Word of God 2. Not only the outward Letter but the true sense and meaning of Scripture is to be accounted Scripture which appears from 1 Cor. 14 34. Epb. 5.14 Heb. 12.21 Jam. 4.5 Where some things are said to be written which in express and plain words are not written but by good and clear evidence collected thence 3. The Scriptures were written as primarily for Gods glory so also that men might be enlightned converted comforted and have Hope and Eternal life by Believing 2 Tim. 3.14 15 16. Neither do they concern or were written for the use of former Ages and Persons onely but belong to all Ages and Persons even to the end of the world Revelat. 2.3 4. The Scripture contains Milk for Babes and Meat for them that are strong 1 Cor. 3.2 Heb. 5.13 14. And though there be some dark places hard to be undetstood 2 Pet 3.16 Yet what is necessary to salvation is plain and may be understood by the simplest and unlearnedest of the true Disciples of Christ who are taught by the Spirit of God Deut. 29.29 Prov. 6 23. 8.8 9. 28.5 Mat. 13.10 1 Cor. 2.15 1 Joh. 2.20 27. whereas those that otherwise may be very learned yet have not this spirit they understand not the Scriptures but erre and wrest them to their own and others Destruction Isa 29.11 John 7.48 52. 1 Cor. 2.8 14. Mat 22.29 2 Pet. 3.16 5. This word or Scripture is the absolute certain and infallible Rule of Faith and Life or Obedience by which all Spirits Doctrines Men and works to be tryed and no other writings whatsoever though written by the most knowing and holiest of men are to be esteemed of equall authority infallibility and Divine Majesty with these Luke 16.31 1 Iohn 4.1 Isa 8.20 And the Holy Scripture next to the Spirit of God who gave it forth 2 Pet. l. 19.20 21. is she best interpreter of it self All Preaching is to be out of and according to it and nothing to be imposed upon or binding of the Consciences of any but what is contained therein or agreeable thereunto 1 Cor. 2.13 Jer. 23.28 Mat. 28.19 Act. 18.28 28.23 Neither is there any thing to be added to or taken from the Scripture upon pain of everlasting damnation Prov. 30.5 6. Gal. 3.15 Revel 22.18 19. The Principal Doctrines which are declared and I have received from the Scriptures are Concerning God There is but one true living God Deut. 6.4 John 17.3 1 Thes 1.9 c. of whom to whom and through whom are all things Rom. 11.36 1 Cor. 8.6 Eph. 4.6 The only Potentate 1 Tim. 6.15 To whom be Honour and Peace everlasting Amen 2. This God is a Spirit Eternal Immortal Invisible most abundant in goodness mercy and truth to all that love and fear him John 4.24 1 Tim. 1.17 Exod. 34.6 Neh. 9.6 and a rewarder to them that diligently seek him Heb. 11.6 But most just dreadful and terrible to those that hate him and a consuming fire to such as go on in their wickedness Mat. 1.15 Exod. 20.5 Heb. 12.29 Psal 68.21 3. This One God is distinguished into the Father the Word or Son and the Holy Spirit Mat. 3.16 17 28.19 2 Cor. 13.14 Which are not three Gods but one God 1 John 5.7 1 Cor. 12.4 5 6. The Father begetting Psal 2.7 Heb. 1.5 The Son begotten and brought up with the Father from everlasting Prov. 8.22 23 24 30. Micha 5.2 John 1.1 17.24 and the holy Spirit proceeding from both John 14.26 15.26 Gal. 4.6 Concerning the Lord Iesus Christ the Son of God The Word or the Son of God the Lord Jesus Christ is Jehovah Gen. 13.7 16. 18.1 2. 22.11 14. Exod. 19.14 with Heb. 12.27 Isa 6.1 with Iohn 12.41 Isa 45.23 with Rom. 14.10 11. The True and Mighty yea Almighty God 1 Ioh. 5 20. Isa 9.6 Tit. 2.13 Iohn 1.1 2 3. Equal and One with God Iohn 5.18 Phil. 2.6 Iohn 10.30 17.22 He knoweth and discerneth the Thoughts and Hearts of all men Mat. 9.3 4. 12.25 John 2.25 Heb. 4.12 Which evidently with many other undeniable Arguments prove him to be very God of the same Substance and Being with the Father for none but God can know the Heart 1 King 8.39 Jer. 17.10 Concerning the Holy Spirit As the Lord Christ the Son so likewise the holy Spirit is God Acts 5.3 4. 1 Cor. 6.19 20. 2 Cor. 3.17 Acts 28.25 with Isa 6.8.11 12. In the 8th verse of which Chapter the word Vs noting Father Son and Spirit as also Gen. 1.26 is called Jehovah v. 12. shewing that the Son and Spirit are the Lord Jehovah which signifies as the Greek renders it Ex. 3. ' Oâ—â— One that hath his being of himself or as is more fully rendred Rev. 1.4 8. Who is was and is to come Concerning Gods Decrees God to whom all his Works and People were known and foreseen from everlasting Acts 15.18 and who worketh all things according to the Counsel of his Will Eph. 1.11 did Determine and Ordain all things that should come to pass in time Acts 2.23 4.28 17.26 according to his own good pleasure and purpose Eph. 1.5 9. Concerning Election God of his own meer love before the foundation of the world did predestinate and Elect in Jesus Christ a certain number known only to himself as well of Angels as of Mankind to be to the praise of his Grace and to obtain Everlasting Salvation through Jesus Christ Rom. 11.5 Eph. 1.4 1 Pet. 1.2 2 Tim. 2.19 1 Tim. 5.21 Eph. 1.6 1 Thes 5.9 To whom God also in Christ hath given his grace and promised everlasting life before the world began 2 Tim. 1.9 Tit. 1.2 And all these that are so chosen are written in the Lambs Book of Life shall certainly be saved and cannot finally be deceived or fall away Rev. 13.8 20.15 Phil. 4.3 Luke 10.20 Rom. 8.29 30 33 38 39. Mat. 24.24 Rom. 11.7 John 6.37 c. 2. Such of Mankind as were Predestinated and Elected before time were Predestinated and Elected unto to the Adoption of Children that thorough not for nor without Real Sanctification Sprinkling of the Blood of Jesus and Belief of the Truth they might be saved Eph. 1.4 5. Rom. 8.29 30. 2 Thes 2.13 1 Pet. 1.2 Concerning Reprobation All those that were not elected to Salvation as well Angels as Men were by God for the glory of his Sovereign Power and Justice ordained of old to Condemnation or to be dealt with according to Gods Justice for and according to their sins 2 Pet. 2.3 4. Jude v. 4.6 Rom. 9.22 Prov. 16.4 Job 21.30 Jer. 6.30 Concerning Creation That God the Father Son and Spirit did make the World and all the things therein Visible and invisible for himself according to his pleasure and that very good and Man or Adam in particular Perfect and after his own Image Gen. 1 Eccles 7.29 c. Concerning the Fall of Man Some of the Angels now called
pressing after the things that are before endeavouring to be holy Merciful and Perfect as God is and to walk as Christ walked 2 Pet. 1.8 3.18 Phil. 3.11 14.2 Cor. 7.1 1 John 2.6 c. 2. Though there is to be a pressing after perfection as also an attaining unto it in some sense as Perfection of Justification and of the Truth of Sanctification and likewise comparatively some attain to more Grace than others who are called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 or Perfect by the Apostle 1 Cor. 2.6 Phil. 3.15 Heb. 5.14 yet the best of Gods people whilest they are on earth have sin in them working in their Members and they offend in many things knowing also and doing but in part as the Apostles themselves acknowledged Paul Romans 7. James Jam. 3.2 Iohn 1 John 1. and they that say they have no sin but are perfect or without sin they will be found perverse as Iob saith c. 9. and they deceive themselves and the Truth is not in them 1 Iohn 1.8 10. 3. As there is a growing in Grace so there is a persevering and continuing and holding on and out in the Will Way and profession of Christ unto the end without turning to the right hand or to the left and without back-sliding or halting between Opinions or being formal and luke-warm in Religion But striving against sin and seeking to overcome through many sufferings and to run our spiritual Race till we finish our course for to such doth Christ promise the Crown of Life and in his grace and strength alone we must overcome and therefore must always depend upon and humbly implore his help who is the Finisher as well as the Author of our Faith that we may be able to withstand all evils and to stand compleat in the will of God being not high minded but fearing nor doubtful-minded but believing Matthew 24.13 Revel 2.10 3.11 15 16. Heb. 12.1 4. Phil. 4.13 Collos 4.12 Rom. 11.20 Luke 12.29 32. Concerning Good Works 1. They that do believe and are Gods workmanship created thereunto are to be careful to maintain good Works which tend to the praise and glory of God and the good and profit of men and are also as was intimated before evidences of a true and lively faith in God and of our love both to God and Men Mat. 5.16 Eph. 2.10 Tit. 3.8 14. Iam. 2.17 18 22. Iohn 14.21 1 Iohn 3. â—7 Gal. 5.6 2. Those works only are to be accounted good works which are commanded by God and agreeable to his Word and not such as are devised and esteemed by men only to be so and to offer unto God any thing in his service which he requires not is abominable to him and Unprofitable and Sinful to them that do it 1 Kin. 11.7 Ier. 32.35 Mic. 6.6 7 8. Mat. 15 9. Col. 2.20 24. Tit. 1.14 Concerning Baptisme 1. Outward Baptism or Water-Baptism is a solemn significant dipping into or washing with water the Body in or into the Name of the Father the Son and the Holy Ghost only Mat. 28.19 It signifies the Death Burial and Resâ—r ection of Christ also the spiritual cleansing and washing of Justification and Regeneration or Sanctification together with the Baptism or powriâ—g forth of the gifts of the Holy Spirit Rom. 6.3 4 5. Col. 2.12 Heb 10.22 2. Though Baptism be not absolutely necessary to salvation yet being commanded by Christ it is the duty of all professing and visible Believers and penitent persons Men and Women to be Baptized once and that upon the first Believing and Conversion and before they enter into a particular visible Church or partake of the Lords Supper Acts 2.41 42. Yet it is not Baptism but an Interest in Christ that gives any a Right to either Neither is it the proper work of Baptism to conferr or work grace but to seal confirm and encrease it 1 Pet. 3.21 much less are all those that are Baptized true believers and saved John 3 3 5. Acts 8.13 23 3. But in this of baptism as in many other cases difference in perswasion and practise may well consist with Brotherly love and Christian communion see Phil 3.15 Rom. 14 c. Concerning Churches and Church-Assemblies 1. It is a Gospel-Ordinance for Saints to gather themselves together into Christian societies or particular Churches that they may the better perform such duties as they owe unto the Lord and to one another and it is the duty of all believers if possibly and conveniently they can to joyn themselves unto some such Church and being joyned to continue members thereof unless some necessary and good reason occasion the contrary and then to depart with consent of the Church of which they are members Cant. 1.7.8 Acts 2.47 9.26 27 28 c. 2. The particular visible Churches under the Gospel did not consist of whole Nations Countries or Cities nor of the generality and Multitudes of either but of such Companies many or few in them that did receive and profess the Doctrine of the Gospel were converted and called to be Saints separated from the world both its sins and services and united and given up to the Lord and to one another to live according to the will of God in all things Acts 5.12 13 14. 17.4 19.8 9. 1 Cor. 1.2 c. 3. Such particular Churches had and still have distinct power each within it self of admitting and ejecting members of choosing their own Officers and of ordeâ—ing all other matters relating to the Church and none of them nor their Officers were charged with the errors and evils of others unless they were among themselves guilty of the same neither have any of them or their Officers any power over any other Congregation or Members yet as those particular Churches are parts of the Universal Church or body of Christ which is his fulness so they are all to be helpful to one another and to walk by one and the same Rule Acts 6 5. 14 23. 1 Cor. 5.12 Rev. 2. 3. Phil. 3 15 16 c. Concerning Church-Officers As Christ hath given extraordinary and ordinary Officers as Apostles Prophets Evangelists Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministry and for the edifying of his body or Church in general and this without any limitation of Time Eph. 4.11 12. 1 Cor. 12.28 29 so for the feeding teaching ruling and ministring to the poor and sick of the Church the Lord hath appointed Elders or Bishops which in Scripture language are all one Asts 20.17 28. Phil. 1.1 Tit. 1.5 6 7. and Deacons and Deaconesses or Widows Rom. 16.1 1 Tim. 5.9 10. with other Helps who are to be chosen by the Churches themselves and ordained as formerly they were either by Apostles or some appointed by them as Evangelists or by some Teachers in those particular Churches 1 Tim. 4.14 2 Tim 2.2 Tit. 1.5 1 Tim. 5.21 22 c. Concerning the Lords Supper The Lord Christ also instituted and
and tribulations inward and outward by Sin World Satan and the gracious supports under all Thirdly In his Narraritical dedication to the Ministry wherein his dexterous and eminent skill unwearied activity singular faithfulness and admirable success appeared beyond many Fourthly In the perils hazards jeopardies persecutions imprisonments that he underwent for the Gospel insomuch that it is conceived it may be as truly said of him as any since the primitive days what was said of the Apostle Paul 2 Cor. 6.4 c. 11.26 c. You have some account of him not only in his heart-walk but in his House Church and Generation walk also First You have some discovery of his heart-walk out of some part of his Diary wherein you find his vigilant vigorous and steady watch not only to improve the motions of the spirit but to withstand the motions of sin and Satan his close and hard persuit after God by all ways means to keep the heart clean and the life holy to keep up grace in the act godliness in the power thereof observing daily his spiritual experiences both in his gettings losings Secondly You have some account also of him in his family-walk which so much be speaks the Christian wherein you find him as a man of knowledge filling up every Relation in the fear of God managing his affairs with discretion doing not only the things that were just and equal but singular also Designing with Joshua that he and his house might serve the Lord which he cared for in the first place witnessing therein a singular love and regard to all the souls under his roof A strict and zealous observer of the Sabbath a great lover of Hospitality administring with liberal heart and hand to all especially to the household of Faith insomuch that the blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon him causing the widows heart to sing for joy eyes to the blind feet to the lame a father to the poor and the cause he knew not he searched out Job 29.30 31. and so divising liberal things by liberal things he stood Thirdly You have some thing of him also in his Church-walk wherein he approved himself a workman that needed not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word to every one a portion giving bread in due season taking heed to himself and to all the Flock over which the Holy Ghost had made him an Overseer to feed the Church of God which he purchased with his own blood taking the oversight thereof not by constraint but willingly not for filthy lucre but of a ready mind And having the word of God dwelling richly with him in all wisdom did teach and admonish in Psalms Hymns and spiritual Songs A true lover and an affectionate promoter of peace and holiness a zealous and impartial withstander of sin errour and prophaness One that had dexterous skill to get into the hearts of sinners And one to whom the Lord had given the tongue of the Learned that knew how to speak a word in due season to him that was weary very compassionate and tender hearted full of true sympothy and fellow feeling under all weaknesses and temptations that attended any being experimentally able to administer consolation by the comfort wherewith he himself under many tryals had been supported and comforted by the Lord. Fourthly You have some account also how he behaved himself in his Generation-Walk wherein you will find he witnessed in a publick spirit much sincere love to his Country great faithfulness courage and activity to the Cause and Interest of Christ as it was stated for him against Antichrist and so covenanted for pleaded in his day And in the asserting and managing thereof it may be said of him that he bore in his Body the marks of our Lord Jesus and to which he was faithful from first to last even to death And not with so many that appeared so zealously cursing Merozat first for not helping the Lord against the mighty and soon after fell in with the mighty against the Lord Nor with so many Princes Elders and Father's contrary to former Covenants and Ingagements who made a Captain to go back again into Aegypt to the building again the things that they had pulled down and pulling down the things they had built But did in that day of tryal you 'll find as zealously and impartially withstand his Friends for Hypocrisy and Apostacy as others for Prophaness and Superstition foretelling and lamenting such steps as the certain foundation of ruine and confusion Neither did â—e see cause as an evil doer in reproach to Christ and his cause pleaded by him to beg and give thanks for pardon for serving of him Nor to deny forsake and forswear his Master and Crucified Cause but with courage and faithfulness you 'll find him â—earing of and rejoycing under the Cross owning and confessing him as well at Gibbet and in the Supulchre as when the Hosannahs were sung to him And so keeping the word of his patience serving his Generation according to the will of God he fell asleep dying in the assured Faith and Hope of the Resurrection of that Cause that he had so done and suffered for so lived and dyed in It is true under all the Worth and Excellency spoken of you 'll find him also a man of like passions with his Brethren and not without his infirmities having all this Heavenly Treasure in an Earthen Vessel and being a Son of Adam as well as a man of God that he might not be esteemed of more than was meet and that Christ alone might have the preheminency to be the great Example and to be imitated in all things the best of men being no otherwise to be followed than as they follow Christ because as saith the Apostle in many things we offend all The natural infirmity that he much groaned under and complained of was passion and rashness and which he would when overtaken with make haste out of and with due acknowledgements for his evil therein return speedily to a sweet frame and temper again It remains that since the pleasure of the Lord is thus manifested in the removing such a Father with many other such like eminent ones a late from us that the due improvement of such sad providences be endeavoured according to the ends before hinted whereby our holy Powels excellent Bridges worthy Blakes faithful Woods may yet though dead live and preach to us and may be a means to help forward the cry of doubling the spirit of the Elias's that are taken away upon the Elisha's remaining Mr. POWEL'S ACCOUNT OF HIS Conversion and Ministry Some Remarkable Passages in the Life of Mr. Vavasor Powel from his Conversion to his Death being the space of 30 years and upwards written with his own hand and found with the Confession of his Faith and other Memorable occurrences among his Papers TIll the twentieth Year of my age though I was trained up in learning from my Childhood
Devils sinned and kept not their first Estate 2 Pet. 2.4 Jude verse 6. John 8.44 And Adam comprehending also Eve sinned and all mankind in him whereby all are become sinners and under the Judgement of God and by that one sin subject to Death Bodily Spiritual and Eternal and all as well the Elect as others are born in sin and are by Nature the Children of Wrath under the Law and Curse out of which condition no man can redeem himself or his Brother Gen. 3. Rom. 5. Psalm 51.5 Job 25.4 Ephes 2.2 Gal. 3.10 Psal 49.7 Concerning the promise of Salvation by Christ Immediately upon the Fall of Adam God made a Promise of his Son the Seed of the Woman Gen. 3.15 And afterwards often before the Law made and renewed a Covenant with Abraham and the Fathers called the Gospel Gal 3.8 concerning him how all Nations that is all Believers as well Gentiles as Jews should be blessed that is justified and saved through and by him Gen. 12. 17. 22. Rom. 4. Gal. 3. And therefore the Law that was given after was neither intended nor able to disannull the Promise or that Covenant nor to give Life and Salvation to any Gal. 3. Rom. 3. 4. Concerning the Lord Christ and those that are Redeemed by him 1. The Son of God did often appear both in the likeness of an Angel and of a man before and under the Law Gen. 16. 22. Exod. 3. Iosh 5. Iude. 2.1 6.11 14. 13.6.22 He was also clearly represented by many Types and Figures by Men sc Adam Abel Noah Abraham Isaac Joseph David Solomon c. The First-born the First-fruits Sacrifices and by many other things Col. 2.17 Rom. 5.14 Heb. 8.1 9.11 12. 2. All the Prophets did clearly prophesie of him and some of them in particular that he should proceed from David out of the Tribe of Judah be born in Bethlehem of a Virgin yea the very time when he should be born was also foretold and that he should be a Prophet Priest and King a Judge and Saviour to his people that he should Die Rise up again Ascend up into Heaven sit upon Gods Right Hand make Intercession give Gifts unto men and come again to judge the world the fulfilling of which the History of the New Testament doth plainly and fully shew so that there is a sweet and exact Harmony and Consent between that and the Old Testament herein Luke 24.25 26 27. 45 46 47. Acts 3.18 21 10.43 13.39 c. 3. In the fulness of Time appointed and promised by the Father God out of his own free and great love sent this his only begotten Son into the world Gal. 4.4 Eph. 1.10 John 3.16 Rom. 8.32 And the Lord Jesus Christ out of the like love willingly came into the world took upon him the Nature of Man or the seed of Abraham and the Form of a Servant being made like unto his Brethren and in all points Tempted or Tryed as we are yet without sin yet being made sin and a curse for his people he dyed a shamefull and a cursed death bearing as well the wrath of God upon his soul as painful Punishment from men upon his body Eph. 5.2 Phil. 2.7 Hebrews 2.14 17. 2 Cor. 5.21 Col. 3.13 Matthew 26. 27 c. 4. The Lord Jesus Christ by dying and offering up himself as a Sacrifice to God the Father through the eternal Spirit hath perfectly satisfied for the sins of all that were saved before his coming in the flesh or that shall be saved hereafter having also reconciled them to God his Father and procured everlasting redemption for them Rom. 5.9 Col. 1.21 22. Heb. 9.12 14 c. 5. All those for whom Christ dyed for them he rose again appeared in Heaven and continually makes Intercession for which he doth not do for all but for those that God the Father chose in him and gave unto him to be his Body his Church his Children Friends and Flock John 10. 15. 17 Heb. 2. Eph. 1. 14. c. And when mention is made of his dying for the world 1 Tim. 2.5 John 6.51 1 John 2.2 c. It is to be understood as when Abraham is said to be Heir of the world Rom. 4.13 that is of all Believers in every nation throughout the world John 11.51 52. John 17.9 19. 6. There is no other Mediator between God and Man but only the Lord Christ nor no other Foundation can be laid besides him neither is there Salvation in or through any other but in and through him alone neither can any be accepted justified or saved either in whole or in part by the Law or by their own Righteousness and Works 1 Tim. 2.5 1 Cor. 3.10 11. Acts 4.11 12. Rom. 3.4 5. Phil 3.8 9. Gal. 2.16 3. c. Concerning Justification and Justifying Faith 1. All the Elect of God were gathered into Christ and their sins laid upon him and he by his own Perfect and Personal Obedience without them made full satisfaction unto God for them and their sins and they were accepted and virtually justified in him as their Head and Representer before they did actually believe as they were sinners in the first Adam before they actually committed sins themselves as upon the payment of the Debt by a Surety the Debtor is as really and truly discharged as if he had paid it with his own hand and Christ their Surety being justified at his Resurrection as the Apostle speaks 1 Tim. 3.16 must be justified also from that Debt which was theirs for he had none of his own Dan. 9.26 1 Pet. 2.22 24. and so consequently they must be justified in him Thus the Apostle plainly affirms God was in Christ i. e. at the time of his Death for with reference to that doth the Apostle there speak reconciling the world i. e. that World as was mentioned before whereof Abraham was heir viz. the Elect both Jews and Gentiles Rom. 11.12.15 not imputing to them their Trespasses 2 Cor. 5.19 so the same Apostle in another place saith Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect meaning hereby all the Elect as well such as are to believe hereafter as those who do believe already it is God who justifieth who is he that condemneth it is Christ that dyed Rom. 8.33 34. And Christ prayed on Earth as well for those that were to believe as for those that were already Actually Believers Iohn 17.20 And all Elect Children that dye in their Infancy must be so Justified from Original sin for they cannot actually believe 2. Notwithstanding that Virtual justification which the Elect have in their Head Christ as they are considered members of his Body and Part of the Universal Church yet the Scripture shews that there must be after they are called by the preaching of the Gospel a personal and as I may call it an actual Justification of every one that is to be saved Rom. 8.30 and
that by Faith only without Works before God Rom. 3.23 25. Rom. 4.1 5. Yet that Faith which justifies cannot be alone but is accompanied with good Works which justifies Believers before Men and manifests their Faith to be a True and living Faith Iames 2.17 18. as the Fruits of Trees do shew the nature of them but are no causes of their Root Life or Growth Justification is wholly of Gods Grace through the Redemption Righteousness and Blood of Jesus Christ Rom. 3.24 25. whereby those who truly believe in him have all their sins forgiven which will never be imputed nor remembred against them any more Romans 3.22 26. Hebr. 10.14.17 True Faith also by which the soul looks on Christ takes hold on him receives him becomes one with him and whereby Christ dwells in the Hearts of Believers is the gift of God Iohn 6.44 65. Eph. 2.8 3.17 Concerning the Spirit of Adoption and Regeneration 1. All those that truly believe God gives unto them Power or rather as the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 signifies Right or Priviledge to become his children Iohn 1.12 and they receive the Spirit of Adoption by which they are led and enabled to come with confidence and boldness unto God and to call him Father through Iesus Christ Rom. 8.14.15 Gal. 4.5 6. The spirit it self also dwells and abides in them as the chiefest evidence of their being the children of God Iohn 14.16 17. Rom. 8.16 1 John 4.13 2. Regeneration Sanctification and Repentance which are the same in effect is a renewing of the Heart and a subduing and cleansing of the Power and Filth of sin with a quickning of the soul to live like Christ these are absolutely necessary to salvation John 3.3 5. Rom. 6 c. Yet these also as well as Faith are the gifts and works of God which he giveth through and for the sake of his Son and works by his Spirit in those whom he intends to save Ezek. 36.26 27 28. Acts 11.18 c. 3. No man much less all men hath by nature or before his conversion either the Spiritual light or true Faith or Christ or his Spirit in them or a will or love to that which is spiritually good or power to come to Christ or to be subject to his Law and Will but by nature and before conversion the best are blind unbelieving without Christ and without the Spirit unwilling wilful weak and wicked John 3.5 6. Rom. 5.6 8.7 Eph. 2.1 2 c. Yet sinning against the Light and Law of Nature and not worshipping God according to what is revealed of him by the works of Creation they are left inexcusable Rom. 1.20 21. Concerning Redemption from the Curse of the Law All true Believers are really and actually redeemed from the Curse and power or Dominion of the Law and are under Grace or the Blessings Promises and Privileges of the Covenant of Grace both Temporal and Eternal Rom. 6.14 7 4 6. Gal 3.13 On the contrary all Unbelievers and wicked persons are and remain under the Law and Covenant of works Gal. 5.4 Concerning the two Covenants From the beginning of the world there have been two Covenants in being viz. The Covenant of Grace and the Covenant of works called the Law and the Gospel and all and every person in the world have been and are under one of them the first requiring the Obedience of works the other the Obedience of Faith and these are the conditions of the two Covenants Rom. 10.4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11. Heb. 8.7 8. c. 10.15 16 c. 22. Concerning Perseverance in Grace Those that do truly believe and are once in and under the New Covenant and in the true grace of God as the Apostle speaks Rom. 5.2 cannot absolutely fall and utterly perish for they are passed from death to life John 5.24 they are in Christ and God the Fathers hand John 10.28 29. they have the Spirit abiding in them unto eternal life 1 John 3.24 they sit together in heavâ—â—ly places in Christ Eph. 2.5 6. and he makes intercession for them John 17.20 and the Decree Oath and Promises of God are sure to all the seed Rom. 4.16 that they shall not depart from God Jer. 32.40 1 Iohn 3.9 and that he will never leave nor forsake them Heb. 13-5 6. and that he or every one that believeth shall be saved Mark 16.16 and shall not come into condemnation for there is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus Rom. 8.1 Concerning assurance of Salvation i. Believers are to be exhorted to make their calling and election sure 2 Pet. 1.10 and this they may certainly attain unto for God hath promised it Christ hath prayed for it and many of the Saints have attained unto it 1 John 2.3 5. 3.14 c. 2. Though there are many signs and evidences of the truth of grace laid down in the Scripture and such as Believers may find in themselves as Love to God and to his people respect to all Gods Commands and hatred to sorrow for and power against all in-bred corruption c. Yet the chiefest and most undoubted evidence is the spirit it self 1 Iohn 3.24 4.13 and the Witness and Sealing of it Rom. 8.15 Eph. 1.13 which Believers have most commonly after they believe and not at their first believing Gal. 3.14 and there may be a true Faith mingled with much Doubting Mat. 14.31 and many of the children of light may walk in darkness and be ignorant of their state Isa 50.10 Yet such bruised Reeds God will not break nor quench such smoaking Flax i. e. such weak and Doubting Christians or their Faith till he bring forth Judgment into victory or help them to overcome Mat. 12.20 21. 3. It is possible also that such believers as have attained unto a full Assurance may afterwards either through the hiding of Gods countenance for Tryal of them or by falling into some great sin or by some sore and violent temptation or through their Remissness in Religious Duties or the like have their Assurance darkned shaken and weakned and thereby their Souls may be much troubled and discomforted Psal 30.7 Cant 2.1 2. 5.2 3 c. yet in their darkest and most doubting condition they cleave unto the Lord remember his former dealings acknowledge these doubts to be their Infirmities and they find and feel some workings of the Spirit and Grace within them and still continue in Prayer and other Ordinances waiting upon the Lord till he return unto them revive them restore the joy of his Salvation and settle them in their old Estates as he hath promised For this read Psal 22. 51. 77. throughout Lam. 3. Isa 8.17 50.10 c. Concerning Growth and Perseverance in Grace 1. Those that have true Grace whether little or much they should labour to grow therein and to add one Grace to another going from strength to strength perfecting holiness in the fear of God and still
happinâ—â—â— of a good m n above the wicked that the Lord stands at the right hand of the one and the Devil at the right haâ—d of the other Psal 109.31 compareâ— with the 6. verse This day I was learning that a Christian should endeavour to peâ—â—orm all his duties 1. more intâ—rely or with his whole Heart Psal 111.1 119. 2. 2. More delightfully Psal 119.16.53 47 70. Rom. 7.22 3. With more judgement and discretion Psal 112 5. 4. With perseverance Col. 4.2 This morning I was overcome with passion and frowardness which made me enquire into the reason of that and other Corruptions I was observing this that it is a mercy to have the Soul come to its place again after sin but far better not to go out of its place at all this Night I had a very sore and strong Temptation but was through the grace of God supported and strengthened from the consideration of Christ that was tempted who considers those that are tempted also from his Prayer Iohn 17.11 and from those two promises Isa 59.19 James 4.7 I fled to the Lord by Prayer and he delivered me and I trust he also will deliver me Being the Lords day I had my Heart in a reasonable good frame in the morning in Prayer I was observing that God exalteth himself even then when he humbleth himself to look on men Psal 113.6 marg I found my Heart much raised and enlarged in Prayer for Gods work and People had faith therein I observed from Isa 38.17 For Peace I had great Bitterness c. I learned that a Christians condition is murable and therefore he should be contented with his condition what ever it be and whether comfortable or miserable he should look that God may soon alter it and he should not desire to go out of one state into another till he hath gotten good by being in the former 2. That Gods love is not only seen in the removing affliction from us but in afflicting of us also 3. That Gods People should learn to gain assurance and experience by affliction This Evening I was much refreshed in reading Bains upon the Ephes especially one chap. the 1.13 and the 4.30 Concerning the sealing of the Spirit This day I observed the duty and resolution of a sincere Christian viz. to walk before the Lord. Psal 116.9 Gen. 24.40 I was also thinking how necessary it is for a right Christian that desires to walk holily to observe carefully the inward workings of the Spirit of God as also the secret wayes and methods of sin I was convinced also how uneffectual it is for a Christian to promise or resolve any thing in his own strength I learned from David that he oft mentions serving and seeking God with his whole Heart which dutieâ— I love and would learn more experimentally and practically according to Psal 112.2.10.34.69 This day I was enlarged and somewhat softened in the duty of Prayer several times and convinced what an evil it is in Gods sight 1. To be long under affliction unhumbled and uncleansed Jer. 44.10 Jos 22.17 and especially to sin wittingly and to add sin to sin I was considering of four duties to repent for sin to redeem time to get fuller assurance and to prepare for Christ I was also affected with some news that concerned the People of God This day I was observing that though a true Christian may have a sound Heart and Faith in the word of the Lord yet he may be as a Bottle in the smoak dry and withered yea and fainting and failâ—ing for the Lord and his salvation Psal 119.80 81 82 83. I learned this also that disappointment â—n ones expectation causeth dejection and trouble This day having had a long and serious discourse with a knowing Gentleman I observed somewhat more then even I had done before concerning the Image of God and the new man mentioned in Ephes â— 24. Col. 3.10 I had consideration also that Child of God may easily see to the end of or beyond all that the men of the world can do to him I had some inlargedness and softness of Heart in Prayer also I observed several things from 1. Thess 2. I observed the following Lessons 1. That by gaining understanding from and delight in the Statutes and Precepts of the Lord a Christian comes to hate every falce and wicked way Psal 119.97.104 2. To seek to get a Heart inclined alwayes to perform Gods Statutes verse 112. 3. That when a Soul hath an intention to keep Gods Commandements he will abstain from the company of evil doers verse 115. I had great trouble and sorrow in my Heart in the Evening from a Letter I had from a Brother tuâ—ned Quaker but my Heart was much drawn forth to to pray for him This day being Lords day in the morning I had my Heart drawn forth again to pray earnestly for that Brother and had my Spirit several times somewhat revived this day and among several other things which I observed 1. That a Child of God be altered much in the frame of his Spirit from better to worse as Baruch also Ionah c. 2. That a time of common calamity it will be a mercy for a religious man to have his life as Baruch was p omised to have Jer. 45.5 3. I observing how God may punish a good man in the same kind that he sins as Asa with pain in his Feet aâ— he had put the Prophet in the Stocks before 2. Chron. 16.10 12 compared 4. Oh what an evil it is in a Christian to sin David was told that he despised the Lord and his Commandement 2 Samuel 12.8.10 5. From Ezek. 10.11 that the Wheels that is either they Angels Saints or the providences of God they followed the head and turned not as they went so should we follow Christ 6. It is observeable that God takes notice of all that is in the minds of men Ezek. 11.5 as well as all the words in their Tongues as the frame of mens Spirits so they think of God for if they be holy and faithful they conceive so of God This day also I found the evil of my Heart to be in one frame when it should be in another as to rejoyce when it should mourn I lost oppertunities this day to serve the Lord by discourses with several sorts of persons especially some that pretend to the Virgin life who mightily sleight Iesus of Nazareth and the Scriptures which made me strongly oppose them and do with them as the Apostle commands 2. Iohn 10. that promise also was sweet unto me Psal 121.3 He will not suffer thy Feet to be moved This day in the Morning and at Noon I had my Heart drawn out and softned more then ordinary in Prayer yet I found my Heart suddenly moved to anger this was in divers sences a day of great kindnes from the Lord I was observing from Hos 12. 1. That fear care and trembling are especial means to keep the
at the time or nature of sufferings 8 To know remember confess and bewaile many sins which I was long ago guilty of 9. To search and find out many weaknesses which I was guilty of in Preaching perticularly levity setting forth Self and natural paâ—ts too much 10. To understanâ— divers Scriptures clearer and better I hope then I did before 11. To withdraw my eyes ear and heart from tempting objects Being the Lords day I was in the morning refreshed p ivately and in the afternoon the Lord was pleased to meet with my condition unexpectedly in two things also I observed the special care of the Church to please Christ and her fear to displease him mentioned three times Cant. 2.7 and 3.5 8.4 This day from Isa 1. God poynted out two things to me 1 To cease from sin cease to do evil verse 16. 2 I will take away all thy â—in ver 25. I also apprehended that the Pâ—ophesy in that 2 chap. is not yet fulfilled compare verse 4.19 21. together and those words in verse the 9 forgive them not c. This day I had a strong conviction of the sin of resisting or neglecting the motions of the spirit and upon a temptation to give way to sinful thinking I found power to side with and imbrace the spirits motions rather then the other I had a Letter from C. R. P. that refreshed me I was observing that when the Lord doth intend to secure a person preserve it he doth sanctifiâ— purge it that from Isa 4.4.5 ye or when he doth intend to make use of a man 2 Tim. 2.20.21 two other Scriptures I hope were lâ—â—d to my heart 2 Kings 10.9 But Jâ—hâ— took no heed to walk in the Law of the God of â—sâ—â—el withal hâ—s heart but espe ially to take heed of sin of trespassing in affliction more against the Lord 2 â—n on â—8 22. two sins I was likewise convinced of â—mâ—pend ng time and doing nothing extrao dinary for God and having a very streight dry hâ—â—â—rowâ— d God his cause people and wayes This dâ—y â—â—ing pâ—â—t of it spent in prayer I found my heart so â—e â—hat affected though often moâ—e my soul was vâ—â—y desiâ—oâ—s â—o have power over my affections 〈◊〉 I observed from Isa the 5 5. That when God doâ—h take aâ—â—â— me cy he doth the same time give men up â—o judgement bâ—t in thâ— 13 verse of that Chap. there S n â—xcellenâ— promise that when the Lord is exalted the lambs shall feed af er their manner that Sâ— in â—â—e Phil. 1.29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ was I get to me i. e. by grace from 〈◊〉 his â—â—ke to beleive and sâ—ffer or on his behal i. e. foâ— taking part with Christ ye suffer I was assaulted to the morning with temptations yet after some diâ—tuâ—bance had some freedome from them yâ—â— observed a seasonable word from Isa 6.6.7 That as soon as hâ— Angel had taken the live coal from the Altaâ— and touched and laid it upon the Prophets mouth declared that his iniquityes were taken awâ—y and his sin purged so God can easily and speedilâ—â—â—move â—â—n from any other Saint This â—â—â—â—ning having some p ovacation I found my â—elâ—â—eâ—dy p esen ly to be moâ—d it 〈…〉 against him that accused â—e 〈…〉 towards my self also too much inclination to self justification suitable also in my course of reading was that Scripture Isa 7.12 where Ahaz thinking at least seemingly to avoid tempting God by asking a signe run into another sin viz. disobedience and Rebellion against God This day I had some full refreshings from the Lord and a fuller sence of things upon my heart then ordinary This was a day of light affliction upon my body of pain in my back which I supposed might have incâ—eased and heightned to a heavier distemper but â—he Loâ—d removed it by his bâ—essing upon small means I was dâ—awn out in my spi it to pâ—aise God for it â—as also to observe how the profits did take notice how the hand of the Lord was stretched out still Isa 9 12.17 â—0 4 whence I would learn to obsâ—ve the hand of God in affliction also I took notice of two sore evils in the people under affliction 1. Not to return unto the Lord 2. not to seek him in affliction yet two special promises chap. 10.20.21 That they should stay upon the Lord and return to the mighty God Thiâ—â—ay being the Lords day I had some real breathings of the spirit of the Lord in prayer as I conceived also freedome from temptation and a heart to praise God â—or it in some degree I was taken up with several thoughts which often amuze me 1. Of the word Patience of God 2. of his special love to me rather then others 3. of his infinite wisdome and power in the resurrection of man I had many observations as from Isa 11.3 that Christ a spirit of quick understanding or scent or smell as t is in the margent in the fear of the Lord such a spirit would I have I was also strongâ—y perswaded that that Chapter was not yet fulfilled also sweet was that word to me Chap. 12.1 Though thou wast angry with me thine anger is turned away and thou comfortest me This morning I was troubled with sinful thoughts and truly there are the sins that trouble me most but I found a heaâ—t to pray against them earnestly But God brought a most sweet word in a sweet manner to me viz. Ier. 13.19 Thou shalt call me thy father and shall not turn from me also another word in Chap. 5.10 Go up upon her walls but make not a full end â—lso from Isa 14.3 The Lord shall give thee rest from thy sorrow and from thy fear and from thy hard bondage and in the 30. verse the needy shall lye down in safety Some experiences recorded by him in a sickness he had the 3. of the 3 month 1658. Isay 28.9 The writing of Hezekiah King of Ind. when he had been sick and recoverd of his sickness 1. VVHen the Lord was pleased to visite me upon the suddain so sharply that I thought li e was flying and death seasing upon me God shewed me that all the world and creatures therein were all helpless 2. Looking up to God with a weak faith and in few words the Lo d was pleased to give some ease and releif by mitigating the pain 3. Afterwards when I came towards my designed place God ordered that some professors should meet with me who shewed mercy both in bringing me into a house and giving notice to brethren 4. That when I came to the house in extreamity of pain the Lord did give me some suddain and sweet sleep for 3 houres or more 5. That both upon the way when I was scarce able to stand and in the house when I was thirsty the Lord did enable me to deny my self that I neither sate down on the grass nor drank both which would have
shall be a fruitful Land Upon the thirsty parched ground Pools of Water shall stand This Cloud of Witnesses do all agree to teach That it is lawful on a Hill or Mount to Pray and Preach Here on appears the Grass that feeds the Beasts and Beasts Men Why should not men upon a Hill praise God for their fond then That God who dwells on high and yet is every where Will now be serv'd in Spirit in every place with fear My Pulpit and my Pew shall be a Turfe of Grass As well as Wainscot in a Kirk for I prize every place Alike to worship God who dwelleth every where For that which I in places look is whether Christ be there Upon Preaching in a Market place A Merchant brought from far rich Ware and Pearls to sell Where many came but not to buy yet some approved well The Sellar and the rate and rich Commodity Some ask the Servant what 's the price he said t is cheap come Buy Here 's Gold and rich Garments here 's Oyl here 's Milk here 's Wine Thou wants come quick accept of Christ and all there shall be thine Who is thy Master Christ in Power he is here In Person in high Paradice would you go to him there O yes to Heaven we would go how shall we thither reach Come near and hearken to his Word his â—pirit will you teach The pirit said I le shew and work what 's to be known and done They aâ—swered make us willing Lord then to thee we will run A Dialogue betwixt Time and Youth Time speaks Time I am hoâ—e headed ready to depart I waited for thee but thou hast not heart To think how I have turn'd so oft my Glass The least and lowest Sands runs now apace If once I turn my Back no locks behind Thou 'lt seek me when and where thou'lt not me find Youth Youth My aged Father do not weary be Have patience yet a while I will apply My self to that which profits in the End T is time enough for young men to amend I must have recreation fit for Youth Let Old men if they will ply Time and Truth Time Farewel the Glass is out Death takes my place Youth Oh time I pray thee stay whilst I have grace Our Time is short our journey long our Work undone in part Our Thread near spun our Glass near run all this unlaid to Heart Upon the apprehension of Christs love to me and the feeling of my love to him Who would not love thee Lord more then Self Sin or World Who would not ravisht be That sees thy Love or thee Who can think of thy Name and not leap at the same My names V.P. who Lord loves thee Upon the occasion of a Tooth-ach No pain like that my Saviour bore for me No suffering like his suffering on the Tree VVhich he did bear not for himself but me Oh what love was herein A plated Crown of pricking Thorns he wore Blows on his Head Spits on his Face he bore Besides base shame and scorn sure this was sore But more he bore for sin Gaul was his Meat and Vinegar his Drink A Brook he drank from Pottom to the Brink My Blood should write his Bruises not my Ink Thy Blood Lord wrought my Peace A Flood of wrath stream'd through his Soul within The Law him lash'd so did Satan and sin Till Death him sunk and Grave swallowed him in Thus did my Lord decease Shall Tooth ach then or pain from one small Bone Make me have sence of Self more then that one Come thoughts of Christs pain in mine own begone For Christ will heal thee sure That Balm and Brazen Serpent that cures me Is that which cur'd the Worlds great malady Nothing like this Panpharmaâ—on can be Which Tooth and all will cure The Saints Portion after death Strangers we are whilst we are here clad with carnallity Sojourning towards our long home even Eternity T wil not be long before we reach unto our journeys end Our Morning 's past Evening doth hast towards our rest we bend VVho knocks T is I what is thy Name my Name is dreadful Dea h What is thy business now with me t is for to fetch thy Breath VVe come my Freind I look'd for thee come shew me thy Commission From Christ thy Master and my Lord with thee then I le begon Loe here it is take it and read hold t is his Seal and Hand I know it will here I le not dwell but obey his command Come thou away come quickly dear I long to see thy Face My Father also sent for thee come quickly come apace I come I come ope then the Door give light for it is dark The entries straight Lord lend thy hand that I may reach the mark The Gulf twixt thee and me is great I cannot through it venter Till thou lets down thy safe draw-Bridge I have no hopes to enter Centenel let down the Bridge let in my Freind to me Oh welcome welcome my dear one my Heart did long for thee Now sweet Son thou shalt see my Face for which thou didst so long Thou shalt with me abide for aye Angels and Saints among Thou shalt not Sigh nor Sob again thy Sins thou shalt not see Thy Blemishes and Weaknesses no longer trouble thee Thou shalt have rest from thy Labours thy works shall follow thee All Angels and all Saints that are or ever were thou'lt see Thou shalt be Crown'd with Righteousness yea with a glorious Crown Yea thou shalt in full brightness shine as doth the beautious Sun Thou shalt sit on my Throne to judge Angels and wicked Men Thy Scandals shall be washed off sitting on high till when The Kingdome I deliver up to thy Father and minâ— VVho shall be all in all for aye in whom wee 'l be and shine Hallelujahs to thee my Lord to thee for ever more To thy Father and sweet Spirit I three in one adore Upon the Persecution T is a sad age when ther 's such rage against poor harmless Doves VVho through their need seek Meat to feed from him their Soul that Loves A sudden change yet not so strange is come upon poor Saints Alas dear ones God hears their Groans their moans and sad complaints The wicked strive Husbands from VVives to separate and part And the Shephards from their own Herds that joyntly with one heart Would serve their Lord with one accord after his VVord and VVill But Dogs and VVoolves and cruel Elves that seek themselves would kill The innocent that no hurt meant but spent their time and strength To seek the way that poor Souls they through Christ may gain at length That great reward which God prepar'd and car'd for long ago They will obtain and the same gain in spite of every Foe Another O God our God we by the Rod are brought in part to see There is no man that will or can but thy sâ—le â—â—â—esty Hear the complaints of thy dear
E ntred he is to glory through that way L aid open by him whilst he here did stay L ove thou the Paths of Life in this your day An Elogy on the Death of the Precious and Faithful Servant of the Lord Mr. Vavasor Powell who dyed in Prison for the Testimony of Jesus Christ. TRiumphant holy soul at last set free By Order from above to Liberty Most Glorious from Bonds of 10 years date In closest Prisons Castles desolate In Jeremiahs Dungeon and with John In Patmos Isle Brother Companion Th' Accusers charge the same pretended crimes For witnessing ' gainst Sodom's sins o' th times For the word of God and Testimony true To Jesus Christ and what Obedience due To his blest Gospel Kingdom Government O're Saints and Nations in establishment England with Sackcloth gird thy self lament And howle who stonest zealous Prophets sent To call and warn and witnesses dost kill To stop their mouths thy measure great to fill Thy day is come year of thy visitation Thy bloody sins presage thy desolation Lament benighted Wales thy Prophets gone Who or'e thee us'd to weeps and still bemoan Thy sins and souls when willing hearts did fly Like Doves to th'windows to 's blest ministry Cry out my Father Israels Chariots gone The Horse-men also and l'me left alone Where is Eliahs God Oh cry let some A double portion of his spirit come On mournful watchmen left whose souls do give The Lord no rest till Zions glory live Here is the patience of the Saints that keep Christs testimony till they fall asleep Victorious soul hence from thy labours rest Thou dying for and in the Lord art blest Thy soul made up of love and not confin'd To narrow judgment but with Saints combin'd As Saints in tender sweet Communion Still mourning after all their Union Under the Altar now thy blood doth cry How long till Christ arise to victory Mean while white Robes are given thee untill The last sore Plagues the Nations shall fill And Saints with Crowns return dust rais'd again To Judge the world with Christ and with him reign VAVASOR POWELL Anagram Vp al leau ' Sorow V nto thy long'd fo◠Jesus thou art fled A ll Saints the while lamenting thou art dead V pon them yet methinks I hear thee call A Las why weep you I am out of thrall S ouls where I am do Hallelujas sing O hast and follow to attend your King R est thou sweet soul in thy eternal joys P oor mortals what have we but transient toyes O nce thou didst live to Preach thy Saviours grace W ell now rewarded with his glorious face E nvy did haste thy joys create our woe L ord pardon them that know not what they do L et us turn grief to care lift up our hearts Thou art secure may we so act our parts An Epitaph A Corps lyes here whose soul 's above Debaucht mens hate devout mens love The Welch mens friend the maul of sin Who wooed all did many win Within this Grave one lyes inhum'd Whose prayers the prisons had perfum'd Haunted by Nimrods in his Life Waits for the joy of the Lambs wife In Honourable memory of my Esteemed Friend VAVASOR POWELL Acrostick Anagram Pale Sorow Vale. V ain are those hopes fixt on best things below A s providence by proof this day doth show V iew well this Tomb there resteth in this place A Cabinet of Gifts experience grace S o famous faithful forward in Gods ways O ut doing most 'bove most deserving praise R eaps now rewards is crown d with conquering Bayes P owell the great Apostle once in Wales O n stubborn hearts his Doctrine much prevails W i th dexterous skill and with admired success E ach Sermon Preacht abundantly was blest L abouring and suffering till his strength did fail L et all mourn moderate but Pale Sorow Vale. Vailed first in flesh then Prison now Earths womb Possess thee till Christ glorious day doth come Vpon the Death of that Faithful Servant of the Lord and constant witness of his truth Mr. Vavasor Powell who dyed a Prisoner of the Lord the 27 of the 8 moneth 1670. VAVASOR POWELL Anagram V. P. a savor well An other Lov 's paver awe V aliant for truth on Earth a good degree A mongst Gods worthies was attaind by thee V ast was thy knowledge thy experience such A s few there are do equalize by much S o Wales thy native Country can tell O f how great worth how much thou didst excell R eproach'd however thou didst Savour well P roved thou wast by tryals manifold O re now refined into purest Gold W eeping we 're left thy sable shrone about E ach thought of thee a fresh sigh sending out L ook here Lov 's paver hath to death resign'd L ook once again a Wo is left behind Unworthy world thou in it couldst not rest Paid off thy score receiv'd th' quietus est If I would choose how I discharg'd would be Fain would I choose a like discharge with thee On Vavasor Powells death a Memorial by 〈◊〉 Friend in three Elegies 1. VIctorious cruell death O greedy grave A mbitious still the sweetest blood to have V ain's thy assauit th' ast here but lost thy sting A nd now among the just his spirit shall sing S ure thou' rt deceiv'd this partial victory O re flesh and bones the holy soul made free R eleas'd at once from flesh and prison too P owells discharg'd which Power refus'd to doe O kind and friendly stroak what death kind grown W ell was it said and true even deaths our own E re long how he escapt his judge will trie Life suckt by long confinement makes a cry Vile age the vertuous ones thus to suppress Promoting vice on high and wickedness A Threnetick for Sion 2 Elegy in 12 Odes 1. But stay what 's this something 's amiss About this guilty City Hark what a cry ecchoes on high Which few hear fewer pitty 2. The voyce is Sions among the Lyons And in the Leopards Denns Alas shhe cryes where shall my eyes From tears be wip't and when 3. My sighs and sorrows by tears plough Furrows Upon my face it grieves That widdows scorn must thus be born VVhilst yet my husband lives 4. At once affected and yet rejected VVhat bought and sold again By bloud once sav'd yet now inslav'd To fierce and bloudy men 5. Ah what 's the reason in such a season Of hopes of prayers and tears Our lights so misted and bands so twisted And yet loe greater fears 6. That Turtle Dove Christs only love O're flames hangs in suspense My sons decease and griefs increase Gods anger 's more intense 7. My helps are gone and now I 've none To take me by the hand The best are taken the rest be shaken O' t puts my loyns t' a stand 8. Sure 't bodes a stroak if God revoke Embassadors of peace Our days soon end if to contend His spirit our