1._o cor._n 1.30_o by_o his_o obedience_n many_o be_v make_v righteous_a rom._n 5.19_o and_o that_o which_o be_v impossible_a to_o the_o law_n 5.19_o rom._n 5.19_o in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v weak_a because_o of_o the_o flesh_n god_n send_v his_o son_n in_o the_o similitude_n of_o sinful_a flesh_n 8.3.4_o rom._n 8.3.4_o and_o for_o sin_n condemn_a sin_n in_o the_o flesh_n that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n may_v be_v fulfil_v in_o we_o as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.3.4_o in_o a_o word_n in_o he_o alone_o we_o have_v all_o our_o righteousness_n in_o he_o we_o shine_v glorious_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o he_o be_v that_o bright_a shine_a sun_n of_o righteousness_n from_o who_o we_o borrow_v all_o our_o light_n without_o who_o ray_n of_o holiness_n we_o shall_v remain_v in_o the_o darkness_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o corruption_n last_o the_o apostle_n set_v down_o the_o form_n of_o our_o justification_n namely_o the_o imputation_n of_o our_o sin_n unto_o christ_n and_o the_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n unto_o us._n 2._o cor._n 5.21_o he_o which_o know_v no_o sin_n be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o 5.21_o 2._o cor._n 5.21_o that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o as_o therefore_o christ_n be_v make_v a_o sinner_n for_o we_o so_o we_o be_v make_v righteous_a before_o god_n in_o he_o but_o christ_n jesus_n be_v not_o make_v a_o sinner_n for_o we_o by_o infusion_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o corruption_n into_o his_o nature_n for_o he_o be_v always_o most_o holy_a pure_a undefiled_a and_o without_o sin_n 2.21_o 1_o pet._n 1.18.19_o and_o 2.21_o as_o the_o apostle_n witness_v of_o he_o but_o by_o imputation_n only_o as_o be_v our_o surety_n who_o have_v take_v upon_o he_o to_o discharge_v all_o our_o debt_n and_o therefore_o in_o like_a manner_n we_o be_v make_v righteous_a not_o by_o infusion_n of_o righteousness_n but_o by_o imputation_n only_o §_o sect._n 3_o now_o whereas_o they_o object_n truth_n that_o justification_n by_o imputation_n be_v not_o imaginary_a but_o real_a and_o in_o truth_n that_o to_o be_v justify_v by_o imputation_n be_v but_o a_o imaginary_a mockery_n as_o if_o a_o poor_a man_n shall_v be_v repute_v rich_a to_o this_o we_o be_v to_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v but_o a_o frivolous_a cavil_n for_o we_o do_v not_o teach_v that_o god_n esteem_v and_o repute_v we_o righteous_a be_v whole_o defile_v with_o sin_n and_o quite_o destitute_a of_o all_o righteousness_n but_o that_o he_o make_v we_o perfect_o righteous_a by_o wash_v away_o our_o sin_n with_o the_o precious_a blood_n of_o christ_n and_o by_o apply_v and_o appropriate_v unto_o we_o his_o perfect_a righteousness_n and_o obedience_n by_o virtue_n of_o his_o spirit_n principal_o &_o a_o lively_a faith_n instrumental_o whereby_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n and_o become_v member_n of_o his_o body_n and_o consequent_o have_v right_a and_o full_a interest_n unto_o all_o that_o which_o this_o our_o head_n have_v do_v for_o we_o and_o so_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o his_o righteousness_n and_o merit_n god_n repute_v we_o as_o we_o be_v in_o truth_n perfect_o just_a and_o righteous_a if_o a_o man_n be_v poor_a and_o far_o in_o debt_n shall_v be_v account_v and_o repute_v exceed_v rich_a and_o nothing_o indebt_v it_o be_v indeed_o but_o a_o mere_a imagination_n but_o if_o another_o of_o great_a sufficiency_n shall_v take_v upon_o he_o to_o be_v his_o surety_n and_o not_o only_o discharge_v all_o his_o debt_n but_o shall_v bestow_v upon_o he_o great_a sum_n of_o money_n and_o much_o treasure_n this_o man_n whatsoever_o he_o be_v before_o time_n in_o himself_o may_v now_o be_v esteem_v rich_a and_o out_o of_o debt_n so_o if_o we_o as_o we_o be_v far_o indebt_v to_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n and_o exceed_o beggarly_a yea_o stark_a naked_a of_o all_o righteousness_n shall_v be_v repute_v as_o we_o be_v thus_o in_o ourselves_o righteous_a and_o nothing_o indebt_v it_o be_v but_o a_o mere_a mockery_n but_o see_v our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n have_v take_v upon_o he_o to_o be_v our_o surety_n who_o be_v himself_o all-sufficient_a and_o see_v he_o have_v perfect_o and_o full_o answer_v all_o our_o debt_n wherein_o we_o be_v engage_v to_o god_n justice_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o also_o have_v communicate_v and_o bestow_v upon_o we_o the_o infinite_a rich_a treasure_n of_o his_o righteousness_n and_o obedience_n give_v unto_o we_o full_a interest_n and_o possession_n hereof_o outward_o by_o his_o hand-writing_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o his_o sacrament_n as_o seal_n annex_v thereunto_o and_o inward_o by_o the_o virtue_n and_o cooperation_n of_o of_o his_o spirit_n apply_v they_o unto_o we_o and_o last_o see_v we_o also_o have_v receive_v the_o full_a assurance_n of_o all_o this_o heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a rich_a treasure_n by_o the_o hand_n of_o faith_n we_o be_v in_o truth_n quite_o out_o of_o debt_n and_o exceed_v rich_a with_o his_o righteousness_n which_o be_v now_o become_v we_o and_o therefore_o be_v so_o repute_v and_o esteem_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n chap._n li._n satan_n temptation_n move_v the_o weak_a christian_a to_o doubt_v of_o his_o justification_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o so_o much_o for_o answer_v satan_n temptation_n god_n that_o our_o justification_n be_v plain_o reveal_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o labour_v to_o persuade_v we_o to_o rest_v upon_o a_o false_a and_o imperfect_a righteousness_n for_o our_o justification_n now_o we_o be_v brief_o to_o speak_v of_o those_o which_o he_o sugge_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o weak_a christian_n to_o the_o end_n that_o he_o may_v make_v they_o doubt_v of_o their_o justification_n that_o so_o he_o may_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a make_v frustrate_v this_o work_n of_o god_n or_o at_o least_o rob_v their_o soul_n of_o all_o comfort_n and_o peace_n of_o conscience_n which_o always_o accompany_v the_o assurance_n of_o our_o justification_n for_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n towards_o god_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n 5.1_o rom._n 5.1_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v rom._n 5.1_o first_o therefore_o he_o sugge_v that_o our_o justification_n be_v a_o action_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o unknown_a to_o we_o so_o that_o we_o can_v possible_o attain_v unto_o any_o certain_a knowledge_n that_o we_o be_v justify_v of_o god_n unless_o he_o assure_v we_o hereof_o by_o some_o special_a and_o extraordinary_a revelation_n for_o the_o answer_v whereof_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v that_o this_o act_n of_o god_n in_o justify_v a_o sinner_n be_v as_o clear_o reveal_v ordinary_o in_o the_o scripture_n as_o any_o other_o thing_n concern_v our_o salvation_n and_o that_o every_o true_a believer_n may_v as_o certain_o conclude_v by_o undoubted_a argument_n ground_v on_o god_n infallible_a truth_n that_o he_o be_v justify_v before_o god_n as_o by_o natural_a reason_n he_o can_v prove_v that_o he_o live_v and_o breathe_v for_o first_o our_o effectual_a vocation_n and_o justification_n be_v inseparable_o link_v together_o by_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 8.30_o 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o so_o that_o whosoever_o can_v prove_v that_o he_o be_v effectual_o call_v he_o may_v also_o most_o certain_o infer_v that_o he_o be_v justify_v but_o every_o true_a believer_n may_v come_v to_o the_o certain_a knowledge_n that_o he_o be_v effectual_o call_v as_o before_o i_o have_v show_v at_o large_a and_o that_o not_o by_o any_o special_a revelation_n but_o by_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n by_o the_o inward_a testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o the_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o effectual_a call_n which_o he_o observe_v in_o himself_o and_o therefore_o without_o any_o particular_a revelation_n we_o may_v attain_v unto_o the_o assurance_n also_o that_o we_o be_v justify_v that_o be_v that_o our_o sin_n be_v pardon_v for_o the_o merit_n and_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o we_o clothe_v with_o his_o righteousness_n second_o whosoever_o can_v come_v to_o the_o assurance_n that_o he_o have_v a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n he_o may_v also_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o be_v justify_v for_o it_o be_v the_o nature_n and_o a_o inseparable_a property_n of_o true_a faith_n to_o apply_v unto_o the_o believer_n christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o righteousness_n whereby_o he_o be_v justify_v before_o god_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o scripture_n plain_o affirm_v that_o we_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n and_o not_o by_o any_o thing_n else_o which_o be_v in_o we_o as_o before_o i_o have_v sufficient_o show_v but_o we_o may_v come_v to_o the_o certain_a assurance_n that_o we_o have_v a_o true_a faith_n by_o the_o undoubted_a sign_n and_o inseparable_a fruit_n thereof_o which_o we_o may_v discern_v in_o ourselves_o as_o have_v be_v
straggle_a soldier_n who_o depart_v from_o the_o army_n and_o range_v abroad_o to_o forage_v or_o get_v some_o booty_n be_v easy_o vanquish_v by_o their_o enemy_n so_o those_o who_o depart_v and_o make_v a_o apostasy_n from_o god_n church_n to_o gain_v or_o retain_v their_o pleasure_n and_o worldly_a preferment_n be_v easy_o overthrow_v fall_v into_o satan_n ambushment_n and_o second_o every_o one_o be_v to_o contain_v himself_o within_o the_o limit_n of_o his_o special_a vocation_n and_o to_o keep_v his_o peculiar_a stand_v appoint_v he_o by_o god_n for_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o pernicious_a to_o a_o army_n than_o disorder_n when_o as_o some_o intrude_v themselves_o into_o other_o place_n as_o when_o the_o common_a soldier_n will_v be_v a_o officer_n the_o lieutenant_n captain_n and_o the_o captain_n general_n of_o the_o army_n so_o nothing_o be_v more_o hurtful_a to_o the_o church_n militant_a than_o when_o disorderly_a one_o usurp_v another_o place_n and_o office_n as_o when_o the_o minister_n will_v be_v magistrate_n and_o the_o magistrate_n minister_n and_o when_o the_o common_a people_n usurp_v the_o office_n of_o they_o both_o second_o when_o as_o he_o bid_v we_o stand_v in_o our_o place_n he_o restrain_v we_o from_o two_o extreme_n the_o one_o that_o we_o do_v not_o wilful_o thrust_v ourselves_o into_o the_o combat_n of_o temptation_n before_o we_o be_v assault_v and_o so_o as_o it_o be_v run_v out_o of_o our_o stand_n to_o seek_v a_o enemy_n and_o second_o that_o when_o we_o be_v assault_v we_o do_v not_o flee_v away_o but_o stand_v to_o it_o valiant_o and_o endure_v the_o violence_n of_o the_o assailant_n last_o he_o exhort_v we_o to_o watchfulness_n and_o painful_a diligence_n for_o we_o must_v not_o drowsy_o and_o secure_o lay_v we_o down_o and_o give_v ourselves_o to_o sleep_v nor_o yet_o sit_v idle_o as_o though_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o we_o be_v to_o stand_v upon_o our_o guard_n and_o to_o watch_v continual_o that_o we_o may_v always_o be_v in_o readiness_n to_o withstand_v the_o assault_n of_o our_o enemy_n otherwise_o if_o we_o sleep_v in_o security_n they_o will_v sudden_o set_v upon_o we_o and_o surprise_v we_o at_o unaware_o chap._n x._o of_o the_o particular_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a armour_n and_o first_o of_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o the_o apostle_n have_v take_v away_o all_o reckless_a security_n and_o foole-hardines_n and_o also_o strengthen_v we_o with_o true_a valour_n and_o christian_a fortitude_n verity_n of_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n in_o the_o next_o place_n he_o describe_v the_o armour_n of_o god_n which_o we_o be_v to_o buckle_v unto_o us._n where_o first_o we_o be_v general_o to_o observe_v that_o we_o be_v not_o curious_o and_o scrupulous_o to_o search_v out_o the_o reason_n why_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n be_v liken_v to_o these_o or_o those_o piece_n of_o armour_n as_o for_o example_n why_o he_o call_v truth_n a_o girdle_n righteousness_n a_o breastplate_n faith_n a_o shield_n etc._n etc._n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o apostle_n purpose_v so_o exact_o to_o fit_v the_o similitude_n as_o may_v appear_v 1._o thess_n 5.8_o where_o he_o indifferent_o ascribe_v the_o name_n of_o breastplate_n both_o to_o faith_n and_o charity_n by_o which_o here_o he_o understand_v righteousness_n but_o only_o brief_o and_o general_o to_o show_v what_o virtue_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v most_o necessary_a for_o a_o christian_a wherewith_o he_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o resist_v his_o spiritual_a enemy_n continue_v his_o former_a allegory_n take_v from_o war_n but_o let_v we_o come_v to_o the_o armour_n itself_o which_o be_v both_o defensive_a and_o offensive_a the_o first_o part_n be_v the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n the_o word_n here_o use_v signify_v a_o broad_a stud_a belt_n use_v in_o war_n in_o ancient_a time_n wherewith_o the_o joint_n of_o the_o breastplate_n and_o that_o armour_n which_o defend_v the_o belly_n loin_n and_o thigh_n be_v cover_v and_o by_o this_o truth_n be_v resemble_v whereby_o some_o understand_v the_o truth_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o doctrine_n which_o we_o profess_v other_o understand_v hereby_o truth_n and_o uprightness_n of_o heart_n or_o the_o integrity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n whereby_o we_o perform_v all_o duty_n of_o religion_n belong_v to_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n in_o simplicity_n without_o all_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n but_o because_o both_o be_v notable_a and_o necessary_a part_n of_o our_o christian_a armour_n i_o see_v no_o reason_n why_o we_o may_v not_o take_v it_o in_o both_o sense_n verity_n what_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v by_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n see_v the_o apostle_n do_v of_o purpose_n set_v down_o under_o these_o metaphorical_a word_n the_o chief_a virtue_n and_o grace_n wherewith_o we_o be_v to_o arm_v ourselves_o against_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n first_o therefore_o here_o be_v require_v truth_n of_o our_o religion_n which_o we_o profess_v and_o second_o that_o we_o profess_v it_o true_o that_o be_v with_o upright_o &_o simple_a heart_n §_o sect._n 2_o for_o the_o first_o truth_n that_o our_o religion_n must_v be_v ground_v on_o god_n truth_n it_o be_v the_o foundation_n upon_o which_o all_o other_o duty_n to_o god_n or_o man_n be_v to_o be_v build_v for_o if_o they_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o god_n truth_n but_o devise_v by_o man_n brain_n they_o be_v but_o humane_a dotage_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o accept_v neither_o be_v it_o to_o any_o purpose_n that_o we_o show_v ourselves_o earnest_a and_o forward_a in_o religion_n unless_o it_o be_v true_a and_o consonant_a to_o god_n word_n for_o as_o the_o fast_o that_o those_o travail_n which_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n the_o further_o they_o be_v from_o their_o journey_n end_n so_o the_o more_o earnest_a and_o forward_a that_o we_o be_v in_o travail_v the_o by-path_n of_o error_n the_o further_o we_o be_v from_o god_n kingdom_n and_o therefore_o satan_n care_v not_o great_o whether_o we_o be_v of_o no_o religion_n or_o of_o a_o false_a religion_n whether_o we_o worship_v no_o god_n at_o all_o or_o a_o false_a god_n or_o at_o least_o the_o true_a god_n after_o a_o false_a manner_n whether_o we_o perform_v no_o duty_n unto_o god_n or_o such_o as_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o god_n truth_n be_v abominable_a unto_o he_o first_o then_o we_o must_v contain_v all_o our_o action_n within_o the_o compass_n of_o god_n word_n and_o whatsoever_o we_o profess_v and_o practice_v it_o must_v have_v his_o ground_n and_o warrant_v from_o this_o truth_n if_o we_o will_v be_v account_v true_a member_n of_o god_n militant_a church_n 3.15_o 1._o tim_n 3.15_o which_o be_v therefore_o call_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1._o tim._n 3.15_o because_o contemn_v all_o error_n and_o doctrine_n of_o man_n it_o faithful_o keep_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n and_o as_o soldier_n be_v gird_v about_o with_o that_o strong_a and_o broad_a stud_a belt_n wherewith_o their_o loin_n be_v strengthen_v and_o so_o enable_v to_o sustain_v the_o fight_n without_o weariness_n so_o we_o be_v to_o compass_v ourselves_o about_o with_o truth_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v strengthen_v when_o as_o we_o know_v that_o we_o fight_v in_o a_o just_a quarrel_n neither_o shall_v we_o easy_o be_v deceive_v with_o satan_n temptation_n and_o false_a suggestion_n if_o we_o be_v gird_v about_o with_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n and_o hereby_o appear_v the_o necessity_n of_o this_o piece_n of_o armour_n for_o see_v satan_n be_v a_o liar_n from_o the_o beginning_n it_o behoove_v we_o to_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o truth_n that_o the_o bright_a beam_n thereof_o may_v discover_v and_o disperse_v all_o the_o foggy_a mist_n of_o satan_n error_n and_o lie_n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a that_o we_o profess_v the_o truth_n heart_n that_o we_o must_v profess_v the_o truth_n in_o truth_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o truth_n that_o be_v in_o integrity_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n without_o all_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n for_o how_o glorious_a soever_o our_o profession_n even_o of_o the_o true_a religion_n be_v before_o man_n yet_o it_o be_v abominable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o truth_n and_o from_o a_o upright_o heart_n but_o counterfeit_n and_o hypocritical_a whatsoever_o duty_n and_o good_a work_n we_o perform_v though_o never_o so_o excellent_a in_o themselves_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o acceptable_a in_o god_n sight_n if_o they_o be_v not_o join_v with_o integrity_n and_o simplicity_n for_o example_n prayer_n be_v a_o notable_a part_n of_o god_n worship_n but_o if_o we_o do_v not_o call_v upon_o god_n in_o truth_n but_o with_o feign_a and_o deceitful_a lip_n that_o we_o may_v have_v the_o praise_n of_o man_n 6._o
matth._n 6._o our_o prayer_n be_v odious_a and_o pharisaical_a matth._n 6._o thanksgiving_n be_v a_o excellent_a duty_n but_o if_o with_o the_o pharisee_n we_o give_v thanks_n rather_o to_o boast_v of_o our_o gift_n then_o to_o show_v true_a thankfulness_n to_o the_o giver_n 18._o luk._n 18._o we_o shall_v not_o be_v approve_v of_o god_n give_v of_o alm_n be_v a_o work_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n for_o it_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n wherewith_o he_o be_v well_o please_v 13.16_o heb._n 13.16_o heb._n 13.16_o but_o if_o they_o be_v not_o give_v in_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n but_o in_o hypocrisy_n that_o we_o may_v be_v see_v of_o man_n it_o shall_v have_v the_o hypocrite_n reward_n matth._n 6._o in_o a_o word_n 6._o matth._n 6._o this_o truth_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n be_v so_o necessary_a that_o without_o it_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v it_o be_v not_o regard_v for_o god_n be_v a_o spirit_n 24._o joh._n 4_o 24._o and_o he_o will_v be_v worship_v in_o spirit_n and_o in_o truth_n joh._n 4.24_o according_a to_o that_o josh_n 24.14_o fear_v the_o lord_n 24.14_o josh_n 24.14_o and_o serve_v he_o in_o uprightness_n and_o in_o truth_n which_o if_o we_o perform_v our_o service_n of_o god_n will_v be_v acceptable_a in_o his_o sight_n though_o perform_v in_o great_a weakness_n and_o mingle_v with_o many_o imperfection_n otherwise_o though_o we_o offer_v thousand_o of_o ram_n and_o whole_a river_n of_o oil_n that_o be_v omit_v no_o outward_a cost_n and_o labour_n in_o god_n worship_n 6.7.8_o mich._n 6.7.8_o yet_o will_v it_o be_v abominable_a in_o his_o eye_n mich._n 6.7.8_o let_v we_o therefore_o with_o our_o saviour_n pray_v unto_o god_n 17.17_o joh._n 17.17_o that_o we_o may_v be_v sanctify_v with_o his_o truth_n that_o not_o only_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v may_v be_v ground_v on_o god_n truth_n but_o that_o woe_n may_v do_v it_o in_o truth_n and_o uprightness_n of_o heart_n chap._n xi_o of_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n and_o gospel_n of_o peace_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o second_o part_n of_o our_o armour_n be_v the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n whereby_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v a_o good_a conscience_n true_a sanctification_n and_o a_o godly_a life_n which_o also_o we_o be_v to_o put_v on_o according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o our_o grand_a captain_n christ_n esa_n 59.17_o he_o put_v on_o righteousness_n as_o a_o habergeon_n 59.17_o esa_n 59.17_o and_o a_o helmet_n of_o salvation_n upon_o his_o head_n righteousness_n the_o excellency_n of_o this_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n and_o then_o shall_v not_o satan_n dart_n pierce_v we_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v arm_v with_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o godly_a and_o innocent_a life_n yea_o as_o long_a as_o our_o breast_n and_o heart_n be_v arm_v with_o righteousness_n though_o our_o other_o member_n fall_v into_o sin_n our_o wound_n shall_v not_o be_v mortal_a for_o as_o the_o breastplate_n do_v defend_v the_o breast_n and_o vital_a part_n of_o a_o soldier_n so_o the_o study_n and_o holy_a endeavour_n of_o a_o christian_n to_o live_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a sanctification_n do_v so_o arm_v his_o mind_n that_o satan_n can_v deadly_o wound_v the_o heart_n with_o any_o of_o his_o temptation_n true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o saint_n do_v receive_v wound_n and_o foil_n when_o as_o satan_n have_v draw_v they_o to_o commit_v sin_n but_o they_o be_v not_o wound_v at_o the_o heart_n because_o they_o do_v not_o sin_n with_o full_a consent_n of_o will_n for_o they_o allow_v not_o that_o which_o they_o do_v neither_o do_v they_o what_o they_o will_v but_o what_o they_o hate_v and_o they_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o inner_a man_n 7.15.22_o rom._n 7.15.22_o when_o the_o flesh_n lead_v they_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o paul_n say_v he_o do_v not_o transgress_v god_n law_n 6.8_o rom._n 7.17_o 1._o joh._n 3.9_o and_z vers_n 6.8_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o he_o rom._n 7.17_o and_o the_o apostle_n john_n affirm_v that_o they_o who_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n sin_v not_o 1._o joh._n 3.9_o and_o that_o they_o who_o be_v in_o christ_n sin_v not_o and_o that_o whosoever_o sin_v be_v of_o the_o devil_n vers_fw-la 6.8_o not_o that_o god_n child_n be_v exempt_v from_o all_o sin_n but_o because_o they_o sin_v not_o with_o the_o full_a consent_n and_o swinge_v of_o their_o will_n and_o when_o they_o do_v fall_v their_o heart_n be_v defend_v with_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n that_o be_v with_o a_o holy_a endeavour_n and_o desire_n of_o serve_v god_n david_n a_o man_n according_a to_o god_n own_o heart_n may_v be_v a_o notable_a example_n hereof_o for_o even_o after_o he_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o have_v this_o godly_a endeavour_n of_o serve_v god_n he_o notwithstanding_o fall_v grievous_o many_o time_n and_o be_v wound_v often_o with_o satan_n dart_n but_o his_o wound_n be_v not_o mortal_a neither_o do_v they_o pierce_v the_o heart_n because_o he_o be_v arm_v with_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n for_o he_o keep_v god_n law_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o it_o be_v sweet_a than_o honey_n unto_o his_o mouth_n 119._o psal_n 119._o he_o meditate_a therein_o and_o seek_v after_o it_o continual_o as_o appear_v psal_n 119._o will_v we_o therefore_o be_v preserve_v from_o the_o deadly_a wound_n of_o satan_n dart_n of_o temptation_n then_o let_v we_o study_v and_o labour_n after_o true_a holiness_n let_v we_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o howsoever_o we_o fall_v often_o through_o infirmity_n yet_o let_v the_o heart_n always_o be_v arm_v with_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n that_o be_v with_o a_o earnest_a desire_n and_o holy_a endeavour_n of_o serve_v god_n and_o so_o shall_v satan_n never_o mortal_o wound_v us._n §_o sect._n 2_o but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n pernicious_a that_o the_o lack_n of_o this_o armour_n be_v most_o pernicious_a if_o we_o once_o lie_v aside_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n not_o so_o much_o as_o endeavour_v to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o holiness_n of_o life_n but_o embrace_v sin_n with_o full_a consent_n of_o will_n we_o shall_v lay_v our_o breast_n open_a and_o naked_a to_o all_o satan_n thrust_n yea_o and_o as_o it_o be_v put_v sword_n in_o his_o hand_n wherewith_o he_o may_v wound_v and_o murder_v we_o for_o until_o we_o disarm_v ourselves_o and_o put_v weapon_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o satan_n by_o our_o sin_n he_o can_v hurt_v we_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o example_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n who_o while_o they_o continue_v in_o their_o righteousness_n and_o integrity_n satan_n can_v not_o offer_v they_o any_o violence_n by_o assault_n and_o force_n and_o therefore_o he_o allure_v they_o to_o entertain_v a_o treacherous_a parley_n wherein_o have_v entice_v they_o to_o disarm_v themselves_o of_o this_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n by_o wilful_a transgress_a god_n commandment_n he_o inflict_v on_o they_o deadly_a wound_n pierce_v they_o through_o to_o the_o very_a heart_n and_o so_o like_o joab_n while_o he_o seem_v love_o to_o embrace_v they_o he_o do_v most_o treacherous_o stab_v they_o the_o consideration_n whereof_o shall_v make_v we_o repel_v most_o careful_o all_o satan_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o entice_v we_o to_o sin_n but_o especial_o let_v we_o never_o be_v allure_v to_o put_v off_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n and_o then_o though_o satan_n wound_v our_o soul_n with_o sin_n yet_o his_o wound_n will_v not_o be_v mortal_a so_o long_o as_o we_o do_v not_o fall_v into_o sin_n with_o full_a consent_n of_o will_n but_o through_o infirmity_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n loathe_v the_o sin_n which_o we_o commit_v and_o delight_v ourselves_o in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o inner_a man_n for_o though_o we_o fall_v yet_o the_o lord_n will_v raise_v we_o up_o by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n so_o that_o though_o sin_n dwell_v in_o we_o yet_o shall_v it_o never_o reign_v in_o us._n chap._n xii_o of_o the_o preparation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o three_o part_n of_o our_o christian_a armour_n be_v be_v what_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n be_v that_o we_o have_v our_o foot_n shod_a with_o the_o preparation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n where_o he_o allude_v to_o the_o custom_n of_o soldier_n in_o former_a time_n who_o go_v into_o the_o field_n strong_o arm_v their_o leg_n and_o foot_n with_o legge-harnesse_n wargreave_n or_o buskin_n to_o preserve_v they_o from_o the_o injury_n of_o the_o weather_n the_o pierce_a of_o brier_n thorn_n and_o such_o other_o thing_n as_o may_v hurt_v they_o in_o their_o way_n as_o they_o march_v and_o from_o the_o violence_n also_o of_o their_o enemy_n blow_n when_o they_o be_v encounter_v for_o all_o which_o
perseverance_n in_o prayer_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o pray_v earnest_o and_o fervent_o for_o a_o spirit_n but_o we_o must_v continue_v therein_o expect_v the_o lord_n leisure_n and_o unto_o this_o we_o be_v exhort_v rom._n 12.12_o continue_v in_o prayer_n 12.12_o rom._n 12.12_o so_o the_o prophet_n david_n persuade_v to_o expect_v and_o wait_v for_o the_o lord_n 27.14_o psal_n 27.14_o and_o to_o be_v strong_a in_o continue_v constant_o in_o our_o course_n and_o then_o in_o the_o end_n god_n will_v comfort_v our_o heart_n psal_n 27.14_o and_o the_o apostle_n paul_n will_v we_o to_o pray_v incessant_o 5.17_o 1._o thess_n 5.17_o like_o importunate_a suitor_n who_o will_v have_v no_o nay_o though_o they_o receive_v many_o denial_n to_o this_o duty_n our_o saviour_n encourage_v we_o by_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o unrighteous_a judge_n who_o though_o he_o neither_o care_v for_o man_n nor_o fear_v god_n 18.1_o luk._n 18.1_o yet_o be_v move_v through_o importunity_n to_o do_v the_o poor_a widow_n justice_n and_o therefore_o our_o heavenly_a father_n will_v much_o more_o grant_v the_o importunate_a suit_n of_o his_o elect_a child_n why_o the_o lord_n delai_v to_o grant_v the_o petition_n of_o his_o child_n especial_o have_v bind_v himself_o thereunto_o by_o his_o most_o gracious_a promise_n true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v many_o time_n defer_v to_o grant_v the_o prayer_n of_o his_o child_n as_o though_o he_o hear_v or_o regard_v they_o not_o when_o as_o in_o truth_n he_o never_o delay_v any_o of_o their_o lawful_a suit_n unless_o it_o be_v to_o this_o end_n that_o he_o may_v thereby_o either_o convey_v unto_o they_o great_a benefit_n than_o they_o desire_v as_o when_o he_o give_v spiritual_a grace_n in_o stead_n of_o earthly_a benefit_n or_o else_o that_o thereby_o he_o may_v move_v they_o to_o pray_v more_o fervent_o and_o so_o exercise_v and_o increase_v their_o faith_n hope_n and_o patience_n or_o that_o he_o may_v show_v these_o his_o grace_n to_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o glory_n who_o have_v bestow_v they_o both_z to_z other_o and_o the_o party_n themselves_o or_o that_o he_o may_v move_v we_o more_o thankful_o to_o receive_v and_o high_o to_o esteem_v his_o benefit_n after_o by_o long_a suit_n we_o have_v obtain_v they_o which_o we_o will_v not_o so_o great_o regard_v if_o he_o bestow_v they_o at_o the_o first_o motion_n a_o notable_a example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o canaanitish_a woman_n both_o for_o our_o comfort_n and_o imitation_n matth._n 15._o 15._o matth._n 15._o to_o who_o prayer_n our_o saviour_n christ_n give_v as_o it_o seem_v no_o ear_n and_o when_o he_o do_v take_v notice_n of_o her_o suit_n he_o give_v she_o a_o double_a repulse_n first_o by_o tell_v she_o that_o he_o be_v send_v only_o to_o the_o lose_a sheep_n of_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n and_o when_o this_o will_v not_o move_v she_o to_o surcease_v her_o suit_n he_o use_v a_o more_o bitter_a denial_n tell_v she_o that_o it_o be_v not_o fit_a to_o take_v the_o child_n bread_n and_o to_o cast_v it_o to_o whelp_n but_o when_o she_o be_v not_o hereby_o discourage_v nor_o her_o faith_n extinguish_v but_o rather_o of_o a_o spark_n increase_v to_o a_o great_a flame_n at_o the_o last_o she_o do_v not_o only_o receive_v what_o she_o desire_v but_o also_o be_v send_v away_o with_o great_a commendation_n but_o wherefore_o do_v not_o our_o saviour_n grant_v her_o petition_n at_o the_o first_o hear_n sure_o not_o that_o he_o grudge_v she_o her_o suit_n or_o be_v loath_a to_o entertain_v it_o but_o to_o the_o end_n that_o he_o may_v make_v she_o more_o earnest_o implore_v his_o help_n and_o manifest_a to_o all_o the_o world_n her_o singular_a faith_n and_o last_o that_o she_o may_v be_v a_o example_n to_o we_o for_o our_o imitation_n both_o to_o encourage_v we_o in_o ask_v of_o god_n the_o supply_n of_o our_o want_n and_o also_o to_o persevere_v in_o prayer_n though_o at_o the_o first_o god_n seem_v not_o to_o regard_v we_o yea_o though_o we_o receive_v diverse_a repulse_n and_o many_o discouragement_n which_o if_o we_o perform_v we_o shall_v have_v a_o notable_a testimony_n of_o a_o true_a faith_n when_o as_o we_o can_v patient_o abide_v the_o lord_n leisure_n though_o he_o do_v defer_v his_o help_n 28.16_o esa_n 28.16_o for_o he_o that_o believe_v will_v not_o make_v haste_n as_o it_o be_v esa_n 28.16_o and_o in_o the_o end_n we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o obtain_v our_o godly_a and_o honest_a desire_n if_o not_o as_o we_o will_v yet_o as_o it_o shall_v be_v most_o for_o our_o good_a and_o withal_o eternal_a blessedness_n for_o the_o lord_n be_v the_o god_n of_o judgement_n and_o bless_v be_v all_o they_o that_o wait_v for_o he_o 30.18_o esa_n 30.18_o as_o it_o be_v esa_n 30.18_o when_o therefore_o we_o be_v assault_v by_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o ready_a to_o faint_v in_o the_o combat_n of_o temptation_n let_v we_o call_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o his_o assistance_n that_o we_o may_v be_v free_v from_o danger_n and_o deliver_v from_o they_o and_o if_o the_o lord_n do_v seem_v to_o defer_v his_o help_n and_o suffer_v we_o still_o to_o bear_v the_o brunt_n of_o the_o battle_n after_o we_o have_v many_o time_n implore_v his_o assistance_n yet_o let_v we_o not_o be_v discourage_v but_o constant_o persevere_v in_o prayer_n assure_v ourselves_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v either_o free_v we_o from_o the_o temptation_n or_o else_o give_v we_o strength_n to_o endure_v and_o overcome_v it_o for_o he_o have_v promise_v that_o he_o will_v not_o suffer_v we_o to_o be_v tempt_v above_o our_o power_n but_o that_o he_o will_v give_v a_o good_a issue_n to_o the_o temptation_n that_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o bear_v it_o and_o he_o be_v faithful_a and_o true_a of_o his_o word_n 10.13_o 1._o cor._n 10.13_o as_o it_o be_v 1._o cor._n 10.13_o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o quite_o free_v we_o from_o the_o skirmish_n of_o temptation_n though_o we_o have_v often_o desire_v it_o of_o he_o either_o because_o he_o will_v further_o try_v our_o christian_a valour_n and_o exercise_v our_o faith_n or_o restrain_v we_o from_o sin_n especial_o spiritual_a pride_n to_o which_o we_o be_v too_o too_o subject_a as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o example_n of_o paul_n who_o be_v buffet_v by_o the_o messenger_n of_o satan_n beseech_v the_o lord_n thrice_o that_o he_o may_v depart_v from_o he_o but_o the_o lord_n answer_v that_o his_o grace_n which_o he_o bestow_v on_o he_o be_v sufficient_a and_o that_o his_o power_n be_v make_v manifest_a in_o the_o apostle_n weakness_n as_o appear_v 2._o cor._n 12.8_o 9_o 12.8.9_o 1._o cor._n 12.8.9_o now_o the_o cause_n why_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o altogether_o release_v he_o be_v that_o he_o may_v be_v humble_v hereby_o the_o prick_n of_o the_o flesh_n let_v out_o the_o wind_n of_o vain_a glory_n which_o will_v have_v puff_v he_o up_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o multitude_n of_o revelation_n which_o he_o have_v receive_v let_v we_o not_o therefore_o send_v for_o the_o lord_n assistance_n as_o it_o be_v by_o post_n and_o prescribe_v the_o lord_n a_o time_n with_o the_o bethulian_o wherein_o if_o we_o be_v not_o relieve_v we_o will_v faint_v and_o cowardly_o yield_v for_o that_o which_o the_o prophet_n speak_v from_o the_o lord_n concern_v the_o vision_n may_v fit_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o lord_n aid_n and_o help_v though_o it_o tarry_v watch_n 2.3_o hab._n 2.3_o for_o it_o shall_v sure_o come_v and_o not_o stay_v habac._n 2.3_o §_o sect._n 6_o the_o last_o thing_n require_v in_o our_o prayer_n be_v saint_n prayer_n to_o be_v make_v for_o all_o the_o saint_n that_o we_o do_v not_o only_o pray_v for_o ourselves_o but_o also_o for_o all_o the_o saint_n for_o we_o be_v fellow_n member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n we_o be_v fellow_n soldier_n which_o fight_v under_o the_o same_o captain_n jesus_n christ_n and_o consequent_o their_o victory_n be_v our_o victory_n and_o their_o foil_n be_v our_o foil_n as_o therefore_o soldier_n do_v not_o only_o stand_v upon_o their_o several_a guard_n but_o join_v their_o force_n together_o whereby_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o who_o be_v scatter_v may_v easy_o be_v overcome_v have_v unite_v their_o force_n be_v unresistable_a so_o we_o be_v not_o only_o to_o stand_v upon_o our_o own_o defence_n but_o to_o join_v in_o prayer_n with_o the_o whole_a church_n militant_a and_o then_o shall_v not_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n stand_v against_o we_o for_o of_o the_o prayer_n of_o one_o righteous_a man_n avail_v much_o 5.16_o jam._n 5.16_o be_v fervent_a and_o effectual_a of_o what_o efficacy_n and_o power_n be_v the_o prayer_n of_o all_o the_o righteous_a join_v together_o back_n no_o armour_n appoint_v for_o the_o back_n
enough_o he_o have_v swear_v it_o because_o therefore_o the_o promise_n be_v sure_a and_o confirm_v not_o according_a to_o our_o merit_n but_o according_a to_o his_o mercy_n let_v no_o man_n profess_v that_o with_o fear_n of_o which_o he_o can_v doubt_v arrogancy_n doubt_v proceed_v from_o pride_n and_o arrogancy_n but_o they_o further_o urge_v that_o humble_a doubt_n be_v better_a than_o presumptuous_a assurance_n i_o answer_v first_o that_o their_o doubt_n be_v full_a of_o pride_n which_o make_v they_o look_v for_o salvation_n in_o their_o own_o worthiness_n rather_o than_o in_o god_n free_a mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n second_o that_o our_o faith_n and_o certain_a assurance_n be_v full_a of_o humility_n for_o we_o free_o confess_v our_o own_o unworthiness_n and_o dare_v not_o offer_v before_o the_o seat_n of_o god_n justice_n any_o righteousness_n that_o be_v in_o we_o as_o desire_v in_o whole_a or_o in_o part_n to_o be_v justify_v thereby_o nay_o rather_o we_o pray_v with_o the_o prophet_n psal_n 143.2_o enter_v not_o into_o judgement_n with_o thy_o servant_n for_o in_o thy_o sight_n shall_v none_o that_o live_v be_v justify_v 143.2_o psal_n 143.2_o and_o though_o we_o know_v nothing_o by_o ourselves_o yet_o do_v we_o plainâ—ly_o affirm_v with_o the_o apostle_n that_o we_o be_v not_o hereby_o justify_v 4.4_o 1._o cor._n 4.4_o 1._o cor._n 4.4_o but_o this_o humility_n do_v not_o abate_v our_o faith_n and_o certain_a assurance_n nay_o rather_o it_o do_v confirm_v and_o increase_v it_o for_o it_o make_v we_o to_o go_v out_o of_o ourselves_o as_o find_v no_o hope_n of_o salvation_n whereupon_o we_o may_v rest_v and_o move_v we_o to_o seek_v for_o salvation_n in_o christ_n who_o be_v such_o a_o sure_a ancorhold_v that_o whosoever_o pitch_n the_o anchor_n of_o their_o hope_n on_o he_o shall_v find_v it_o sure_a and_o steadfast_a and_o whosoever_o build_v their_o faith_n on_o this_o foundation_n and_o corner_n stone_n the_o power_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v against_o they_o §_o sect._n 2_o second_o they_o object_n that_o we_o be_v unworthy_a of_o god_n love_n election_n our_o unworthiness_n no_o cause_n why_o we_o shall_v doubt_v of_o our_o election_n or_o to_o be_v elect_v and_o therefore_o we_o can_v be_v assure_v thereof_o i_o answer_v this_o be_v true_a if_o god_n election_n depend_v upon_o our_o worthiness_n and_o desert_n but_o see_v the_o lord_n respect_v not_o any_o thing_n in_o we_o but_o elect_v we_o free_o of_o his_o undeserued_a grace_n and_o mere_a goodwill_n our_o unworthiness_n in_o ourselves_o may_v well_o stand_v with_o the_o assurance_n of_o our_o election_n for_o those_o who_o be_v most_o unworthy_a need_v not_o to_o doubt_v of_o god_n love_n and_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n so_o that_o they_o whole_o rely_v upon_o god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n forasmuch_o as_o they_o be_v not_o ground_v upon_o their_o worthiness_n and_o therefore_o can_v be_v overthrow_v by_o their_o unworthiness_n notable_a be_v the_o say_n of_o austin_n to_o this_o purpose_n tria_fw-la inquit_fw-la sunt_fw-la quae_fw-la sic_fw-la roborant_fw-la &_o confirmant_fw-la cor_fw-la meum_fw-la ut_fw-la nulla_fw-la i_o penuriae_fw-la meritorum_fw-la etc._n etc._n there_o be_v three_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o so_o strengthen_v and_o confirm_v my_o heart_n that_o no_o want_n of_o merit_n no_o consideration_n of_o my_o own_o vileness_n no_o estimation_n of_o the_o heavenly_a blessedness_n can_v deject_v i_o from_o the_o height_n of_o my_o hope_n upon_o they_o my_o soul_n be_v sure_o settle_v will_v thou_o know_v what_o they_o be_v i_o consider_v three_o thing_n upon_o which_o my_o hope_n whole_o rely_v to_o wit_n the_o love_n of_o adoption_n 23._o aug._n manual_n cap._n 23._o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n the_o ability_n of_o performance_n let_v now_o my_o foolish_a cogitation_n murmur_v as_o much_o as_o it_o will_v say_v but_o who_o be_v thou_o or_o how_o great_a be_v that_o glory_n or_o with_o what_o merit_n do_v thou_o hope_v to_o obtain_v it_o and_o i_o will_v bold_o answer_v i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o i_o be_o assure_v because_o god_n have_v adopt_v i_o in_o great_a love_n because_o he_o be_v true_a in_o his_o promise_n because_o he_o be_v powerful_a in_o performance_n for_o he_o may_v do_v what_o he_o will_n §_o sect._n 3_o three_o together_o weakness_n of_o faith_n and_o certainty_n may_v well_o stand_v together_o they_o object_n that_o our_o faith_n be_v weak_a and_o feeble_a and_o by_o reason_n thereof_o the_o faithful_a aâ—…peareth_v by_o continual_a experience_n be_v assault_v with_o doubt_v and_o grievous_o shake_v with_o satan_n temptation_n so_o as_o there_o can_v be_v no_o such_o certainty_n of_o faith_n as_o we_o speak_v of_o to_o which_o i_o answer_v that_o weakness_n of_o faith_n be_v not_o oppose_v as_o contrary_a to_o certainty_n but_o to_o strongnesse_n and_o full_a persuasion_n and_o therefore_o weakness_n and_o certainty_n may_v well_o stand_v together_o neither_o do_v we_o imagine_v such_o a_o certainty_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v never_o shake_v with_o doubt_v nor_o assault_v with_o temptation_n nay_o rather_o we_o teach_v that_o those_o who_o god_n endu_v with_o most_o faith_n he_o most_o exercise_v in_o the_o conflict_n of_o temptation_n like_o a_o wise_a captain_n who_o set_v that_o soldier_n which_o be_v best_a arm_v and_o strong_a to_o bear_v the_o brunt_n in_o the_o forefront_n of_o the_o battle_n and_o the_o devil_n be_v most_o ready_a to_o assault_v those_o who_o most_o resist_v he_o and_o most_o violent_o to_o strike_v where_o he_o see_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n hold_v up_o to_o defend_v and_o therefore_o our_o saviour_n have_v teach_v all_o his_o faithful_a child_n to_o pray_v lead_v we_o not_o into_o temptation_n but_o deliver_v we_o from_o evil_a but_o withal_o we_o affirm_v that_o though_o this_o weak_a faith_n be_v assault_v with_o satan_n temptation_n yet_o be_v it_o never_o overcome_v though_o it_o be_v oppose_v with_o doubt_v yet_o it_o never_o fall_v from_o assurance_n and_o certain_a persuasion_n though_o it_o be_v sometime_o shadow_v and_o the_o shine_a light_n thereof_o dim_v yea_o though_o it_o be_v for_o a_o time_n hide_v and_o cover_v yet_o in_o it_o own_o nature_n it_o remain_v firm_a and_o steadfast_a like_o the_o sun_n which_o always_o shine_v though_o oftentimes_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o interposition_n of_o the_o cloud_n or_o the_o earth_n we_o can_v discern_v the_o beam_n thereof_o or_o like_v unto_o the_o fire_n which_o be_v hide_v under_o the_o ash_n do_v retain_v his_o natural_a heat_n although_o we_o feel_v it_o not_o so_o our_o faith_n retain_v in_o itself_o his_o certainty_n and_o assurance_n as_o it_o be_v his_o light_n and_o heat_n when_o as_o it_o be_v shadow_v with_o the_o cloud_n of_o doubt_v and_o cover_v under_o the_o ash_n of_o satan_n temptation_n strong_a a_o weak_a faith_n do_v as_o true_o assure_v we_o of_o our_o election_n as_o a_o strong_a but_o it_o may_v be_v demand_v how_o a_o weak_a faith_n assault_v with_o satan_n temptation_n can_v continue_v certain_a see_v the_o strong_a 0_o faith_n can_v do_v no_o more_o but_o certain_o persuade_v i_o answer_v that_o our_o certainty_n respect_v not_o our_o faith_n itself_o but_o the_o object_n thereof_o namely_o god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n and_o therefore_o see_v a_o weak_a faith_n do_v as_o well_o apply_v unto_o we_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n &_o merit_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o strong_a therefore_o also_o it_o certain_o persuade_v we_o as_o well_o &_o true_o though_o not_o so_o strong_o and_o full_o of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n as_o a_o strong_a do_v so_o that_o when_o we_o have_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o faith_n it_o do_v illuminate_v our_o mind_n so_o as_o we_o can_v true_o discern_v the_o love_a countenance_n of_o the_o lord_n shine_v upon_o we_o though_o somewhat_o dim_o and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o far_o of_o even_o as_o he_o that_o be_v purblind_a do_v as_o certain_o see_v the_o sun_n as_o he_o who_o be_v most_o sharp_o sight_v though_o not_o so_o clear_o and_o as_o he_o who_o be_v in_o a_o dark_a dungeon_n do_v discern_v the_o light_n as_o sure_o at_o a_o little_a hole_n though_o he_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o black_a darkness_n as_o he_o who_o be_v in_o the_o open_a field_n so_o when_o we_o be_v as_o it_o be_v purblind_a and_o compass_v about_o with_o the_o dark_a mist_n of_o ignorance_n yet_o by_o the_o dim_a sight_n of_o faith_n we_o certain_o discern_v god_n love_n and_o favour_n shine_v upon_o we_o though_o the_o more_o we_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n the_o more_o clear_o we_o perceive_v it_o till_o at_o last_o have_v attain_v unto_o fullness_n of_o faith_n we_o see_v he_o near_o at_o hand_n and_o as_o it_o be_v
of_o faith_n concern_v our_o particular_a election_n &_o salvation_n i_o answer_v though_o the_o lord_n give_v we_o no_o particular_a promise_n in_o his_o word_n yet_o he_o give_v we_o that_o which_o be_v equal_o effectual_a and_o of_o like_a force_n namely_o his_o general_a promise_n without_o any_o limitation_n exception_n or_o condition_n but_o the_o condition_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n with_o a_o commandment_n to_o apply_v the_o same_o and_o because_o natural_o we_o be_v unable_a in_o ourselves_o to_o perform_v this_o therefore_o he_o have_v ordain_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n which_o he_o make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o the_o beget_n and_o confirm_v of_o our_o faith_n and_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o repentance_n which_o be_v wrought_v in_o we_o we_o may_v as_o certain_o be_v persuade_v that_o the_o general_a promise_n belong_v unto_o we_o as_o if_o they_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o particular_o and_o by_o name_n repentance_n §._o sect._n 8._o that_o our_o assurance_n of_o election_n depend_v not_o upon_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n six_o they_o object_n that_o we_o can_v be_v assure_v of_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v have_v no_o certain_a assurance_n of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n i_o answer_v this_o reason_n be_v good_a if_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n depend_v upon_o the_o worthiness_n or_o measure_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n but_o see_v that_o they_o depend_v not_o thereupon_o but_o upon_o god_n free_a mercy_n and_o the_o worthiness_n and_o sufficiency_n of_o christ_n merit_n and_o obedience_n therefore_o though_o our_o faith_n be_v never_o so_o weak_a and_o our_o repentance_n but_o in_o small_a measure_n yet_o so_o they_o be_v true_a and_o unfeigned_a not_o dissemble_v and_o hypocritical_a we_o may_v certain_o be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n for_o a_o weak_a faith_n do_v apply_v christ_n &_o all_o his_o benefit_n unto_o we_o as_o well_o as_o a_o strong_a though_o not_o in_o so_o strong_a and_o perfect_a a_o manner_n as_o shall_v appear_v hereafter_o but_o yet_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o a_o small_a and_o weak_a measure_n but_o labour_v to_o grow_v up_o from_o faith_n to_o faith_n till_o we_o become_v perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n seventh_o election_n §._o sect._n 9_o the_o sight_n of_o our_o imperfection_n no_o cause_n why_o we_o shall_v doubt_v of_o our_o election_n they_o object_n that_o though_o there_o be_v no_o cause_n of_o doubt_v so_o long_o as_o we_o look_v upon_o god_n mercy_n and_o truth_n in_o his_o promise_n and_o christ_n obedience_n and_o merit_n yet_o at_o least_o there_o be_v cause_n of_o doubt_v when_o we_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o and_o find_v our_o great_a indisposition_n to_o perform_v the_o condition_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n which_o god_n require_v of_o all_o who_o shall_v be_v partaker_n of_o his_o promise_n and_o our_o manifold_a imperfection_n and_o great_a unworthines_n of_o the_o least_o of_o god_n mercy_n and_o thus_o these_o juggler_n play_v fast_o and_o loose_a make_v their_o faith_n like_a unto_o the_o ignis_fw-la fatuus_fw-la or_o go_v fire_n which_o interchangeable_o sometime_o shine_v clear_o and_o sometime_o vanish_v and_o leave_v behind_o it_o nothing_o but_o black_a darkness_n but_o let_v we_o constant_o oppose_v ourselves_o against_o such_o inconstancy_n and_o in_o no_o wise_n admit_v of_o such_o mutable_a variety_n in_o our_o faith_n which_o make_v it_o more_o changeable_a than_o the_o moon_n which_o one_o while_n shine_v with_o full_a bringhtnesse_n and_o in_o small_a distance_n of_o time_n can_v be_v discern_v and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v we_o know_v first_o that_o though_o in_o ourselves_o we_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o the_o least_o of_o god_n mercy_n yet_o our_o unworthines_n make_v we_o not_o uncapable_a of_o the_o great_a for_o all_o god_n benefit_n be_v his_o free_a gift_n which_o he_o promise_v and_o bestow_v without_o any_o respect_n of_o our_o worthiness_n or_o desert_n of_o his_o mere_a grace_n and_o undeserued_a love_n and_o therefore_o as_o when_o we_o be_v most_o worthy_a in_o our_o own_o conceit_n there_o be_v no_o reason_n why_o we_o shall_v presume_v the_o more_o so_o when_o we_o find_v ourselves_o unworthy_a there_o be_v no_o cause_n why_o we_o shall_v hope_v the_o less_o or_o be_v more_o weak_o assure_v of_o god_n promise_n for_o as_o they_o be_v not_o make_v upon_o the_o condition_n of_o our_o worthiness_n so_o they_o be_v not_o disannul_v and_o make_v void_a by_o our_o unworthiness_n otherwise_o no_o man_n live_v can_v have_v assurance_n of_o they_o see_v all_o man_n live_v be_v unworthy_a of_o they_o but_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v all_o his_o promise_n unto_o we_o in_o christ_n who_o be_v send_v to_o be_v our_o mediator_n to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o who_o be_v altogether_o unworthy_a in_o ourselves_o may_v be_v make_v worthy_a in_o he_o of_o all_o god_n mercy_n and_o benefit_n and_o therefore_o whosoever_o lie_v hold_v upon_o christ_n with_o a_o true_a though_o a_o weak_a faith_n and_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o in_o repentance_n they_o may_v certain_o be_v assure_v of_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n notwithstanding_o their_o unworthiness_n second_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o our_o faith_n do_v not_o respect_v ourselves_o in_o ourselves_o neither_o be_v we_o the_o object_n thereof_o but_o christ_n and_o his_o merit_n and_o obedience_n who_o our_o faith_n do_v not_o behold_v stand_v aloof_o of_o as_o the_o papist_n dream_v but_o as_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o we_o and_o become_v our_o head_n and_o we_o his_o member_n so_o as_o now_o we_o can_v look_v upon_o ourselves_o but_o we_o must_v look_v upon_o christ_n because_o he_o be_v in_o we_o and_o we_o in_o he_o and_o therefore_o when_o we_o consider_v the_o greatness_n of_o our_o sin_n we_o despair_v not_o because_o now_o we_o look_v upon_o they_o as_o they_o be_v translate_v from_o we_o and_o lay_v upon_o christ_n who_o have_v full_o satisfy_v his_o father_n justice_n by_o his_o alone_a and_o al-sufficient_a sacrifice_n upon_o the_o cross_n when_o we_o consider_v our_o imperfection_n we_o doubt_v not_o of_o god_n promise_n because_o they_o be_v cover_v with_o his_o perfect_a righteousness_n when_o we_o consider_v our_o unworthiness_n we_o be_v not_o discourage_v see_v by_o communicate_v of_o christ_n worthiness_n we_o be_v make_v worthy_a when_o we_o consider_v that_o in_o ourselves_o we_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o eternal_a condemnation_n we_o be_v nevertheless_o assure_v of_o everlasting_a life_n and_o salvation_n because_o we_o be_v unite_v to_o christ_n our_o head_n who_o have_v take_v away_o our_o curse_n and_o nail_v it_o to_o his_o cross_n bear_v his_o father_n displeasure_n to_o reconcile_v we_o unto_o he_o and_o be_v condemn_v and_o suffer_v death_n to_o free_v we_o from_o death_n and_o condemnation_n and_o to_o make_v we_o heir_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n so_o that_o now_o we_o behold_v the_o huge_a debt_n of_o our_o sin_n as_o it_o be_v discharge_v and_o cancel_v with_o his_o merit_n and_o full_a satisfaction_n we_o behold_v our_o imperfection_n but_o as_o perfect_v by_o his_o perfection_n we_o look_v upon_o our_o unworthiness_n but_o as_o it_o be_v ennoble_v with_o his_o worthiness_n when_o we_o set_v before_o we_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n we_o consider_v they_o as_o take_v away_o and_o swallow_v up_o of_o christ_n death_n and_o full_a obedience_n because_o now_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n and_o he_o be_v become_v we_o that_o we_o may_v become_v he_o he_o have_v take_v upon_o he_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n that_o he_o may_v make_v we_o partaker_n of_o his_o righteousness_n and_o worthiness_n and_o therefore_o that_o which_o god_n have_v wise_o join_v together_o let_v not_o our_o faith_n fond_o separate_v for_o if_o it_o be_v unlawful_a in_o carnal_a marriage_n then_o much_o more_o in_o the_o spiritual_a marriage_n between_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n but_o let_v we_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o not_o in_o ourselves_o but_o as_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n and_o then_o our_o self-worthiness_n of_o hell_n and_o destruction_n will_v not_o abate_v our_o assurance_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n eight_o believe_v §._o sect._n 10._o heretic_n and_o worldling_n boast_v of_o faith_n no_o cause_n why_o those_o shall_v doubt_v who_o true_o believe_v they_o object_n that_o every_o heretic_n epicure_n and_o worldling_n continue_v in_o their_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n may_v fain_o unto_o themselves_o such_o a_o persuasion_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o election_n but_o this_o be_v nothing_o to_o
undertake_v above_o all_o humane_a reason_n and_o power_n for_o have_v not_o the_o devil_n in_o former_a time_n and_o do_v he_o not_o still_o at_o this_o day_n oppose_v himself_o against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o do_v not_o his_o curse_a instrument_n ungodly_a man_n the_o more_o they_o exceed_v in_o wickedness_n the_o more_o bend_v their_o whole_a power_n malicious_o to_o oppugn_v this_o truth_n persecute_v the_o child_n of_o god_n for_o this_o cause_n only_o that_o they_o be_v professor_n and_o practizer_n of_o god_n true_a religion_n and_o whence_o proceed_v this_o malicious_a opposition_n but_o from_o this_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o as_o they_o hate_v and_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o god_n himself_o so_o also_o against_o his_o word_n and_o because_o they_o know_v that_o by_o this_o light_a their_o work_n of_o darkness_n be_v discover_v therefore_o they_o labour_v to_o put_v it_o clean_o out_o that_o their_o wickedness_n may_v not_o be_v descry_v because_o it_o be_v pure_a and_o holy_a they_o can_v endure_v it_o they_o themselves_o be_v corrupt_a and_o wicked_a because_o it_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o justice_n which_o show_v the_o crookedness_n of_o their_o way_n they_o will_v if_o they_o be_v able_a burn_v it_o or_o cut_v it_o in_o piece_n because_o it_o be_v the_o word_n by_o which_o they_o be_v condemn_v therefore_o they_o loathe_v as_o much_o to_o hear_v it_o as_o the_o prisoner_n do_v abhor_v to_o hear_v the_o sentence_n of_o the_o just_a judge_n and_o hence_o proceed_v their_o opposition_n and_o oppugn_v of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n with_o all_o their_o force_n and_o might_n but_o all_o in_o vain_a for_o the_o more_o the_o devil_n and_o wicked_a man_n rage_n against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o more_o by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n support_v it_o the_o glory_n thereof_o appear_v and_o spread_v itself_o over_o the_o face_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o more_o they_o labour_v to_o keep_v it_o down_o the_o more_o it_o flourish_v and_o as_o they_o who_o go_v about_o to_o stop_v the_o current_n of_o a_o mighty_a river_n do_v but_o make_v it_o to_o swell_v the_o high_a and_o overflow_v all_o the_o country_n whereas_o before_o it_o be_v contain_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o own_o bank_n so_o when_o satan_n and_o his_o wicked_a imp_n do_v seek_v to_o stay_v this_o heavenly_a stream_n which_o flow_v from_o god_n sanctuary_n and_o labour_n may_v and_o main_a to_o hinder_v the_o passage_n &_o propagation_n of_o god_n truth_n the_o more_o it_o spread_v itself_o maugre_o their_o malice_n and_o overflow_v the_o whole_a earth_n and_o whence_o can_v the_o defeat_n and_o frustrate_v of_o this_o powerful_a violence_n proceed_v but_o from_o a_o great_a power_n even_o the_o power_n of_o god_n for_o though_o all_o man_n shall_v combine_v themselves_o together_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o resist_v satan_n rage_n or_o protect_v the_o word_n of_o god_n from_o utter_a ruin_n only_o the_o lord_n who_o power_n be_v omnipotent_a can_v thus_o uphold_v it_o and_o make_v it_o prevail_v against_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n and_o as_o the_o lord_n by_o preserve_v and_o defend_v the_o scripture_n from_o the_o begin_n unto_o this_o day_n do_v evident_o show_v that_o they_o be_v his_o own_o word_n and_o reveal_v will_n so_o also_o by_o punish_v even_o in_o this_o life_n with_o utter_a ruin_n and_o destruction_n all_o those_o who_o have_v most_o violent_o and_o malicious_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o it_o and_o persecute_v the_o saint_n of_o god_n for_o the_o profession_n hereof_o as_o may_v appear_v notable_o in_o the_o example_n of_o antiochus_n epiphanes_n herod_n nero_n domitian_n dioclesian_n julian_n the_o apostata_fw-la and_o many_o other_o who_o by_o their_o shameful_a and_o horrible_a death_n testify_v and_o prove_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n which_o they_o have_v oppugn_v and_o persecute_v the_o whole_a course_n of_o their_o wicked_a life_n §_o sect._n 7_o six_o the_o lord_n have_v approve_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v his_o truth_n by_o wonderful_a miracle_n miracle_n the_o sixth_o reason_n take_v from_o miracle_n which_o satan_n himself_o can_v so_o much_o as_o imitate_v as_o by_o give_v the_o blind_a their_o sight_n raise_v the_o dead_a to_o life_n turn_v back_o the_o course_n of_o the_o sun_n in_o the_o firmament_n divide_v the_o sea_n in_o two_o part_n and_o such_o like_a which_o miracle_n be_v wrought_v by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n to_o this_o end_n that_o the_o faithful_a may_v be_v confirm_v in_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n truth_n and_o the_o wicked_a convince_a but_o against_o this_o satan_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o suggest_v that_o there_o be_v never_o any_o such_o miracle_n as_o be_v record_v in_o the_o scripture_n to_o which_o i_o answer_v that_o these_o miracle_n be_v not_o do_v in_o a_o corner_n or_o in_o hug_a mugger_n but_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o great_a multitude_n otherwise_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n who_o be_v but_o mean_a and_o simple_a man_n shall_v have_v labour_v in_o vain_a to_o have_v persuade_v man_n to_o have_v embrace_v their_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n especial_o be_v so_o contrary_a to_o humane_a wisdom_n and_o our_o natural_a disposition_n and_o affection_n if_o they_o have_v only_o themselves_o report_v or_o bring_v some_o few_o witness_n of_o their_o miracle_n wrought_v and_o not_o public_o show_v they_o to_o all_o the_o people_n moreover_o see_v this_o doctrine_n have_v have_v so_o many_o enemy_n from_o the_o beginning_n it_o be_v not_o probable_a but_o that_o they_o will_v have_v exclame_v and_o write_v against_o the_o writing_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n as_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v publish_v for_o write_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v never_o do_v but_o among_o all_o those_o who_o have_v oppose_v themselves_o against_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v no_o man_n so_o impudent_a as_o to_o deny_v that_o such_o miracle_n be_v do_v of_o which_o so_o many_o be_v eye-witness_n nay_o contrariwise_o the_o heathen_a themselves_o who_o neither_o know_v god_n nor_o his_o true_a religion_n have_v make_v mention_n of_o they_o in_o their_o writing_n and_o the_o jew_n who_o to_o this_o day_n withstand_v the_o work_n of_o redemption_n wrought_v by_o christ_n do_v notwithstanding_o confess_v that_o such_o miracle_n be_v wrought_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n neither_o in_o truth_n be_v they_o able_a to_o gainsay_v they_o see_v they_o have_v receive_v this_o truth_n by_o tradition_n from_o their_o father_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v drive_v to_o confess_v that_o christ_n be_v a_o great_a prophet_n though_o not_o the_o promise_a messiah_n §_o sect._n 8_o seventhly_a the_o constant_a testimony_n of_o innumerable_a martyr_n who_o have_v seal_v this_o truth_n with_o their_o dear_a blood_n martyr_n the_o seven_o reason_n take_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o martyr_n be_v a_o notable_a argument_n to_o assure_v we_o that_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a that_o so_o many_o will_v so_o constant_o and_o cheerful_o have_v suffer_v for_o their_o profession_n the_o most_o exquisite_a torment_n that_o wit_n and_o malice_n can_v invent_v if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v not_o certain_o assure_v they_o that_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o if_o it_o have_v not_o support_v they_o in_o suffer_v these_o torment_n above_o all_o humane_a power_n and_o strength_n and_o whereas_o it_o may_v be_v object_v that_o wicked_a man_n have_v suffer_v also_o for_o their_o sect_n opinion_n and_o heresy_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o there_o be_v great_a differece_n between_o they_o first_o because_o the_o number_n have_v be_v few_o who_o have_v suffer_v for_o their_o several_a sect_n and_o heresy_n but_o the_o martyr_n almost_o innumerable_a who_o have_v suffer_v for_o the_o same_o truth_n second_o the_o same_o cheerfulness_n constancy_n and_o rejoice_v in_o their_o suffering_n have_v not_o be_v in_o they_o who_o have_v suffer_v for_o their_o error_n which_o have_v always_o be_v observe_v in_o god_n saint_n and_o last_o these_o heretic_n have_v always_o be_v confute_v and_o convince_v of_o their_o error_n and_o heresy_n before_o their_o suffering_n whereas_o god_n saint_n direct_v by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n have_v stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o adversary_n with_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n word_n which_o satan_n himself_o can_v resist_v and_o through_o violent_a rage_n be_v unconuict_v have_v be_v lead_v to_o the_o slaughter_n chap._n xx._n other_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v indict_v by_o god_n spirit_n take_v from_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o §_o sect._n 1_o the_o eight_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n handle_v the_o eight_o reason_n take_v from_o the_o argument_n which_o
and_o all_o sanctify_a and_o save_v grace_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o minister_n himself_o find_v not_o the_o word_n which_o he_o deliver_v effectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n or_o any_o grace_n in_o he_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v powerful_a in_o many_o of_o the_o hearer_n for_o these_o purpose_n because_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v not_o the_o assistance_n and_o inward_a cooperation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n with_o the_o outward_a ministry_n of_o the_o word_n unto_o he_o which_o notwithstanding_o he_o merciful_o grant_v unto_o other_o see_v then_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v god_n own_o ordinance_n which_o he_o make_v effectual_a to_o who_o he_o will_v by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n by_o whosoever_o it_o be_v deliver_v and_o see_v those_o minister_n which_o be_v most_o holy_a and_o virtuous_a can_v at_o their_o pleasure_n infuse_v grace_n into_o their_o hearer_n for_o paul_n may_v plant_v and_o apollo_n may_v water_v but_o god_n give_v the_o increase_n 3.5_o 1._o cor._n 3.5_o so_o that_o neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o be_v any_o thing_n in_o themselves_o without_o god_n blessing_n see_v also_o those_o who_o be_v loose_a and_o vicious_a if_o they_o true_o preach_v the_o truth_n itself_o can_v by_o their_o badness_n hinder_v god_n ordinance_n but_o that_o come_n from_o their_o mouth_n it_o will_v be_v effectual_a for_o the_o conversion_n of_o man_n unto_o god_n and_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o those_o that_o believe_v for_o though_o unto_o himself_o it_o be_v but_o a_o dead_a letter_n yet_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v give_v life_n unto_o it_o in_o those_o who_o receive_v it_o and_o though_o he_o preach_v for_o glory_n or_o gain_v or_o for_o envy_n and_o strife_n yet_o we_o must_v with_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v preach_v any_o manner_n of_o way_n 1.15.18_o phil._n 1.15.18_o and_o reap_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o to_o our_o eternal_a comfort_n last_o see_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n think_v it_o good_a to_o send_v ambassador_n of_o both_o sort_n sanctify_a and_o unsanctified_a and_o oftentimes_o make_v the_o word_n in_o the_o mouth_n for_n a_o faithful_a and_o godly_a minister_n the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n and_o the_o same_o word_n in_o the_o mouth_n of_o one_o who_o be_v void_a of_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o shall_v not_o depend_v upon_o man_n but_o whole_o rest_v and_o rely_v ourselves_o upon_o god_n own_o ordinance_n give_v and_o ascribe_v unto_o he_o the_o whole_a glory_n and_o praise_n of_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o think_v the_o worse_a of_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n because_o of_o his_o corruption_n who_o deliver_v it_o for_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o refuse_v a_o comfortable_a ambassage_n from_o a_o gracious_a prince_n because_o we_o dislike_v the_o quality_n of_o the_o ambassador_n what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o scorn_v to_o receive_v a_o kind_a letter_n from_o a_o love_a father_n because_o the_o carrier_n do_v displease_v we_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o refuse_v a_o rich_a treasure_n because_o it_o be_v bring_v unto_o we_o in_o a_o earthen_a vessel_n which_o be_v frail_a and_o brittle_a what_o be_v it_o but_o like_o proud_a beggar_n to_o refuse_v the_o bountiful_a alm_n of_o a_o merciful_a prince_n because_o it_o be_v deliver_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o amner_n which_o be_v covetous_a and_o hard_a heart_a yea_o what_o be_v it_o but_o to_o cross_v our_o saviour_n christ_n express_a commandment_n who_o command_v all_o to_o hear_v even_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisy_n who_o sit_v in_o moses_n chair_n 23._o matth._n 23._o and_o to_o do_v after_o their_o word_n though_o not_o after_o their_o work_n in_o a_o word_n what_o be_v it_o else_o than_o to_o pin_n god_n ordinance_n upon_o man_n sleeve_n and_o to_o make_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n 1.16_o rom._n 1.16_o which_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n unto_o every_o one_o who_o believe_v to_o depend_v upon_o the_o weak_a strength_n of_o frail_a flesh_n either_o to_o be_v make_v effectual_a by_o his_o worthiness_n or_o to_o be_v make_v vain_a and_o unprofitable_a by_o his_o unworthiness_n chap._n xxiiii_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o sundry_a opinion_n sect_n and_o religion_n answer_v and_o thus_o satan_n may_v be_v answer_v religion_n §._o sect._n 1._o satan_n temptation_n persuade_v we_o to_o profess_v no_o religion_n when_o he_o take_v occasion_n of_o discredit_v the_o gospel_n and_o hinder_v the_o course_n thereof_o by_o object_v the_o wickedness_n and_o worldly_a profaneness_n or_o the_o infirmity_n and_o frail_a weakness_n of_o the_o minister_n thereof_o but_o if_o he_o can_v thus_o prevail_v he_o leave_v their_o life_n and_o come_v to_o their_o doctrine_n do_v thou_o not_o see_v will_n he_o say_v that_o there_o be_v innumerable_a sect_n and_o contrary_a faction_n among_o those_o who_o profess_v christianity_n some_o papist_n some_o protestant_n some_o arian_n some_o anabaptist_n some_o pelagian_o some_o libertine_n some_o familist_n some_o donatist_n &_o many_o other_o who_o all_o cite_v and_o allege_v scripture_n for_o the_o defend_n of_o their_o contrary_a opinion_n &_o confident_o affirm_v that_o they_o only_o have_v the_o truth_n among_o they_o how_o therefore_o can_v thou_o know_v which_o be_v truth_n and_o which_o be_v falsehood_n who_o interpret_v the_o scripture_n aright_o and_o who_o wrest_v and_o misconstrue_v they_o or_o if_o thou_o be_v dispose_v to_o be_v religious_a what_o religion_n will_v thou_o profess_v in_o this_o great_a confusion_n to_o what_o church_n will_v thou_o adjoine_v thyself_o see_v one_o be_v contrary_a to_o another_o and_o thou_o know_v not_o which_o be_v in_o the_o truth_n if_o thou_o be_v wise_a therefore_o keep_v thyself_o quiet_a and_o let_v all_o alone_a harken_v not_o to_o any_o of_o they_o or_o if_o thou_o do_v believe_v they_o not_o over_o hasty_o be_v of_o that_o religion_n which_o will_v best_o stand_v with_o thy_o advantage_n or_o if_o thou_o will_v needs_o serve_v god_n follow_v thy_o own_o conscience_n have_v a_o good_a intention_n in_o that_o thou_o do_v and_o it_o be_v enough_o but_o profess_v not_o one_o religion_n more_o than_o another_o till_o thou_o see_v those_o who_o be_v learn_v agree_v among_o themselves_o for_o until_o then_o thou_o can_v have_v no_o assurance_n that_o thou_o profess_v the_o truth_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o the_o scripture_n have_v foretell_v unto_o we_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v sect_n division_n 2.1_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o 1._o tim._n 4.1_o 2._o pet._n 2.1_o heresy_n &_o false_a teacher_n even_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 11.19_o 1._o tim._n 4.1_o 2._o pet._n 2.1_o and_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o time_n both_o under_o the_o law_n &_o under_o the_o gospel_n may_v sufficient_o teach_v we_o that_o wheresoever_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n be_v publish_v and_o preach_v there_o it_o be_v oppose_v by_o innumerable_a sectary_n and_o heretic_n which_o by_o the_o malice_n and_o subtlety_n of_o satan_n be_v stir_v up_o to_o impugn_v and_o discredit_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o therefore_o if_o satan_n can_v still_o keep_v we_o blindfould_v in_o ignorance_n and_o restrain_v we_o from_o the_o confession_n and_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n till_o there_o be_v a_o general_a unity_n and_o agreement_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n without_o all_o opposition_n or_o gainsay_n than_o he_o have_v attain_v his_o desire_n for_o so_o shall_v we_o never_o join_v ourselves_o in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o saint_n nor_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n profess_v &_o practise_v the_o religion_n of_o jesus_n christ_n see_v the_o devil_n will_v not_o cease_v to_o stir_v up_o his_o wicked_a instrument_n false_a prophet_n secraty_n and_o heretic_n to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v oppugn_v and_o contradict_v the_o truth_n when_o it_o be_v sincere_o preach_v and_o make_v it_o fruitless_a in_o the_o heart_n of_o unbeliever_n see_v also_o our_o saviour_n have_v teach_v we_o that_o his_o church_n be_v but_o a_o little_a flock_n which_o be_v assault_v and_o grievous_o vex_v not_o only_o with_o lion_n tiger_n and_o open_a enemy_n but_o also_o with_o fox_n and_o wolf_n in_o sheep_n clothing_n and_o secret_a enemy_n who_o under_o the_o show_n and_o profession_n of_o religion_n seek_v to_o undermine_v and_o bring_v it_o to_o ruin_v and_o the_o apostle_n also_o have_v forewarn_v we_o that_o there_o must_v be_v heresy_n among_o we_o 11.19_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o that_o they_o who_o be_v approve_v may_v be_v know_v 1._o cor._n 11.19_o though_o therefore_o there_o be_v many_o sect_n and_o heresy_n many_o false_a religion_n and_o but_o one_o truth_n
himself_o profess_v esa_n 43.25_o i_o even_o i_o be_o he_o that_o put_v away_o thy_o iniquity_n for_o my_o own_o sake_n and_o will_v not_o remember_v thy_o sin_n and_o therefore_o the_o prophet_n daniel_n call_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o mercy_n in_o the_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o the_o people_n disclaim_v their_o own_o righteousness_n and_o all_o respect_n of_o their_o own_o merit_n and_o worthiness_n say_v we_o do_v not_o present_v our_o supplication_n before_o thou_o for_o our_o own_o righteousness_n but_o for_o thy_o great_a tender_a mercy_n o_o lord_n hear_v o_o lord_n forgive_v o_o lord_n consider_v and_o do_v it_o defer_v not_o for_o thy_o own_o sake_n dan._n 9.18.19_o §_o sect_n 5_o but_o here_o sathan_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o object_v unto_o the_o afflict_a conscience_n labour_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n mercy_n that_o the_o grievousnesse_n of_o sin_n can_v debar_v the_o repentant_a sinner_n of_o god_n mercy_n that_o god_n indeed_o be_v merciful_a but_o yet_o he_o will_v never_o extend_v his_o mercy_n towards_o such_o heinous_a offender_n who_o sin_n be_v in_o number_n numberless_a and_o in_o quality_n and_o nature_n most_o grievous_a and_o outrageous_a for_o answer_v of_o which_o tentation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o though_o our_o sin_n be_v never_o so_o innumerable_a and_o heinous_a yet_o this_o shall_v not_o discourage_v we_o from_o come_v to_o god_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n with_o assure_a hope_n of_o forgiveness_n for_o though_o our_o sin_n be_v great_a his_o mercy_n be_v infinite_a and_o consequent_o though_o it_o be_v imagine_v that_o all_o the_o sin_n which_o be_v ever_o commit_v in_o the_o world_n be_v join_v together_o yet_o in_o comparison_n of_o god_n mercy_n they_o be_v without_o all_o comparison_n less_o than_o a_o mote_n in_o the_o sun_n to_o all_o the_o world_n neither_o be_v god_n like_a unto_o man_n who_o bounty_n &_o mercy_n be_v limit_v in_o some_o straight_a bound_n which_o they_o will_v not_o pass_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v soon_o weary_a both_o in_o give_v to_o those_o who_o want_v and_o forgive_a those_o that_o offend_v but_o his_o bounty_n be_v endless_a and_o his_o mercy_n infinite_a and_o therefore_o he_o can_v and_o will_v as_o easy_o forgive_v we_o the_o debt_n of_o ten_o thousand_o million_o of_o pound_n as_o one_o penny_n and_o as_o soon_o pardon_v the_o sin_n of_o a_o wicked_a manasses_n as_o of_o a_o righteous_a abraham_n if_o we_o come_v unto_o he_o by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o earnest_o desire_v and_o implore_v his_o grace_n and_o mercy_n and_o this_o our_o saviour_n christ_n show_v in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o poor_a publican_n who_o heinous_a sin_n the_o lord_n present_o forgive_v upon_o his_o true_a conversion_n 7.41_o luke_n 7.41_o and_o in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o two_o debtor_n where_o the_o lender_n our_o bountiful_a god_n as_o easy_o forgive_v the_o 500_o penny_n as_o the_o fifty_o that_o be_v innumerable_a great_a sin_n as_o well_o as_o few_o and_o less_o and_o the_o apostle_n paul_n teach_v we_o that_o where_o sin_n have_v abound_v there_o grace_n have_v much_o more_o abound_v rom._n 5.20_o mercy_n that_o we_o must_v not_o so_o aggravate_v our_o sin_n that_o we_o derogate_v from_o god_n mercy_n see_v therefore_o god_n mercy_n be_v infinite_a and_o without_o all_o limit_n let_v not_o we_o restrain_v it_o neither_o let_v we_o so_o aggravate_v our_o sin_n as_o that_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n we_o derogate_v from_o god_n mercy_n if_o a_o prince_n shall_v send_v his_o general_a pardon_n unto_o a_o number_n of_o offender_n without_o any_o exception_n or_o limitation_n and_o one_o among_o the_o rest_n shall_v say_v this_o pardon_n do_v not_o appertain_v unto_o i_o because_o i_o be_o so_o great_a a_o offender_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v still_o stand_v in_o doubt_n of_o my_o prince_n mercy_n and_o suspect_v his_o word_n who_o will_v not_o accuse_v such_o a_o one_o both_o of_o folly_n in_o refuse_v his_o pardon_n and_o of_o ungratefulnes_n and_o diffidence_n in_o distrust_v his_o gracious_a prince_n call_v his_o great_a mercy_n and_o truth_n in_o his_o promise_n into_o question_n who_o will_v not_o think_v this_o offence_n great_a than_o all_o the_o rest_n but_o the_o lord_n who_o be_v infinite_a in_o mercy_n have_v send_v his_o general_a pardon_n to_o all_o repentant_a and_o believe_a sinner_n without_o all_o exception_n why_o therefore_o shall_v we_o make_v question_n of_o his_o mercy_n because_o of_o our_o hamous_a sin_n why_o shall_v we_o unto_o our_o other_o sin_n add_v this_o which_o be_v more_o heinous_a than_o all_o the_o rest_n indoubt_v and_o distrust_v his_o word_n and_o promise_n and_o in_o extenuate_v his_o infinite_a and_o endless_a mercy_n for_o if_o we_o think_v our_o debt_n so_o great_a that_o god_n will_v never_o forgive_v it_o what_o do_v we_o else_o but_o detract_v from_o god_n rich_a bounty_n and_o liberality_n if_o we_o suppose_v our_o sin_n may_v not_o be_v for_o give_v because_o of_o their_o greatness_n what_o do_v we_o else_o but_o imagine_v that_o they_o surpass_v god_n infinite_a mercy_n which_o be_v a_o most_o horrible_a blasphemy_n once_o to_o conceive_v §_o sect._n 6_o the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n extend_v itself_o to_o the_o beast_n of_o the_o field_n work_n that_o god_n mercy_n be_v over_o all_o his_o work_n and_o he_o gracious_o feed_v the_o raven_n and_o young_a lion_n which_o in_o their_o brutish_a manner_n implore_v his_o help_n &_o shall_v he_o not_o extend_v his_o mercy_n to_o reasonable_a creature_n that_o seek_v after_o they_o 145.9_o psal_n 36.6_o &_o 104.21.27_o &_o 147.9_o &_o 145.9_o yea_o the_o lord_n be_v good_a to_o all_o and_o his_o mercy_n be_v over_o all_o his_o work_n as_o it_o be_v psal_n 145.9_o and_o will_v not_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a to_o man_n who_o be_v his_o most_o excellent_a workmanship_n create_v according_a to_o his_o own_o image_n if_o he_o sue_v unto_o he_o for_o grace_n and_o desire_v to_o be_v partaker_n of_o his_o mercy_n his_o goodness_n stretch_v itself_o unto_o his_o obstinate_a enemy_n for_o he_o cause_v his_o rain_n to_o fall_v and_o his_o sun_n to_o shine_v both_o upon_o the_o evil_a and_o the_o good_a on_o the_o just_a and_o unjust_a matth._n 5.45_o and_o shall_v it_o be_v restrain_v from_o his_o repentant_a servant_n he_o multiply_v his_o mercy_n in_o temporal_a benefit_n upon_o the_o wicked_a and_o reprobate_a and_o shall_v it_o be_v scant_v towards_o his_o elect_a he_o be_v very_o gracious_a to_o malicious_a rebel_n and_o will_v he_o deny_v grace_n to_o humble_a suer_n for_o mercy_n and_o repentant_a sinner_n he_o show_v his_o goodness_n and_o long_o suffer_v unto_o wicked_a achab_n upon_o his_o feign_a and_o hypocritical_a humiliation_n and_o will_v he_o not_o extend_v it_o towards_o those_o who_o be_v true_o penitent_a unfeigned_o turn_v unto_o he_o yes_o assure_o for_o though_o he_o be_v good_a to_o all_o even_o senseless_a creature_n brute_n beast_n and_o rebellious_a sinner_n yet_o he_o be_v in_o especial_a manner_n good_a to_o those_o who_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n §_o sect._n 7_o but_o if_o we_o can_v behold_v god_n mercy_n in_o their_o own_o glorious_a brightness_n mercy_n that_o even_o man_n be_v merciful_a towards_o the_o penitent_a and_o therefore_o much_o more_o god_n who_o be_v infinite_a in_o mercy_n let_v we_o look_v upon_o they_o in_o some_o small_a resemblance_n and_o little_a counterfeit_n if_o we_o can_v comprehend_v they_o in_o their_o own_o infinite_a nature_n yet_o let_v we_o view_v they_o in_o a_o small_a model_n even_o man_n himself_o who_o have_v but_o a_o spark_n of_o this_o mighty_a flame_n and_o a_o small_a drop_n of_o this_o bottomless_a ocean_n spare_v his_o son_n when_o he_o offend_v pardon_v his_o servant_n when_o he_o desire_v forgiveness_n yea_o be_v oftentimes_o reconcile_v to_o his_o enemy_n who_o have_v many_o way_n wrong_v he_o when_o he_o sue_v for_o reconciliation_n and_o confess_v his_o fault_n shall_v therefore_o man_n who_o have_v receive_v a_o little_a spark_n from_o this_o ever_o burn_a flame_n of_o god_n goodness_n a_o small_a drop_n of_o this_o endless_a and_o bottomless_a ocean_n and_o but_o a_o little_a model_n of_o this_o infinite_a greatness_n who_o great_a mercy_n compare_v with_o god_n be_v but_o savage_a and_o barbarous_a cruelty_n shall_v he_o i_o say_v be_v ready_a to_o spare_v his_o son_n forgive_v his_o servant_n and_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o his_o enemy_n and_o shall_v not_o god_n spare_v forgive_v and_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o those_o who_o turn_v from_o their_o sin_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o earnest_o sue_v for_o grace_n shall_v we_o see_v and_o acknowledge_v the_o mercy_n of_o man_n and_o shall_v we_o doubt_v of_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o plentiful_a fountain_n from_o which_o like_o a_o pirl_a
fort_n we_o have_v bestow_v his_o rich_a treasure_n &_o therefore_o in_o his_o justice_n he_o send_v his_o sergeant_a death_n to_o arrest_v we_o and_o to_o cast_v we_o in_o the_o prison_n of_o utter_a darkness_n there_o to_o remain_v in_o the_o custody_n of_o sathan_n our_o most_o malicious_a jailer_n till_o we_o have_v full_o discharge_v our_o debt_n and_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o justice_n which_o when_o we_o be_v altogether_o unable_a to_o perform_v it_o please_v our_o saviour_n christ_n in_o his_o infinite_a love_n towards_o we_o to_o become_v our_o surety_n and_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o answer_v of_o our_o debt_n which_o he_o full_o discharge_v in_o as_o exact_v a_o manner_n and_o measure_n as_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n require_v for_o whereas_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o perform_v perfect_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n he_o perform_v it_o for_o we_o where_o as_o we_o for_o our_o disobedience_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o death_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n he_o be_v condemn_v for_o we_o and_o bear_v the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o die_v in_o our_o stead_n a_o ignominious_a death_n whereas_o we_o deserve_v the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v keep_v prisoner_n in_o the_o grave_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o death_n he_o endure_v his_o father_n wrathful_a displeasure_n and_o himself_o be_v for_o a_o time_n hold_v captive_a of_o death_n in_o the_o grave_n that_o so_o he_o may_v reconcile_v we_o to_o his_o father_n and_o set_v we_o at_o liberty_n in_o a_o word_n whatsoever_o we_o owe_v christ_n discharge_v whatsoever_o we_o deserve_v he_o suffer_v if_o not_o in_o the_o self_n same_o punishment_n for_o he_o can_v not_o suffer_v the_o eternal_a torment_n of_o hell_n yet_o in_o proportion_n the_o dignity_n of_o his_o person_n give_v value_n unto_o his_o temporary_a punishment_n and_o make_v they_o of_o more_o value_n and_o worth_n then_o if_o all_o the_o world_n shall_v have_v suffer_v the_o eternal_a torment_n of_o hell_n see_v therefore_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v full_o discharge_v our_o debt_n and_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o father_n justice_n god_n can_v in_o equity_n exact_a of_o we_o a_o second_o payment_n no_o more_o than_o the_o creditor_n may_v just_o require_v that_o his_o debt_n shall_v be_v twice_o pay_v once_o of_o the_o surety_n and_o again_o of_o the_o principal_n neither_o now_o have_v god_n justice_n any_o thing_n to_o show_v against_o we_o for_o the_o law_n which_o be_v the_o hand_n write_v of_o ordinance_n which_o make_v against_o we_o and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o bond_n whereby_o we_o be_v oblige_v and_o bind_v to_o god_n the_o father_n either_o to_o perform_v obedience_n or_o to_o undergo_v the_o penalty_n even_o everlasting_a death_n and_o condemnation_n be_v now_o cancel_v take_v away_o and_o fasten_v to_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v col._n 2.14_o so_o that_o now_o the_o lord_n can_v in_o his_o justice_n put_v we_o in_o suit_n nor_o recover_v any_o debt_n of_o we_o see_v our_o saviour_n christ_n our_o good_a and_o all_o sufficient_a surety_n have_v undertake_v the_o matter_n in_o our_o behalf_n discharge_v our_o debt_n to_o the_o utmost_a farthing_n cancel_v the_o handwriting_n or_o bond_n in_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v and_o by_o the_o law_n acquit_v we_o of_o all_o paimente_n which_o god_n justice_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o law_n may_v require_v of_o us._n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o lie_v hold_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o his_o merit_n by_o a_o lively_a faith_n we_o have_v our_o quietus_n est_fw-la and_o general_a acquittance_n which_o god_n himself_o have_v pronounce_v from_o heaven_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o many_o witness_n say_v this_o be_v may_v well-beloved_a son_n in_o who_o i_o be_o well_o please_v that_o be_v in_o who_o i_o be_o delight_v &_o restful_o satisfy_v &_o well_o content_v mat._n 3.17_o chap._n xxxiiii_o of_o the_o three_o argument_n ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o three_o argument_n promise_n of_o god_n truth_n in_o his_o promise_n whereby_o all_o those_o who_o repent_v and_o believe_v may_v be_v assure_v of_o the_o pardon_n &_o remission_n of_o their_o sin_n be_v ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n for_o the_o lord_n be_v most_o true_a yea_o truth_n itself_o and_o all_o his_o promise_n in_o christ_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_n 1.7_o 2._o cor._n 1.20_o apoc._n 1.7_o he_o be_v a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n and_o whatsoever_o he_o have_v speak_v shall_v be_v accomplish_v so_o that_o though_o the_o heaven_n decay_n and_o wax_v old_a like_o a_o garment_n though_o the_o sun_n lose_v his_o light_n and_o the_o moon_n be_v turn_v into_o blood_n though_o the_o earth_n tremble_v and_o quake_v and_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o mountain_n be_v move_v and_o shake_v yea_o though_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o all_o thing_n therein_o contain_v perish_v and_o pass_v away_o 1â—_n matth._n 5_o 1â—_n yet_o shall_v not_o one_o jot_n or_o title_n of_o his_o word_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n unaccomplish_v and_o therefore_o whatsoever_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v in_o his_o word_n that_o he_o will_v most_o undoubted_o perform_v for_o he_o be_v jehova_n who_o have_v his_o essence_n and_o be_v in_o and_o from_o himself_o alone_o give_v be_v unto_o all_o thing_n else_o especial_o to_o his_o word_n and_o promise_n but_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o all_o believer_n and_o repentant_a sinner_n that_o he_o will_v in_o christ_n jesus_n pardon_v all_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v receive_v they_o into_o his_o grace_n and_o favour_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o believe_v and_o rest_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n alone_o for_o our_o salvation_n true_o repent_v we_o of_o all_o our_o sin_n we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o that_o though_o our_o sin_n be_v never_o so_o many_o and_o grievous_a yet_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v we_o to_o mercy_n and_o pardon_n and_o forgive_v they_o §_o sect._n 2_o but_o that_o the_o poor_a soul_n wound_v with_o sin_n and_o groan_v for_o weariness_n under_o this_o unsupportable_a burden_n forgiveness_n that_o god_n regal_a stile_n assure_v we_o of_o mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n may_v have_v some_o ground_n whereupon_o to_o rest_v when_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o faint_v &_o some_o spiritual_a weapon_n whereby_o it_o may_v defend_v itself_o and_o beat_v back_o the_o violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n i_o will_v make_v choice_n of_o some_o among_o many_o of_o the_o comfortable_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n make_v unto_o all_o repentant_a sinner_n first_o therefore_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o when_o the_o lord_n like_o a_o mighty_a monarch_n will_v set_v out_o his_o own_o stile_n as_o it_o be_v in_o fair_a text_n letter_n to_o be_v read_v of_o all_o his_o subject_n he_o thus_o proclaym_v it_o exod._n 34.6_o the_o lord_n the_o lord_n strong_a merciful_a and_o gracious_a slow_a to_o anger_n and_o abundant_a in_o goodness_n and_o truth_n 7._o reserve_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o forgive_a iniquity_n and_o transgression_n and_o sinner_n where_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o stile_n consist_v of_o his_o mercy_n gratiousnes_n long_o suffer_v goodness_n &_o readiness_n to_o forgive_v the_o iniquity_n of_o repentant_a sinner_n as_o therefore_o we_o can_v offer_v a_o great_a disgrace_n to_o a_o mighty_a prince_n then_o to_o deny_v or_o call_v into_o question_n any_o part_n of_o his_o title_n or_o regal_a stile_n so_o we_o can_v more_o dishonour_v the_o prince_n of_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a king_n of_o heaven_n &_o earth_n then_o by_o doubt_v of_o or_o deny_v any_o of_o these_o his_o title_n which_o in_o his_o own_o stile_n he_o have_v attribute_v unto_o himself_o see_v then_o he_o profess_v and_o proclaym_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o gracious_a merciful_a long_a suffering_n god_n who_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o forgive_v repentant_a sinner_n when_o they_o implore_v his_o mercy_n let_v we_o not_o offer_v god_n that_o disgrace_n to_o rob_v he_o of_o any_o part_n of_o his_o glorious_a title_n nor_o deprive_v our_o soul_n of_o that_o true_a comfort_n which_o the_o lord_n by_o they_o in_o his_o infinite_a goodness_n have_v grant_v unto_o us._n §_o sect._n 3_o moreover_o this_o be_v one_o main_a part_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n sin_n that_o god_n â—ovenant_n assure_v we_o of_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n which_o the_o lord_n profess_v that_o he_o will_v make_v with_o his_o church_n and_o people_n namely_o that_o he_o will_v forgive_v their_o iniquity_n and_o remember_v their_o sin_n no_o more_o jer._n 31.34_o the_o counterpane_n of_o which_o covenant_n we_o have_v heb._n 10.16.17_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o on_o our_o part_n perform_v the_o condition_n of_o this_o covenant_n