dissolved and fall ere one special act of trust and adventure on his hand and under the assured warrant of his truth should be frustrate and that the safe conduct also and security of one Christian in his passage through time is of that consequence and so essential a part of the great frame of providence that this should not be entire and perfect if it should fail as to the meanest of the Saints to make so great a nullity herein 7. And is it not in such a reflex work on the truth of experience that such can only know the sweet enjoiments of times past and what that peculiar comfort of remembrance means which I must reckon one of the rarest and most unknown enjoiments this day under the Sun since it is sure this can never be from the greatest delights of the earth when once passed which as they return no more so does ever leav a bitter sting and remembrance by a native result of the same whilst that which hath been experienced in the way of God can neither perish nor lose its sweetness but will render the most afflicting part of their life past which was most bitter and sore then to be the most comforting part thereof to their remembrance when they can see herein both what they have designed for God and he hath done for them 8. If there be any comfort of love in the Communion of the Saints here within time they may see how this is not attainable but in the light of inward experience whence they know what it is to meet and have fellowship in the same Savour and relish of the things of God when in a spiritual frame and to be mutually disclosed as they can discern something of the excellency of one anothers spirit and of the power and lively workings of inward grace by that native lustre and evidence which thus followes the same so as under the sensible power of such attractions their souls are more closely unite and joined together yea are mutually strenthned by other conflicts and what experiments they have made of divine truth herein as to their releaf And I must say where this is not understood that great mystery of the Communion of the Saints is but a strange and dark notion nor without this can that special design of the Lord in the settlement of Churches in a visible state be either known or answered which is to have external ordinances carried on with life and power amongst men and enjoying communion with our blessed head herein The VII and last INQUIRY I would make as to a more full assurance of understanding on the truth of our profession and for further clearing of this great Subject of the experimental part of Religion is to know the quality of the witnesses thereto which is an Inquiry of a higher concern and import then seems to be apprehended or of what weight and necessity this is upon these grounds 1. Because the whole truth of Spiritual experience is matter of fact and founded on a certainty of sense it is truth in the event and performance and not what God does speak but what according to the same he hath done so that this is not upon any principle of Faith but on mens personal tryall of the same according to that Isai 43 v. 10. ye are my witness says the Lord that ye may know and beleeve me and understand that I am he for tho it is of divine and infallible truth that whatever God hath assured by promise he will do yet the experience hereof since the Canon of the Scripture was sealed is of humane record and a testimony which could bear no weight from the greatest of men if the quality of such witnesses were not tried and considered herein 2. Because the highest pretence to spiritual enjoiments in the way of the promise is but a false testimony where there is no tender regard herewith to the precepts of the Ghospel when this connection is indissoluble Act 9. they walked in the fear of God and comforts of the Holy Ghost doe not my words good to them that walk uprightly Mica 2 7. It is true that choisest Christians may be much hid and in the dark herein to others and upon such an account should have a sad part if they were tryed and judged by men only this is sure there can be no more in the conclusion then is in the premises and that a Christians testimony to the truth lyes more in what they are then what they express to others 3. The quality of the witnesses is of such weight here and to be specially regarded as one of the highest services for God within time under their hand to put too their seall and testimony that God is true in what he hath promised who are as it were judicially sisted in behalf of his truth and faithfulnes since his declarative glory before angels and men does more peculiarly ly here then in the whole Structure and frame of this Creation This is a trust and debt also upon each age of the Church that the truth and faithfulnes of their God may be transmitt to the generations to come with such a confirmatory seall 4. This Inquiry is the more called for to know what these are who bear such a witnes to the truth upon the exceeding greatnes of these things which belong to Christian experience since this might awake the most sublime and inquisitive spirits of the time to search herein and be a Subject of great thoughts and reflection that such are on the earth yea an innumerable part of men who do verily enjoy so marvelous a light as is immediatly out of Heaven and shines upon none else and knowes such an enjoiment as an immediate communion with the Deity and his sensible presence with their Spirits with returns from Heaven to their suits in most reall effects since if this be sure then must men seek for another Idea of Christianity have other thoughts about the same then what most seem to have then is there a higher glory put upon mens souls in the way of grace and their beeing partakers of the divine nature then what all humane grandeur can ever amount to or is upon the Sun and the Stars of Heaven 5. The credit and quality of the Witnesses on this great head of Spiritual experience and the whole internal part of Christianity is of such weight that the spirit of this age and most predominant part of men within the Church is stated in so visible an opposition thereto not only to oppose the power and spirituality of Religion but to deny its principles and give a lye to this testimony of the most eminent workings of the spirit of God on mens souls as if it were some illusion or imposture which is in effect to take of the greatest seall that God hath given to the Divinity of the Scripture in the whole internal demonstrations of its truth this is the great prodigy of this age bejond any
times past and may be feared if our Faith stood not sure otherways that the light should be quickly extinguished and the candlestick taken away from most of the reformed Churches when most under such a profession yet never knew the power vertue and efficacy of the truth they profess on their own soul and that there is another evidence or teaching then by moral swasion only or another key to open the heart then external means and thus must either oppose themselves to so tormenting a light or be unavoidably condemned hereby But with this Inquiry as to the credit and quality of the witnesses who in all ages of the Church bears the same testimony to the truth from their experience it is undenyable also but that there are some in a more singular way sisted and under more peculiar engagements then others to appear on such a testimony and who may be admit to enjoiments of experience that are out of the ordinary road of Gods dealing with his people tho this must in no other sense be understood extraordinary then from so judicial a time as this and the great decay of the Power of Christianity with this generation why these are so rare and not in beeing any way cross to the firm and settled constitutions of the Ghospel or without that precinct of the promise of God to warr and the same and I hope the Church of Christ is yet to enter on such enjoiments of experience that would not be easie to beleeve in this day we are in were they told us at a distance But what I mean hereby of these who may be in a higher capacity then others for such a witness I shall breefly touch 1. These who through grace hath been admit to some higher intimacy of converse with God and to know his dealing familiarly with men here on the earth then may be ever known in such a degree to other choise and reall Christians tho I judge this may be more rarely known that where it is most in truth there also is a humble concealment and beeing hid in the same their usual studie who finds more sweetness in such enjoiments the less air they take I have oft thought such may be least known on the earth in this day who may be the greatest favourits of Heaven and have had most rare and immediate testimonies of the love and respects of their God but as this is not the standard by which the truth and reality of grace is to be judged so should this witness be to me no further strenthning then it hath some greater height in humility and tenderness of Spirit in the ways of God going alongst herewith and some more singular eminency of grace as does answer to that Isai 57 15. John 14 21. 2. I must judge these also have a higher room in this witness for God on their experience of his truth who have in a more singular way then others known the truth of supernatural assistance and sustaining grace under extraordinar tryalls I mean such Christians as have been tryed not only in the truth but in the strenth of divine grace at another rate then others whom I must reckon amongst the greatest witnesses for God in this day when 1. This renders their testimony to be of a higher valew and evidence according to the height and measure of their conflicts and tryalls whom thus the Lord hath choised and separate as Joseph was from the residue of his brethren for such a service of example that the excellency of his grace might here more brightly shine forth 2. Because the deposition herein is in a matter on which most doe stumble at the ways of God upon that scandall of the cross and on this account it may be said they are sent as messengers and spyes to witness what manner of allowance he does then impart to bear the expence of a more extraordinare time of affliction and suffering and what immediate support is then found above the allowance of ordinary times that with Caleb and Joshua they might bear a honourable report for God unto others 3. The credit of this testimony riseth the higher as it hath cost them so dear who bear the same and hath not been easily attained nor is an offering unto God of that which costs them nothing who have been helped bejond others to glorify him in the fires 4. They are such above the residue of Christians who hath usually a record of more special confirmations and great remarks of the way of God in the Journal and History of their life I know most would fear to have a room in such a testimony but as I doubt not there are many such witnesses this day in the earth so I must reckon it one of the most honourable services for God upon it and will ere long know the full sence of that truth when he hath tryed them to bring them forth as gold Job 23 10. 3. And are not such specially sisted as witnesses herein and under more singular engagements then others who upon greater Services for God assigned to them hath also had more then ordinare allowances of immediate divine assistance for the same to witness that they have not been sent hereon on their own charge and expence this is one of the great discoveries that the Lord gives unto men of his beeing God and is a clear and demonstrative evidence of that reall and near communication which the Churches head hath with his body here on the earth I know this hath a special respect to such as are called of the Lord on that Service of the Ministry of his Word who hath some peculiar and distinct part allotted to them as witnesses and put on a more publick theater before the World to witness that absolute dependance which the work and service of that station hath on their great Master and the outlettings of his Spirit both for support and success and what thus is found in the way of an immediate relyance on him for I must judge that none knowes a near entercourse with God and to be purely acted for him on this great service but hath some peculiar advantage bejond any else for more fingular and rare confirmations of the truth on their own soul and of a known and sensible seall from God both in fruit and acceptance of their work and tho such who look at a distance cannot discern what may be betwixt God and his Servants in some publick administrations of his service as may be then evident to their soul yet is it oft made so far discernible as to serve an awful sence and impression on mens spirits of God in the Assemblies of his Church and of the truth of supernatural assistances and something more then humane herein nor does such a witness ever cease tho it be now more rare then in times past in this sad and judicial period of time we are fallen in when almost all sence savour and discerning of the Spirit of God with
in these later times that age which had it's first entry from the Year 1517. had a higher splendor put thereon then had been known for a thousand Years proceeding the same but when I have thought on the way and conduct of Providence and marvelous discoveries of God herein to this Generation I could not but see something in a most singular way of his appearance before the World to the same as seems but yet little understood tho this may be seen that we have surely lived in an age of wonders 2. I have lookt on such an exercise to discern and understand aright the times we are in as one of the most singular means for strenthning a Christians Faith on the certainty of sacred truth when with these more immediate discoveries of God in the way and administration of grace by his spirit on mens soull which is whelly hid from the World they can see in what manner his truth does visibly take place and is attested by an external seall in the glory of his work before men and I am perswaded none thus did ever persue a more near acquaintance with God but hath had some peculiar strengthning remarks of his way that have been hid from others tho of a serious spirit otherwise 3. It is such who have some greater weight of this choise study and their spirits more fully join'd in therewith then others who may attain more clear discoveries of light for directing them to the duties and work of such a time and on this account I fear that there is much yet this day in the dark to us and not understood what hath been the Voice of the Lord for answering the great ends of his Providence tho it hath been clear and distinct where mens spirits were laid open to entertain the same I confess it is not strange as to the greatest part of men this day tho they keep at the furthest distance from what might bring near an affecting sense of a Godhead to their soull in the ways of Providence who are resolute not to see or be perswaded of what doeth torment them hereby whose great study is to live without God in the World and seem emulous of these who can be most ingenious and expert to confirm their hearts against all that is sacred 4. But I am sure it is something much higher then any interest of men or of Nations or the greatest changes in the posture of humane affairs which should bear the greatest weight in this exercise to understand the times we are in and for a suitable observation thereof if men could once reckon that their great business in the earth lyes with God and in keeping sight of him in the outgoings of his Providence since the hidden wisdom of God in a Mystery is to be seen and sought out in his Works as well as in his Word it 's true publick Revolutions and the fall and setting up of great men are things highly observable and momentous but they are neither seen or understood when they make not way for some greater sight of the Majesty of God and the signal retaliations of Judgement herein what peculiar aspects such strange Revolutions of Providence hath on the present Generation II. Though it might seem unsuitable to offer any special Remarkes and Observations upon this late time to one of so discerning a spirit of things of that nature yet knowing how a mutual communication of light about the Work of God and his actings in our day is so incumbent a duty I shall point at a few things wherein I have desired to admire and observe the way of Providence in this remarkable age but in the first place more generally touch such a Head ere I speak in some particular way thereto 1. When we see the series of these times and different measures of tryall and service assigned thereto since that blessed rise and recovery of the Church from Antichristian darkness there might be seen also a growing increase of light which in this age hath had such ane advance as it could not but be expected that the Lord was to take some higher proofs of the improvements thereof from this Generation then of these past after such great things he had done for a full settlement of the Reformed Churches when he had opened the graves of his people and sent forth his Prisoners by the blood of the Covenant the trâ—â—h had made way for its self over mounâ—ains which once seem'd insuperable yea when this also is an age where in a great concurrence of the Prayers of the Saints in times before was â—o meet for â—he Churches interest so that unanswerableness to the expectation of God herein and to frustrate such eminent methods of grace might expect some unusual work of Judgment to follow thereon and the Lords coming at last to a judicial proces and procedure 2. We see how these extraordinar occurrences of this time past hath most remarkably had a joint respect both to Sacred and Civil Interests quoad Fata Ecclesiae Imperii humani so as in that sence it might be said there hath been a shaking both of Heaven and Earth as to the Churches visible State yea such hath these great changes from the right hand of the most high been within the measure of one age as men could not possibly see with the eye of reason without amasement tho it brings therewith one of the most dismal remarks of the present time if mens spirits be not seised with a deep and awful sense of the tremendous Majesty of God herein and know there is no stability of humane state this day in the earth but from him alone who can bring judgement on the greatest Nations or Persons above the common course of nature and influence of second causes but oh what intertainment should a diâ—pensation of Miracles find from the spirits of men now when the Revelation of Christ and Redemption by his Blood from Eternal Wrath hath no greater effects on this Generation and so few awak'd with the Glory of such a light 3. When I have considered this age as that which might have been judged a time of great expectation for a further advance of the Kingdom of Christ in the World which does specially make a time more remarkable yet how little access hath been herein to see the Work of God in any new planting of Churches or inbrirging of Nations to the Profession of the Ghospel as hath been formerly but instead of new Conquest rather a losing ground and is a difficult part become to maintain a defensive work in behalf of the truth and which may be a serious remark that in this age one tribe hath as it were been cut off from the Reformed Churches I mean as to that dismal State of Bohem where some time before had been so eminent and flourishing a plantation it is true there hath been a solemn tide of the effusion of the Spirit of God allotted to someof the Churches
briefly point at a few 1. That it is knowen and sure how most of the habitable World besides Judaea was in times past Pagan and a place of horror and darkness and these parts we now live in were once the dark places of the earth full of the Habitations of Cruelty where our Ancestors of whom we are come did Sacrifice to the Gods of the Heathens 2. It is evident and undeniable in the matter of Fact that within less then sixty Years after the Ascension of the Lord the visible extent of the Christian Church among the Nations which had been then Heathen did exceed what it is this day and since any extraordinar effect when it comes in our sight should cause a deep Inquiry upon the cause hereof is not this a matter of the highest concern that ever was even in the present day to be taken up with that made then so stupendious a change on the face of mankind and was as the bringing forth of a new World 3. And here is it possible to question that this wonderful thing which did so visibly then change the whole face of the earth was by the alone evidence and vertue of Sacred Truth and the pure Revelation of Christ in the Mystery of his Death and Sufferings wherein no humane Power could boast that their Arm or Sword did bring this about as I know it will be sweet and convincing thus to see under what influence the Christian Church was both planted and propogate in the earth and most savage parts thereof so that whatever respect Princes and visible Powers have given to the Kingdom of Christ yet is it fully demonstrable that it 's true interest and conquest was never beholden to humane assistance or that any temporal inducements made way thereto but when the World begun to smile most in the primitive times then also did the Glory and Lustre of the Christian Religion begin to darken and decline 4. As it was surely reserved to the Ghospel State of the Church to be the Theater of the greatest Wonders both of Providence and Grace bejond all that had been known to the World before and that in the times of the New Testament these great things which should be matter of highest observation and out of the ordinare road of Gods dealing with his Church then was to be expected so you can see with full evidence that this great and extraordinare appearance of God unto men had been never known on the earth before or any such outgoing of his Power since the beginning of time which was only reserved to follow the day of Christ and his Ascension as the first entry of â—hat glorious Scene which was to be acted under â—he Ghospel 5. And here also this Reflection is anavoidable how the God of this World was not easily put off his visible Throne which he had so â—ong kept over the Nations but the last strugle â—f these infernal spirits ere they were cast down was then very strong and put forth to the utmost who yet were made to fall before the Diviâ—ity of our Redeemer in such a manner as the â—hole frame of Paganism was then raz'd and exâ—inct and their Gods after whom the earth had for so many ages wondred for when you peruse the Records of the first times you can see the enmity and rage of the World against Sacred Truth was never before raised to such a prodigious height as was then aloft upon the first display of the Ghospel 2. But it is yet a further Inquiry should be made on this Head to see not only the outgoing of the Lord Jesus in the Glory of his Power since his Ascension for setting up his visible Kingdom in the World and extent of the Christian Profession but in the reality of that vital influence on the souls of men with so great and wonderful a change thus made on them from the residue of mankind This I doubt not will be a subject of great thoughts and reflection to you and should be a matter of higher concern to any of a serious spirit then the temporal interest and transactions which are about the greatest Kingdoms on the earth 1. To see how no reality in nature or the most visible objects of sense can be more sure then that under the times of the New Testament there hath been innumerable example of the truth and power of Holiness successively from one age to another in whom it might be no more discernable that they walked in the vertue and power of a humane soull then that they did truly walk before men in the light and power of Christianity and under that visible influence of inward Grace as all might see to be above the possibility of natural causes 2. If this were more deeply search'd into to see what does estentially belong to the frame and constitution of one reall Christian and what a marvelous Power must be put forth herein it could not but be in another manner affecting and afford a Seall to the Christian Faith as does exceed the greatest external Miracles when it 's sure one example of such who is truly converted by grace and made partaker of the Divine nature is so stupendious a work as does far exceed both the power and comprehension of Angels yea that the Glory of the Godhead does more eminently shine forth in the first frame in the conduct and persiting of one Christian then either in the first frame of man in his state of perfection or of the illuminate Angels since this is to make Saints of Sinners to turn such from a state of enmity and inbred opposition to the Holy God to be Lovers of him and subdue their soulls in that manner as with inward delight can make them part with what was their predominant and endeared Interest and what hath been as their right hand and eye This is one of the great discoveries of the Ghospel to let us see how one converted Christian is a higher demonstration of the Christian Faith then a thousand ordinare Professors hereof and may fully silence such a Question why it is that the Saints are not more numerous in the World comparatively with the great bulk of mankind yea with these who go under the Christian Profession when It might be rather just matter of wonder to see that such numerous Examples yet are to be found of this kind in the earth of whom each is one of the greatest of the Works of God and infinitely becoming the exceeding greatness of his Power put forth herein yea are such Examples where the Truth and Excellency of Grace does in any eminency shine forth as may justly supply the Room of Miracles which were given in the first times to be confirming to the Christian Faith that these hath assuredly been and I hope are this day not a few who doe with desire choise to preferr their Services for God to the greatest comforts enjoyments of this earth and are helped not only to keep ground but
Sabath morning with an extraordinar collick which grew upon him to that height as in an ordinare way rendred it not possible to go forth upon the publick work of the day which then lay upon him and to a great Auditory at that time so that whilst he essayed to rise he was pressed to take his bed again a very few minutes before the sett time for going to Church but whilst he presented the case to God upon the interest of his service it was in a moment taken off not by any gradual abatement of such a distemper but entirely at once so as he never had more sweet access and freedome to go forth on the work of the Lord both at that dyet and in the following part of the publick work and this also was when no outward mean was concurring herein as it is clear that the passive Faith which Christ did specially require for an immediate cure from himself Matth 9 was this beleevest thou that I am able to help when no ordinare means can do so I doubt not this was in some measure acted in both these instances leaving roome for omnipotency to act in such an exigence 9. Nor hath there been wanting eminent proofs of this kind of special applications of Faith made unto God by prayer in behalf of others under diseases where ordinare means hath been laid aside and the case past all hope and of such returns by a present restoring and under such evidence as enforced the conviction hereof upon mens conscience that we may see how in some strange cases of this kind the true cause and the Lords design herein does not untill then break up according to that John 9 3. That the work of God might be tâ—us made manifest in them 10 I may further add if there were this day a new erection and settlement of some particular Church from amongst Infidells and the commission for this end of Ministers of Christ made evident and clear to go forth on such a service where no natural and ordinare means of conviction were attainable I doubt not but something in a more extraordinare way of the faith of miracles and immediate appearances of God herein might be expected as in the primitive times when on the same ground it was lett forth Nor can it be found there hath been any particular Church of Christ without some extraordinare seall oâ— this kind especially in the first entry and erection of the same nor is there any time or age of the Church wherein the clear sence of that Scripture Mark 9 23. all things are possible to them that beleeve does not take place which is that no measuâ—e of tryall or difficulties whither as to Churches or particular Christians in the way of their duty can be at such an height as to restrain or sett bounds to the work of Faith on an infinite divine power tho all natural or second causes should cease yea that there is no case so singular wherein the warrant of a divine Promise herein and a Christians Faith should not be of the same extent The II. Proposal that I shall breefly touch as it thus followes upon the former is whither in these last times the Lord does appear by any such extraordinare signs that are publick in the sight of the World and bring near such discoveries of his Godhead in any special acts of Providence as may bear the same evidence of miracles For Answer it is sure the Lord does not reveal himself this way but on some great and extraordinare ground who hath setled the faith of his Church absolutly on his revealed truth yet may it be said that no age is left without some witnesse of such a kind if there were not a sad inadvertence and shutting of mens eyes when the Lord is going by them in any great acts of his power but as to this Proposal I shall only point at some instances that seem to have least fuitable regard or notice and to be past by with most 1. Can there be a serious judgment and reflection on that great and amasing stroake of the Pestilence and not see an extraordinar appearance of God herein and of its beeing a judgment of that kind in some more remarkable times wherein it is lett forth as goes above all natural causes and all may see the immediate hand of God herein both in its risâ— progress and swift spreading as a lightning through Cities or Countries in its passing by some more then others where no cause can appear so as men must see its beeing sent with commission from Heaven and a supernatural causality as visibly as if they had stood with David and the Elders of Israel 2 Samuel 29 17. to see the Angel that smote the People between the Heaven and the Earth upon which account David did choise rather to come under this stroak then the Sword or Famine because it was in a more immediate way the hand of the Lord and where there is a more then ordinare near approach and discovery of himself unto men 2. It is of publick and uncontroulable evidence that miraculous and immediate witness from Heaven in the bleading of the bodies of men on the touch of the murderer in such cases where no ordinare means can bear evidence I will not speak of the warrantable use of such an appeal where the revealed rule of our faith and practice is not express herein but as its undoubted in the truth and reality of the same where no humane witnesse could answer to this end so is it surely ane immediate visible and extraordinare sign from Heaven given in the sight of the World from him who maketh inquisition for blood in a most singular way and a sign which in every time is made evident 3. There is also the certainty of extraordinare Revelation and of the truth of a Prophetick Spirit imparted to some as to special events of Providence which is so known and of that evidence as no age of the Church hath been without instances hereof what I mean hereby as to that more singular way of the Lords revealing himself to some of his Servants by a more extraordinar application of his Word is such as in the truth and certainty hereof can leave no room for doubtfulness tho on the other hand as to the way and dismal trade of divination that hath got up in the World by seeking a Divinity either from the Stars above or the Powers of darkness below it may be clearly seen is one of the great designs of Satan not only to counterfite the way of the Lord herein but to bring men unto a more direct homage to himself but I mention this instance only as it is so great and unquestionable a demonstration of God and of his giving in every age some extraordinare seall of this kind I shall but mention here one remarkable passage of which I am to the furthest perswaded that may seem strange with respect to this late
great Revolution in the State of Britain how it was expresly foretold under its proper circumstances many years past and was one of the first passages of any weight that hath been still fixed in my remembrance of a relation I had from ane ancient and eminent Minister of Christ of a Prediction imparted to him by one of an extraordinar and Prophetick Spirit in that time that so great a Scene of Providence should be acted in Britain and change in the publick face of affaires by the coming over of a Prince of Orange who should be the great Instrument and Actor therein and tho some particulars relating thereto I cannot exactly remember yet this in the substance with such ane express designation as I have now mentioned hath from my young years had a settled impression in my memory and as I am sure and perswaded of the truth hereof and that the foresaid Relater had such a Prediction long before there was any allyance betwixt the House of Britain and of Orange yea am sure this did exceed the reach of humane apprehension at that time from any rise or tendency of natural causes in the order and series thereof so is it not now mentioned after the event only but what several years before I gave ane account and relation off to some of great quality who still know the same when there was not the least appearance of such a thing tho I could lay no further weight thereon which seemed so strange and improbable but that the thing in it self as to the truth of such a Prediction was reall 4 That there are supernatural warnings hath been given to men by some special instinct and impression not only of the approach of some great and extraordinar tryall with respect to themselves but of the near approach of their death yea to some the precise time hereof is a truth so known in the World and with that undeniable evidence as might fully convince those of the most doubtful and suspicious Spirit in things of that nature and were it suitable here I might give special instances which I have surely known of this kinde with respect to such who were both pious and of great composure in their judgment who hath had such perswasion fixed on them without the least presage from any natural cause or what in ane ordinary way could give a rise thereto as it did after fall out in the event 5. That there are also extraordinare signs and forewarnings given the World of great Revolutions and Judgments ere they came on particular nations by prodigies and signes from Heaven is of that publick evidence and certainty as would seem not possible to question if some methods of opposition to God both in his Word and Works were not peculiar to this age and the spirit thereof this way bejond any that hath gone before for what may be supposed and misjudged by many on such ane account through ignorance and unacquaintance with natural causes and the extent thereof is not to be questioned but from this will men debate or discredit a truth that all ages must witness and these of the most cautious and discerning amongst men how such solemn forewarnings from Heaven by extraordinar signs and prodigies hath been still previous to publick changes and revolutions and to any great calamities and judgements It s sure these are no imaginary things but are direct for some special end and are sometimes in such a manner visible to the experience of the World as hath not been in like manner known for some ages past as that late Comet 81. yea occurr not according to the settled constitutions of nature but come both with an surprising aspect and are expresly formed and directed of the Lord for some higher end then to be an emptie shew and wonder to the World but when the Word of truth and threatnings thereof ceaseth to warne or be matter of trembling and the Atheistick contempt and derision of the Works of God is in this day at such a height it s like the door may be now judicially shut on any extraordinar presages or warnings this way untill one prodigy of some unusual judgement come that will not be baffled by men Whilst I speak on such a Subject I know there is a strange thing that comes under the notion by many of a miracle tho matter of very ordinare thoughts with others and of a light and common regard about the same which is in that strange and astonishing cure of the Struma or as it s termed the Kings evil by a touch of the hand only without any application of ordinary means that here is no imposture in the truth of such a thing but that many have been undoubtedly healed by this touch of the Kings of England is not questionable which is of so pâ—blick and known evidence in the tryall of numerous instances yea that here is something supernatural and unaccountable to humane understanding on principles of reason when it s one of the most contumacious diseases of mens body that in the ordinare use of means is found the most difficult to cure but since any extraordinar effect should lead men to a deep enquiry and tryall about the cause hereof and have the more weight in such a case that a miraculous work where it is in truth is Gods own seall which he doth rarely give but on some great and important ground where his glory and the interest of his truth is highly concerned yea that its sure where he intends such a miraculous discovery of himself to confirm the faith of his people he gives it with the clearest evidence of his work and a concurrence of such circumstances as may serve conviction on all whose impress and signature it bears to difference the same from any imposture or its beeing a diabolick sign and work and so this calls for a just enquiry and tryall in the present case in these respects 1. To know its true rise and original which I find in the English Chronicles to be dated from the time of Edward the Confessor when Antichristian darkness was then at his greatest height it beeing in the 1042 Year when he began to reign and when that Prediction of the Apostle Thessal 2 2. of a more then ordinary power and working of Satan with signs and lying wonders to promote the Antichristian interest was then taking place and was in that sence only admitt to confirm the Romish Faith by such a strange miracle 2. This Inquiry should be necessar herein whither this pretended miraculous power belong to the Crown only or hath respect to the Quality and Holiness of the persons who weare the same since if it be to the first then tho ane Infidel or Mahumetan were established on the Throne if this gift follow the same it must needs be derived to them also and have such a high Priviledge annexed thereto as the Throne of Israel never had when a David and Solomon sate thereon tho
bound up but that they must widen further if there be not in some singular manner a standing up in this breach to turn away his wrath which is a service that comes now under our hand as may not linger or stay when warnings of so extraordinar a kind are reinforced for this is a call hath a limited time and season allotted thereto that may have a shorter period then we apprehend when a door of Intercession hath been in such unusual manner kept open and Grace hath so long interposed before Judgment should come to a final execution 4. I must add hereto what sence ought to be of the hazard of such a breach when a hight of all Immorality and Ungodliness is turned so open and visible as if Sathan did essay to have an open Throne again set up as once he had amongst the Nations whilst the spirit of few are seased with any suitable impression of the same lest this be the voice of the Lord without recalling shall I not visit these things shall not my soull be avenged on such a Nation Jer. 5 9. and what a time is it when the Reverence and Authority of Religion is so far gone off mens spirits that if such can bring up a private interest and have some treasure of that kind laid up they are under no fear of treasuring up Wrath and Judgment it was a rare example that of Daniel who upon the foreseeing of a stroke which he was not to fear for himself yet was astonished for ane hour and his thoughts troubled him by reason of the strangenes of it Dan 4 19. That there is a most choise and serious part yet in these Nations as is this day in the earth is unquestionable but even such who in these difficult perillous times past have been helpt to stand and go through a variety of dark and strange Dispensations I suppose have not found a time in a more singular way trying in the matters of Conscience then is this day and that there was never more hazard of an insensible wearing out from under former impressions of duty and the ways of truth which once they had or a more difficult part to have that ancient fear and tenderness of light kept in exercise which as the apple of the eye may be easily hurt but not so easily helped But tho it is clear that this voice and call for standing in the gape and breach does respect all of a serious spirit in the things of God yet are there some more eminently fitted from the Lord with peculiar Excellencies on their spirit then others to appear on so high a service which as it is a talent not bequeathed in vain where this in a more remarkable way is let forth so is it of greatest weight to know time and opportunity for this end and when a season of Providence may call to some higher improvement hereof for God then ever again may occur yea it may be seen in how strange a manner the choisest instruments in the service of their day are made to differ not only from others but from themselves as they are helped to answer such a call and to know the Counsel of God herein But that I may touch this more particularly it is requisite to know who may be at the greatest advantage and in a nearer capacity then others for such a service about which I judge these things will not be questionable 1. That such as have a more near and intimate converse with God in this day hath a great room also in this service to stand in such a Gape yea to save a Kingdom or Nation when Judgment is ready to break forth these have their Soull kept in that manner under the power and attractions of the things of God bejond the residue of men as not to be affrighted or taken off from appearing for him by the force and prevalence of example it is these who are at most advantage to discern the Judicial Removes of the presence of God from the Church and the Generation they live amongst and the imminent hazard of Wrath and approaching Judgment yea it 's these who from internal Motives can find it easy to lay their dearest things at the stake in behalf of the Truth and Glory of Christ in the Land they belong to and without respect to private interest lay themselves in the way of a publick hazard with the Spirit of blessed Bernard as he speaks Malo in nos murmur bominum sit quam in Deum bonum est si Deus me digneâ—ur uti pro clypeo 2. They are in a special way fitted to answer this call and service who hath the Sense of any singular engagements they are under to God much on their heart and what hereby they owe in a peculiar way to do for him and for a more special service to the age they live in to seek the interest and wellfare of their People to whom they have the nearest natural tye which is that service for the Generation and publick trust shouldly near these who have had more then ordinare receipts of mercy from the Lord of these specially it might be expected that they dare stand up for God and the Interest of his Truth tho they should stand alone herein which surely in the issue will be found a safer standing then with the multitude or such whose design for the publick interest goes no further then their private concerns does influence It is sure the Words of Mordechai Esth 4 13. Are still directed to this day think not with thy self thow shalt escape for if thow altogether holds thy peace at this time enlargements and deliverance shall arise from another place but thow and thy Fathers House shall be destroyed 3. But it is undoubted that this Service does in some peculiar way ly to the door of Princes and Rulers according to their Station who are of more publick relations then others their Authority came in with the second Covenant which by the fall of man was rendred necessar and have their Power derived from him by whom Kings Rule and Princes Decree Judgment Proverbs 8. 15. so as the advance of the Ghospel of Christ and Preservation of Sacred Truth both in its purity and power is made the object of their highest trust yea what a singular blessing this is to a time when such does eminently interpose upon any imminent hazard to the Church and thus bears evidence that they have ane Unction from God on their heart as well as their Office And it came to pass 2 Chron. 34 19. that when the King heard the Words of the Law that he rent his Cloathes and commanded Hilkia the Son of Shaphan c. go and enquire of the Lord for me and for them that are left in Israël and in Juda concerning the Words of the Book that 's found for great is the Wrath of the Lord that 's poured upon us because our Fathers kept not the Word of the
Lord to do after all that is written in this Book This hath looked as a door of hope to Britain in the present day when such of a serious excellent spirit have come to the Throne if the sin of this Generation as may be feared be not come to that height of a resolute opposition to any restoring means but if the Authority of God sould be thus taken off the conscience of men by so publik abounding Atheism and Impiety it shall be found that the Honor and Authority of Magistrates will fall herewith before men 4. They have a peculiar access also to such a service for God and the interest of the place they live in who have more advantage then others by the Repute and Authority of their Example to walk in a countermotion to any publick and contagious evill of the time as are most prevalent and thus to affright the bold and daring countenance thereof this should be a honourable appearance to oppose the Kingdom of Sathan wherein it 's getting most remarkable strength and credit by the Customariness thereof 5. But in a special way these who would aim at so high and blessed a Mark as this must know some higher aâ—quaintance with that Mystery of Faith then what seems to be understood by most in this day and of a relyance on God by a partiticular trust yea the truth of such special assistances of the spirit as can raise the soull to a higher resoluteness in the matter of duty by opposition so as it can be born up amidst the strongest difficulties from no humane interest or the greatness of a party in the earth but from the greatness of their God It is true the way of beleeving is an immutable Ordinance which God hath settled for the support and services of his People within â—ime and should be the leading principle of a Christians Life to go through all conditions and changes in adventuring on that God who is of infinite Power both to hurt and help but it is one of the great experiments also of Religion to what a pitch and degree the Faith of some of the Saints hath been raised upon some extraordinar Service for the Lord where no natural causes could influence the same and above what they could in an ordinare way reach 6. Yet is not the door for such a Service shut on any who have an interest in the Truth once delivered to the Saints but may still have some share and room in so great an Undertaking for God and the Interest of his Truth and should each of a serious spirit design something personally for answering this call to sustain a part in so choile a service for the truth suitable to their Station and Talent it should bring a marvelous change therewith on the times and cause another face appear in the publick face of the Church nor is it expressible what the improvement of a little strength when it hath been designed for the Lord under his call hath oft attained which in no ordinare wâ—y or from any visible appearance could ever have been expected yea what a marvelous use the soveraing God can make of a few nay of one where his concurrence goes forth therewith But since the publick State of things this day is such as seems to controul any confidence or hope for answering such a call to stand in the breach of so trying and hazardous a time I would speak a few things in the third place which may put some more then ordinare weight of this call on our spirits 1. That as it 's easy for the Lord to raise and excite the spirits of men to such duties as in the way of humane reason would seem wholly insuperable so can it not be found in the Records of times past that where grace did interpose in any singular way to prevent Judgment and for recovering of a Church in some extreme case but there hath also been something more extraordinar then at other times in the acting forth and excitment of some instruments to appear for God with a more Heroick motion on their spirits then what hath been usual and when he hath had a saving work and design to accomplish then Saviours have come upon Mount Zion Obad v 21. 2. If it be a serious business to discern the times we are in with respect to the publick State of these Nations the voice of this call might then ly near our spirits since if we turn our eyes back it is demonstrably evident that the Lord hath not dealt so with any Nation of the Gentiles under the New Testament as with the Isle of Britain both as to eminent experiments of Providence and the dispensation of Grace and measures of light especially since it's recovery from the Power of Antichristian Darkness so as it is not strange that he hath gone forth in a more singular way of Procedure therewith then other Churches and tho nothing is new under the Sun as Solomon speaks yet there may be seen some thing peculiar and astonishing as to the way and Actings of Providence there in this age as will not be easy for the most judicious Observers to find a precedent for the same and if we now consider the present time as things are stated after such resolute oppositions to the voice of these times past and when no vicissitudes of Providence hath yet put any stop to a growing hight of Apostacy as may bee too visible there yea that it 's sure God will not lose his Work or Intent in the great expence he hath been at for reclaiming this Generation it may be then without a Prophetick Light seen that something very extraordinar is near either in the way of Judgment or Mercy so as this service and appearance in the present Breach seems to be in another manner call'd for bejond that of an ordinare day when there is yet room and the door of intercession not absolutely shut but if this seem light it will be found that the longest measure of divine Patience will come to a Year and a Day at last 3. It is sure and unquestionable also that the answering of this call is the alone way to have God interessed in the publick State and Concerns of Britain in the present day before whom all Nations are as nothing and the greatest Train of Inferiour Causes when their furthest strength and activity is put forth of no weight when he withdrawes his influence as Job 7 8. thy eyes are upon me and I am not It may be matter of serious remark that in this late time something more then ordinare hath appeared in the French standing and strength and tho on principles of reason the Power of such an Adversary should not be such matter of fear when an unusual concurrence of means is to stem such a tide and under the conduct of so Wise and Heroick a Leader yet on the other hand Ashur the rod of my anger Isay 10 5 is a formidable
who would withstand the same for which end may it be clearly understood what such ane appearance did mean in so strange ane administration of providence by the Sword to these Nations in this age what such unusual shakings and overturnings there yea by such restless oppositions to any civil settlements since the Lord begun to shake Britain to make knowen this solemn period of time was come and the days of the 7t Trumpet when our Lord Jesus should take to himself his great Power and Reign which had been so long darkned by the usurpations and enmity of men thereto yea that he was surely gone forth who hath that name writen on his vesture and thigh King of Kings and Lord of Lords to make good the same and will have this name engraven on all the ways and actings of Providence who must reign until he hath putt all his Enemies under his feet 1 Corinth 15 25. and the Nation and Kingdome that will not serve him shall perish and these Nations shall utterly be layed waste Isay 60 11. for thus hath the Lord spoken and is settled sealed by the decree of him that chaingeth not It is true he hath been walking in the dark as to most in these times past and even from his choisest people there hath been oft a hiding of his work and keeping it out of their sight amidst these strange changes as hath put the most discerning to a stand it might be easie to see mens intent in their actings and under what influences they hake moved yea what bitter risings of heart anâ— quarrellings hath been upon the miscarrying oâ— their ends but this is an other sight and of a higher concern to see and discern wisely the Work of the Lord and how amidst all the realings of these strange times his way and course of providence hath been ever steady and sixt 3. It may be thus clearly seen if our spirits were more deeply lett forth on such a study that the strength of our day yea the standing and security of the publick state of these Nations does assuredly ly in a resolute concurrence with this great design of the Lord so as otherwise there can be no standing in the breach before him to turn away his wrath But since this Subject of the Catholick Right and Kingdom of Jesus Christ over the Kingdoms of this Earth is so strange a mystery to many in these times and such different thoughts and conceptions are hereof as I have desired to know the way of truth on these sure principles and grounds that I might have full rest and settlement to my own spirit herein so I may say that in the clearness of this light I have found a special strengthning in the Christian Faith when with the furthest evidence it may be seen 1. How that which is spoken of the donative and universal Kingdom of our Lord Jesus which was given him of the Father as incarnate and after his Ascension is not to be understood of that which is his essential and natural Kingdom which did belong to his person as he is the brightness of the Fathers Glory and God equal with him but is such as was promised and by special donation given to him that the ends and uttermost Coasts of the Earth sould be his inheritance Ps 2 8. and his Dominion to be from Sea to Sea and from the River to the ends of the earth Psalm 72 8. yea is the same which was given to him Dan. 7 v 14. when he was invested with Dominion Glory and a Kingdom that all People Nations and Languages should serve him c. 2. As there can be no suspence or darknes in this so is it no less clear his entring on the administration of his Mediatory Kingdom was reserved only to the times of the N. Testament to which the fall of the 4 greatest Monarchies which ever was in the earth was direct and subordinate to make way for the same and loe here may we see the first period of the visible Glory of Christs Reign and his entrance on the same when after such strong opposiâ—ions the Pagan World was at last made to bow down and fall before his truth and submit to him 3. But herein it cannot be understood by this special bequeathment of the Kingdoms of the World to be the Lords in that sense only of inbringing the Elect out of the same or of his internal Reign on the hearts of men but that it lyes in a visible surrender and subjecting of the collective body of Nations to the Scepter of his Government when the Princes and Kings of the earth should subject their Regal Authority to his Rule and Empire as holding their Dominion from him to whom all power and judgment is committed and can bear that stile only of being the Catholick King and Lord of all for this is a truth that shines with so clear a light from the whole Scripture as it may be strange how possibly it should be questioned nothing can be more comforting to Christian Magistrates then to have so highly desirable a holding of their power as they may have the Son of God thus interessed in their security and interest as a part of that inheritance which belongs to his Mediatory Kingdom Nor does it evacuate the Magistracy of Heathens for the interest of humane society tho they have none in the Church as it can never make void also his Catholick Right and Dominion over them by whom Kings reign Prov. 8 15. although it restrains the exercise thereof 4. But there is yet a further growing light on this great subject which now meet us to be clearly seen how the more eminent appearance of the Lord Jesus Christ in the Glory and State of his Mediatory Kingdom in the Earth was alone reserved to the dayes of the seventh and last Trumpet for which as nothing can be more evident then the contemporating of the same with that period of time in which was the first rise and restoring of the Church from Antichristian darkness when the Lord did himself go forth in the glory of his power to plant and settle the Reformed Churches and thus to make way for his Kingdom did with the first blast of that Trumpet sound a retreat to his people out of Babylon so I have herein been made to admire with joy the exactness of that correspondence betwixt the events of this Trumpet that hath already taken place with what is so punctually foretold hereof Rev. 11 15. for as it is surely there promised that then should be an opening of the Temple of God in Heaven and the Ark of his Testimony be seen there which had been formerly shut up loe how expresly hath the God of Truth made good his Word herein and keept the time which he had set for the same in the bright shining forth of his truth and the way of Salvation when for so many ages keept hid from the World to which are the
things of God which is alone sacred to him what concerns the publick rights and freedome of the spiritual Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ as a visible politick body with the highest respect to his Royal Authority who is the alone Head and Lawgiver thereto It is known that he hath given ane express Charter for the same to his Church under the New Testament according to which the due limits and bounds of that spiritual Jurisdiction which he hath settled there and the full extent hereof sould be both keep'd clear and closely adhered to as ane Interest of the Lord Jesus which is as the apple of his eye he hath join'd also these two great Interests of the Civil and Ecclesiastick Power in so entire a harmony that tho they are to be ever keep'd distinct yet are not to be divided from other but to move jointly in such a blessed and desirable Union as may most serve the great ends of the Kingdome of Christ and the publick good of humane Society and now when this great promise of Christs entring in a more conspicious manner on the Glory of his Reign is come to the birth and begun to bring forth which is that period where to it may be said hath been reserved the perfections of ihe Churches visible state here on the earth how highly desirable should it be to be found assistant thereto in such a day but oh is it possible that these who have such raised hopes of an eternal Crown and Kingdome in Heaven can have so low desires or designs how to be serviceable to the Kingdome of Christ here in the earth yea when none can want an interest and room in this service where it hath once a weight and value on their heart but yet it may be a matter of hope this day that these who by so singular an appearance of God hath now the Soveraign Power and Authority in these Nations are no less eminently fitted to appear for him herein then they are stated under the highest engagements for such ane end 3. It is surely one of the things of God and an interest which is purely sacred to him wherein the spreading of his Kingdome in the World is most nearly concerned which lyes in a serious and faithful Ministry to the Church and is of that concern as it may be justly called Indicium stantis cadentis Ecclesiae for this is one of the highest Ordinances of Christ given to the Church and that way which he hath himself consecrated for the inbringing and perfeiting of the Elect by which so great effects are wrought in the World where ever there is a divine mission for the same to any part thereof the Church is in a building up there ane Ordinance by which most visible efficacy supernatural influences are conveyed in a moral way under the blessing of that iustitution but on the other hand nothing is more threatning to a Nation as to the falling down of some dismal night of judgement then the corruption and debaesing of that which in it's own nature is so excellent where things that are more extrinsick and of a humane concern are so much looked after but that which is Gods part in the great intent of this erection is of so low regard that if ane Inquiry were made through a great part of Britain they should find the dark places of the earth there stil amidst so bright a day of the Ghospel as is now shining what a multitude is thus perishing thorow want of knowledge whilst it seems so â—itle desired or designed to have such a Ministry whose highest study should be upon the great Intent of Christianity to bring men to Christ not to themselves and to allure and perswade their coming under his blest dominion and yoake to press internal renovation of the heart and a necessity hereof with that seriousnes as might take hold on their conscience and let them see there can be nothing more highly irrational then to sist in ane exterior profession and form of Religion and not prove once upon their own tryall the truth hereof in its power and efficacy and whither it hath not a vital part which lyes in ane inward life of Communion with God for as this alone is such a Ministry that should be the blessing of a Nation and Kingdom so in respect of this to be of such a distinguishing Profession tho in its self most agreable to the truth should be of no regard where this is wanting as a test for so sacred ane Office It is I hope unquestionable that the trust of the souls of men is greater then any temporal concerns of a Kingdom or State and how this Ordinance is that which hath the most peculiar influence to prepare the way of the Lord in this day for that blessed and near approaching time of his more conspicous Reign on the earth in the Glory thereof I abstract here from any thing controversal as things are stated in the present day only as to what I hope there may be ane unite agreement in by all who have a deep sence on their spirits of the blood and perishing of immortal souls this way and a serious respect to that Catholick Interest of the Kingdom of Christ amongst men I know it was never a harder part then in this age to stemm such a tide as seems yet on the growing hand of prejudice against the way of truth when so many are in the dark tearing one another and counting it desirable to have where at they may offend and stumble whilst that study is not more followed to prevent so far as is possible mens taking of offence even where it is not given according that of the Apostle who is offended and I burn not the excess of disputing in this age hath been a peece of our judgement and the managing thereof so little to that end of edification but the defect may be no less evident on the other hand for the suitable improvements of Christian prudence as a duty and service to God so absolutely necessar for the regulating of duties according to the circumstances of the Churches case and what the present day can bear without coolness or indifference in any concern of truth which is that part of our Religion that hath been too little improven We are indeed blessed with an unchangeable rule of Sacred Truth which hath no dependence on humane Counsels or Power to change or alter the same or on the mutable revolutions of time and can never vary from its self yet is the tenderness and wisdom of divine Condescendence in the application thereof to be so far regarded as on of the most weighty parts of Religion lyes therein how present duties may be with a judicious discretion directed to that great end of edification since that which may be necessare in one case as it is cloathed with other circumstances may be hurtful and destructive This is one of the most difficult
parts that such hath allotted to them in the times we are fal'n in who would stand in such a gape breach where oppositions now thereto are so strong and it may seem almost hopeless to crave justice in behalf of the truth at the bar of mens conscience when a latitude on principles hath come to such a height as the authority of light is without fear controlled yet on the other hand it may be feared that the answering of that Command of the Holy Ghost is not suitably taken to heart the great consequence thereof which is to walk in wisdom towards these who are without tho not being in that Sence without the Church yet as no less stated in a visible enmity to the truth which is according to Godliness then such could be there hath been much serious study and designs by the Servants of Christ in this age to promot his Kingdom in Britain and Ireland and there are yet there eminently fitted for so difficult a service how to gain and prevail with the furthest measures of prudence and judgement upon the most obstinatly prejudged as any in this day there hath been also of late a singular improvement made and blest for a more unite contending for the Faith once delivered to the Saints in so hazardous a time but it is sure there is yet some further length and essay called for upon this great service for the Kingdom of Christ in taking off letts and stumbling bloks out of their way who may be upon a sad precipice of breaking and further alienation from the truth and for some more full clearing of the same from these designed reflections cast thereon in such a way as convictions might thus insensibly prevail and gain ground with the greatest Gainsayers whilst we know little what design grace may in this day have on such and as the furthest regard should be kept to light upon any controverted truth without losing ground herein yet should I judge it a door of hope to see these who are unite in the great concerns of Truth and Godliness once meet in a more joint concurrence in behalf of these great things of God which are not controverted when the face of this Generation is so threatning as to a further revolt from the Christian Faith both in the pureness and power thereof This is to be a work by its self which as it's of the highest publick concern so does it require a more then ordinare measure of Judiciousnes in following the same My Unfitnes to speak on such a Subject should have restrained me herein were it not to witness something of a serious desire under which my soul is prest for such ane end when the hazard of the perishing of so many who hath ane Eternal State before them is so visible this day and yet no further tryall made to gain and recover according to that rule and practice of the Apostle I was all things to all that I might gain some Others can more fitly judge as to the suitable managing of such a service and how to fall in on the right lith of duty herein only somethings I should wish were more designed for taking off prejudices and to breake thus one of the greatest Engines of Satan this day against the interest of the Ghospel 1. In coming a greater length by these who are of a serious spirit to Sacrifice private resentments to that publick Interest of the Truth upon conceived Injuries when it s so evident what ane influence personal prejudice this day hath to keep up distance to highten differences and cause further estrangement on such an account from any fervent appearance for God and this is surely one of the most honourable parts of a Christians work how far he might overcome the distempers of others by humility tenderness and love and walk in such a countermotion to the spirit and temper of this day 2. It is a service this day much cals for to have stumblings more prevented against these unquestionable settled administrations of the Government of Christ in his Church so as the way and manner of his Spiritual Kingdom might be rightly understood the proper object whereof is the soul and inward man and it 's great design to restore edify which is in such a way that where it 's truly answered nothing can be more tender and healing and to attract any of a serious spirit to join in herewith for it is a sad measure that the truth should sufler from the weaknes or exorbitancies of any It was suitable for the Christian Church in the primitive times to plead that from Heathens that the offence and practices of none should be charged upon the rule of their Profession 3. It were desirable also that further conviction might be served on these who are prone to stumble how in the promoting of truth and Godliness there is no persuing any divided interest of a party and that if such would once try and see they can then judge where the most comprehensive interest within time lyes which all are jointly concern'd to promote who hath any design on the Christian Profession for eternal things 4. I shall but add this more what ane advantage should it be for the truth and to conciliate a greater respect thereto that all might see how sweet a Contemperature and Harmony there is betwixt pure zeal for God which is according to knowledge and the furthest prudence and tenderness towards men and how the rule and spirit of the Ghospel can admit of no bitterness wrath or recrimination which are so abounding this day in the Church in persuing of differences upon any concern of the truth for herein doth the glory and honor of our blessed Head more eminently appear in securing the concord and unity of his Church under a diversity of light and judgement in some lesser differences about the truth by a spirit of love and by its power and efficacy upon mens heart in subdueing the distempers of their mind then by imposing the most severe and absolute uniformity in all things to be the measure of Church Communion and it is ever found how this hath been most easy and practicable among such who hath made the highest advance in the life and power of Christianity then any else since he nearer the lines are to the Center the nearer also are they among themselves and I must add herewith that it may be little known what convictive power might follow in a time of such high distempers as this on a suitable application of that wisdom which dwells with prudence and comes from above according to the rule given for the same James 3 17. to make a higher interest for the Kingdom of Christ and to the saving of the souls of many then now in an ordinare way would seeme possible 4. As the furthest tenderness and prudence is called for to prepare the way of the Lord for a further advance of his Kingdom in taking out of
seem to bear no weight I doubt not ere long of such a visible demonstration of the Divinity of our ever Blessed Redeemer which he shall give before the World that he may be known to be God as will for ever end this Controversy There is a constraint on the Elect Angels to admire what they cannot comprehend of the Mystery of the Ghospel and that incomprehensible love of God to fallen man but oh what a return and recompence does engaged mankind give to him who counted it no robbery to be equal to God yet to become man for our sake that in the face of the greatest brightness of light does bear such enmity to his Godhead as the eye of reason must be put out to serve this end and when such a light is turned into darkness how great is that darkness I have thought to the furthest to know where the strength of such a Profession could possibly ly this being so great a Head whereon the truth or nullity of the Christian Faith is so visibly stated and I durst appeal their reason and conscience if a resolute aversion to the Person of our Redeemer in the union of the divine and humane nature and to the purenes and sanctifying vertue of the Ghospel ly not more in the will then their judgment and be not the leading principle of this strange Controversy For the true Interest of reason in Religion I may say it hath been one of the great studies of my life to improve the same for a solid and judicious establishment in the Faith of the Ghospel which I should still commend with the greatest respect to any of a serious spirit but herewith I could possibly go no further without giving up with all use of reason or give a higher preheminence thereto then in a full evidence that what we are called to believe is of divine Revelation nor can desire more to warrant a hope and confidence tho against hope as to all rational grounds but that it surely hath a divine promise to lean on It might be judged Sathan needed no humane assistance to these fiery darts which are so usually thrown at the choisest Christians to shake their faith on this bead but it is not at an ordinare rate that its great Author hath designed the tryall thereof 3. There is one Reflection further hath affected my spirit upon this Controversy as to the juncture of time when it is become now so contagious and prevalent whilst we are to pray wait and hope with assurance for the renting of the vail yet off many dark places in the earth to make way for that higher Glory of Christs Reign thereon which shall be to the gentile Church as life from the dead yea when it is drawing so near to that great Revolution of Providence when Shem and Japhet shall yet again meet in the same Tents how so strong a conspiracy is on foot to oppose the same and to shut any door whither for Jews or Pagans to enter at upon the Christian Faith but where they find so venerable a thing as reason standing in their way to tell them that the most essential part of Christianity is incompatible therewith that they must subject themselves to the authority of humane Jndgment and not to God if they design to be Christians It is a famous passage I must relate here of that great Jewish Council held in Octob. 1650. in the plain of Ageda 30 leagues from Buda in Hungary to search the Scripture concerning the Messias and the truth of the New Testament where after seven dayes debate about the same and not a few Arguments offered from their continued desolation and captivity since the time of Christ some Popish Deputies at last were admit who in stead of promoting the Christian Faith pressed them to believe the Worship of the Saints departed and of the Virgin Mary upon which that great Assembly broke up in a tumult crying no Christ no Images no Woman God and cast dust on their heads upon so irrational a Blasphemy It is true some of the Rabbies then did much desire Protestant Divines to have met with them but that the Pope and Emperor had joined to shut them wholly out tho thousands of Strangers were then present at a meeting of so great expectation of the Jews coming in to the Christian Faith but I mention it for this end what a cry would that have made if they had been told of a created and dependent God to subject themselves here to the greatest contradictions to Reason 5. I shall now in the close but add this further what should be specially expected upon the growing state of Christs visible Kingdom in the World that as these Fogs Mists which have been raised upon the authority of his truth will be then quikly dispelled so is there a higher Tribute to be given into him of the Glory of his Works and the Out-goings of his Providence about the Church in these last times I know the work and busines of this day lyes not here or in designs of that nature but it were well if much of that which makes the greatest noise this day in the way of Religion had its room filled with so choise a study as this is tho it is indeed one of the peculiar endowments of the Spirit of God given to some more eminently then others to be skilled in the Methods and Deeps of Providence and to understand aright how the Work of God lyes towards the Church and his designs therein according to these discoveries given of the same in his Word and what watch of the night we are now under but on this Head I shall speak to a few grounds whereon this Tribute to the declarative Glory of God from his great Works of Providence about his Church will in another manner be rendred to him then heretofore 1. Because it is surely in this way of his great and extraordinar Works that the Lord does design a more eminent discovery of himself then in all these times that are hitherto past and will thus enter his Church on that brightness and splendor of his second coming which belongs to the last ages when his going forth in the greatness of his strength will be with that evidence as shall sease the World with fear and astonishment and when he is in another manner to glorify himself in his People then was formerly in these suffering times which are now past wherein his Glory was to shine forth in the eminency of the passive graces of his spirit for now is the Mystery of God in what yet remains thereof to be finished in another way to take place as shall call the Generation that 's coming up to such an observing and admiring Work of the great Acts of God that may need a more then ordinare measure of grace to answer the same but we must look for great things of Judgment coming on to be accomplished as well as of mercy the Vyalls of
divine Wrath and last Plagues are but in part poured out wherein the appearance of God will be with much terror to the World and that last Triumph of his Justice within time will not be of ane ordinare kind we are to expect great shakings of the Nations and times of breaking down as well as of building up which are yet to come and drawing near II. Because we are entred on these times when the Lord is in a more singular way then heretofore to put the whole Generation of his People on that part of Divinity and the study thereof which relates to his Works and that great Mystery of Providence about his Church when the Key shall then be put in their hand for opening up and a more full understanding the way of the Lord in these times past under the New Testament This is indeed a weighty part of Divinity which is reserved to the latter times in the perfections thereof and these higher improvements to be made on that blessed study then was attainable in former ages when his work now is coming to a more full point It hath been remarkably the business of this age to make a more accurate search and some greater discovery upon natural causes and the workings thereof but I doubt not that ere long the inquisitive World shall be in another manner awaked and their Inquiries run in a higher channel above all second causes to see and admire the great Acts of Providence in the Divinity thereof and not what is humane therein but as they are by way of Eminency the Works of God in the brightness of his immediate appearance in the same It is one of the dismal signs of the present time how much the spirits of men are at work to darken so far as possible the most eminent Discoveries of God in his Works and in the most extraordinare revolutions of humane affairs as if they would set bounds and limits to him according to the course and order of second causes and subject both the truth of his Word and his Works to the comprehension of their reason tho some civil respect they will give and the name of his being the prime cause but shut their eyes on what is more extraordinar and solemne in any piece of his work I would yet point at some special Heads that belong to this choise part of Divinity which we are to expect will in another manner be opened up and I desire to rejoice in the hope hereof 1. As to these more singular cases of Providence which hath been in the Churches course since her first translation from the Jews to the Gentiles with the issue and consequences thereof contrare to the rules or principles of natural reason which is ane Inquiry to be more fully improven then whatever hath been attained this way when men shall see the end of the Lord herein with such evidence as shall tend to clear all bygones in his work 2. These remarkable Periods of time wherein the Prophetical Part of the New Testament hath been successively brought forth in their proper Season as was foretold is yet to have the seall more fully taken off and that vaill which was over them so as it shall be clear and easy to see how the Lord hath not only kept his Word and Truth to his Church but hath kept these times also exactly to which such great events of Providence did relate 3. There is a greater discovery yet to be made then hath been hitherto how the Church hath been led in a right way and by a straight line in her whole course through that long and terrible Wilderness which she was to pass under the dispensation of the Ghospel and what eminent services the Saints have been put on in these strange measures of their warefare which was then allotted to them and in theit overcoming work thereby yea what a higher Triumph our blessed Redeemer hath had in the Faith and patience of his People in so dismal a time then in any external flourishing state of his Church so as it might be said it was then day as to the presence of his spirit and irresistable efficacy of his truth on his followers when it seemed otherwise as the darknes of midnight 4. There belongs to this part of Divinity some higher breaking up of light yet to be made on that Mystery of the Communion of the Saints here with other in the way of providence and what a joint interest they have herein as to what hath been more singular in the Lords way and disposal about others of his People we have little understood what ane inriching trade we might drive upon that stock of these ancient experiments of Christians in following the Lord and these eminent tryalls they have made of the truth who hath in ages past gone before and what a Pawn is thus put in our hand for a further strengthning in the Faith yea what publick interest thus the whole Church of Christ hath in some eminent acts of Providence about particular Christians which in the import and greatness thereof was not given for themself only but as a publick concern to the whole Generation that seek after God in their day and for the times to come according to that Psal â—0 3. Many shall see it and fear and shall trust in the Lord. 5. I must add one great improvement of this special Head of Divinity which will yet be above the measures of times past in the extent of that Reference and Appeal before Angels and Men in behalf of the Truth and Faithfulness of God for what he hath spoken and promised to his Church and is that Tribute of praise which in a higher degree is to be payed in to him now when it 's so near to the close of time then by that great testimony of Joshua 25 14. how not one thing had fail'd of all the good things the Lord had then spoken in behalf of his Church but had fully taken place and was the same Appeal which Solomon made I. Kings 8 56. for this with a higher glory and evidence is to be the Testimony of the latter days when it 's drawing near to that magnificent close and period of Prophetick Chronology and finishing of the Mystery of God therein how his spotless truth hath as the Sun in his strength kept it's way and course amidst all these dark clouds which hath spread to darken the same and no promise or prediction of that sacred record of the Scripture hath ever fail'd or fallen to the ground now when it 's drawing so near to the perfect Day It is true each age hath had their proper measures of light in order to the service of that time and something peculiar allotted in the dispensations of Providence yea some greater eminency did belong to these times past when the sufferings of Christians did most abound in the adventures of Faith and in the tryal of love then in after times but as to higher
Sacred Canon of the Scripture is sealed and consigned to the Church to have no more addition thereto but that it 's now a part of the highest trust upon the Gentile Churches to have a most venerable respect for conveyance of the great Works of God from one Generation to another to bear such evidence thereof as the nature of these things is capable of for a moral certainty yea that this might be on such tryall as should silence and convince the most inquisitive and suspicious spirits of men herein this is of a serious and weighty import if it were considered 1. How so high a concern of the Glory of God is thus intrusted to tradition by humane testimony and record and to the credit thereof as that way only which the Lord hath now fix'd for the convoyance of his marvelous works to after times on which he once put that value as to give them a special room in Sacred Writ and tho there is no such way now to attest the same yet is not the weight of that service taken off the Church which is mentioned Isay 62 6. to be the Lords Remembrancers and Recorders of his great Acts as the Original there bears 2. It is unquestionable that be hath reserved the greatest of his Works wherein he will most eminently appear to the last times and what a loss hath it been to the Christian World unto this day that unfaithful part which we must charge upon former ages in no suitable regard to have such ane interest and treasure with a publick care secured for the posterity through which the credit and honor of tradition hath been so much broke as hath rendred the use thereof of small effect 3. And it 's known how difficult a part it is to gain credit in this day to the truth of what 's more extraordinar in passages of providence even where the relaters thereof hâ—th as to their own conscience and conviction the most full assurance and hath designed what Inquiry was suitable in such a case whilst the want of a more unite and publique concurrence takes off so much of that weigâ—t which it might have in after times but I have confidence that a higher service of this kind in the improvement of so great a Talent for the honor of God does yet wait on the Church succeeding race as shall tend to bring up what hath been detain'd of such a rent and tribute of praise yea that these whose Lot shall be in the dayes that are now coming and fall in with the growing state and glory of the Kingdom of Christ to see these things which will exceed the thoughts and faith of this day herein shall see and enjoy such Records of these times where the great intent shall be of that kind Revel 15 3. Great and Marvelous are thy Works Lord God Almighty Just and True are thy Ways thou King of Saints and where the credit of such a testimony shall not be personal only but national in a more solemn unite concurrence herewith then hath been hitherto known 4. It is on this Subject I must add further that a traditional conveyance of more special and momentous things of Providence might be of much use were it suitably improven to have a remembrance thereof continued in a Family Line and Relation which is one peculiar way whereby the present Generation might declare the truth and faithfulness of God to the next It is true there is no serious Christian but is thus sisted and accountable on such a service to put to his seall by some explicit personal testimony that God is true upon his tryall hereof and most specially to improve that season when it is near to the close and shutting up of time that with his last and dying breath he might bear the same witness to the truth of Christ and to the advantage and excellency of his way and service which he did in the whole course of his life past and of that joy complacence assurance of mind which these have found and now hath in the way of truth but there is something more peculiar in this Testimony to be understood with respect to these to whom things in a more singular manner hath been allotted then to other Christians in the way of Providence and hath in the Record and Journal of their life had more extraordinar Remarks and Confirmations from the Lord as gives higher access to this service and adds to the value of such a Testimony I would offer but a few thoughts on such a Head which may possibly seem a strange and dark thing to some 1. It was once for a long time that the Series of the Church was kept up in a Family Line from Abraham to the 12 Patriarchs and what a rare course and conduct of Providence was thus transmit to after times which is so great ane interest and treasure to this day and tho that convoyance was by an infallible spirit yet is this so far exemplary thereby for such a confirmatory witness by observing Christians to the truth when it comes to their last improvement of time and of what hath been more signal and eminent in the Lords dealing with them that it should be one of the choisest Legacies they could be queath to their Relations yea a singular mean to have Religion thus kept alive in a more venerable respect thereto in a Family State and to fix stronger engagements to the way of God on their surviving Friends 2. I hope there be no serious discerning Christian but hath some more select Observations of their life and what hath been most remarkable in the course of Providence towards them layd up something of which might be of singular use besides their own personal interâ—st therein to a further establishment of others in the way of truth tho any improvement of that kind needs much Christian prudence and sobriety to qualify the same yea were this suitably designed in such dismal times we are now fall'n in what access might private Christians have these specially who have gone through more extraoâ—dinar tryalls then others to be thus a publique blessing to their Generation and how honourable a service were it for God to advance the credit of Religion and fix deeper impressions of the same on mens spirits that these who have been admit to more special adventures of Faith amidst the various conflicts of their day should in the close thereof have this as their proper work to deliver the truth off their hand which they had receaved with their seal and testimony to the same as that which they had proven and tryed in a more then ordinare way and which had brought them safe and honourably through as was the last Words and Witness of David 1 Kings 14. Who haâ—h delivered my soul out of all distress this I humbly judge falleth in as the last and peculiar service of a Christian when it hath the advantage to be more valuable and convincing to others then in any other time of their life were a thing highly desirable that a work of this kind should be suitably prepared to prevent a surprisal of death going silent off the stage which hath been the lott of these who have shin'd most brightly thereon and as it surely hath the most opportune season in the last Scene of a Christians Work so may it be yet more designed and regarded in the last ages of time when thete is to be expected such Testimonies for God and to the Glory of his Truth as will much exceed the ordinar Standard of these times past and we are now in The full sense of that Scripture John 3 33. should have a great weight herein he that hath received his Testimony hath sett to his seall that God is true where there is a peculiar debt and trust on the one hand that is put on such who hath the truth and testimony of God consign'd for tryall of the same and a discharge thereof which on the other hand they stand accountable for putting to their seall that God is true which is the most solemn way of a Testimony before men tho some may be thus in a special manner stated by higher engagements to fanctify God before others and when some more singular passages of Providence comes under such a witness and seall as a distinct part of a Christians Testament in his parting with time it brings the strongest evidence that humane testimony can possibly have for conveyance of the same FINIS
The true Settlement Of a CHRISTIANS FAITH After shaking Assaults by its own evidence and by the internal sealing Work of the Spirit Pointed at in some special Inquiries thereon in a LETTER to a Friend WITH Some serious Reflections on the present times we are in and those great Vicissitudes of Providence which have been in the publick State of BRITAIN in this last Age in a II. Letter By a MINISTER of the GHOSPEL Printed in the Year 1692. READER THe publishing these few sheets hath had no rise or call from the desires of any or the least motives of such a nature but it was with a serious desire that they might have some interest in the Service of the Truth in so sad and trying a time and for him to whom I stand under the highest engadgements of Duty in improvement of a little Season which must ere long be shut up It is true the writing of the first Letter had a very providential and unexpected rise with respect to a Friend who I knew had as great assistances in the way of means as any suitable to his case yet finding the weight exercise of his mind have such strong influence to obstruct that injoyment of ane intire rest and fixedness of his Faith which is the Christians Allowance I was prest to offer some thoughts in a directive manner for being a Helper to his Joy and now if by such a Providence through the good Hand of the Lord this might be serviceable to any in such a case The Subject of the II. Letter is of a much different nature from the first where somethings may possibly seem a litle strange and the spirit and temper of most in this day not so easily bear but they are spoke in the Words of Truth and Soberness in writing of both I have humble confidence to say it was with the furthest of light and persuasion yea that the most serious part therein was with my own spirit to have that evidence in things of so high concern as I might have peace and assurance herein before God yet if I knew there were any thing in the least to prejudge that great Interest of Truth and Edification as the utmost aim I hope is proposed herein I should count it my honor to retreat the same but under some serious prospect of an eternal State and of appearing before the great Judge I have desired to know his Counsel and rest my soull on his approving Testimony alone An excessive desire in such an Epistolary way to speak things in as few Words I could possibly I fear may at the first view render somethings more dark The Reader also will tenderly notice and construct Mistakes in the Printing HONOURED SIR IT was a sweet surprisal in such a time as this to meet with a friend on whom I found a more then ordinary sence and weight of the greatnesse of the Christian Faith and to have ane other prospect of such ane attainment to enjoy ane entire rest and assurance of mind herein then most seem to have even of the more serious part of Christians which did render it the more desirable to offer some thoughts to you on so weightie a concern not onlie to answer a special promise and engadgment I was under but with hope through the good hand of the Lord that such a service may not be wholly lost for the end it is designed But on so great a subject I must go a little out of an Epistolary way both in the method and measure and what in the first place I would speak to is this that I durst offer nothing to divert or take off any thing of the suitable weight of so choise ane exercise as is so rare in these times under which your spirit is so much pressed but were it needful rather to add thereto on these grounds 1. That it is surely the greatest designe can fall under the consideration of mankind for men to have such ane assurance of divine truth as can both answer the greatnesse of that adventure they have thereon and can fully quiet and comfort the soul when visible refuges and humane assistances seem wholly to succumbe and since we must either have ane entire rest and settlement herein or none at all I know not how to judge otherwise of that ordinar sence and implicit credit on so great ane account as this then as a degree and evidence of the sad Atheism of this day we are now in 2. If ever I knew any thing of the way of God in truth I must reckon this as the highest enjoiment of a Christian where the security and quiet of his mind upon the truth answers to so great a Revelation hereof and to know he is thus on sure terms with God on the whole adventures of his trust when it is so near to adventure on the triall thereof in the last decision of there eternal state yea when thus they know how to enjoy a promise for there support in this state of warefare under a long deferred hope tho the whole course of providence would seem to controul the same knowing the ground they anchor on cannot possibly faill since this should be the ultimate Inquiry about the event that it is sure they have a divine testimonie to warrant there confidence and if the highest joy and comfort oâ— our life be not stated on such an account it iâ— strange 3. If it be understood what it is to be a Christian in earnest and what is called for of such aâ—midst the numerous tryalls and temptations of this militant state it must need some higher degrees of assurance and inward establishment then seems by most to be either apprehended or sought after and that such have some proper stock of his own of these special aides and assistances as may be at hand in ane hour of tryall for how can the life and serious work of Godlinesse be conceivable under such common and transient impressions as most have of the truth and certainty hereof 4. Doe men know what Christianity means and the high consequence of such a distinguishing profession from the residue of mankind or is there any suitable exercise of reason about the greatnesse of that hope of the Gospel which we have set before us and yet be a subject both of ordinary thoughts and assent hereto which may still be as though it were a new discovery to us in the present day since it might be judged that if there were a Methuselahs age to pass within time this should be a suitable and continued exercise therein both to enquire and admire on the assured hope of ane eternity with God which they have before them and that they are to enter into a state where they shall be in the same Classe with the Angels of Heaven and made equal unto them I have known such who for many years have been dazled with ths glorie and greatness of that Mysterie of Christ and of life
gain under such conflicts and assaults in their spiritual course as go above the possibility of nature to withstand 3. And what a wonder may one Christian be who does converse with God here on the earth both to himself and others who hath such near enjoyments of the divine presence hath such astonishing hopes hath ever the Elect Angels to be both their guard and observers and tho the Saints above return no more to converse with us yet is it not questionable but that they have the same prospect of the outgoings of providence towards the Saints yet militant as to their services trialls and victories which the Angels have to whom they are now made equal and in the same state of perfection and that they know the return of their prayers in behalfe of such who are on the earth for whom they had wrestled with God whilst they were upon it yea that the joy which is in Heaven and in the presence of the Angels on the conversion of sinners respects the whole Church triumphant and I humbly judge even in that sence may the inâ—ent of that Scripture be understood Hebr. 12 1. as to such a cloud of Witnesses c. 3. Let me referr you to one great instance also wherein our Redeemer hath in ane eminent way made himself visible before the World since his Ascension which is in the greatness of that seall of Martyrdom where you may see with joy and admiration that as he did alott the highest discoveries of his love unto lost man to the day of the Ghospel so did he reserve unto these times the highest Testimony and triall of the Love of Mankind to him This is a great Subject tho it be easily past without a suitable weight and impression of the same how high an interest this hath in the Christian Faith wherein 1. the truth of such a wonderful seall in the matter of fact is not possible to question 2. And that it 's sure there was no personated shew in these unexpressible sufferings of these Saints for Christ nor did the World in such a persecuting work through most of the times of the New Testament conflict with a shâ—dow herein and if a reall Miracle be such as exceed the sphere and possibility of nature it hath thus the most full and undeniable evidence nor vvere it possible that the most excellent of the earth should upon choise act such a part of imbracing death under the greatest torments when their life and the enjoyments of time was set before them if they had not been acted by a Divine Spirit and knew these unexpressible comforts and joy which was then given in for their support and matter of present sense and fealing to be no illusion of mind herein 3. It is on this Head you can see and compare what a difference was betwixt the Legal Sacrifices under the Old Testament which were figurative and typical and these freewil offerings and oblations of love by Martyrdom under the Ghospel which were offered up as a publick confirmatory Seall to the Divinity of Christ and that the desire of all Nations was now come how the one did in a mystery and under a vaile confirm the Churches Faith of a Redeemer to come the other with the highest evidence of power did attest his being come and seall this Testimony with their Blood the one from a temporary and positive Institution the other not only under a constraint of light but an imposition of love by the Spirit of Christ and of Glory resting on them was thus offered up and as to the quality of these Sacrifices how great a difference was herein the one only of Beasts wherein the Lord would admit no humane Sacrifice to be typical but now after the great propitiation was offered up these Sacrifices of Love was not only of men but of the most excellent of humane race who in purity and holiness were the greatest ornament of the earth in their day the number whereof since the Ascension of Christ is of that extent as can be only known by him who counts the number of the Stars so innumerable have they been yea as to the expence and allowance of so high a service men can not exerce reason and not see it did not only answer but exceed the measure of their sufferings and how these Flames of Love in which they were offered was more prevalent then these of the Fire 4. And is it not matter of sweet Reflection herein that as the incomprehensible Love of God unto man is the admiration of the elect Angels so this illustrious testimony of humane Love unto God is not only made conspicous to them but is both the foile and torment of the Powers of Darkness to see such a triumph of the Power of Grace amongst men here on the earth made visible wherein my soull desires to rejoice that as our blest Head hath assigned such a measure of his sufferings as a testimony to the truth to be filled up by his People under the times of the New Testament and to take a higher tryall of the love of mankind herein to him then he would take even of the love of the blessed Angels so hath this Testimony with the clearest and undeniable evidence been made known But there is a 4. special Instance of the out goings of our Redeemer in a visible discovery of himself to the World since his Ascension which is in the successive course of the Ghospel amongst the Nations and these remarkable Periods of the rising and setting of this blessed light on different places of the earth on which a few things I would speak for your further clearing herein 1. That it is undeniable the Gentiles have their appointed times which must be fulfilled Luke 21 v. 24. wherein the fulness thereof must be brought in Rom. 11 25. which Scriptures bear expresly the same intent but it 's now many ages since these times of the Gentiles hath been fulfilled both in Asia and Africa where the Ghospel in its course at the Sun hath had its first upbreaking hen in the East and its progress to the West and Northern Parts of the Earth 2. That it is clear these times of the Gentiles and the fulness thereof is to be only understood in a distinct and separate State from the Jews so that as the Jewish Church once had their proper times allotted them in a separate state from the whole residue of the World so have the Gentiles had their times under the New Testament peculiar to them only and the Spirit of God hath there expresly shewed that this great Revolution in the incalling of the Jews to the Christian Faith is not to be expected until these times be once accomplish'd when there shall be then no more distinguishing names of Jew and Gentile and no proper interest owned by them in a divided way as formerly but that the Lord shall be one and his name one in that blessed frame of his universal
the universal sence of mankind how this way the Lord does put the highest honor on men here on the earth in the passive valour of Christianity yea thus puts the most distinguishing marks of respect on his choisest Favourites But there is a VI. INQUIRY I must further direct you to without which no evidences of the truth can be truly effectual on your soull which is on that wonderful part of Christianity that lyes in the truth of inward experience and is the very life and soull of our Religion The greatness of such a Subject makes it more difficult to speak hereon now in a short Epistolary Discourse but it shall be in as few words as is possible only to point at such things as may tend to more clear and solid impressions of this Mystery and make way for your own search and tryall of the same and I hope I may say they are things which have not been taken on report or have found it easy to be satisfyed herein as to a full acquiescence in the truth and assurance thereof but it 's to a few special ends I would refer your serious improvement of this great Inquiry 1. For this end that a clear notion and Idaea of spiritual experience of the things of God may be more deaply setled on your spirit and how in these respects it is to be understood 1. that God hath directed his Sacred Truth unto men not only for trust but for tryall which is a tryall of that nature stated on so great and wonderful things that the whole vital part of Religion should be a strange and dark thing until you be once entred hereon they are blessed who beeleve and have not yet seen what relates to the State of Glory above but they can never be blest who do not see as well as beleeve what belongs to the life and enjoyments of Grace within time in the truth of inward experience 2. It is here must be understood the first Acquaintance of men with the Spirit of God which is ane acquaintance of that concern as the Lord hath laid over the weight of his peoples spiritual joy refreshment and support whilst they are within time on the same and is the first entry on converse with spirits and with God the Father of spirits which shall be eternal 3. It is such as hath a distinct evidence from any moral influence by the Word or light to the judgment and is the proper object of spiritual sense which no humane power or Angels can impart but God hath reserved only to himself who can only make his own love known to the soul and no report or testimony of men can doe 4. It is hereby Christians enter on possession in some degree of divine truth and these great things promised as a earnest in hand to assure them that the rest shall not faill tho it adds no security to the truth of the promise but for a more abounding assurance to such who receave the same 5. Tho here be a common and joint interest amongst Christians yet must each have his proper and distinâ—l part in the truth of inward experience which is his peculiar interest and talent and it 's sure nothing does more work on mens souls and afford more sweet thoughts then what this way is made there own to know in themselves the internal demonstrations of the truth they professe in the power and vertue thereof and to know what great things hath passed between God and their own soul and what remarkable times hath gone over them and special remarkes herein of divine conduct and his immediate appearance in the course of their life 6. It is of that kind as none possibly can take on trust from the testimony of others or will satisfy without personal tryall tho this be more known to such who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil Hebr. 5 14. 7. But whatever singular use is hereby to the support of our Faith yet are they not the grounds thereof since these are only what God hath spoke in his word and not what he hath done in his work tho they are at a great loss who have begun late to observe the same it is true the greatest talent which is by inward observation and experiments which have been most deeply affecting in the present time does not abide in the same sense and fealing and mayly as a dead stock upon a Christians hand without fresh and immediate supplies yet are they still the same in the truth thereof and does ever evidence how far the enjoiment of grace and of a spiritual estate does exceed the greatest enjoiments of nature 8. This also must be understood not only by the testimony of inward sense but what comes under the most exact and judicious tryall as to the principles it leans on without which there could be no true enjoiment of the same if they were not as fully satisfied of holding their experience by right as in possession and that these great things are no shadowes or appearances but what is of the highest truth substance and reality 9. It is sure that God is not known in the earth or enjoyed in truth but in the light of inward evidence and experience except in such a manner of Balaam to see him but not near but not in the knowledge of converse and fellowship with that God whom they professe to know or what it is to have their soul inward and familiar with him in the experience of such a thing 10. It is by inward experience upon the souls of men that God doeth in a more special way secure and preserve that sacred record of his truth in the World then by humane Lawes or authority by ane internal conforming of the spirits of his people to his revealed truth whereby the inward man becomes as a repository thereof for when men once become Christians in truth they are then the declared Epistle of Christ by ane indissoluble union of the truth and their souls together I shall but add that the experimental part of Religion is not perfited here but within a little there will be ane entrance on ane eternity of experience of what once with admiration and desire was hoped for and the enjoiment of that state above will be no object of Faith but of sense and purely experimental A Second Intent of this Inquiry should be to clear how the enjoiment of one Christian in the way of experience may be no measure or rule to others in the tryall of their state upon these grounds 1. That the least reall evidence of the Sanctifying vertue of the truth bears witness to the truth of a new life and of spiritual sense and discerning herewith as a few grapes does difference between a vine and a bramble 2. Because the reall Work of God may be long without the witness thereof and the first giving of the new life and a discerning of the same are distinct acts
of the spirit which doe rarely go together so as to know when the pulse of this life does begin first to beat 3. As there are different sises and grouth amongst the Saints within time so does the talent of experience and inward observation much differ in the state of some in respect of others and does answer to higher conflicts and assaults in a Christians warefare and higher improvements of grace herein whence it is that patience brings forth experience and as it hath so great a room and service for God bejond other graces of the spirit so hath it a great income of reward by the most rare and inriching experience of a Christians life thence is it that these of the highest form of Christians and of the choisest spirit has been put to a higher exercise thereof then others and made to be a more publick blessing by example herein to their Generation 4. It is clear the experimental part of Christianity may have respect to some special times and Periods of mens life so as one day may be more memorable then as they have ever known before yea to such times when they are put to a higher service in the tryall of their Faith and led unto paths of providence that might seem untrodden which hath been usually a time of great observation as to a higher light and evidence on the experimental tryall of Religion 5. This different measure hath respect also to the first entry of Christians on some very dark paths of providence when the Lord is to lead and encline them into a wilderness by giving in assurance with a double measure on their souls like Elijahs call to arise and eat and Josephs dream twice given when his conflicts and tryalls were to be doubled upon him yea this may be also on this ground as it is peculiar to some Christians above others to be kept more closs on such a Scent in that rare exercise to discern the workings of God on their soull and to try the certainty hereof from the natural work of their own Spirit and who may be more exact then others to lay up and record the same and not lose the least fragment of such assistances to their Faith 3. This Inquiry should be of special use likewise to know what great things these are to which the experimental part of Christianity does relate wherein they of the lowest sise of Christians have a common and joint interest whatever difference be in the degree but it is a very short touch I can here give on so great a subject and on some few Heads 1. The translation and entry of a Christian unto a new state and world here in the earth is one of the greatest things of experience tho it hath not a like clear evidence nor the precise time and entry can be in the same manner known for men to know so marvelous a change in themselves and that here is no illusion or dream and how it is sure this was never told to mankind but in the Bible which none ever did foresee or project to themself yea which in the very notion thereof was once a terra incognita to them and could have no possible rise from nature whose proper work is to overcome nature I know this may seeme astonishing and not easie for many to bear that professed Christians may have the same need to be converted to Christianity that Pagans have or perish that the letter of the word only or any length in exter al duties can save none who know nothing of internal evidence or the spiritual Powers of Christianity 2. It does relate to this Head to know that God and his People here in the World are no strangers to other in the truth and enjoiment of communion with him for as this is ane essential part of our Faith and one of the most sure and established constitutions of our Religion by ane unalterable rule so is it matter of undoubted enjoiment without which a Christians course and passage through time were unpassible it is true this is so great a thing as may make the most experienced Christian to be a wonder to himself and is not a subject of ordinary thoughts 3. To this belongs also the truth and enjoiment of supernatural comforts here on the earth such as peace immediatly from God and the joys of the Holy Ghost which can have no possible rise from nature and was never known to men but on this tryall of experience that such a thing is sure with respect unto which the highest experiments of nature are low and of mean concern yea which are comforts of that kind as can be only known by its contrary and hath been still more ouweing to the sorest conflicts then to the sweetest calm of a Christians life and such as the elect Angels did never know or partake of 4. The prevalency of prayer with God and to know with assured evidence both the acceptance hereof in Heaven and the returns thereof upon the earth is also one of these great things of experience and can never be known else as a subject of contemplation only which hath been direct of the Lord as a prescript for such ones where no humane wisdome or power could possibly answer and is not bounded by the most desperate case which would seem to shut out all hope and encouradgment But as to this I must say how little seemes that part of our Religion tho one of the most wonderful parts thereof to be improven in that manner now as in former times and in the most extraordinare exigences which Christians have been in yea how low a trade is it which by most this day is carried on in so marvelous a way as this which the Lord hath established betwixt heaven and earth and hath such immediate correspondence with the whole inward life and vitalls of Christianity to preserve and strenthen the same A 5. Head on this Subject to be matter of great thoughts and reflection is this that here on the earth there is such a thing to be enjoyed in the truth and certainty of experience as an earnest and seall of the Spirit of God 2 Corinth 1 22. who hath also sealed us and given us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts Ephes. 1 13. in whom also after that ye beleeved ye were sealed by that Holy Spirit of promise which is the earnest of our inheritance c. 2 Corinth 5 5. now he that hath wrought us for the self same thing is God who hath also given us the earnest of his Spirit I know there hath been much inquiry on this Subject as to a clear sence and judgment thereof both by Schoolmen and Practical Writers tho it is such a thing as must needs be a strange and dark riddle where the Spirit of God is not the Interpreter and some near entercourse with this great teacher that in his light we may see light but that it is surely promised of God and could
never have entred on mens thoughts if it were not purely a divine Revelation none will offer to question and that the experience of the same in all times of the Church hath no less tendency to confirm and seall the truth of Christianity then it hath to confirm a Christians state but though I doubt not your acquaintance herewith is bejond many yet this beeing a truth of such high concern so far as I have attained I would offer some light hereon wherein my soul hath found rest and settlement as to a clear sence and conception of the same 1. That how rare soever the experience of this may be this day yet is it not the peculiar priviledge of some few select and eminent Christians or what God does rarely impart and on some singular account to his people but is the settled priviledge of all who are led by the Spirit and under his conduct 2. This is ane experiment of the Christian Faith which no humane testimony or vocal evidence can express that which is inward and a secret betwixt God and the soul or what taste that hidden Manna hath Rev. 2 17. which none knowes but he that enjoys the same for this is not the promise which is given to be the object of our Faith but is the seall of the Spirit of promise and the proper object of spiritual sense it is an internal work which goes above words and such as God alone can impart who only can reveal his own love to the soul and Shed abroad the sence hereof and hath reserved this to himself it is that also which gives a distinct evidence from any moral influence of the word tho it can never be disjoined and divided from the same but is such ane internal application hereof as puts their souls to rest and quiet thereon 3. It is here must be understood a more near and solemn approach of God and some higher enjoiment of Spiritual Sense then is usually known which will make such a time remarkable and sweet to a Christians after remembrance tho some in a more extraordinar way and higher degree may have this imparted then others as the tryall of their Faith hath been more heightned and hath attained to higher actings of grace under the same according to that settled Connection Isay 57 12. I doubt not there may be high pretences to this Seall and earnest who know little what in the way and order of grace is required to prepare and qualifie for the same but except the setled constitutions of the Ghospel should be changed for their sake it is then sure that God did never seall the comforts of his Spirit or his respects and approving testimony on such who are of ane untender unhumbled and vindictive spirit and is no more possible then as Job 18 4. That the earth should be forsaken for them and the rock removed out of its place 4. It is true this is more clearly understood by such who by reason of use have their senses exercised both to discern good and evill Hebrews 5 14. and have thus attained a more deep and judicious reflection for the tryall of the same since this is usually one of the most searching exercises of a Christian to discern the voice of the Spirit of God and know the same from that of a Stranger and to come to the light herein to see that such a seall or any rare enjoiments of that kind are assuredly from God and wrought in him John 3 21. It is clear also how many sharp conflicts and a hotter ware fare allotted to some of the Saints then others under griefs troubles and oppositions in their Christian course hath made way at so dear a rate for their acquaintance with the same so as the gradual difference in the truth of this experiment may be strange and marvelous and cause fear to impart the same nor be ever known within time 5. Tho it is sure that all who are entred in a reconciled state with God must be sealed by the Spirit yet is not this to be understood as the ordinar food and dyet of a Christian but as some more special restorative and cordial so as one enjoiment of this kind hath been sometimes so remarkable that through the whole course of a Christians life after it hath been a continued strenthning to their Faith yet is it no rare thing to these who are keeped in a more near intimacy of converse with God to whom the truth of this seall not once but in innumerable times hath been known who on the other hand does know also how long and sensible restraint of this great enjoiment may be when the choisest promises of the Word can afford no comfort but when the premises are clear the conclusion is oft suspended through hid jealousies and legall fears of the spirit of bondage 6. It is sure this blessed seall lyes here also in some special directive work of the Spirit of God to make use of light in particular cases with assurance and quiet of mind and in sealing instruction with that evidence and power on the soull as leaves such a print and impression thereon as the seall leaves on the wax this can be no strange or unknown thing to these who in a close adherence to Scripture light hath been specially tender to try the same thereby and under a just horror and dread of Enthusiasmâ— or the smallest dasshing on such a rock 7. But it is specially discernable where this seall and earnest hath been more abundantly let forth to some bejond others that it was for some higher support to their Faith where a long interval of delay was to be between the promise and performent and such a tryall of a deferred hope herein as might be ready to make their heart sick into death if the Lord had not given such a pledge and part in hand to assure them that the rest shall not faill in due time now this is so manifest in the conduct and methods of grace about the Saints under the old Testament and in how singular a way he did first seall before he entred them upon any great tryalls and which were to be of a long duration as there needs no particular instances to clear the same 8. It is here the sence of that hundred fold which Christ hath so expresly secured to his People on the adventures of their Faith may be understood as that which assuredly lyes in these rare enjoiments of the spirit and inward sense of the love of their God in the shinings of his face on them which are the first fruits of the Spirit more then in any external providence or these things which are of the highest value with men since as this is the most sure and greatest evidence that we are Christians so is it the most notable sign how dear such are to God and of his love and favour then if he had given them the whole World I know nothing will seem more strange and
publick administrations of the Word seems lost the wisdom of Words or what may appear more neat or polished that way is come in the room hereof as though the alone end of so high a service were to act a scene handsomly on a theater that may carry the applause of the Spectators but not mens hearts unto God this I have lookt on with no less horror then on the most visible Atheism and profanity of these times and one of the most dismal Signs in the publick state of Religion 4. These also may have some higher access for such a witness who know with evidence the truth of immediate and supernatural excitments to engadge upon some special work and service for God and to be acted forth herein under the power and irresistable discovery of ane inward call when under greatest oppositions from their own spirit thereto and furthest a version of mind This I have known in the truth hereof in most eminent examples but the credit of such a testimony tho in it self founded on divine Revelation does necessarly require such ane evidence of the quality of the witnesses herein that they be of a known tender humble and judicious Spirit who are skilled both in the deep things of God and in the deeps of Satan who this way does oft act in the greatest deep and mystery of delusion 5. There is yet something more singular in the experience of some Christians bejond others and in such a witness as to a special confidence and assurance raised on their soul of events of providence and the issue of some remarkable case of tryall when it hath been contrare to all humane appearances and no reason from any visible airth could be given for the same this I know may seem a strange thing in the eyes of many nor can it possibly have that evidence or in that manner work to others as it is to these who know and have experienced the same but we see and are sure there hath been great attainments of such a Faith both in Scripture examples and uncontroverted experiments made hereof in after times which hath met such in the road of their duty and in ane express harmony and correspondence with the Word since the extent of our Faith in any particular case must keep with the same exent and measure of divine Revelation herein and the Lord will be trusted for no more then he hath made warrantable by his promise But this is a Subject on which I may not insist further then to clear the evidence and truth of the same on these grounds 1. That Christians may be at such steps in their way and passage through time and on so dark ground yea the tide of difficulties and amasing fears swelled to so great a hight that if there were not a support of this kind by ane argument of power to their soul they should otherways be ready to sink 2. This experiment how rare so ever it may seem to many is no dark or distinct thing from that seall of the spirit of promise which we should look after or from that promised earnest which sometimes the Lord gives with respect to a special mercy and deliverance within time as well as their great interest in Heaven tho it be not in the same degree imparted to some as to others 3. It is also of no other kind then that settled allowance on the Saints of the peace of God in such a measure as can raise and fully quiet their spirit above any sinking fears and above the present assault they may be under tho with such evidence then as is not possible to attain at other times nor can be kept clear and comforting to themselves without much tendernesse of spirit and fear 4. Where this is known and enjoyed in any higher degree by some then may be the allowance of others it is assuredly found on a special near intimacy with God and to follow some discernable access and special gale of the spirit of intercession in prayer and wrestlings so as it thus meets them in the way of a settled ordinance and in the same way wherein we may see the Saints in Scripture have attained to a confidence of this kind for otherways there could be no comforting evidence of its beeing the undoubted work of God 5. And here must be tryed sought for whither the more immediate testimony of God does then still bring the testimony of the renowed conscience alongst therewiâ—h so as to clear the condition in themselves and their claim thereto of such a special promise whereon their confidence hath been raised whereby it is thus rendred to them an absolute promise that can not possibly be frustrate 6. I shall but add further as this rare experiment comes with such evidence of spiritual sense as is discernable from any natural workings of mans own heart and is that wherein the most deep enquiry and judicious tryall of Christians is needful to know that its surely from God and hath both his warrant and seall herewith so is it not strange that where he takes a more singular way to try and exercise some and out of the ordinar road of his dealing with others yea where support in the way of external providence may then cease that this special allowance by inward evidence be something more singular also and some higher influence of the spirit and power of beleeving be imparted for such a case This leads me to offer some thoughts in the close upon two Proposals which I did not intend if from another airth whilst I was writing this there had not occurred a special call herein and that I judged it might not be unsuitable to the intent of this discourse 1. Whither there be any such seall to the truth of Christianity in these times we are now in as the Faith of Miracles or that it be warrantable to expect such a thing from God which lyes in a particular act of trust in some special case where a Christian may be taken off all ordinare means and nothing but a divine immediate and miraculous Power can answer thereto for Answer it is clear the active Faith hereof which was once given to the Primitive Church in the workings of miracles now ceaseth but in this passive Sence I know no time nor age to which it does not belong and comes not under the Promise of God to warrant the same in these cases 1. When the Lord measures out such tryalls to any of his people in the way of their duty and under his special conduct where there is no releaf or support but in the Faith of ane extraordinar and immediate appearance of God and no neglect in the least of what in the way of ordinare and warrantable means is attainable it is sure there it is both warranted and requires such a Faith yea are put by a more singular call on the tryall of the same and in this respect I doubt not there hath
of man the whole successive race of mankind each in their order with that full evidence of the Holy Righteousness of the Judge herein as shall irresistably constrain their conscience to bear witnesse thereto 8. Yea what a concern of the Christian Faith lyes here of that eternal separation and parting which will then follow betwixt the elect and reprobate World with that dreadful dimission to these infernal Regions and with this sight to see sin which made its first entry in Heaven amongst the Angels and hath since so much overspread the earth now for ever shutt up in hell both sin and sinners together never more to look out at the grate of these prison But II. There is another thing with respect to this Subject which hath been to me oft matter of serious thoughts whence is it that in so knowing an age as this we see how such as are greatest pretenders to reason and to a higher flight then others this way are more visibly then any else of an Atheistick Spirit and to be a length herein bejond any else on that design how to weaken both their own assent and others to the Christian Faith and to render the same so far as possibly they can to be problematick and doubtful but it is sure here is nothing to stumble but what may rather be strenthning to any of a serious spirit and needs be no strange thing when such are as tender as possible to marr their enjoiments of this present life who hath no more or to let their thoughts come near to what must needs torment them before the time whilst their reason serves them for such an use and constrains their conscience herein that they must either be Christians in earnest or none at all yea that under such bright discoveries of the truth of the Ghospel they must see it is not compatible with reason how there should be a mids betwixt a truly serious Christian who beleeves what he does professe and a rosolved Atheist whose work lyes to have the dread of such a Faith wholly extinguished I knew a most remarkable Atheist indued with special natural accomplishments who on the same account said to a person of quality if I did trul◠beleeve what you profess to do they are matters of so great concern that I do profess I could think upon nothing else or be taken up thus as the most of Christians are with the things of this World so as I cannot possibly credit you in the Faith of your own Profession And herein can any exerce reason and not see the Faith of Christianity is another thing then most this day did ever conceive it to be and a much higher attainment then a Christians particular interest herein for where the first is assuredly attained it may seem not possible but the other must follow that mens greatest business of the earth should be to have a sure evidence for Heaven and to be ripening for so great a change I have known some whose tryalls and conflicts in their warefare hath been extraordinare and strange who hath professed their highest releaf still lay herein from the Faith of divine truth more then as to any particular promise made applicable to such a case and would have sought no more to carry their spirits above the present temptations that occurred though they were not ordinary or to be at rest as to all temporal events but a more full strenthning in the Christian Faith and that their Redeemer did live since then they were in sure terms as to their security for whatever he hath promised III. But I must add yet one thing further which seems indeed a prodigy proper to such an age as this that it s become so hard a work to bring men living in the day light of the Ghospel to a serious beleeving the truth and existence of infernal spirits and of their commerce and traffick with this visible World or to bring such who seem greatest pretenders to reason to the Faith of Divells lest they should thus be unavoidably brought to that Faith of the Divells which is to beleeve and tremble which surely is an unconceavable and extream horror that these Apostate Spirits have herein whilst their assent to the glorious beeing of God to his attributes yea to the truth and History of the Ghospel is by such ane inevitable constraint that as there is no possible access for them to be Atheists so is their dréad and torment heigtned beeing such knowing intellectual essences as that power and subtilty of delusion whereby they deal with mankind will not work on themselves This I must judge to be the last effort of the horrid wickedness of this present age to strenthen such a way and since such a party can have no help or support from faith and reason herein and yet find the assured truth and beeing of Divels and of their communion and warefare with men does marr any possible defence or design for Atheism and a taking off the terror of ane infernal state off their soul they must therefore move to another airth which is to beleeve nothing but what they see and feell and comes under a sensible demonstration to warrant the same for this is to make sure work at once against the whole Christian Faith and shut the door on any way of conviction thence thus they keep a distance with the beeing of their own souls as if it were some dark and abstract notion because it comes not under their sence they can live at quiet and be secure from the fear of a Hell and infernal world or exclusion out of Heaven untill they once meet with such an argument as to make them both see and feell the truth hereof but oh they seeme not to apprehend how sore the application of this argument will be when they at last find its in vain to reject the conclusion where the premises are sure There is one of late who is come forth in the day light of Christianity in a book lately published to undeceive the World upon so great a delusion as to these invisible powers of darknesse and tho he seems to find it difficult how to annihilate and make void wholly their existence yet doth offer with a strange confidence to secure men from any fear of the molestations of such Spirits and that all inward temptations or assaults of Satan and his operating upon the souls of men is but a deplorable fascination and bewitchment that the Christian Church hath been so long under It might be judged there were little need for such a worke to take this generation we are now in off all watch and guard against these destroying adversaries and to render them more secure herein then they seem already to be and that this confidence must have some strange rise to go forth not only in the most direct opposition to Sacred Truth but to the universal Sence and reason of mankind except he hopes to find a numerous party who
hath given up with both and will easily grasp at such a bait tho they should see the hook that will at last destroy them But doe these mighty hunters and destroyers of mankind the Divels come so little speed in their work this day that they must have a Protestant Minister of the Church come forth before the Sun to offer his assistance to help them forward herein or if he deny such ane intent what security will he offer to secure men from a hazard that 's more dreadful then the killing of their body and is of an eternal concern is he empoured with authority from these infernal Regions I confess on these grounds he may have advantage to give such ane assurance 1. That the strong man whilst he keeps the house vvill be very tender to trouble their peace over whom he swayes with an uncontrolâ—ed Dominion and that he will not affright nor awake men out of such a pleasant dream who hath set their heart wholly on the world whose portion is in this life untill they be awaked for ever out of the same 2 He may give full assurance also that the Prince of this World is at no war nor needs be with such as are joined in with his interest and at the same work to promote the Kingdom of darkness and seeks not to have them tormented before the time 3. But there is this ground I must judge he specially goes on that he will be easily credited on such a Subject as this and knowes how small a patrociny will serve to promote a design for Atheism and could fall upon nothing which would be more grateful to a great part novv vvho bear the name of Protestants but whilst he calls them to lay aside their armour such as Christians are expresly called to put on Ephes. 5 11. will he secure them when it comes to the last battle and conflict from their beeing seased by such infernal Spirits in their entry into another World whom they did once deride and that the truce which was with them on the earth will not break up then if he had restricted this new discovery to the world of ane absolute security from the Power of Satan and his molestations to belong only to the Place and City he lives in it might have seemed to be on a politick interest to render it as a place of such eminent trade to be the only safe and most desirable part of the earth but he hath extended it to be universal to all other places and to be a Catholick good and priviledge There needs no question but that such a person himself must be in a deep quiet and under no touch of these assaults and temptations others are exposed to tho one thing he may fear in the managing of so strange a design and in such a manner that these knowing and active spirits for whom he acts may not reckon their service much advanced when there is as little of the subtilty of the Serpent herein as of the innocence of the dove It is true there is an invisible guard and hedge about each one of the Saints over which Satan cannot pass but by the measures of divine permission nor is it expressible how much Christians of the choisest Spirits are bettered and improven in their graces by the worst of Spirits and in their continued warefare with them and its sure they are reserved in chains of darkness to the Judgment of the great day but how far their chain is oft let forth and inlarged in judgment to the world may be too evident every where in the sad effects thereof and it now appears that their chain hath not been more remarkably lengthned out these many ages past then in this day I wish the Writer of such a Book might seriously repent and so far retract what he hath published as might thus turn such a poison unto ane antidote against it self for I judge he durst not put such Divinity in his Testament that he hath written in this Book POSTSCRIPT SIR IT may seem strange not only the lengthning of this Discourse so far but in insisting most specially upon that Head of the internal Work and Demonstrations of the Spirit of God on mens soul but as I may with humble confidence say this was under the sense of some peculiar engagements to such a Subject so I shall make this further Apology for the same 1. That since ever I accounted the Profession of Christ a serious business I have judged it not conceivable how Christians should have ane assent to the truth of the Ghospel or be at rest herein untill it once be brought up to a full and quieting assurance on that security to which they must concredite themselves for ever and thus know the strenth and sureness of the foundation of their Faith by its own evidence that tho it be not yet full whilst we are here in the way of enjoyment yet is it undoubtedly full in the truth and certainty of evidence I have judged it also an addition to the greatest joy which I could have within time whatever might be a further strenthning to such a Faith and hope we are called to by the Ghospel of Christ so as not to lose any fragment of this kind which might tend to a more full establishment and does reckon this the credit and glory of our Religion that in no other way it doth require acceptance of men but with a full assurance of understanding and the furthest conviction of evidence as beeing designed no less to found a rational certainty in the judgment then to determine the will or consent for embracing the same yea on this account it hath been oft matter of astonishment how in the teaching and ministerial work which God hath appointed for his Church the primary truths of Religion should not be more held forth to men with that clearness of evidence and demonstration as such great and marvelous things require and the temper of this age calls for or how the great things of God that are of the highest consequence and reality can have any possible reception from men by ane implicite or ordinare assent or whence it is that with most it seemes their work seems wholly sett on the noetick when so little on the dianoetick part of Divinity but on the other hand I must also witness that if ever I knew what it was to attain ane inward assurance of the truth and revelation of Christ and to be at rest herein that the eternal Son of God was revealed from Heaven in our nature to save lost man and that there is a state of grace here and of glory hereafter I have found that no light or conviction of judgment tho with such evidence as could leave no room for doubtfulness in the same can effectually work without the internal evidence and demonstration of the Spirit of God and a supernatural power both to beget and strengthen such a Faith in the soul
in this last age that should be still matter of sweet remembrance but it 's sure this day we see the ebb as low in these places in the life and power of Religion and no visible reviving almost any where can be heard of the Churches of Christ which yet hath been to me so far a hopeful sign of a near incalling of the Jews since it will then find the Gentile Church in so judicial a Period of time that it shall be as life from the dead 4. Yet it is sure on the other hand there hath been most signal honor and glory put on this age and with a special respect to Britain and Ireland in as great a harvest of serious and solid Christians by the Power of the Ghospel then hath been in any time or place of the Earth since the first three Centuries tho not under that seall of Martyrdom as was after the Reformation yet such who shined in the truth and power of true Sanctity and have left a fragrant Savour and remembrance to this day when most of that blessed stock is now gone and their room rarely filled up any where 5. Yea this further may be matter of sweet Reflection how many such hath been in this age in whom that ancient greatness of spirit with Heroïck motions in appearing for God and his truth might be seen for tho they attained not to the measure of the first three of our first and bless'd Reformers yet may it be said within the limits of this age there hath gone off the stage innumerable instances of such eminency of induements and with that measure of power and of a sound mind as might be compared with any of the Antients since the Apostolick times and this is a remark that never faills of Christs imparting himself in these measures of his spirit to a Church in such a time according to the great ends he is to accomplish there 6. Though great changes upon a Nation or Church does not want previous and remarkable warnings from the Lord we have seen with what a marvelous Surprisal these have occurred to this Generation that were most remote from all humane thoughts and once not conceivable upon the highest principles of reason how ever they should have taken place It is becoming the Majesty of God to have his Arcana Imperii in such peculiar and reserved cases as the most skilled in the ways and depths of Providence are called to be still with a silent admiration when he thus does arise as in these times past to do great things which was not looked for 7. But how strange and marvelous hath the surprisalls been of Providence in our day also in the way of tenderness and mercy as well as of Judgment which should be a most strengthning remark if this had been more suitably improven what unexpected and seasonable interpositions have been of a divine immediate power in extreme exigences both of the Church and particular Christians in these great changes past and as Oppressors have grown up to a height of Violence how observably have Carpenters been prepared whence humane reason could not have fore seen to cut the horns of such 8. When we can not but see with what a signal evidence and commission the spotless Judgment of God hath gone forth in these late times to all ranks and stations of men especially in the Isle of Britain there might be also some peculiar remarke of it's design against these who were of the highest Staie so as no time past did ever tend more to seal◠instruction on the spirits of great men then of late to have the fear and dread of God on them when Princes might have been seen walking on foot and Servants riding on horseback yea that there is a time of Gods making inquisition for blood of such who seemed most secure from humane Power and how this alone comes from a divine hand when men are poisoned in their own cup and lays a snare to themself by which they are caught it is true a clear application of Providences past to the present times is not easily attained but I doubt not of a more full light and discovery for this end as will silence all oppositions that have been to the intent and Counsell of the Lord in these things which have occurred 9. It hath been reserved to our day to see the Issue and great Decisions which have been in these strange Scenes of Providence in this age past and to have them now in our sight in the whole successive course thereof and surely this might be a great and affecting sight to such who are ready to think that God hath forsaken the earth and walketh only in the circuit of Heaven when they cannot but see what amasing events hath been of late brought forth by an invisible and unpreventable conduct of Providence and to see also in this late Revolution of the publick State of Britain how by one great surprisal the whole Popish Measures there which had been of so long and painful a contrivance was as in a moment broke and made void when nothing less expected 10. It is unquestionable that the Lord does usually act by second causes but there are steps also of his way wherein he alone appears and will have them seen to be wholly his work this now hath eminently appeared in the great transactions of these late times how bejond any humane power or might it was a Standard by the Spirit of God lifted up that did visibly make way for the work he was then accomplishing and did serve such terror on his Adversaries yea how these who were acted forth to be instrumental thus on the service of their day were directed for that great end to the quieting of his Spirit in such a piece of his Work 11. And herewith what thoughts of heart may it cause now in the present state and juncture of things to see such a Conjunction in this Western Part of Europe to serve the great ends of Providence that if it had been told our Fathers by any they would have been as such who mock that in the next age the House of Austria of Spain Lorrain and Savoy should have a joint interest with the greatest Princes of the Reformed Religion and take the Sword with one consent against such a Party whose Sword hath been bathed and yet still is reaking in the blood of the Protestants yea how this great instrument of Judgment and Patron of the Romish Interest should most actively make way to defeat his own Projects and Counsel by an irresistable conduct of Providence This is a great and unusual Conjunction in humane affairs such as the Policy of the Western Part of Christendom is hereby cast in a new mould wherein we are called to adore God and his Dominion over all Second Causes tho it be a Depth of Providence which is yet not opened up only herewith some Reflections on the same I cannot wholly pass 1. What may be too
Providence in it's Conjunction with what hath gone before it 's here we must see a thrid marvelous overturning which in one and the same age hath been successively in these Kingdoms according to that forementioned Scripture Ezek. 21 27. I will overturn overturn overturn and it shall be no more until he come whose right it is and I will give it which is to be understood there of such great Revolutions as should in their proper order follow upon other For tho this had a respect then to these great shakings which was to come upon Juda and the House of their Kings in the entry of their captivity yet may none bound the intent of the Holy Ghost in this Prophecy as if there only it was to take place and had not a Respect to some further accomplishment of the same in after times which surely was since never more clear in the event then in this late wonderful Series of Providence that hath been in these overturnings But now let me speak herewith what hath been sometimes deeply affecting how there is something yet more solemn and extraordinare now in this thrid call then all that hath gone before to be awakening to this generation and that which with too clear evidence may be judged the last cry and call such as hath no dark or uncertain sound therewith to the State and Churches of Britain and unto all ranks there if there be not a resolute shutting of our ear at the same that this is assuredly the voice of the Lord I will yet once more take proof and tryall of these Lands which I did choise and in so singular a way deall with bejond other Churches and Nations and will yet respite the last stroak of Judgment and if tenderness and forbearance in a most surprising and extraordinare display thereof will once work if the actings of providence such as could not of late have been beleeved by men will once reclaim and return Britain and Ireland again unto God I will then take of both their fetters and fears and give a new settlement to their civill rights and interest will sease their adversaries with terror and trembling and yet spare their blood will sett such also upon the Throne who shall seek the good and welfare of their People under whose shadow ye may ly down safely without dread either of the terrors by night or such affrightments by day they were once under and take off any fears of external force But oh if this voice can not be heard when it is so clear and audible which if some knew ever any thing or had discerning of the ways of God and of the times they cannot but hear this to be the present voice of the time it then seems to be come to the last and highest tryalls that these Nations ever stood under when such extraordinar measures of divine patience and long suffering and so long a day given to repent must either be speedily answered or it be found that the stroke will be the more terrible when it comes the longer it hath been deferred that threatned judgment shall assuredly at last come to a year of recompence yea to a precise day of the spotless Vengeance of God when his spirit will no more strive with men when he will clear his Justice and go forth to see the Authority of his Laws and Sentences of his Word ratified in the execution thereof when no Intercessor shall be then heard tho a Noach Daniel and Job were upon the earth and it shall be then no more possible to hold off that long threatned stroke or turn Judgment out of his way then for men to stop the course of the Sun to recall the day and years that are past or make void the Ordinances of Heaven but then will the Works of God gett a hearing when his Words could not A IV. Head on this subject which I must join in with the former that is of great weight and consequence is this to know what aspect such extraordinary providences of these times past now hath on the churches there and whither so great a crisis as hath been in the publik State of affairs hath more promising or threatning signs therewith It was the highest part of Hezekiah observation upon that great deliverance he met with Isai 39. not to see only God in his immediate hand herein but how his heart was toward him in the same as is there expressed thou hast loved my soul out of the pit of corruption for so does the originall render it A loosing sight of providence in what the Lord doth speak to men thereby maketh way not only for great shakings but to read the sense thereof contrair to its intent and tho there be a regarding by all the visible effects of providence and what herein lyes nearest to our sense yet few goes a further length in their observing It is undenyable that an extraordinare condescendence of grace and of the long suffering of God might be seen in these great things here done of late but the next enquiry lyes here how such ane unusual application of providence does work It was upon some serious thoughts hereof and this present State of things I sett my self for more clear discerning of the way of the Lord and his voice to this generation in these astonishing changes hath gone over the same of late to have my own spirit fix'd herein and some higher strenthning on the faithfulnes of his truth but in the first place there are some undoubted principles of truth which I would mention here and must hold by as truths which are of ane eternall verity and may have a clear applicatory light to the present day we are in 1. That it 's sure the most notable mercies which hath been bequathed of the Lord either to churches or persons have also been an entry to the greatest of judgements when not answered it was with the brightest sunshine of ane immediate appearance of his hand and ane extraordinary course of miracles that Israel entred into the wilderness whereon so black a night of dismal providence did fall and is it not the same voice which is now speaking to us that we have Malach. 2. 2. if ye will not lay to heart to give glory to my name says the Lord of host I will curse your blessings 2. It stands ever sure and unchangeable that God will never return to a people against whom he is wroth untill the cause of his departure be taken away for both the same date and measure which mens forsaking of God doth bear the same also does his departing bear unto them and tho repentance where it is in truth can never be in vain yet may it come to late to prevent temporal judgment or to regain ever again a season of acting for God when there is a more eminent call thereto at one time then another 3. It is ane unchangeable truth which varies not with the changes of time that there is
except to Personate Act such a part as that of the mourning Women amongst the Jews at Funerals and amongst these of the most serious Spirit in this day such a restraint may be found of that Seriousness and fervor herein which once did appear as renders it a more ominous Presage that there may be nothing to follow but that last sentence let them alone and must not all thus reason and judge that as the interest of Sacred Truth and the Honor and Glory of God in mens subjecting thereto is of much higher value then any temporal Interest so is the Vindication of the same before the World of a greater concern then the stability or standing of Kingdoms yea to fear more deeply that such a time how long so ever deferred must at last take place when his spotless procedure of Judgement shall be then cleared fully shall I not visit for these things shall not my soul be avenged on such a People But now in the third Place there is one Inquiry that should ly near and hath a more then ordinary call for the same in such a day to know what is yet left and accessible in the matter of duty that might be as a door of hope for the Lords Returning once more and his respiting of imminent Judgement when so great a Ruine is like to fall under the Hand of this Generation I know any such thing will be to most as matter of derision whose fear and hopes of this kind goes no higher then present Objects of Sense and it is little I can adventure to speak hereon but as to any measure of light I have attained I can no more question that the same voice from the Lord is now going forth to the Churches of Britain and Ireland then that I read what is spoke to Juda Ezechiel 22 30. And I sought for a man amongst you that should make up the hedge and stand in the gate before me for the Land that I should not destroy it but I found none therefore have I poured out my indignation upon them I have consumed them with the fire of my Wrath their own wayes have I recompens'd on their Heads says the Lord God It 's sure then wrath was near to a breaking forth when this last call came yet with an offer of Peace nor is it questionable there was a serious part then who were deeply affected with such a time tho it was not easy to find one of a truly raised spirit to do and endure something more then ordinare for God when so great a ruine was ready to fall under their hand but to clear the import of such a call with respect to the publick State of the Churches of Britain under this allusion here made use off to stand in a gape and breach when the Church as a defenced City is laid open to an extream and imminent hazard I must speak a few things to be considered what must follow if no Intercessor be found to answer the voice of this call by a suitable appearance herein 1. Tho it may be now reckoned that the sky is more clear as to the State of Britain then for many Years past when the breach seems to be made sure against either Forrain or intestine Assaults and that in the way of reason and the ordinare course of humane affairs things are come to a more secure and settled State yet is there an other aspect of things that should deeply affect our spirits when the publick hazard of the time is greater then from all humane power and the party to be most feared is assuredly divine Wrath after a long interval of forbearance that is ready to break forth in some extraordinar Acts of Judgment for where a day of attonement goes not before can no true deliverance be expected to raise and settle these Nations yet how rare are they who take this to heart or tremble within themself on the thoughts of Judgment to be near if it does not appear from natural or visible causes tho nothing be more discernable from Moral Signs 2. What ever present calm be from these terrors and fears that have been of late yet may it be judged whither it be a serious business or not to stand in such a breach as is this day when the greatest interest of our Faith is laid open to such numerous assaults as there seems no less cause to stand and contend for the Christian Cause and Interest now in these Nations against such who are under a visible Profession of the same then once was against the Heathens whilst that primitive Spirit which was then a Spirit of Power and of Glory does too rarely appear or these measures of grace in such impressions as was then that are under a sad and judicial restraint most being taken up so entirely with private refentments of personal Injuries and bitter in estine conflicts as the sound of such a hazard cannot be heard until it be felt It was the Power and Evidence of Christianity on mens soull that did first make Protestants and made way for the planting settlement of the Reformed Churches but it would seem now reckoned that the Protestant Interest can stand tho the Christian Faith were extinct in the power and vitalls thereof and might easily be given up by the greatest part of this Generation if it's outworks could be preserved where a temporal Interest â—enders that necessar whilst that magnetick power and vertue which the Truth once had on the World is not to be seen or any deep sence of that Interest which Religion once had in the Glory of a passive Testimony for the same 3. Is not the gape and breach we have to stand in this day of such a kind that where the ancient Love of these renowned Churches the Love of their Youth and Kindness of their Espousals unto God did so brightly shine forth after the Reformation from Popery it is now resolved unto so dismal a change as with most what ever is most lovely excellent and desirable in the Revelation of the Ghospel and should have the most attractive influence on mens soull is visibly despised and vilified yea which renders this breach and gape more dreadful that after all the cost expence which the Lord hath wared in planting and letting forth a vine yard to Britain sending moe Servants then at the first with the indearing persuasives of the Ghospel and on the other hand with solemn and express warnings of the hazard of such Strokes of Judgment to come as hath been afterwards felt yet hath the return been in a continued and growing enmity against the truth and instead of rendring the fruits of this Vineyard in its season hath rather conspired to deride and despitefully use such as have come to demand the same and what can be judged will be the result hereof if men have not concluded that God hath forsaken the earth can it be thought that the Breaches of these Nations shall be
the same so far as is possible these lets and stumbling blocks where the greatest hazard may be of offence so should it be much preparatory also for a higher service a more unite appearing for God herein and to stand in the most hazardous part of the breach of this day in behalf of that great interest of our Religion which is upon the Authority of God in his truth and Testimony as the alone ground on which the ultimate resolution of our Faith must found since this is the very same inconvertible terms to give to the Divine Majesty the Glory of his Godhead and that tribute which is most inviolably sacred and essential to him it would seem almost incredible that fuch ane hour of the power of darkness should fall in with the growing light of the Ghospel as the strange prevalence of a way which is to commensurat the perfections of God and the greatest mysteries of his truth to our understanding and to make humane reason tho corrupt finite and limited to be the alone Judge and measure of our Faith of divine things when the highest principle of reason which is prima veritas without which reason hathno principle to reston no Standard else is this that where the God of Truth is the Revealer and that it 's sure it is his Testimony it must then be as infallibly true as it is sure he is God since it is simply impossible to find ever another foundation of truth and certainty but this We are fal'n in times of great expectation as to a near approach of the highest Glory of Christ's Mediatory Kingdom on the earth and it would seem a strange prelude thereto that so black a darkness should fall down with so astonishing ane encrease thereof as tends not only to eclips the same but to deny him his essential Kingdom who is the only begotten of the Father and brightness of his Glory yet I am sure it is a sign of that kind as the morning darkness which is the darker the nearer it is to the day It is indeed here we may see ane opposition to the Majesty of God in such terms that we might reckon humane nature could not be capable of and be just matter of horror to a natural conscience to see so numerous a party who claims to be Adorers of reason turn'd so visibly madd on their own destruction I know the furthest improvements this way by rational Inquiry and Tryal hath a greater Interest in Religion and for strenthning of our Faith therein then may be suitably apprehended but it is sure the ultimate Inquiry herein can possibly go no further in the use of reason but that what we beleeve is the undoubted Revelation of God himself unto men can we desire more when this is sure for a full quiet and acquiescence of the soul tho it seem wonderful in it self and exceed our dark and limited thoughts when it is impossible for him who is truth it self to lie whose word is such cui non potest subesse falsum as it is no less sure that he who is infinitly good can not deceive or put ane imposture in stead of truth in their hand who trust him divine truth is the first groundstone of our happiness but is not conceivable by the light of nature to beleeve his being truly God and not the truth also of his promises which ever conform not only to the things signified but to his intent therein who can never delude or deceive But whilst I have been put to some thoughts with amasement on ane appearance of such a kind against God this day amongst men not only within Christendom but by such as once layd claim to the Protestant Profession some Reflections tended to give more clearness and settlement to my own spirit herein which I shall but in a few words mention 1. that when the darkness of ane implicite Faith and relyance on men under Popery hath been so sore bafled turn'd out of credit in such an inquisitive World as this loe Satan hath taken himself to the very contrare airâ—h and knew how to fall in with the temper of a brâ—â—k bold and daring age that he might settle a new opposition against God and the interest of his Kingdom wherein he hath unite and fixed his greatest strenth so that since he was cast down from his Throne by the Power of the Ghospel he hath not had a greater Triumph then in this attempt how to bring man upon it and sett humane reason at once both against God and it self in such a manner as to be it's own Executioner and in subjecting the highest mysteries of truth to it's comprehension to make it not only equal to God but give it a preference to him who is the alone former thereof which I must reckon to be the nearest approach that humane nature yet ever made to that sin by which the Angels did first fall and that it it is the master peece of that Prince of darkness and his ultimus conatus against the truth who knows his time is short 2. It may be with astonishment discernable under what a stroak such are as not to see whither this way hath led them and how far the Holy God hath thus confounded their reason as visibly as once these were in their Language who would attempt to build a tower up unto Heaven when this way left to ane absolute uncertainty ever to fix their Faith the Standard and measure whereof must be the comprehension of reason which hath no firm or infallible ground to settle on besides it self and whilst they cannot make the reason and judgement of others as considerate and knowing as themself meet with theirs the result thereof is to put a judicial madness in the room of reason so as to conceive a created dependent God to give divine homage to and that at once he should be both a God and a Creature and adore a comprehensible Object with divine Worship yea this way without a contradiction to themself they can give no faith to the Creation as being brought purely out of nothing or to the Resurrection of the dead as wholly incomprehensible to reason they must deride Israëls Passage thorow the Red Sea or the Suns standing still on Josua's call to verifie that Rom. 1 21 because that when they knew God they glorified him not as God but professing themselves to be wise they became fools thence is such ane amasing stroke thus inflicted on their reason for it may be said as in the Poëtick Fiction of Phaëton that when he sought to guide the Chariot of the Sun for a time he was like to burn the earth until he was struck with a thunderbolt from Heaven so hath this party tryed how to manadge reason as the supream Directour and Judge upon all that is sacred as they have gone near to destroy both Reason and Religion at once but tho the strongest rational Arguments with such
discoveries of the works of God the depths of providence about his Church these was reserved to that period when the Mystery of God hereon should be more fully perfited and in this respect it 's to be said blessed is he that waiteth and cometh to such a solemn time and to have his lot fall therein as is spoken Dan. 12 12. III. But for a further clearing of this Subject since the Glory of the Kingdom of Christ is so nearly concern'd in the discovery and entertainment of his Works in the day thereof and now when a more eminent appearance thereof is near that Kingdoms and Nations in their Complex Body shall in a more solemn way be the Lords It should be expected that the return and oblation of praise upon the great Acts of his Providence shall be more remarkable as a publick deed of Nations and Churches then hath yet hitherto been yea that when the Lord does in any singular way appear for their security and standing by Providences of a publick and national extent that a gratulatory retribution on their part must be of the same extent under a publick care and regard It is true there is a settled frame of subordinat means by which the Providence of God does work in the great designs thereof that we are called to regard wherein I doubt not but the Ministry of the Angels hath the greatest interest as one of the great Ordinances he hath setled in behalf of his Church tho as to their special offices and dâ—legate service to particular Churcheâ— and Christians is something that 's more dark but it may be hoped wil ere long be with a clearer evidence known in these great transactions of Providence which are yet to take place when a nearer Communion may be then attained betwixt these blessed Spirits and the Saints here on the earth then is yet known but tho there is no time wherein the Lord will not put honor on instituted means and on that established order of his working yet whilst most have such ordinare thoughts of God herein and are so ready to fix their eyes wholly on men his honor is concern'd to let the World know he is God by more extraordinar demonstrations yea such are most of the great events of his Word which are yet to be brought forth as cannot possibly in an other way be expected But on this Subject I would humbly offer some few reflections which should be matter of a serious regard 1. That as it s highly becoming on some eminent piece of the Work of God or publick deliverances for a Nation or State to have solemn and publick returns of thankfulnes to him thereon yet is it strange how so little regard should thus be to have the greatnes of any such mercy sought out and the same publick care extended for keeping up a venerable remembrance thereof so that such a service of Gratitude be not bounded with the transient work of a day since otherways it is a most essential want and with holding a proper and important part of that Tribute which is due into God herein for there can be no suitable regard to serve the end of such Providences and what was so straitly injoined of the Lord under the Old Testament which was the Churches continued practice there yea of the same moral and perpetual use in all after times if it should not be still a publick trust under the furthest humane care to promote the same tho divine Record and History for this intent does now cease 2. But as this hath ane unquestionable tye on Churches and a Christian State to design the most honourable respect and entertainment of the great Acts of God in their day and is made their proper talent to answer to so does a just exoneration herein call for the most exact scrutiny and search on the truth and evidence thereof on which the weight and credit of this service does so far depend to cause a more full assent by these who come after to such a testimony that these rare Providences wherein the Lord did thus make himself known were not only in the present time sought out and enquired unto under their proper cÃrcumstances but by such of greatest weight and advantage for a work of this nature whose sincerity and judiciousness might be convincing and the integrity of such ane Intent cleared from any partial respect or end but allennerly for exalting the Majesty of God and strengthning men in the Faith by so great a seal to his Truth and for the interest of the Posterity yea wherein these who in some lesser differences did not fully meet in the same Judgment yet might intirely unite in such a service and testimony as this 3. Where the Lord makes himself known in more illustrious acts of his power as may be called Magnalia Dei to some particular Nation and Church beside others who herein are in a more then ordinare way interessed it might seem equal and answer to the highest reason they sould be of that value as to be entred on a National Record and have that concurrence of humane authority to make the evidence hereof as authentick as the publick deeds or rights which belong to such a state It is true there is no want of Histories and the Church hath been blessed with that singular mercy of Martyrologies by faithful and impartial hands to attest the power of divine grace and supports of the spirit given to sufferers for the truth and of late it was of great use the concurrence of Civil Authority to that Work of the History of the Church of England that 's now extant by an excellent Writer but for this intent â—â— is something distinct by its self with respect only to these Monuments of Providence relating to a particular Châ—rch that are of publique clear and uncontrolled evidence to have the remembrance thereof with the highest honor kept up and secured from the prejudices and cavills of men thereat yea to such Passadges in that day whereon the Signature and Impress of the more immediate appearance of God hath had most full and bright evidence these great changes of a publique interest which hath then occurred wherein some extraordinar Conjunction in the course of Providence might be seen above natural causes and the ordinare way of Gods Working such interpositions of his wonderful power by which he hath designed to put some eminent honor on acts of trust and relyances on his truth as might be exemplary to after times and serve for that end that they who come after might sett their hope on God and not forget his Works Psal 78 7. yea extraordinar Acts also of divine Judgment whereby he hath appeared in some unusual manner to vindicate the honor of his Laws against publick and notorious violations of the same which may be clearly seen were not designed for that age only but as a publick concern for after times 4. Can it be questioned that since that
disrelishing to the spirit of most this day then such a thing but wisdom is justified of her Children and with such let my soul be joined in 9. As it is known and sure that here is no illusion or imaginary thing where any fallacy or deceit lyes to the most judicious and observing Christians who knows herein what makes them glad and whence it is and how no assistance of their own spirit or in the power of nature could possibly impart such a thing so may it be astonishing how such who live under the Profession of Christ and hath any design on ane eternal stare in Heaven can take this on report or be so little inquisitive about so wonderful a truth that there should be such ane enjoiment here on the earth which without any natural cause can put the soul of men into ane entire rest and settlement and when under greatest shakings and fears other ways cause them know the truth of pardon and peace with God with a sure evidence yea at so low ane ebb can immediatly revive and raise with so discernable a change in their inward case for if this be ane undoubted matter of experience it should be not easie for men to live without tryall hereof themselves 10. Let me add further here is a part of that communion which Christians have within time with the most excellent of the earth and such who in all ages of the Church have been the greatest lovers of God and adventurers for him such with whom he hath been most familiar and hath admit not only to the allowance of Subjects but the regard of favourites who hath known how great a Rewarder he is of his own grace yea such who have made the most exact inquiry and tryall upon the truth and security of their comfort herein and hath put to their seall that God is faithfull and true in that he hath thus promised 4. There is this special use to be made of such ane enquiry on the truth of inward experience to see how great and wonderful a Subject we have for reflection hereon and of what singular advantage this should be for strenthning the soul of a Christian against the workings of unbeleef and to give a more full security of mind in the adventures of hope and relyance upon God for things to come It is sure the reflex faculty of man is one of the greatest wonders of nature and if the spiritual use and improvement hereof were more understood on this Subject and what it is to dive in to these still and deep waters it might make such be oft as a wonder to themselves I shall but point at a few reflex acts of a Christian on this great mystery of spiritual experience to shew what manner of enjoiments these are admit to herein which the whole residue of mankind knows nothing of 1. To have such great supernatural truths of the Scripture which did once exceed their faith and reason to be now matter of undoubted experience in the truth power and efficacy hereof on their own souls and thus to know what belongs to the enjoiments of spiritual sence which formerly seemed so darke and incomprehensible a thing yea how great a difference there is betwixt the clearest Acts of the Judgment and understanding about divine things and a reall fealing of the same in the power and vertue thereof betwixt the most sublime apprehensions by theory and the sensible impressions by the Holy Ghost and what a present and marvelous change this makes on the soull of a Christian 2. To enjoy the same no less under a full evidence and certainty of the truth thereof as the alone and immediate Work of God then in their felt power and sweetnesse that here was no casual thing or matter of doubtfulness or uncertainty but where they can clearly see the object of their faith on the truth of divine Revelation now to be the object of there inward Sence and enjoyment and are sure that what God hath spoken he hath done according to the same for if this be not clear Spiritual comforts would be of low value if it were not with that evidence and assurance of being Gods seall as they could adventure their eternal state on the truth hereof 3. And how sweet a part is it when they can thus reflect on their own experience and enjoy the same with no less evidence of the proper cause and original then of the truth of its effects which is one of the greatest helps to give stability and assurance to our Faith to see how the power of Religion is never barren of new experiments of the truth hereof how the greatest objective means in the way of light cannot doe if there were not an Internal effective cause that works powerfully herein and as in nature so in the way of grace how the same cause which makes us live must make us move and act yea to see how the same spirit that confirms a Christian on the truth of his state and of the enjoiments of grace here does confirm Christianity and the enjoyments of glory which must infallibly follow the same and ere long be a matter of their experience also 4. To know this way that surely a nearer intimacy is to be enjoyed with God and of a higher kind which is by the communion of the Holy Ghost then by the immediate ministry of the Angels yea a greater evidence thus given to a Christians soul then by any external miracles since this is a seall of that nature as is given to none but such as are the objects of the divine complacence and delight and its sure the alone greatest evidence of divine love lyes in the internal part of Christianity and these immediate operations of the Spirit of God more then by any external providences 5. To see how these great things of experience come under a present tryall and given to be experienced here on the earth and are not some rare contingency or what may be stated on an extraordinar account but does keep closs with a tender walk and near entercours with God through a Christians whole course and thus knows what such an anointing with fresh oyl means Psalm 92 10. by innumerable reiterated times of such enjoiment yea how the sense and sweetness thereof comes not then by the power and workings of reason but the immediatness of the divine presence tho even then it does not exclude such a discursive work in the clearness of Spiritual reason and light as can fully quiet the mind that here is no illusion or deceit but le ts us see that the Spirit of God can make use of an argument to settle and secure the soul when all essays whither from themselves or others can give no releaf 6. Thus are they admitt to see herewith how deep the foundation of our comfort and security is layd on the faithfulness of God in his revealed truth so as the whole frame of Christianity must be
whole Reformed Churches this day a standing witness yea have we not seen his appearance also in so unusual manner in the greatness of his power with garments dyed in blood to make way for the visible Glory of his Reign as we can see it was there foretold how the Nations were angry and by their oppositions to him made way for his wrath in such tremendous effects thereof as it hath had these days past to shew the time was at last come to let the World know that the Lord Jesus Christ is no titular King he to whom all power is given in Heaven and Earth nor will bear that Name and Stile in vain or admit a complemental Profession of the same but that it is sure his Dominion Kingdom hath a setled interest and revenue belonging thereto which none may alienate from him and the greatest of humane powers must be accountable for his claim thereto 5. But now as our day and lot does thus meet in so extraordinar a period of time which hath been so long expected and prayed for in ages past it may be a time of great thoughts and expectation of what is yet to come as to the visible Reign of the Lord Jesus our blessed Head in the Glory and Majesty of his Kingdom without his personal Reign or bodily appearance unto men which with full assurance of faith we sould now wait for when the voice of this Trumpet shall bring with it such a resurrection from the dead of these dry bones of the Jewish Nation with so immediate an appearance of God alone herein as shall dazle with astonishment all the Nations about yea when its sound and voice also shall call the whole Church that 's on the earth to that highest gratulatory song of Moses and the Lamb as once was at the Red Sea for the final stroke judgment on the Kingdom of Antichrist wherein the visible glory of his Reign will then be seen with that evidence and brightness as if he were personally on the earth and here is that true Millennium which is now in some measure begun and we are surely called to expect in a gradual increase to such a hight that in the value and splendor of this blessed Reign the light of one day shall be as seven days in one and the measure of one age then answer yea exceed a thousand Years before and is so before him with whom one day is as a thousand years This seems to many in such a time as a thing remote from their sense whose thoughts are bounded with present appearances whilst our blessed Head is now gone unto a far Country to receive a Kingdom for himself and is invisible to men in these preparations he is making for this higher glory of his Reign upon the Earth so that he is no object of humane sight nor can we come bodily to him to receave his verbal commands from his mouth as from an earthly Monarch and for these inward and great demonstrations of his Reign they ly deep and hid betwixt him and the souls of his People but if our comfort and hope stand by the Christian Faith this day and on that assurance dare venture our soul upon an Eternal State we should then with as full certainty of mind as of any visible things give faith to this that the Son of God will not lose the Work he hath begun and so eminently appeared in that the interest of his Kingdom on the earth is the alone highest object of the divine care and providence and though his Kingdom is not of the World but is purely spiritual yet does the World stand thereby so as it may be justly said sine praecibus pietate non staret mundus nor is it questionable but that his Work will be answerable this day to his revealed will intent or can it be in the dark to us what he is now doing in the World when he hath made such publick intimation hereof by the voice of the last Trumpet as should render this the most desirable part that men can act to fall in with this great and rising interest of his Kingdom in the season and opportunity hereof it will surely be found in this time that where the downfal of the Kingdom of Antichrist is made remarkable in a Nation where the terror of its rise and grouth had so lately gone before and the Kingdom of Christ is not set up in its room nor with a higher regard subjected to that it must then quickly ripen and make way for some great outbreaking of wrath and judgment in such a place for the time is come that nations which have imbraced the Profession of Christ must stand or fall according to their concurrence with that interest on which the Lord is now gone forth whose work carries not for men nor is dependent on humane Counsels yea it 's sure these great Ministers of providence the Angels tho not seen to us are eminently join'd in on this service who are the stated Servants of Christ as Mediator Head of the Church and have accordingly their delegate charge and commission to particular Churches and Kingdoms as that great design of Providence for the advance of his Kingdom in the World does require and if the giving forth of the Law was so glorious upon that solemne entry which the Churches Head then made on his Regal Office over Israël by so extraordinar a ministration of the Angels what a higher Glory must be on his entring on the greatest discovery and administration of his visible Reign within time blessed are they amongst men who may have ane interest in this service tho with most it comes not under their thoughts and apprehension but as it was said of Dux de Alva upon ane Eclips of the Sun which was then when he was in a hot persuit of the Wars that he had so much to do upon the earth as gave him no leasure to look up to Heaven fo is the great noise and business of this day how things may stand sure with us upon the earth It is become the proverb of these times we are in that interest will not lye because according to this men will always appear and discover themselves and when ever that word interest is made use of it 's judg'd to bear no other sense then of some temporal concern only because the scent that most of this Generation seemes to be wholly on is how to seek their own things but not the things of Jesus Christ which is truly the same for men to reckon that their soul is a forreine thing to themselves and that they have no reall interest in the great things of Religion or a hope bejond time but it 's well that there is yet such a party this day on the earth who 's way can give that proverb the lie and are of another spirit so as to lay their greatest temporal interest down that they may intensly persue the