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Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
truth_n false_a know_v true_a 4,114 5 4.5846 4 true
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A20752 The Christian warfare wherein is first generally shewed the malice, power and politike stratagems of the spirituall ennemies of our saluation, Sathan and his assistants the world and the flesh, with the meanes also whereby the Christian may vvithstand and defeate them : and afterwards more speciallie their particvlar temptatiions, against the seuerall causes and meanes of our saluation, whereby on the one side they allure vs to security and presumption, and on the other side, draw vs to doubting and desperation, are expressed and answered : written especially for their sakes who are exercised in the spirituall conflict of temptations, and are afflicted in conscience in the sight and sense of their sinnes / by I. Dovvname ... Downame, John, d. 1652. 1604 (1604) STC 7133; ESTC S1536 575,484 731

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and_o all_o sanctify_a and_o save_v grace_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o minister_n himself_o find_v not_o the_o word_n which_o he_o deliver_v effectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n or_o any_o grace_n in_o he_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v powerful_a in_o many_o of_o the_o hearer_n for_o these_o purpose_n because_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v not_o the_o assistance_n and_o inward_a cooperation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n with_o the_o outward_a ministry_n of_o the_o word_n unto_o he_o which_o notwithstanding_o he_o merciful_o grant_v unto_o other_o see_v then_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v god_n own_o ordinance_n which_o he_o make_v effectual_a to_o who_o he_o will_v by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n by_o whosoever_o it_o be_v deliver_v and_o see_v those_o minister_n which_o be_v most_o holy_a and_o virtuous_a can_v at_o their_o pleasure_n infuse_v grace_n into_o their_o hearer_n for_o paul_n may_v plant_v and_o apollo_n may_v water_v but_o god_n give_v the_o increase_n 3.5_o 1._o cor._n 3.5_o so_o that_o neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o be_v any_o thing_n in_o themselves_o without_o god_n blessing_n see_v also_o those_o who_o be_v loose_a and_o vicious_a if_o they_o true_o preach_v the_o truth_n itself_o can_v by_o their_o badness_n hinder_v god_n ordinance_n but_o that_o come_n from_o their_o mouth_n it_o will_v be_v effectual_a for_o the_o conversion_n of_o man_n unto_o god_n and_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o those_o that_o believe_v for_o though_o unto_o himself_o it_o be_v but_o a_o dead_a letter_n yet_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v give_v life_n unto_o it_o in_o those_o who_o receive_v it_o and_o though_o he_o preach_v for_o glory_n or_o gain_v or_o for_o envy_n and_o strife_n yet_o we_o must_v with_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v preach_v any_o manner_n of_o way_n 1.15.18_o phil._n 1.15.18_o and_o reap_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o to_o our_o eternal_a comfort_n last_o see_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n think_v it_o good_a to_o send_v ambassador_n of_o both_o sort_n sanctify_a and_o unsanctified_a and_o oftentimes_o make_v the_o word_n in_o the_o mouth_n for_n a_o faithful_a and_o godly_a minister_n the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n and_o the_o same_o word_n in_o the_o mouth_n of_o one_o who_o be_v void_a of_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o shall_v not_o depend_v upon_o man_n but_o whole_o rest_v and_o rely_v ourselves_o upon_o god_n own_o ordinance_n give_v and_o ascribe_v unto_o he_o the_o whole_a glory_n and_o praise_n of_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o think_v the_o worse_a of_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n because_o of_o his_o corruption_n who_o deliver_v it_o for_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o refuse_v a_o comfortable_a ambassage_n from_o a_o gracious_a prince_n because_o we_o dislike_v the_o quality_n of_o the_o ambassador_n what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o scorn_v to_o receive_v a_o kind_a letter_n from_o a_o love_a father_n because_o the_o carrier_n do_v displease_v we_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o refuse_v a_o rich_a treasure_n because_o it_o be_v bring_v unto_o we_o in_o a_o earthen_a vessel_n which_o be_v frail_a and_o brittle_a what_o be_v it_o but_o like_o proud_a beggar_n to_o refuse_v the_o bountiful_a alm_n of_o a_o merciful_a prince_n because_o it_o be_v deliver_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o amner_n which_o be_v covetous_a and_o hard_a heart_a yea_o what_o be_v it_o but_o to_o cross_v our_o saviour_n christ_n express_a commandment_n who_o command_v all_o to_o hear_v even_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisy_n who_o sit_v in_o moses_n chair_n 23._o matth._n 23._o and_o to_o do_v after_o their_o word_n though_o not_o after_o their_o work_n in_o a_o word_n what_o be_v it_o else_o than_o to_o pin_n god_n ordinance_n upon_o man_n sleeve_n and_o to_o make_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n 1.16_o rom._n 1.16_o which_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n unto_o every_o one_o who_o believe_v to_o depend_v upon_o the_o weak_a strength_n of_o frail_a flesh_n either_o to_o be_v make_v effectual_a by_o his_o worthiness_n or_o to_o be_v make_v vain_a and_o unprofitable_a by_o his_o unworthiness_n chap._n xxiiii_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o sundry_a opinion_n sect_n and_o religion_n answer_v and_o thus_o satan_n may_v be_v answer_v religion_n §._o sect._n 1._o satan_n temptation_n persuade_v we_o to_o profess_v no_o religion_n when_o he_o take_v occasion_n of_o discredit_v the_o gospel_n and_o hinder_v the_o course_n thereof_o by_o object_v the_o wickedness_n and_o worldly_a profaneness_n or_o the_o infirmity_n and_o frail_a weakness_n of_o the_o minister_n thereof_o but_o if_o he_o can_v thus_o prevail_v he_o leave_v their_o life_n and_o come_v to_o their_o doctrine_n do_v thou_o not_o see_v will_n he_o say_v that_o there_o be_v innumerable_a sect_n and_o contrary_a faction_n among_o those_o who_o profess_v christianity_n some_o papist_n some_o protestant_n some_o arian_n some_o anabaptist_n some_o pelagian_o some_o libertine_n some_o familist_n some_o donatist_n &_o many_o other_o who_o all_o cite_v and_o allege_v scripture_n for_o the_o defend_n of_o their_o contrary_a opinion_n &_o confident_o affirm_v that_o they_o only_o have_v the_o truth_n among_o they_o how_o therefore_o can_v thou_o know_v which_o be_v truth_n and_o which_o be_v falsehood_n who_o interpret_v the_o scripture_n aright_o and_o who_o wrest_v and_o misconstrue_v they_o or_o if_o thou_o be_v dispose_v to_o be_v religious_a what_o religion_n will_v thou_o profess_v in_o this_o great_a confusion_n to_o what_o church_n will_v thou_o adjoine_v thyself_o see_v one_o be_v contrary_a to_o another_o and_o thou_o know_v not_o which_o be_v in_o the_o truth_n if_o thou_o be_v wise_a therefore_o keep_v thyself_o quiet_a and_o let_v all_o alone_a harken_v not_o to_o any_o of_o they_o or_o if_o thou_o do_v believe_v they_o not_o over_o hasty_o be_v of_o that_o religion_n which_o will_v best_o stand_v with_o thy_o advantage_n or_o if_o thou_o will_v needs_o serve_v god_n follow_v thy_o own_o conscience_n have_v a_o good_a intention_n in_o that_o thou_o do_v and_o it_o be_v enough_o but_o profess_v not_o one_o religion_n more_o than_o another_o till_o thou_o see_v those_o who_o be_v learn_v agree_v among_o themselves_o for_o until_o then_o thou_o can_v have_v no_o assurance_n that_o thou_o profess_v the_o truth_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o the_o scripture_n have_v foretell_v unto_o we_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v sect_n division_n 2.1_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o 1._o tim._n 4.1_o 2._o pet._n 2.1_o heresy_n &_o false_a teacher_n even_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 11.19_o 1._o tim._n 4.1_o 2._o pet._n 2.1_o and_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o time_n both_o under_o the_o law_n &_o under_o the_o gospel_n may_v sufficient_o teach_v we_o that_o wheresoever_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n be_v publish_v and_o preach_v there_o it_o be_v oppose_v by_o innumerable_a sectary_n and_o heretic_n which_o by_o the_o malice_n and_o subtlety_n of_o satan_n be_v stir_v up_o to_o impugn_v and_o discredit_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o therefore_o if_o satan_n can_v still_o keep_v we_o blindfould_v in_o ignorance_n and_o restrain_v we_o from_o the_o confession_n and_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n till_o there_o be_v a_o general_a unity_n and_o agreement_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n without_o all_o opposition_n or_o gainsay_n than_o he_o have_v attain_v his_o desire_n for_o so_o shall_v we_o never_o join_v ourselves_o in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o saint_n nor_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n profess_v &_o practise_v the_o religion_n of_o jesus_n christ_n see_v the_o devil_n will_v not_o cease_v to_o stir_v up_o his_o wicked_a instrument_n false_a prophet_n secraty_n and_o heretic_n to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v oppugn_v and_o contradict_v the_o truth_n when_o it_o be_v sincere_o preach_v and_o make_v it_o fruitless_a in_o the_o heart_n of_o unbeliever_n see_v also_o our_o saviour_n have_v teach_v we_o that_o his_o church_n be_v but_o a_o little_a flock_n which_o be_v assault_v and_o grievous_o vex_v not_o only_o with_o lion_n tiger_n and_o open_a enemy_n but_o also_o with_o fox_n and_o wolf_n in_o sheep_n clothing_n and_o secret_a enemy_n who_o under_o the_o show_n and_o profession_n of_o religion_n seek_v to_o undermine_v and_o bring_v it_o to_o ruin_v and_o the_o apostle_n also_o have_v forewarn_v we_o that_o there_o must_v be_v heresy_n among_o we_o 11.19_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o that_o they_o who_o be_v approve_v may_v be_v know_v 1._o cor._n 11.19_o though_o therefore_o there_o be_v many_o sect_n and_o heresy_n many_o false_a religion_n and_o but_o one_o truth_n
more_o sure_a to_o persevere_v in_o that_o grace_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n than_o adam_n in_o the_o state_n of_o innocence_n for_o he_o stand_v by_o his_o own_o strength_n which_o though_o it_o be_v great_a yet_o it_o be_v finite_a but_o we_o by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n he_o by_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o own_o free_a will_n which_o be_v mutable_a and_o subject_a to_o alteration_n but_o we_o by_o the_o will_n of_o god_n which_o be_v immutable_a admit_v of_o no_o change_n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o let_v we_o come_v more_o special_o to_o speak_v of_o this_o main_a controversy_n between_o the_o true_a christian_a and_o the_o enemy_n of_o his_o salvation_n the_o state_n whereof_o stand_v thus_o controversy_n the_o state_n of_o the_o controversy_n whether_o he_o that_o be_v elect_v in_o god_n eternal_a counsel_n and_o be_v effectual_o call_v that_o be_v sever_v from_o the_o world_n give_v to_o christ_n and_o ingraft_v into_o christ_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o a_o lively_a faith_n justify_v sanctify_a and_o endue_v with_o the_o sanctify_a gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n may_v after_o all_o this_o fall_n away_o lose_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o grace_n thereof_o and_o become_v as_o profane_v and_o wicked_a as_o ever_o he_o be_v before_o his_o conversion_n lose_v also_o his_o justification_n be_v cut_v off_o from_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o final_o become_v a_o reprobate_n this_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o salvation_n affirm_v but_o we_o deny_v as_o be_v a_o thing_n impossible_a not_o in_o regard_n of_o our_o own_o strength_n constancy_n or_o great_a measure_n of_o grace_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v but_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n will_v and_o power_n who_o uphold_v we_o christ_n intercession_n who_o pray_v for_o we_o and_o god_n holy_a spirit_n always_o dwell_v in_o we_o whereby_o we_o be_v so_o strengthen_v and_o confirm_v that_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n can_v prevail_v against_o us._n §_o sect._n 4_o this_o our_o assertion_n we_o will_v first_o confirm_v by_o unfallible_a reason_n election_n the_o first_o argument_n ground_v upon_o god_n will_n consider_v in_o his_o decree_n of_o election_n and_o afterward_o answer_v the_o contrary_a objection_n which_o be_v make_v against_o this_o truth_n by_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o salvation_n the_o reason_n which_o may_v be_v allege_v for_o this_o purpose_n be_v many_o the_o first_o sort_n be_v take_v from_o god_n own_o nature_n as_o it_o be_v describe_v in_o his_o word_n and_o exercise_v in_o his_o work_n towards_o us._n as_o first_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o our_o perseverance_n because_o it_o be_v ground_v upon_o god_n will_n which_o may_v be_v consider_v either_o in_o his_o secret_a counsel_n and_o decree_n of_o election_n or_o in_o his_o will_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n from_o the_o first_o we_o may_v thus_o reason_n whosoever_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o eternal_a counsel_n have_v elect_v to_o everlasting_a life_n they_o shall_v most_o certain_o be_v save_v and_o persevere_v in_o the_o mean_n tend_v thereunto_o which_o be_v no_o less_o contain_v in_o god_n decree_n than_o our_o salvation_n itself_o but_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o eternal_a counsel_n have_v elect_v all_o the_o faithful_a unto_o eternal_a life_n and_o therefore_o nothing_o can_v hinder_v their_o salvation_n nor_o yet_o their_o perseverance_n without_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v be_v save_v the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v clear_a and_o manifest_a for_o not_o to_o effect_v that_o which_o one_o have_v decree_v and_o purpose_v argue_v either_o impotency_n and_o want_n of_o power_n or_o unconstancy_n neither_o of_o which_o without_o blasphemy_n can_v be_v ascribe_v unto_o god_n 115.3_o jere._n 32.17_o psalm_n 115.3_o for_o there_o be_v nothing_o hard_a unto_o he_o jere._n 32.17_o but_o he_o do_v whatsoever_o he_o will_v psal_n 115.3_o 2._o matth._n 19.26_o job._n 42_o 2._o yea_o even_o those_o thing_n which_o unto_o man_n be_v impossible_a be_v possible_a unto_o he_o mat._n 19.26_o for_o he_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n job_n 42.2_o neither_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n mutable_a for_o this_o argue_v a_o want_n of_o wisdom_n 145.5_o psal_n 145.5_o whereas_o his_o wisdom_n be_v infinite_a and_o know_v no_o end_n psal_n 145.5_o and_o he_o perfect_o see_v and_o know_v all_o thing_n in_o one_o view_n 4.13_o heb._n 4.13_o past_a present_a and_o to_o come_v heb._n 4.13_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v conclude_v with_o the_o apostle_n that_o the_o purpose_n of_o god_n in_o his_o election_n remain_v sure_a 9.11_o rom._n 9.11_o rom._n 9.11_o and_o the_o foundation_n of_o god_n that_o be_v his_o unchangeable_a decree_n continue_v firm_a 2.19_o 1._o tim._n 2.19_o and_o have_v this_o seal_n the_o lord_n know_v who_o be_v his_o 2._o tim._n 2.19_o whosoever_o then_o be_v elect_v they_o shall_v most_o certain_o be_v save_v neither_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o they_o shall_v fall_v away_o as_o our_o saviour_n impli_v matth._n 24.24_o whereas_o he_o say_v that_o the_o false_a prophet_n shall_v show_v such_o great_a sign_n that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a they_o shall_v deceive_v the_o very_a elect_a note_v hereby_o that_o this_o be_v altogether_o a_o thing_n impossible_a that_o they_o shall_v be_v deceive_v and_o seduce_v with_o false_a christ_n and_o false_a prophet_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n namely_o that_o all_o the_o faithful_a be_v elect_v be_v also_o of_o most_o undoubted_a truth_n for_o whosoever_o have_v a_o true_a faith_n they_o be_v justify_v whosoever_o be_v justify_v be_v also_o effectual_o call_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v glorify_v what_o say_v i_o shall_v be_v nay_o be_v already_o glorify_v as_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o to_o note_v the_o undoubted_a certainty_n of_o their_o salvation_n rom._n 8.30_o moreover_o the_o apostle_n make_v faith_n a_o inseparable_a fruit_n of_o our_o election_n and_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a unto_o the_o elect_a 13.48_o tit._n 1.1_o act._n 13.48_o call_v it_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_v tit._n 1.1_o and_o act._n 13.48_o it_o be_v say_v that_o as_o many_o as_o be_v ordain_v unto_o eternal_a life_n believe_v where_o he_o make_v god_n election_n the_o cause_n of_o faith_n and_o contrariwise_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o they_o believe_v not_o 10.26_o joh._n 10.26_o who_o be_v not_o his_o sheep_n joh._n 10.26_o so_o that_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o those_o who_o believe_v be_v elect_v and_o those_o who_o be_v elect_v shall_v be_v save_v §_o sect._n 5_o the_o second_o reason_n may_v be_v take_v from_o his_o will_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n for_o whatsoever_o god_n thus_o will_v that_o shall_v most_o certain_o come_v to_o pass_v 6.39.40_o the_o second_o reason_n ground_v on_o his_o will_n reveal_v joh_n 6.39.40_o but_o god_n will_v that_o all_o shall_v have_v everlasting_a life_n who_o he_o have_v give_v to_o christ_n in_o which_o number_n be_v all_o those_o who_o be_v effectual_o call_v as_o our_o saviour_n testify_v joh._n 6.39_o and_o this_o be_v the_o father_n will_n which_o have_v send_v i_o that_o of_o all_o which_o he_o have_v give_v i_o i_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o but_o shall_v raise_v it_o up_o again_o at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o he_o will_v likewise_o that_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o the_o son_n shall_v be_v save_v as_o it_o be_v vers_n 40._o and_o therefore_o those_o who_o be_v effectual_o call_v and_o believe_v in_o christ_n can_v possible_o perish_v but_o shall_v most_o certain_o have_v eternal_a life_n §_o sect._n 6_o the_o three_o reason_n may_v be_v take_v from_o the_o constancy_n and_o immutabilitie_n of_o god_n both_o in_o his_o love_n towards_o we_o love_n the_o three_o reason_n take_v from_o god_n immutabilitie_n in_o his_o love_n and_o also_o in_o his_o gift_n in_o the_o former_a respect_n we_o may_v thus_o reason_n whosoever_o the_o lord_n love_v with_o a_o constant_a and_o immutable_a love_n those_o shall_v most_o certain_o be_v save_v see_v it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o love_n to_o desire_v the_o good_a of_o the_o party_n belove_v and_o to_o seek_v his_o welfare_n as_o much_o as_o it_o can_v but_o the_o lord_n love_v his_o faithful_a one_o with_o a_o constant_a and_o perpetual_a love_n as_o himself_o testify_v jere._n 31.3_o 31.3_o jere._n 31.3_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o with_o a_o everlasting_a love_n therefore_o with_o mercy_n have_v i_o draw_v thou_o so_o joh._n 13.1_o forasmuch_o as_o he_o love_v his_o own_o which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n 13.1_o joh._n 13.1_o unto_o the_o end_n he_o love_v they_o and_o therefore_o all_o the_o faithful_a may_v assure_v themselves_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o be_v once_o assure_v of_o god_n love_n they_o may_v with_o the_o apostle_n be_v undoubted_o persuade_v that_o nothing_o in_o the_o world_n shall_v
straggle_a soldier_n who_o depart_v from_o the_o army_n and_o range_v abroad_o to_o forage_v or_o get_v some_o booty_n be_v easy_o vanquish_v by_o their_o enemy_n so_o those_o who_o depart_v and_o make_v a_o apostasy_n from_o god_n church_n to_o gain_v or_o retain_v their_o pleasure_n and_o worldly_a preferment_n be_v easy_o overthrow_v fall_v into_o satan_n ambushment_n and_o second_o every_o one_o be_v to_o contain_v himself_o within_o the_o limit_n of_o his_o special_a vocation_n and_o to_o keep_v his_o peculiar_a stand_v appoint_v he_o by_o god_n for_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o pernicious_a to_o a_o army_n than_o disorder_n when_o as_o some_o intrude_v themselves_o into_o other_o place_n as_o when_o the_o common_a soldier_n will_v be_v a_o officer_n the_o lieutenant_n captain_n and_o the_o captain_n general_n of_o the_o army_n so_o nothing_o be_v more_o hurtful_a to_o the_o church_n militant_a than_o when_o disorderly_a one_o usurp_v another_o place_n and_o office_n as_o when_o the_o minister_n will_v be_v magistrate_n and_o the_o magistrate_n minister_n and_o when_o the_o common_a people_n usurp_v the_o office_n of_o they_o both_o second_o when_o as_o he_o bid_v we_o stand_v in_o our_o place_n he_o restrain_v we_o from_o two_o extreme_n the_o one_o that_o we_o do_v not_o wilful_o thrust_v ourselves_o into_o the_o combat_n of_o temptation_n before_o we_o be_v assault_v and_o so_o as_o it_o be_v run_v out_o of_o our_o stand_n to_o seek_v a_o enemy_n and_o second_o that_o when_o we_o be_v assault_v we_o do_v not_o flee_v away_o but_o stand_v to_o it_o valiant_o and_o endure_v the_o violence_n of_o the_o assailant_n last_o he_o exhort_v we_o to_o watchfulness_n and_o painful_a diligence_n for_o we_o must_v not_o drowsy_o and_o secure_o lay_v we_o down_o and_o give_v ourselves_o to_o sleep_v nor_o yet_o sit_v idle_o as_o though_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o we_o be_v to_o stand_v upon_o our_o guard_n and_o to_o watch_v continual_o that_o we_o may_v always_o be_v in_o readiness_n to_o withstand_v the_o assault_n of_o our_o enemy_n otherwise_o if_o we_o sleep_v in_o security_n they_o will_v sudden_o set_v upon_o we_o and_o surprise_v we_o at_o unaware_o chap._n x._o of_o the_o particular_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a armour_n and_o first_o of_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o the_o apostle_n have_v take_v away_o all_o reckless_a security_n and_o foole-hardines_n and_o also_o strengthen_v we_o with_o true_a valour_n and_o christian_a fortitude_n verity_n of_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n in_o the_o next_o place_n he_o describe_v the_o armour_n of_o god_n which_o we_o be_v to_o buckle_v unto_o us._n where_o first_o we_o be_v general_o to_o observe_v that_o we_o be_v not_o curious_o and_o scrupulous_o to_o search_v out_o the_o reason_n why_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n be_v liken_v to_o these_o or_o those_o piece_n of_o armour_n as_o for_o example_n why_o he_o call_v truth_n a_o girdle_n righteousness_n a_o breastplate_n faith_n a_o shield_n etc._n etc._n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o apostle_n purpose_v so_o exact_o to_o fit_v the_o similitude_n as_o may_v appear_v 1._o thess_n 5.8_o where_o he_o indifferent_o ascribe_v the_o name_n of_o breastplate_n both_o to_o faith_n and_o charity_n by_o which_o here_o he_o understand_v righteousness_n but_o only_o brief_o and_o general_o to_o show_v what_o virtue_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v most_o necessary_a for_o a_o christian_a wherewith_o he_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o resist_v his_o spiritual_a enemy_n continue_v his_o former_a allegory_n take_v from_o war_n but_o let_v we_o come_v to_o the_o armour_n itself_o which_o be_v both_o defensive_a and_o offensive_a the_o first_o part_n be_v the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n the_o word_n here_o use_v signify_v a_o broad_a stud_a belt_n use_v in_o war_n in_o ancient_a time_n wherewith_o the_o joint_n of_o the_o breastplate_n and_o that_o armour_n which_o defend_v the_o belly_n loin_n and_o thigh_n be_v cover_v and_o by_o this_o truth_n be_v resemble_v whereby_o some_o understand_v the_o truth_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o doctrine_n which_o we_o profess_v other_o understand_v hereby_o truth_n and_o uprightness_n of_o heart_n or_o the_o integrity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n whereby_o we_o perform_v all_o duty_n of_o religion_n belong_v to_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n in_o simplicity_n without_o all_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n but_o because_o both_o be_v notable_a and_o necessary_a part_n of_o our_o christian_a armour_n i_o see_v no_o reason_n why_o we_o may_v not_o take_v it_o in_o both_o sense_n verity_n what_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v by_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n see_v the_o apostle_n do_v of_o purpose_n set_v down_o under_o these_o metaphorical_a word_n the_o chief_a virtue_n and_o grace_n wherewith_o we_o be_v to_o arm_v ourselves_o against_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n first_o therefore_o here_o be_v require_v truth_n of_o our_o religion_n which_o we_o profess_v and_o second_o that_o we_o profess_v it_o true_o that_o be_v with_o upright_o &_o simple_a heart_n §_o sect._n 2_o for_o the_o first_o truth_n that_o our_o religion_n must_v be_v ground_v on_o god_n truth_n it_o be_v the_o foundation_n upon_o which_o all_o other_o duty_n to_o god_n or_o man_n be_v to_o be_v build_v for_o if_o they_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o god_n truth_n but_o devise_v by_o man_n brain_n they_o be_v but_o humane_a dotage_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o accept_v neither_o be_v it_o to_o any_o purpose_n that_o we_o show_v ourselves_o earnest_a and_o forward_a in_o religion_n unless_o it_o be_v true_a and_o consonant_a to_o god_n word_n for_o as_o the_o fast_o that_o those_o travail_n which_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n the_o further_o they_o be_v from_o their_o journey_n end_n so_o the_o more_o earnest_a and_o forward_a that_o we_o be_v in_o travail_v the_o by-path_n of_o error_n the_o further_o we_o be_v from_o god_n kingdom_n and_o therefore_o satan_n care_v not_o great_o whether_o we_o be_v of_o no_o religion_n or_o of_o a_o false_a religion_n whether_o we_o worship_v no_o god_n at_o all_o or_o a_o false_a god_n or_o at_o least_o the_o true_a god_n after_o a_o false_a manner_n whether_o we_o perform_v no_o duty_n unto_o god_n or_o such_o as_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o god_n truth_n be_v abominable_a unto_o he_o first_o then_o we_o must_v contain_v all_o our_o action_n within_o the_o compass_n of_o god_n word_n and_o whatsoever_o we_o profess_v and_o practice_v it_o must_v have_v his_o ground_n and_o warrant_v from_o this_o truth_n if_o we_o will_v be_v account_v true_a member_n of_o god_n militant_a church_n 3.15_o 1._o tim_n 3.15_o which_o be_v therefore_o call_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1._o tim._n 3.15_o because_o contemn_v all_o error_n and_o doctrine_n of_o man_n it_o faithful_o keep_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n and_o as_o soldier_n be_v gird_v about_o with_o that_o strong_a and_o broad_a stud_a belt_n wherewith_o their_o loin_n be_v strengthen_v and_o so_o enable_v to_o sustain_v the_o fight_n without_o weariness_n so_o we_o be_v to_o compass_v ourselves_o about_o with_o truth_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v strengthen_v when_o as_o we_o know_v that_o we_o fight_v in_o a_o just_a quarrel_n neither_o shall_v we_o easy_o be_v deceive_v with_o satan_n temptation_n and_o false_a suggestion_n if_o we_o be_v gird_v about_o with_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n and_o hereby_o appear_v the_o necessity_n of_o this_o piece_n of_o armour_n for_o see_v satan_n be_v a_o liar_n from_o the_o beginning_n it_o behoove_v we_o to_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o truth_n that_o the_o bright_a beam_n thereof_o may_v discover_v and_o disperse_v all_o the_o foggy_a mist_n of_o satan_n error_n and_o lie_n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a that_o we_o profess_v the_o truth_n heart_n that_o we_o must_v profess_v the_o truth_n in_o truth_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o truth_n that_o be_v in_o integrity_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n without_o all_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n for_o how_o glorious_a soever_o our_o profession_n even_o of_o the_o true_a religion_n be_v before_o man_n yet_o it_o be_v abominable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o truth_n and_o from_o a_o upright_o heart_n but_o counterfeit_n and_o hypocritical_a whatsoever_o duty_n and_o good_a work_n we_o perform_v though_o never_o so_o excellent_a in_o themselves_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o acceptable_a in_o god_n sight_n if_o they_o be_v not_o join_v with_o integrity_n and_o simplicity_n for_o example_n prayer_n be_v a_o notable_a part_n of_o god_n worship_n but_o if_o we_o do_v not_o call_v upon_o god_n in_o truth_n but_o with_o feign_a and_o deceitful_a lip_n that_o we_o may_v have_v the_o praise_n of_o man_n 6._o
ask_v but_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o pray_v for_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v certain_o to_o believe_v that_o our_o sin_n be_v remit_v and_o consequent_o that_o we_o be_v justify_v call_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v for_o who_o he_o do_v predestinate_a they_o also_o he_o call_v 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o and_o who_o he_o call_v they_o also_o he_o justify_v and_o who_o he_o justify_v they_o also_o he_o glorify_v as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.30_o §_o sect._n 9_o six_o say_v the_o sixth_o argument_n take_v from_o the_o confession_n of_o our_o say_v whatsoever_o we_o profess_v in_o the_o article_n of_o our_o faith_n that_o we_o shall_v believe_v and_o of_o that_o we_o may_v and_o ought_v particular_o to_o be_v assure_v but_o every_o man_n profess_v that_o he_o believe_v the_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o life_n everlasting_a that_o be_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o only_o forgive_v sin_n and_o grant_v unto_o some_o the_o fruition_n of_o everlasting_a life_n for_o this_o the_o devil_n believe_v as_o well_o as_o we_o but_o also_o that_o he_o do_v particular_o forgive_v i_o my_o sin_n and_o that_o he_o will_v make_v i_o a_o heir_n of_o eternal_a happiness_n for_o this_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o faith_n to_o assure_v we_o certain_o and_o particular_o of_o that_o which_o we_o believe_v as_o we_o have_v show_v and_o therefore_o we_o ought_v particular_o to_o be_v assure_v of_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o that_o we_o shall_v attain_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n and_o consequent_o that_o we_o be_v elect_v see_v none_o enjoy_v it_o but_o god_n choose_v but_o it_o may_v be_v object_v that_o if_o every_o one_o be_v bind_v to_o believe_v as_o a_o article_n of_o his_o faith_n that_o his_o sin_n be_v forgive_v and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o heir_n of_o everlasting_a life_n than_o some_o be_v bind_v to_o believe_v that_o which_o be_v false_a for_o those_o who_o live_v and_o die_v in_o their_o sin_n without_o repentance_n shall_v never_o obtain_v either_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o i_o answer_v that_o we_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o believe_v be_v destitute_a of_o a_o true_a and_o a_o lively_a faith_n for_o this_o be_v rather_o fond_o to_o presume_v than_o sure_o to_o be_v persuade_v of_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o we_o be_v first_o bind_v to_o have_v a_o true_a lively_a and_o justify_v faith_n and_o so_o to_o believe_v and_o apply_v unto_o ourselves_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o those_o that_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n without_o repentance_n they_o be_v altogether_o destitute_a of_o true_a faith_n which_o wheresoever_o it_o be_v purify_v the_o heart_n and_o work_v by_o love_n move_v the_o believer_n to_o endeavour_n and_o strive_v to_o mortify_v his_o corruption_n and_o to_o rise_v from_o the_o death_n of_o sin_n to_o newness_n of_o life_n and_o therefore_o well_o may_v they_o secure_o presume_v but_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o they_o shall_v true_o believe_v because_o they_o be_v utter_o destitute_a of_o a_o lively_a faith_n and_o where_o the_o cause_n be_v not_o the_o effect_n can_v follow_v and_o consequent_o for_o their_o infidelity_n they_o be_v subject_a to_o eternal_a plague_n and_o punishment_n because_o they_o do_v not_o that_o which_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o perform_v neither_o must_v we_o think_v that_o every_o kind_n of_o faith_n or_o rather_o every_o fond_a persuasion_n of_o faith_n be_v enjoin_v we_o but_o such_o a_o faith_n as_o be_v ground_v upon_o god_n word_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v teach_v we_o that_o whosoever_o live_v in_o the_o flesh_n can_v please_v god_n and_o if_o we_o live_v after_o the_o flesh_n we_o shall_v die_v rom._n 8.8.13_o 6.9_o rom._n 8.8.13_o 1._o cor._n 6.9_o that_o the_o unrighteous_a shall_v not_o inherit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n 1._o cor._n 6.9_o that_o the_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n shall_v be_v reject_v of_o christ_n matth._n 7.23_o and_o that_o no_o unclean_a thing_n 21.27_o mat._n 7.23_o revel_v 21.27_o nor_o whatsoever_o work_v abomination_n and_o lie_n shall_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n revel_v 21.27_o and_o therefore_o those_o who_o live_v in_o the_o flesh_n those_o who_o be_v worker_n of_o iniquity_n unrighteous_a and_o unclean_a in_o which_o rank_n be_v all_o those_o who_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n without_o repentance_n fulfil_v the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o fall_v continual_o into_o sin_n with_o pleasure_n and_o delight_n be_v not_o bind_v simple_o and_o absolute_o to_o believe_v so_o long_o as_o they_o resolve_v to_o continue_v in_o this_o state_n for_o so_o shall_v they_o be_v bind_v to_o believe_v that_o which_o be_v false_a and_o repugnant_a to_o god_n word_n but_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o have_v a_o true_a faith_n which_o be_v wrought_v in_o their_o heart_n will_v move_v they_o to_o forsake_v their_o sin_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n to_o hunger_n after_o righteousness_n to_o endeavour_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o holiness_n and_o newness_n of_o life_n and_o so_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n as_o their_o saviour_n and_o redeemer_n which_o fruit_n if_o our_o faith_n bring_v not_o forth_o we_o can_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v true_a faith_n or_o do_v true_o believe_v for_o though_o in_o nature_n faith_n be_v before_o repentance_n yet_o in_o our_o sense_n and_o feeling_n it_o always_o follow_v it_o neither_o do_v faith_n ever_o sound_o and_o true_o persuade_v we_o of_o god_n love_n till_o we_o have_v sorrow_v for_o our_o sin_n and_o at_o least_o in_o purpose_n of_o heart_n have_v forsake_v they_o so_o that_o whosoever_o live_v still_o in_o his_o sin_n with_o pleasure_n and_o delight_n and_o yet_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v elect_v to_o salvation_n and_o that_o he_o be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o shall_v continue_a in_o this_o state_n be_v make_v a_o heir_n of_o eternal_a life_n he_o be_v not_o endue_v with_o true_a faith_n but_o with_o fond_a presumption_n and_o carnal_a security_n which_o make_v he_o to_o believe_v that_o which_o be_v false_a and_o repugnant_a to_o god_n word_n though_o then_o all_o man_n even_o carnal_a worldling_n and_o reprobate_n be_v bind_v to_o believe_v and_o because_o they_o do_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o condemnation_n as_o commit_v a_o great_a and_o fearful_a sin_n as_o appear_v joh._n 3.18_o and_o 16.8.9_o where_o our_o saviour_n say_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n shall_v reprove_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n 16.8.9_o joh._n 3.18_o and_o 16.8.9_o because_o they_o believe_v not_o in_o he_o yet_o they_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o believe_v continue_v in_o their_o worldliness_n and_o resolve_v to_o go_v on_o in_o their_o sin_n for_o such_o a_o faith_n be_v but_o fond_a presumption_n but_o they_o be_v bind_v so_o to_o believe_v as_o that_o their_o faith_n may_v be_v ground_v upon_o god_n word_n which_o it_o can_v never_o possible_o be_v if_o it_o be_v sever_v from_o true_a repentance_n and_o for_o want_v of_o this_o faith_n they_o be_v condemn_v chap._n viii_o the_o last_o argument_n ground_v upon_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n §_o sect._n 1_o last_o whatsoever_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v testify_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o a_o man_n and_o do_v full_o assure_v he_o thereof_o that_o he_o be_v to_o believe_v and_o of_o that_o he_o ought_v undoubted_o to_o be_v assure_v but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v testify_v to_o the_o faithful_a and_o do_v full_o assure_v they_o that_o they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n by_o adoption_n and_o grace_n and_o consequent_o that_o they_o be_v elect_v for_o none_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n but_o those_o who_o be_v predestinate_a to_o be_v adopt_v through_o jesus_n christ_n as_o it_o be_v ephes_n 1.5_o 1.5_o eph._n 1.5_o and_o therefore_o the_o faithful_a be_v to_o believe_v and_o ought_v undoubted_o to_o be_v assure_v that_o they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n elect_v to_o everlasting_a life_n the_o prosition_n be_v manifest_a for_o what_o more_o certain_a truth_n can_v be_v imagine_v than_o that_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n witness_v unto_o our_o spirit_n and_o confirm_v unto_o we_o see_v all_o the_o property_n require_v in_o a_o true_a witness_n do_v concur_v in_o he_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n namely_o knowledge_n truth_n and_o faithfulness_n for_o knowledge_n he_o be_v infinite_a and_o know_v all_o thing_n even_o the_o eternal_a council_n and_o decree_n of_o god_n concern_v our_o election_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 2.10_o 2.10.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o the_o spirit_n search_v all_o thing_n even_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n and_o this_o spirit_n do_v we_o receive_v that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v vers_n 12._o what_o fit_a witness_n therefore_o can_v be_v imagine_v in_o this_o
have_v their_o beginning_n for_o the_o most_o part_n long_o since_o the_o time_n of_o abraham_n as_o their_o own_o history_n manifest_o declare_v neither_o do_v any_o other_o religion_n of_o the_o heathen_a continue_v one_o and_o the_o same_o for_o that_o which_o one_o receive_v another_o reject_v that_o which_o one_o confirm_v another_o change_v and_o time_n have_v wear_v they_o all_o out_o leave_v scarce_o any_o small_a remnant_n or_o relic_n of_o they_o and_o therefore_o all_o other_o religion_n save_v that_o which_o be_v deliver_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v false_a and_o counterfeit_a and_o this_o only_a the_o truth_n of_o god_n §_o sect._n 3_o scripture_n 2._o reason_n take_v from_o the_o purity_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o scripture_n second_o the_o purity_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o scripture_n do_v evident_o show_v that_o they_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n indict_v by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n for_o they_o manifest_v unto_o we_o the_o only_a true_a god_n and_o propound_v he_o alone_o unto_o we_o to_o be_v worship_v express_v also_o the_o manner_n and_o mean_n of_o his_o service_n from_o which_o we_o must_v not_o decline_v on_o the_o right_a hand_n or_o on_o the_o left_a but_o all_o other_o religion_n teach_v we_o either_o to_o worship_v many_o god_n which_o be_v a_o thing_n absurd_a in_o reason_n and_o contrary_a to_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n as_o diverse_a of_o the_o wise_a philosopher_n well_o discern_v or_o to_o worship_v the_o true_a god_n not_o according_a to_o his_o reveal_v will_n but_o according_a to_o their_o false_a imagination_n &_o erroneous_a superstition_n now_o nature_n reason_n and_o experience_n itself_o teach_v we_o that_o there_o be_v no_o wise_a king_n but_o will_v set_v down_o rule_v and_o law_n according_a to_o which_o he_o will_v be_v serve_v and_o obey_v and_o not_o leave_v it_o to_o every_o one_o fantasy_n and_o vain_a imagination_n and_o shall_v we_o think_v god_n less_o wise_a than_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v not_o have_v a_o perfect_a law_n for_o the_o government_n of_o his_o people_n but_o suffer_v every_o man_n to_o follow_v his_o own_o blind_a conceit_n and_o ignorant_a superstition_n §_o sect._n 4_o scripture_n 3._o reason_n take_v from_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o writer_n of_o the_o scripture_n three_o the_o sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o writer_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n be_v a_o manifest_a argument_n that_o they_o be_v guide_v and_o direct_v by_o god_n spirit_n for_o they_o deliver_v nothing_o in_o their_o own_o name_n but_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o arrogate_a any_o praise_n unto_o themselves_o but_o ascribe_v all_o glory_n unto_o god_n neither_o do_v they_o in_o their_o preach_n or_o write_n seek_v themselves_o or_o aim_v at_o any_o worldly_a benefit_n nay_o rather_o they_o be_v content_a to_o be_v contemptible_a subject_a to_o scoff_n and_o taunt_n yea_o to_o offer_v themselves_o to_o death_n and_o deprivation_n of_o all_o worldly_a felicity_n for_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n which_o they_o have_v deliver_v and_o whereas_o diverse_a of_o they_o may_v have_v live_v in_o all_o pomp_n if_o they_o will_v have_v follow_v the_o time_n wink_v at_o the_o sin_n of_o ruler_n and_o suppress_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o they_o have_v receive_v of_o he_o they_o choose_v rather_o to_o suffer_v persecution_n yea_o death_n itself_o than_o they_o will_v keep_v back_o any_o of_o the_o counsel_n of_o god_n as_o appear_v in_o the_o example_n of_o esay_n jeremie_n ezechiel_n michaeas_n zacharias_n a●nos_n and_o many_o other_o of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n neither_o do_v they_o in_o their_o writing_n abstain_v only_o from_o seek_v their_o own_o glory_n and_o praise_n but_o also_o set_v down_o those_o thing_n which_o may_v tend_v to_o their_o discredit_n to_o the_o end_n god_n may_v be_v glorify_v in_o their_o infirmity_n the_o truth_n confess_v and_o preserve_v and_o the_o church_n of_o god_n benefit_v when_o by_o see_v the_o weakness_n of_o the_o most_o strong_a they_o be_v keep_v from_o presume_v on_o their_o own_o strength_n and_o from_o despair_v in_o god_n mercy_n and_o thus_o moses_n conceal_v not_o the_o fall_n of_o our_o grand_a parent_n the_o drunkenness_n of_o noah_n the_o incest_n of_o lot_n the_o lie_n of_o isaac_n the_o whoredom_n of_o judas_n nay_o which_v more_o near_o concern_v he_o he_o plain_o reveal_v the_o horrible_a and_o bloody_a sin_n of_o his_o grandfather_n levy_n 49.5.6_o gen._n 49.5.6_o and_o simeon_n in_o murder_v the_o sichemite_n and_o the_o curse_n of_o their_o father_n jacob_n pronounce_v against_o they_o for_o this_o their_o outrage_n genes_n 49.5.6_o which_o can_v not_o in_o humane_a reason_n but_o be_v dishonourable_a to_o his_o stock_n &_o progeny_n and_o offensive_a to_o all_o who_o be_v of_o that_o tribe_n furthermore_o he_o display_v the_o corruption_n imperfection_n and_o often_o rebellion_n of_o that_o people_n who_o salvation_n he_o prefer_v before_o his_o own_o soul_n he_o spare_v not_o to_o set_v down_o the_o idolatry_n of_o his_o own_o brothur_n aaron_n nor_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o sister_n miriam_n in_o murmur_v against_o he_o nor_o of_o aaron_n son_n in_o offer_v with_o strange_a fire_n nay_o he_o leave_v the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o own_o sin_n of_o impatiency_n and_o unbelief_n for_o which_o he_o be_v debar_v from_o enter_v into_o the_o land_n of_o promise_n unto_o all_o posterity_n as_o a_o perpetual_a note_n of_o his_o own_o weakness_n and_o infirmity_n neither_o seek_v he_o at_o all_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o the_o advancement_n of_o his_o posterity_n but_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n &_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n as_o may_v hereby_o appear_v in_o that_o when_o the_o government_n be_v establish_v in_o his_o hand_n he_o do_v not_o make_v his_o own_o son_n his_o successor_n but_o josua_n his_o servant_n because_o god_n have_v so_o appoint_v it_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o jeremie_n who_o have_v in_o his_o prophecy_n leave_v record_n of_o his_o murmur_a and_o impatiency_n 20._o jerem._n 20._o jere._n 20_o of_o jonas_n who_o have_v set_v down_o his_o own_o rebellion_n punishment_n and_o repine_v against_o god_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n who_o have_v not_o spare_v to_o call_v himself_o a_o cruel_a persecuter_n and_o chief_a of_o all_o sinner_n now_o we_o know_v that_o natural_o we_o desire_v to_o conceal_v the_o fault_n of_o our_o friend_n and_o kindred_n and_o we_o count_v he_o a_o evil_a bird_n that_o defile_v his_o own_o nest_n natural_o we_o seek_v our_o own_o praise_n and_o the_o advancement_n of_o our_o child_n and_o can_v brook_v ●othing_v less_o than_o that_o our_o fault_n shall_v be_v diwlge_v and_o become_v table_n talk_v and_o therefore_o this_o detection_n of_o their_o own_o and_o their_o friend_n fall_v and_o fault_n can_v not_o proceed_v from_o nature_n or_o any_o worldly_a policy_n but_o from_o the_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o overrule_v their_o affection_n and_o take_v away_o all_o partiality_n §_o sect._n 5_o scripture_n the_o four_o reason_n take_v from_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o diverse_a writer_n of_o the_o scripture_n four_o the_o wonderful_a consent_n which_o be_v among_o the_o diverse_a writer_n of_o the_o scripture_n do_v evident_o show_v that_o they_o be_v guide_v and_o direct_v by_o one_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o whereas_o it_o be_v true_o say_v of_o other_o man_n quot_fw-la homines_fw-la tot_fw-la sententiae_fw-la look_v how_o many_o man_n there_o be_v and_o so_o many_o mind_n there_o be_v whereof_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o every_o writer_n almost_o vari_v from_o another_o gainsay_v and_o confute_v that_o which_o another_o have_v deliver_v that_o so_o out_o of_o the_o ash_n of_o their_o credit_n and_o reputation_n they_o may_v build_v a_o monument_n of_o their_o own_o fame_n the_o quite_o contrary_a be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o writer_n of_o the_o scripture_n who_o successive_o write_v one_o after_o another_o the_o space_n of_o diverse_a thousand_o year_n do_v notwithstanding_o consent_v together_o in_o the_o same_o truth_n the_o late_a ratify_n and_o confirm_v that_o which_o the_o former_a have_v deliver_v without_o any_o alteration_n opposition_n or_o emulation_n as_o though_o they_o be_v diverse_a hand_n set_v on_o work_n by_o the_o same_o soul_n which_o can_v not_o possible_o come_v to_o pass_v unless_o they_o be_v overrule_v by_o god_n spirit_n §_o sect._n 6_o opposition_n the_o sift_n reason_n take_v from_o the_o wonderful_a preservation_n of_o the_o scripture_n against_o all_o opposition_n five_o the_o mighty_a opposition_n which_o have_v be_v make_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o wicked_a imp_n against_o this_o doctrine_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o yet_o all_o in_o vain_a do_v evident_o show_v that_o they_o be_v god_n word_n and_o truth_n the_o patronage_n and_o protection_n whereof_o he_o have_v himself_o
this_o must_v not_o make_v we_o to_o neglect_v all_o till_o there_o be_v a_o universal_a agreement_n for_o as_o well_o may_v be_v reconcile_v light_n and_o darkness_n the_o child_n of_o god_n with_o the_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n grace_n &_o natural_a corruption_n truth_n and_o error_n as_o the_o true_a religion_n with_o those_o which_o be_v false_a or_o the_o professor_n of_o the_o one_o with_o the_o professor_n of_o the_o other_o those_o who_o have_v important_a business_n abroad_o do_v not_o stay_v at_o home_n and_o refuse_v to_o travail_v because_o some_o go_v out_o of_o the_o way_n but_o therefore_o they_o be_v more_o careful_a to_o inform_v themselves_o of_o every_o turn_n in_o their_o journey_n because_o they_o will_v not_o err_v with_o other_o those_o that_o have_v a_o desire_n to_o live_v do_v not_o refuse_v all_o meat_n because_o some_o surfeit_n &_o die_v by_o eat_v that_o which_o be_v unwholesome_a but_o rather_o hereby_o they_o be_v make_v more_o wary_a in_o make_v good_a choice_n of_o such_o diet_n as_o be_v fit_a for_o the_o preservation_n of_o their_o health_n those_o also_o who_o be_v sick_a do_v not_o neglect_v all_o physic_n because_o there_o be_v many_o cozen_a impostor_n and_o unlearned_a empiric_n who_o kill_v in_o stead_n of_o cure_v but_o this_o make_v they_o with_o more_o circumspection_n to_o find_v out_o a_o skilful_a and_o learned_a physician_n let_v we_o therefore_o follow_v the_o like_a practice_n in_o these_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o see_v there_o be_v but_o one_o direct_a way_n which_o lead_v unto_o heaven_n and_o many_o byway_n which_o lead_v to_o destruction_n let_v not_o this_o keep_v we_o from_o travayl_v this_o heavenly_a journey_n but_o rather_o move_v we_o with_o more_o diligence_n to_o inquire_v the_o right_n and_o perfect_a way_n see_v also_o there_o be_v many_o which_o offer_v we_o poison_v in_o stead_n of_o the_o wholesome_a food_n and_o physic_n of_o our_o soul_n let_v we_o learn_v with_o more_o care_n to_o make_v choice_n and_o to_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o but_o there_o it_o will_v be_v demand_v how_o those_o who_o be_v simple_a and_o ignorant_a can_v judge_v which_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n false_a §._o sect._n 2._o how_o the_o unlearned_a may_v discern_v the_o true_a religion_n from_o that_o which_o be_v false_a and_o which_o be_v the_o false_a who_o teach_v the_o truth_n and_o who_o falsehood_n to_o which_o i_o answer_v that_o every_o one_o must_v labour_v to_o inform_v himself_o of_o the_o truth_n by_o study_v and_o meditate_v in_o god_n word_n this_o must_v be_v his_o light_n to_o guide_v he_o his_o counsellor_n to_o inform_v he_o his_o touchstone_n whereby_o he_o may_v discern_v the_o stubble_n and_o straw_n of_o man_n invention_n from_o the_o pure_a gold_n of_o god_n true_a religion_n neither_o be_v we_o to_o receive_v all_o doctrine_n hand_n over_o head_n but_o as_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o we_o must_v try_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o no_o and_o with_o the_o man_n of_o berea_n we_o must_v search_v the_o scripture_n 17._o i._o joh._n 4.1_o act._n 17._o to_o see_v if_o those_o thing_n be_v so_o as_o they_o be_v deliver_v and_o according_o either_o receive_v they_o if_o they_o be_v consonant_n with_o god_n word_n or_o reject_v they_o if_o they_o be_v dissonant_n thereunto_o yea_o will_n some_o say_v this_o be_v a_o direct_a course_n if_o those_o only_o who_o have_v the_o truth_n on_o their_o side_n have_v scripture_n to_o allege_v but_o see_v every_o heretic_n be_v as_o ready_a to_o quote_v scripture_n for_o the_o uphold_v and_o defend_v of_o his_o heresy_n as_o the_o professor_n of_o god_n truth_n for_o the_o maintenance_n thereof_o all_o the_o question_n be_v who_o interpretation_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v as_o good_a and_o who_o to_o be_v reject_v as_o false_a and_o erroneous_a to_o this_o i_o answer_v that_o though_o there_o be_v some_o place_n in_o the_o scripture_n hard_a and_o somewhat_o doubtful_a and_o therefore_o the_o more_o easy_a to_o be_v wrest_v unto_o a_o wrong_a sense_n yet_o be_v there_o other_o clear_a end_n evident_a for_o the_o confute_v of_o all_o sect_n heresy_n and_o error_n whatsoever_o and_o therefore_o we_o must_v expound_v those_o place_n which_o be_v dark_a and_o ambiguous_a by_o those_o which_o be_v perspicuous_a and_o manifest_a for_o exmaple_n if_o we_o will_v know_v whether_o popery_n be_v the_o true_a religion_n or_o no_o we_o must_v examine_v the_o doctrine_n thereof_o by_o god_n word_n not_o make_v choice_n of_o those_o place_n which_o seem_v any_o way_n hard_a and_o doubtful_a but_o of_o those_o which_o be_v clear_a and_o manifest_a and_o so_o we_o shall_v find_v that_o their_o doctrine_n be_v as_o contrary_a to_o god_n truth_n as_o light_v to_o darkness_n for_o whereas_o they_o teach_v that_o we_o be_v able_a to_o fulfil_v the_o law_n and_o to_o merit_v heaven_n the_o scripture_n affirm_v the_o clean_a contrary_n 2.10_o i_o be_o 3.2_o and_o 2.10_o namely_o that_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o sin_v all_o i_o be_o 3.2_o and_o whosoever_o shall_v keep_v the_o whole_a law_n yet_o fail_v in_o one_o point_n be_v guilty_a of_o all_o i_o be_o 2.10_o that_o there_o be_v no_o man_n who_o sin_v not_o 8.46_o 1._o king_n 8.46_o 1._o king_n 8.46_o that_o in_o god_n sight_n none_o that_o live_v can_v be_v justify_v 10._o psal_n 143.2_o luk._n 17_o 10._o psalm_n 143.2_o that_o when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v command_v we_o we_o be_v unprofitable_a servant_n and_o have_v do_v but_o our_o duty_n and_o therefore_o merit_v nothing_o luk._n 17.10_o so_o whereas_o they_o teach_v that_o we_o must_v pray_v to_o saint_n and_o angel_n because_o they_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o the_o apostle_n flat_o exclude_v all_o other_o from_o this_o office_n but_o christ_n alone_o 2.5_o 1._o tim._n 2.5_o 1._o tim._n 2.5_o there_o be_v one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n where_o as_o they_o teach_v that_o marriage_n be_v unlawful_a for_o some_o man_n at_o all_o time_n and_o some_o meat_n unlawful_a for_o all_o man_n at_o some_o time_n the_o holy_a ghost_n tell_v we_o plain_o that_o this_o be_v erroneous_a and_o a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n 4.1.3.4_o 1._o tim._n 4.1.3.4_o and_o that_o every_o creature_n of_o god_n be_v good_a and_o nothing_o aught_o to_o be_v refuse_v if_o it_o be_v receive_v with_o thanksgiving_n 1._o tim._n 4.1.3.4_o and_o that_o marriage_n be_v honourable_a for_o all_o man_n and_o the_o bed_n undefiled_a 13.4_o heb._n 13.4_o heb._n 13.4_o that_o to_o avoid_v fornication_n every_o man_n must_v have_v his_o wife_n and_o every_o woman_n her_o own_o husband_n 1._o cor._n 7.2_o and_o that_o better_o it_o be_v to_o marry_v then_o to_o burn_v v._o 9_o 7.2_o 1._o cor._n 7.2_o whereas_o they_o teach_v that_o our_o saviour_n christ_n be_v carnal_o and_o corporal_o present_a in_o the_o sacrament_n the_o scripture_n teach_v we_o the_o contrary_a namely_o that_o he_o be_v ascend_v into_o heaven_n and_o therefore_o not_o upon_o the_o earth_n matth._n 28.6_o 28.6_o matth._n 28.6_o that_o when_o he_o be_v take_v into_o heaven_n he_o be_v take_v from_o we_o 1.11_o act._n 1.11_o act._n 1.11_o that_o the_o heaven_n must_v contain_v he_o until_o the_o time_n that_o all_o thing_n be_v restore_v 3.21_o act_n 3.21_o act._n 3.21_o whereas_o they_o teach_v that_o we_o must_v make_v and_o worship_n image_n both_o be_v express_o forbid_v in_o the_o second_o commandment_n and_o in_o many_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n whereas_o they_o teach_v that_o the_o scripture_n shall_v be_v keep_v from_o the_o common_a people_n in_o a_o unknown_a language_n the_o apostle_n plain_o affirm_v that_o he_o have_v rather_o in_o the_o church_n speak_v five_o word_n with_o his_o understanding_n that_o he_o may_v also_o instruct_v other_o 14.19_o 1._o cor._n 14.19_o than_o ten_o thousand_o word_n in_o a_o strange_a tongue_n and_o flat_o injoin_v that_o the_o prophet_n shall_v keep_v silence_n in_o the_o church_n rather_o than_o speak_v strange_a lauguage_n where_o there_o be_v no_o interpreter_n 1._o cor._n 14.19.27.28_o whereas_o they_o hold_v that_o the_o cup_n in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v to_o be_v withhold_v from_o the_o common_a people_n and_o give_v only_o to_o the_o priest_n the_o quite_o contrary_a be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o institution_n whereas_o our_o saviour_n say_v drink_v you_o all_o of_o it_o because_o it_o be_v his_o blood_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n that_o be_v shed_v for_o many_o for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n plain_o thereby_o infer_v that_o this_o sign_n and_o sacrament_n of_o his_o blood_n belong_v to_o as_o many_o as_o be_v redeem_v by_o it_o 26.28_o matth_n 26.28_o matth._n 26.28_o and_o whereas_o they_o say_v that_o here_o the_o disciple_n be_v only_o
and_o that_o to_o they_o alone_o this_o speech_n be_v direct_v the_o apostle_n plain_o take_v away_o this_o cavil_n for_o set_v down_o the_o word_n of_o institution_n for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o corinth_n he_o will_v every_o one_o indefinite_o to_o examine_v himself_o and_o so_o to_o eat_v of_o this_o bread_n and_o drink_n of_o this_o cup_n 11.28_o 1._o cor._n 11.28_o 1._o corinth_n 11.28_o and_o thus_o if_o we_o study_v and_o meditate_v in_o god_n word_n we_o shall_v find_v most_o clear_a &_o manifest_a place_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o confutation_n of_o all_o sect_n error_n and_o heresy_n but_o what_o if_o this_o mean_n be_v take_v away_o from_o we_o of_o read_v &_o study_v the_o scripture_n either_o because_o they_o be_v only_o to_o be_v have_v in_o a_o unknown_a language_n as_o in_o the_o time_n of_o popery_n or_o because_o we_o can_v read_v and_o have_v no_o body_n to_o teach_v we_o what_o if_o both_o read_n and_o study_v they_o we_o find_v many_o doubt_n and_o difficulty_n and_o diverse_a place_n which_o seem_v to_o favour_v diverse_a and_o opposite_a opinion_n and_o religion_n how_o the_o must_v we_o quit_v ourselves_o out_o of_o this_o labyrinth_n of_o ambiguity_n and_o doubtfulness_n see_v it_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o appeal_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o either_o faction_n i_o answer_v that_o in_o these_o day_n the_o mean_n of_o knowledge_n be_v not_o so_o scant_o but_o that_o they_o may_v enjoy_v they_o that_o labour_n for_o they_o for_o either_o they_o may_v obtain_v the_o use_n of_o the_o scripture_n in_o their_o own_o language_n where_o they_o dwell_v or_o else_o in_o some_o other_o place_n by_o remove_v their_o habitation_n &_o though_o they_o can_v read_v yet_o it_o be_v no_o hard_a matter_n to_o learn_v to_o those_o who_o will_v use_v pain_n and_o diligence_n or_o at_o least_o to_o get_v the_o help_n of_o other_o to_o supply_v their_o want_n and_o defect_n in_o this_o behalf_n but_o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o we_o be_v abandon_v of_o all_o these_o mean_n or_o that_o use_v they_o there_o be_v some_o doubt_n remain_v of_o which_o we_o can_v be_v resolve_v be_v we_o therefore_o destitute_a of_o help_n and_o forsake_v of_o all_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n no_o sure_o for_o if_o when_o allother_n mean_v fail_v we_o we_o have_v our_o recourse_n unto_o god_n by_o earnest_n &_o effectual_a prayer_n instant_o crave_v his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o guide_v and_o direct_v we_o we_o have_v a_o merciful_a promise_n that_o he_o will_v hear_v our_o request_n and_o grant_v unto_o we_o his_o holy_a spirit_n as_o it_o be_v luke_n 11.13_o 11.13_o luke_n 11.13_o and_o that_o thereby_o he_o will_v illuminate_v the_o blind_a eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n inlighten_v our_o mind_n with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o take_v away_o from_o we_o all_o prejudice_n of_o opinion_n and_o forestall_a judgement_n so_o as_o we_o shall_v discern_v truth_n from_o falsehood_n and_o god_n true_a religion_n from_o error_n and_o lie_n sect_n and_o heresy_n 16.13_o john_n 16.13_o for_o this_o spirit_n of_o truth_n will_v lead_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n as_o it_o be_v joh._n 16.13_o he_o search_v all_o thing_n 2.10.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o even_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n and_o to_o this_o end_n we_o receive_v he_o that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o he_o be_v that_o precious_a eye-salue_n wherewith_o be_v anoint_v we_o see_v 3.18_o revel_v 3.18_o who_o before_o be_v blind_a revel_v 3.18_o and_o if_o once_o we_o have_v receive_v this_o anoint_v we_o need_v not_o that_o any_o man_n shall_v teach_v we_o 2.27_o 1._o joh._n 2.27_o for_o this_o anoint_v teach_v we_o all_o thing_n as_o it_o be_v 1._o joh._n 2.27_o though_o therefore_o we_o be_v abandon_v of_o all_o other_o mean_n yet_o let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o neglect_v all_o religion_n because_o we_o can_v discern_v the_o true_a religion_n from_o that_o which_o be_v false_a for_o if_o we_o earnest_o and_o sincere_o labour_v after_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o with_o good_a cornelius_n continual_o implore_v the_o assstance_n and_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o obtain_v our_o desire_n for_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v it_o and_o he_o will_v undoubted_o be_v as_o good_a as_o his_o word_n chap._n xxv_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o unfitnesse_n to_o hear_v answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o so_o much_o concern_v the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n word_n that_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n shall_v not_o hinder_v we_o from_o hear_v god_n word_n which_o he_o draw_v from_o the_o minister_n to_o discredit_v the_o gospel_n and_o to_o dissuade_v man_n from_o the_o hear_v thereof_o but_o if_o he_o can_v thus_o prevail_v he_o will_v leave_v the_o minister_n and_o come_v to_o the_o party_n themselves_o suggest_v into_o their_o mind_n that_o they_o be_v unworthy_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o innumerable_a number_n of_o their_o sin_n to_o be_v hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o be_v so_o pure_a and_o excellent_a and_o that_o their_o corruption_n be_v so_o great_a their_o understanding_n so_o blind_a their_o memory_n so_o slippery_a their_o will_n so_o perverse_a their_o heart_n and_o affection_n so_o wicked_a and_o profane_a that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v in_o regard_n of_o this_o their_o unfitness_n to_o hear_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o in_o itself_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n will_v become_v unto_o they_o the_o savour_n of_o death_n to_o their_o more_o deep_a condemnation_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v first_o that_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o hinder_v we_o from_o the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n that_o they_o shall_v rather_o serve_v as_o forcible_a argument_n to_o move_v we_o more_o attentive_o and_o diligent_o to_o hear_v it_o because_o it_o be_v the_o mean_v ordain_v of_o god_n to_o pull_v we_o out_o of_o our_o sin_n to_o purge_v we_o from_o our_o corruption_n to_o work_v in_o we_o true_a sanctification_n and_o to_o make_v we_o of_o the_o son_n of_o wrath_n the_o child_n of_o god_n moreover_o though_o we_o want_v faith_n and_o all_o other_o sanctify_a grace_n yet_o we_o be_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o therefore_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n not_o only_o to_o increase_v grace_n where_o it_o be_v begin_v but_o also_o to_o beget_v and_o begin_v it_o where_o it_o be_v want_v so_o that_o we_o must_v not_o only_o hear_v because_o we_o be_v fit_a but_o also_o that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v fit_a who_o before_o be_v unfit_a neither_o be_v we_o to_o imagine_v that_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n go_v before_o hear_v but_o follow_v after_o as_o fruit_n and_o effect_n thereof_o 10.14.17_o rom._n 10.14.17_o as_o the_o apostle_n plain_o show_v rom._n 10.14_o but_o how_o shall_v they_o call_v on_o he_o in_o who_o they_o have_v not_o believe_v and_o how_o shall_v they_o believe_v in_o he_o of_o who_o they_o have_v not_o hear_v and_o how_o shall_v they_o hear_v without_o a_o preacher_n and_o verse_n 17._o faith_n come_v by_o hear_v and_o hear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n if_o then_o there_o be_v no_o faith_n without_o hear_v nor_o no_o grace_n without_o faith_n it_o must_v needs_o follow_v that_o before_o we_o hear_v we_o be_v destitute_a of_o faith_n &_o all_o save_a grace_n and_o that_o by_o hear_v they_o be_v wrought_v in_o we_o god_n prevent_v we_o with_o his_o grace_n and_o call_v we_o unto_o himself_o not_o only_a when_o we_o have_v no_o desert_n to_o merit_v his_o mercy_n but_o also_o not_o so_o much_o as_o any_o grace_n to_o desire_v it_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n say_v 2._o tim._n 1.9_o that_o god_n have_v call_v we_o with_o a_o holy_a call_n not_o according_a to_o our_o work_n 1.9_o 2._o tim._n 1.9_o but_o according_a to_o his_o own_o purpose_n and_o grace_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o through_o christ_n jesus_n before_o the_o world_n be_v the_o truth_n hereof_o may_v appear_v in_o all_o the_o example_n of_o god_n saint_n who_o before_o their_o call_n be_v so_o far_o from_o deserve_v any_o grace_n at_o god_n hand_n that_o rather_o they_o deserve_v confusion_n &_o utter_a destruction_n for_o example_n what_o worthiness_n be_v in_o abraham_n before_o his_o conversion_n who_o live_v in_o gross_a idolatry_n what_o worthiness_n in_o rahab_n the_o harlot_n in_o manasses_n a_o cruel_a tyrant_n a_o wicked_a sorcerer_n a_o horrible_a idolater_n what_o worthiness_n in_o marie_n magdalene_n possess_v by_o
be_v flat_o repugnant_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n we_o be_v to_o assure_v ourselves_o that_o they_o be_v the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n either_o immediate_o suggest_v by_o himself_o or_o mediate_o by_o his_o messenger_n our_o corrupt_a flesh_n see_v then_o these_o suggestion_n come_v from_o satan_n who_o be_v our_o malicious_a enemy_n deceive_v joh._n 8.44_o satan_n either_o lie_v or_o else_o speak_v the_o truth_n to_o deceive_v and_o a_o liar_n from_o the_o beginning_n yea_o the_o father_n of_o lie_n we_o be_v not_o to_o believe_v they_o nay_o rather_o we_o may_v gather_v certain_a assurance_n that_o the_o contrary_n be_v true_a for_o the_o speak_v only_a lie_n or_o if_o at_o any_o time_n he_o speak_v the_o truth_n it_o be_v to_o this_o end_n that_o he_o may_v deceive_v us._n for_o example_n he_o tell_v the_o secure_a carnal_a may_v that_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o high_o in_o god_n favour_n but_o unto_o the_o humble_a sinner_n he_o say_v that_o he_o be_v a_o reprobate_n &_o shall_v most_o certain_o be_v damn_v unto_o the_o worldly_a secure_a man_n he_o say_v that_o god_n be_v most_o merciful_a than_o the_o which_o nothing_o can_v be_v more_o true_a but_o do_v not_o speak_v this_o in_o his_o conscience_n because_o he_o will_v have_v he_o to_o taste_v thereof_o but_o to_o lull_v he_o a_o sleep_n with_o this_o sweet_a siren's_a song_n to_o his_o eternal_a perdition_n on_o the_o other_o side_n when_o he_o have_v to_o deal_v with_o the_o bruise_a heart_n and_o contrite_a spirit_n he_o tell_v he_o of_o nothing_o but_o of_o god_n exact_a justice_n to_o the_o end_n that_o he_o may_v plunge_v he_o into_o utter_a desperation_n in_o a_o word_n whatsoever_o he_o speak_v in_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n it_o be_v either_o false_a in_o itself_o or_o if_o true_a in_o they_o yet_o false_a in_o hypocrisy_n if_o true_a in_o the_o general_a yet_o false_a in_o the_o particular_a application_n as_o what_o can_v be_v more_o true_a than_o that_o god_n be_v just_a and_o what_o more_o false_a than_o that_o he_o will_v excercise_n his_o justice_n in_o punish_v repentant_a and_o humble_a sinner_n what_o can_v be_v more_o true_a than_o that_o god_n be_v most_o merciful_a and_o what_o more_o false_a than_o that_o he_o will_v show_v this_o his_o mercy_n be_v save_v those_o who_o live_v and_o die_v in_o their_o sin_n without_o repentance_n &_o yet_o it_o be_v most_o usual_a with_o satan_n to_o affirm_v both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o lie_v in_o both_o because_o he_o do_v misapply_v they_o and_o therefore_o see_v satan_n do_v never_o speak_v the_o truth_n or_o else_o do_v false_o apply_v it_o in_o respect_n of_o our_o estate_n let_v we_o acquaint_v ourselves_o with_o his_o false_a language_n and_o so_o by_o hear_v his_o lie_n we_o may_v be_v the_o better_o assure_v of_o the_o truth_n for_o example_n when_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o our_o sin_n be_v unpardonable_a that_o it_o be_v now_o too_o late_o to_o turn_v unto_o the_o lord_n that_o we_o be_v reprobate_n and_o damn_a wretch_n we_o know_v that_o our_o malicious_a enemy_n by_o his_o lie_n do_v continual_o seek_v our_o destruction_n be_v contrariwise_o to_o assure_v ourselves_o that_o god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n far_o exceed_v our_o sin_n that_o now_o be_v the_o acceptable_a time_n and_o day_n of_o salvation_n if_o we_o will_v turn_v unto_o god_n and_o hear_v his_o voice_n not_o harden_v our_o heart_n that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o salvation_n the_o vessel_n of_o mercy_n and_o belove_a child_n of_o god_n §_o sect._n 4_o last_o those_o who_o be_v heavy_a lade_v with_o the_o burden_n of_o their_o sin_n nation_n the_o last_o argument_n take_v from_o the_o experience_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o pardon_v other_o and_o first_o of_o whole_a city_n and_o nation_n may_v gather_v unto_o themselves_o assurance_n of_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o they_o by_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n mercy_n extend_v unto_o other_o repentant_a sinner_n for_o there_o be_v never_o any_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n to_o this_o day_n be_v their_o sin_n never_o so_o heinous_a or_o innumerable_a who_o have_v not_o be_v receive_v to_o mercy_n and_o pardon_v of_o our_o gracious_a god_n whensoever_o they_o do_v unfeigned_o turn_v unto_o he_o and_o this_o may_v appear_v whether_o we_o consider_v whole_a city_n or_o nation_n or_o else_o particular_a man_n of_o the_o first_o we_o have_v a_o notable_a example_n in_o the_o israelite_n which_o live_v in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o judge_n who_o though_o they_o do_v many_o time_n negligent_o forget_v the_o great_a mercy_n and_o inestimable_a benefit_n of_o god_n show_v to_o their_o forefather_n of_o which_o also_o themselves_o have_v be_v partaker_n though_o they_o forsake_v the_o lord_n not_o once_o or_o twice_o but_o very_o often_o even_o then_o when_o he_o most_o bind_v they_o unto_o he_o with_o multiply_v upon_o they_o the_o benefit_n of_o peace_n and_o plenty_n and_o though_o they_o let_v the_o reins_n lose_v unto_o all_o wickedness_n yea_o which_o be_v most_o abominable_a and_o odious_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n though_o they_o worship_v and_o serve_v baal_n and_o asteroth_n and_o other_o idol_n of_o the_o curse_a nation_n for_o which_o horrible_a idolatry_n god_n have_v cast_v out_o the_o nation_n before_o they_o yet_o whensoever_o they_o turn_v unto_o the_o lord_n he_o pardon_v their_o sin_n receive_v they_o into_o his_o former_a love_n and_o favour_n and_o deliver_v they_o out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o all_o their_o enemy_n so_o likewise_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o prophet_n esay_n 16._o the_o example_n of_o the_o israelit_v in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o prophet_n esay_n esay_n 1.5_o to_o the_o 16._o to_o what_o a_o notorious_a height_n of_o wickedness_n be_v the_o same_o people_n grow_v as_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o prophet_n do_v decipher_v and_o describe_v they_o in_o the_o first_o chapter_n of_o that_o prophecy_n in_o the_o 2._o ver_fw-la he_o call_v heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o witness_v their_o horrible_a rebellion_n in_o the_o 3._o verse_n he_o show_v that_o their_o unthankfulness_n for_o all_o his_o mercy_n far_o exceed_v the_o ungratitude_n of_o bruit_n beast_n in_o the_o 4._o verse_n he_o exclaym_v out_o against_o they_o call_v they_o a_o sinfullnation_n a_o people_n lade_v with_o iniquity_n a_o seed_n of_o the_o wicked_a corrupt_a child_n who_o have_v for_o saken_a the_o lord_n and_o provoke_v the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n to_o anger_n in_o the_o 5._o and_o 6._o verse_n he_o show_v their_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o obstinacy_n in_o their_o rebellion_n which_o be_v so_o great_a that_o though_o the_o lord_n send_v affliction_n &_o chastise_v mentes_fw-la upon_o they_o yet_o they_o be_v no_o whit_n reform_v but_o wax_v worse_a and_o worse_o and_o that_o this_o be_v not_o the_o case_n of_o some_o few_o but_o of_o all_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o people_n for_o the_o whole_a head_n be_v sick_a and_o the_o whole_a heart_n be_v heaute_n and_o that_o from_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o foot_n to_o the_o crown_n of_o the_o head_n there_o be_v nothing_o sound_v therein_o but_o wound_n and_o swell_n and_o sore_n full_a of_o corruption_n the_o cure_n whereof_o they_o utter_o neglect_v in_o the_o 10._o verse_n he_o match_v the_o sin_n of_o both_o prince_n and_o people_n with_o those_o cry_a sin_n and_o outrageous_a wickedness_n of_o sodom_n and_o gomorah_n which_o bring_v down_o from_o heaven_n fire_n and_o brimstone_n to_o consume_v they_o in_o the_o 11.12.13_o and_o 14._o verse_n he_o complain_v of_o their_o filthy_a hypocrisy_n in_o god_n outward_a worship_n join_v with_o the_o utter_a neglect_n of_o true_a godliness_n and_o his_o spiritual_a service_n which_o cause_v the_o lord_n to_o detest_v all_o their_o sacrifice_n sabbothe_n and_o new_a moon_n so_o that_o their_o can_v not_o be_v imagine_v great_a wickedness_n in_o any_o people_n respect_v those_o notable_a mean_n which_o the_o lord_n continual_o grant_v unto_o they_o above_o all_o other_o nation_n for_o their_o own_o conversion_n and_o therefore_o who_o will_v not_o have_v think_v their_o state_n to_o be_v most_o desperate_a who_o will_v not_o have_v look_v daily_o that_o the_o lord_n shall_v have_v consume_v they_o with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n or_o have_v cause_v the_o earth_n to_o have_v swallow_v they_o up_o alive_a as_o it_o do_v corah_n and_o he_o assotiat_v but_o behold_v the_o infinite_a mercy_n of_o our_o gracious_a god_n even_o when_o they_o wallow_v in_o this_o filthy_a sink_n of_o all_o impiety_n the_o lord_n call_v they_o to_o repentance_n and_o when_o as_o they_o have_v forsake_v he_o and_o flee_v from_o he_o desire_v nothing_o less_o than_o to_o make_v or_o meddle_v with_o he_o the_o lord_n
we_o come_v to_o the_o fight_n we_o think_v that_o we_o can_v repel_v the_o strong_a assault_n and_o overcome_v all_o enemy_n which_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o we_o by_o our_o own_o power_n but_o when_o we_o see_v ourselves_o vanquish_v and_o foil_v with_o every_o small_a temptation_n we_o learn_v to_o have_v a_o more_o humble_a conceit_n of_o our_o own_o ability_n and_o to_o depend_v whole_o upon_o the_o lord_n and_o this_o end_n be_v set_v down_o deut._n 8.2_o and_o 13.3_o 13.3_o deut._n 8.2_o and_o 13.3_o five_o the_o lord_n permit_v satan_n continual_o to_o assail_v we_o with_o his_o temptation_n to_o the_o end_n we_o may_v continual_o buckle_v unto_o we_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v be_v ready_a for_o the_o battle_n for_o as_o those_o who_o have_v no_o enemy_n to_o encounter_v they_o cast_v their_o armour_n aside_o and_o let_v it_o rust_n because_o they_o be_v secure_a from_o danger_n but_o when_o the_o enemy_n be_v at_o hand_n and_o sound_v the_o alarm_n they_o both_o wake_v and_o sleep_v in_o their_o armour_n ready_a for_o the_o assault_n so_o if_o we_o shall_v not_o continual_o skirmish_v with_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n we_o will_v lay_v aside_o the_o spiritual_a armour_n but_o when_o we_o have_v continual_a use_n of_o it_o both_o day_n and_o night_n we_o keep_v it_o fast_o buckle_v unto_o we_o that_o be_v arm_v at_o all_o point_n we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o make_v resistance_n that_o we_o be_v not_o surprise_v at_o unaware_o last_o by_o this_o conflict_n the_o lord_n strengthen_v and_o increase_v all_o his_o grace_n in_o we_o for_o as_o by_o exercise_v the_o strength_n of_o the_o body_n be_v preserve_v and_o augment_v and_o in_o short_a time_n decay_v through_o idleness_n and_o sloth_n so_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n spirit_n faith_n affiance_n hope_v patience_n and_o the_o rest_n languish_v in_o we_o if_o they_o be_v not_o exercise_v with_o temptation_n 5.3.4_o rom._n 5.3.4_o for_o tribulation_n bring_v forth_o patience_n and_o patience_n experience_n and_o experience_n hope_v and_o hope_n make_v not_o ashamed_a as_o it_o be_v rom._n 5.3_o 4_o 5._o for_o when_o once_o we_o have_v be_v tempt_v and_o try_v and_o the_o lord_n have_v merciful_o deliver_v we_o from_o the_o temptation_n afterward_o be_v so_o assault_v we_o patient_o endure_v it_o hope_v for_o the_o lord_n assistance_n 27.9_o 1._o sam._n 17.37_o psal_n 27.9_o believe_v and_o assure_v ourselves_o that_o the_o lord_n who_o have_v deliver_v we_o will_v again_o deliver_v we_o as_o it_o be_v psal_n 27.9_o moreover_o when_o we_o see_v the_o great_a need_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n this_o will_v be_v a_o strong_a motive_n to_o entice_v we_o to_o a_o careful_a use_n of_o all_o good_a mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o they_o whereas_o if_o we_o be_v free_a from_o this_o spiritual_a conflict_n we_o shall_v not_o so_o clear_o see_v nor_o apprehend_v the_o use_n and_o necessity_n of_o they_o chap._n iii_o argument_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v encourage_v to_o enter_v into_o this_o spiritual_a conflict_n §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o have_v i_o show_v that_o all_o that_o will_v be_v god_n servant_n must_v fight_v his_o battle_n against_o he_o and_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o the_o cause_n why_o the_o lord_n press_v we_o to_o this_o service_n now_o that_o we_o may_v go_v courageous_o into_o the_o field_n let_v we_o consider_v of_o some_o reason_n and_o motive_n which_o may_v make_v we_o resolute_a and_o valiant_a the_o first_o be_v the_o justness_n of_o our_o cause_n for_o though_o soldier_n be_v never_o so_o strong_a and_o well_o furnish_v yet_o if_o their_o conscience_n tell_v they_o that_o they_o fight_v in_o a_o bad_a quarrel_n it_o will_v much_o abate_v their_o courage_n and_o make_v they_o cowardly_a and_o timorous_a but_o our_o cause_n be_v most_o just_a and_o our_o war_n most_o lawful_a for_o god_n who_o be_v justice_n itself_o have_v proclaim_v it_o by_o his_o herald_n the_o apostle_n 6.10_o eph._n 6.10_o so_o ephe._n 6.10_o final_o my_o brethren_n be_v strong_a in_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o the_o power_n of_o his_o might_n 11._o put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n that_o you_o may_v be_v able_a to_o stand_v against_o the_o assault_n of_o the_o devil_n 5.8_o jam._n 4.7_o 1._o pet._n 5.8_o etc._n etc._n and_o jam._n 4.7_o resist_v the_o devil_n and_o he_o will_v fly_v from_o you_o and_o 1._o pet._n 5.8_o be_v sober_a and_o watch_n for_o your_o adversary_n the_o devil_n as_o a_o roar_a lion_n walk_v about_o seek_v who_o he_o may_v devour_v 9_o who_o resist_v steadfast_a in_o the_o faith_n importance_n the_o cause_n of_o our_o spiritual_a war_n of_o great_a importance_n second_o the_o cause_n of_o our_o war_n be_v of_o great_a weight_n as_o namely_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o salvation_n for_o in_o all_o satan_n skirmish_n he_o seek_v to_o impeach_v god_n glory_n with_o false_a imputation_n and_o to_o bring_v we_o to_o utter_v destruction_n and_o this_o may_v appear_v by_o his_o first_o conflict_n with_o our_o mother_n eve_n 3.4.5_o gen._n 3.4.5_o gen._n 3.4.5_o where_o he_o accuse_v god_n of_o a_o lie_n who_o be_v truth_n itself_o and_o of_o impotency_n and_o envious_a disdain_n say_v that_o the_o cause_n why_o he_o do_v forbid_v they_o to_o cate_z of_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a be_v not_o as_o he_o have_v say_v because_o they_o shall_v die_v but_o because_o he_o know_v that_o when_o they_o shall_v eat_v thereof_o their_o eye_n shall_v be_v open_v and_o they_o shall_v be_v as_o god_n know_v good_a and_o evil_a where_o first_o he_o seek_v to_o dim_v the_o beam_n of_o god_n glory_n by_o accuse_v he_o of_o a_o lie_n and_o to_o persuade_v they_o that_o he_o be_v not_o omnipotent_a see_v that_o he_o be_v not_o able_a to_o hinder_v they_o from_o be_v god_n if_o they_o taste_v of_o this_o fruit_n last_o that_o he_o therefore_o forbid_v they_o to_o eat_v thereof_o because_o he_o envy_v they_o so_o glorious_a a_o estate_n and_o second_o he_o labour_v to_o destroy_v our_o first_o parent_n both_o body_n and_o soul_n by_o tempt_v they_o to_o disobedience_n and_o the_o transgression_n of_o god_n commandment_n and_o therefore_o our_o saviour_n christ_n joh._n 8.44_o do_v very_o fit_o join_v these_o two_o together_o say_v 8.44_o joh._n 8.44_o that_o he_o be_v a_o liar_n and_o a_o manslayer_n from_o the_o beginning_n a_o liar_n in_o that_o he_o false_o accuse_v god_n of_o lie_v a_o manslayer_n because_o he_o do_v it_o to_o this_o end_n that_o he_o may_v murder_v our_o first_o parent_n and_o all_o their_o posterity_n both_o body_n and_o soul_n so_o that_o you_o see_v that_o the_o end_n of_o satan_n fight_n be_v to_o dishonour_n god_n and_o destroy_v we_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o have_v any_o regard_n of_o god_n glory_n which_o shall_v be_v more_o dear_a unto_o we_o than_o our_o own_o soul_n or_o any_o respect_n of_o our_o own_o salvation_n if_o we_o will_v not_o treacherous_o betray_v they_o both_o by_o our_o slothfulness_n or_o cowardice_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n and_o our_o enemy_n let_v we_o valiant_o enter_v the_o field_n and_o never_o cease_v our_o courageous_a fight_n till_o we_o have_v obtain_v a_o full_a victory_n §_o sect._n 2_o the_o second_o reason_n to_o move_v we_o to_o undertake_v this_o fight_n be_v the_o profit_n which_o will_v accrue_v unto_o we_o thereby_o fight_n the_o profit_n of_o this_o spiritual_a fight_n for_o if_o the_o get_n of_o some_o booty_n and_o prize_n or_o the_o receive_n of_o some_o trifle_a pay_n will_v move_v the_o soldier_n of_o earthly_a prince_n to_o undergo_v all_o danger_n and_o with_o wonderful_a peril_n of_o life_n to_o fight_v even_o at_o the_o cannon_n mouth_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o stipend_n of_o our_o heavenly_a king_n move_v we_o to_o fight_v this_o combat_n how_o terrible_a soever_o it_o seem_v to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n for_o first_o that_o be_v true_o here_o verify_v pax_fw-la belli_fw-la filia_fw-la peace_n be_v the_o daughter_n of_o war_n neither_o can_v we_o soon_o enter_v the_o field_n to_o fight_v against_o these_o enemy_n but_o present_o we_o shall_v have_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o soon_o after_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o the_o peace_n of_o conscience_n whereas_o if_o we_o betray_v god_n cause_n to_o satan_n and_o our_o soul_n to_o sin_n well_o may_v we_o be_v lull_v asleep_a in_o carnal_a security_n but_o we_o shall_v never_o enjoy_v this_o peace_n with_o god_n and_o peace_n of_o conscience_n for_o there_o be_v no_o peace_n say_v my_o god_n to_o the_o wicked_a esa_n 57_o and_o whosoever_o have_v take_v this_o treacherous_a truce_n with_o satan_n 37.21_o esa_n 37.21_o shall_v find_v that_o he_o will_v break_v it_o for_o
matth._n 6._o our_o prayer_n be_v odious_a and_o pharisaical_a matth._n 6._o thanksgiving_n be_v a_o excellent_a duty_n but_o if_o with_o the_o pharisee_n we_o give_v thanks_n rather_o to_o boast_v of_o our_o gift_n then_o to_o show_v true_a thankfulness_n to_o the_o giver_n 18._o luk._n 18._o we_o shall_v not_o be_v approve_v of_o god_n give_v of_o alm_n be_v a_o work_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n for_o it_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n wherewith_o he_o be_v well_o please_v 13.16_o heb._n 13.16_o heb._n 13.16_o but_o if_o they_o be_v not_o give_v in_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n but_o in_o hypocrisy_n that_o we_o may_v be_v see_v of_o man_n it_o shall_v have_v the_o hypocrite_n reward_n matth._n 6._o in_o a_o word_n 6._o matth._n 6._o this_o truth_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n be_v so_o necessary_a that_o without_o it_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v it_o be_v not_o regard_v for_o god_n be_v a_o spirit_n 24._o joh._n 4_o 24._o and_o he_o will_v be_v worship_v in_o spirit_n and_o in_o truth_n joh._n 4.24_o according_a to_o that_o josh_n 24.14_o fear_v the_o lord_n 24.14_o josh_n 24.14_o and_o serve_v he_o in_o uprightness_n and_o in_o truth_n which_o if_o we_o perform_v our_o service_n of_o god_n will_v be_v acceptable_a in_o his_o sight_n though_o perform_v in_o great_a weakness_n and_o mingle_v with_o many_o imperfection_n otherwise_o though_o we_o offer_v thousand_o of_o ram_n and_o whole_a river_n of_o oil_n that_o be_v omit_v no_o outward_a cost_n and_o labour_n in_o god_n worship_n 6.7.8_o mich._n 6.7.8_o yet_o will_v it_o be_v abominable_a in_o his_o eye_n mich._n 6.7.8_o let_v we_o therefore_o with_o our_o saviour_n pray_v unto_o god_n 17.17_o joh._n 17.17_o that_o we_o may_v be_v sanctify_v with_o his_o truth_n that_o not_o only_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v may_v be_v ground_v on_o god_n truth_n but_o that_o woe_n may_v do_v it_o in_o truth_n and_o uprightness_n of_o heart_n chap._n xi_o of_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n and_o gospel_n of_o peace_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o second_o part_n of_o our_o armour_n be_v the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n whereby_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v a_o good_a conscience_n true_a sanctification_n and_o a_o godly_a life_n which_o also_o we_o be_v to_o put_v on_o according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o our_o grand_a captain_n christ_n esa_n 59.17_o he_o put_v on_o righteousness_n as_o a_o habergeon_n 59.17_o esa_n 59.17_o and_o a_o helmet_n of_o salvation_n upon_o his_o head_n righteousness_n the_o excellency_n of_o this_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n and_o then_o shall_v not_o satan_n dart_n pierce_v we_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v arm_v with_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o godly_a and_o innocent_a life_n yea_o as_o long_a as_o our_o breast_n and_o heart_n be_v arm_v with_o righteousness_n though_o our_o other_o member_n fall_v into_o sin_n our_o wound_n shall_v not_o be_v mortal_a for_o as_o the_o breastplate_n do_v defend_v the_o breast_n and_o vital_a part_n of_o a_o soldier_n so_o the_o study_n and_o holy_a endeavour_n of_o a_o christian_n to_o live_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a sanctification_n do_v so_o arm_v his_o mind_n that_o satan_n can_v deadly_o wound_v the_o heart_n with_o any_o of_o his_o temptation_n true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o saint_n do_v receive_v wound_n and_o foil_n when_o as_o satan_n have_v draw_v they_o to_o commit_v sin_n but_o they_o be_v not_o wound_v at_o the_o heart_n because_o they_o do_v not_o sin_n with_o full_a consent_n of_o will_n for_o they_o allow_v not_o that_o which_o they_o do_v neither_o do_v they_o what_o they_o will_v but_o what_o they_o hate_v and_o they_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o inner_a man_n 7.15.22_o rom._n 7.15.22_o when_o the_o flesh_n lead_v they_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o paul_n say_v he_o do_v not_o transgress_v god_n law_n 6.8_o rom._n 7.17_o 1._o joh._n 3.9_o and_z vers_n 6.8_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o he_o rom._n 7.17_o and_o the_o apostle_n john_n affirm_v that_o they_o who_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n sin_v not_o 1._o joh._n 3.9_o and_o that_o they_o who_o be_v in_o christ_n sin_v not_o and_o that_o whosoever_o sin_v be_v of_o the_o devil_n vers_fw-la 6.8_o not_o that_o god_n child_n be_v exempt_v from_o all_o sin_n but_o because_o they_o sin_v not_o with_o the_o full_a consent_n and_o swinge_v of_o their_o will_n and_o when_o they_o do_v fall_v their_o heart_n be_v defend_v with_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n that_o be_v with_o a_o holy_a endeavour_n and_o desire_n of_o serve_v god_n david_n a_o man_n according_a to_o god_n own_o heart_n may_v be_v a_o notable_a example_n hereof_o for_o even_o after_o he_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o have_v this_o godly_a endeavour_n of_o serve_v god_n he_o notwithstanding_o fall_v grievous_o many_o time_n and_o be_v wound_v often_o with_o satan_n dart_n but_o his_o wound_n be_v not_o mortal_a neither_o do_v they_o pierce_v the_o heart_n because_o he_o be_v arm_v with_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n for_o he_o keep_v god_n law_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o it_o be_v sweet_a than_o honey_n unto_o his_o mouth_n 119._o psal_n 119._o he_o meditate_a therein_o and_o seek_v after_o it_o continual_o as_o appear_v psal_n 119._o will_v we_o therefore_o be_v preserve_v from_o the_o deadly_a wound_n of_o satan_n dart_n of_o temptation_n then_o let_v we_o study_v and_o labour_n after_o true_a holiness_n let_v we_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o howsoever_o we_o fall_v often_o through_o infirmity_n yet_o let_v the_o heart_n always_o be_v arm_v with_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n that_o be_v with_o a_o earnest_a desire_n and_o holy_a endeavour_n of_o serve_v god_n and_o so_o shall_v satan_n never_o mortal_o wound_v us._n §_o sect._n 2_o but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n pernicious_a that_o the_o lack_n of_o this_o armour_n be_v most_o pernicious_a if_o we_o once_o lie_v aside_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n not_o so_o much_o as_o endeavour_v to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o holiness_n of_o life_n but_o embrace_v sin_n with_o full_a consent_n of_o will_n we_o shall_v lay_v our_o breast_n open_a and_o naked_a to_o all_o satan_n thrust_n yea_o and_o as_o it_o be_v put_v sword_n in_o his_o hand_n wherewith_o he_o may_v wound_v and_o murder_v we_o for_o until_o we_o disarm_v ourselves_o and_o put_v weapon_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o satan_n by_o our_o sin_n he_o can_v hurt_v we_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o example_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n who_o while_o they_o continue_v in_o their_o righteousness_n and_o integrity_n satan_n can_v not_o offer_v they_o any_o violence_n by_o assault_n and_o force_n and_o therefore_o he_o allure_v they_o to_o entertain_v a_o treacherous_a parley_n wherein_o have_v entice_v they_o to_o disarm_v themselves_o of_o this_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n by_o wilful_a transgress_a god_n commandment_n he_o inflict_v on_o they_o deadly_a wound_n pierce_v they_o through_o to_o the_o very_a heart_n and_o so_o like_o joab_n while_o he_o seem_v love_o to_o embrace_v they_o he_o do_v most_o treacherous_o stab_v they_o the_o consideration_n whereof_o shall_v make_v we_o repel_v most_o careful_o all_o satan_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o entice_v we_o to_o sin_n but_o especial_o let_v we_o never_o be_v allure_v to_o put_v off_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n and_o then_o though_o satan_n wound_v our_o soul_n with_o sin_n yet_o his_o wound_n will_v not_o be_v mortal_a so_o long_o as_o we_o do_v not_o fall_v into_o sin_n with_o full_a consent_n of_o will_n but_o through_o infirmity_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n loathe_v the_o sin_n which_o we_o commit_v and_o delight_v ourselves_o in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o inner_a man_n for_o though_o we_o fall_v yet_o the_o lord_n will_v raise_v we_o up_o by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n so_o that_o though_o sin_n dwell_v in_o we_o yet_o shall_v it_o never_o reign_v in_o us._n chap._n xii_o of_o the_o preparation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o three_o part_n of_o our_o christian_a armour_n be_v be_v what_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n be_v that_o we_o have_v our_o foot_n shod_a with_o the_o preparation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n where_o he_o allude_v to_o the_o custom_n of_o soldier_n in_o former_a time_n who_o go_v into_o the_o field_n strong_o arm_v their_o leg_n and_o foot_n with_o legge-harnesse_n wargreave_n or_o buskin_n to_o preserve_v they_o from_o the_o injury_n of_o the_o weather_n the_o pierce_a of_o brier_n thorn_n and_o such_o other_o thing_n as_o may_v hurt_v they_o in_o their_o way_n as_o they_o march_v and_o from_o the_o violence_n also_o of_o their_o enemy_n blow_n when_o they_o be_v encounter_v for_o all_o which_o
etc._n etc._n verse_n 17._o he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n cap._n 3.5_o to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o grant_v to_o sit_v with_o i_o in_o my_o throne_n even_o as_o i_o overcome_v and_o sit_v with_o my_o father_n in_o his_o throne_n as_o it_o be_v vers_n 21._o so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a that_o we_o enter_v the_o list_n and_o sustain_v the_o first_o and_o second_o encounter_n if_o afterward_o we_o shameful_o forsake_v the_o standard_n of_o christ_n and_o cowardly_a run_v away_o or_o else_o traitorous_o yield_v unto_o sin_n and_o satan_n but_o if_o we_o will_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o god_n promise_n we_o must_v overcome_v that_o be_v obtain_v a_o full_a victory_n over_o the_o flesh_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n there_o be_v none_o triumph_v for_o make_v his_o enemy_n once_o or_o twice_o to_o retire_v or_o for_o get_v the_o better_a in_o some_o skirmish_n because_o they_o may_v gather_v their_o disperse_a force_n and_o join_v with_o they_o new_a supply_n and_o so_o give_v a_o fresh_a assault_n obtain_v victory_n but_o those_o only_a triumph_n who_o obtain_v a_o full_a victory_n neither_o shall_v any_o triumph_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n who_o resist_v satan_n in_o one_o temptation_n only_o or_o bridle_v one_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o they_o who_o subdue_v they_o final_o and_o whole_o not_o once_o alone_o but_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o their_o life_n for_o as_o it_o fall_v out_o in_o worldly_a war_n oftentime_o the_o enemy_n do_v retire_v back_o and_o counterfeit_v a_o flight_n to_o the_o end_n the_o other_o may_v pursue_v he_o secure_o and_o disorderly_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o victory_n and_o then_o he_o make_v a_o stand_n and_o reunite_a all_o his_o force_n do_v overcome_v his_o reckless_a enemy_n so_o oftentimes_o satan_n feign_v himself_o to_o be_v put_v to_o flight_n to_o the_o end_n we_o may_v conceive_v a_o opinion_n of_o his_o great_a weakness_n and_o our_o own_o invincible_a strength_n and_o so_o be_v bring_v to_o negligence_n and_o security_n and_o then_o he_o knit_v together_o all_o his_o force_n and_o overthrow_v we_o when_o we_o be_v retchless_n secure_v fear_v no_o danger_n yea_o sometime_o he_o be_v in_o truth_n foil_v but_o yet_o not_o so_o as_o that_o he_o will_v surcease_v his_o fight_n for_o if_o he_o can_v prevail_v one_o way_n he_o will_v try_v another_o so_o long_o as_o our_o continuance_n in_o this_o earthly_a weak_a tabernacle_n give_v he_o any_o hope_n of_o overcome_v or_o foyl_v we_o and_o therefore_o we_o be_v always_o to_o stand_v upon_o our_o guard_n and_o to_o keep_v our_o stand_n continual_o watch_v and_o prepare_v ourselves_o against_o the_o fresh_a assault_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n if_o job_n have_v be_v secure_a after_o he_o have_v resist_v satan_n first_o temptation_n in_o take_v away_o his_o ox_n ass_n and_o sheep_n sure_o those_o which_o follow_v will_v have_v make_v he_o blaspheme_v god_n as_o satan_n imagine_v but_o like_o a_o good_a soldier_n after_o that_o he_o have_v receive_v one_o blow_n he_o do_v not_o cast_v away_o his_o shield_n of_o faith_n and_o patience_n as_o though_o he_o have_v no_o further_a need_n of_o it_o but_o still_o hold_v it_o up_o expect_v more_o till_o the_o combat_n be_v end_v who_o example_n we_o must_v imitate_v if_o we_o will_v obtain_v victory_n and_o enjoy_v the_o crown_n of_o victory_n everlasting_a happiness_n in_o god_n kingdom_n otherwise_o if_o we_o sleep_v in_o security_n after_o we_o have_v give_v satan_n one_o overthrow_n we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o be_v assault_v and_o surprise_v before_o we_o be_v aware_a for_o as_o one_o say_v christ_n joan._n riu._n atthend_n de_fw-mi luct_v christ_n diabolus_fw-la victus_fw-la quoque_fw-la vincit_fw-la even_o while_o the_o devil_n be_v vanquish_v he_o obtain_v victory_n and_o therefore_o non_fw-la victor_n magis_fw-la quàm_fw-la victus_fw-la est_fw-la extimescendus_fw-la nam_fw-la saepo_fw-la se_fw-la prostratum_fw-la afflictumque_fw-la simulat_fw-la ut_fw-la acriùs_fw-la insurgat_fw-la fugit_fw-la ut_fw-la in_o insidias_fw-la pertrahat_fw-la &_o incautos_fw-la adoriatur_fw-la palam_fw-la cedit_fw-la ut_fw-la clam_fw-la uincat_fw-la he_o be_v no_o more_o to_o be_v fear_v when_o he_o overcom_v than_o when_o he_o be_v overcome_v for_o oftentimes_o he_o feign_v himself_o to_o be_v foil_v that_o he_o may_v the_o more_o fearce_o renew_v the_o assault_n he_o fly_v that_o he_o may_v draw_v we_o into_o his_o ambushment_n and_o assail_v we_o at_o unaware_o he_o retire_v open_o that_o he_o may_v secret_o overcome_v §_o sect._n 5_o seaventhly_a 8.44_o the_o seven_o mean_v not_o to_o believe_v satan_n suggestion_n joh._n 8.44_o if_o we_o will_v not_o be_v circumvent_v by_o satan_n we_o must_v not_o give_v any_o credit_n unto_o he_o whether_o he_o lie_v or_o speak_v true_a whether_o he_o accuse_v or_o flatter_v whether_o he_o indeavore_v to_o puff_n we_o up_o with_o pride_n and_o self_n conceit_n or_o whether_o he_o labour_v by_o aggravate_v our_o sin_n to_o plunge_v we_o into_o the_o gulf_n of_o hellish_a despair_n for_o he_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o truth_n because_o there_o be_v no_o truth_n in_o he_o when_o he_o speak_v a_o lie_n he_o speak_v of_o his_o own_o for_o he_o be_v a_o liar_n and_o the_o father_n thereof_o as_o it_o be_v joh._n 8.44_o and_o if_o at_o any_o time_n he_o speak_v the_o truth_n it_o be_v to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v be_v the_o better_o credit_v when_o he_o lie_v nam_fw-la verum_fw-la dicit_fw-la ut_fw-la fallat_fw-la blanditur_fw-la ut_fw-la noceat_fw-la bona_fw-la promittit_fw-la ut_fw-la malum_fw-la tribuat_fw-la vitam_fw-la pollicetur_fw-la ut_fw-la perimat_fw-la he_o speak_v the_o truth_n that_o he_o may_v deceive_v he_o flatter_v that_o he_o may_v hurt_v we_o he_o promise_v good_a thing_n that_o he_o may_v give_v we_o evil_n he_o promise_v life_n that_o he_o may_v kill_v us._n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o to_o believe_v the_o truth_n itself_o because_o he_o speak_v it_o but_o because_o it_o be_v ground_v on_o god_n word_n nor_o to_o receive_v it_o from_o his_o mouth_n as_o his_o assertion_n but_o from_o the_o mouth_n of_o god_n and_o his_o holy_a prophet_n and_o apostle_n guide_v and_o inspire_v with_o his_o spirit_n for_o either_o he_o speak_v the_o truth_n to_o gain_v credit_n unto_o his_o lie_n or_o propound_v true_a promise_n that_o he_o may_v sophistical_o gather_v out_o of_o they_o false_a conclusion_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o saviour_n christ_n do_v reject_v his_o testimony_n though_o true_a and_o enjoin_v he_o silence_n when_o he_o confess_v he_o to_o be_v the_o holy_a one_o of_o god_n mark_n 1.24.25_o 1.24.25_o mark_n 1.24.25_o and_o the_o apostle_n paul_n will_v not_o suffer_v the_o divine_a maid_n to_o give_v they_o her_o approbation_n though_o she_o speak_v truth_n 16.17.18_o act._n 16.17.18_o in_o confess_v they_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o most_o high_a god_n which_o do_v show_v unto_o we_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n act._n 16.17.18_o because_o satan_n do_v it_o either_o to_o this_o end_n that_o by_o his_o testimony_n and_o approbation_n he_o may_v cause_v they_o the_o rather_o to_o be_v suspect_v and_o repute_v impostor_n and_o deceiver_n who_o do_v their_o miracle_n by_o tell_v this_o truth_n be_v the_o rather_o credit_v when_o he_o do_v bely_v and_o slander_v they_o §_o sect._n 6_o eight_o they_o the_o eight_o mean_n neither_o to_o despise_v satan_n temptation_n nor_o too_o deep_o to_o apprehend_v they_o if_o we_o will_v withstand_v all_o satan_n temptation_n we_o must_v avoid_v two_o extreme_n the_o one_o to_o despise_v they_o the_o other_o too_o deep_o to_o apprehend_v and_o too_o great_o to_o fear_v they_o for_o if_o we_o secure_o contemn_v satan_n temptation_n we_o will_v never_o arm_v and_o prepare_v ourselves_o to_o make_v resistance_n and_o so_o he_o will_v overcome_v we_o before_o we_o be_v aware_a if_o we_o take_v they_o too_o much_o to_o hart_n continual_o meditate_v upon_o their_o strength_n and_o violence_n and_o upon_o our_o own_o infirmity_n and_o weakness_n they_o will_v fill_v we_o with_o fear_n and_o plunge_v we_o into_o despair_n if_o we_o despise_v the_o temptation_n satan_n will_v easy_o subdue_v we_o for_o there_o be_v no_o enemy_n so_o weak_a and_o feeble_a which_o will_v not_o prevail_v against_o those_o who_o secure_o contemn_v they_o though_o exceed_v mighty_a because_o they_o neglect_v all_o mean_n of_o their_o preservation_n and_o never_o stand_v upon_o their_o guard_n for_o their_o defence_n and_o therefore_o much_o more_o will_v satan_n prevail_v against_o we_o if_o we_o regard_v not_o his_o temptation_n he_o be_v strong_a and_o mighty_a and_o we_o feeble_a and_o weak_a on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o we_o so_o fear_v his_o temptation_n as_o that_o we_o
that_o he_o be_v not_o belove_v of_o god_n but_o subject_a to_o his_o wrath_n and_o heavy_a displeasure_n and_o this_o he_o enforce_v by_o two_o sort_n of_o argument_n the_o one_o draw_v from_o his_o manifold_a corruption_n whereby_o he_o be_v unworthy_a of_o god_n love_n the_o other_o from_o those_o grievous_a affliction_n and_o cross_n which_o the_o lord_n in_o this_o life_n inflict_v on_o he_o both_o which_o he_o thus_o urge_v against_o he_o can_v thou_o vild_a wretch_n conceive_v the_o least_o hope_n that_o thou_o be_v belove_v of_o god_n why_o do_v but_o take_v a_o view_n of_o thyself_o and_o thou_o shall_v see_v that_o original_a corruption_n have_v overspread_v both_o thy_o body_n and_o soul_n like_o a_o filthy_a leprosy_n unto_o which_o thou_o have_v add_v actual_a transgression_n more_o in_o number_n than_o the_o hair_n of_o thy_o head_n or_o the_o star_n of_o heaven_n for_o daily_o nay_o hourly_o thou_o omitte_v some_o duty_n which_o thy_o god_n have_v command_v thou_o and_o commit_v some_o sin_n which_o he_o have_v forbid_v can_v therefore_o the_o lord_n who_o abhor_v wickedness_n love_v the_o wicked_a can_v thou_o obtain_v his_o favour_n and_o yet_o do_v nothing_o but_o displease_v he_o he_o that_o love_v god_n keep_v his_o commandment_n but_o thou_o by_o transgress_v they_o all_o do_v show_v that_o thou_o love_v he_o not_o and_o will_v the_o lord_n love_v they_o who_o hate_n and_o rebel_v against_o he_o can_v justice_n itself_o love_v wickedness_n and_o perfect_a holiness_n impure_a corruption_n no_o very_o for_o in_o his_o word_n he_o have_v threaten_v his_o wrath_n against_o all_o such_o notorious_a sinner_n and_o he_o be_v no_o less_o true_a in_o his_o threaten_n then_o in_o his_o promise_n but_o if_o all_o this_o will_v not_o persuade_v thou_o that_o the_o lord_n abhor_v thou_o yet_o at_o least_o be_v persuade_v by_o thy_o own_o experienc_n for_o have_v not_o thy_o just_a god_n begin_v already_o to_o make_v thou_o taste_v the_o cup_n of_o his_o wrath_n of_o which_o hereafter_o thou_o shall_v drink_v in_o full_a measure_n have_v he_o not_o spoil_v thou_o of_o thy_o good_n take_v away_o thy_o good_a name_n make_v thou_o a_o abject_a among_o man_n afflict_v thou_o in_o body_n with_o grievous_a and_o continual_a sickness_n and_o fill_v thy_o soul_n full_a of_o horror_n and_o despair_n be_v not_o thy_o conscience_n sting_v with_o sin_n and_o have_v not_o the_o poison_n thereof_o drink_v up_o thy_o spirit_n do_v thou_o not_o plain_o apprehend_v his_o wrath_n and_o be_v not_o thy_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v set_v upon_o the_o rack_n so_o that_o there_o be_v not_o one_o part_n of_o thou_o either_o of_o body_n and_o soul_n which_o be_v not_o full_a of_o misery_n and_o wretchedness_n do_v not_o therefore_o fond_o flatter_v thyself_o with_o a_o vain_a opinion_n of_o god_n love_n but_o believe_v if_o not_o my_o word_n yet_o at_o least_o thy_o own_o sense_n and_o see_v thou_o have_v no_o hope_n of_o god_n love_n if_o thou_o be_v wise_a love_n thyself_o follow_v thy_o pleasure_n eat_v and_o drink_v and_o cheer_v up_o thy_o heart_n and_o do_v not_o vain_o macerate_v and_o turmoil_n thyself_o in_o labour_v after_o impossibility_n and_o in_o strive_v for_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n of_o which_o when_o thou_o have_v do_v what_o thou_o can_v yet_o shall_v thou_o never_o be_v assure_v §_o sect._n 4_o and_o thus_o you_o see_v the_o manner_n of_o satan_n temptation_n temptation_n how_o we_o may_v answer_v the_o former_a temptation_n whereby_o he_o labour_v to_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v out_o of_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n against_o which_o we_o must_v most_o careful_o arm_v ourselves_o as_o be_v most_o odious_a and_o injurious_a unto_o god_n and_o most_o pernicious_a unto_o our_o own_o soul_n it_o be_v most_o injurious_a unto_o god_n if_o we_o doubt_v of_o his_o love_n towards_o we_o see_v he_o have_v give_v we_o innumerable_a pledge_n and_o most_o certain_a testimony_n thereof_o and_o omit_v nothing_o which_o may_v do_v we_o good_a he_o have_v create_v we_o after_o his_o own_o image_n he_o have_v continual_o preserve_v and_o sustain_v we_o give_v we_o our_o meat_n in_o due_a season_n and_o oft_o time_n have_v succour_v and_o defend_v we_o before_o we_o crave_v his_o help_n but_o which_o be_v more_o he_o have_v give_v his_o dear_o belove_a son_n to_o die_v a_o bitter_a death_n to_o redeem_v we_o out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o to_o the_o end_n we_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o christ_n and_o all_o his_o benefit_n he_o have_v give_v we_o his_o word_n and_o make_v his_o covenant_n with_o we_o that_o in_o christ_n he_o will_v be_v our_o god_n and_o we_o his_o people_n he_o our_o father_n and_o we_o his_o child_n and_o lest_o yet_o there_o shall_v be_v any_o place_n leave_v to_o doubt_v he_o have_v add_v to_o his_o word_n his_o sacrament_n which_o like_a seal_n may_v assure_v we_o of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n what_o injury_n therefore_o shall_v we_o offer_v unto_o god_n if_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o we_o doubt_v of_o his_o good_a will_n of_o which_o he_o have_v assure_v we_o by_o so_o many_o pledge_n testimony_n and_o seal_n we_o know_v that_o a_o kind_a friend_n will_v take_v it_o most_o unkind_o if_o after_o he_o have_v heap_v upon_o a_o man_n innumerable_a benefit_n and_o show_v all_o testimony_n of_o true_a love_n he_o notwithstanding_o doubt_v of_o his_o good_a will_n and_o suspect_v his_o friendship_n and_o so_o sure_o the_o lord_n will_v take_v it_o ill_o at_o our_o hand_n and_o think_v himself_o much_o abuse_v if_o after_o he_o have_v bestow_v such_o infinite_a benefit_n even_o his_o dear_o belove_a son_n to_o die_v for_o we_o we_o now_o suspect_v his_o good_a will_n and_o grow_v jealous_a of_o his_o love_n if_o we_o doubt_v of_o his_o love_n who_o be_v love_v itself_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 1._o john_n 4.8_o §_o sect._n 5_o but_o against_o this_o which_o i_o have_v say_v there_o be_v two_o objection_n thereof_o that_o carnal_a man_n have_v no_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n though_o they_o boast_v thereof_o the_o first_o be_v make_v by_o the_o worldling_n the_o other_o by_o satan_n the_o worldly_a man_n will_v say_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v he_o also_o partaker_n of_o all_o these_o benefit_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o cause_n why_o he_o shall_v doubt_v of_o his_o love_n nor_o any_o reason_n why_o he_o shall_v be_v censure_v or_o condemn_v for_o his_o faith_n i_o answer_v that_o he_o be_v not_o reprehend_v for_o his_o persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n nor_o for_o his_o assurance_n of_o god_n promise_n in_o christ_n but_o for_o his_o boast_n of_o this_o faith_n persuasion_n and_o assurance_n whereas_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o he_o in_o truth_n but_o a_o dead_a carcase_n of_o faith_n carnal_a security_n and_o vain_a presumption_n for_o true_a faith_n purify_v the_o heart_n act_v 15.9_o and_o work_v by_o love_n gal._n 5.6_o it_o be_v plentiful_a in_o good_a work_n and_o provoke_v we_o to_o perform_v all_o good_a duty_n to_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n and_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o we_o shall_v be_v true_o persuade_v of_o god_n love_n and_o not_o love_v he_o again_o it_o can_v be_v that_o we_o love_v god_n if_o we_o show_v no_o care_n in_o glorify_v his_o name_n by_o let_v our_o light_n shine_v before_o man_n nor_o any_o desire_n to_o perform_v obedience_n to_o his_o will_n for_o as_o our_o saviour_n say_v he_o that_o love_v i_o keep_v my_o commandment_n and_o he_o that_o love_v i_o not_o keep_v not_o my_o word_n as_o it_o be_v john_n 14.23_o 24._o if_o therefore_o we_o live_v in_o our_o sin_n without_o repentance_n if_o we_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o our_o way_n and_o show_v no_o zeal_n in_o glorify_v god_n name_n if_o our_o faith_n be_v destitute_a of_o the_o fruit_n of_o good_a work_n then_o be_v our_o persuasion_n but_o fond_a presumption_n our_o assurance_n carnal_a security_n our_o faith_n dead_a and_o like_o a_o carcase_n which_o breathe_v not_o as_o james_n speak_v chap._n 2.26_o we_o do_v not_o then_o reprehend_v any_o for_o be_v persuade_v of_o god_n love_n gather_v his_o assurance_n out_o of_o god_n manifold_a mercy_n and_o innumerable_a benefit_n bestow_v on_o his_o church_n nay_o contrariwise_o we_o affirm_v that_o notwithstanding_o all_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n we_o be_v to_o be_v persuade_v of_o god_n love_n in_o christ_n yea_o and_o to_o believe_v against_o belief_n and_o to_o hope_v against_o hope_n when_o as_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n or_o reason_n of_o either_o in_o ourselves_o but_o this_o we_o maintain_v that_o whosoever_o have_v this_o assurance_n and_o faith_n in_o the_o least_o measure_n begin_v in_o he_o do_v true_o love_n
a_o fruit_n of_o the_o flesh_n it_o be_v condemn_v in_o god_n word_n though_o the_o papist_n high_o commend_v it_o so_o matth._n 14.31_o our_o saviour_n reprehend_v peter_n for_o his_o doubt_n o_o thou_o of_o little_a faith_n 14.31_o matth._n 14.31_o wherefore_o do_v thou_o doubt_v and_o luk._n 12.29_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o we_o must_v not_o stand_v in_o doubt_n or_o as_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d signify_v be_v not_o like_a unto_o meteor_n which_o be_v carry_v about_o in_o the_o air_n with_o every_o wind_n 12.29_o luk._n 12.29_o and_o the_o apostle_n james_n chap._n 1.7_o jam._n 1.7_o 1.7_o compare_v he_o that_o waver_v or_o doubt_v to_o a_o wave_n of_o the_o sea_n toss_v of_o the_o wind_n and_o carry_v away_o and_o paul_n be_v so_o far_o from_o commend_v doubt_v for_o a_o virtue_n that_o he_o do_v not_o only_o condemn_v it_o as_o a_o sin_n in_o itself_o but_o also_o as_o a_o cause_n which_o make_v our_o action_n which_o be_v indifferent_a or_o good_a in_o themselves_o to_o become_v sin_n so_o the_o eat_n of_o this_o or_o that_o meat_n be_v a_o thing_n indifferent_a and_o lawful_a if_o it_o be_v reccive_v with_o prayer_n and_o thanksgiving_n but_o yet_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o rom._n 14.23_o that_o he_o who_o doubt_v be_v condemn_v if_o he_o eat_v 14.23_o rom._n 14.23_o and_o he_o render_v this_o reason_n because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n so_o that_o by_o this_o he_o show_v that_o he_o who_o doubt_v eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v of_o faith_n be_v sin_n see_v therefore_o doubt_v be_v oppose_v unto_o faith_n and_o be_v in_o itself_o not_o only_o a_o sin_n but_o also_o a_o cause_n of_o sin_n let_v we_o not_o entertain_v it_o though_o it_o bring_v letter_n commendatorie_a from_o the_o pope_n and_o all_o his_o shaveling_n but_o labour_v to_o banish_v it_o out_o of_o our_o heart_n and_o strive_v after_o faith_n and_o full_a assurance_n of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o though_o we_o find_v our_o great_a unworthiness_n of_o the_o least_o of_o god_n mercy_n and_o can_v see_v any_o reason_n in_o ourselves_o why_o we_o shall_v believe_v that_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v yet_o let_v we_o hope_v against_o hope_n and_o believe_v against_o belief_n for_o it_o be_v not_o a_o thing_n leave_v to_o our_o choice_n but_o enjoin_v we_o by_o god_n as_o the_o chief_a and_o main_a duty_n require_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o lay_v aside_o all_o reason_n and_o dispute_v let_v we_o resolve_v to_o believe_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n commandment_n and_o than_o though_o we_o be_v never_o so_o full_a of_o corruption_n 15.9_o act._n 15.9_o yet_o will_v this_o faith_n purify_v we_o though_o we_o be_v most_o backward_o in_o perform_v any_o good_a work_n yet_o will_v it_o be_v fruitful_a in_o we_o 6._o galat._n 5_o 6._o and_o will_v work_v by_o love_n though_o we_o be_v most_o unworthy_a it_o will_v make_v we_o more_o worthy_a by_o apply_v unto_o we_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o merit_n of_o his_o death_n and_o bloodshed_n which_o will_v not_o only_o free_v we_o from_o the_o guilt_n and_o punishment_n of_o sin_n but_o will_v also_o purge_v we_o from_o the_o vice_n and_o corruption_n themselves_o §_o sect._n 4_o three_o the_o certainty_n of_o our_o election_n may_v be_v prove_v notion_n three_o faith_n be_v a_o certain_a and_o particular_a persuasion_n and_o not_o a_o doubtful_a opinion_n or_o general_a notion_n by_o a_o argument_n draw_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v not_o a_o doubtful_a opinion_n but_o a_o certain_a persuasion_n not_o a_o general_a notion_n but_o a_o particular_a assurance_n whereby_o we_o do_v apply_v and_o appropriate_v unto_o ourselves_o those_o thing_n which_o we_o do_v believe_v whosoever_o therefore_o have_v true_a faith_n he_o do_v certain_o believe_v and_o be_v particular_o assure_v of_o his_o election_n justification_n and_o salvation_n that_o faith_n be_v a_o certain_a persuasion_n it_o may_v appear_v first_o by_o those_o property_n and_o name_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o it_o in_o the_o word_n heb._n 11.1_o faith_n be_v say_v to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v 11.1_o heb._n 11.1_o a_o subsistence_n or_o present_a be_v of_o thing_n hope_v for_o so_o that_o hope_n wait_v for_o they_o in_o time_n to_o come_v but_o faith_n enjoy_v they_o as_o be_v present_a namely_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o certain_a assurance_n and_o particular_a application_n of_o the_o promise_n unto_o ourselves_o and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n say_v 5.13_o 1._o joh._n 5.13_o that_o hereby_o we_o may_v know_v not_o that_o we_o shall_v have_v but_o that_o we_o have_v eternal_a life_n 1._o joh._n 11.1_o heb._n 11.1_o 5.13_o not_o in_o possession_n but_o in_o assurance_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v call_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o same_o place_n which_o word_n be_v quite_o contrary_a to_o doubt_v as_o signify_v a_o manifest_a demonstration_n which_o do_v not_o only_o show_v a_o thing_n probable_o but_o also_o do_v convince_v with_o strong_a argument_n and_o make_v that_o truth_n clear_a and_o manifest_a which_o be_v otherwise_o obscure_a and_o secret_a and_o therefore_o in_o the_o text_n it_o be_v call_v a_o demonstration_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v so_o there_o be_v ascribe_v unto_o it_o fullness_n of_o persuasion_n heb._n 10.22_o heb._n 10.22_o 10.22_o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o also_o boldness_n with_o confident_a trust_n eph._n 3.12_o eph._n 3.12_o 3.12_o by_o who_o we_o have_v boldness_n and_o entrance_n with_o confidence_n not_o by_o extraordinary_a revelation_n but_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n which_o full_a assurance_n boldness_n and_o confidence_n we_o can_v not_o have_v if_o we_o be_v not_o assure_v of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n but_o remain_v doubtful_a whether_o we_o be_v belove_v of_o god_n and_o elect_a or_o no._n to_o these_o name_n and_o property_n of_o faith_n we_o may_v add_v some_o plain_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n which_o clear_o show_v that_o faith_n be_v not_o a_o doubtful_a hope_n but_o a_o certain_a persuasion_n 1._o john_n 3.14_o 3.14_o 1._o joh._n 3.14_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o we_o know_v that_o we_o be_v translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n not_o by_o revelation_n but_o because_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n he_o do_v not_o say_v that_o we_o know_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v but_o that_o we_o be_v translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n to_o note_v the_o certainty_n of_o this_o knowledge_n and_o persuasion_n rom._n 3.2_o the_o apostle_n say_v 5.2_o rom._n 5.2_o that_o by_o christ_n we_o have_v access_n through_o faith_n unto_o god_n grace_n wherein_o we_o stand_v and_o rejoice_v under_o hope_n or_o as_o the_o word_n signify_v glory_n and_o triumph_v with_o joy_n so_o that_o we_o do_v not_o waver_v and_o stagger_v but_o stand_v firm_o through_o faith_n we_o do_v not_o fear_v and_o timorous_o hope_v but_o even_o glory_n and_o triumph_n in_o our_o rejoice_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 8.33_o who_o shall_v lay_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o god_n choose_v 38._o rom._n 8.33_o 34.35_o 38._o it_o be_v god_n that_o justifi_v 34._o who_o shall_v condemn_v it_o be_v christ_n which_o be_v dead_a yea_o or_o rather_o which_o be_v rise_v again_o who_o be_v also_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n and_o make_v request_n also_o for_o us._n 35._o who_o shall_v separate_v we_o from_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o though_o our_o sin_n be_v manifold_a our_o unworthiness_n great_a and_o our_o faith_n weak_a yet_o if_o it_o be_v true_a it_o may_v also_o be_v certain_a in_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n because_o it_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o our_o worthiness_n but_o upon_o god_n free_a justify_n and_o accept_v of_o we_o as_o righteous_a in_o christ_n 6.18_o heb._n 6.18_o and_o upon_o christ_n death_n resurrection_n and_o intercession_n for_o we_o unto_o god_n his_o father_n which_o be_v a_o most_o sure_a foundation_n that_o can_v fail_v in_o deed_n if_o our_o faith_n and_o the_o anchor_n of_o our_o hope_n do_v pitch_n rest_n and_o fasten_v itself_o upon_o the_o light_n and_o hollow_a sand_n of_o our_o own_o merit_n and_o worthiness_n the_o surge_a wave_n and_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o satan_n temptation_n will_v disanchor_v and_o toss_v we_o too_o and_o fro_o till_o at_o length_n we_o shall_v make_v shipwreck_n of_o our_o faith_n against_o the_o rock_n of_o despair_n but_o see_v we_o take_v hold_v and_o rest_n upon_o the_o firm_a and_o sure_o anchorhold_a christ_n jesus_n his_o merit_n and_o righteousness_n
respect_n than_o god_n spirit_n who_o whole_o and_o only_o know_v all_o his_o secret_a counsel_n in_o respect_n of_o truth_n he_o be_v most_o true_a yea_o truth_n itself_o and_o in_o regard_n hereof_o he_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o lead_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n joh._n 16.13_o 16.13_o joh._n 16.13_o and_o therefore_o as_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o knowledge_n he_o can_v be_v deceive_v so_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o truth_n he_o can_v deceive_v in_o respect_n of_o faithfulness_n he_o be_v most_o faithful_a and_o just_a in_o all_o his_o way_n psal_n 145.17_o 1._o cor._n 1.9_o especial_o in_o his_o word_n 145.17_o psal_n 145.17_o for_o his_o testimony_n be_v sure_a as_o it_o be_v psal_n 19.7_o and_o therefore_o he_o can_v lie_v 19.7_o 1._o cor._n 1.9_o psal_n 19.7_o neither_o will_v he_o conceal_v the_o truth_n for_o any_o respect_n of_o person_n and_o consequent_o whatsoever_o this_o alknowing_a true_a and_o faithful_a witness_n testify_v we_o be_v undoubted_o to_o believe_v as_o be_v most_o sure_a and_o certain_a if_o a_o angel_n send_v from_o heaven_n shall_v assure_v we_o from_o god_n that_o we_o be_v elect_v even_o the_o papist_n themselves_o can_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v thereof_o by_o such_o a_o revelation_n without_o any_o manner_n of_o doubt_v but_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n witness_v to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v so_o much_o more_o certain_a and_o without_o exception_n than_o the_o testimony_n of_o angel_n as_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n better_a know_v the_o counsel_n of_o god_n than_o angel_n as_o it_o excel_v they_o in_o truth_n and_o faith_n as_o the_o testimony_n which_o be_v imprint_v in_o the_o heart_n be_v more_o firm_a than_o that_o which_o be_v speak_v in_o the_o ear_n which_o may_v easy_o be_v forget_v and_o therefore_o if_o by_o their_o doctrine_n we_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n by_o the_o extraordinary_a revelation_n of_o a_o angel_n then_o much_o more_o certain_o may_v we_o be_v assure_v hereof_o by_o the_o ordinary_a testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o he_o witness_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o the_o faithful_a §_o sect._n 2_o the_o proposition_n be_v manifest_a god_n that_o god_n spirit_n testify_v that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n let_v we_o prove_v the_o assumption_n which_o contain_v two_o branch_n first_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n testify_v to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o second_o do_v full_o assure_v we_o of_o this_o testimony_n that_o it_o be_v most_o undoubted_a true_a both_o which_o be_v manifest_a by_o god_n word_n first_o that_o god_n spirit_n give_v this_o testimony_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o faithful_a 8.15.16_o rom._n 8.15.16_o it_o be_v evident_a rom._n 8.15.16_o for_o you_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n to_o fear_v again_o but_o you_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n whereby_o we_o cry_v abba_fw-mi father_n the_o same_o spirit_n bear_v witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n 4.6_o gal._n 4.6_o so_o gal._n 4.6_o because_o you_o be_v son_n god_n have_v send_v forth_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o son_n into_o your_o heart_n which_o cry_v abba_fw-mi father_n which_o place_n do_v so_o evident_o prove_v this_o point_n that_o there_o need_v no_o more_o reason_n or_o allegation_n for_o first_o he_o exclude_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n which_o like_o the_o papist_n faith_n cause_v we_o to_o fear_v and_o doubt_n of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n and_o then_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n which_o bear_v witness_n unto_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n §_o sect._n 3_o second_o because_o we_o be_v exceed_o weak_a and_o the_o grace_n in_o we_o shadow_v with_o imperfection_n and_o our_o faith_n mix_v with_o doubt_v because_o we_o be_v save_v as_o yet_o but_o by_o hope_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.24_o and_o we_o walk_v by_o faith_n and_o not_o by_o sight_n as_o it_o be_v 2._o cor._n 5.7_o and_o this_o our_o faith_n be_v continual_o shake_v with_o manifold_a temptation_n therefore_o lest_o we_o shall_v doubt_v of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n adoption_n and_o salvation_n the_o lord_n have_v give_v we_o his_o spirit_n to_o seal_v and_o further_o to_o confirm_v this_o assurance_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o earnest_n and_o a_o sure_a pledge_n unto_o we_o whereby_o he_o may_v secure_v we_o concern_v the_o covenant_n which_o he_o have_v make_v with_o us._n the_o truth_n hereof_o appear_v in_o many_o place_n of_o the_o scripture_n 2._o cor._n 1.22_o 1.22_o 2._o cor._n 1.22_o who_o have_v seal_v we_o and_o have_v give_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n so_o ephes_n 1.13_o in_o who_o also_o you_o have_v trust_v 1.13_o eph._n 1.13_o after_o that_o you_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n even_o the_o gospel_n of_o our_o salvation_n wherein_o also_o after_o that_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n 14._o which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n until_o the_o redemption_n of_o the_o possession_n purchase_v unto_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o glory_n and_o ephes_n 4.30_o 4.30_o eph._n 4.30_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o not_o to_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o god_n by_o who_o we_o be_v seal_v unto_o the_o day_n of_o our_o redemption_n and_o 2._o cor._n 5.5_o 5.5_o 2._o cor._n 5.5_o he_o say_v that_o god_n have_v give_v unto_o we_o the_o earnest_n of_o his_o spirit_n which_o word_n do_v minister_v unto_o every_o faithful_a man_n no_o small_a consolation_n if_o they_o be_v right_o weigh_v for_o first_o we_o use_v to_o seal_v those_o thing_n which_o we_o will_v have_v most_o certain_a and_o out_o of_o all_o controversy_n as_o when_o a_o man_n have_v make_v a_o promise_n or_o covenant_n with_o another_o for_o his_o better_a security_n he_o do_v commit_v it_o to_o writing_n and_o lest_o yet_o there_o shall_v any_o scruple_n or_o doubt_n rest_n in_o his_o mind_n he_o do_v confirm_v it_o by_o add_v his_o seal_n to_o put_v the_o matter_n out_o of_o all_o question_n so_o the_o lord_n have_v add_v to_o the_o write_a covenant_n of_o his_o word_n whereby_o he_o have_v assure_v we_o of_o our_o election_n adoption_n and_o salvation_n the_o outward_a seal_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o the_o inward_a seal_n of_o his_o spirit_n whereby_o he_o have_v ratify_v it_o not_o in_o itself_o but_o in_o our_o heart_n that_o so_o all_o cause_n of_o doubt_v be_v take_v away_o we_o may_v certain_o be_v assure_v of_o his_o promise_n that_o they_o belong_v unto_o we_o not_o after_o a_o general_a manner_n as_o the_o papist_n teach_v but_o particular_o even_o as_o this_o assurance_n be_v particular_o seal_v by_o god_n spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o true_a believer_n rom._n 4.11_o 4.11_o rom._n 4.11_o the_o end_n therefore_o why_o we_o be_v seal_v to_o salvation_n by_o god_n spirit_n be_v not_o that_o we_o shall_v doubt_v thereof_o but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v out_o of_o all_o question_n full_o ratify_v and_o confirm_v unto_o we_o for_o this_o be_v signify_v by_o this_o metaphor_n here_o use_v of_o seal_v as_o may_v appear_v not_o only_o by_o the_o ordinary_a custom_n among_o we_o but_o also_o by_o the_o use_n thereof_o in_o former_a time_n so_o when_o ahashuerosh_n will_v have_v letter_n write_v in_o the_o king_n name_n which_o no_o man_n may_v revoke_v he_o command_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v seal_v with_o the_o king_n ring_n 6.27_o hest_n 8.8_o joh._n 6.27_o hest_n 8.8_o and_o joh._n 6.27_o it_o be_v say_v that_o god_n the_o father_n have_v seal_v our_o saviour_n christ_n that_o be_v confirm_v he_o in_o his_o office_n of_o mediation_n by_o give_v evident_a testimony_n and_o manifest_a sign_n that_o the_o people_n may_v not_o doubt_v of_o his_o call_n and_o anoint_v matth._n 3._o 17._o and_o 17.5_o and_o joh._n 1.32_o so_o whereas_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o faithful_a be_v call_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n this_o minister_v unto_o every_o true_a believer_n no_o small_a consolation_n nor_o doubtful_a assurance_n of_o their_o salvation_n for_o we_o know_v that_o a_o earnest_n be_v give_v among_o man_n to_o ratify_v and_o bind_v a_o bargain_n so_o as_o they_o can_v go_v from_o their_o agreement_n after_o earnest_n be_v give_v and_o receive_v the_o word_n arrhabo_fw-la which_o be_v here_o translate_a earnest_n have_v also_o other_o signification_n which_o minister_v unto_o god_n faithful_a the_o same_o assurance_n and_o the_o like_a true_a comfort_n 38.17.18_o gen._n 38.17.18_o genes_n 38.17.18_o this_o word_n be_v use_v to_o signify_v a_o pledge_n or_o pawn_v
and_o shall_v be_v save_v notwithstanding_o that_o they_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n without_o repentance_n make_v no_o conscience_n of_o their_o way_n nor_o indeavor_v to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n of_o life_n then_o be_v it_o not_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n but_o a_o presumptuous_a fantasy_n and_o a_o secure_a and_o carnal_a imagination_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o the_o conscience_n be_v the_o same_o with_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o word_n and_o therefore_o it_o do_v not_o bear_v witness_n nor_o give_v any_o assurance_n that_o they_o be_v save_v which_o god_n word_n pronounce_v to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o damnation_n when_o therefore_o this_o testimony_n be_v give_v in_o a_o faithful_a man_n and_o agreeable_a to_o god_n word_n it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o seal_v we_o in_o the_o full_a assurance_n of_o that_o we_o believe_v according_a to_o that_o ephesian_n 1.13_o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1.13_o eph._n 1.13_o that_o after_o the_o faithful_a have_v receive_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n even_o the_o gospel_n of_o their_o salvation_n and_o believe_v therein_o they_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n but_o those_o who_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o hear_v the_o gospel_n preach_v and_o when_o they_o hear_v it_o do_v not_o believe_v it_o nor_o apply_v it_o to_o themselves_o by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n nor_o bring_v forth_o any_o fruit_n thereof_o in_o a_o holy_a and_o christian_a life_n they_o have_v neither_o faith_n nor_o god_n spirit_n and_o therefore_o if_o they_o have_v any_o persuasion_n of_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n it_o be_v not_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n but_o their_o own_o fantasy_n and_o a_o vain_a opinion_n arise_v from_o carnal_a security_n and_o presumption_n §_o sect._n 6_o second_o spirit_n another_o mean_n to_o discern_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n may_v hereby_o be_v know_v first_o in_o that_o it_o thorough_o persuade_v the_o faithful_a of_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n second_o by_o the_o manner_n of_o persuade_v they_o three_o by_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o testimony_n and_o persuasion_n for_o the_o first_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v not_o only_o give_v this_o bare_a testimony_n that_o we_o be_v elect_v adopt_a and_o shall_v be_v save_v but_o also_o do_v full_o persuade_v we_o hereof_o as_o be_v a_o thing_n most_o certain_a and_o without_o question_n so_o 1_o cor._n 2.12_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n 2.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.12_o that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n and_o eph._n 1._o 17_o 18._o god_n spirit_n be_v call_v the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n 1.17.18_o eph._n 1.17.18_o which_o do_v inlighten_v the_o eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o the_o hope_n be_v of_o his_o call_n and_o what_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o glorious_a inheritance_n be_v in_o the_o saint_n and_o what_o be_v the_o exceed_a greatness_n of_o his_o power_n particular_o towards_o we_o that_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o work_n of_o his_o mighty_a power_n so_o the_o apostle_n john_n say_v 3.24_o 1._o joh._n 3.24_o hereby_o we_o know_v that_o christ_n abide_v in_o we_o even_o by_o the_o spirit_n which_o he_o have_v give_v we_o 1._o joh._n 3.24_o so_o that_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v god_n spirit_n &_o thereby_o be_v thorough_o persuade_v that_o christ_n dwell_v in_o we_o and_o consequent_o that_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o chap._n 4.13_o hereby_o know_v we_o that_o we_o dwell_v in_o he_o and_o he_o in_o we_o 4.13_o and_o 4.13_o because_o he_o have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o spirit_n and_o the_o apostle_n paul_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v so_o steadfast_o assure_v of_o god_n love_n that_o he_o profess_v that_o he_o be_v firm_o persuade_v that_o nothing_o can_v separate_v he_o from_o it_o 39_o rom._n 8.38_o 39_o rom._n 8.38_o 39_o so_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n thorough_o persuade_v the_o faithful_a that_o they_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v whereas_o the_o wicked_a who_o be_v destitute_a of_o god_n spirit_n may_v well_o have_v a_o fond_a opinion_n and_o a_o foolish_a conceit_n that_o they_o be_v high_o in_o god_n love_n and_o elect_v to_o salvation_n through_o carnal_a security_n and_o vain_a presumption_n but_o they_o be_v never_o thorough_o persuade_v hereof_o for_o when_o any_o affliction_n of_o body_n or_o mind_n be_v inflict_v on_o they_o their_o vain_a persuasion_n vanish_v away_o and_o nothing_o remain_v but_o doubt_v which_o in_o the_o end_n bring_v they_o to_o utter_v desperation_n but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v take_v occasion_n to_o discourage_v the_o weak_a christian_a and_o to_o persuade_v he_o that_o he_o have_v not_o god_n spirit_n see_v he_o do_v not_o feel_v in_o himself_o this_o firm_a persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n and_o his_o election_n and_o salvation_n feeling_n the_o persuasion_n of_o the_o spirit_n not_o always_o discern_v in_o our_o sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o which_o we_o be_v to_o answer_v that_o god_n spirit_n do_v thorough_o persuade_v although_o not_o at_o all_o time_n neither_o in_o our_o present_a sense_n and_o feeling_n for_o immediate_o after_o our_o conversion_n when_o we_o be_v new_o regenerate_v and_o like_o new_a bear_v babe_n in_o christ_n the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v but_o weak_a in_o we_o and_o we_o be_v not_o skilful_a in_o understand_v this_o heavenly_a language_n of_o the_o spirit_n wherewith_o we_o have_v be_v altogether_o unacquainted_a but_o the_o spirit_n wax_v strong_a in_o we_o and_o we_o grow_v to_o a_o ripe_a age_n in_o christ_n do_v cry_v in_o our_o heart_n abba_n father_n and_o testify_v to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n which_o we_o then_o be_v better_o acquaint_v with_o this_o heavenly_a speech_n do_v well_o understand_v and_o be_v thorough_o persuade_v thereby_o and_o second_o when_o the_o poor_a christian_a who_o have_v receive_v a_o great_a measure_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o spiritual_a conflict_n the_o hideous_a noise_n of_o satan_n temptation_n which_o like_a canonshot_n sound_v in_o his_o ear_n and_o the_o tumultuous_a outcry_n of_o his_o own_o passion_n do_v so_o disturb_v and_o whole_o possess_v he_o that_o he_o can_v not_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n persuade_v he_o that_o he_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n till_o the_o skirmish_n be_v past_a and_o the_o noise_n of_o temptation_n cease_v and_o then_o again_o as_o in_o former_a time_n he_o hear_v to_o his_o comfort_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n persuade_v he_o of_o god_n love_n and_o hereby_o he_o be_v again_o assure_v thereof_o so_o that_o we_o be_v not_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o have_v of_o god_n spirit_n in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o christian_a infancy_n and_o spiritual_a nonage_n nor_o yet_o according_a to_o our_o present_a sense_n in_o the_o time_n of_o temptation_n but_o when_o we_o be_v come_v to_o perfect_a age_n and_o when_o the_o conflict_n of_o temptation_n be_v cease_v second_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n persuade_v we_o of_o his_o love_n and_o our_o election_n be_v know_v by_o the_o manner_n whereby_o it_o persuade_v we_o namely_o it_o persuade_v we_o hereof_o with_o argument_n ground_v upon_o god_n word_n and_o draw_v not_o from_o any_o worthiness_n in_o ourselves_o but_o from_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o underserued_a mercy_n and_o from_o the_o righteousness_n and_o merit_n of_o christ_n whereas_o satan_n and_o our_o own_o flesh_n never_o use_v such_o reason_n but_o either_o move_v we_o to_o a_o bare_a and_o vain_a opinion_n which_o have_v no_o ground_n at_o all_o but_o self-love_n which_o make_v man_n easy_o believe_v that_o which_o they_o desire_v or_o else_o with_o some_o argument_n draw_v from_o some_o outward_a common_a benefit_n bestow_v indifferent_o upon_o the_o good_a and_o bad_a or_o last_o from_o a_o pharisaical_a conceit_n and_o false_a opinion_n of_o our_o own_o worthiness_n and_o desert_n §_o sect._n 7_o last_o thereof_o the_o 3._o mean_n to_o discern_v the_o spirit_n namely_o by_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v know_v and_o discern_v by_o the_o effect_n thereof_o for_o after_o that_o it_o have_v effectual_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o the_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n we_o be_v move_v thereby_o to_o trust_v whole_o in_o god_n and_o to_o love_v he_o as_o our_o gracious_a father_n from_o which_o love_n proceed_v a_o zeal_n of_o his_o glory_n and_o a_o true_a hatred_n of_o sin_n because_o thereby_o our_o heavenly_a father_n be_v dishonour_v &_o displease_v with_o we_o and_o a_o
true_a love_n and_o hearty_a endeavour_n of_o embrace_a holiness_n and_o righteousness_n because_o thereby_o our_o gracious_a father_n be_v glorify_v and_o well_o please_v with_o us._n if_o therefore_o these_o effect_n and_o fruit_n follow_v this_o persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o do_v persuade_v we_o but_o if_o we_o have_v no_o such_o trust_n and_o affiance_n no_o such_o love_n of_o god_n no_o zeal_n of_o his_o glory_n no_o hatred_n of_o sin_n no_o love_n nor_o desire_n of_o embrace_v righteousness_n but_o remain_v as_o carnal_a worldly_a and_o profane_a as_o ever_o we_o be_v then_o let_v we_o brag_v as_o much_o as_o we_o will_v of_o our_o persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n yet_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o this_o persuasion_n be_v not_o wrought_v in_o we_o by_o god_n spirit_n but_o that_o it_o be_v a_o vain_a conceit_n and_o fond_a opinion_n which_o proceed_v from_o self-love_n carnal_a security_n and_o fond_a presumption_n which_o in_o the_o end_n vanish_v away_o will_v leave_v we_o in_o despair_n chap._n ix_o of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o have_v i_o prove_v that_o those_o who_o be_v convert_v unto_o god_n justify_v ghost_n the_o first_o mean_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o in_o some_o measure_n sanctify_v may_v ordinary_o attain_v unto_o the_o assurance_n of_o their_o election_n now_o i_o will_v show_v the_o mean_n and_o sign_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v thus_o assure_v the_o first_o and_o principal_a mean_n which_o assure_v we_o of_o our_o election_n be_v the_o inward_a testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o cry_v in_o our_o heart_n abba_n father_n 16._o rom._n 8.15_o 16._o and_o witness_v unto_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.15_o 16._o which_o testimony_n it_o do_v not_o give_v by_o extraordinary_a revelation_n but_o by_o a_o secret_a application_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o we_o and_o by_o a_o inward_a cooperation_n whereby_o it_o make_v the_o outward_a ministry_n of_o the_o word_n effectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n in_o we_o whereby_o as_o with_o a_o hand_n we_o do_v appropriate_v the_o general_a promise_n of_o the_o word_n unto_o our_o own_o self_n and_o when_o the_o minister_n use_v reason_n to_o persuade_v we_o of_o god_n love_n in_o christ_n the_o holy_a ghost_n open_v our_o deaf_a care_n and_o inlighten_v our_o blind_a understanding_n and_o powerful_o incline_v our_o will_n so_o that_o we_o may_v attentive_o hear_v true_o understand_v and_o be_v full_o assure_v of_o that_o truth_n which_o be_v deliver_v not_o only_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n but_o also_o in_o respect_n of_o ourselves_o particular_o so_o as_o we_o can_v say_v i_o believe_v that_o these_o promise_n of_o god_n be_v true_a and_o that_o they_o belong_v to_o all_o the_o faithful_a and_o consequent_o unto_o i_o who_o do_v believe_v and_o be_o assure_v of_o they_o see_v they_o be_v promise_v on_o no_o other_o condition_n security_n diverse_a difference_n between_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o presumptuous_a security_n but_o the_o tempter_n will_v object_v that_o many_o through_o carnal_a presumption_n do_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v belong_v unto_o they_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v easy_o be_v deceive_v not_o be_v able_a to_o discern_v between_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o presumptuous_a security_n i_o answer_v that_o those_o who_o be_v endue_v with_o god_n spirit_n may_v easy_o discern_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n from_o the_o carnal_a language_n of_o presumption_n as_o be_v evident_a by_o that_o which_o before_o i_o have_v deliver_v and_o also_o may_v more_o plain_o appear_v by_o manifest_a difference_n if_o the_o one_o be_v compare_v with_o the_o other_o for_o presumption_n be_v a_o fruit_n of_o original_a corruption_n which_o accompany_v we_o from_o our_o mother_n womb_n till_o it_o be_v beat_v down_o with_o god_n sanctify_a spirit_n but_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v a_o thing_n supernatural_a which_o no_o man_n ever_o feel_v before_o his_o conversion_n unto_o god_n when_o as_o by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n he_o be_v humble_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n sorrow_v and_o grieve_v for_o his_o sin_n past_a and_o detest_a they_o from_o his_o hart_n and_o purpose_v to_o leave_v and_o forsake_v they_o in_o the_o time_n to_o come_v if_o therefore_o we_o have_v have_v always_o this_o testimony_n in_o our_o mind_n that_o we_o be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o elect_a and_o never_o feel_v our_o conversion_n nor_o discern_v any_o fruit_n thereof_o then_o do_v this_o testimony_n proceed_v from_o carnal_a presumption_n and_o not_o from_o god_n spirit_n second_o those_o who_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n make_v conscience_n of_o the_o diligent_a and_o careful_a use_n of_o the_o outward_a mean_n of_o salvation_n as_o the_o hear_n and_o read_v of_o the_o word_n the_o receive_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o other_o holy_a duty_n of_o god_n service_n because_o they_o know_v that_o the_o inward_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o ordinary_o sever_v from_o the_o outward_a testimony_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n be_v not_o wrought_v immediate_o in_o we_o by_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o by_o the_o prea_n of_o the_o word_n and_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a cooperation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o presumption_n as_o it_o arise_v not_o from_o the_o use_n of_o these_o mean_n make_v thus_o effectual_a but_o from_o carnal_a security_n so_o be_v it_o not_o confirm_v thereby_o for_o the_o less_o that_o the_o presumptuous_a man_n hear_v the_o word_n and_o perform_v the_o duty_n of_o piety_n and_o god_n service_n the_o more_o confident_o do_v he_o boast_v of_o his_o faith_n and_o full_a assurance_n and_o therefore_o he_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o use_v these_o mean_n ordain_v of_o god_n nay_o contrariwise_o he_o will_v not_o stick_v to_o affirm_v that_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n too_o often_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o trouble_v man_n mind_n and_o afflict_v their_o conscience_n move_v they_o to_o doubt_v of_o god_n mercy_n which_o before_o they_o never_o call_v into_o question_n and_o why_o be_v this_o but_o because_o hereby_o man_n be_v rouse_v out_o of_o their_o sleep_n of_o security_n and_o have_v their_o confident_a presumption_n beat_v down_o if_o then_o we_o be_v careful_a to_o use_v all_o holy_a mean_n ordain_v of_o god_n to_o assure_v we_o of_o our_o salvation_n that_o assurance_n and_o testimony_n which_o follow_v be_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n otherwise_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o fond_a presumption_n three_o presumption_n be_v most_o confident_a and_o never_o doubt_v nor_o make_v any_o question_n of_o his_o election_n &_o salvation_n who_o thus_o presume_v but_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v much_o assault_v with_o doubt_v and_o oftentimes_o thereby_o so_o exceed_o weaken_v that_o we_o can_v hear_v the_o voice_n thereof_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o example_n of_o job_n david_n the_o father_n of_o the_o possess_a child_n the_o two_o disciple_n who_o iourney_v to_o emaus_n and_o in_o all_o god_n child_n who_o have_v not_o yet_o attain_v unto_o fullness_n of_o persuasion_n unto_o which_o none_o can_v come_v but_o by_o degree_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o can_v brag_v with_o secure_a worldling_n and_o say_v with_o the_o proud_a pharisee_n i_o never_o be_v trouble_v i_o thank_v god_n with_o any_o doubt_n of_o my_o election_n &_o salvation_n as_o many_o be_v but_o always_o have_v have_v a_o strong_a belief_n that_o i_o be_o in_o god_n love_n and_o shall_v undoubted_o be_v save_v we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o that_o this_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o presumption_n and_o not_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n four_o presumption_n be_v join_v with_o worldliness_n and_o prophanesse_n but_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v never_o sever_v from_o sanctification_n or_o at_o least_o from_o a_o earnest_a desire_n and_o holy_a endeavour_n of_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n for_o as_o i_o say_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o conscience_n be_v never_o contrary_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o word_n neither_o do_v it_o bear_v witness_v that_o those_o be_v in_o god_n love_n and_o elect_v to_o salvation_n which_o the_o scripture_n witness_v to_o be_v in_o god_n displeasure_n and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o condemnation_n namely_o all_o unrepentant_a sinner_n continue_v in_o their_o
what_o sharp_a spur_n to_o prick_v we_o forward_o in_o the_o course_n of_o godliness_n than_o to_o know_v and_o consider_v that_o by_o our_o sanctification_n and_o holiness_n of_o life_n we_o be_v certain_o assure_v that_o god_n have_v elect_v we_o to_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o unspeakable_a joy_n of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o that_o by_o our_o wickedness_n and_o profaneness_n we_o have_v no_o less_o certain_a assurance_n that_o we_o shall_v have_v our_o portion_n for_o ever_o in_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n for_o if_o we_o live_v holy_o like_o true_a christian_n on_o earth_n we_o shall_v live_v happy_o like_o glorious_a angel_n in_o heaven_n but_o if_o here_o we_o lie_v freeze_a in_o the_o dregs_n of_o our_o sin_n without_o any_o sense_n of_o sorrow_n for_o those_o which_o be_v past_a or_o any_o desire_n and_o purpose_n of_o heart_n to_o forsake_v they_o in_o the_o time_n to_o come_v we_o shall_v be_v thrust_v from_o the_o lord_n among_o the_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n and_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n shall_v pursue_v overtake_v and_o consume_v us._n what_o sin_n therefore_o can_v be_v so_o pleasant_a to_o our_o taste_n which_o this_o consideration_n will_v not_o make_v more_o bitter_a than_o wormwood_n what_o duty_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n so_o displeasant_a and_o grievous_a which_o this_o will_v not_o make_v sweet_a and_o delightful_a §_o sect._n 11_o now_o that_o we_o may_v not_o deceive_v ourselves_o with_o a_o counterfeit_a holiness_n election_n diverse_a kind_n of_o counter_a sait_fw-fr holiness_n which_o give_v no_o assurance_n of_o our_o election_n in_o stead_n of_o true_a sanctification_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o this_o assurance_n of_o salvation_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o every_o kind_n of_o holiness_n but_o from_o that_o which_o be_v true_a and_o unfeigned_a for_o there_o be_v a_o holiness_n of_o the_o tongue_n sever_v from_o the_o holiness_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o show_v but_o not_o in_o deed_n in_o profession_n but_o not_o in_o practice_n there_o be_v a_o holiness_n in_o perform_v outward_a duty_n of_o god_n service_n sever_v from_o righteousness_n towards_o our_o brother_n there_o be_v a_o holiness_n in_o leave_v some_o or_o the_o most_o sin_n without_o any_o desire_n or_o purpose_n to_o forsake_v some_o one_o or_o two_o sin_n by_o which_o we_o receive_v great_a pleasure_n or_o profit_n there_o be_v a_o holiness_n in_o tthe_a mint_n and_o cummin_n which_o neglect_v the_o weighty_a thing_n of_o the_o law_n and_o which_o make_v clean_o the_o outside_n of_o the_o platter_n &_o cup_n leave_v the_o inside_n full_a of_o rapine_n and_o excess_n and_o outward_o make_v a_o glorious_a golden_a show_n when_o as_o within_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o putrefaction_n and_o rottenness_n there_o be_v a_o holiness_n which_o consist_v in_o the_o pharisaical_a censure_v of_o poor_a publican_n and_o in_o extol_v our_o own_o virtue_n the_o first_o kind_n be_v of_o those_o who_o the_o prophet_n reprove_v esa_n 29.13_o 29.13_o esa_n 29.13_o who_o draw_v near_o unto_o god_n with_o their_o lip_n when_o as_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o and_o of_o those_o who_o the_o apostle_n brand_v 2._o tim._n 3.5_o 3.5_o 2._o tim._n 3.5_o who_o make_v a_o show_n of_o godliness_n but_o in_o their_o life_n deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o in_o which_o rank_n many_o professor_n also_o in_o these_o day_n may_v fit_o march_v the_o second_o kind_n be_v of_o those_o who_o be_v content_a to_o serve_v god_n in_o the_o outward_a duty_n of_o his_o worship_n because_o they_o find_v they_o good_a cheap_a yea_o often_o gainful_a but_o can_v away_o with_o righteousness_n because_o that_o be_v sometime_o painful_a and_o sometime_o require_v cost_n and_o these_o man_n in_o stead_n of_o make_v godliness_n their_o gain_n make_v a_o gain_n of_o godliness_n the_o three_o kind_n be_v herod_n holiness_n who_o hear_v john_n glad_o and_o do_v many_o thing_n yet_o can_v not_o abide_v to_o leave_v his_o incest_n and_o such_o holiness_n be_v in_o some_o now_o adays_o who_o will_v be_v content_a to_o leave_v all_o gross_a outward_a sin_n so_o they_o may_v continue_v in_o their_o covetousness_n or_o voluptuousness_n the_o four_o be_v the_o holiness_n of_o those_o pharisy_n which_o be_v most_o zealouse_a in_o ceremony_n and_o their_o own_o tradition_n but_o key_n cold_a in_o those_o duty_n which_o most_o concern_v god_n glory_n and_o their_o neighbour_n good_a the_o last_o kind_n be_v the_o holiness_n of_o the_o ancient_a pharisy_n and_o be_v the_o holiness_n of_o our_o new_a brownist_n who_o place_n the_o most_o of_o their_o religion_n in_o censure_v and_o condemn_v the_o corruption_n of_o the_o church_n and_o misdemeanour_n of_o private_a man_n not_o look_v into_o their_o own_o sin_n of_o hellish_a pride_n bitterness_n envy_n and_o want_v of_o charity_n §_o sect._n 12_o but_o none_o of_o these_o no_o nor_o yet_o all_o these_o join_v together_o will_v ever_o give_v unto_o we_o any_o sound_a assurance_n of_o our_o election_n sanctification_n the_o fruit_n and_o property_n of_o true_a sanctification_n but_o it_o be_v that_o true_a sanctification_n indeed_o which_o begin_v not_o in_o the_o mouth_n but_o in_o the_o heart_n and_o sanctifi_v our_o will_n and_o affection_n make_v we_o to_o love_v and_o to_o embrace_v to_o our_o uttermost_a power_n virtue_n and_o godliness_n and_o to_o abhor_v and_o flee_v from_o sin_n and_o iniquity_n and_o from_o the_o heart_n it_o proceed_v to_o the_o tongue_n and_o hand_n make_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o all_o holy_a conference_n honey_n in_o the_o mouth_n and_o incite_v we_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o which_o we_o profess_v it_o always_o approve_v golden_a piety_n to_o be_v pure_a and_o without_o mixture_n of_o the_o dross_n of_o hipocrifie_n by_o the_o touch_n stone_n of_o righteousness_n it_o be_v as_o careful_a in_o approve_v the_o heart_n and_o secret_a action_n unto_o god_n as_o the_o outward_a action_n unto_o man_n it_o cause_v we_o to_o hate_v as_o well_o one_o sin_n as_o another_o and_o that_o sin_n most_o of_o all_o into_o which_o we_o be_v most_o prone_a by_o nature_n to_o fall_v though_o it_o bring_v never_o so_o much_o pleasure_n and_o profit_n it_o embrace_v afflict_v godliness_n when_o it_o be_v attend_v with_o loss_n poverty_n and_o shame_n as_o well_o as_o when_o it_o be_v wait_v upon_o with_o gain_n pleasure_n and_o the_o praise_n of_o man_n it_o be_v very_o charitable_a in_o censure_v the_o fault_n of_o other_o but_o most_o severe_a and_o strict_a in_o judge_v and_o condemn_v the_o sin_n which_o ourselves_o have_v commit_v and_o therefore_o if_o our_o sanctification_n have_v these_o property_n we_o may_v most_o certain_o be_v assure_v thereby_o that_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v but_o if_o these_o be_v want_v it_o be_v but_o a_o counterfeit_a holiness_n which_o afford_v no_o such_o assurance_n godliness_n the_o miserable_a estate_n of_o those_o who_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o a_o show_n of_o godliness_n now_o if_o this_o be_v true_a what_o hope_n can_v they_o have_v who_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o a_o show_n of_o godliness_n how_o desperate_a be_v their_o state_n who_o even_o in_o outward_a appearance_n show_v nothing_o but_o wickedness_n and_o prophanesse_n if_o the_o fig_n tree_n which_o bear_v fair_a green_a leaf_n be_v accurse_v what_o curse_n what_o miscrie_v and_o wretchedness_n be_v they_o to_o bear_v and_o suffer_v who_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o leaf_n that_o be_v a_o outward_a profession_n of_o godliness_n if_o herod_n be_v a_o damn_a wretch_n in_o hell_n who_o hear_v john_n the_o baptist_n willing_o and_o do_v many_o thing_n according_a to_o his_o doctrine_n because_o he_o nourish_v one_o sin_n in_o his_o bosom_n what_o fearful_a condemnation_n be_v they_o to_o expect_v who_o contemn_v and_o neglect_v god_n word_n not_o think_v it_o worth_a the_o hear_n and_o can_v find_v in_o their_o heart_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o obedience_n of_o any_o part_n thereof_o neither_o will_v be_v bring_v to_o forsake_v any_o one_o sin_n wherewith_o they_o be_v delight_v till_o it_o leave_v they_o and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o blind_a ignorance_n carnal_a security_n and_o vain_a presumption_n of_o such_o man_n that_o they_o will_v not_o stick_v to_o brag_v that_o they_o be_v sure_a of_o god_n love_n and_o that_o they_o be_v elect_v to_o salvation_n though_o there_o be_v no_o show_n of_o reason_n whereupon_o they_o may_v probable_o ground_v their_o foolish_a persuasion_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o while_o they_o continue_v in_o this_o damnable_a estate_n consolation_n itself_o can_v not_o give_v unto_o they_o any_o true_a comfort_n for_o without_o sanctification_n there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o election_n or_o salvation_n and_o see_v the_o lord_n have_v elect_v we_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v holy_a 4.14_o
xiiii_o satan_n temptation_n concern_v our_o redemption_n wherewith_o he_o move_v the_o worldling_n to_o presumption_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o have_v i_o show_v what_o our_o redemption_n be_v temptation_n the_o temptation_n now_o let_v we_o consider_v of_o those_o temptation_n of_o satan_n which_o he_o sugge_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n whereby_o he_o labour_v to_o deprive_v they_o of_o this_o great_a benefit_n and_o to_o keep_v they_o still_o in_o his_o captivity_n or_o to_o pull_v they_o back_o again_o when_o they_o be_v escape_v and_o these_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n the_o first_o lead_v to_o security_n and_o presumption_n the_o other_o to_o doubt_v and_o desperation_n for_o if_o he_o have_v to_o deal_v with_o worldly_a man_n who_o be_v never_o true_o convert_v unto_o god_n he_o labour_v to_o persuade_v they_o that_o they_o be_v redeem_v by_o christ_n and_o therefore_o though_o they_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n yet_o they_o shall_v be_v save_v for_o christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n but_o when_o he_o assault_v the_o true_a christian_n who_o be_v indeed_o the_o redeem_v of_o the_o lord_n then_o he_o move_v he_o to_o doubt_v and_o despair_n either_o of_o the_o sufficiency_n or_o of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n wrought_v by_o jesus_n christ_n that_o he_o may_v continue_v the_o worldly_a man_n in_o his_o carnal_a security_n and_o fond_a presumption_n he_o use_v two_o principal_a reason_n the_o first_o that_o the_o redemption_n wrought_v by_o christ_n be_v universal_a and_o effectual_a for_o the_o salvation_n of_o all_o the_o world_n out_o of_o which_o he_o frame_v this_o temptation_n christ_n have_v shed_v his_o precious_a blood_n and_o suffer_v death_n for_o all_o the_o world_n and_o have_v redeem_v all_o mankind_n which_o be_v lose_v in_o adam_n out_o of_o the_o bondage_n of_o satan_n death_n and_o hell_n why_o therefore_o shall_v thou_o be_v so_o strict_a in_o fly_v sin_n with_o which_o thou_o be_v so_o much_o delight_v why_o do_v thou_o strive_v against_o the_o stream_n of_o thy_o corruption_n and_o wherefore_o shall_v thou_o take_v any_o great_a pain_n in_o the_o work_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n which_o be_v so_o bitter_a and_o unpleasant_a to_o thy_o taste_n and_o appetite_n for_o christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v all_o man_n and_o not_o those_o only_o who_o be_v so_o strict_a in_o their_o way_n he_o come_v to_o redeem_v the_o whole_a world_n &_o give_v himself_o as_o a_o sufficient_a ransom_n for_o all_o man_n and_o therefore_o doubtless_o he_o will_v not_o lose_v his_o labour_n nor_o spill_v his_o blood_n in_o vain_a he_o will_v not_o willing_o let_v any_o perish_v who_o he_o have_v purchase_v at_o so_o high_a a_o rate_n and_o redeem_v with_o so_o dear_a a_o price_n he_o be_v also_o so_o powerful_a that_o nothing_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o pull_v they_o out_o of_o his_o hand_n 10.28_o joh._n 10.28_o as_o himself_o affirm_v joh._n 10.28_o and_o so_o wise_a that_o he_o will_v not_o shed_v his_o blood_n for_o those_o who_o he_o will_v not_o save_v and_o who_o can_v imagine_v that_o god_n who_o be_v most_o just_a will_v impute_v those_o sin_n unto_o thou_o for_o which_o christ_n have_v suffer_v inflict_v death_n on_o thou_o for_o who_o christ_n die_v and_o require_v that_o debt_n again_o which_o be_v already_o discharge_v or_o who_o can_v imagine_v that_o god_n who_o be_v immutable_a shall_v show_v such_o inconstancy_n as_o to_o send_v his_o son_n into_o the_o world_n to_o suffer_v death_n for_o the_o redemption_n of_o those_o who_o he_o now_o will_v not_o save_v for_o if_o he_o will_v who_o can_v resist_v his_o will_n or_o withstand_v his_o power_n and_o therefore_o if_o he_o have_v redeem_v all_o sure_o he_o will_v save_v all_o and_o consequent_o thou_o among_o the_o rest_n though_o thou_o live_v as_o thou_o listen_v and_o follow_v the_o lust_n of_o thy_o own_o heart_n for_o thy_o sin_n and_o unbelief_n can_v make_v his_o purpose_n void_a nor_o annihilate_v the_o work_n of_o thy_o redemption_n nay_o the_o more_o thy_o sin_n abound_v the_o more_o his_o grace_n will_v abound_v also_o §_o sect._n 2_o for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v temptation_n the_o answer_n to_o the_o former_a temptation_n that_o universal_a redemption_n which_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o foundation_n thereof_o be_v a_o idle_a dream_n of_o man_n brain_n which_o can_v be_v justify_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o touchstone_n of_o all_o truth_n neither_o have_v our_o saviour_n christ_n redeem_v any_o other_o than_o those_o who_o he_o effectual_o call_v unto_o the_o save_a knowledge_n of_o their_o redemption_n endu_v with_o true_a faith_n and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n justifi_v sanctifi_v and_o last_o save_v if_o we_o respect_v the_o purpose_n of_o god_n and_o the_o will_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n although_o indeed_o the_o price_n he_o give_v for_o our_o redemption_n be_v of_o sufficient_a value_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o all_o the_o world_n if_o it_o be_v apply_v by_o a_o lively_a faith_n but_o because_o this_o doctrine_n have_v many_o enemy_n redemption_n testimony_n of_o scripture_n allege_v against_o universal_a redemption_n it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o propound_v it_o unless_o i_o prove_v it_o and_o therefore_o i_o will_v show_v first_o by_o testimony_n of_o scripture_n and_o after_o by_o strong_a reason_n that_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v die_v for_o and_o by_o his_o death_n redeem_v those_o only_o who_o he_o endu_v with_o true_a faith_n and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o not_o for_o all_o the_o world_n as_o they_o imagine_v matth._n 20.28_o it_o be_v say_v that_o he_o come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o give_v his_o life_n a_o ransom_n for_o many_o 26.28_o matth._n 20.2_o and_o 26.28_o and_o 26.28_o that_o his_o blood_n be_v shed_v for_o many_o for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o esa_n 53.11_o that_o christ_n shall_v justify_v many_o by_o bear_v their_o iniquity_n so_o that_o he_o have_v not_o give_v his_o life_n a_o ransom_n and_o shed_v his_o blood_n and_o by_o bear_v their_o iniquity_n justify_v all_o but_o many_o that_o be_v part_n of_o all_o luk._n 2.34_o simeon_n say_v 2.34_o luk._n 2.34_o that_o christ_n be_v appoint_v by_o god_n decree_n for_o the_o fall_n and_o rise_v again_o of_o many_o that_o be_v for_o the_o fall_n of_o many_o reprobate_n and_o the_o rise_n again_o of_o many_o who_o be_v elect_v and_o therefore_o not_o for_o the_o redemption_n of_o all_o so_o christ_n say_v that_o he_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o his_o sheep_n joh._n 10.15_o and_o therefore_o not_o for_o wolf_n and_o goat_n 15.14_o joh._n 10.15_o and_o 15.14_o for_o his_o friend_n joh._n 15.14_o &_o therefore_o not_o for_o his_o wicked_a enemy_n for_o we_o that_o be_v for_o the_o company_n of_o the_o faithful_a believer_n rom._n 8.32.33_o and_o therefore_o not_o for_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n and_o wicked_a unbeliever_n 1.21_o rom._n 8.32.33_o matth._n 1.21_o so_o matth._n 1.21_o he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o saviour_n of_o his_o people_n and_o not_o of_o aliens_n and_o stranger_n and_o to_o have_v give_v himself_o for_o his_o church_n 5.25_o eph._n 5.25_o eph._n 5.25_o and_o not_o for_o those_o who_o have_v no_o fellowship_n in_o the_o communion_n of_o saint_n that_o he_o shall_v die_v for_o the_o nation_n that_o be_v as_o john_n say_v for_o all_o god_n child_n jew_n and_o gentile_n 3.22.25.26_o joh._n 11.52_o rom._n 3.22.25.26_o joh._n 11.52_o and_o therefore_o not_o for_o the_o wicked_a and_o the_o child_n of_o satan_n so_o that_o apostle_n rom._n 3.22_o say_v that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n impute_v unto_o we_o by_o god_n or_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n god_n and_o man_n be_v manifest_v upon_o all_o and_o unto_o all_o that_o believe_v and_o vers_fw-la 23._o that_o god_n have_v set_v forth_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o reconciliation_n through_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n and_o verse_n 26._o that_o he_o be_v the_o justifier_n of_o he_o which_o be_v of_o the_o faith_n of_o jesus_n where_o the_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n reconciliation_n with_o god_n and_o justification_n be_v restrain_v to_o the_o believer_n only_o and_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n be_v that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 5.9_o heb._n 5.9_o heb._n 5.9_o where_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n unto_o all_o that_o obey_v he_o and_o therefore_o not_o unto_o they_o who_o continue_v in_o their_o rebellion_n not_o observe_v his_o will_n nor_o submit_v themselves_o to_o be_v rule_v by_o the_o sceptre_n of_o his_o word_n and_o as_o by_o these_o place_n it_o be_v apparent_a that_o christ_n and_o his_o benefit_n be_v restrain_v to_o the_o faithful_a so_o also_o
extraordinary_a blessing_n of_o god_n we_o may_v go_v with_o elias_n forty_o day_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o one_o meal_n yet_o if_o we_o feed_v no_o often_o when_v the_o lord_n grant_v unto_o we_o plentiful_a provision_n of_o the_o spiritual_a food_n our_o soul_n will_v be_v hunger-starve_v neither_o let_v our_o often_o receive_v of_o this_o heavenly_a nourishment_n cause_v we_o with_o the_o unthankful_a israelit_n to_o loathe_v it_o or_o like_o wayward_a child_n or_o impatient_a sick_a patient_n spit_v it_o out_o of_o our_o mouth_n again_o for_o if_o our_o appetite_n be_v thus_o cloy_v through_o a_o surfeit_n of_o satiety_n sure_o we_o be_v to_o fear_v lest_o the_o lord_n who_o be_v a_o cunning_a physician_n will_v prescribe_v we_o a_o long_a fast_o till_o we_o have_v recover_v our_o stomach_n as_o he_o threaten_v amos_n 8.11_o i_o will_v send_v a_o famine_n in_o the_o land_n 8.11_o amos._n 8.11_o not_o a_o famine_n of_o bread_n nor_o a_o thirst_n of_o water_n but_o of_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v wander_v from_o sea_n to_o sea_n and_o from_o the_o north_n even_o to_o the_o east_n shall_v we_o run_v to_o and_o fro_o to_o seek_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o shall_v not_o find_v it_o §_o sect._n 6_o last_o knowledge_n that_o we_o shall_v often_o hear_v though_o we_o have_v sufficient_a knowledge_n though_o it_o shall_v be_v grant_v that_o we_o have_v attain_v unto_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o knowledge_n that_o we_o shall_v need_v no_o more_o yet_o be_v there_o many_o reason_n why_o we_o shall_v continual_o hear_v god_n word_n with_o as_o great_a diligence_n as_o ever_o we_o do_v for_o the_o end_n of_o our_o hear_n be_v not_o only_o to_o know_v but_o also_o to_o practice_v not_o only_o to_o inform_v our_o judgement_n but_o also_o to_o reform_v our_o affection_n not_o only_o to_o beget_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o we_o but_o also_o to_o nourish_v and_o increase_v they_o not_o only_o to_o teach_v we_o what_o we_o shall_v do_v but_o also_o to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o the_o do_v thereof_o and_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v not_o only_o a_o light_n for_o our_o foot_n to_o show_v we_o the_o way_n but_o also_o a_o prick_n in_o our_o side_n to_o make_v we_o go_v in_o the_o way_n and_o a_o bridle_n in_o our_o mouth_n to_o keep_v we_o from_o wander_v it_o be_v not_o only_o profitable_a to_o teach_v but_o to_o improve_v to_o correct_v and_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v absolute_a be_v make_v perfect_a unto_o all_o good_a work_n 3.16_o 2._o tim._n 3.16_o as_o it_o be_v 2._o tim._n 3.16_o it_o be_v not_o only_o profitable_a for_o doctrine_n but_o for_o edification_n exhortation_n and_o consolation_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 14.3_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o come_v once_o or_o twice_o to_o the_o assembly_n of_o god_n saint_n 14.3_o 1._o cor._n 14.3_o but_o we_o must_v above_o all_o thing_n desire_v with_o the_o prophet_n david_n that_o we_o may_v dwell_v in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n all_o the_o day_n of_o our_o life_n 27.4_o psal_n 27.4_o to_o behold_v the_o beauty_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o visit_v his_o temple_n psal_n 27.4_o for_o though_o our_o knowledge_n be_v never_o so_o great_a yet_o so_o long_o as_o we_o have_v any_o sin_n hang_v on_o or_o any_o grace_n imperfect_a in_o we_o we_o have_v need_v to_o be_v continual_a hearer_n of_o god_n word_n for_o the_o suppress_n of_o the_o one_o and_o perfect_v of_o the_o other_o chap._n xix_o satan_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o persuade_v man_n that_o the_o scripture_n be_v not_o god_n word_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o the_o second_o temptation_n which_o satan_n sugge_v into_o man_n mind_n temptation_n the_o temptation_n to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v move_v they_o to_o neglect_v the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n or_o though_o they_o do_v hear_v it_o to_o reject_v it_o through_o unbelief_n he_o thus_o frame_v what_o folly_n be_v it_o to_o take_v such_o pain_n in_o hear_v the_o scripture_n and_o what_o madness_n be_v it_o so_o steadfast_o to_o believe_v it_o see_v thou_o know_v not_o whether_o it_o be_v god_n word_n or_o the_o subtle_a devise_n of_o man_n brain_n to_o keep_v the_o people_n in_o awe_n and_o to_o restrain_v they_o from_o such_o secret_a fault_n as_o other_o humane_a law_n ratify_v and_o confirm_v with_o temporal_a and_o outward_a punishment_n and_o reward_n can_v keep_v they_o from_o because_o the_o law_n of_o prince_n can_v no_o more_o than_o the_o lawgiver_n themselves_o either_o fore_n see_v prevent_v or_o punish_v any_o fault_n and_o offence_n which_o be_v not_o open_a and_o manifest_v why_o shall_v thou_o thereby_o be_v move_v to_o forsake_v thy_o delightful_a sin_n and_o to_o embrace_v unpleasant_a godliness_n to_o abandon_v thy_o pleasure_n and_o to_o undertake_v a_o austere_a and_o strict_a course_n of_o life_n see_v thou_o know_v not_o whether_o the_o scripture_n be_v true_a or_o false_a the_o word_n of_o the_o everlasting_a god_n or_o the_o invention_n of_o mortal_a man_n scripture_n the_o answer_v that_o all_o religion_n depend_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n against_o which_o temptation_n it_o behove_v every_o man_n most_o careful_o to_o arm_v himself_o as_o undermine_v the_o very_a foundation_n of_o all_o true_a religion_n for_o take_v away_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o you_o shall_v open_v a_o wide_a door_n to_o all_o carnal_a worldliness_n beastly_a epicurism_n and_o devilish_a atheism_n they_o be_v the_o only_a true_a rule_n of_o virtue_n whereby_o we_o be_v direct_v to_o choose_v the_o good_a and_o refuse_v the_o evil_a the_o sceptre_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o rule_v all_o the_o subject_n of_o his_o kingdom_n which_o be_v reject_v we_o give_v over_o ourselves_o to_o be_v rule_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o lust_n of_o our_o own_o flesh_n the_o light_n of_o our_o eye_n without_o which_o we_o be_v blind_a and_o walk_v in_o darkness_n the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n which_o be_v take_v away_o they_o languish_v in_o all_o spiritual_a grace_n and_o fall_v into_o miserable_a death_n and_o destruction_n and_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o we_o defend_v ourselves_o and_o beat_v back_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n which_o be_v pluck_v out_o of_o our_o hand_n we_o be_v easy_o vanquish_v and_o lead_v captive_a unto_o all_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n §_o sect._n 2_o scripture_n reason_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v indict_v by_o god_n spirit_n 1._o the_o antiquity_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o that_o we_o may_v be_v the_o better_o provide_v against_o this_o temptation_n let_v we_o propound_v some_o reason_n whereby_o gainsayer_n may_v be_v convince_v and_o god_n child_n persuade_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o first_o argument_n to_o prove_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v write_v by_o the_o motion_n and_o revelation_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v the_o antiquity_n thereof_o for_o whatsoever_o religion_n be_v most_o ancient_a that_o proceed_v from_o god_n but_o the_o religion_n contain_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o all_o other_o most_o ancient_a and_o therefore_o god_n be_v the_o author_n thereof_o the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v clear_a and_o manifest_a for_o see_v man_n be_v create_v for_o god_n glory_n to_o the_o end_n he_o shall_v worship_v and_o serve_v he_o and_o can_v not_o perform_v acceptable_a worship_n and_o service_n unto_o god_n unless_o he_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o he_o therefore_o that_o man_n may_v attain_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o his_o creation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o the_o lord_n shall_v from_o the_o beginning_n reveal_v unto_o he_o his_o true_a religion_n whereby_o he_o may_v know_v how_o to_o worship_v and_o serve_v he_o according_a to_o his_o will_n and_o consequent_o the_o first_o and_o most_o ancient_a religion_n be_v the_o true_a religion_n which_o proceed_v from_o god_n and_o all_o other_o be_v false_a and_o counterfeit_a which_o be_v disagree_v and_o repugnant_a hereunto_o see_v god_n will_v be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o constant_a and_o immutable_a the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n namely_o that_o the_o religion_n deliver_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o all_o other_o most_o ancient_a be_v of_o undoubted_a truth_n for_o it_o be_v within_o a_o few_o day_n as_o ancient_a as_o the_o world_n itself_o take_v it_o beginning_n from_o man_n creation_n and_o so_o continue_v in_o a_o constant_a and_o unchangeable_a course_n unto_o this_o day_n now_o all_o other_o religion_n be_v but_o new_a and_o upstart_n in_o comparison_n hereof_o take_v their_o beginning_n diverse_a thousand_o year_n since_o the_o creation_n yea_o even_o the_o god_n themselves_o which_o they_o worship_v which_o intruth_o be_v man_n like_o themselves_o
undertake_v above_o all_o humane_a reason_n and_o power_n for_o have_v not_o the_o devil_n in_o former_a time_n and_o do_v he_o not_o still_o at_o this_o day_n oppose_v himself_o against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o do_v not_o his_o curse_a instrument_n ungodly_a man_n the_o more_o they_o exceed_v in_o wickedness_n the_o more_o bend_v their_o whole_a power_n malicious_o to_o oppugn_v this_o truth_n persecute_v the_o child_n of_o god_n for_o this_o cause_n only_o that_o they_o be_v professor_n and_o practizer_n of_o god_n true_a religion_n and_o whence_o proceed_v this_o malicious_a opposition_n but_o from_o this_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o as_o they_o hate_v and_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o god_n himself_o so_o also_o against_o his_o word_n and_o because_o they_o know_v that_o by_o this_o light_a their_o work_n of_o darkness_n be_v discover_v therefore_o they_o labour_v to_o put_v it_o clean_o out_o that_o their_o wickedness_n may_v not_o be_v descry_v because_o it_o be_v pure_a and_o holy_a they_o can_v endure_v it_o they_o themselves_o be_v corrupt_a and_o wicked_a because_o it_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o justice_n which_o show_v the_o crookedness_n of_o their_o way_n they_o will_v if_o they_o be_v able_a burn_v it_o or_o cut_v it_o in_o piece_n because_o it_o be_v the_o word_n by_o which_o they_o be_v condemn_v therefore_o they_o loathe_v as_o much_o to_o hear_v it_o as_o the_o prisoner_n do_v abhor_v to_o hear_v the_o sentence_n of_o the_o just_a judge_n and_o hence_o proceed_v their_o opposition_n and_o oppugn_v of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n with_o all_o their_o force_n and_o might_n but_o all_o in_o vain_a for_o the_o more_o the_o devil_n and_o wicked_a man_n rage_n against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o more_o by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n support_v it_o the_o glory_n thereof_o appear_v and_o spread_v itself_o over_o the_o face_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o more_o they_o labour_v to_o keep_v it_o down_o the_o more_o it_o flourish_v and_o as_o they_o who_o go_v about_o to_o stop_v the_o current_n of_o a_o mighty_a river_n do_v but_o make_v it_o to_o swell_v the_o high_a and_o overflow_v all_o the_o country_n whereas_o before_o it_o be_v contain_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o own_o bank_n so_o when_o satan_n and_o his_o wicked_a imp_n do_v seek_v to_o stay_v this_o heavenly_a stream_n which_o flow_v from_o god_n sanctuary_n and_o labour_n may_v and_o main_a to_o hinder_v the_o passage_n &_o propagation_n of_o god_n truth_n the_o more_o it_o spread_v itself_o maugre_o their_o malice_n and_o overflow_v the_o whole_a earth_n and_o whence_o can_v the_o defeat_n and_o frustrate_v of_o this_o powerful_a violence_n proceed_v but_o from_o a_o great_a power_n even_o the_o power_n of_o god_n for_o though_o all_o man_n shall_v combine_v themselves_o together_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o resist_v satan_n rage_n or_o protect_v the_o word_n of_o god_n from_o utter_a ruin_n only_o the_o lord_n who_o power_n be_v omnipotent_a can_v thus_o uphold_v it_o and_o make_v it_o prevail_v against_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n and_o as_o the_o lord_n by_o preserve_v and_o defend_v the_o scripture_n from_o the_o begin_n unto_o this_o day_n do_v evident_o show_v that_o they_o be_v his_o own_o word_n and_o reveal_v will_n so_o also_o by_o punish_v even_o in_o this_o life_n with_o utter_a ruin_n and_o destruction_n all_o those_o who_o have_v most_o violent_o and_o malicious_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o it_o and_o persecute_v the_o saint_n of_o god_n for_o the_o profession_n hereof_o as_o may_v appear_v notable_o in_o the_o example_n of_o antiochus_n epiphanes_n herod_n nero_n domitian_n dioclesian_n julian_n the_o apostata_fw-la and_o many_o other_o who_o by_o their_o shameful_a and_o horrible_a death_n testify_v and_o prove_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n which_o they_o have_v oppugn_v and_o persecute_v the_o whole_a course_n of_o their_o wicked_a life_n §_o sect._n 7_o six_o the_o lord_n have_v approve_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v his_o truth_n by_o wonderful_a miracle_n miracle_n the_o sixth_o reason_n take_v from_o miracle_n which_o satan_n himself_o can_v so_o much_o as_o imitate_v as_o by_o give_v the_o blind_a their_o sight_n raise_v the_o dead_a to_o life_n turn_v back_o the_o course_n of_o the_o sun_n in_o the_o firmament_n divide_v the_o sea_n in_o two_o part_n and_o such_o like_a which_o miracle_n be_v wrought_v by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o god_n to_o this_o end_n that_o the_o faithful_a may_v be_v confirm_v in_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n truth_n and_o the_o wicked_a convince_a but_o against_o this_o satan_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o suggest_v that_o there_o be_v never_o any_o such_o miracle_n as_o be_v record_v in_o the_o scripture_n to_o which_o i_o answer_v that_o these_o miracle_n be_v not_o do_v in_o a_o corner_n or_o in_o hug_a mugger_n but_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o great_a multitude_n otherwise_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n who_o be_v but_o mean_a and_o simple_a man_n shall_v have_v labour_v in_o vain_a to_o have_v persuade_v man_n to_o have_v embrace_v their_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n especial_o be_v so_o contrary_a to_o humane_a wisdom_n and_o our_o natural_a disposition_n and_o affection_n if_o they_o have_v only_o themselves_o report_v or_o bring_v some_o few_o witness_n of_o their_o miracle_n wrought_v and_o not_o public_o show_v they_o to_o all_o the_o people_n moreover_o see_v this_o doctrine_n have_v have_v so_o many_o enemy_n from_o the_o beginning_n it_o be_v not_o probable_a but_o that_o they_o will_v have_v exclame_v and_o write_v against_o the_o writing_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n as_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v publish_v for_o write_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v never_o do_v but_o among_o all_o those_o who_o have_v oppose_v themselves_o against_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v no_o man_n so_o impudent_a as_o to_o deny_v that_o such_o miracle_n be_v do_v of_o which_o so_o many_o be_v eye-witness_n nay_o contrariwise_o the_o heathen_a themselves_o who_o neither_o know_v god_n nor_o his_o true_a religion_n have_v make_v mention_n of_o they_o in_o their_o writing_n and_o the_o jew_n who_o to_o this_o day_n withstand_v the_o work_n of_o redemption_n wrought_v by_o christ_n do_v notwithstanding_o confess_v that_o such_o miracle_n be_v wrought_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n neither_o in_o truth_n be_v they_o able_a to_o gainsay_v they_o see_v they_o have_v receive_v this_o truth_n by_o tradition_n from_o their_o father_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v drive_v to_o confess_v that_o christ_n be_v a_o great_a prophet_n though_o not_o the_o promise_a messiah_n §_o sect._n 8_o seventhly_a the_o constant_a testimony_n of_o innumerable_a martyr_n who_o have_v seal_v this_o truth_n with_o their_o dear_a blood_n martyr_n the_o seven_o reason_n take_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o martyr_n be_v a_o notable_a argument_n to_o assure_v we_o that_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a that_o so_o many_o will_v so_o constant_o and_o cheerful_o have_v suffer_v for_o their_o profession_n the_o most_o exquisite_a torment_n that_o wit_n and_o malice_n can_v invent_v if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v not_o certain_o assure_v they_o that_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o if_o it_o have_v not_o support_v they_o in_o suffer_v these_o torment_n above_o all_o humane_a power_n and_o strength_n and_o whereas_o it_o may_v be_v object_v that_o wicked_a man_n have_v suffer_v also_o for_o their_o sect_n opinion_n and_o heresy_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o there_o be_v great_a differece_n between_o they_o first_o because_o the_o number_n have_v be_v few_o who_o have_v suffer_v for_o their_o several_a sect_n and_o heresy_n but_o the_o martyr_n almost_o innumerable_a who_o have_v suffer_v for_o the_o same_o truth_n second_o the_o same_o cheerfulness_n constancy_n and_o rejoice_v in_o their_o suffering_n have_v not_o be_v in_o they_o who_o have_v suffer_v for_o their_o error_n which_o have_v always_o be_v observe_v in_o god_n saint_n and_o last_o these_o heretic_n have_v always_o be_v confute_v and_o convince_v of_o their_o error_n and_o heresy_n before_o their_o suffering_n whereas_o god_n saint_n direct_v by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n have_v stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o adversary_n with_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n word_n which_o satan_n himself_o can_v resist_v and_o through_o violent_a rage_n be_v unconuict_v have_v be_v lead_v to_o the_o slaughter_n chap._n xx._n other_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v indict_v by_o god_n spirit_n take_v from_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o §_o sect._n 1_o the_o eight_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n handle_v the_o eight_o reason_n take_v from_o the_o argument_n which_o
substance_n in_o the_o proper_a and_o special_a truth_n than_o in_o the_o common_a and_o general_a and_o though_o in_o one_o place_n they_o do_v not_o so_o clear_a the_o truth_n as_o they_o shall_v yet_o they_o do_v it_o in_o many_o other_o and_o therefore_o let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o neglect_v the_o scripture_n because_o there_o be_v want_n and_o imperfection_n in_o the_o translation_n for_o if_o we_o study_v and_o meditate_v even_o in_o the_o mean_a and_o conform_v and_o frame_v our_o life_n according_a to_o that_o truth_n which_o we_o learn_v out_o of_o they_o we_o shall_v attain_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n and_o happiness_n man_n do_v not_o use_v to_o neglect_v their_o business_n because_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o cloud_n the_o sun_n do_v not_o shine_v upon_o they_o in_o his_o full_a brightness_n for_o that_o light_n which_o they_o enjoy_v be_v sufficient_a though_o not_o so_o glorious_o bright_a as_o when_o it_o shine_v in_o his_o full_a clearness_n so_o we_o must_v not_o neglect_v the_o conform_v of_o ourselves_o to_o the_o scripture_n because_o we_o can_v see_v they_o shine_v in_o their_o own_o glorious_a brightness_n as_o they_o be_v pen_v by_o the_o inspiration_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o original_a language_n for_o as_o well_o may_v a_o painter_n express_v in_o his_o table_n with_o artificial_a colour_n the_o glory_n of_o the_o sun_n as_o any_o man_n live_v can_v express_v that_o perfect_a beauty_n and_o divine_a glory_n which_o shine_v in_o the_o natural_a phrase_n of_o holy_a scripture_n in_o a_o translation_n but_o rather_o we_o be_v to_o enjoy_v the_o benefit_n of_o this_o glorious_a shine_a sun_n of_o god_n word_n though_o the_o brightness_n be_v as_o it_o be_v veil_a and_o somewhat_o shadow_v with_o the_o cloud_n of_o another_o language_n for_o notwithstanding_o through_o it_o they_o shine_v and_o afford_v we_o such_o light_n as_o may_v be_v sufficient_a to_o guide_v and_o direct_v we_o in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n which_o will_v bring_v we_o in_o the_o end_n to_o eternal_a glory_n and_o endless_a felicity_n chap._n xxiii_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o the_o evil_a life_n of_o the_o minister_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o so_o much_o concern_v the_o objection_n which_o satan_n make_v against_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o also_o that_o satan_n by_o disgrace_v the_o minister_n seek_v to_o disgrace_v their_o ministry_n also_o to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v make_v man_n neglect_v to_o hear_v and_o read_v they_o but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v than_o he_o leave_v to_o disgrace_v the_o word_n itself_o and_o seek_v by_o discredit_v the_o minister_n thereof_o to_o make_v they_o to_o contemn_v their_o ministry_n and_o to_o this_o end_n he_o use_v all_o his_o skill_n to_o draw_v they_o into_o some_o gross_a and_o scandalous_a sin_n and_o to_o neglect_v that_o doctrine_n themselves_o which_o they_o teach_v unto_o other_o show_v in_o their_o life_n and_o conversation_n neither_o zeal_n of_o god_n glory_n nor_o desire_n of_o their_o neighbour_n good_a and_o when_o he_o have_v attain_v unto_o his_o purpose_n in_o some_o he_o think_v it_o a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o slander_n of_o all_o and_o a_o notable_a foundation_n whereupon_o he_o may_v build_v a_o most_o pernicious_a temptation_n be_v thou_o so_o foolish_a will_n he_o say_v as_o to_o think_v all_o gospel_n which_o the_o minister_n teach_v that_o all_o truth_n come_v from_o their_o mouth_n &_o that_o there_o be_v not_o a_o more_o easy_a way_n of_o attain_v to_o everlasting_a life_n then_o that_o which_o they_o show_v unto_o thou_o why_o do_v but_o look_v upon_o themselves_o and_o thoushalt_v find_v their_o life_n far_o dissonant_n from_o their_o word_n that_o while_o they_o exhort_v thou_o to_o stricktnes_n they_o take_v their_o liberty_n while_o they_o dissuade_v thou_o from_o take_v thy_o pleasure_n affect_v honour_n set_v thy_o heart_n upon_o riches_n themselves_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n be_v as_o voluptuous_a ambitious_a and_o covetous_a as_o any_o other_o and_o while_o they_o endeavour_v to_o make_v sin_n to_o appear_v unto_o thou_o as_o black_a as_o hell_n themselves_o embrace_v it_o with_o pleasure_n and_o delight_n as_o though_o it_o be_v the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n who_o therefore_o can_v imagine_v that_o they_o think_v as_o they_o speak_v or_o that_o they_o be_v persuade_v that_o heaven_n gate_n be_v so_o straight_o and_o the_o way_n so_o troublesome_a and_o hard_a to_o find_v as_o they_o go_v about_o to_o persuade_v thou_o see_v themselves_o take_v the_o least_o pain_n in_o walk_v in_o this_o way_n which_o they_o prescribe_v unto_o other_o or_o if_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n which_o they_o teach_v then_o sure_o they_o be_v not_o worth_a the_o hear_n who_o in_o their_o life_n deny_v this_o truth_n which_o in_o their_o word_n they_o profess_v for_o what_o hope_n can_v thou_o have_v that_o it_o will_v be_v powerful_a to_o work_v grace_n in_o thou_o see_v it_o have_v no_o power_n to_o work_v it_o in_o themselves_o or_o that_o they_o can_v persuade_v thou_o to_o that_o holiness_n to_o which_o themselves_o be_v not_o persuade_v §_o sect._n 2_o and_o thus_o do_v satan_n seek_v to_o keep_v man_n from_o hear_v of_o god_n word_n temptation_n the_o answer_n to_o the_o former_a temptation_n that_o so_o be_v weaken_v and_o hunger-starve_v for_o want_n of_o this_o heavenly_a manna_n he_o may_v vanquish_v they_o at_o the_o first_o onset_n and_o lead_v they_o captive_a unto_o all_o sin_n and_o be_v still_o hoodwink_v with_o the_o thick_a veil_n of_o ignorance_n he_o may_v lead_v they_o the_o direct_a way_n to_o hell_n and_o utter_a destruction_n and_o therefore_o it_o behove_v every_o one_o to_o arm_v themselves_o that_o so_o they_o may_v beat_v back_o the_o violence_n of_o this_o temptation_n first_o therefore_o imperfection_n minister_n subject_n to_o all_o human_a imperfection_n whereas_o he_o say_v that_o the_o minister_n speak_v not_o as_o they_o think_v because_o they_o do_v not_o as_o the_o speak_v we_o be_v to_o know_v for_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o temptation_n that_o minister_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o same_o corruption_n and_o infirmity_n which_o be_v incident_a unto_o other_o man_n and_o though_o they_o be_v call_v in_o the_o scripture_n angel_n in_o respect_n that_o they_o be_v god_n messenger_n to_o bring_v and_o publish_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o the_o gospel_n yet_o be_v they_o not_o angel_n in_o respect_n of_o their_o purity_n and_o perfection_n but_o as_o they_o be_v flesh_n and_o blood_n subject_a to_o all_o humane_a frailty_n as_o they_o be_v bear_v in_o sin_n and_o defile_v with_o original_a corruption_n so_o be_v they_o as_o prone_a as_o other_o to_o fall_v into_o all_o actual_a transgression_n if_o the_o lord_n restrain_v they_o not_o neither_o must_v we_o imagine_v that_o learning_n and_o knowledge_n do_v endue_v man_n with_o sanctification_n and_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n for_o than_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o they_o by_o our_o study_n labour_n and_o industry_n whereas_o the_o scripture_n teach_v we_o that_o they_o be_v god_n free_a gift_n which_o he_o bestow_v on_o who_o he_o will_v than_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o he_o who_o be_v endue_v with_o most_o knowledge_n and_o learning_n shall_v also_o have_v most_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n whereas_o our_o own_o experience_n teach_v we_o that_o many_o of_o the_o great_a doctor_n of_o the_o world_n spend_v their_o life_n in_o all_o voluptuous_a pleasure_n and_o licentiousness_n what_o then_o do_v these_o man_n teach_v one_o thing_n and_o believe_v another_o sure_o it_o may_v be_v the_o case_n of_o many_o for_o faith_n come_v not_o by_o variety_n of_o knowledge_n neither_o be_v it_o tie_v to_o learning_n but_o it_o be_v the_o free_a gift_n of_o god_n bestow_v as_o well_o yea_o and_o as_o often_o also_o upon_o the_o simple_a fisherman_n as_o upon_o the_o learned_a pharisee_n and_o therefore_o though_o they_o have_v such_o great_a learning_n and_o knowledge_n that_o they_o be_v able_a to_o instruct_v other_o and_o defend_v the_o truth_n against_o all_o opposer_n yet_o may_v they_o be_v as_o hard_o heart_a and_o full_a of_o infidelity_n as_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o sottish_a in_o the_o world_n shall_v then_o their_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o infidelity_n move_v we_o to_o call_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n which_o they_o deliver_v into_o question_n as_o though_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n doubtful_a whether_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o no_o god_n forbid_v nay_o let_v god_n be_v true_a and_o every_o man_n a_o liar_n for_o their_o own_o conscience_n be_v convince_v of_o this_o truth_n though_o not_o persuade_v and_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v they_o eye_n to_o see_v it_o though_o not_o heart_n to_o believe_v it_o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o praise_n of_o our_o salvation_n
fort_n we_o have_v bestow_v his_o rich_a treasure_n &_o therefore_o in_o his_o justice_n he_o send_v his_o sergeant_a death_n to_o arrest_v we_o and_o to_o cast_v we_o in_o the_o prison_n of_o utter_a darkness_n there_o to_o remain_v in_o the_o custody_n of_o sathan_n our_o most_o malicious_a jailer_n till_o we_o have_v full_o discharge_v our_o debt_n and_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o justice_n which_o when_o we_o be_v altogether_o unable_a to_o perform_v it_o please_v our_o saviour_n christ_n in_o his_o infinite_a love_n towards_o we_o to_o become_v our_o surety_n and_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o answer_v of_o our_o debt_n which_o he_o full_o discharge_v in_o as_o exact_v a_o manner_n and_o measure_n as_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n require_v for_o whereas_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o perform_v perfect_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n he_o perform_v it_o for_o we_o where_o as_o we_o for_o our_o disobedience_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o death_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n he_o be_v condemn_v for_o we_o and_o bear_v the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o die_v in_o our_o stead_n a_o ignominious_a death_n whereas_o we_o deserve_v the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v keep_v prisoner_n in_o the_o grave_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o death_n he_o endure_v his_o father_n wrathful_a displeasure_n and_o himself_o be_v for_o a_o time_n hold_v captive_a of_o death_n in_o the_o grave_n that_o so_o he_o may_v reconcile_v we_o to_o his_o father_n and_o set_v we_o at_o liberty_n in_o a_o word_n whatsoever_o we_o owe_v christ_n discharge_v whatsoever_o we_o deserve_v he_o suffer_v if_o not_o in_o the_o self_n same_o punishment_n for_o he_o can_v not_o suffer_v the_o eternal_a torment_n of_o hell_n yet_o in_o proportion_n the_o dignity_n of_o his_o person_n give_v value_n unto_o his_o temporary_a punishment_n and_o make_v they_o of_o more_o value_n and_o worth_n then_o if_o all_o the_o world_n shall_v have_v suffer_v the_o eternal_a torment_n of_o hell_n see_v therefore_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v full_o discharge_v our_o debt_n and_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o father_n justice_n god_n can_v in_o equity_n exact_a of_o we_o a_o second_o payment_n no_o more_o than_o the_o creditor_n may_v just_o require_v that_o his_o debt_n shall_v be_v twice_o pay_v once_o of_o the_o surety_n and_o again_o of_o the_o principal_n neither_o now_o have_v god_n justice_n any_o thing_n to_o show_v against_o we_o for_o the_o law_n which_o be_v the_o hand_n write_v of_o ordinance_n which_o make_v against_o we_o and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o bond_n whereby_o we_o be_v oblige_v and_o bind_v to_o god_n the_o father_n either_o to_o perform_v obedience_n or_o to_o undergo_v the_o penalty_n even_o everlasting_a death_n and_o condemnation_n be_v now_o cancel_v take_v away_o and_o fasten_v to_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v col._n 2.14_o so_o that_o now_o the_o lord_n can_v in_o his_o justice_n put_v we_o in_o suit_n nor_o recover_v any_o debt_n of_o we_o see_v our_o saviour_n christ_n our_o good_a and_o all_o sufficient_a surety_n have_v undertake_v the_o matter_n in_o our_o behalf_n discharge_v our_o debt_n to_o the_o utmost_a farthing_n cancel_v the_o handwriting_n or_o bond_n in_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v and_o by_o the_o law_n acquit_v we_o of_o all_o paimente_n which_o god_n justice_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o law_n may_v require_v of_o us._n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o lie_v hold_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o his_o merit_n by_o a_o lively_a faith_n we_o have_v our_o quietus_n est_fw-la and_o general_a acquittance_n which_o god_n himself_o have_v pronounce_v from_o heaven_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o many_o witness_n say_v this_o be_v may_v well-beloved_a son_n in_o who_o i_o be_o well_o please_v that_o be_v in_o who_o i_o be_o delight_v &_o restful_o satisfy_v &_o well_o content_v mat._n 3.17_o chap._n xxxiiii_o of_o the_o three_o argument_n ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o three_o argument_n promise_n of_o god_n truth_n in_o his_o promise_n whereby_o all_o those_o who_o repent_v and_o believe_v may_v be_v assure_v of_o the_o pardon_n &_o remission_n of_o their_o sin_n be_v ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n for_o the_o lord_n be_v most_o true_a yea_o truth_n itself_o and_o all_o his_o promise_n in_o christ_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_n 1.7_o 2._o cor._n 1.20_o apoc._n 1.7_o he_o be_v a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n and_o whatsoever_o he_o have_v speak_v shall_v be_v accomplish_v so_o that_o though_o the_o heaven_n decay_n and_o wax_v old_a like_o a_o garment_n though_o the_o sun_n lose_v his_o light_n and_o the_o moon_n be_v turn_v into_o blood_n though_o the_o earth_n tremble_v and_o quake_v and_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o mountain_n be_v move_v and_o shake_v yea_o though_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o all_o thing_n therein_o contain_v perish_v and_o pass_v away_o 1●_n matth._n 5_o 1●_n yet_o shall_v not_o one_o jot_n or_o title_n of_o his_o word_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n unaccomplish_v and_o therefore_o whatsoever_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v in_o his_o word_n that_o he_o will_v most_o undoubted_o perform_v for_o he_o be_v jehova_n who_o have_v his_o essence_n and_o be_v in_o and_o from_o himself_o alone_o give_v be_v unto_o all_o thing_n else_o especial_o to_o his_o word_n and_o promise_n but_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o all_o believer_n and_o repentant_a sinner_n that_o he_o will_v in_o christ_n jesus_n pardon_v all_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v receive_v they_o into_o his_o grace_n and_o favour_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o believe_v and_o rest_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n alone_o for_o our_o salvation_n true_o repent_v we_o of_o all_o our_o sin_n we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o that_o though_o our_o sin_n be_v never_o so_o many_o and_o grievous_a yet_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v we_o to_o mercy_n and_o pardon_n and_o forgive_v they_o §_o sect._n 2_o but_o that_o the_o poor_a soul_n wound_v with_o sin_n and_o groan_v for_o weariness_n under_o this_o unsupportable_a burden_n forgiveness_n that_o god_n regal_a stile_n assure_v we_o of_o mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n may_v have_v some_o ground_n whereupon_o to_o rest_v when_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o faint_v &_o some_o spiritual_a weapon_n whereby_o it_o may_v defend_v itself_o and_o beat_v back_o the_o violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n i_o will_v make_v choice_n of_o some_o among_o many_o of_o the_o comfortable_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n make_v unto_o all_o repentant_a sinner_n first_o therefore_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o when_o the_o lord_n like_o a_o mighty_a monarch_n will_v set_v out_o his_o own_o stile_n as_o it_o be_v in_o fair_a text_n letter_n to_o be_v read_v of_o all_o his_o subject_n he_o thus_o proclaym_v it_o exod._n 34.6_o the_o lord_n the_o lord_n strong_a merciful_a and_o gracious_a slow_a to_o anger_n and_o abundant_a in_o goodness_n and_o truth_n 7._o reserve_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o forgive_a iniquity_n and_o transgression_n and_o sinner_n where_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o stile_n consist_v of_o his_o mercy_n gratiousnes_n long_o suffer_v goodness_n &_o readiness_n to_o forgive_v the_o iniquity_n of_o repentant_a sinner_n as_o therefore_o we_o can_v offer_v a_o great_a disgrace_n to_o a_o mighty_a prince_n then_o to_o deny_v or_o call_v into_o question_n any_o part_n of_o his_o title_n or_o regal_a stile_n so_o we_o can_v more_o dishonour_v the_o prince_n of_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a king_n of_o heaven_n &_o earth_n then_o by_o doubt_v of_o or_o deny_v any_o of_o these_o his_o title_n which_o in_o his_o own_o stile_n he_o have_v attribute_v unto_o himself_o see_v then_o he_o profess_v and_o proclaym_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o gracious_a merciful_a long_a suffering_n god_n who_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o forgive_v repentant_a sinner_n when_o they_o implore_v his_o mercy_n let_v we_o not_o offer_v god_n that_o disgrace_n to_o rob_v he_o of_o any_o part_n of_o his_o glorious_a title_n nor_o deprive_v our_o soul_n of_o that_o true_a comfort_n which_o the_o lord_n by_o they_o in_o his_o infinite_a goodness_n have_v grant_v unto_o us._n §_o sect._n 3_o moreover_o this_o be_v one_o main_a part_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n sin_n that_o god_n ●ovenant_n assure_v we_o of_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n which_o the_o lord_n profess_v that_o he_o will_v make_v with_o his_o church_n and_o people_n namely_o that_o he_o will_v forgive_v their_o iniquity_n and_o remember_v their_o sin_n no_o more_o jer._n 31.34_o the_o counterpane_n of_o which_o covenant_n we_o have_v heb._n 10.16.17_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o on_o our_o part_n perform_v the_o condition_n of_o this_o covenant_n
call_v unto_o they_o and_o he_o in_o who_o power_n it_o be_v every_o minute_n utter_o to_o destroy_v they_o first_o of_o all_o desire_v a_o parley_n he_o who_o may_v well_o abhor_v to_o vouchsafe_v they_o his_o presence_n earnest_o desire_v conference_n with_o they_o say_v ver_fw-la 18._o come_v now_o and_o let_v we_o reason_n together_o say_v the_o lord_n though_o your_o sin_n be_v as_o crimson_a they_o shall_v be_v make_v as_o white_a as_o snow_n though_o they_o be_v red_a like_o scarlet_n they_o shall_v be_v as_o wool_n §_o sect._n 6_o christ_n the_o example_n of_o the_o israelite_n in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n in_o like_a manner_n in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n the_o same_o jew_n most_o wicked_o rebel_v against_o the_o lord_n for_o when_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o rich_a mercy_n send_v the_o promise_a messiah_n to_o deliver_v they_o out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o their_o enemy_n they_o will_v not_o receive_v he_o nay_o they_o continual_o afflict_v and_o persecute_v he_o they_o mock_v and_o revile_v he_o they_o hale_v he_o before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n and_o cause_v he_o to_o be_v condemn_v who_o come_v to_o justify_v and_o acquit_v they_o they_o buffet_v and_o whip_v he_o and_o prefer_v a_o wicked_a murderer_n before_o he_o who_o prefer_v their_o salvation_n before_o his_o own_o life_n last_o in_o most_o ignominious_a sort_n they_o crucify_v and_o kill_v he_o after_o all_o which_o outrageous_a wickedness_n offer_v against_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n they_o continue_v in_o their_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o impaenitencie_n never_o acknowledge_v their_o fault_n not_o desire_v pardon_n nay_o rather_o as_o they_o have_v persecute_v the_o head_n our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n so_o when_o they_o can_v offer_v no_o more_o wrong_a unto_o he_o in_o his_o own_o person_n they_o be_v ready_a to_o satisfy_v and_o glut_v their_o malicious_a rage_n in_o persecute_v his_o poor_a member_n now_o what_o more_o hellish_a impiety_n be_v ever_o commit_v what_o more_o outrageous_a sin_n be_v ever_o hear_v of_o who_o will_v ever_o have_v imagine_v that_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n of_o pardon_n for_o such_o rebellious_a bloody_a wretch_n but_o o_o the_o infinite_a and_o bottomless_a depth_n of_o god_n mercy_n while_o their_o wickedness_n be_v fresh_a in_o memory_n and_o their_o hand_n still_o embrue_v in_o the_o guiltless_a blood_n of_o this_o innocent_a lamb_n when_o as_o they_o continue_v in_o their_o course_n and_o run_v headlong_o forward_o in_o their_o wickedness_n without_o any_o sense_n of_o sin_n or_o desire_v of_o pardon_n the_o lord_n send_v his_o apostle_n unto_o they_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o repentance_n and_o to_o assure_v they_o that_o their_o sin_n be_v pardon_v 2.38_o act._n 2.38_o see_v therefore_o these_o obtain_v the_o remission_n of_o their_o sin_n who_o need_v to_o doubt_v of_o pardon_n who_o earnest_o desire_v it_o for_o do_v the_o lord_n gratioussy_a offer_n forgiveness_n to_o such_o rebellious_a wretch_n and_o will_v he_o not_o grant_v it_o to_o less_o offender_n if_o they_o desire_v it_o do_v he_o offer_v they_o mercy_n before_o they_o seek_v it_o and_o will_v he_o deny_v mercy_n unto_o any_o who_o earnest_o seek_v and_o sue_v for_o it_o do_v he_o seek_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o repentance_n and_o to_o turn_v unto_o he_o and_o will_v he_o not_o receive_v they_o when_o they_o do_v repent_v be_v he_o so_o exceed_o merciful_a in_o time_n past_a and_o shall_v we_o now_o think_v his_o arm_n shorten_v or_o his_o mercy_n abate_v nay_o assure_o he_o be_v immutable_a ever_o like_o himself_o one_o and_o the_o same_o most_o gracious_a most_o merciful_a &_o full_a of_o all_o goodness_n and_o compassion_n towards_o all_o they_o that_o come_v unto_o he_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o turn_v from_o our_o sin_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o though_o they_o be_v never_o so_o many_o and_o grievous_a they_o shall_v be_v pardon_v and_o we_o receive_v into_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n §_o sect._n 7_o to_o these_o example_n of_o whole_a multitude_n mercy_n particular_a example_n of_o god_n mercy_n we_o may_v add_v the_o example_n of_o particular_a sinner_n who_o have_v be_v receyve_v to_o mercy_n and_o obtain_v pardon_n though_o their_o sin_n have_v be_v many_o and_o grievous_a as_o matthew_n zacheus_n levi_n who_o be_v sinful_a publican_n that_o get_v their_o live_n by_o pill_v &_o poll_n oppression_n and_o extortion_n man_n so_o notorious_o wicked_a that_o publican_n and_o sinner_n be_v join_v together_o as_o though_o they_o be_v sinner_n by_o profession_n and_o therefore_o as_o synonimon_n or_o diverse_a word_n of_o one_o signification_n they_o interpret_v one_o another_o and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o riches_n of_o god_n mercy_n that_o even_o these_o profess_a sinner_n be_v convert_v and_o receive_v remission_n of_o all_o their_o outrageous_a wickedness_n the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o mary_n magdalene_n who_o though_o she_o have_v be_v a_o woman_n of_o lewd_a behaviour_n and_o loose_a life_n though_o she_o be_v possess_v of_o many_o devil_n and_o common_o note_v for_o a_o infamous_a and_o notorious_a sinner_n yet_o upon_o her_o true_a repentance_n obtain_v the_o remission_n of_o her_o sin_n and_o while_o she_o wash_v the_o foot_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n with_o her_o tear_n he_o purge_v and_o cleanse_v her_o body_n and_o soul_n from_o the_o filthy_a leprosy_n of_o sin_n with_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n while_o she_o wipe_v they_o with_o the_o hair_n of_o her_o head_n he_o beautify_v and_o adorn_v she_o with_o the_o rich_a robe_n of_o his_o righteousness_n yea_o she_o be_v receive_v into_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o favour_n with_o our_o saviour_n christ_n so_o as_o she_o have_v in_o some_o thing_n the_o pre-eminence_n before_o his_o chief_a apostel_n for_o after_o christ_n rise_n again_o he_o first_o vouchsafe_v she_o his_o presence_n and_o use_v she_o as_o his_o messenger_n to_o certify_v the_o rest_n of_o his_o resurrection_n so_o likewise_o the_o apostle_n paul_n before_o his_o call_n be_v not_o only_o no_o lover_n but_o a_o bitter_a and_o fierce_a persecuter_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o of_o all_o the_o professor_n thereof_o imprison_a ston_a and_o cruel_o murder_v the_o saint_n of_o god_n but_o behold_v and_o admire_v the_o wonderful_a mercy_n of_o god_n even_o while_o his_o imbrue_a hand_n be_v yet_o red_a with_o the_o blood_n of_o god_n faithful_a child_n and_o while_o his_o heart_n be_v so_o full_a of_o burn_a rage_n that_o he_o breathe_v out_o still_o threaten_n and_o slaughter_n against_o the_o disciple_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o please_v god_n wonderful_o to_o convert_v he_o to_o assure_v he_o of_o the_o remission_n of_o all_o these_o his_o horrible_a sin_n and_o to_o make_v he_o of_o a_o bloody_a persecuter_n a_o most_o excellent_a preacher_n of_o his_o gospel_n and_o of_o a_o ravenous_a devour_a wolf_n a_o most_o vigilant_a and_o painful_a shepherd_n to_o these_o we_o may_v add_v the_o example_n of_o the_o thief_n who_o though_o he_o have_v spend_v his_o whole_a life_n wicked_o &_o profane_o yet_o be_v convert_v at_o the_o hour_n of_o death_n and_o receive_v the_o pardon_n of_o his_o sin_n be_v present_o assure_v of_o everlasting_a happiness_n but_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o heap_v up_o many_o particular_n only_o i_o can_v not_o pass_v that_o notable_a example_n of_o manasses_n one_o of_o the_o most_o outrageous_a sinner_n and_o profane_v wretch_n that_o ever_o live_v as_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v describe_v he_o in_o the_o 21._o 21._o 2._o king_n 21._o chap._n of_o the_o 2._o book_n of_o the_o king_n for_o there_o he_o affirm_v of_o he_o that_o he_o be_v a_o most_o horrible_a idolater_n a_o most_o malicious_a enemy_n and_o cruel_a persecuter_n of_o god_n truth_n a_o defiler_n of_o god_n holy_a temple_n a_o sacrificer_n of_o his_o own_o child_n unto_o idol_n that_o be_v devil_n a_o notable_a witch_n and_o wicked_a sorcerer_n a_o bloody_a murderer_n of_o exceed_v many_o the_o dear_a saint_n and_o true_a prophet_n of_o the_o lord_n one_o who_o do_v not_o run_v headlong_o alone_a into_o all_o hellish_a impiety_n but_o also_o lead_v the_o people_n under_o his_o government_n out_o of_o the_o way_n to_o do_v more_o wicked_o than_o do_v the_o heathen_a people_n who_o the_o lord_n destroy_v before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n and_o in_o a_o word_n wrought_v more_o abomination_n and_o outrageous_a wickedness_n than_o the_o curse_a amorites_n and_o canaanite_n of_o who_o notwithstanding_o the_o land_n surfeit_v and_o spew_v they_o out_o for_o their_o cry_a sin_n and_o yet_o this_o manasses_n this_o wretch_n more_o like_o a_o devil_n incarnate_a than_o a_o saint_n of_o god_n repent_v he_o of_o his_o sin_n from_o the_o bottom_n of_o his_o heart_n be_v receive_v i_o can_v speak_v
holy_a spirit_n like_o a_o glorious_a light_n have_v dispel_v the_o dark_a foggy_a mist_n of_o ignorance_n and_o illuminate_v the_o eye_n of_o their_o understanding_n with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n law_n they_o better_o discern_v their_o sin_n and_o miserable_a estate_n then_o in_o former_a time_n and_o this_o the_o apostle_n paul_n show_v unto_o we_o in_o his_o own_o example_n rom._n 7.9_o 7.9.10_o rom._n 7.9.10_o for_o say_v he_o i_o be_v once_o alive_a without_o the_o law_n but_o when_o the_o commandment_n come_v sin_n reviue_v 10._o but_o i_o die_v and_o the_o same_o commandment_n which_o be_v ordain_v unto_o life_n be_v find_v to_o be_v unto_o i_o unto_o death_n and_o ver_fw-la 13._o be_v that_o than_o which_o be_v good_a make_v death_n unto_o i_o god_n forbid_v but_o sin_n that_o it_o may_v appear_v sin_n wrought_v death_n in_o i_o by_o that_o which_o be_v good_a that_o sin_n may_v be_v out_o of_o measure_n sinful_a by_o the_o commandment_n so_o that_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o law_n do_v not_o make_v we_o more_o sinful_a but_o reveal_v those_o sin_n unto_o we_o which_o before_o we_o discern_v not_o as_o therefore_o the_o sun_n shine_v upon_o some_o filthy_a place_n do_v not_o make_v it_o so_o filthy_a but_o only_o do_v make_v it_o manifest_v which_o be_v not_o see_v in_o the_o dark_a and_o as_o the_o wholesome_a physic_n be_v not_o the_o cause_n of_o those_o corruption_n which_o it_o purge_v out_o but_o by_o expel_v they_o out_o of_o the_o body_n show_v they_o unto_o we_o so_o the_o heavenly_a light_n and_o sovereign_a physic_n of_o god_n word_n do_v not_o work_v in_o we_o our_o filthy_a corruption_n and_o hurtful_a humour_n of_o sin_n but_o it_o reveal_v they_o unto_o we_o whereas_o before_o time_n by_o reason_n of_o our_o ignorance_n and_o blindness_n they_o be_v secret_a and_o hide_a §_o sect._n 6_o when_o therefore_o out_o of_o the_o former_a premise_n this_o conclusion_n be_v infer_v either_o by_o satan_n who_o continual_o like_o a_o malicious_a enemy_n seek_v our_o destruction_n imperfection_n that_o we_o be_v not_o to_o neglect_v hear_v the_o word_n because_o of_o the_o former_a imperfection_n or_o by_o our_o own_o corrupt_a flesh_n which_o be_v impatient_a of_o any_o rough_a handlinge_n and_o therefore_o will_v rather_o have_v we_o sick_a still_o then_o endure_v any_o pain_n in_o be_v cure_v that_o it_o be_v better_o for_o we_o to_o surcease_v the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n as_o serve_v to_o no_o other_o end_n but_o to_o increase_v our_o condemnation_n let_v we_o in_o any_o case_n resist_v such_o motion_n as_o be_v most_o dangerous_a tentation_n which_o be_v entertain_v will_v bring_v we_o to_o utter_v ruin_n and_o endless_a destruction_n for_o if_o we_o deprive_v ourselves_o of_o this_o heavenly_a light_n the_o devil_n will_v easy_o lead_v we_o hudwincke_n unto_o all_o fin_n &_o wickedness_n if_o we_o long_o abstain_v from_o this_o comfortable_a food_n of_o our_o soul_n they_o will_v be_v hungarstarue_v and_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n will_v wax_v faint_a and_o die_v in_o we_o if_o we_o disarm_v ourselves_o of_o this_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n satan_n without_o any_o resistance_n will_v overcome_v we_o and_o take_v we_o captive_n force_v we_o as_o his_o miserable_a slave_n to_o commit_v all_o those_o work_n of_o darkness_n in_o which_o he_o will_v employ_v us._n and_o therefore_o as_o we_o tender_v the_o salvation_n of_o our_o own_o soul_n let_v we_o not_o be_v discourage_v from_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o any_o suggestion_n whatsoever_o no_o not_o though_o we_o seem_v unto_o ourselves_o every_o time_n we_o come_v into_o the_o church_n to_o go_v a_o step_n towards_o hell_n for_o while_o we_o use_v god_n ordinance_n which_o be_v appoint_v as_o the_o mean_n for_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n there_o be_v some_o good_a hope_n but_o when_o we_o utter_o neglect_v it_o our_o state_n be_v most_o desperate_a chap._n xl._n consolation_n for_o such_o as_o bewail_v their_o hardness_n of_o hart_n and_o want_n in_o prayer_n §_o sect._n 1_o other_o complain_v that_o they_o be_v so_o overwhelm_v with_o their_o hardness_n of_o hart_n all_o consolation_n for_o such_o as_o complain_v that_o they_o can_v pray_v at_o all_o and_o drowsy_a dulness_n of_o spirit_n that_o either_o they_o can_v pray_v at_o all_o or_o if_o they_o do_v it_o be_v barraine_o without_o all_o form_n or_o fashion_n or_o if_o they_o have_v the_o eloquence_n of_o the_o tongue_n &_o good_a set_a form_n of_o prayer_n yet_o they_o perform_v it_o cold_o and_o drowsilie_o without_o all_o earnestness_n and_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n have_v their_o mind_n carry_v away_o with_o wander_a thought_n so_o that_o their_o prayer_n be_v but_o mere_a liplabour_n &_o therefore_o it_o be_v better_a not_o to_o pray_v at_o all_o because_o they_o can_v perform_v this_o duty_n in_o any_o good_a manner_n or_o measure_n as_o god_n require_v and_o this_o be_v a_o tentation_n wherewith_o even_o the_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n be_v much_o vex_v and_o trouble_v and_o therefore_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o answer_v the_o several_a branch_n of_o this_o complaint_n first_o therefore_o where_o as_o they_o complain_v that_o they_o can_v pray_v at_o all_o this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v either_o general_o of_o all_o time_n or_o special_o at_o sometime_o if_o they_o say_v they_o can_v never_o pray_v it_o be_v very_o likely_a that_o either_o they_o forget_v or_o much_o deceive_v themselves_o for_o few_o or_o none_o who_o be_v altogether_o destitute_a of_o the_o spirit_n of_o supplication_n have_v any_o understanding_n to_o discern_v their_o want_n or_o any_o grace_n to_o bewail_v it_o but_o content_v themselves_o with_o their_o lip-labour_n as_o though_o they_o have_v perform_v acceptable_a service_n unto_o god_n and_o it_o be_v a_o work_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n to_o make_v we_o see_v our_o infirmity_n with_o hatred_n and_o dislike_n of_o they_o and_o to_o move_v we_o earnest_o to_o desire_v of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v be_v free_v from_o they_o which_o earnest_a desire_n be_v hearty_a prayer_n but_o if_o they_o further_o affirm_v that_o they_o be_v most_o sure_o they_o do_v never_o pray_v unto_o god_n i_o answer_v that_o though_o this_o in_o itself_o be_v a_o most_o dangerous_a case_n for_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o a_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n not_o to_o call_v upon_o god_n as_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v 53.4_o psal_n 53.4_o psal_n 53.4_o yet_o they_o have_v no_o cause_n to_o despair_v for_o the_o same_o spirit_n which_o have_v reveal_v unto_o they_o this_o their_o sin_n and_o infirmity_n and_o have_v wrought_v in_o they_o a_o dislike_n thereof_o will_v also_o remove_v it_o and_o supply_v their_o want_n in_o god_n good_a time_n if_o they_o will_v labour_v for_o this_o good_a gift_n and_o not_o quench_v the_o good_a motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n when_o god_n offer_v they_o unto_o they_o power_n the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n not_o in_o our_o own_o power_n but_o if_o they_o can_v deny_v that_o sometime_o they_o have_v have_v the_o grace_n give_v they_o of_o god_n to_o call_v earnest_o upon_o his_o name_n howsoever_o in_o this_o present_a time_n they_o be_v altogether_o disfurnish_v thereof_o then_o let_v they_o know_v that_o their_o case_n in_o this_o respect_n be_v common_a withal_o the_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n for_o hearty_a prayer_n be_v not_o in_o our_o own_o power_n neither_o do_v it_o attend_v upon_o our_o own_o will_n but_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n which_o at_o sometime_o in_o plentiful_a measure_n he_o bestow_v upon_o his_o child_n and_o at_o other_o time_n he_o pull_v back_o his_o liberal_a hand_n to_o the_o end_n that_o by_o the_o want_n thereof_o we_o may_v learn_v to_o ascribe_v the_o glory_n and_o praise_n of_o our_o hearty_a prayer_n unto_o god_n who_o work_v in_o we_o the_o will_n and_o the_o deed_n and_o be_v in_o truth_n the_o only_a true_a author_n of_o they_o which_o praise_n otherwise_o in_o pride_n of_o hart_n we_o will_v arrogate_v unto_o ourselves_o as_o be_v a_o natural_a faculty_n and_o in_o our_o own_o power_n and_o also_o to_o the_o end_n we_o may_v more_o high_o esteem_v it_o and_o with_o more_o joy_n and_o diligence_n use_v it_o when_o we_o have_v it_o bestow_v on_o we_o lest_o through_o our_o negligence_n and_o slothfulness_n we_o move_v the_o lord_n to_o take_v it_o from_o us._n see_v therefore_o this_o hearty_a call_n upon_o god_n name_n be_v a_o gift_n of_o god_n &_o a_o work_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n in_o we_o which_o at_o sometime_o heretofore_o we_o have_v discern_v in_o ourselves_o let_v we_o not_o altogether_o be_v discourage_v though_o at_o sometime_o we_o want_v it_o 11.29_o rom._n 11.29_o for_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n be_v without_o repentance_n and_o though_o
joh._n 20.29_o thomas_n because_o thou_o have_v see_v i_o thou_o believe_v bless_a be_v they_o which_o have_v not_o see_v and_o have_v believe_v a_o example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o cananitish_a woman_n who_o though_o she_o have_v no_o experience_n of_o god_n truth_n in_o his_o promise_n yea_o though_o she_o have_v many_o repulse_n yet_o believe_v and_o afterward_o to_o her_o comfort_n have_v joyful_a experience_n of_o they_o 15.27_o mat._n 15.27_o mat._n 15.27_o an_o these_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o faith_n which_o whosoever_o find_v in_o himself_o he_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o he_o have_v a_o true_a lively_a and_o justify_v faith_n notwithstanding_o all_o the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n if_o therefore_o have_v hear_v the_o gospel_n we_o have_v attain_v unto_o some_o measure_n of_o knowledge_n of_o the_o chief_a principle_n thereof_o if_o we_o have_v give_v our_o assent_n unto_o this_o truth_n in_o which_o our_o understanding_n be_v inform_v if_o hereby_o we_o have_v attain_v unto_o this_o assurance_n that_o our_o sin_n be_v pardonable_a and_o have_v conceive_v some_o hope_n in_o consideration_n of_o god_n infinite_a mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v forgive_v and_o pardon_v if_o we_o have_v a_o hunger_a desire_n after_o grace_n and_o mercy_n and_o high_o esteem_v the_o merit_n and_o righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n so_o that_o we_o wish_v nothing_o more_o than_o to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o they_o if_o by_o this_o desire_n we_o have_v be_v move_v to_o flee_v unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n and_o there_o humble_o acknowledge_v our_o sin_n have_v earnest_o desire_v pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n last_o if_o at_o any_o time_n we_o have_v discern_v in_o in_o ourselves_o a_o persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n and_o of_o the_o pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o that_o we_o have_v or_o do_v rest_n upon_o the_o alone_a merit_n and_o obedience_n of_o christ_n jesus_n for_o our_o justification_n and_o salvation_n then_o may_v we_o be_v assure_v that_o we_o be_v endue_v with_o a_o true_a justify_n faith_n §_o sect._n 7_o the_o second_o argument_n to_o prove_v that_o we_o have_v a_o true_a and_o a_o lively_a faith_n be_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n 8.15.26_o the_o second_o argument_n to_o prove_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n be_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirie_n rom._n 8.15.26_o for_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v rom._n 8.15_o we_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n whereby_o we_o cry_v abba_fw-mi father_n 16._o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n bear_v witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o ver_fw-la 26._o likewise_o the_o spirit_n also_o help_v our_o infirmity_n for_o we_o know_v not_o what_o to_o pray_v as_o we_o ought_v but_o the_o spirit_n itself_o make_v request_n for_o we_o with_o sigh_n which_o can_v be_v express_v etc._n etc._n whosoever_o therefore_o have_v this_o testimony_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o conscience_n that_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n whosoever_o at_o any_o time_n feel_v or_o have_v feel_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n powerful_a in_o they_o in_o pour_v out_o their_o soul_n in_o hearty_a prayer_n with_o sigh_n and_o groan_n which_o can_v be_v express_v they_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n and_o consequent_o be_v endue_v with_o true_a faith_n 5.22_o gal._n 5.22_o for_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o among_o which_o faith_n be_v one_o of_o the_o chief_a be_v never_o sever_v moreover_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1._o cor._n 2.12_o that_o we_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n 2.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.12_o but_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n that_o be_v not_o only_o his_o spiritual_a grace_n in_o this_o life_n in_o which_o number_n faith_n be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a but_o those_o excellent_a joy_n in_o god_n kingdom_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v of_o which_o also_o we_o have_v some_o knowledge_n and_o taste_n by_o the_o illumination_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n last_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v 2._o cor._n 1.22_o that_o god_n have_v seal_v we_o 1.22_o 2._o cor._n 1.22_o and_o have_v give_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o ephe._n 1.13_o he_o tell_v the_o ephesian_n that_o after_o they_o have_v hear_v the_o gospel_n and_o beleeveà_fw-la 1.13_o ephe._n 1.13_o they_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o their_o inheritance_n until_o the_o redemption_n of_o the_o possession_n purchase_v unto_o the_o praise_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n wheresoever_o therefore_o be_v this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o as_o a_o earnest_n or_o seal_n assure_v they_o that_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n there_o also_o be_v faith_n for_o as_o the_o apostle_n witness_v after_o that_o we_o believe_v we_o be_v thus_o seal_v §_o sect._n 8_o the_o three_o argument_n to_o prove_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n be_v the_o conflict_n and_o fight_n which_o every_o christian_n feel_v in_o himself_o between_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o flesh_n spirit_n the_o 3._o argument_n be_v the_o fight_n between_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o combat_n which_o be_v between_o faith_n and_o doubt_v for_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o the_o spirit_n and_o a_o lively_a faith_n we_o be_v whole_o oversway_v with_o the_o flesh_n and_o satan_n like_o a_o mighty_a tyrant_n hould_v we_o captive_a peaceable_o and_o without_o any_o resistance_n but_o when_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o have_v faith_n wrought_v in_o our_o heart_n then_o begin_v a_o fierce_a battle_n which_o never_o end_v till_o by_o death_n our_o spiritual_a enemy_n get_v a_o final_a overthrow_n though_o therefore_o this_o fight_n be_v most_o sharp_a and_o exceed_o troublesome_a to_o the_o poor_a christian_n yet_o he_o may_v thereby_o gather_v unto_o himself_o sound_a comfort_n and_o certain_a assurance_n that_o he_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o a_o lively_a faith_n for_o when_o he_o discern_v that_o he_o be_v assault_v with_o satan_n and_o his_o own_o corrupt_a flesh_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o satan_n and_o his_o own_o corrupt_a flesh_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o satan_n be_v disease_v of_o his_o quiet_a possession_n by_o a_o superior_a power_n which_o can_v be_v no_o other_o but_o the_o power_n of_o god_n spirit_n second_o by_o his_o assault_v it_o manifest_o appear_v that_o he_o find_v some_o resistance_n so_o as_o he_o can_v peaceable_o reenter_v three_o that_o howsoever_o our_o faith_n seem_v unto_o we_o never_o so_o weak_a yet_o it_o be_v so_o strengthen_v continual_o by_o virtue_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o sathan_n &_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n can_v prevail_v against_o it_o for_o otherwise_o how_o can_v such_o weakness_n withstand_v such_o might_n last_o be_v assure_v that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o assi_v and_o enable_v we_o to_o withstand_v satan_n we_o may_v also_o be_v assure_v that_o in_o the_o end_n we_o shall_v obtain_v victory_n unless_o we_o will_v fond_o imagine_v that_o the_o devil_n be_v strong_a than_o god_n and_o the_o violence_n of_o his_o tentation_n more_o forcible_a to_o destroy_v we_o than_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o protect_v and_o defend_v we_o for_o now_o they_o have_v join_v battle_n and_o either_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o must_v get_v the_o upper_a hand_n either_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n must_v thrust_v out_o sathan_n or_o satan_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o how_o can_v we_o doubt_v of_o conquest_n see_v we_o be_v assure_v that_o god_n can_v take_v the_o foil_n for_o his_o power_n be_v omnipotent_a and_o with_o a_o word_n of_o his_o mouth_n he_o be_v able_a to_o destroy_v satan_n and_o all_o his_o adherent_n and_o of_o his_o will_n we_o need_v not_o to_o make_v any_o question_n for_o it_o will_v not_o stand_v with_o his_o glory_n to_o receive_v a_o repulse_n by_o give_v satan_n place_n after_o that_o he_o have_v take_v upon_o he_o our_o protection_n §_o sect._n 9_o spirit_n how_o we_o may_v know_v that_o this_o combat_n be_v fight_v between_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n yea_o will_n the_o tempter_n say_v but_o how_o will_v thou_o know_v that_o this_o battle_n be_v fight_v in_o thou_o how_o can_v thou_o be_v assure_v that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o fight_v in_o thou_o against_o thy_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o not_o rather_o thou_o own_o tumultuous_a passion_n and_o perturbation_n and_o diverse_a tentation_n suggest_v by_o the_o same_o devil_n to_o which_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o make_v answer_n for_o neither_o do_v
the_o flesh_n fight_v against_o sathan_n nor_o sathan_n against_o the_o flesh_n nor_o either_o of_o they_o against_o themselves_o for_o so_o their_o kingdom_n be_v divide_v can_v not_o possible_o stand_v 12.25_o mat._n 12.25_o as_o our_o saviour_n christ_n himself_o have_v teach_v we_o mat._n 12.25.26_o and_o therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v soon_o other_o force_n which_o cause_v this_o opposition_n which_o can_v proceed_v from_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o this_o will_v more_o manifest_o appear_v if_o we_o consider_v the_o contrary_a affection_n and_o action_n which_o plain_o show_v themselves_o in_o this_o battle_n for_o we_o find_v our_o faith_n assault_v with_o doubt_v and_o infidelity_n &_o these_o also_o again_o beat_v back_o after_o they_o have_v get_v some_o ground_n and_o subdue_v with_o the_o strength_n of_o faith_n we_o discern_v also_o our_o affiance_n in_o god_n shrewd_o shake_v with_o diffidence_n and_o distrust_n and_o afterward_o this_o distrust_n vanquisheth_z again_o by_o affiance_n so_o as_o after_o we_o have_v utter_v through_o the_o violence_n ostentation_n some_o diffident_a and_o impatient_a speech_n yet_o at_o the_o length_n we_o grow_v to_o job_n resolution_n though_o he_o kill_v i_o yet_o will_v i_o trust_v in_o he_o 13.15_o job._n 13.15_o we_o may_v also_o discern_v our_o zeal_n sometime_o so_o hot_a in_o god_n service_n that_o it_o expel_v coldness_n and_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o dulness_n and_o drowsiness_n of_o spirit_n and_o sometime_o by_o they_o it_o be_v cool_v and_o in_o outward_a appearance_n quench_v and_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o the_o other_o fruit_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n beside_o which_o fight_n and_o stir_v between_o they_o and_o their_o fruit_n the_o christian_n may_v observe_v in_o himself_o a_o mislike_v of_o the_o corruption_n of_o the_o flesh_n great_a grief_n and_o vexation_n of_o mind_n because_o he_o be_v still_o subject_a unto_o they_o and_o a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o be_v free_v from_o they_o join_v with_o a_o holy_a indeavoure_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v ordain_v of_o god_n for_o this_o purpose_n and_o howsoever_o through_o the_o violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n and_o his_o own_o corruption_n you_o be_v sometime_o lead_v captive_a into_o sin_n yet_o afterwards_o he_o be_v greeve_v for_o it_o he_o hate_v and_o abhor_v it_o and_o earnest_o desire_v and_o indeavour_v for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v to_o leave_v and_o forsake_v it_o and_o to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o newness_n of_o life_n now_o whence_o do_v all_o this_o opposition_n and_o contrariety_n proceed_v shall_v we_o say_v from_o the_o flesh_n why_o it_o be_v against_o all_o reason_n 3.11_o jam._n 3.11_o for_o as_o the_o apostle_n james_n dispute_v jam._n 3.11_o do_v a_o fountain_n send_v out_o at_o one_o place_n sweet_a water_n and_o bitter_a can_v the_o fig_n three_fw-mi bring_v forth_o olive_n or_o a_o vine_n fig_n or_o rather_o as_o our_o saviour_n christ_n reason_v mat._n 7.16_o do_v man_n gather_v grape_n of_o thorn_n or_o fig_n of_o thistle_n 7.16_o mat._n 7.16_o so_o may_v i_o demand_v can_v the_o flesh_n in_o the_o which_o as_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v dwell_v no_o good_a thing_n 7.18_o rom._n 7.18_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v quite_o contrary_a to_o the_o nature_n thereof_o namely_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n hatred_n of_o itself_o and_o the_o corruption_n thereof_o and_o carne_a desire_n of_o sanctification_n and_o holiness_n of_o life_n it_o be_v impossible_a and_o therefore_o we_o may_v conclude_v that_o they_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o we_o and_o consequent_o that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o be_v endue_v with_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n for_o as_o many_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n 8._o rom._n 8._o they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n which_o privilege_n belong_v only_o to_o the_o faithful_a as_o appear_v joh._n 1.12_o 1.12_o joh._n 1.12_o as_o many_o as_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n even_o to_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o his_o name_n so_o that_o whosoever_o have_v the_o spirit_n have_v faith_n also_o for_o the_o spirit_n and_o faith_n which_o be_v a_o fruit_n thereof_o can_v be_v sever_v §_o sect._n 10_o the_o four_o argument_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n sanctification_n the_o 4._o argument_n take_v from_o our_o sanctification_n be_v our_o mortification_n and_o die_v unto_o sin_n and_o rise_v again_o to_o newness_n of_o life_n for_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v apply_v unto_o we_o by_o faith_n as_o it_o do_v wash_v away_o the_o guilt_n and_o punishment_n of_o our_o sin_n so_o do_v it_o also_o cleanse_v we_o in_o some_o measure_n from_o the_o corruption_n themselves_o and_o as_o his_o death_n and_o obedience_n have_v merit_a the_o pardon_n of_o our_o sin_n so_o also_o god_n spirit_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o we_o be_v more_o and_o more_o free_v from_o the_o bondage_n and_o servitude_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o as_o by_o his_o resurrection_n he_o have_v make_v way_n for_o our_o second_o resurrection_n whereby_o we_o rise_v to_o everlasting_a happiness_n so_o also_o for_o our_o first_o resurrection_n whereby_o we_o rise_v from_o sin_n to_o newness_n of_o life_n if_o therefore_o we_o can_v find_v in_o ourselves_o that_o our_o sin_n and_o corruption_n be_v by_o little_a and_o little_o mortify_v that_o we_o strive_v and_o endeavour_v after_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n of_o life_n if_o our_o understanding_n be_v somewhat_o enlighten_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n truth_n and_o our_o stubborn_a will_n incline_v to_o holy_a obedience_n if_o we_o discern_v that_o our_o affection_n be_v in_o some_o measure_n change_v and_o renew_v then_o may_v we_o be_v assure_v that_o we_o be_v endue_v with_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n which_o have_v apply_v unto_o we_o christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o bloodshed_n death_n &_o merit_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o this_o work_n of_o regeneration_n be_v begin_v in_o us._n §_o sect._n 11_o last_o sanctification_n the_o last_o argument_n take_v from_o the_o several_a fruit_n of_o sanctification_n we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n by_o the_o several_a fruit_n of_o sanctification_n and_o regeneration_n which_o proceed_v from_o it_o for_o example_n when_o we_o can_v sorrow_n and_o grieve_v for_o our_o sin_n past_a not_o for_o any_o worldly_a loss_n or_o fear_n of_o punishment_n but_o because_o thereby_o we_o have_v offend_v god_n when_o as_o we_o hate_v our_o present_a sin_n and_o corruption_n especial_o those_o which_o stick_n fast_o unto_o we_o and_o be_v most_o please_v to_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n when_o as_o we_o endeavour_v and_o strive_v to_o forsake_v and_o mortify_v all_o sin_n though_o our_o carnal_a affection_n be_v much_o endear_v to_o it_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o great_a pleasure_n or_o profit_v which_o it_o bring_v with_o it_o avoid_v with_o no_o less_o care_n those_o sin_n which_o bring_v worldly_a benefitt_a than_o those_o which_o be_v accompany_v with_o shame_n and_o punishment_n when_o as_o we_o love_v god_n even_o when_o he_o afflict_v we_o and_o in_o obedience_n to_o his_o commandment_n perform_v such_o holy_a duty_n and_o embrace_v such_o virtue_n not_o only_o which_o be_v commendable_a in_o the_o world_n but_o also_o those_o which_o be_v accompany_v with_o shame_n and_o reproach_n when_o as_o we_o love_v our_o brethren_n yea_o even_o our_o enemy_n and_o show_v this_o our_o love_n by_o give_v unto_o those_o who_o want_v and_o forgive_a those_o who_o offend_v we_o and_o when_o more_o especial_o we_o extend_v this_o love_n and_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o to_o those_o who_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n and_o among_o these_o principal_o to_o god_n minister_n who_o be_v instrument_n appoint_v of_o god_n for_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n when_o as_o we_o can_v submit_v ourselves_o unto_o god_n will_n and_o rest_v content_v in_o all_o estate_n with_o his_o good_a pleasure_n when_o as_o we_o loathe_v this_o life_n and_o the_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n and_o desire_v our_o dissolution_n that_o we_o may_v be_v with_o christ_n and_o be_v free_v from_o our_o sin_n when_o as_o we_o be_v patient_a in_o affliction_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o have_v some_o hope_n of_o taste_v god_n mercy_n and_o goodness_n ground_v our_o hope_n upon_o god_n promise_n and_o our_o own_o former_a experience_n when_o as_o we_o delight_v in_o the_o hear_n and_o meditate_v in_o god_n word_n and_o continue_v constant_a in_o the_o profession_n and_o practice_n of_o his_o truth_n not_o only_a when_o our_o obedience_n be_v good_a cheap_a but_o also_o when_o it_o be_v dear_a and_o very_a costly_a and_o as_o well_o when_o it_o be_v
own_o sense_n and_o feeling_n he_o apprehend_v nothing_o but_o god_n wrath_n and_o grievous_a displeasure_n and_o lamentable_o complain_v as_o a_o man_n abandon_v and_o cast_v out_o of_o all_o love_n and_o favour_n my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o which_o word_n show_v both_o christ_n affiance_n in_o god_n and_o his_o present_a apprehension_n in_o his_o sense_n and_o feeling_n for_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o affiance_n and_o trust_n in_o god_n he_o call_v he_o still_o his_o god_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o sense_n and_o feeling_n he_o complain_v that_o he_o be_v forsake_v whereby_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v dear_o belove_v of_o god_n and_o yet_o for_o a_o time_n apprehend_v nothing_o but_o his_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n that_o he_o may_v have_v faith_n and_o affiance_n in_o god_n yet_o at_o the_o same_o time_n be_v deprive_v of_o all_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o therefore_o when_o we_o be_v exercise_v in_o the_o combat_n of_o tentation_n let_v not_o sathan_n persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v utter_o deprive_v of_o the_o love_n &_o favour_n of_o god_n because_o through_o the_o violence_n of_o his_o tentation_n and_o greevousnesse_n of_o our_o affliction_n we_o do_v not_o apprehend_v it_o nor_o that_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o faith_n and_o all_o other_o spiritual_a grace_n because_o we_o do_v not_o sensible_o discern_v they_o in_o our_o feel_n for_o this_o have_v be_v the_o state_n of_o the_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n and_o shall_v be_v to_o the_o end_n thereof_o chap._n xlv_o of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o our_o faith_n may_v be_v strengthen_v and_o increase_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o so_o much_o concern_v those_o reason_n whereby_o we_o may_v prove_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n increase_v that_o all_o who_o be_v endue_v with_o true_a faith_n use_v the_o mean_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v increase_v and_o also_o answer_v satan_n tentation_n whereby_o he_o labour_v to_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v destitute_a thereof_o the_o second_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v arm_v ourselves_o against_o satan_n and_o his_o suggestion_n be_v that_o we_o most_o earnest_o labour_v and_o endeavour_n after_o we_o have_v find_v that_o we_o have_v some_o faith_n to_o increase_v therein_o and_o grow_v up_o from_o say_v to_o say_v until_o we_o come_v to_o that_o fullness_n of_o persuasion_n which_o will_v bring_v such_o peace_n of_o conscience_n as_o satan_n and_o all_o his_o tentation_n shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o disturb_v otherwise_o we_o shall_v be_v continual_o subject_a to_o fear_n and_o doubt_n and_o exceed_o shake_v with_o satan_n tentation_n and_o in_o truth_n not_o without_o cause_n if_o we_o stand_v still_o at_o a_o state_n for_o howsoever_o satan_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n can_v prevail_v against_o the_o least_o measure_n of_o true_a faith_n to_o quench_v and_o utter_o to_o destroy_v it_o yet_o this_o will_v bring_v no_o sound_a comfort_n unto_o those_o which_o rest_v content_v with_o this_o little_a quantity_n and_o never_o labour_v after_o increase_v because_o this_o be_v a_o shrewd_a presumption_n that_o their_o faith_n be_v false_a and_o counterfeit_n for_o assoon_o as_o the_o seed_n of_o true_a faith_n be_v sow_v in_o we_o and_o have_v take_v root_n it_o sproot_v up_o and_o till_o it_o come_v to_o full_a ripeness_n in_o which_o respect_n our_o saviour_n compare_v it_o to_o agraine_v of_o mustard_n seed_n which_o though_o it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o least_o seed_n of_o the_o garden_n yet_o it_o grow_v to_o a_o great_a tree_n neither_o in_o truth_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o any_o who_o have_v taste_v of_o true_a faith_n and_o of_o those_o inestimable_a benefit_n which_o it_o assure_v we_o of_o shall_v content_v themselves_o with_o a_o small_a pittance_n and_o never_o labour_v after_o more_o for_o who_o be_v it_o that_o have_v taste_v and_o eat_v a_o little_a bit_n of_o some_o delicious_a meat_n do_v not_o with_o a_o hunger_a appetite_n desire_v more_o till_o he_o be_v fill_v and_o satisfy_v who_o be_v it_o that_o have_v any_o weak_a title_n and_o assurance_n of_o some_o goodly_a inheritance_n do_v not_o earnest_o desire_v and_o use_v all_o good_a &_o lawful_a mean_n whereby_o his_o title_n may_v be_v strengthen_v and_o his_o assurance_n confirm_v and_o can_v we_o think_v that_o any_o have_v true_o taste_v of_o faith_n and_o the_o excellent_a benefit_n which_o accompany_v it_o as_o namely_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n and_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n peace_n of_o conscience_n joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n who_o content_n themselves_o with_o a_o little_a modicum_fw-la and_o never_o hunger_n after_o more_o or_o can_v we_o imagine_v that_o we_o have_v any_o small_a title_n or_o true_a assurance_n of_o those_o unspeakable_a joy_n of_o god_n kingdom_n and_o that_o unluable_a patrimony_n of_o everlasting_a glory_n if_o we_o never_o use_v mean_n to_o confirm_v our_o title_n and_o strengthen_v our_o assurance_n sure_o it_o be_v impossible_a and_o therefore_o if_o we_o will_v have_v any_o sound_a comfort_n and_o peace_n of_o conscience_n if_o we_o will_v ever_o attain_v to_o a_o certain_a persuasion_n that_o we_o have_v true_a faith_n indeed_o let_v we_o use_v most_o careful_o and_o diligent_o all_o good_a mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v our_o faith_n until_o it_o grow_v from_o a_o small_a seed_n to_o a_o great_a tree_n which_o will_v bring_v forth_o plentiful_a fruit_n of_o godliness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o until_o it_o wax_v of_o a_o small_a spark_n unto_o a_o great_a flame_n which_o will_v thorough_o warm_v our_o heart_n with_o true_a comfort_n which_o be_v natural_o freeze_v with_o fear_n and_o doubt_v for_o howsoever_o satan_n can_v quench_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o lively_a faith_n yet_o he_o will_v so_o cover_v it_o with_o the_o ash_n of_o his_o tentation_n that_o we_o shall_v neither_o discern_v the_o light_n nor_o feel_v the_o heat_n thereof_o §_o sect._n 2_o now_o the_o mean_n which_o we_o be_v thus_o careful_o to_o use_v be_v of_o two_o sort_n word_n the_o 1._o mean_n to_o increase_v faith_n be_v the_o diligent_a hear_v god_n word_n the_o first_o tend_v to_o the_o increase_n and_o strengthen_v of_o our_o faith_n the_o other_o serve_v to_o preserve_v we_o from_o doubt_v and_o desperation_n the_o mean_n to_o strengthen_v and_o increase_v our_o faith_n be_v diverse_a the_o first_o be_v the_o frequent_a and_o attentive_a hear_n of_o god_n word_n for_o as_o this_o be_v the_o ordinary_a mean_n whereby_o faith_n be_v beget_v and_o begin_v in_o we_o so_o be_v it_o a_o chief_a mean_n to_o strengthen_v and_o confirm_v it_o as_o it_o be_v that_o lively_a seed_n from_o which_o faith_n do_v spring_n so_o be_v it_o that_o heavenly_a dew_n whereby_o it_o be_v water_v and_o increase_v from_o a_o little_a plant_n to_o a_o great_a tree_n and_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a for_o a_o fruitful_a harvest_n that_o the_o blade_n or_o branch_n shall_v sprout_v up_o unless_o it_o be_v water_v continual_o with_o sweet_a dew_n and_o shower_n from_o heaven_n and_o so_o preserve_v from_o die_v and_o wither_v so_o if_o ever_o we_o mean_v to_o reap_v the_o ripe_a fruit_n of_o faith_n to_o our_o everlasting_a comfort_n we_o must_v be_v careful_a that_o not_o only_o it_o take_v root_n and_o bring_v forth_o a_o blade_n of_o a_o outward_a profession_n but_o also_o that_o it_o may_v be_v water_v with_o this_o heavenly_a dew_n of_o god_n word_n otherwise_o when_o the_o sun_n of_o affliction_n and_o persecution_n arise_v it_o will_v die_v and_o wither_v word_n the_o 2._o mean_n meditation_n in_o god_n word_n the_o second_o mean_n to_o strengthen_v our_o faith_n be_v diligent_o to_o read_v and_o mediate_v in_o god_n word_n especial_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o be_v contain_v those_o sweet_a and_o gracious_a promise_n which_o be_v make_v in_o definite_o unto_o all_o who_o repent_v of_o their_o sin_n and_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n rest_v and_o rely_v upon_o he_o alone_o for_o their_o salvation_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n our_o saviour_n will_v the_o jew_n to_o search_v the_o scripture_n 5.39_o joh_n 5.39_o because_o they_o be_v they_o which_o testify_v of_o he_o joh._n 5.39_o and_o hereby_o david_n say_v that_o he_o be_v comfort_v in_o his_o trouble_n &_o even_o quicken_v when_o he_o be_v dead_a psal_n 119.50_o 119.50_o psal_n 119.50_o conferece_n the_o 3._o mean_n holy_a conferece_n the_o three_o mean_n be_v holy_a conference_n with_o our_o godly_a brethren_n for_o hereby_o those_o which_o be_v fall_v be_v confirm_v and_o the_o weary_a hand_n and_o weak_a knee_n strengthen_v as_o eliphas_n speak_v job._n 43.4_o 4.3.4_o job._n 4.3.4_o and_o those_o who_o be_v weak_a in_o faith_n be_v comfort_v and_o establish_v
as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 2.2_o 1._o joh._n 2.2_o 1._o joh._n 2.2_o see_v therefore_o our_o debt_n how_o great_a soever_o it_o be_v be_v already_o discharge_v and_o our_o sin_n how_o outrageous_a soever_o they_o be_v be_v full_o punish_v long_o ago_o in_o our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o see_v god_n himself_o who_o have_v receive_v this_o debt_n and_o take_v this_o punishment_n be_v of_o infinite_a justice_n and_o mercy_n why_o shall_v we_o now_o despair_v of_o pardon_n nay_o why_o shall_v we_o not_o most_o certain_o be_v assure_v that_o the_o roull_a and_o reckon_n of_o our_o sin_n how_o long_o soever_o it_o be_v be_v quite_o blot_v out_o and_o cancel_v so_o as_o they_o shall_v never_o again_o be_v lay_v to_o our_o charge_n §_o sect._n 4_o four_o 5.10_o the_o 4._o mean_n to_o consider_v that_o desperation_n be_v a_o most_o heinous_a sin_n 1._o joh._n 5.10_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o desperation_n itself_o be_v a_o most_o heinous_a and_o outrageous_a sin_n for_o it_o cause_v man_n to_o deny_v god_n truth_n in_o his_o promise_n &_o to_o account_v he_o a_o liar_n as_o the_o apostle_n plain_o speak_v 1._o joh._n 5.10_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o god_n have_v make_v he_o a_o liar_n because_o he_o believe_v not_o the_o record_n that_o god_n witness_v of_o that_o his_o son_n it_o make_v they_o to_o deny_v the_o infinitenes_n of_o his_o mercy_n as_o be_v overmatch_v with_o the_o multitude_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o christ_n merit_n as_o though_o they_o be_v not_o a_o full_a satisfaction_n for_o their_o horrible_a offence_n yea_o it_o make_v they_o to_o deny_v god_n justice_n in_o think_v that_o he_o will_v punish_v that_o sin_n again_o in_o they_o which_o have_v already_o be_v punish_v in_o christ_n and_o exact_v that_o debt_n which_o he_o have_v already_o discharge_v now_o to_o deny_v the_o truth_n mercy_n and_o justice_n of_o god_n be_v to_o deny_v god_n himself_o for_o his_o attribute_n be_v his_o essence_n the_o truth_n of_o god_n be_v the_o true_a god_n the_o mercy_n of_o god_n be_v the_o merciful_a god_n and_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n be_v the_o just_a god_n so_o that_o he_o who_o despair_v fall_v into_o the_o most_o horrible_a and_o capital_a sin_n of_o atheism_n even_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o wickedness_n and_o therefore_o more_o heinous_o offend_v god_n by_o this_o sin_n alone_o then_o by_o all_o his_o other_o sin_n whatsoever_o though_o they_o appear_v never_o so_o monstrous_a and_o abominable_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n for_o example_n the_o sin_n of_o cain_n in_o despair_v of_o god_n mercy_n be_v far_o more_o horrible_a than_o his_o monstrous_a sin_n which_o he_o commit_v in_o murder_v his_o own_o brother_n the_o sin_n of_o judas_n in_o despair_v of_o god_n mercy_n be_v without_o comparison_n great_a than_o his_o sin_n in_o betray_v his_o lord_n and_o master_n in_o a_o word_n to_o commit_v idolatry_n blasphemy_n murder_n adultery_n &_o such_o like_a be_v heinous_a sin_n but_o utter_o to_o despair_v of_o god_n mercy_n be_v great_a than_o they_o all_o though_o then_o we_o have_v commit_v other_o horrible_a wickedness_n against_o the_o lord_n yet_o in_o no_o case_n let_v we_o despair_v for_o this_o be_v to_o add_v sin_n unto_o sin_n and_o to_o clog_v our_o conscience_n more_o with_o the_o last_o then_o with_o all_o the_o former_a till_o with_o their_o intolerable_a weight_n they_o press_v we_o down_o unto_o hell_n you_o will_v count_v he_o worse_o than_o mad_a who_o be_v oppress_v with_o a_o heavy_a burden_n shall_v in_o stead_n of_o use_v other_o mean_n to_o ease_v himself_o add_v thereunto_o a_o double_a or_o treble_a weight_n till_o he_o be_v press_v down_o grovel_v unto_o the_o earth_n but_o assure_o such_o and_o great_a madness_n it_o be_v when_o we_o feel_v our_o conscience_n clog_v with_o a_o heavy_a burden_n of_o sin_n in_o stead_n of_o seek_v ease_n in_o come_v to_o christ_n by_o a_o lively_a faith_n to_o fall_v into_o utter_a desperation_n and_o thereby_o to_o add_v a_o treble_a weight_n to_o the_o already_o intolerable_a burden_n of_o sin_n which_o lie_v upon_o our_o conscience_n until_o they_o be_v press_v down_o into_o the_o torment_n of_o hell_n every_o one_o will_v esteem_v he_o a_o most_o desperate_a wretch_n who_o have_v offend_v such_o a_o gracious_a prince_n as_o will_v most_o sure_o forgive_v he_o upon_o his_o unfeigned_a sorrow_n for_o his_o fault_n shall_v in_o stead_n of_o humble_v himself_o and_o ask_v pardon_n desperate_o refuse_v his_o prince_n mercy_n and_o with_o all_o deny_v his_o truth_n in_o his_o promise_n his_o mercy_n justice_n and_o even_o disavow_v he_o for_o be_v a_o lawful_a prince_n but_o such_o and_o much_o more_o wickedness_n do_v they_o desperate_o commit_v who_o have_v offend_v god_n by_o their_o grievous_a sin_n who_o be_v so_o gracious_a &_o merciful_a that_o he_o will_v most_o certain_o forgive_v they_o upon_o their_o true_a repentance_n in_o stead_n of_o humble_v themselves_o by_o unfeigned_a sorrow_n do_v desperate_o refuse_v to_o be_v partaker_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o deny_v the_o infinitenes_n of_o his_o mercy_n justice_n truth_n in_o his_o promise_n and_o consequent_o his_o godhead_n and_o be_v and_o therefore_o when_o the_o weight_n of_o sin_n press_v we_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o despair_v of_o mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n let_v we_o in_o any_o case_n resist_v this_o tentation_n and_o bold_o say_v unto_o the_o tempter_n it_o be_v enough_o and_o too_o much_o that_o i_o have_v offend_v my_o gracious_a god_n with_o my_o other_o sin_n though_o i_o do_v not_o add_v thereunto_o this_o sin_n which_o be_v great_a than_o all_o the_o rest_n the_o weight_n of_o my_o other_o wickedness_n be_v already_o too_o too_o heavy_a upon_o my_o conscience_n &_o therefore_o far_o be_v it_o from_o i_o to_o load_v it_o with_o a_o far_o more_o unsupportable_a burden_n i_o have_v already_o too_o much_o dishonour_v my_o good_a god_n by_o my_o horrible_a sin_n and_o therefore_o i_o will_v in_o no_o case_n more_o dishonour_v he_o now_o then_o in_o commit_v all_o my_o other_o sin_n by_o deny_v his_o mercy_n justice_n truth_n and_o even_o the_o godhead_n itself_o for_o what_o be_v this_o but_o be_v already_o in_o a_o burn_a fever_n to_o cast_v myself_o into_o the_o fire_n or_o be_v go_v over_o the_o shoe_n in_o the_o filthy_a puddle_n of_o sin_n to_o plunge_v myself_o over_o head_n and_o ear_n and_o even_o to_o drown_v myself_o in_o the_o bottomless_a gulf_n of_o desperation_n nay_o rather_o know_v i_o will_v break_v of_o my_o sin_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o turn_n unto_o the_o lord_n who_o i_o have_v offend_v assure_v myself_o that_o his_o mercy_n be_v infinite_a and_o therefore_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o forgive_v and_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n a_o full_a satisfaction_n for_o all_o my_o sin_n though_o many_o and_o heinous_a and_o therefore_o in_o he_o i_o may_v bold_o challenge_v forgiveness_n as_o a_o thing_n of_o right_n appertain_v to_o i_o and_o thus_o be_v we_o to_o resist_v satan_n tentation_n and_o though_o we_o be_v often_o foil_v yet_o to_o rise_v again_o in_o no_o case_n suffer_v he_o to_o pluck_v out_o of_o our_o hand_n the_o shield_n of_o faith_n though_o he_o have_v disarm_v we_o of_o the_o breastplate_n of_o righteousness_n for_o if_o once_o we_o be_v deprive_v of_o this_o part_n of_o this_o spiritual_a armour_n we_o shall_v lie_v open_a to_o all_o his_o blow_n and_o thrust_v until_o we_o be_v wound_v to_o the_o very_a death_n §_o sect._n 5_o but_o most_o lamentable_a it_o be_v to_o see_v the_o grievous_a misery_n of_o poor_a humble_a sinner_n whereinto_o they_o be_v bring_v through_o the_o violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n desperation_n though_o the_o afflict_a conscience_n abhor_v other_o sin_n yet_o it_o easy_o incline_v to_o desperation_n for_o howsoever_o feel_v the_o heavy_a weight_n of_o their_o other_o sin_n they_o earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v free_v from_o they_o howsoever_o be_v torment_v with_o the_o grievous_a smart_n of_o their_o other_o wickedness_n they_o hate_v and_o abhor_v it_o yet_o they_o easy_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v plunge_v into_o desperation_n with_o every_o frivoulous_a tentation_n and_o quiet_o offer_v their_o hand_n to_o be_v manacle_v and_o bind_v in_o these_o give_v of_o hell_n without_o resistance_n but_o let_v all_o such_o stir_v up_o themselves_o and_o gather_v their_o oppress_a spirit_n together_o say_v to_o their_o own_o conscience_n i_o hate_v and_o detest_v from_o my_o heart_n my_o former_a wickedness_n and_o shall_v i_o now_o entertain_v a_o sin_n more_o horrible_a than_o all_o the_o rest_n the_o burden_n of_o my_o other_o sin_n oppress_v i_o and_o make_v i_o earnest_o to_o desire_v ease_n and_o shall_v i_o add_v a_o load_n far_o more_o
not_o be_v effectual_a and_o sufficient_a for_o their_o salvation_n which_o tentation_n if_o we_o will_v withstand_v we_o must_v not_o dream_v or_o imagine_v that_o to_o have_v a_o true_a faith_n be_v to_o have_v a_o perfect_a faith_n which_o be_v never_o assault_v with_o doubt_v nor_o shake_v with_o any_o tentation_n for_o there_o be_v no_o such_o faith_n to_o be_v find_v in_o any_o of_o god_n child_n see_v the_o most_o perfect_a be_v partly_o flesh_n and_o partly_o spirit_n and_o as_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v faith_n and_o affiance_n in_o god_n so_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v doubt_v and_o infidelity_n &_o these_o continual_o assault_n &_o fight_v one_o against_o another_o child_n that_o there_o be_v diverse_a degree_n of_o faith_n in_o god_n child_n again_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o there_o be_v diverse_a degree_n of_o true_a faith_n and_o that_o all_o the_o child_n of_o god_n have_v it_o not_o in_o the_o like_a measure_n for_o some_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o strong_a and_o great_a measure_n of_o faith_n as_o those_o who_o be_v endue_v with_o much_o knowledge_n and_o firm_o assent_v unto_o that_o which_o they_o know_v and_o be_v most_o certain_o persuade_v of_o their_o salvation_n in_o christ_n and_o that_o all_o the_o gracious_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v belong_v unto_o they_o so_o as_o nothing_o in_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v able_a to_o separate_v they_o from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n other_o be_v weak_a and_o endue_v with_o a_o small_a measure_n of_o faith_n as_o those_o who_o have_v little_a knowledge_n weak_a assent_n and_o persuasion_n be_v yet_o but_o babe_n in_o christ_n and_o grow_v up_o from_o faith_n to_o faith_n 1.17_o rom._n 1.17_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v rom._n 1.17_o till_o at_o length_n they_o attain_v to_o that_o fullness_n of_o persuasion_n of_o which_o mention_n be_v make_v 10.22_o heb._n 10.22_o heb._n 10.22_o now_o we_o be_v to_o hold_v first_o that_o this_o small_a and_o weak_a measure_n of_o faith_n be_v notwithstanding_o a_o true_a faith_n and_o therefore_o sufficient_a for_o the_o salvation_n of_o those_o who_o be_v endue_v therewith_o neither_o be_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n make_v to_o those_o only_o who_o have_v a_o strong_a faith_n but_o to_o those_o who_o have_v a_o true_a faith_n joh._n 1.12_o as_o many_o as_o receive_v he_o he_o give_v to_o they_o prerogative_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n 1.12_o joh._n 1.12_o even_o to_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o his_o name_n and_o john_n 3.18_o he_o that_o believe_v shall_v be_v save_v 3.18_o joh._n 3.18_o in_o which_o and_z such_o like_a place_n there_o be_v no_o measure_n of_o faith_n propound_v but_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v indefinite_o to_o all_o that_o believe_v how_o small_a and_o weak_a soever_o their_o faith_n be_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o quantity_n and_o apprehension_n so_o that_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o quality_n it_o be_v true_a and_o lively_a §_o sect._n 2_o that_o a_o weak_a and_o small_a measure_n of_o faith_n be_v true_a and_o lively_a faith_n faith_n that_o a_o weak_a &_o small_a faith_n may_v be_v a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n it_o be_v manifest_a both_o by_o reason_n and_o also_o plain_a testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n for_o the_o first_o diversity_n of_o degree_n in_o quantity_n of_o a_o thing_n do_v not_o take_v away_o and_o annihilate_v the_o existence_n &_o true_a be_v thereof_o for_o example_n a_o small_a drop_n of_o water_n be_v as_o well_o and_o true_o water_n as_o the_o whole_a ocean_n a_o little_a spark_n be_v true_a fire_n both_o in_o respect_n of_o substance_n &_o quality_n as_o well_o as_o a_o mighty_a flame_n a_o little_a man_n be_v as_o true_o a_o man_n as_o a_o great_a giant_n and_o so_o a_o little_a faith_n be_v as_o well_o a_o true_a faith_n as_o a_o full_a persuasion_n neither_o do_v the_o small_a quantity_n take_v away_o the_o be_v nature_n and_o truth_n thereof_o second_o this_o also_o manifest_o appear_v by_o the_o scripture_n whereas_o many_o be_v say_v to_o have_v faith_n and_o to_o believe_v who_o hear_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n &_o see_v his_o miracle_n believe_v &_o acknowledge_v he_o to_o be_v the_o true_a messiah_n &_o their_o saviour_n though_o at_o the_o same_o time_n they_o have_v attain_v to_o a_o exceed_o small_a measure_n of_o knowledge_n and_o be_v ignorant_a of_o many_o of_o the_o chief_a principle_n of_o christian_a religion_n because_o they_o nourish_v not_o this_o their_o ignorance_n but_o resolve_v to_o use_v all_o those_o good_a mean_n of_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n which_o god_n have_v ordain_v for_o this_o purpose_n and_o thus_o many_o of_o the_o samaritan_n be_v say_v to_o have_v believe_v for_o the_o say_n of_o the_o woman_n and_o because_o of_o his_o own_o word_n joh._n 4.39.41_o thus_o a_o certain_a ruler_n and_o all_o his_o household_n be_v say_v to_o have_v believe_v 52._o joh._n 4.39.41_o ver_fw-la 52._o when_o they_o see_v the_o miracle_n which_o our_o saviour_n wrought_v in_o cure_v the_o ruler_n son_n of_o his_o fever_n only_o with_o his_o word_n ver_fw-la 52._o yea_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o who_o faith_n our_o saviour_n christ_n compare_v to_o a_o firm_a rock_n against_o which_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v be_v notwithstanding_o endue_v with_o weak_a and_o small_a measure_n of_o faith_n before_o the_o ascension_n of_o our_o saviour_n and_o send_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o they_o be_v ignorant_a even_o of_o the_o main_a principle_n of_o christian_n religion_n and_o of_o diverse_a article_n of_o faith_n and_o consequent_o can_v not_o believe_v assent_n or_o be_v persuade_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o they_o do_v not_o understand_v for_o example_n howsoever_o they_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v that_o our_o saviour_n christ_n be_v the_o promise_a messiah_n 16.18_o mat._n 16.18_o yet_o they_o be_v ignorant_a that_o he_o shall_v redeem_v mankind_n by_o his_o death_n for_o when_o he_o foretell_v that_o he_o shall_v be_v deliver_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o gentile_n to_o be_v crucify_v it_o be_v say_v that_o they_o understand_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n 9.45_o mat._n 20.18_o luk._n 9.45_o mat._n 20.18_o luk._n 9.45_o .._o so_o also_o they_o know_v not_o that_o be_v dead_a he_o shall_v rise_v again_o the_o three_o day_n as_o the_o evangelist_n show_v mar._n 9.32_o 9.32_o mar._n 9.32_o and_o when_o they_o hear_v thereof_o by_o the_o woman_n they_o think_v it_o a_o feign_a thing_n as_o it_o be_v luk._n 24.11_o 10.37_o luk._n 24.11_o joh._n 13.38_o and_o 14.5_o act_n 1.6_o mar._n 10.37_o they_o be_v ignorant_a also_o of_o his_o ascension_n as_o appear_v joh._n 13.36_o and_o 14.5_o and_o of_o his_o kingdom_n for_o they_o dream_v of_o a_o earthly_a kingdom_n and_o of_o worldly_a preferment_n which_o they_o be_v to_o have_v by_o he_o as_o we_o may_v see_v act._n 1.6_o mar._n 10.37_o by_o all_o which_o it_o plain_o appear_v that_o though_o the_o apostle_n be_v endue_v with_o a_o true_a faith_n yet_o their_o faith_n be_v exceed_v weak_a and_o small_a as_o also_o it_o be_v most_o evident_a in_o that_o reprehension_n use_v by_o our_o saviour_n when_o they_o be_v in_o some_o appearance_n of_o danger_n 8.26_o mat._n 8.26_o matth._n 8.26_o wherefore_o be_v you_o fearful_a o_o you_o of_o little_a faith_n §_o sect._n 3_o and_o therefore_o though_o we_o find_v our_o faith_n to_o be_v weak_a and_o small_a yet_o let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o that_o for_o this_o cause_n it_o be_v false_a and_o counterfeit_n 3.12_o that_o all_o power_n of_o hell_n can_v prevail_v against_o the_o small_a measure_n of_o true_a faith_n phil._n 3.12_o or_o that_o we_o shall_v easy_o be_v overcome_v of_o every_o tentation_n and_o never_o persevere_v unto_o the_o end_n that_o we_o may_v be_v save_v see_v a_o weak_a and_o small_a faith_n may_v be_v a_o true_a faith_n against_o which_o how_o weak_a in_o itself_o soever_o it_o be_v yet_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v against_o it_o for_o the_o weak_a our_o faith_n be_v the_o strong_a shall_v we_o find_v god_n power_n in_o sustain_v and_o preserve_v we_o the_o more_o that_o satan_n labour_v to_o winnow_v we_o in_o the_o sieve_n of_o his_o tentation_n the_o more_o effectual_o will_v our_o saviour_n christ_n make_v intercession_n for_o we_o that_o our_o faith_n fail_v not_o the_o feeble_a our_o faith_n be_v in_o apprehend_v christ_n the_o more_o powerful_a will_v his_o spirit_n be_v in_o apprehend_v we_o and_o in_o join_v we_o inseparable_o in_o a_o holy_a communion_n with_o he_o but_o yet_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o a_o small_a and_o weak_a measure_n of_o faith_n but_o earnest_o labour_v after_o more_o perfection_n and_o to_o grow_v from_o faith_n to_o faith_n till_o
and_o be_v ready_a again_o to_o give_v they_o the_o foil_n and_o to_o lead_v they_o captive_a into_o the_o same_o sin_n if_o the_o lord_n uphold_v they_o not_o so_o that_o inrespect_n of_o their_o own_o strength_n they_o may_v fall_v again_o as_o in_o former_a time_n second_o the_o same_o cause_n still_o remain_v which_o may_v move_v the_o lord_n to_o leave_v they_o to_o themselves_o and_o suffer_v they_o to_o fall_v namely_o that_o hereby_o they_o may_v be_v more_o humble_v and_o more_o serious_o bewail_v their_o corruption_n that_o they_o may_v more_o earnest_o implore_v his_o mercy_n and_o he_o more_o manifest_a it_o in_o pardon_v their_o sin_n to_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o glory_n three_o howsoever_o this_o be_v not_o usual_a with_o the_o child_n of_o god_n to_o fall_v diverse_a time_n into_o a_o sin_n which_o be_v great_a and_o grievous_a yet_o every_o one_o find_v in_o his_o own_o experience_n that_o he_o often_o commit_v such_o sin_n as_o be_v not_o so_o heinous_a through_o infirmity_n and_o weakness_n as_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n negligent_o and_o careless_o to_o be_v distract_v with_o wander_a thought_n in_o prayer_n to_o fall_v into_o unjust_a anger_n to_o lie_v and_o use_v idle_a communication_n and_o such_o like_a of_o which_o notwithstanding_o repent_v he_o be_v receive_v unto_o mercy_n so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o often_o fall_v into_o the_o same_o sin_n that_o exclude_v we_o out_o of_o the_o number_n of_o god_n child_n or_o debar_v we_o of_o pardon_n so_o that_o we_o often_o repent_v lay_v hold_v upon_o christ_n with_o a_o lively_a faith_n neither_o do_v the_o scripture_n limit_v and_o restrain_v god_n mereie_v and_o the_o virtue_n of_o christ_n merit_n to_o the_o pardon_v and_o take_v away_o of_o diverse_a sin_n once_o commit_v but_o extend_v they_o also_o to_o the_o same_o sin_n commit_v diverse_a time_n yea_o to_o all_o sin_n whatsoever_o of_o which_o we_o true_o repent_v chap._n xi_o satan_n temptation_n persuade_v the_o christian_n that_o he_o have_v sin_v against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o have_v i_o answer_v satan_n temptation_n draw_v from_o these_o sin_n which_o the_o weak_a christian_n have_v fall_v into_o ghost_n of_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o if_o he_o can_v so_o prevail_v than_o he_o will_v false_o accuse_v they_o of_o those_o sin_n which_o they_o never_o commit_v and_o especial_o of_o that_o unpardonable_a sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n take_v advantage_n of_o their_o ignorance_n that_o so_o he_o may_v plunge_v they_o into_o desperation_n and_o utter_o discourage_v they_o from_o go_v forward_o in_o the_o course_n of_o godliness_n the_o which_o his_o temptation_n be_v so_o usual_a and_o common_a that_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o who_o be_v exercise_v in_o this_o spiritual_a warfare_n if_o they_o be_v convert_v unto_o god_n out_o of_o their_o ignorance_n who_o he_o do_v not_o encounter_v with_o this_o weapon_n for_o as_o much_o therefore_o as_o ignorance_n be_v the_o chief_a ground_n of_o this_o temptation_n therefore_o the_o best_a mean_n to_o strengthen_v ourselves_o against_o it_o be_v to_o know_v what_o this_o sin_n be_v which_o if_o we_o once_o understand_v there_o be_v no_o danger_n of_o be_v foil_v in_o this_o assault_n be_v what_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o general_a denial_n and_o oppugn_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o all_o religion_n of_o which_o the_o understanding_n and_o conscience_n by_o the_o illumination_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v persuade_v and_o convict_v proceed_v from_o a_o obstinate_a will_n and_o purpose_a malice_n against_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n the_o which_o sin_n be_v commit_v of_o two_o sort_n of_o man_n first_o of_o those_o who_o have_v make_v profession_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o afterward_o become_v apostate_n not_o from_o some_o part_n only_o but_o from_o all_o religion_n condemn_v blaspheme_a and_o persecute_v as_o heretical_a and_o impious_a that_o truth_n which_o before_o they_o profess_v and_o of_o which_o they_o be_v persuade_v and_o thus_o do_v hymeneus_n and_o alexander_n sin_n 1.20_o 1._o tim._n 1.20_o of_o who_o paul_n speak_v 1._o tim._n 1.20_o second_o of_o those_o who_o be_v never_o professor_n thereof_o martyr_n matth._n 12.24.31_o steven_n gardner_n see_v his_o story_n in_o the_o book_n of_o martyr_n who_o conscience_n notwithstanding_o be_v convict_v of_o that_o truth_n which_o they_o do_v oppugn_v a_o example_n whereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n matth._n 12.24.31_o and_o in_o many_o of_o the_o learned_a papist_n in_o these_o day_n who_o malicious_o deny_v and_o persecute_v that_o truth_n which_o they_o know_v and_o be_v convict_v of_o §_o sect._n 2_o hereby_o therefore_o it_o appear_v that_o not_o every_o grievous_a sin_n against_o knowledge_n and_o conscience_n be_v the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n sin_n how_o to_o distinguish_v the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o other_o sin_n for_o thus_o david_n offend_v who_o be_v a_o man_n according_a to_o god_n own_o heart_n nor_o every_o deny_v of_o the_o know_a truth_n if_o it_o proceed_v from_o fear_n and_o infirmity_n and_o not_o from_o malice_n and_o obstinate_a rebellion_n for_o thus_o peter_n sin_v in_o deny_v his_o master_n nor_o all_o kind_n of_o oppose_v and_o persecute_v of_o the_o truth_n if_o it_o be_v not_o against_o knowledge_n and_o conscience_n but_o upon_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n for_o thus_o paul_n offend_v before_o his_o conversion_n 1.13_o 1._o tim._n 1.13_o as_o appear_v 1._o tim._n 1.13_o and_o many_o of_o the_o jew_n who_o crucify_v christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n peter_n testify_v 3.17_o act._n 3.17_o act._n 3.17_o nor_o all_o malicious_a oppose_v against_o every_o know_a truth_n but_o of_o the_o truth_n in_o general_a and_o all_o true_a religion_n for_o this_o sin_n be_v a_o universal_a apostasy_n from_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o not_o only_o a_o defection_n from_o some_o particular_a point_n thereof_o so_o that_o though_o a_o man_n sin_n against_o knowledge_n and_o conscience_n through_o infirmity_n and_o not_o of_o malice_n though_o he_o deny_v the_o truth_n through_o fear_n and_o weakness_n though_o he_o persecute_v it_o through_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n though_o he_o witting_o oppose_v against_o and_o willing_o persecute_v some_o particular_a point_n thereof_o and_o yet_o hold_v and_o profess_v the_o general_a howsoever_o he_o have_v most_o heinous_o offend_v yet_o he_o have_v not_o commit_v this_o unpardonable_a sin_n against_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o therefore_o be_v not_o exclude_v from_o repentance_n nor_o upon_o his_o repentance_n from_o pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n whereby_o it_o manifest_o appear_v that_o these_o poor_a christian_n which_o labour_n under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n be_v mere_o delude_v by_o satan_n false_a suggestion_n and_o gross_o abuse_v through_o their_o own_o ignorance_n when_o as_o he_o make_v they_o believe_v that_o they_o have_v sin_v against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o let_v such_o know_v to_o their_o comfort_n that_o so_o long_o as_o they_o will_v not_o commit_v this_o sin_n or_o fear_v lest_o they_o have_v already_o fall_v into_o it_o they_o be_v as_o yet_o most_o free_a from_o it_o see_v it_o be_v not_o do_v of_o infirmity_n or_o at_o unaware_o but_o upon_o a_o malicious_a will_n clear_a knowledge_n and_o settle_a resolution_n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o here_o the_o poor_a christian_n be_v ready_a to_o complain_v that_o he_o be_v continual_o trouble_v with_o impious_a thought_n suggestion_n of_o impious_a and_o blasphemous_a suggestion_n and_o horrible_a blasphemy_n against_o god_n and_o his_o holy_a spirit_n which_o he_o fear_v to_o be_v the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n i_o answer_v as_o before_o that_o see_v these_o thought_n be_v a_o trouble_n unto_o he_o and_o see_v he_o fear_v to_o commit_v this_o sin_n thereby_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o he_o be_v not_o fall_v into_o it_o as_o appeareth_z by_o that_o which_o have_v be_v say_v second_o he_o be_v to_o know_v that_o his_o state_n be_v common_a with_o god_n faithful_a child_n who_o be_v thus_o vex_v especial_o in_o the_o conflict_n of_o temptation_n and_o before_o they_o have_v receive_v a_o great_a measure_n of_o faith_n and_o fullness_n of_o persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n whereby_o they_o be_v move_v entire_o to_o love_v he_o again_o neither_o need_v this_o to_o seem_v strange_a unto_o any_o who_o consider_v of_o that_o mass_n of_o natural_a corruption_n which_o remain_v in_o we_o even_o after_o regeneration_n which_o continual_o boil_v and_o foam_v up_o the_o filthy_a scumine_fw-la of_o wicked_a thought_n and_o blasphemous_a imagination_n and_o of_o the_o malice_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n satan_n who_o be_v still_o ready_a to_o tempt_v we_o by_o his_o suggestion_n to_o the_o
enemy_n who_o labour_n to_o hinder_v our_o salvation_n for_o he_o be_v omnipotent_a and_o mighty_a to_o save_v 63.1_o esa_n 63.1_o as_o it_o be_v esa_n 63.1_o and_o though_o through_o our_o frailty_n and_o weakness_n we_o may_v continual_o be_v vanquish_v and_o draw_v from_o god_n yet_o now_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n hereof_o see_v we_o do_v not_o stand_v in_o our_o own_o strength_n 1.5_o 1._o pet._n 1.5_o but_o be_v keep_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n through_o faith_n unto_o salvation_n as_o it_o be_v 1._o pet._n 1.5_o though_o in_o ourselves_o we_o be_v impotent_a and_o feeble_a yet_o we_o be_v strong_a in_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o the_o power_n of_o his_o might_n and_o be_v arm_v with_o the_o armour_n of_o god_n 11._o eph._n 6.10_o 11._o we_o be_v enable_v to_o stand_v against_o the_o assault_n of_o the_o devil_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v ephes_n 6.10_o 11._o though_o we_o be_v of_o little_a force_n in_o regard_n of_o our_o own_o strength_n and_o able_a to_o do_v nothing_o yet_o be_v we_o able_a to_o do_v all_o thing_n through_o the_o help_n of_o christ_n which_o strengthen_v we_o as_o it_o be_v philip._n 4.13_o though_o we_o be_v weak_a in_o faith_n 4.13_o phil._n 4.13_o and_o unable_a to_o stand_v yet_o be_v the_o servant_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v be_v establish_v for_o god_n be_v able_a to_o make_v we_o stand_v rom._n 14.4_o in_o a_o word_n 14.4_o rom._n 14.4_o though_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n be_v strong_a than_o we_o yet_o shall_v they_o not_o be_v able_a to_o pluck_v we_o from_o christ_n for_o the_o father_n which_o give_v we_o to_o he_o be_v great_a than_o all_o 29._o joh._n 10.28_o 29._o and_o none_o be_v able_a to_o take_v we_o out_o of_o the_o father_n hand_n as_o our_o saviour_n reason_v john_n 10.28_o 29._o and_o therefore_o when_o we_o be_v discourage_v and_o ready_a to_o faint_v in_o the_o sight_n and_o sense_n of_o our_o own_o weakness_n and_o our_o enemy_n mighty_a power_n let_v we_o comfort_v ourselves_o in_o the_o lord_n say_v with_o the_o apostle_n i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v 1.12_o 2._o tim._n 1.12_o and_o i_o be_o persuade_v he_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v that_o which_o i_o have_v commit_v to_o he_o against_o that_o day_n as_o it_o be_v 2._o tim._n 1.12_o §_o sect._n 2_o the_o five_o reason_n be_v ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n and_o fidelity_n 16.17_o the_o five_o reason_n groundad_o on_o god_n truth_n in_o his_o covenant_n apoc._n 1.5_o 2._o cor._n 1.20_o luke_n 16.17_o which_o be_v so_o infallible_a that_o whatsoever_o he_o have_v speak_v promise_v or_o covenant_v that_o he_o will_v most_o certain_o perform_v for_o god_n be_v a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n apoc._n 1.5_o and_o all_o his_o promise_n in_o christ_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o 2._o corinth_n 1.20_o so_o that_o it_o be_v more_o easy_a that_o heaven_n and_o earth_n shall_v pass_v away_o than_o that_o one_o title_n of_o god_n word_n shall_v fall_v unaccomplish_v luke_n 16.17_o but_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o word_n have_v assure_v all_o that_o believe_v that_o he_o will_v uphold_v they_o and_o preserve_v they_o unto_o everlasting_a life_n against_o all_o the_o fury_n of_o their_o enemy_n as_o may_v appear_v both_o by_o his_o covenant_n which_o he_o have_v make_v with_o his_o church_n in_o general_a and_o also_o by_o particular_a promise_n make_v to_o all_o the_o faithful_a concern_v the_o first_o the_o lord_n make_v this_o covenant_n with_o his_o church_n esa_n 59.21_o i_o will_v say_v he_o make_v this_o my_o covenant_n with_o they_o 59.21_o esa_n 59.21_o my_o spirit_n that_o be_v upon_o thou_o and_o my_o word_n which_o i_o have_v put_v in_o thy_o mouth_n shall_v not_o depart_v out_o of_o thy_o mouth_n nor_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o thy_o seed_n nor_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o seed_n of_o thy_o seed_n say_v the_o lord_n from_o henceforth_o even_o for_o ever_o if_o therefore_o god_n spirit_n never_o depart_v from_o they_o and_o they_o for_o ever_o confess_v and_o profess_v his_o word_n and_o truth_n then_o certain_o they_o can_v never_o fall_v away_o nor_o loose_v their_o heavenly_a inheritance_n for_o 8.11_o rom._n 8.11_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o he_o that_o raise_v up_o jesus_n from_o the_o dead_a dwell_v in_o we_o he_o shall_v also_o quicken_v our_o mortal_a body_n because_o his_o spirit_n dwell_v in_o we_o as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.11_o 11.14.●7_n rom._n 8_o 11.14.●7_n and_o as_o many_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n vers_fw-la 14._o and_o if_o we_o be_v child_n we_o be_v also_o heir_n etc._n etc._n vers_fw-la 17._o so_o jerem._n 32.38_o i_o will_v be_v their_o god_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v my_o people_n ●0_n ●er_n 32.38_o 39_o ●0_n verse_n 39_o and_o i_o will_v give_v they_o one_o heart_n and_o one_o way_n that_o they_o may_v fear_v i_o for_o ever_o for_o the_o wealth_n of_o they_o and_o of_o their_o child_n after_o they_o 40._o and_o i_o will_v make_v a_o everlasting_a covenant_n with_o they_o that_o i_o will_v never_o turn_v away_o from_o they_o to_o do_v they_o good_a but_o i_o will_v put_v my_o fear_n in_o their_o heart_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o depart_v from_o i_o etc._n etc._n if_o therefore_o the_o church_n and_o people_n of_o god_n shall_v fear_v he_o for_o ever_o if_o his_o covenant_n be_v everlasting_a if_o he_o will_v never_o depart_v from_o they_o nor_o they_o from_o he_o then_o certain_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n of_o their_o perseverance_n 31.31.32_o ●er_n 31.31.32_o and_o chapter_n 31.31.32_o the_o lord_n say_v that_o he_o will_v make_v a_o new_a covenant_n with_o his_o church_n not_o according_a to_o the_o covenant_n which_o he_o make_v with_o their_o father_n 33._o but_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o covenant_n that_o i_o will_v make_v with_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n after_o those_o day_n say_v the_o lord_n i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o will_v be_v their_o god_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v my_o people_n etc._n etc._n and_o i_o will_v forgive_v their_o iniquity_n and_o i_o will_v remember_v their_o sin_n no_o more_o in_o which_o word_n the_o lord_n covenant_v that_o his_o law_n shall_v ever_o remain_v so_o deep_o engrave_v in_o their_o heart_n that_o nothing_o shall_v blot_v it_o out_o &_o that_o they_o shall_v continual_o meditate_v and_o delight_v themselves_o therein_o 3.2_o rom._n 2.15_o 2._o cor._n 3.2_o for_o thus_o this_o phrase_n of_o write_v in_o the_o heart_n be_v usual_o take_v in_o the_o scripture_n so_o likewise_o he_o assure_v they_o of_o the_o perpetual_a pardon_n of_o their_o sin_n so_o that_o their_o sin_n shall_v never_o make_v frustrate_v that_o covenant_n which_o he_o have_v make_v with_o they_o 2.19.20_o hos_fw-la 2.19.20_o so_o hos_n 2.19_o and_o i_o will_v marry_v thou_o unto_o i_o for_o ever_o yea_o i_o will_v marry_v thou_o unto_o i_o in_o righteousness_n and_o in_o judgement_n and_o in_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n 20._o i_o will_v marry_v thou_o unto_o i_o in_o faithfulness_n and_o thou_o shall_v know_v the_o lord_n if_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v marry_v unto_o he_o for_o ever_o in_o righteousness_n and_o faithfulness_n and_o in_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n then_o can_v neither_o their_o faith_n and_o righteousness_n towards_o god_n nor_o his_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n towards_o they_o fail_v but_o both_o shall_v continue_v unto_o the_o end_n see_v then_o the_o covenant_n which_o be_v between_o god_n and_o we_o do_v assure_v we_o of_o the_o continuance_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n and_o of_o our_o perseverance_n in_o his_o fear_n and_o holy_a obedience_n we_o need_v not_o to_o doubt_v either_o of_o the_o cease_n of_o his_o love_n or_o our_o fall_v away_o for_o though_o the_o mountain_n remove_v and_o the_o hill_n fall_v down_o yet_o shall_v not_o his_o mercy_n depart_v from_o his_o child_n neither_o shall_v the_o covenant_n of_o his_o peace_n fall_v away_o as_o the_o lord_n himself_o protest_v esa_n 54.10_o 54.10_o esa_n 54.10_o §_o sect._n 3_o and_o thus_o have_v i_o prove_v the_o certainty_n of_o our_o perseverance_n answer_v a_o objection_n take_v from_o our_o faltinesse_n answer_v by_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n which_o god_n have_v make_v with_o his_o church_n for_o whatsoever_o the_o lord_n promise_v to_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o church_n that_o he_o also_o promise_v to_o every_o particular_a member_n thereof_o see_v the_o whole_a contain_v all_o his_o part_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o belong_v to_o the_o whole_a body_n that_o also_o belong_v to_o all_o the_o member_n but_o it_o may_v be_v object_v that_o howsoever_o this_o covenant_n on_o god_n part_n be_v firm_a and_o eternal_a yet_o by_o our_o fault_n and_o transgression_n it_o may_v
accompany_v with_o loss_n as_o when_o we_o be_v in_o hope_n to_o gain_v thereby_o these_o and_o many_o other_o the_o branch_n of_o sanctification_n be_v the_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n and_o therefore_o whosoever_o after_o due_a examination_n find_v that_o they_o be_v endue_v with_o they_o may_v also_o be_v assure_v notwithstanding_o all_o satan_n suggestion_n to_o the_o contrary_a that_o they_o have_v faith_n for_o this_o be_v the_o root_n from_o which_o these_o fruit_n spring_n and_o they_o can_v be_v sever_v chap._n xliii_o satan_n tentation_n ground_v upon_o our_o want_n of_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o faith_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o these_o be_v the_o sign_n by_o which_o every_o believer_n may_v be_v assure_v that_o he_o have_v a_o true_a &_o lively_a faith_n not_o satan_n tentation_n whereby_o he_o persuade_v we_o than_o we_o have_v no_o faith_n because_o we_o feel_v it_o not_o which_o howsoever_o they_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o every_o faithful_a man_n yet_o not_o at_o all_o time_n for_o oftentimes_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o believe_a christian_n do_v neither_o feel_v his_o faith_n nor_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o especial_o in_o the_o infancy_n of_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o cumbate_n of_o tentation_n which_o give_v occasion_n unto_o satan_n of_o suggest_v into_o his_o mind_n a_o dangerous_a tentation_n thou_o brag_v much_o will_v he_o say_v of_o thy_o faith_n and_o thou_o confirme_v this_o thy_o persuasion_n that_o thou_o be_v endue_v therewith_o with_o many_o sign_n and_o fruit_n which_o have_v accompany_v it_o but_o if_o now_o thou_o examine_v thyself_o a_o right_n thou_o shall_v find_v in_o thou_o no_o such_o matter_n and_o not_o to_o stand_v upon_o other_o argument_n i_o appeal_v unto_o the_o testimony_n of_o thy_o own_o conscience_n whether_o at_o this_o present_a thou_o have_v any_o sense_n or_o lively_a feel_n of_o faith_n or_o can_v discern_v those_o fruit_n thereof_o which_o before_o thou_o have_v speak_v of_o if_o not_o then_o do_v not_o flatter_v thyself_o in_o vain_a with_o a_o fond_a persuasion_n for_o though_o thou_o will_v not_o believe_v i_o yet_o at_o least_o believe_v thou_o own_o sense_n and_o feeling_n which_o plain_o tell_v thou_o that_o either_o thou_o never_o have_v any_o true_a faith_n indeed_o or_o if_o thou_o have_v yet_o that_o now_o it_o be_v quite_o lose_v and_o perish_v tertation_n the_o answer_n to_o the_o former_a tertation_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o tentation_n we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o between_o faith_n itself_o and_o the_o work_n &_o function_n thereof_o which_o be_v to_o apprehend_v and_o apply_v christ_n merit_n and_o god_n mercy_n and_o love_a favour_n with_o all_o the_o gracious_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o it_o be_v a_o habitual_a faculty_n of_o the_o mind_n it_o always_o continue_v &_o abide_v in_o god_n child_n after_o it_o be_v once_o wrought_v in_o they_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o function_n act_n or_o work_v thereof_o it_o have_v many_o intermission_n and_o oftentimes_o seem_v to_o be_v cast_v as_o it_o be_v into_o a_o dead_a sleep_n now_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o we_o can_v sensible_o discern_v faith_n as_o it_o be_v a_o habitual_a virtue_n or_o faculty_n of_o the_o mind_n although_o we_o have_v it_o in_o great_a measure_n in_o we_o but_o only_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o manife_v itself_o in_o his_o action_n work_n &_o fruit_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o unsound_a and_o false_a manner_n of_o reason_v to_o infer_v because_o we_o do_v not_o sensible_o feel_v and_o discern_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n therefore_o we_o be_v destitute_a thereof_o for_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n or_o faith_n itself_o may_v be_v in_o we_o &_o yet_o for_o a_o time_n may_v be_v so_o hinder_v by_o outward_a accident_n that_o it_o can_v show_v itself_o in_o his_o action_n and_o fruit_n by_o which_o alone_o it_o be_v sensible_o discern_v §_o sect._n 2_o but_o i_o will_v make_v this_o more_o clear_a and_o manifest_a by_o some_o familiar_a similitude_n and_o example_n similitude_n the_o former_a answer_n make_v plain_a by_o similitude_n we_o know_v that_o in_o the_o sickness_n and_o disease_n of_o the_o body_n nature_n be_v so_o enfeeble_v and_o overcome_v that_o sometime_o the_o party_n affect_v fall_v into_o a_o dead_a swoon_n wherein_o he_o be_v deprive_v for_o a_o time_n not_o only_o of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o understanding_n reason_n and_o memory_n but_o also_o of_o his_o sense_n motion_n and_o vital_a function_n so_o that_o in_o respect_n of_o sense_n and_o outward_a appearance_n he_o be_v quite_o deprive_v of_o all_o his_o vital_a sensitive_a and_o intellectual_a faculty_n but_o yet_o a_o while_n after_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o outward_a mean_n use_v or_o by_o the_o secret_a power_n of_o nature_n work_v in_o he_o he_o be_v restore_v to_o the_o use_n of_o all_o again_o and_o live_v feel_v much_o and_o understand_v as_o in_o former_a time_n because_o he_o have_v not_o lose_v these_o faculty_n but_o only_o by_o some_o grievous_a impediment_n be_v hinder_v of_o the_o use_n of_o they_o in_o their_o action_n and_o function_n so_o that_o here_o this_o manner_n of_o reason_v appear_v absurd_a and_o false_a these_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v sensible_o discern_v and_o therefore_o he_o be_v quite_o destitute_a of_o they_o and_o thus_o also_o it_o be_v in_o respect_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o other_o habitual_a virtue_n oftentimes_o through_o the_o sickness_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o sin_n or_o the_o outward_a violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n it_o seem_v cast_v into_o a_o swoon_n &_o deprive_v of_o all_o the_o spiritual_a faculty_n and_o virtue_n thereof_o faith_n love_n zeal_n hope_v patience_n and_o the_o rest_n but_o yet_o soon_o after_o by_o hear_v the_o word_n by_o godly_a admonition_n instruction_n reprehension_n and_o consolation_n make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o god_n spirit_n it_o be_v reviue_v and_o all_o the_o spiritual_a grace_n thereof_o show_v themselves_o again_o in_o their_o wont_a strength_n so_o that_o this_o inference_n be_v no_o less_o false_a than_o the_o other_o there_o be_v no_o sensible_a appearance_n of_o these_o sanctify_a gift_n and_o grace_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v quite_o lose_v and_o perish_v for_o the_o grace_n themselves_o remain_v though_o for_o a_o time_n they_o appear_v not_o in_o their_o action_n and_o fruit_n so_o in_o the_o time_n of_o winter_n the_o fruitful_a tree_n be_v so_o nip_v with_o the_o cold_a frost_n and_o so_o weatherbeaten_a with_o tempestuous_a storm_n that_o they_o appear_v naked_a &_o bare_a not_o only_o without_o fruit_n but_o also_o leave_v so_o as_o if_o we_o shall_v judge_v according_a to_o sense_n &_o outward_a appearance_n we_o shall_v false_o conclude_v that_o they_o be_v dead_a for_o by_o experience_n we_o know_v that_o they_o live_v and_o suck_v nourishment_n out_o of_o the_o earth_n even_o when_o they_o be_v most_o spoil_v of_o their_o summer_n beauty_n and_o though_o they_o be_v toss_v with_o the_o wind_n yet_o hereby_o they_o be_v not_o hurt_v but_o rather_o take_v deep_a root_n and_o so_o be_v make_v capable_a of_o more_o nourishment_n and_o though_o they_o be_v nip_v with_o cold_a frost_n yet_o hereby_o they_o be_v not_o make_v barren_a nay_o rather_o hereby_o their_o worm_n and_o canker_n be_v kill_v and_o they_o prepare_v and_o make_v fit_a to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n in_o the_o time_n of_o summer_n when_o the_o comfortable_a spring_n approach_v and_o the_o sweet_a shower_n and_o warm_a sun_n beam_n fall_v and_o descend_v upon_o they_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o spiritual_a grace_n in_o the_o poor_a christian_n in_o the_o winter_n of_o affliction_n they_o be_v nip_v with_o the_o cold_a frost_n of_o fear_n and_o doubt_v and_o weatherbeaten_a with_o the_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o satan_n tentation_n so_o 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