ver_fw-la 7._o there_o be_v three_o that_o bear_v record_n in_o heaven_n the_o father_n the_o word_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o these_o three_o be_v one_o the_o trinity_n of_o divine_a person_n act_v distinct_o in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o same_o divine_a nature_n do_v give_v this_o testimony_n and_o they_o do_v so_o by_o these_o distinct_a operation_n whereby_o they_o act_n in_o this_o way_n and_o work_v of_o god_n save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v at_o large_a declare_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o there_o be_v add_v hereunto_o a_o testimony_n that_o be_v immediate_o applicatory_a unto_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n of_o this_o sovereign_a testimony_n of_o the_o holy_a trinity_n and_o this_o be_v the_o witness_n of_o grace_n and_o all_o sacred_a ordinance_n there_o be_v three_o that_o bear_v witness_n on_o earth_n the_o spirit_n and_o the_o water_n and_o the_o blood_n and_o these_o three_o agree_v in_o one_o ver_n 8._o they_o be_v not_o all_o essential_o the_o same_o in_o one_o and_o the_o same_o nature_n as_o be_v the_o father_n word_n and_o holy_a ghost_n yet_o they_o all_o absolute_o agree_v in_o the_o same_o testimony_n and_o they_o do_v it_o by_o that_o especial_a efficacy_n which_o they_o have_v on_o the_o soul_n of_o believer_n to_o assure_v they_o of_o this_o truth_n in_o this_o record_n so_o solemn_o so_o glorious_o give_v and_o propose_v life_n and_o death_n be_v set_v before_o we_o the_o receive_v and_o embrace_v of_o this_o testimony_n with_o a_o approbation_n of_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n testify_v unto_o be_v that_o work_n of_o faith_n which_o secure_v we_o of_o eternal_a life_n on_o these_o term_n there_o be_v reconciliation_n and_o agreement_n make_v and_o establish_v between_o god_n and_o man_n without_o which_o man_n must_v perish_v for_o ever_o so_o our_o bless_a saviour_n affirm_v this_o be_v life_n eternal_a that_o we_o may_v know_v thou_o father_n the_o only_a true_a god_n and_o jesus_n christ_n who_o thou_o have_v send_v joh._n 17._o 3._o to_o know_v the_o father_n as_o the_o only_a true_a god_n to_o know_v he_o as_o he_o have_v send_v jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o the_o salvation_n of_o sinner_n and_o to_o know_v jesus_n christ_n as_o send_v by_o he_o for_o that_o end_n be_v that_o grace_n and_o duty_n which_o enstate_v we_o in_o a_o right_n unto_o eternal_a life_n and_o initiate_v we_o in_o the_o possession_n of_o it_o and_o this_o include_v that_o choice_n and_o approbation_n of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n for_o the_o save_n of_o sinner_n whereof_o we_o speak_v but_o these_o thing_n must_v be_v more_o distinct_o open_v 1._o the_o great_a fundamental_a difference_n in_o religion_n be_v concern_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o sinner_n may_v be_v save_v from_o man_n different_a apprehension_n hereof_o arise_v all_o other_o difference_n about_o religion_n and_o the_o first_o thing_n that_o engage_v man_n real_o into_o any_o concernment_n in_o religion_n be_v a_o enquiry_n in_o their_o mind_n how_o sinner_n may_v be_v save_v or_o what_o they_o shall_v do_v themselves_o to_o be_v save_v what_o shall_v we_o do_v what_o shall_v we_o do_v to_o be_v save_v what_o be_v the_o way_n of_o acceptance_n with_o god_n be_v that_o enquiry_n which_o give_v man_n their_o first_o initiation_n into_o religion_n see_v act_n 2._o 37._o of_o chap._n 16._o 30._o micah_n 6._o 6_o 7_o 8._o this_o question_n be_v once_o raise_v in_o the_o conscience_n a_o answer_n must_v be_v return_v unto_o it_o i_o will_v consider_v say_v the_o prophet_n what_o i_o shall_v answer_v when_o i_o be_o reprove_v hab._n 2._o 1._o and_o there_o be_v all_o the_o reason_n in_o the_o world_n that_o man_n consider_v well_o of_o a_o good_a answer_n hereunto_o without_o which_o they_o must_v perish_v for_o ever_o for_o if_o they_o can_v answer_v themselves_o here_o how_o do_v they_o hope_v to_o answer_v god_n hereafter_o wherefore_o without_o a_o sufficient_a answer_n always_o in_o readiness_n unto_o this_o enquiry_n no_o man_n can_v have_v any_o hope_n of_o a_o bless_a eternity_n now_o the_o real_a answer_n which_o man_n return_v unto_o themselves_o be_v according_a to_o the_o influence_n which_o their_o mind_n be_v under_o from_o one_o or_o other_o of_o the_o two_o divine_a covenant_n that_o of_o work_n or_o that_o of_o grace_n and_o these_o two_o covenant_n take_v absolute_o be_v inconsistent_a and_o give_v answer_n in_o this_o case_n that_o be_v direct_o contradictory_n to_o one_o another_o so_o the_o apostle_n declare_v rom._n 10._o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o the_o one_o say_v the_o man_n that_o do_v the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n shall_v live_v by_o they_o this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o you_o may_v be_v save_v the_o other_o whole_o wave_v this_o return_n and_o put_v it_o all_o on_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n hence_o there_o be_v great_a difference_n and_o great_a variety_n in_o the_o answer_n which_o man_n return_v to_o themselves_o on_o this_o enquiry_n for_o their_o conscience_n will_v neither_o hear_v nor_o speak_v any_o thing_n but_o what_o comply_v with_o the_o covenant_n whereunto_o they_o do_v belong_v these_o thing_n be_v reconcile_v only_o in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o how_o the_o apostle_n declare_v rom._n 8._o 3._o the_o great_a part_n of_o convince_v sinner_n seem_v to_o adhere_v to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o so_o perish_v for_o ever_o nothing_o will_v stand_v we_o instead_o in_o this_o matter_n nothing_o will_v save_v we_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n by_o the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ._n 1_o pet._n 3._o 21._o 2._o the_o way_n that_o god_n have_v prepare_v for_o the_o save_n of_o sinner_n be_v a_o fruit_n and_o product_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o powerful_o essicacious_a unto_o its_o end_n as_o such_o it_o be_v to_o be_v receive_v or_o it_o be_v reject_v it_o be_v not_o enough_o that_o we_o admit_v of_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o as_o declare_v unless_o we_o be_v sensible_a of_o divine_a wisdom_n and_o power_n in_o it_o so_o as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v safe_o trust_v unto_o hereon_o upon_o the_o proposal_n of_o it_o falls_z out_z the_o eternal_o distinguish_v difference_n among_o men._n some_o look_n upon_o it_o and_o embrace_v it_o as_o the_o power_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n other_o real_o reject_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n foolish_a and_o weak_a not_o meet_v to_o be_v trust_v unto_o hereof_o the_o apostle_n give_v a_o account_n at_o large_a 1_o cor._n 1._o 18_o 19_o 20_o 21_o 22_o 23_o 24._o and_o this_o be_v mysterious_a in_o religion_n the_o same_o divine_a truth_n be_v by_o the_o same_o way_n and_o mean_n at_o the_o same_o time_n propose_v unto_o sundry_a person_n all_o in_o the_o same_o condition_n under_o the_o same_o circumstance_n all_o equal_o concern_v in_o that_o which_o be_v propose_v therein_o some_o of_o they_o hereon_o do_v receive_v it_o embrace_v it_o approve_v of_o it_o and_o trust_v unto_o it_o for_o life_n and_o salvation_n other_o despise_v it_o reject_v it_o value_v it_o not_o trust_v not_o unto_o it_o to_o the_o one_o it_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o the_o other_o weakness_n and_o foolishness_n as_o it_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v one_o or_o the_o other_o it_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o a_o middle_a state_n or_o consideration_n it_o be_v not_o a_o good_a way_n unless_o it_o be_v the_o only_a way_n it_o be_v not_o a_o safe_a it_o be_v not_o the_o best_a way_n if_o there_o be_v any_o other_o for_o it_o be_v eternal_o inconsistent_a with_o any_o other_o it_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n or_o it_o be_v downright_a folly_n and_o here_o after_o all_o our_o dispute_n we_o must_v resort_v unto_o eternal_a sovereign_a grace_n make_v a_o distinction_n among_o they_o unto_o who_o the_o gospel_n be_v propose_v and_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o actual_a grace_n in_o cure_v that_o unbelief_n which_o blind_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n that_o they_o can_v see_v nothing_o but_o folly_n and_o weakness_n in_o god_n way_n of_o the_o save_n of_o sinner_n and_o this_o unbelief_n work_v yet_o in_o the_o most_o of_o they_o unto_o who_o this_o way_n of_o god_n be_v propose_v in_o the_o gospel_n they_o receive_v it_o not_o as_o a_o effect_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o as_o powerful_o essicacious_a unto_o its_o proper_a end_n some_o be_v profligate_v in_o the_o service_n of_o their_o lust_n and_o regard_v it_o not_o unto_o who_o may_v be_v apply_v that_o of_o the_o prophet_n hear_v ve_fw-la despiser_n and_o wonder_v and_o perish_v some_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n so_o as_o that_o they_o apprehend_v not_o they_o understand_v not_o the_o mystery_n of_o it_o for_o the_o light_n shine_v
gospel_n ground_n and_o evidence_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n show_v i._o the_o nature_n of_o true_a save_a faith_n in_o secure_v of_o the_o spiritual_a comfort_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o life_n be_v of_o the_o high_a importance_n ii_o the_o way_n wherein_o true_a faith_n do_v evidence_n itself_o in_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n of_o believer_n unto_o their_o supportment_n and_o comfort_n under_o all_o their_o conflict_n with_o sin_n in_o all_o their_o trial_n and_o temptation_n iii_o faith_n will_v evidence_n itself_o by_o a_o diligent_a constant_a endeavour_n to_o keep_v itself_o and_o all_o grace_n in_o due_a exercise_n in_o all_o ordinance_n of_o divine_a worship_n private_a and_o public_a iv._o a_o peculiar_a way_n whereby_o true_a faith_n will_v evidence_n itself_o by_o bring_v the_o soul_n into_o a_o state_n of_o repentance_n examine_v yourselves_o whether_o you_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n prove_v yourselves_o know_v you_o not_o your_o own_o self_n how_o that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v in_o you_o except_o you_o be_v reprobate_n 2_o cor._n 13._o 5_o by_o john_n owen_n d._n d._n london_n print_v by_o john_n astwood_n for_o william_n marshal_n at_o the_o bible_n in_o newgate-street_n where_o you_o may_v be_v supply_v with_o most_o of_o dr._n owen_n dr._n beverly_n and_o mr._n caryl_n work_n 1695._o to_o the_o reader_n as_o faith_n be_v the_o first_o vital_a act_n that_o every_o true_a christian_a put_v forth_o and_o the_o life_n which_o he_o live_v be_v by_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o it_o be_v his_o next_o and_o great_a concern_v to_o know_v that_o he_o do_v believe_v and_o that_o believe_v he_o have_v eternal_a life_n that_o his_o faith_n be_v the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n and_o of_o the_o operation_n of_o god_n without_o sâ—me_n distinct_a believe_a knowledge_n of_o which_o he_o can_v so_o comfortable_o assure_v his_o heart_n before_o god_n concern_v his_o call_v and_o election_n so_o far_o as_o to_o carry_v he_o forth_o in_o all_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n in_o do_v and_o suffer_v the_o will_n of_o god_n with_o necessary_a resolution_n and_o cheerfulness_n the_o do_v of_o which_o in_o a_o right_a manner_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v no_o small_a part_n of_o spiritual_a skill_n whereunto_o two_o thing_n be_v high_o requisite_a first_o that_o he_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n and_o know_v how_o to_o distinguish_v the_o gospel_n from_o the_o law_n and_o second_o that_o he_o be_v very_o conversant_a with_o his_o own_o heart_n that_o so_o by_o compare_v his_o faith_n and_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o with_o the_o say_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n he_o may_v some_o to_o see_v that_o as_o he_o have_v receive_v christ_n so_o he_o walk_v in_o he_o all_o his_o reason_v concern_v himself_o be_v take_v up_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o that_o what_o judgement_n he_o pass_v upon_o himself_o may_v be_v a_o judgement_n of_o faith_n and_o answer_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n for_o all_o trial_n of_o faith_n must_v at_o last_o be_v resolve_v into_o a_o judgement_n of_o faith_n before_o which_o be_v make_v the_o soul_n still_o labour_v under_o staggering_n and_o uncertainty_n the_o design_n of_o this_o ensue_a treatise_n be_v to_o resolve_v this_o great_a question_n whether_o the_o faith_n we_o profess_v unto_o be_v true_a or_o no_o the_o resolution_n of_o which_o upon_o a_o impartial_a enquiry_n must_v needs_o be_v very_o grateful_a and_o advantageous_a to_o every_o one_o that_o have_v but_o taste_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v gracious_a that_o the_o late_a reverend_n learned_a and_o pious_a dr._n owen_n be_v the_o author_n there_o needs_o be_v no_o doubt_n not_o only_o because_o good_a assurance_n be_v give_v by_o such_o as_o be_v entrust_v with_o his_o write_n but_o also_o in_o that_o the_o style_n and_o spirit_n run_v through_o the_o other_o of_o his_o practical_a write_n be_v here_o very_o manifest_a and_o according_o with_o they_o be_v recommend_v to_o the_o serious_a perusal_n of_o every_o diligent_a enquirer_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o spiritual_a estate_n and_o condition_n isaac_n chauncy_n evidence_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect._n the_o secure_n of_o the_o spiritual_a comfort_n of_o believer_n in_o this_o life_n be_v a_o matter_n of_o the_o high_a importance_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o their_o own_o advantage_n by_o the_o gospel_n for_o god_n be_v abundant_o willing_a that_o all_o the_o heir_n of_o promise_n shall_v receive_v strong_a consolation_n and_o he_o have_v provide_v way_n and_o mean_n for_o the_o communication_n of_o it_o to_o they_o and_o their_o participiation_n of_o it_o be_v their_o principal_a interest_n in_o this_o world_n and_o be_v so_o esteem_v by_o they_o but_o their_o effectual_a refresh_a enjoyment_n of_o these_o comfort_n be_v various_o oppose_v by_o the_o power_n of_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n in_o conjunction_n with_o other_o temptation_n hence_o notwithstanding_o their_o right_n and_o title_n unto_o they_o by_o the_o gospel_n they_o be_v ofttimes_o actual_o destitute_a of_o a_o gracious_a sense_n of_o they_o and_o consequent_o of_o that_o relief_n which_o they_o be_v sâ—ited_v to_o afford_v in_o all_o their_o duty_n trial_n and_o afflication_n now_o the_o root_n whereon_o all_o real_a comfort_n do_v grow_v whence_o they_o spring_v and_o arise_v be_v true_a and_o save_a faith_n the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect._n wherefore_o they_o do_v ordinary_o answer_v unto_o and_o hold_v proportion_n with_o the_o evidence_n which_o any_o have_v of_o that_o faith_n in_o themselves_o at_o least_o they_o can_v be_v maintain_v without_o such_o evidence_n wherefore_o that_o we_o may_v be_v a_o little_a useful_a unto_o the_o establishment_n or_o recovery_n of_o that_o consolation_n which_o god_n be_v so_o abundant_o willing_a that_o all_o the_o heir_n of_o promise_n shall_v enjoy_v i_o shall_v inquire_v what_o be_v the_o principal_a act_n and_o operation_n of_o faith_n whereby_o it_o will_v evidence_n its_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o temptation_n and_o storm_n that_o may_v befall_v believer_n in_o this_o world_n and_o i_o shall_v insist_v on_o such_o alone_a as_o will_v bear_v the_o severe_a scrutiny_n by_o scripture_n and_o experience_n and_o the_o principal_a genuine_a act_v of_o save_a faith_n in_o we_o inseparable_a from_o it_o yea_o essential_a to_o such_o act_n consist_v in_o the_o choose_v embrace_v and_o approbation_n of_o god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o the_o mediation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n rely_v thereon_o with_o a_o renuntiation_n of_o all_o other_o way_n and_o mean_n pretend_v unto_o the_o same_o end_n of_o salvation_n this_o be_v that_o which_o we_o be_v to_o explain_v and_o prove_v save_v faith_n be_v our_o believe_v the_o record_n that_o god_n have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o son_n 1_o john_n 5._o 10._o and_o this_o be_v the_o record_n that_o god_n have_v give_v unto_o we_o eternal_a life_n and_o this_o life_n be_v in_o his_o son_n verse_n 11._o this_o be_v the_o testimony_n which_o god_n give_v that_o great_a and_o sacred_a truth_n which_o he_o himself_o bear_v witness_v unto_o namely_o that_o he_o have_v free_o prepare_v eternal_a life_n for_o they_o that_o believe_v or_o provide_v a_o way_n of_o salvation_n for_o they_o and_o what_o god_n so_o prepare_v he_o be_v say_v to_o give_v because_o of_o the_o certainty_n of_o its_o communication_n so_o grace_n be_v promise_v and_o give_v to_o the_o elect_a in_o christ_n jesus_n before_o the_o world_n begin_v 2_o tim._n 1._o 9_o tit._n 1._o 2._o and_o that_o be_v so_o to_o be_v communicate_v unto_o they_o in_o and_o by_o the_o mediation_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n that_o it_o be_v the_o only_a way_n whereby_o god_n will_v give_v eternal_a life_n unto_o any_o which_o be_v therefore_o whole_o in_o he_o and_o by_o he_o to_o be_v obtain_v and_o from_o he_o to_o be_v receive_v upon_o our_o acquiescency_n in_o this_o testimony_n on_o our_o approbation_n of_o this_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n or_o our_o refusal_n of_o it_o our_o eternal_a safety_n or_o ruin_n do_v absolute_o depend_v and_o it_o be_v reasonable_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o in_o our_o receive_n of_o this_o testimony_n of_o god_n we_o set_v to_o our_o seal_n that_o god_n be_v true_a joh._n 3._o 33._o we_o ascribe_v unto_o he_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o truth_n and_o therein_o of_o all_o the_o other_o holy_a property_n of_o his_o nature_n the_o most_o eminent_a duty_n whereof_o we_o be_v capable_a in_o this_o world_n and_o by_o a_o refusal_n of_o it_o what_o lie_v in_o we_o we_o make_v he_o a_o liar_n as_o in_o this_o place_n v_o 10._o which_o be_v virtual_o to_o renounce_v his_o be_v and_o the_o solemnity_n wherewith_o this_o testimony_n be_v enter_v be_v very_o remarkable_a
into_o darkness_n and_o the_o darkness_n comprehend_v it_o not_o some_o be_v blind_v by_o satan_n as_o he_o be_v the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n by_o fill_v their_o mind_n with_o prejudice_n and_o their_o heart_n with_o the_o love_n of_o present_a thing_n that_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glorious_a gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o image_n of_o god_n can_v shine_v into_o they_o some_o will_v mix_v with_o it_o their_o own_o work_n way_n and_o duty_n as_o they_o belong_v unto_o the_o first_o covenant_n which_o be_v eternal_o irreconcible_a unto_o this_o way_n of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n teach_v rom._n 10._o 3_o 4._o hereby_o do_v unbelief_n eternal_o ruin_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n they_o do_v not_o they_o can_v approve_v of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n for_o save_v sinner_n propose_v in_o the_o gospel_n as_o a_o effect_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o power_n which_o they_o may_v safe_o trust_v unto_o in_o opposition_n unto_o all_o other_o way_n and_o mean_n pretend_v to_o be_v useful_a unto_o the_o same_o end_n and_o this_o will_v give_v we_o light_n into_o the_o nature_n and_o act_n of_o save_a faith_n which_o we_o inquire_v after_o 3._o the_o whole_a scripture_n and_o all_o divine_a institution_n from_o the_o beginning_n do_v testify_v in_o general_a that_o this_o way_n of_o god_n for_o the_o save_a sinner_n be_v by_o commutation_n substitution_n atonement_n satisfaction_n and_o imputation_n this_o be_v the_o language_n of_o the_o first_o promise_n and_o all_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o law_n found_v thereon_o this_o be_v the_o language_n of_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v a_o way_n whereby_o sinner_n may_v be_v save_v a_o way_n that_o god_n have_v find_v out_o and_o appoint_v now_o it_o be_v the_o law_n wherein_o sinner_n be_v concern_v the_o rule_n of_o all_o thing_n between_o god_n and_o they_o shall_v seem_v to_o be_v by_o what_o they_o can_v do_v or_o suffer_v with_o respect_n unto_o that_o law_n no_o say_v the_o scripture_n it_o can_v be_v so_o for_o by_o the_o deed_n of_o the_o law_n no_o man_n live_a shall_v be_v justify_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n psal._n 142._o 2._o rom._n 3._o 20._o gal._n 2._o 16._o neither_o shall_v it_o be_v by_o their_o personal_a answer_v of_o the_o penalty_n of_o the_o law_n which_o they_o have_v break_v for_o they_o can_v do_v so_o but_o they_o must_v perish_v eternal_o for_o if_o thou_o lord_n shall_v mark_v iniquity_n o_o lord_n who_o shall_v stand_v psal._n 130._o 3._o there_o must_v therefore_o be_v there_o be_v another_o way_n of_o a_o different_a nature_n and_o kind_a from_o these_o for_o the_o save_n of_o sinner_n or_o there_o be_v no_o due_a revelation_n make_v of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n but_o that_o there_o be_v so_o and_o what_o it_o be_v be_v the_o main_a design_n of_o it_o to_o declare_v and_o this_o be_v by_o the_o substitution_n of_o a_o mediator_n instead_o of_o the_o sinner_n that_o shall_v be_v save_v who_o shall_v both_o bear_v the_o penalty_n of_o the_o law_n which_o they_o have_v incur_v and_o fulfil_v that_o righteousness_n which_o they_o can_v not_o attain_v unto_o this_o in_o general_n be_v god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n whether_o man_n like_v it_o or_o no_o for_o what_o the_o law_n can_v not_o do_v in_o that_o it_o be_v weak_a through_o the_o flesh_n god_n send_v his_o own_o son_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o sinful_a flesh_n and_o for_o sin_n condemn_v sin_n in_o the_o flesh_n that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n may_v be_v fulfil_v in_o we_o rom._n 8._o 3_o 4._o see_v also_o heb._n 10._o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 10._o he_o make_v he_o to_o be_v sin_n for_o we_o who_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o 2_o cor._n 5._o 21._o here_o unbelief_n have_v prevail_v with_o many_o in_o this_o latter_a age_n to_o reject_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n herein_o but_o we_o have_v vindicate_v the_o truth_n against_o they_o sufficient_o elsewhere_o 4._o there_o be_v sundry_a thing_n previous_o require_v to_o give_v we_o a_o clear_a view_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o this_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n such_o be_v a_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o fall_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n and_o of_o our_o apostasy_n from_o god_n thereby_o i_o may_v not_o stay_v here_o to_o show_v the_o nature_n or_o aggravation_n of_o they_o neither_o can_v we_o conceive_v they_o aright_o much_o less_o express_v they_o i_o only_o say_v that_o unless_o we_o have_v due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o dread_a and_o terror_n of_o they_o of_o the_o invasion_n make_v on_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o confusion_n bring_v on_o the_o creation_n by_o they_o we_o can_v never_o discern_v the_o reason_n and_o glory_n of_o reject_v the_o way_n of_o personal_n righteousness_n and_o the_o establish_v this_o way_n of_o a_o mediator_n for_o the_o save_n of_o sinner_n a_o due_a sense_n of_o our_o present_a infinite_a distance_n from_o god_n and_o the_o impossibility_n that_o there_o be_v in_o ourselves_o of_o make_v any_o approach_n unto_o he_o be_v of_o the_o same_o consideration_n so_o likewise_o be_v that_o of_o our_o utter_a disability_n to_o do_v any_o thing_n that_o may_v answer_v the_o law_n or_o the_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n of_o god_n therein_o of_o our_o universal_a unconformity_n in_o our_o nature_n heart_n and_o their_o act_n unto_o the_o nature_n holiness_n and_o will_n of_o god_n unless_o i_o say_v we_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o our_o mind_n and_o upon_o our_o conscience_n we_o can_v believe_v aright_o we_o can_v comprehend_v the_o glory_n of_o this_o new_a way_n of_o salvation_n and_o whereas_o mankind_n have_v have_v a_o general_a notion_n though_o no_o distinct_a apprehension_n of_o these_o thing_n or_o of_o some_o of_o they_o many_o among_o they_o have_v apprehend_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o some_o kind_n of_o satisfaction_n or_o atonement_n to_o be_v make_v that_o sinner_n may_v be_v free_v from_o the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n but_o when_o god_n way_n of_o it_o be_v propose_v unto_o they_o it_o be_v and_o be_v general_o reject_v because_o the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n but_o when_o these_o thing_n be_v fix_v on_o the_o soul_n by_o sharp_a and_o durable_a conviction_n they_o will_v enlighten_v it_o with_o due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o glory_n and_o beauty_n of_o god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n 5._o this_o be_v the_o gospel_n this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o it_o namely_o a_o divine_a declaration_n of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n for_o the_o save_n of_o sinner_n through_o the_o person_n mediation_n blood_n righteousness_n and_o intercession_n of_o christ._n this_o be_v that_o which_o it_o reveal_v declare_v propose_v and_o tender_v unto_o sinner_n there_o be_v a_o way_n for_o their_o salvation_n as_o this_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o first_o promise_n so_o the_o truth_n of_o every_o word_n in_o the_o scripture_n depend_v on_o the_o supposition_n of_o it_o without_o this_o there_o can_v be_v no_o more_o intercourse_n between_o god_n and_o we_o than_o be_v between_o he_o and_o devil_n again_o it_o declare_v that_o this_o way_n be_v not_o by_o the_o law_n or_o its_o work_n by_o the_o first_o covenant_n or_o its_o condition_n by_o our_o own_o do_v or_o suffer_v but_o it_o be_v a_o new_a way_n find_v out_o in_o and_o proceed_v from_o infinite_a wisdom_n love_n grace_n and_o goodness_n namely_o by_o the_o incarnation_n of_o the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n his_o susception_n of_o the_o office_n of_o a_o mediator_n do_v and_o suffer_v in_o the_o discharge_v of_o it_o whatever_o be_v needful_a for_o the_o justification_n and_o salvation_n of_o sinner_n unto_o his_o own_o eternal_a glory_n see_v rom._n 3._o 23_o 24_o 25_o 26_o 27._o chap._n 8._o 3_o 4._o 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o 20_o 21._o etc._n etc._n moreover_o the_o gospel_n add_v that_o the_o only_a way_n of_o obtain_v a_o interest_n in_o this_o bless_a contrivance_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o the_o substitution_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o surety_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o thereon_o the_o imputation_n of_o our_o sin_n to_o he_o and_o of_o his_o righteousness_n unto_o we_o be_v by_o faith_n in_o he_o here_o come_v in_o that_o trial_n of_o faith_n which_o we_o inquire_v after_o this_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n be_v propose_v offer_v and_o tender_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o gospel_n true_a and_o save_a faith_n receive_v it_o approve_v of_o it_o rest_v in_o it_o renounce_v all_o other_o hope_n and_o expectation_n repose_v its_o whole_a confidence_n therein_o for_o it_o be_v not_o propose_v unto_o we_o mere_o as_o a_o notion_n of_o truth_n to_o be_v assent_v to_o or_o deny_v in_o which_o sense_n all_o believe_v the_o
gospel_n that_o be_v call_v christian_n they_o do_v not_o esteem_v it_o a_o fable_n but_o it_o be_v propose_v unto_o we_o as_o that_o which_o we_o ought_v practical_o to_o close_v withal_o for_o ourselves_o to_o trust_v alone_o unto_o it_o for_o life_n and_o salvation_n and_o i_o shall_v speak_v brief_o unto_o two_o thing_n 1._o how_o do_v save_v faith_n approve_v of_o this_o way_n on_o what_o account_n and_o unto_o what_o ends._n 2._o how_o it_o do_v evidence_n and_o manifest_v itself_o hereby_o unto_o the_o comfort_n of_o believer_n first_o it_o approve_v of_o it_o as_o that_o which_o every_o way_n become_v god_n to_o find_v out_o to_o grant_v and_o propose_v so_o speak_v the_o apostle_n heb._n 2._o 10._o it_o become_v he_o in_o bring_v many_o son_n to_o glory_n to_o make_v the_o captain_n of_o their_o salvation_n perfect_a through_o suffering_n that_o become_v god_n be_v worthy_a of_o he_o be_v to_o be_v own_v concern_v he_o which_o answer_v unto_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n goodness_n grace_n holiness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o nothing_o else_o this_o faith_n discern_v judge_v and_o determine_v concern_v this_o way_n namely_o that_o it_o be_v every_o way_n worthy_a of_o god_n and_o answer_v all_o the_o holy_a property_n of_o his_o nature_n this_o be_v call_v the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o face_n of_o christ_n jesus_n 2_o cor._n 4._o 6._o this_o discovery_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o this_o way_n be_v make_v unto_o faith_n alone_o and_o by_o it_o alone_o it_o be_v embrace_v the_o not_o discern_v of_o it_o and_o thereon_o the_o want_n of_o a_o acquiescency_n in_o it_o be_v that_o unbelief_n which_o ruin_v the_o soul_n of_o men._n the_o reason_n why_o man_n do_v not_o embrace_v the_o way_n of_o salvation_n tender_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v because_o they_o do_v not_o see_v nor_o understand_v how_o full_a it_o be_v of_o divine_a glory_n how_o it_o become_v god_n be_v worthy_a of_o he_o and_o answer_v all_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n their_o mind_n be_v blind_v that_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glorious_a gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o image_n of_o god_n do_v not_o shine_v into_o they_o 2_o cor._n 4._o 4._o and_o so_o they_o deal_v with_o this_o way_n of_o god_n as_o if_o it_o be_v weakness_n and_o folly_n herein_o consist_v the_o essence_n and_o life_n of_o faith_n it_o see_v discern_v and_o determine_v that_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n of_o sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n propose_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v such_o as_o become_v god_n and_o all_o his_o divine_a excellency_n to_o find_v out_o appoint_v and_o propose_v unto_o we_o and_o herein_o do_v it_o proper_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n which_o be_v its_o peculiar_a work_n and_o excellency_n rom._n 4._o 20._o herein_o it_o rest_v and_o refresh_v itself_o in_o particular_a faith_n herein_o rejoice_v in_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n of_o god_n a_o view_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n act_v itself_o by_o his_o power_n in_o the_o work_v of_o creation_n for_o in_o wisdom_n he_o make_v they_o all_o be_v the_o sole_a reason_n of_o ascribe_v glory_n unto_o he_o in_o all_o natural_a worship_n whereby_o we_o glorify_v he_o as_o god_n and_o a_o due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o new_a creation_n in_o the_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o spiritual_a evangelical_n ascription_n of_o glory_n to_o god_n it_o be_v the_o design_n of_o god_n in_o a_o peculiar_a way_n to_o manifest_v and_o glorify_v his_o wisdom_n in_o this_o work_n christ_n crucify_v be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 1._o 24._o and_o all_o the_o treasure_n of_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n be_v hide_v in_o he_o col._n 2._o 3._o all_o the_o treasure_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n be_v lay_v up_o in_o christ_n and_o lay_v out_o about_o he_o as_o to_o be_v manifest_v unto_o faith_n in_o and_o by_o the_o gospel_n he_o design_v herein_o to_o make_v know_v his_o manifold_a wisdom_n ephes._n 3._o 9_o 10._o wherefore_o according_a to_o our_o apprehension_n and_o admiration_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o constitution_n of_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n be_v our_o faith_n and_o no_o otherwise_o where_o that_o do_v not_o appear_v unto_o we_o where_o our_o mind_n be_v not_o affect_v with_o it_o there_o be_v no_o faith_n at_o all_o i_o can_v stay_v here_o to_o reckon_v up_o the_o especial_a instance_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n herein_o somewhat_o i_o have_v attempt_v towards_o it_o in_o other_o write_n and_o i_o shall_v only_o say_v at_o present_a that_o the_o foundation_n of_o this_o whole_a work_n and_o way_n in_o the_o incarnation_n of_o the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n be_v so_o glorious_a a_o effect_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n as_o the_o whole_a bless_a creation_n will_v admire_v to_o eternity_n this_o of_o itself_o bespeak_v this_o way_n and_o work_v divine_a herein_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n shine_v in_o the_o face_n of_o christ_n jesus_n this_o be_v of_o god_n alone_o this_o be_v that_o which_o become_v he_o that_o which_o nothing_o but_o infinite_a wisdom_n can_v extend_v unto_o whilst_o faith_n live_v in_o a_o due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o this_o and_o the_o whole_a superstruction_n of_o this_o way_n on_o this_o foundation_n it_o be_v safe_a goodness_n love_n grace_n and_o mercy_n be_v other_o property_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n wherein_o it_o be_v glorious_o amiable_a god_n be_v love_n there_o be_v none_o good_a but_o he_o grace_n and_o mercy_n be_v among_o the_o principal_a title_n which_o he_o every_o where_o assume_v to_o himself_o and_o it_o be_v his_o design_n to_o manifest_v they_o all_o to_o the_o utmost_a in_o this_o work_n and_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o christ_n as_o be_v every_o where_o declare_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o all_o these_o lie_v open_a to_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n herein_o it_o see_v infinite_a goodness_n love_n and_o grace_n in_o this_o way_n such_o as_o become_v god_n such_o as_o can_v reside_v in_o none_o but_o he_o which_o it_o therefore_o rest_v and_o rejoice_v in_o 1_o pet._n 1._o 8._o in_o adherence_n unto_o and_o approbation_n of_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n as_o expressive_a of_o these_o perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n do_v faith_n act_v itself_o continual_o where_o unbelief_n prevail_v the_o mind_n have_v no_o view_n of_o the_o glory_n that_o be_v in_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n in_o that_o it_o be_v so_o become_v of_o god_n and_o all_o his_o holy_a property_n as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v 2_o cor._n 4._o 4._o and_o where_o it_o be_v so_o whatever_o be_v pretend_v man_n can_v cordial_o receive_v it_o and_o embrace_v it_o for_o they_o know_v not_o the_o reason_n for_o which_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o embrace_v they_o see_v no_o form_n nor_o comeliness_n in_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o life_n and_o centre_n of_o this_o way_n no_o beauty_n for_o which_o he_o shall_v be_v desire_v isa._n 5â—_n 2._o hence_o in_o the_o first_o preach_v of_o it_o it_o be_v unto_o the_o jew_n a_o stumbling-block_n and_o unto_o the_o greek_n foolishness_n for_o by_o reason_n of_o their_o unbelief_n they_o can_v not_o see_v it_o to_o be_v what_o it_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o so_o it_o must_v be_v esteem_v or_o be_v account_v folly_n yea_o from_o the_o same_o unbelief_n it_o be_v that_o at_o this_o day_n the_o very_a notion_n of_o the_o truth_n herein_o be_v reject_v by_o many_o even_o all_o those_o who_o be_v call_v socinian_n and_o all_o that_o adhere_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o disbelief_n of_o supernatural_a mystery_n they_o can_v see_v a_o suitableness_n in_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n as_o no_o unbeliever_n can_v and_o therefore_o those_o of_o they_o who_o do_v not_o oppose_v direct_o the_o doctrine_n of_o it_o yet_o do_v make_v no_o use_n of_o it_o unto_o its_o proper_a end_n very_o few_o of_o they_o comparative_o who_o profess_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n have_v a_o experience_n of_o the_o power_n of_o it_o unto_o their_o own_o salvation_n but_o here_o true_a faith_n stand_v invincible_o hereby_o it_o will_v evidence_n its_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o temptation_n and_o the_o most_o dismal_a conflict_n it_o have_v with_o they_o yea_o against_o the_o perplex_v power_n and_o charge_n of_o sin_n thence_o arise_v from_o this_o strong_a hold_v it_o will_v not_o be_v drive_v whilst_o the_o soul_n can_v exercise_v faith_n herein_o namely_o in_o steady_o choose_v embrace_v and_o approve_v of_o god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n as_o that_o wherein_o he_o
will_v be_v eternal_o glorify_v because_o it_o be_v suit_v unto_o and_o answer_v all_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n be_v that_o which_o every_o way_n become_v he_o it_o will_v have_v wherewith_o to_o relieve_v itself_o in_o all_o its_o trial_n for_o this_o be_v faith_n this_o be_v save_v faith_n which_o will_v not_o fail_v we_o that_o faith_n which_o work_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o gracious_a persuasion_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o this_o way_n by_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o wisdom_n power_n grace_n and_o love_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n in_o it_o so_o as_o to_o be_v satisfy_v with_o it_o as_o the_o best_a the_o only_a way_n of_o come_v unto_o god_n with_o a_o renunciation_n of_o all_o other_o way_n and_o mean_n unto_o that_o end_n will_v at_o all_o time_n evidence_n its_o nature_n and_o sincerity_n and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o give_v the_o soul_n rest_v and_o satisfaction_n as_o unto_o its_o entrance_n into_o glory_n upon_o it_o departure_n out_o of_o this_o world_n it_o be_v a_o great_a thing_n to_o apprehend_v in_o a_o due_a manner_n that_o a_o poor_a soul_n that_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o many_o sin_n leave_v the_o body_n it_o may_v be_v under_o great_a pain_n distress_n and_o anguish_n it_o may_v be_v by_o outward_a violence_n shall_v be_v immediate_o admit_v and_o receive_v into_o the_o glorious_a presence_n of_o god_n with_o all_o the_o holy_a attendant_n of_o his_o throne_n there_o to_o enjoy_v rest_n and_o blessedness_n for_o evermore_o but_o here_o also_o faith_n discern_v and_o approve_v of_o this_o great_a of_o this_o ineffable_a divine_a operation_n as_o that_o which_o become_v the_o infinite_a greatness_n of_o that_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n which_o first_o design_v it_o the_o glorious_a efficacy_n of_o the_o mediation_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n without_o any_o expectation_n from_o any_o thing_n in_o itself_o as_o a_o cause_n meritorious_a of_o a_o admission_n into_o this_o glory_n neither_o do_v ever_o any_o man_n know_v what_o it_o be_v or_o desire_v it_o in_o a_o due_a manner_n who_o look_v for_o any_o desert_n of_o it_o in_o himself_o or_o conceive_v any_o proportion_n between_o it_o and_o what_o he_o be_v or_o have_v do_v in_o this_o world_n hence_o some_o of_o those_o who_o have_v not_o this_o faith_n have_v invent_v another_o state_n after_o man_n be_v go_v out_o of_o this_o world_n to_o make_v they_o meet_v for_o heaven_n which_o they_o call_v purgatory_n for_o on_o what_o ground_n a_o man_n shall_v expect_v a_o entrance_n into_o glory_n on_o his_o departure_n out_o of_o this_o world_n they_o understand_v not_o let_v they_o who_o be_v exercise_v with_o temptation_n and_o dejection_n bring_v their_o faith_n unto_o this_o trial._n and_o this_o be_v the_o case_n in_o various_a degree_n of_o we_o all_o first_o then_o examine_v strict_o by_o the_o word_n whether_o this_o be_v a_o true_a description_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o act_v of_o save_v faith_n sundry_a thing_n be_v suppose_v or_o assert_v in_o it_o as_o 1._o that_o the_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o principal_a effect_n of_o divine_a wisdom_n power_n goodness_n love_n and_o grace_n 2._o that_o the_o design_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o manifest_v declare_v and_o testify_v that_o so_o it_o be_v and_o so_o to_o make_v know_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n therein_o 3._o that_o save_v faith_n be_v that_o act_n duty_n and_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o we_o receive_v the_o record_n of_o god_n concern_v these_o thing_n do_v ascribe_v the_o glory_n of_o they_o all_o unto_o he_o as_o discover_v it_o in_o the_o way_n of_o life_n propose_v unto_o we_o 4._o that_o hereon_o it_o proceed_v unto_o a_o renunciation_n of_o all_o other_o way_n mean_n hope_n relief_n in_o opposition_n unto_o this_o way_n or_o in_o conjunction_n with_o it_o as_o unto_o acceptance_n with_o god_n in_o life_n and_o salvation_n i_o say_v in_o the_o first_o place_n examine_v these_o thing_n strict_o by_o the_o word_n and_o if_o they_o appear_v to_o be_v as_o they_o be_v sacred_a evangelical_n fundamental_a truth_n be_v not_o move_v from_o they_o be_v not_o shake_v in_o they_o by_o any_o temptation_n whatever_o and_o in_o the_o next_o place_n bring_v your_o faith_n to_o the_o trial_n on_o these_o principle_n what_o do_v you_o judge_v concern_v god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n as_o propose_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v you_o satisfy_v in_o it_o that_o it_o be_v such_o as_o become_v god_n and_o answer_v all_o the_o glorious_a attribute_n of_o his_o nature_n will_v you_o have_v any_o other_o way_n propose_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o can_v you_o will_v you_o commit_v the_o eternal_a welfare_n of_o your_o soul_n unto_o the_o grace_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n in_o this_o way_n so_o as_o that_o you_o have_v no_o desire_n to_o be_v save_v any_o other_o way_n do_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o any_o measure_n shine_v forth_o unto_o you_o in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ_n do_v you_o find_v a_o secret_a joy_n in_o your_o heart_n upon_o the_o satisfaction_n you_o take_v in_o the_o proposal_n of_o this_o way_n unto_o you_o by_o the_o gospel_n do_v you_o in_o all_o your_o fear_n and_o temptation_n in_o all_o approach_n of_o death_n renounce_v all_o other_o reserve_v and_o relief_n and_o betake_v your_o whole_a confidence_n unto_o this_o way_n alone_o and_o the_o representation_n of_o god_n make_v therein_o herein_o lie_v that_o faith_n and_o its_o exercise_n which_o will_v be_v a_o anchor_n unto_o your_o soul_n in_o all_o their_o trial_n and_o this_o be_v the_o first_o and_o principal_a ground_n or_o reason_n whereon_o faith_n divine_a and_o save_a do_v accept_v embrace_v and_o approve_v of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n save_v sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n namely_o because_o it_o be_v such_o as_o do_v become_v he_o and_o every_o way_n answer_n unto_o all_o the_o holy_a property_n of_o his_o nature_n which_o be_v manifest_v and_o glorify_v therein_o and_o where_o faith_n do_v approve_v of_o it_o on_o this_o ground_n and_o reason_n it_o do_v evidence_n itself_o to_o be_v true_o evangelical_n unto_o the_o supportment_n and_o comfort_n of_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v second_o it_o do_v so_o approve_v of_o this_o way_n as_o that_o which_o it_o find_v suit_v unto_o the_o whole_a design_n and_o all_o the_o desire_n of_o a_o enlighten_v soul_n so_o when_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n compare_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n which_o be_v this_o way_n of_o salvation_n unto_o a_o treasure_n and_o a_o precious_a pearl_n he_o affirm_v that_o those_o who_o find_v they_o have_v great_a joy_n and_o the_o high_a satisfaction_n as_o have_v attain_v that_o which_o suit_v their_o desire_n and_o give_v rest_n unto_o their_o mind_n a_o soul_n enlighten_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o make_v sensible_a of_o its_o own_o condition_n by_o spiritual_a conviction_n have_v two_o predominant_a desire_n and_o aim_n whereby_o it_o be_v whole_o regulate_v the_o one_o be_v that_o god_n may_v be_v glorify_v and_o the_o other_o that_o itself_o may_v be_v eternal_o save_v nor_o can_v it_o forgo_v either_o of_o these_o desire_n nor_o be_v they_o separable_a in_o any_o enlighten_v soul_n it_o can_v never_o cease_v in_o either_o of_o these_o desire_n and_o that_o to_o the_o high_a degree_n the_o whole_a world_n can_v dispossess_v a_o enlighten_v mind_n of_o either_o of_o they_o profligate_v sinner_n have_v no_o concernment_n in_o the_o former_a no_o nor_o yet_o those_o who_o be_v under_o legal_a conviction_n if_o they_o have_v therewithal_o receive_v no_o spiritual_a light_n they_o will_v be_v save_v but_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n therein_o he_o may_v look_v to_o that_o himself_o they_o be_v not_o concern_v in_o it_o for_o that_o which_o they_o mean_v by_o salvation_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o freedom_n from_o eternal_a misery_n this_o they_o will_v have_v whether_o god_n be_v or_o no_o of_o what_o be_v salvation_n true_o they_o have_v no_o desire_n but_o the_o first_o beam_n of_o spiritual_a light_n and_o grace_n enstate_v a_o indefatigable_a desire_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o mind_n and_o soul_n of_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v without_o this_o the_o soul_n know_v not_o how_o to_o desire_v its_o own_o salvation_n i_o may_v say_v it_o will_v not_o be_v save_v in_o a_o way_n wherein_o god_n shall_v not_o be_v glorify_v for_o without_o that_o whatever_o its_o state_n shall_v be_v it_o will_v not_o be_v that_o which_o we_o call_v salvation_n the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n belong_v essential_o thereunto_o it_o consist_v in_o the_o behold_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o that_o glory_n this_o desire_n therefore_o be_v immovable_o fix_v in_o
the_o mind_n and_o soul_n of_o every_o enlighten_v person_n he_o can_v admit_v of_o no_o proposal_n of_o eternal_a thing_n that_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o it_o but_o moreover_o in_o every_o such_o person_n there_o be_v a_o rule_v desire_n of_o his_o own_o salvation_n it_o be_v natural_a unto_o he_o as_o a_o creature_n make_v for_o eternity_n it_o be_v inseparable_a from_o he_o as_o he_o be_v a_o convince_a sinner_n and_o the_o clear_a the_o light_n of_o any_o one_o be_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o salvation_n the_o more_o be_v this_o desire_n heighten_v and_o confirm_v in_o he_o here_o then_o lie_v the_o enquiry_n namely_o how_o these_o two_o prevalent_a desire_n may_v be_v reconcile_v and_o satisfy_v in_o the_o same_o mind_n for_o as_o we_o be_v sinner_n there_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o inconsistency_n between_o they_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o his_o justice_n and_o holiness_n require_v that_o sinner_n shall_v die_v and_o perish_v eternal_o so_o speak_v the_o law_n this_o be_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n and_o the_o voice_n of_o all_o our_o fear_n wherefore_o for_o a_o sinner_n to_o desire_v in_o the_o first_o place_n that_o god_n may_v be_v glorify_v be_v to_o desire_v that_o himself_o may_v be_v damn_v which_o of_o these_o desire_n shall_v the_o sinner_n cleave_v unto_o unto_o whether_o of_o they_o shall_v it_o give_v the_o pre-eminence_n shall_v he_o cast_v off_o all_o hope_n and_o desire_v of_o his_o own_o salvation_n and_o be_v content_a to_o perish_v for_o ever_o this_o he_o can_v do_v god_n do_v not_o require_v it_o of_o he_o he_o have_v give_v he_o the_o contrary_a in_o charge_n whilst_o he_o be_v in_o this_o world_n shall_v he_o then_o desire_v that_o god_n may_v part_v with_o and_o lose_v his_o glory_n so_o as_o that_o one_o way_n or_o other_o he_o may_v be_v save_v bring_v himself_o unto_o a_o unconcernment_n what_o become_v of_o it_o this_o can_v be_v no_o mere_a in_o a_o enlighten_v mind_n than_o it_o can_v cease_v to_o desire_v its_o own_o salvation_n but_o how_o to_o reconcile_v these_o thing_n in_o himself_o a_o sinner_n find_v not_o here_o therefore_o the_o glory_n of_o this_o way_n represent_v itself_o unto_o the_o faith_n of_o every_o believer_n it_o not_o only_o bring_v these_o desire_n into_o a_o perfect_a consistency_n and_o harmony_n but_o make_v they_o to_o increase_v and_o promote_v one_o another_o the_o desire_n of_o god_n glory_n increase_v the_o desire_n of_o our_o own_o salvation_n and_o the_o desire_n of_o our_o own_o salvation_n enlarge_v and_o inflame_v the_o desire_n of_o glorify_v god_n therein_o and_o thereby_o these_o thing_n be_v bring_v into_o a_o perfect_a consistency_n and_o mutual_a subserviency_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n rom._n 3._o 24_o 25_o 26._o for_o this_o way_n be_v that_o which_o god_n have_v find_v out_o in_o infinite_a wisdom_n to_o glorify_v himself_o in_o the_o salvation_n of_o sinner_n there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n do_v or_o may_v consist_v but_o in_o this_o way_n be_v reconcile_v unto_o and_o consistent_a with_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o chief_a of_o sinner_n there_o be_v no_o property_n of_o his_o nature_n but_o be_v glorious_o exalt_v in_o and_o by_o it_o a_o answer_n be_v give_v in_o it_o unto_o all_o the_o objection_n of_o the_o law_n against_o the_o consistency_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o sinner_n it_o plead_v his_o truth_n in_o his_o threaten_n in_o the_o sanction_n of_o the_o law_n with_o the_o curse_n annex_v it_o plead_v his_o righteousness_n holiness_n and_o severity_n all_o engage_v to_o destroy_v sinner_n it_o plead_v the_o instance_n of_o god_n deal_n with_o the_o angel_n that_o sin_v and_o call_v in_o the_o witness_n of_o conscience_n to_o testify_v the_o truth_n of_o all_o its_o allegation_n but_o there_o be_v a_o full_a and_o satisfactory_a answer_n give_v unto_o this_o whole_a plea_n of_o the_o law_n in_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n god_n declare_v in_o it_o and_o by_o it_o how_o he_o have_v provide_v for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o all_o these_o thing_n and_o the_o exaltation_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o they_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v immediate_o here_o true_a faith_n will_v fix_v itself_o in_o all_o its_o distress_n whatever_o say_v the_o soul_n be_v my_o state_n and_o condition_n whatever_o be_v my_o fear_n and_o perplexity_n whatever_o opposition_n i_o meet_v withal_o yet_o i_o see_v in_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o glass_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o there_o be_v no_o inconsistency_n between_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o my_o salvation_n that_o otherwise_o insuperable_a difficulty_n lay_v by_o the_o law_n in_o the_o way_n of_o my_o life_n and_o comfort_n be_v utter_o remove_v whilst_o faith_n keep_v this_o hold_n in_o the_o soul_n with_o a_o constant_a approbation_n of_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n by_o christ_n as_o that_o which_o give_v a_o consistency_n unto_o both_o its_o govern_n desire_v that_o it_o shall_v not_o need_n forgo_v either_o of_o they_o so_o as_o to_o be_v content_v to_o be_v damn_v than_o god_n may_v be_v glorify_v as_o some_o have_v speak_v or_o to_o desire_v salvation_n without_o a_o due_a regard_n unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n it_o will_v be_v a_o anchor_n to_o stay_v the_o soul_n in_o all_o its_o storm_n and_o distress_n some_o benefit_n which_o will_v certain_o ensue_v hereon_o we_o may_v brief_o mention_v 1._o the_o soul_n will_v be_v hereby_o preserve_v from_o ruine_v despair_n in_o all_o the_o distress_n that_o may_v befall_v it_o despair_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o prevalent_a apprehension_n of_o mind_n that_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o a_o man_n salvation_n be_v inconsistent_a that_o god_n can_v be_v just_o true_a holy_a or_o righteous_a if_o he_o in_o who_o that_o apprehension_n be_v may_v be_v save_v such_o a_o person_n do_v conclude_v that_o his_o salvation_n be_v impossible_a because_o one_o way_n or_o other_o it_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o nothing_o else_o can_v render_v it_o impossible_a hence_o arise_v in_o the_o mind_n a_o utter_a dislike_n of_o god_n with_o revengeful_a thought_n against_o he_o for_o be_v what_o he_o be_v this_o cut_v off_o all_o endeavour_n of_o reconciliation_n yea_o beget_v a_o abhorrency_n of_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o it_o as_o those_o which_o be_v weak_a foolish_a and_o insufficient_a such_o be_v christ_n and_o his_o cross_n unto_o man_n under_o such_o apprehension_n they_o judge_v they_o unable_a to_o reconcile_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o their_o salvation_n then_o be_v a_o soul_n in_o a_o open_a entrance_n into_o hell_n from_o this_o curse_a frame_n and_o ruin_n the_o soul_n be_v safe_o preserve_v by_o faith_n maintain_v in_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n a_o due_a persuasion_n of_o the_o consistency_n and_o harmony_n that_o be_v between_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o its_o own_o salvation_n whilst_o this_o persuasion_n be_v prevalent_a in_o it_o although_o it_o can_v attain_v any_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o a_o especial_a interest_n in_o it_o yet_o it_o can_v but_o love_n honour_n value_n and_o cleave_v unto_o this_o way_n adore_v the_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o it_o which_o be_v a_o act_n a_o evidence_n of_o save_v faith_n see_v psal._n 130._o 3_o 4._o yea_o 2._o it_o will_v preserve_v the_o soul_n from_o heartless_a dispondency_n many_o in_o their_o temptation_n darkness_n fear_n surprisal_n by_o sin_n although_o they_o fall_v into_o ruine_v desperation_n yet_o they_o fall_v under_o such_o despond_v fear_n and_o various_a discouragement_n we_o keep_v they_o off_o from_o a_o vigorous_a endeavour_n after_o a_o recovery_n and_o hereon_o for_o want_v of_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o grace_n they_o grow_v weak_a and_o dark_a every_o day_n and_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o pine_v away_o in_o their_o sin_n but_o where_o faith_n keep_v the_o soul_n constant_a unto_o the_o approbation_n of_o god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n as_o that_o wherein_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o its_o own_o salvation_n be_v not_o only_o full_o reconcile_v but_o make_v inseparable_a it_o will_v stir_v up_o all_o grace_n unto_o a_o due_a exercise_n and_o the_o diligent_a performance_n of_o all_o duty_n whereby_o it_o may_v obtain_v a_o refresh_a sense_n of_o a_o personal_a interest_n in_o it_o 3._o it_o will_v keep_v the_o heart_n full_a of_o kindness_n towards_o god_n whence_o love_n and_o gracious_a hope_n will_v spring_v it_o be_v impossible_a but_o that_o a_o soul_n overwhelm_v with_o a_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o thereon_o â—illed_v with_o self-condemnation_n but_o if_o it_o have_v a_o view_n of_o the_o consistency_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n with_o its_o deliverance_n and_o salvation_n through_o a_o free_a contrivance_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o grace_n it_o must_v have_v such_o kindness_n for_o
he_o such_o gracious_a thought_n of_o he_o as_o will_v beget_v and_o kindle_v in_o it_o both_o love_n and_o hope_n as_o mic._n 7._o 18_o 20._o psal._n 85._o 8._o 1_o tim._n 1._o 15._o 4._o a_o steady_a continuance_n in_o the_o approbation_n of_o god_n way_n of_o salvation_n on_o the_o reason_n mention_v will_v lead_v the_o mind_n into_o that_o exercise_n of_o faith_n which_o both_o declare_v its_o nature_n and_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o the_o save_a benefit_n which_o we_o receive_v by_o it_o now_o this_o be_v such_o a_o spiritual_a light_n into_o and_o discovery_n of_o the_o revelation_n and_o declaration_n make_v in_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o wisdom_n love_n grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o the_o way_n of_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o they_o unto_o sinner_n by_o he_o as_o that_o the_o soul_n find_v they_o suit_v unto_o and_o able_a for_o the_o pardon_n of_o its_o own_o sin_n its_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n so_o as_o that_o it_o place_v its_o whole_a trust_n and_o confidence_n for_o these_o end_v therein_o this_o be_v the_o very_a life_n of_o faith_n that_o act_n and_o exercise_n of_o it_o whereby_o we_o be_v justify_v and_o save_v and_o whereby_o it_o evidence_v its_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n against_o all_o temptation_n i_o shall_v insist_v a_o little_a on_o the_o explanation_n of_o the_o description_n of_o it_o now_o give_v and_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n in_o it_o or_o require_v unto_o it_o 1._o a_o spiritual_a light_n into_o and_o discovery_n of_o the_o revelation_n and_o declaration_n make_v in_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o wisdom_n love_n grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n it_o be_v not_o a_o mere_a assent_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o revelation_n or_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o revealer_n this_o indeed_o be_v suppose_v and_o include_v in_o it_o but_o it_o add_v thereunto_o a_o spiritual_a discern_v perception_n and_o understanding_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o reveal_v and_o declare_v without_o which_o a_o bare_a assent_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v of_o no_o advantage_n this_o be_v call_v the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ_n 2_o cor._n 4._o 6._o the_o increase_n whereof_o in_o all_o believer_n the_o apostle_n do_v earnest_o pray_v for_o eph._n 1_o 16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o 20._o so_o we_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n in_o a_o spiritual_a manner_n and_o hence_o arise_v the_o full_a assurance_n of_o understanding_n to_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o christ_n col._n 2._o 2._o or_o a_o spiritual_a sense_n of_o the_o power_n glory_n and_o beauty_n of_o the_o thing_n contain_v in_o this_o mystery_n so_o to_o know_v christ_n as_o to_o know_v the_o power_n of_o his_o resurrection_n and_o the_o fellowship_n of_o his_o suffering_n phil._n 3._o 10._o faith_n affect_v the_o mind_n with_o a_o ineffable_a sense_n taste_n experience_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o greatness_n the_o glory_n the_o power_n the_o beauty_n of_o the_o thing_n reveal_v and_o propose_v in_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n the_o soul_n in_o it_o be_v enable_v to_o see_v and_o understand_v that_o all_o the_o thing_n belong_v unto_o it_o be_v such_o as_o become_v god_n his_o wisdom_n goodness_n and_o love_n as_o be_v before_o declare_v and_o a_o spiritual_a light_n enable_v hereunto_o be_v of_o the_o essence_n of_o save_a faith_n unless_o this_o be_v in_o we_o we_o do_v not_o we_o can_v give_v glory_n to_o god_n in_o any_o assent_n unto_o the_o truth_n and_o faith_n be_v that_o grace_n which_o god_n have_v prepare_v sit_v and_o suit_v to_o give_v unto_o he_o the_o glory_n that_o be_v his_o due_a in_o the_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n and_o salvation_n 2._o upon_o this_o spiritual_a light_n into_o this_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o his_o glory_n in_o this_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n the_o mind_n by_o faith_n find_v and_o see_v that_o all_o thing_n in_o it_o be_v suit_v unto_o its_o own_o justification_n and_o salvation_n in_o particular_a and_o that_o the_o power_n of_o god_n be_v in_o they_o to_o make_v they_o effectual_a unto_o that_o end_n this_o be_v that_o act_n and_o work_n of_o faith_n whereon_o the_o whole_a bless_a event_n do_v depend_v it_o will_v not_o avail_v a_o man_n to_o see_v all_o sort_n of_o viand_n and_o provision_n if_o they_o be_v no_o way_n suit_v unto_o his_o appetite_n nor_o meet_v for_o his_o nourishment_n nor_o will_v it_o be_v unto_o a_o man_n spiritual_a advantage_n to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o gospel_n unless_o he_o find_v they_o suit_v unto_o his_o condition_n and_o this_o be_v the_o hard_a task_n and_o work_n that_o faith_n have_v to_o go_v through_o with_o faith_n be_v not_o a_o especial_a assurance_n of_o a_o man_n be_v own_o justification_n and_o salvation_n by_o christ_n that_o it_o will_v produce_v but_o not_o until_o another_o step_n or_o two_o in_o its_o progress_n be_v over_o but_o faith_n be_v a_o satisfactory_a persuasion_n that_o the_o way_n of_o god_n propose_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v fit_v suit_v and_o able_a to_o save_v the_o soul_n in_o particular_a that_o do_v believe_v not_o only_o that_o it_o be_v a_o bless_a way_n to_o save_v sinner_n in_o general_a but_o that_o it_o be_v such_o a_o way_n to_o save_v he_o in_o particular_a so_o be_v this_o matter_n state_v by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o tim._n 1._o 15._o this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n or_o approbation_n that_o christ_n jesus_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n whereof_o i_o be_o chief_a his_o faith_n do_v nor_o abide_v here_o nor_o confine_v itself_o unto_o this_o that_o christ_n jesus_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n that_o this_o be_v the_o holy_a and_o bless_a way_n of_o god_n for_o the_o salvation_n of_o sinner_n in_o general_a but_o he_o put_v in_o for_o his_o own_o particular_a interest_n in_o that_o way_n it_o be_v god_n way_n fit_v and_o suit_v and_o able_a to_o save_v i_o who_o be_o the_o chief_a of_o sinner_n and_o this_o as_o be_v say_v be_v the_o great_a and_o the_o most_o difficult_a work_n of_o faith_n for_o we_o suppose_v concern_v the_o person_n who_o be_v to_o believe_v 1._o that_o he_o be_v real_o and_o effectual_o convince_v of_o the_o sin_n of_o nature_n of_o our_o apostasy_n from_o god_n therein_o the_o loss_n of_o his_o image_n and_o the_o direful_a effect_n that_o ensue_v thereon_o 2._o that_o he_o have_v due_a apprehension_n of_o the_o holiness_n and_o severity_n of_o god_n of_o the_o sanction_n and_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n with_o a_o right_a understanding_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o sin_n and_o its_o demerit_n 3._o that_o he_o have_v a_o full_a conviction_n of_o his_o own_o actual_a sin_n with_o all_o their_o aggravation_n from_o their_o greatness_n their_o number_n and_o all_o sort_n of_o circumstance_n 4._o that_o he_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o gild_n of_o secret_a or_o unknown_a sin_n which_o have_v be_v multiply_v by_o that_o continual_a proneness_n unto_o sin_n which_o he_o find_v work_v in_o he_o 5._o that_o he_o serious_o consider_v what_o it_o be_v to_o appear_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v a_o sentence_n for_o eternity_n with_o all_o other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n inseparable_a from_o he_o as_o a_o sinner_n when_o it_o be_v real_o thus_o with_o any_o man_n he_o shall_v find_v it_o the_o hard_a in_o the_o world_n and_o clog_v with_o the_o most_o difficulty_n for_o he_o to_o believe_v that_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n propose_v unto_o he_o be_v suit_v fit_v and_o every_o way_n able_a to_o save_v he_o in_o particular_a to_o apprehend_v it_o such_o as_o none_o of_o his_o objection_n can_v rise_v up_o against_o or_o stand_v before_o but_o this_o be_v that_o in_o the_o second_o place_n that_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n will_v do_v it_o will_v enable_v the_o soul_n to_o discern_v and_o satisfy_v itself_o that_o there_o be_v in_o this_o way_n of_o god_n every_o thing_n that_o be_v needful_a unto_o its_o own_o salvation_n and_o this_o it_o will_v do_v on_o a_o spiritual_a understanding_n and_o due_a consideration_n of_o 1._o the_o infiniteness_n of_o that_o wisdom_n love_n grace_n and_o mercy_n which_o be_v the_o original_a of_o sovereign_a cause_n of_o the_o whole_a way_n with_o the_o ample_a declaration_n and_o confirmation_n make_v of_o they_o in_o the_o gospel_n 2._o of_o the_o unspeakable_a glorious_a way_n and_o mean_n for_o the_o procure_n and_o communicate_v unto_o we_o of_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o that_o wisdom_n grace_n and_o mercy_n namely_o the_o incarnation_n and_o mediation_n of_o the_o son_n
of_o god_n in_o his_o oblation_n and_o intercession_n 3._o of_o the_o great_a multitude_n and_o variety_n of_o precious_a promise_n engage_v the_o truth_n faithfulness_n and_o power_n of_o god_n for_o the_o communication_n of_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n from_o those_o spring_n by_o that_o mean_n i_o say_v on_o the_o just_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n with_o all_o other_o encouragement_n wherewith_o they_o be_v accompany_v the_o soul_n conclude_v by_o faith_n that_o there_o be_v salvation_n for_o itself_o in_o particular_a to_o be_v attain_v in_o that_o way_n 3._o the_o last_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o order_n of_o nature_n be_v the_o soul_n acquiescency_n in_o and_o trust_v unto_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n for_o its_o self_n and_o its_o own_o eternal_a condition_n with_o a_o renuntiation_n of_o all_o other_o way_n and_o mean_n for_o that_o end_n and_o because_o jesus_n christ_n in_o his_o person_n mediation_n and_o righteousness_n be_v the_o life_n and_o centre_n of_o this_o way_n as_o he_o in_o who_o alone_a god_n will_v glorify_v his_o wisdom_n love_n grace_n and_o mercy_n as_o he_o who_o have_v purchase_v procure_v and_o wrought_v all_o this_o salvation_n for_o we_o who_o righteousness_n be_v impute_v unto_o we_o for_o our_o justification_n and_o who_o in_o the_o discharge_v of_o his_o office_n do_v actual_o bestow_v it_o upon_o we_o he_o be_v the_o proper_a and_o immediate_a object_n of_o faith_n in_o this_o act_n of_o trust_n and_o affiance_n this_o be_v that_o which_o be_v call_v in_o the_o scripture_n believe_v in_o christ_n namely_o the_o trust_n unto_o he_o alone_o for_o life_n and_o salvation_n as_o the_o whole_a of_o divine_a wisdom_n and_o grace_n be_v administer_v by_o he_o unto_o those_o ends._n for_o this_o we_o come_v unto_o he_o we_o receive_v he_o we_o believe_v in_o he_o we_o trust_v he_o we_o abide_v in_o he_o with_o all_o those_o other_o way_n whereby_o our_o faith_n in_o he_o be_v express_v and_o this_o be_v the_o second_o ground_n or_o reason_n whereon_o faith_n do_v close_o with_o embrace_z and_o approve_v of_o god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n whereby_o it_o will_v evidence_n itself_o unto_o the_o comfort_n of_o they_o in_o who_o it_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o their_o trial_n and_o temptation_n three_o faith_n approve_v of_o this_o way_n as_o that_o which_o make_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o give_n and_o the_o sanction_n of_o the_o law_n to_o be_v as_o eminent_o conspicuous_a as_o if_o it_o have_v be_v perfect_o fulfil_v by_o every_o one_o of_o we_o in_o our_o own_o person_n the_o law_n be_v a_o just_a representation_n of_o the_o righteousness_n and_o holiness_n of_o god_n and_o the_o end_n for_o which_o it_o be_v give_v be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v the_o mean_n and_o instrument_n of_o the_o eternal_a exaltation_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o those_o holy_a property_n of_o his_o nature_n let_v no_o man_n imagine_v that_o god_n have_v lay_v aside_o this_o law_n as_o a_o thing_n of_o no_o more_o use_n or_o that_o he_o will_v bear_v a_o diminution_n of_o that_o glory_n or_o any_o part_n of_o it_o which_o he_o design_v in_o the_o give_n of_o it_o heaven_n and_o earth_n shall_v pass_v away_o but_o no_o jot_n or_o little_a of_o the_o law_n shall_v do_v so_o no_o believer_n can_v desire_v or_o be_v please_v with_o his_o own_o salvation_n unless_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n design_v by_o the_o law_n be_v secure_v he_o can_v desire_v that_o god_n shall_v forgo_v any_o part_n of_o his_o glory_n that_o he_o may_v be_v save_v yea_o this_o be_v that_o on_o the_o account_n whereof_o he_o principal_o rejoice_v in_o his_o own_o salvation_n namely_o that_o it_o be_v that_o wherein_o god_n will_v be_v absolute_o universal_o and_o eternal_o glorify_v now_o in_o this_o way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n by_o mercy_n pardon_v and_o the_o righteousness_n of_o at_o other_o of_o all_o which_o the_o law_n know_v nothing_o faith_n do_v see_v and_o understand_v how_o all_o that_o glory_n which_o god_n design_v in_o the_o give_n of_o the_o law_n be_v eternal_o secure_v and_o preserve_v entire_a without_o eclipse_n or_o diminution_n the_o way_n whereby_o this_o be_v do_v be_v declare_v in_o the_o gospel_n see_v rom._n â—_o 24_o 25_o 26._o chap._n 8._o 2_o 3_o 4._o chap._n 10._o 3_o 4._o hereby_o faith_n be_v enable_v to_o answer_v all_o the_o challenge_n and_o charge_n of_o the_o law_n with_o all_o its_o plea_n for_o the_o vindication_n of_o divine_a justice_n truth_n and_o holiness_n it_o have_v that_o to_o offer_v which_o give_v it_o the_o utmost_a satisfaction_n in_o all_o its_o plea_n for_o god_n so_o be_v this_o answer_n manage_v rom._n 8._o 32_o 33_o 34._o and_o this_o be_v the_o first_o way_n whereby_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n do_v evidence_n itself_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n of_o they_o that_o do_v believe_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o their_o contest_v with_o sin_n their_o trial_n and_o temptation_n to_o their_o relief_n and_o comfort_n namely_o the_o close_n with_o and_o approbation_n of_o god_n way_n of_o save_a sinner_n by_o jesus_n christ_n on_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n which_o have_v be_v declare_v the_o second_o evidence_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect._n the_o second_o way_n whereby_o true_a faith_n do_v evidence_n itself_o in_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n of_o beleiver_n unto_o their_o supportment_n and_o comfort_n under_o all_o their_o conflict_n with_o sin_n in_o all_o their_o trial_n and_o temptation_n be_v by_o a_o constant_a approbation_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n concern_v our_o holiness_n and_o the_o obedience_n unto_o himself_o which_o he_o require_v of_o we_o this_o faith_n will_v never_o forgo_v whatever_o trial_n it_o may_v undergo_v whatever_o darkness_n the_o mind_n may_v fall_v into_o this_o it_o will_v abide_v by_o in_o all_o extremity_n and_o that_o it_o may_v appear_v to_o be_v a_o peculiar_a effect_n or_o work_v of_o save_a faith_n some_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v premise_v and_o consider_v 1._o there_o be_v in_o all_o man_n by_o nature_n a_o light_n enable_v they_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o difference_n that_o be_v between_o what_o be_v moral_o good_a and_o what_o be_v evil_a especial_o in_o thing_n of_o more_o than_o ordinary_a importance_n this_o light_n be_v not_o attain_v or_o acquire_v by_o we_o we_o be_v not_o teach_v it_o we_o do_v not_o learn_v it_o it_o be_v bear_v with_o we_o and_o inseparable_a from_o we_o it_o prevent_v consideration_n and_o reflection_n work_v natural_o and_o in_o a_o sort_n necessary_o in_o the_o first_o act_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o the_o discern_a power_n of_o this_o light_n as_o to_o the_o moral_a nature_n of_o man_n action_n be_v accompany_v inseparable_o with_o a_o judgement_n that_o they_o make_v concern_v themselves_o as_o unto_o what_o they_o do_v of_o the_o one_o kind_n or_o other_o and_o that_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o superior_a judgement_n of_o god_n about_o the_o same_o thing_n this_o the_o apostle_n express_o ascribe_v unto_o the_o gentile_n who_o have_v not_o the_o law_n rom._n 2._o 14_o 15._o the_o gentile_n which_o have_v not_o the_o law_n do_v by_o nature_n the_o thing_n contain_v in_o the_o law_n these_o have_v not_o the_o law_n be_v a_o law_n unto_o themselves_o which_o show_v the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n write_v in_o their_o heart_n their_o conscience_n also_o bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o excuse_v one_o another_o this_o be_v a_o most_o exact_a description_n of_o a_o natural_a conscience_n in_o both_o the_o power_n of_o it_o it_o discern_v that_o good_a and_o evil_n which_o be_v command_v and_o forbid_v in_o the_o law_n and_o it_o pass_v a_o acquit_v or_o condemn_v judgement_n and_o sentence_n according_a to_o what_o man_n have_v do_v wherefore_o this_o approbation_n of_o duty_n in_o thing_n moral_a be_v common_a unto_o all_o men._n the_o light_n whereby_o it_o be_v guide_v may_v be_v various_o improve_v as_o it_o be_v in_o some_o of_o the_o gentile_n and_o it_o may_v bestisle_v in_o some_o until_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v quite_o extinguish_v until_o they_o become_v like_o the_o beast_n that_o perish_v and_o where_o the_o discern_a power_n of_o this_o light_n remain_v yet_o through_o a_o continual_a practice_n of_o sin_n and_o obduracy_n therein_o the_o judge_a power_n of_o it_o as_o unto_o all_o its_o efficacy_n may_v be_v lose_v so_o the_o apostle_n declare_v concern_v they_o who_o be_v judicial_o harden_v and_o give_v up_o unto_o sin_n rom._n 1._o 32._o these_o know_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o they_o which_o commit_v such_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o death_n not_o only_o do_v the_o same_o but_o have_v pleasure_n in_o they_o that_o do_v they_o
calll_v the_o divine_a nature_n whereof_o we_o be_v partaker_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 4._o and_o he_o that_o can_v see_v a_o representation_n of_o god_n in_o it_o have_v not_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n and_o life_n in_o he_o hereon_o i_o say_v faith_n do_v approve_v of_o the_o form_n and_o principle_n of_o this_o holiness_n as_o the_o renovation_n of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o we_o it_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o that_o which_o become_v god_n to_o bestow_v and_o require_v and_o therefore_o that_o which_o have_v a_o incomparable_a excellency_n and_o desirableness_n in_o it_o yea_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v ready_a to_o faint_v under_o a_o apprehension_n that_o it_o be_v not_o partaker_n of_o this_o holy_a nature_n because_o of_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n in_o it_o and_o temptation_n on_o it_o it_o know_v not_o whether_o itself_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n or_o no_o as_o be_v the_o case_n with_o many_o yet_o where_o this_o faith_n be_v it_o will_v discern_v the_o beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o new_a creation_n in_o some_o measure_n as_o that_o which_o bear_v the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o thereon_o do_v it_o preserve_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o long_v after_o it_o or_o a_o further_a participation_n of_o it_o by_o this_o work_n or_o act_n of_o it_o do_v faith_n discover_v its_o sincerity_n which_o be_v that_o which_o we_o inquire_v after_o whilst_o it_o have_v a_o eye_n open_a to_o behold_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o new_a creature_n whilst_o it_o look_v on_o it_o as_o that_o wherein_o there_o be_v a_o representation_n make_v of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n himself_o as_o that_o which_o become_v he_o to_o require_v in_o we_o and_o thereon_o approve_v of_o it_o as_o excellent_a end_n desirable_a it_o will_v be_v a_o anchor_n unto_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o great_a storm_n for_o this_o be_v a_o work_n beyond_o what_o a_o mere_a enlighten_v conscience_n can_v arise_v unto_o that_o can_v approve_v or_o disapprove_v of_o all_o the_o act_n and_o effect_n of_o obedience_n and_o disobedience_n as_o unto_o their_o consequent_n but_o to_o discern_v the_o spiritual_a nature_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n as_o represent_v the_o holiness_n of_o god_n himself_o and_o thereon_o constant_o to_o approve_v of_o it_o be_v the_o work_n alone_o 2._o it_o do_v the_o same_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o internal_a act_n and_o effect_n of_o this_o new_a creature_n or_o principle_n of_o new_a obedience_n the_o first_o thing_n it_o producoth_a in_o we_o be_v a_o frame_n of_o mind_n spiritual_n and_o heavenly_a they_o that_o be_v after_o the_o spirit_n be_v spiritually-minded_n rom._n 8._o 5_o 6._o it_o look_v on_o the_o opposite_a frame_n namely_o of_o be_v carnal_o mind_v as_o vile_a and_o loathsome_a it_o consist_v in_o a_o readiness_n and_o disposition_n of_o mind_n to_o actuate_v the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o this_o spiritual_a frame_n of_o mind_n be_v a_o just_a constellation_n of_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n influence_v dispose_n and_o make_v ready_a the_o soul_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o they_o on_o all_o occasion_n and_o in_o all_o duty_n of_o obedience_n this_o be_v the_o inward_a glory_n of_o the_o king_n daughter_n which_o faith_n see_v and_o approve_v of_o as_o that_o which_o become_v god_n to_o require_v in_o we_o whatever_o be_v contrary_a hereunto_o as_o a_o sensual_a carnal_a worldly_a frame_n of_o mind_n it_o look_v on_o as_o vile_a and_o base_a unworthy_a of_o god_n or_o of_o those_o who_o design_n the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o 3._o it_o do_v the_o same_o with_o respect_n unto_o all_o particular_a duty_n internal_a and_o external_a when_o they_o be_v enliven_v and_o fill_v up_o with_o grace_n in_o they_o consist_v our_o walk_a worthy_a with_o god_n col._n 1._o 10._o 1_o thessaly_n 2._o 12._o such_o a_o walk_n as_o be_v meet_v for_o god_n to_o accept_v that_o whereby_o and_o wherein_o he_o be_v glorify_v the_o contrary_a hereunto_o in_o the_o neglect_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o holiness_n or_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o without_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o grace_n faith_n look_v on_o as_o unworthy_a of_o god_n unworthy_a of_o our_o high_a and_o holy_a call_v unworthy_a of_o our_o profession_n and_o therefore_o do_v constant_o condemn_v and_o abhor_v all_o this_o as_o we_o observe_v before_o faith_n will_v continue_v to_o do_v constant_o under_o temptation_n and_o dissertion_n there_o be_v season_n wherein_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v very_o weak_a as_o unto_o the_o power_n effect_n and_o duty_n of_o this_o spiritual_a life_n such_o the_o psalmist_n oftentime_o complain_v of_o in_o his_o own_o case_n and_o it_o be_v evident_a in_o the_o experience_n of_o most_o few_o there_o be_v who_o have_v not_o find_v at_o one_o time_n or_o another_o great_a weakness_n decay_n and_o much_o deadness_n in_o their_o spiritual_a condition_n and_o sometime_o true_a beleiver_n may_v be_v at_o a_o loss_n as_o unto_o any_o refresh_a experience_n of_o it_o in_o its_o operation_n they_o may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o determine_v in_o the_o contest_v whether_o sin_n or_o grace_n have_v the_o dominion_n in_o they_o yet_o even_o in_o all_o these_o season_n faith_n will_v keep_v up_o the_o soul_n unto_o a_o constant_a high_a approbation_n of_o this_o way_n of_o holiand_n obedience_n in_o its_o root_n and_o fruit_n in_o its_o principle_n and_o effect_n in_o its_o nature_n disposition_n and_o duty_n for_o when_o they_o can_v see_v the_o beauty_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o themselves_o they_o can_v see_v it_o in_o the_o promise_v of_o the_o covenant_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o it_o be_v declare_v and_o in_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o in_o other_o and_o great_a advantage_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v by_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o faith_n herein_o for_o 1._o it_o will_v never_o suffer_v the_o heart_n to_o be_v at_o rest_n in_o any_o sinful_a way_n or_o under_o any_o such_o spiritual_a decay_n as_o shall_v estrange_v it_o from_o the_o pursuit_n of_o this_o holiness_n the_o sight_n the_o conviction_n of_o its_o excellency_n the_o approbation_n of_o it_o as_o that_o which_o in_o we_o and_o our_o measure_n answer_v the_o holiness_n of_o god_n will_v keep_v up_o the_o mind_n unto_o endeavour_n after_o it_o will_v rebuke_v the_o soul_n in_o all_o its_o neglect_v of_o it_o nor_o will_v it_o allow_v any_o quiet_a or_o peace_n within_o without_o a_o endeavour_n after_o a_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o it_o that_o soul_n be_v desparate_o sick_a which_o have_v lose_v a_o abide_a sense_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o this_o holiness_n in_o its_o answerableness_n unto_o the_o holiness_n and_o will_n of_o god_n fear_n and_o check_n of_o conscience_n be_v the_o whole_a of_o its_o security_n against_o the_o worst_a of_o sin_n and_o they_o be_v a_o guard_n not_o to_o be_v trust_v unto_o in_o the_o room_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o god_n this_o be_v one_o great_a difference_n between_o believer_n and_o those_o that_o have_v not_o faith_n fear_v of_o the_o consequent_n of_o sin_n with_o a_o apprehension_n of_o some_o advantage_n which_o be_v to_o be_v obtain_v by_o a_o sober_a life_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o religion_n do_v steer_v and_o regulate_v the_o mind_n of_o unbeliever_n in_o all_o they_o do_v towards_o god_n or_o for_o eternity_n but_o the_o mind_n of_o believer_n be_v influence_v by_o a_o view_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o god_n in_o that_o holiness_n and_o all_o the_o part_n of_o it_o which_o they_o be_v call_v unto_o this_o give_v they_o love_n unto_o it_o delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o it_o enable_v they_o to_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o its_o own_o reward_n and_o without_o these_o affection_n none_o will_v ever_o abide_v in_o the_o way_n of_o obedience_n unto_o the_o end_n 2._o where_o faith_n be_v in_o this_o exercise_n it_o will_v evidence_n itself_o unto_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o all_o its_o darkness_n and_o temptation_n the_o mind_n can_v never_o conclude_v that_o it_o whole_o be_v without_o god_n and_o his_o grace_n whilst_o it_o constant_o approve_v of_o the_o holiness_n require_v of_o we_o this_o be_v not_o of_o ourselves_o by_o nature_n we_o be_v ignorant_a of_o it_o this_o life_n be_v hide_v with_o christ_n in_o god_n col._n 3._o 3._o where_o we_o can_v see_v nothing_o of_o it_o hereon_o we_o be_v alienate_v from_o it_o and_o do_v dislike_v it_o alienate_v from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n through_o the_o ignorance_n that_o be_v in_o we_o ephes._n 4._o 18._o and_o most_o man_n live_v all_o their_o day_n in_o a_o contempt_n of_o the_o principal_a evidence_n and_o duty_n of_o this_o life_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o principle_n of_o it_o which_o they_o look_v on_o as_o a_o fable_n wherefore_o the_o mind_n may_v have_v great_a satisfaction_n in_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o