Selected quad for the lemma: truth_n

Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
truth_n believe_v everlasting_a life_n 1,696 5 4.9120 4 false
View all documents for the selected quad

Text snippets containing the quad

ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A26804 Sermons preach'd on several occasions by William Bates. Bates, William, 1625-1699. 1693 (1693) Wing B1122; ESTC R27748 111,901 397

There are 6 snippets containing the selected quad. | View original text

to_o know_v god_n and_o jesus_n 3._o christ_n this_o be_v our_o life_n to_o trust_v in_o he_o this_o be_v our_o strength_n to_o love_v 15._o he_o and_o delight_n in_o he_o and_o be_v not_o love_n and_o joy_n the_o most_o pleasant_a affection_n and_o be_v not_o god_n the_o 37._o most_o amiable_a and_o please_a object_n we_o be_v command_v to_o fear_v he_o and_o be_v it_o not_o most_o reasonable_a to_o fear_v the_o loss_n of_o his_o favour_n which_o be_v heaven_n and_o the_o incur_v his_o wrath_n that_o be_v the_o deep_a hell_n we_o be_v command_v to_o obey_v his_o law_n and_o our_o saviour_n assure_v we_o his_o yoke_n be_v easy_a and_o his_o burden_n be_v light_a it_o be_v a_o easy_a and_o ease_v yoke_n that_o free_v we_o from_o the_o most_o cruel_a bondage_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o will_v not_o man_n believe_v the_o testimony_n of_o eternal_a truth_n rather_o than_o their_o fond_a fancy_n and_o corrupt_a appetite_n we_o be_v command_v to_o hear_v his_o word_n and_o be_v it_o not_o a_o happiness_n to_o be_v direct_v in_o the_o way_n to_o everlasting_a life_n we_o be_v command_v to_o pray_v continual_o be_v it_o not_o a_o bless_a privilege_n that_o poor_a dust_n may_v address_v their_o request_n to_o the_o lord_n almighty_n the_o possessor_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n with_o a_o assurance_n that_o those_o petition_n be_v most_o please_v to_o he_o that_o be_v for_o his_o most_o excellent_a blessing_n beside_o this_o nothing_o be_v forbid_v but_o sinful_a pleasure_n that_o will_v end_v in_o eternal_a torment_n sinful_a profit_n the_o gain_n of_o the_o world_n with_o the_o loss_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o gain_n be_v nothing_o and_o the_o loss_n be_v infinite_a now_o where_o be_v the_o chain_n and_o fetter_n that_o be_v so_o hard_a and_o heavy_a as_o carnal_a man_n complain_v of_o all_o his_o command_n be_v precept_n of_o happiness_n 2._o this_o testimony_n of_o scripture_n carnal_a man_n esteem_v a_o notorious_a paradox_n they_o can_v taste_v no_o pleasure_n but_o what_o be_v steep_v in_o sense_n take_v away_o the_o entice_n and_o blandishment_n of_o the_o carnal_a appetite_n they_o understand_v no_o other_o pleasure_n which_o be_v such_o a_o deceit_n as_o if_o a_o sick_a person_n who_o feel_v no_o pleasure_n but_o in_o the_o soft_a and_o easy_a intermission_n of_o his_o disease_n shall_v conclude_v if_o he_o be_v entire_o free_v from_o it_o he_o shall_v be_v deprive_v of_o all_o pleasure_n whereas_o the_o pleasure_n of_o health_n be_v far_o more_o desirable_a and_o constant_a the_o angel_n be_v absolute_o exempt_a from_o the_o desire_v of_o our_o carnal_a faculty_n and_o without_o carnal_a fruition_n but_o be_v ever_o bless_v and_o joyful_a in_o the_o direct_a possession_n of_o what_o be_v good_a not_o in_o the_o relief_n from_o evil_n either_o natural_a or_o accidental_a as_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n or_o sickness_n and_o pain_n pleasure_n result_v from_o the_o sutableness_n between_o the_o perceptive_a faculty_n and_o the_o object_n that_o affect_v they_o if_o there_o be_v no_o harmonious_a proportion_n there_o will_v be_v no_o music_n no_o delight_n now_o it_o be_v true_a while_o flesh_n be_v the_o prevail_a ingredient_n in_o a_o man_n he_o only_o relish_v the_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o sense_n he_o can_v enjoy_v god_n he_o can_v delight_v in_o do_v his_o will_n no_o more_o than_o a_o swine_n can_v in_o clean_a pasture_n who_o natural_a property_n strong_o incline_v it_o to_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n but_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v clarify_v and_o purge_v by_o the_o great_a refiner_n how_o sublime_a and_o satisfy_v a_o pleasure_n do_v it_o feel_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o in_o his_o service_n as_o in_o natural_a feed_n when_o the_o palate_n be_v in_o its_o due_a temper_n the_o taste_n commend_v our_o proper_a food_n to_o the_o appetite_n and_o the_o appetite_n to_o the_o stomach_n but_o a_o foul_a stomach_n disaffect_v the_o appetite_n vitiate_v the_o pallate_n and_o the_o most_o savoury_a and_o wholesome_a meat_n be_v loathsome_a when_o the_o disease_n be_v the_o taster_n thus_o if_o the_o soul_n be_v in_o its_o due_a temper_n the_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n will_v be_v our_o meat_n and_o drink_n mix_v with_o a_o sweet_a pleasure_n than_o those_o natural_a operation_n be_v but_o the_o soul_n be_v so_o corrupt_a and_o carnalize_v that_o it_o have_v no_o taste_n of_o the_o pure_a delight_n of_o bless_a spirit_n in_o communion_n with_o god_n like_o the_o israelite_n who_o despise_a the_o bread_n of_o angel_n and_o impatient_o long_v for_o the_o onion_n and_o garlic_n and_o fleshpot_n of_o egypt_n till_o man_n die_v to_o sin_n the_o supper_n of_o the_o lamb_n will_v be_v insipid_a and_o nauseous_a the_o carnal_a mind_n as_o gross_o mistake_v about_o liberty_n it_o be_v horrible_a folly_n to_o think_v true_a freedom_n consist_v in_o do_v whatever_o the_o vicious_a affection_n require_v in_o converse_v with_o such_o person_n as_o foment_n and_o gratify_v they_o be_v that_o person_n free_a that_o be_v fetter_v with_o as_o many_o chain_n of_o hell_n as_o he_o have_v predominant_a lust_n be_v the_o possess_v person_n free_a who_o live_v among_o the_o tomb_n among_o contagious_a carcase_n then_o a_o sinner_n that_o without_o the_o fear_n of_o hell_n obey_v his_o deprave_a appetite_n and_o associate_n with_o those_o who_o be_v corrupt_a and_o corrupter_n by_o their_o wicked_a example_n be_v free_a but_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o mind_n the_o superior_a lead_a faculty_n be_v in_o bondage_n while_o the_o passion_n reign_v and_o the_o sensual_a worldly_a wretch_n with_o his_o imaginary_a liberty_n be_v the_o most_o accurse_a slave_n till_o the_o son_n make_v we_o free_a from_o the_o tyrannous_a power_n of_o sin_n we_o be_v not_o free_a indeed_o till_o reason_v enlighten_v by_o the_o word_n resume_v its_o right_n and_o jurisdiction_n and_o lead_v the_o will_n to_o choose_v what_o be_v best_a for_o a_o spiritual_a immortal_a creature_n and_o the_o other_o faculty_n to_o obey_v we_o be_v the_o slave_n of_o satan_n when_o we_o be_v make_v free_a from_o sin_n and_o 6._o become_v the_o servant_n of_o righteousness_n and_o yield_v a_o ingenuous_a delightful_a subjection_n to_o god_n law_n we_o enjoy_v a_o state_n of_o liberty_n nay_o the_o service_n of_o god_n be_v our_o glory_n he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n have_v make_v we_o king_n and_o priest_n to_o god_n the_o most_o eminent_a act_n of_o royal_a authority_n be_v to_o govern_v the_o subject_n by_o equal_a law_n and_o to_o subdue_v the_o enemy_n of_o the_o peace_n and_o prosperity_n of_o the_o kingdom_n and_o when_o divine_a grace_n reign_v in_o the_o heart_n it_o regulate_v all_o the_o thought_n and_o affection_n the_o inward_a and_o outward_a faculty_n according_a to_o the_o holy_a just_a and_o good_a law_n of_o god_n and_o subdue_v these_o rebellious_a lust_n that_o disturb_v the_o order_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o the_o soul_n 3._o experience_n prove_v that_o a_o state_n of_o religion_n be_v most_o delightful_a whenever_o the_o captive_a soul_n be_v rescue_v from_o the_o bondage_n of_o his_o lust_n and_o prefer_v to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n how_o sweet_a be_v the_o change_n and_o how_o bitter_o will_v he_o complain_v other_o lord_n have_v have_v dominion_n over_o i_o but_o thy_o service_n be_v the_o true_a freedom_n do_v ever_o any_o of_o the_o saint_n complain_v that_o god_n be_v a_o austere_a master_n that_o his_o service_n be_v a_o melancholy_n joyless_a condition_n no_o in_o their_o esteem_n and_o affection_n his_o law_n be_v the_o most_o pure_a precious_a sweet_a and_o profitable_a good_n his_o command_n be_v not_o grievous_a they_o 19_o obey_v they_o from_o choice_n and_o complacence_n they_o love_v the_o lawgiver_n and_o like_o the_o law_n communion_n with_o god_n in_o his_o holy_a ordinance_n be_v a_o heaven_n upon_o earth_n to_o they_o one_o day_n in_o thy_o court_n be_v 84._o better_a than_o a_o thousand_o in_o the_o vanity_n and_o business_n of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n be_v fullness_n of_o joy_n and_o the_o more_o we_o be_v admit_v into_o his_o presence_n here_o the_o more_o we_o be_v admit_v into_o his_o joy_n all_o the_o bless_a mean_n of_o our_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n and_o his_o draw_v near_o to_o we_o be_v the_o gate_n of_o heaven_n and_o entrance_n into_o glory_n david_n who_o be_v so_o acquaint_v with_o god_n declare_v there_o be_v many_o that_o say_v who_o will_v show_v we_o any_o good_a lord_n lift_v thou_o up_o the_o light_n of_o thy_o countenance_n upon_o i_o thou_o have_v put_v more_o joy_n into_o my_o heart_n than_o when_o their_o corn_n and_o wine_n increase_v a_o joy_n more_o solid_a and_o satisfy_a than_o carnal_a man_n receive_v in_o the_o springtide_n of_o their_o fruition_n
reflection_n our_o sorrow_n shall_v be_v most_o afflict_v our_o humiliation_n deep_o one_o selfcondemnation_n most_o severe_a for_o those_o sin_n which_o have_v be_v most_o dishonourable_a to_o god_n and_o defile_v to_o we_o not_o that_o we_o can_v make_v any_o satisfaction_n for_o our_o sin_n though_o we_o shall_v fill_v the_o air_n with_o our_o sigh_n and_o heaven_n with_o our_o tear_n but_o it_o become_v we_o to_o have_v our_o sorrow_n enlarge_v in_o some_o proportion_n to_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o this_o mournful_a disposition_n prepare_v we_o for_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n the_o law_n do_v not_o allow_v repentance_n but_o exact_v entire_a obedience_n it_o be_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o repent_v sinner_n be_v assure_v of_o forgiveness_n without_o this_o qualification_n it_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o majesty_n purity_n and_o justice_n of_o god_n to_o extend_v pardon_v mercy_n to_o sinner_n for_o they_o will_v never_o value_v nor_o humble_o and_o ardent_o seek_v for_o mercy_n till_o they_o feel_v the_o woeful_a effect_n of_o sin_n in_o their_o conscience_n only_o the_o sting_a israelite_n will_v look_v to_o the_o brazen_a serpent_n and_o this_o be_v requisite_a to_o prevent_v our_o relapse_v into_o sin_n for_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n be_v found_v in_o the_o love_n of_o pleasure_n the_o proper_a mean_n to_o extinguish_v it_o be_v by_o a_o bitter_a repentance_n the_o heart_n be_v first_o break_v for_o sin_n and_o then_o from_o it_o to_o conclude_v let_v we_o renew_v our_o repentance_n every_o day_n let_v not_o the_o wound_n of_o our_o spirit_n putrify_v let_v not_o the_o sun_n go_v down_o upon_o god_n wrath_n let_v we_o always_o renew_v the_o application_n of_o christ_n blood_n that_o alone_o can_v cleanse_v we_o from_o sin_n sermon_n iii_o 1_o john_n v._n 2._o by_o this_o we_o know_v we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n if_o we_o love_v god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n of_o all_o the_o mark_n that_o be_v useful_a in_o the_o trial_n of_o our_o spiritual_a state_n in_o reference_n to_o eternity_n there_o be_v none_o afford_v a_o more_o clear_a and_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o god_n special_a and_o save_a mercy_n than_o love_n to_o the_o saint_n this_o have_v often_o resolve_v the_o doubt_n and_o quiet_v the_o fear_n of_o afflict_a inquire_v soul_n when_o other_o grace_n have_v not_o be_v so_o apprehensible_a in_o their_o operation_n but_o there_o be_v no_o mark_n which_o the_o deceitful_a heart_n do_v more_o secure_o rest_n upon_o through_o the_o mistake_n of_o natural_a human_a love_n for_o that_o which_o be_v spiritual_a and_o divine_a it_o be_v therefore_o most_o worthy_a our_o serious_a thought_n the_o deceit_n be_v so_o easy_a and_o infinite_o dangerous_a to_o show_v what_o be_v the_o unfeigned_a genuine_a love_n of_o the_o brethren_n to_o which_o salvation_n be_v annex_v to_o confirm_v the_o humble_a sincere_a christian_a and_o undeceive_v presume_v hypocrite_n the_o great_a design_n of_o st._n john_n in_o this_o epistle_n be_v to_o excite_v and_o inflame_v in_o christian_n the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o their_o brethren_n the_o two_o comprehensive_a duty_n and_o bright_a sum_n of_o the_o law_n our_o principal_a perfection_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n these_o he_o recommend_v by_o the_o most_o affectionate_a and_o oblige_a the_o most_o warm_a melt_v persuasive_n the_o superlative_a love_n of_o god_n to_o we_o and_o our_o communion_n with_o the_o saint_n in_o nature_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o former_a verse_n the_o apostle_n argue_v from_o the_o reality_n of_o the_o effect_n as_o a_o evidence_n of_o the_o cause_n whoever_o believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n foretell_v by_o the_o prophet_n and_o express_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o faith_n in_o a_o suitable_a conversation_n be_v bear_v of_o god_n and_o every_o one_o that_o love_v he_o that_o beget_v love_v he_o also_o that_o be_v beget_v of_o he_o grace_n be_v not_o less_o powerful_a in_o produce_v tender_a reciprocal_a affection_n between_o the_o offspring_n of_o the_o same_o heavenly_a father_n than_o the_o subordinate_a endearment_n of_o nature_n the_o pretence_n be_v vain_a of_o love_n to_o god_n without_o love_v his_o regenerate_a child_n and_o in_o the_o text_n he_o argue_v from_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o cause_n to_o the_o discover_v of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o effect_n by_o this_o we_o know_v that_o we_o love_v the_o child_n of_o god_n with_o a_o holy_a affection_n if_o we_o love_v god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n there_o be_v but_o one_o difficulty_n to_o be_v remove_v that_o the_o force_n of_o the_o apostle_n reason_v may_v appear_v it_o be_v this_o a_o medium_fw-la to_o prove_v a_o thing_n must_v be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n than_o what_o be_v conclude_v by_o it_o now_o though_o a_o demonstration_n from_o the_o cause_n be_v more_o noble_a and_o scientifical_a yet_o that_o which_o be_v draw_v from_o the_o effect_n be_v more_o near_o to_o sense_n and_o more_o discernible_a and_o this_o be_v verify_v in_o the_o instance_n before_o we_o for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n who_o be_v absolute_o spiritual_a in_o his_o be_v and_o excellency_n do_v not_o with_o that_o sensible_a fervour_n affect_v and_o passionate_o transport_v we_o as_o love_n to_o his_o child_n with_o who_o we_o visible_o converse_v and_o who_o be_v receptive_a of_o the_o most_o sensible_a testimony_n of_o our_o affection_n according_o the_o apostle_n argue_v he_o that_o love_v not_o his_o brother_n who_o he_o have_v see_v how_o can_v he_o love_v god_n who_o he_o have_v not_o see_v as_o the_o motive_n to_o love_v our_o brethren_n from_o our_o conjunction_n in_o nature_n and_o familiar_a conversation_n be_v more_o capable_a to_o allure_v our_o affection_n and_o more_o sensible_o strike_v the_o heart_n than_o the_o invisible_a deity_n who_o be_v infinite_o above_o we_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n we_o may_v more_o easy_o judge_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o our_o love_n to_o they_o than_o of_o our_o love_n to_o god_n to_o this_o the_o answer_n be_v clear_a the_o apostle_n do_v not_o speak_v of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n as_o a_o still_o silent_a contemplative_a affection_n confine_v to_o the_o superior_a faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n but_o as_o a_o burn_a shine_a affection_n like_o fire_n svo_fw-la active_a and_o declarative_a of_o itself_o in_o those_o effect_n that_o necessary_o flow_v from_o it_o that_o be_v voluntary_a obedience_n to_o his_o command_n and_o thus_o it_o become_v manifest_a to_o the_o renew_a conscience_n and_o be_v a_o most_o convince_a proof_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o love_n to_o the_o saint_n the_o text_n be_v clear_v afford_v this_o doctrine_n doct._n the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o love_n to_o the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v certain_o discover_v by_o our_o love_n to_o god_n and_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n for_o the_o illustration_n and_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n i_o will_v brief_o show_v i._n who_o be_v describe_v by_o this_o title_n the_o child_n of_o god_n ii_o what_o be_v include_v in_o our_o love_n to_o they_o iii_o what_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v and_o the_o obedience_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o iu._n how_o from_o love_n to_o god_n and_o willing_a obedience_n to_o his_o command_n we_o may_v convince_o know_v the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o love_n to_o his_o child_n to_o explain_v the_o first_o we_o must_v consider_v that_o this_o title_n the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v give_v upon_o several_a account_n first_o by_o creation_n the_o angel_n be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o man_n his_o offspring_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o title_n be_v 1._o the_o manner_n of_o their_o production_n by_o his_o immediate_a power_n thus_o he_o be_v style_v the_o father_n of_o spirit_n in_o distinction_n from_o the_o father_n of_o the_o flesh._n for_o though_o the_o conception_n and_o form_n of_o the_o body_n be_v the_o work_n of_o his_o secret_a providence_n yet_o it_o be_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o nature_n the_o parent_n concur_v as_o the_o second_o cause_n of_o it_o but_o the_o production_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v entire_o ascribe_v to_o his_o power_n without_o the_o intervention_n of_o any_o creature_n 2._o in_o their_o spiritual_a immortal_a nature_n and_o the_o intellectual_a operation_n flow_v from_o it_o there_o be_v a_o image_n and_o resemblance_n of_o god_n from_o whence_o this_o title_n be_v common_a to_o all_o reasonable_a creature_n and_o peculiar_a to_o they_o for_o though_o matter_n may_v be_v order_v and_o fashion_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n into_o a_o figure_n of_o admirable_a beauty_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o his_o likeness_n and_o image_n so_o that_o neither_o the_o light_n of_o heaven_n nor_o the_o beast_n and_o plant_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v call_v his_o child_n second_o by_o external_n call_v and_o covenant_n
the_o 5._o carnal_a mind_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n for_o it_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o the_o law_n neither_o can_v be_v as_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v opposite_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n so_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v to_o the_o gospel_n this_o corrupt_a nature_n make_v the_o world_n such_o a_o dangerous_a snare_n to_o man_n for_o it_o blind_v their_o mind_n so_o as_o not_o to_o see_v the_o dros_n of_o earthly_a thing_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o heavenly_a st._n john_n express_v the_o tempt_a object_n of_o the_o world_n by_o the_o vicious_a affection_n that_o be_v draw_v out_o and_o fasten_v upon_o they_o all_o that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n and_o the_o pride_n of_o life_n for_o the_o lust_n of_o man_n put_v a_o gloss_n upon_o they_o and_o make_v they_o pernicious_a the_o poison_n be_v not_o in_o the_o flower_n but_o in_o the_o spider_n that_o turn_v the_o extraction_n from_o they_o into_o its_o own_o nourishment_n according_o st._n peter_n speak_v of_o the_o corruption_n in_o the_o world_n through_o lust._n 1._o the_o vain_a heart_n be_v more_o deceitful_a than_o the_o vain_a world_n for_o not_o only_a reason_n that_o instruct_v the_o wise_a but_o experience_n that_o instruct_v fool_n afford_v sufficient_a conviction_n that_o all_o thing_n here_o below_o be_v vanity_n and_o vexation_n there_o be_v none_o so_o low_a none_o so_o exalt_v in_o the_o world_n but_o find_v it_o so_o by_o taste_v a_o sprig_n of_o wormwood_n the_o bitterness_n be_v perceive_v as_o true_o as_o by_o drink_v a_o strong_a infusion_n of_o it_o the_o world_n with_o all_o its_o variety_n be_v a_o multiply_v and_o perpetuate_v vanity_n it_o afford_v no_o solid_a satisfaction_n the_o set_v down_o a_o thousand_o cipher_n make_v no_o sum._n but_o the_o carnal_a heart_n be_v so_o enchant_a with_o the_o false_a lustre_n and_o seem_a pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n that_o by_o change_v one_o vanity_n for_o another_o it_o seek_v and_o expect_v satisfaction_n this_o verify_v the_o observation_n of_o the_o wise_a preacher_n the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v full_a of_o 3._o evil_a and_o madness_n be_v in_o their_o heart_n while_o they_o live_v and_o after_o that_o they_o go_v down_o to_o the_o dead_a what_o a_o prodigy_n of_o madness_n be_v it_o for_o man_n to_o catch_v at_o a_o shadow_n of_o happiness_n to_o seek_v for_o that_o which_o they_o be_v uncertain_a to_o find_v and_o if_o they_o do_v find_v they_o be_v certain_a to_o lose_v and_o to_o neglect_v substantial_a felicity_n which_o if_o they_o sincere_o seek_v they_o shall_v obtain_v and_o if_o they_o obtain_v they_o shall_v enjoy_v for_o ever_o but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v more_o evident_a that_o the_o flesh_n with_o its_o affection_n and_o lust_n do_v powerful_o interpose_v to_o hinder_v man_n from_o embrace_v the_o gospel_n i_o will_v particular_o consider_v its_o opposition_n to_o the_o supernatural_a doctrine_n reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n the_o object_n of_o faith_n to_o the_o holy_a precept_n of_o it_o the_o rule_n of_o obedience_n to_o the_o spiritual_a reward_n recommend_v to_o our_o choice_n 1._o the_o great_a mystery_n of_o godliness_n be_v the_o incarnate_a son_n of_o god_n who_o by_o a_o ignominious_a and_o accurse_a death_n purchase_v a_o glorious_a bless_a life_n for_o his_o people_n this_o 1._o doctrine_n be_v account_v foolishness_n and_o reject_v by_o the_o proud_a unrenewed_a mind_n the_o gospel_n be_v style_v the_o word_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v convey_v to_o 8._o the_o soul_n with_o authority_n and_o efficacy_n by_o faith_n as_o faith_n in_o christ_n be_v require_v of_o the_o sick_a and_o blind_a and_o lame_a that_o his_o heal_a virtue_n may_v rest_v on_o they_o so_o the_o belief_n 28._o of_o the_o divinity_n of_o his_o person_n and_o doctrine_n be_v the_o first_o vital_a qualification_n that_o make_v we_o capable_a of_o spiritual_a heal_n infidelity_n stop_v the_o fountain_n of_o grace_n the_o apostle_n say_v the_o word_n preach_v do_v not_o profit_v they_o that_o hear_v it_o not_o be_v mix_v with_o faith_n now_o although_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v so_o clear_a and_o convince_a that_o the_o sincere_a consider_v mind_n can_v suspend_v its_o assent_n to_o it_o yet_o the_o carnal_a mind_n stain_v with_o prejudices_fw-la and_o vicious_a affection_n will_v not_o admit_v it_o a_o evil_a heart_n be_v the_o principal_a cause_n of_o unbelief_n the_o jew_n from_o pride_n vainglory_n and_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n reject_v the_o son_n of_o god_n though_o all_o the_o character_n of_o the_o messiah_n be_v conspicuous_a in_o he_o he_o do_v not_o come_v with_o visible_a glory_n and_o observation_n according_a to_o their_o expectation_n and_o desire_n they_o see_v no_o form_n nor_o comeliness_n in_o he_o and_o do_v not_o believe_v the_o report_n concern_v he_o they_o be_v scandalize_v at_o his_o parentage_n and_o mean_a condition_n he_o discover_v their_o belove_a sin_n and_o sharp_o reprove_v the_o reign_a vice_n among_o they_o which_o make_v his_o person_n and_o his_o preach_v so_o odious_a to_o they_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o light_n be_v come_v into_o the_o world_n and_o man_n love_v darkness_n rather_o than_o light_n because_o their_o deed_n be_v evil_a the_o prejudice_n of_o their_o passion_n be_v so_o strong_a that_o they_o reject_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o believe_v damnable_a delusion_n now_o the_o same_o root_n of_o offence_n be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n against_o the_o gospel_n such_o a_o cloud_n arise_v from_o the_o steam_n of_o carnal_a lust_n darken_n the_o understanding_n that_o it_o can_v discover_v truth_n so_o high_a as_o the_o mysterious_a doctrine_n of_o christ._n love_n in_o the_o heart_n be_v requisite_a as_o well_o as_o light_v in_o the_o mind_n to_o know_v spiritual_a thing_n obedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v the_o best_a preparative_a to_o believe_v his_o word_n our_o saviour_n just_o tax_v the_o pharisee_n they_o do_v not_o repent_v that_o they_o may_v believe_v man_n be_v averse_a from_o receive_v those_o doctrine_n that_o condemn_v their_o lust_n and_o be_v infidel_n that_o they_o may_v be_v free_o wicked_a that_o the_o shadow_n of_o repentance_n may_v not_o disturb_v they_o it_o be_v say_v of_o atheistical_a scorner_n they_o be_v willing_o ignorant_a the_o corrupt_a 5._o will_n rule_v imperious_o and_o turn_v the_o thought_n from_o those_o argument_n which_o if_o due_o consider_v reason_n with_o a_o strong_a hand_n will_v constrain_v they_o to_o acknowledge_v there_o be_v a_o righteous_a god_n who_o have_v authority_n to_o command_v and_o power_n to_o punish_v those_o who_o rebel_n against_o his_o law_n it_o be_v true_a they_o pretend_v to_o offer_v something_o for_o a_o more_o colourable_a denial_n of_o supernatural_a revelation_n but_o the_o perverseness_n of_o infidelity_n appear_v through_o all_o their_o pretence_n some_o object_n against_o the_o sublimity_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v the_o scornful_a expression_n of_o one_o this_o be_v like_o the_o peace_n of_o god_n that_o pass_v all_o understanding_n as_o if_o the_o reality_n of_o thing_n depend_v upon_o the_o conception_n and_o capacity_n of_o the_o human_a mind_n and_o divine_a truth_n be_v impossible_a because_o incomprehensible_a such_o foolish_a pride_n obstruct_v the_o reception_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o from_o hence_o humble_a christian_n be_v despise_v as_o lead_v by_o a_o blind_a belief_n other_o be_v offend_v at_o the_o simplicity_n of_o the_o reveal_v they_o the_o doctrine_n be_v so_o high_a they_o can_v reach_v unto_o the_o manner_n of_o convey_v they_o be_v so_o low_o they_o will_v not_o stoop_v to_o but_o it_o be_v evident_a these_o arguing_n be_v not_o from_o the_o reason_n but_o the_o lust_n of_o men._n for_o the_o rare_a accord_n of_o the_o matter_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o gospel-revelation_n be_v a_o sensible_a character_n of_o its_o descent_n from_o god_n the_o doctrine_n be_v high_a and_o bright_a of_o a_o extraordinary_a revelation_n the_o delivery_n of_o it_o be_v easy_a and_o familiar_a since_o it_o be_v for_o the_o instruction_n and_o salvation_n of_o man_n and_o according_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n have_v make_v a_o exact_a temperament_n of_o these_o thing_n brief_o the_o corrupt_a affection_n pervert_v the_o will_n to_o reject_v the_o gospel_n and_o the_o pervert_v will_n influence_n the_o understanding_n to_o disapprove_v it_o nay_o carnal_a lust_n force_n man_n against_o their_o light_n as_o the_o jew_n do_v pilate_n to_o condemn_v the_o person_n of_o christ_n to_o condemn_v his_o doctrine_n there_o be_v many_o in_o this_o degenerate_a age_n who_o although_o they_o dare_v not_o public_o own_o the_o defile_v and_o abhor_v name_n of_o infidel_n yet_o among_o their_o companion_n employ_v their_o
wit_n to_o dispute_v and_o deride_v the_o most_o sublime_a and_o sacred_a truth_n out_o of_o the_o world_n their_o face_n be_v full_a of_o death_n the_o token_n of_o reprobation_n be_v visible_a upon_o they_o the_o issue_n will_v discover_v they_o to_o be_v the_o wretched_a example_n of_o that_o fearful_a rule_n those_o who_o be_v destine_v to_o final_a ruin_n be_v infatuate_v other_o be_v believer_n in_o profession_n and_o their_o own_o conceit_n but_o infidel_n in_o practice_n their_o faith_n be_v but_o a_o vain_a opinion_n a_o loose_a assent_n to_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n because_o it_o be_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o country_n but_o with_o our_o radication_n and_o establishment_n this_o be_v evident_a consider_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o mere_o intellectual_a the_o object_n of_o theory_n and_o speculation_n but_o moral_a and_o practical_a the_o object_n of_o our_o choice_n and_o seek_v this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n according_o the_o unfeigned_a belief_n of_o they_o be_v seat_v not_o only_o in_o the_o mind_n but_o in_o the_o heart_n and_o be_v correspondent_a to_o the_o infallible_a truth_n and_o transcendent_a goodness_n of_o the_o thing_n reveal_v they_o make_v such_o a_o impression_n on_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o value_n of_o they_o be_v above_o life_n and_o whatever_o come_v in_o competition_n be_v with_o despise_a disdain_n reject_v but_o when_o man_n seldom_o remember_v and_o little_a regard_n eternal_a thing_n how_o specious_a soever_o the_o profession_n be_v can_v there_o be_v a_o reasonable_a belief_n of_o their_o word_n against_o their_o work_n therefore_o in_o the_o language_n of_o the_o scripture_n all_o that_o do_v not_o first_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o righteousness_n thereof_o be_v unbeliever_n it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a that_o man_n shall_v sincere_o believe_v and_o have_v a_o due_a apprehension_n of_o it_o but_o it_o must_v be_v the_o great_a design_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o the_o main_a business_n of_o their_o life_n to_o obtain_v it_o 2._o security_n be_v the_o constant_a effect_n of_o infidelity_n and_o harden_v man_n in_o their_o sin_n and_o the_o neglect_n of_o salvation_n so_o dear_o purchase_v and_o gracious_o offer_v to_o they_o in_o the_o gospel_n direct_v infidel_n set_v their_o mouth_n against_o heaven_n and_o defy_v the_o furnace_n of_o hell_n they_o be_v blind_o bold_a and_o fearless_a of_o that_o judgement_n that_o make_v the_o devil_n tremble_v other_o though_o not_o open_a and_o palpable_a infidel_n be_v in_o a_o dead_a calm_a not_o sensible_a of_o their_o sin_n and_o have_v slight_a apprehension_n of_o their_o great_a danger_n infidelity_n lie_v at_o the_o bottom_n of_o their_o security_n as_o the_o egyptian_n in_o the_o thick_a darkness_n that_o cover_v the_o land_n move_v not_o from_o their_o place_n so_o many_o in_o ignorant_a darkness_n sit_v down_o and_o be_v at_o rest_n careless_a of_o the_o saviour_n that_o can_v deliver_v from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v only_o those_o who_o have_v strong_a apprehension_n of_o evil_n imminent_a and_o destructive_a will_v fly_v to_o christ_n as_o a_o sanctuary_n and_o shelter_n and_o submit_v to_o his_o term_n of_o save_v they_o second_o the_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v not_o submit_v to_o the_o sanctity_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o forecited_a scripture_n tell_v we_o the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n and_o that_o enmity_n be_v arm_v with_o many_o strong_a lusts-opposing_a his_o law_n the_o principal_a cause_n of_o reject_v the_o gospel_n be_v common_a to_o all_o we_o will_v not_o have_v 14._o this_o man_n to_o reign_v over_o we_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o as_o holiness_n be_v that_o attribute_n wherein_o god_n do_v most_o excellent_a and_o man_n be_v most_o defective_a so_o the_o corrupt_a will_n be_v most_o opposite_a to_o it_o the_o justice_n and_o power_n of_o god_n in_o some_o case_n man_n do_v approve_v and_o apply_v themselves_o to_o if_o injurious_o accuse_v or_o oppress_v they_o desire_v his_o justice_n to_o vindicate_v their_o innocence_n and_o revenge_v their_o wrong_n if_o in_o distress_n and_o exigency_n they_o pray_v that_o his_o powerful_a providence_n may_v regard_v and_o relieve_v they_o but_o they_o be_v extreme_o averse_a from_o his_o holiness_n shine_v in_o his_o law_n which_o excite_v his_o justice_n and_o power_n to_o punish_v those_o who_o rebel_n against_o it_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o say_v to_o christ_n what_o the_o rebellious_a israelite_n say_v to_o rehoboham_n thy_o father_n make_v our_o yoke_n grievous_a 4._o now_o therefore_o make_v thou_o the_o grievous_a service_n of_o thy_o father_n and_o his_o heavy_a yoke_n which_o he_o put_v upon_o we_o light_a and_o we_o will_v serve_v thou_o they_o will_v measure_v out_o the_o scantling_n of_o their_o obedience_n how_o far_o he_o shall_v rule_v and_o far_o they_o will_v not_o yield_v but_o our_o saviour_n declare_v i_o be_o not_o come_v to_o destroy_v the_o law_n but_o to_o fulfil_v it_o 5._o it_o be_v true_a the_o gospel_n be_v a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n a_o sovereign_a composition_n of_o precious_a promise_n of_o recover_a grace_n and_o pardon_v mercy_n but_o it_o be_v also_o a_o law_n and_o enjoin_v repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n as_o without_o compensation_n to_o the_o justice_n so_o without_o conformity_n to_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n we_o can_v never_o be_v restore_v to_o his_o favour_n and_o enjoy_v he_o as_o our_o felicity_n our_o saviour_n prescribe_v this_o indispensable_a rule_n to_o his_o disciple_n if_o any_o man_n will_v come_v after_o i_o let_v he_o deny_v himself_o and_o take_v up_o his_o cross_n and_o follow_v i_o this_o be_v a_o comprehensive_a fundamental_a duty_n and_o the_o natural_a man_n have_v a_o strong_a reluctancy_n to_o every_o part_n of_o it_o 1._o self-dependance_n upon_o our_o own_o virtue_n and_o duty_n for_o the_o obtain_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o eternal_a reward_n be_v very_o natural_a to_o man_n it_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o first_o covenant_n to_o which_o they_o cleave_v man_n of_o a_o fair_a conversation_n and_o unblemished_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n have_v some_o spark_n of_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi in_o they_o who_o justify_v himself_o that_o he_o be_v no_o extortioner_n nor_o unjust_a nor_o a_o adulterer_n nor_o as_o the_o profane_a publican_n and_o that_o he_o fast_v and_o pay_v tithe_n upon_o such_o reason_n many_o presume_v of_o the_o goodness_n and_o safety_n of_o their_o spiritual_a state_n they_o take_v pride_n and_o content_a in_o themselves_o in_o their_o moral_a goodness_n and_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o want_n of_o a_o saviour_n nor_o apply_v themselves_o with_o humble_a mournful_a affection_n to_o he_o for_o reconciliation_n to_o god_n other_o think_v by_o the_o worthiness_n of_o their_o work_n to_o compensate_a for_o the_o unworthiness_n of_o their_o sin_n to_o commute_v one_o duty_n for_o another_o and_o balance_v their_o account_n with_o heaven_n not_o consider_v that_o if_o their_o work_n be_v perfect_o good_a they_o be_v but_o the_o performance_n of_o their_o duty_n if_o they_o have_v never_o sin_v it_o be_v one_o great_a obstruction_n that_o hinder_v the_o jew_n from_o receive_v the_o gospel_n they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o 3._o god_n righteousness_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n do_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n one_o of_o a_o high_a spirit_n will_v rather_o wear_v a_o mean_a garment_n of_o his_o own_o than_o a_o rich_a livery_n the_o mark_n of_o servile_a dependence_n pride_n resist_v grace_n and_o grace_n resist_v pride_n the_o law_n of_o faith_n require_v we_o to_o renounce_v not_o only_o our_o unrighteousness_n but_o our_o righteousness_n even_o the_o most_o excellent_a grace_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o they_o in_o comparison_n of_o christ_n and_o as_o a_o foundation_n of_o obtain_v the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o salvation_n for_o ever_o our_o righteousness_n be_v defective_a and_o defile_v and_o can_v endure_v the_o trial_n of_o god_n enlighten_v tribunal_n all_o our_o do_n and_o suffering_n can_v expiate_v the_o least_o sin_n we_o must_v only_o rely_v upon_o the_o lord_n our_o righteousness_n to_o reconcile_v we_o to_o god_n and_o that_o we_o may_v stand_v in_o judgement_n he_o be_v make_v sin_n 21._o for_o we_o who_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o not_o in_o ourselves_o how_o hard_o it_o be_v to_o awaken_v man_n out_o of_o the_o pharisaical_a dream_n of_o their_o own_o righteousness_n be_v evident_a both_o in_o 16._o the_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n of_o those_o of_o the_o roman_a communion_n they_o assert_v the_o formal_a cause_n of_o our_o justification_n in_o
it_o be_v requisite_a to_o atone_v the_o just_a displeasure_n of_o god_n for_o our_o offence_n it_o be_v say_v he_o offer_v his_o own_o body_n on_o the_o tree_n his_o peculiar_a right_n in_o it_o be_v requisite_a to_o make_v it_o a_o proper_a and_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n it_o be_v true_a the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n have_v the_o same_o right_n in_o the_o human_a nature_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o son_n have_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o make_v it_o but_o the_o son_n by_o assume_v it_o into_o a_o personal_a union_n with_o himself_o have_v a_o peculiar_a right_n in_o it_o and_o offer_v his_o own_o in_o a_o strict_a sense_n and_o in_o consequence_n to_o this_o his_o sacrifice_n be_v of_o infinite_a value_n he_o do_v not_o compound_v with_o god_n but_o pay_v a_o ransom_n equivalent_a to_o what_o be_v due_a for_o sinner_n he_o bleed_v a_o fountain_n from_o his_o wound_a side_n that_o cleanse_v from_o all_o sin_n 2._o 2_o by_o his_o intercession_n he_o be_v able_a to_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a all_o that_o come_v to_o god_n by_o he_o for_o he_o ever_o live_v to_o make_v intercession_n for_o they_o god_n pardon_v sin_n as_o a_o sovereign_n upon_o the_o throne_n his_o authority_n be_v preserve_v entire_a without_o any_o condescension_n of_o his_o person_n therefore_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n shed_v on_o the_o cross_n be_v plead_v in_o heaven_n to_o reconcile_v god_n to_o we_o he_o satisfy_v justice_n and_o solicit_v mercy_n his_o blood_n speak_v still_o and_o its_o voice_n be_v as_o powerful_a as_o ever_o the_o prevalency_n of_o his_o intercession_n depend_v upon_o the_o dignity_n of_o his_o sacrifice_n the_o dearness_n of_o his_o person_n to_o the_o father_n do_v also_o assure_v we_o of_o his_o favourable_a audience_n he_o declare_v on_o earth_n i_o know_v thou_o always_o hear_v i_o 3_o the_o gospel_n set_v forth_o his_o willingness_n to_o save_v we_o faith_n have_v a_o aspect_n upon_o christ_n as_o able_a and_o willing_a to_o save_v for_o power_n without_o a_o will_v to_o save_v be_v unprofitable_a and_o the_o will_n without_o power_n be_v fruitless_a and_o ineffectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v the_o proposal_n and_o offer_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o it_o 1._o in_o the_o gospel_n there_o be_v a_o proposal_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o the_o invitation_n be_v universal_a whoever_o will_v let_v he_o come_v to_o the_o water_n of_o life_n free_o our_o saviour_n give_v this_o command_n to_o the_o apostle_n preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n neither_o the_o number_n nor_o quality_n of_o man_n sin_n be_v a_o bar_n against_o their_o come_n to_o christ_n for_o life_n none_o be_v exclude_v but_o those_o who_o exclude_v themselves_o in_o the_o parable_n those_o be_v earnest_o invite_v by_o the_o command_n of_o the_o master_n of_o the_o feast_n who_o refuse_v to_o come_v this_o offer_n of_o grace_n and_o life_n to_o all_o that_o will_v humble_o receive_v it_o be_v the_o first_o foundation_n of_o faith_n and_o induce_v our_o acceptance_n of_o it_o for_o without_o this_o the_o self-condemned_n sinner_n sink_v into_o misery_n bottomless_a and_o helpless_a the_o most_o miserable_a despair_n be_v draw_v from_o impossibility_n if_o man_n think_v it_o be_v impossible_a to_o obtain_v what_o they_o desire_v they_o will_v not_o endeavour_v to_o obtain_v it_o be_v easy_o clear_v by_o the_o scripture_n if_o man_n will_v believe_v the_o scripture_n when_o they_o be_v clear_a that_o as_o the_o brazen_a serpent_n the_o sign_n of_o salvation_n be_v lift_v up_o on_o high_a and_o make_v obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n to_o convey_v heal_a virtue_n to_o those_o who_o be_v sting_v by_o the_o fiery_a serpent_n so_o our_o crucify_a saviour_n be_v lift_v up_o in_o the_o gospel_n for_o every_o soul-wounded_n sinner_n to_o regard_v the_o belief_n of_o invite_a mercy_n open_v the_o spring_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n a_o natural_a sorrow_n arise_v from_o the_o sense_n of_o oppress_v evil_n and_o be_v terminate_v upon_o ourselves_o a_o spiritual_a sorrow_n proceed_v from_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o the_o divine_a goodness_n that_o be_v so_o ready_a and_o desirous_a to_o save_v we_o 2._o there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o that_o repent_v and_o believe_v our_o saviour_n encourage_v we_o come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o be_v weary_a and_o heavy-laden_a and_o i_o will_v give_v you_o rest._n those_o who_o feel_v sin_n as_o a_o intolerable_a burden_n and_o their_o faint_a soul_n be_v without_o support_n let_v they_o devolve_v their_o burden_n upon_o he_o and_o trust_v entire_o in_o he_o they_o shall_v obtain_v bless_v rest._n the_o timorous_a sinner_n that_o tremble_v under_o the_o weight_n of_o their_o gild_n be_v encourage_v for_o in_o this_o condition_n christ_n invite_v they_o to_o come_v to_o he_o and_o promise_v rest._n let_v they_o aggravate_v their_o sin_n to_o the_o high_a yet_o st._n paul_n challenge_v the_o precedence_n as_o the_o chief_a of_o sinner_n and_o obtain_v mercy_n when_o the_o heart_n be_v break_v for_o sin_n and_o from_o it_o not_o to_o believe_v the_o promise_n of_o mercy_n be_v dishonourable_a to_o our_o saviour_n love_n and_o the_o value_n of_o his_o blood_n as_o if_o not_o sufficient_a to_o save_v poor_a soul_n that_o will_v fain_o live_v in_o he_o we_o have_v the_o strong_a testimony_n of_o his_o love_n in_o die_v for_o we_o when_o we_o be_v enemy_n christ_n come_v with_o this_o intention_n to_o save_v sinner_n and_o when_o they_o come_v to_o he_o will_v he_o reject_v they_o he_o can_v deny_v himself_o he_o be_v truth_n and_o he_o have_v most_o express_o declare_v whoever_o come_v to_o i_o i_o will_v in_o no_o wise_a cast_v out_o and_o this_o promise_n be_v confirm_v by_o the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n that_o send_v he_o christ_n invite_v thirsty_a soul_n to_o partake_v of_o the_o water_n of_o life_n and_o when_o he_o have_v inspire_v they_o with_o ardent_a desire_n and_o they_o come_v will_v he_o send_v they_o away_o empty_a it_o be_v absolute_o impossible_a for_o he_o who_o be_v incarnate_a love_n and_o mercy_n to_o despise_v and_o reject_v the_o soul_n that_o look_v to_o he_o that_o belong_v and_o languish_v after_o he_o and_o will_v be_v ever_o unsatisfied_a without_o he_o in_o short_a the_o precious_a promise_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o eternal_a salvation_n be_v so_o propose_v to_o we_o that_o the_o hope_n of_o return_v sinner_n may_v be_v cherish_v and_o confirm_v and_o the_o presumption_n of_o secure_a sinner_n may_v be_v dash_v and_o control_v while_o we_o be_v in_o this_o middle_a state_n the_o fear_n of_o caution_n join_v with_o the_o lively_a hope_n of_o mercy_n be_v the_o most_o congruous_a temper_v and_o become_v the_o breast_n of_o a_o christian._n the_o presumer_n be_v like_o a_o ship_n without_o ballast_n float_v so_o light_o in_o his_o own_o folly_n that_o every_o gust_n of_o temptation_n overset_n he_o the_o fearful_a spirit_n be_v like_o a_o ship_n over-laden_a and_o if_o not_o lighten_v will_v certain_o sink_v and_o perish_v fearless_a security_n expose_v to_o all_o the_o temptation_n that_o gratify_v the_o carnal_a appetite_n despond_v fear_n cause_v a_o neglect_n of_o the_o remedy_n if_o there_o be_v no_o fear_n of_o punishment_n or_o no_o hope_n of_o pardon_n the_o consequence_n be_v equal_o fatal_a 3._o it_o be_v necessary_a in_o order_n to_o the_o bring_v man_n to_o christ_n to_o remove_v their_o carnal_a prejudices_fw-la the_o first_o and_o most_o fear_a difficulty_n be_v that_o serious_a religion_n will_v be_v a_o damp_n to_o all_o their_o joy_n a_o harsh_a and_o unreasonable_a restraint_n of_o their_o liberty_n a_o bar_n against_o all_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o world_n the_o sickly_a fancy_n be_v frighten_v at_o the_o thought_n of_o this_o if_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n be_v short_a and_o fair_a man_n will_v like_v it_o but_o it_o be_v long_a and_o deep_a and_o they_o be_v discourage_v as_o the_o israelite_n with_o the_o tedious_a and_o troublesome_a wilderness_n before_o their_o arrival_n at_o the_o land_n of_o promise_n according_o carnal_a man_n cast_v a_o slanderous_a shade_n upon_o religion_n as_o a_o melancholy_n severe_a and_o joyless_a discipline_n now_o we_o may_v rectify_v these_o mistake_v by_o the_o light_n of_o scripture_n of_o reason_n and_o of_o experience_n 1._o the_o scrpiture_n declare_v that_o the_o way_n of_o wisdom_n be_v way_n of_o pleasantness_n 17._o and_o all_o her_o path_n be_v peace_n the_o entrance_n the_o progress_n and_o continuance_n in_o these_o way_n be_v joyful_a to_o the_o renew_v soul_n let_v we_o take_v a_o right_a view_n of_o the_o divine_a command_n the_o sum_n of_o they_o be_v this_o that_o man_n will_v be_v happy_a here_o and_o for_o ever_o we_o be_v command_v
greatness_n to_o be_v frequent_o in_o so_o mean_v a_o work_n as_o preach_v whereas_o the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v a_o preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n other_o make_v a_o gain_n of_o the_o flock_n but_o put_v off_o the_o instruct_v and_o care_n of_o it_o to_o other_o they_o will_v serve_v christ_n by_o proxy_n who_o die_v for_o we_o in_o his_o own_o person_n how_o can_v they_o commit_v to_o other_o the_o charge_n immediate_o entrust_v to_o themselves_o what_o exemption_n can_v they_o plead_v what_o account_n can_v they_o give_v to_o the_o great_a shepherd_n three_o let_v minister_n that_o they_o may_v be_v successful_a adorn_v the_o holy_a and_o without_o holiness_n dangerous_a office_n of_o the_o evangelical_n ministry_n by_o a_o suitable_a conversation_n innocence_n and_o abstinence_n from_o foul_a sin_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o recommend_v they_o but_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n and_o the_o beauty_n of_o holiness_n must_v shine_v in_o their_o life_n they_o can_v never_o effectual_o teach_v other_o what_o they_o do_v not_o practice_v themselves_o if_o any_o sin_n reign_v in_o they_o their_o prayer_n can_v ascend_v with_o acceptance_n to_o god_n and_o descend_v with_o a_o blessing_n on_o the_o people_n let_v a_o minister_n preach_v divine_a doctrine_n yet_o if_o his_o conversation_n be_v earthly_a and_o sensual_a he_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o harden_v sinner_n than_o to_o convert_v they_o how_o unbecoming_a and_o disgraceful_a be_v unholy_a minister_n to_o their_o profession_n what_o a_o scandal_n do_v they_o give_v to_o the_o profane_a and_o occasion_n to_o blaspheme_v their_o high_a and_o holy_a call_v let_v such_o prepare_v themselves_o for_o many_o stripe_n they_o can_v escape_v a_o double_a damnation_n for_o the_o neglect_v of_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o other_o commit_v to_o they_o though_o a_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v in_o their_o sermon_n if_o in_o their_o practice_n they_o be_v dark_a cloud_n the_o blackness_n of_o darkness_n be_v reserve_v for_o they_o for_o ever_o four_o union_n among_o minister_n be_v a_o happy_a advantage_n to_o recommend_v their_o doctrine_n to_o the_o people_n division_n and_o jealousy_n will_v lessen_v the_o authority_n and_o efficacy_n of_o their_o preach_v if_o one_o dog_n open_v the_o deer_n be_v not_o alarm_v but_o the_o full_a cry_n rouse_v he_o when_o minister_n with_o one_o consent_n declare_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n from_o heaven_n against_o sin_n the_o profane_a and_o secure_a be_v afraid_a and_o the_o awful_a fear_n of_o justice_n make_v they_o seek_v for_o mercy_n it_o be_v true_a there_o can_v be_v expect_v a_o entire_a conformity_n in_o opinion_n among_o the_o wise_a and_o best_a man_n therefore_o in_o doctrine_n not_o so_o clear_a nor_o of_o that_o moment_n as_o the_o great_a truth_n a_o mutual_a forbearance_n be_v our_o duty_n but_o to_o coin_v controversy_n about_o clear_a and_o necessary_a truth_n and_o obscure_v they_o by_o opposition_n be_v a_o great_a hindrance_n to_o the_o success_n of_o the_o gospel_n some_o worthy_a man_n earnest_o deny_v the_o gospel_n to_o be_v a_o law_n will_v they_o reform_v the_o scripture_n be_v not_o the_o gospel_n call_v the_o law_n of_o faith_n the_o law_n of_o liberty_n the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n it_o be_v true_a the_o gospel_n be_v a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o it_o have_v all_o the_o essential_o of_o a_o law_n it_o be_v the_o reveal_v will_n of_o the_o sovereign_a lawgiver_n command_v sinner_n to_o repent_v and_o believe_v upon_o no_o less_o reward_n and_o penalty_n than_o eternal_a life_n to_o penitent_a believer_n and_o eternal_a death_n to_o those_o who_o disobey_v the_o gospel_n now_o the_o command_n and_o sanction_n be_v the_o proper_a character_n of_o a_o law_n if_o we_o due_o consider_v it_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o god_n be_v such_o that_o whatever_o covenant_n he_o offer_v to_o the_o reasonable_a creature_n have_v the_o force_n and_o obligation_n of_o a_o law_n i_o instance_n in_o this_o one_o point_n that_o of_o late_o have_v occasion_v a_o unhappy_a difference_n o_o the_o bless_a state_n above_o where_o ignorance_n and_o strife_n be_v abolish_v for_o ever_o five_o frequent_a and_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n be_v a_o powerful_a mean_n to_o render_v our_o ministry_n successful_a paul_n plant_n and_o apollo_n water_n but_o god_n give_v the_o increase_n let_v a_o minister_n be_v complete_o furnish_v with_o learning_n judgement_n eloquence_n yet_o all_o his_o labour_n will_v be_v fruitless_a without_o divine_a grace_n a_o key_n that_o be_v exact_o fit_a to_o all_o the_o ward_n of_o a_o lock_n can_v open_v it_o without_o a_o hand_n to_o turn_v it_o let_v the_o most_o proper_a and_o powerful_a motive_n to_o work_v upon_o the_o reasonable_a nature_n be_v represent_v yet_o they_o can_v open_v the_o heart_n unless_o they_o be_v manage_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n it_o be_v very_o observable_a that_o in_o the_o narrative_a of_o the_o miracle_n by_o the_o prophet_n some_o circumstance_n be_v relate_v that_o declare_v they_o be_v do_v by_o the_o divine_a power_n sometime_o the_o command_n of_o god_n be_v before_o the_o performance_n thus_o in_o all_o the_o astonish_a work_n do_v by_o moses_n the_o command_n of_o god_n be_v the_o beginning_n take_v thy_o rod_n stretch_v out_o thy_o 9_o hand_n and_o other_o order_n that_o demonstrate_v the_o miraculous_a action_n not_o to_o proceed_v from_o a_o inherent_a virtue_n in_o his_o person_n but_o from_o a_o superior_a and_o borrow_a power_n sometime_o prayer_n be_v address_v to_o god_n before_o the_o miracle_n be_v do_v thus_o joshua_n first_o speak_v to_o the_o lord_n 12._o before_o he_o command_v the_o sun_n to_o stand_v still_o upon_o gibeon_n and_o the_o moon_n in_o the_o vàlley_n of_o ajalon_n thus_o elias_n and_o 34._o elisha_n revive_v the_o dead_a by_o prayer_n to_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n this_o be_v declaratory_a that_o the_o prophet_n be_v but_o instrument_n and_o that_o god_n be_v the_o absolute_a author_n of_o they_o according_o in_o the_o conversion_n of_o soul_n which_o be_v a_o work_n as_o miraculous_a as_o any_o of_o those_o illustrious_a miracle_n there_o must_v be_v the_o divine_a appointment_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o ardent_a prayer_n to_o god_n for_o his_o blessing_n it_o be_v the_o great_a encouragement_n of_o minister_n in_o their_o service_n that_o whatsoever_o be_v god_n ordinance_n shall_v effect_v that_o for_o which_o it_o be_v ordain_v the_o rod_n of_o moses_n be_v powerful_a to_o subdue_v egypt_n to_o drown_v pharaoh_n and_o his_o host_n in_o the_o red_a sea_n three_o hundred_o soldier_n with_o gideon_n only_o arm_v with_o lamp_n and_o pitcher_n destroy_v the_o numberless_a army_n of_o the_o midianite_n astonish_v victory_n and_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n but_o prayer_n be_v requisite_a to_o obtain_v the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o who_o influence_n the_o word_n be_v effectual_a to_o recover_v lose_v soul_n to_o heaven_n and_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o numerous_a and_o entire_a conversion_n of_o sinner_n have_v be_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o holy_a man_n who_o make_v it_o their_o great_a and_o earnest_a request_n that_o they_o may_v be_v successful_a in_o bring_v soul_n to_o christ._n cold_a formality_n be_v unacceptable_a to_o god_n and_o without_o efficacy_n but_o prayer_n actuate_v with_o life_n and_o holy_a heat_n of_o affection_n ascend_v to_o heaven_n and_o prevail_v and_o what_o be_v more_o worthy_a of_o our_o constant_a and_o most_o ardent_a desire_n than_o the_o salvation_n of_o precious_a and_o immortal_a soul_n ii_o to_o excite_v minister_n to_o a_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o their_o duty_n let_v they_o consider_v 1._o the_o example_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n it_o be_v one_o principal_a part_n of_o his_o office_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n this_o he_o undertake_v in_o wonderful_a mercy_n and_o perform_v with_o amaze_a diligence_n he_o rise_v before_o day_n and_o retire_v himself_o into_o a_o solitary_a place_n to_o pray_v that_o he_o may_v lose_v no_o time_n in_o preach_v he_o preach_v on_o the_o mountain_n in_o the_o desert_n in_o the_o ship_n in_o the_o synagogue_n in_o the_o highway_n in_o the_o house_n no_o place_n no_o person_n no_o time_n be_v unseasonable_a it_o be_v his_o meat_n and_o drink_n to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o 35._o his_o father_n thus_o constant_a and_o delight_a be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o 34._o lay_v aside_o his_o majesty_n and_o glory_n that_o he_o may_v instruct_v the_o people_n without_o terrify_v they_o in_o his_o bless_a work_n how_o do_v his_o example_n reprove_v and_o upbraid_v our_o negligence_n how_o shall_v it_o inflame_v we_o to_o imitate_v and_o honour_v he_o 2._o his_o love_n to_o we_o shall_v make_v we_o ardent_a and_o active_a to_o save_v soul_n as_o a_o testimony_n of_o our_o love_n to_o he_o thus_o he_o speak_v to_o peter_n love_v thou_o i_o