and darkness which is not founded by positive institution only but in the immutable nature of these things themselves and tho I design to speak more fully to this hereafter yet should this be of highest use to strenthen the Christian faith to look in with the serious use of reason on the whole frame of Paganisme as it was in ancient times or of Mahumetisme in this day where even under a sense of the law and dictates of nature such a sight were enough to expose the very name and form of Religion to be just matter of abhorrence and to be the highest reproach of mankind and thus see whither so brutish and horrid a thing could ever claim a reception either on the purity of its rule or any internal evidence of truth or possible consistence with its self so that to have no sense or beleef of the glorious being of God is not worse or more dreadful then to have the highest contumely and affront thus put on the divine nature and which tends rather to justify Atheism This enquiry were it suitably improven could not but render that dilemma unansuerable either a Christian or of no Religion at all either that which we enjoy according to the Laws and constitutions of the Christian faith or else an absolute nullity as to all Religion and that no such sacred thing had a being on the earth INQUIRY II. But as it is not possible to hold by the truth of a Godhead or to have any trew enjoiment of Religion without a further and unavoidable progresse to the Christian Faith so must the first entry hereof be on the old Testament and by a necessar result upon this inquiry if the God of truth gave such a promise of a redeemer to mankind after the fall and that on this great assurance the faith of the ancient Church did entirly rest that so glorious a person as the Messias should come and be anointed to that work of redeemingman and bringing him again to God since tâ—is must be first cleared and our faith fixed on the same ere we can enter on any enjoiment of the Ghospel for the faith of the new Testament is not attainable else but in such an order and settlement of our faith in the old and hath ane absolute dependance on the same wherein the weight of this enquiry lyes 1. To see the truth and nature of that promise which was the first immediate object of the Churches faith to be irrevocable and absolute and given to be declarative of the immutable purpose and counsel of God herein and not dependant upon any condition in man 2. How this one great promise was given to be the original right and warrant of all other promises which doe wholly center in him in whom they are yea and amen 3. As a promise of such a nature that reason must stand amazed at the greatnes hereof and cry out can this possibly be yea the more deep enquiry herein must highten such ane astonishment and make the soul of a Câ—ristian sinke under the thoughts of such a thing that God wil in very deed bear such regard to man this being a truth of that concern as it might seem strange how one day should pass over men without some fresh reviving of such a reflection 4. To see how high a value and account God put upon that one promise by so long a delay and procrastination of the same as a promise worthy of the Churches waiting and expectation of the same for 4000. Years 5. This enquiry must lye here to see the first entry of the Christian Faith on the world in its precise time and date and how such a light did not shine on Adam and Eve in the state of perfection whilst they stood in a state of tryal upon a perfect obedience to their God but with the falling doun of that dismal night of there fall did the glory of this light first dawn that there might be no utter darkness in the state of mankind as in that of the fallen angels whereby the final condemnatory sentence on the one and releef for the other were made known and promulgate together and the room of the first Adam filled up with a higher glory by the second 6. How this blessed light tho with a gradual increase did never cease to shine on this world since it began to dawn nor hath there ever ceased a peculiar people in a Church relation who were distinct and separate from the residue of men whose profession was founded in the alone faith of a redeemer so as one day hath not been since the first entry of that promise wherein the sun did shine on the earth when the sun of righteousness did not shine also by vital influences of light and power and where the Churches head had not some part of his body here to converse with as the peculiar objects of his complaisance and love and did rejoice in the habitable parts of the earth tho that some ages have had a higher glory assigned thereto and a larger extent of the Church yet would he not restrict the ingathering of his elect to any special periods of time or let each age want a share of this glory and of a seed to be as salt to the earth 7. But this enquiry goes further to see these measures of evidence and divine condeshendence which was given to support the faith of the ancient Church on that great promise even by an ocular discovery to the outward sence as in the whole frame and successive course of the legal sacrifices and these numerous figures and types in that long preparatory service wherein he did not let his people feed on asshes naked shadows and where nothing was inept or usless but was expresly significative of that highest mystery of Christ and could possibly bear no other sence or intent and since the whole stress of the Christian Faith lyes upon this one promise or what can make the state of man valeuable in any true enjoiement of his life here it s on this head should be sett the first settlement of our faith for I know no releef but in a promised redeemer and if it were not for the old Testament I could not possibly be a Christian if the morning and growing-light of that glorious mystery had not gone before its meridian hight and as a clear conduct to the next step I shall enter on A III. INQUIRY to know that this fundamental promise of a redemers coming to the world is assuredly made good and is no more a matter of faith but of sense that its sure our eyes see such a day and long expected period of time and can be no dark or doubtful thing now to be a Christian but may enter on its profession in the open light but to clear how with the same evidence of the certainty of the promise we may see its performance also and if we be sure of the one that it is not possible to be
disrelishing to the spirit of most this day then such a thing but wisdom is justified of her Children and with such let my soul be joined in 9. As it is known and sure that here is no illusion or imaginary thing where any fallacy or deceit lyes to the most judicious and observing Christians who knows herein what makes them glad and whence it is and how no assistance of their own spirit or in the power of nature could possibly impart such a thing so may it be astonishing how such who live under the Profession of Christ and hath any design on ane eternal stare in Heaven can take this on report or be so little inquisitive about so wonderful a truth that there should be such ane enjoiment here on the earth which without any natural cause can put the soul of men into ane entire rest and settlement and when under greatest shakings and fears other ways cause them know the truth of pardon and peace with God with a sure evidence yea at so low ane ebb can immediatly revive and raise with so discernable a change in their inward case for if this be ane undoubted matter of experience it should be not easie for men to live without tryall hereof themselves 10. Let me add further here is a part of that communion which Christians have within time with the most excellent of the earth and such who in all ages of the Church have been the greatest lovers of God and adventurers for him such with whom he hath been most familiar and hath admit not only to the allowance of Subjects but the regard of favourites who hath known how great a Rewarder he is of his own grace yea such who have made the most exact inquiry and tryall upon the truth and security of their comfort herein and hath put to their seall that God is faithfull and true in that he hath thus promised 4. There is this special use to be made of such ane enquiry on the truth of inward experience to see how great and wonderful a Subject we have for reflection hereon and of what singular advantage this should be for strenthning the soul of a Christian against the workings of unbeleef and to give a more full security of mind in the adventures of hope and relyance upon God for things to come It is sure the reflex faculty of man is one of the greatest wonders of nature and if the spiritual use and improvement hereof were more understood on this Subject and what it is to dive in to these still and deep waters it might make such be oft as a wonder to themselves I shall but point at a few reflex acts of a Christian on this great mystery of spiritual experience to shew what manner of enjoiments these are admit to herein which the whole residue of mankind knows nothing of 1. To have such great supernatural truths of the Scripture which did once exceed their faith and reason to be now matter of undoubted experience in the truth power and efficacy hereof on their own souls and thus to know what belongs to the enjoiments of spiritual sence which formerly seemed so darke and incomprehensible a thing yea how great a difference there is betwixt the clearest Acts of the Judgment and understanding about divine things and a reall fealing of the same in the power and vertue thereof betwixt the most sublime apprehensions by theory and the sensible impressions by the Holy Ghost and what a present and marvelous change this makes on the soull of a Christian 2. To enjoy the same no less under a full evidence and certainty of the truth thereof as the alone and immediate Work of God then in their felt power and sweetnesse that here was no casual thing or matter of doubtfulness or uncertainty but where they can clearly see the object of their faith on the truth of divine Revelation now to be the object of there inward Sence and enjoyment and are sure that what God hath spoken he hath done according to the same for if this be not clear Spiritual comforts would be of low value if it were not with that evidence and assurance of being Gods seall as they could adventure their eternal state on the truth hereof 3. And how sweet a part is it when they can thus reflect on their own experience and enjoy the same with no less evidence of the proper cause and original then of the truth of its effects which is one of the greatest helps to give stability and assurance to our Faith to see how the power of Religion is never barren of new experiments of the truth hereof how the greatest objective means in the way of light cannot doe if there were not an Internal effective cause that works powerfully herein and as in nature so in the way of grace how the same cause which makes us live must make us move and act yea to see how the same spirit that confirms a Christian on the truth of his state and of the enjoiments of grace here does confirm Christianity and the enjoyments of glory which must infallibly follow the same and ere long be a matter of their experience also 4. To know this way that surely a nearer intimacy is to be enjoyed with God and of a higher kind which is by the communion of the Holy Ghost then by the immediate ministry of the Angels yea a greater evidence thus given to a Christians soul then by any external miracles since this is a seall of that nature as is given to none but such as are the objects of the divine complacence and delight and its sure the alone greatest evidence of divine love lyes in the internal part of Christianity and these immediate operations of the Spirit of God more then by any external providences 5. To see how these great things of experience come under a present tryall and given to be experienced here on the earth and are not some rare contingency or what may be stated on an extraordinar account but does keep closs with a tender walk and near entercours with God through a Christians whole course and thus knows what such an anointing with fresh oyl means Psalm 92 10. by innumerable reiterated times of such enjoiment yea how the sense and sweetness thereof comes not then by the power and workings of reason but the immediatness of the divine presence tho even then it does not exclude such a discursive work in the clearness of Spiritual reason and light as can fully quiet the mind that here is no illusion or deceit but le ts us see that the Spirit of God can make use of an argument to settle and secure the soul when all essays whither from themselves or others can give no releaf 6. Thus are they admitt to see herewith how deep the foundation of our comfort and security is layd on the faithfulness of God in his revealed truth so as the whole frame of Christianity must be
dissolved and fall ere one special act of trust and adventure on his hand and under the assured warrant of his truth should be frustrate and that the safe conduct also and security of one Christian in his passage through time is of that consequence and so essential a part of the great frame of providence that this should not be entire and perfect if it should fail as to the meanest of the Saints to make so great a nullity herein 7. And is it not in such a reflex work on the truth of experience that such can only know the sweet enjoiments of times past and what that peculiar comfort of remembrance means which I must reckon one of the rarest and most unknown enjoiments this day under the Sun since it is sure this can never be from the greatest delights of the earth when once passed which as they return no more so does ever leav a bitter sting and remembrance by a native result of the same whilst that which hath been experienced in the way of God can neither perish nor lose its sweetness but will render the most afflicting part of their life past which was most bitter and sore then to be the most comforting part thereof to their remembrance when they can see herein both what they have designed for God and he hath done for them 8. If there be any comfort of love in the Communion of the Saints here within time they may see how this is not attainable but in the light of inward experience whence they know what it is to meet and have fellowship in the same Savour and relish of the things of God when in a spiritual frame and to be mutually disclosed as they can discern something of the excellency of one anothers spirit and of the power and lively workings of inward grace by that native lustre and evidence which thus followes the same so as under the sensible power of such attractions their souls are more closely unite and joined together yea are mutually strenthned by other conflicts and what experiments they have made of divine truth herein as to their releaf And I must say where this is not understood that great mystery of the Communion of the Saints is but a strange and dark notion nor without this can that special design of the Lord in the settlement of Churches in a visible state be either known or answered which is to have external ordinances carried on with life and power amongst men and enjoying communion with our blessed head herein The VII and last INQUIRY I would make as to a more full assurance of understanding on the truth of our profession and for further clearing of this great Subject of the experimental part of Religion is to know the quality of the witnesses thereto which is an Inquiry of a higher concern and import then seems to be apprehended or of what weight and necessity this is upon these grounds 1. Because the whole truth of Spiritual experience is matter of fact and founded on a certainty of sense it is truth in the event and performance and not what God does speak but what according to the same he hath done so that this is not upon any principle of Faith but on mens personal tryall of the same according to that Isai 43 v. 10. ye are my witness says the Lord that ye may know and beleeve me and understand that I am he for tho it is of divine and infallible truth that whatever God hath assured by promise he will do yet the experience hereof since the Canon of the Scripture was sealed is of humane record and a testimony which could bear no weight from the greatest of men if the quality of such witnesses were not tried and considered herein 2. Because the highest pretence to spiritual enjoiments in the way of the promise is but a false testimony where there is no tender regard herewith to the precepts of the Ghospel when this connection is indissoluble Act 9. they walked in the fear of God and comforts of the Holy Ghost doe not my words good to them that walk uprightly Mica 2 7. It is true that choisest Christians may be much hid and in the dark herein to others and upon such an account should have a sad part if they were tryed and judged by men only this is sure there can be no more in the conclusion then is in the premises and that a Christians testimony to the truth lyes more in what they are then what they express to others 3. The quality of the witnesses is of such weight here and to be specially regarded as one of the highest services for God within time under their hand to put too their seall and testimony that God is true in what he hath promised who are as it were judicially sisted in behalf of his truth and faithfulnes since his declarative glory before angels and men does more peculiarly ly here then in the whole Structure and frame of this Creation This is a trust and debt also upon each age of the Church that the truth and faithfulnes of their God may be transmitt to the generations to come with such a confirmatory seall 4. This Inquiry is the more called for to know what these are who bear such a witnes to the truth upon the exceeding greatnes of these things which belong to Christian experience since this might awake the most sublime and inquisitive spirits of the time to search herein and be a Subject of great thoughts and reflection that such are on the earth yea an innumerable part of men who do verily enjoy so marvelous a light as is immediatly out of Heaven and shines upon none else and knowes such an enjoiment as an immediate communion with the Deity and his sensible presence with their Spirits with returns from Heaven to their suits in most reall effects since if this be sure then must men seek for another Idea of Christianity have other thoughts about the same then what most seem to have then is there a higher glory put upon mens souls in the way of grace and their beeing partakers of the divine nature then what all humane grandeur can ever amount to or is upon the Sun and the Stars of Heaven 5. The credit and quality of the Witnesses on this great head of Spiritual experience and the whole internal part of Christianity is of such weight that the spirit of this age and most predominant part of men within the Church is stated in so visible an opposition thereto not only to oppose the power and spirituality of Religion but to deny its principles and give a lye to this testimony of the most eminent workings of the spirit of God on mens souls as if it were some illusion or imposture which is in effect to take of the greatest seall that God hath given to the Divinity of the Scripture in the whole internal demonstrations of its truth this is the great prodigy of this age bejond any
endued with ane extraordinare Unction but if it respect the Quality and Holiness of the persons it surely must render this no less difficult that not only such as King Henry the VIII and his Daughter Queen Mary besides many others yea Richard the III. should on this account have the active faith of miracles and be empoured herewith from God for working of the same besides this it is known that the French Kings claim the same priviledge and power as peculiar to them alone and may not on this ground Lewis the XIV this day be reckoned a fit instrument for such a healing miracle and to bring a just repute and credit thereto 3. But whence is it that such a hereditary gift should not faill and be cutt off by the departure of England from the Romish Church since the first holding hereof was upon their adherence to the same and as a confirmatory Seall to the Romish Profession or that it should now controll the end for which it was given I know what some Popish Writers say hereon that this miracle is not now performed by such who have apostatised from that faith virtute propria sed virtute signi crucis but there needs no such Salvo as to reckon its being alienate now from serving for the same use and end it did before nor to have another rise if it were seriously pondered 4. But what interest in this cure hath the use of such a rite in applying with the touch a Medal of Gold to the Patient therewith or what vertue can this Amulet impart and so great a care taken that they should not lose it since it is sure this is not given out of charity to there outward want except it be from ostentation to shew they are endued with a gift which the Apostles had not when they cured the lame man and could make use of no such assistance of Silver or Gold herein Act. 3. 5. If the application of ane extraordinar gift for healing diseases without the use of natural means be aneugh to warrant the same and that such a cure is wrought without any further enquiry as to the cause and ground whereon it hath such an effect it is then sure the Devil and these Powers of darkness may have a publick and easie market in the Christian Church and exact an uncontrolled homage and subjection to them this way the extent of whose power for curing of disease is bejond our reach but since such a miraculous gift of healing if it be of God should be tryed in the truth thereof how it can answer to such peculiar evidences and criteria of the same as by the infallible rule and light of the Scripture may be clear it were suitable to try herein if this be indeed given to confirm and seall a divine testimony or any truth of the written Word if it come with that solemne and convincing evidence so as to serve a deep and reverent sense of the Majesty of God on mens spirit by such a discovery of himself and to promote piety and more firm adherence to the truth amongst men as the native effect that should follow a true miracle and so extraordinary a seall if it serve also to comptrol the Kingdom of Satan and strenthen the Christian Faith in opposition to Antichristian darkness and Idolatry yea if these who are thus empoured for so miraculous a cure have something suitable on their part of qualifications to such whom God hath ever made use off to work miracles otherwise it serves only to expose so great a seall to the Christian Faith wherein the Majesty of God in so august and solemne a way is revealed unto the highest contumely and reproach 6. Though this hath been a continued practice and that the matter of Fact and notority of experience herein in the truth of such a cure is not questioned yet if it be essentially requisite that such as claim to this power should do it in the Faith of a divine Warrant and assurance that it is of God with an immediate relyance on a special outsetting of some extraordinar power from him herein and of his call to rest on the same when it is without respect to any institute natural means yea that there spirit in such a case should be suited to so extraordinare a worke I judge it should then quickly cease as on the other hand that these who are deseased and apply themselves to such a cure should know the warrant of their faith herein else it were as justifiable to go to Loretta on such an account or to such who pretend by spells and charms to work extraordinary cures without any ordinary means for the same This is not to detract in the least from any just right or priviledge of Soveraing Princes and I judge these who are now on the Throne of Britain might lay as just a claim from personal qualifications thereto as any have gone before but in giving to Caesar what is due unto him we must not invade that Royalty and Prerogative which belongs to God only or to pretend to his seall and make use of it without his express warrant If any Protestant Writer have spoke their thoughts on such a head I have as yet seen none bu some time past I was necessarily called by a person of great worth to impart my light herein they beeing then much perplexed in spirit with respect to a near relation of theirs in order to their using such a mean and how small a reckoning may be made by many yet I find it related of that Famous Christian Mrs Honywood that the first rise of these terrors of conscience which keeped her so long was from consulting some mean as to the recovery of a childe in a way that was out of the roade of ordinar means and made her fear afterwards lest Satan might have a hand therein But I shall now cease to speak more on this subject and only shut up with some Reflections further which have been matter of serious thoughts to me 1. Whence it is that such who are of the most trying and comprehensive spirit hath usually been under greatest weight and exercise of minde about their establishment in the Christian Faith more then any others but herein it may be easie to see and discern the true cause thereof 1. How it is sure the more attainment of light and knowledge is upon the greatnesse of their Faith that a higher admiration and astonishment must needs follow thereon it was this which above all the wonders and depths of nature did swallow up the spirit of a Solomon and put him into such an exstacy when he once begun to fix on this Subject but will God indeed dwell with men on the earth yea will the eternal Son of God take up his abode and dwell in such a tabernacle as the humane nature and become truly man which is specially there imported 2 Chron 6 18. 2. It is these only who have their souls
The true Settlement Of a CHRISTIANS FAITH After shaking Assaults by its own evidence and by the internal sealing Work of the Spirit Pointed at in some special Inquiries thereon in a LETTER to a Friend WITH Some serious Reflections on the present times we are in and those great Vicissitudes of Providence which have been in the publick State of BRITAIN in this last Age in a II. Letter By a MINISTER of the GHOSPEL Printed in the Year 1692. READER THe publishing these few sheets hath had no rise or call from the desires of any or the least motives of such a nature but it was with a serious desire that they might have some interest in the Service of the Truth in so sad and trying a time and for him to whom I stand under the highest engadgements of Duty in improvement of a little Season which must ere long be shut up It is true the writing of the first Letter had a very providential and unexpected rise with respect to a Friend who I knew had as great assistances in the way of means as any suitable to his case yet finding the weight exercise of his mind have such strong influence to obstruct that injoyment of ane intire rest and fixedness of his Faith which is the Christians Allowance I was prest to offer some thoughts in a directive manner for being a Helper to his Joy and now if by such a Providence through the good Hand of the Lord this might be serviceable to any in such a case The Subject of the II. Letter is of a much different nature from the first where somethings may possibly seem a litle strange and the spirit and temper of most in this day not so easily bear but they are spoke in the Words of Truth and Soberness in writing of both I have humble confidence to say it was with the furthest of light and persuasion yea that the most serious part therein was with my own spirit to have that evidence in things of so high concern as I might have peace and assurance herein before God yet if I knew there were any thing in the least to prejudge that great Interest of Truth and Edification as the utmost aim I hope is proposed herein I should count it my honor to retreat the same but under some serious prospect of an eternal State and of appearing before the great Judge I have desired to know his Counsel and rest my soull on his approving Testimony alone An excessive desire in such an Epistolary way to speak things in as few Words I could possibly I fear may at the first view render somethings more dark The Reader also will tenderly notice and construct Mistakes in the Printing HONOURED SIR IT was a sweet surprisal in such a time as this to meet with a friend on whom I found a more then ordinary sence and weight of the greatnesse of the Christian Faith and to have ane other prospect of such ane attainment to enjoy ane entire rest and assurance of mind herein then most seem to have even of the more serious part of Christians which did render it the more desirable to offer some thoughts to you on so weightie a concern not onlie to answer a special promise and engadgment I was under but with hope through the good hand of the Lord that such a service may not be wholly lost for the end it is designed But on so great a subject I must go a little out of an Epistolary way both in the method and measure and what in the first place I would speak to is this that I durst offer nothing to divert or take off any thing of the suitable weight of so choise ane exercise as is so rare in these times under which your spirit is so much pressed but were it needful rather to add thereto on these grounds 1. That it is surely the greatest designe can fall under the consideration of mankind for men to have such ane assurance of divine truth as can both answer the greatnesse of that adventure they have thereon and can fully quiet and comfort the soul when visible refuges and humane assistances seem wholly to succumbe and since we must either have ane entire rest and settlement herein or none at all I know not how to judge otherwise of that ordinar sence and implicit credit on so great ane account as this then as a degree and evidence of the sad Atheism of this day we are now in 2. If ever I knew any thing of the way of God in truth I must reckon this as the highest enjoiment of a Christian where the security and quiet of his mind upon the truth answers to so great a Revelation hereof and to know he is thus on sure terms with God on the whole adventures of his trust when it is so near to adventure on the triall thereof in the last decision of there eternal state yea when thus they know how to enjoy a promise for there support in this state of warefare under a long deferred hope tho the whole course of providence would seem to controul the same knowing the ground they anchor on cannot possibly faill since this should be the ultimate Inquiry about the event that it is sure they have a divine testimonie to warrant there confidence and if the highest joy and comfort oâ— our life be not stated on such an account it iâ— strange 3. If it be understood what it is to be a Christian in earnest and what is called for of such aâ—midst the numerous tryalls and temptations of this militant state it must need some higher degrees of assurance and inward establishment then seems by most to be either apprehended or sought after and that such have some proper stock of his own of these special aides and assistances as may be at hand in ane hour of tryall for how can the life and serious work of Godlinesse be conceivable under such common and transient impressions as most have of the truth and certainty hereof 4. Doe men know what Christianity means and the high consequence of such a distinguishing profession from the residue of mankind or is there any suitable exercise of reason about the greatnesse of that hope of the Gospel which we have set before us and yet be a subject both of ordinary thoughts and assent hereto which may still be as though it were a new discovery to us in the present day since it might be judged that if there were a Methuselahs age to pass within time this should be a suitable and continued exercise therein both to enquire and admire on the assured hope of ane eternity with God which they have before them and that they are to enter into a state where they shall be in the same Classe with the Angels of Heaven and made equal unto them I have known such who for many years have been dazled with ths glorie and greatness of that Mysterie of Christ and of life
and immortality in a future state as hath made it there continued and highest exercise to have a further and new strenthning of there faith herein who yet all that time knew not what it was to be shâ—ken or to have any inward fear as to there own personal interest herein but still found the Revelation of the Ghospel so great a thing and there spirits so deeply seased with the wonders of our Religion that whatever did tend to a higher strenthning of their faith herein was also the greatest addition to their joy and in that sence did most understand such a saying nunquam satis magna securitas in re tanti momenti ubi periclitatur aeternitas But in the next place what thoughts I would humbly offer to one of so knowing and judicious a spirit and where so great assistances you may have access to improve otherways â—ssiall be most in a directive way upon a sevenfold inquiry that may be of greatest weight for a Christians laying the ground work of their profession on solid and clear grounds which lyes first here 1. To know that rare and peculiar order that is suitable in a Christians first entry on Religion under a serious weight of the same on their spirits since as in any great studie there is an entrance and a progresse and that it is sure in the whole frame of Christianity there is so entire a correspondence as nothing stands alone by it self but in a line of mutual respect which in that manner runs through the same as ane entry aright upon one step must make way to render a further progresse clear and unavoidable so here I must judge 1. That a Christian should once make it such a proper and solemn business and work by it self to attain a solid founding and settlement of their faith on the truth and to sist his soul in such a manner as if he were then to enter on the Christian profession without respect to example education or influence of any humane authority or whatever any external motives could have weight herein since in a case of that high concern men should in the greatest recess and composure of spirit have some distinct special time such as may be matter after of sweet reflexion to them how they did then prove themselves with respect to so high and discriminating a profession from the residue of the world and did thus with full inward consent join in with the truth purely on its own evidence as though there were none of that profession in the bounds and place they lived in 2. As the naturall order of things should require that the foundation be sure laid ere we begin to build so is it sure that the first entry on serious Religion must be on the Faith of the divine nature and existence and that men have assuredly a God to trust to and to make them happy as Hebr. 11 6. he must first beleeve that he is c. and in the same order John 17. 3. must beleeve him to be the only true God ere he come to beleeve Jesus Christ whom he hath sent O how uncomfortable a thing should humane state be without God and ane absolute dependance on him who might see his life to be rather a curse and torment then blâ—ssing if there were no supernatural help above himself against the eâ—il and miseries of time and to subdue the distempers of the mind and the fears that should thus sease upon him both as to his present and future state but what possible comfort could there be in the light of a Deity or enjoiment of a Godhead if we know not with assurance also the Excellencies of his blessed nature and what a God we have to adventure on 3. Thus by ane unavoidable constraint there must be a further progresse and enquirie upon the certaintie of a revealed rule of correspondence betwixt God and man here both in order to dutie and what we may exspect and hope from him and if it be sure this day that there be ane express and clear revelation of his will herein to be found in the earth that comes with full and infallible evidence to men for here is it not possible to stand or fix until our faith be once settled on the truth of such a divine record when we see in what estate poor mankind were in if such a sure way of commerce were not betwixt the invisible God and this visible world we are in since then we should have no certain and fixed boundaries betwixt good and evil by that unchangeable difference which the holy nature of God hath put herein nor could we ever know that rule of subjection and relation we stand under to him then heaven and earth were shut up from correspondence together by any established rule for the same then should the most excellent and essentiall part of man his immortall soul have no directive or comforting light as to his future state and safe passage thereto whilst the visible creation hath a sun to shine thereon when such is the way to life as by the greatest improvements of nature it can be neither found nor followed then should that rare structure and workmanship oâ— grace here and of glory and blessedness to come be a terra incognita to poor mankind and as man only in this lower creation is capable of moral Goverment and humane lawes which yet can extend no further then their visible work and actions if such a blessed record were not there should be no establishment of laws to the whole inward man no rule of regulation to the heart and this inward world would be subject to no Goverment and tho the ruined state of humane nature may be as discernable as the truth of it's existence yet should we neither know its true original and rise nor any relief for the same we might discern the truth of invisible adversaries and of some great design they have against us as clearly as any object of sense but we could know no security from them by ane invisible guard or the way how to resist such a party then should the work and conduct of providence be wholly unintelligible to us and have our eyes shut on these wonders hereof which exceed the sphere of created nnderstanding if this great luminary of the Scripture did not continually shine thereon which we cannot see and not see also that no way besides this was ever made known to recover poor mankind out of that gulf of bondage and misery he is fallen into and as this glorious light of divine truth hath its proper sphere where it is fixed and shines forth in the Christan Chureh so the whole world beside is a place where horror falshood and impiety does visibly raign 4. But this must lead men of a serious spirit to a further enquiry upon that essential difference which is betwixt the revealed rule of our Religion and any other way that pretends thereto as there is betwixt light
great Revolution in the State of Britain how it was expresly foretold under its proper circumstances many years past and was one of the first passages of any weight that hath been still fixed in my remembrance of a relation I had from ane ancient and eminent Minister of Christ of a Prediction imparted to him by one of an extraordinar and Prophetick Spirit in that time that so great a Scene of Providence should be acted in Britain and change in the publick face of affaires by the coming over of a Prince of Orange who should be the great Instrument and Actor therein and tho some particulars relating thereto I cannot exactly remember yet this in the substance with such ane express designation as I have now mentioned hath from my young years had a settled impression in my memory and as I am sure and perswaded of the truth hereof and that the foresaid Relater had such a Prediction long before there was any allyance betwixt the House of Britain and of Orange yea am sure this did exceed the reach of humane apprehension at that time from any rise or tendency of natural causes in the order and series thereof so is it not now mentioned after the event only but what several years before I gave ane account and relation off to some of great quality who still know the same when there was not the least appearance of such a thing tho I could lay no further weight thereon which seemed so strange and improbable but that the thing in it self as to the truth of such a Prediction was reall 4 That there are supernatural warnings hath been given to men by some special instinct and impression not only of the approach of some great and extraordinar tryall with respect to themselves but of the near approach of their death yea to some the precise time hereof is a truth so known in the World and with that undeniable evidence as might fully convince those of the most doubtful and suspicious Spirit in things of that nature and were it suitable here I might give special instances which I have surely known of this kinde with respect to such who were both pious and of great composure in their judgment who hath had such perswasion fixed on them without the least presage from any natural cause or what in ane ordinary way could give a rise thereto as it did after fall out in the event 5. That there are also extraordinare signs and forewarnings given the World of great Revolutions and Judgments ere they came on particular nations by prodigies and signes from Heaven is of that publick evidence and certainty as would seem not possible to question if some methods of opposition to God both in his Word and Works were not peculiar to this age and the spirit thereof this way bejond any that hath gone before for what may be supposed and misjudged by many on such ane account through ignorance and unacquaintance with natural causes and the extent thereof is not to be questioned but from this will men debate or discredit a truth that all ages must witness and these of the most cautious and discerning amongst men how such solemn forewarnings from Heaven by extraordinar signs and prodigies hath been still previous to publick changes and revolutions and to any great calamities and judgements It s sure these are no imaginary things but are direct for some special end and are sometimes in such a manner visible to the experience of the World as hath not been in like manner known for some ages past as that late Comet 81. yea occurr not according to the settled constitutions of nature but come both with an surprising aspect and are expresly formed and directed of the Lord for some higher end then to be an emptie shew and wonder to the World but when the Word of truth and threatnings thereof ceaseth to warne or be matter of trembling and the Atheistick contempt and derision of the Works of God is in this day at such a height it s like the door may be now judicially shut on any extraordinar presages or warnings this way untill one prodigy of some unusual judgement come that will not be baffled by men Whilst I speak on such a Subject I know there is a strange thing that comes under the notion by many of a miracle tho matter of very ordinare thoughts with others and of a light and common regard about the same which is in that strange and astonishing cure of the Struma or as it s termed the Kings evil by a touch of the hand only without any application of ordinary means that here is no imposture in the truth of such a thing but that many have been undoubtedly healed by this touch of the Kings of England is not questionable which is of so pâ—blick and known evidence in the tryall of numerous instances yea that here is something supernatural and unaccountable to humane understanding on principles of reason when it s one of the most contumacious diseases of mens body that in the ordinare use of means is found the most difficult to cure but since any extraordinar effect should lead men to a deep enquiry and tryall about the cause hereof and have the more weight in such a case that a miraculous work where it is in truth is Gods own seall which he doth rarely give but on some great and important ground where his glory and the interest of his truth is highly concerned yea that its sure where he intends such a miraculous discovery of himself to confirm the faith of his people he gives it with the clearest evidence of his work and a concurrence of such circumstances as may serve conviction on all whose impress and signature it bears to difference the same from any imposture or its beeing a diabolick sign and work and so this calls for a just enquiry and tryall in the present case in these respects 1. To know its true rise and original which I find in the English Chronicles to be dated from the time of Edward the Confessor when Antichristian darkness was then at his greatest height it beeing in the 1042 Year when he began to reign and when that Prediction of the Apostle Thessal 2 2. of a more then ordinary power and working of Satan with signs and lying wonders to promote the Antichristian interest was then taking place and was in that sence only admitt to confirm the Romish Faith by such a strange miracle 2. This Inquiry should be necessar herein whither this pretended miraculous power belong to the Crown only or hath respect to the Quality and Holiness of the persons who weare the same since if it be to the first then tho ane Infidel or Mahumetan were established on the Throne if this gift follow the same it must needs be derived to them also and have such a high Priviledge annexed thereto as the Throne of Israel never had when a David and Solomon sate thereon tho
yea that without this the furthest of objective evidence to cause irresistably a clear and rational assurance of divine truth tho it were followed with a dispensation of miracles will not quiet the Spirit of such who under some deep exercise may be haunted with hid and dreadful temptations to infidelity until they know the truth of a power and evidence as goes above any moral influence It is true this is not expressible to others and they must come and see who would know in what manner the Spirit of God bears evidence to his own truth and what strong impression his work hath on the internal Senses of a Christian yea what piercing intelligences are betwixt such who surely know and are partakers of a divine life and their blessed Head in this state of mortality but if this were not known and sure we might say ane established Christian whose work is to follow the Lord fully and adventure with assurance upon him is such as might be sought for here in the earth but would not be found 2. If I be perswaded of the truth and Excellency of Religion I must see this to be of as undeniable evidence that it hath no true or solid interest in the Earth but in the way of tryal and experience in it's power and efficacy on mens soull and makes no reall ground or conquest by an external profession or can serve to eternal ends until once that radical principle of the life of God in the soull be understood that choise company who are now going through time to the Church triumphant upon fresh and continued supplies of divine assistance are these alone in whom the Christian Faith is kept alive this day on the earth and it is one of the things I have thought most astonishing in the publick State of Religion that in an age when reason is so much pretended men can design a tryall of the enjoyment of a Heaven for ever in another World and yet hath not the same design on a personal tryall of the enjoyments of grace here to know converse with God in the spirit and the certainty of that trade and commerce which is betwixt Heaven and Earth whilst we are yet on it that are things so highly remote from all humane sence 3. It hath prest me to insist more on this subject that this way is so visibly gathering strength and seems to have the greatest prevalence now in the Reformed Churches how to divide the moral part of our Religion in the duties and services thereof from its internal and vital part so as this mortal contagion hath got in on the light and principles of this Generation that if there were not an absolute assurance by the promise of God we might fear truth and piety should quickly perish from the earth Oh what a strange prodigious opposition is this against the whole internal work vitals of that pure and excellent Religion wherein both the comfort and glory of humane state lyes how is' t conceivable men should be here capable of converse with God in the spirit if there were not a conformity to him in the same kind by a participation of the divine nature yea if there were not so rare a being on the earth as the new man which is born of God and his immediate workmanship which hath its peculiar grouth vital acts proper thereto and in that sence as it 's contradistinguished from the old man cannot possibly sin it self tho it be formed in the heart of a sinner and hath it's being therein no more then the life of God which is a partaking of the divine nature can put forth any act of sin but hath a continued conflict therewith and thus tends to give the clear sence of that Scripture 1 John 5 18. we know that whatever is born of God sinneth not Rom 7 20. It is no more I but sin that duelleth in me nam unumquodque operatur secundum suam formam for if this stood not sure the whole frame of experimental Religion were an unaccountable riddle A SECOND LETTER Wherein some Inquiry upon the times and the work of Providence about the Church but more specially with respect to the publick State of Britain and Ireland in this last age is seriously designed SIR I may truly say it did raise a special value and esteem on my spirit to meet with one in such a day who hath so great a weight and impression of the publick State of the Church and a sense of the present times so far above the ordinare thoughts of men when they seem so rare who look further then present things either to what is past in these extraordinar times have gone over this Generation or who hath another Judgment and Prognostication of what may be near yet before us then from visible and natural causes But though I must decline an answer to what you are pleased more particularly to propose under a just sence of my unfitness herein yet so far as I have attained in the matter of light upon a more general account with respect to the Work of God in these great changes past I am free to impart my self and to offer humbly some few thoughts on such a Subject which hath had most special evidence and weight on my spirit in the present day 1. I doubt not you make the same Judgment and reckoning of this with more advantage then I can reach that one of the most choise and weighty exercises of a Christian whilst he is within time lyes in a deep and serious observation of the times he is fall'n in not only with respect to the administration of Providence in humane affairs but what does more eminently relate to the Churches of Christ and where their lott is cast since this is ane essential part of Religion as it 's also one of the most choise of humane excellencies to discern and observe wisely the ways of the Lord. But I can only shew you some of these things in a short touch which I have found most engaging to such an Inquiry in this day 1. That as each distinct age hath a proper Talent given thereto under trust for observation of such events of Providence wherein the name of God is more near unto men in any singular way then in the ordinare course of his actings so hath the great Author of time choised to put a higher Glory upon one age and period of time then another wherein it might be said that the measure of one is five Talents as to more solemn appearances of the Majesty of God in his Providential Actings when the measure of other times hath been this way but as two Talents Such a differencing marke had that age of the Churches coming out of Egypt beyond all which had gone before yet was this comparatively little with respect to that glory which was reserved to the fulness of time when our blest Redeemer did appear to the World And it's clear how
in these later times that age which had it's first entry from the Year 1517. had a higher splendor put thereon then had been known for a thousand Years proceeding the same but when I have thought on the way and conduct of Providence and marvelous discoveries of God herein to this Generation I could not but see something in a most singular way of his appearance before the World to the same as seems but yet little understood tho this may be seen that we have surely lived in an age of wonders 2. I have lookt on such an exercise to discern and understand aright the times we are in as one of the most singular means for strenthning a Christians Faith on the certainty of sacred truth when with these more immediate discoveries of God in the way and administration of grace by his spirit on mens soull which is whelly hid from the World they can see in what manner his truth does visibly take place and is attested by an external seall in the glory of his work before men and I am perswaded none thus did ever persue a more near acquaintance with God but hath had some peculiar strengthning remarks of his way that have been hid from others tho of a serious spirit otherwise 3. It is such who have some greater weight of this choise study and their spirits more fully join'd in therewith then others who may attain more clear discoveries of light for directing them to the duties and work of such a time and on this account I fear that there is much yet this day in the dark to us and not understood what hath been the Voice of the Lord for answering the great ends of his Providence tho it hath been clear and distinct where mens spirits were laid open to entertain the same I confess it is not strange as to the greatest part of men this day tho they keep at the furthest distance from what might bring near an affecting sense of a Godhead to their soull in the ways of Providence who are resolute not to see or be perswaded of what doeth torment them hereby whose great study is to live without God in the World and seem emulous of these who can be most ingenious and expert to confirm their hearts against all that is sacred 4. But I am sure it is something much higher then any interest of men or of Nations or the greatest changes in the posture of humane affairs which should bear the greatest weight in this exercise to understand the times we are in and for a suitable observation thereof if men could once reckon that their great business in the earth lyes with God and in keeping sight of him in the outgoings of his Providence since the hidden wisdom of God in a Mystery is to be seen and sought out in his Works as well as in his Word it 's true publick Revolutions and the fall and setting up of great men are things highly observable and momentous but they are neither seen or understood when they make not way for some greater sight of the Majesty of God and the signal retaliations of Judgement herein what peculiar aspects such strange Revolutions of Providence hath on the present Generation II. Though it might seem unsuitable to offer any special Remarkes and Observations upon this late time to one of so discerning a spirit of things of that nature yet knowing how a mutual communication of light about the Work of God and his actings in our day is so incumbent a duty I shall point at a few things wherein I have desired to admire and observe the way of Providence in this remarkable age but in the first place more generally touch such a Head ere I speak in some particular way thereto 1. When we see the series of these times and different measures of tryall and service assigned thereto since that blessed rise and recovery of the Church from Antichristian darkness there might be seen also a growing increase of light which in this age hath had such ane advance as it could not but be expected that the Lord was to take some higher proofs of the improvements thereof from this Generation then of these past after such great things he had done for a full settlement of the Reformed Churches when he had opened the graves of his people and sent forth his Prisoners by the blood of the Covenant the trâ—â—h had made way for its self over mounâ—ains which once seem'd insuperable yea when this also is an age where in a great concurrence of the Prayers of the Saints in times before was â—o meet for â—he Churches interest so that unanswerableness to the expectation of God herein and to frustrate such eminent methods of grace might expect some unusual work of Judgment to follow thereon and the Lords coming at last to a judicial proces and procedure 2. We see how these extraordinar occurrences of this time past hath most remarkably had a joint respect both to Sacred and Civil Interests quoad Fata Ecclesiae Imperii humani so as in that sence it might be said there hath been a shaking both of Heaven and Earth as to the Churches visible State yea such hath these great changes from the right hand of the most high been within the measure of one age as men could not possibly see with the eye of reason without amasement tho it brings therewith one of the most dismal remarks of the present time if mens spirits be not seised with a deep and awful sense of the tremendous Majesty of God herein and know there is no stability of humane state this day in the earth but from him alone who can bring judgement on the greatest Nations or Persons above the common course of nature and influence of second causes but oh what intertainment should a diâ—pensation of Miracles find from the spirits of men now when the Revelation of Christ and Redemption by his Blood from Eternal Wrath hath no greater effects on this Generation and so few awak'd with the Glory of such a light 3. When I have considered this age as that which might have been judged a time of great expectation for a further advance of the Kingdom of Christ in the World which does specially make a time more remarkable yet how little access hath been herein to see the Work of God in any new planting of Churches or inbrirging of Nations to the Profession of the Ghospel as hath been formerly but instead of new Conquest rather a losing ground and is a difficult part become to maintain a defensive work in behalf of the truth and which may be a serious remark that in this age one tribe hath as it were been cut off from the Reformed Churches I mean as to that dismal State of Bohem where some time before had been so eminent and flourishing a plantation it is true there hath been a solemn tide of the effusion of the Spirit of God allotted to someof the Churches
in this last age that should be still matter of sweet remembrance but it 's sure this day we see the ebb as low in these places in the life and power of Religion and no visible reviving almost any where can be heard of the Churches of Christ which yet hath been to me so far a hopeful sign of a near incalling of the Jews since it will then find the Gentile Church in so judicial a Period of time that it shall be as life from the dead 4. Yet it is sure on the other hand there hath been most signal honor and glory put on this age and with a special respect to Britain and Ireland in as great a harvest of serious and solid Christians by the Power of the Ghospel then hath been in any time or place of the Earth since the first three Centuries tho not under that seall of Martyrdom as was after the Reformation yet such who shined in the truth and power of true Sanctity and have left a fragrant Savour and remembrance to this day when most of that blessed stock is now gone and their room rarely filled up any where 5. Yea this further may be matter of sweet Reflection how many such hath been in this age in whom that ancient greatness of spirit with Heroïck motions in appearing for God and his truth might be seen for tho they attained not to the measure of the first three of our first and bless'd Reformers yet may it be said within the limits of this age there hath gone off the stage innumerable instances of such eminency of induements and with that measure of power and of a sound mind as might be compared with any of the Antients since the Apostolick times and this is a remark that never faills of Christs imparting himself in these measures of his spirit to a Church in such a time according to the great ends he is to accomplish there 6. Though great changes upon a Nation or Church does not want previous and remarkable warnings from the Lord we have seen with what a marvelous Surprisal these have occurred to this Generation that were most remote from all humane thoughts and once not conceivable upon the highest principles of reason how ever they should have taken place It is becoming the Majesty of God to have his Arcana Imperii in such peculiar and reserved cases as the most skilled in the ways and depths of Providence are called to be still with a silent admiration when he thus does arise as in these times past to do great things which was not looked for 7. But how strange and marvelous hath the surprisalls been of Providence in our day also in the way of tenderness and mercy as well as of Judgment which should be a most strengthning remark if this had been more suitably improven what unexpected and seasonable interpositions have been of a divine immediate power in extreme exigences both of the Church and particular Christians in these great changes past and as Oppressors have grown up to a height of Violence how observably have Carpenters been prepared whence humane reason could not have fore seen to cut the horns of such 8. When we can not but see with what a signal evidence and commission the spotless Judgment of God hath gone forth in these late times to all ranks and stations of men especially in the Isle of Britain there might be also some peculiar remarke of it's design against these who were of the highest Staie so as no time past did ever tend more to seal◠instruction on the spirits of great men then of late to have the fear and dread of God on them when Princes might have been seen walking on foot and Servants riding on horseback yea that there is a time of Gods making inquisition for blood of such who seemed most secure from humane Power and how this alone comes from a divine hand when men are poisoned in their own cup and lays a snare to themself by which they are caught it is true a clear application of Providences past to the present times is not easily attained but I doubt not of a more full light and discovery for this end as will silence all oppositions that have been to the intent and Counsell of the Lord in these things which have occurred 9. It hath been reserved to our day to see the Issue and great Decisions which have been in these strange Scenes of Providence in this age past and to have them now in our sight in the whole successive course thereof and surely this might be a great and affecting sight to such who are ready to think that God hath forsaken the earth and walketh only in the circuit of Heaven when they cannot but see what amasing events hath been of late brought forth by an invisible and unpreventable conduct of Providence and to see also in this late Revolution of the publick State of Britain how by one great surprisal the whole Popish Measures there which had been of so long and painful a contrivance was as in a moment broke and made void when nothing less expected 10. It is unquestionable that the Lord does usually act by second causes but there are steps also of his way wherein he alone appears and will have them seen to be wholly his work this now hath eminently appeared in the great transactions of these late times how bejond any humane power or might it was a Standard by the Spirit of God lifted up that did visibly make way for the work he was then accomplishing and did serve such terror on his Adversaries yea how these who were acted forth to be instrumental thus on the service of their day were directed for that great end to the quieting of his Spirit in such a piece of his Work 11. And herewith what thoughts of heart may it cause now in the present state and juncture of things to see such a Conjunction in this Western Part of Europe to serve the great ends of Providence that if it had been told our Fathers by any they would have been as such who mock that in the next age the House of Austria of Spain Lorrain and Savoy should have a joint interest with the greatest Princes of the Reformed Religion and take the Sword with one consent against such a Party whose Sword hath been bathed and yet still is reaking in the blood of the Protestants yea how this great instrument of Judgment and Patron of the Romish Interest should most actively make way to defeat his own Projects and Counsel by an irresistable conduct of Providence This is a great and unusual Conjunction in humane affairs such as the Policy of the Western Part of Christendom is hereby cast in a new mould wherein we are called to adore God and his Dominion over all Second Causes tho it be a Depth of Providence which is yet not opened up only herewith some Reflections on the same I cannot wholly pass 1. What may be too
things of God which is alone sacred to him what concerns the publick rights and freedome of the spiritual Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ as a visible politick body with the highest respect to his Royal Authority who is the alone Head and Lawgiver thereto It is known that he hath given ane express Charter for the same to his Church under the New Testament according to which the due limits and bounds of that spiritual Jurisdiction which he hath settled there and the full extent hereof sould be both keep'd clear and closely adhered to as ane Interest of the Lord Jesus which is as the apple of his eye he hath join'd also these two great Interests of the Civil and Ecclesiastick Power in so entire a harmony that tho they are to be ever keep'd distinct yet are not to be divided from other but to move jointly in such a blessed and desirable Union as may most serve the great ends of the Kingdome of Christ and the publick good of humane Society and now when this great promise of Christs entring in a more conspicious manner on the Glory of his Reign is come to the birth and begun to bring forth which is that period where to it may be said hath been reserved the perfections of ihe Churches visible state here on the earth how highly desirable should it be to be found assistant thereto in such a day but oh is it possible that these who have such raised hopes of an eternal Crown and Kingdome in Heaven can have so low desires or designs how to be serviceable to the Kingdome of Christ here in the earth yea when none can want an interest and room in this service where it hath once a weight and value on their heart but yet it may be a matter of hope this day that these who by so singular an appearance of God hath now the Soveraign Power and Authority in these Nations are no less eminently fitted to appear for him herein then they are stated under the highest engagements for such ane end 3. It is surely one of the things of God and an interest which is purely sacred to him wherein the spreading of his Kingdome in the World is most nearly concerned which lyes in a serious and faithful Ministry to the Church and is of that concern as it may be justly called Indicium stantis cadentis Ecclesiae for this is one of the highest Ordinances of Christ given to the Church and that way which he hath himself consecrated for the inbringing and perfeiting of the Elect by which so great effects are wrought in the World where ever there is a divine mission for the same to any part thereof the Church is in a building up there ane Ordinance by which most visible efficacy supernatural influences are conveyed in a moral way under the blessing of that iustitution but on the other hand nothing is more threatning to a Nation as to the falling down of some dismal night of judgement then the corruption and debaesing of that which in it's own nature is so excellent where things that are more extrinsick and of a humane concern are so much looked after but that which is Gods part in the great intent of this erection is of so low regard that if ane Inquiry were made through a great part of Britain they should find the dark places of the earth there stil amidst so bright a day of the Ghospel as is now shining what a multitude is thus perishing thorow want of knowledge whilst it seems so â—itle desired or designed to have such a Ministry whose highest study should be upon the great Intent of Christianity to bring men to Christ not to themselves and to allure and perswade their coming under his blest dominion and yoake to press internal renovation of the heart and a necessity hereof with that seriousnes as might take hold on their conscience and let them see there can be nothing more highly irrational then to sist in ane exterior profession and form of Religion and not prove once upon their own tryall the truth hereof in its power and efficacy and whither it hath not a vital part which lyes in ane inward life of Communion with God for as this alone is such a Ministry that should be the blessing of a Nation and Kingdom so in respect of this to be of such a distinguishing Profession tho in its self most agreable to the truth should be of no regard where this is wanting as a test for so sacred ane Office It is I hope unquestionable that the trust of the souls of men is greater then any temporal concerns of a Kingdom or State and how this Ordinance is that which hath the most peculiar influence to prepare the way of the Lord in this day for that blessed and near approaching time of his more conspicous Reign on the earth in the Glory thereof I abstract here from any thing controversal as things are stated in the present day only as to what I hope there may be ane unite agreement in by all who have a deep sence on their spirits of the blood and perishing of immortal souls this way and a serious respect to that Catholick Interest of the Kingdom of Christ amongst men I know it was never a harder part then in this age to stemm such a tide as seems yet on the growing hand of prejudice against the way of truth when so many are in the dark tearing one another and counting it desirable to have where at they may offend and stumble whilst that study is not more followed to prevent so far as is possible mens taking of offence even where it is not given according that of the Apostle who is offended and I burn not the excess of disputing in this age hath been a peece of our judgement and the managing thereof so little to that end of edification but the defect may be no less evident on the other hand for the suitable improvements of Christian prudence as a duty and service to God so absolutely necessar for the regulating of duties according to the circumstances of the Churches case and what the present day can bear without coolness or indifference in any concern of truth which is that part of our Religion that hath been too little improven We are indeed blessed with an unchangeable rule of Sacred Truth which hath no dependence on humane Counsels or Power to change or alter the same or on the mutable revolutions of time and can never vary from its self yet is the tenderness and wisdom of divine Condescendence in the application thereof to be so far regarded as on of the most weighty parts of Religion lyes therein how present duties may be with a judicious discretion directed to that great end of edification since that which may be necessare in one case as it is cloathed with other circumstances may be hurtful and destructive This is one of the most difficult
parts that such hath allotted to them in the times we are fal'n in who would stand in such a gape breach where oppositions now thereto are so strong and it may seem almost hopeless to crave justice in behalf of the truth at the bar of mens conscience when a latitude on principles hath come to such a height as the authority of light is without fear controlled yet on the other hand it may be feared that the answering of that Command of the Holy Ghost is not suitably taken to heart the great consequence thereof which is to walk in wisdom towards these who are without tho not being in that Sence without the Church yet as no less stated in a visible enmity to the truth which is according to Godliness then such could be there hath been much serious study and designs by the Servants of Christ in this age to promot his Kingdom in Britain and Ireland and there are yet there eminently fitted for so difficult a service how to gain and prevail with the furthest measures of prudence and judgement upon the most obstinatly prejudged as any in this day there hath been also of late a singular improvement made and blest for a more unite contending for the Faith once delivered to the Saints in so hazardous a time but it is sure there is yet some further length and essay called for upon this great service for the Kingdom of Christ in taking off letts and stumbling bloks out of their way who may be upon a sad precipice of breaking and further alienation from the truth and for some more full clearing of the same from these designed reflections cast thereon in such a way as convictions might thus insensibly prevail and gain ground with the greatest Gainsayers whilst we know little what design grace may in this day have on such and as the furthest regard should be kept to light upon any controverted truth without losing ground herein yet should I judge it a door of hope to see these who are unite in the great concerns of Truth and Godliness once meet in a more joint concurrence in behalf of these great things of God which are not controverted when the face of this Generation is so threatning as to a further revolt from the Christian Faith both in the pureness and power thereof This is to be a work by its self which as it's of the highest publick concern so does it require a more then ordinare measure of Judiciousnes in following the same My Unfitnes to speak on such a Subject should have restrained me herein were it not to witness something of a serious desire under which my soul is prest for such ane end when the hazard of the perishing of so many who hath ane Eternal State before them is so visible this day and yet no further tryall made to gain and recover according to that rule and practice of the Apostle I was all things to all that I might gain some Others can more fitly judge as to the suitable managing of such a service and how to fall in on the right lith of duty herein only somethings I should wish were more designed for taking off prejudices and to breake thus one of the greatest Engines of Satan this day against the interest of the Ghospel 1. In coming a greater length by these who are of a serious spirit to Sacrifice private resentments to that publick Interest of the Truth upon conceived Injuries when it s so evident what ane influence personal prejudice this day hath to keep up distance to highten differences and cause further estrangement on such an account from any fervent appearance for God and this is surely one of the most honourable parts of a Christians work how far he might overcome the distempers of others by humility tenderness and love and walk in such a countermotion to the spirit and temper of this day 2. It is a service this day much cals for to have stumblings more prevented against these unquestionable settled administrations of the Government of Christ in his Church so as the way and manner of his Spiritual Kingdom might be rightly understood the proper object whereof is the soul and inward man and it 's great design to restore edify which is in such a way that where it 's truly answered nothing can be more tender and healing and to attract any of a serious spirit to join in herewith for it is a sad measure that the truth should sufler from the weaknes or exorbitancies of any It was suitable for the Christian Church in the primitive times to plead that from Heathens that the offence and practices of none should be charged upon the rule of their Profession 3. It were desirable also that further conviction might be served on these who are prone to stumble how in the promoting of truth and Godliness there is no persuing any divided interest of a party and that if such would once try and see they can then judge where the most comprehensive interest within time lyes which all are jointly concern'd to promote who hath any design on the Christian Profession for eternal things 4. I shall but add this more what ane advantage should it be for the truth and to conciliate a greater respect thereto that all might see how sweet a Contemperature and Harmony there is betwixt pure zeal for God which is according to knowledge and the furthest prudence and tenderness towards men and how the rule and spirit of the Ghospel can admit of no bitterness wrath or recrimination which are so abounding this day in the Church in persuing of differences upon any concern of the truth for herein doth the glory and honor of our blessed Head more eminently appear in securing the concord and unity of his Church under a diversity of light and judgement in some lesser differences about the truth by a spirit of love and by its power and efficacy upon mens heart in subdueing the distempers of their mind then by imposing the most severe and absolute uniformity in all things to be the measure of Church Communion and it is ever found how this hath been most easy and practicable among such who hath made the highest advance in the life and power of Christianity then any else since he nearer the lines are to the Center the nearer also are they among themselves and I must add herewith that it may be little known what convictive power might follow in a time of such high distempers as this on a suitable application of that wisdom which dwells with prudence and comes from above according to the rule given for the same James 3 17. to make a higher interest for the Kingdom of Christ and to the saving of the souls of many then now in an ordinare way would seeme possible 4. As the furthest tenderness and prudence is called for to prepare the way of the Lord for a further advance of his Kingdom in taking out of
the same so far as is possible these lets and stumbling blocks where the greatest hazard may be of offence so should it be much preparatory also for a higher service a more unite appearing for God herein and to stand in the most hazardous part of the breach of this day in behalf of that great interest of our Religion which is upon the Authority of God in his truth and Testimony as the alone ground on which the ultimate resolution of our Faith must found since this is the very same inconvertible terms to give to the Divine Majesty the Glory of his Godhead and that tribute which is most inviolably sacred and essential to him it would seem almost incredible that fuch ane hour of the power of darkness should fall in with the growing light of the Ghospel as the strange prevalence of a way which is to commensurat the perfections of God and the greatest mysteries of his truth to our understanding and to make humane reason tho corrupt finite and limited to be the alone Judge and measure of our Faith of divine things when the highest principle of reason which is prima veritas without which reason hathno principle to reston no Standard else is this that where the God of Truth is the Revealer and that it 's sure it is his Testimony it must then be as infallibly true as it is sure he is God since it is simply impossible to find ever another foundation of truth and certainty but this We are fal'n in times of great expectation as to a near approach of the highest Glory of Christ's Mediatory Kingdom on the earth and it would seem a strange prelude thereto that so black a darkness should fall down with so astonishing ane encrease thereof as tends not only to eclips the same but to deny him his essential Kingdom who is the only begotten of the Father and brightness of his Glory yet I am sure it is a sign of that kind as the morning darkness which is the darker the nearer it is to the day It is indeed here we may see ane opposition to the Majesty of God in such terms that we might reckon humane nature could not be capable of and be just matter of horror to a natural conscience to see so numerous a party who claims to be Adorers of reason turn'd so visibly madd on their own destruction I know the furthest improvements this way by rational Inquiry and Tryal hath a greater Interest in Religion and for strenthning of our Faith therein then may be suitably apprehended but it is sure the ultimate Inquiry herein can possibly go no further in the use of reason but that what we beleeve is the undoubted Revelation of God himself unto men can we desire more when this is sure for a full quiet and acquiescence of the soul tho it seem wonderful in it self and exceed our dark and limited thoughts when it is impossible for him who is truth it self to lie whose word is such cui non potest subesse falsum as it is no less sure that he who is infinitly good can not deceive or put ane imposture in stead of truth in their hand who trust him divine truth is the first groundstone of our happiness but is not conceivable by the light of nature to beleeve his being truly God and not the truth also of his promises which ever conform not only to the things signified but to his intent therein who can never delude or deceive But whilst I have been put to some thoughts with amasement on ane appearance of such a kind against God this day amongst men not only within Christendom but by such as once layd claim to the Protestant Profession some Reflections tended to give more clearness and settlement to my own spirit herein which I shall but in a few words mention 1. that when the darkness of ane implicite Faith and relyance on men under Popery hath been so sore bafled turn'd out of credit in such an inquisitive World as this loe Satan hath taken himself to the very contrare airâ—h and knew how to fall in with the temper of a brâ—â—k bold and daring age that he might settle a new opposition against God and the interest of his Kingdom wherein he hath unite and fixed his greatest strenth so that since he was cast down from his Throne by the Power of the Ghospel he hath not had a greater Triumph then in this attempt how to bring man upon it and sett humane reason at once both against God and it self in such a manner as to be it's own Executioner and in subjecting the highest mysteries of truth to it's comprehension to make it not only equal to God but give it a preference to him who is the alone former thereof which I must reckon to be the nearest approach that humane nature yet ever made to that sin by which the Angels did first fall and that it it is the master peece of that Prince of darkness and his ultimus conatus against the truth who knows his time is short 2. It may be with astonishment discernable under what a stroak such are as not to see whither this way hath led them and how far the Holy God hath thus confounded their reason as visibly as once these were in their Language who would attempt to build a tower up unto Heaven when this way left to ane absolute uncertainty ever to fix their Faith the Standard and measure whereof must be the comprehension of reason which hath no firm or infallible ground to settle on besides it self and whilst they cannot make the reason and judgement of others as considerate and knowing as themself meet with theirs the result thereof is to put a judicial madness in the room of reason so as to conceive a created dependent God to give divine homage to and that at once he should be both a God and a Creature and adore a comprehensible Object with divine Worship yea this way without a contradiction to themself they can give no faith to the Creation as being brought purely out of nothing or to the Resurrection of the dead as wholly incomprehensible to reason they must deride Israëls Passage thorow the Red Sea or the Suns standing still on Josua's call to verifie that Rom. 1 21 because that when they knew God they glorified him not as God but professing themselves to be wise they became fools thence is such ane amasing stroke thus inflicted on their reason for it may be said as in the Poëtick Fiction of Phaëton that when he sought to guide the Chariot of the Sun for a time he was like to burn the earth until he was struck with a thunderbolt from Heaven so hath this party tryed how to manadge reason as the supream Directour and Judge upon all that is sacred as they have gone near to destroy both Reason and Religion at once but tho the strongest rational Arguments with such
divine Wrath and last Plagues are but in part poured out wherein the appearance of God will be with much terror to the World and that last Triumph of his Justice within time will not be of ane ordinare kind we are to expect great shakings of the Nations and times of breaking down as well as of building up which are yet to come and drawing near II. Because we are entred on these times when the Lord is in a more singular way then heretofore to put the whole Generation of his People on that part of Divinity and the study thereof which relates to his Works and that great Mystery of Providence about his Church when the Key shall then be put in their hand for opening up and a more full understanding the way of the Lord in these times past under the New Testament This is indeed a weighty part of Divinity which is reserved to the latter times in the perfections thereof and these higher improvements to be made on that blessed study then was attainable in former ages when his work now is coming to a more full point It hath been remarkably the business of this age to make a more accurate search and some greater discovery upon natural causes and the workings thereof but I doubt not that ere long the inquisitive World shall be in another manner awaked and their Inquiries run in a higher channel above all second causes to see and admire the great Acts of Providence in the Divinity thereof and not what is humane therein but as they are by way of Eminency the Works of God in the brightness of his immediate appearance in the same It is one of the dismal signs of the present time how much the spirits of men are at work to darken so far as possible the most eminent Discoveries of God in his Works and in the most extraordinare revolutions of humane affairs as if they would set bounds and limits to him according to the course and order of second causes and subject both the truth of his Word and his Works to the comprehension of their reason tho some civil respect they will give and the name of his being the prime cause but shut their eyes on what is more extraordinar and solemne in any piece of his work I would yet point at some special Heads that belong to this choise part of Divinity which we are to expect will in another manner be opened up and I desire to rejoice in the hope hereof 1. As to these more singular cases of Providence which hath been in the Churches course since her first translation from the Jews to the Gentiles with the issue and consequences thereof contrare to the rules or principles of natural reason which is ane Inquiry to be more fully improven then whatever hath been attained this way when men shall see the end of the Lord herein with such evidence as shall tend to clear all bygones in his work 2. These remarkable Periods of time wherein the Prophetical Part of the New Testament hath been successively brought forth in their proper Season as was foretold is yet to have the seall more fully taken off and that vaill which was over them so as it shall be clear and easy to see how the Lord hath not only kept his Word and Truth to his Church but hath kept these times also exactly to which such great events of Providence did relate 3. There is a greater discovery yet to be made then hath been hitherto how the Church hath been led in a right way and by a straight line in her whole course through that long and terrible Wilderness which she was to pass under the dispensation of the Ghospel and what eminent services the Saints have been put on in these strange measures of their warefare which was then allotted to them and in theit overcoming work thereby yea what a higher Triumph our blessed Redeemer hath had in the Faith and patience of his People in so dismal a time then in any external flourishing state of his Church so as it might be said it was then day as to the presence of his spirit and irresistable efficacy of his truth on his followers when it seemed otherwise as the darknes of midnight 4. There belongs to this part of Divinity some higher breaking up of light yet to be made on that Mystery of the Communion of the Saints here with other in the way of providence and what a joint interest they have herein as to what hath been more singular in the Lords way and disposal about others of his People we have little understood what ane inriching trade we might drive upon that stock of these ancient experiments of Christians in following the Lord and these eminent tryalls they have made of the truth who hath in ages past gone before and what a Pawn is thus put in our hand for a further strengthning in the Faith yea what publick interest thus the whole Church of Christ hath in some eminent acts of Providence about particular Christians which in the import and greatness thereof was not given for themself only but as a publick concern to the whole Generation that seek after God in their day and for the times to come according to that Psal â—0 3. Many shall see it and fear and shall trust in the Lord. 5. I must add one great improvement of this special Head of Divinity which will yet be above the measures of times past in the extent of that Reference and Appeal before Angels and Men in behalf of the Truth and Faithfulness of God for what he hath spoken and promised to his Church and is that Tribute of praise which in a higher degree is to be payed in to him now when it 's so near to the close of time then by that great testimony of Joshua 25 14. how not one thing had fail'd of all the good things the Lord had then spoken in behalf of his Church but had fully taken place and was the same Appeal which Solomon made I. Kings 8 56. for this with a higher glory and evidence is to be the Testimony of the latter days when it 's drawing near to that magnificent close and period of Prophetick Chronology and finishing of the Mystery of God therein how his spotless truth hath as the Sun in his strength kept it's way and course amidst all these dark clouds which hath spread to darken the same and no promise or prediction of that sacred record of the Scripture hath ever fail'd or fallen to the ground now when it 's drawing so near to the perfect Day It is true each age hath had their proper measures of light in order to the service of that time and something peculiar allotted in the dispensations of Providence yea some greater eminency did belong to these times past when the sufferings of Christians did most abound in the adventures of Faith and in the tryal of love then in after times but as to higher
Sacred Canon of the Scripture is sealed and consigned to the Church to have no more addition thereto but that it 's now a part of the highest trust upon the Gentile Churches to have a most venerable respect for conveyance of the great Works of God from one Generation to another to bear such evidence thereof as the nature of these things is capable of for a moral certainty yea that this might be on such tryall as should silence and convince the most inquisitive and suspicious spirits of men herein this is of a serious and weighty import if it were considered 1. How so high a concern of the Glory of God is thus intrusted to tradition by humane testimony and record and to the credit thereof as that way only which the Lord hath now fix'd for the convoyance of his marvelous works to after times on which he once put that value as to give them a special room in Sacred Writ and tho there is no such way now to attest the same yet is not the weight of that service taken off the Church which is mentioned Isay 62 6. to be the Lords Remembrancers and Recorders of his great Acts as the Original there bears 2. It is unquestionable that be hath reserved the greatest of his Works wherein he will most eminently appear to the last times and what a loss hath it been to the Christian World unto this day that unfaithful part which we must charge upon former ages in no suitable regard to have such ane interest and treasure with a publick care secured for the posterity through which the credit and honor of tradition hath been so much broke as hath rendred the use thereof of small effect 3. And it 's known how difficult a part it is to gain credit in this day to the truth of what 's more extraordinar in passages of providence even where the relaters thereof hâ—th as to their own conscience and conviction the most full assurance and hath designed what Inquiry was suitable in such a case whilst the want of a more unite and publique concurrence takes off so much of that weigâ—t which it might have in after times but I have confidence that a higher service of this kind in the improvement of so great a Talent for the honor of God does yet wait on the Church succeeding race as shall tend to bring up what hath been detain'd of such a rent and tribute of praise yea that these whose Lot shall be in the dayes that are now coming and fall in with the growing state and glory of the Kingdom of Christ to see these things which will exceed the thoughts and faith of this day herein shall see and enjoy such Records of these times where the great intent shall be of that kind Revel 15 3. Great and Marvelous are thy Works Lord God Almighty Just and True are thy Ways thou King of Saints and where the credit of such a testimony shall not be personal only but national in a more solemn unite concurrence herewith then hath been hitherto known 4. It is on this Subject I must add further that a traditional conveyance of more special and momentous things of Providence might be of much use were it suitably improven to have a remembrance thereof continued in a Family Line and Relation which is one peculiar way whereby the present Generation might declare the truth and faithfulness of God to the next It is true there is no serious Christian but is thus sisted and accountable on such a service to put to his seall by some explicit personal testimony that God is true upon his tryall hereof and most specially to improve that season when it is near to the close and shutting up of time that with his last and dying breath he might bear the same witness to the truth of Christ and to the advantage and excellency of his way and service which he did in the whole course of his life past and of that joy complacence assurance of mind which these have found and now hath in the way of truth but there is something more peculiar in this Testimony to be understood with respect to these to whom things in a more singular manner hath been allotted then to other Christians in the way of Providence and hath in the Record and Journal of their life had more extraordinar Remarks and Confirmations from the Lord as gives higher access to this service and adds to the value of such a Testimony I would offer but a few thoughts on such a Head which may possibly seem a strange and dark thing to some 1. It was once for a long time that the Series of the Church was kept up in a Family Line from Abraham to the 12 Patriarchs and what a rare course and conduct of Providence was thus transmit to after times which is so great ane interest and treasure to this day and tho that convoyance was by an infallible spirit yet is this so far exemplary thereby for such a confirmatory witness by observing Christians to the truth when it comes to their last improvement of time and of what hath been more signal and eminent in the Lords dealing with them that it should be one of the choisest Legacies they could be queath to their Relations yea a singular mean to have Religion thus kept alive in a more venerable respect thereto in a Family State and to fix stronger engagements to the way of God on their surviving Friends 2. I hope there be no serious discerning Christian but hath some more select Observations of their life and what hath been most remarkable in the course of Providence towards them layd up something of which might be of singular use besides their own personal interâ—st therein to a further establishment of others in the way of truth tho any improvement of that kind needs much Christian prudence and sobriety to qualify the same yea were this suitably designed in such dismal times we are now fall'n in what access might private Christians have these specially who have gone through more extraoâ—dinar tryalls then others to be thus a publique blessing to their Generation and how honourable a service were it for God to advance the credit of Religion and fix deeper impressions of the same on mens spirits that these who have been admit to more special adventures of Faith amidst the various conflicts of their day should in the close thereof have this as their proper work to deliver the truth off their hand which they had receaved with their seal and testimony to the same as that which they had proven and tryed in a more then ordinare way and which had brought them safe and honourably through as was the last Words and Witness of David 1 Kings 14. Who haâ—h delivered my soul out of all distress this I humbly judge falleth in as the last and peculiar service of a Christian when it hath the advantage to be more valuable and convincing to others then in any other time of their life were a thing highly desirable that a work of this kind should be suitably prepared to prevent a surprisal of death going silent off the stage which hath been the lott of these who have shin'd most brightly thereon and as it surely hath the most opportune season in the last Scene of a Christians Work so may it be yet more designed and regarded in the last ages of time when thete is to be expected such Testimonies for God and to the Glory of his Truth as will much exceed the ordinar Standard of these times past and we are now in The full sense of that Scripture John 3 33. should have a great weight herein he that hath received his Testimony hath sett to his seall that God is true where there is a peculiar debt and trust on the one hand that is put on such who hath the truth and testimony of God consign'd for tryall of the same and a discharge thereof which on the other hand they stand accountable for putting to their seall that God is true which is the most solemn way of a Testimony before men tho some may be thus in a special manner stated by higher engagements to fanctify God before others and when some more singular passages of Providence comes under such a witness and seall as a distinct part of a Christians Testament in his parting with time it brings the strongest evidence that humane testimony can possibly have for conveyance of the same FINIS