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.
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
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
doth it surpasse that of a natural man even in his best estate and I am sure this pretious study of the dayly performance of the Word is one of these pathes of pleasure which would bring in more solide joy to the spirit in some few houres then some years wallowing in the carnal delights of the flesh which is but as pleasure in sport but quickly turneth to grief in earnest it is one of the great mistakes of the World that religion tends so much to sadden and disquyet the soul nay it is certainly the want of this because we are so little truely religious when we scruffe over our duety and take but a passing look of the wayes and work of God in the World then it is indeed very affrighting and unpleasant but when in a more Christian way we doe seriously look thereupon and get our heart near God taking the Word alongst with us O how delightful and ravishing a sight will this beâ— I truely think though there were not a command though it were no duety nor such advantage in the study of this grave truth yet that joy and refreshment which the soul would find in such a diligent search in going down into this blessed deep should invite us thereto But when I speak of this what a sweet and delightful subject the performance and outmaking of the Scripture is it must be understood that it is so only to the saints and it is no wonder the World keep at such a distance with it for this is a truth they cannot bear they hate it which as Micajah doth Prophesy alwayes bad things and carrieth a message of death to them a serious look of this truth to ungodly men is as the hand witing upon the wall before them which doth foretel their approaching ruin and should cause them all tremble the knowledge whereof must encrease their sorrow and disquyetness yea cause them cry out O doe not torment us before the time for they are surely undone and ruined if the Scripture of God be true and hath a performance But O what pleasant and refreshful tydings doth this carry to a Christian What a sweet view doth he here get of the inheritance and blessed estate of the saints which may cause such ane exclamation how great is that goodnes which is laid up for these that fear thee To demonstrate this I shall hold out somethings from which we may see how delightful a subject the accomplishment of the Scripture is for a Christian to study 1. Serious converse with this grave truth leadeth forward to practice and thus helpeth to bring down theory to experience which is the most sweet and desireable of all other demonstrations that we can have of the truth of the Scripture and maketh our light clear and pleasant to the taste turning the exercise of our judgement and reason thereanent into sense and feeling we are then made to see what a difference there is betwixt that discovery which a spiritual man whose religion is his practice hath of this and the cold winter-light of a natural understanding that hath no heat or warmenes therewith which is as great a difference as betwixt hearing of such a thing by report and seeing it with our eyes 2. This blessed study hovv the Scripture hath certain accomplishment vvould help to read the Word vvith an other kinde of pleasure O vvhat representation should then the truths and promises thereof have to the godly man it vvould be as one going in to look over his charters and the great things therein contained vvhich he doth not in the least debat or question since they are past the seals and fully ratifyed and novv considereth all vvhich is promised as his own vvhich he lookt in former times upon but as a common thing vvhilst he made not earnest of the certainty thereof and vvhat an intrest he had in the same O when he readeth that promise of a new heaven and earth that glorious estate which abideth the Saints He cannot turn his eyes thoughts so easily off it but is made to stand vvonder that so great a thing that vvill make such a mervellous change in his condition is even shortly to come to passe hovv svveet and pleasant is it for such to turn over these promises vvho can set to his seal and bear this vvitnes that he hath as really proven the truth thereof by sure experience as he knovveth he hath a real being surely the Bible is an other thing to these then it is to the great part of men vvho only make it the subject of their contemplation 3. In this blessed study vve should have much laid to our hand to observe and our observation made svveet and pleasant to us for there vve might see hovv all the paths of the Lord tovvards his People are mercy and truth this vvould give us a refreshful diary of providence hovv in such a plunging strait we found the Word sensibly sealed vvhat observable confirmations vve have had therevvith at such a time and in such a condition the after-recounting of vvhich in ane houre of tryal or in the evening of our life vvould exceed these greatest pleasures the Men of this World can have in looking over their gold and greatest treasures which for many yeares they have been laying up 4. In the serious study of the dayly accomplishing of the Scripture we should have a most satisfying vievv and prospect of vvhat God is doing up and down the Earth vvhat purposes and designes he hath on foot and hovv things here beneath do vvork together for carrying on of the same vve should see vvhat an excellent and curious piece of vvork this frame of providence is vvhich the more it is considered it vvill be the more a vvonder hovv perfect in all its parts hovv compact and vvell set in all its various collours what an observable concurrence there is there hovv these several discords vvhich vve see here do yet aggree vvith one consent for the compleeting of Gods design vvhich is still going on and vvhilst vve think there must be some disorder amongst the vvheells vve are made after to see that this confusion vvas an excellent step of providence confounding the vvisdome of men every piece of his vvav being so knit to another as discovers to such who make this blessed truth their serious study a most rare contexture beyond the reach and uptaking of the greatest Artists that ever was Here also we might go up to that watch-tower of Christian observation and from thence take a grave look of Gods way and lay his work in the World to the Scripture as the measuring lyne where we should see and find the sight thereof very pleasant how the Word every day takes place doth ishue through all the veines and arteries of providence each line whereof is so exactly drawen as by a pincel in some skillfull hand to that great exemplar of the Scripture here we might discern these eminent examples
That accesse and liberty to poure forth their souls to God vvhen he hath filled their mouth vvith arguments and inabled them both to wrestle and vviat they have found a favourable Crisis and begun outgate yea the very turn of a sad case vvhich they have got from the Lord as the pledge of a further ansvver and that vvhen he thus prepareth the heart he doth cause his ear to hear 5. That vvhen they have been under a most dark cloud they have found their sky clear have got a very sensible taste of Gods acceptation in prayer and of his taking their sute off their hand even vvhile the matter vvas still in dependence before him yea that they have oft had such a satisfying impression impression of Gods minde and persvvasion of his ansvvering their desire as hath helped them cheerfully to vvait yea sometimes to sing the triumph before the victory 4. That vvhen they had been much in prayer they must also say it hath been the time vvherein the spirit hath flovvrished vvas most lively yea that then they had their best dayes that then the candle of the Lord shined upon their pathes and his devv lay all night upon their branches and that they have found there is an evident and proportionable abatement of their spiritual life and encouragement in God according to their vvearing out in the exercise of this duety 5. They have many times found that vvhen there vvas nothing left them but to turn in to God and they knevv of no other vvay to come through but to pray and look up they never found a more svveet and seasonable outgate so that most observable times of prayer have been also the most observable times of their experience and they can say from many proofs it is no hopelesse bussines vvhich is put over upon God by prayer though there be small outvvard appearance 6. That it is not in vain to follow out a sute before the throne and that accesse and moyen in Heaven is as sure a way to come speed which they know well as greatest moyen upon earth having so evidently found while many seek the rulers favour that the determination of every thing is from the Lord. 7. That prayer with quiet onwaiting in the use of meanes wiâ—neth comfortably through where over caring and carnal policy in the use of all other shifts hath been forced to stick 8. They know by experience that as there are judicial times wherein an inhibition as it were is laid on them from the Lord in their wrestling yea and a sore restraint on their spirits which hath been very sensible so also they have found times of more easy accesse and abundant liberty a spirit of prayer let forth before some special mercy and deliverance to the Church whereby they could in some measure discern its neer approach 9. That on the back of some solemn addresse and application to God by prayer and fasting in a day of strait they have oft seen cause even from that day and up ward to date a remarkable return and outgate in which even common observers might discern what an evident answer the Churches intercession with God in times of extremity hath had 10. I may adde the saints know this so well by experience that surely God heareth prayer even in such and such a particular that they can with much confidence adventure and make an earant of the meanest as well as their greatest concernments to him having so oft tryed and found that seriousnes and sincerity in addresse to God was never in vain but what ever be the times wherein this promise taketh place their heart shall live that seek God THIRD Instance Is the promise of the Spirit and powring out of the same which we have clear in the Word Is 59 v. 21. Ioh. 14 16 Luk. 24 v. 49. Rom. 8 16 16. The accomplishment of which is so manifest such a sensible demonstration thereof in the experience of the saints that I am sure this can no more be denyed then these who are warmed with the heat of the sun can deny their sense and feeling that the sun hath such an influence and doth not the Christans spiritual walk bear as convincing a witnes to the fulfilling of this promise as any living man by walking in the way sheweth that he hath a soul and principle of life within him Novv to demonstrat this a litle I vvould but touch some of the ordinary experiences of the saints therein vvhich they doe testify and by clear undenyable evidences knovv to be no delusion 1. That vvhich causeth so real a change upon them vvhich maketh them alive to God vvho once vvere dead creating them as it vvere of new that vvhich bringeth a clod of earth so near Heaven raiseth them so far above themselves to a delightful converse vvith things not seen that vvhile their place and abode is here their company and fellovviship is above that vvhich maketh all things nevv to them and doth so â—ar change their nature and inclination as causeth them finde more svveetnes in a spiritual life then in the pleasures of sin yea reconcileth them vvith the Lavv and exercises of a Châ—stian vvhere once there vvas such contrariety O! is not this a real effect of the spirit and no â—â—aginary thing 2. That vvhereof they vvere altogether ignorant vvhen they vvere strangers to God and knevv not if there vvas a Holy Ghost but by report novv since their being born again they finde themselves entred in another World brought out of darknes unto a marvellous lighâ— and of this are sure that once they vvere blind but novv they see is not this a proof of the truth of this promise 3 That vvich maketh â—hem see more of God in his Word and Works at one time then at another vvhence is this difference and inequality the Scriptures are at one time the great things of the Law which are at an other time but common things to them the object is the same but O! what different manifestation thereof whence is it that such a light springeth up in the Word that openeâ—h up this deep and maketh them see the wonders of his Law and within a little nothing but dark night doe not the saints knopw this well and that it is no delusion 4. That which maketh such sensible liberty in their soull and confidence in their approach to God after sore bondage and fear which raiseth them often so far above their ordinary frame as they are not only quickned and refreshed themselves but do observably warm others O how piercing and savory are their words which â—hew what difference there is oft betwixt a Christian and himself betwixt a dead exercise of a gift which reacheth the ear and that which melteth the heart and doth even reach by standers with a pleasant perfume 5. That which maketh such a sudden change in their â—ase under ordinances that their heart that died within them as a stone ere ever they were aware hath
so as their very bones might sing Who is like unto the o Lord It is true real pardon of sin doth not allwayes inferre the sensible feeling thereof and when it is remitted in Heaven there is not alwayes a declaration of it in the conscience but it is also sure that this is sensibly felt and that it is tryed by all even all the generation of the righteous to have had as powerful an operation on a disquiet troubled soul as ever wine or the choisest cordial could have on the sick or faint O! if these who question this were in their case to whom God speaketh peace after a storm they should know how real and certain that is I would offer the Christians witnes to this promise from many many experiments by vvhich the Lord hath sealed it to their soul whereby they know assuredly it is no fancy or delusion 1. How this hath as sensible a connexion with the serious exercise of contrition and repentance in their experience as it certainly hath in the word and promise while they find that in silence and keeping up their case from God their bones have been troubled their spirit in a restles and disquiet condition untill once they made an addresse and got their soul vented by confessing to â—he Lord which was then like a kindly turn and cool of a fever 2. They know it is no delusion that is found so certain a cure to a wounded spirit under the sense of sin a wound which the world and all its diversions could never heal whose pain and grief no musick can allay a drop of divine displeasure being enough to turn all their pleasures in wormwood and gall but O! a taste of this unspeakable cordial one warming look of a reconciled God they know by experience can give present ease 3. It is no delusion which they can command no more then the sun to shine when overclouded or the wind to blow but when it listeth which the most perswading moral arguments can no wayes effectuat nor all their former experience yea the letter of most refreshing promises which sometimes are to them but as the white of an egge without taste until once the spirit breath which not only discovereth the ground of their joy in the word but doth also cause them to rejoyce therein when it shineth upon the same 4. It must be no delusion which causeth so marvellous a change that after greatest disquieting fears they have found most sensible manifestations of love the greatest flood on the back of the lowest ebb in their spiritual condition which oft hath forced them to retreat what their feares and jealousies did utter yea have made them enquire with wonder whence they are so chearful to day who yesternight were so broken and crusht whence their spirit should be in so sweet a calm that so lately was like the raging and troubled sea 5. That this hath oft met them as a blest surprizal and unexpected welcom when they have in a backsliding case come in to God they certainly know that when they knew not how to adventure and at what end of their raveled condition to begin counts having run long over yet on their very first addresse have got a sweet disappointment to their feares been helped to their feet yea some times have had as it were the fatted calfe killed to make merry with their friends 6. That which hath an audible voice within so strong an Impression upon the soul which carryeth with it such a clear satisfying discovery of Gods heart and love is surely no delusion while the intimation of that one truth Your sins are forgiven or any other word of promise for that end they have found to be an argument beyond words which they could not resist but for the time have been as sure they see and feel this as that they live yea can no more now call it in question then formerly they could get it believed 7. That is no delusion which causeth them with another kinde of freedome approach to God maketh them know there is a Spirit of adoption which sets the soul at liberty from the sore bondage and thraldome under which their former backsliding had put them yea a thing not only sensibly felt by themselves but may be discerned by others while they cannot smoother the joy of their heart or hide in their couutenance such a change of their condition that truely God hath dealt comfortably with them 8. Hath not this the Saints in all ages witnessed even a joy unspeakable and full of glory which though but of short continuance yet for the present so strong as hath ravished their soul with the hope of the inheritance above and clear view of their interest in it yea sometimes made them sing for joy in expectation of that blessed day but O! this is better felt then expressed 9. And in a word can that be a delusion that hath oft turned the poor mans hell into a Heaven which trysts the Christian in the way of his duty and the work doth so exactly answer the promise most sensibly felt after greatest shakings of the conscience by the law and can make a sad outward lot so very sweet and pleasant cause them triumph over the wrath of men to sing in a dungeon to abound and have all things under greatest wants look grim death chearfully in the face in its most dreadful aspect yea doth make so great and visible a difference betwixt the Christian and himself SIXTH Instance Is that promise of encouragement and support under the crosse which is expresly held forth in the Word that the Lord will own his People bear their charges and be with them in trouble in the day of their suffering for his truth yea will bind up the broken in heart heal their wounds Psal 91 ver 15. Isai 43 ver 2. Cap. 41 ver 17. Cap. 49 ver 14. Psal 9 ver 9. Isai 51 ver 12. Now that this promise is a truth and hath a certain accomplishment the experience of the Saints in all ages will witnes and we know their testimony is true what at solemn times of Gods presence they have had in a barren wildernes how great a cloud of witnesse doth seal this and give their testimony to the crosse of Christ of which we may say the fame and sweet savour hath gone forth and spread abroad through the Church the Fathers have told it to the Children and one generation to another but hovv litle a part thereof can be expressed I think it would be a marvellous record if the suffering and prison experiments of the Saints vvere particularly set dovvn vvhat they have sound under the crosse but it is vvell vve knovv this promise hath been and this day is evidently sealed concerning which I dare attest the experience of as many as did ever drink of this blessed cup and were counted worthy to suffer for the testimony of Christ if this be not a faithful true witnes
standers may read the languishing of grace in the dead exercise of their gifts 4 That going about duty with most confidence in themselves doth usually give them the most clear discovery of their weakness yea when they have least lookt for any crosse they have then been sure to meet with it with that sad addition of being a surprizal in a secure condition where as on the other hand they may tell what refreshing disappointments they have got where some tryalls have been most feared and lookt for 5. That secure sporting with a temptation may soon turn to sad earnest and they have found it very hard to dance about the fire and not be burnt and the temptation which at a distance seemed small upon a neerer approach they have found had moe bands on their heart and was another thing then they could have beleeved 6. That the meanes whereon they have laid most weight they have also found have given them the saddest disappointment the putting of them in Gods room and out of their own place hath been the way to cause them miscarry yea to turn their crosse whereas they have oft seen something unexpected made the mean of their help that they might know meanes are ordered of the Lord and are useful because he maketh them so 7. Their experience can also witness that carnal confidence despising the tryal at a distance usually punished with carnal diffidence and despondency of spirit under the same the one extremity made the punishment of the other like the hote and cold fits of an ague which doe mutually make one the other more intense yea that their immoderat confidence and expectation of a thing hath after resolved in as immoderat discouragement as their stroke SECOND The Christians unwatchfulnes and intermitting in the exercise of that so necessary and commanded duty we finde the Word threateneth and holdeth forth the hazard thereof Lest ye enter into temptation the outmaking whereof their experience can also witnes Luk. 21 v. 34 36. Math 26 ver 41. 1. That it is not easy to guid their walk and conversation when their guard over the heart doth slacken but the giving loose rains for a little may make such a sad and large breach that many many dayes will not easily make up yea they doe also know how a sensible withdrawing of the Spirit and drying up of their life and liberty is the usual fruit which unwatchfulnes brings forth 9 That this helpeth to make their sun-blincks short causeth a low ebbe after the greatest enlargement whilest they doe not guard against their peculiar evils and that usually there doth haunt such a condition the swelling of the flesh when the spirit is most enlarged which will soon put them as far behind as they formerly thought themselves at an advantage 3. That vvhen once the heart lyeth open it is quickly seised on and made a prey with what a bitter sting doth it return after it hath taken liberty to wander yea doth find there is a swift progresse that sin hath from the thoughts to the rolling of it to the imagination and thence to the affection wherewith it is more easy to engadge then to shake this off 4. That unwatchfulnes hath oft turned the most special times and opportunities for advantage to the greatest losse which through their neglect of these hath put them further behind then they were it hath turned their retirement and solitude to be their snare made the desert worse and more dangerous then the city and made them finde that vain thoughts the following whereof seemeth pleasant to the mouth will prove gall and vvormvvood in the belly there being no sadder company then a mans spirit let loose upon it selfe whilest they cannot stop that current whereto they had given a vent 5. Their experience of this can vvitnes that unvvatchfulnes hath an undoubted tendency to cast of prayer hovv hard is it in the evening to retire to God vvhilest the heart is abroad all the day To be Religions in Worship when men are not so in their vvalk Yea they doe find that this vvill bring their distemper vvithin out at doors to some disorder impertinency or passion in their words or outward communication a thing which experience may tell doth wound the soul make a sad breach in their peace and doth quickly overcloud the Spirit and unfit them for communion with God and going about of spiritual duties THIRD To restrain prayer and neglect calling on God is ane evil also which the Word doth threaten and hold forth the same hazard thereof as of unwatchfulnes lest ye enter into temptation yea that this is even a step to the casting off fear the Christians experience from frequent tryal can witnes that this Scripture threatning is true Math. cap. 26 vor 41. Heb. 15 ver 4. 1. That they have found this the rise which giveth life and increase to their prevailing evils that corruption then is upon a sensible grouth as the lively exercise of prayer begins to be intermitted 2. That this weareth out their spiritual life and bringeth a consumption upon the vital spirits of Christianity so that these who sometime flowrished and kept green as by the sent of water that correspondence which they had with the fountain of their life while his dew did ly all night on their branches hath through neglect of prayer been brought to a poor shadow so although sometimes the greatnes of their lose and distemper hath been hid from themselves yet might be easyly discerned by onlookers 3. That wearing out of prayer and of delight therein will quickly make them disrelish any other piece of Religion put them out of frame to meditat or to give thanks or entertain fellovvship vvith the Saints yea the more lively and spiritual these are it maketh them the more a burden and tormâ—nt to them 4. That vvearing out of this is a strong temptation to a further forbearance and vvill sensibly vvear them out of any sense of their need hereof and make them strangers to themselves and to their ovvn case so that they shall sinde the lesse they are in this exercise the further they shall be indisposed and the fewer errands they have the lesse felt necessity of the same 5. Their experience can also witnes that litle prayer maketh a heavy burden doth multiply their straits and cause their care grow as this is abaited they must then bear their burden alone and with heavines take counsel within themselves while they ply not this blest tryed remedy to make their requests in all things known to God FOVRTH We find the Word doth threaten defection from the truth and turning from the way of God in a time of tryal as an evil into which these that are kept by grace from final apostasie may yet through the violence of a temptation fall Ierem. 9 ver 13 15. Psal 89 ver 30 32. Ios 8 v. 11. and their sad experience can witnes the truth of the Scripture threatnings concerning
place in mens observation who do observe the judgements of their time 3. How the Scripture of God doth clearly shine upon the darkest footsteps of providence even these which would seem most strange and hard to understand so that it may be demonstrat nothing falleth out in the world or befalleth the saincts but what is most consonant to the scripture FIRST BRANCH As to the first branch of this argument I shall but instance five general promises which we finde held forth in the word concerning the church and endeavour to shew how very clear and obvious the accomplishment of them is if men do not willingly shut their own eyes FIRST Promise wherein we find the Scripture expresse is the preservation of the Church that he will be with her to the end of the world and though he make an end of other nations yet will he not make an utter end of her but while the ordinances of the sun and the moon doe last and as the dayes of heaven so shall her dayes be prolonged against her the gates of hell shall not prevail Ps 49 ver 16. Math. 16 18. Now that God hath truely verifyed this his promise is as good as his word is a truth though marvellous yet so very clear and manifest that I am sure no Atheist can deny it may be so easily demonstrat First that the Church doth continue and is kept alive to this day it doth certainly prove the truth of his promise for it can be said of her none can say it is a lye she hath outlived all her opposers the greatest of whom have found their grave in the quarrel over whose tomb that last confession of a great adversary Iulian may be written vicisti tandem Galilaee hath not this deadly and irreconciliable feed been perpetuat from fathers to children but who hath prospered in that enterprise the archers have oft shot and wounded her sore but her bow doth abide in strength as at this day this is her motto persecuted but not forsaken cast doun but not discouraged she who hath brought forth many children yet ceaseth not to bear whose age hath not marred her beauty her eyes are not dimm hor her strength failed a sight which may cause us no lesse stand and consider this great wonder theu Moses did at that which was but the shadow and embleme thereof a bush burning and not consumed for behold a church keptalive yet still in the flames and when to appearance consumed it doth arise more glorious out of her own ashes this is indeed the only Phanix and we know no other of whom that can be said hath she not born out these universal deluges which did like an inundation go over her head of idolatry and paganisme in the first times and Antichristianism with Arrianism in the after ages yet not swallowed up which may be no lesse marvellous then when she was keept above the waters in the ark and though her enemyes have oft sung her funeral song and rejoyced over the dead the dead bodyes of her witnesses yet they have risen again her drie bones have taken life and come together and behold she is alive at this day 2. Not only the Churches preservation but the continued series and succession thereof unto this time doth witnes the fulfilling of this promise that in the darkest times of her condition she hath not altogether disappeared even when she was so long hid in the wildernes but still in every age had some witnesses and though the Church hath oft cryed out for the want of Children and been heard weeping bemoaning her self because they were not yet we may say she never wanted an ofspring to this day shee did never dye without an heir and seed of her own to raise up her name even since the Covenant was first made with her in Adams family and though particular Churches have their set times which like the sun have these usuall periods their first rise their height and flowrishing and afterwards a gradual decay making way to the departure of the light yet this made never void the promise of God to the Church universal whose lamp was never put out nay shall not while the dayes of Heaven doe last 3. We must also say that the continuance and preservation of the Church is peculiar to her alone and can be said of no other interest and party beneath the sun for it is clear that there was no Kingdome or empire so firmly rooted no society so well governed by Lawes backed with power which hath had the best title and claim but time at last did prevail over it and made the same a trophee of her conquest yea the greatest Monarchies and flowrishing cities have at last yeelded so as of them it may be said nunc seges est ubi Troia fuit but time cannot to this day boast of a triumph over the Church of God though no nation no family in the earth could ever plead antiquity with her This is that interest which hath born out all these great revolutions that so oft changed the very face of the world yea hath outlived so many Kingdomes and successions thereof 4. It doth convincingly demonstrat the truth of this promise of the Churches preservation that the World yea greatest Athiests may see this hath not come to passe at an adventure nay not in an ordinary way of providence but by a divine power most discernable therein while it is so clear 1. That no interest or party had ever such adversaries as the Church against whom the powers of the World and the powers of darknes have alwayes been on foot 2. That outward advantages have usually been on her adversaries side not only 〈◊〉 great men of the earth but these of greatest parts anâ—â—â—ilities 3. That there will was never wanting to their power and their designe no lesse then to raze her to the foundation 4. That this enimity hath been rooted and irreconciliable which time to this day could never take up 5. That no interest did ever endure such violent assaults so many sharp batteries for it is observable that most of the wars and commotions of every age have been some way stated on the Churches account and what ever privat quarrels men have had among themselves yet it hath not hindred the pursuit of their malice against the woman and her seed 6. That such who have come out of her bowels even the men of her own house have oft been her greatest enemyes and lyen in wait to take her at an advantage in the day of her halting 7. That her reall friends have oft fainted in a time of her strait and stood afar off yea almost none of the Children which shee had brought forth have been then found to take her by the hand 8. That the depths of Satan in her enemyes as an angel of light have sometimes given her a sore assault so that if it had been possible and ordinary midses could have reacht their end
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
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
can the vvorld get this past vvithout some remark hovv intollerable a thing an evil conscience is vvhen once let loose vvhen in all ages such terrifying examples of this kinde have been set up for all that past by to look on such as Spira Latomus Olivarius c and truly I think it is a great want there should not be a more particular record of such vvhich vvould give Atheisme so great a dash yea force men to confesse the truth of a Deity and of the vvritten vvord SEVENTH That there is a reward for the righteous and unquestionable gain in Godlines in a piece of the Scripture not only well known and witnessed to the observing Christian in his experience but is also held forth in every age as in great letters to the view of the world Ps. 58 ver 11. Ps. 97 ver 11. Isâ— 3 ver 10. It is true that the Christians lot is oft followed with much trouble and sometimes with los of his life which may seem to have a very dismal aspect for that great goodnes which the man who feareth God hath ensured to him is much laid up in another world but it is also sure that there are such notour convincing proofes of this truth held forth even to the observation of men by which the Lord hath in every age confirmed the same that I am sure the greatest Atheist cannot ansvver even these things 1. That this is the very dictate of a natural conscience not only that God is bnt that he is a revvardeâ— of such as serve him yea none amongst men are so grosse or bruttish which are not in some measure principled to difference betwixt good and evill with some fear of a punishment to the one and some hope of recompence to the other and are also forced to notice some more signal and convincing examples vvhich have been of that kinde in their time 2. Must we not say yea doth not the World â—ee in every age that history of Joseph in some part acted over again Sure there have not been wanting many such remarkable instances wherein it might be easy to trace an upright and straight vvalk through a very maze and laâ—â—inâ—h of changes and to shovv hovv that hath been their condition and at last integrity hath brought them to land in to a comfortable harbour yea how often they have had a marvellous unlooked for outgate contrary to all humane appearance this indeed is no Romance but a most true history which through all times and many examples might be written of the Word and providence which should surpasse the richest fancy that any fiction or romance did ever contain 3. Must it not be convincing even to the worst of men what a visible blessing doth oft follow the mean lot of some of the Saints vvhich can make their little reach far and cause them abound more in their poverty then others amidst their aboundance vvhich I think the vvorld cannot shun to observe and gather that there is sure something else then mens ovvn care vvhich doth their busines and hovv that ordinary proverbe falleth not to the ground that it is better to be happy then vvise vvhen they see a secret judgment blovv upon some mens estate that no meanes can prevent and a secret blessing vvhich maketh things prosper and take effect and doth accompany the Christians little so as it may be easy for such vvho looke abroad to see where real contentement vvith chearfulnes and giving of thanks useth to dwel 4. May not the vvorld seâ— there is a feast in a good conscience how litle soever they â—artake of the World that vvell doing and the practise of godliness hath some present revvard in its hand vvhereas so remakable a difference may be discerned betvvixt the countenance and carriage of such and of them vvho trust in falsehood that surely in a time of strait these have another kinde of security and confidence when greatest natural spirits fail yea that these alone can enjoy themselves have the most calm and composed spirits amidst the several changes of their life that according to outward things their peace doth not ebb nor flow but they are at a seen advantage above others in the day when men are sore outwitted with their straites so as it will be most easy then to see the good and advantage of religion when the vanity of other advantages is most discernable 5. Is it not also seen that true honour doth truely vvait on humility follovveth such but it fleeth from them who doe most persue it yea that faithfulnes and an upright vvalk vvill gain credit even amongst her enemyes and respect before the World 6. That these vvho are faithful in their litle and diligent improvers of a small talent have usually more added vvith some discernable grouth follovving the same and as the drying up of the parts of some as a judgement on unfaithfulnes is oft obvious so also such a blessing upon serious diligence as hath made the last first and even outrun such vvho vvere once before them yea it is truely seen hovv grace helpeth mens gifts doth raise and sublimat their spirits above that vvhich once they vvere 7. Doth not the Lord put some visible difference oft betvvixt the righteous and the vvicked in a time of comon calamityâ— that a strange outgate vvith the concurrence of very marvellous providences doth sometime tryst such even to the convictions of onlookers vvhich may tell the World such have had an invisible hedge of preservation about them and have been under some better care then their ovvn 8. What a clear vvitness doe ungodly men oft bear to this truth at their death or at some other strait so that their conscience hath forced them to justify the godly mens choice and to say that the lot of such is onely most desireable yea vvith much bitternes to lament their folly that made not religion more their business the good and advantage vvhereof is novv no matter of debate sure the World vvill confesse hovv oft the confession and testimony of such men to this truth hath reached their ear 9. I shall but adde that vvhich is so very manifest hovv faithfulnes and integrity doth transmit mens name vvith more honour yea maketh it have a svveeter savour in their generations then either riches or outvvard preferment yea that there is a great difference betvvixt the memoriall of the righteous and the wicked even to the conviction of the world EIGHT That verily there is a God who judgeth in the earth Ps 58 ver 11. who doth render unto men vengeance and doth pursue the transgressour because of sin is a truth which the world hath in every age by many convincing instances held forth to them where they may see the Scripture clearly verifyed I have a litle touched this in the second Argument how the accomplishing of Scripture threatnings is witnessed to the observation of the Church and to these who are wise to discern the times
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
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
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
Catholick league vvhich did quickly follovv upon the back thereof a very strong and formidable combination to root out the Protestant interest 8. The taking away of Edward the sixth of England establishing of a cruel persecutor Queen Mary did indeed look like a stroke that should root out the Church in that part and destroy that famous plantation of the Gospel in its tender grouth 9. I must adde that vvhich vvas as sore an assault to the Church as any so grievous a difference vvhich vvith the first breaking up of the vvork of Reformation did begin betvvixt Luther and Zvvinglius about Christs presence in the Sacrament yea came to such an height and vvith so great heat and animosity vvas follovved as in appearance vvould have vvholly frustrat the vvork they vvere about THIRD Witnes to this truth is that wonderful patience and resolution of the Saints yea with much chearfulnes in their greatest sufferings which in these late times did appear Wherein the World must confesse that same immediat support from Heaven yea the Lords owning his People in a very extraordinary way was no lesse manifest then in these primitive sufferings of the Church from heathens Sure no by past times even in these bloody dayes of Nero Domitian c. can shew more horrid more strange engines of torment and cruelty then what in these last ages the Church did endure from the Popish party whose savage and barbarous usage of the poor flock of Christ where ever they had accesse may witnes a cruelty more then humane and as to the number are they not almost without reckoning who in France Germany Brittain and the Low Countries beside other parts were slain within this 150. Yeares for the word of God and the testimony of his truth Now as this is most manifest it is also known what a divine and an invincible spirit vvith an astonishing courage and resolution did appear in the carriage of the People of God under this sore persecution hovv they triumphed over their oppressours and did chearfully meet death in its most terrible shape a thing vvhich the Schooles of Socrates and Plato vvith all their rules could never reach yea should be reckoned amongst the miracles of these later dayes anent vvhich vve vvould consider these things 1. That something more then nature a spirit and resolution above the ordinary rate of men yea something much above themselves their natural temper and disposition did in their most extream sufferings oft appear and this without the least shadow of affectation and deceit I am sure the World in these last ages yea the conscience of their persecutors and of the greatest Atheists must witnes this 2. That many of the most soft tender disposition many women whose complexion would declare more weaknes yet in this late Antichristian persecution did en dure greatest torments and by suffering triumphed over the fury and rage of their adversaryes whereof we have many instances in record 3. The World hath been also a witnes how serious and deliberat the Saints were in this that they made suffering their choise which they could easily have shunned at the rate of yeelding something in the truth but ere they would doe this or give the adversary such a bribe they choised to embrace death and goe to a stake for Christ even when they wanted not most perswading offers to turn them aside for instance I would here mention that excellent man in Queen Maryes time Julius Palmer who not only had life but preferment offered if he would recant to which his answer was that he had quit his living in two places for Christ and now was ready to yeeld his life also on that accompt likewise one William Hunter whom Bishop Bonar did urge with many offers to recant told him it must be Scripture arguments and not perfwasions of that kinde for he reckoned all earthly things but drosse and dung in respect of Christ and at the stake when a pardon by the Sheriffe was offered upon such an accompt did peremptorly reject the same Antonius Riceto a Venetian when condemned for the truth had a large offer to have his patrimony restored which was much morgadged with debt and made free beside his life if he would but a little yeeld and likevvise had his son vveeping on him for that cause gave this ansvver he vvas resolved to lose both Children and estate for Christ I shall adde vvhat vve have related of one Hervvin vvho suffered in the lovv countryes to vvhom the Magistrates made great intreaties vvith large promises to recant which he vvholly slighted many more instances of this kinde here might be set dovvn 4. It is knowen that such who were of great repute in the World and had a large share of outward things to tempt them did in these last times most chearfully part with the same and choise rather suffering for the truth we may instance these 2. great witnesses Iohn Frederick of Saxony and the Lantsgrave of Hesse who under that long imprisonment by Charles the 5. bare out many sharp assaults both by threatnings and offers without yeelding in the least to the prejudice of the truth yea on this accompt did the Duke of Sanony forgoe with his estate and dignity Annas Du Burg counsellour of the Parliament at Paris of great parts and repute who before Henry the II. had an excellent speech in Parliament for the Protestant party for which by him being imprisoned did forgoe all his honours and interests in the World which otherwayes he might have brooked and embraced death for Christ The Prince of Condee at the massacre of Paris when the King expresly shewed him he should within 3 dayes dye if he did not renounce his Religion told him his estate and life were in his hand but ere he renounced the truth he would quite both Charles de Zeroton a Moravian Barron of great interest and authority in that countrey in the late Bohemian persecution did quite all his estate and possessions for the Gospel not withstanding of many large offers and perswasions we find also in England the Dutches of Suffolk a lady who lived in the fulnes of the World and pleasures thereof yet in Queen Maries time did quite both estate and countrey for the truth and on that accompt did choise a very hard lot in other parts 5. Is it not also known how these who had been ready to faint and be overcharged with discouragement yet at death in the extremity of their suffering did shew a marvellous resolution and chearfulnes a thing which no Atheist can possibly answer and sheweth Gods very immediat support Mr Glover how sore was he cast down and could feel no joy or comfort after much wrestling but no sooner did come in sight of the stake but his soul was filled with the joy of the Lord and with his strength which forced him to clap his hands and cry forth to a friend who knew his former damp and discouragement Oh Ausline he is
that large measure of the Spirit and outletting thereof which did convincingly follow the Gospel and ministry of the word in these last times a truth which we must say hath been manifest and by many solemn proofes thereof demonstrat no lesse then in the first planting of the christian Church It is undenyable how great a witnes to the truth the Spirit down-powring thereof is for this is Gods own seal which is not put to a lye or falsehood thus he beares witnes to his work in the hearts of his people and by this also the Lord doth seal and attest the doctrine of the Church and commission of his servants who publisheth the same yea at some special seasons when the truth hath least countenance or encouragement from without times of contradiction when men will not receive its testimony and a great speate of opposition is to the Gospel then hath this in a more full and large measure been discernable thus did the Lord eminently own and confirm the Christian Religion in the dayes of the Apostles and for some following ages by so great a downpowring of the Spirit such visible and extraordinary effects thereof as did then astonish the World and force men to confesse something above nature that this was surely the great work and power of God and have we not also cause to say that thus the Lord hath born a very solemn testimony to his truth the work of reformation and doctrine of the reformed Churches in these late times anent which I dare appeal by standers yea the adversaryes to their conscience if without shutting their eyes they could shift the conviction of a convincing appearance of God in the power and efficacy of the Spirit even in a more then ordinary way accompanying the word and ordinances a power which carried kingdomes and cityes before it yea in a very short time over the belly of greatest violence and opposition to clear this a little I shall point at some few remarkable evidences which might stare the grossest of men in the face and in some measure convince them of this truth 1. It is evident that marvellous conquest which the Gospel had in Germany by the ministry of Luther Melanchton Bucer Martyr Musculus and a few others of these excellent instruments whom the Lord then sent forth O was not this a day of the Spirit and powring forth thereof in a large measure a day of the gospels triumph not by might or by power yet such as before it the World could not stand cityes and countryes might then be said to be born at once the arme of the Lord revealed with the same that men were either scorched or truely warmed and gained thereby Did not that marvellous power and efficacy of the spirit also attend the ministry of Zuinglius and Oecolampadius in Zurick and Basile when so through a reformation followed to the throwing down of Images abolishing of the Masse by publick authority notwitstanding of its long continuance and this in a short time the spirit and power of God did very eminently appear also in these famons plantations of the Gospel by the Ministry of Calvine Farel and Vires in Geneva Lausanna and other adjacent Provinces It is written in the life of Vires that at Lyons which was a great populous city he preached in an open place where divers thousands were converted to the truth yea some who came by with no purpose to hear only out of curiosity stepped in were so wrought on and overcome with the power of the word as for that time made them neglect their other businesse 2. That great successe which did attend the ministry of Mr Wishart in Scotland can also witnes this truth whence so marvellous a change did quickly follow in these places where he preached through Angus Lothian and the western parts yea how much the spirits of the people were then raised and affected with the word but this being a thing so known from the historyes of that time I only name 3. Besides these which are more known and upon publick record I must here instance a very solemn and extraordinary outletting of the spirit which about the year 1625. and thereafter was in the West of Scotland whilest the persecution of the Church there was not from the prelatick party this by the prophane rabble of that time was called the Stewarton Sicknes for in that parish first but after through much of that countrey particularly at Irwine under the ministry of famous Mr Dickson it was most remarkable where it can be said which divers Ministers and Christians yet alive can witnes that for considerable time few Sabbaths did passe without some evidently converted and some convincing proofes of the power of God accompanying his word yea that many were so choaked and taken by the heart that through terrour the spirit in such a measure convincing them of sin in hearing of the word they have been made to fall over and thus carried out of the Church who after proved most solid and lively Christians and as it was knowen some 〈◊〉 the most grosse who used to mock at religion being engadged upon the same that went abroad of such things â—o go to some of these parts where the Gospel was then most lively have been effectually reached before their return with a visible change following the same and truely this great spring tide which I may so call of the Gospel was not of a short time but for some yeares continuancâ— yea thus like a spreading moor burn the power of Godlines did advance from one place to another which put a marvellous lustre on these parts of the countrey the savour whereof brought many from other parts of the land to see the truth of the same 4. I must also mention that solemn Communion at the Kirk of the Shots 20 June 1630. at which time there was so convincing an appearance of God and downpowring of the Spirit even in an extraordinary way that did follow the ordinances especially that sermon on the Munday 21 June with a strange unusual motion on the hearers who in a great multitude were there conveened of divers ranks that it was known which I can speak on sure ground near 500 had at that time a discernable change wrought on them of whom most proved lively Christians afterward it was the sowing of a seed through Clidesdeal so as many of most eminent Christians in that countrey could date either their conversion or some remarkable confirmation in their case from that day and truely this was the more remarkable that one after much reluctance by a special and unexpected providence was called to preach that sermon on the Munday which then was not usually practised and that â—ight before by most of the Christians there was spent in prayer so that the Mundays work as a convincing return of prayer might be discerned 5. I shall heâ—â—â—lso instance that solemn and great work of God which was in the Church of Ireland some