or_o for_o his_o due_a reproof_n and_o correction_n wherein_o he_o hoth_v evil_a and_o for_o the_o end_n of_o contention_n and_o controversy_n betwixt_o man_n and_o man_n whether_o we_o be_v lawful_o call_v forth_o to_o do_v it_o upon_o our_o oath_n before_o a_o magistrate_n or_o that_o we_o have_v any_o just_a occasion_n more_o private_o so_o to_o do_v it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o concern_v but_o that_o the_o lord_n forbid_v false_a witnesse-bearing_a against_o our_o neighbour_n to_o his_o discredit_n or_o hurt_v do_v on_o the_o contrary_a command_n the_o speak_n and_o witness_v of_o the_o truth_n for_o his_o benefit_n or_o credit_n and_o because_o it_o often_o fall_v out_o that_o a_o man_n good_a neighbour_n can_v be_v benefit_v and_o relieve_v but_o the_o wicked_a and_o false_a accusation_n or_o lie_n of_o another_o must_v therewithal_o be_v detect_v therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o a_o true_a witness_n must_v be_v give_v against_o every_o evil_a neighbour_n to_o his_o just_a rebuke_n and_o punishment_n and_o general_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o all_o discovery_n and_o reproof_n of_o lie_n and_o slander_n to_o the_o discredit_n of_o the_o wicked_a it_o be_v on_o the_o behalf_n of_o every_o good_a neighbour_n and_o of_o the_o truth_n itself_o yea_o it_o be_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o our_o neighbour_n who_o have_v sin_v any_o sin_n which_o be_v to_o be_v discover_v that_o we_o do_v therein_o witness_v against_o he_o that_o by_o the_o just_a rebuke_n and_o correction_n of_o his_o sin_n he_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o true_a repentance_n moreover_o because_o even_o good_a neighbour_n may_v be_v at_o variance_n for_o want_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n therefore_o it_o be_v further_o add_v that_o this_o be_v the_o use_n of_o bear_v a_o true_a witness_n to_o end_v controversy_n and_o contention_n according_a to_o that_o we_o read_v heb._n 6.16_o but_o not_o only_o in_o judicial_a course_n of_o judgement_n before_o the_o magistrate_n or_o judge_n of_o the_o court_n but_o also_o in_o all_o private_a speech_n and_o testimony_n god_n require_v that_o we_o always_o speak_v and_o affirm_v the_o truth_n to_o the_o benefit_n of_o our_o neighbour_n in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n and_o truth_n etc._n etc._n read_v ephes_n 4.25_o and_o colos_n 3.8_o thus_o then_o to_o speak_v in_o a_o word_n the_o brief_a sum_n of_o this_o commandment_n be_v truth_n of_o speech_n command_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o our_o neighbour_n yea_o even_o for_o the_o mutual_a benefit_n of_o one_o neighbour_n by_o another_o according_a as_o it_o be_v write_v a_o faithful_a witness_n deliver_v soul_n but_o a_o deceiver_n speak_v lie_n prou._n chapter_n 14.25_o but_o hereunto_o as_o unto_o a_o very_a great_a and_o weighty_a duty_n there_o be_v diverse_a excellent_a virtue_n and_o grace_n necessary_o require_v as_o you_o have_v be_v teach_v which_o be_v they_o the_o first_o be_v a_o hearty_a love_n and_o zealous_a affection_n to_o the_o truth_n in_o general_a with_o a_o willing_a and_o ready_a chearfulnesse_n of_o mind_n to_o give_v witness_n unto_o it_o the_o second_o be_v a_o particular_a knowledge_n and_o assurance_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o every_o matter_n whereunto_o we_o do_v give_v witness_v the_o three_o be_v incorrupt_a affection_n â—oid_v of_o all_o ill_a will_n and_o hatred_n or_o of_o partiality_n and_o flattery_n touch_v the_o person_n who_o our_o testimony_n concern_v whether_o he_o be_v friend_n or_o foe_n howsoever_o we_o shall_v esteem_v of_o he_o the_o four_o be_v simplicity_n and_o plainness_n in_o the_o declaration_n of_o the_o truth_n the_o last_o be_v constancy_n in_o stand_v to_o the_o confirmation_n of_o that_o truth_n which_o be_v once_o upright_o and_o faithful_o affirm_v concern_v the_o first_o of_o these_o virtue_n which_o i_o call_v a_o hearty_a love_n and_o zealous_a affection_n to_o the_o truth_n in_o general_a i_o do_v not_o only_o extend_v it_o in_o this_o place_n to_o the_o witness_v of_o that_o truth_n which_o pertain_v to_o the_o outward_a safety_n and_o credit_n of_o every_o neighbour_n but_o also_o to_o the_o witness_v of_o the_o whole_a truth_n which_o be_v according_a to_o godliness_n tit._n cha_n 1.1_o and_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o true_a servant_n of_o god_n that_o he_o speak_v the_o truth_n in_o his_o heart_n psa_n 15.2_o concern_v the_o second_o read_v pro._n 15.28_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o righteous_a study_v to_o answer_v and_o chap._n 16.23_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o wise_a guide_v his_o mouth_n wise_o and_o chap._n 14.5_o a_o faithful_a witness_n will_v not_o lie_v and_o verse_n 15._o the_o foolish_a will_v believe_v every_o thing_n but_o the_o prudent_a will_v consider_v his_o step_n herein_o consider_v the_o wise_a discretion_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 1._o cor._n 1.11_o and_o chap._n 11.18_o concern_v the_o three_o virtue_n note_v that_o the_o truth_n be_v to_o be_v prefer_v before_o any_o person_n and_o before_o every_o reward_n and_o before_o all_o displeasure_n whatsoever_o may_v arise_v from_o the_o testify_a of_o it_o and_o herein_o let_v we_o take_v special_a heed_n against_o our_o own_o hatred_n and_o wrath_n against_o any_o man_n for_o that_o blind_v the_o eye_n and_o all_o such_o be_v by_o and_o by_o all_o to_o naught_o with_o we_o etc._n etc._n so_o the_o uprightness_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v neglect_v because_o of_o our_o crooked_a affection_n concern_v the_o four_o read_v isaiah_n chap._n 32_o 4.5_o answer_n veritas_fw-la non_fw-la quaerit_fw-la anguâ—los_fw-la in_o testimony_n veritatis_fw-la non_fw-la est_fw-la ludendum_fw-la vel_fw-la occultationibus_fw-la vel_fw-la ambiguitatibus_fw-la truth_n seek_v no_o corner_n it_o dally_v not_o by_o ambiguous_a and_o doubtful_a answer_n read_v also_o 2._o cor._n 2.17_o and_o chap._n 4.2_o read_v also_o joh._n 1.20_o and_o 1._o sam._n 3.17.18_o and_o josh_n 7.19_o concern_v the_o last_o read_v tit._n 1.9_o for_o that_o which_o the_o minister_n must_v do_v for_o his_o part_n in_o the_o great_a truth_n of_o god_n the_o like_a be_v to_o be_v perform_v of_o all_o in_o every_o truth_n it_o be_v a_o foul_a sin_n in_o every_o such_o one_o as_o shall_v be_v ready_a to_o shrink_v back_o from_o any_o true_a testimony_n when_o they_o perceive_v their_o landlord_n or_o some_o other_o great_a man_n to_o be_v offend_v therewithal_o all_o these_o virtue_n and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o other_o like_a to_o these_o they_o be_v careful_o to_o be_v regard_v in_o bear_v witness_n as_o every_o man_n will_v answer_v before_o god_n with_o who_o truth_n in_o every_o matter_n be_v very_o precious_a but_o that_o we_o may_v go_v forward_o be_v there_o nothing_o else_o command_v in_o this_o law_n of_o god_n but_o the_o thing_n which_o you_o have_v already_o rehearse_v yes_o god_n do_v moreover_o command_v we_o in_o this_o his_o holy_a commandment_n to_o perform_v every_o other_o good_a duty_n whereby_o both_o the_o good_a name_n and_o also_o the_o good_a and_o comfortable_a estate_n of_o our_o neighbour_n may_v not_o only_o be_v continue_v so_o much_o as_o we_o may_v procure_v but_o likewise_o whereby_o the_o same_o may_v be_v recover_v again_o if_o by_o any_o occasion_n they_o be_v lose_v and_o impair_v all_o this_o must_v needs_o be_v require_v according_a to_o the_o general_a law_n of_o love_n to_o our_o neighbour_n who_o good_a name_n and_o comfortable_a estate_n shall_v be_v as_o dear_a unto_o we_o as_o our_o own_o aught_o to_o be_v show_v therefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n which_o those_o duty_n be_v that_o be_v to_o be_v perform_v for_o the_o continuance_n and_o preservation_n of_o our_o neighbour_n good_a name_n and_o of_o his_o good_a estate_n first_o it_o be_v every_o man_n duty_n to_o teach_v and_o instruct_v his_o neighbour_n in_o every_o good_a way_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o shall_v perceive_v he_o to_o be_v ignorant_a and_o to_o want_v counsel_n yea_o it_o be_v every_o man_n duty_n to_o exhort_v and_o stir_v up_o his_o neighbour_n to_o all_o care_n and_o conscience_n to_o walk_v in_o obedience_n to_o every_o commandment_n of_o god_n second_o it_o be_v every_o man_n duty_n to_o yield_v every_o neighbour_n his_o due_a praise_n for_o all_o his_o godly_a wisdom_n and_o care_n and_o for_o every_o good_a grace_n and_o virtue_n in_o the_o well_o order_v of_o his_o life_n and_o to_o encourage_v he_o to_o continue_v and_o increase_v therein_o three_o god_n require_v that_o in_o all_o action_n or_o speech_n though_o something_o doubtful_a and_o suspicious_a we_o hope_v and_o speak_v the_o best_a of_o every_o good_a neighbour_n until_o the_o contrary_n shall_v break_v forth_o and_o be_v know_v yet_o so_o as_o in_o the_o mean_a while_n we_o admonish_v they_o to_o use_v better_a advisement_n and_o speedy_o to_o remove_v all_o cause_n of_o suspicion_n four_o that_o each_o neighbour_n be_v faithful_a and_o trusty_a in_o keep_v the_o
very_o circumspect_a in_o the_o well_o order_v of_o reprehension_n the_o discretion_n of_o a_o man_n say_v king_n solomon_n differ_v his_o anger_n and_o it_o be_v his_o glory_n to_o pass_v by_o a_o offence_n prou._n 19.11_o moreover_o he_o that_o will_v reprove_v as_o he_o ought_v must_v most_o diligent_o take_v heed_n that_o he_o be_v careful_a to_o reform_v himself_o first_o matth._n 7.3.4.5_o and_o then_o that_o he_o presume_v not_o above_o his_o gift_n or_o his_o place_n and_o calling_n by_o meddle_v with_o matter_n above_o his_o reach_n or_o with_o person_n of_o who_o he_o may_v easy_o conceive_v that_o they_o will_v scorn_v his_o admonition_n read_v prou._n 9.8_o nevertheless_o it_o must_v there_o withal_o be_v consider_v also_o that_o the_o wise_a of_o god_n servant_n can_v always_o observe_v the_o time_n so_o fit_o nor_o carry_v the_o reproof_n in_o so_o convenient_a and_o due_a manner_n but_o they_o must_v make_v reckon_v that_o some_o of_o the_o wicked_a who_o of_o love_n and_o duty_n they_o shall_v admonish_v and_o rebuke_v will_v harden_v their_o heart_n against_o the_o same_o yea_o and_o render_v hard_a measure_n against_o those_o that_o shall_v most_o love_o reprove_v they_o as_o herod_n deal_v against_o john_n baptist_n cast_v he_o into_o prison_n read_v prou._n 27.22_o though_o thou_o shall_v bray_v a_o fool_n in_o a_o mortar_n etc._n etc._n yet_o will_v not_o his_o foolishness_n depart_v from_o he_o it_o be_v true_a that_o a_o wise_a reprover_n be_v as_o a_o golden_a earring_n and_o a_o ornament_n of_o fine_a gold_n but_o he_o be_v so_o only_o to_o a_o wise_a and_o obedient_a ear_n prou._n 25.12_o for_o compassion_n over_o the_o offender_n beside_o that_o jude_n verse_n 22._o read_v also_o psal_n 119._o verse_n 136._o jer._n 9.1_o etc._n etc._n 2._o cor._n chap._n 12.12_o phil._n chap._n 3.18_o josh_n 7.19_o thus_o much_o therefore_o for_o the_o witness_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o tender_v our_o neighbour_n good_a name_n and_o welfare_n may_v suffice_v for_o this_o time_n remember_v always_o that_o in_o so_o much_o as_o god_n command_v truth_n to_o be_v witness_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o our_o neighbour_n special_o of_o our_o good_a and_o godly_a neighbour_n that_o therefore_o in_o such_o case_n wherein_o by_o the_o declaration_n of_o some_o truth_n our_o neighbour_n shall_v be_v unjust_o prejudice_v &_o hurt_v we_o be_v at_o no_o hand_n to_o disclose_v it_o as_o for_o example_n we_o must_v not_o betray_v our_o good_a neighbour_n and_o christian_a brother_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o cruel_a persecutor_n much_o less_o the_o whole_a congregation_n if_o we_o shall_v be_v examine_v of_o the_o time_n and_o place_n of_o their_o secret_a meeting_n for_o the_o worship_v of_o god_n and_o for_o their_o own_o mutual_a edification_n and_o salvation_n and_o thus_o now_o we_o have_v see_v at_o the_o last_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n which_o god_n in_o mercy_n have_v vouchsafe_v upon_o we_o what_o our_o whole_a duty_n be_v towards_o our_o neighbour_n according_a to_o this_o nine_o commandment_n but_o be_v there_o nothing_o command_v or_o at_o the_o least_o necessary_o imply_v in_o it_o concern_v ourselves_o and_o the_o tender_v of_o our_o own_o good_a name_n and_o safety_n yes_o for_o by_o the_o duty_n which_o the_o lord_n god_n command_v we_o towards_o other_o he_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v what_o regard_n we_o ought_v to_o have_v of_o ourselves_o and_o our_o own_o good_a name_n what_o regard_n be_v that_o which_o you_o speak_v of_o as_o we_o must_v true_o repent_v of_o all_o our_o sin_n pass_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o make_v outward_a profession_n of_o our_o repentance_n before_o man_n touch_v those_o sin_n especial_o whereby_o we_o have_v give_v offence_n to_o any_o either_o public_o or_o private_o so_o for_o all_o time_n to_o come_v it_o be_v our_o part_n so_o to_o order_v our_o life_n in_o unfeigned_a obedience_n to_o all_o the_o holy_a law_n and_o commandment_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v not_o only_o have_v praise_n with_o god_n &_o the_o testimony_n of_o every_o good_a neighbour_n for_o our_o credit_n and_o welfare_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o yet_o so_o as_o we_o must_v always_o for_o our_o own_o part_n both_o think_v humble_o &_o speak_v modest_o of_o ourselves_o &_o our_o own_o action_n or_o virtue_n according_a to_o that_o admonition_n of_o the_o holy_a prou._n cha_n 27.2_o let_v another_o man_n praise_v thou_o and_o not_o thy_o own_o mouth_n a_o stranger_n and_o not_o thy_o own_o lip_n and_o gal._n 5.26_o let_v we_o not_o be_v desirous_a of_o vainglory_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v true_a for_o first_o the_o only_a way_n to_o win_v or_o recover_v a_o good_a name_n be_v by_o amendment_n of_o our_o life_n wherein_o we_o have_v transgress_v &_o so_o procure_v our_o own_o reproach_n &_o if_o we_o shall_v harken_v to_o the_o admonition_n &_o rebuke_n of_o other_o as_o well_o we_o as_o will_v have_v any_o in_o the_o like_a case_n harken_v unto_o we_o etc._n etc._n and_o second_o that_o every_o man_n stand_v bind_v to_o have_v care_n to_o seek_v a_o good_a name_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n by_o walk_v humble_o in_o the_o way_n &_o commandment_n of_o god_n we_o may_v consider_v it_o by_o diverse_a reason_n for_o the_o way_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a commendable_a way_n fear_v god_n &_o keep_v his_o commandment_n say_v the_o preacher_n eccl._n cha_n 12._o ver_fw-la 13._o for_o this_o be_v all_o of_o a_o man_n all_o whatsoever_o beside_o be_v vanity_n and_o what_o else_o in_o any_o sound_a reason_n can_v any_o man_n be_v worthy_o commend_v for_o if_o he_o want_v the_o fear_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n may_v a_o man_n be_v commend_v for_o profaneness_n or_o for_o idolatry_n or_o for_o wrath_n or_o for_o drunkenness_n or_o for_o fornication_n etc._n etc._n god_n forbid_v the_o lord_n himself_o make_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o seruamt_n the_o ground_n of_o their_o good_a name_n heb._n 11.39_o &_o their_o obedience_n the_o confirmation_n thereof_o read_v phil._n 4.8_o in_o this_o respect_n let_v it_o be_v consider_v that_o the_o whole_a law_n of_o god_n bear_v the_o name_n of_o truth_n to_o the_o obedience_n whereof_o also_o be_v oppose_v the_o general_a vice_n of_o lie_v as_o psa_n 119._o verse_n 29._o take_v away_o from_o i_o the_o way_n of_o lie_v say_v the_o holy_a prophet_n and_o of_o thy_o good_a grace_n grant_v i_o thy_o law_n and_o verse_n 89._o all_o the_o commandment_n of_o god_n be_v truth_n and_o psal_n 19.9_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v truth_n whereupon_o also_o say_v the_o apostle_n john_n 1._o epist_n 1.9_o if_o we_o say_v we_o have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o walk_n in_o darkness_n we_o lie_v and_o do_v not_o true_o and_o chap._n 2.4_o he_o that_o faith_n i_o know_v he_o and_o keep_v not_o his_o commandment_n be_v a_o liar_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v not_o in_o he_o thus_o rom._n 1.25_o idolater_n be_v say_v to_o turn_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n into_o a_o lie_n and_o james_n chapter_n 3.14_o they_o that_o have_v bitter_a envy_v and_o strife_n in_o their_o heart_n they_o be_v liar_n against_o the_o truth_n on_o the_o contrary_a he_o that_o do_v truth_n come_v to_o the_o light_n that_o his_o work_n may_v be_v make_v manifest_a that_o they_o be_v wrought_v according_a to_o god_n john_n 3.21_o such_o be_v say_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o truth_n john_n 2._o epist_n verse_n 4._o and_o epistle_n 3._o verse_n 3.4_o even_o that_o truth_n which_o be_v according_a to_o godliness_n titus_n 1.1_o even_o that_o truth_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n ephes_n 4.12_o and_o for_o the_o which_o we_o must_v do_v all_o that_o we_o can_v and_o nothing_o against_o it_o 2._o cor._n 13.8_o for_o the_o which_o we_o must_v not_o only_o be_v witness_n but_o even_o martyr_n in_o a_o special_a manner_n if_o need_v so_o require_v and_o a_o particular_a branch_n of_o this_o obedience_n from_o whence_o a_o good_a name_n be_v argue_v be_v the_o speak_n and_o witness_v of_o the_o truth_n according_a to_o this_o nine_o commandment_n and_o when_o a_o man_n be_v a_o man_n of_o his_o word_n as_o they_o say_v and_o when_o as_o our_o saviour_n christ_n speak_v his_o yea_o be_v yea_o and_o his_o nay_o nay_o and_o when_o we_o be_v careful_a to_o avoid_v â—alkativenesse_n after_o the_o manner_n of_o idle_a gossip_n etc._n etc._n read_v prou._n 10.19_o and_o 1._o tim._n 5.13_o read_v also_o prou._n 17.27.28_o thus_o must_v we_o walk_v that_o we_o may_v have_v praise_n both_o before_o god_n and_o man_n read_v rom._n 2.28.29_o but_o that_o we_o may_v conclude_v this_o point_n of_o our_o treatise_n what_o be_v to_o be_v say_v concern_v our_o secret_a sin_n do_v we_o sâ—nd_v bind_v to_o make_v they_o know_v as_o be_v a_o mean_n whereby_o
willing_a according_a to_o his_o knowledge_n in_o a_o due_a course_n of_o inquiry_n to_o give_v witness_n to_o the_o truth_n yea_o it_o be_v every_o man_n part_n careful_o to_o observe_v and_o mark_v those_o thing_n which_o it_o be_v fit_a for_o they_o to_o know_v curse_n the_o curse_n that_o they_o may_v as_o occasion_n shall_v require_v be_v meet_a witness_n of_o the_o truth_n it_o be_v not_o a_o sufficient_a excuse_n for_o a_o man_n to_o say_v i_o know_v not_o what_o to_o say_v to_o it_o whereas_o he_o may_v have_v know_v if_o he_o have_v list_v even_o as_o we_o will_v glad_o have_v the_o just_a testimony_n of_o other_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o ourselves_o etc._n etc._n so_o ought_v we_o to_o be_v willing_a to_o yield_v we_o for_o the_o benefit_n of_o other_o and_o likewise_o as_o we_o will_v be_v loath_a that_o so_o precious_a a_o jewel_n as_o a_o good_a name_n be_v and_o that_o so_o sweet_a a_o fruit_n as_o be_v love_a favour_n which_o grow_v from_o thence_o shall_v be_v steal_v as_o it_o be_v out_o of_o our_o garden_n by_o any_o false_a witness_n lie_v and_o slander_n so_o ought_v we_o of_o the_o same_o equity_n to_o take_v heed_n that_o we_o defraud_n not_o or_o spoil_v any_o of_o their_o good_a name_n and_o estimation_n by_o the_o same_o unjust_a &_o wicked_a practice_n moreover_o the_o equity_n of_o this_o point_n appear_v in_o so_o much_o as_o false_a witness_n lie_v and_o slander_v be_v the_o common_a harbourer_n and_o upholder_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o also_o a_o enemy_n to_o all_o virtue_n and_o godliness_n both_o in_o deprave_v thereof_o and_o also_o in_o deny_v all_o just_a defence_n and_o succour_n thereunto_o we_o be_v come_v to_o the_o last_o point_n how_o can_v you_o show_v the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n in_o respect_n of_o our_o profession_n of_o the_o name_n and_o religion_n of_o god_n because_o they_o that_o slander_n and_o defame_v any_o their_o good_a neighbour_n and_o brethren_n and_o they_o also_o themselves_o who_o walk_v not_o answerable_a to_o their_o profession_n do_v give_v occasion_n to_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n true_a religion_n to_o blaspheme_v and_o speak_v evil_a of_o the_o most_o holy_a and_o reverend_a name_n of_o god_n so_o it_o be_v say_v indeed_o of_o king_n david_n that_o by_o his_o grievous_a sin_n of_o adultery_n and_o murder_n he_o cause_v the_o enemy_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o blaspheme_v 2._o sam._n 12.14_o and_o more_o general_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o wicked_a jew_n that_o through_o their_o break_n of_o god_n law_n they_o dishonour_v god_n and_o that_o through_o they_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v blaspheme_v among_o the_o gentile_n rom._n 2.23.24_o now_o sure_o this_o be_v the_o most_o unequal_a thing_n that_o can_v be_v that_o god_n who_o honour_v his_o people_n with_o put_v his_o name_n upon_o they_o and_o in_o call_v they_o to_o the_o profession_n of_o his_o heavenly_a kingdom_n and_o glory_n it_o be_v the_o most_o unequal_a thing_n that_o may_v be_v i_o say_v that_o god_n shall_v be_v dishonour_v by_o they_o ought_v you_o not_o say_v that_o honourable_a nehemiah_n chap._n 5.9_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o the_o reproach_n of_o the_o heathen_a our_o enemy_n so_o the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n and_o of_o the_o three_o be_v in_o this_o respect_n the_o same_o and_o the_o rather_o also_o be_v it_o unequal_a that_o one_o christian_n shall_v slander_v a_o other_o because_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n truth_n be_v over_o ready_a to_o seek_v the_o diffamation_n and_o slander_n of_o we_o all_o though_o we_o be_v careful_a to_o maintain_v the_o credit_n one_o of_o another_o so_o much_o as_o in_o truth_n and_o equity_n we_o may_v the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n be_v thus_o manifold_a and_o great_a no_o marvel_n though_o god_n in_o his_o justice_n have_v threaten_v and_o assign_v so_o many_a and_o great_a curse_n or_o plague_n and_o punishment_n to_o the_o transgression_n of_o it_o these_o curse_n therefore_o let_v we_o now_o come_v unto_o for_o this_o be_v the_o place_n wherein_o we_o be_v according_a to_o our_o order_n to_o consider_v of_o they_o and_o first_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n and_o punishment_n of_o those_o that_o bear_v false_a witness_n upon_o their_o oath_n before_o a_o magistrate_n the_o punishment_n of_o such_o in_o the_o civil_a course_n of_o god_n justice_n be_v appoint_v to_o be_v the_o same_o which_o they_o by_o their_o false_a witness_n will_v have_v bring_v upon_o their_o neighbour_n as_o we_o read_v in_o the_o 19_o chap._n of_o deut._n from_o the_o 16._o verse_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chap._n and_o deut._n 27._o vers_fw-la 17._o and_o 19_o such_o as_o be_v instrument_n of_o wrong_n this_o way_n they_o be_v by_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o people_n of_o god_n even_o according_a to_o his_o commandment_n pronounce_v accurse_v before_o the_o lord_n so_o indeed_o we_o read_v express_o in_o those_o place_n of_o holy_a scripture_n and_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n that_o god_n who_o command_v civil_a judge_n to_o use_v this_o severity_n against_o the_o body_n and_o outward_a estate_n of_o false_a witness_n will_v be_v behind_o in_o the_o execution_n of_o his_o divine_a justice_n both_o upon_o their_o body_n and_o also_o upon_o their_o soul_n whosoever_o shall_v not_o have_v grace_n to_o repent_v they_o earnest_o of_o so_o great_a and_o grievous_a a_o sin_n and_o notwithstanding_o the_o course_n of_o civil_a justice_n among_o we_o be_v more_o slack_a than_o that_o of_o the_o lord_n in_o israel_n and_o by_o somuch_o more_o fail_v and_o unperfect_a then_o that_o be_v yet_o it_o be_v no_o small_a punishment_n or_o curse_n and_o reproach_n that_o the_o perjure_a person_n be_v disable_v from_o the_o credit_n of_o give_v testimony_n in_o any_o matter_n of_o judgement_n so_o long_o as_o he_o live_v and_o further_a also_o concern_v the_o more_o heavy_a curse_n against_o the_o false_a witness_n read_v prou._n 19.5_o and_o in_o the_o same_o chapter_n vers_fw-la 28.29_o and_o again_o chap._n 21._o verse_n 28._o where_o the_o often_o repetition_n argue_v the_o special_a displeasure_n of_o god_n against_o this_o sin_n as_o against_o that_o which_o be_v great_o abhor_v of_o he_o according_a to_o that_o we_o read_v prou._n 6.19_o and_o psalm_n 59_o from_o 〈◊〉_d 11._o verse_n where_o read_v a_o fearful_a imprecation_n against_o the_o perjure_a person_n and_o thus_o we_o may_v by_o very_o plentiful_a and_o authentic_a witness_n perceive_v that_o the_o false_a witness_n shall_v be_v sure_o and_o severe_o punish_v now_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o the_o wicked_a judge_n or_o magistrate_n who_o shall_v without_o diligent_a sift_v of_o the_o false_a witness_n admit_v and_o allow_v his_o false_a testimony_n and_o according_o give_v a_o wrong_a sentence_n he_o that_o say_v to_o the_o wicked_a thou_o be_v righteous_a he_o shall_v the_o people_n curse_n and_o the_o multitude_n shall_v abhor_v he_o prou._n 24._o verse_n 24._o yea_o the_o lord_n himself_o do_v abhor_v he_o prou._n 17.15_o how_o then_o shall_v he_o not_o stand_v fearful_o accurse_v read_v also_o prou._n 29.12_o such_o a_o prince_n must_v needs_o make_v wicked_a proceed_n and_o so_o haste_v the_o curse_n of_o god_n against_o himself_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o the_o common_a and_o unconscionable_a liar_n we_o have_v partly_o see_v it_o in_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o false_a witness_n from_o the_o testimony_n of_o diverse_a holy_a pro._n they_o rehearse_v and_o we_o may_v see_v it_o further_o prou._n chap._n 12.19_o the_o lie_a tongue_n shall_v soon_o vanish_v the_o deceit_n of_o such_o shall_v turn_v to_o their_o own_o hurt_n according_a to_o that_o which_o follow_v there_o in_o the_o next_o verse_n and_o in_o the_o same_o chapter_n the_o 22._o verse_n lie_v lip_n be_v a_o abomination_n to_o the_o lord_n wherefore_o also_o it_o be_v write_v psalm_n 5._o the_o 6._o verse_n the_o lord_n will_v destroy_v they_o that_o speak_v lie_n and_o revel_v 21.8_o all_o liar_n shall_v have_v their_o part_n in_o that_o lake_n which_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n which_o be_v the_o second_o death_n read_v also_o revel_v chap._n 22._o verse_n 15._o and_o psalm_n 31.18_o a_o vehement_a imprecation_n against_o liar_n and_o namely_o against_o that_o doggish_a doeg_n psalm_n 52.3.4.5_o among_o man_n also_o this_o be_v a_o just_a recompense_n against_o the_o liar_n from_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n that_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v believe_v though_o he_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o final_o note_n that_o as_o the_o sin_n of_o lie_v be_v increase_v by_o common_a swear_n so_o also_o shall_v the_o curse_n be_v the_o more_o heavy_a against_o such_o read_v here_o again_o zacharie_n 5.4_o but_o let_v we_o haste_v forward_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o the_o privy_a and_o malicious_a backebiter_n
and_o slanderer_n &_o c._n psalm_n 140._o in_o the_o 9_o verse_n thus_o we_o read_v backebyter_n shall_v not_o be_v establish_v upon_o the_o earth_n evil_a shall_v hunt_v the_o cruel_a man_n to_o destruction_n yea_o and_o by_o that_o which_o we_o read_v in_o the_o 15._o psalm_n we_o may_v perceive_v that_o this_o sin_n be_v as_o a_o bar_n against_o all_o such_o that_o they_o can_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o beside_o by_o that_o we_o read_v psalm_n 101._o verse_n 5._o we_o may_v see_v they_o be_v such_o a_o kind_n of_o people_n as_o be_v not_o to_o be_v suffer_v in_o a_o godly_a family_n or_o christian_n common_a wealth_n and_o further_o concern_v the_o civil_a punishment_n of_o the_o slanderer_n in_o the_o common_a wealth_n of_o israel_n to_o wit_n in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o slander_n of_o a_o virgin_n touch_v her_o virginity_n read_v deuter._n chap._n 22._o verse_n 13._o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o 19_o verse_n thus_o than_o the_o curse_n be_v great_a against_o false_a witness_n liar_n and_o slanderer_n be_v there_o any_o curse_n also_o against_o they_o that_o conceal_v that_o truth_n which_o of_o duty_n they_o ought_v to_o disclose_v and_o utter_v it_o be_v say_v of_o such_o that_o they_o shall_v bear_v their_o iniquity_n levit._fw-la chap._n 5._o the_o 1._o verse_n now_o sure_o if_o iniquity_n be_v upon_o they_o the_o punishment_n will_v follow_v if_o it_o be_v not_o prevent_v by_o repentance_n and_o by_o humble_a supplication_n to_o god_n for_o the_o pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n thereof_o but_o let_v we_o proceed_v what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o he_o that_o do_v discover_v the_o secret_n of_o his_o neighbour_n which_o he_o ought_v of_o love_n and_o faithfulness_n to_o have_v conceal_v he_o that_o deal_v thus_o shall_v worthy_o loose_v his_o chief_a friend_n according_a to_o that_o we_o read_v prou._n 17._o verse_n 9_o he_o that_o cover_v a_o transgression_n seek_v love_n but_o he_o that_o repeat_v a_o matter_n separate_v the_o prince_n and_o chapter_n 25.9.10_o debate_v the_o matter_n with_o thy_o neighbour_n and_o discover_v not_o the_o secret_a to_o another_o lest_o he_o that_o hear_v put_v thou_o to_o shame_n &_o thy_o infamy_n cease_v not_o thus_o reproach_n be_v punish_v by_o reproach_n the_o curse_n of_o he_o that_o flatter_v and_o dissemble_v with_o his_o neighbour_n be_v yet_o behind_o what_o proof_n have_v you_o that_o such_o be_v accurse_v the_o curse_n say_v king_n solomon_n shall_v be_v impute_v to_o he_o that_o bless_v his_o friend_n with_o a_o loud_a voice_n rise_v early_o in_o the_o morning_n to_o do_v it_o prou._n 27.14_o and_o job_n chap._n 17._o vers_fw-la 5._o the_o eye_n of_o his_o child_n shall_v fail_v that_o speak_v flattery_n to_o his_o friend_n or_o thus_o the_o eye_n of_o those_o that_o give_v themselves_o to_o flatter_v &_o soothe_v up_o their_o friend_n they_o shall_v fail_v such_o be_v the_o curse_n of_o the_o flatterer_n even_o of_o such_o who_o as_o be_v say_v before_o rise_v up_o early_o to_o do_v it_o as_o it_o be_v write_v of_o absalon_n that_o he_o do_v 2._o sam._n 15.2_o read_v also_o prou._n 12.2.3_o now_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n of_o he_o that_o rash_o mis-iudgeth_a his_o neighbour_n and_o misconstrueth_a his_o word_n and_o deed_n interpret_n they_o in_o the_o worst_a part_n judge_v not_o say_v our_o saviour_n christ_n that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v for_o with_o what_o judgement_n you_o judge_v you_o shall_v be_v judge_v and_o with_o what_o measure_v you_o meat_n it_o shall_v be_v measure_v to_o you_o mat._n 7.1.2_o our_o saviour_n christ_n speak_v of_o this_o no_o doubt_n as_o of_o a_o just_a punishment_n of_o god_n upon_o all_o rash_a judger_n wherefore_o see_v he_o thus_o order_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n shall_v we_o not_o much_o rather_o suppose_v that_o he_o himself_o will_v use_v severity_n of_o judgement_n against_o such_o rigorous_a censurer_n what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o those_o that_o refuse_v to_o hearken_v to_o instruction_n that_o so_o by_o lead_v a_o faithful_a and_o godly_a life_n they_o may_v get_v themselves_o a_o good_a name_n the_o just_a and_o due_a curse_n hereof_o be_v shame_n and_o reproach_n both_o before_o god_n and_o man_n such_o indeed_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o a_o licentious_a life_n prou._n 5._o verse_n 12.13.14_o and_o chap._n 10.7_o the_o name_n of_o the_o wicked_a shall_v rot_v and_o chap._n 13.18_o povertie_n and_o shame_n be_v to_o he_o that_o refuse_v instruction_n read_v a_o fearful_a imprecation_n in_o that_o respect_n psal_n 109.13.14.15_o read_v also_o eccles_n chap._n 11.9_o show_v likewise_o what_o the_o curse_n be_v against_o such_o as_o forsake_v the_o way_n of_o god_n refuse_v to_o hearken_v to_o instruction_n &_o rebuke_n for_o the_o recovery_n of_o a_o good_a name_n instruction_n be_v evil_a to_o he_o that_o forsake_v the_o way_n and_o he_o that_o hate_v correction_n shall_v die_v blessing_n the_o blessing_n prou._n chap._n 15.10_o and_z vers_n 32._o he_o that_o refuse_v instruction_n despise_v his_o own_o soul_n and_o chap._n 29.1_o a_o man_n that_o harden_v his_o neck_n when_o he_o be_v rebuke_v shall_v sudden_o be_v destroy_v and_o can_v be_v cure_v read_v also_o matth._n 12.43.44.45_o and_o 2._o pet._n 2.20.21.22_o hebr._n 6.4.5.6.7.8_o and_o chap._n 10.26.27_o but_o we_o have_v witness_n enough_o and_o thus_o we_o may_v also_o yet_o further_o perceive_v how_o the_o lord_n accurse_v all_o untruth_n against_o a_o man_n neighbour_n in_o matter_n of_o this_o life_n must_v needs_o much_o rather_o hold_v those_o accurse_v which_o lie_n unto_o himself_o or_o bear_v false_a witness_n more_o direct_o to_o the_o falsify_v of_o the_o rruth_n of_o his_o divine_a will_n and_o doctrine_n to_o the_o special_a dishonour_n of_o his_o name_n and_o to_o the_o peril_n of_o man_n soul_n of_o the_o curse_n of_o such_o as_o lie_v unto_o god_n consider_v from_o the_o example_n of_o ananias_n and_o sapphira_n act._n 5.3.4.5_o etc._n etc._n and_o of_o such_o as_o speak_v lie_n and_o teach_v false_a doctrine_n through_o hypocrisy_n read_v 1._o tim._n 4.1.2.3_o read_v also_o deut._n 13._o and_o jerem._n 23._o and_o chap._n 28.15_o ezek._n chap._n 13._o revel_v chap._n 19.20_o and_o chap._n 20.10_o and_o chap._n 22.18.19_o read_v also_o numb_a 14.37_o those_o man_n that_o do_v bring_v up_o that_o vile_a slander_n upon_o the_o land_n shall_v die_v by_o a_o plague_n before_o the_o lord_n but_o this_o consideration_n do_v more_o proper_o belong_v to_o the_o curse_n against_o the_o transgression_n of_o the_o first_o table_n where_o also_o it_o have_v be_v consider_v of_o let_v we_o therefore_o leave_v this_o point_n and_o come_v to_o the_o blessing_n which_o god_n have_v promise_v to_o the_o obedience_n of_o this_o comm._n and_o first_o of_o all_o what_o be_v the_o blessing_n of_o the_o true_a and_o faithful_a witness_n before_o a_o magistrate_n as_o also_o of_o he_o that_o have_v a_o general_a care_n to_o speak_v the_o truth_n from_o the_o heart_n the_o lord_n assure_v all_o such_o that_o they_o be_v the_o true_a member_n of_o his_o church_n here_o and_o that_o they_o shall_v for_o ever_o rest_n with_o he_o in_o his_o heavenly_a kingdom_n and_o never_o be_v cast_v out_o or_o remove_v as_o we_o read_v in_o the_o 15._o psalm_n this_o sure_o be_v a_o excellent_a scripture_n most_o comfortable_a to_o the_o purpose_n as_o we_o have_v late_o hear_v from_o the_o sermon_n make_v upon_o it_o read_v also_o prou._n 12.19_o and_o verse_n 22._o and_o chap._n 21._o vers_fw-la 28._o show_v in_o the_o next_o place_n what_o the_o blessing_n of_o such_o judge_n and_o magistrate_n be_v whosoever_o be_v true_o careful_a to_o examine_v witness_n diligent_o that_o according_a to_o a_o true_a testimony_n they_o may_v judge_v true_o mercy_n and_o truth_n preserve_v the_o king_n as_o we_o read_v prou._n 20.28_o and_o chap._n 24._o vers_fw-la 25.26_o to_o they_o that_o rebuke_v the_o wicked_a shall_v be_v pleasure_n and_o upon_o they_o shall_v come_v the_o blessing_n of_o every_o good_a man_n they_o shall_v kiss_v the_o lip_n of_o he_o that_o answer_v upright_o word_n here_o be_v three_o notable_a blessing_n bind_v up_o as_o it_o be_v a_o threefold_a cord_n twine_v together_o the_o safety_n of_o the_o estate_n of_o the_o king_n in_o his_o princely_a royalty_n much_o inward_a joy_n and_o comfort_n of_o conscience_n great_a pleasure_n as_o it_o be_v call_v and_o the_o love_a and_o reverend_a subjection_n of_o the_o people_n note_v by_o their_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o they_o and_o by_o the_o kiss_n of_o their_o lip_n which_o be_v special_a fruit_n and_o token_n of_o special_a love_n read_v also_o prou._n 29.14_o the_o blessing_n thus_o promise_v to_o the_o king_n as_o to_o the_o head_n and_o chieftain_n of_o the_o common_a wealth_n descend_v no_o doubt_n upon_o every_o inferior_a magistrate_n as_o upon_o
touch_v those_o who_o the_o apostle_n call_v inventor_n of_o evil_a thing_n rom._n 1.30_o see_v vain_a speech_n oath_n and_o vow_n be_v abuse_n of_o god_n name_n much_o more_o all_o blasphemous_a speech_n wicked_a oath_n and_o vow_n and_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o such_o as_o be_v the_o oath_n and_o vow_n of_o herod_n and_o of_o those_o that_o vow_v to_o murder_n paul_n etc._n etc._n see_v the_o use_n of_o good_a mean_n with_o trust_n in_o they_o as_o asa_n look_v to_o much_o after_o physic_n be_v a_o take_n of_o god_n name_n in_o vain_a than_o it_o be_v a_o more_o heinous_a abuse_n to_o seek_v to_o false_a god_n as_o ahaziah_n do_v 2._o king_n chap._n 1._o and_o all_o that_o seek_v to_o sorcerer_n &c_n &c_n such_o as_o be_v consort_v with_o the_o devil_n yea_o how_o fair_a pretence_n soever_o they_o make_v as_o though_o they_o cure_v by_o the_o name_n of_o god_n or_o by_o use_v good_a word_n hereunto_o belong_v haman_n cast_v of_o lot_n ester_n chapter_n 3.7_o read_v also_o jeremie_n 10.2_o and_o another_o kind_n of_o cast_v of_o lot_n in_o the_o pride_n of_o their_o power_n and_o victory_n joel._n 3.3_o obadiah_n verse_n 11.12_o read_v also_o psal_n 22.18_o math._n 27.35_o the_o force_n of_o this_o kind_n of_o reason_v which_o have_v now_o be_v use_v be_v plain_a to_o every_o one_o that_o will_v understand_v so_o that_o we_o need_v not_o stand_v long_o to_o persuade_v it_o let_v we_o therefore_o go_v forward_o and_o come_v to_o the_o other_o part_n of_o the_o interpretation_n that_o we_o may_v see_v what_o good_a duty_n be_v command_v which_o be_v they_o first_o that_o every_o one_o of_o we_o do_v show_v forth_o the_o most_o reverend_a and_o worthy_a estimation_n which_o we_o have_v of_o the_o lord_n god_n himself_o and_o of_o his_o divine_a title_n word_n and_o work_n and_o of_o all_o his_o holy_a ordinance_n and_o also_o that_o we_o show_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o our_o true_a knowledge_n and_o acknowledgement_n faith_n fear_n and_o love_n of_o he_o and_o of_o our_o zeal_n to_o his_o glory_n by_o speak_v ourselves_o and_o cause_v all_o other_o as_o much_o as_o lie_v in_o we_o to_o speak_v all_o good_a of_o his_o name_n and_o of_o the_o same_o his_o word_n and_o work_n command_v duty_n command_v and_o of_o all_o his_o holy_a ordinance_n and_o by_o the_o religious_a and_o right_a use_n of_o a_o oath_n according_a to_o the_o just_a and_o necessary_a occasion_n thereof_o second_o that_o every_o of_o we_o live_v in_o such_o a_o calling_n as_o may_v well_o agree_v to_o the_o holy_a profession_n of_o god_n name_n which_o he_o have_v put_v upon_o we_o in_o call_v we_o his_o people_n his_o servant_n his_o child_n etc._n etc._n we_o be_v careful_a to_o the_o uttermost_a of_o our_o power_n both_o in_o respect_n of_o ourselves_o and_o also_o of_o all_o that_o do_v belong_v unto_o we_o or_o will_v harken_v unto_o we_o to_o order_n and_o behave_v ourselves_o and_o they_o every_o way_n so_o wise_o and_o gracious_o as_o well_o in_o example_n as_o government_n that_o all_o which_o behold_v we_o may_v see_v that_o our_o religion_n be_v join_v with_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n and_o with_o the_o sanctification_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o so_o god_n may_v have_v the_o great_a glory_n by_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n which_o possible_o we_o may_v for_o our_o part_n procure_v and_o that_o not_o only_o in_o prosperity_n but_o also_o in_o adversity_n and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n we_o do_v bold_o and_o conconstant_o confess_v his_o name_n yea_o and_o final_o this_o la_o require_v that_o if_o by_o any_o occasion_n we_o fall_v into_o any_o sin_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n that_o we_o confess_v and_o bewail_v it_o and_o so_o earnest_o return_v to_o god_n and_o his_o church_n and_o that_o our_o repentance_n may_v be_v as_o not_o able_a and_o famous_a as_o be_v our_o fall_n it_o be_v very_o true_a for_o if_o we_o shall_v not_o in_o such_o case_n give_v glory_n to_o god_n as_o josua_n charge_v and_o exhort_v achan_n jos_n 7.19_o god_n will_v in_o his_o justice_n refuse_v to_o show_v we_o mercy_n read_v isai_n 30.1_o &_o pro._n 28.13_o so_o likewise_o if_o we_o shall_v not_o for_o fear_n or_o shame_n confess_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n before_o man_n even_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o persecution_n of_o the_o gospel_n christ_n will_v be_v ashamed_a of_o we_o before_o our_o heavenly_a father_n math._n 10_o 32.33_o &_o luke_n 9.26_o how_o we_o ought_v to_o sanctify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o affliction_n let_v we_o learn_v from_o the_o example_n of_o patient_a job_n chapter_n 1._o verse_n 21.22_o let_v he_o be_v a_o singular_a example_n to_o we_o of_o that_o care_n which_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v not_o only_o for_o ourselves_o but_o also_o of_o those_o that_o belong_v unto_o we_o that_o god_n holy_a name_n be_v not_o dishonour_v either_o by_o ourselves_o or_o they_o read_v in_o the_o same_o 1._o chapter_n verse_n 5._o read_v also_o concern_v abraham_n chap._n 18._o &_o the_o profession_n of_o king_n david_n both_o touch_v his_o private_a and_o also_o his_o public_a government_n psalm_n 101._o how_o minister_n of_o the_o word_n ought_v to_o seek_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o their_o calling_n and_o that_o in_o singular_a manner_n consider_v it_o from_o the_o rule_n and_o practice_v of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n john_n 7.18_o and_o from_o the_o example_n of_o the_o apostle_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n according_a to_o that_o we_o read_v 2._o corinth_n 4.5_o read_v also_o matth._n 5.16_o and_o jeremie_n 23._o verse_n 28.29_o and_o more_o general_o how_o all_o aught_o to_o be_v careful_a to_o glorify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n read_v nehem._n 5.9_o psalm_n 9_o verse_n 10._o isaiah_n 26.8_o zach._n 14.20.21_o malach._n 3.16_o and_o now_o that_o we_o may_v end_v this_o answer_n with_o that_o wherewith_o it_o be_v begin_v concern_v our_o honour_n and_o glorify_v of_o god_n with_o our_o speech_n eade_v psalm_n 100.3_o etc._n etc._n read_v also_o in_o the_o book_n of_o job._n chap._n 36.24_o and_o psalm_n 8._o etc._n etc._n and_o psalm_n 75.1_o yea_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o speak_v reverendly_a of_o the_o least_o of_o his_o work_n for_o we_o can_v make_v so_o much_o as_o one_o hair_n white_a or_o black_a as_o our_o saviour_n christ_n say_v 15._o deut._n â—hep_v 15._o we_o must_v praise_v he_o for_o his_o most_o fearful_a judgement_n against_o the_o wicked_a psalm_n 136._o and_o for_o his_o sharp_a affliction_n upon_o ourselves_o according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o job_n allege_v before_o read_v also_o psalm_n 119.71_o and_o verse_n 75._o read_v also_o josua_n 22.16.17.18.19.20_o and_o 1._o sam._n 3.18_o and_o 2._o king_n 20.19_o and_o concern_v the_o word_n of_o god_n how_o reverendly_a we_o be_v to_o think_v and_o speak_v of_o it_o consider_v from_o that_o which_o we_o read_v psalm_n 119._o verse_n 86._o and_o psalm_n 19_o and_o pro._n 30.5_o and_o 2._o tim._n 3.16_o that_o we_o stand_v bind_v to_o procure_v other_o to_o do_v the_o like_a read_v psalm_n 34.3_o and_o psal_n 37.30_o levit._fw-la 19.17_o jude_n verse_n 22.23_o thus_o and_o every_o way_n it_o be_v our_o bind_a duty_n to_o say_v and_o practice_v the_o lord_n have_v give_v i_o a_o tongue_n wherewith_o i_o will_v glorify_v he_o deut._n 32.3_o psalm_n 145.21_o and_o psalm_n 63.5_o read_v also_o psalm_n 71.13.14_o but_o among_o all_o other_o way_n of_o honour_v the_o name_n of_o god_n with_o our_o tongue_n he_o require_v that_o we_o have_v a_o special_a care_n thereof_o in_o the_o right_n and_o religious_a manner_n of_o take_v a_o oath_n whether_o public_o before_o a_o magistrate_n or_o private_o if_o there_o be_v a_o needful_a and_o just_a occasion_n thereunto_o let_v we_o therefore_o before_o we_o proceed_v consider_v of_o this_o so_o weighty_a a_o matter_n and_o first_o of_o all_o when_o have_v we_o just_a occasion_n offer_v to_o swear_v or_o to_o take_v a_o oath_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o this_o commandment_n when_o the_o truth_n of_o any_o matter_n by_o the_o certain_a knowledge_n and_o assurance_n whereof_o the_o name_n of_o god_n may_v be_v glorify_v &_o our_o neighbour_n benefit_v or_o otherwise_o satisfy_v in_o some_o weighty_a matter_n of_o doubt_n can_v otherwise_o be_v sufficient_o certify_v clear_v &_o find_v out_o as_o a_o oath_n be_v the_o great_a and_o grave_a way_n of_o clear_v the_o truth_n of_o a_o controversy_n or_o doubt_n so_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o last_o and_o never_o to_o be_v use_v but_o when_o there_o be_v special_a need_n read_v exod._n 22_o 7.8_o 9.10.11_o heb._n 6.16_o read_v also_o 2._o king_n 8.31.32_o see_v the_o practice_n gen._n 21.31_o 32._o and_o chap._n 24.29_o and_o chap._n 26.31_o
and_o be_v glad_a for_o great_a be_v your_o reward_n in_o heaven_n for_o so_o persecute_v they_o the_o prophet_n which_o be_v before_o you_o these_o be_v most_o comfortable_a &_o gracious_a blessing_n &_o who_o heart_n may_v they_o not_o worthy_o allure_v to_o enter_v into_o this_o course_n of_o true_a wisdom_n glory_n and_o happiness_n whosoever_o have_v any_o spark_n of_o grace_n and_o true_a wisdom_n in_o they_o but_o alas_o it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o in_o so_o much_o as_o the_o law_n promise_v not_o any_o blessing_n but_o upon_o condition_n of_o perfect_a obedience_n and_o see_v we_o be_v all_o yea_o even_o they_o that_o have_v receive_v great_a grace_n great_o behind_o and_o much_o fail_v therein_o that_o we_o say_v nothing_o of_o those_o that_o be_v so_o far_o from_o the_o course_n both_o of_o speech_n and_o life_n here_o command_v that_o they_o rejoice_v in_o wickedness_n &_o think_v themselves_o to_o remember_v god_n the_o better_a when_o they_o swear_v and_o rap_v out_o all_o the_o oath_n they_o can_v think_v on_o and_o condemn_v the_o obedience_n of_o this_o commandment_n as_o too_o great_a preciseness_n and_o to_o be_v a_o hypocritical_a holiness_n etc._n etc._n what_o shall_v we_o say_v for_o our_o relief_n against_o those_o so_o great_a discomfort_n though_o our_o fail_n yea_o though_o our_o rebellion_n have_v be_v great_a against_o this_o holy_a commandment_n so_o as_o we_o may_v just_o look_v to_o meet_v with_o the_o curse_n and_o not_o to_o have_v our_o part_n in_o any_o of_o the_o blessing_n yet_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n jesus_n be_v great_a than_o our_o sin_n and_o his_o blood_n shall_v wash_v away_o both_o they_o and_o the_o guiltiness_n of_o they_o not_o only_o from_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n justice_n but_o also_o from_o the_o accusation_n and_o pricking_n of_o our_o own_o conscience_n if_o we_o shall_v true_o believe_v in_o his_o name_n that_o he_o have_v satisfy_v for_o these_o our_o sin_n and_o fulfil_v this_o part_n of_o obedience_n for_o we_o and_o if_o we_o shall_v hearty_o repent_v and_o be_v henceforth_o more_o careful_a both_o with_o the_o word_n of_o our_o mouth_n and_o also_o in_o the_o action_n of_o our_o life_n to_o glorify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n then_o hitherto_o we_o have_v be_v this_o be_v our_o only_a comfort_n indeed_o according_a to_o that_o gracious_a promise_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n matth._n 12.31.32_o but_o what_o proof_n have_v you_o that_o christ_n have_v not_o only_o satisfy_v for_o these_o our_o sin_n but_o also_o have_v fulfil_v the_o righteousness_n and_o obedience_n of_o this_o commandment_n for_o we_o so_o as_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v move_v for_o his_o sake_n to_o forgive_v our_o sin_n and_o to_o accept_v and_o to_o bless_v our_o unperfect_a and_o unworthy_a obedience_n our_o saviour_n christ_n himself_o we_o our_o saviour_n christ_n perfect_a obedience_n for_o we_o who_o be_v most_o faithful_a and_o true_a give_v a_o plentiful_a witness_n of_o it_o in_o the_o 17._o chapter_n of_o the_o gospel_n write_v by_o his_o holy_a evangelist_n saint_n john_n the_o whole_a chapter_n be_v notable_a to_o this_o purpose_n be_v a_o most_o heavenly_a prayer_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o his_o and_o through_o he_o our_o heavenly_a father_n for_o his_o whole_a church_n and_o people_n but_o let_v we_o hear_v the_o principal_a word_n tend_v to_o this_o end_n in_o the_o 4._o verse_n our_o saviour_n christ_n say_v thus_o i_o have_v glorify_v thou_o on_o earth_n i_o have_v finish_v the_o work_n which_o thou_o give_v i_o to_o do_v and_o verse_n 6._o i_o have_v declare_v thy_o name_n unto_o the_o man_n which_o thou_o give_v i_o out_o of_o the_o world_n thy_o they_n be_v and_o thou_o give_v they_o i_o and_o they_o have_v keep_v thy_o word_n and_o verse_n 11.12_o and_o now_o be_o i_o no_o more_o in_o the_o world_n but_o these_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o holy_a father_n keep_v they_o in_o thy_o name_n even_o they_o who_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o that_o they_o may_v be_v one_o as_o we_o be_v while_o i_o be_v in_o the_o world_n i_o keep_v they_o in_o thy_o name_n those_o who_o thou_o give_v i_o i_o have_v keep_v etc._n etc._n and_o verse_n 15.16.17_o i_o pray_v not_o that_o thou_o shall_v take_v they_o out_o of_o the_o world_n but_o that_o thou_o keep_v they_o from_o evil_a they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o world_n as_o i_o be_o not_o of_o the_o world_n sanctify_v they_o with_o thy_o truth_n thy_o word_n be_v truth_n and_o the_o last_o verse_n of_o the_o chapter_n i_o have_v declare_v to_o they_o thy_o name_n and_o will_v declare_v it_o that_o the_o love_n wherewith_o thou_o have_v love_v i_o may_v be_v in_o they_o and_o i_o in_o they_o here_o indeed_o we_o see_v a_o plentiful_a proof_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n his_o perfect_a obedience_n in_o glorify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n by_o his_o perfect_a preach_v and_o publish_v of_o it_o according_a to_o his_o office_n and_o calling_n and_o that_o also_o even_o from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o time_n thereof_o vers_fw-la 4.6.26_o second_o we_o have_v a_o testimony_n of_o our_o justification_n in_o christ_n through_o his_o obedience_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o 6._o verse_n and_o verse_n 11.12_o where_o also_o we_o see_v how_o careful_a he_o be_v over_o his_o disciple_n to_o keep_v they_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o that_o his_o name_n shall_v not_o be_v dishonour_v by_o they_o three_o god_n our_o unperfect_a obedience_n be_v for_o christ_n sake_n accept_v of_o god_n our_o saviour_n christ_n pray_v for_o the_o increase_n of_o our_o sanctification_n and_o obedience_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o therein_o give_v to_o understand_v that_o god_n accept_v the_o obedience_n of_o his_o servant_n though_o it_o be_v still_o unperfect_a read_v also_o a_o testimony_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n his_o glorify_v of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n and_o of_o our_o justification_n in_o he_o hebrew_n 2.9.10.11.12_o final_o what_o his_o general_a care_n of_o glorify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n call_v to_o mind_n from_o his_o doctrine_n matth._n 5.16_o and_o verse_n 33.34.35.36.37_o yea_o his_o whole_a doctrine_n be_v a_o most_o ample_a &_o full_a declaration_n of_o it_o read_v also_o john_n chapter_n 7.15.16.17_o and_o chapter_n 8.49.50_o nothing_o remain_v therefore_o but_o that_o we_o place_v our_o trust_n and_o belief_n in_o the_o mercy_n of_o our_o god_n in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n &_o repent_v of_o our_o sin_n do_v careful_o and_o in_o godly_a manner_n labour_n to_o increase_v daily_o in_o righteousness_n and_o holiness_n to_o the_o glorify_v of_o his_o name_n nothing_o doubt_v but_o that_o thus_o we_o shall_v be_v plentiful_o bless_v of_o he_o though_o not_o for_o the_o worthiness_n thereof_o yet_o for_o the_o honour_n of_o his_o own_o name_n and_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o rich_a mercy_n to_o who_o be_v all_o praise_n and_o honour_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n and_o thus_o come_v we_o to_o the_o four_o commandment_n the_o last_o of_o that_o great_a commandment_n of_o almighty_a god_n contain_v in_o the_o first_o table_n rehearse_v the_o word_n of_o the_o four_o commandment_n remember_v the_o sabbath_n day_n to_o keep_v it_o holy_a six_o day_n shall_v thou_o labour_v and_o do_v all_o thy_o work_n but_o the_o seven_o day_n be_v a_o sabbath_n to_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n see_v that_o neither_o thou_o do_v any_o work_n therein_o nor_o thy_o son_n etc._n etc._n for_o in_o six_o day_n etc._n etc._n wherefore_o the_o lord_n bless_v the_o sabbath_n day_n and_o hallow_v it_o this_o four_o commandment_n concern_v the_o special_a time_n of_o god_n worship_n have_v some_o near_a affinity_n with_o the_o second_o which_o command_v a_o special_a place_n to_o the_o same_o end_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v sometime_o in_o one_o common_a charge_n link_v together_o levit._n 19.30_o and_o chap._n 26.3_o nevertheless_o it_o require_v a_o special_a practice_n of_o all_o the_o former_a commandment_n of_o this_o first_o table_n and_o the_o several_a duty_n thereof_o both_o inward_a &_o outward_a private_a and_o public_a to_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o entire_a and_o whole_a practice_n of_o god_n worship_n yea_o it_o require_v also_o a_o special_a practice_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o love_n to_o our_o neighbour_n both_o general_a in_o affection_n and_o meditation_n and_o particular_a in_o action_n as_o the_o occasion_n shall_v require_v commandment_n diverse_a way_n distinguish_v from_o every_o other_o commandment_n and_o final_o it_o be_v both_o the_o schoole-time_n and_o as_o it_o be_v the_o nursery_n of_o all_o godliness_n and_o virtue_n to_o be_v practise_v in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n and_o also_o the_o market_n or_o fair_a day_n of_o our_o soul_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v in_o
of_o god_n against_o unmerciful_a man_n in_o the_o sixth_o commandment_n now_o on_o the_o other_o side_n what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o the_o prodigal_a and_o unthriftie_a waster_n &_o consumer_n of_o their_o own_o good_n he_o that_o love_v pastime_n shall_v be_v a_o poor_a man_n and_o he_o that_o love_v wine_n and_o oil_n shall_v not_o be_v rich_a prou._n 21.17_o this_o curse_n may_v be_v consider_v also_o from_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o prodigal_a son_n in_o the_o literal_a sense_n of_o it_o luke_n chapter_n 15.11.12.13.14.15.16_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o rash_a suretyship_n which_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o prodigality_n he_o shall_v be_v sore_o vex_v that_o be_v surety_n for_o a_o stranger_n prou._n 11._o chapter_n 15._o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o the_o slothful_a &_o idle_a person_n which_o for_o want_v of_o diligence_n consume_v his_o good_n and_o do_v without_o just_a cause_n live_v upon_o the_o labour_n of_o other_o and_o devour_v that_o portion_n which_o of_o right_n belong_v only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v impotent_a and_o notwithstanding_o all_o the_o diligence_n they_o can_v use_v have_v need_n to_o be_v relieve_v the_o idle_a shall_v be_v under_o tribute_n prou._n chap._n 12.11_o and_o chap._n 18.19_o he_o that_o be_v slothful_a in_o his_o work_n be_v the_o brother_n of_o he_o that_o be_v a_o great_a waster_n read_v also_o chap._n 20.4_o and_z vers_n 13._o and_o chap._n 6.11_o and_o chap._n 24.32.33.34_o his_o poverty_n come_v as_o one_o that_o travel_v by_o the_o way_n and_o his_o necessity_n like_o a_o arm_a man_n read_v also_o eccles_n 10.18_o by_o slothfulness_n the_o roof_n of_o the_o house_n go_v to_o decay_v and_o by_o the_o idleness_n of_o the_o hand_n the_o house_n drop_v through_o no_o marvel_n therefore_o though_o the_o idle_a person_n be_v say_v to_o be_v destitute_a of_o understanding_n prou._n chapter_n 12.11_o and_o again_o chap._n 28.19_o he_o that_o follow_v the_o idle_a shall_v be_v fill_v with_o poverty_n what_o be_v the_o curse_n of_o he_o that_o trust_v in_o his_o riches_n while_o he_o enjoy_v they_o he_o that_o trust_v in_o his_o riches_n shall_v fall_v prou._n 11.28_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o he_o that_o sorrow_v inordinate_o when_o he_o lose_v they_o a_o sorrowful_a mind_n dri_v the_o bone_n prou._n chap._n 22.17_o and_o 2._o cor._n 7.10_o worldly_n sorrow_n cause_v death_n final_o what_o be_v the_o curse_n against_o that_o high_a injustice_n which_o be_v call_v sacrilege_n and_o be_v commit_v more_o direct_o against_o god_n himself_o god_n curse_v this_o sin_n with_o the_o outward_a decay_n of_o all_o worldly_a blessing_n and_o to_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o all_o such_o as_o deal_v fraudulent_o and_o injurious_o with_o he_o it_o be_v true_a for_o so_o we_o read_v hagg._n 1.4.5_o etc._n etc._n 11._o and_o chapter_n 2.16.17.18_o and_o furthermore_o prou._n 20.25_o and_o mal._n 3.9_o you_o be_v curse_v with_o a_o curse_n for_o you_o have_v spoil_v i_o this_o whole_a nation_n these_o be_v the_o curse_n of_o god_n most_o holy_a and_o righteous_a law_n against_o the_o transgression_n of_o this_o commandment_n of_o the_o which_o though_o many_o threaten_n contain_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o god_n be_v not_o rehearse_v yet_o by_o these_o we_o may_v easy_o conceive_v what_o the_o rest_n be_v let_v we_o therefore_o in_o the_o next_o place_n come_v to_o the_o blessing_n promise_v to_o the_o obedience_n of_o it_o and_o so_o shall_v we_o yet_o more_o clear_o see_v into_o the_o greatness_n blessing_n the_o blessing_n both_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n and_o also_o of_o our_o own_o sin_n and_o disobedience_n reveal_v and_o discover_v by_o it_o and_o final_o the_o use_n of_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n hereof_o will_n more_o lively_o utter_v itself_o to_o our_o guilt_n it_o conscience_n as_o touch_v the_o necessity_n both_o of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n first_o therefore_o what_o be_v the_o general_a blessing_n of_o god_n upon_o just_a deal_n according_a to_o the_o truth_n of_o a_o man_n profession_n first_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n say_v our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o all_o thing_n of_o this_o life_n shall_v be_v cast_v as_o a_o overplus_n unto_o you_o matth._n 6.33_o and_o prou._n 10.2_o righteousness_n deliver_v from_o death_n yea_o chap._n 21._o verse_n 21._o he_o that_o follow_v after_o righteousness_n and_o mercy_n shall_v find_v life_n righteousness_n and_o glory_n read_v also_o prou._n 12.28_o life_n be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n and_o in_o that_o pathway_n there_o be_v no_o death_n and_o chapter_n 28.20_o a_o faithful_a man_n shall_v abound_v in_o blessing_n read_v psalm_n 15._o &_o psalm_n 106.3_o bless_a be_v they_o that_o keep_v judgement_n and_o do_v righteousness_n at_o all_o time_n and_o psalm_n 112._o and_o ezek._n 18._o the_o reason_n of_o all_o be_v render_v prou._n 21.3_o to_o do_v justice_n and_o judgement_n be_v more_o acceptable_a to_o the_o lord_n than_o sacrifice_n according_a also_o to_o that_o act._n 10.34.35_o of_o a_o truth_n say_v the_o apostle_n peter_n i_o perceive_v that_o god_n be_v no_o accepter_n of_o person_n but_o in_o every_o nation_n he_o that_o fear_v he_o and_o work_v righteousness_n be_v accept_v with_o he_o such_o be_v the_o blessing_n in_o a_o more_o general_a consideration_n now_o more_o particular_o what_o be_v god_n blessing_n upon_o the_o public_a magistrate_n that_o refuse_v bribe_n and_o deal_v just_o in_o judgement_n the_o throne_n be_v establish_v by_o justice_n proverbe_n 16.12_o and_o again_o chapter_n 25.5_o moreover_o chapter_n 15.27_o he_o that_o hate_v gift_n shall_v live_v and_o chapter_n 28.16_o the_o prince_n that_o hate_v covetousness_n shall_v prolong_v his_o day_n read_v also_o deut._n 16._o verse_n 18.19.20_o see_v more_o of_o this_o point_n in_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o five_o commandment_n read_v 2._o chron._n 19.6_o now_o what_o be_v the_o blessing_n of_o the_o private_a person_n whosoever_o he_o be_v that_o deal_v just_o thou_o shall_v have_v a_o just_a and_o right_a weight_n say_v the_o lord_n a_o perfect_a and_o a_o just_a measure_n shall_v thou_o have_v that_o thy_o day_n may_v be_v lengthen_v in_o the_o land_n which_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n give_v thou_o deuteronomy_n 25.15_o the_o reason_n and_o ground_n of_o this_o blessing_n be_v render_v prou._n 11.1_o for_o a_o perfect_a weight_n please_v the_o lord_n and_o chapter_n 10.11_o a_o true_a weight_n and_o balance_n be_v of_o the_o lord_n all_o the_o weight_n of_o the_o bag_n be_v his_o work_n what_o be_v the_o blessing_n of_o he_o that_o be_v just_a use_v diligence_n in_o his_o call_n the_o hand_n of_o the_o diligent_a make_v rich_a proverb_n 10.4_o and_o chapter_n 12.24_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o diligent_a shall_v bear_v rule_n read_v also_o chapter_n 20.13_o and_o chapter_n 22.29_o and_o chapter_n 28.19_o what_o be_v the_o blessing_n of_o the_o righteous_a man_n who_o also_o practise_v liberality_n the_o liberal_a person_n shall_v have_v plenty_n and_o he_o that_o water_v shall_v also_o have_v rain_n prou._n 11.25_o and_o 2._o cor._n 9.6_o he_o that_o sow_v liberal_o shall_v also_o reap_v liberal_o read_v more_o in_o this_o text_n as_o it_o follow_v there_o in_o many_o verse_n and_o gal._n 6.8_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o the_o same_o matter_n assure_v we_o that_o he_o which_o sow_v to_o the_o spirit_n shall_v of_o the_o spirit_n reap_v life_n everlasting_a read_v also_o prou._n 28.27_o he_o that_o give_v to_o the_o poor_a shall_v not_o lack_v and_o luke_n 6.38_o give_v say_v our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v unto_o you_o a_o good_a measure_n press_v down_o shake_v together_o and_o run_v over_o shall_v man_n give_v into_o your_o bosom_n for_o with_o what_o measure_v you_o meat_n with_o the_o same_o shall_v man_n meat_n to_o you_o again_o thus_o we_o may_v see_v brief_o how_o god_n be_v mind_v to_o bless_v the_o obedience_n of_o this_o commandment_n as_o touch_v those_o that_o deal_v just_o with_o man_n now_o last_o of_o all_o what_o be_v his_o blessing_n upon_o those_o that_o deal_v just_o with_o himself_o more_o direct_o concern_v the_o maintenance_n of_o his_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o holy_a ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n contrary_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o those_o that_o do_v in_o this_o behalf_n sacrilegious_o rob_v and_o spoil_v the_o church_n the_o lord_n promise_v great_a plenty_n and_o abundance_n of_o all_o his_o blessing_n to_o such_o special_o if_o there_o be_v a_o general_a and_o public_a consent_n &_o care_n herein_o as_o it_o be_v plentiful_o declare_v prou._n ch_n 3.9.10_o and_o hagg._n chap._n 2.19.20_o and_o mal._n chap._n 3.10.11.12_o transgressor_n eueryone_n of_o we_o be_v a_o damnable_a transgressor_n these_o place_n of_o holy_a scripture_n do_v plentiful_o declare_v it_o
god_n will_v have_v we_o seek_v a_o good_a name_n as_o god_n require_v it_o for_o a_o duty_n of_o love_n to_o our_o neighbour_n that_o we_o discover_v not_o his_o secret_a sin_n either_o before_o the_o magistrate_n or_o otherwise_o that_o be_v to_o say_v those_o his_o sin_n by_o the_o conceal_n whereof_o no_o peril_n or_o hurt_n grow_v to_o the_o commonwealth_n or_o to_o any_o particular_a and_o private_a neighbour_n so_o he_o permit_v it_o as_o a_o fruit_n of_o love_n belong_v to_o a_o man_n self_n that_o he_o shall_v not_o to_o his_o own_o diffamation_n disclose_v his_o like_a secret_a offence_n unless_o happy_o he_o shall_v find_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o relief_n of_o his_o conscience_n to_o make_v they_o know_v to_o some_o choice_n &_o faithful_a neighbour_n according_a to_o the_o instruction_n of_o the_o apostle_n jam._n cha_n 5.16_o say_v acknowledge_v your_o fault_n one_o to_o another_o &_o pray_v one_o for_o another_o that_o you_o may_v be_v heal_v for_o the_o prayer_n of_o a_o righteous_a man_n avail_v much_o if_o it_o be_v fervent_a this_o stand_v with_o good_a reason_n for_o as_o no_o man_n will_v make_v know_v his_o bodily_a disease_n equity_n the_o equity_n to_o that_o physician_n which_o will_v have_v no_o care_n to_o do_v he_o good_a so_o what_o shall_v induce_v a_o man_n to_o acknowledge_v his_o fault_n to_o any_o that_o will_v not_o tender_v the_o spiritual_a health_n of_o their_o soul_n &_o c_o hereupon_o also_o it_o may_v appear_v that_o the_o law_n of_o popish_a auricular_a confession_n of_o all_o sin_n both_o secret_a and_o open_a to_o the_o full_a number_n in_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o priest_n to_o receive_v his_o injunction_n of_o penance_n in_o way_n of_o satisfaction_n to_o god_n be_v a_o absurd_a and_o tyrannous_a cruelty_n against_o man_n soul_n and_o conscience_n likewise_o their_o oath_n ex_fw-la officio_fw-la drive_v man_n to_o accuse_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o pleasure_n of_o any_o man_n captious_a inquisition_n and_o demand_n it_o be_v against_o that_o gracious_a liberty_n which_o god_n have_v grant_v to_o his_o servant_n in_o this_o behalf_n and_o for_o any_o to_o discover_v his_o own_o secret_a corruption_n without_o just_a cause_n and_o not_o to_o singular_a good_a end_n and_o purpose_n will_v it_o not_o be_v judge_v of_o all_o to_o be_v do_v either_o of_o hypocrisy_n or_o of_o a_o profane_a and_o unaduised_a folly_n nevertheless_o if_o any_o keep_v close_o his_o sin_n do_v harden_v his_o hart_n therein_o he_o may_v just_o fear_v lest_o god_n in_o his_o displeasure_n do_v make_v he_o in_o the_o terror_n of_o a_o hellish_a conscience_n to_o cry_v out_o against_o himself_o and_o to_o be_v a_o trumpet_n of_o his_o own_o shame_n as_o oftentimes_o it_o fall_v out_o against_o such_o close_a &_o hard_o heart_a sinner_n but_o enough_o of_o this_o point_n for_o the_o present_a we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o general_a equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n what_o be_v that_o the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n may_v be_v consider_v diverse_a way_n like_a as_o we_o have_v see_v in_o the_o former_a show_v here_o again_o how_o that_o may_v be_v first_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n second_o in_o respect_n of_o ourselves_o three_o in_o respect_n of_o our_o more_o private_a and_o usual_a course_n of_o deal_n with_o our_o neighbour_n and_o brethren_n four_o in_o respect_n of_o public_a society_n and_o government_n final_o in_o respect_n of_o our_o profession_n of_o the_o name_n &_o religion_n of_o god_n let_v we_o examine_v these_o thing_n particular_o and_o first_o how_o can_v you_o declare_v the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n in_o respect_n of_o god_n because_o he_o be_v the_o god_n of_o truth_n most_o entire_a faithful_a &_o constant_a in_o all_o truth_n it_o be_v most_o quall_a that_o he_o shall_v forbid_v his_o people_n all_o untruth_n as_o that_o which_o be_v most_o direct_o contrary_a both_o to_o his_o nature_n and_o will_n and_o also_o to_o all_o his_o counsel_n word_n and_o work_n your_o answer_n be_v most_o true_a whether_o we_o consider_v of_o god_n in_o the_o unity_n of_o his_o nature_n he_o be_v the_o god_n of_o truth_n jeremie_n 10.10_o or_o whether_o we_o consider_v of_o he_o as_o he_o have_v reveal_v himself_o in_o the_o trinity_n of_o person_n the_o father_n be_v the_o father_n of_o truth_n john_n 5.30.31_o and_o chapter_n 8.26.27_o the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v true_a yea_o truth_n itself_o proverb_n 8.6.7.8_o john_n chapter_n 1.9_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n john_n 14.15.16.17_o and_o chapter_n 16.13_o and_o 1._o john_n chapter_n 5._o verse_n 6._o and_o in_o the_o same_o place_n verses_z 7.8.9.10_o the_o joint_a witness_n of_o the_o whole_a trinity_n be_v true_a from_o heaven_n hence_o also_o it_o be_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v call_v in_o a_o singular_a and_o incomparable_a excellency_n the_o word_n of_o truth_n 2._o cor._n 6._o verse_n 7._o and_o tit._n 1.9_o the_o faithful_a word_n and_o james_n 1.18_o the_o counsel_n and_o purpose_n of_o god_n be_v all_o faithful_a and_o true_a hosh_n chapter_n 13_o verse_n 14._o rom._n 11.29_o 1._o cor._n 1.9_o 1._o thes_n 5.24_o james_n 1.17_o psal_n 105_o verse_n 8._o and_o psal_n 14.6_o all_o the_o work_n of_o god_n also_o be_v perfect_a and_o true_a they_o be_v not_o counterfeit_v of_o thing_n but_o true_a substance_n of_o thing_n in_o their_o several_a kind_n deut._n 32.4_o and_o psal_n 112.7.8_o and_o psalm_n 119.90.91.7_o god_n therefore_o be_v every_o way_n most_o true_a must_v needs_o in_o all_o equity_n command_v both_o true_a speak_n and_o true_a deal_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o own_o nature_n proceed_v now_o to_o declare_v likewise_o the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n in_o respect_n of_o ourselves_o how_o may_v we_o perceive_v this_o to_o be_v so_o insomuch_o as_o god_n have_v show_v so_o great_a love_n on_o we_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v call_v his_o child_n it_o be_v very_o equal_a and_o meet_v that_o we_o shall_v resemble_v the_o image_n of_o our_o heavenly_a father_n in_o all_o righteousness_n and_o holiness_n of_o truth_n so_o indeed_o do_v the_o apostle_n of_o the_o lord_n reason_n 1._o john_n 3.1_o etc._n etc._n and_o paul_n ephes_n 4.24_o yea_o such_o be_v their_o very_a word_n read_v also_o col._n 3.9.10_o now_o very_o such_o must_v we_o be_v unless_o we_o will_v show_v ourselves_o to_o be_v the_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n &_o not_o the_o child_n of_o god_n joh._n 8.44_o but_o let_v we_o come_v to_o the_o three_o point_n how_o can_v you_o show_v the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n in_o respect_n of_o our_o more_o private_a and_o usual_a course_n of_o deal_n with_o our_o neighbour_n and_o brethren_n cast_v off_o lie_v say_v the_o apostle_n and_o speak_v every_o man_n the_o truth_n unto_o his_o neighbour_n for_o we_o be_v member_n one_o of_o another_o ephes_n 4._o vers_fw-la 25._o a_o notable_a and_o lively_a similitude_n take_v from_o the_o natural_a body_n to_o the_o which_o god_n have_v give_v diverse_a member_n and_o sundry_a faculty_n and_o power_n unto_o they_o and_o all_o for_o the_o conservation_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n now_o therefore_o be_v it_o not_o a_o unequal_a and_o a_o very_a absurd_a course_n that_o any_o one_o member_n shall_v deal_v unfaithful_o with_o another_o as_o if_o the_o eye_n shall_v take_v chalk_n for_o cheese_n as_o we_o say_v or_o the_o hand_n to_o put_v a_o stone_n to_o the_o mouth_n in_o stead_n of_o bread_n or_o rank_n poison_n in_o stead_n of_o wholesome_a nourishment_n no_o less_o absurd_a be_v lie_v in_o the_o new_a work_n of_o god_n grace_n then_o that_o shall_v be_v in_o the_o frame_n of_o nature_n whether_o one_o christian_a shall_v lie_v to_o another_o or_o that_o they_o shall_v tell_v lie_v the_o one_o of_o the_o other_o now_o four_o how_o can_v you_o declare_v the_o equity_n of_o this_o commandment_n in_o respect_n of_o public_a society_n and_o government_n the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o justice_n and_o judgement_n can_v proceed_v for_o the_o defence_n of_o the_o innocent_a and_o punishment_n of_o the_o offender_n neither_o yet_o for_o the_o end_n of_o controversy_n betwixt_o good_a neighbour_n but_o by_o the_o testimony_n of_o witness_n and_o that_o also_o even_o upon_o their_o oath_n for_o the_o more_o certainty_n of_o find_v out_o the_o truth_n it_o be_v true_a for_o as_o the_o lord_n say_v deut._n 19.15_o at_o the_o mouth_n of_o two_o witness_n or_o at_o the_o mouth_n of_o three_o witness_n shall_v the_o matter_n be_v establish_v read_v also_o matth._n 18.16_o and_o 2._o cor._n 13._o which_o place_n also_o be_v mention_v a_o little_a before_o and_o again_o hebr._n 6.16_o a_o oath_n for_o confirmation_n be_v with_o man_n a_o end_n of_o all_o strife_n it_o stand_v therefore_o with_o all_o equity_n that_o every_o man_n shall_v be_v