dissolved and fall ere one special act of trust and adventure on his hand and under the assured warrant of his truth should be frustrate and that the safe conduct also and security of one Christian in his passage through time is of that consequence and so essential a part of the great frame of providence that this should not be entire and perfect if it should fail as to the meanest of the Saints to make so great a nullity herein 7. And is it not in such a reflex work on the truth of experience that such can only know the sweet enjoiments of times past and what that peculiar comfort of remembrance means which I must reckon one of the rarest and most unknown enjoiments this day under the Sun since it is sure this can never be from the greatest delights of the earth when once passed which as they return no more so does ever leav a bitter sting and remembrance by a native result of the same whilst that which hath been experienced in the way of God can neither perish nor lose its sweetness but will render the most afflicting part of their life past which was most bitter and sore then to be the most comforting part thereof to their remembrance when they can see herein both what they have designed for God and he hath done for them 8. If there be any comfort of love in the Communion of the Saints here within time they may see how this is not attainable but in the light of inward experience whence they know what it is to meet and have fellowship in the same Savour and relish of the things of God when in a spiritual frame and to be mutually disclosed as they can discern something of the excellency of one anothers spirit and of the power and lively workings of inward grace by that native lustre and evidence which thus followes the same so as under the sensible power of such attractions their souls are more closely unite and joined together yea are mutually strenthned by other conflicts and what experiments they have made of divine truth herein as to their releaf And I must say where this is not understood that great mystery of the Communion of the Saints is but a strange and dark notion nor without this can that special design of the Lord in the settlement of Churches in a visible state be either known or answered which is to have external ordinances carried on with life and power amongst men and enjoying communion with our blessed head herein The VII and last INQUIRY I would make as to a more full assurance of understanding on the truth of our profession and for further clearing of this great Subject of the experimental part of Religion is to know the quality of the witnesses thereto which is an Inquiry of a higher concern and import then seems to be apprehended or of what weight and necessity this is upon these grounds 1. Because the whole truth of Spiritual experience is matter of fact and founded on a certainty of sense it is truth in the event and performance and not what God does speak but what according to the same he hath done so that this is not upon any principle of Faith but on mens personal tryall of the same according to that Isai 43 v. 10. ye are my witness says the Lord that ye may know and beleeve me and understand that I am he for tho it is of divine and infallible truth that whatever God hath assured by promise he will do yet the experience hereof since the Canon of the Scripture was sealed is of humane record and a testimony which could bear no weight from the greatest of men if the quality of such witnesses were not tried and considered herein 2. Because the highest pretence to spiritual enjoiments in the way of the promise is but a false testimony where there is no tender regard herewith to the precepts of the Ghospel when this connection is indissoluble Act 9. they walked in the fear of God and comforts of the Holy Ghost doe not my words good to them that walk uprightly Mica 2 7. It is true that choisest Christians may be much hid and in the dark herein to others and upon such an account should have a sad part if they were tryed and judged by men only this is sure there can be no more in the conclusion then is in the premises and that a Christians testimony to the truth lyes more in what they are then what they express to others 3. The quality of the witnesses is of such weight here and to be specially regarded as one of the highest services for God within time under their hand to put too their seall and testimony that God is true in what he hath promised who are as it were judicially sisted in behalf of his truth and faithfulnes since his declarative glory before angels and men does more peculiarly ly here then in the whole Structure and frame of this Creation This is a trust and debt also upon each age of the Church that the truth and faithfulnes of their God may be transmitt to the generations to come with such a confirmatory seall 4. This Inquiry is the more called for to know what these are who bear such a witnes to the truth upon the exceeding greatnes of these things which belong to Christian experience since this might awake the most sublime and inquisitive spirits of the time to search herein and be a Subject of great thoughts and reflection that such are on the earth yea an innumerable part of men who do verily enjoy so marvelous a light as is immediatly out of Heaven and shines upon none else and knowes such an enjoiment as an immediate communion with the Deity and his sensible presence with their Spirits with returns from Heaven to their suits in most reall effects since if this be sure then must men seek for another Idea of Christianity have other thoughts about the same then what most seem to have then is there a higher glory put upon mens souls in the way of grace and their beeing partakers of the divine nature then what all humane grandeur can ever amount to or is upon the Sun and the Stars of Heaven 5. The credit and quality of the Witnesses on this great head of Spiritual experience and the whole internal part of Christianity is of such weight that the spirit of this age and most predominant part of men within the Church is stated in so visible an opposition thereto not only to oppose the power and spirituality of Religion but to deny its principles and give a lye to this testimony of the most eminent workings of the spirit of God on mens souls as if it were some illusion or imposture which is in effect to take of the greatest seall that God hath given to the Divinity of the Scripture in the whole internal demonstrations of its truth this is the great prodigy of this age bejond any
of man the whole successive race of mankind each in their order with that full evidence of the Holy Righteousness of the Judge herein as shall irresistably constrain their conscience to bear witnesse thereto 8. Yea what a concern of the Christian Faith lyes here of that eternal separation and parting which will then follow betwixt the elect and reprobate World with that dreadful dimission to these infernal Regions and with this sight to see sin which made its first entry in Heaven amongst the Angels and hath since so much overspread the earth now for ever shutt up in hell both sin and sinners together never more to look out at the grate of these prison But II. There is another thing with respect to this Subject which hath been to me oft matter of serious thoughts whence is it that in so knowing an age as this we see how such as are greatest pretenders to reason and to a higher flight then others this way are more visibly then any else of an Atheistick Spirit and to be a length herein bejond any else on that design how to weaken both their own assent and others to the Christian Faith and to render the same so far as possibly they can to be problematick and doubtful but it is sure here is nothing to stumble but what may rather be strenthning to any of a serious spirit and needs be no strange thing when such are as tender as possible to marr their enjoiments of this present life who hath no more or to let their thoughts come near to what must needs torment them before the time whilst their reason serves them for such an use and constrains their conscience herein that they must either be Christians in earnest or none at all yea that under such bright discoveries of the truth of the Ghospel they must see it is not compatible with reason how there should be a mids betwixt a truly serious Christian who beleeves what he does professe and a rosolved Atheist whose work lyes to have the dread of such a Faith wholly extinguished I knew a most remarkable Atheist indued with special natural accomplishments who on the same account said to a person of quality if I did trul◠beleeve what you profess to do they are matters of so great concern that I do profess I could think upon nothing else or be taken up thus as the most of Christians are with the things of this World so as I cannot possibly credit you in the Faith of your own Profession And herein can any exerce reason and not see the Faith of Christianity is another thing then most this day did ever conceive it to be and a much higher attainment then a Christians particular interest herein for where the first is assuredly attained it may seem not possible but the other must follow that mens greatest business of the earth should be to have a sure evidence for Heaven and to be ripening for so great a change I have known some whose tryalls and conflicts in their warefare hath been extraordinare and strange who hath professed their highest releaf still lay herein from the Faith of divine truth more then as to any particular promise made applicable to such a case and would have sought no more to carry their spirits above the present temptations that occurred though they were not ordinary or to be at rest as to all temporal events but a more full strenthning in the Christian Faith and that their Redeemer did live since then they were in sure terms as to their security for whatever he hath promised III. But I must add yet one thing further which seems indeed a prodigy proper to such an age as this that it s become so hard a work to bring men living in the day light of the Ghospel to a serious beleeving the truth and existence of infernal spirits and of their commerce and traffick with this visible World or to bring such who seem greatest pretenders to reason to the Faith of Divells lest they should thus be unavoidably brought to that Faith of the Divells which is to beleeve and tremble which surely is an unconceavable and extream horror that these Apostate Spirits have herein whilst their assent to the glorious beeing of God to his attributes yea to the truth and History of the Ghospel is by such ane inevitable constraint that as there is no possible access for them to be Atheists so is their dréad and torment heigtned beeing such knowing intellectual essences as that power and subtilty of delusion whereby they deal with mankind will not work on themselves This I must judge to be the last effort of the horrid wickedness of this present age to strenthen such a way and since such a party can have no help or support from faith and reason herein and yet find the assured truth and beeing of Divels and of their communion and warefare with men does marr any possible defence or design for Atheism and a taking off the terror of ane infernal state off their soul they must therefore move to another airth which is to beleeve nothing but what they see and feell and comes under a sensible demonstration to warrant the same for this is to make sure work at once against the whole Christian Faith and shut the door on any way of conviction thence thus they keep a distance with the beeing of their own souls as if it were some dark and abstract notion because it comes not under their sence they can live at quiet and be secure from the fear of a Hell and infernal world or exclusion out of Heaven untill they once meet with such an argument as to make them both see and feell the truth hereof but oh they seeme not to apprehend how sore the application of this argument will be when they at last find its in vain to reject the conclusion where the premises are sure There is one of late who is come forth in the day light of Christianity in a book lately published to undeceive the World upon so great a delusion as to these invisible powers of darknesse and tho he seems to find it difficult how to annihilate and make void wholly their existence yet doth offer with a strange confidence to secure men from any fear of the molestations of such Spirits and that all inward temptations or assaults of Satan and his operating upon the souls of men is but a deplorable fascination and bewitchment that the Christian Church hath been so long under It might be judged there were little need for such a worke to take this generation we are now in off all watch and guard against these destroying adversaries and to render them more secure herein then they seem already to be and that this confidence must have some strange rise to go forth not only in the most direct opposition to Sacred Truth but to the universal Sence and reason of mankind except he hopes to find a numerous party who
the universal sence of mankind how this way the Lord does put the highest honor on men here on the earth in the passive valour of Christianity yea thus puts the most distinguishing marks of respect on his choisest Favourites But there is a VI. INQUIRY I must further direct you to without which no evidences of the truth can be truly effectual on your soull which is on that wonderful part of Christianity that lyes in the truth of inward experience and is the very life and soull of our Religion The greatness of such a Subject makes it more difficult to speak hereon now in a short Epistolary Discourse but it shall be in as few words as is possible only to point at such things as may tend to more clear and solid impressions of this Mystery and make way for your own search and tryall of the same and I hope I may say they are things which have not been taken on report or have found it easy to be satisfyed herein as to a full acquiescence in the truth and assurance thereof but it 's to a few special ends I would refer your serious improvement of this great Inquiry 1. For this end that a clear notion and Idaea of spiritual experience of the things of God may be more deaply setled on your spirit and how in these respects it is to be understood 1. that God hath directed his Sacred Truth unto men not only for trust but for tryall which is a tryall of that nature stated on so great and wonderful things that the whole vital part of Religion should be a strange and dark thing until you be once entred hereon they are blessed who beeleve and have not yet seen what relates to the State of Glory above but they can never be blest who do not see as well as beleeve what belongs to the life and enjoyments of Grace within time in the truth of inward experience 2. It is here must be understood the first Acquaintance of men with the Spirit of God which is ane acquaintance of that concern as the Lord hath laid over the weight of his peoples spiritual joy refreshment and support whilst they are within time on the same and is the first entry on converse with spirits and with God the Father of spirits which shall be eternal 3. It is such as hath a distinct evidence from any moral influence by the Word or light to the judgment and is the proper object of spiritual sense which no humane power or Angels can impart but God hath reserved only to himself who can only make his own love known to the soul and no report or testimony of men can doe 4. It is hereby Christians enter on possession in some degree of divine truth and these great things promised as a earnest in hand to assure them that the rest shall not faill tho it adds no security to the truth of the promise but for a more abounding assurance to such who receave the same 5. Tho here be a common and joint interest amongst Christians yet must each have his proper and distinâ—l part in the truth of inward experience which is his peculiar interest and talent and it 's sure nothing does more work on mens souls and afford more sweet thoughts then what this way is made there own to know in themselves the internal demonstrations of the truth they professe in the power and vertue thereof and to know what great things hath passed between God and their own soul and what remarkable times hath gone over them and special remarkes herein of divine conduct and his immediate appearance in the course of their life 6. It is of that kind as none possibly can take on trust from the testimony of others or will satisfy without personal tryall tho this be more known to such who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil Hebr. 5 14. 7. But whatever singular use is hereby to the support of our Faith yet are they not the grounds thereof since these are only what God hath spoke in his word and not what he hath done in his work tho they are at a great loss who have begun late to observe the same it is true the greatest talent which is by inward observation and experiments which have been most deeply affecting in the present time does not abide in the same sense and fealing and mayly as a dead stock upon a Christians hand without fresh and immediate supplies yet are they still the same in the truth thereof and does ever evidence how far the enjoiment of grace and of a spiritual estate does exceed the greatest enjoiments of nature 8. This also must be understood not only by the testimony of inward sense but what comes under the most exact and judicious tryall as to the principles it leans on without which there could be no true enjoiment of the same if they were not as fully satisfied of holding their experience by right as in possession and that these great things are no shadowes or appearances but what is of the highest truth substance and reality 9. It is sure that God is not known in the earth or enjoyed in truth but in the light of inward evidence and experience except in such a manner of Balaam to see him but not near but not in the knowledge of converse and fellowship with that God whom they professe to know or what it is to have their soul inward and familiar with him in the experience of such a thing 10. It is by inward experience upon the souls of men that God doeth in a more special way secure and preserve that sacred record of his truth in the World then by humane Lawes or authority by ane internal conforming of the spirits of his people to his revealed truth whereby the inward man becomes as a repository thereof for when men once become Christians in truth they are then the declared Epistle of Christ by ane indissoluble union of the truth and their souls together I shall but add that the experimental part of Religion is not perfited here but within a little there will be ane entrance on ane eternity of experience of what once with admiration and desire was hoped for and the enjoiment of that state above will be no object of Faith but of sense and purely experimental A Second Intent of this Inquiry should be to clear how the enjoiment of one Christian in the way of experience may be no measure or rule to others in the tryall of their state upon these grounds 1. That the least reall evidence of the Sanctifying vertue of the truth bears witness to the truth of a new life and of spiritual sense and discerning herewith as a few grapes does difference between a vine and a bramble 2. Because the reall Work of God may be long without the witness thereof and the first giving of the new life and a discerning of the same are distinct acts
disrelishing to the spirit of most this day then such a thing but wisdom is justified of her Children and with such let my soul be joined in 9. As it is known and sure that here is no illusion or imaginary thing where any fallacy or deceit lyes to the most judicious and observing Christians who knows herein what makes them glad and whence it is and how no assistance of their own spirit or in the power of nature could possibly impart such a thing so may it be astonishing how such who live under the Profession of Christ and hath any design on ane eternal stare in Heaven can take this on report or be so little inquisitive about so wonderful a truth that there should be such ane enjoiment here on the earth which without any natural cause can put the soul of men into ane entire rest and settlement and when under greatest shakings and fears other ways cause them know the truth of pardon and peace with God with a sure evidence yea at so low ane ebb can immediatly revive and raise with so discernable a change in their inward case for if this be ane undoubted matter of experience it should be not easie for men to live without tryall hereof themselves 10. Let me add further here is a part of that communion which Christians have within time with the most excellent of the earth and such who in all ages of the Church have been the greatest lovers of God and adventurers for him such with whom he hath been most familiar and hath admit not only to the allowance of Subjects but the regard of favourites who hath known how great a Rewarder he is of his own grace yea such who have made the most exact inquiry and tryall upon the truth and security of their comfort herein and hath put to their seall that God is faithfull and true in that he hath thus promised 4. There is this special use to be made of such ane enquiry on the truth of inward experience to see how great and wonderful a Subject we have for reflection hereon and of what singular advantage this should be for strenthning the soul of a Christian against the workings of unbeleef and to give a more full security of mind in the adventures of hope and relyance upon God for things to come It is sure the reflex faculty of man is one of the greatest wonders of nature and if the spiritual use and improvement hereof were more understood on this Subject and what it is to dive in to these still and deep waters it might make such be oft as a wonder to themselves I shall but point at a few reflex acts of a Christian on this great mystery of spiritual experience to shew what manner of enjoiments these are admit to herein which the whole residue of mankind knows nothing of 1. To have such great supernatural truths of the Scripture which did once exceed their faith and reason to be now matter of undoubted experience in the truth power and efficacy hereof on their own souls and thus to know what belongs to the enjoiments of spiritual sence which formerly seemed so darke and incomprehensible a thing yea how great a difference there is betwixt the clearest Acts of the Judgment and understanding about divine things and a reall fealing of the same in the power and vertue thereof betwixt the most sublime apprehensions by theory and the sensible impressions by the Holy Ghost and what a present and marvelous change this makes on the soull of a Christian 2. To enjoy the same no less under a full evidence and certainty of the truth thereof as the alone and immediate Work of God then in their felt power and sweetnesse that here was no casual thing or matter of doubtfulness or uncertainty but where they can clearly see the object of their faith on the truth of divine Revelation now to be the object of there inward Sence and enjoyment and are sure that what God hath spoken he hath done according to the same for if this be not clear Spiritual comforts would be of low value if it were not with that evidence and assurance of being Gods seall as they could adventure their eternal state on the truth hereof 3. And how sweet a part is it when they can thus reflect on their own experience and enjoy the same with no less evidence of the proper cause and original then of the truth of its effects which is one of the greatest helps to give stability and assurance to our Faith to see how the power of Religion is never barren of new experiments of the truth hereof how the greatest objective means in the way of light cannot doe if there were not an Internal effective cause that works powerfully herein and as in nature so in the way of grace how the same cause which makes us live must make us move and act yea to see how the same spirit that confirms a Christian on the truth of his state and of the enjoiments of grace here does confirm Christianity and the enjoyments of glory which must infallibly follow the same and ere long be a matter of their experience also 4. To know this way that surely a nearer intimacy is to be enjoyed with God and of a higher kind which is by the communion of the Holy Ghost then by the immediate ministry of the Angels yea a greater evidence thus given to a Christians soul then by any external miracles since this is a seall of that nature as is given to none but such as are the objects of the divine complacence and delight and its sure the alone greatest evidence of divine love lyes in the internal part of Christianity and these immediate operations of the Spirit of God more then by any external providences 5. To see how these great things of experience come under a present tryall and given to be experienced here on the earth and are not some rare contingency or what may be stated on an extraordinar account but does keep closs with a tender walk and near entercours with God through a Christians whole course and thus knows what such an anointing with fresh oyl means Psalm 92 10. by innumerable reiterated times of such enjoiment yea how the sense and sweetness thereof comes not then by the power and workings of reason but the immediatness of the divine presence tho even then it does not exclude such a discursive work in the clearness of Spiritual reason and light as can fully quiet the mind that here is no illusion or deceit but le ts us see that the Spirit of God can make use of an argument to settle and secure the soul when all essays whither from themselves or others can give no releaf 6. Thus are they admitt to see herewith how deep the foundation of our comfort and security is layd on the faithfulness of God in his revealed truth so as the whole frame of Christianity must be
times past and may be feared if our Faith stood not sure otherways that the light should be quickly extinguished and the candlestick taken away from most of the reformed Churches when most under such a profession yet never knew the power vertue and efficacy of the truth they profess on their own soul and that there is another evidence or teaching then by moral swasion only or another key to open the heart then external means and thus must either oppose themselves to so tormenting a light or be unavoidably condemned hereby But with this Inquiry as to the credit and quality of the witnesses who in all ages of the Church bears the same testimony to the truth from their experience it is undenyable also but that there are some in a more singular way sisted and under more peculiar engagements then others to appear on such a testimony and who may be admit to enjoiments of experience that are out of the ordinary road of Gods dealing with his people tho this must in no other sense be understood extraordinary then from so judicial a time as this and the great decay of the Power of Christianity with this generation why these are so rare and not in beeing any way cross to the firm and settled constitutions of the Ghospel or without that precinct of the promise of God to warr and the same and I hope the Church of Christ is yet to enter on such enjoiments of experience that would not be easie to beleeve in this day we are in were they told us at a distance But what I mean hereby of these who may be in a higher capacity then others for such a witness I shall breefly touch 1. These who through grace hath been admit to some higher intimacy of converse with God and to know his dealing familiarly with men here on the earth then may be ever known in such a degree to other choise and reall Christians tho I judge this may be more rarely known that where it is most in truth there also is a humble concealment and beeing hid in the same their usual studie who finds more sweetness in such enjoiments the less air they take I have oft thought such may be least known on the earth in this day who may be the greatest favourits of Heaven and have had most rare and immediate testimonies of the love and respects of their God but as this is not the standard by which the truth and reality of grace is to be judged so should this witness be to me no further strenthning then it hath some greater height in humility and tenderness of Spirit in the ways of God going alongst herewith and some more singular eminency of grace as does answer to that Isai 57 15. John 14 21. 2. I must judge these also have a higher room in this witness for God on their experience of his truth who have in a more singular way then others known the truth of supernatural assistance and sustaining grace under extraordinar tryalls I mean such Christians as have been tryed not only in the truth but in the strenth of divine grace at another rate then others whom I must reckon amongst the greatest witnesses for God in this day when 1. This renders their testimony to be of a higher valew and evidence according to the height and measure of their conflicts and tryalls whom thus the Lord hath choised and separate as Joseph was from the residue of his brethren for such a service of example that the excellency of his grace might here more brightly shine forth 2. Because the deposition herein is in a matter on which most doe stumble at the ways of God upon that scandall of the cross and on this account it may be said they are sent as messengers and spyes to witness what manner of allowance he does then impart to bear the expence of a more extraordinare time of affliction and suffering and what immediate support is then found above the allowance of ordinary times that with Caleb and Joshua they might bear a honourable report for God unto others 3. The credit of this testimony riseth the higher as it hath cost them so dear who bear the same and hath not been easily attained nor is an offering unto God of that which costs them nothing who have been helped bejond others to glorify him in the fires 4. They are such above the residue of Christians who hath usually a record of more special confirmations and great remarks of the way of God in the Journal and History of their life I know most would fear to have a room in such a testimony but as I doubt not there are many such witnesses this day in the earth so I must reckon it one of the most honourable services for God upon it and will ere long know the full sence of that truth when he hath tryed them to bring them forth as gold Job 23 10. 3. And are not such specially sisted as witnesses herein and under more singular engagements then others who upon greater Services for God assigned to them hath also had more then ordinare allowances of immediate divine assistance for the same to witness that they have not been sent hereon on their own charge and expence this is one of the great discoveries that the Lord gives unto men of his beeing God and is a clear and demonstrative evidence of that reall and near communication which the Churches head hath with his body here on the earth I know this hath a special respect to such as are called of the Lord on that Service of the Ministry of his Word who hath some peculiar and distinct part allotted to them as witnesses and put on a more publick theater before the World to witness that absolute dependance which the work and service of that station hath on their great Master and the outlettings of his Spirit both for support and success and what thus is found in the way of an immediate relyance on him for I must judge that none knowes a near entercourse with God and to be purely acted for him on this great service but hath some peculiar advantage bejond any else for more fingular and rare confirmations of the truth on their own soul and of a known and sensible seall from God both in fruit and acceptance of their work and tho such who look at a distance cannot discern what may be betwixt God and his Servants in some publick administrations of his service as may be then evident to their soul yet is it oft made so far discernible as to serve an awful sence and impression on mens spirits of God in the Assemblies of his Church and of the truth of supernatural assistances and something more then humane herein nor does such a witness ever cease tho it be now more rare then in times past in this sad and judicial period of time we are fallen in when almost all sence savour and discerning of the Spirit of God with
been and may yet be in the present age greater attainments of the same then most of Christians can easily comprehend whole tryalls were never brought to such a pitch and in that manner assigned to them since these are of the Lord measured out only according to the measure of Faith given them Rom. 12 3. 2. As none may abridge the Spirit of God in the freedome and Soveraingty of his work herein whatever times men be in so is it known and clear that where the Lord does allott more extraordinare cases whither to Churches or particular Christians when such are keeping close by him and the revealed rule of their duty there also is a more extraordinare allowance for the same yea such a measure and encrease of their Faith to be sought from the great author thereof as may answer the present case to have their strength according to their day 3. It is unquestionable that the Lord designs in all ages of his Church to bring glory to himself by such a faith as hath no ground to grip on but ane infinit and immediate power that can extend it self to the most desperate and amasing case nor is a beleeving in hope when it is to be furthest against hope a strange and dark thing in this day either as to the warrant hereof or these proofs which have been made of the same in the issue And herein I must judge the appearance of God no less wonderful to some of his people in that which he works in them and in that deliverance from their fears where no humane Reason or Secondary causes could concurr then in that which he hath done for them in the most stupendious acts of Providence nor does any time want some share and proper talent of this kinde if such great appearances of God were more observed that might be singularly strenthning to the Christian Faith 4. Is there a reall Christian this day who is not called to such a Faith that he shall once upon himself experience a greater miracle by a divine omnipotent Power then was yet ever wrought in the earth which is of the Resurrection of his body after it hath been for some ages dissolved into dust wherein it is by the undoubted Faith of miracles to be wrought upon himself that his greatest support and comfort within time stands yea if there be such a Faith in the earth which is now still warranted as that we have Ps 46 12. it must then ly in ane actual trust and relyance in a case where a miracle can only help 5. If possessions by the Devil were in that manner now usual as in the primitive times it is undeniable that the Prayer of Faith herein for dispossession were not only warranted but expresly called for tho the inward assurance of such a Faith may not in the same manner be given to some as to others yet here is a special suiting from God the proof of a miracle by his immediate Power which they are in faith called too and as that Prescript given by our Lord of fasting and prayer for this end does still stand in force so hath there been known publick instances in these late times of reall dispossessions by prayer and solemn addresses to Heaven herein 6. If the oppressed innocence of a Christian and in such a case where the honor of God were highly concerned should be so stated as to be bejond humane releaf for clearing the same there might be herein an unquestionable reference to God for his more immediate decision and a warrantable ground to suit for the spirit of faith in such a measure as so extraordinare a tryall requires bejond what in an ordinare case is allowable but so as to wait for the same in his season and way This I know was in the primitive times in some more singular manner made use off when no ordinare means was attainable for the same but as that could have no safe warrant so the Law of jealousie and tryall by the waters of jealousie Numb 5. was then temporary and is now ceased yet is this still moral herein and of perpetual use that God is the same who hath reserved to himself an immediate appearance of himself when no ordinar means can help yea that promise Ps 57 3. is expresly given for such ane end of his sending from Heaven immediatly to save where no assistance on the earth is attainable and all natural means faiâ—l 7. It is unquestionable that the making use of Lots which in such a case is only safe where it is rendred absolutly necessar for a final determination in some great and weightie concern is such a solemn appeal to ane extraordinar decision of God as the faith of his appearance by a present and immediate sign from himself is necessarily required tho it be not by any strange or miraculous evidence yet is as truely to be taken from God in such a case and in faith subjected to as if some supernatural sign did accompany the same and as no humane wisdome or counsel can have place herein as to the event so I must judge an entire acquiescence of mens spirits on such a determination shewes not only a deep and reverent Seâ—ce of the Majesty of God but that this is as truely his answer as if they had seen fire coming down from Heaven to consume the Sacrifice as was in the days of Elijah at mount Carmel 8. It may be said that the truth of such a faith hath in a special evidence and power hereof been known when things have come to some unusual extremity in a Christians case as could bear no delay but like that of the Disciples of Christ help Lord ere we perish instances of this kind have been so clear as I judge is not possible to deny the truth of such a seall to the Faith of Christians were things of that nature more adverted to and observed It is a few years past that a famous Minister of Christ who now is at rest in the Lord was under such an extraordinare pain and torment by a confirmed stone in the gravel as nature sunk wholly under the same and as he shewed me was brought to that extremity that he turned to God with such a cry let not thy servant distract but help for I can possibly bear no more who said also that in the very present moment it was immediatly taken off and this at once with a perfect ease and releaf and did recurr no more till the day of his death which was sometime after this as I had from himself so was it from one that none in the age he lived in I could have credited more and could leave no room for doubting that such a return in the present act of prayer at so great a height and extremity of pain without any natural cause and mean was immediatly from God and supernatural I knew also with assurance such an instance in a Mnister of the Ghospel who was seased in the
hath given up with both and will easily grasp at such a bait tho they should see the hook that will at last destroy them But doe these mighty hunters and destroyers of mankind the Divels come so little speed in their work this day that they must have a Protestant Minister of the Church come forth before the Sun to offer his assistance to help them forward herein or if he deny such ane intent what security will he offer to secure men from a hazard that 's more dreadful then the killing of their body and is of an eternal concern is he empoured with authority from these infernal Regions I confess on these grounds he may have advantage to give such ane assurance 1. That the strong man whilst he keeps the house vvill be very tender to trouble their peace over whom he swayes with an uncontrolâ—ed Dominion and that he will not affright nor awake men out of such a pleasant dream who hath set their heart wholly on the world whose portion is in this life untill they be awaked for ever out of the same 2 He may give full assurance also that the Prince of this World is at no war nor needs be with such as are joined in with his interest and at the same work to promote the Kingdom of darkness and seeks not to have them tormented before the time 3. But there is this ground I must judge he specially goes on that he will be easily credited on such a Subject as this and knowes how small a patrociny will serve to promote a design for Atheism and could fall upon nothing which would be more grateful to a great part novv vvho bear the name of Protestants but whilst he calls them to lay aside their armour such as Christians are expresly called to put on Ephes. 5 11. will he secure them when it comes to the last battle and conflict from their beeing seased by such infernal Spirits in their entry into another World whom they did once deride and that the truce which was with them on the earth will not break up then if he had restricted this new discovery to the world of ane absolute security from the Power of Satan and his molestations to belong only to the Place and City he lives in it might have seemed to be on a politick interest to render it as a place of such eminent trade to be the only safe and most desirable part of the earth but he hath extended it to be universal to all other places and to be a Catholick good and priviledge There needs no question but that such a person himself must be in a deep quiet and under no touch of these assaults and temptations others are exposed to tho one thing he may fear in the managing of so strange a design and in such a manner that these knowing and active spirits for whom he acts may not reckon their service much advanced when there is as little of the subtilty of the Serpent herein as of the innocence of the dove It is true there is an invisible guard and hedge about each one of the Saints over which Satan cannot pass but by the measures of divine permission nor is it expressible how much Christians of the choisest Spirits are bettered and improven in their graces by the worst of Spirits and in their continued warefare with them and its sure they are reserved in chains of darkness to the Judgment of the great day but how far their chain is oft let forth and inlarged in judgment to the world may be too evident every where in the sad effects thereof and it now appears that their chain hath not been more remarkably lengthned out these many ages past then in this day I wish the Writer of such a Book might seriously repent and so far retract what he hath published as might thus turn such a poison unto ane antidote against it self for I judge he durst not put such Divinity in his Testament that he hath written in this Book POSTSCRIPT SIR IT may seem strange not only the lengthning of this Discourse so far but in insisting most specially upon that Head of the internal Work and Demonstrations of the Spirit of God on mens soul but as I may with humble confidence say this was under the sense of some peculiar engagements to such a Subject so I shall make this further Apology for the same 1. That since ever I accounted the Profession of Christ a serious business I have judged it not conceivable how Christians should have ane assent to the truth of the Ghospel or be at rest herein untill it once be brought up to a full and quieting assurance on that security to which they must concredite themselves for ever and thus know the strenth and sureness of the foundation of their Faith by its own evidence that tho it be not yet full whilst we are here in the way of enjoyment yet is it undoubtedly full in the truth and certainty of evidence I have judged it also an addition to the greatest joy which I could have within time whatever might be a further strenthning to such a Faith and hope we are called to by the Ghospel of Christ so as not to lose any fragment of this kind which might tend to a more full establishment and does reckon this the credit and glory of our Religion that in no other way it doth require acceptance of men but with a full assurance of understanding and the furthest conviction of evidence as beeing designed no less to found a rational certainty in the judgment then to determine the will or consent for embracing the same yea on this account it hath been oft matter of astonishment how in the teaching and ministerial work which God hath appointed for his Church the primary truths of Religion should not be more held forth to men with that clearness of evidence and demonstration as such great and marvelous things require and the temper of this age calls for or how the great things of God that are of the highest consequence and reality can have any possible reception from men by ane implicite or ordinare assent or whence it is that with most it seemes their work seems wholly sett on the noetick when so little on the dianoetick part of Divinity but on the other hand I must also witness that if ever I knew what it was to attain ane inward assurance of the truth and revelation of Christ and to be at rest herein that the eternal Son of God was revealed from Heaven in our nature to save lost man and that there is a state of grace here and of glory hereafter I have found that no light or conviction of judgment tho with such evidence as could leave no room for doubtfulness in the same can effectually work without the internal evidence and demonstration of the Spirit of God and a supernatural power both to beget and strengthen such a Faith in the soul
the same so far as is possible these lets and stumbling blocks where the greatest hazard may be of offence so should it be much preparatory also for a higher service a more unite appearing for God herein and to stand in the most hazardous part of the breach of this day in behalf of that great interest of our Religion which is upon the Authority of God in his truth and Testimony as the alone ground on which the ultimate resolution of our Faith must found since this is the very same inconvertible terms to give to the Divine Majesty the Glory of his Godhead and that tribute which is most inviolably sacred and essential to him it would seem almost incredible that fuch ane hour of the power of darkness should fall in with the growing light of the Ghospel as the strange prevalence of a way which is to commensurat the perfections of God and the greatest mysteries of his truth to our understanding and to make humane reason tho corrupt finite and limited to be the alone Judge and measure of our Faith of divine things when the highest principle of reason which is prima veritas without which reason hathno principle to reston no Standard else is this that where the God of Truth is the Revealer and that it 's sure it is his Testimony it must then be as infallibly true as it is sure he is God since it is simply impossible to find ever another foundation of truth and certainty but this We are fal'n in times of great expectation as to a near approach of the highest Glory of Christ's Mediatory Kingdom on the earth and it would seem a strange prelude thereto that so black a darkness should fall down with so astonishing ane encrease thereof as tends not only to eclips the same but to deny him his essential Kingdom who is the only begotten of the Father and brightness of his Glory yet I am sure it is a sign of that kind as the morning darkness which is the darker the nearer it is to the day It is indeed here we may see ane opposition to the Majesty of God in such terms that we might reckon humane nature could not be capable of and be just matter of horror to a natural conscience to see so numerous a party who claims to be Adorers of reason turn'd so visibly madd on their own destruction I know the furthest improvements this way by rational Inquiry and Tryal hath a greater Interest in Religion and for strenthning of our Faith therein then may be suitably apprehended but it is sure the ultimate Inquiry herein can possibly go no further in the use of reason but that what we beleeve is the undoubted Revelation of God himself unto men can we desire more when this is sure for a full quiet and acquiescence of the soul tho it seem wonderful in it self and exceed our dark and limited thoughts when it is impossible for him who is truth it self to lie whose word is such cui non potest subesse falsum as it is no less sure that he who is infinitly good can not deceive or put ane imposture in stead of truth in their hand who trust him divine truth is the first groundstone of our happiness but is not conceivable by the light of nature to beleeve his being truly God and not the truth also of his promises which ever conform not only to the things signified but to his intent therein who can never delude or deceive But whilst I have been put to some thoughts with amasement on ane appearance of such a kind against God this day amongst men not only within Christendom but by such as once layd claim to the Protestant Profession some Reflections tended to give more clearness and settlement to my own spirit herein which I shall but in a few words mention 1. that when the darkness of ane implicite Faith and relyance on men under Popery hath been so sore bafled turn'd out of credit in such an inquisitive World as this loe Satan hath taken himself to the very contrare airâ—h and knew how to fall in with the temper of a brâ—â—k bold and daring age that he might settle a new opposition against God and the interest of his Kingdom wherein he hath unite and fixed his greatest strenth so that since he was cast down from his Throne by the Power of the Ghospel he hath not had a greater Triumph then in this attempt how to bring man upon it and sett humane reason at once both against God and it self in such a manner as to be it's own Executioner and in subjecting the highest mysteries of truth to it's comprehension to make it not only equal to God but give it a preference to him who is the alone former thereof which I must reckon to be the nearest approach that humane nature yet ever made to that sin by which the Angels did first fall and that it it is the master peece of that Prince of darkness and his ultimus conatus against the truth who knows his time is short 2. It may be with astonishment discernable under what a stroak such are as not to see whither this way hath led them and how far the Holy God hath thus confounded their reason as visibly as once these were in their Language who would attempt to build a tower up unto Heaven when this way left to ane absolute uncertainty ever to fix their Faith the Standard and measure whereof must be the comprehension of reason which hath no firm or infallible ground to settle on besides it self and whilst they cannot make the reason and judgement of others as considerate and knowing as themself meet with theirs the result thereof is to put a judicial madness in the room of reason so as to conceive a created dependent God to give divine homage to and that at once he should be both a God and a Creature and adore a comprehensible Object with divine Worship yea this way without a contradiction to themself they can give no faith to the Creation as being brought purely out of nothing or to the Resurrection of the dead as wholly incomprehensible to reason they must deride Israëls Passage thorow the Red Sea or the Suns standing still on Josua's call to verifie that Rom. 1 21 because that when they knew God they glorified him not as God but professing themselves to be wise they became fools thence is such ane amasing stroke thus inflicted on their reason for it may be said as in the Poëtick Fiction of Phaëton that when he sought to guide the Chariot of the Sun for a time he was like to burn the earth until he was struck with a thunderbolt from Heaven so hath this party tryed how to manadge reason as the supream Directour and Judge upon all that is sacred as they have gone near to destroy both Reason and Religion at once but tho the strongest rational Arguments with such
The true Settlement Of a CHRISTIANS FAITH After shaking Assaults by its own evidence and by the internal sealing Work of the Spirit Pointed at in some special Inquiries thereon in a LETTER to a Friend WITH Some serious Reflections on the present times we are in and those great Vicissitudes of Providence which have been in the publick State of BRITAIN in this last Age in a II. Letter By a MINISTER of the GHOSPEL Printed in the Year 1692. READER THe publishing these few sheets hath had no rise or call from the desires of any or the least motives of such a nature but it was with a serious desire that they might have some interest in the Service of the Truth in so sad and trying a time and for him to whom I stand under the highest engadgements of Duty in improvement of a little Season which must ere long be shut up It is true the writing of the first Letter had a very providential and unexpected rise with respect to a Friend who I knew had as great assistances in the way of means as any suitable to his case yet finding the weight exercise of his mind have such strong influence to obstruct that injoyment of ane intire rest and fixedness of his Faith which is the Christians Allowance I was prest to offer some thoughts in a directive manner for being a Helper to his Joy and now if by such a Providence through the good Hand of the Lord this might be serviceable to any in such a case The Subject of the II. Letter is of a much different nature from the first where somethings may possibly seem a litle strange and the spirit and temper of most in this day not so easily bear but they are spoke in the Words of Truth and Soberness in writing of both I have humble confidence to say it was with the furthest of light and persuasion yea that the most serious part therein was with my own spirit to have that evidence in things of so high concern as I might have peace and assurance herein before God yet if I knew there were any thing in the least to prejudge that great Interest of Truth and Edification as the utmost aim I hope is proposed herein I should count it my honor to retreat the same but under some serious prospect of an eternal State and of appearing before the great Judge I have desired to know his Counsel and rest my soull on his approving Testimony alone An excessive desire in such an Epistolary way to speak things in as few Words I could possibly I fear may at the first view render somethings more dark The Reader also will tenderly notice and construct Mistakes in the Printing HONOURED SIR IT was a sweet surprisal in such a time as this to meet with a friend on whom I found a more then ordinary sence and weight of the greatnesse of the Christian Faith and to have ane other prospect of such ane attainment to enjoy ane entire rest and assurance of mind herein then most seem to have even of the more serious part of Christians which did render it the more desirable to offer some thoughts to you on so weightie a concern not onlie to answer a special promise and engadgment I was under but with hope through the good hand of the Lord that such a service may not be wholly lost for the end it is designed But on so great a subject I must go a little out of an Epistolary way both in the method and measure and what in the first place I would speak to is this that I durst offer nothing to divert or take off any thing of the suitable weight of so choise ane exercise as is so rare in these times under which your spirit is so much pressed but were it needful rather to add thereto on these grounds 1. That it is surely the greatest designe can fall under the consideration of mankind for men to have such ane assurance of divine truth as can both answer the greatnesse of that adventure they have thereon and can fully quiet and comfort the soul when visible refuges and humane assistances seem wholly to succumbe and since we must either have ane entire rest and settlement herein or none at all I know not how to judge otherwise of that ordinar sence and implicit credit on so great ane account as this then as a degree and evidence of the sad Atheism of this day we are now in 2. If ever I knew any thing of the way of God in truth I must reckon this as the highest enjoiment of a Christian where the security and quiet of his mind upon the truth answers to so great a Revelation hereof and to know he is thus on sure terms with God on the whole adventures of his trust when it is so near to adventure on the triall thereof in the last decision of there eternal state yea when thus they know how to enjoy a promise for there support in this state of warefare under a long deferred hope tho the whole course of providence would seem to controul the same knowing the ground they anchor on cannot possibly faill since this should be the ultimate Inquiry about the event that it is sure they have a divine testimonie to warrant there confidence and if the highest joy and comfort oâ— our life be not stated on such an account it iâ— strange 3. If it be understood what it is to be a Christian in earnest and what is called for of such aâ—midst the numerous tryalls and temptations of this militant state it must need some higher degrees of assurance and inward establishment then seems by most to be either apprehended or sought after and that such have some proper stock of his own of these special aides and assistances as may be at hand in ane hour of tryall for how can the life and serious work of Godlinesse be conceivable under such common and transient impressions as most have of the truth and certainty hereof 4. Doe men know what Christianity means and the high consequence of such a distinguishing profession from the residue of mankind or is there any suitable exercise of reason about the greatnesse of that hope of the Gospel which we have set before us and yet be a subject both of ordinary thoughts and assent hereto which may still be as though it were a new discovery to us in the present day since it might be judged that if there were a Methuselahs age to pass within time this should be a suitable and continued exercise therein both to enquire and admire on the assured hope of ane eternity with God which they have before them and that they are to enter into a state where they shall be in the same Classe with the Angels of Heaven and made equal unto them I have known such who for many years have been dazled with ths glorie and greatness of that Mysterie of Christ and of life
and immortality in a future state as hath made it there continued and highest exercise to have a further and new strenthning of there faith herein who yet all that time knew not what it was to be shâ—ken or to have any inward fear as to there own personal interest herein but still found the Revelation of the Ghospel so great a thing and there spirits so deeply seased with the wonders of our Religion that whatever did tend to a higher strenthning of their faith herein was also the greatest addition to their joy and in that sence did most understand such a saying nunquam satis magna securitas in re tanti momenti ubi periclitatur aeternitas But in the next place what thoughts I would humbly offer to one of so knowing and judicious a spirit and where so great assistances you may have access to improve otherways â—ssiall be most in a directive way upon a sevenfold inquiry that may be of greatest weight for a Christians laying the ground work of their profession on solid and clear grounds which lyes first here 1. To know that rare and peculiar order that is suitable in a Christians first entry on Religion under a serious weight of the same on their spirits since as in any great studie there is an entrance and a progresse and that it is sure in the whole frame of Christianity there is so entire a correspondence as nothing stands alone by it self but in a line of mutual respect which in that manner runs through the same as ane entry aright upon one step must make way to render a further progresse clear and unavoidable so here I must judge 1. That a Christian should once make it such a proper and solemn business and work by it self to attain a solid founding and settlement of their faith on the truth and to sist his soul in such a manner as if he were then to enter on the Christian profession without respect to example education or influence of any humane authority or whatever any external motives could have weight herein since in a case of that high concern men should in the greatest recess and composure of spirit have some distinct special time such as may be matter after of sweet reflexion to them how they did then prove themselves with respect to so high and discriminating a profession from the residue of the world and did thus with full inward consent join in with the truth purely on its own evidence as though there were none of that profession in the bounds and place they lived in 2. As the naturall order of things should require that the foundation be sure laid ere we begin to build so is it sure that the first entry on serious Religion must be on the Faith of the divine nature and existence and that men have assuredly a God to trust to and to make them happy as Hebr. 11 6. he must first beleeve that he is c. and in the same order John 17. 3. must beleeve him to be the only true God ere he come to beleeve Jesus Christ whom he hath sent O how uncomfortable a thing should humane state be without God and ane absolute dependance on him who might see his life to be rather a curse and torment then blâ—ssing if there were no supernatural help above himself against the eâ—il and miseries of time and to subdue the distempers of the mind and the fears that should thus sease upon him both as to his present and future state but what possible comfort could there be in the light of a Deity or enjoiment of a Godhead if we know not with assurance also the Excellencies of his blessed nature and what a God we have to adventure on 3. Thus by ane unavoidable constraint there must be a further progresse and enquirie upon the certaintie of a revealed rule of correspondence betwixt God and man here both in order to dutie and what we may exspect and hope from him and if it be sure this day that there be ane express and clear revelation of his will herein to be found in the earth that comes with full and infallible evidence to men for here is it not possible to stand or fix until our faith be once settled on the truth of such a divine record when we see in what estate poor mankind were in if such a sure way of commerce were not betwixt the invisible God and this visible world we are in since then we should have no certain and fixed boundaries betwixt good and evil by that unchangeable difference which the holy nature of God hath put herein nor could we ever know that rule of subjection and relation we stand under to him then heaven and earth were shut up from correspondence together by any established rule for the same then should the most excellent and essentiall part of man his immortall soul have no directive or comforting light as to his future state and safe passage thereto whilst the visible creation hath a sun to shine thereon when such is the way to life as by the greatest improvements of nature it can be neither found nor followed then should that rare structure and workmanship oâ— grace here and of glory and blessedness to come be a terra incognita to poor mankind and as man only in this lower creation is capable of moral Goverment and humane lawes which yet can extend no further then their visible work and actions if such a blessed record were not there should be no establishment of laws to the whole inward man no rule of regulation to the heart and this inward world would be subject to no Goverment and tho the ruined state of humane nature may be as discernable as the truth of it's existence yet should we neither know its true original and rise nor any relief for the same we might discern the truth of invisible adversaries and of some great design they have against us as clearly as any object of sense but we could know no security from them by ane invisible guard or the way how to resist such a party then should the work and conduct of providence be wholly unintelligible to us and have our eyes shut on these wonders hereof which exceed the sphere of created nnderstanding if this great luminary of the Scripture did not continually shine thereon which we cannot see and not see also that no way besides this was ever made known to recover poor mankind out of that gulf of bondage and misery he is fallen into and as this glorious light of divine truth hath its proper sphere where it is fixed and shines forth in the Christan Chureh so the whole world beside is a place where horror falshood and impiety does visibly raign 4. But this must lead men of a serious spirit to a further enquiry upon that essential difference which is betwixt the revealed rule of our Religion and any other way that pretends thereto as there is betwixt light
briefly point at a few 1. That it is knowen and sure how most of the habitable World besides Judaea was in times past Pagan and a place of horror and darkness and these parts we now live in were once the dark places of the earth full of the Habitations of Cruelty where our Ancestors of whom we are come did Sacrifice to the Gods of the Heathens 2. It is evident and undeniable in the matter of Fact that within less then sixty Years after the Ascension of the Lord the visible extent of the Christian Church among the Nations which had been then Heathen did exceed what it is this day and since any extraordinar effect when it comes in our sight should cause a deep Inquiry upon the cause hereof is not this a matter of the highest concern that ever was even in the present day to be taken up with that made then so stupendious a change on the face of mankind and was as the bringing forth of a new World 3. And here is it possible to question that this wonderful thing which did so visibly then change the whole face of the earth was by the alone evidence and vertue of Sacred Truth and the pure Revelation of Christ in the Mystery of his Death and Sufferings wherein no humane Power could boast that their Arm or Sword did bring this about as I know it will be sweet and convincing thus to see under what influence the Christian Church was both planted and propogate in the earth and most savage parts thereof so that whatever respect Princes and visible Powers have given to the Kingdom of Christ yet is it fully demonstrable that it 's true interest and conquest was never beholden to humane assistance or that any temporal inducements made way thereto but when the World begun to smile most in the primitive times then also did the Glory and Lustre of the Christian Religion begin to darken and decline 4. As it was surely reserved to the Ghospel State of the Church to be the Theater of the greatest Wonders both of Providence and Grace bejond all that had been known to the World before and that in the times of the New Testament these great things which should be matter of highest observation and out of the ordinare road of Gods dealing with his Church then was to be expected so you can see with full evidence that this great and extraordinare appearance of God unto men had been never known on the earth before or any such outgoing of his Power since the beginning of time which was only reserved to follow the day of Christ and his Ascension as the first entry of â—hat glorious Scene which was to be acted under â—he Ghospel 5. And here also this Reflection is anavoidable how the God of this World was not easily put off his visible Throne which he had so â—ong kept over the Nations but the last strugle â—f these infernal spirits ere they were cast down was then very strong and put forth to the utmost who yet were made to fall before the Diviâ—ity of our Redeemer in such a manner as the â—hole frame of Paganism was then raz'd and exâ—inct and their Gods after whom the earth had for so many ages wondred for when you peruse the Records of the first times you can see the enmity and rage of the World against Sacred Truth was never before raised to such a prodigious height as was then aloft upon the first display of the Ghospel 2. But it is yet a further Inquiry should be made on this Head to see not only the outgoing of the Lord Jesus in the Glory of his Power since his Ascension for setting up his visible Kingdom in the World and extent of the Christian Profession but in the reality of that vital influence on the souls of men with so great and wonderful a change thus made on them from the residue of mankind This I doubt not will be a subject of great thoughts and reflection to you and should be a matter of higher concern to any of a serious spirit then the temporal interest and transactions which are about the greatest Kingdoms on the earth 1. To see how no reality in nature or the most visible objects of sense can be more sure then that under the times of the New Testament there hath been innumerable example of the truth and power of Holiness successively from one age to another in whom it might be no more discernable that they walked in the vertue and power of a humane soull then that they did truly walk before men in the light and power of Christianity and under that visible influence of inward Grace as all might see to be above the possibility of natural causes 2. If this were more deeply search'd into to see what does estentially belong to the frame and constitution of one reall Christian and what a marvelous Power must be put forth herein it could not but be in another manner affecting and afford a Seall to the Christian Faith as does exceed the greatest external Miracles when it 's sure one example of such who is truly converted by grace and made partaker of the Divine nature is so stupendious a work as does far exceed both the power and comprehension of Angels yea that the Glory of the Godhead does more eminently shine forth in the first frame in the conduct and persiting of one Christian then either in the first frame of man in his state of perfection or of the illuminate Angels since this is to make Saints of Sinners to turn such from a state of enmity and inbred opposition to the Holy God to be Lovers of him and subdue their soulls in that manner as with inward delight can make them part with what was their predominant and endeared Interest and what hath been as their right hand and eye This is one of the great discoveries of the Ghospel to let us see how one converted Christian is a higher demonstration of the Christian Faith then a thousand ordinare Professors hereof and may fully silence such a Question why it is that the Saints are not more numerous in the World comparatively with the great bulk of mankind yea with these who go under the Christian Profession when It might be rather just matter of wonder to see that such numerous Examples yet are to be found of this kind in the earth of whom each is one of the greatest of the Works of God and infinitely becoming the exceeding greatness of his Power put forth herein yea are such Examples where the Truth and Excellency of Grace does in any eminency shine forth as may justly supply the Room of Miracles which were given in the first times to be confirming to the Christian Faith that these hath assuredly been and I hope are this day not a few who doe with desire choise to preferr their Services for God to the greatest comforts enjoyments of this earth and are helped not only to keep ground but
of the spirit which doe rarely go together so as to know when the pulse of this life does begin first to beat 3. As there are different sises and grouth amongst the Saints within time so does the talent of experience and inward observation much differ in the state of some in respect of others and does answer to higher conflicts and assaults in a Christians warefare and higher improvements of grace herein whence it is that patience brings forth experience and as it hath so great a room and service for God bejond other graces of the spirit so hath it a great income of reward by the most rare and inriching experience of a Christians life thence is it that these of the highest form of Christians and of the choisest spirit has been put to a higher exercise thereof then others and made to be a more publick blessing by example herein to their Generation 4. It is clear the experimental part of Christianity may have respect to some special times and Periods of mens life so as one day may be more memorable then as they have ever known before yea to such times when they are put to a higher service in the tryall of their Faith and led unto paths of providence that might seem untrodden which hath been usually a time of great observation as to a higher light and evidence on the experimental tryall of Religion 5. This different measure hath respect also to the first entry of Christians on some very dark paths of providence when the Lord is to lead and encline them into a wilderness by giving in assurance with a double measure on their souls like Elijahs call to arise and eat and Josephs dream twice given when his conflicts and tryalls were to be doubled upon him yea this may be also on this ground as it is peculiar to some Christians above others to be kept more closs on such a Scent in that rare exercise to discern the workings of God on their soull and to try the certainty hereof from the natural work of their own Spirit and who may be more exact then others to lay up and record the same and not lose the least fragment of such assistances to their Faith 3. This Inquiry should be of special use likewise to know what great things these are to which the experimental part of Christianity does relate wherein they of the lowest sise of Christians have a common and joint interest whatever difference be in the degree but it is a very short touch I can here give on so great a subject and on some few Heads 1. The translation and entry of a Christian unto a new state and world here in the earth is one of the greatest things of experience tho it hath not a like clear evidence nor the precise time and entry can be in the same manner known for men to know so marvelous a change in themselves and that here is no illusion or dream and how it is sure this was never told to mankind but in the Bible which none ever did foresee or project to themself yea which in the very notion thereof was once a terra incognita to them and could have no possible rise from nature whose proper work is to overcome nature I know this may seeme astonishing and not easie for many to bear that professed Christians may have the same need to be converted to Christianity that Pagans have or perish that the letter of the word only or any length in exter al duties can save none who know nothing of internal evidence or the spiritual Powers of Christianity 2. It does relate to this Head to know that God and his People here in the World are no strangers to other in the truth and enjoiment of communion with him for as this is ane essential part of our Faith and one of the most sure and established constitutions of our Religion by ane unalterable rule so is it matter of undoubted enjoiment without which a Christians course and passage through time were unpassible it is true this is so great a thing as may make the most experienced Christian to be a wonder to himself and is not a subject of ordinary thoughts 3. To this belongs also the truth and enjoiment of supernatural comforts here on the earth such as peace immediatly from God and the joys of the Holy Ghost which can have no possible rise from nature and was never known to men but on this tryall of experience that such a thing is sure with respect unto which the highest experiments of nature are low and of mean concern yea which are comforts of that kind as can be only known by its contrary and hath been still more ouweing to the sorest conflicts then to the sweetest calm of a Christians life and such as the elect Angels did never know or partake of 4. The prevalency of prayer with God and to know with assured evidence both the acceptance hereof in Heaven and the returns thereof upon the earth is also one of these great things of experience and can never be known else as a subject of contemplation only which hath been direct of the Lord as a prescript for such ones where no humane wisdome or power could possibly answer and is not bounded by the most desperate case which would seem to shut out all hope and encouradgment But as to this I must say how little seemes that part of our Religion tho one of the most wonderful parts thereof to be improven in that manner now as in former times and in the most extraordinare exigences which Christians have been in yea how low a trade is it which by most this day is carried on in so marvelous a way as this which the Lord hath established betwixt heaven and earth and hath such immediate correspondence with the whole inward life and vitalls of Christianity to preserve and strenthen the same A 5. Head on this Subject to be matter of great thoughts and reflection is this that here on the earth there is such a thing to be enjoyed in the truth and certainty of experience as an earnest and seall of the Spirit of God 2 Corinth 1 22. who hath also sealed us and given us the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts Ephes. 1 13. in whom also after that ye beleeved ye were sealed by that Holy Spirit of promise which is the earnest of our inheritance c. 2 Corinth 5 5. now he that hath wrought us for the self same thing is God who hath also given us the earnest of his Spirit I know there hath been much inquiry on this Subject as to a clear sence and judgment thereof both by Schoolmen and Practical Writers tho it is such a thing as must needs be a strange and dark riddle where the Spirit of God is not the Interpreter and some near entercourse with this great teacher that in his light we may see light but that it is surely promised of God and could
never have entred on mens thoughts if it were not purely a divine Revelation none will offer to question and that the experience of the same in all times of the Church hath no less tendency to confirm and seall the truth of Christianity then it hath to confirm a Christians state but though I doubt not your acquaintance herewith is bejond many yet this beeing a truth of such high concern so far as I have attained I would offer some light hereon wherein my soul hath found rest and settlement as to a clear sence and conception of the same 1. That how rare soever the experience of this may be this day yet is it not the peculiar priviledge of some few select and eminent Christians or what God does rarely impart and on some singular account to his people but is the settled priviledge of all who are led by the Spirit and under his conduct 2. This is ane experiment of the Christian Faith which no humane testimony or vocal evidence can express that which is inward and a secret betwixt God and the soul or what taste that hidden Manna hath Rev. 2 17. which none knowes but he that enjoys the same for this is not the promise which is given to be the object of our Faith but is the seall of the Spirit of promise and the proper object of spiritual sense it is an internal work which goes above words and such as God alone can impart who only can reveal his own love to the soul and Shed abroad the sence hereof and hath reserved this to himself it is that also which gives a distinct evidence from any moral influence of the word tho it can never be disjoined and divided from the same but is such ane internal application hereof as puts their souls to rest and quiet thereon 3. It is here must be understood a more near and solemn approach of God and some higher enjoiment of Spiritual Sense then is usually known which will make such a time remarkable and sweet to a Christians after remembrance tho some in a more extraordinar way and higher degree may have this imparted then others as the tryall of their Faith hath been more heightned and hath attained to higher actings of grace under the same according to that settled Connection Isay 57 12. I doubt not there may be high pretences to this Seall and earnest who know little what in the way and order of grace is required to prepare and qualifie for the same but except the setled constitutions of the Ghospel should be changed for their sake it is then sure that God did never seall the comforts of his Spirit or his respects and approving testimony on such who are of ane untender unhumbled and vindictive spirit and is no more possible then as Job 18 4. That the earth should be forsaken for them and the rock removed out of its place 4. It is true this is more clearly understood by such who by reason of use have their senses exercised both to discern good and evill Hebrews 5 14. and have thus attained a more deep and judicious reflection for the tryall of the same since this is usually one of the most searching exercises of a Christian to discern the voice of the Spirit of God and know the same from that of a Stranger and to come to the light herein to see that such a seall or any rare enjoiments of that kind are assuredly from God and wrought in him John 3 21. It is clear also how many sharp conflicts and a hotter ware fare allotted to some of the Saints then others under griefs troubles and oppositions in their Christian course hath made way at so dear a rate for their acquaintance with the same so as the gradual difference in the truth of this experiment may be strange and marvelous and cause fear to impart the same nor be ever known within time 5. Tho it is sure that all who are entred in a reconciled state with God must be sealed by the Spirit yet is not this to be understood as the ordinar food and dyet of a Christian but as some more special restorative and cordial so as one enjoiment of this kind hath been sometimes so remarkable that through the whole course of a Christians life after it hath been a continued strenthning to their Faith yet is it no rare thing to these who are keeped in a more near intimacy of converse with God to whom the truth of this seall not once but in innumerable times hath been known who on the other hand does know also how long and sensible restraint of this great enjoiment may be when the choisest promises of the Word can afford no comfort but when the premises are clear the conclusion is oft suspended through hid jealousies and legall fears of the spirit of bondage 6. It is sure this blessed seall lyes here also in some special directive work of the Spirit of God to make use of light in particular cases with assurance and quiet of mind and in sealing instruction with that evidence and power on the soull as leaves such a print and impression thereon as the seall leaves on the wax this can be no strange or unknown thing to these who in a close adherence to Scripture light hath been specially tender to try the same thereby and under a just horror and dread of Enthusiasmâ— or the smallest dasshing on such a rock 7. But it is specially discernable where this seall and earnest hath been more abundantly let forth to some bejond others that it was for some higher support to their Faith where a long interval of delay was to be between the promise and performent and such a tryall of a deferred hope herein as might be ready to make their heart sick into death if the Lord had not given such a pledge and part in hand to assure them that the rest shall not faill in due time now this is so manifest in the conduct and methods of grace about the Saints under the old Testament and in how singular a way he did first seall before he entred them upon any great tryalls and which were to be of a long duration as there needs no particular instances to clear the same 8. It is here the sence of that hundred fold which Christ hath so expresly secured to his People on the adventures of their Faith may be understood as that which assuredly lyes in these rare enjoiments of the spirit and inward sense of the love of their God in the shinings of his face on them which are the first fruits of the Spirit more then in any external providence or these things which are of the highest value with men since as this is the most sure and greatest evidence that we are Christians so is it the most notable sign how dear such are to God and of his love and favour then if he had given them the whole World I know nothing will seem more strange and
publick administrations of the Word seems lost the wisdom of Words or what may appear more neat or polished that way is come in the room hereof as though the alone end of so high a service were to act a scene handsomly on a theater that may carry the applause of the Spectators but not mens hearts unto God this I have lookt on with no less horror then on the most visible Atheism and profanity of these times and one of the most dismal Signs in the publick state of Religion 4. These also may have some higher access for such a witness who know with evidence the truth of immediate and supernatural excitments to engadge upon some special work and service for God and to be acted forth herein under the power and irresistable discovery of ane inward call when under greatest oppositions from their own spirit thereto and furthest a version of mind This I have known in the truth hereof in most eminent examples but the credit of such a testimony tho in it self founded on divine Revelation does necessarly require such ane evidence of the quality of the witnesses herein that they be of a known tender humble and judicious Spirit who are skilled both in the deep things of God and in the deeps of Satan who this way does oft act in the greatest deep and mystery of delusion 5. There is yet something more singular in the experience of some Christians bejond others and in such a witness as to a special confidence and assurance raised on their soul of events of providence and the issue of some remarkable case of tryall when it hath been contrare to all humane appearances and no reason from any visible airth could be given for the same this I know may seem a strange thing in the eyes of many nor can it possibly have that evidence or in that manner work to others as it is to these who know and have experienced the same but we see and are sure there hath been great attainments of such a Faith both in Scripture examples and uncontroverted experiments made hereof in after times which hath met such in the road of their duty and in ane express harmony and correspondence with the Word since the extent of our Faith in any particular case must keep with the same exent and measure of divine Revelation herein and the Lord will be trusted for no more then he hath made warrantable by his promise But this is a Subject on which I may not insist further then to clear the evidence and truth of the same on these grounds 1. That Christians may be at such steps in their way and passage through time and on so dark ground yea the tide of difficulties and amasing fears swelled to so great a hight that if there were not a support of this kind by ane argument of power to their soul they should otherways be ready to sink 2. This experiment how rare so ever it may seem to many is no dark or distinct thing from that seall of the spirit of promise which we should look after or from that promised earnest which sometimes the Lord gives with respect to a special mercy and deliverance within time as well as their great interest in Heaven tho it be not in the same degree imparted to some as to others 3. It is also of no other kind then that settled allowance on the Saints of the peace of God in such a measure as can raise and fully quiet their spirit above any sinking fears and above the present assault they may be under tho with such evidence then as is not possible to attain at other times nor can be kept clear and comforting to themselves without much tendernesse of spirit and fear 4. Where this is known and enjoyed in any higher degree by some then may be the allowance of others it is assuredly found on a special near intimacy with God and to follow some discernable access and special gale of the spirit of intercession in prayer and wrestlings so as it thus meets them in the way of a settled ordinance and in the same way wherein we may see the Saints in Scripture have attained to a confidence of this kind for otherways there could be no comforting evidence of its beeing the undoubted work of God 5. And here must be tryed sought for whither the more immediate testimony of God does then still bring the testimony of the renowed conscience alongst therewiâ—h so as to clear the condition in themselves and their claim thereto of such a special promise whereon their confidence hath been raised whereby it is thus rendred to them an absolute promise that can not possibly be frustrate 6. I shall but add further as this rare experiment comes with such evidence of spiritual sense as is discernable from any natural workings of mans own heart and is that wherein the most deep enquiry and judicious tryall of Christians is needful to know that its surely from God and hath both his warrant and seall herewith so is it not strange that where he takes a more singular way to try and exercise some and out of the ordinar road of his dealing with others yea where support in the way of external providence may then cease that this special allowance by inward evidence be something more singular also and some higher influence of the spirit and power of beleeving be imparted for such a case This leads me to offer some thoughts in the close upon two Proposals which I did not intend if from another airth whilst I was writing this there had not occurred a special call herein and that I judged it might not be unsuitable to the intent of this discourse 1. Whither there be any such seall to the truth of Christianity in these times we are now in as the Faith of Miracles or that it be warrantable to expect such a thing from God which lyes in a particular act of trust in some special case where a Christian may be taken off all ordinare means and nothing but a divine immediate and miraculous Power can answer thereto for Answer it is clear the active Faith hereof which was once given to the Primitive Church in the workings of miracles now ceaseth but in this passive Sence I know no time nor age to which it does not belong and comes not under the Promise of God to warrant the same in these cases 1. When the Lord measures out such tryalls to any of his people in the way of their duty and under his special conduct where there is no releaf or support but in the Faith of ane extraordinar and immediate appearance of God and no neglect in the least of what in the way of ordinare and warrantable means is attainable it is sure there it is both warranted and requires such a Faith yea are put by a more singular call on the tryall of the same and in this respect I doubt not there hath
Sabath morning with an extraordinar collick which grew upon him to that height as in an ordinare way rendred it not possible to go forth upon the publick work of the day which then lay upon him and to a great Auditory at that time so that whilst he essayed to rise he was pressed to take his bed again a very few minutes before the sett time for going to Church but whilst he presented the case to God upon the interest of his service it was in a moment taken off not by any gradual abatement of such a distemper but entirely at once so as he never had more sweet access and freedome to go forth on the work of the Lord both at that dyet and in the following part of the publick work and this also was when no outward mean was concurring herein as it is clear that the passive Faith which Christ did specially require for an immediate cure from himself Matth 9 was this beleevest thou that I am able to help when no ordinare means can do so I doubt not this was in some measure acted in both these instances leaving roome for omnipotency to act in such an exigence 9. Nor hath there been wanting eminent proofs of this kind of special applications of Faith made unto God by prayer in behalf of others under diseases where ordinare means hath been laid aside and the case past all hope and of such returns by a present restoring and under such evidence as enforced the conviction hereof upon mens conscience that we may see how in some strange cases of this kind the true cause and the Lords design herein does not untill then break up according to that John 9 3. That the work of God might be tâ—us made manifest in them 10 I may further add if there were this day a new erection and settlement of some particular Church from amongst Infidells and the commission for this end of Ministers of Christ made evident and clear to go forth on such a service where no natural and ordinare means of conviction were attainable I doubt not but something in a more extraordinare way of the faith of miracles and immediate appearances of God herein might be expected as in the primitive times when on the same ground it was lett forth Nor can it be found there hath been any particular Church of Christ without some extraordinare seall oâ— this kind especially in the first entry and erection of the same nor is there any time or age of the Church wherein the clear sence of that Scripture Mark 9 23. all things are possible to them that beleeve does not take place which is that no measuâ—e of tryall or difficulties whither as to Churches or particular Christians in the way of their duty can be at such an height as to restrain or sett bounds to the work of Faith on an infinite divine power tho all natural or second causes should cease yea that there is no case so singular wherein the warrant of a divine Promise herein and a Christians Faith should not be of the same extent The II. Proposal that I shall breefly touch as it thus followes upon the former is whither in these last times the Lord does appear by any such extraordinare signs that are publick in the sight of the World and bring near such discoveries of his Godhead in any special acts of Providence as may bear the same evidence of miracles For Answer it is sure the Lord does not reveal himself this way but on some great and extraordinare ground who hath setled the faith of his Church absolutly on his revealed truth yet may it be said that no age is left without some witnesse of such a kind if there were not a sad inadvertence and shutting of mens eyes when the Lord is going by them in any great acts of his power but as to this Proposal I shall only point at some instances that seem to have least fuitable regard or notice and to be past by with most 1. Can there be a serious judgment and reflection on that great and amasing stroake of the Pestilence and not see an extraordinar appearance of God herein and of its beeing a judgment of that kind in some more remarkable times wherein it is lett forth as goes above all natural causes and all may see the immediate hand of God herein both in its risâ— progress and swift spreading as a lightning through Cities or Countries in its passing by some more then others where no cause can appear so as men must see its beeing sent with commission from Heaven and a supernatural causality as visibly as if they had stood with David and the Elders of Israel 2 Samuel 29 17. to see the Angel that smote the People between the Heaven and the Earth upon which account David did choise rather to come under this stroak then the Sword or Famine because it was in a more immediate way the hand of the Lord and where there is a more then ordinare near approach and discovery of himself unto men 2. It is of publick and uncontroulable evidence that miraculous and immediate witness from Heaven in the bleading of the bodies of men on the touch of the murderer in such cases where no ordinare means can bear evidence I will not speak of the warrantable use of such an appeal where the revealed rule of our faith and practice is not express herein but as its undoubted in the truth and reality of the same where no humane witnesse could answer to this end so is it surely ane immediate visible and extraordinare sign from Heaven given in the sight of the World from him who maketh inquisition for blood in a most singular way and a sign which in every time is made evident 3. There is also the certainty of extraordinare Revelation and of the truth of a Prophetick Spirit imparted to some as to special events of Providence which is so known and of that evidence as no age of the Church hath been without instances hereof what I mean hereby as to that more singular way of the Lords revealing himself to some of his Servants by a more extraordinar application of his Word is such as in the truth and certainty hereof can leave no room for doubtfulness tho on the other hand as to the way and dismal trade of divination that hath got up in the World by seeking a Divinity either from the Stars above or the Powers of darkness below it may be clearly seen is one of the great designs of Satan not only to counterfite the way of the Lord herein but to bring men unto a more direct homage to himself but I mention this instance only as it is so great and unquestionable a demonstration of God and of his giving in every age some extraordinare seall of this kind I shall but mention here one remarkable passage of which I am to the furthest perswaded that may seem strange with respect to this late
great Revolution in the State of Britain how it was expresly foretold under its proper circumstances many years past and was one of the first passages of any weight that hath been still fixed in my remembrance of a relation I had from ane ancient and eminent Minister of Christ of a Prediction imparted to him by one of an extraordinar and Prophetick Spirit in that time that so great a Scene of Providence should be acted in Britain and change in the publick face of affaires by the coming over of a Prince of Orange who should be the great Instrument and Actor therein and tho some particulars relating thereto I cannot exactly remember yet this in the substance with such ane express designation as I have now mentioned hath from my young years had a settled impression in my memory and as I am sure and perswaded of the truth hereof and that the foresaid Relater had such a Prediction long before there was any allyance betwixt the House of Britain and of Orange yea am sure this did exceed the reach of humane apprehension at that time from any rise or tendency of natural causes in the order and series thereof so is it not now mentioned after the event only but what several years before I gave ane account and relation off to some of great quality who still know the same when there was not the least appearance of such a thing tho I could lay no further weight thereon which seemed so strange and improbable but that the thing in it self as to the truth of such a Prediction was reall 4 That there are supernatural warnings hath been given to men by some special instinct and impression not only of the approach of some great and extraordinar tryall with respect to themselves but of the near approach of their death yea to some the precise time hereof is a truth so known in the World and with that undeniable evidence as might fully convince those of the most doubtful and suspicious Spirit in things of that nature and were it suitable here I might give special instances which I have surely known of this kinde with respect to such who were both pious and of great composure in their judgment who hath had such perswasion fixed on them without the least presage from any natural cause or what in ane ordinary way could give a rise thereto as it did after fall out in the event 5. That there are also extraordinare signs and forewarnings given the World of great Revolutions and Judgments ere they came on particular nations by prodigies and signes from Heaven is of that publick evidence and certainty as would seem not possible to question if some methods of opposition to God both in his Word and Works were not peculiar to this age and the spirit thereof this way bejond any that hath gone before for what may be supposed and misjudged by many on such ane account through ignorance and unacquaintance with natural causes and the extent thereof is not to be questioned but from this will men debate or discredit a truth that all ages must witness and these of the most cautious and discerning amongst men how such solemn forewarnings from Heaven by extraordinar signs and prodigies hath been still previous to publick changes and revolutions and to any great calamities and judgements It s sure these are no imaginary things but are direct for some special end and are sometimes in such a manner visible to the experience of the World as hath not been in like manner known for some ages past as that late Comet 81. yea occurr not according to the settled constitutions of nature but come both with an surprising aspect and are expresly formed and directed of the Lord for some higher end then to be an emptie shew and wonder to the World but when the Word of truth and threatnings thereof ceaseth to warne or be matter of trembling and the Atheistick contempt and derision of the Works of God is in this day at such a height it s like the door may be now judicially shut on any extraordinar presages or warnings this way untill one prodigy of some unusual judgement come that will not be baffled by men Whilst I speak on such a Subject I know there is a strange thing that comes under the notion by many of a miracle tho matter of very ordinare thoughts with others and of a light and common regard about the same which is in that strange and astonishing cure of the Struma or as it s termed the Kings evil by a touch of the hand only without any application of ordinary means that here is no imposture in the truth of such a thing but that many have been undoubtedly healed by this touch of the Kings of England is not questionable which is of so pâ—blick and known evidence in the tryall of numerous instances yea that here is something supernatural and unaccountable to humane understanding on principles of reason when it s one of the most contumacious diseases of mens body that in the ordinare use of means is found the most difficult to cure but since any extraordinar effect should lead men to a deep enquiry and tryall about the cause hereof and have the more weight in such a case that a miraculous work where it is in truth is Gods own seall which he doth rarely give but on some great and important ground where his glory and the interest of his truth is highly concerned yea that its sure where he intends such a miraculous discovery of himself to confirm the faith of his people he gives it with the clearest evidence of his work and a concurrence of such circumstances as may serve conviction on all whose impress and signature it bears to difference the same from any imposture or its beeing a diabolick sign and work and so this calls for a just enquiry and tryall in the present case in these respects 1. To know its true rise and original which I find in the English Chronicles to be dated from the time of Edward the Confessor when Antichristian darkness was then at his greatest height it beeing in the 1042 Year when he began to reign and when that Prediction of the Apostle Thessal 2 2. of a more then ordinary power and working of Satan with signs and lying wonders to promote the Antichristian interest was then taking place and was in that sence only admitt to confirm the Romish Faith by such a strange miracle 2. This Inquiry should be necessar herein whither this pretended miraculous power belong to the Crown only or hath respect to the Quality and Holiness of the persons who weare the same since if it be to the first then tho ane Infidel or Mahumetan were established on the Throne if this gift follow the same it must needs be derived to them also and have such a high Priviledge annexed thereto as the Throne of Israel never had when a David and Solomon sate thereon tho
yea that without this the furthest of objective evidence to cause irresistably a clear and rational assurance of divine truth tho it were followed with a dispensation of miracles will not quiet the Spirit of such who under some deep exercise may be haunted with hid and dreadful temptations to infidelity until they know the truth of a power and evidence as goes above any moral influence It is true this is not expressible to others and they must come and see who would know in what manner the Spirit of God bears evidence to his own truth and what strong impression his work hath on the internal Senses of a Christian yea what piercing intelligences are betwixt such who surely know and are partakers of a divine life and their blessed Head in this state of mortality but if this were not known and sure we might say ane established Christian whose work is to follow the Lord fully and adventure with assurance upon him is such as might be sought for here in the earth but would not be found 2. If I be perswaded of the truth and Excellency of Religion I must see this to be of as undeniable evidence that it hath no true or solid interest in the Earth but in the way of tryal and experience in it's power and efficacy on mens soull and makes no reall ground or conquest by an external profession or can serve to eternal ends until once that radical principle of the life of God in the soull be understood that choise company who are now going through time to the Church triumphant upon fresh and continued supplies of divine assistance are these alone in whom the Christian Faith is kept alive this day on the earth and it is one of the things I have thought most astonishing in the publick State of Religion that in an age when reason is so much pretended men can design a tryall of the enjoyment of a Heaven for ever in another World and yet hath not the same design on a personal tryall of the enjoyments of grace here to know converse with God in the spirit and the certainty of that trade and commerce which is betwixt Heaven and Earth whilst we are yet on it that are things so highly remote from all humane sence 3. It hath prest me to insist more on this subject that this way is so visibly gathering strength and seems to have the greatest prevalence now in the Reformed Churches how to divide the moral part of our Religion in the duties and services thereof from its internal and vital part so as this mortal contagion hath got in on the light and principles of this Generation that if there were not an absolute assurance by the promise of God we might fear truth and piety should quickly perish from the earth Oh what a strange prodigious opposition is this against the whole internal work vitals of that pure and excellent Religion wherein both the comfort and glory of humane state lyes how is' t conceivable men should be here capable of converse with God in the spirit if there were not a conformity to him in the same kind by a participation of the divine nature yea if there were not so rare a being on the earth as the new man which is born of God and his immediate workmanship which hath its peculiar grouth vital acts proper thereto and in that sence as it 's contradistinguished from the old man cannot possibly sin it self tho it be formed in the heart of a sinner and hath it's being therein no more then the life of God which is a partaking of the divine nature can put forth any act of sin but hath a continued conflict therewith and thus tends to give the clear sence of that Scripture 1 John 5 18. we know that whatever is born of God sinneth not Rom 7 20. It is no more I but sin that duelleth in me nam unumquodque operatur secundum suam formam for if this stood not sure the whole frame of experimental Religion were an unaccountable riddle A SECOND LETTER Wherein some Inquiry upon the times and the work of Providence about the Church but more specially with respect to the publick State of Britain and Ireland in this last age is seriously designed SIR I may truly say it did raise a special value and esteem on my spirit to meet with one in such a day who hath so great a weight and impression of the publick State of the Church and a sense of the present times so far above the ordinare thoughts of men when they seem so rare who look further then present things either to what is past in these extraordinar times have gone over this Generation or who hath another Judgment and Prognostication of what may be near yet before us then from visible and natural causes But though I must decline an answer to what you are pleased more particularly to propose under a just sence of my unfitness herein yet so far as I have attained in the matter of light upon a more general account with respect to the Work of God in these great changes past I am free to impart my self and to offer humbly some few thoughts on such a Subject which hath had most special evidence and weight on my spirit in the present day 1. I doubt not you make the same Judgment and reckoning of this with more advantage then I can reach that one of the most choise and weighty exercises of a Christian whilst he is within time lyes in a deep and serious observation of the times he is fall'n in not only with respect to the administration of Providence in humane affairs but what does more eminently relate to the Churches of Christ and where their lott is cast since this is ane essential part of Religion as it 's also one of the most choise of humane excellencies to discern and observe wisely the ways of the Lord. But I can only shew you some of these things in a short touch which I have found most engaging to such an Inquiry in this day 1. That as each distinct age hath a proper Talent given thereto under trust for observation of such events of Providence wherein the name of God is more near unto men in any singular way then in the ordinare course of his actings so hath the great Author of time choised to put a higher Glory upon one age and period of time then another wherein it might be said that the measure of one is five Talents as to more solemn appearances of the Majesty of God in his Providential Actings when the measure of other times hath been this way but as two Talents Such a differencing marke had that age of the Churches coming out of Egypt beyond all which had gone before yet was this comparatively little with respect to that glory which was reserved to the fulness of time when our blest Redeemer did appear to the World And it's clear how
parts that such hath allotted to them in the times we are fal'n in who would stand in such a gape breach where oppositions now thereto are so strong and it may seem almost hopeless to crave justice in behalf of the truth at the bar of mens conscience when a latitude on principles hath come to such a height as the authority of light is without fear controlled yet on the other hand it may be feared that the answering of that Command of the Holy Ghost is not suitably taken to heart the great consequence thereof which is to walk in wisdom towards these who are without tho not being in that Sence without the Church yet as no less stated in a visible enmity to the truth which is according to Godliness then such could be there hath been much serious study and designs by the Servants of Christ in this age to promot his Kingdom in Britain and Ireland and there are yet there eminently fitted for so difficult a service how to gain and prevail with the furthest measures of prudence and judgement upon the most obstinatly prejudged as any in this day there hath been also of late a singular improvement made and blest for a more unite contending for the Faith once delivered to the Saints in so hazardous a time but it is sure there is yet some further length and essay called for upon this great service for the Kingdom of Christ in taking off letts and stumbling bloks out of their way who may be upon a sad precipice of breaking and further alienation from the truth and for some more full clearing of the same from these designed reflections cast thereon in such a way as convictions might thus insensibly prevail and gain ground with the greatest Gainsayers whilst we know little what design grace may in this day have on such and as the furthest regard should be kept to light upon any controverted truth without losing ground herein yet should I judge it a door of hope to see these who are unite in the great concerns of Truth and Godliness once meet in a more joint concurrence in behalf of these great things of God which are not controverted when the face of this Generation is so threatning as to a further revolt from the Christian Faith both in the pureness and power thereof This is to be a work by its self which as it's of the highest publick concern so does it require a more then ordinare measure of Judiciousnes in following the same My Unfitnes to speak on such a Subject should have restrained me herein were it not to witness something of a serious desire under which my soul is prest for such ane end when the hazard of the perishing of so many who hath ane Eternal State before them is so visible this day and yet no further tryall made to gain and recover according to that rule and practice of the Apostle I was all things to all that I might gain some Others can more fitly judge as to the suitable managing of such a service and how to fall in on the right lith of duty herein only somethings I should wish were more designed for taking off prejudices and to breake thus one of the greatest Engines of Satan this day against the interest of the Ghospel 1. In coming a greater length by these who are of a serious spirit to Sacrifice private resentments to that publick Interest of the Truth upon conceived Injuries when it s so evident what ane influence personal prejudice this day hath to keep up distance to highten differences and cause further estrangement on such an account from any fervent appearance for God and this is surely one of the most honourable parts of a Christians work how far he might overcome the distempers of others by humility tenderness and love and walk in such a countermotion to the spirit and temper of this day 2. It is a service this day much cals for to have stumblings more prevented against these unquestionable settled administrations of the Government of Christ in his Church so as the way and manner of his Spiritual Kingdom might be rightly understood the proper object whereof is the soul and inward man and it 's great design to restore edify which is in such a way that where it 's truly answered nothing can be more tender and healing and to attract any of a serious spirit to join in herewith for it is a sad measure that the truth should sufler from the weaknes or exorbitancies of any It was suitable for the Christian Church in the primitive times to plead that from Heathens that the offence and practices of none should be charged upon the rule of their Profession 3. It were desirable also that further conviction might be served on these who are prone to stumble how in the promoting of truth and Godliness there is no persuing any divided interest of a party and that if such would once try and see they can then judge where the most comprehensive interest within time lyes which all are jointly concern'd to promote who hath any design on the Christian Profession for eternal things 4. I shall but add this more what ane advantage should it be for the truth and to conciliate a greater respect thereto that all might see how sweet a Contemperature and Harmony there is betwixt pure zeal for God which is according to knowledge and the furthest prudence and tenderness towards men and how the rule and spirit of the Ghospel can admit of no bitterness wrath or recrimination which are so abounding this day in the Church in persuing of differences upon any concern of the truth for herein doth the glory and honor of our blessed Head more eminently appear in securing the concord and unity of his Church under a diversity of light and judgement in some lesser differences about the truth by a spirit of love and by its power and efficacy upon mens heart in subdueing the distempers of their mind then by imposing the most severe and absolute uniformity in all things to be the measure of Church Communion and it is ever found how this hath been most easy and practicable among such who hath made the highest advance in the life and power of Christianity then any else since he nearer the lines are to the Center the nearer also are they among themselves and I must add herewith that it may be little known what convictive power might follow in a time of such high distempers as this on a suitable application of that wisdom which dwells with prudence and comes from above according to the rule given for the same James 3 17. to make a higher interest for the Kingdom of Christ and to the saving of the souls of many then now in an ordinare way would seeme possible 4. As the furthest tenderness and prudence is called for to prepare the way of the Lord for a further advance of his Kingdom in taking out of
seem to bear no weight I doubt not ere long of such a visible demonstration of the Divinity of our ever Blessed Redeemer which he shall give before the World that he may be known to be God as will for ever end this Controversy There is a constraint on the Elect Angels to admire what they cannot comprehend of the Mystery of the Ghospel and that incomprehensible love of God to fallen man but oh what a return and recompence does engaged mankind give to him who counted it no robbery to be equal to God yet to become man for our sake that in the face of the greatest brightness of light does bear such enmity to his Godhead as the eye of reason must be put out to serve this end and when such a light is turned into darkness how great is that darkness I have thought to the furthest to know where the strength of such a Profession could possibly ly this being so great a Head whereon the truth or nullity of the Christian Faith is so visibly stated and I durst appeal their reason and conscience if a resolute aversion to the Person of our Redeemer in the union of the divine and humane nature and to the purenes and sanctifying vertue of the Ghospel ly not more in the will then their judgment and be not the leading principle of this strange Controversy For the true Interest of reason in Religion I may say it hath been one of the great studies of my life to improve the same for a solid and judicious establishment in the Faith of the Ghospel which I should still commend with the greatest respect to any of a serious spirit but herewith I could possibly go no further without giving up with all use of reason or give a higher preheminence thereto then in a full evidence that what we are called to believe is of divine Revelation nor can desire more to warrant a hope and confidence tho against hope as to all rational grounds but that it surely hath a divine promise to lean on It might be judged Sathan needed no humane assistance to these fiery darts which are so usually thrown at the choisest Christians to shake their faith on this bead but it is not at an ordinare rate that its great Author hath designed the tryall thereof 3. There is one Reflection further hath affected my spirit upon this Controversy as to the juncture of time when it is become now so contagious and prevalent whilst we are to pray wait and hope with assurance for the renting of the vail yet off many dark places in the earth to make way for that higher Glory of Christs Reign thereon which shall be to the gentile Church as life from the dead yea when it is drawing so near to that great Revolution of Providence when Shem and Japhet shall yet again meet in the same Tents how so strong a conspiracy is on foot to oppose the same and to shut any door whither for Jews or Pagans to enter at upon the Christian Faith but where they find so venerable a thing as reason standing in their way to tell them that the most essential part of Christianity is incompatible therewith that they must subject themselves to the authority of humane Jndgment and not to God if they design to be Christians It is a famous passage I must relate here of that great Jewish Council held in Octob. 1650. in the plain of Ageda 30 leagues from Buda in Hungary to search the Scripture concerning the Messias and the truth of the New Testament where after seven dayes debate about the same and not a few Arguments offered from their continued desolation and captivity since the time of Christ some Popish Deputies at last were admit who in stead of promoting the Christian Faith pressed them to believe the Worship of the Saints departed and of the Virgin Mary upon which that great Assembly broke up in a tumult crying no Christ no Images no Woman God and cast dust on their heads upon so irrational a Blasphemy It is true some of the Rabbies then did much desire Protestant Divines to have met with them but that the Pope and Emperor had joined to shut them wholly out tho thousands of Strangers were then present at a meeting of so great expectation of the Jews coming in to the Christian Faith but I mention it for this end what a cry would that have made if they had been told of a created and dependent God to subject themselves here to the greatest contradictions to Reason 5. I shall now in the close but add this further what should be specially expected upon the growing state of Christs visible Kingdom in the World that as these Fogs Mists which have been raised upon the authority of his truth will be then quikly dispelled so is there a higher Tribute to be given into him of the Glory of his Works and the Out-goings of his Providence about the Church in these last times I know the work and busines of this day lyes not here or in designs of that nature but it were well if much of that which makes the greatest noise this day in the way of Religion had its room filled with so choise a study as this is tho it is indeed one of the peculiar endowments of the Spirit of God given to some more eminently then others to be skilled in the Methods and Deeps of Providence and to understand aright how the Work of God lyes towards the Church and his designs therein according to these discoveries given of the same in his Word and what watch of the night we are now under but on this Head I shall speak to a few grounds whereon this Tribute to the declarative Glory of God from his great Works of Providence about his Church will in another manner be rendred to him then heretofore 1. Because it is surely in this way of his great and extraordinar Works that the Lord does design a more eminent discovery of himself then in all these times that are hitherto past and will thus enter his Church on that brightness and splendor of his second coming which belongs to the last ages when his going forth in the greatness of his strength will be with that evidence as shall sease the World with fear and astonishment and when he is in another manner to glorify himself in his People then was formerly in these suffering times which are now past wherein his Glory was to shine forth in the eminency of the passive graces of his spirit for now is the Mystery of God in what yet remains thereof to be finished in another way to take place as shall call the Generation that 's coming up to such an observing and admiring Work of the great Acts of God that may need a more then ordinare measure of grace to answer the same but we must look for great things of Judgment coming on to be accomplished as well as of mercy the Vyalls of
discoveries of the works of God the depths of providence about his Church these was reserved to that period when the Mystery of God hereon should be more fully perfited and in this respect it 's to be said blessed is he that waiteth and cometh to such a solemn time and to have his lot fall therein as is spoken Dan. 12 12. III. But for a further clearing of this Subject since the Glory of the Kingdom of Christ is so nearly concern'd in the discovery and entertainment of his Works in the day thereof and now when a more eminent appearance thereof is near that Kingdoms and Nations in their Complex Body shall in a more solemn way be the Lords It should be expected that the return and oblation of praise upon the great Acts of his Providence shall be more remarkable as a publick deed of Nations and Churches then hath yet hitherto been yea that when the Lord does in any singular way appear for their security and standing by Providences of a publick and national extent that a gratulatory retribution on their part must be of the same extent under a publick care and regard It is true there is a settled frame of subordinat means by which the Providence of God does work in the great designs thereof that we are called to regard wherein I doubt not but the Ministry of the Angels hath the greatest interest as one of the great Ordinances he hath setled in behalf of his Church tho as to their special offices and dâ—legate service to particular Churcheâ— and Christians is something that 's more dark but it may be hoped wil ere long be with a clearer evidence known in these great transactions of Providence which are yet to take place when a nearer Communion may be then attained betwixt these blessed Spirits and the Saints here on the earth then is yet known but tho there is no time wherein the Lord will not put honor on instituted means and on that established order of his working yet whilst most have such ordinare thoughts of God herein and are so ready to fix their eyes wholly on men his honor is concern'd to let the World know he is God by more extraordinar demonstrations yea such are most of the great events of his Word which are yet to be brought forth as cannot possibly in an other way be expected But on this Subject I would humbly offer some few reflections which should be matter of a serious regard 1. That as it s highly becoming on some eminent piece of the Work of God or publick deliverances for a Nation or State to have solemn and publick returns of thankfulnes to him thereon yet is it strange how so little regard should thus be to have the greatnes of any such mercy sought out and the same publick care extended for keeping up a venerable remembrance thereof so that such a service of Gratitude be not bounded with the transient work of a day since otherways it is a most essential want and with holding a proper and important part of that Tribute which is due into God herein for there can be no suitable regard to serve the end of such Providences and what was so straitly injoined of the Lord under the Old Testament which was the Churches continued practice there yea of the same moral and perpetual use in all after times if it should not be still a publick trust under the furthest humane care to promote the same tho divine Record and History for this intent does now cease 2. But as this hath ane unquestionable tye on Churches and a Christian State to design the most honourable respect and entertainment of the great Acts of God in their day and is made their proper talent to answer to so does a just exoneration herein call for the most exact scrutiny and search on the truth and evidence thereof on which the weight and credit of this service does so far depend to cause a more full assent by these who come after to such a testimony that these rare Providences wherein the Lord did thus make himself known were not only in the present time sought out and enquired unto under their proper cÃrcumstances but by such of greatest weight and advantage for a work of this nature whose sincerity and judiciousness might be convincing and the integrity of such ane Intent cleared from any partial respect or end but allennerly for exalting the Majesty of God and strengthning men in the Faith by so great a seal to his Truth and for the interest of the Posterity yea wherein these who in some lesser differences did not fully meet in the same Judgment yet might intirely unite in such a service and testimony as this 3. Where the Lord makes himself known in more illustrious acts of his power as may be called Magnalia Dei to some particular Nation and Church beside others who herein are in a more then ordinare way interessed it might seem equal and answer to the highest reason they sould be of that value as to be entred on a National Record and have that concurrence of humane authority to make the evidence hereof as authentick as the publick deeds or rights which belong to such a state It is true there is no want of Histories and the Church hath been blessed with that singular mercy of Martyrologies by faithful and impartial hands to attest the power of divine grace and supports of the spirit given to sufferers for the truth and of late it was of great use the concurrence of Civil Authority to that Work of the History of the Church of England that 's now extant by an excellent Writer but for this intent â—â— is something distinct by its self with respect only to these Monuments of Providence relating to a particular Châ—rch that are of publique clear and uncontrolled evidence to have the remembrance thereof with the highest honor kept up and secured from the prejudices and cavills of men thereat yea to such Passadges in that day whereon the Signature and Impress of the more immediate appearance of God hath had most full and bright evidence these great changes of a publique interest which hath then occurred wherein some extraordinar Conjunction in the course of Providence might be seen above natural causes and the ordinare way of Gods Working such interpositions of his wonderful power by which he hath designed to put some eminent honor on acts of trust and relyances on his truth as might be exemplary to after times and serve for that end that they who come after might sett their hope on God and not forget his Works Psal 78 7. yea extraordinar Acts also of divine Judgment whereby he hath appeared in some unusual manner to vindicate the honor of his Laws against publick and notorious violations of the same which may be clearly seen were not designed for that age only but as a publick concern for after times 4. Can it be questioned that since that