adversaryes we may also on clear Scripture grounds conclude that the Lord is now awaked as a mighty man and upon the fields yea that the war is surely begun against Antichrist and all the adversaryes of his Church which shall not cease until the full victory be obtained for indeed these providences which in these last times should be very affrighting and terrible when we go in to the word we shall find they have a comfortable aspect on the Church and do presage her greater enlargement which as the tender buds and leaves of the fig tree are put forth to shew the sommers approach Luc. 21 ver 28. it is true the Church is now low and the work of God meets with very sad interruptions which are needful both for tryal and rebuke but this also is sure which none can deny that the Lord hath eminently appeared and done great things for his Church yea we must say he hath by a confluence of very remarkable providences thus condescended to strengthen his peoples hands to confirm such who are ready to stagger even as it were by cruches anent the greatnes of these things which are yet promised Now to clear this truth a little we would consider First How it is very consonant to the Scripture and expresly held forth in the same that in the last times and turn of the Churches case from Antichrist the Lord will thus appear in his great strength and set up his standard against his adversaryes yea will then in a special way call forth his people to glorify him by an active testimony 2. That the Lord hath thus begun to appear according to his word is a truth that is also undenyable should much help to confirm our faith anent the performance of that which further remains of the Scripture 1. That this is manifest from the word may be thus clear First Though the Church militant must not want an adversary and some persecution from the World even in her best estate yet we have a safe warrant to expect that the Lord will glorify himselfe in a peculiar way in his people now in these latter dayes by doing and acting for the truth as in former ages his glory did most appear dnreing Antichrists Reign in his Churches suffering for then the faith and patience of his Saints was to be witnessed in its season Rev. 13 ver 10. and thus he would serve himselfe of his people and bring forth his glory until that time of retribution when these who had killed with the sword should be killed by the sword and these who led unto captivity be so dealt with which doth also clearly promise some special outletting of the Spirit for acting with these gifts of courage and resolution sutable to the service of the Church in the latter dayes and truely I think it is a great want we study not more the accomplishing of the promises and how to improve the same for gifts as well as grace in order to the several times and necessities of the Church 2. It is very clear from the Scripture that in the last dayes when Christ is to raise his Church from under the power and tyranny of Antichrist he shall then appear in a warlike posture which John had shewed to him Rev. 19 v. 13 14. as one upon the head of his forces with his vesture dipped in blood to shew that vvhen once the vvar is begun against his adversary and this Lyon of the tribe of Juda begins to rouze himselfe up vvhat a terrible appearance he vvil have in that undertaking and it is clear that the Lord hath declared in this his counsel and vvill that his Son Christ should in the latter times take unto himselfe his great povver and reign Rev. 11 ver 17. yea cause the World knovv him to be Head of principalityes and povvers as vvell as of the Church for his glory in this truth as a King which former ages seemed in so great a measure to darken must then clearly shine forth I truely think mens appearing with such violence and rage against so concerning a truth now in these dayes doth promise some eminent appearance of the Lord therein and that he shall yet more solemnly assert the same before the World 3. Doth not the Scripture point at the last times as that special time of recompence for the controversy of Sion to which the Lord hath reserved a solemn triumph of his justice over all his Churches enemyes when he shall enquire for the blood of his Saints shed upon the earth since the dayes of Abel at Babylons hand Revelat. 18 ver 24. that great adversary who stands in law guilty and hath served her selfe heire to all the violence cruelty done in former ages for in her hand must that cup be found full which the enemyes of the Church from the beginning hath been filling up and as so many rivers and fountaines hath run unto this great sea 4. It is also clear that in the last times when the Lord shall bind up the breach of his people and heal the stroke of their wound who for so long a time had been trampled under by Antichrist he shall by some signal providences roll away this reproach and scandal of meannes contempt and persecution shall put some glory on his Church proportionable to its former abasement yea thus comfort her according to the dayes wherein he had afflicted her and cause his peoples uprising in measure and kind to answer their low and suffering state from Antichrist even in the last times when the Lord shall make them appear with the face of a Lion when the feeble shall be as David and as the Angel of the Lord Zach. 12 ver 8. which promise doth clearly point at the Churches raising and delivery from Antichrist upon the back whereof we find the Prophet doth foretel the last conversion and incomming of Israel 5. I shall only adde what the Scripture doth most expresly shew that the Lord shall so gloriously appear in bringing his Church out of Babylon and executing his judgement on that adversary as in the day when he brought his people out of Egypt and therefore shall they sing the song of Moses and the lamb Rev. 15 ver 3. his great power and outstretched hand being no lesse discernable therein then if they had been standing with Israel at the red Sea when they saw their enemyes lying dead upon the shore yea have we not ground to believe that the Lord shall make himself very evidently knowen in raising instruments and acting them forth which hath been already seen and I am sure the World must confesse what great things have been done by these of whom little was expected III. That the Lord hath thus begun to appear and make himself known to the World in these last ages according to his word is a thing very easy to demonstrat for 1. Is it not clear how in these last times he hath met his enemyes upon their high places
doth commend it self to mens consciences as a safe ground whereon they may repose their soul It is also clear how wonderfully the Scripture hath been preserved and the original copyes thereof keept through all ages that what ever small variation there may appear as to some Apiculi which in some places hath caused divers readings yet in any necessary or saving truth the greatest Criticks will confesse they do not in the least vary and it is knowen wherein we are to adore that special providence of God that the Jewish Church to whom this sacred depositum was delivered did with such exact and singular care look to the same even in the least tittle or letter thereof this being the great work and study of the Mazarites from one age to another to see to the preserving of that great record from being in the least vitiat or corrupt and the greatest adversaries of the truth cannot possibly deny that aggreement betwixt these many original copyes in the whole substance which may be very convincing to the World And doth not men see how marvellous the whole frame of the Scripture is What a correspondency betwixt all the parts thereof that nothing in it doth in the least vitiat the proportion and beauty of the work but all alongst an evident tendency to advance holinesse and conform the soul to God With a wonderful consent and harmony in answering to this great end we see the simplicity and plaines of its style yet backt with a convincing Majesty and authority upon the conscience yea besids it hath been attested by miracles that were great in themselves famous in their time transmitted to the Church in after ages with unanswerable evidences of their truth that not only from the witnes of the Word but other pressing and rational grounds may let us see there could be no deceit or imposture therein These are a great testimony to the truth but I may say on very sure ground that next to that great witnes of the Spirit there is no argument more convincing to reach Atheisme a stroke and throughly satisfy an exercised Spirit who may be plunged anent this great thing the authority of the Scripture then a clear discovery of its performance whilst under the assault of such a temptation if this be the very word of God they may but retire within and then turn their eyes abroad in the World to see what a visible impresse of the Word is stamped on every piece of the work and providence of God Now for further clearing I would offer these few things 1. First the accomplishment of the Scripture is a very publick testimony from Heaven to its divinity whilst the Lord by his works through the Earth which are done in the view of Angels and Men doth solemnly avow that this is his Word for we must say his work within on the hearts of his People without about the Church is such whereat men yea all the magicians of the earth may stand amazed and confesse that nothing lesse then a divine almighty power can accomplish the same 2. This gives in the witnes of all the generation of the righteous who from the beginning have proven the truth thereof yea sealed by the blood of many excellent Christians some of whom though they could not well disput for it yet had so strong a demonstration of the power of the truth within as made it an easy work to dy for the same 3. This doth clearly shew the Scripture is an unchangeable rule of righteousnes that alters not but takes place in all ages whence such as are wise to bring providence in to the Word and compare the experience and remarks of one time with another may have a great reach and be thus led in a sure path as to the for seeing of events 4. This also doth demonstrat that it is his Word who doth rule and guide the World and hath a soveraign dominion over the fame whilst we may here see such remarkable events which both in the present and in former times have fallen out as may shevv a povver that can reach the greatest vvith a stroke shake the most established Kingdomes and even over the belly of insuperable difficulties accomplish the Word yea that surely the Spirit of the vvheels vvhich moves them is from him vvhose Word this is for it is not more clear that these courtaines of the Heavens are stretcht forth over the Earrh then that the Scripture is stretcht out over the vvhole vvork and frame of providence so as all the motious and steps thereof even of the most casual things that fall out hath a visible tendenâ—y to accomplish these ends vvhich the Scripture hath held forth 5. This clearly sheweth it must be his Word who hath forseen all things that were to beâ—all the Church and the various changes and adventures of every Christians life through time whilst it is so wonderfully shaped and suited to every new tryal of the Church as if intended only for that time and to every case of a godly man as though it had been alone writ for them 6. This also sheweth that he who is the author of the Scripture and hath framed that admirable piece must have some immediat correspondence with the Spirit of Man knoweth our sitting down and riseing up yea doth search the heart and the reines for experience can tell how the Word is directed to the heart doth reach the most inward contrivances thereof doth so clearly reveall and open up a Christian to himselfe that we may say of a truth he is the God of the Spirits of all flesh and one greater then our heart whose it is 7. I shall further adde the fulfilling of the Scripture in the experience of the saints doth shew it is not a dead letter but hath power and life and there must be an enlightning quickning spirit that surely goeth along with the same this clearly demonstrates something above words yea above nature in the written Word that can make such a change upon the soul give life to the dead open the eyes of the blind yea can turn a lump of earth that formerly tended downward now without any violence to move from a principle of life towards God as the sparks flee upward VI. The aceomplishment of the Scripture is a most pleasant and truely delectable subject worthy of our Serious thoughts and study for here is held out the highest truth for the judgement to contemplat the truth and faithfulnes of God in the Word and here is also the greatest good for the affections to embrace and delight in as that wherein our whole happines is certainly wrapt up it is undenyable that it is the godly man who knoweth best what true and solide pleasure is which he doth not losse by turning his heart from the creature to God but maketh a blessed exchange O how far doth the joy and delights of the soul exceed these of the senses and the delight of a Christian how far
and is not that agrave duty Which at all times in every station and condition of life should engadge men to this study thus every Christian may become a witnes to the truth and put his seal thereto for which he should think his life truely desireable and he doth in no small measure attain the true end thereof though he had no other opportunity for his masters service and we may say this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment like a great roll hath been transmitted from hand to hand from one age to another attested and as it were subscrybed by so many witnesses it doth thus come to our time and to every mans doore and require their personal witnessing and sealing of the same 2. This should make it an easy work to trust the Word and to adventure thereon in the ordinary occurrences of their life they may well trust God in strait who have so strong an argument to make use of that oft they have tryed him and the truth of his Word by many many experiences will not these that know his name trust in him Which was a notable testimony from a serious Christian in a very sharp triall oft have I tryed God and shall I not learn to trust him once 3. This doth lay the Christian in the way of that promise Psal 107. last ver a promise truely large and comprehensive but little considered that such as are wise to observe the works of God they shall see the loving kindnes of the Lord even in their own particular case made out to them yea whilst they are serious to observe his works abroad in the World and his way to others they shall be no losers thereby at home but find this promise meet them and to turn their general observation unto personal experience of the loving kindnes of the Lord. 4. Thus the saints by experiencing the truth of the Word get a conyincing seal thereby to their intrest in the promise for begun possession is indeed a strong witnes to this right when they can say they have got as certain returns of the Word when they have put it to an essay in some particulars of their life as they are sure of any thing they did ever see so from unquestionable experience they set up a pillar and write thereon Hither to hath the Lord helpt us 5. Thus should Christians with much advantage be helped to convince gainsayers for its sure Atheisme could not make so bold and publick an appearance if men did not so much take their religion on trust O the serious experienced man can with an other confidence own the truth whose experience and observation of the works of God give him an argument that none can answer while not only he can assert but conduct and lead men to the things themselves that they may see if in such and such particulars the Scripture be not truely fulfilled 6. Thus the providenee of God should have a more sweet refreshing countenance when from this great height that watchtower of Christiau observation we take a look thereof and truely otherwayes men will stumble at the most ordinary dispensations and think Gods Work is a masse of confusion but here we are taught to see how the written Word and his way are linked in a most sweet aggreement 7. We may thus trace Divine truth even by our sense and feeling and joyn the Word and experience in a regular correspondence yea thus we should have a clear transscript of the Lords way with his Church taken out of that great authentick original of the Scripture and there see on what a solid basis and foundation that magnificent structure of providence is raised up what a notable key should we thus have for opening the Scripture by a serious humble inquiry after the works of God Where not only the impression and signals of the power but of the truth and faithfulness of the Lord are so very legible 8. This is a piece of our talent wherewith we are entrusted of which every Christian should study a serious improvement knowing they must render an account what their observation of this great truth hath gained and what furder establishment and confirmation they have thus attained 9. I would adde the concernment and weight of this duty may presse it much on us for if the Scriptures accomplishment be an undoubted truth O! then this is sure the Saints have a great inheritance they are Princes though now under a disguise and though yet minors they are heirs of more then the World can shadow forth the Christian is then more happy on a dunghil scraping his sore then such who are cloathed in purple and fare delicately every day if this be sure we should look with compassion rather then envy on these whom the World doth account happy we need not question the gain of Godlines then it is sure that such who sow in teares shall reap in joy and the righteous though now trampled under in the morning shall have dominion yea in a vvord we may then on sure ground solace our selves with the thoughts of that great change which will be within a little when the grave must render back her prisoners and may with as much assurance of a blessed resnrrection ly doun in the dust as we are sure there will be a morning when we ly down at night O! then there is a Heaven and a hell that is certain eternity is not a night dream and one moment shall shortly put an end to all our services yea the shutting of our eye lids at death shall but open them in the Pardise of God HAving touched this truth a litle in the general I shall now hold forth some arguments whence the accomplâ—shment of the Scripture may be demonstrat they are these five which I intend to prosecute in the following discourse FIRST Argument To prove the Scripture is certainly fulfilled and hath an accomplishment is this that which hath been in all ages the testimony of the Saints what every particular Christian doth seal from their frequent and sure experience what is found and proved by them in there dayly walk upon exactest tryal yea what as many as ever were serious in Religion do witness must be certain and true But the accomplishment of the Scripture is such Therefore c. II. Argument That which is manifest and legible in the whole course and tenor of providence about the Church and by clear convincing instances both of judgement and mercy is made out to the observation of every age must be a certain truth but the Scriptures accomplishment is such Therefore III. Argnment Thar which hath not only the Christians testimony from experienee and of the Church from constant observation but is obvious even to the view of the World which from the conscience of the worst of men doth force a testimony that they can neither shift nor deny which also may be demonstrat to the conviction of ordinary observers hath a publick acknowledgement from
greatest Atheists and mockers of Religion in every age must surely be a clear truth But c Therefore IV. Argument That which was to take place in such and such periods of time and hath accordingly come to passe the event exactly answering to the prediction yea that whereof the great part is now fulfilled and but a litle at this day remaineth to be made out must be a certain truth But the great part of the Scripture is thus already fulfilled and but a litle thereof now remaineth Therefore V. Argument That which not only is for the most part already accomplished but is a thing whereof we have such sure confirmations yea so great a pledge in our hand from the Lord that what yet remaines shall be certainly fulfilled must it not be an undoubted truth But the Scripture as to these special predictions that are not yet made out is such as concerning which the Lord hath given his People a very largâ— pledge and strong confirmations now in these latter times to believe their certain accomplishment Therefore ARGUMENT FIRST THat the Scripture of God contained in the Old and New Testament wherein our great hope and comfort doth ly is certainly true and hath a real accomplishment may be thus demonstrat That it is tryed and Proved in the godly mans experience to which in all ages yea from innumerable proofs the saints have put to their seal that this is a sure and faithful testimory Experience is indeed a strong demonstration and it is such a witnes as leaveth no room for debate for here the truth is felt proven and acted on the heart which the Christian knoweth well and is as sure of as he is perswaded that he liveth or that the sun when it shineth hath light and warmnes therewith it is true the World liveth at a great distance with this they only converse with the sound of such a thing and we know the naked theory of Scripture truth hath but a short reach that it differeth as far from that which a serious practicall Christian hath as the sight of a countrey in a map is from a real discovery of the same where the difference is not in the degree but in the kinde yet though this grave testimony of experience is a thing whereto many alace too many are strangers yet we must say so much thereof is obvious as may force its authority on mens consciences and shew that there can be no fallacy or delusion in this witnes if they but allow the use and exercise of reason seing it is not the record of a few at one time or in one corner of the earth but a solemne witnes from the saints and followers of God whose judgement and integrity their adversaries must often confesse yea of all the saints in every age through the whole universal Church in parts of the earth most remote from other and this by most frequent renued prooffs hath found and experienced the truth and real accomplishment of the Word and now if this be not sufficiently convincing I would but adde O â— will yow then come and see be but Christians indeed and then ye will no more debate that testimony and truly it is a very poore shift for men who have the Scripture before them which of it self doth witnes its authority and this backed with so solemn a seal from the Lord by his works and providence to debate the Christians witnes from their experience because they do not see this themselves vvhat is the cause thereof their choise that they do not follovv on to knovv the same the truth of God seeketh credit from no man upon trust yea craveth no more but that by a practical converse they would put it to a trial and then it shall not decline their judgement Now to prosecute this argument a litle I shall point at some special Scripture-truths with which Christians have most usual trade and converse in their own case and give in therewith their testimony how these are clearly proved and verifyed by most sure experieuce it is not to be here understood the giving a particular account with respect to persons time or other circumstances how the Word doth thus take place I think it may be sufficiently convincing to instance in the general such clear uncontroverted experiences which are well known to the godly and have by them been oft proved amidst the various changes of their life though not by all in the same measure but in some suitable proportion to their different syzes tryalls and wrestlings which can witness that real correspondence which the Word hath with the experience of the saints and truely concerning these I may with some confidence assert they are not naked or airy notions but such as can witnes their truth to the serious experienced Christian whom on this account I dare attest I shall here instance 5. special truths of the Word which are much tryed and proved in Christians experience 1. That there is such a contrariety betwixt the flesh and the spirit as the Scripture holdeth forth 2. The deceitfulnes of mans heart 3. That there is a spiritual and invisible adversary with whom we have war 4. That the promises of the Word have undoubted accomplishment 5. The truth also of the threatnings I mean such under whose reach the godly may fall I. That there is a contrariety betwixt the flesh and the spirit a Law in our members rebelling against the Law of our mind is a truth very clearly proved to the Christian whose experience though sad doth undenyably verify and confirm the Scripture Gal. 5 v. 17. Rom. 7 v. 19 21 23. this is a piece of the Word which holds forth mans nature in its true shape and form whither their byasse and inclination most easily turneth yea so marvellously answereth their experience that to question the same were to put it far beyond question that they know nothing of a new nature or a principle of grace within For who ever made earnest of Religion but their first acquaintance with the peace of God was the beginning of this war it is then that the house divideth and corruption setteth up a standard yea no sooner can any begin to be a Christian but he must be a souldier also and â—e may say none ever attained such a measure of mortification or was so old in the grace of God as could priviledge them from the stirrings of the old man and necessity of that complaint who shall deliver us from a body of death but what ever advantage some of the saints have above others yet in this their experience can witnes 1. They now know two different parties within themselves that until once grace came they could not understand which at the same time in the same action do act oppositly one to the other yea that there is no spiritual duty wherein the flesh though not alwayes in such a prevalent degree doth not shew some active resistance 2. That all the stirrings and
they should have deceived the very elect 9. I must adde this further witnes to the marvellous preservation of the Church which in an ordinary way could not come to passe that we find no other party was ever brought so low and near death to be yet alive the knife was once at the Churches throat in Isaack she did seek to adopt a bound-womans sonne in stead of a lawful heir when Abraham agreed to Sara's overture for the outmaking of the promise how near exspiring doe we finde her in Egypt when a sentence to destroy all her male issue was gone forth Yea what but a miracle could have preserved her when she was betwixt Pharaoh and the red sea How low was the Church in the wildernes and after in the dayes of the captivity even broken to pieces with small appearance of life when her face was all blurred with weeping and her enemyes made sport over her ruines at the rivers of Babylon when the Children of Edom cryed out let us raze her even to the foundation Yea could the Church be nearer the grave then when her bones were scattered at the graves mouth bnt above all in that dark night when her head and shepheard was smitten and her hope seemed to be buried in the grave with a stone put upon it when shee could get no entertainment among the Jewes was wounded in the house of her friends and the Gentils in wrath rose up against her that for some hundred Yeares the great Empire which had trod down all the nations about put forth the outmost of power and malice for her undoing O who could have thought the Church should outlive this Yea after all we finde her tost and hurried by Antichrist into the wildernes an adversary more cruel then any that had gone before where the Dragon watcht to get her destroyed but how in all these and through that long dark night she hath continued and marvellously flowrished as the palm tree under her greatest weights so that we cannot but see that which her enemies being judges will not deny that this promise to the Church of her preservation is this day fulfilled yea that it hath not in an ordinary way been brought about surely there is no inchantment against Iacob nor divination against Israel all her enemyes have been found lyers happy art thou above other People for the eternal God is thy refuge and underneath are everlasting armes else long since she should have been swallowed up may we not still say with astonishement O what hath God wrought in her behalfe SECOND Promise Which I shall here instance that God had made to his Church in the Word Of her increase and enlargement that the Earth should be covered with the knowledge of God as the sea of water and her seed be as the stars of Heaven that her bounds should be from the sea to the utmost rivers which was promised to Christ in the behalfe of his Church and that shee should possesse the gates of her enemyes Psal 89 v. 25. Psal 2 v. 8 Ifa 42 v. 4. Isa 54 v. As this promâ—â—â— is expresse in the Scripture we must say it is no lesse clear and evident in its accomplishment that surely the Lord hath keept his Word whereto the event doth most exactly answer and though yet it be not to the full made out I am sure there is so much at this day manifest considering the former condition of the Church as undenyably proveth the fulfilling of the formentioned promise which even to the conviction of greatest Atheists may be demonstrat from these grounds 1. That vast extent which the Kingdome of Christ hath had in the World for this cannot be denyed that the greatest Empire or Monarchy could never so faâ— extend their conquest as the Church hath done since the wall of partition was taken down short are the limits of the Grecian and Roman Empire considered with this whose bounds have been the ends and uttermost parts of the Earth where neither Greece or Rome did ever set up their Trophees hath not the Gospel as the sun made its circuit from the East to the West Yea crossed the seas to the dark northern nations thus fulfilling its course in order to its return again to the place of its first rising that it may as we are sure it shall once visit the Jewes again and the eastern places of the World that now are buried in a night of darknes which I think will be as sure a presage of the break of day and second coming of the Lord as the morning Star is to the World of the Suns accomplishing its course and that it is returning again to the East were it should rise hath not the Gospel now been through Asia where it did not tarry for a night for many flowriâ—hing Churches were there and the going back of the tyde from thence was its flowing to another part of the World which is indeed observable of the Church as it is of the sea that what it hath losed in one part it hath gained in another did the vast distance of Africk its great barren deserts or scorching heat hinder the Gospels making a visit thither so as it was once a fertil soyle and brought forth many famous lights yea something yet doth both there and in the East parts of the World remain to shew the Gospel was â—ruely in these places and hath Europe though last been least on this account Yea what do mean the late discoveries of unknown parts of the Earth but to make way for a more full performance of this promise that the Gospel might stretch its conquest over the line which surely was the gold and treasure Christ designd from thence that even America might have her day also and the voice of the turtle be heard in these lands 2. Not only the large extent of the Church as to its bounds doth witnes this but also the great and numerous ofspring of Sons Daughters which in these parts where the Gospel hath been were brought forth to Christ for we may say what Iohn saw in vision hath been very manifest to after ages an innumerable company of all Tongues Nations and Languages of whom it could be said these are born in Zion O how great a harvest of the Nations is even already gathered What a fleece hath every particular Church cast What a marvellous increase hath been in some places after special tydes of the Gospel May we not say that truth is now beyond debate that out of one and him not onely as good as dead but truely dead there hath come forth as the sand of the sea and Stars of Heaven in number the Church hath inherited Josephs blessing of the womb and the breasts in a fruitful ofspring the dew of Christs youth hath been as the womb of the morning O what a marvellous and goodly company will this once be when gathered together Then will the performance of these pretious promises be fully manifested 3.
enchantment had fallen on men vvhat that could bee vvhich the more they sought to bear dovvn the more it increased that made the rich choose poverty and these vvho dwelt in palaces take themselves vvith chearfulnes to the dens and caves of the earth but besides this it is very manifest that in a large measure the spirit hath been let forth to the church in after ages yea there is no particular church vvhere the light hath shined but hath had it's special times some solemn day of the powring out of the spirit before the sun vvent down vvhich may be observed either at the first breaking up of the gospel or at some other remarkable time and change of her condition vvhence a great tack of souls to Christ hath follovved in a day vvherein an effectual doore vvas opened besides the reaching of the conscience and stirring the affection of many others under a common vvork of the spirit which usually goeth along vvith such solemn times 6 The going back of the tide and visible withdravving of the spirit from particular churches vvhere it hath sometime in a large measure been let forth is a very convincing vvitnes to the truth of this promise for it is clearly seen at vvhat a stand the gospel is in these places vvhere it most eminently shined that the land vvhich blossomed and vvas like a vvatered garden hath been made as the heath in the vvildernes and the ground from vvhence rain is vvithdravven and then that the ministers of Christ vvhose lot hath fallen in such a time are put to very sore vvork to vvorke as it vvere vvith oares for vvant of vvind to cast out the net all night and catch nothing a shut doore is upon them in the exercise of their Ministry duty is made Lurthensome because the Lord is against them there is an evident restraint upon the word and its intercourse is more with the ear then with the consciences of men yea any liberty they find is to execut a commission of judgement and to denounce the woe of the Gospel O doth not so manifest withdrawing of the spirit witnes the outletting thereof and that it is a certain and real thing 7. Doe not the stirrings and strange convictions which even the worst of men have sometimes under the word witnes a divine spirit and power going along therewith that which forceth an assent from their conscience to the truth which otherwayes they hate yea maketh them for the time wonder they should not have been more serious in the wayes of God yea it doth often put a thorn in the bed of their security for indeed the word and the light thereof doth torment these who dwell in the earth And truely this is a marvellous thing which winneth in uponm mens secret designes and councels doth reveal to them the most closs thoughts of their heart which they are sure mens eye could not reach taketh them down through themselves and yet that the world knoweth not whence it is yea are they not forced to confesse what a great difference they find betwixt the word from the mouth of some who are holy and serious though held out in greatest simplicity then from others even of greater gifts and accompanyed with more shew of eloquence that surely the one hath an other sound and relish speaketh more feelingly home to their heart then the most polished discourse of greatest oratours 8. One witnes moe I shall here give to the truth of this promise even these eminent examples of the grace of God which in every age have shined in the firmament of the Church some in love and zeal some in patience and humility some in the strong acts of faith and â—elf-denyal which doe certainly demonstrat a more excellent spirit then that which is in the world whence they appear with another lustre in their walk and carriage and have a sweet and fragant savour of the spirit to the very discerning of bystanders which truely sheweth that his wind doth blow on his garden when the spices send forth so pleasant a sent FOVRTH We find an expresse Promise in the word of Deliverance to the Church â—n a low and oppressed condition that surely the Lord will plead her cause will deliver his People when he seeth their strenght is gone and save them from the hands of their enemyes Ps 18 47 48 50. Ps 22 4 5. Is 54 17. Is 51 23. It is true this promise hath its bounds limits and provisions which should be taken along in the application thereof we know the Covenant of God with particular Churches is conditional only he promiseth that he will be with them while they are with him yea it is oft seen and there is no jarr here with this promise that a People professing the Gospel confederat with God following duty have even turned their back before the enemy and in the holy providence of God have for a time been given up to their fierce rage and violence but it is also sure that this promise hath an accomplishment and in the day of the Churches strait the Lord hath oft appeared by a strong outstretched hand for her help his own arm brought salvation to his People when they sought to him for God is known in her palaces for a refuge yea surely the Church might oft sing that song on such clear grounds as though with Israel shee had been standing at the red sea thy right hand O Lord is full of power thy right hand hath dashed in pieces thy enemyes for what nation or People is like this to whom he hath shewed such marvellous things Now to shew forth the faithfulnes of God in this his promise I would offer some few things that are a most clear and undenyable witnes thereto 1. There are fevv ages but vvee have some record of the churches condition vvhich hold forth such signal convincing providences of God in behalf of his oppressed church and people as may be a manifest seal to this truth it is true some times have been more remarkable for suffering times of judgement of a growing tryal wherein this truth hath not so clearly shined forth yea that long night vvhich the church had under Antichrist might seem to call it in question but never the lesse if men take a serious look of the Lords vvay and series of providence in ages past comparing one time vvith another what the straits and most extream case of the church hath at last resolved in they will find cause to cry with astonishment great deliverances giveth he to his people yea the Lord hath done gteat things for them I am sure were a full record with that true account which might be given of these more remarkable delivrances that particular churches have met with since the first planting of the Gospel among them wherein Gods very immediat hand for their help hath been discernable it should non-plus the World and greatest Atheists anent the real outmaking of this promise 2. The confession even
undoubted â—eâ—dency to bring forth the Churches good as though they â—d intentionally act for the same there will indeed one day be a more clear and marvellous discovery of this when the Lord hath perfected his work and the mystery of God is finished the Church brought safe to the harbour then shall it be fully manifest to what end all these stormâ—s and cross winds in the counsels and designes of men wee these things which in the time could not be understood but seemed perplexed and strange did really worke foâ—the Churches good for then men will see with their eyes afull performance of the word yet we must say even here in every age amidst the various changes of the Churches case this hath so clear an outmaking that there is no serious observer of providence but may bear winess to it 1. That not only the Churches good but ever her greatest good hath most clearly had its rise and been brought forth out of the greatest mischiefs and hurts intended against her that if we search the Scripture and will turn over these after records of the Churches condition we shall there find the most remarkable attempts and plots such as Pharaohs last essay to destroy the Isiaelites Hamans great design to root out the seed of the Jewes that great Masterplot Sathan once had on â—oot to crush the Gospel and the Christian Church by crucifying her head yea in these last times Antichrists killing the witnesses have all as if really intended by the instruments as well as the first mover brought forth the Churches greatest good so as the after-mercy and outgate hath carried some visible proportion to her tryal and to the greatnes of her adversaryes design 2. It may be also clear if we but trace back these memorable changesâ— which have been up and down the earth how direct a tendency they have had to this end did not the bringing down that great image of the Monarchies witness this We finde Nebuchadnezar raised up as a rod to the Church and Cyrus for a deliverer we may see the Persian and Grecian Monarchies brought down to make way for the setting up of the Messias his Kingdome Antiochus must stand up a little for a sharp tryal and his downfal give the Church a new breathing and hold forth to after ages a remarkable monument of the judgement of God against his enemyes Peaceable Augustus most tryst with his time in whose dayes shall be aboundance of peace we finde a Titus set up to execute the judgement of God on the Jewes to make way for a further enlargement to the â—gentil Church an Nero and Domitian to help forward the Churches suffering and a Constantine to give her some rest after so long and sore an assault and at last the Roman empire mouldred down for Antichrists upsetting to accomplish what did remain of the sufferings of Christ in his Church by that adversary 3. We may oft see a very strange tryst and concurrence of things how instruments act to bring about the Lords end and advance his Churches interest even while each one doth most vigorously drive their own proper end and design which sheweth there is surely a living spirit in the wheels that ordereth these motions a supream and first mover that can thus determine them whither they will or not to serve his end and the Churches good when they most directly intend the contrary 4. We have seen how in mens plotting the ruine of the Church there is oft an unseen hand determining their judgement and inclination to fall upon that very way then which we would think nothing could have been more direct for her good and their own ruine how an Hushai hath been sent in or some have been stirred up amongst themselves upon their own interest to break the pernicious counsels and designs of others 5. We have also seen the personal quarrels of the Churches enemyes among themselves brought to such an height and to tryst so seasonably that onlookers might clearly perceive that it hath been from the Lord a judgement for their rage and violence against his poor oppressed People 6. We have seen the Churches enemies raised to a strange height all advantages favouring them until their plot and mine hath been ripe for springing and lo at that very choke something unexpected hath fallen out which did turn their former successe to their further ruine yea disappoint all this the World is ready to call some fata and malevolent conjunction which cannot be resisted and what is this in effect but the witness of mens conscience to a divine hand 7. Have we not seen some sore dash and overthrow in the Church bring forth her good and a more full victory when visible helpe and meanes have been taken out of the way that something above meanes might be seen in her condition even in that day when all hath been given for lost yea truths loseing the day upon the field bring forth her triumph on the scaffold and at the stake 8. We have seen most despicable and ordinary things made subservient for some great piece of the Lords work a very small thing made the first rise of strange revolutions that remarkable changes have been oft lying in the bosome of common providence yea truely we finde both Scripture and the observation of after ages witness that the Churches deliverance and outgate did almost never come that way by such a method and meanes as shee had most expected the same and that Gods time of working may be oft very contrary to our time of expecting I shall only add is it not oft seen which I am sure all ages can witness how mens endeavours to darken the truth by errour hath been an effectual meanes for its further clearing That the growing of a tryal a violent and sore exacting upon the Church hath kindly wrought towards her outgate and enlargement her meat hath been oft brought even out of the eater by midses most destructive thereto and a svvord must pierce the Churches heart that the thoughts of many may be discovered a time of persecution must help to cure the divisions amongst the godly and bring them together in the furnace vvhich prosperity could not doe yea it is oft seen vvhich former ages can also vvitness that the very undoing of the Church hath been Gods blest vvay to keep her from being undone THE SECOND BRANCH DOth concern these Scripture threatnings which are held forth in the word with a respect to the visible Church and against a people professing the Gospel that no priviledges they have above others shall exeem them from judgment yea and from very sad strokes he hath knowen them above the rest of the World he will contend with them most severely because of sin and such particular evils as we find the Word threatneth I touched a little some Scripture-threatnings in the preceeding argument as concerned Christians in their privat experience what I here intend is to point at this truth as it
That this vvas a deed knovvn and publick in the time vvhich vvas not done in a corner but in the vievv of the World and before all the Children of Israel and by them attested and vvith greatest carefulnes transmitted to their Children and by these to the follovving generations as a thing never to be forgotten 2. Was testifyed by Moses so great a person and eye-vvitnes thereof one vvhom even the most auncient of heathen vvriters do mention vvith much respect and in this did never challenge his testimony though a matter of fact and of that moment vvhich all the nations about could not but knovv and both in the present and after ages have the remembrance thereof keeped up so that they might easily refute such a thing if false and vve may judge the Egyptians and many others could vvant no goodvvill to put disgrace on a People they so much hated nor be ignorant of that vvhich Moses published in his ovvn time to vvhose vvorks some of the auncientest heathen vvriters doe shew they have been no strangers 3. A truth which by Moses was put in record and delivered to the Jewes to be keept by them and their Children in all succeeding ages a record which they did so narrowly look to and had in that reverence and esteem that all the syllabs and letters thereof were by them numbred lest in the smallest point it should be wronged yea were more careful to preserve it then any nation can be of their most concerning rights and charters 4. A thing whereof the remembrance was yearly from that time celebrat by the Jewish Church whence the institution of the passover had its rise that deliverance being as a sign and sacramentall pledge of that great salvation by him who is our true passover III. What is held forth in the Scripture concerning the more full grouth of the Iewish Church that Judah should enjoy a Scepter which was foretold by dying Jacob and promised once and again to Abraham by the Lord that his seed should be as the sand of the sea and enjoy Canaan for an inheritance hath it not long since been fulfilled Wherein these things are clear 1. That for many ages Israel did enjoy that land in a most flowrishing condition which doth in part appear from these very ruines and desolation over which they have so long lamented the glory of Ierusalem and the temple once so famous which causeth such reverence amongst them to the very rubbish thereof at this day 2. That they were once a People by themselves who were not mingled with the Nations but keept at a distance by their Religion and Lawes from the rest of the World as a peculiar People to the Lord is a thing undenyable 3. That whilest they enjoyed it there was a singular blessing of fruitfulnes thereon above other places so as that small piece of ground was eneugh for an innumerable multitude of inhabitants but is novv at this day a barren sand an extraordinary curse no lesse seen thereon then the blessing was in former times 4. It is also evident that something in the way and carriage of this people even in their low wandering condition doth discover they have not forgot what once they were nor their former grandour and flovvrishing but still keep by themselves vvith some respect to their ovvn land vvhich their fathers did enjoy IV. That piece of the Scripture vvhich did concern the declining times of the Church under the Old Testament vvhat Jeremy foretold of the Babylouish captivity hath novv many ages since been fulfilled a truth vvhich vve have attested by sacred history an history vvhich doth clearly justify it self and its authority by such convincing marks thereof that vve may say these vvho do seriously converse vvith the vvord cannot take up Atheisme vvithout the laying down of reason and putting a force upon their ovvn light Novv as to this particular prophecy vve vvould but seriously consider 1. That vvhich Jeremy did foretel anent the captivity vvas not its accomplishment put on record in a book of the Churches lamentations vvhere this truth may be read in her teares and truely such as ever knevv grief in a high measure may easily knovv vvhat is there exprest to be sad earnest and read the lively motions of an afflicted case therein and besides hath not this been witnessed to after ages by a visible monument even the destruction of the temple that great and excellent work which though after rebuilt did never attain its former splendour 2. This was a matter of fact of great note and famous in the time done in the view of all the nations a considerable piece of the Babylonish conquest yea that testimony the Scripture beareth to the same was it not a few ages after made publick to other parts of the world by the Septuagint translation so that it had been easy for Ptolemy or any in that time to have discovered the falsehood of a thing so lately done yet these times nor the most professed enemyes to the Church therein could not in the least contradict the same 3. Though much of humane history and these records of auncient times that vve now have are both corrupt and defective yet there wants not some consent from the surest of these to many of the most observable things that we have of the history of the old testament and as to the certanity of this truth besids its own authority we will find some of these oldest writers Berosus Herodot and Xenophon give some light to the same whose witnes the Atheist cannot challenge yea is it not clear that Iosephus not only from sacred history but from these old records and fragments of former times which were then extant though since have been much lost compose his Iewish antiquityes which give so particular a relatiou of this truth V. What was foretold by Daniel concerning the rise and fall of the Monarchies and change of these great Empires who had been so sore a rod upon the Church hath it not many ages past had a most punctual performance It is now long since that great image shewed to the prophet in a vision hath been brought down and broken so that scarse the toes thereof doe now remain which besides the witnes of the Scripture may be clearly demonstrat upon other rational grounds 1. It being granted that the prophecie of Daniel was translated in Greek and laid up in that great library of Alexandria long before much of it was fulfilled before Antiochus Epiphanes and the rising of the Roman empire which Porphyrius could not be ignorant of though all he could answer to that evident agreement betwixt his prophecie and the event was that it must have been writ after these things were accomplished whilest it is clear that a part of the prophecie of Daniel which concerned the fourth Monarchy was not even in his times fully made out yea we must say something thereof doth reach to the last end of time 2. It is also
from Heaven was not a thing done in a corner but in the publick view of men which in these dayes was most notour and famous but yet there cannot be produced one contradictory testimony to the truth of these relations by any adversary of the Gospel either at that time or since sure the World wanted no malice and these great things were airly published by the Evangelists and Apostles whilest much of that generation was alive yet it is clear though in a matter of that concernment which made then so great a noise and was at that time putting the earth all in a flame none was found either among Iewes or gentils who could or durst put forth a manifesto to discover the least cheat or falshood in these things attested in the History of the Gospel 4. What ever different partyes and sects did break up with the first time of the Church to opppse the truth in other things yet in this they had all one consent that he who was crucified at Ierusalem was the Messias and Christ which truely did witnes the clear irresistible manifestation of this truth in these times since if there could have been the least ground to challenge any imposture or deceit in this great foundation of the Christian faith it is more then probable these bitter contentions followed with such animosity and heat and irritation of these whom the Apostles and Church in that time did with much zeall and sharpest censures persue would have engadged them to put all the disgrace upon the truth which they could if they might have had where to fasten their teeth I would furder adde that even the arguments and objections which the adversaryes of the Gospel could ever bring to oppose the same are indeed a convincing witness and confirmation and shew how little they could any way say in giving their malice a vent we find that absurd alledgeance of the Iewes that the great works Christ did in the dayes of his flesh were by stealing the name Iehovah out of the temple which they alleadge he sewed up in his thigh which truely needeth no further refutation but the reciting therefore and here they are even forced to witnes the truth of these relations held forth by the Evangelists as to the matter of fact which we find also these later Atheists such as Vanninus Cardan c. dare not challenge or debate onely they would ascrive these great works which Christ then wrought to the influence of the starres a challenge so absurd that needs no other answer but to relate it VII We have that remarkable prophecy of the incoming of the Gentils a truth indeed great and marvellous which as it is expresly held forth in the Old Testament yea is there mentioned Is 54 ver 1 2. Is 60 ver 3 9. is a thing so clearly now written forth in the event that I am sure the greatest Atheists can have no shift here that in this strange work of God about his Church the Scripture hath an undenyable accomplishment Now to clear this let us but consider 1. That for many ages this truth anent the incalling of the gentils was sealed up in a prophecy a thing so great and astonishing to the auncient Iewish Church that they could not well comprehend the same until once the event brought it forth for this was indeed a mystery hid from ages how the Gentiles should be fellow heires of the same body and partakers of the promise in Christ then the bounds and extent of the Church did not exceed Iudea that small inclosure whilest the whole World beside did ly buried like an out field in dark paganisme it is well known that the most pleasant places of Africa Asia and Europe where afterwards many famous Churches were within these 1600 yeares was but a savage wildernes Britain Germanie and France did then vvorship the sun and starres they sacrificed to the Gods of the heathens yea these eastern partes on which the sun did first rise did not then know the God of Israel a truth which not only the Roman and Grecian Historyes but the records of particular Nations can clearly attest 2. It is clear that this prophecy was not held forth in a general but we find the time also prefixed with other special circumstances when it should have its accomplishment at the appearing of the Messias when he should be revealed to Israel before which time a bar was drawen in the way of the Nations and a wall of partition betwixt them and the Church until he stand up who should hold forth an ensign to the People and gather the gentils under his standard which Esay doth clearly shew Es 11 v. 10. and 34 ver 1 2. and 60 ver 1 c. and then must the mountaines flow down at his presence Nations be born at once yea the light break forth to the East and the West then should the Children of the desolate be moe then of the married wife when this time even the set time for the gentils is once come and it may be very convincing which is indeed observable that notwithstanding of a more flowrishing condition of the Iewish Church in former ages when her grandour and prosperity was more tempting and the neighbourhood and commerce which the Nations about had with that People yea though by the captivity they were scattered among the Persians and Babylonians yet was there no stir or change of the World until the appointed time once came 3. It may be easy to prove the event of this prophecy and its manifest accomplishment even at the time thereof for this men can not deny that the Lord did visit the Gentils with the knowledge of his truth which then caused such a change in the earth as a great part of it hath been brought from heathnish idolatry to vvorship the God of Israel and such who once were strangers and aliens now made to professe the same faith as to the substance thereof of the auncient Iewish Church sure this truth needs not want a vvitnes vvhilest Nations and much of the knovvn World hath been for so long a time and yet to this day are a visible proof thereof a truth of such concernment that in former ages made a great and stupendious change upon the face of the earth so that not onely an innumerable company out of all Nations and languages but the generality the very complex body of Kingdoms and Nations can bear vvitnes thereto novv the Gospel hath been preached through much of the World yea vve may say fevv parts thereof vvhere there hath not been some face of a Church though the promise hath not yet had its full accomplishment but vve wait for according to the Scripture a more flowrishing time and great harvest among the Nations when Israel shall be gathered how ever it is sure the Lord hath in a great part fulfilled this his promise so that the Church might then with astonishment cry out who hath begotten all these
nor Law-giver no piece of the earth they can call their own but at the mercy and arbitrary disposal of every place they reside in no priviledge or liberties but a naked permission to brook their lives and estates during the pleasure of these under whom they get shelter a people put by themselves with a visible mark of divine wrath upon them like a beacon set up for all the nations to look on even these who were once eminently ovvned of the Lord who was known in their palaces for a refuge yea it is very manifest that no stir or essay that ever they made for their releef but was still to their further ruin and found Gods hand visibly crosse to them therein sure Ammianus Marcellinus a heathen writer did intend no testimony to the Christian cause in relating that strange passage which neer his time fell out how the Iewes by Iulians warrant and permission did attempt to build the temple again but a fire breaking up from the foundation thereof which destroyed many of the workmen forced them with much terrour to desist 3. Must it not be some strange and dreadful provocation beyond the sin of their forefathers whereat so strange and unusual a stroke doth point whilest it is clear that notwithstanding frequent Idolatry and departing from God when they were at that height in wickednes to offer up their children to Molech and set up altars in the groves to reject the message of the prophets and thrust some of them in a dungeon yet were only punished with 70 yeares captivity and after by Gods very immediat hand brought again these who had taken them captive concurring with them to rebuild the temple but now how long and dark hath their night been since this judgement came on them and though they could not these many ages charge themselves with Idolatry yet no saviour or deliverer hath been raised up no Prophet sent forth no sign or appearance at this day of releef now for these 1600 yeares yea amidst these frequent changes and revolutions that have been in the World no change in their condition sure if that people vvere in speaking tearmes with their consciences this might put them to a strange demurr what should be the cause if they be not guilty of killing the Messias and that blood pursuing them what attrocious provocation beyond others they can condescend on for which the Lord doth so long and so sore by such an unusual and unheard of strok thus contend 4. What a marvellous concurrence of providence and convincing appearance of a divine hand was in this judgement the besieging of Ierusalem by the Romans trysted with the very time of the passover whilest so great a confluence of people from all parts of the land were there on that account that both sword and famine might contribute their help to destroy what unreasonable and astonishing obstinacy against all offers of peace and the most pressing insinuations thereof which Titus Vespasian made even whilest their ruin was otherwise unevitable an unheard of strife where the enemy did contend to save but they to undoe themselves how judicially hardened under most remarkable prodigies and warnings which they had of that approaching desolation divided wholly amongst themselves yea so cruel one upon another within that their adversary without could not but look thereon with compassion O what a stroke was this wherein greatest Atheists would grant a fatality for indeed men cannot consider the same without acknowledging a divine hand and something above ordinary meanes and causes where all did thus meet together in a solemn tryst to accomplish that Peoples ruin 5. But it is here we may see a singular providence of God for his Church that these who of all the World are most violent enemyes to the Christian truth are also a most convincing vvitnes to the same vvhilest first these do clearly attest the Scripture vvhich is our alone charter the divine authority of Moses and the Prophets the true copyes vvhereof they did most tenderly preserve vvhat ever absurd glosses some of their Rabbies have thereon Yea durst never offer in the least to vitiat the original but hath had the same transmitted still from one age to an other to vvhich records that are this day in their hand the Christian Church can with much confidence appeal and demonstrat from the Old Testament the â—undoubted truth of the New Yea in this we may appeal the Atheist to his conscience that the Scripture is no imposture or any cunning device of Christians which is so far witnessed even by the greatest adversary and maligners of the Christian Religion 2. That strange induration of the Iewes their unreasonable rejecting of the truth vvho after so long a time cannot see the cause vvhich is most discernable in their stroke O is not this also a most convincing seal to the Scripture and clear fulfilling thereof that there is a vail over their mind as the Apostle sheweth whilest they read the Law judicially smitten by the Lord with blindnes that they cannot see until once this vail be taken off and truely we may say there is nothing in their judgement more strange and astonishing then such a continued obstinacy against the truth how they should be thus dark in the noon day But that herein the Scripture is fulfilled so that we may even turn a poison unto an antidot IX That which is so expresly foretold in the New Testament yea is the great drift of the Prophecyes thereof The coming of Antichrist and revealing of the man of sin to the World 2 Thiss 2 ver 3 4 7 8 9. hath long since been accomplished wherein we may say the wonderful corresponding of the event with the prophecy is so clear that this truth is novv as plain and obvious as once it was dark to the Church these things being undenyable 1. How the Spirit of God in the Scripture hath been in a more then ordinary way particular to point Antichrist forth by such notour marks and characters that after ages may known him if they will not shut their eyes I confesse it is not strange the popish party should seal-up the Scripture and forbid the ordinary reading of it since the breaking forth of that light vvould soon make their Kingdome dark for if men vvould but set the history of the Church since the times of the Apostles over against the Scripture and make use of that notable key for opening up the prophecyes of the Nevv Testament it should be then easy to knovv the Antichrist is surely come and vvho this is and herein doth the Lords tender respect to his Church appear that he doth not only in a very solemn manner forevvarn men anent this great tryaâ— and as it vvere by the sound of a trumpet give an alarum that such an adversary vvas coming yea of the time thereof vvho vvould do more hurt then all who had gone before but doth also make so clear a discovery of the whole fabrick rise
come he is come and thus chearfully went to death Thomas Hudson a choise Christian vvho suffered in Queen Maryes time vvhen at the stake did slip suddenly from under the chain to the astonishment of the People but not from fear of death but from the vvant of feeling of Christ vvhich made him full of heavines but after his turning aside that he had got his soul poured out to God he returned as one raised from death to life crying out Now I am strong and do not care what man can do and thus with much joy did yeeld up his spirit Likewise Annas Du Burg whom we before mentioned being through fear and discouragement drawen to recant had no rest in his spirit until he retracted the same and after did chearfully undergoe death with what marvellous resolution did that excellent man Doctor Cranmer put his right hand to the fire when he came to the stake and suffered to burn vvithout shrinking vvhich as he said he vvould punish for subscribing a recantation vvhich vvas so much thereafter his grief Last I must adde that marvellous joy and resolution vvhich the Saints in these late times did in their greatest sufferings shevv is very notoure and knovven to the World for their sufferinge vvas not in a corner and vve may say hath not come short of the primitive martyrs but did vvitnes the same spirit and povver accompanying them I cannot passe this in a general vvithout giving some touch amidst such a multitude of convincing instances let us hear blessed Bradfoord at the stake thus speak to his fellovv sufferer be of good comfort for we shall have this night a merry supper with the Lord. Latimer to Ridley â—â— shall this day light such a candle in England as I trust shall never be put out Mr Sanders I was in prisâ—n until I got â—â—â— prison and at the stake embracing cryes welcome the 〈◊〉 of Christ welcome everlasting life Doctor Ferrer to a gentleman vvho bemoaned his death and the painfulnes of it if â—ow see mee once stirr in the fire beleeve not my doctrine as did after appear for he stood vvithout moving in the midst of the flame Iohn Ardley if every haâ—r of my head â—ere a man it should suffer death in the faith I â—â— stand â—â— Elisabeth Folks embraceing the stake cryed fare well World fare well faith and hope and welcome love Robert aguires son vvhen at Lile in the Lovv countries he suffered vvith his father for the truth in the year 1556. did cry forth at the stake behold millions of Angels about us and the heaven opened to receive us after he had sometime fixed his eyes on heaven and vvhen the fire vvas kindled sayes to his father yet a very little and we shall enter into the heavenly mansion Mr. Tims an English minister in Queen Maryes dayes thus vvrits to his friends I am going to the Bishops colehouse but shall not be long there before I be carried up to my brethren vvho are gone to heaven before mee in a fiery chariot follovv yovv after mee vvhere yovv shall find mee singing merily at my jurneyes end holy holy holy Lord God of Sabaoth Algerius an Italian martyr thus vvrits from his prison a little before his death vvho vvould believe that in this dungeon I should finde a paradise so pleasant in a place of sorrow and death tranquillity and hope of life vvhere others vveep I rejoyce O hovv easy and svveet is his yoke and this he subscribs from that delectable orchard of the Leonine prison Guy de Bres the ringing of my chain hath been sweet â—â—sick in my eares all my former discourses were but as a blind wans of collours in respect of my present feeling O what a â—â—ious comforter is a good conscience The Lord Henry Otto a Bohemian vvho suffered in the late persecution said to the minister I vvas troubled but novv I feel a vvonfull refreshment O now I fear death no longer I will dye with joy and on the scaffold cryed out behold I see the heavens opened pointing with his hands at the place where others observed a certain brightnes that did dazel their eyes and thus dyed with great chearfulnes I shall but adde the last vvords of that holy and great Mr Wishart vvho thus spake amidst the fire this flame doth torment my body but no whit abate my spirits FOVRTH Witnes is these great and remarkable judgements of God which in these last times have befallon the adversaryes and persecutus of the Church who have been most notour for their opposition to the truth wherein we must say a divine hand hath been so discernable that ordinary observers could not passe the same without a remark but must acknowledge the righteous judgement of God that it cometh not by guesse and at an adventure but doth convincingly seal the word This is indeed a grave subject wherein we should be very serious and sober for the judgements of God are a great depth nor can we determine from events but in so far as they answer to the word it may sometime happen to wicked men according to the work of the righteous but on the other hand it is a sure truth that God is knowen by the judgement he executs and in every age doth point out sin to the World by remarkable strokes some great examples of judgement which as a beacon are set forth for men to observe and truely we may say these remarkable instances of the judgement of God since he begun to sound a retreat to his Church from Babylon are fan beyond other preceeding ages I would be spareing to repeat what of this kinde is published by others bâ—t that in speaking to this truth I cannot passe it in a generalâ— whilest there are so many instances wherein the Lord hath made himself knowen and these such a convincing seal and confimation of the truth and Protestant cause in these last times anent which and the following relations I dare with confidence say there is not any passage or matter of fact here set down without some clear and satisfying grounds as to the certainty thereof I shall first instance Charles the V. whose undertakings for many yeares were followed with successe untill once he set himselfe to persecute and oppresse the Church and bathed his sword in the blood of the Protestants with his cruel and unjust usage of the Duke of Saxony from which time his affaires begun visibly to decline he is forced to fly before Mauritius and seek a retreat in the furthest confines of the Empire and after broken with melancholy and discontent like another Dioclesian doth resign his empire and turn to a privat life Philip the II. of Spain one of the greatest persecutors of the Church in these last ages whose work was to root out the Protestant Religion in his dominions and therefore set on foot that horrid engine of the Inquisition yet at last finds all his essayes frustrat and after the losse of many millions
sacrifice of the Lord be abhorred then some of these who should be the falt of the earth yea none more obstruct the treaty of the Gospel betwixt Christ and his Church then Ministers who are called the friends of the bridgroom Oh what a strange and astonishing contradiction may this seem but it should be no reproach to that holy and excellent calling of the Ministry for of such the Scripture hath expresly warned I confesse it may be said no Atheist like an unsanctified Minister yea no Atheisme of so black a dye as theirs who being still enured with holy things have yet no sense thereof Now in this very dark houre wherein the Church seemeth to have fallen in a death like pang and oh many of her Children in a sad lâ—thargie that if we looked in an ordinary way her wound might seem incureable there are a great and concerning Quaeries that I think should much take us up The one is to know what the Scripture speaketh to the Church what solid ground of encouragement is there held forth for truely if we had not that sure testimony of the Word we might fear Religion should quite wear out and truth perish from the earth but doth the Scripture speak peace all then is well that O that is sufficient security to put the Churches hope beyond further debate though men should threaten though the earth were overturned and the foundation shaken this is a determination above men above all the rules of humane policy yea above the stars which frustrateth the tokens of the liars and maketh diviners mad even that revealed Counsel of God taking place anent his work and People I knw some grave writers of these late times doe expresse their fear that the horrid wickednesse apostacy of the Gentile Church may at last resolve in the Lords departure and an universal darknes that as the rejection of the Jewes made way for the Gentiles incoming so their fall may as remarkably preceede that solemn return and restauration of the Jewish Church it is also become the fear of many that Popery may yet once overrun the whole Reformed Churches before Antichrist fall but since these sad thoughts nor any appearances of the time are no part of our Bible we should learn neither to stretch our fears nor expectations beyond that which the Scripture warranteth and if the Lord be God and this his very word let us adhere to it and wait for its accomplishment A 2. Quaere which is ndeed no lesse concerning in such a time may be anent Duety what so imminent an liazard of the Church and this great decay of Christianity doth most pressingly call for but this is a subject which requireth another pen and too large to touch with a passing word yea we may say the great want of these dayes is not anent the discovery of duety but of the practice of known and discovered duetyes for the Scripture giveth a certain and distinct sound in the darkest time and hath not left us to doubtful inquiries and debate in this matter I shall therefore leave it with a few things onely to be in the general considered 1. It is sure that every time hath its present duety and the wise discerners thereof will knw thence what they ought to do what work and service the present circumstances of that time cals for shall the earth have its seasons wherein things are beautiful shall the stork and swallow know their time and yet Christians not know how to bring forth fruit in their season and discern the special time and opportunity of duety 2. It is also sure that every Christian in whatsoever capacity or condition as he hath his measure and talent so hath some work and opportunity of duety wherein they may serve the Lord in their generation yea it is not the meanest lot or condition that shutteth that door upon any that they have no work for God who desire to be faithful for him Oh that in this threatning time when darknes is like to overspread the Church it were more upon the heart of Christians to strive together and contend by a serious improvement of their several capacities to preserve Religion and transmit the knowledge of Jesus Christ to the posterity that the Christian parent or Master of family did witnes more that great resolution in a time when many are drawing back but as for me I and my house will serve the Lord. 3. It is found that the most eminent and honourable service of the Church doth usually tryst her in a low and suffering condition when there hath been but little strength many outward disadvantages then both their call and furniture hath been most observable to confesse the truth to endure for the Gospel of Christ to overcome by the Word of his testimony a piece of service whereto more prosperous times doe not give such an opportunity yea it hath been in such a case Dan. 11 32. that these who knew their God were made strong to do exploits 4. It doth much concern us to put a high value on the truth in a time when men must either lose it or buy it and O what a choise purchase is that which cannot be bought too dear though at the rate of our liberty estate credit and reputation yea with the losse of peace when it cometh in competition with it For it is that great depositum oâ—ce dâ—livered to the Saints the inheritance of our Children that way whereby Jesus Christ keepâ—th intercourse with his Bride on the earth yea the charter of all our mercyes and of our hope through eternity 5. Though every line of diâ—ine tâ—uth is inestimable yet it is sure there is a more pressing caâ—l for our adherence to that truth which is most controverted in the time for it is the word of his patience and the matter of our present testimony and it is known through all ages what a singular blâ—ssing hath followed the contending and witnessing of a few for the truth in a spait of publick defection to keep it alive when it was like to be swallowed up yea to effects above rational beliefe unus Athanasius contratotum orbem many such remarks have not been wanting 6. I shall only adde that which is alwayes necessary and binding yet we may say in a time of the Churches hazard and suffering is more pressingly called for even the study of Christian prudence a duety convincingly necessary for regulating of duetyes according to the circumstances of the Churches case which doth so nearly concern the interest and preservation of Religion that I must say a breach in that concord betwixt zeal and Christian prudence when there is not some equal respect studyed in the exercise of both cannot but give the Church a sore wound this is indeeda large theam but I shall onely point at in 3 things 1. In our avoiding and being tender to give offence not only to keep a distance from evil but from the smallest appearance thereof I must
of duty that its surely good to draw near to him and in the close of their life can from many remarkable and convincing providences declare the truth and faithfulnes of God and truely whilst I speak here of the Christians experience I think its sad and a great short coming that there is not a more serious improvement of it for this end which is a very concerning duty on such who have tasted that the Lord is gracious O what an excellent addition would this be to their testament when they are to leave the World to leave a testimony behinde them to the faithfulnes of God in his Word and promise and thus put their seale to the same from what they have oft proven by sure experience for this should prove a singular help to strengthen others and spread abroad the fame and good report of religion yea thus one generation should declare the works of the Lord to another and transmit the memory of his goodnes to succeding ages 7. This is something which not only the Christians experience doth witnes and in every time take place but hath also a peculiar reference to these ages and periods of times wherein such particular truths should have their accomplishment for its true that the Prophets of old did not onely in their predictions hold forth in general the truth and certainty of these things which should fall out but they also inquired and searched diligently anent the time to what or what manner of time the Spirit by them did point at 1 Pet. 1 11. For it s truely clear that a piece of the Word was under the Law to have its peculiar accomplishment that part of it also under the Messias Kingdome in the dayes of the gospel should be fulfilled and we find a very concerning part thereof belongs to thir latter times and there is betwixt such periods of time and revolution of the Churches case and the bringing forth of such a piece of the Scripture to a performance a very certain and undoubted connection It s true we do not yet well understand which will be one of the last manifestations the Church shall have at the end of time when the mystery of God is finished how to sort the event exactly to the Word but it is sure and were worthy of our study and observation how every age hath something of the Scripture peculiar thereto yea carrieth forward the Lords work and design a further step may we not see how one age fulfilleth such a piece of the Churches sufferings appointed for her and puts some great tryal and sad persecution over her head which she was to meet with whilst an other age carrieth her thorow an other change and giveth her a time of rest and breathing how such a time bringeth Antichrist fordward to his hight and such a following age begins the turn of the Churches case yea every several period and revolution of time still addeth something to that excellent history of the Word and providence which we have since the beginning and bringeth forth something further into the world of the Lords counsel and design about his Church 8. The accomplishing of the Scripture is such a thing we are to look after in a special way here which concerns this militant and traveling condition of the Church for if the Scriptures were once fully accomplished and the great mystery of God therein finished there were then nothing more to doe his work of providence were at an end and time should be no more this is something that is not here perfected at once but is still gradually carrying on and then shall be compleat at the resurrection of the just and second coming of the Lord which is the last part of Canonick Scripture to be made out when both his work and his word and time shall be all finished together but whill the sainets are yet by the way they have the written word and all these pretious promises therein for present use and encouragement for that is its proper work to take them safe thorow this labyrinth of the world and when it hath brought them to land it hath no more to doe there will be then no more need for a Christian to goe to a promise and adventure upon it we shall then no more watch with the watchmen in a dark and stormy night and hope for the breaking of the day faith then shall not be at a stand how such a word shall be made out because of invincible difficulties in its way no then it hath done its worke and that which is written shall be swallowed up in that which is seen and enjoyed all the streames of our encouragement will then lose themselves in a greater depth O then it s finished and done what all the promises prophecies and threatnings of the Word was bringing forth and then no more need of something as a pledge and earnest in hand to them who have the full possession of the inheritance under whose feet the God of peace hath trod Satan and all their enemies 9. I shall adde this the accomplishment of the Scripture is something which is not onely demonstrat to a Christian by sensible influences and Gods Secret working with his Spirit but is made out to the observation of men in the way of providence and not onely witnessed by that internal evidence of the Spirit but by an external testimony which both rationally holdeth this out to the judgement and sensibly to the sight and experience and this is the strongest and most full of all outward evidences since the world must shut their eyes if they do not see it and a Christian must deny what he both seeth and feeleth if he deny a witnes to this II. We would consider the accomplishment of the Scripture as that which is the Lords peculiar work and design in the World and that great bussines which is upon the wheels of providence amidst the various changes and revolutions which are here within time for bringing about whereof the blessed thoughts of his heart are fixed and unalterable This is indeed a grave and serious truth worthy to be more noticed and laid to heart by men that the glorious providence of God which goeth throughout the earth and doth particularly reach all things which come to passe the smallest as well as the greatest intrests of men in all these doth move certainly and infallibly for the accomplishing of the Scripture which is that great thing God hath before his eyes for it is no personal intrests of men how great so ever they be that can answer this end it is something beyond the Setting up of Kings or overturning Kingdomes and nations that he doth minde amidst these varions changes which are in the World it s some greater thing then that which we most notice the Lord thereby designes how such a party is advanced and others brought low for these things come within the reach of his care and providence in so far as the
Christ who have rather choifed sin then affliction O is it not They judge the testimony of the God of truth is not sufficient security to carry them through such a strait and are not fully perswaded that it must come to passe what he hath promised for if this were they should reckon it their greatest safety to embarque their interest on so sure a ground and with much quietnes repose their soul and disburthen their care by putting it over on the Word 6. What doth the frequent discouragement and unconfortable walk of the People of God speak forth doth it not witnes how litle they are in earnest with this great truth of the Scriptures accomplishment or establisht thereanent What meaneth these distrustful feares and perplexed complaints if their eyes be but open to know they have such a well as the promise of God at their hand hovv is it that the smallest straites are so puzling and ready to out wit them that they so usually stumble at the crosse And as things from without doe appear their eucouragement made to ebb and flow Is not here the cause That they stagger at the promise whilst probabilities in some visible way doth not go along for its performance It s truely easy to have some sweet notions of faith at a distance but whilst the tryal comes near upon such a closse approach that there is not an other way but to put the whole stresse of their particular interest on the Word and on it alone many are then at a stand because they are not throughly assured that though the earth should be overturned there is an absolut necessity for the promise of God to take place Now from these things may it not appear that this grave truth of the Scriptures accomplishment is but little known or studyed I confesse we may think on it with astonishment how a matter so nearly concerning is not more our work there are indeed many things vvorthy to be knopvvn but our short life can scarce allovv time or give leasure for the study thereof but O this thongh vve had only 2 dayes to live I think might require the one to be sure and persvvaded anent the truth of that vvhereon our heaven and eternal blessednesse lyeth to vvhich vve must lay the dead grip vvhen vve are in the passage at that strange step betvvixt time and eternity O vvhat a vvonder hovv rational souls vvho vvalke on the border of the greatest hope and fear imaginable can yet be so unconcerned thereanent such serious thoughts might force men to retire and go sit alone and truely these things gravely considered may seem strange and hard to reconcile 1. That there is such a thing as the very Word and Testimony of God this day upon record vvherevvith vve have so much to doe vvhich doth offer it self to mens tryal and exactest search and yet vve put it so little to that touchstone that vve may knovv it upon an other account then report or hear-say 2. Hovv in a matter of such high importance as salvation through all eternity and the ground of this hope me â— should take the truth on an implicit faith or satisâ—y themselves with a common assent thereto as though it vvere enough to vvitnes our beleeving the same because vve did never doubt or call it in question I am sure men vvould not be so lax and so easy to satisfy in the most common interest they have here in the World 3. Hovv can men render to others a reason of their hope vvhen it is enquired vvho did never ask a reason of this at themselves or vvill these seale the truth vvith their blood who never had it sealed upon their heart by experierrce 4. Wence is it that men can have comfort in Scripture who are not well grounded in the faith thereof Indeed these who are solidly perswaded anent the truth and its certain outmaking may have much joy and peace whilst they know the ground of their confidence can bear up any stresse or burden they lay upon it and for what end did the Lord witnes the certainty of his Word by two immutable things wherein its impossible for him to lie but that from so sure and strong a ground his People might have strong consolation 5. How can any think to adventure their immortal soul upon that whereon they fear to venture an outward interest or put over their dearest things in his hand and keeping who could never say they know in whom they beleeved 6. May it not seem strange that men can beleeve a certain performance of the Word and promises and not be more deeply affected therewith O is this true shall it surely come to passe and not one jot thereof fall to the ground and should it not cause us awake in the night and bear us more company Ought we not to think our selves at a losse that day wherein we take not a turn in the meditation of divine truth if we be sure that these must take place 7. I would adde if this be indeed the Scripture of God which surely hath an accomplishment O how are we so little Christians Why doth mens walk so sadly jarr with so great an hope What manner of persons should these be that are perswaded within a little these heavens must passe away as a scoll the elements melt with â—ervent heat and the earth be burnt up I think if this will not presse home on men to be serious and diligent they must be in a very sad lethargie V. The accomplishment of the Scripture is a most clear and undenyable witnes of its Divinity that it is his Word who is not like man to ly or the son of man to repent and hath this as its distinguishing character that not one syllable thereof falls to the ground This is the undoubted priviledge of God and of him alone to forsee things contingent which are many ages after to fall out and hath no dependance upon necessary and natural causes and truely this may be a convincing argument yea we may say of all external testimonies is the greatest but its strange to think what a generation there is who can sport at the Scripture and question the truth thereof who yet did never once seriously enquire if such a thing be true else so clear a witne might stare them in the face such a party we should look on with compassion it s also sad to think at how poor a rate far below their allowance many of the Saints doe here live because there is so little of that excellent and more noble Spirit to search the Scripture for their further comfort and establishment thereby It is true this blessed record doth bear witnes to it self and is knowen by its own light whereon there is such a visible impresse of the glorious God such convincing marks of its true discent as may throughly shew whose it is and how far it exceeds all humane invention and thus by a clear manifestation of the truth
of judgement and mercy that in every age are set before us how wicked men prosper for a time yet have a dreadful ishue and are suddenly cast into destruction they spread as a green bay tree and within a little their place cannot be found how the godly are oft sore afflicted yet flowrishing as the palme tree and the more they are depressed the more they grow how the enemies of the Church are oft lifted up for a sorer fall and the Church brought low in order to her greater enlargement how judgement findeth out sinners is oft exactly proportioned in measure and kinde to the sin and on the other hand how integrity is sore tossed oft yet still falleth upon its feet overclouded that it may shine more brightly after how the threatnings of the Word do visibly overtake Kingdomes nations bring down great houses causeth the scarlet embrace the dunghil letteth not the hoary head of cruel wicked men goe oft into the grave in peace again to consider how the Lord forsaketh not his People but sheweth respect to their way the good man walketh in his integrity and his seed after him is blessed O how sweet an exercise were this for a Christian even to losse himself in 5. From thence we might in a great measure discern what of the night it is with the Church if there be any evidences that it is neer day and what such a sinful case doth threaten we would be skilful to feell the Churches pulse and thereby find what symptomes there are of life or death and perceave a dark cloud of judgement casting up when it is but like an handbreadth surely this study should make us wise to know the tymes and what we ought to do therein for amongst these various events which fall out in every age the Lords way is constant with itselfe and vvith his truth if we be right on lookers 6. Here we should have a most pleasant and clear view how the Seripture of God comprehendeth the whole state of the Church from the beginning to the end of time that it is a most full and perfect register of all the vicissitudes and alterations which are to go over her head whilst in a militant condition and doth also most exactly point out these occurrences and remarkable events which fall out in the ordinary way and course of providence that we may read them as evidently in the Word as we see them with our eyes fall out in the World for in following this study vve should clearly see hovv the Scripture bringeth the Church to light out of the vvomb of an eternal decree and doth trace it from the first promulgation of the Gospel after the fall throvv these dark times before the stood vvhilst it vvas but in families and through that long tryal in Egypt and all its ill journey in the vvildernes untill it bring it to it s seâ—led and flovvrishing condition in Canaan and carryeth her sordward through all the several changes of her case under her following decay and in the times of the captivity even to the manifestation of Christ and dawning of the gospel and as it thus taketh in within its reach the whole estate and the special events which did befall the Church under the Law so we may see how the Scripture also followeth the Church through the wholl time of the gospel and bringeth her as a grain of mustard seed from a day of small things until it bring her to perfection taketh her as it were by the hand from her infancy and goeth with her through all the turnings of her condition through that long and dark night of Antichrists reign pointeth clearly out her condition and various assaults that shee should endure in that time and that blessed victory which shee should after have though not all at once but gradually over her enemyes and that the Word and the Church do never part but one walketh step for step with the other until it bring her safe to land and as it were put her of its hand and guard at the comming of Christ 7. This would also help us to sweet thoughts and give us matter of a song in the saddest night of the Churches condition when we see how Gods great design in the World is the accomplishing of the Scripture and know that his ends which he hath held forth therein cannot be frustrat it would serve to silence all our complaints with wondering at Gods vvay and triumphing in the vvorks of his hands vve should not then be affrayd of evill tydings a stormy time vvould not outvvit us being persvvaded that though the earth should be overturned it shall be surely vvell vvith the righteous the Church must flovvrish and all her enemyes be found lyars because he is faithful that hath promised vvhose Word vvill as surely come to passe as the sun doth return after a dark night VII It doth now more especially concern the godly in these latter times to study this great truth of the accomplishment of the Scripture and set about a serious inquiry and search therein as a truth that shall yet be in a further measure discovered and opened up the nearer the Church is to the end of tyme vvhich may thus appear 1. Herein is the Word express that one piece of the Scripture vvhich from former ages vvas sealed up should in the latter dayes be clear and easy to understand Dan lastch 4 9. ver the seal is there put on but go thy vvay Daniel for these Words are closed and sealed to the time of the end but Rev. last Ch. and ver 9. We have that bar taken of seal not the sayings of the Prophecy of this book for the time is at hand because then the time did dravv near to vvhich a more full discovery and opening up of the Scripture vvas reserved a more large manifestation of the spirit beyond former ages Novv by the last dayes vve are not only to understand the vvhole time of the gospel though it is thus tearmed in the Scripture but the latter part of these last times vvhich is more especially pointed at even the close and evening of time that last Epocha and period of prophetick chronology to vvhich a greateâ— accomplishment of Scripture Prophecies is reserved 2. This also is expresly promised that in the latter dayes the Chnrch shall have a more full discovery of this truth hovv the Scripture is verified Dan. last Ch. v. 4. many shall run to and fro and knovvledge shali be increased vvhich increase as it clearly pointeth at the last times and that bright day the Church shall have when Israel shall be brought in to Christ it doth also point at and promise some greater light and a more full opening up of the mysteries of the Word and fulfilling thereof for the former part of the Chapter sheweth that increase of knowledge doth relate to these things which were before sealed we wait and believe the further accomplishment
of this promise to the Church beyond all we have yet seen that many Scripture-truths now dark and abstruse shall be made so clear as shall even cause us to wonder at the grosse mistakes we once had thereof yea that after generations shall have a discovery and uptaking of some Prophecies now obscure which shall as far exceed us as this time doth go beyond former ages which comparatively we must say were very dark O! when that promise of the incalling of the Jewes shall once take place what a wonder will they be to themselves that their understanding shonld have been under such a vail when the truth shall be clear and evident to them in that day Will it not be a sweet and easy work for the godly to sort together the predictions of the Word and the events And truely there is much now wrapt up in Scripture Prophecyes not yet fulfilled which we may say in after times when the event shall unvail their meaning wil exceed yea confound all these comments many have had upon them 3. Is it not also clear that these Prophecies which of all the Scripture were most obscure and overclouded with dark figures and allegories concerning which there had been such mistake and hesitation by the Church so many perplexing queries have a peculiar respect to the last times And that then they shall be made plain and easy vvhen so notable a key as the event doth open them up such as these of the vvitnesses taking lyse and rising again Babylons fall and ruine Christs Reigning vvith his Saints a thousand Yeares vvhich novv are in some measure already cleared from their begun accomplishment beyond former times but vve vvait for a more full eommentary that tyme shall give upon the same 4. It is in the latter times that the glory of God in his truth and faithfulnes shall most eminently shine forth that is a part of the solemn congratulation of the Church upon Babylons fall Revelat. 15 ver 3. not only great and marvellous are thy works but just and true are thy wayes for truely in this stroke of the judgement of God and these remarkable providences concurring therevvith the fulfilling of the Scripture vvill be so plain and undenyable that we may say it vvill then dazel the eyes of men even greatest Atheists alarme the World yea very effectually contribute we have ground so to judge to that promised encrease of the Church and incoming of the Jewes when in Antichrists fall and ruine they shall see so convincing a seal put to one of the most considerable Prophecies of the Word in the accomplishment whereof much of the Prophetick part of the New Testament relating to the Churches state and her long tryal under Antichrists reign may be seen clearly verified 5. The Lord hath reserved his greatcst Works to the latter dayes wherein his judgments shall be manifest and the Word confirmed by such solemn convincing providences that men will not get them passed without a remark we are this day witnesses to many such and are looking what these times shall yet bring forth that the great and remarkable acts of the Lord must force the World to see a divine power and say lo there is an undoubted accomplishment of the Scripture 6. The Church in these last tymes hath peculiar advantagcs for understanding this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment which former ages had not First a great part thereof is now fulfilled that men may see with their eyes if they but know how to lay the Word and work of God together the Christian Church had in former times but dark glances at these great things which we have this day visibly transcribed in providence the promises were then travelling in birth of that which is now brought forth 2. Are we not mounted as it were on the shoulders of that experience and observation of former times which hath been transmitted to us and we must say upon that account the Church hath now a greater seal and confirmation of the truth then what it had in the dayes of the Prophets and the Apostles even when Christ was in the flesh 3. The Temple of God and Ark of his Testament is now opened in Heaven light more fully abounding and the meanes of knowledge And O! should not this be much our study who have a greater talent then former ages certainly this will be a sin of a deeper dye then in times of ignorance since we can be no strangers to this truth without shutting our eyes blinding the conscience doing violence to our light when the Lord doth give his People such solemn confirmations 7. I shall add is it not clearly soretold in that Dan. 12â— ver 4. that in the last times this will be one of the speciall exercises of the saints to enquire and make a diligent search concerning the Scripturs accomplishment For it s there said many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall be increased importing that this shall be much their study and cause a diligent fearch whereunto the great works of God in these times shall invite them and what should be the posture of the Godly in these dayes on whom the end of the World is come should it not be lyke the watchman in the last watch of the night who looketh oft what appearance there is from the east of the day breaking a serious enquery what of the Scripture is fulfilled whereby we may know on very clear grounds if the night be far spent the day at hand and that the coming of the Lord to judgement draweth near VIII This is a great and concerning duety for Christians to study this truth that they may have something more then repore how the Scripture hath a sure accomplishment and doth take place in the providences of the time wherein we live I must think strange that there is such a great help as this so near and yet we see it not nor do seriously ponder the same when the command is so express to observe the works of the Lord which for that end are shewed forth that men may enquire and read the faithfulnes of God therein yea that so great a truth which would bide the search of all the criticks of the World a truth wherein our blessednes through time and eternity lyeth should offer it self to our tryall and yet is so little known O who can dispense with the neglect of this duty by which we answer that solemn call and invitation of the works of God do honour him serve our generation are helpers to our own faith and are thereby helped to strengthen others yea are brought to see with our eyes and from experience what before was as a strange thing unto us Now to clear how much this is Christians duty to study a practical converse with the Word and to be serious observers of its accomplishment let us consider 1. We are thus helped to declare the works of the Lord and to give him the glory of his faithfulness
cause within our selves we sow sparingly and venture little out therefore we have so small an increase their is a price for wisdome but it is in the hands of fools who have no heart thereto but this not concerning us here I only aime to hold out this that the promises which God hath given his People in the Scripture are of unquestionable verity and have as real and sure performance in the saints experience as they are sure of that which cometh most necessarly to passe by the worke and concurrence of natural causes as that the fire doth burn when combustible matter is added or the sun rise after its going down for indeed this truth is so manifest proved by such innumerable experiments amidst the various changes of a Christians condition that we might sommond as many witnesses as have been followers of God in the World which are not a few who in all ages have put the promises to an essay and put their seal thereto that God is true yea to ask at such if they know whither there be a truth in Scripture promises that cometh not to passe I think were to enquire at a living man whither he seeth and feeleth or if there be such a thing as motion since they have as sure and sensible a demonstration of the one as he hath of the other But ere I speak any thing particularly to this I would first premit some things to clear what we understand here by the saints experience of the truth of the promises in these following considerations 1. We would consider though the Scripture hath here it's accomplishment and is intended for the use of the Church and every particular Christian while on the way in his militant condition yet there are some promises of the Word yea the greatest which belong to the saints that will not be fulfilled until they have cast off their armour and are called to divide the spoyl their experience of which will be the high prize of the calling of God in Christ whereof all which they now enjoy is but an earnest 2. We would consider that the great intent of the Scripture and promises thereof is not for contemplation but that we may know them by experience and drive a blessed trade and commerce therewith the merchandize of which is better nor that of gold for herelyeth the Christians life in the World yea it is a great part of their talent the promises which are not to be laid up in their heart and memory as in a napkiâ— but they must give an account what experience they have gained thereby and thus the diligent hand should make rich 3. What ever be the different syzes and degrees of experience among the saints according to their grouth and age in Christ yet it is certain that the meanest who have intrest in the promises and did ever grip them in earnest and put them to tryal must know something of the performance of the samein their own case for the Lord doth not suffer his work in his People to want a seal 4. The godlyes experience hereof is then much made out when they are much in observation and we know little of the truth and performance of the promises because we are not more habitually in a frame to observe thus he goeth by and we perceive not but they never wanted confirmations who were seriously seeking to be confirmed in the truth of the Word 5. The special mercyes and providences of a Christian lyfe are a certain return of the promise and in that way do meet them as the proper channel of their conveyance for they are the sure mercies of the Covenant and how refreshful is it that all the several cases of the Saints and their outgate theteof their meanest as well as their greatest necessities are comprehended in the Word and under some promise and were all forseen in his everlasting view who hath so marvellously suited the same to all that his People stand in need of as if it had been directed to such and such a Christian only 6. This helpeth to make the mercies of the godly man to have a peculiar and sweet relish and to be someway twice his mercy when he gets them in so immediat a way reached to him as it were out of the hand of the promise and as an observable return from Heaven when thus the Lord sealeth his Word to him by his work the way of the Word he findeth hath been the way of his comfortable outgate that when he hath had no other escape but to tuâ—n in to the promise and to cast himself upon it he gained this experience he trusted in God and was helped and can give in this testimony of him that he hath both spoken it and himself also hath done it according to his Word 7 It is not any extraordinary thing we here understand by the Christian mans experience of the truth of the promises it is not a rapture or revelation or such as some of the Saints havâ— upon some singular and special account had for we have not any promise for these things but it is something well grounded upon the Word which constantly holdeth in the Lords ordinary way of procedure with his People according to the tenor of the Covenant for his Word doth good to them that walk uprightly and doth certainly take place in the experience of every serious and diligent Christian 8. This is not the testimony of a few but the record of all the Saints since the beginning whose experience doth all most harmoniously agree and bear one witnes that he is faithful who hath promised and it is not that which a Christian hath found once or twice in his life but the dayly food of such as live by faith 9. This doth put a strong obligation on the godly man to the Word for the time to come for these who have tryed it often may with much confidence trust it in the day of their strait 10. The experience which the godly hath of the real performance of the promises is a most convincing evidence of his state in Christ it is the earnest and pledge of the inheritance and full accomplishment of that which remaineth that the Lord will make perfect what concerneth him who hath been his help hitherto and will be his exceeding great reward in the end who hath made him find so much of the gain of godlines here by the way Now having premitted these things I shall here instance some particular promises where in the Christâ—â—â—s most usual trade and commerce dothly and to which they give in their seal and witnes I confesse if all these proofs which the Saints have had of the fulfilling of the promises could be gathered together we might make use of that Divine hyperbole The World could not containe the bookes that should be written thereof O what an admirable volume what an excellent commentary and copy should this be of the Scripture to see it thus turned over into the
experience of every Christian it would be some way as easy to number the drops of rain and dew since the creation as to reckon all these pretious drops and emanations of love these sensible returns and outmakings of the promise which they have had in their experience I truely think it could hardly be believed though it were told what some of the godly here have found in the way of the Word but it is sufficient to answer the design of this work to shew that there is a sensible demonstration and performance of Scripture promises concerning which the experience of the Saints in all ages doth aggree that by many confirmations the Lord hath oft sealed the truth thereof to their soules There are 10. special promises held forth to the godly in the Word which I shall here instance and therewith hold forth what a clear testimony their experience can give of the undoubted truth and aecomplishment of the same FIRST Instance is that promise given to believing to such who credit the naked word when there is no probable appearance of its outmaking and thus give God the glory of his faithfulnes which we have expresly held out 1 Chron. 20 20. Ps 112. 7 8. Ich. 1 50. To clear the accomplishment of this promise I shall but appeal to that testimony the saints in all ages have leâ—â— thereof yea to the present experience of the godly at this day if they have not certainly found it so 1. That when in a particular they have trusted God therewith and got their spirit quiet in a recumbency on him if he hath not dealt with them according to his word yea if then from cleer convincing returns of the promise they have not been made to say it did never repent them that they gave more credit to the testimony of God then of their own hearts 2. That they have found a more sweet and observable issue then when their help lay most immediatly on the word alone never a more sensible outgate then when least of sense and most of faith was in carrying them through when little of the creature and much of God appeared in their mercy and where they were at the lowest no way of escape but to throw themselves on the promise they have then had the best retreat yea their supply as sensibly felt as their need and burden had formerly been felt 5. That their greatest difficulties and shakings anent the promise have helped to their further confirming and establishment and so as they can say the Lords way by brangling them first yea to their sense loosing their grip hath helped to fasten it better and that which for the time did speak their case most helpelesse hath made way for his more eminent appearance and manifesting of him selfe 4. That their greatest venture and giving most out hath usually had the richest income the most eminent experiences of their life have followed the most adventurous acts of their faith yea upon an after reckoning they have oft found that their adventuring of life estate and credit on the promise of God even in these things hath very observably been their upmaking 5. That where they have most been a friend to their faith there hath faith also been most a friend to them in their standing to the credit of the promise over the belly of greatest objections and false reports raised thereof they have found a very evident mark of Gods respect to the same causing them to see that he will honour such who thus honour him And it is indeed worthy of a remark what we have of Caleb upon record that he took part with the promise of God against that discouraging report which then was raised of the Anakims and their walled cities and therefore the inheritance of the Children of Anak was given to Caleb and his sonnes in their lot from the Lord. 6. That believing doth alwayes make way for sense and in their closing with the naked Word of promise they have not wanted the seal of the spirit of promise but have found a sweet calm their burden sensibly eased when once they got it laid over on the word which they can say hath been their first resting place like the very fixing of the motion of the needle towards its right point when their spirit had been restlesse and in greatest agitation 7. That these greatest disappointments which their hope in the Word seemed to have they have found afterwards most to their advantage when their returns have not only been according to their faith but have often exceeded their adventure and been far beyond what they believed yea that from frequent experience they may say the issue of trusting the Word how long so ever they thought it deferred yet came alwayes in season was never too late and out of time 8. That this did never occasion bitter reflexions or was their upcast before the World that they trusted God in a day of strait and were not helped but this testimony have all such left who have most credited it in a dismall houre that none should scarr after them to hazard upon such a hand and venture on the promise for their faith hath oft taken them well and comfortably through where both sense and reason have been ready to sink SECOND Instance Whereby we may see the performance of the promise in Christian experience is this that God truely heareth prayer is near unto his People in what they call upon him aggreable to his Word and will answer their desires we have this promise most expresse Phil. 4 ver 6. Ps 32 6. Ps 65 2. Ps 91 15. Now the accomplishing of this piece of Scripture is so very clear that I can attest the experience of all the generation of the righteous since the beginning what frequent unanswerable comfirmations they have got of this truth in their Christian walk fo that I am sure no man ever was in earnest in the matter of Religion and a stranger to this yea that he was never more certainly perswaded of any thing then of this that God doth hear prayer O if mens souls were but in their souls stead whose evening wrestlings and teares the Lord hath oft turned into a morning song they should know this is no delusion I shall here touch something of that experience which by many proofs the saints can give as a witness to this promise 1. That when they have oft with Hanna gone in before the Lord in the bitternes of their spirit they have been made to return with a sensible and marvellous change in their case yea when in going about prayer they have been put to wrestle with much distemper and deadnes they have oft seen the wind discernably change and therewith their spirits lightned from under that burden an observable calme and serenity after much invvard perturbation yea they can say that they have found their hearts thavved and put in a flush of tendernes upon the back of a most sensible restraint 2.
favour and respect even from the worst then when they studied most to please them in a sinful way 12. That they never savv more clearly the gain and real advantage of Godlines and vvhat a difference there is betvvixt these that serve God and these that serve him not as in a time of trouble and strait hovv then tendernes in their former vvalk and that vvhich they entertained in the morning doth novv meet them at night and pay them home vvith advantage in ane houre of temptation 13. They vvere forced to observe that there vvas an invisible guard about his People in their duty that the ministry of the Angels tovvards such is no delusion and thar they have oft been made to vvonder hoâ— hazard vvithin an hairbreadth hath been prevented relief and help come as betvvixt the bridge and the vvater hovv they have been sensibly preserved amidst greatest dangers while as it were an inhibition hath been served upon these that they should come near but not hurt and only mett with them that they might read their preservation from them 14. That an enlarged heart doth meet with an enlarged allowance and bearing burthen with others of the People of God hath helped to make their own privat burthen the lighter 15. That real godlines and religion hath as much in hand as it may be a reward to its self which beautifieth the soul and maketh the face and conversation to shine with an observable lustre that guardeth and preserveth the heart from many vexing crosses preventeth sad stroakes and sorrowes that others are pierced with who will follow their idols and the wayes of sin which are bitter in the close In a word this is surely found that God is the best friend and when there is peace with him things without doe not offend but they shall then understand what it is to be in league with the beasts of the field and stones of the ground having a sweet aggreement with all the providences and dispensations that come in their way V. That the scripture threatnings have also a certain aceomplishment are found to be sad earnest do not fall to the ground the Christian can also seal from his experience It is not here to be understood the threatnings of wrath from which beleevers are freed in Christ but of a fatherly displeasure which because of sin may draw deep yea bring forth very dreadful effects to witnes rhat it is an evil bitter thing to depart from God that their own doings shall chastise them these threatnings of the Covenant if thy children for sake my law I will punish their transgressions with rods c. Ps 89 ver 30. are sure truths which want not in every time a performance To clear this ere I speak any thing particularly I would premit somethings to be considered 1. That the word is a perpetual rule which in every time must take place and though affliction is a peece of the common misery of man yet doth it not arise out of the dust neither fall out at an adventure but doth oft visibly follow the tract of sin as a slouth-hound pointing at such evils as the cause by the stroak at the truth and fulfilling of the threatnings written upon both 2. We should adore his soveraignty whose way both in the measure and manner of his peoples chastisement is so various as that none can infallibly conclude what he is to do in such a case I mean we are not to limit the Lord to such a way and method in his working yet this we may assert and firmly conclude that not only the threatnings of the word have a performance but men may also have even before hand some more then probable conjecture yea a clear discovery what such a case doth threaten what will be the issue of a sinful course by considering the Lords ordinary procedure both with themselves and others how sin hath very â—â—d effects and his way in all ages is still uniforme agreeing with its selfe with the word 3. Though a gracious state doth surely priviledge from wrath and condemnation yet not from affliction sad stroaks of divine anger because of sin for he taketh vengeance on mens inventions even when he will spare the inventors 4. The Lord doth oft contend with his people for their folly and miscarriages more severely then with others will not let passe in them that which he passeth by in the world without being a reprover but when light and love and the law â—â—ll not hedge in their way he will set briars and thornes before them yea speak by chastisement upon their bones to withdraw men from their purpose 5. It is known how very deep the holy anger of God may draw against his children even sometimes to pursue them out of the land of the living and follow them to the grave with some remarkable stroak yea it hath made them dreadful examples of judgment in this life for whom he hath accepted an eternal sacrifice in Christ 6. I shall adde this is the Lords blessed end in making out his threatnings against his people that they should not perish with the worâ—â— O what a blest exchange is it that the flaming sword which once stood to guard the tree of life doth now stand as it were in the way of the saincts to keep them from running into the pathes of death Having premitted these things I shall now instance some particular evils wherewith the godly are ready to be overtaken which the word doth expresly threaten and hold forth the hazard of both as to outward and spiritual stroakes and give in here the Christians witnes from their experience in all ages of the truth of these threatnings FIRST Securitly carnal confidence which we finde the word doth threaten is an evil wherewith Christians are ready to be overtaken but they do also know by sad experience what bitter fruit this doth bring forth and that therein the word falleth not to the ground whilest from frequent tryal they finde First that a secure condition is the usual forerunner of some sad change that when they are most at ease in a dul and dead temper of spirit some sharp rousing dispensation is upon the back of it either a grosse sin or a searching crosse as a thorn in the bed of their security to put them to their feeâ— Hos 7 9 12. Hos 2 8 9. 2 That seldom reckoning with the conscience the running on of counts for sometime upon their hand doth ravel their case unto a sad confusion maketh it a bitter and heartlesse work to retire alone or within themselves yeâ— hath a most direct tendency to a further hardening real upgiving with their dnty 3. That when security deadnes groweth within it qnickly maketh them dry up wither without in the external performance of duty in that vigorous lively appearance which did formetly lustre their walk carriage before others so as very by
of the Churches enemyes hath oft witnessed this truth that in pursuing their malice to trouble and undoe her they have but undone themselves how tormenting disappointments have caused their very flesh to pine away and the close and issue of their rage forced this conviction from them at last that the Church is a burthensome stone to be lifted up a party with whom it is full of hazard to meddle have not such been made to discern something of a divine hand so clearly against them blasting their counsels and most promising attempts as if their eyes with Balaam had been opened to see the Angel in their way yea in all ages it is known how the conscience even of the worst hath oft bewrayed something of a presaging fear they have had of these whom they pursued with greatest malice and a dreadful impression they had of a praying people and their prayers 3. This truth hath had the clearest witnes in times of the Churches greatest strait and extremity when difficulties have appeared insuperable and an outgate in an ordinary way of providence most hopelesse when visible meanes have been withdrawn all refuge failed and none to help that in such a day the Lord hath been seen upon the mount and unexpectedly by very strange midses brought deliveranee to a broken almost ruined Church even as it were betwixt the bridge and the water so that these who would have a clear view of the accomplishment of this promise may but turn back on these more remarkable extream exigences of the Churches condition aod there have it how oft a sweet sunshine hath followed the most dark and cloudy times a raging storm hath resolved into a refreshing calm yea that with a further grouth of the Churches tryal and doubling of her burthen her enlargement and outgate hath broken up with so great and obvious remarkes therein that it was a convincing return of prayer wrestling having further addition of some new and singular mercy therewith yea some eminent act of judgment upon her adversaries 4. The greatest advantage and victories which men have got over the Churches and people of God can also bear witnes to this that when the wicked have sprung up like the grasse and the workers of iniquity seemed to flowrish this very way hath the Lord taken to bring about a more full deliverance Yea on the other hand hath it not been very obvious how the Churches gain hath been brought forth out of greatest lose that these wounds which seemed most deadly by the infinitly wise providence of God have turned to her most effectual and through cure and mens unreasonable violence and rage against the Church hath oft had an evident tendency to bring about even that whereto it seemed most directly contrary some further mercy and deliverance then could have been expected as the Amorites refusing Israel butâ— passage through their land did prove the very mean to give them more then they sought the possession of that land for an inheritance 5. This witnes the observation of the Church in all ages can bear to this promise that deliverance hath oft sprung up and been brought to her hand from an airth and by such meanes as none would have expected by such as none but God could doe a sudden report and rumour 1 Sam. 23 ver 27. meanes that have been not only small and improbable but that looked directly contrary as in bringing the Church out of Egypt yea sometime by the wicked ensnared in the work of their own hands is it not obvious how the Lord hath trysted mens privat interests to put them on for befriending his Church and hath caused the earth to help the woman and raised up one oppressour to punish another yea often hath prepared carpenters whence it was least thought to cut the horns of these who had scattered his people 6. There is this convincing witnes to the truth of such a promise that sudden remarkable change which may be oft discerned both on mens inward frame and the outward face of the Church when a time of mercy and enlargement is come instruments raised of the Lord with a discernable elevation of their spirits to act and doe exploits the feeble then made strong and these who sometime would have fainted at an ordinary piece of service dare with such a gale of divine assistance run as it were through a troup and overleap a wall ' for indeed this may in all ages be obvious how easy it is to move in the day when the Lord moveth for his people and strengthneth the girdle of their loines that it was not their bow or sword which got them the victory but the very finger of God something above the counsels of men or ordinary meanes which hath sometimes been made clear as the noonday so that even at some distance these who are wise to discâ—â—n the times did see when there was a breaking up of a dâ—y of a Churches hope how a previous motion and stir anongst the dry bones the sound of the Lord as in the top of the mulberry trees hath been then discernable and some pâ—â—mising appearance from the present disposition and tenper of the Godly in that time though we must grant mâ—rcy soveraign grace hath oft trysted the Church when litle of this hath appeared which like the breaking up of thâ—t cloud in the of mount Carmel to the Prophet though at first but as an handbreath hath shewed that livâ—rance to the Church was not far of â— I would adde this witness also these convinceing prâ—vidences which in all ages have been shewed against the enenyes of the Church such as men could not passe without some remark what an issue these have had who have sometimes been a sore rod on the People of God yea a terour in the land of the living How they have become a most abject and contemptible party like bees who have lost their sting their countenance hath been changed and they ceased to be any more a fear when once their work was done and the date of their commission for the humbling and trying of the Church exspired yea a judicial stroke from the Lord hath been often seen upon their very judgement and resolutions which could not then serve them to trouble and afflict the Church the day being turned and the time of her deliverance come FIFTH There is this Promise also which concerneth the Church in general as well as Christians in their personal case that all things work together for the goâ—d of these who live God Rom. 8 28. the accomplishment whereof as it is written out in providence to the observation of men I would here touch This is indeed a great comprehensive promise which in the constant course and tenor of providence about the Church we may see it doth take place how these turrings and changes of the World the most strange emergents of the time the various motions and interests of men doe cooperat together and have an
followed them to the grave for this the sword shall not depart from Davids house Idolatry rent the Kingdome from the posterity of Salomon Jonas shall not escape for his rebellion yea God was wroth with Moses and no intreaty shall hinder his dying in the wildernes I may adde hath not the Lords controversy on this ground even reached their posterity which may shew that these threatnings are sad earnest and such sins are not more particularly pointed at in the word then they have been in after ages made exemplary in judgement 3. A peoples lukwarmenesse their slighting of the gospel and not receiving the love of the truth we find sadly threatned in the word Rev. 3 ver 15 16. 2 Thess 2 ver 10 11. and truely we must say they have not fallen to the ground in any age without an accomplishment as frequent observation can witness First how a peoples entring upon a Religious way their pursuing a form of reformation and not through for God therein but on carnal grounds hath thus put them in a worse condition then before for truely mens hypocrisy in going about a good work doth threaten more then the performance thereof doth promise Jehu got a temporal reward but his posterity must at length reckon for all the blood of Jezreel 2. That no people use to be furder from getting good of the gospel then such who have been under most clear and greatest convictions so as it is found there is oft more accesse to gain amongst the savages then these who have sit their day while the tide did flow yea ministers have found most discouragement to labour in these parts where the word hath been long preached with power 3. It is seen how light not improved will turn a People more grosse and is usually followed with some remarkable grouth in sin that the more the word doth put a restraint on mens corruption the more it rageth so as it may be observed what a very black dy and collour the powerful preaching of the Gospel hath put upon a People as a visible mark of judgement on such who profit not thereby 4. Is it notseen how mens formality in the matters of God hath been oft punished even with the taking away of the forme Yea that seldome errour and delusion doth want a harvest amongst a People who receive not the truth in love 5. Hath not slighting of the Gospel been at last followed with some visible restraint and inhibition both upon the ordinances and dispensers thereof a judicial withdrawing of the Spirit as to the work of conversion and conviction whereby the Lord doth plainly cease to be a reprover to such yea even saith bind up the Law and seal the Testimony 4. The Word doth also threaten carnal Security a disease whereof the Church is oft in great hazard yea we find it holds forth a certain connexion betwixt spiritual judgements upon a People and some outward strokes to follow thereon that these who are under that first woe and plague upon their spirits are then near to some judgement upon their persons and may expect a sharp wakening in hearing they shall not understand c. but the close is until the cities be consumd without inhabitants and there be an utter desolation yea we find judgement doth begin as a moth in that 5. of Hos. but in the 14. ver it doth turn at last to be a lyon We may truely say the fulfilling of this hath in all ages of the Church been obvious 1. That as the first part of the Churches deliverance is usually spiritual so it is found the first step of judgement and the execution thereof against a People hath been upon their spirits that serious discerners of the time might know that the night was fast coming on and some sad outward stroke on a land by the abounding of spiritual judgements 2. It is clear themost dreadful strokes that ever come on a particular Church doe usually find it in such a case judicially hardned and under many warnings plagued with security thus did the floud finde the old World and before that desolating stroke on Jerusalem by the Romans were not the Jewes in such a case Salvain can tell how it was with the African Churches before that dreadful inundation of the Gothes and Vandals yea the Churches records in all ages doe witness that before any sad stroke or persecution came upon a People a deep sleep and lethargie hath been previous thereto gray haires might have been seen upon them and the Word doth even shew that this will be the last disease whereof the Church shall be sick before the great day of the Lord. 3. It is also seen how spiritual judgements when they grow upon a people make great dispatch and do quickly ripen for some further stroke that when men have run down their conscience and are past reproof of the word going on from evil to worse the case cometh then to be clear and ready for the finall discussion of the processe 5. The word doth denounce woe against the troublers of the Church and these who are her persecutors that the Lord shall recompence tribulation to such and plead with her oppressours the accomplishment whereof hath been truely manifest yea to the observation even of the world Is 10 5. 2 Thess 1 ver 6. 1. That eminent oppressours of the Church have seldome gone out of the World without some remark of divine anger upon them surely if there were a record of such instances that in every age hath been conspicuous men should be forced to see and say that the most noted enemyes and persecutors of the saints have been also the most convincing and noted examples of judgement in the time 2. That the Churches suffering useth to go before a day of vengeance on the instruments thereof we find Jehu got an outward reward for executâ—ng the judgement of God on his enemyes but as for these men who have been the rod of the Church it hath been seen that they have not long wanted some scourge as sore upon themselves as they have been to his People and that at last these have payed dear-for their service 3. We may see how this also doth help to finish the contraversy of God with men and their houses that for this he hath taken many away in the midst of their dayes and made them cease to be who would not cease to trouble the Church while they had a being yea that He hath taken them in his own hand whom men could not reach and made their down-casting in the midst of themselves 6. Doth not the Scripture threaten carnal confidence in a People the putting of their trust in man or in any outward instruments Ier. 17 ver 5 6. Is 30 ver 16 17. to clear the accomplishment whereof let us but compare the word and the Churches observation together and we will find 1. That outward meanes have never more miscaried then when most promising and when there was greatest
break his bonds c. for truely in all ages Christs rising in the Gospel hath cast a terrour to its enemyes that this should be their fall and ruine when the Apostle hath an effectual doore opened in his ministery he hath also much opposition thereto but on the other hand all is still and quiet while the strong man doth keep the house yea it is clear from the word that where the gospel cometh there is a red flag hung forth that if men will not receive the same and subject to him who rideth on the white horse one shall come after whose worke is to take peace from the earth to put the world in a flame and to accomplish the judgement of a despised gospel who shall devide betwixt the husband and wife the parents and children wherein our blest Lord Jesus is expresse Math. 10 ver 34. I come not to send peace on the earth but rather a sword which might seem strange from him but it is to tell men if they will not embrace the offer of his peace they shall not have peace among themselves for the message of the gospel must either be the best or the worst sight that ever a land had 11. This may seem strange how in all ages men of greatest parts and learning are such usual opposers of the truth yea how the most sober and calme will even appear violent in their way the more the gospel is followed with power but O! how well doth this answer the scripture for the wisdome of this world is enmity to God 1 Cor. 3 ver 19. not many wise according to the flesh comparatively with these who hate the truth of all the beasts of the field was not the serpent Satans choice and if there be an Achitophel in the time at him he will have a special pull to such the simplicity of the gospel is foolishnes whereat they stumble to such Christ is a rock of offence we find the light doth torment them that dwell in the earth will cause men blaspheme and discover that which would not appear whilest they got leave to enjoy their sinful peace without disturbance 12. These strange judgments which may sometimes befal the Saints in their outward lot yea sometimes attended with some very astonishing circumstances would at the first look put men to a stand and to challenge the holy way of God But let us weight it in that ballance of the Scripture and we will find 1. That such hath been the complaint of the Saints the Lords wounding them vvith the vvound of a cruel one vvhat a strange query is that in Lament 2 ver 20. Behold and consider to whom thou hast done this shall the women eat the fruit of their womb shall the Priest and Prophet be slain the Sanctuary of the Lord yea did it not even to Solomon seem strange Eccles 8 ver 14. that there are just men to whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked 2. It looked like some strange stroke vvhich forced David to this complaint my enemies cast iniquity on me and say an evil disease or as the original readeth it a thing of Belial cleaveth to him vve find losias fell by the svvord Eli vvith one stroke hath his sons killed his Daughter in lavv dying and himself falling from his seat and breaking his neck yea Aaron hath both his sons killed before his eyes by an immediat stroke from the Lord. 3. The vvord doth also shevv there is no jar betvvixt this and the tenor of the Covenant vvhich God hath made vvith his people to punish their transgression with rods yea sometimes by a strange rod while he taketh not his loving kindnesse from them and doe we not find that a cleanly tryal may tryst the saints vvhich the vvorld vvould think a dreadful judgement for great sufferings may be ordered of the Lord to give some great examples thereby vve have heard of the patience of Job and have seen the end of the Lord. 13. The gross falling of these who have sometimes shined with much lustre in the Church may be astonishing but here also vve may see the scripture made out for it is clear First that fevv instances of the most eminent of the Saints vve have on Scripture record but there is some particular spot and blemish also noted a Noah Lot Moses and David yea under the Nevv Testament that great Apostle whose denyall of his master is set forth to shew how far some may fall whom grace will again restore and make up 2. It is there clear that some of understanding doe fall for a judgement to others that such who will stumble whose prejudice at the way of God is their choice may thus further fall and be broken 3. The blest meaning and intent hereof we may there also read to Alarum men to watchfulnes that such who stand may take heed lest they â—all to warrant also their adventuring on the grace of God that none should scar to come in after such eminent examples 14. I would adde this The contingency of events that we see many things in such a casual way fall out in the world as if by chance only without the rational conduct of a providence which doth infallably direct things to a certain end this might at the first look put men to a stand yea would seem to give Atheists some shadow to say how doth God see or doth the God of Jacob regard But upon a more serious enquiry setting the word over against it O what a sweet exercise should it be to consider 1. That though the providence of God in things here beneath moveth sutably to the nature of inferiour causes whither necessary free or contingent not violenting them or otherwayes making use of them but according to their nature so that though the event be necessary and infallible witâ— a respect to the first cause the determined counsel of God it is never the lesse contingent in respect of its nearest cause yet this also on the other hand is clear how the smallest and most casual motions doe certainly fall under that comprehensive reach of providence that even a sparrow falleth not to the ground by guesse Rebeccah cometh not with her pitcher to the well nor Ruth to glean in Boaz field at an adventure but in these the providence of God must reach its end and cannot miscary 2. That these things which to us would seem most casual we oft see in their tendency and product have been intended by the Lord as a special mean for the promoting of his glory wherein such a wonderful tryst and uniting of things in themselves most remote for that end may be truely discerned that if prejudice do not shut mens eyes they must confesse this can be no blind chance but some higher counsel and conduct of the same what would look more contingent then that Ahasuerus was indisposed to sleep and could have no rest in the night or that a reflexion of the sun
upon the waters should make them appear as blood to the Children of Moab But we see what great things the Lord is thus bringing about 3. Is it not oft manifest how not the smallest casuality or circumstance providence doth losse without some improvment thereof yea that it guideth the stroke of mans sword in the battel and directeth the bullet to its appointed mark and it doth evidently check the starres and control that fatal necessity which we are ready to fear may or will follow their aspect and it doth even determine these which in themselves are most free and absolute the heart and wil of man must not the crowing of the cock the foldiers dividing of Christs garments fall out for an accomplishment of the Scripture and though it was at a venture that that man drew the bow which sent Ahab to his grave yet it was no chance did direct the arrow between the very joynts of his armour 4. Amidst the various emergents and hazards of mens life may not experience tell that surely things contingent are not abandoned to fortune but there is a providence which doth number our haires without which they cannot fall to the ground O how astonishing may it be to think hovv surprizing hazards have been oft obviated by vvhat unexpected meanes men have been delivered from violent assaults hovv help unlooked for hath even trysted at a choke and an extremity yea vvhile their foot vvas slipping even betvvixt their falling and fall they have been trysted vvith some remarkable cast of mercy 5. Is it not easy to discern hovv many accidents vvhich seem most casual yet by no humane prudence or industry can be prevented but are observably brought about and guided to fulfil the threatnings of the vvord on ungodly men hovv vvas Sisera led in to the house of Iael by other places hovv should Hamans suit for Mordecais death tryst vvith that very morning vvhen the Kings thoughts vvere favourable to him for it might seem had Haman been one day sooner he vvould have got his vvill THE THIRD ARGUMENT FOr the Scriptures accomplishment is this that not only the Christians experience and observation of the Cnnrch beareth witness thereto but it is also a truth which even to the view and conviction of the World may be demonstrat from whom it doth oft force a testimony yea in every age the worst of men have been forced to acknowledge and so it must be a thing very evident But the accomplishment of the Scripture can be thus witnessed therefore c. It is true these sweet and sensible enjoyments which the Saints have of this truth the World cannot reach but it is also sure that in every age the works of the Lord and some more notour convincing providences both of judgement and mercy doe solemnly invite men to observe the accomplishment of the word therein yea no time hath wanted something of a publick vvitnesse from ungodly men even greatest mockers of Religion vvho under that constraining povver of conscience at death or in some day of their strait have been forced to seal the truth by a very open confession of the righteousnes of God tovvards them and this is indeed the Lords blessed design in making his vvorks sometime so conspicuous that they may not only confirm the faith of his people but render Atheism inexcusable that the glory of his faithfulnes as vvell as of his povver and vvisdome may shine forth before the sons of men I confesse vve may vvonder vvhy the World looketh so litle upon this and hovv the conviction of so great a truth vvhich they cannot shun doth not more presse them but the Holy Ghost doth fully resolve this the brutish man knovveth not neither do fooles lay to heart hovv the Scripture taketh place and that the flovvrishing of vvicked men is but in judgement for their further ruine To prosecut this argument a litle there are some special truths I vvould instance vvherein the faithfulnes of God in fulfilling his vvord may be seen by the World yea is obvious to the most ordinary observers and though they be but a fevv vvhich I shall here touch yet I must say they are such concerning truths and have so neer a reference to the foundation of our faith that men cannot acknovvledge the same but must also confesse the Scriptures Divinity and that there is a truth and reality in godlines and in Christian Religion truely I may here vvith some confidence challenge the greatest Atheists yea appeale them to their conscience and serious thoughts if in these following instances though but a litle of what might be said on such a subject the truth and accomplishment of the Scripture be not very manifest FIRST I shall first hold forth this truth that man is surely fallen from that excellent estate wherein once he was formed Rom. 5 ver 18. 19. and now is not that which he was at the beginning a truth so clear that we may say even without the discovery of the word might be easy for any serious onlooker to discern the same did not even heathens have some glance at this The evidence whereof they could not altogether shun It is true the cause and original of this dreadful contagion how sin entered into the World how it is derived to the whole race of man by imputation as well as inhesion how that poison is carried from the fountain to the cistern the Scriptnre doth only discover but this I am sure may be obvious to all that poor man is thus sick and diseased and now beareth the marks of such a fall and ruine as we read of in the word I confesse it is strange that when this is so very convincing and manifest it should not force men to some more serious enquiry whence such a thing is or if there can be a recovery of so sad and desperat like case but to clear this a litle I would offer these three things to be considered 1. That there is some remainder of that excellent fabrick which may yet appear among its ruines some print and appearance though dark of that primitive lustte and beauty some draughts wich sin hath not wholly worn out that may clearly tell what man once was and point out his former excellency that he hath been an other wight of whom Absaloms character might be truely said without all blemish from the head to the foot For we see the deep impressions of a Deity still rooted in men even among the most wilde and savage which no invention can utterly raze we see some common principles of reason that are imprinted in the most rude and ignorant some innate notions and Ideas which the soul hath of good and evil among all and in every place of the earth likewise these natural truths 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which we may see are no wayes imprest on the soul from any objects of sense but such whereto men by an unavoidable necessity are forced to assent and besides what meaneth the
witness of the conscience and authority thereof in every man which they cannot possibly decline O doe not these vvitness that from some great height poor man hath fallen 2. Doth not the present appearance of mans nature clearly shevv he his fallen into some dreadful disease that it is surely overspread with some horrid leprosie and contagion the symptomes whereof now are most discernable O what an exorbitancy doth appear in his desires with what contrary tydes is he hurried still at jar with his present lot his reason and will once in a sweet league are now at warr betwixt which he is oft rent in pieces as one betwixt wilde horses how is he now restless in an unreasonable pursuit he laboureth in the fire and for a shadow yea what doe these tumults and commotions of the earth mean men upon the smallest account sheathing their swords in others bowels homo homini Lupus ruptures in familyes unsatiable in revenge and the earth so oft in an uproar as a raging sea O doe not these too visibly witness what a dreadful disorder and perturbation there must be within impetuous boyling of mans lusts so that here we may see a very manifest rupture and breath of building once well knitt and framed 3. I would ask wherein mans true advantage and excellency above others of the creatures can be seen if not with some respect to that he once was and that blessed restauration by grace for his knowledge doth oft serve but to increase his sorrow to shew the good he wanteth and the evil he is subject to is there any of the creatures subject to such outward misery and pain to so many diseases as poor man now is Yea as to a sensual life may we not say the beasts have even some preference or are these so unruely do they so much go out of their bounds and station which the many lawes made for man in the world with the convincing necessity thereof can wittness we see also that fore travel is appointed to man at hovv much toile he is for an outvvard subsistance hovv he doth oft sovv and not reap the beasts vvithdravv from the yoke these over vvhom he had dominion ready to assault him hovv vvomen bring forth their children in sorrovv the men are attended vvith fear their life oft made bitter vvith care and labour yea as men increase in the vvorld their care and discontent increasing therevvith but besides all is he not in the greatest slavery of all the creatures through the violence of his lusts that make him pursue the baite though he knovveth it vvill undoe him vvhile his corruption doth oft like a strong man bind him in fetters and his flesh imperiously drag him at its heels O may vve not say vvas poor man thus formed at the beginning or raised so far above the rest of the creatures only to make him the more miserable for truely if a vive portraicture could be dravvn of sinful depraved nature there is none so grosse but should-abhorr yea be affrighted to see that in the third person vvith vvhich alace they so friendly comply in themselves SECOND That so great a change is truely wrought upon men in conversion as the scripture doth promise and hold forth Ioh. 3 ver 3 6. Eph. 2 ver 1 5. Coloss 3 ver 1 2. vvherein some thing above nature even the marvellous povver of the grace of God may be seen is a trnth Iam sure knovvn and undenyable to the vvorld yea the greatest mockers at religion must confesse can be no delusion but is indeed real and certain upon these follovving grounds 1. That the most grosse vvho in their practice have been notourly profane in the place vvherein they lived it hath been seen that grace hath reached them and thus the Leopard hath been made to change his spots and such vvho vvere accustomed to do evil have learned to doe vvell O! Doe not many famous instances vvitnes this in every age 2. That also men most principled in their judgement against the vvay of God who were wont to deride holines as fancie even on such so great a change hath been wrought as hath made the world to wonder but then they were forced to lay doun their prejudice yea to wonder at themselves how they could stand before the truth so long whereof they have got such an impression sure Atheists must grant there have been as profest Atheists as themselves who have been made eminent examples of grace 3. That such even in the height of their wickednes like Paul breathing out cruelty and of late Vergerius while he was writing against the truth grace hath sometimes reached them it hath been found that of Christs greatest enemyes some have thus fallen upon their high places before the power of the word some such trophees of the gospels conquest have been conspicuous in every age yea it is oft seen that some remarkable height in sin hath proved an evident Crisis and turn in mens condition either to judgement or mercy 4. That some of the most eminent adversaries of the truth have through grace been made eminently useful instruments in the Church the world cannot deny that there have not been choiser vessels of honour more zealous for the Lord in their time then such who were once most violent in their opposition 5. That such whom the world did reckon most wise and discerning yea that did want no judgement to know the value of outward things as well as others grace hath reached can the Atheists object do any of the rulers or Rabbies believe in Christ or follow that way when it is so clear that not more wise learned and judicious even themselves being judges have been in their time then some vvho are most serious in the matter of Religion 6. Hath not this change been made discernable upon the simple the most stupid and dull yea upon some such as a natural incapacity might have obstructed the worke if something above nature had not carried it on vvhich may be also manifest by some change even on their understanding to shew that this can make the simple wise and in the way of holines the way-faring man though fool shall not err 7. That by a very improbable mean the word and that sometimes by weakest instruments we see this great change hath been wrought and it is remarkable how litle of the work of conversion did follow the putting forth of miracles in the primitive times but by the simplicity of the preached gospel much more for indeed the conversion of a soul and such a change is it selfe some way a miracle 8. That they are not a few on whom this change hath been wrought is undenyable and truely besides these ordinary proofs I think it is a great want there should not be some more special record by the Church of these illustrious and eminent instances of the grace of God which have been in such an age as well as remarkable instances of judgment 9. Men
must see this falleth not out at an adventure which is wrought upon one and not an other while both are a like discerning yea some who seem furthest from the grace of God very grosse and rude have been taken when the more civil and refined and of a more promising natural disposition have been past by O doth not this witness the grace of God and soveraignity thereof 10. Is not this change oft discernable upon men in a time while no advantage from without doth appeare even times of persecution and hazard from which many have dated their first acquaintance with God when they could expect nothing but a suffering lot sure there must be something above nature in it 11. It is also known how great a cloud of witnesses have sealed this truth O! can there be such an universal enchantment that in every age in several yea in most remote places of the earth hath fallen upon so many who have witnessed the povver of the Gospel or can all these be void of understanding What gain or outward advantage could they designe in that which is so usually attended with outward hazard and losse or what credit from men while it maketh them the very butt of the worlds hatred and reproach Yea can it be thought that all these could have combined to conspire into so great a cheat I must appeale Atheists to their serious thoughts of this matter 12. The marvellous effect of this change doth it not witness this is no fancy or delusion when men are reached with such a stroke and by one word as hath made the stout hearted and most daring to tremble and to shew by their very countenance that there is an other tribunal then mans before which they are arraigned Must it not be sad earnest and a marvellous povver that can make so willing a divorce betvvixt men and their idols vvhich vvere once as their right eye to them and beat them off that ground of self-righteousnes vvhich they had been so long establishing to themselves that should cause them also choose the reproach of Christ and his crosse before any outvvard advantage and abandon that society without which sometimes they could not live Must not this speak forth something above nature and natural reason O! may not the world oft wonder what is become of their old friends though I confesse this should rather put them with wonder and astonishment to some serious enquiry whence so great a change can be THIRD Thus communion and fellowship with God whereto the Saints are in this life admitted and brought near to him in the spirit is a most real thing and no delusion is a truth which may be very convincingly demonstrat even to the view of the world and to such who are but onlookers on the same 1 Iob. 1 ver 3. Phil 3 ver 20. I confesse this is a truth that must be spiritually discerned and therefore the world cannot know it or reach that unspeakable joy and delight which is found by the Saints in that sweet path yet we must say there are somethings and some such and so convincing evidences as may witness to men and rationally demonstrat the same the conviction whereof they cannot possibly shun if they but come near and in their serious thoughts consider 1. Hovv great and excellent a company doe bear this testimony even as many as in every time did ever serve God in the Spirit is not this transmitted by the fathers to the children as their experience And as certainly tryed by succeeding ages a truth vvhich is not once or tvvice proved in the Christians life for the proofs thereof are innumerable and past reckoning vvhich they have had yea amongst all the Saints since the dayes of Abel to this present time there was never one contradictory witness could be produced 2. Are not these who do thus testify what they have oft found in secret retirements to God such whose testimony in any other matter the worst of men could not refuse or deny to be famous I am sure the World is convinced that the followers of Christ dare not yea use not to deal falsely in other things with these they have to do with how ever their malice carry them to reproach them yea that they are more to be credited then such who make a scorn of Religion 3. Have they not had as great an interest and share of the World as others and been of as discerning spirits to know the true value of things who from their experience doe not only declare there is an undoubted reality in converse with God but that the joy and delight herein which they have found is above all the plâ—â—sures of the flesh O! what must that be which could make such who wanted no outward allurements who had not lost their taste and were flesh and blood as well as others to turn their back on all for Christ and by their walk testify they have found some more satisfying enjoyment in fellowship with God 4. Must not this be very obvious and convincing that when men once become serious in the way of God they have got some new acquaintance that sure is another world and some other society then that of men with which they have intercouse Whence are their frequent retirements from which they have been seen so oft to come forth with greatest satisfaction and with some remarkable change in their case doth it not thus appear They are not alone when they are alone yea in such a solitude must find something very desireable 5. Is not this also testifyed in such times when men could not well dissemble or be suspected of deceit in times of great outward affliction when the World also hath been most tempting with its offers yea at death when they are stepping over that threshold a time wherein the words of dying men are of greatest weight and credit the spirits of such being then more unbyassed and free of these ordinary temptations wherewith others are swayed How oft have they at such times declared that surely God is familiar with men which they have found and though they were going to change their place yet were not to change their company 6. Can that be a delusion which is so sensible in the present time whereof the Saints are not more sure that they live then they are sure of this truth what near approaches what refreshing viewes they have got while God hath come near to their soul what a discernable elevation of their spirits doth go along with this yea on the other hand as the withdrawing hereof is very sensible to themselves so is there not something of this obvious to by-standers how great a change and difference this will make in their case from other times which they cannot get hid 7. Doth not something of this truth appear on the very countenance and outward carriage of Christians with what a lustre and resemblance of Heaven a holy stayednes and composure of spirit when they have been
wherein they live I shall here point at this truth as it is in the providence of God written in such great letters as are obvious to the view of the World so as most common onlookers cannot passe this without a remark it is true much may be laid over to that great general aâ—fize of the last judgement that day of retribution yea sometimes we see the most wicked and vile go in peace to the grave the soveraignity of God doth also appear very observably in the different measure and kind of punishment and it is too evident how prone men are to look more to the interest that second causes have in such a thing then to a divine hand but this is also sure that the Lord is known on the earth by the judgement which he executeth and in every age doth set up such convincing examples before men that the greatest Atheist may see yea oft their conscience must break the jayle restrain it as they will and force this acknowledgement that such judgements can be no casual thing while something of a power higher then man and a clear verifying of the word is so discernable therein Now to demonstrat this truth I would offer somethings which may shew how very near this cometh to the observation of men so as none can be a stranger thereto or want conviction of this piece of the truth of God except they willingly shut their eyes while it is clear 1. That the very Heathens who never knew the Scripture nor a written Law have 〈◊〉 so much of a natural conscience that not only they can put some difference between vertue and vice but even in some measure can discern Gods putting some difference betwixt the same how flagitious crimes use to be punished by a divine hand we may say time could never yet wear out the observation of this truth through the World and though many things may be received and credited which not having a sure ground do quickly evanish it being truths priviledge still to outlive falsehood yet it is sure how in the darkest parts of the earth this hath been still noticed with a remark and transmitted from one age to another yea the records of the nations even by heathen writers shew what remarkable punishment hath followed cruel oppression Covenant-breaking and bloodshed and such other grosse sins against the second table yea how these have been the usual forerunners of great strokes on Kingdomes and familyes 2 Doth not the World see that in these remarkable judgements which have come on a nation and People there is something higher then instruments or second causes which may be very evident in bringing the same about so that all who goe by must confesse such is no casual tryst nor doth arise out of the dust but that surely a divine hand is there and truely though some desolating strokes are very terrible in themselves and blood and ruines should be no matter of pleasure yet whereas thereby that stately sound is heard even his voice who maketh the earth to tremble and God is made known to the sons of men we should not only with fear but even some holy congratulation consider his work now to clear what a convincing witness these are to this truth I shall point at some very obvious remarkes which I am sure the World cannot contradict of the Lords own immediat hand in such judgements 1. That strange concurrence and tryst of providence which useth to appear when God is against a People how all things will then conspire as in a fatal conjunction to â—â—â—k the woe and ruine that men may see surely this 〈◊〉 â—rom the Lord who is wonderful in counsel from a hand against which there is no striving 2. How such remarkable strokes are seen to tryst with some great and remarkable height of sin in such a nation and People so that it is easy then for all onlookers to confesse the righteousnes of God therein 3. That vvhen judgement is coming on a land it may be seen hovv instruments are raised and in a more then ordinary vvay acted vvith all advantages for such a piece of service 4. A visible blasting then both of counsel and strength and these meanes vvhich othervvayes looked most probable hovv remarkably such are confounded even in the use of their ordinary abilities their heart and usual courage taken from them vvhile the Lord is on a vvork of judgement 5. That astonishing successe vvhich is usually seen to follovv these vvhom the Lord sendeth forth to execut his judgement hovv then they move svviftly and vvith vigour they doe not stumble or vveary it is neither rivers nor walled cities can stand in their way mountaines are made vallies to shew it is the Lord whose hand in that day is strong upon them to strengthen their loines and make the sword and axe sharp for his service 6. Amidst these various strokes which come on a land can men passe that of the Pestilence without some special note where Gods immediat hand something supernatural above ordinary or natural causes may be clearly seen both in its strange progresse in spreading which like a lightning doth oft go throvv cities and countryes in a small time do not these tell aloud to the World that they come not unsent and vvithout some special commission and that there is no stryving against them nor are ordinary meanes effectual in some such extraordinary plagues until he vvho brought it on do also by his ovvn hand take it off 3. It is very obvious even to the world that clear resemblance which is oft betwixt sin and the stroke how holy justice doth keep a proportion and doth shape out the judgement so exactly both in measure and kind that it may be easy to see the stroke pointing as with an hand to the cause by its discernable likenes and both at the righteous judgement of God which thus measureth out to men as they have dealt with others we see how the Lord trysted Agag and Adonibezek how Sodoms burning lust was punisht with fire from heaven yea what even David had measured out for his murther and adultery the svvord shall not depart from his house and for the other his wives by his own son abused and truely every ages observation can witness this truth from many convincing examples that there is a God who judgeth in the earth it being oft seen if men would seriously observe 1. How an universal overspreading of sin in a land hath usually some national and universal stroke following 2. That blood waiteth on bloody men and suffereth them not oft to live out half their dayes one oppressour punished by another the unmerciful man payed home in his own coyn by such as shall shew as little mercy to him or his 3. How the proud and insolent who do most hunt after outward glory are usually trysted vvith some humbling abasing stroke he povvreth contempt on princes and such vvho vvill not honour God shall not brook that honour
they seek from man 4. That such vvho have been most given vp to uncleannes are oft seen not to encrease as to their posterity but their issue observeably made to faile yea by a divine hand rooted out sure many such signal examples might be instanced 5. How such who have choosed sin to shun trouble and suffering have in their sinful way got as large a measure thereof as that man who in Queen Maryes time said he could not burn for the truth and therefore forsook it by an unseen hand had both himselfe and his house in one night burnt 6. That the treacherous and deceitful men are thus dealt with by others yea children who have been unduetiful to their parents have from theirs met with the same recompence 7. That whilest men to make a purchase have even denyed themselves the necessary use of outward things are oft seen to leave their estate to such who do quickly wast and scatter the same and thus the sinful parsimony of parents punished with the prodigality of such who succeed them 8. That the frequent use of some dreadful imprecations are oft punished by the Lord with a sutable stroke to the conviction both of themselves and onlookers 9. How such as have joyned together and united themselves against the truth have been visibly broken as to their own privat interest and truely we must say there is oft such a tryst of very convincing circumstances in some acts of the judgement of God with such a resemblance to the sin yea judgement sometime pursueing men in the very place where the sin hath been acted that it may be easy for all who go by to say there is indeed a God who judgeth in the earth 4. Doth it not appear how very convincing and obvious this truth is even to the world from these ordinary remarkes and proverbial sayings which we find in all ages and in every part of the earth even the most rude and ignorant have had of the judgement of God for truely what else are these but an expresse witnes how universally this truth is known and received by men how much the world is convinced thereof through a long tract of observation from the fathers to the children yea thence they have had a divinity of their own drawn out thereof how such sins do not use to passe without some notour punishment Now I would but name some few of these remarkes that have been most usual in all times 1. How some familyes have not thriven but a secret judgement hath been discernable thereon since they had hand in some grosse acts of wickednesse such as bloodshed their former prosperity from such a day visibly declining 2. How that an evil purchase useth not to be of long continuance but their estate oft in a very strange and unsensible way made to evanish which their children though frugal can by no meanes keep up and the cause hereof men doe easily point at it was purchased by fraud transmitted with a curse cleaving thereto and so there was no warding of the judgement of God 3. Such who doe not much consider Gods contraversy yet are oft forced to remark that since some have medled or matched with such an house they have sadly smarted thereby something of a curse even following the race and posterity of some 4. How sacrilegious medling with that which hath been for a pious and publick use hath caused a visible wast and consumption in their own estate 5. That mens asking counsel from the Devil and turning to that airth for their help doth usually resolve in a sad and tragick close and truly this many in the shutting up of their life have been forced to confesse 6. That falshood doth not use to keep its feet nor a wicked way long prosper what ever it seeme to the first view yea I may adde as one of the Worlds remarks which they cannot well shun that which seemeth was an ordinary saying in the time of Ester that it is not safe troubling the Church or for men to state themselves in opposition to that party and I dare not question but this shall be yet as convincing and obvious to the World as it hath been in any former ages 5. Is not the appearance of a divine hand oft very obvious to the World in the discovery of sin and bringing to light some grosse acts of wickednes even in extraordinary way while it is seen 1. By what strange unexpected meanes these have been brought forth such an astonishing tryst and concurrence of things therein as hath forced not only onlookers to some special remark but hath even struck the guilty party through the heart with wonder and conviction of the same 2. How the hand of Justice persuing men for some notour and known crime doth oft bring to light some that have been most secret which they thought the World could never reach yea it may be frequently seen while men have been in one sin found out it hath also brought forth the discovery of some other and forced them to confesse that is was a righteous judgement persuing them for the same It is a thing also known yea by many undenyable instances witnessed that marvellous discovery of concealed murther by the bleeding of the body upon the touch of the murtherer I confesse it should be hard to assert the lawful and warrantable practice of such an appeal to so extraordinary and stupendious a sign from the Lord where the Scripture goeth not clearly before us but on the other hand such a thing so surely tryed for such an end and in the case where all ordinary meanes of discovery have been wanting I think calleth us to a serious remark thereof while it so visiby seemeth to witness his hand who doth make inquifition for blood 6. Is not the dreadful consternation these tormenting feares which men after some grosse acts of wickednesse do bewray a very obvious witness to this truth that there is a God who judgeth on the earth in whose hands it is a terrible thing to fall and sheweth how great a punishment wickednes is to its selfe truely if Atheists turn not brutish and stupid they must notice this and confesse a thing which doth so oft reach their eares what have been the horrid cryes of many dying men who have most sported with sin in their life that may tell bystanders there is a judge who can stretch forth his hand on the soul and conscience whereto no rack or outward torments is any way comparable 7. I would furder adde these extraordinary signs and prodigies which do usually go before some stroke and judgement on a land do they not clearly point at a divine hand in the same For as these are a solemn forewarning from Heaven to give men an alarum before remakable changes the truth whereof the World cannot deny so we must say they are a convincing testimony that these judgements are no casual things which the Atheist cannot answer it being so clear 1.
care and expence what a sore vanity is this 12. Will not the want of a very small thing oft embitter the pleasantest lot and turn into wâ—â—mwood and gall the smallest touch of pain the gravel or tooth-ake yea even some melancholy thought will make men disrelish all their present enjoyments what a torment doth a small ruffle and affront oft prove to the proud man even in the midst of his glory is it not also found how carnal mirth and joy men wallowing in the delights of the World hath still in the close a bitter sting and hasth waygate which as the shadow attends the body is the native and unseparable consequent thereof and surely that may be easy to discern there is no condition which can want a crosse or some mixture of discontent even where there is least seen cause I would adde which cannot want a remark in every time that while men seem to be at the top and furdest period of their thoughts and projects have things according to their desire brought to some happy close they are oft then upon some turn and change in their condition either by death or some very sad crosse and even in that day their thoughts have perished truely such as are wise observers of the World and of the course of things therein may oft see how usuall a tryst this is that when there is too bright a sun-blink in outward prosperity if great sobriety and moderation do not accompany the same it is an ominous and fatall presage of a storm ad summum quicquid venit ad exitium prope est TWELFTH I would furder adde this truth which hath in all ages been cleerly witnessed even to the conviction of the World that the end of the upright man is peace and integrity what ever rub it may seem to have by the way yet hath a sweet and comfortable close Ps 37 37. This is an undenyable truth not only because the Saints are then entring into perfect peace but it is also clear that how ever the godly man may have very sharp assaults in the close of his dayes and some who have shined very bright do set in a dark cloud their evening full of sorrow and bitternes yea their reflexion on some sad stip which they have made by the way bearing them company even to the grave yet this truth is still verifyed yea may be discernable to the conviction of bystanders that integrity and an upright walk hath much peace in the end and doth land men upon a comfortable harbour anent which I can appeal the World and the most ordinary onlookers if this hath not been oft very convincing and discernable to them from many instances from the Lords usual way with these who have been faithful in their generation at their death from that testimony which they have then given to this yea from most visible signes and evidences hereof even upon their countenance and carriage vvhilest it is seen 1. How great an advantage such use to have above others when Death approacheth so that it hath not been Balaams wish alone to dy the death of the righteous and to have his latter end like theirs but the worst of men are still forced to witnesse their respect to the lot of a dying Christian and would wish a share thereof when it coms to their turn anent which I may ask the greatest mockers at religion and at the life of a Godly man if they can possibly shun this conviction that surely such are of the best estare and at the greatest advantage in their end 2. This I am sure cannot be hid from the World what aboundant peace the Saints do then testify in their choice what a present unspeakable complacency they have with this that they valued Christ above all other advantages did choose affâ—iction rather then sin and now while they are turning their face to the wall finds the witnes of a good conscience and of Gods approbation so sweet a feast that their joy and peace on this account they can not smother or keep in but declare to all who stand by what they find and truely it hath been oft seen how the inward joy which some of these have had hath exceeded their outward pain been more sensible to them then their sicknesse yea have been in leaving the World much more chearful then these whom they left behind 3. It is also known and may be very obvious to by-standers how with a sweet composure and recumbency of foul such have laid themselves upon the promise in that houre while they were grapling with the king of terrours their spirit then quiet and calm having taken the truth and testimony of God for their shield and buckler which may tell the World what an other kinde of security and confidence these have beyond others yea that surely the ground on which this confidence is â—ounded must be a thing that is able to bear out the greatest storm and assault and is something above nature 4. Is it not clear that even an untimely and violent death could not let or frustrat that peace which integrity causeth in the close For innumerable instances can witnes what marvellous joy and satisfaction the Saints have shewed at a stake and upon a scaffold and thence hath had a more chearful going out of time then the rich man stretched upon his soft bed or the greatest Monarch amidst all outward advantages sure we must say that sweet refreshing close of the upright man hath never been more visible and writ in greater letters then in such a case 5. What very sad conflicts have some of the Saints had in their life yea even upon the setting of the sun hath been put to cry out through sore perplexing feares and doubts wherewith they have been assaulted who have at last had this turned into a song and such a marvellous change in their case as hath not been more sensible to themselves then discernable to all onlookers like a sudden calm and sunshin after some dark storm I must here ask the Atheist and such as reckon Godlinesse but a fancy whence should so strange so sudden and great alteration proceed that these who a little before were under such horrour could have no rest no arguments could do their tnrn doe thus witnes the aboundant peace of their souls yea which is oft seen that fervent desire wherewith some of the Saints are taken away the very lustre of heaven being upon their countenance how marvellous and piercing are their words which may cleerly tell that now they feel they see and have got some glance of that which onlookers cannot reach though they cannot deny an acknowledgement of this 6. Must not the World grant yea the greatest enemyes to godlines allow this charity that sure this peace and joy which such have witnessed at death cannot be dissimulation that there is no temptation could thus byass them to deceive others and themselves in a matter of such high concernment
Children who are these that flee as a cloud like the doves to their windowes O blessed day in which the light did first break up on the poor ofspring of Iaphet who then dwelt in the shadow and region of death O blest day that brought salvation with it to the gentils wherein the Lord did visit these dark places of the earth which were full of the habitations of cruelty I think the sense of so great a mercy should never let us want an errant for giving thanks yea put much to silence our other complaints 4. Is it not also clear that not only as to the time but these very places of the earth which Esai and other of the Prophets did particularly point at this promise had an exact accomplishment for it is this day manifest the isles which we find so frequently mentioned that these should wait for his law and the uttermost parts of the earth whence he should bring thâ— Daughter of his dispersed may have a clear commentar upon the same from what the Lord hath done to Britain and Ireland with other remote parts of the earth yea hath not the Aethiopians been made to stretch out their hands even in these sun-burnt places of Africk hath not Christ also had a conquest where many a black moore was through grace made as the snow of Salmon and the feathers of a dove so that it is clear how these particular places which were so oft pointed at by the Prophets have been visited by the Gospel and fallen to the share of the Church 5. This change which by the incoming of the gentils to the Church was wrought upon the Earth is a thing so great and astonishing that were it still in the promise and this not yet fulfilled it would truely stagger our faith how such a thing should ever come to passe and is there not here a miracle that the World cannot possibly deny even this great work of God in bringing of the gentils which without an extraordinary power could not be effectuat if men will consider First That svvift progresse which then the Gospel had how it did run and was glorified through the furthest parts of the earth and like a ligtning break forth from one place to another so that in the Apostles time the Scripture doth shew how most of the conspicuous Provinces of Asia had received the Gospel and Tertullian who lived in the second Century in his Book contra Iudaos doth there witnes how many nations and these most remote from other Parthians Medes Armenia Phrygia Cappadocia Pontus and Pamphilia with much of Egypt and diverse parts of Africk besides Rome Spain and other places of Europe were in his time almost wholly Christian for it is indeed clear that the bounds of the Church was then of a larger extent then it is now at this day 2. It is also undenyable that in this solemn day of the Gospels spreading amongst the nations suffering and persecution did all that time attend the Church yea in such a measure that as the writers of these times do witnes neither famine pestilence nor the sword did destroy so many of the World as then were of Christians in the two first centuries put to death for adhering to the truth and it is clear that this great work of God in such a swift spreading of the Church was most discernable in these times of hottest persecution yea then was her most effectual grouth and increase which upon her getting some rest and beginning to flowrish with external peace was at a visible stand 3 How marvellous a thing was this to be brought about if we consider the many different languages that did then stop correspondence between the Church and the rest of the earth for how could the truth thus spread among the nations yea in such remote places of the World Churches be planted by the Apostles and have the Scripture translated and made legible to them without that extraordinary gift of tongues which for that end was then given from the Lord sure beside sacred authority anent this reason may convincingly witnes to the World the truth of such a miracle 4. How strange and wonderful a change was this that in so short a time the Gospel should thus enlighten and put such a lustre on the most rude and savage places of the earth where scarse humanity had been and bring them from the condition of beasts to men should thus tame and civilize the greatest Barbarians and cause the lion to ly down with the lamb yea by the preaching of that Gospel and of a crucified Christ which as it was to the Jewes a stumbling block so to the Greeks foolishnes And in a word was not this indeed a miracle how in a mattet of such high concernment as that vvherein mens soul and everlasting interest lay they should be turned off their old vvay and Religion in vvhich they and their Fathers had been so long rooted that a little spark which did break up in Iudea should bring dovvn the idols of the nations and burn up their temples Alace that there is so little of a large heart of that primitive zeal and fervour this day among Christians for the enlargement of the Church that such merchants are now rare who would venture out to trade with other parts for this excellent ware the merchandise whereof is better then of gold O that in these parts where the truth is knovvn and professed the Lord vvould raise up men of such a spirit and such a Magistrat vvho vvould make it their vvork and lay dovvn solid grounds hovv to advance the Kingdome of Christ in the dark places of the earth and reckon their interest in a forrain plantation upon the account of the Gospel no lesse then on the account of trade vve vvould pray and yet hope for this VIII What vve find foretold by Daniel yea by Christ himself anent the destruction of Ierusalem and ceasing of the Iewish dayly sacrifice with the rejection of that people Dan. 12. ver 11. Matth. 24 ver 2. hath many ages past come to passe wherein the World may see how clearly the event doth answer this Prophecy for it is manifest 1. That this is a truth which doth need no other witnes then the scattered remnant and desolate ruines of that once flowrishing Church and nation of the Iewes vvhich vve see vvith our eyes at this day vvhose present state is so great a monument of divine judgement so clear a vvitnes to the Scripture that I think men cannot look thereon if they be in any measure serious but must have such a conviction 2. What hath befallen this people may it not be an astonishment to the World in all succeeding ages a stroke that hath put them in a more sad condition then any nation or people we ever yet heard of that hath cast them out of their own land scattered them as vagabonds through the earth so that these many ages they have had no scepter
and progres of that party with such particular circumstances and differencing characters from any other enemy of the Church as may render the World most inexcusable if they will needs dash on that rock whereon the Scripture hath set so conspicuous a beacon 2. That this Prophecy should now want an accomplishment or Antichrist be yet to come is a thing most repugnant to sacred truth since it is sure that mystery of iniquity even in the times of the Apostles did begin to work and he who then for a time withheld his coming the heathen Empire of Rome hath long since been taken out of the way which caused some Christians in these dayes wish the standing and continuance of that Empire from the terrour they had of that adversary who according to the word they knew was to fill his room yea doe we not find the Churches tryal from Antichrist should be the most sore and lasting tryal of the Church under the New Testament which after her begun breathing from heathnish persecution was to continue for many ages wherein the word is most expresse and cleir that the rise and fall of this enemy should be gradual and not at once whose beginning and first appearance might be traced to the first times of the Church and his close and finall run near the second coming of Christ by the brightnes whereof he shall be destroyed and therefore this is so much the subject of the Prophecyes of the New Testament the great intent and scope of the Revelation of Iohn in which the true state of the Christian Church with the various changes of her condition even from the opening up of the first seal to the blowing of the last trumpet is particularly held forth and there may we all alongst trace the steps of the rise and fall of that man of sin 3. That such an one as the Scripture points forth who doth most fully answer to all these marks which are there given of Antichrist hath come and been revealed to the World is a thing so very manifest that except men will needs force their light and conscience it cannot but be beyond question and debate even such an one whose coming should be after the working of Satan with all power signes and lying wonders forbidding to marry and to abstain from meats which God had appointed who sitteth in the temple of God having a name full of blasphemy and doth exalt himselfe above all that is called God who bewitcheth the Kings and great men of the earth with his enchantements yea even by his livery may he be known that he most usually hath scarlet and purple which I think truely marvellous how particularly these are mentioned in the Scripture and in a word such an one whose traffick and merchandize is not only gold and silver but the souls of men who should be drunk with the blood of the Saints and martyres of Jesus Christ under whose reign the Church must flee to the wildernes and there be latent for a long time and his seat that city which is situat upon 7 hills even that great city which doth rule over the Kings of the earth O strange how men can acknowledge this for the Scripture of God and yet not see it fulfilled before their eyes that there is so vive an image and portraicture of Antichrist there held forth such peculiar characters which do convincingly point at the Pope and popish hierarchy yea could answer to no other adversary which Christ ever had under the New Testament either pagan or Mahumetan and yet so much of the World doth not know him when he is before their eyes 4. It is clear that no age since Antichrist was revealed did altogether want some witnes to point him forth even in the darkest times many of whom loved not their lives unto the death that they might seal this truth and it may be a question if more of the blood of the Saints was shed under heathens then in after times under Antichrist yea though we had not such expresse marks to disover him from the word it may be easy for men to judge who that is who is this day so directly opposire to Jesus Christ and the great design of the Gospel that assumes to himselfe what is alone due to God to forgive sin and be worshipped with Religious adoration doth challenge a Magisterial power and supremacy over the whole Church as its head a style too great for any of the Angels who maketh void the merit of Christ and layeth down a way of life and salvation on the same termes that it stood in the Covenant of works doth destroy the great intent of the Gospel and in effect denyeth Iesus Christ to have come in the flesh who setteth Heaven upon sale for money and permitteth none to perish and goe to hell but the poore doth dispence with the grossest acts of sin and the expres commands of the Law-giver maketh moral prohibitions void by his authority yea halloweth the very stewes and most horrid acts of uncleannes taketh on him to change the condition of the dead and ensure to their friends the happy state of their souls if they will make large offerings on that account O! who is this is not that Antichrist whose way doth state him in such direct tearmes of opposition to Christ 5. Have we not cause to wonder no lesse at the strange induration and blindnes of the popish party then of the Iewes that whilest the one doth confesse the Old Testament and yet knoweth not Christ the other should grant the truth of the New Testament and not know Antichrist that he is come even he after whom a great piece of the World for these many ages hath been wondering sure so clear an agreement betwixt this prophecy and the event may not only put this beyond debate but leave a conviction upon the greatest Atheists of the truth and divinity of the Scripture for what ever former times might pretend ignorance whilest this mystery was but working now when the man of sin hath comed to his full height and stature and so clearly revealed by the light of the Gospel it taketh away all excuse and I professe in these latter times I cannot see how one can be a knowing Papist and not an Atheist also X What was prophecyed anent the killing of the witnesses under Antichrist Rev. 11 v. 3 7 8. we may say hath clearly comed to passe and at this day may read the same in the event for it is manifest 1. That dureing Antichrists reigne even in the darkest times there wanted not some to seal the truth and bear witnes thereto both by open confession and suffering on that account which the Church Histories can aboundantly make out 2. That dureiug that dark night these who did give a testimony and any way appeared against the grievous encroachments of Antichrists in behalf of down-born truth were put to prophecy in sackcloth when there was nothing left but to weep over the
and in their greatest strength that by a strong hand he did make room for his truth when both Law and force did withstand the same and put the marks of his wrath on such who would oppose the spreading of his Kingdome that they have been as visible as sometimes their rage and violence against the Church was yea since the Lord begun to lift up a standard for the truth and call forth his People to act hath it not been seen they have losed their ground more by underhand treaties and turning aside to carnall politick shifts then by open force and violence vvhich the French Massacre vvith other sad instances can vvitnes for indeed the Church hath still lost least by greatest opposition 2. Have vve not seen by vvhat dreadful shakings and alterations of the earth this late glorious reformation of the Church from Antichristianisme hath been ushered in vvhich hath been more strange and frequent then in many ages before hath not the Lord caused the Nations shake and the earth to reel like a drunken man to shevv men that though he suffered long in former times of the Worlds ignorance he vvill not so novv bear vvith opposing his truth 3. Have vve not also seen the Lords raising up men fit for action in these last times men of a great heroick spirit vvith some more then ordinary elevation of the same to appear for his intrest such vve may say that many former ages could not instance in vvhich the Lords helping his People to do great things his suiting them vvith enduments for the service and vvork of the time hath been most discernable Was not that excellent man the Admiral of France vvith many others in that place eminently raised up for the necessity of that time and doe we not find these Princes of Orange William and Maurice and Mauritius of Saxony whom the Lord raised against Charles the V. and caused him flee over the Alpes yea what marvellous resolution and courage did attend the actings of the confederates of the Low Countryes in latter times doe we not find Gustavus King of Sweden Bernard Duke of Weymar Lantsgrave of Hesse with many others eminently raised to avenge the Lords quarrel against that bloody house of Austria have we not also seen very great instrumemts raised up in Brittain and Ireland who were followed with wonderful successe to act for the truth against Antichristian Prelacy and truely we must say the withdrawing in such a measure of that spirit of courage and resolution which once was so visibly let forth in the first dawning of the Reformation may sadly point at a great decay of zeal selfe confidence unfaithfulnes as to the improving of opportunities for the Lord was with his People whilest they were with him and did singly follow him in his way but alace with their departing it may be said their strength hath departed from them however the quarrel is clear for an oppressed Peoples acting upon so just so necessary an account as the interest of Religion against the cruelty and violent encroachments of Antichrist wherein as the Lord hath eminently owned his People so I dare not question he will yet appear and silence the adversaryes of this truth by such an argument against vvhich they shall not debate 4. That unusual deludge of blood which for the 100 yeares past hath overflowed much of Europe can be a witnes to this that the Lord hath taken peace from men who vvould not embrace the peace of the Gospel offered in these last times and given his enemyes who had shed the blood of the saints blood to drink in great measure I am sure poor Germany can prove this which for 20 years together was a field of dead men France from the dayes of Henry the II. to the establishment of Henry the IV. hovv long vvas the Low Countryes made a stage of vvarr vvhere many a cruell Spanjard did fall under the svvord of an avenging God besids the late bloody vvarres in Brittain and Ireland and vvhat doth this declare but that Jesus Christ hath taken the fields and it vvil not be novv vvith the Kings of the earth to oppresse his Church and withstand the truth as in former times I shall but adde hovv vvonderfully hath the Lord appeared in delivering his Church at the greatest extremity hath turned his enemyes counsels and designes upon themselves brought about the great vvorks of these last times by meanes so unexpected and improbable that vve may say as to vvhat of his judgement is already execute against Antichrist hath been no lesse marvellous then that Jerichoes vvals should fall at the sound of a trumpet of ram-horn or a cake of barley bread tumbling into the host of Midian should smite and overthrow the same surely when we consider what the Lord hath done and how exactly that doth answer the Scripture we may have much to confirm us anent the further accomplishment of his word and be assured that the term of his long suffering towards Babylon is at an end war is denounced and the execution already begun which must not have a close untill judgement be accomplished into victory IV. Ground which may confirm the faith of the saints and be as a pledge in their hand of the full accomplishing of the Scripture yea that this is near is this that the day is now turned and that prophecyed victory which the Church should have over Antichrist before the end is not only begun but in a great measure advanced This is indeed a great confirmation when we see so marvellous a crisis in the Churches case her recovery from so desperat and hopelesse a disease already begun that it shall be furder perfected we are made to wonder at the greatnes of these things yet promised but why should we not also wonder at that which God hath already done for his Church in our dayes the Scripture doth shew that Antichrists ruin must begin by the word that this stroke shall be gradual and however that great work of God meet with much opposition yet it shall no more go back in the whole and must we not say in all this the word is fulfilled it hath not hitherto failed the Church but the event in every circumstance made to answer to the same Now to clear this we would consider these two First that the Churches victory over Antichrist is this day so farr advanced 2. How the Lords very immediat hand hath been most discernable therein I. The first I need but name whilest it is so manifest what the Lord hath wrought for his Church for we have seen Kingdomes and Nations subject themselves to the truth the kingdome of Antichrist grow dark with the breaking up of the light and many of his followers made to gnash their teeth being scorched with the heat and power of the gospel in how great a measure is that interest now shaken if we consider what the Lord hath wrough what a great reformation hath been in Brittain
Jreland through much of France Germany Sueden the Low Countries Pole Denemark yea even in Hungary Transilvania sure this was a great work which should be marvellous inour eyes how that Antichristian Empire contrived with such wisdome underpropt with so great strength whose commands not long since were receaved as Oracles with an avv and respect onely due to God hath in such a measure begun to fall before the power of the word O the righteous judgement of the Lord. which he hath shewed forth upon that adversary and should be a pledge to us of the further manifestation thereof an adversary we may say the greatest that ever the Church had whose little finger hath been sorer then the loins of all who went before if we consider his cruelty over mens bodyes tyrannie over their conscience with so long a continuance of that tryal in respect of whom it may be said Pharaoh was an easy taskmaster Antiochus and the Roman Emperours milde who for neer 1200 year did carry on a despeart and bloody war against the Church II. The Second which I would at some more length follow forth is this how the Lords hand and something of an extraordinary providence hath been no lesse discernable in this late raising of the Church and her begun victory over Antichrist then in the First planting of Christianity by the Apostles this is a truth which to many may seem strange but when seriously considered if prejudice do not darken mens judgement will appear from sure and solid grounds now to demonstrat this I would here offer some very convincing witnesses which may help to strengthen the faith of the Godly and give Atheisme some dash FIRST Witnes to this truth is that wonderful successe which the Gospel in these last times hath had wherein men must see the great power of God and efficacy of the Spirit in some measure as manifest as in the first rise of the Christian Church if we consider 1. From what a small spark so great a fire did break up which in a short time put Europe in a flame and made so great a change therein even Luthers appearing against Texelius upon the account of his indulgencies O but Gods time of working may be oft contraire to our time of expecting 2. What a swift progresse did the gospel have may we not say with wonder can a nation be born at once yet this we have seen how many Nations and Cityes in one and the same age yea in lesse then 40. yeares was brought in subjection to the truth and these instruments whom scarce any durst own at first made to see great Princes with armyes on the fields for the interests of Christ 3. Have we not seen Religion propagated by martyrdome no lesse then in the primitive times and mens essaies to ruin the Church helped it further to grow O what but a divine power could thus bring gold out of iron and clay bring a flowrishing Church out of their ashes and turn her poison to a preservative but alace it is sad that whilest men were burned for the truth and reading the Scripture their affection did also burn in reading the same but now with our liberty there is so great a decay 4. Must not the wise and polititians of the World confesse this late encrease of the Church is a thing above their reach most crosse to all their rules which they cannot see how in an ordinary way it could be brought about 5. Were not instruments most unlikely for so great a work if we would judge as men that such a poor handful as Luther Zuinglius Melanchton Bucere c. should go forth to confront that power which then made the earth to tremble might it not seem as improbable as the sending forth of some fisher men to subdue the Nations 6. It is knowen they were none of the Rabbies of the time whose repute and fame might have purchased easy accesse to their message nay they were loaded with all the reproach which their adversaryes could devise with novelty of doctrine deceit and falshood in their dealing represented to the World as Monsters Luther was forced to answer himselfe a printed relation of his death how he was carried away soul and body by the Devil 7. Was not the message they carried most opposit to mens carnal inclinations to these principles they had suckt in from their infancy to the religion of their Fathers yea in a word had no outward encouragements the whole World seemed to combine against them Luther at his first appearance excommunicated by the Pope proscribed by the Emperour and good Melanchton was oft made to faint when he thought on so great a speat of opposition so that without the convoy of an extraordinary power nothing could have looked more improbable SECOND Witnes that may let the World see a wonderful providence in this late raising of the Church is this these sharp assaults which the Church met with from a party no lesse cruel and powerfull then any adversary which the Church had in the primitive times for I am sure the World must confesse that no ordinary mean had wanted for an essay to crush the gospel in its first budding forth that both counsel and force the authority of law backed vvhith greatest rage and violence in its execution yea the power of the Princes of the earth was put forth to the utmost to withstand this great work of God in these last ages to clear this I shall only point at some remarkable assaults which did tryst the dauning of the gospel that may shew something above nature going alongst with it 1. We find a Spanish Emperour devoted to the popish interest more powerful then any who went before brought in on Germany with the very first breaking up of the light which might seem a dreadful let to the Gospels spreading 2. The rise of the Boores and Anabaptist party whose way being so grosse destructive to civil order to the interests and proprieties of men did look like a sad tryst and a probable mean to beget much prejudice against the truth 3. That sad overthrow of the Duke of Saxony and Landgrave of Hesse who were such great patriots to the Church did then threaten the very ruin of the Protestant interest in Germany 4. The Councel of Trent where the Popish party had all their politicks on foot in a strong combination how to ruin the Church 5. The Interim of Germany a most subtile contrivance to divide and thus break the strength of the Protestants was also a sore assault a snare to some and cause of persecution to others 6. That Spanish Inquisition established through Spain Italy and the Low Countreyes a horrid cruel engine which did reach to prevent the smallest glancings of the truth 7. The French Massacre where not only the Admiral but most of the considerable Protestants vvere through all France in a few dayes cut off O vvould not this seem an irrecoverable stroke together with that
years before the fall of Prelacy about the yeare 1628. some yeares thereafter which as many grave and solid Christians yet alive can witnes who were there present was a bright and hot sun-blink of the Gospel yea may with sobriety be said to have been one of the largest manifestations of the Spirit and of the most solemn times of the downpowring thereof that almost since the dayes of the Apostles hath been seen where the power of God did sensibly accompany the word with an unusual motion upon the hearers and a very great tack as to the conversion of souls to Christ the goings of the Lord then full of Majesty and the shout of a King was heard in the solemn meetings of his people that as a judicious old Christian who was there present did expresse it he thought it was like a dazeling beam and ray of the glory of God with such an unusual brightnes as even forced by standers to an astonishment a very â—ffectual door opened with more then ordinary enlargement which the Ministers of Christ there did find in preaching the word whilest the people might be seen hearing the same in a melting frame with much tendernes of spirit surely this was the very power of God a convincing seal to the truth and ministry of his Servants who were then persecuted by the Prelats yea â— thing which as it was known had an awfull impression and was a terrour to their adveâ—saryes I remember amongst other passages what a worthy Christian told me how sometimes in hearing the word such a power and evidence of the Lords presence was with it that he hath been forced to rise and look through the Church and see what the people were doing thinking from what he felt on his own spirit it was a wonder how any could go away without some change upon them And then it was sweet and easy for Christians to come 30 40 miles to these solemn Communions which they had and there continue from the time they came until they returned without wearying or making use of steep yea but little of either meat or drink and as some of them professed did not feel the need thereof but went away most fresh and vigorous their souls so filled with the sense of God 6. That was also a remarkable time wherein the Lord did let forth much of the Spirit on his people in the year 1638 when this Nation did solemnly enter in Convenant vvhich many yet alive at this day do knovv hovv the spirits of men vvere raised and vvrought on by the vvord the ordinances lively and longed after for then did the Nation ovvn the Lord and vvas visibly ovvned by him much zeal and an enlarged heart did appear for the publick cause personal reformation seriously set about and then also vvas there a remarkable gale of providence that did attend the actings of his people vvhich did astonish their adversaryes and forced many of them to feign subjection Alace hovv is our night comed on for the Lord hath in anger covered the face of the Daughter of Zion vvith a dark cloud 7. Must not vve also say since the land vvas engadged by Covenant to the Lord in these late times vvhat a solemn outletting of the spirit hath been seen a large harvest with much of the fruit of the Gospel discernable which we may say with a warrant hath been proven in the inbringing of thousands to Christ a part whereof now are in glory and many yet live who are a visible seal to this truth of whom I am sure some will not lose the remembrance of these sweet refreshing times which the land for several yeares did enjoy of the Gospel and of many solemn Communions where a large blessing with much of the Spirit and power of God was felt acâ—ompanying the ordinances if it were expedient to set down circumstances I could here point at many such remarkable times and places which should clearly demonstrat this Now besids these more publick and obvious proofes it is knowen what a great testimony the experience of the godly in these late times could give to this truth what they have in a large measure felt of the power and refreshing outlettings of the spirit within their â—oul yea how oft after sorest downcasting have been wonderfully raised above themselves and filled with the consolation of God and joy unspeakable this would indeed make a great volum to reckon over all these instances even these whose experience in these last ages could in a large measure witnes this truth only to sâ—ut this up I shall name these two 1. Mr Welsh and Mr Forhes two great witnesses of Christ in this land when they were prisoners give this accompt of their case in a letter to Mr Iames Melvin and his Uncle then at London which under the said Mr Melvins hand is set down in a manuscript of his their wotds are these Dear Brethren we dare say by experience and our God is witnes we lye not that unspeakaâ—le is the joy that is in a free and full testimony of Christs royall authority unspeakable is the joy of suffering for his Kingdomeâ— for on that truth was their suffering stated we had never such joy and peace in preaching of it as we have found in suffering for the same we spake before in knowledge we now speak by experience that the Kingdome of God consists in peace and joy and in an other letter thus they say our joy hath greatly abounded since the last day which was after passing sentence of death on them by an assize at Linlithgow so that we cannot enough wonder at the riches of his free grace that should have vouchafed such a gift upon us to suffer for his Kingdome in which there is joy unspeakable and glorious and we are rather in fear that they to wit the sufferings be not conâ—â—nâ—â—ed and so we be robbed of further consolatioâ— then that they â—hould encrease surely there is great consolation in suffering for Christ we dow not expresse unto you the joy which our God hath caused abound in â—â— 2. I shall also mention that great Servant of Christ Mr Rutherfoard whose Letters now published can witnes what solemn dayes of the Spirit and sensible outlettings thereof he oft had in his experience Though books can tell but little what he really felt and enjoyed I shall onely set down some of his last and dying expressions which I had from these who were then present and caused write down the same from his mouth that may shew how lovely he also was in his death and how well that did correspond with his former life some of his words are these I shall shine I shall see him as he is and all the fair company with him and shall have my large share it is no easy thing to be a Christian but as for me I have got the victory and Christ is holding forth his armes to embrace mee I have had my feares and faintings as an
preacher of the Gospel to his death Galeacaeus Garracceolus an Italian Marquesse of great place and estate in the World was so taken by the hearâ— with one word in hearing Peter Martyr as made him quite not only all his hopes of preferment a most pleasant place as was in the earth and a great inheritance but to go over the belly of the most pressing intreaties and insinuations of his friends the weeping cryes of his Lady and Children and go to a strange place quiting all that he might preserve his conscience and enjoy fellowship with the Church O what a solemn witnes was this to the truth and of the conquering power of Christ And in a word what a marvellous thing was it that poor Luther against whom so much of the World was aloft with greatest rage and violence should yet live to an old age and go to the grave in peace And truely the Spirit and appearance of this great and fâ—â—st witnes to the truth might be a convincing evidence that the Lord was then to raise up a People to himselfe in whom he would be glorified by an active testimony as well as by suffering Besides these instances I would here mention some remarkable providences worthy indeed to be observed though they are little knowen to the World which we may say doth not only witnes the power of God but are a convincing seal to his truth and the Churches Reformation in these last times It is a remarkable passage which worthy Mr Forbes sets down under his hand whilest he was banished for the truth whose words are these In the year 1607. being at Ruan in France and meeting with Monsieur 〈◊〉 that auncient and famous divine and then Pastor of the Reformed Church in that city he had from him this following relation After the close of the Councel of Trent in the time of Pius the V. there was a consultation in Italy by the Pope and Cardinals for an utter extirpation of the Reformed Churches in Europe and to this end every Prince of the Romish Religion had a certain part designed where this great project should be put in practice The death of Pius the V. hindred a present prosecuting of this design And his successor Gregorius XIII did suffer it to ly dead having no heart that way and so until that time of Clemens VIII it was not revived but then this bloody resolution was of new ratified by him and his Cardinals under their hands and seals the onely difficulty was in this to find a fit and trusty person whom they should make use of to the Princes of the Romish Religion for engadgeing them to subscrive the said ordinance and set about the execution thereof At length a Gentleman of good parts near in blood to the Cardinal Baronius is choised which to him was a matter of much grief and sorrow for unknown to them he was of the Reformed Religion but this grief in his countenance and carriage put his friends who observed the same to strange thoughts and so much the more that he did expresly declare to some of these who asked thereanent that what to them seemed a cause of rejoycing was to him a just occasion of grief yet at last finding his haâ—ard upon a bitter challenge from the foresaid Cardinal who had heard thereof he judged it his wisdome to dissemble shewing him his unsuitablenes to so great an employment could not but be ground of trouble and fear and so was someway forced to engadge getting his commissions the decree of the Conclave with letters to the foresaid Princes sealed and subscribed But lo whilest this poor Gentleman is on his journey having found wayes to free himself of his servants and other company his spirit was in great perplexity betwixt these two grievous temptations either to be instrument of utter ruin to the truth and Churches of Christ or forsake his countrey inheritance and all he had in the World upon which he resolved to retire himself out of the high way to an obscure village where for three dayes he gave himself to fasting and prayer for direction and resolution from the Lord and after this had his heart so strengthned against the care of his wordly estate that he resolved to forsake all and to reveal this bloody conspiracy to the Churches of Christ and cast himself on Gods hand for his future estate so that he turned his face from Spain and took journey to France and to Paris where at that time remained the sister of Henry the IIII. a Religions Princesse afterwards Dutchesse of Lorraine to whom the foresaid Monsieur Figureus was her preacher and unto him made his addresse though after divers refusals of admission upon suspicion shewing him the whole bussines and delivered the sealed decree with his letters of coâ—â—mission for that effect and did likewise shew him who was then astonished at such a wonderful providence of God in fostering some of his own Children in the midst of Babylon and that to so comfortable an use for his Churches safety that there were many others in Italy yea in Rome it self of the Reformed Religion who had their secret meetings and even Gregory the XIII before his advancement to the Papacy was throughly clear thereanent in his judgement whereof he gave him divers evidences This foresaid relation did so affect Mr Forbes that he shewed his marvellous desire to see that man who had done so worthy and gracious a work for the glory of God and good of his Church and by a recommendation from Mousieur Figureus he did afterwards go of set â—â—â—pose to that place taking the first opportunity for Heâ—delberg where this Gentleman was then retired for his further security and honourably entertaind by that Prince where he sheweth that he saw him and from his own mouth received the assurance of this former narration to his great satisfaction and comfort This is the very suâ—me which I have here set down and truely â—â—â—scribed off the principale which I had beside me both written and subscribed by Mr Forbes his own hand A remarkable providence I shall also here set down which did tryst with some very convincing circumstances at the Parliament 1621. at their bringing in of Popish Geremonies upon the Church which was then a sad step of the lands defection from the truth contraire to their engadgements whilest the faithful Ministers of Jesus Christ at that time did with greatest seriousnes and freedome obtest and warn these who were in power alace that now there is litle of such a Spirit appearing that they would not to please men corrupt the Worship of God but the speat being violent it did at last resolve in a Law at which very time whilest the Kings Commissioner did rise from the throne to ratify this woeful act by the touch of the Scepter was even in this moment of that ratification trysted by the God of Heaven with an extraordinary lightning and very unusual great claps of thunder and these