o his_o mind_n what_o joy_n and_o hope_n will_v he_o abound_v with_o when_o he_o shall_v have_v so_o many_o daily_a proof_n of_o his_o integrity_n as_o the_o live_n above_o the_o body_n will_v give_v he_o and_o how_o will_v all_o this_o strengthen_v and_o exalt_v the_o mind_n what_o flight_n will_v it_o take_v towards_o heaven_n and_o how_o invincible_a will_v it_o prove_v to_o all_o temptation_n happy_a and_o perfect_a that_o man_n who_o have_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n thus_o within_o he_o who_o life_n be_v hide_v with_o christ_n in_o god_n when_o christ_n who_o be_v his_o life_n shall_v appear_v he_o also_o shall_v appear_v with_o he_o in_o glory_n this_o be_v a_o comprehensive_a rule_n and_o if_o well_o pursue_v sufficient_a of_o its_o self_n to_o do_v the_o work_n i_o be_o here_o aim_v at_o but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v more_o easy_o reduce_v to_o practice_n i_o think_v it_o not_o amiss_o to_o take_v a_o more_o particular_a view_n of_o it_o and_o than_o it_o may_v be_v resolve_v into_o these_o two_o 1._o we_o must_v lay_v due_a restraint_n upon_o the_o body_n 2._o we_o must_v invigorate_v and_o fortify_v the_o mind_n partly_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o partly_o by_o accustom_v it_o to_o retire_v and_o with_o draw_v itself_o from_o the_o body_n §_o 1._o as_o to_o the_o restraint_n we_o be_v to_o lay_v upon_o the_o body_n what_o they_o be_v we_o easy_o learn_v from_o the_o scripture_n for_o first_o these_o express_o forbid_v we_o to_o gratify_v the_o lust_n and_o affection_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o that_o not_o only_o because_o they_o be_v injurious_a to_o our_o neighbour_n and_o a_o dishonour_n to_o our_o holy_a profession_n but_o also_o because_o they_o have_v a_o ill_a influence_n upon_o the_o strength_n and_o liberty_n the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o mind_n dear_o belove_v i_o beseech_v you_o as_o stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n abstain_v from_o fleshly_a lust_n which_o war_n against_o the_o soul_n 1_o pet._n 2.11_o and_o whoever_o enter_v into_o the_o account_n of_o thing_n will_v easy_o discern_v this_o to_o be_v true_a there_o be_v a_o deceitfulness_n in_o sin_n a_o sensuality_n in_o lust_n who_o see_v not_o that_o there_o be_v more_o attraction_n in_o the_o pride_n and_o ostentation_n of_o life_n than_o in_o the_o simplicity_n and_o plainness_n of_o it_o that_o there_o be_v more_o temptation_n and_o allurement_n in_o riot_n and_o luxury_n than_o in_o frugality_n and_o a_o competency_n that_o the_o imagination_n of_o a_o solomon_n himself_o can_v but_o be_v wretched_o abuse_v if_o he_o give_v it_o leave_v to_o wander_v and_o wanton_a in_o variety_n in_o a_o word_n if_o the_o mind_n follow_v a_o carnal_a or_o worldly_a appetite_n and_o fancy_n in_o all_o its_o excess_n and_o debauch_n it_o will_v soon_o find_v itself_o miserable_o enslave_v and_o intoxicate_v it_o will_v be_v whole_o in_o the_o interest_n of_o the_o body_n and_o whole_o give_v up_o to_o to_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o second_o though_o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o prohibit_v some_o state_n or_o condition_n of_o this_o life_n which_o seem_v as_o it_o be_v more_o near_o ally_v to_o or_o at_o leastwise_o at_o less_o distance_n from_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n than_o other_o be_v yet_o it_o forbid_v we_o to_o covet_v and_o pursue_v they_o thus_o st._n paul_n rom._n 12.16_o mind_v not_o high_a thing_n the_o apostle_n do_v not_o here_o oblige_v any_o man_n to_o degrade_v himself_o beneath_o his_o birth_n or_o to_o fly_v from_o those_o advantage_n which_o god_n providence_n and_o his_o own_o merit_n give_v he_o a_o just_a title_n to_o but_o certain_o he_o do_v oblige_v the_o christian_n not_o to_o aspire_v ambitious_o to_o great_a thing_n nor_o fond_o to_o pride_n himself_o in_o success_n of_o this_o kind_n so_o when_o a_o little_a after_o he_o command_v we_o in_o honour_n to_o prefer_v one_o another_o certain_o he_o do_v not_o teach_v how_o to_o talk_v but_o how_o to_o act_v not_o how_o to_o court_v and_o compliment_n but_o how_o to_o deport_v ourselves_o consonant_a to_o those_o notion_n with_o which_o charity_n towards_o our_o neighbour_n and_o humility_n towards_o ourselves_o ought_v to_o inspire_v we_o thus_o again_o we_o be_v not_o forbid_v to_o be_v rich_a no_o man_n be_v bind_v to_o strip_v himself_o of_o those_o possession_n which_o he_o be_v bear_v to_o or_o to_o shut_v out_o that_o increase_n which_o god_n blessing_n and_o his_o own_o diligence_n natural_o bring_v in_o but_o we_o be_v forbid_v to_o thirst_n after_o riches_n or_o to_o value_v ourselves_o upon_o they_o and_o command_v to_o be_v content_a with_o those_o thing_n that_o we_o have_v and_o if_o god_n bless_v we_o with_o wealth_n to_o enjoy_v it_o with_o modesty_n and_o thankfulness_n and_o dispense_v it_o with_o liberality_n 1_o tim._n 6.6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 10._o godliness_n with_o contentment_n be_v great_a gain_n for_o we_o bring_v nothing_o into_o this_o world_n and_o it_o be_v certain_a we_o can_v carry_v nothing_o out_o and_o have_v food_n and_o raiment_n let_v we_o be_v therewith_o content_a but_o they_o that_o will_v be_v rich_a fall_v into_o temptation_n and_o a_o snare_n and_o into_o many_o foolish_a and_o hurtful_a lust_n which_o drown_v man_n in_o destruction_n and_o perdition_n for_o the_o love_n of_o money_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o evil_a which_o while_o some_o covet_v after_o they_o have_v err_v from_o the_o faith_n and_o pierce_v themselves_o
and_o allure_v we_o and_o it_o be_v our_o consent_n to_o its_o enticement_n that_o give_v be_v to_o sin_n and_o defile_v we_o with_o gild_n from_o all_o this_o now_o put_v together_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o conclude_v what_o sort_n of_o a_o description_n we_o be_v to_o form_v of_o mortal_a sin_n it_o be_v such_o a_o transgression_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o be_v vicious_a in_o its_o original_a deliberate_a in_o its_o commission_n and_o mischievous_a in_o its_o tendency_n or_o effect_n the_o heart_n be_v corrupt_v and_o mislead_v by_o some_o lust_n or_o other_o and_o so_o consent_v to_o the_o breach_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n of_o god_n a_o law_n of_o eternal_a and_o immutable_a goodness_n or_o if_o the_o sin_n consist_v in_o the_o breach_n of_o any_o positive_a law_n it_o must_v yet_o imply_v in_o it_o some_o moral_a obliquity_n in_o the_o will_n or_o in_o the_o tendency_n of_o the_o action_n or_o both_o so_o that_o presumptuous_a or_o mortal_a sin_n call_v it_o by_o what_o name_n we_o will_v be_v a_o deliberate_a transgression_n of_o a_o know_a law_n of_o god_n tend_v to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n the_o injury_n of_o our_o neighbour_n or_o the_o depravation_n of_o our_o nature_n such_o be_v those_o sin_n which_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n exhort_v those_o who_o will_v repent_v to_o cease_v from_o and_o such_o be_v those_o we_o have_v a_o catalogue_n of_o eph._n 5._o gal._n 5._o and_o elsewhere_o now_o the_o work_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v manifest_a which_o be_v these_o adultery_n fornication_n uncleanness_n lasciviousness_n idolatry_n witchcraft_n hatred_n variance_n emulation_n wrath_n strife_n sedition_n heresy_n envy_n murder_n drunkenness_n revel_v and_o suchlike_a these_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o which_o as_o of_o so_o many_o member_n the_o body_n of_o sin_n consist_v these_o constitute_v the_o old_a man_n these_o be_v sometime_o call_v the_o filthiness_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n ungodliness_n wickedness_n iniquity_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n worldly_a lust_n and_o suchlike_a these_o and_o the_o like_a sin_n have_v as_o i_o say_v in_o they_o very_o apparent_a symptom_n of_o malignity_n and_o mortality_n they_o be_v always_o the_o effect_n of_o some_o carnal_a and_o worldly_a lust_n prevail_v over_o the_o law_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o they_o imply_v a_o contempt_n of_o god_n injustice_n to_o our_o neighbour_n and_o some_o kind_n of_o defilement_n and_o pollution_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o that_o these_o be_v the_o plain_a indication_n of_o such_o a_o gild_n as_o exclude_v a_o man_n from_o heaven_n and_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v very_o plain_a from_o the_o account_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v we_o both_o of_o the_o origine_fw-la and_o influence_n of_o sin_n from_o the_o care_n it_o take_v to_o fortify_v the_o heart_n against_o all_o infection_n from_o the_o constant_a representation_n it_o make_v we_o of_o the_o shamefulness_n and_o the_o mischief_n of_o sin_n even_o in_o reference_n to_o this_o world_n as_o well_o as_o the_o other_o i_o can_v see_v any_o thing_n further_o necessary_a to_o the_o explication_n of_o deliberate_a or_o presumptuous_a sin_n unless_o it_o be_v here_o fit_a to_o add_v that_o it_o be_v mortal_a though_o it_o proceed_v no_o further_o than_o the_o heart_n there_o be_v no_o need_n at_o all_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v bring_v forth_o into_o action_n to_o render_v it_o fatal_a and_o damnable_a this_o be_v evident_a not_o only_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o divine_a worship_n which_o must_v be_v entire_a sincere_a and_o spiritual_a and_o therefore_o can_v no_o more_o be_v reconcile_v to_o the_o wickedness_n of_o our_o heart_n than_o of_o our_o action_n but_o also_o from_o the_o express_a word_n of_o our_o saviour_n out_o of_o the_o heart_n proceed_v fornication_n adultery_n theft_n etc._n etc._n and_o elsewhere_o he_o pronounce_v the_o adultery_n of_o the_o heart_n damnable_a as_o well_o as_o that_o of_o the_o body_n mat._n 5.28_o but_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o that_o whosoever_o look_v upon_o a_o woman_n to_o lust_n after_o she_o have_v commit_v adultery_n already_o with_o she_o in_o his_o heart_n s._n 2._o i_o be_o next_o to_o give_v some_o account_n of_o the_o liberty_n of_o perfect_a man_n in_o reference_n to_o the_o sin_n i_o have_v be_v discourse_v of_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o stop_v at_o any_o general_n or_o preliminary_a observation_n as_o that_o abstinence_n from_o sin_n regard_v all_o the_o commandment_n of_o god_n alike_o and_o to_o do_v otherwise_o be_v to_o mutilate_v and_o maim_v religion_n and_o to_o dishonour_n god_n while_o we_o pretend_v to_o worship_n and_o obey_v he_o for_o the_o breach_n of_o any_o single_a commandment_n be_v a_o manifest_a violation_n of_o the_o majesty_n and_o authority_n of_o god_n whatever_o observance_n we_o may_v pay_v all_o the_o rest_n for_o he_o that_o say_v do_v not_o commit_v adultery_n say_v also_o do_v not_o kill_v now_o if_o thou_o commit_v no_o adultery_n yet_o if_o thou_o kill_v thou_o be_v become_v a_o transgressor_n of_o the_o law_n jam._n 2.11_o that_o the_o restraint_n man_n be_v to_o lay_v upon_o himself_o relate_v no_o less_o to_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o soul_n than_o the_o action_n of_o the_o body_n except_o your_o righteousness_n exceed_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n you_o shall_v by_o no_o mean_n enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n mat._n 5.10_o that_o to_o begin_v well_o will_v avail_v we_o little_a unless_o we_o finish_v well_o too_o universality_n sincerity_n and_o perseverance_n be_v general_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v essential_a and_o indispensable_a property_n of_o save_v justify_v faith_n these_o thing_n therefore_o be_v but_o just_a mention_v i_o proceed_v to_o the_o point_n to_o be_v inquire_v into_o and_o resolve_v 1._o to_o be_v free_a from_o the_o dominion_n and_o power_n of_o mortal_a sin_n be_v the_o first_o and_o low_a step_n this_o be_v indispensable_a to_o sincerity_n and_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n let_v not_o sin_n reign_v in_o your_o mortal_a body_n to_o fulfil_v the_o lust_n thereof_o rom._n 6.12_o and_o the_o advance_v thus_o far_o do_v i_o acknowledge_v constitute_v man_n in_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n for_o in_o scripture_n man_n be_v denominate_v righteous_a or_o wicked_a not_o from_o single_a act_n of_o vice_n or_o virtue_n but_o from_o the_o prevalence_n and_o dominion_n from_o the_o habit_n or_o custom_n of_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o know_v you_o not_o that_o to_o who_o you_o yield_v yourselves_o servant_n to_o obey_v his_o servant_n you_o be_v to_o who_o you_o obey_v whether_o of_o sin_n unto_o death_n or_o of_o obedience_n unto_o righteousness_n rom._n 6.16_o but_o then_o i_o must_v here_o add_v two_o remark_n by_o way_n of_o caution_n one_a we_o must_v not_o presume_v too_o soon_o of_o victory_n over_o a_o habitual_a sin_n a_o evil_a habit_n be_v not_o soon_o break_v off_o nor_o be_v it_o a_o easy_a matter_n to_o resolve_v when_o we_o have_v set_v ourselves_o free_a from_o the_o power_n of_o it_o sometime_o the_o temptation_n do_v not_o present_v itself_o as_o often_o as_o it_o be_v wont_a or_o not_o with_o the_o same_o advantage_n sometime_o one_o vice_n restrain_v we_o from_o another_o sometime_o worldly_a consideration_n or_o some_o little_a change_n in_o our_o temper_n without_o any_o thorough_a change_n in_o our_o mind_n put_v we_o out_o of_o humour_n for_o a_o little_a while_n with_o a_o darling_n sin_n and_o sometime_o the_o force_n and_o clearness_n of_o conviction_n produce_v some_o pious_a fit_n which_o though_o they_o do_v not_o utter_o vanquish_v a_o lust_n do_v yet_o force_v it_o to_o give_v way_n and_o retreat_n for_o a_o while_n and_o interrupt_v that_o love_n which_o they_o do_v not_o extinguish_v all_o this_o may_v be_v and_o the_o work_v not_o yet_o be_v do_v nor_o our_o liberty_n yet_o gain_v if_o therefore_o we_o fall_v though_o but_o now_o and_o then_o and_o though_o at_o some_o distance_n of_o time_n into_o the_o same_o sin_n we_o have_v great_a reason_n to_o be_v jealous_a of_o its_o power_n and_o our_o safety_n nay_o though_o we_o restrain_v ourselves_o from_o the_o outward_a commission_n of_o it_o if_o yet_o we_o feel_v a_o strong_a propension_n to_o it_o if_o we_o discern_v ourselves_o ready_a to_o take_v fire_n on_o the_o appearance_n of_o a_o temptation_n if_o we_o be_v fond_a of_o approach_v as_o near_o it_o as_o we_o can_v and_o be_v please_v with_o those_o indulgency_n which_o be_v very_o near_o a_o kin_n to_o it_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o doubt_v that_o our_o conquest_n be_v not_o yet_o entire_a nay_o the_o truth_n be_v we_o can_v be_v on_o good_a ground_n assure_v that_o we_o be_v master_n of_o ourselves_o till_o we_o have_v a_o settle_a aversion_n for_o the_o sin_n which_o before_o we_o dote_v on_o and_o shun_v the_o occasion_n which_o before_o
we_o court_v till_o we_o be_v possess_v of_o a_o habit_n of_o that_o virtue_n which_o be_v a_o direct_a contradiction_n to_o it_o and_o take_v as_o much_o pleasure_n in_o the_o obedience_n as_o ever_o we_o do_v in_o the_o transgression_n of_o a_o divine_a command_n 2_o there_o be_v some_o sin_n of_o that_o provoke_a nature_n so_o criminal_a in_o their_o birth_n and_o mischievous_a in_o their_o consequence_n that_o one_o single_a act_n or_o commission_n of_o one_o of_o these_o be_v equivalent_a to_o a_o habit_n of_o other_o such_o be_v murder_n idolatry_n perjury_n adultery_n these_o can_v be_v commit_v without_o renounce_v humanity_n as_o well_o as_o christianity_n without_o resist_v the_o instinct_n and_o impulse_n of_o nature_n as_o well_o as_o the_o eight_o of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n we_o must_v break_v through_o a_o great_a many_o difficulty_n and_o terror_n ere_o we_o can_v come_v at_o these_o sin_n we_o must_v commit_v many_o other_o in_o order_n to_o commit_v one_o of_o these_o we_o must_v deliberate_v long_o resolve_v desperate_o and_o in_o defiance_n of_o god_n and_o conscience_n and_o what_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o habit_n in_o other_o instance_n be_v a_o necessary_a preparative_a in_o these_o that_o be_v obduration_n in_o this_o case_n therefore_o the_o unhappy_a man_n that_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o any_o one_o of_o these_o must_v not_o look_v upon_o himself_o as_o set_v free_a when_o he_o be_v come_v to_o a_o resolution_n of_o never_o repeat_v it_o again_o but_o then_o when_o he_o loathe_v and_o abhor_v himself_o in_o dust_n and_o ash_n when_o he_o have_v make_v the_o utmost_a reparation_n of_o the_o wrong_n he_o be_v capable_a of_o when_o if_o the_o interest_n of_o virtue_n require_v it_o he_o be_v content_a to_o be_v oppress_v with_o shame_n and_o suffering_n when_o in_o one_o word_n a_o long_a and_o constant_a course_n of_o mortification_n prayer_n tear_n and_o good_a work_n have_v wash_v off_o the_o stain_n and_o gild_n 2._o we_o must_v be_v free_a not_o only_o from_o a_o habit_n but_o from_o single_a act_n of_o deliberate_a presumptuous_a sin_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a mortal_a sin_n can_v be_v commit_v without_o wound_v the_o conscience_n grieve_v the_o spirit_n and_o renounce_v our_o hope_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n for_o the_o time_n at_o least_o the_o wage_n of_o sin_n be_v death_n be_v true_a not_o only_o of_o habit_n but_o single_a act_n of_o deliberate_a sin_n death_n be_v the_o penalty_n the_o sanction_n of_o every_o commandment_n and_o the_o commandment_n do_v not_o prohibit_v habit_n only_o but_o single_a act_n too_o nor_o be_v there_o indeed_o any_o room_n for_o doubt_n or_o dispute_v here_o but_o in_o one_o case_n which_o be_v if_o a_o righteous_a man_n shall_v be_v take_v off_o in_o the_o very_a commission_n of_o a_o sin_n which_o he_o be_v fall_v into_o here_o indeed_o much_o may_v be_v say_v and_o with_o much_o uncertainty_n but_o the_o resolution_n of_o this_o point_n do_v not_o as_o far_o as_o i_o can_v see_v minister_v to_o any_o good_a or_o necessary_a end_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v leave_v it_o to_o god_n in_o all_o other_o case_n every_o thing_n be_v clear_a and_o plain_a for_o if_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n fall_v into_o a_o presumptuous_a sin_n it_o be_v universal_o acknowledge_v that_o he_o can_v recover_v his_o station_n but_o by_o repentance_n if_o he_o repent_v present_o he_o be_v safe_a but_o if_o he_o continue_v in_o his_o sin_n if_o he_o repeat_v it_o he_o pass_v into_o a_o state_n of_o wickedness_n widen_v the_o breach_n between_o god_n and_o his_o soul_n decline_v insensible_o into_o a_o habit_n of_o sin_n and_o render_v his_o wound_n more_o and_o more_o incurable_a it_o be_v to_o little_a purpose_n i_o think_v here_o to_o consider_v the_o vast_a difference_n there_o be_v in_o the_o commission_n even_o of_o the_o same_o sin_n between_o a_o child_n of_o god_n and_o a_o child_n of_o wrath_n because_o a_o child_n of_o god_n must_v not_o commit_v it_o at_o all_o if_o he_o do_v though_o it_o be_v with_o reluctancy_n though_o it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v with_o a_o imperfect_a consent_n and_o with_o a_o divide_a soul_n though_o the_o awe_n of_o religion_n and_o conscience_n seem_v not_o utter_o to_o have_v forsake_v he_o even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o sin_n though_o his_o heart_n smite_v he_o the_o very_a minute_n it_o be_v finish_v and_o repentance_n and_o remorse_n take_v off_o the_o relish_n of_o the_o unhappy_a draught_n yet_o still_o it_o be_v sin_n it_o be_v in_o its_o nature_n damnable_a and_o nothing_o but_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n can_v purge_v the_o gild_n 3._o the_o perfect_a man_n may_v be_v suppose_v not_o only_o actual_o to_o abstain_v from_o mortal_a sin_n but_o to_o be_v advance_v so_o far_o in_o the_o mortification_n of_o all_o his_o inordinate_a affection_n as_o to_o do_v it_o with_o ease_n and_o pleasure_n with_o constancy_n and_o delight_n for_o it_o must_v reasonable_o be_v presume_v that_o his_o victory_n over_o ungodly_a and_o worldly_a lust_n be_v more_o confirm_v and_o absolute_a his_o abhorrence_n of_o they_o more_o deep_a and_o sensible_a more_o fix_v and_o last_a than_o that_o of_o a_o beginner_n or_o babe_n in_o christ_n the_o regenerate_v at_o first_o fear_v the_o consequence_n of_o sin_n but_o by_o degree_n he_o hate_v the_o sin_n itself_o the_o purity_n of_o his_o soul_n render_v he_o now_o incapable_a of_o find_v any_o pleasure_n in_o what_o he_o dote_v on_o before_o and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o virtue_n raise_v he_o above_o the_o temptation_n which_o he_o be_v wont_a to_o fall_v by_o old_a thing_n be_v pass_v away_o and_o all_o thing_n be_v become_v new_a 4._o last_o the_o perfect_a man_n abstinence_n be_v not_o only_o more_o easy_a and_o steady_a but_o more_o entire_a and_o complete_a also_o than_o that_o of_o other_o he_o have_v a_o regard_n to_o the_o end_n and_o design_n of_o the_o law_n to_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n to_o the_o purity_n and_o elevation_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o therefore_o he_o expound_v the_o prohibition_n of_o the_o law_n in_o the_o most_o enlarge_v sense_n and_o interpret_v they_o by_o a_o spirit_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n he_o be_v not_o content_a to_o refrain_v from_o action_n direct_o criminal_a but_o shun_v every_o appearance_n of_o evil_a and_o labour_n to_o mortify_v all_o the_o disposition_n and_o tendency_n of_o his_o nature_n towards_o it_o and_o to_o decline_v whatever_o circumstance_n of_o life_n be_v apt_a to_o betray_v the_o soul_n into_o a_o love_n of_o this_o world_n or_o the_o body_n he_o have_v crucify_v the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n too_o that_o pleasure_n that_o honour_n that_o power_n that_o profit_n which_o captives_z the_o sinner_n tempt_v and_o try_v and_o disquiet_v the_o novice_n be_v but_o a_o burden_n a_o trouble_n to_o he_o he_o find_v no_o gust_n no_o relish_n in_o these_o thing_n he_o be_v so_o far_o from_o intemperance_n so_o far_o from_o wantonness_n so_o far_o from_o pride_n and_o vanity_n that_o can_v he_o without_o any_o disadvantage_n to_o the_o interest_n of_o religion_n he_o will_v imitate_v the_o meanness_n the_o plainness_n the_o laboriousness_n the_o self-denial_n of_o our_o saviour_n life_n not_o only_o in_o disposition_n and_o affection_n of_o his_o soul_n but_o even_o in_o his_o outward_a state_n and_o deportment_n and_o will_v prefer_v it_o far_o above_o the_o pomp_n and_o show_n of_o life_n in_o one_o word_n he_o inquire_v not_o how_o far_o he_o may_v enjoy_v and_o be_v safe_a but_o how_o far_o he_o may_v deny_v himself_o and_o be_v wise_a he_o be_v so_o far_o from_o desire_v forbid_a satisfaction_n that_o he_o be_v unwilling_a and_o afraid_a to_o find_v too_o much_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o natural_a and_o necessary_a action_n of_o a_o animal_n life_n i_o need_v not_o prove_v this_o to_o any_o one_o who_o have_v read_v the_o forego_n chapter_n for_o it_o be_v what_o i_o have_v be_v do_v throughout_o this_o treatise_n it_o be_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v consonant_n to_o the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o to_o the_o example_n of_o the_o best_a time_n and_o it_o be_v conformable_a to_o what_o the_o best_a author_n have_v write_v who_o have_v any_o thing_n of_o life_n and_o spirit_n in_o their_o work_n or_o have_v any_o true_a notion_n of_o the_o great_a design_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o be_v a_o heavenly_a conversation_n let_v any_o one_o but_o cast_v his_o eye_n on_o st._n basil_n or_o any_o other_o after_o he_o who_o aim_v at_o the_o same_o thing_n i_o now_o do_v the_o promote_a holiness_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o beauty_n and_o perfection_n of_o it_o and_o he_o will_v acknowledge_v that_o i_o be_o far_o from_o have_v carry_v this_o matter_n too_o high_a i_o
will_v never_o like_o the_o israelite_n see_v a_o canaan_n before_o he_o life_n must_v be_v fill_v with_o good_a work_n or_o else_o death_n will_v look_v but_o dark_a and_o gloomy_a when_o the_o conscience_n inquire_v every_o where_n after_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n and_o can_v discover_v in_o all_o the_o part_n in_o all_o the_o path_n of_o life_n no_o track_n of_o any_o thing_n but_o fancy_n and_o fortune_n humour_n and_o indulgence_n how_o will_v it_o shrink_v and_o faint_a and_o tremble_v what_o pensive_a melancholy_a doubt_n will_v damp_n and_o choke_v its_o hope_n and_o how_o can_v it_o be_v otherwise_o alas_o the_o mind_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v sufficient_o inform_v that_o every_o man_n shall_v receive_v according_a to_o what_o he_o have_v do_v in_o the_o body_n god_n will_v judge_v every_o man_n according_a to_o his_o work_n what_o then_o must_v become_v of_o he_o who_o have_v none_o to_o show_v if_o immortality_n and_o glory_n if_o life_n and_o peace_n be_v the_o reward_n of_o well-doing_n nay_o of_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well-doing_n what_o will_v become_v of_o the_o drowsy_a and_o supine_n and_o careless_a the_o sot_n and_o the_o sluggish_a who_o have_v sleep_v and_o fool_v and_o trifle_v away_o life_n 3._o i_o may_v aggravate_v the_o gild_n of_o idleness_n by_o take_v a_o estimate_n of_o the_o talent_n it_o waste_v the_o obligation_n it_o slight_n and_o the_o hope_v it_o forfeit_v i_o may_v render_v man_n more_o jealous_a and_o apprehensive_a of_o fall_v into_o it_o by_o observe_v how_o general_o it_o prevail_v which_o be_v a_o plain_a proof_n either_o of_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o temptation_n or_o our_o propension_n a_o plain_a proof_n either_o that_o there_o be_v i_o know_v not_o what_o secret_a magic_n in_o the_o sin_n or_o else_o that_o the_o cheat_n it_o impose_v upon_o the_o world_n be_v a_o very_a clever_n a_o very_a dexterous_a one_o but_o i_o have_v say_v enough_o and_o where_o the_o former_a consideration_n fail_v these_o will_v hardly_o succeed_v therefore_o i_o will_v now_o pass_v on_o from_o argument_n to_o advice_n which_o be_v the_o next_o thing_n propose_v to_o be_v do_v and_o here_o my_o advice_n must_v have_v regard_n to_o two_o different_a sort_n of_o person_n 1._o to_o such_o as_o be_v bear_v to_o plentiful_a or_o competent_a fortune_n 2._o to_o such_o as_o be_v to_o raise_v their_o own_o or_o to_o provide_v for_o the_o support_n and_o maintenance_n of_o themselves_o and_o their_o family_n by_o their_o labour_n or_o industry_n in_o some_o call_v or_o profession_n to_o the_o former_a the_o best_a direction_n i_o can_v give_v be_v these_o 1._o he_o that_o be_v master_n of_o his_o time_n aught_o to_o devote_v the_o more_o to_o religion_n to_o who_o god_n have_v give_v much_o of_o he_o much_o will_v be_v require_v nor_o have_v such_o a_o one_o any_o excuse_v leave_v either_o for_o omission_n or_o a_o hasty_a and_o cursory_a performance_n of_o duty_n but_o one_o one_o that_o will_v increase_v his_o gild_n i._n e._n laziness_n pleasure_n or_o some_o sin_n or_o other_o such_o a_o one_o therefore_o aught_o to_o be_v constant_a and_o diligent_a in_o frequent_v the_o public_a assembly_n of_o the_o church_n his_o attendance_n upon_o prayer_n sacrament_n sermon_n must_v be_v such_o as_o become_v a_o man_n who_o as_o it_o have_v please_v god_n seem_v bear_v not_o to_o provide_v for_o life_n but_o only_o to_o live_v only_o to_o improve_v and_o enjoy_v life_n and_o carry_v on_o the_o noble_a design_n of_o it_o and_o as_o become_v a_o man_n who_o good_a or_o ill_a example_n be_v of_o such_o vast_a importance_n to_o the_o service_n or_o dis-service_n of_o religion_n nor_o must_v such_o a_o one_o attendance_n on_o the_o public_a excuse_v he_o from_o the_o religious_a office_n of_o the_o closet_n or_o his_o family_n he_o ought_v to_o abound_v in_o each_o he_o may_v be_v more_o frequent_a in_o meditation_n and_o prayer_n in_o read_v and_o instruction_n and_o perform_v each_o with_o more_o justness_n and_o solemnity_n than_o other_o can_v 2._o person_n of_o fortune_n aught_o to_o be_v careful_a in_o the_o choice_n of_o intimate_v and_o friend_n conversation_n be_v not_o always_o a_o loss_n but_o sometime_o a_o gain_n of_o time_n we_o often_o need_v to_o have_v our_o forgetfulness_n relieve_v our_o drowsiness_n awaken_v by_o the_o discourse_n and_o reflection_n of_o our_o friend_n if_o discourse_n be_v general_o season_v with_o grace_n conversation_n will_v be_v the_o great_a blessing_n if_o with_o sense_n and_o reason_n innocence_n and_o prudence_n it_o will_v be_v the_o most_o agreeable_a entertainment_n of_o human_a life_n but_o how_o mischievous_a be_v the_o acquaintance_n which_o infect_v we_o with_o vanity_n and_o lightness_n of_o spirit_n which_o show_v we_o nothing_o but_o a_o gaudy_a outside_n and_o a_o frothy_a soul_n who_o example_n bind_v man_n in_o civility_n to_o be_v foolish_a and_o make_v confidence_n and_o vice_n and_o mis-spence_n of_o time_n a_o fashion_n 3._o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o person_n of_o the_o best_a rank_n be_v ever_o breed_v up_o to_o something_o to_o something_o that_o may_v improve_v to_o something_o that_o may_v amuse_v and_o innocent_o engage_v their_o mind_n to_o something_o that_o may_v employ_v life_n without_o encumbr_v it_o and_o yet_o alas_o what_o need_v i_o wish_v this_o how_o many_o excellent_a quality_n be_v necessary_a to_o render_v a_o gentleman_n worthy_a of_o the_o station_n where_o god_n have_v place_v he_o let_v he_o pursue_v these_o how_o many_o be_v the_o virtue_n how_o many_o the_o duty_n to_o which_o a_o christian_a be_v oblige_v for_o he_o attend_v these_o there_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n requisite_a to_o make_v a_o good_a master_n a_o good_a husband_n a_o good_a father_n a_o good_a son_n a_o good_a neighbour_n a_o good_a parishioner_n a_o excellent_a subject_n and_o a_o excellent_a friend_n and_o yet_o there_o be_v many_o other_o relation_n beside_o these_o in_o a_o word_n there_o be_v no_o man_n who_o when_o he_o shall_v appear_v before_o god_n will_v not_o be_v find_v to_o have_v omit_v many_o duty_n and_o to_o have_v perform_v many_o other_o with_o less_o care_n and_o diligence_n than_o he_o ought_v and_o sure_o such_o a_o one_o can_v just_o complain_v for_o want_v of_o business_n i_o doubt_v rather_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o whoever_o take_v a_o just_a and_o full_a view_n of_o thing_n will_v have_v reason_n to_o complain_v that_o life_n be_v short_a and_o our_o work_n great_a that_o let_v we_o use_v all_o the_o diligence_n we_o can_v and_o be_v as_o frugal_a of_o our_o time_n as_o we_o will_v we_o arrive_v much_o soon_o at_o a_o maturity_n of_o year_n than_o of_o knowledge_n and_o virtue_n 4._o the_o diversion_n of_o person_n of_o this_o quality_n aught_o to_o be_v well_o regulate_v such_o as_o become_v the_o character_n of_o a_o gentleman_n and_o the_o dignity_n of_o a_o christian_a that_o be_v that_o must_v be_v neither_o mean_a nor_o vicious_a but_o i_o have_v treat_v this_o and_o the_o forego_n head_n more_o copious_o in_o human_a life_n to_o which_o i_o refer_v my_o reader_n as_o to_o such_o in_o the_o next_o place_n who_o be_v engage_v in_o a_o profession_n i_o have_v particular_o consider_v their_o state_n in_o several_a place_n and_o find_v little_a to_o add_v here_o but_o only_o to_o mind_v they_o that_o they_o may_v be_v guilty_a of_o idleness_n too_o that_o their_o idleness_n be_v the_o more_o criminal_a the_o less_o temptation_n they_o have_v to_o it_o they_o may_v neglect_v the_o duty_n of_o their_o call_v i_o mean_v their_o secular_a call_v and_o if_o they_o be_v unfaithful_a and_o negligent_a in_o their_o temporal_a concern_v it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v more_o solicitous_a and_o industrious_a about_o their_o spiritual_a one_o they_o may_v again_o suffer_v the_o care_n of_o this_o life_n to_o thrust_v out_o those_o of_o another_o and_o then_o they_o be_v true_o idle_a and_o slothful_a servant_n to_o god_n how_o industrious_a and_o faithful_a soever_o they_o be_v to_o the_o world_n for_o life_n be_v but_o waste_v and_o mis-spend_v if_o it_o make_v not_o provision_n for_o eternity_n and_o it_o matter_n little_a whether_o it_o be_v waste_v in_o pleasure_n or_o in_o drudgery_n chap._n viii_o of_o unfruitfulness_n as_o it_o consist_v in_o lukewarmness_n coldness_n or_o formality_n in_o the_o former_a chapter_n i_o consider_v that_o part_n of_o unfruitfulness_n which_o consist_v in_o the_o omission_n of_o duty_n i_o be_o now_o to_o consider_v another_o part_n of_o it_o which_o consist_v in_o too_o perfunctory_a a_o performance_n of_o it_o beside_o those_o who_o be_v true_o unprofitable_a because_o they_o slight_a or_o neglect_v the_o duty_n of_o religion_n there_o be_v another_o sort_n
of_o man_n who_o at_o the_o last_o day_n will_v fall_v under_o the_o same_o character_n and_o condemnation_n not_o because_o they_o perform_v no_o duty_n but_o because_o their_o performance_n of_o they_o be_v depretiate_v by_o coldness_n and_o formality_n man_n who_o make_v a_o fair_a appearance_n of_o religion_n and_o yet_o have_v no_o inward_a spiritual_a life_n man_n who_o do_v general_o observe_v the_o external_a duty_n of_o religion_n but_o with_o so_o little_a gust_n with_o such_o indifference_n and_o lukewarmness_n that_o they_o be_v neither_o acceptable_a to_o god_n nor_o useful_a to_o themselves_o this_o state_n of_o deadness_n may_v be_v consider_v either_o more_o general_o as_o it_o run_v through_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n and_o action_n or_o more_o particular_o in_o this_o or_o that_o instance_n of_o religion_n 1._o when_o it_o be_v so_o general_a that_o the_o bend_v and_o course_n of_o our_o life_n be_v for_o want_v of_o relish_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n pervert_v and_o deprave_v when_o we_o have_v no_o design_n drive_v on_o no_o end_n that_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o excellency_n and_o dignity_n of_o our_o nature_n to_o the_o holiness_n of_o our_o profession_n and_o to_o the_o great_a and_o manifest_a obligation_n of_o god_n when_o we_o have_v no_o joy_n or_o pleasure_n no_o thirst_v or_o appetite_n that_o do_v true_o become_v a_o christian_a when_o we_o make_v no_o progress_n no_o advance_n towards_o our_o great_a end_n when_o our_o discourse_n and_o employment_n have_v no_o tincture_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o no_o tendency_n to_o edification_n i_o think_v we_o may_v then_o bold_o conclude_v that_o this_o be_v a_o state_n of_o carnality_n and_o death_n and_o that_o this_o want_n of_o relish_n in_o the_o general_a course_n of_o our_o life_n proceed_v from_o a_o real_a want_n of_o a_o sincere_a faith_n and_o true_a illumination_n for_o be_v the_o mind_n once_o true_o enlighten_v be_v it_o once_o clear_o convince_v firm_o and_o habitual_o persuade_v of_o the_o beauty_n and_o excellence_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n as_o we_o shall_v have_v notion_n different_a from_o those_o of_o worldly_a carnal_a man_n so_o will_v there_o consequent_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o our_o hope_n and_o fear_n of_o our_o desire_n and_o design_n of_o our_o joy_n and_o sorrow_n and_o as_o necessary_o in_o the_o main_a scope_n and_o tendency_n of_o of_o our_o conversation_n whoever_o therefore_o find_v this_o general_a stupidity_n in_o the_o course_n of_o his_o life_n let_v he_o not_o flatter_v himself_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o of_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n he_o have_v a_o corrupt_a carnal_a and_o blind_a heart_n his_o performance_n proceed_v not_o from_o true_a principle_n and_o have_v not_o that_o life_n and_o vigour_n in_o they_o that_o they_o ought_v they_o be_v as_o different_a from_o the_o performance_n of_o a_o man_n true_o regenerate_v and_o sanctify_a as_o the_o civility_n and_o compliment_n of_o a_o well-bred_a acquaintance_n from_o the_o substantial_a office_n of_o a_o sincere_a and_o affectionate_a friend_n nor_o can_v any_o man_n who_o will_v take_v the_o least_o pain_n to_o examine_v himself_o be_v ignorant_a of_o or_o mistake_v in_o the_o condition_n of_o his_o soul_n if_o this_o be_v it_o for_o whoever_o will_v act_v honest_o and_o impartial_o ought_v not_o to_o pass_v a_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n on_o himself_o upon_o the_o bare_a performance_n of_o some_o relative_a or_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o religion_n but_o he_o ought_v to_o inquire_v first_o what_o virtue_n he_o practice_n which_o put_v he_o upon_o expense_n hazard_n or_o travel_v what_o work_v of_o piety_n or_o charity_n he_o perform_v and_o what_o proportion_n they_o bear_v to_o his_o ability_n next_o he_o ought_v to_o consider_v the_o design_n and_o end_v he_o propose_v to_o himself_o in_o all_o his_o religious_a performance_n whether_o he_o seek_v the_o honour_n of_o god_n the_o welfare_n of_o man_n and_o his_o own_o improvement_n and_o growth_n in_o goodness_n or_o whether_o he_o do_v this_o mere_o to_o acquit_v himself_o of_o a_o task_n and_o discharge_v himself_o of_o what_o he_o take_v for_o grant_v as_o a_o duty_n though_o he_o find_v no_o pleasure_n no_o advantage_n in_o it_o three_o he_o must_v reflect_v upon_o the_o frame_n and_o temper_v of_o his_o mind_n in_o reference_n to_o these_o duty_n what_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n he_o have_v for_o righteousness_n what_o warmth_n ardour_n elevation_n or_o earnestness_n of_o mind_n accompany_v his_o performance_n what_o peace_n and_o pleasure_n his_o reflection_n on_o they_o or_o whether_o religion_n be_v not_o a_o burden_n to_o he_o or_o something_o to_o which_o custom_n only_o reconcile_v he_o last_o he_o ought_v to_o examine_v what_o operation_n what_o influence_n his_o religious_a performance_n have_v upon_o he_o prayer_n hear_v read_v and_o suchlike_a duty_n do_v natural_o tend_v to_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n purify_v the_o heart_n increase_v our_o love_n strengthen_v our_o faith_n and_o confirm_v our_o hope_n and_o therefore_o where_o this_o be_v not_o the_o effect_n of_o they_o we_o may_v conclude_v that_o they_o be_v not_o discharge_v in_o that_o manner_n and_o with_o that_o sincerity_n they_o ought_v he_o therefore_o that_o will_v examine_v himself_o aright_o must_v not_o ask_v himself_o how_o often_o he_o read_v how_o often_o he_o hear_v etc._n etc._n and_o then_o rest_v there_o but_o must_v ask_v himself_o what_o effect_v these_o performance_n have_v have_v upon_o his_o mind_n which_o he_o will_v soon_o discern_v if_o he_o demand_v of_o himself_o what_o the_o bent_n and_o scope_n of_o his_o life_n be_v how_o much_o he_o advance_v and_o improve_v in_o the_o conquest_n of_o any_o vice_n and_o the_o attainment_n of_o any_o virtue_n what_o he_o love_v or_o what_o he_o hate_v what_o esteem_v he_o have_v for_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o what_o for_o the_o thing_n of_o men._n and_o in_o a_o word_n how_o he_o follow_v after_o universal_a righteousness_n and_o how_o he_o increase_v in_o purity_n of_o heart_n and_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n 2._o lukewarmness_n or_o coldness_n may_v be_v consider_v more_o particular_o as_o it_o discover_v itself_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o or_o that_o duty_n in_o hear_v read_v prayer_n and_o participation_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n now_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o there_o be_v a_o deadness_n in_o these_o duty_n which_o proceed_v from_o a_o carnal_a and_o unsanctified_a heart_n and_o be_v a_o plain_a symptom_n of_o a_o state_n of_o sin_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v too_o common_a that_o they_o who_o be_v subject_a to_o it_o make_v little_a reflection_n upon_o it_o and_o be_v little_o concern_v for_o it_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n many_o complain_n of_o lifelessness_n in_o duty_n where_o there_o be_v no_o just_a ground_n for_o this_o complaint_n and_o this_o be_v no_o small_a evil_n to_o such_o for_o it_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o mind_n damp_n the_o cheerfulness_n and_o alacrity_n of_o their_o service_n and_o clog_n and_o encumber_n their_o religion_n with_o needless_a doubt_n and_o scruple_n some_o have_v go_v about_o to_o set_v this_o matter_n right_o very_o unskilful_o and_o whilst_o they_o have_v as_o they_o think_v shun_v enthusiastic_a rapture_n and_o irregular_a heat_n have_v real_o betray_v the_o cause_n of_o true_a and_o solid_a fervency_n of_o spirit_n and_o talk_v of_o prayer_n and_o such_o other_o duty_n in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o can_v but_o reflect_v disadvantagious_o on_o themselves_o among_o such_o as_o be_v moderate_o verse_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o have_v any_o experience_n of_o the_o power_n of_o god_n word_n and_o spirit_n upon_o their_o soul_n but_o what_o surprise_v i_o most_o be_v that_o some_o of_o very_a deserve_a repute_n have_v teach_v that_o the_o seek_v spiritual_a pleasure_n in_o prayer_n be_v a_o enemy_n to_o perfection_n that_o heat_n and_o ardour_n of_o spirit_n in_o prayer_n do_v often_o happen_v to_o the_o weak_a christian_n and_o very_o seldom_o to_o the_o perfect_a but_o my_o business_n not_o be_v to_o combat_v the_o opinion_n of_o man_n but_o to_o advance_v truth_n in_o the_o most_o charitable_a and_o in_o the_o most_o effectual_a manner_n that_o i_o can_v therefore_o without_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o motive_n or_o reason_n which_o have_v bias_v any_o on_o this_o subject_a i_o will_v lay_v down_o two_o or_o three_o proposition_n which_o will_v i_o hope_v clear_v this_o matter_n and_o promote_v the_o design_n i_o be_o now_o carry_v on_o 1._o then_o lifelessness_n or_o lukewarmness_n in_o these_o duty_n must_v never_o be_v constant_a there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o habitual_a and_o accidental_a coldness_n in_o duty_n the_o former_a be_v the_o symptom_n of_o worldly_a carnal_a and_o unregenerate_a mind_n but_o not_o the_o latter_a many_o be_v the_o accident_n which_o
holiness_n in_o the_o true_a genuine_a and_o gospel_n notion_n of_o it_o have_v endeavour_v to_o enlarge_v the_o way_n and_o widen_v the_o gate_n that_o lead_v to_o life_n and_o have_v therefore_o form_v to_o themselves_o more_o soft_a and_o pliant_a notion_n of_o vice_n and_o virtue_n such_o as_o may_v be_v more_o easy_o accommodate_v either_o to_o their_o particular_a inclination_n or_o to_o the_o mode_n and_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n than_o those_o of_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n can_v hence_o it_o be_v that_o among_o such_o as_o pretend_v to_o some_o regard_n for_o religion_n humility_n poverty_n of_o spirit_n self-denial_n abstinence_n and_o mortification_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v visible_a in_o their_o practice_n that_o we_o seem_v to_o have_v almost_o lose_v the_o notion_n of_o they_o and_o the_o pride_n of_o life_n and_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n be_v so_o universal_o practise_v that_o though_o we_o know_v that_o these_o in_o st._n john_n be_v the_o name_n of_o vice_n we_o scarce_o know_v what_o the_o thing_n themselves_o be_v we_o have_v confound_v the_o mere_n and_o bound_n of_o vice_n and_o virtue_n and_o such_o be_v the_o freedom_n i_o will_v now_o say_v of_o those_o who_o profess_v debauchery_n but_o christianity_n that_o if_o they_o be_v consistent_a with_o the_o sanctity_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o will_v be_v hard_a to_o determine_v what_o excess_n be_v and_o in_o a_o word_n how_o many_o be_v there_o who_o make_v a_o profession_n of_o live_v by_o faith_n and_o look_v for_o the_o bless_a hope_n and_o the_o glorious_a appearance_n of_o christ_n do_v yet_o live_v as_o if_o all_o the_o business_n of_o life_n be_v to_o get_v and_o enjoy_v as_o much_o of_o this_o world_n as_o they_o can_v who_o profess_v themselves_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n who_o heart_n be_v lowly_a his_o fortune_n mean_a and_o his_o appearance_n humble_a do_v yet_o lay_v out_o their_o time_n their_o labour_n their_o wealth_n on_o this_o one_o design_n to_o make_v such_o a_o show_n such_o a_o figure_n in_o the_o world_n as_o may_v render_v they_o the_o gaze_v and_o envy_n of_o their_o neighbour_n and_o as_o our_o indulgence_n to_o ourselves_o in_o these_o thing_n which_o relate_v to_o the_o pride_n and_o vanitfy_v of_o life_n and_o the_o ease_n and_o appetite_n of_o the_o body_n be_v very_o great_a so_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n and_o for_o the_o same_o reason_n be_v our_o zeal_n for_o the_o interest_n of_o virtue_n and_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n very_o little_a faint_a and_o remiss_a conversation_n have_v very_o little_a savour_n very_o little_a grace_n in_o it_o and_o we_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v resolute_a and_o industrious_a to_o awe_v or_o shame_n vice_n abroad_o that_o we_o ourselves_o shall_v be_v almost_o out_o of_o countenance_n if_o we_o shall_v be_v observe_v to_o pay_v any_o particular_a respect_n to_o religion_n or_o virtue_n in_o company_n the_o government_n of_o our_o family_n be_v so_o lax_n and_o easy_a that_o it_o savour_v more_o of_o coldness_n and_o indifferency_n than_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n it_o be_v true_a indeed_o these_o i_o be_o speak_v of_o do_v general_o frequent_v the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o they_o sit_v before_o he_o as_o his_o people_n and_o delight_n to_o hear_v his_o word_n but_o so_o do_v the_o jew_n when_o god_n tell_v they_o in_o the_o prophet_n ezek._n 33.31_o that_o their_o heart_n go_v after_o their_o covetousness_n and_o in_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n we_o have_v but_o a_o odd_a character_n of_o the_o moral_n of_o these_o people_n of_o who_o god_n say_v yet_o they_o seek_v i_o daily_o and_o delight_n to_o know_v my_o way_n nay_o further_o they_o delight_v in_o approach_v to_o god_n isa_n 58.2_o now_o though_o such_o as_o i_o be_o speak_v of_o may_v not_o be_v guilty_a to_o this_o degree_n so_o as_o to_o be_v chargeable_a with_o open_a wickedness_n yet_o i_o be_o very_o much_o afraid_a that_o even_o in_o this_o duty_n they_o but_o promote_v the_o cheat_n and_o imposture_n they_o put_v upon_o themselves_o and_o make_v their_o diligence_n in_o this_o point_n minister_v to_o quiet_v their_o conscience_n in_o their_o laodicean_n state_n for_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o prove_v that_o such_o as_o these_o do_v more_o general_o aim_v at_o the_o entertainment_n of_o the_o ear_n than_o the_o reformation_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o we_o may_v say_v of_o preacher_n now_o as_o god_n do_v of_o ezekiel_n and_o lo_o thou_o be_v unto_o they_o as_o a_o lovely_a song_n of_o one_o that_o have_v a_o very_a pleasant_a voice_n ezek._n 33.32_o the_o music_n of_o the_o voice_n the_o gracefulness_n of_o delivery_n a_o flow_n of_o word_n the_o surprise_n of_o novelty_n and_o notion_n the_o beauty_n of_o sentence_n and_o the_o sparkle_v of_o wit_n and_o fancy_n or_o a_o appearance_n of_o learning_n these_o be_v i_o doubt_v too_o aften_o the_o thing_n that_o draw_v together_o and_o charm_v a_o auditory_a and_o so_o all_o be_v please_v but_o none_o convert_v or_o edify_v for_o who_o sweat_v or_o blush_n who_o tremble_v or_o grow_v pale_a at_o these_o sermon_n who_o go_v away_o from_o they_o wound_v or_o strike_v through_o serious_a and_o pensive_a full_a of_o pious_a fear_n and_o devout_a desire_n 2._o a_o laodicean_n state_n spring_v from_o sloth_n and_o pusillanimity_n or_o the_o want_n of_o a_o thorough_a and_o wellgrounded_n resolution_n this_o be_v one_o cause_n of_o the_o israelite_n fluctuation_n and_o uncertainty_n they_o be_v indeed_o desirous_a of_o a_o canaan_n but_o be_v not_o forward_o to_o purchase_v it_o by_o tedious_a march_n hazardous_a encounter_n and_o the_o hardship_n of_o hunger_n and_o thirst_v and_o such_o like_a they_o be_v ever_o and_o anon_o willing_a to_o have_v prefer_v the_o dishonour_n and_o servitude_n of_o egypt_n with_o security_n and_o fullness_n before_o a_o canaan_n on_o these_o thames_n and_o thus_o it_o be_v this_o day_n with_o christian_n of_o a_o laodicean_n spirit_n and_o a_o doubtful_a stagger_a allegiance_n a_o heaven_n they_o will_v have_v but_o will_v not_o purchase_v it_o at_o too_o dear_a a_o raâ—e_n they_o will_v be_v account_v the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n and_o share_v in_o the_o merit_n of_o his_o suffering_n but_o they_o will_v not_o take_v up_o his_o suffering_n but_o they_o will_v not_o take_v up_o his_o cross_n in_o any_o sense_n and_o follow_v he_o but_o alas_o israel_n may_v as_o well_o have_v gain_v their_o liberty_n without_o go_v out_o of_o egypt_n or_o a_o canaan_n without_o travel_n and_o hardship_n and_o blood_n as_o these_o virtue_n and_o heaven_n without_o watchfulness_n and_o industry_n we_o may_v as_o well_o hope_v to-support_a and_o increase_v the_o health_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o body_n without_o food_n or_o exercise_n as_o that_o of_o the_o soul_n without_o meditation_n and_o prayer_n we_o may_v as_o soon_o conquer_v our_o enemy_n without_o discipline_n expense_n and_o blow_n as_o master_v our_o corruption_n and_o become_v virtuous_a without_o spiritual_a watchfulness_n travel_n or_o contention_n there_o be_v indeed_o force_v and_o efficacy_n enough_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n and_o purify_v the_o heart_n if_o we_o will_v but_o frequent_o and_o serious_o read_v and_o meditate_v it_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v sufficient_a to_o conquer_v our_o corruption_n and_o strengthen_v and_o establish_v we_o in_o faith_n and_o obedience_n if_o we_o do_v but_o earnest_o and_o frequent_o pray_v for_o it_o and_o cherish_v and_o improve_v it_o when_o obtain_v the_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v prescribe_v be_v undoubted_o proper_a and_o suitable_a powerful_a and_o effectual_a to_o the_o attainment_n preservation_n and_o increase_v of_o holiness_n and_o all_o his_o ordinance_n have_v a_o divine_a virtue_n and_o energy_n in_o they_o if_o they_o be_v but_o due_o and_o conscienscious_o make_v use_n of_o but_o if_o we_o do_v not_o watch_v if_o we_o do_v not_o meditate_v if_o we_o do_v not_o pray_v if_o we_o expose_v ourselves_o to_o a_o vain_a and_o trifle_a conversation_n if_o we_o indulge_v the_o body_n all_o the_o ease_n it_o be_v incline_v to_o and_o put_v ourselves_o upon_o no_o duty_n practise_v no_o discipline_n that_o we_o have_v any_o reluctancy_n for_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o if_o our_o virtue_n be_v crazy_a and_o sickly_a if_o our_o performance_n be_v cold_a and_o unedifying_a our_o faith_n weak_a our_o affection_n low_a and_o grovel_v our_o life_n unsteady_a and_o unprofitable_a our_o religion_n destitute_a of_o true_a pleasure_n and_o our_o latter_a end_n of_o any_o rational_a comfort_n or_o wellgrounded_n confidence_n it_o be_v natural_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o sluggard_n shall_v be_v like_o his_o field_n prov._n 24.30_o i_o go_v by_o the_o field_n of_o the_o slothful_a and_o by_o the_o vineyard_n of_o the_o man_n
mary_n magdalen_n the_o zeal_n of_o st._n peter_n and_o the_o labour_n and_o travel_n of_o st._n paul_n which_o firmness_n and_o constancy_n be_v too_o mean_v a_o name_n for_o these_o virtue_n seem_v therefore_o to_o have_v be_v the_o peculiar_a excellency_n of_o these_o person_n and_o to_o have_v shine_v in_o they_o with_o more_o transcendent_a lustre_n than_o any_o other_o these_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v the_o virtue_n for_o which_o grace_n and_o nature_n eminent_o qualify_v they_o and_o to_o which_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n more_o immediate_o and_o direct_o call_v they_o all_o this_o consider_v seem_v it_o not_o enough_o to_o come_v up_o to_o the_o perfection_n of_o these_o great_a man_n may_v it_o not_o suffice_v to_o excel_v in_o these_o virtue_n which_o nature_n grace_n and_o providence_n prescribe_v may_v not_o the_o perfect_a be_v allow_v to_o want_v what_o he_o do_v not_o need_n will_v one_o not_o think_v that_o in_o many_o respect_n it_o be_v enough_o for_o he_o to_o be_v free_a from_o this_o or_o that_o vice_n rather_o than_o to_o expect_v that_o he_o shall_v be_v adorn_v with_o this_o or_o that_o virtue_n which_o he_o have_v no_o use_n for_o especial_o if_o by_o virtue_n we_o understand_v strict_o such_o a_o habit_n as_o enable_v we_o to_o act_v easy_o and_o delightful_o to_o adjust_a this_o matter_n 1._o the_o perfect_a man_n must_v as_o i_o have_v prove_v before_o not_o only_o be_v set_v free_a from_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n but_o also_o abstain_v even_o from_o a_o single_a act_n of_o presumptuous_a wickedness_n he_o must_v neither_o criminal_o omit_v a_o duty_n nor_o deliberate_o commit_v any_o thing_n repugnant_a to_o it_o 2_o he_o must_v be_v endow_v with_o spiritual_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n with_o faith_n hope_n charity_n with_o the_o grace_n which_o i_o will_v call_v universal_a because_o necessary_a and_o indispensable_a to_o all_o as_o christian_n abstract_v from_o their_o particular_a capacity_n and_o relation_n and_o that_o too_o in_o a_o eminent_a degree_n so_o as_o to_o be_v strong_a in_o the_o grace_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n 2_o tim._n 2.1_o this_o will_v render_v he_o holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n and_o thorough_o furnish_v to_o all_o good_a work_n these_o two_o thing_n constitute_v universal_a righteousness_n complete_a the_o perfect_a man_n and_o full_o satisfy_v the_o text_n allege_v or_o if_o not_o what_o follow_v will_n 3_o he_o must_v excel_v in_o those_o virtue_n which_o be_v most_o natural_a i_o call_v those_o virtue_n natural_a to_o which_o grace_n and_o nature_n most_o powerful_o dispose_v and_o incline_v he_o for_o these_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v design_v by_o god_n these_o will_v soon_o grow_v up_o to_o maturity_n and_o much_o will_v be_v their_o fruit_n and_o great_a their_o beauty_n i_o do_v not_o all_o this_o while_o suppose_v that_o the_o perfect_a man_n ought_v not_o so_o far_o to_o subdue_v and_o rectify_v his_o temper_n as_o not_o only_o to_o overcome_v the_o sin_n of_o this_o constitution_n but_o in_o some_o degree_n possess_v the_o virtue_n that_o be_v most_o repugnant_a to_o it_o but_o to_o expect_v he_o to_o be_v eminent_a here_o be_v i_o doubt_v too_o hard_a and_o unreasonable_a for_o here_o when_o he_o have_v bestow_v much_o pain_n and_o travel_n much_o care_n and_o cost_n his_o progress_n may_v not_o be_v so_o much_o as_o where_o he_o bestow_v least_o but_o here_o i_o must_v add_v two_o caution_n the_o one_o be_v that_o no_o man_n mistake_v contract_v habit_n for_o nature_n and_o then_o conclude_v that_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a for_o he_o to_o attain_v the_o perfection_n of_o this_o or_o that_o virtue_n through_o a_o natural_a incapacity_n in_o the_o next_o place_n let_v no_o man_n satisfy_v and_o content_v himself_o in_o a_o weak_a and_o imperfect_a state_n of_o that_o virtue_n which_o be_v direct_o oppose_v to_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o constitution_n but_o let_v he_o think_v that_o here_o if_o any_o where_o his_o virtue_n must_v be_v always_o grow_v and_o let_v he_o not_o doubt_v but_o that_o our_o saviour_n promise_n as_o far_o as_o it_o can_v be_v accomplish_v on_o earth_n belong_v to_o his_o sincere_a endeavour_n here_o bless_v be_v they_o that_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o righteousness_n for_o they_o shall_v be_v fill_v matth._n 5.6_o 4._o the_o perfect_a man_n must_v be_v eminent_a in_o those_o virtue_n which_o be_v most_o necessary_a such_o be_v those_o which_o his_o particular_a station_n and_o call_v or_o any_o other_o dispensation_n of_o providence_n he_o be_v under_o require_v of_o he_o whatever_o virtue_n may_v be_v more_o delightful_a these_o be_v more_o important_a other_o may_v be_v more_o natural_a these_o have_v more_o or_o use_v and_o more_o of_o merit_n a_o man_n may_v fall_v short_a of_o perfection_n in_o other_o without_o either_o disparagement_n or_o gild_n but_o deficiency_n in_o these_o can_v hardly_o escape_v both_o beside_o every_o thing_n be_v lovely_a it_o its_o place_n and_o in_o its_o time_n there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a grace_n and_o lustre_n that_o attend_v the_o virtue_n of_o a_o man_n station_n that_o be_v scarce_o to_o be_v find_v in_o any_o other_o i_o will_v therefore_o have_v my_o perfect_a man_n true_o great_a in_o his_o own_o business_n and_o shine_v with_o a_o dazzle_a lustre_n in_o his_o own_o sphere_n to_o this_o purpose_n sure_o speak_v the_o advice_n of_o st._n paul_n rom._n 12.6_o 7_o 8._o have_v then_o gift_n differ_v according_a to_o the_o grace_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o whether_o prophecy_n let_v we_o prophecy_n according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n or_o ministry_n let_v we_o wait_v on_o our_o minister_a or_o he_o that_o teach_v on_o teach_v or_o he_o that_o exhort_v on_o exhortation_n he_o that_o give_v let_v he_o do_v it_o with_o simplicity_n he_o that_o rule_v with_o diligence_n he_o that_o show_v mercy_n with_o cheerfulness_n 5._o last_o as_o there_o be_v a_o different_a gild_n in_o sin_n so_o there_o be_v different_a merit_n in_o virtue_n as_o among_o miraculous_a so_o among_o sanctify_a gift_n some_o be_v more_o excellent_a than_o other_o and_o he_o be_v the_o most_o perfect_a man_n who_o be_v enrich_v with_o the_o most_o perfect_a gift_n the_o three_o heroic_a virtue_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v faith_n love_n humility_n nor_o do_v i_o presumptuous_o contrary_a to_o the_o apostle_n exclude_v hope_n but_o comprehend_v it_o under_o faith_n of_o faith_n i_o have_v often_o have_v occasion_n to_o speak_v humility_n will_v make_v the_o last_o chapter_n of_o this_o section_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v only_o exhort_v to_o love_n love_n be_v the_o noble_a fruit_n of_o illumination_n and_o faith_n the_o true_a source_n and_o parent_n of_o joy_n and_o peace_n love_n be_v the_o most_o pregnant_a seed_n of_o a_o divine_a life_n it_o be_v the_o principle_n that_o animate_v move_v and_o form_n the_o whole_a body_n of_o righteousness_n love_n be_v the_o bond_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o father_n and_o his_o son_n jesus_n through_o the_o spirit_n and_o it_o be_v but_o fit_a that_o what_o render_v as_o most_o like_a god_n shall_v render_v we_o most_o dear_a to_o he_o too_o and_o this_o love_n do_v for_o god_n be_v love_n in_o short_a love_n be_v the_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n it_o be_v the_o beauty_n and_o perfection_n of_o a_o disciple_n of_o jesus_n and_o the_o great_a subject_n of_o praise_n and_o glory_n in_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n love_n be_v the_o last_o round_n in_o the_o scale_n of_o perfection_n and_o therefore_o my_o perfect_a man_n must_v abound_v in_o this_o what_o degree_n of_o love_n of_o desire_n or_o complacency_n for_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o present_a life_n may_v consist_v with_o sincerity_n what_o with_o perfection_n may_v be_v easy_o learn_v from_o several_a part_n of_o this_o work_n there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o the_o perfect_a man_n must_v love_v god_n to_o that_o degree_n that_o he_o must_v always_o cleave_v to_o he_o walk_z as_o always_o before_o he_o ever_o meditate_v and_o contemplate_v on_o he_o and_o his_o work_n contrive_v and_o study_v labour_n and_o contend_v to_o please_v he_o it_o must_v be_v a_o affliction_n to_o he_o to_o be_v divide_v from_o he_o but_o for_o a_o little_a while_n and_o he_o must_v ever_o and_o anon_o by_o day_n and_o night_n break_v out_o into_o his_o praise_n and_o rejoice_v and_o glory_n in_o he_o 2._o he_o must_v love_v god_n to_o that_o degree_n as_o that_o all_o thing_n in_o comparison_n of_o he_o must_v appear_v blast_v and_o wither_v empty_a and_o contemptible_a without_o pleasure_n without_o beauty_n and_o consequent_o he_o must_v so_o thirst_v after_o the_o beatific_a vision_n after_o the_o presence_n and_o fruition_n of_o god_n that_o he_o must_v earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v dissolve_v and_o pant_v and_o long_o to_o be_v
most_o sanctify_a nature_n and_o some_o venial_a defect_n and_o imperfection_n or_o other_o may_v still_o leave_v room_n for_o the_o great_a of_o saint_n to_o extend_v his_o conquest_n beside_o it_o be_v hard_a to_o determine_v or_o fix_v the_o bound_n of_o knowledge_n and_o every_o new_a degree_n of_o light_n seem_v to_o make_v way_n for_o more_o so_o that_o after_o all_o nothing_o hinder_v but_o that_o the_o path_n of_o the_o perfect_a man_n may_v as_o well_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o righteousness_n as_o his_o fortune_n be_v like_o the_o shine_a light_n which_o shine_v more_o and_o more_o unto_o the_o perfect_a day_n i_o mean_v the_o day_n of_o a_o bless_a eternity_n the_o motive_n to_o perfection_n the_o fruit_n of_o it_o the_o mean_n and_o method_n of_o attain_v it_o lay_v down_o in_o the_o first_o section_n will_v all_o serve_v here_o therefore_o i_o have_v nothing_o to_o offer_v of_o this_o sort_n only_o if_o i_o forget_v to_o pay_v that_o deference_n to_o the_o institution_n of_o our_o church_n which_o they_o just_o deserve_v i_o do_v it_o now_o and_o do_v earnest_o persuade_v my_o reader_n to_o a_o strict_a observance_n of_o they_o i_o do_v not_o only_o think_v this_o necessary_a to_o maintain_v a_o face_n of_o religion_n among_o we_o but_o also_o high_o conducive_a to_o true_a perfection_n i_o be_o full_o satisfy_v that_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a presence_n of_o god_n in_o his_o public_a ordinance_n that_o the_o devotion_n of_o good_a man_n do_v mutual_o inflame_v and_o enkindle_v one_o another_o that_o there_o be_v a_o holy_a awe_n and_o reverence_n seize_v the_o mind_n of_o good_a man_n when_o they_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n in_o public_a worship_n and_o final_o that_o if_o the_o office_n of_o our_o liturgy_n do_v not_o affect_v our_o heart_n it_o be_v because_o they_o be_v very_o much_o indispose_v and_o very_o poor_o qualify_v for_o the_o true_a and_o spiritual_a worship_n of_o god_n chap._n x._o of_o zeal_n as_o it_o consist_v in_o good_a work_n and_o now_o let_v not_o any_o one_o think_v that_o i_o have_v take_v pain_n to_o advance_v the_o illumination_n of_o a_o sinner_n to_o knock_v off_o his_o chain_n and_o fetter_n to_o raise_v he_o as_o far_o as_o may_v be_v above_o the_o corruption_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o defect_n and_o infirmity_n of_o life_n to_o scatter_v those_o lazy_a fog_n and_o mist_n which_o hang_v upon_o his_o spirit_n and_o to_o enrich_v he_o with_o heroic_a virtue_n let_v no_o man_n i_o say_v fancy_n that_o i_o have_v labour_v to_o do_v all_o this_o that_o after_o all_o my_o perfect_a man_n may_v sit_v down_o like_o a_o epicurean_a god_n and_o enjoy_v himself_o may_v talk_v fine_o of_o solitary_a shade_n and_o garden_n and_o spend_v a_o precious_a life_n fit_v for_o the_o noble_a design_n in_o a_o sluggish_a retirement_n no_o no_o as_o virtue_n be_v the_o perfection_n of_o human_a life_n so_o be_v action_n the_o perfection_n of_o virtue_n and_o zeal_n be_v that_o principle_n of_o action_n which_o i_o require_v in_o a_o saint_n of_o god_n according_o the_o scripture_n describe_v this_o great_a this_o happy_a man_n as_o full_a of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n fervent_a in_o spirit_n zealous_a of_o good_a work_n such_o a_o one_o be_v moses_n mighty_a in_o word_n and_o deed_n as_o well_o as_o learned_a in_o all_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o egyptian_n such_o a_o one_o be_v st._n stephen_n as_o full_a of_o a_o divine_a ardour_n and_o irresistible_a fervency_n of_o spirit_n as_o of_o a_o irresistible_a wisdom_n and_o such_o a_o one_o be_v the_o excellent_a cornelius_n a_o devout_a man_n one_o that_o have_v transfuse_v and_o derive_v the_o fear_n of_o god_n from_o his_o own_o bosom_n throughout_o his_o family_n and_o relation_n and_o friend_n too_o one_o that_o give_v much_o alm_n and_o pray_v to_o god_n always_o what_o need_v i_o multiply_v instance_n this_o be_v that_o which_o distinguish_v the_o perfect_a man_n from_o all_o other_o the_o victory_n of_o faith_n the_o labour_n of_o charity_n the_o constancy_n and_o patience_n of_o hope_n and_o the_o ardour_n of_o devotion_n need_v i_o here_o distinguish_v a_o zeal_n of_o god_n from_o the_o fierceness_n of_o faction_n the_o cruelty_n of_o superstition_n from_o the_o wakeful_a and_o indefatigable_a activity_n of_o avarice_n and_o ambition_n from_o the_o unruly_a heat_n of_o pride_n and_o passion_n and_o from_o the_o implacable_a fury_n of_o revenge_n it_o need_v not_o no_o foolish_a no_o false_a fantastic_a earthly_a or_o devilish_a principle_n can_v counterfeit_v a_o divine_a zeal_n it_o be_v a_o perfection_n that_o shine_v with_o such_o a_o peculiar_a lustre_n with_o such_o a_o heavenly_a majesty_n and_o sweetness_n that_o nothing_o else_o can_v imitate_v it_o it_o be_v always_o pursue_v good_a the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o happiness_n of_o man_n it_o contend_v earnest_o for_o the_o faith_n once_o deliver_v to_o the_o saint_n but_o it_o contend_v as_o earnest_o too_o to_o root_v out_o wickedness_n and_o implant_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o world_n it_o be_v not_o eager_a for_o the_o article_n of_o a_o sect_n or_o party_n and_o unconcern_v for_o catholic_n once_o when_o it_o press_v for_o reformation_n it_o begin_v at_o home_n and_o set_v a_o bright_a example_n of_o what_o it_o will_v recommend_v to_o other_o it_o be_v meek_a and_o gentle_a under_o its_o own_o affront_v but_o warm_a and_o bold_a against_o those_o which_o be_v offer_v to_o god_n in_o a_o word_n though_o love_n fill_v its_o sail_n divine_a wisdom_n and_o prudence_n give_v it_o ballast_n and_o it_o have_v no_o heat_n but_o what_o be_v temper_v and_o refract_v by_o charity_n and_o humility_n need_v i_o in_o the_o next_o place_n fix_v or_o state_n the_o various_a degree_n of_o zeal_n alas_o it_o be_v not_o requisite_a zeal_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o ardent_a thirst_n of_o promote_a the_o divine_a glory_n by_o the_o best_a work_n it_o be_v plain_a the_o more_o excellent_a the_o work_n and_o the_o more_o it_o cost_v the_o more_o perfect_a the_o more_o exalt_v the_o zeal_n that_o perform_v it_o when_o like_o mary_n we_o quit_v the_o cumber_n and_o distraction_n of_o this_o world_n and_o choose_v religion_n for_o our_o portion_n then_o do_v we_o love_v it_o in_o good_a earnest_n when_o with_o the_o disciple_n we_o can_v say_v lord_n we_o have_v forsake_v all_o and_o follow_v thou_o or_o be_v ready_a to_o do_v so_o when_o we_o be_v continual_o blessing_n and_o praise_v god_n when_o if_o the_o necessity_n of_o christ_n church_n require_v it_o we_o be_v ready_a to_o call_v nothing_o our_o own_o when_o we_o be_v prepare_v if_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v so_o to_o resist_v even_o unto_o blood_n when_o nothing_o be_v dear_a nothing_o delightful_a to_o we_o but_o god_n and_o holiness_n then_o have_v we_o reach_v the_o height_n of_o zeal_n in_o a_o word_n zeal_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o love_n of_o god_n make_v perfect_a in_o we_o and_o if_o we_o will_v see_v it_o draw_v to_o the_o life_n we_o must_v contemplate_v it_o in_o the_o bless_a jesus_n who_o be_v the_o perfect_a pattern_n of_o heroick_n love_n how_o boundless_a be_v his_o love_n when_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o how_o transcendent_a when_o a_o world_n of_o enemy_n be_v the_o object_n of_o it_o how_o indefatigable_a be_v his_o zeal_n how_o wakeful_a how_o meek_a how_o humble_a how_o firm_a and_o resolve_v his_o labour_n and_o travel_n his_o self-denial_n prayer_n and_o tear_n his_o silence_n and_o patience_n his_o agony_n and_o blood_n and_o charitable_a prayer_n pour_v out_o with_o it_o for_o his_o persecutor_n instruct_v we_o full_o what_o divine_a love_n what_o divine_a zeal_n be_v and_o now_o even_o at_o this_o time_n love_n reign_v in_o he_o as_o he_o reign_v in_o heaven_n love_n be_v still_o the_o predominant_a the_o darling_n passion_n of_o his_o soul_n worthy_a be_v thou_o o_o jesus_n to_o receive_v honour_n and_o glory_n and_o dominion_n worthy_a be_v thou_o to_o sit_v down_o with_o thy_o father_n on_o his_o throne_n worthy_a be_v thou_o to_o judge_v the_o world_n because_o thou_o have_v love_v because_o thou_o have_v be_v zealous_a unto_o death_n because_o thou_o have_v overcome_v some_o there_o be_v indeed_o who_o have_v follow_v thy_o bright_a example_n though_o at_o a_o great_a distance_n first_o martyr_n and_o confessor_n next_o those_o belove_v and_o admire_v prince_n who_o have_v govern_v their_o kingdom_n in_o righteousness_n to_o who_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o the_o world_n have_v be_v far_o dear_a than_o pleasure_n than_o empire_n than_o absolute_a power_n or_o that_o ominous_a blaze_n that_o be_v now_o call_v glory_n and_o next_o follow_v hold_v this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o angel_n they_o must_v marshal_v the_o field_n of_o glory_n in_o the_o end_n
of_o all_o thing_n o_o my_o god_n may_v i_o at_o least_o be_v one_o to_o fill_v the_o train_n of_o this_o triumphant_a procession_n in_o that_o bless_a day_n when_o thou_o shall_v crown_v the_o zeal_n and_o patience_n of_o thy_o saint_n thus_o have_v i_o give_v a_o short_a account_n of_o zeal_n i_o will_v now_o endeavour_v to_o kindle_v it_o in_o every_o breast_n by_o some_o few_o consideration_n which_o will_v at_o once_o evince_n the_o necessity_n and_o declare_v the_o fruit_n of_o it_o 1._o our_o own_o security_n and_o happiness_n demand_v of_o we_o a_o zeal_n fruitful_a in_o good_a work_n 2._o it_o be_v indispensable_a to_o the_o welfare_n and_o good_a of_o our_o neighbour_n 3._o it_o minister_v most_o effectual_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1._o our_o own_o salvation_n and_o happiness_n depend_v upon_o it_o for_o without_o this_o we_o reject_v on_o at_o least_o frustrate_v the_o counsel_n of_o god_n against_o our_o own_o soul_n it_o be_v for_o this_o christ_n die_v that_o he_o may_v purify_v to_o himself_o a_o peculiar_a people_n zealous_a of_o good_a work_n this_o be_v the_o great_a end_n of_o our_o election_n god_n have_v choose_v we_o in_o christ_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v holy_a and_o without_o blame_n before_o he_o in_o love_n eph._n 1.4_o which_o be_v to_o be_v explain_v by_o eph._n 2.10_o where_o god_n be_v say_v to_o have_v before_o ordain_v that_o we_o shall_v walk_v in_o good_a work_n and_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o ver_fw-la mind_v we_o that_o it_o be_v for_o this_o end_n god_n impart_v the_o light_n of_o his_o word_n and_o the_o vigour_n of_o his_o spirit_n that_o for_o this_o end_n he_o sanctify_v and_o renew_v our_o nature_n we_o be_v his_o workmanship_n create_v in_o christ_n jesus_n unto_o good_a work_n st._n peter_n tell_v we_o that_o this_o be_v that_o which_o all_o the_o great_a and_o precious_a promise_n of_o god_n immediate_o aim_v at_o first_o godliness_n then_o life_n first_o virtue_n then_o glory_n what_o shall_v i_o say_v more_o our_o lord_n in_o his_o narrative_a of_o the_o last_o judgement_n and_o elsewhere_o and_o his_o apostle_n in_o almost_o innumerable_a place_n have_v with_o great_a power_n and_o great_a earnestness_n inculcate_v this_o doctrine_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v judge_v according_a to_o our_o work_n that_o immortality_n and_o glory_n be_v the_o portion_n not_o of_o knowledge_n but_o patience_n and_o charity_n not_o of_o a_o orthodox_n belief_n and_o specious_a pretention_n but_o of_o righteousness_n and_o zeal_n for_o the_o incorruptible_a the_o never-fading_a crown_n be_v a_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n or_o if_o man_n will_v be_v judge_v by_o their_o faith_n which_o be_v not_o the_o language_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o do_v not_o alter_v the_o matter_n at_o all_o since_o faith_n itself_o will_v be_v judge_v by_o its_o work_n and_o as_o a_o happy_a eternity_n depend_v upon_o our_o zeal_n so_o nothing_o else_o can_v give_v we_o any_o comfortable_a any_o rational_a assurance_n of_o it_o in_o this_o life_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o it_o be_v zeal_n that_o be_v the_o only_a unquestionable_a proof_n of_o our_o integrity_n and_o good_a work_n be_v the_o fruit_n which_o alone_o can_v evidence_n the_o life_n and_o truth_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o love_n hereby_o we_o know_v that_o we_o know_v he_o if_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n 1_o joh._n 2.3_o yea_o a_o man_n may_v say_v thou_o have_v faith_n and_o i_o have_v work_n show_v i_o thy_o faith_n without_o thy_o work_n and_o i_o will_v show_v thou_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n jam._n 2.18_o do_v thou_o believe_v in_o god_n why_o be_v thou_o not_o holy_a as_o he_o be_v holy_a do_v thou_o believe_v in_o jesus_n why_o do_v thou_o not_o deny_v thyself_o take_v up_o thy_o cross_n and_o follow_v he_o why_o do_v thou_o not_o walk_v as_o he_o walk_v do_v thou_o believe_v a_o judgement_n to_o come_v why_o do_v thou_o not_o work_v out_o thy_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a why_o do_v thou_o not_o prepare_v to_o meet_v thy_o god_n why_o be_v thou_o not_o rich_a in_o good_a work_n that_o thou_o may_v lay_v up_o a_o good_a foundation_n against_o the_o time_n to_o come_v and_o lie_v hold_v on_o eternal_a life_n nor_o be_v good_a work_v less_o necessary_a to_o prove_v our_o love_n than_o faith_n certain_o if_o we_o love_v holiness_n if_o we_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o righteousness_n we_o shall_v never_o live_v in_o a_o direct_a contradiction_n to_o the_o strong_a passion_n of_o our_o soul_n we_o shall_v never_o refuse_v to_o gratify_v a_o inclination_n which_o be_v not_o only_o fervent_a in_o we_o but_o its_o gratification_n will_v procure_v we_o eternal_a reward_n too_o certain_o if_o we_o love_v god_n we_o can_v but_o seek_v his_o glory_n we_o can_v but_o be_v desirous_a to_o maintain_v communion_n with_o he_o and_o if_o so_o do_v we_o know_v any_o sacrifice_n that_o be_v more_o acceptable_a to_o god_n than_o good_a work_n do_v we_o know_v any_o that_o he_o delight_v in_o more_o than_o zeal_n do_v we_o love_v the_o b._n jesus_n be_v not_o good_a work_v the_o very_a test_n of_o this_o love_n which_o himself_o have_v appoint_v if_o a_o man_n love_v i_o he_o will_v keep_v my_o commandment_n joh._n 14.15_o you_o be_v my_o friend_n if_o you_o do_v whatsoever_o i_o command_v you_o joh._n 15.14_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n say_v the_o apostle_n constrain_v we_o what_o to_o do_v to_o live_v not_o to_o ourselves_o but_o to_o he_o that_o die_v for_o we_o and_o rise_v again_o 2_o cor._n 5.15_o what_o other_o return_v can_v we_o make_v to_o jesus_n what_o other_o way_n can_v we_o express_v our_o gratitude_n to_o he_o he_o sit_v on_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n all_o power_n be_v give_v he_o in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n he_o do_v not_o himself_o need_v our_o ministry_n nor_o want_v our_o service_n and_o charity_n but_o hear_v what_o he_o say_v in_o as_o much_o as_o you_o do_v it_o to_o one_o of_o these_o my_o little_a one_o you_o have_v do_v it_o to_o i_o matt._n 25.40_o 2._o our_o zeal_n be_v indispensable_o necessary_a to_o the_o welfare_n and_o happiness_n of_o other_o do_v we_o regard_v our_o neighbour_n eternal_a interest_n it_o be_v zeal_n repress_n sin_n and_o propagate_v righteousness_n it_o be_v zeal_n defend_v the_o faith_n and_o suppress_v heresy_n and_o error_n it_o be_v zeal_n convert_v the_o unbeliever_n and_o build_v up_o the_o believer_n it_o be_v zeal_n that_o awaken_v the_o drowsy_a quicken_v the_o lukewarm_a strengthen_v the_o weak_a and_o inflame_v the_o good_a with_o a_o holy_a emulation_n it_o be_v zeal_n that_o baffle_v all_o objection_n refute_v all_o calumny_n and_o vanquish_v all_o opposition_n raise_v against_o religion_n and_o oppress_v its_o enemy_n with_o shame_n and_o confusion_n it_o be_v in_o a_o word_n zeal_n and_o zeal_n alone_o that_o can_v make_v religion_n appear_v lovely_a and_o delightful_a and_o reconcile_v the_o world_n to_o it_o for_o this_o alone_a can_v adorn_v the_o gospel_n for_o it_o render_v virtue_n more_o conspicuous_a more_o take_v in_o life_n and_o example_n than_o it_o can_v be_v in_o the_o precept_n and_o description_n of_o word_n nor_o be_v zeal_n less_o serviceable_a to_o the_o temporal_a that_o eternal_a interest_n of_o mankind_n when_o god_n lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n he_o lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o virtue_n too_o and_o when_o he_o form_v man_n he_o weave_v the_o necessity_n of_o good_a work_n into_o his_o very_a nature_n how_o necessary_a be_v justice_n to_o poor_a creature_n who_o lie_v so_o open_a to_o wrong_n and_o injury_n how_o indispensable_a be_v charity_n or_o generosity_n to_o these_o who_o be_v expose_v to_o so_o many_o accident_n to_o so_o many_o want_v to_o such_o a_o viscissitude_n of_o fortune_n and_o be_v all_o subject_a to_o so_o many_o folly_n and_o infirmity_n to_o so_o many_o mistake_v and_o fancy_n how_o strong_a must_v be_v our_o obligation_n to_o mutual_a forbearance_n patience_n and_o gentleness_n in_o a_o word_n sin_n and_o misery_n abound_v in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o there_o be_v not_o virtue_n and_o good_a work_n to_o balance_v the_o one_o and_o â—o_o relieve_v and_o support_v we_o under_o the_o other_o life_n will_v be_v intolerable_a so_o that_o reveal_v and_o natural_a religion_n do_v necessary_o terminate_v and_o centre_n in_o a_o zeal_n for_o good_a work_n as_o their_o ultimate_a end_n and_o utmost_a perfection_n in_o this_o life_n and_o that_o rule_v of_o our_o saviour_n whatsoever_o you_o will_v that_o man_n shall_v do_v to_o you_o do_v you_o even_o so_o unto_o they_o be_v a_o abstract_n not_o only_o of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n but_o of_o the_o code_n of_o nature_n too_o and_o this_o single_a principle_n if_o sincere_o pursue_v
aside_o the_o natural_a right_n which_o he_o have_v over_o he_o as_o his_o creature_n and_o to_o transact_v with_o he_o as_o free_v and_o master_n of_o himself_o but_o this_o be_v all_o infinite_a condescension_n second_o it_o seem_v unsuitable_a to_o the_o infinite_a goodness_n of_o god_n to_o bereave_v man_n of_o the_o life_n and_o happiness_n he_o have_v once_o confer_v upon_o he_o unless_o he_o forfeit_v it_o by_o some_o demerit_n the_o gift_n and_o call_n of_o god_n be_v without_o repentance_n nor_o can_v i_o think_v how_o death_n which_o have_v so_o much_o evil_n in_o it_o can_v have_v enter_v the_o world_n if_o sin_n have_v not_o enter_v it_o first_o in_o this_o sense_n unsinning_a obedience_n give_v a_o kind_n of_o right_a to_o the_o continuance_n of_o those_o good_a thing_n which_o be_v at_o first_o the_o mere_a effect_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o bounty_n last_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n be_v once_o establish_v it_o be_v plain_a that_o as_o sin_n forfeit_v life_n so_o obedience_n must_v give_v a_o right_a to_o it_o and_o as_o the_o penitent_n can_v not_o be_v restore_v but_o by_o a_o act_n of_o grace_n so_o he_o that_o commit_v no_o sin_n will_v need_v no_o pardon_n but_o then_o life_n itself_o and_o a_o ability_n to_o work_v righteousness_n must_v be_v owe_v to_o grace_n antecedent_n to_o the_o covenant_n and_o so_o such_o a_o one_o will_v have_v whereof_o to_o boast_v comparative_o with_o respect_n to_o other_o who_o fall_v but_o not_o before_o god_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o be_v man_n have_v nothing_o to_o render_v to_o god_n but_o what_o he_o have_v receive_v from_o he_o and_o therefore_o can_v offer_v he_o nothing_o but_o his_o own_o which_o be_v no_o very_o good_a foundation_n for_o merit_n but_o suppose_v he_o absolute_a master_n of_o himself_o suppose_v he_o hold_v all_o thing_n independent_a of_o god_n can_v the_o service_n of_o a_o few_o day_n merit_v immortality_n and_o glory_n angelical_a perfection_n and_o a_o crown_n he_o must_v be_v make_v up_o of_o vanity_n and_o presumption_n that_o dare_v affirm_v this_o 3._o god_n stand_v in_o no_o need_n of_o our_o service_n and_o it_o be_v our_o own_n not_o his_o interest_n we_o promote_v by_o it_o the_o foundation_n of_o merit_n among_o man_n be_v impotence_n and_o want_n the_o prince_n want_v the_o service_n and_o tribute_n of_o the_o subject_a the_o subject_a the_o protection_n of_o the_o prince_n the_o rich_a need_v the_o ministry_n and_o the_o labour_n of_o the_o poor_a the_o poor_a support_n and_o maintenance_n from_o the_o rich._n and_o it_o be_v thus_o in_o imaginary_a as_o well_o as_o real_a want_v the_o luxury_n and_o pleasure_n of_o one_o must_v be_v provide_v for_o and_o support_v by_o the_o care_n and_o vigilance_n of_o other_o and_o the_o pomp_n and_o the_o pride_n of_o one_o part_n of_o the_o world_n can_v subsist_v but_o on_o the_o servitude_n of_o the_o other_o in_o these_o case_n therefore_o mutual_a want_n create_v mutual_a right_n and_o mutual_a merit_n but_o this_o be_v not_o the_o case_n between_o god_n and_o man._n god_n be_v not_o subject_a to_o any_o want_v or_o necessity_n nor_o be_v his_o glory_n or_o happiness_n capable_a of_o diminution_n or_o increase_n he_o be_v a_o monarch_n that_o need_v no_o tribute_n to_o support_v his_o grandeur_n nor_o any_o strength_n or_o power_n beside_o his_o own_o to_o guard_v his_o throne_n if_o we_o revolt_v or_o rebel_n we_o can_v injure_v he_o if_o we_o be_v loyal_a and_o obedient_a we_o can_v profit_v he_o he_o have_v all_o fullness_n all_o perfection_n in_o himself_o he_o be_v a_o almighty_a and_o all-sufficient_a god_n but_o on_o the_o quite_o contrary_a though_o god_n have_v no_o want_n we_o have_v many_o and_o though_o his_o majesty_n and_o felicity_n be_v subject_a to_o no_o vicissitude_n we_o be_v subject_a to_o many_o our_o service_n to_o god_n therefore_o be_v our_o own_o interest_n and_o our_o obedience_n be_v design_v to_o procure_v our_o own_o advantage_n we_o need_v we_o daily_o need_v his_o support_n and_o protection_n we_o depend_v entire_o on_o his_o favour_n and_o patronage_n in_o he_o we_o live_v and_o move_v and_o have_v our_o be_v and_o from_o he_o as_o from_o a_o inexhaustible_a fountain_n we_o derive_v all_o the_o stream_n of_o good_a by_o which_o we_o be_v refresh_v and_o improve_v to_o know_v and_o love_v he_o be_v our_o wisdom_n to_o depend_v upon_o he_o our_o happiness_n and_o security_n to_o serve_v and_o worship_v he_o our_o perfection_n and_o liberty_n to_o enjoy_v he_o will_v be_v our_o heaven_n and_o those_o glimpse_n of_o his_o presence_n which_o we_o be_v vouchsafe_v through_o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o life_n be_v the_o pledge_n and_o foretaste_n of_o it_o this_o be_v the_o constant_a voice_n of_o scripture_n every_o good_a gift_n and_o every_o perfect_a gift_n be_v from_o above_o and_o come_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n jam._n 1.17_o if_o i_o be_v hungry_a i_o will_v not_o tell_v thou_o for_o the_o world_n be_v i_o and_o the_o fullness_n thereof_o will_v i_o eat_v the_o flesh_n of_o bull_n or_o drink_v the_o blood_n of_o goat_n offer_v unto_o god_n thanksgiving_n and_o pay_v thy_o vow_n unto_o the_o most_o high_a and_o call_v upon_o i_o in_o the_o day_n of_o trouble_n i_o will_v deliver_v thou_o and_o thou_o shall_v glorify_v i_o psal_n 50.12_o 13._o etc._n etc._n if_o thou_o be_v righteous_a what_o give_v thou_o unto_o he_o thy_o wickedness_n may_v hurt_v a_o man_n etc._n etc._n job_n 35.7_o 8._o sect_n iii_o of_o the_o impediment_n of_o perfection_n though_o i_o have_v be_v all_o along_o carry_v on_o the_o design_n of_o this_o section_n that_o be_v the_o remove_n the_o obstacle_n of_o perfection_n yet_o i_o easy_o foresee_v there_o may_v be_v some_o which_o will_v not_o be_v reduce_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o the_o forego_n head_n for_o these_o therefore_o i_o reserve_v this_o place_n these_o be_v five_o 1._o too_o easy_a and_o loose_a a_o notion_n of_o religion_n 2._o a_o opinion_n that_o perfection_n be_v not_o attainable_a 3._o that_o religion_n be_v a_o enemy_n to_o pleasure_n 4._o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n in_o a_o high_a degree_n at_o least_o than_o will_v consist_v with_o perfection_n 5._o the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o flesh_n §_o 1._o some_o seem_v to_o have_v entertain_v such_o a_o notion_n of_o religion_n as_o if_o moderation_n here_o be_v as_o necessary_a as_o any_o where_o else_o they_o look_v upon_o zeal_n as_o as_o a_o excess_n of_o righteousness_n and_o can_v be_v well_o enough_o content_a to_o want_v degree_n of_o glory_n if_o they_o can_v but_o save_v their_o soul_n to_o which_o end_n they_o can_v see_v no_o necessity_n of_o perfection_n now_o i_o will_v beseech_v such_o serious_o to_o lay_v to_o heart_n that_o salvation_n and_o damnation_n be_v thing_n of_o no_o common_a importance_n and_o therefore_o it_o high_o concern_v they_o not_o to_o be_v mistake_v in_o the_o notion_n they_o form_n to_o themselves_o of_o religion_n for_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n will_v not_o be_v alter_v by_o their_o fancy_n nor_o will_v god_n be_v mock_v or_o impose_v on_o if_o we_o will_v deal_v sincere_o with_o ourselves_o as_o in_o this_o case_n it_o certain_o behoove_v we_o to_o do_v we_o must_v frame_v our_o idea_n of_o religion_n not_o from_o the_o opinion_n the_o manner_n or_o the_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n but_o from_o the_o scripture_n and_o we_o must_v not_o interpret_v these_o by_o our_o own_o inclination_n but_o we_o must_v judge_v of_o the_o duty_n they_o prescribe_v by_o those_o description_n of_o they_o by_o those_o property_n and_o effect_n which_o we_o find_v there_o we_o must_v weigh_v the_o design_n and_o end_v of_o religion_n which_o be_v to_o promote_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o man_n and_o to_o raise_v we_o above_o the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n and_o see_v how_o our_o platform_n or_o model_n of_o religion_n suit_n with_o it_o and_o if_o after_o we_o have_v do_v this_o we_o be_v not_o full_o satisfy_v in_o the_o true_a bound_n and_o limit_n which_o part_n vice_n and_o virtue_n it_o can_v but_o be_v safe_a for_o we_o to_o err_v on_o the_o right_a hand_n we_o ought_v always_o to_o remember_v too_o that_o the_o repeat_v exhortation_n in_o scripture_n to_o diligence_n and_o that_o the_o most_o earnest_a and_o indefatigable_a to_o vigilance_n to_o fear_n and_o tremble_v to_o patience_n to_o steadfastness_n and_o suchlike_a be_v utter_o inconsistent_a with_o a_o easy_a lazy_a gentile_a religion_n that_o the_o life_n of_o jesus_n be_v the_o fair_a and_o full_a comment_n on_o his_o doctrine_n and_o that_o we_o never_o be_v to_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o a_o corrupt_a world_n but_o of_o the_o best_a man_n and_o the_o best_a age_n this_o this_o one_o thing_n alone_o will_v convince_v
number_n and_o strength_n of_o temptation_n the_o deplorable_a fall_n of_o the_o great_a saint_n and_o the_o conscience_n of_o our_o own_o weakness_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o work_v in_o we_o let_v we_o then_o not_o only_o begin_v but_o also_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n blessed_n be_v he_o that_o fear_v always_o second_o the_o steadfastness_n of_o hope_n of_o hope_n that_o wait_v and_o belong_v for_o the_o come_v of_o our_o lord_n this_o will_v invite_v we_o often_o to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o canaan_n this_o will_v fill_v the_o mind_n often_o with_o the_o beauty_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o eternity_n this_o will_v often_o call_v to_o our_o thought_n and_o security_n the_o rest_n the_o transport_v of_o another_o world_n the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n incorruptible_a crown_n the_o hallelujah_n of_o angel_n the_o shout_n of_o victory_n the_o fruit_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n the_o stream_n that_o water_n the_o paradise_n of_o god_n and_o every_o such_o object_n will_v chide_v we_o out_o of_o our_o weakness_n and_o cowardice_n every_o such_o thought_n will_v upbraid_v we_o out_o of_o our_o laziness_n and_o negligence_n we_o shall_v hear_v always_o sound_a in_o our_o ear_n the_o word_n of_o jesus_n to_o his_o disciple_n what_o can_v you_o not_o watch_v with_o i_o one_o hour_n and_o yet_o do_v you_o expect_v to_o reign_v with_o i_o for_o ever_o or_o those_o to_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o grant_v to_o sit_v with_o i_o upon_o my_o throne_n as_o i_o have_v overcome_v and_o be_o sit_v down_o with_o my_o father_n on_o his_o throne_n and_o now_o reader_n if_o you_o find_v i_o have_v do_v you_o any_o service_n if_o you_o think_v yourself_o under_o any_o obligation_n to_o i_o the_o return_v i_o beg_v from_o you_o be_v that_o you_o will_v first_o offer_v praise_n and_o thanks_o unto_o god_n and_o next_o whenever_o you_o be_v in_o the_o vigour_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o ardour_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n before_o god_n in_o prayer_n put_v up_o these_o or_o the_o like_a petition_n for_o i_o which_o i_o now_o offer_v up_o for_o myself_o o_o my_o god_n and_o my_o father_n increase_v the_o knowledge_n of_o thy_o word_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o thy_o spirit_n in_o i_o enable_n i_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o thy_o fear_n and_o to_o hold_v fast_o the_o steadfastness_n of_o my_o hope_n unto_o the_o end_n pardon_v all_o the_o sin_n and_o error_n of_o my_o life_n and_o accept_v of_o my_o imperfect_a service_n though_o jesus_n christ_n and_o because_o though_o after_o all_o we_o can_v do_v we_o be_v unprofitable_a servant_n thy_o infinite_a bounty_n will_v yet_o certain_o recompense_v our_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o promote_v thy_o glory_n let_v i_o find_v my_o reward_n from_o thou_o or_o rather_o do_v thou_o thyself_o vouchsafe_v to_o be_v my_o reward_n i_o shall_v have_v ever_o think_v myself_o unworthy_a to_o have_v put_v up_o this_o petition_n to_o thou_o o_o thou_o glorious_a and_o incomprehensible_a majesty_n have_v not_o thy_o own_o goodness_n thy_o own_o spirit_n kindle_v this_o ambition_n in_o i_o behold_v what_o manner_n of_o love_n be_v this_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o word_n of_o thy_o servant_n st._n john_n and_o now_o therefore_o my_o soul_n can_v never_o be_v at_o rest_n till_o i_o awake_v at_o the_o last_o day_n after_o thy_o likeness_n i_o can_v never_o be_v satisfy_v till_o i_o behold_v thy_o glory_n which_o vouchsafe_v i_o i_o beseech_v thou_o by_o thy_o mercy_n and_o thy_o faithfulness_n by_o the_o suffering_n and_o intercession_n of_o thy_o dear_o belove_a son_n finis_fw-la several_a book_n publish_v by_o dr._n lucas_n vicar_n of_o st._n steven_n coleman-street_n and_o sell_v by_o sam._n smith_n and_o benj._n walford_n at_o the_o prince_n arm_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n practical_a christianity_n or_o a_o account_n of_o the_o holiness_n which_o the_o gospel_n enjoin_v with_o the_o motive_n to_o it_o etc._n etc._n four_o edition_n 1693._o a_o enquiry_n after_o happiness_n in_o several_a part_n vol._n i._n the_o second_o edition_n correct_v and_o enlarge_v 1692._o human_a life_n or_o a_o second_o part_n of_o the_o enquiry_n after_o happiness_n second_o edition_n 1696._o religious_a perfection_n or_o a_o third_z part_n of_o the_o enquiry_n after_o happiness_n 1696._o the_o duty_n of_o apprentice_n and_o servant_n with_o some_o prayer_n and_o direction_n for_o the_o worthy_a receive_v the_o holy_a sacrament_n 1685._o price_n one_o shilling_n six_o penny_n the_o plain_a man_n guide_n to_o heaven_n contain_v one_a his_o duty_n towards_o god_n 2_o towards_o his_o neighbour_n with_o proper_a prayer_n meditation_n and_o ejaculation_n design_v chief_o for_o the_o countryman_n tradesman_n labourer_n etc._n etc._n 1691._o price_n one_o shilling_n christian_n thought_n for_o every_o day_n of_o the_o month_n 12._o price_n one_o shilling_n several_a sermon_n preach_v before_o the_o queen_n lord_z mayor_z assizes_n etc._n etc._n