keep_v silence_n in_o the_o church_n now_o here_o i_o can_v but_o observe_v the_o most_o insufferable_a contradiction_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n to_o the_o apostle_n determination_n the_o apostle_n you_o see_v will_v not_o allow_v that_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v utter_v in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n but_o there_o they_o pray_v in_o a_o tongue_n unknown_a unto_o the_o people_n the_o apostle_n will_v not_o allow_v this_o no_o not_o in_o they_o who_o speak_v by_o immediate_a inspiration_n they_o practise_v contrary_a to_o the_o apostle_n express_v decree_n and_o that_o where_o no_o such_o inspiration_n can_v be_v pretend_v with_o the_o least_o appearance_n and_o show_v of_o reason_n the_o apostle_n suppose_v no_o man_n edify_v by_o the_o prayer_n which_o he_o do_v not_o understand_v they_o either_o judge_n that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v edify_v by_o such_o prayer_n or_o that_o they_o may_v be_v due_o use_v although_o the_o church_n be_v not_o edify_v by_o they_o both_o which_o express_o contradict_v the_o apostle_n if_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v in_o the_o right_n than_o the_o apostle_n be_v mistake_v if_o the_o apostle_n be_v not_o mistake_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n do_v gross_o err_v in_o judge_v such_o prayer_n edify_v which_o st._n paul_n affirm_v can_v edify_v or_o in_o judge_v they_o fit_a to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o church_n although_o they_o do_v not_o edify_v at_o all_o and_o be_v it_o not_o now_o a_o wonderful_a thing_n that_o they_o who_o so_o gross_o so_o express_o contradict_v the_o doctrine_n of_o sr._n paul_n shall_v boast_v themselves_o to_o be_v infallible_a be_v it_o not_o yet_o a_o great_a wonder_n that_o any_o who_o have_v have_v the_o education_n where_o the_o scripture_n be_v read_v in_o a_o know_a tongue_n shall_v suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v overbear_v into_o a_o belief_n that_o they_o be_v infallible_a who_o err_v in_o so_o plain_a and_o clear_v a_o instance_n and_o in_o a_o thing_n of_o such_o concernment_n certain_o if_o man_n be_v not_o infatuate_v by_o most_o unreasonable_a lust_n and_o passion_n they_o will_v never_o apostatise_v never_o adhere_v to_o such_o a_o church_n as_o sound_v nay_o infallible_a in_o all_o her_o doctrine_n who_o use_v its_o public_a prayer_n and_o office_n in_o a_o tongue_n unknown_a unto_o the_o people_n a_o thing_n so_o contrary_a to_o common_a sense_n and_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o primitive_a time_n and_o to_o what_o the_o apostle_n himself_o teach_v in_o as_o full_a and_o clear_a and_o express_v word_n as_o any_o thing_n possible_o can_v be_v speak_v 2._o but_o to_o proceed_v to_o the_o second_o kind_n of_o the_o extraordinary_a gift_n of_o prayer_n which_o be_v when_o a_o man_n receive_v all_o the_o conception_n in_o prayer_n from_o a_o immediate_a inspiration_n but_o so_o far_o use_v his_o understanding_n as_o to_o contrive_v the_o expression_n of_o they_o into_o a_o tongue_n know_v to_o they_o that_o hear_v he_o and_o into_o plain_a and_o easy_a expression_n in_o that_o tongue_n concern_v this_o i_o must_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v a_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n peculiar_a to_o the_o apostle_n time_n or_o at_o least_o to_o those_o that_o immediate_o follow_v as_o the_o rest_n of_o those_o miraculous_a power_n and_o gift_n be_v which_o god_n do_v then_o bestow_v on_o the_o church_n to_o confirm_v the_o truth_n of_o christianity_n i_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o god_n do_v still_o in_o some_o case_n suggest_v to_o the_o mind_n of_o good_a man_n that_o be_v convenient_a for_o their_o condition_n and_o what_o it_o be_v they_o shall_v pray_v for_o i_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o when_o they_o fall_v into_o such_o strait_n as_o that_o they_o know_v not_o what_o it_o be_v best_o to_o pray_v for_o god_n do_v direct_a and_o guide_v their_o mind_n by_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o as_o there_o be_v need_n of_o such_o assistance_n in_o such_o case_n so_o god_n deny_v not_o what_o be_v needful_a to_o such_o person_n and_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 8.26_o likewise_o also_o the_o spirit_n help_v our_o infirmity_n for_o we_o know_v not_o what_o to_o pray_v for_o as_o we_o ought_v he_o speak_v in_o this_o place_n of_o time_n of_o great_a distress_n and_o danger_n when_o the_o christian_n be_v often_o in_o such_o perplexity_n and_o doubt_n of_o mind_n that_o they_o know_v not_o what_o to_o pray_v for_o at_o least_o with_o faith_n and_o resignation_n entire_a resignation_n to_o god_n will_n now_o here_o it_o be_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n direct_v they_o to_o pray_v for_o such_o thing_n and_o in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o may_v tend_v effectual_o to_o god_n glory_n though_o to_o their_o suffering_n in_o the_o world_n and_o thus_o far_o i_o doubt_v not_o may_v we_o expect_v the_o like_a assistance_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o the_o like_a case_n if_o we_o hearty_o pray_v for_o it_o but_o now_o for_o any_o man_n in_o these_o day_n to_o expect_v a_o immediate_a inspiration_n of_o all_o the_o conception_n of_o a_o prayer_n such_o as_o the_o apostle_n arid_a prophet_n have_v in_o the_o primitive_a time_n of_o christianity_n for_o any_o man_n to_o pretend_v to_o pray_v by_o the_o same_o immediate_a revelation_n whereby_o they_o pray_v in_o the_o christian_a church_n be_v a_o very_a groundless_a and_o great_a presumption_n and_o therefore_o when_o you_o hear_v man_n pray_v with_o a_o great_a torrent_n and_o flow_v of_o word_n you_o be_v not_o present_o to_o imagine_v as_o divers_a ignorant_a person_n do_v that_o such_o a_o man_n pray_v by_o a_o immediate_a inspiration_n that_o what_o he_o speak_v be_v just_a then_o dictate_v and_o suggest_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o thing_n be_v suggest_v to_o the_o apostle_n unless_o he_o can_v also_o speak_v with_o tongue_n and_o heal_v the_o sick_a and_o cure_v the_o lame_a and_o in_o a_o word_n do_v such_o miracle_n as_o they_o do_v and_o give_v the_o same_o proof_n of_o his_o inspiration_n which_o they_o do_v evident_o give_v of_o they_o which_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o do_v by_o any_o that_o now_o pretend_v unto_o it_o and_o therefore_o show_v the_o pretence_n be_v vain_a and_o the_o pretender_n to_o be_v deceive_v if_o not_o a_o cheat_n and_o impostor_n likewise_o be_v there_o then_o no_o way_n in_o these_o day_n whereby_o a_o man_n may_v true_o be_v say_v to_o pray_v by_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o sense_n and_o language_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o that_o in_o ordinary_a and_o common_a case_n yes_o that_o there_o be_v for_o 2._o such_o be_v that_o other_o way_n of_o pray_v which_o i_o have_v before_o mention_v to_o you_o which_o be_v when_o a_o man_n pray_v in_o the_o use_n of_o faith_n and_o hope_n and_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o with_o such_o pious_a and_o good_a affection_n as_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o those_o grace_n though_o not_o by_o immediate_a inspiration_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o immediate_a dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n such_o be_v the_o prayer_n our_o saviour_n suppose_v in_o those_o word_n joh._n 4.24_o god_n be_v a_o spirit_n and_o they_o that_o worship_v he_o must_v worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o in_o truth_n not_o careless_o and_o without_o attention_n not_o without_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o inward_a sense_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o spirit_n as_o the_o jew_n have_v worship_v he_o in_o former_a age_n but_o fervent_o hearty_o and_o sincere_o such_o be_v the_o prayer_n the_o apostle_n mention_n eph._n 6.18_o where_o he_o require_v they_o to_o pray_v always_o with_o all_o prayer_n and_o supplication_n in_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v with_o spiritual_a and_o holy_a mind_n with_o fervent_a and_o devout_a affection_n like_o whereunto_o be_v that_o sing_v also_o which_o he_o represent_v in_o these_o word_n speak_v to_o yourselves_o in_o psalm_n and_o hymn_n and_o spiritual_a song_n sing_v and_o make_v melody_n in_o your_o heart_n eph._n 5.19_o where_o you_o plain_o see_v that_o the_o holy_a office_n wherein_o the_o heart_n be_v move_v and_o affect_v be_v say_v to_o be_v spiritual_a on_o that_o account_n see_v also_o col._n 3.16_o now_o concern_v this_o way_n of_o pray_v by_o the_o spirit_n wherein_o man_n pray_v in_o the_o use_n of_o faith_n and_o with_o real_a and_o hearty_a and_o devout_a affection_n though_o not_o by_o immediate_a inspiration_n i_o shall_v observe_v several_a thing_n 1._o that_o this_o way_n or_o manner_n of_o pray_v be_v grateful_a and_o acceptable_a to_o god_n this_o be_v in_o truth_n such_o a_o worship_n of_o god_n as_o our_o saviour_n himself_o do_v understand_v when_o he_o say_v that_o they_o that_o worship_n god_n must_v worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n this_o be_v the_o worship_n that_o god_n require_v and_o therefore_o
this_o he_o accept_v also_o this_o be_v real_o prayer_n in_o faith_n in_o belief_n of_o the_o promise_v god_n have_v make_v and_o certain_o god_n accept_v such_o prayer_n this_o be_v a_o prayer_n put_v up_o to_o god_n with_o devour_v and_o humble_a and_o holy_a affection_n for_o so_o i_o state_n the_o nature_n of_o it_o and_o such_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n require_v eph._n 6.18_o and_o therefore_o suppose_v to_o be_v grateful_a to_o god_n and_o so_o will_v every_o one_o believe_v who_o know_v that_o the_o heart_n be_v in_o such_o prayer_n and_o that_o it_o be_v the_o heart_n which_o god_n require_v and_o to_o say_v no_o more_o such_o prayer_n as_o this_o although_o it_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o a_o immediate_a inspiration_n a_o present_a dictate_v of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n yet_o be_v it_o the_o mediate_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o that_o faith_n that_o hope_n that_o love_n and_o charity_n and_o humility_n which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n it_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o these_o grace_n and._n whatsoever_o else_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n and_o these_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n gol._n 5.22_o 23._o 2._o the_o second_o thing_n which_o i_o must_v observe_v concern_v this_o way_n of_o pray_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v that_o it_o be_v applicable_a to_o a_o form_n of_o prayer_n the_o word_n of_o scripture_n be_v a_o form_n of_o word_n and_o will_v any_o man_n say_v that_o he_o can_v read_v or_o hear_v those_o word_n read_v unto_o he_o and_o hearty_o believe_v what_o he_o hear_v or_o read_v and_o be_v as_o hearty_o affect_v with_o it_o if_o he_o can_v do_v this_o let_v he_o confess_v that_o he_o do_v not_o believe_v the_o word_n of_o god_n when_o he_o hear_v it_o read_v and_o that_o he_o be_v nothing_o affect_v with_o be_v but_o if_o he_o will_v not_o confess_v this_o let_v he_o confess_v that_o faith_n and_o zeal_n faith_n and_o pious_a and_o holy_a affection_n may_v be_v apply_v to_o a_o form_n of_o word_n and_o consequent_o to_o a_o form_n of_o prayer_n 2._o most_o of_o those_o person_n who_o disallow_v a_o form_n of_o prayer_n and_o thanksgiving_n to_o god_n allow_v and_o practice_v a_o certain_a form_n in_o sing_v psalm_n and_o what_o be_v such_o psalm_n but_o certain_a form_n of_o pray_v and_o render_v thanks_o to_o god_n and_o if_o man_n can_v hearty_o pray_v to_o god_n in_o verse_n or_o meet_a why_o not_o in_o prose_n as_o well_o as_o in_o verse_n 3._o all_o the_o protestant_a church_n of_o other_o nation_n all_o the_o christian_n church_n in_o the_o world_n have_v set_v form_n for_o their_o public_a office_n and_o so_o have_v the_o whole_a church_n have_v for_o fourteen_o hundred_o year_n at_o least_o and_o therefore_o certain_o it_o be_v and_o be_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o universal_a church_n not_o only_o that_o it_o be_v very_o lawful_a but_o most_o expedient_a and_o useful_a also_o that_o the_o public_a office_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v perform_v in_o a_o set_a form_n and_o that_o man_n may_v pray_v in_o a_o set_a form_n and_o pray_v by_o the_o spirit_n at_o the_o same_o time_n that_o be_v to_o say_v in_o faith_n and_o hope_v and_o with_o holy_a and_o devout_a affection_n 4._o add_v hereunto_o that_o there_o be_v divers_a form_n of_o prayer_n express_o prescribe_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n a_o form_n of_o benediction_n whereby_o the_o priest_n be_v to_o bless_v the_o people_n numb_a 6.23_o 24_o 25_o 26._o a_o form_n for_o the_o offering_n of_o the_o first-fruit_n deut._n 26.5_o 6._o etc._n etc._n that_o david_n compose_v many_o of_o the_o psalm_n as_o the_o title_n of_o they_o express_o show_v to_o be_v use_v as_o public_a form_n of_o prayer_n in_o the_o solemn_a worship_n of_o god_n in_o the_o temple_n that_o our_o saviour_n himself_o give_v that_o which_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n prayer_n as_o a_o form_n of_o prayer_n to_o his_o disciple_n according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o jewish_a doctor_n and_o john_n the_o baptist_n who_o do_v the_o like_a for_o their_o disciple_n now_o have_v it_o not_o be_v a_o possible_a thing_n for_o man_n to_o use_v a_o form_n of_o prayer_n with_o faith_n and_o zeal_n and_o holy_a affection_n as_o every_o man_n always_o aught_o to_o pray_v we_o shall_v have_v have_v no_o form_n of_o prayer_n express_o prescribe_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n 5._o and_o to_o conclude_v the_o present_a point_n be_v not_o faith_n and_o zeal_n and_o devout_a affection_n applicable_a to_o a_o form_n of_o prayer_n no_o man_n can_v hearty_o join_v in_o a_o prayer_n which_o he_o hear_v utter_v by_o another_o person_n for_o all_o such_o prayer_n whatsoever_o they_o be_v to_o he_o that_o speak_v be_v certain_a form_n to_o they_o that_o hear_v they_o to_o they_o they_o as_o be_v limit_v form_n when_o they_o be_v speak_v as_o if_o they_o have_v be_v print_v and_o read_v for_o the_o word_n be_v still_o the_o very_a same_o and_o all_o the_o sense_n contain_v in_o they_o and_o so_o i_o conclude_v the_o second_o observation_n that_o be_v that_o a_o man_n may_v pray_v by_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v in_o faith_n and_o holy_a zeal_n and_o pray_v by_o a_o form_n at_o the_o same_o time_n 3_o i_o must_v further_o observe_v unto_o you_o that_o as_o the_o way_n of_o pray_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v applicable_a to_o a_o form_n of_o prayer_n so_o that_o it_o ought_v in_o very_a truth_n to_o be_v apply_v to_o every_o prayer_n we_o make_v to_o god_n whether_o it_o be_v with_o or_o without_o a_o form_n god_n hear_v no_o prayer_n accept_v no_o service_n offer_v to_o he_o where_o there_o be_v no_o attention_n of_o mind_n no_o zeal_n and_o affection_n in_o the_o heart_n it_o be_v a_o great_a neglect_n of_o god_n a_o dangerous_a irreverence_n to_o our_o maker_n not_o to_o attend_v to_o what_o we_o speak_v or_o what_o be_v speak_v in_o our_o name_n when_o we_o make_v our_o address_n to_o he_o by_o prayer_n do_v any_o man_n speak_v unto_o a_o prince_n not_o mind_v what_o he_o speak_v unto_o he_o do_v any_o man_n make_v a_o address_n to_o a_o king_n without_o give_v heed_n to_o his_o own_o address_n and_o if_o we_o judge_v it_o a_o great_a irreverence_n to_o speak_v to_o a_o prince_n without_o attend_v to_o what_o we_o speak_v what_o shall_v we_o judge_v of_o that_o affront_n man_n do_v to_o god_n when_o they_o attend_v not_o to_o those_o prayer_n which_o they_o themselves_o offer_v to_o god_n or_o be_v offer_v by_o other_o in_o their_o name_n in_o their_o presence_n and_o behalf_n and_o then_o for_o faith_n and_o zeal_n and_o fervour_n these_o be_v the_o very_a life_n of_o prayer_n prayer_n be_v but_o sound_a and_o noise_n without_o they_o man_n may_v pray_v and_o pray_v acceptable_o where_o they_o do_v not_o utter_v express_a word_n rom._n 8.26_o but_o the_o most_o excellent_a word_n in_o the_o world_n be_v not_o true_a and_o real_a prayer_n where_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o desire_n nothing_o of_o affection_n add_v to_o they_o confess_v your_o fault_n one_o to_o another_o faith_n s._n james_n cap._n 5.16_o and_o pray_v one_o for_o another_o that_o you_o may_v be_v heal_v the_o effectual_a fervent_a prayer_n of_o a_o righteous_a man_n avai_o let_v much_o it_o be_v the_o fervent_a prayer_n that_o be_v effectual_a the_o effectual_a prayer_n that_o be_v useful_a to_o we_o and_o who_o can_v wonder_v that_o god_n shall_v not_o hear_v those_o petition_n which_o be_v void_a of_o affection_n and_o desire_v if_o we_o ourselves_o neglect_v our_o prayer_n those_o very_a prayer_n we_o seem_v to_o make_v how_o much_o more_o will_v god_n neglect_v they_o why_o shall_v he_o grant_v what_o we_o ourselves_o do_v not_o desire_v especial_o since_o it_o be_v a_o affront_n a_o mock_n of_o god_n to_o ask_v of_o he_o what_o in_o truth_n we_o do_v not_o real_o desire_v what_o we_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o receive_v from_o he_o which_o be_v indeed_o the_o very_a case_n when_o our_o prayer_n have_v nothing_o of_o attention_n nothing_o of_o zeal_n and_o affection_n in_o they_o what_o then_o shall_v we_o say_v to_o all_o that_o coldness_n all_o that_o remissness_n which_o appear_v in_o our_o public_a and_o solemn_a worship_n of_o god_n by_o this_o we_o lose_v those_o spiritual_a joy_n those_o sensible_a warmth_n and_o feel_a comfort_n which_o always_o attend_v fervent_a prayer_n and_o tend_v to_o the_o strengthen_n of_o faith_n and_o hope_n and_o all_o other_o virtue_n and_o christian_a grace_n by_o this_o we_o fail_v of_o god_n acceptance_n and_o of_o gain_v the_o thing_n we_o ask_v of_o he_o by_o this_o we_o give_v scandal_n to_o other_o person_n who_o take_v occasion_n from_o our_o remissness_n and_o want_n of_o zeal_n in_o our_o
this_o comparison_n when_o he_o clear_o discern_v and_o firm_o judge_n of_o all_o these_o thing_n as_o this_o comparison_n represent_v they_o when_o he_o apply_v this_o judgement_n to_o every_o instance_n of_o life_n and_o action_n be_v it_o not_o a_o effectual_a principle_n to_o restrain_v he_o from_o every_o wilful_a sin_n to_o urge_v and_o press_v he_o to_o every_o duty_n will_v he_o choose_v what_o be_v no_o way_n recommend_v and_o refuse_v what_o be_v represent_v to_o he_o under_o all_o the_o motive_n to_o choice_n and_o practice_n no_o man_n choose_v or_o do_v amiss_o but_o he_o that_o be_v ignorant_a or_o forgetful_a either_o in_o the_o nature_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a or_o in_o the_o effect_n and_o issue_n of_o they_o if_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o this_o in_o the_o case_n let_v the_o charm_n of_o the_o world_n entice_v to_o evil_n he_o know_v they_o be_v deceit_n and_o vanity_n and_o can_v believe_v what_o he_o know_v be_v false_a nor_o be_v cheat_v by_o what_o he_o do_v not_o believe_v let_v the_o dread_v and_o calamity_n of_o the_o world_n encumber_v and_o perplex_v his_o duty_n he_o reckon_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v that_o the_o suffering_n of_o this_o present_a time_n be_v not_o worthy_a to_o be_v compare_v with_o the_o glory_n that_o shall_v be_v reveal_v in_o we_o rom._n 8.18_o this_o give_v he_o courage_n strength_n and_o patience_n and_o make_v he_o choose_v afflict_v innocence_n rather_o than_o guilty_a and_o short_a prosperity_n insomuch_o that_o all_o the_o great_a example_n of_o the_o high_a and_o the_o noble_a virtue_n all_o these_o victory_n over_o the_o world_n and_o all_o its_o trouble_n and_o adversity_n that_o be_v record_v in_o sacred_a history_n all_o the_o great_a thing_n that_o have_v be_v do_v all_o the_o great_a thing_n that_o have_v be_v suffer_v for_o the_o advancement_n of_o truth_n and_o piety_n have_v spring_v from_o a_o settle_a resolution_n ground_v upon_o stable_a judgement_n never_o to_o vary_v from_o god_n will_n and_o the_o way_n to_o everlasting_a happiness_n so_o moses_n esteem_v the_o reproach_n of_o christ_n great_a riches_n than_o the_o treasure_n of_o egypt_n heb._n 11.16_o so_o christ_n himself_o for_o that_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n despise_v the_o shame_n and_o be_v set_v down_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n heb._n 12.2_o and_o so_o do_v his_o first_o and_o faithful_a follower_n for_o the_o secure_n of_o their_o innocence_n and_o the_o reward_n thereunto_o belong_v patient_o endure_v all_o their_o suffering_n as_o know_v that_o their_o light_a affliction_n which_o be_v but_o for_o a_o moment_n wrought_v for_o they_o a_o far_o more_o exceed_v and_o a_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n 2_o cor._n 4.17_o thus_o be_v the_o approbation_n of_o thing_n excellent_a that_o be_v a_o clear_a and_o stable_a judgement_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o there_o declare_v and_o recommend_v not_o only_o a_o perfect_a cure_n and_o remedy_n of_o all_o the_o disease_n of_o our_o mind_n to_o wit_n ignorance_n doubt_v and_o vanity_n but_o also_o a_o constant_a guide_n and_o monitor_n in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v so_o 2._o let_v we_o now_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o attain_v to_o it_o the_o second_o head_n before_o propound_v 1._o and_o here_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o say_v that_o since_o every_o good_a and_o perfect_a gift_n be_v from_o above_o and_o come_v down_o from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n jam._n 1.17_o it_o must_v be_v seek_v of_o god_n by_o prayer_n man_n may_v be_v rich_a and_o great_a and_o powerful_a mere_o by_o the_o permission_n of_o providence_n by_o practice_n not_o allow_v by_o god_n by_o fraud_n and_o injury_n and_o oppression_n but_o no_o man_n be_v wise_a unto_o salvation_n but_o by_o the_o special_a grace_n of_o god_n nor_o do_v he_o give_v this_o special_a grace_n but_o where_o it_o be_v diligent_o seek_v of_o he_o which_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o st_n paul_n so_o often_o put_v it_o into_o his_o prayer_n that_o god_n will_v bless_v man_n with_o this_o wisdom_n so_o he_o pray_v for_o timothy_n that_o god_n will_v give_v he_o understand_v in_o all_o thing_n 2_o tim._n 2.7_o for_o the_o ephesian_n that_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n will_v give_v unto_o they_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o eph._n 1.17_o for_o the_o colossian_n that_o they_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o will_n in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o spiritual_a understanding_n col._n 1.9_o and_o last_o for_o the_o philippian_n here_o that_o there_o love_n may_v abound_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o in_o knowledge_n and_o in_o all_o judgement_n that_o they_o may_v approve_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v excellent_a from_o all_o which_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o wisdom_n for_o sound_a judgement_n in_o all_o our_o duty_n as_o represent_v in_o the_o gospel_n we_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v seek_v by_o fervent_a prayer_n especial_o see_v that_o god_n have_v promise_v to_o give_v his_o spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o and_o that_o in_o a_o promise_n confirm_v by_o a_o argument_n draw_v from_o common_a and_o know_a experience_n for_o so_o be_v that_o luke_n 11.13_o if_o you_o then_o be_v evil_a know_v how_o to_o give_v good_a gift_n to_o your_o child_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v your_o heavenly_a father_n give_v his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o 2._o nor_o shall_v i_o need_v to_o put_v you_o in_o mind_n that_o to_o our_o prayer_n for_o the_o illumination_n of_o god_n grace_n something_o of_o industry_n must_v be_v join_v in_o the_o study_n both_o our_o of_o duty_n themselves_o and_o the_o motive_n that_o recommend_v they_o to_o we_o and_o yet_o in_o truth_n both_o these_o thing_n be_v partly_o so_o write_v upon_o our_o heart_n and_o since_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o gospel_n so_o express_o declare_v to_o we_o that_o we_o need_v not_o weary_a or_o waste_v our_o body_n nor_o vex_v and_o torment_v our_o understanding_n to_o gain_v the_o knowledge_n of_o either_o of_o they_o we_o need_v not_o now_o as_o st._n paul_n tell_v we_o say_v in_o our_o heart_n who_o shall_v ascend_v into_o heaven_n that_o be_v to_o bring_v down_o christ_n from_o above_o to_o reveal_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n to_o we_o or_o who_o shall_v descend_v into_o the_o deep_a that_o be_v to_o bring_v up_o christ_n again_o from_o the_o dead_a that_o he_o may_v confirm_v that_o revelation_n both_o these_o thing_n be_v already_o do_v so_o that_o now_o as_o the_o apostle_n add_v rom._n 10.8_o 9_o the_o word_n be_v high_a thou_o even_o in_o thy_o mouth_n and_o in_o thy_o heart_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o faith_n which_o we_o preach_v that_o if_o thou_o shall_v confess_v with_o thy_o mouth_n the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o shall_v believe_v in_o thy_o heart_n that_o god_n have_v raise_v he_o from_o the_o dead_a thou_o shall_v be_v save_v where_o we_o see_v the_o apostle_n take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o he_o that_o firm_o believe_v the_o gospel_n can_v scarce_o fail_v in_o the_o very_a practice_n much_o less_o in_o the_o knowledge_n and_o approbation_n of_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n so_o clear_o be_v all_o our_o duty_n reveal_v and_o so_o effectual_o recommend_v in_o the_o gospel_n 3._o so_o that_o what_o be_v now_o main_o requisite_a to_o gain_v a_o clear_a and_o stable_a judgement_n in_o the_o good_a and_o perfect_a will_n of_o god_n be_v so_o much_o antecedent_n probity_n so_o much_o sincerity_n towards_o god_n as_o that_o we_o be_v willing_a to_o do_v his_o will_n when_o it_o shall_v be_v make_v know_v unto_o we_o and_o wonder_v not_o that_o this_o shall_v be_v requisite_a for_o the_o gain_n of_o stable_a judgement_n in_o it_o for_o this_o be_v no_o more_o than_o the_o very_a belief_n that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n may_v produce_v in_o every_o man_n so_o believe_v if_o a_o man_n have_v nothing_o of_o inclination_n to_o do_v god_n will_v when_o he_o shall_v know_v it_o why_o shall_v god_n reveal_v it_o to_o he_o or_o suppose_v what_o be_v so_o indeed_o that_o he_o have_v reveal_v it_o in_o the_o gospel_n yet_o how_o unapt_a a_o man_n be_v to_o believe_v what_o he_o be_v resolve_v not_o to_o practice_v and_o what_o if_o believe_v and_o not_o practise_v will_v be_v a_o perpetual_a anguish_n to_o he_o how_o easy_a be_v it_o in_o this_o case_n when_o the_o interest_n of_o powerful_a lust_n and_o passion_n bribe_n and_o corrupt_v the_o understanding_n for_o a_o man_n to_o prevaricate_v with_o himself_o and_o baffle_v and_o cheat_v his_o own_o mind_n but_o where_o there_o
the_o ten_o tribe_n and_o carry_v they_o away_o into_o captivity_n sennacherib_n have_v now_o make_v a_o attempt_n on_o the_o other_o two_o he_o have_v besiege_v assault_v and_o take_v several_a of_o their_o fence_a city_n he_o have_v so_o straighten_a hezekiah_n that_o he_o be_v force_v to_o buy_v his_o peace_n or_o rather_o a_o false_a appearance_n of_o it_o by_o surrender_v all_o his_o treasure_n to_o he_o for_o afterward_o his_o army_n march_v towards_o jerusalem_n the_o approach_n whereof_o be_v so_o dreadful_a that_o it_o fill_v the_o city_n with_o great_a amazement_n and_o consternation_n yet_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o these_o confusion_n in_o these_o unsettled_a and_o shake_v time_n do_v god_n assure_v that_o pious_a king_n that_o he_o will_v establish_v he_o in_o his_o throne_n and_o give_v he_o stable_n and_o settle_a time_n wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n shall_v be_v the_o stability_n of_o thy_o time_n and_o he_o make_v good_a what_o he_o promise_v to_o he_o by_o the_o slaughter_n of_o sennacherib_n army_n by_o a_o invisible_a power_n from_o heaven_n isaiah_n 37.36_o so_o great_a be_v the_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n providence_n over_o righteous_a and_o holy_a prince_n and_o nation_n so_o great_a his_o care_n to_o give_v encouragement_n to_o piety_n righteousness_n and_o sobriety_n when_o they_o be_v faithful_o and_o due_o practise_v i_o do_v not_o say_v but_o that_o unrighteous_a nation_n also_o may_v thrive_v and_o flourish_v for_o a_o time_n for_o i_o know_v that_o god_n use_v the_o power_n of_o one_o unrighteous_a and_o wicked_a people_n to_o punish_v and_o to_o destroy_v another_o but_o this_o be_v do_v when_o both_o be_v wicked_a and_o ill-deserving_a to_o which_o i_o add_v that_o when_o the_o one_o have_v do_v god_n work_n upon_o the_o other_o when_o the_o strong_a have_v eat_v up_o the_o weak_a the_o strong_a itself_o either_o become_v a_o spoil_n and_o prey_n to_o another_o strong_a than_o itself_o as_o the_o assyrian_n do_v to_o the_o persian_n and_o as_o the_o persian_n to_o the_o greek_n and_o the_o greek_n themselves_o unto_o the_o roman_n and_o the_o roman_n to_o the_o goth_n and_o vandal_n or_o else_o be_v crumble_v and_o break_v to_o piece_n by_o intestine_a faction_n and_o sedition_n as_o the_o christian_a empire_n in_o the_o east_n which_o make_v it_o a_o prey_n to_o the_o turk_n and_o saracen_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n allow_v the_o fall_n and_o desolation_n of_o one_o unrighteous_a and_o sinful_a nation_n by_o the_o unrighteousness_n of_o another_o yet_o will_v not_o this_o afford_v any_o argument_n to_o conclude_v that_o a_o faithful_a righteous_a and_o holy_a people_n shall_v find_v no_o aid_n from_o divine_a providence_n to_o secure_v they_o from_o a_o wicked_a enemy_n although_o more_o powerful_a than_o themselves_o have_v thus_o show_v that_o piety_n and_o virtue_n truth_n and_o righteousness_n compose_v the_o disorder_n settle_v the_o affair_n confirm_v the_o peace_n and_o strength_n of_o nation_n and_o gain_v stability_n to_o the_o time_n let_v we_o now_o reflect_v upon_o this_o discourse_n and_o so_o apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o 1._o and_o first_o of_o all_o hence_o we_o learn_v what_o have_v disquiet_v what_o have_v unsettled_a our_o own_o time_n and_o make_v they_o troublesome_a and_o uneasy_a we_o have_v not_o study_v what_o the_o prophet_n style_v wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n we_o have_v not_o live_v in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o christian_a charity_n each_o to_o other_o and_o the_o want_n of_o these_o have_v hinder_v the_o settlement_n of_o our_o day_n and_o the_o vice_n quite_o contrary_a to_o they_o make_v they_o troublesome_a and_o unstable_a i_o need_v not_o say_v that_o our_o vanity_n luxury_n and_o prodigality_n have_v impoverish_v we_o to_o a_o great_a degree_n and_o poverty_n create_v discontent_n and_o make_v we_o uneasy_a and_o unquiet_a i_o need_v not_o take_v any_o pain_n to_o prove_v that_o our_o pride_n and_o avarice_n and_o ambition_n have_v cause_v and_o foment_v mutual_a enmity_n among_o ourselves_o and_o that_o these_o have_v disorder_v and_o unsettled_a we_o but_o that_o which_o i_o can_v forbear_v to_o mention_v and_o something_o largely_a to_o consider_v be_v the_o monstrous_a atheism_n and_o infidelity_n that_o have_v secret_o take_v root_n among_o we_o and_o fill_v the_o land_n with_o strange_a profaneness_n with_o contempt_n of_o piety_n and_o religion_n nay_o scorn_v of_o the_o very_a profession_n of_o it_o and_o that_o to_o such_o prodigious_a measure_n as_o be_v never_o know_v in_o former_a age_n of_o christianity_n and_o can_v we_o wonder_v that_o our_o condition_n be_v so_o unsettled_a that_o our_o affair_n be_v so_o uncertain_a while_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o all_o true_a peace_n be_v so_o much_o shake_v and_o undermine_v perhaps_o you_o may_v think_v it_o very_o strange_a that_o popery_n shall_v ever_o have_v adventure_v to_o lift_v up_o its_o head_n in_o this_o nation_n that_o a_o religion_n express_o contrary_a to_o the_o holy_a scripture_n contrary_a to_o all_o christian_a antiquity_n contrary_a to_o natural_a light_n and_o reason_n disagreeable_a to_o our_o very_a sense_n in_o the_o strange_a fiction_n of_o transubstantiation_n a_o religion_n contrary_n to_o our_o interest_n that_o will_v enslave_v our_o mind_n and_o body_n both_o at_o once_o and_o be_v upon_o all_o these_o account_n just_o abandon_v by_o our_o ancestor_n shall_v ever_o attempt_v to_o return_v upon_o we_o but_o this_o will_v not_o appear_v so_o strange_a if_o we_o consider_v how_o much_o atheism_n and_o infidelity_n how_o much_o profaneness_n and_o scorn_n of_o piety_n how_o many_o division_n among_o ourselves_o how_o many_o dangerous_a schism_n and_o heresy_n have_v infect_v and_o overflow_v the_o nation_n for_o how_o can_v it_o be_v but_o that_o these_o evil_n mult_fw-la give_v a_o very_a great_a encouragement_n to_o popish_a emissary_n and_o seducer_n to_o conspire_v the_o destruction_n of_o religion_n they_o know_v that_o they_o who_o have_v no_o religion_n and_o many_o such_o there_o be_v among_o we_o by_o be_v such_o be_v prepare_v for_o any_o that_o all_o religion_n be_v alike_o to_o they_o that_o be_v of_o none_o at_o all_o upon_o this_o account_n i_o make_v no_o doubt_n but_o that_o they_o themselves_o have_v great_o labour_v to_o open_v a_o door_n to_o all_o vice_n all_o profaneness_n and_o immorality_n that_o so_o popery_n may_v creep_v in_o with_o that_o profane_a and_o wicked_a spirit_n which_o themselves_o have_v spread_v and_o diffuse_v among_o we_o moreover_o be_v it_o not_o most_o apparent_a that_o they_o have_v put_v on_o all_o shape_n and_o dress_v up_o themselves_o in_o all_o the_o disguise_n of_o the_o several_a party_n in_o the_o nation_n the_o more_o to_o divide_v we_o among_o ourselves_o and_o to_o make_v we_o odious_a one_o to_o another_o as_o well_o as_o ridiculous_a to_o our_o neighbour_n that_o so_o be_v weary_a of_o these_o confusion_n among_o ourselves_o and_o despicable_a by_o our_o rent_n and_o faction_n we_o may_v at_o length_n consent_v to_o settlement_n on_o their_o foundation_n and_o rather_o choose_v to_o be_v at_o rest_n by_o be_v reconcile_v to_o they_o than_o still_o divide_v and_o rend_v in_o piece_n by_o infinite_a fraction_n among_o ourselves_o if_o thing_n be_v thus_o as_o i_o fear_v they_o be_v i_o need_v not_o say_v what_o that_o be_v which_o have_v give_v we_o unstable_a time_n we_o have_v undermine_v our_o own_o foundation_n by_o our_o profaneness_n and_o irreligion_n we_o have_v not_o study_v that_o wisdom_n that_o will_v have_v give_v we_o stable_a time_n 2._o see_v wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n see_v the_o true_a fear_n of_o god_n and_o hearty_a obedience_n to_o his_o law_n be_v the_o expedient_n the_o prophet_n offer_v to_o give_v stability_n to_o the_o time_n hence_o we_o learn_v what_o be_v the_o true_a and_o proper_a method_n to_o gain_v that_o blessing_n among_o ourselves_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o two_o plain_a command_n which_o enjoin_v we_o to_o love_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n and_o to_o love_v our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o will_v give_v we_o stable_n and_o quiet_a time_n give_v we_o peaceable_a and_o easy_a day_n procure_v we_o rest_v and_o peace_n and_o order_n after_o all_o our_o labour_n and_o confusion_n these_o will_v certain_o do_v the_o thing_n that_o no_o wisdom_n power_n or_o policy_n can_v ever_o possible_o effect_v without_o they_o can_v a_o nation_n be_v waste_v and_o exhaust_v by_o its_o own_o riot_n and_o prodigality_n and_o not_o be_v expose_v to_o a_o foreign_a enemy_n or_o can_v a_o nation_n be_v so_o expose_v and_o enjoy_v a_o secure_a and_o settle_a peace_n can_v the_o member_n of_o the_o same_o society_n live_v in_o mutual_a hatred_n and_o animosity_n arise_v from_o avarice_n and_o ambition_n and_o yet_o enjoy_v quiet_a and_o certain_a and_o easy_a day_n the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n have_v so_o contrive_v the_o
member_n shall_v perish_v and_o not_o that_o thy_o whole_a body_n shall_v be_v cast_v into_o hell_n matt._n 5.29_o 30._o these_o man_n must_v find_v out_o some_o distinction_n whereby_o they_o may_v retain_v that_o eye_n whereby_o they_o may_v reserve_v that_o hand_n secure_v their_o dear_o belove_a lust_n and_o yet_o escape_v the_o flame_n of_o hell_n it_o shall_v be_v answer_v to_o these_o and_o all_o other_o like_o expression_n either_o that_o this_o be_v legal_a doctrine_n and_o that_o christ_n have_v so_o fulfil_v the_o law_n as_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o for_o they_o to_o do_v but_o to_o rely_v on_o his_o righteousness_n or_o else_o as_o it_o be_v on_o another_o hand_n that_o they_o will_v make_v satisfaction_n to_o god_n for_o those_o sin_n which_o they_o will_v not_o forsake_v they_o will_v confess_v they_o to_o the_o priest_n they_o will_v receive_v his_o absolution_n they_o will_v most_o due_o perform_v the_o penance_n which_o be_v prescribe_v they_o by_o the_o priest_n give_v so_o much_o alm_n say_v so_o many_o prayer_n pass_v through_o a_o course_n of_o so_o many_o fast_n and_o when_o they_o have_v find_v out_o these_o shift_n then_o will_v they_o believe_v their_o sin_n forgive_v although_o they_o wilful_o still_o retain_v they_o they_o will_v believe_v that_o this_o be_v so_o in_o spite_n of_o common_a sense_n and_o reason_n in_o spite_n of_o the_o very_a light_n of_o nature_n in_o spite_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n itself_o and_o the_o plain_a design_n of_o christianity_n they_o will_v have_v a_o creed_n which_o shall_v allow_v they_o in_o their_o lust_n though_o clear_o contrary_a to_o that_o gospel_n which_o our_o lord_n himself_o have_v reveal_v to_o we_o from_o whence_o observe_v that_o no_o man_n can_v be_v secure_a of_o truth_n who_o be_v no_o friend_n to_o real_a piety_n nor_o be_v he_o likely_a to_o understand_v the_o will_n of_o god_n who_o be_v not_o willing_a to_o obey_v it_o 3._o hence_o we_o understand_v that_o the_o only_a safe_a and_o certain_a way_n to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n aright_o to_o know_v what_o true_a religion_n be_v and_o what_o be_v the_o way_n to_o life_n eternal_a be_v such_o a_o sincere_a disposition_n of_o mind_n as_o render_v we_o willing_a to_o obey_v whatsoever_o god_n prescribe_v unto_o we_o for_o so_o be_v the_o gospel_n propound_v to_o we_o that_o whosoever_o be_v so_o dispose_v will_v ready_o believe_v and_o entertain_v it_o upon_o the_o evidence_n which_o attend_v it_o see_v nothing_o obscure_v nothing_o eclipse_n this_o evidence_n but_o a_o aversation_n to_o the_o duty_n which_o be_v command_v in_o the_o gospel_n there_o be_v no_o doctrine_n no_o precept_n no_o promise_n or_o threat_v in_o the_o whole_a gospel_n that_o contradict_v the_o hope_n or_o interest_n of_o any_o man_n that_o be_v real_o good_a it_o be_v no_o interest_n of_o good_a man_n that_o there_o shall_v not_o be_v a_o day_n of_o judgement_n that_o christ_n shall_v not_o come_v to_o judge_v the_o world_n that_o he_o shall_v not_o judge_v it_o by_o these_o law_n which_o be_v prescribe_v we_o in_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v no_o interest_n of_o good_a man_n that_o any_o thing_n shall_v not_o be_v command_v which_o be_v command_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o every_o thing_n shall_v not_o be_v forbid_v which_o the_o same_o gospel_n do_v forbid_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n it_o be_v most_o suitable_a not_o only_o to_o the_o judgement_n and_o reason_n but_o to_o the_o inclination_n of_o good_a man_n that_o god_n shall_v command_v we_o to_o love_v himself_o with_o all_o our_o heart_n to_o love_v our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o that_o he_o shall_v command_v all_o the_o virtue_n that_o be_v command_v in_o the_o gospel_n truth_n justice_n temperance_n patience_n meekness_n humility_n and_o the_o like_a that_o he_o shall_v forbid_v what_o be_v forbid_v pride_n and_o covetousness_n and_o animosity_n fornication_n adultery_n and_o excess_n it_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o reason_n and_o hope_n that_o he_o shall_v distribute_v reward_n and_o punishment_n in_o another_o world_n according_a to_o man_n behaviour_n here_o and_o whosoever_o be_v thus_o prepare_v to_o understand_v and_o believe_v the_o gospel_n will_v neither_o reject_v nor_o misbelieve_v it_o nor_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v contain_v in_o it_o which_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n especial_o see_v that_o god_n have_v promise_v to_o guide_v and_o assist_v they_o with_o his_o spirit_n who_o be_v resign_v unto_o his_o will_n and_o willing_a to_o do_v what_o he_o command_v they_o observe_v we_o then_o the_o great_a security_n that_o good_a man_n have_v of_o be_v lead_v into_o all_o truth_n which_o be_v needful_a unto_o their_o salvation_n observe_v what_o be_v the_o ready_a way_n to_o be_v guide_v into_o all_o such_o truth_n it_o be_v to_o be_v upright_o and_o sincere_a it_o be_v to_o be_v willing_a to_o do_v god_n will_v willing_a to_o do_v whatsoever_o it_o be_v that_o god_n shall_v please_v to_o require_v of_o we_o if_o you_o find_v this_o willingness_n in_o yourselves_o suffer_v not_o yourselves_o to_o be_v overbear_v with_o their_o confidence_n who_o vain_o boast_v of_o infallibility_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o most_o pernicious_a error_n and_o in_o plain_a contradiction_n to_o the_o scripture_n truth_n be_v plain_a to_o they_o that_o love_v it_o to_o they_o that_o be_v willing_a to_o entertain_v it_o but_o as_o for_o they_o that_o be_v insincere_a that_o have_v no_o hearty_a love_n to_o it_o the_o plain_a thing_n be_v obscure_a to_o they_o shower_n and_o snare_n be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o froward_a prov._n 22.5_o which_o way_n soever_o they_o turn_v themselves_o because_o they_o receive_v not_o the_o love_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v god_n shall_v send_v they_o strong_a delusion_n that_o they_o shall_v believe_v a_o lie_n 2_o thes_n 10.11_o 4._o now_o therefore_o let_v the_o consideration_n of_o what_o i_o have_v say_v upon_o this_o point_n persuade_v sincerity_n towards_o god_n persuade_v to_o willingness_n to_o obedience_n in_o every_o instance_n whatsoever_o sincerity_n be_v that_o which_o do_v dispose_v we_o to_o know_v and_o believe_v all_o needful_a truth_n sincerity_n be_v that_o which_o god_n will_v bless_v with_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o spirit_n sincerity_n be_v that_o which_o he_o will_v reward_v not_o only_o with_o his_o conduct_n here_o but_o also_o with_o eternal_a happiness_n and_o everlasting_a life_n in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v the_o fourteen_o sermon_n malach._n 1._o 6._o if_o then_o i_o be_v a_o father_n where_o be_v my_o honour_n and_o if_o i_o be_v a_o master_n where_o be_v my_o fear_n the_o former_a part_n of_o the_o verse_n be_v thus_o a_o son_n honour_v his_o father_n and_o a_o servant_n his_o master_n if_o then_o i_o be_v a_o father_n where_o be_v my_o honour_n and_o if_o i_o be_v a_o master_n where_o be_v my_o fear_n there_o be_v several_a relative_a name_n or_o title_n give_v to_o god_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n among_o which_o be_v these_o of_o father_n and_o master_n he_o be_v style_v our_o father_n because_o we_o receive_v life_n from_o he_o he_o be_v call_v our_o master_n because_o he_o have_v a_o just_a dominion_n over_o we_o and_o because_o he_o be_v such_o a_o father_n to_o we_o as_o have_v create_v we_o out_o of_o nothing_o therefore_o be_v we_o entire_o he_o and_o because_o we_o be_v entire_o so_o therefore_o be_v he_o such_o a_o master_n as_o have_v most_o absolute_a and_o most_o sovereign_a dominion_n over_o we_o upon_o which_o account_n he_o may_v and_o do_v require_v the_o high_a love_n and_o fear_v and_o the_o most_o sincere_a obedience_n from_o we_o the_o neglect_n whereof_o in_o the_o person_n to_o who_o the_o prophet_n here_o apply_v himself_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o expostulation_n if_o then_o i_o be_v father_n where_o be_v my_o honour_n and_o if_o i_o be_v a_o master_n where_o be_v my_o fear_n i_o shall_v not_o insist_v on_o these_o two_o duty_n we_o owe_v to_o god_n that_o be_v to_o say_v honour_n and_o fear_v apart_o and_o distinct_o from_o one_o another_o but_o rather_o observe_v that_o such_o a_o honour_n be_v due_a to_o god_n as_o comprehend_v a_o fear_n in_o it_o and_o such_o a_o fear_n as_o also_o contain_v a_o honour_n in_o it_o from_o both_o which_o thing_n put_v together_o there_o result_v a_o filial_a awe_n or_o reverence_n which_o be_v compound_v of_o love_n and_o fear_n of_o love_n to_o god_n as_o he_o be_v our_o father_n and_o then_o of_o fear_n as_o he_o be_v our_o master_n this_o reverence_n than_o be_v the_o duty_n suggest_v in_o the_o word_n before_o we_o which_o i_o shall_v pursue_v in_o this_o method_n i_o shall_v show_v 1._o the_o degree_n of_o reverence_n which_o god_n require_v 2._o the_o proper_a effect_n of_o it_o 3._o the_o
give_v a_o right_a understanding_n in_o all_o thing_n the_o eighteen_o sermon_n 1_o john_n 3.7_o little_a child_n let_v no_o man_n deceive_v you_o he_o that_o do_v righteousness_n be_v righteous_a even_o as_o he_o be_v righteous_a from_z these_o word_n i_o have_v observe_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o man_n may_v imagine_v themselves_o to_o be_v righteous_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n to_o be_v in_o grace_n and_o favour_n with_o he_o although_o they_o do_v not_o do_v righteousness_n but_o live_v in_o habitual_a disobedience_n to_o the_o law_n and_o precept_n of_o the_o gospel_n 2._o that_o this_o imagination_n be_v a_o very_a great_a and_o dangerous_a error_n the_o former_a i_o have_v already_o finish_v and_o shall_v now_o speak_v unto_o the_o latter_a that_o be_v to_o say_v to_o the_o greatness_n and_o danger_n of_o the_o error_n where_o i_o consider_v that_o for_o god_n to_o judge_v unrighteous_a person_n otherwise_o than_o in_o truth_n they_o be_v to_o accept_v their_o person_n and_o pardon_v their_o sin_n while_o they_o abide_v and_o persist_v in_o they_o be_v contrary_a 1._o to_o his_o own_o nature_n and_o 2._o to_o the_o gospel_n likewise_o 1._o this_o be_v contrary_a to_o god_n nature_n that_o be_v to_o say_v both_z first_o to_o his_o wisdom_n and_o second_o to_o his_o holiness_n first_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o his_o wisdom_n so_o it_o be_v to_o judge_v of_o man_n otherwise_o than_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o to_o esteem_v they_o righteous_a just_a and_o holy_a while_o they_o be_v unrighteous_a and_o impure_a it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o true_a wisdom_n to_o judge_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o truth_n this_o be_v its_o nature_n as_o it_o be_v find_v even_o in_o man_n much_o more_o as_o it_o be_v find_v in_o god_n he_o can_v err_v or_o be_v deceive_v even_o in_o the_o deep_a obscure_a thing_n nothing_o be_v hide_v from_o his_o eye_n the_o night_n and_o the_o day_n light_n and_o darkness_n be_v alike_o unto_o it_o he_o try_v the_o reins_o and_o search_v the_o very_a heart_n of_o man_n discern_v whatsoever_o be_v in_o they_o and_o judge_n according_a to_o truth_n now_o he_o that_o judge_n according_a to_o truth_n must_v judge_v of_o thing_n just_a as_o they_o be_v and_o therefore_o see_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n be_v always_o true_a hence_o it_o appear_v they_o who_o be_v unjust_a and_o wicked_a impure_a and_o unholy_a in_o themselves_o be_v so_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n likewise_o so_o in_o his_o esteem_n and_o account_n second_o if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o although_o it_o be_v very_o true_a indeed_o that_o god_n can_v judge_v otherwise_o of_o man_n than_o according_a to_o what_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o not_o judge_v the_o sinner_n to_o be_v righteous_a the_o wicked_a to_o be_v pure_a and_o holy_a yet_o that_o he_o may_v love_v and_o accept_v the_o wicked_a as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o be_v just_a and_o holy_a the_o answer_n be_v that_o this_o be_v contrary_n to_o god_n holiness_n this_o do_v as_o much_o thwart_o the_o purity_n contradict_v the_o holiness_n of_o his_o nature_n as_o the_o other_o contradict_v his_o wisdom_n as_o be_v often_o declare_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n god_n be_v of_o pure_a eye_n say_v habbakkuk_n than_o to_o behold_v that_o be_v to_o say_v to_o approve_v evil_a he_o can_v look_v upon_o iniquity_n hab._n 1.13_o so_o far_o be_v he_o from_o approve_v evil_a or_o those_o that_o indulge_v themselves_o in_o it_o that_o their_o way_n be_v a_o abomination_n to_o he_o prov._n 15.9_o from_o whence_o it_o follow_v that_o they_o who_o judge_v themselves_o or_o other_o to_o be_v in_o grace_n and_o favour_n with_o god_n to_o be_v holy_a just_a and_o righteous_a person_n who_o be_v not_o full_o and_o real_o so_o ascribe_v and_o impute_v that_o to_o god_n which_o be_v quite_o contrary_a to_o his_o nature_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o god_n be_v say_v to_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a rom._n 4.5_o the_o meaning_n be_v that_o he_o justify_v those_o that_o have_v be_v so_o not_o those_o that_o continue_v so_o to_o be_v that_o he_o justify_v and_o accept_v the_o ungodly_a when_o they_o forsake_v and_o leave_v their_o sin_n not_o while_o they_o still_o continue_v in_o they_o and_o so_o we_o learn_v from_o the_o same_o apostle_n who_o have_v give_v a_o large_a catalogue_n of_o sin_n and_o sinner_n conclude_v his_o discourse_n with_o these_o word_n 1_o cor._n 6.11_o such_o be_v some_o of_o you_o but_o you_o be_v wash_v but_o you_o be_v sanctify_v but_o you_o be_v justify_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o god_n first_n wash_v and_o sanctify_v by_o god_n spirit_n and_o then_o justify_v and_o accept_v 2._o but_o than_o second_o as_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o god_n nature_n to_o justify_v and_o accept_v the_o wicked_a while_o they_o continue_v in_o their_o sin_n so_o be_v it_o likewise_o great_o contrary_a to_o the_o gospel_n first_o express_o to_o the_o plain_a and_o and_o clear_a part_n of_o it_o and_o second_o to_o the_o whole_a by_o evident_a consequence_n first_o it_o be_v most_o express_o contrary_a to_o the_o plain_a and_o clear_a part_n of_o it_o to_o its_o most_o positive_a declaration_n such_o as_o those_o word_n of_o st_n john_n be_v which_o i_o do_v now_o insist_v upon_o little_a child_n let_v no_o man_n deceive_v you_o he_o that_o do_v righteousness_n be_v righteous_a he_o that_o be_v real_o and_o true_o so_o he_o be_v so_o and_o he_o only_o in_o god_n account_n like_o unto_o these_o be_v those_o of_o st_n paul_n ephes_n 5.6_o where_o have_v mention_v uncleanness_n covetousness_n and_o profaneness_n he_o present_o add_v this_o admonition_n let_v no_o man_n deceive_v you_o with_o vain_a word_n for_o because_o of_o these_o thing_n come_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o child_n of_o disobedience_n whereunto_o we_o may_v add_v his_o expostulation_n 1_o cor._n 6.9_o 10._o know_v you_o not_o that_o the_o unrighteous_a shall_v not_o inherit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v not_o deceive_v neither_o fornicator_n nor_o idolater_n nor_o thief_n nor_o covetous_a nor_o drunkard_n nor_o reviler_n nor_o extortioner_n shall_v inherit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n can_v there_o be_v plain_a word_n than_o these_o or_o can_v there_o be_v any_o thing_n more_o contradictory_n to_o the_o gospel_n than_o what_o contradict_v the_o plain_a word_n and_o expression_n of_o it_o or_o a_o great_a or_o more_o dangerous_a error_n than_o what_o so_o contradict_v the_o gospel_n the_o gospel_n declare_v that_o the_o unclean_a shall_v not_o inherit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n the_o gospel_n pronounce_v the_o drunkard_n likewise_o declare_v the_o covetous_a and_o extortioner_n while_o they_o continue_v in_o these_o sin_n to_o be_v uncapable_a of_o that_o kingdom_n this_o it_o declare_v in_o as_o plain_a word_n as_o can_v be_v write_v or_o express_v and_o will_v these_o person_n still_o presume_v of_o a_o interest_n in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o of_o a_o title_n to_o his_o kingdom_n if_o they_o will_v it_o be_v their_o folly_n so_o to_o do_v it_o be_v a_o folly_n of_o that_o nature_n as_o do_v not_o only_o expose_v they_o to_o the_o great_a danger_n but_o shut_v the_o door_n to_o all_o possibility_n of_o escape_n while_o they_o persist_v and_o continue_v in_o it_o such_o be_v the_o presumption_n of_o god_n favour_n of_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o he_o while_o a_o man_n continue_v in_o his_o sin_n second_o and_o second_o as_o this_o be_v express_o contrary_a to_o the_o clear_a passage_n in_o the_o gospel_n so_o to_o the_o whole_a by_o evident_a consequence_n to_o its_o command_n and_o exhortation_n to_o all_o the_o promise_n and_o threaten_n of_o it_o and_o what_o be_v more_o to_o the_o very_a design_n of_o christ_n death_n the_o very_a thing_n which_o man_n abuse_v into_o a_o indulgence_n to_o their_o sin_n to_o promise_v ourselves_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o acceptance_n with_o he_o while_o we_o continue_v in_o our_o sin_n it_o be_v a_o presumption_n express_o contrary_a first_o to_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o gospel_n these_o require_v and_o strict_o charge_v we_o to_o deny_v ungodliness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n to_o live_v sober_o righteous_o and_o godly_a in_o this_o present_a world_n tit._n 2.12_o these_o require_v that_o we_o put_v off_o concern_v the_o former_a conversation_n the_o old_a man_n which_o be_v corrupt_a according_a to_o deceitful_a lust_n that_o we_o be_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o mind_n that_o we_o put_v on_o the_o new_a man_n which_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n ephes_n 4.22_o and_o follow_v verse_n in_o a_o word_n the_o law_n of_o christ_n require_v we_o to_o love_n god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n and_o to_o love_v our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o now_o
be_v god_n serious_a in_o his_o command_n or_o be_v he_o not_o be_v he_o in_o earnest_n or_o do_v he_o only_o amuse_v we_o with_o they_o if_o he_o be_v not_o serious_a if_o he_o not_o in_o good_a earnest_n with_o we_o in_o the_o law_n which_o he_o have_v prescribe_v unto_o we_o where_o be_v his_o wisdom_n where_o his_o majesty_n where_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n do_v infinite_a wisdom_n trifle_n with_o we_o do_v he_o give_v we_o law_n without_o design_n that_o we_o shall_v obey_v they_o or_o accept_v of_o we_o without_o obedience_n if_o he_o be_v serious_a and_o in_o earnest_n then_o have_v he_o give_v we_o his_o holy_a law_n with_o real_a purpose_n and_o design_n that_o we_o shall_v yield_v obedience_n to_o they_o nor_o can_v he_o choose_v but_o be_v displease_v when_o we_o wilful_o violate_v or_o neglect_v they_o nor_o yet_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o we_o while_o he_o be_v so_o displease_v with_o we_o while_o we_o continue_v in_o disobedience_n now_o therefore_o for_o man_n to_o flatter_v themselves_o with_o hope_n of_o the_o favour_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n hope_v of_o the_o pardon_n of_o their_o sin_n while_o they_o continue_v in_o those_o sin_n be_v nothing_o less_o by_o good_a consequence_n than_o to_o imagine_v that_o god_n have_v give_v we_o his_o holy_a law_n without_o intend_v they_o shall_v oblige_v we_o that_o his_o wisdom_n do_v but_o trifle_n with_o we_o which_o be_v a_o evident_a contradiction_n both_o to_o his_o law_n and_o wisdom_n also_o those_o be_v no_o law_n that_o do_v not_o oblige_v nor_o be_v that_o wisdom_n which_o be_v not_o serious_a second_o add_v hereunto_o in_o the_o second_o place_n that_o a_o presumption_n on_o god_n favour_n in_o man_n continue_v in_o their_o sin_n be_v flat_o contrary_a to_o all_o those_o press_a exhortation_n whereby_o we_o find_v ourselves_o invite_v nay_o vehement_o press_v unto_o obedience_n in_o numerous_a place_n of_o the_o scripture_n such_o as_o that_o prov._n 1.22_o 23._o how_o long_o will_v you_o simple_a one_o love_v simplicity_n and_o the_o scorner_n delight_n in_o scorn_v and_o fool_n hate_v knowledge_n turn_v you_o at_o my_o reproof_n such_o be_v that_o ezek._n 18.31_o 32._o cast_v away_o from_o you_o all_o your_o transgression_n and_o make_v you_o a_o new_a heart_n and_o a_o new_a spirit_n such_o be_v that_o deut._n 5.29_o o_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o heart_n in_o they_o that_o they_o will_v fear_v i_o and_o keep_v my_o commandment_n always_o that_o it_o may_v be_v well_o with_o they_o such_o be_v that_o use_v by_o st_n paul_n 2_o cor._n 5.20_o god_n be_v in_o christ_n reconcile_a the_o world_n unto_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o trespass_n to_o they_o now_o than_o we_o be_v ambassador_n for_o christ_n as_o though_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o by_o we_o we_o pray_v yond_o in_o christ_n stead_n be_v you_o reconcile_v unto_o god_n now_o what_o shall_v we_o say_v to_o these_o and_o many_o such_o exhortation_n wherein_o the_o writer_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n wherein_o god_n himself_o by_o they_o exhort_v invite_v and_o mighty_o persuade_v unto_o repentance_n and_o reformation_n unto_o obedience_n to_o god_n law_n do_v not_o we_o see_v that_o they_o be_v most_o earnest_a most_o serious_a application_n to_o we_o and_o can_v we_o imagine_v he_o will_v apply_v himself_o unto_o we_o with_o so_o much_o vehemence_n of_o address_n so_o much_o strength_n and_o importunity_n if_o he_o can_v be_v please_v and_o satisfy_v with_o we_o if_o he_o will_v pardon_v and_o accept_v we_o without_o reformation_n of_o wilful_a sin_n sin_n we_o cherish_v and_o indulge_v be_v all_o this_o importunity_n use_v to_o press_v and_o persuade_v a_o needless_a thing_n a_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o recommend_v we_o to_o god_n favour_n to_o obtain_v grace_n and_o acceptance_n with_o he_o let_v no_o man_n have_v such_o thought_n of_o god_n as_o to_o believe_v he_o so_o importunate_a in_o press_v obedience_n to_o his_o law_n have_v he_o not_o decree_v to_o remit_v and_o pardon_v no_o man_n sin_n and_o to_o accept_v of_o no_o man_n person_n who_o live_v in_o disobedience_n to_o they_o the_o word_n i_o have_v before_o cite_v plain_o show_v he_o have_v so_o decree_v for_o when_o he_o have_v say_v o_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o heart_n in_o they_o that_o they_o will_v fear_v i_o and_o keep_v my_o commandment_n always_o that_o it_o may_v be_v well_o with_o they_o he_o clear_o speak_v his_o own_o decree_n namely_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v well_o with_o no_o man_n who_o do_v not_o fear_v he_o and_o keep_v his_o precept_n 3._o but_o than_o three_o what_o shall_v we_o say_v to_o the_o great_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n namely_o that_o of_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o life_n eternal_a be_v not_o this_o make_v to_o those_o only_a that_o believe_v and_o sincere_o obey_v the_o gospel_n be_v it_o make_v to_o the_o wicked_a and_o disobedient_a be_v it_o make_v to_o the_o cruel_a and_o unjust_a be_v it_o make_v to_o the_o sensual_a and_o impure_a be_v it_o make_v to_o any_o but_o those_o only_o who_o study_n obedience_n to_o our_o lord_n and_o to_o the_o law_n by_o he_o prescribe_v read_v and_o observe_v the_o whole_a gospel_n turn_v it_o over_o leaf_n by_o leaf_n from_o the_o begin_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o see_v if_o you_o find_v any_o one_o passage_n promise_v pardon_n and_o remission_n promise_v grace_n and_o favour_n with_o god_n to_o the_o impenitent_a and_o disobedient_a and_o be_v it_o not_o then_o a_o great_a presumption_n for_o the_o impenitent_a and_o disobedient_a to_o promise_v that_o to_o themselves_o which_o the_o gospel_n have_v no_o where_o promise_v to_o they_o and_o yet_o again_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o god_n have_v promise_v eternal_a life_n to_o they_o who_o by_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well-doing_n seek_v for_o glory_n and_o immortality_n rom._n 2.7_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o he_o have_v promise_v remission_n of_o sin_n upon_o repentance_n luke_n 24.47_o but_o that_o the_o assure_a expectation_n of_o these_o so_o great_a reward_n and_o mercy_n may_v most_o effectual_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o that_o we_o may_v clear_o understand_v that_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o hope_v the_o one_o without_o performance_n of_o the_o other_o sure_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v no_o reason_n at_o all_o if_o the_o reward_n may_v be_v expect_v without_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n now_o therefore_o although_o we_o can_v imagine_v that_o god_n be_v not_o in_o earnest_n with_o we_o in_o the_o law_n and_o precept_n of_o the_o gospel_n nor_o in_o the_o press_a exhortation_n which_o be_v annex_v unto_o its_o precept_n which_o yet_o will_v be_v a_o infinite_a folly_n yet_o the_o express_a and_o clear_a promise_n of_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o life_n eternal_a upon_o faith_n and_o obedience_n to_o the_o gospel_n evident_o show_v how_o real_a and_o serious_a god_n be_v with_o we_o when_o he_o require_v obedience_n from_o we_o he_o will_v never_o have_v add_v so_o great_a a_o motive_n as_o the_o promise_n of_o glory_n and_o immortality_n to_o persuade_v obedience_n to_o his_o law_n have_v it_o not_o be_v his_o real_a design_n that_o we_o shall_v yield_v obedience_n to_o he_o or_o forfeit_v his_o grace_n and_o favour_n to_o we_o 4._o but_o to_o pass_v on_o to_o the_o four_o particular_a there_o be_v nothing_o so_o flat_o so_o express_o contradict_v by_o a_o presumption_n of_o god_n favour_n in_o man_n continue_v in_o their_o sin_n as_o the_o threat_n and_o menace_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o what_o be_v the_o thing_n these_o threat_n denounce_v nothing_o less_o than_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n nothing_o less_o than_o eternal_a misery_n as_o the_o sure_a effect_n of_o that_o wrath_n and_o who_o be_v the_o person_n upon_o who_o that_o wrath_n and_o this_o misery_n be_v denounce_v be_v they_o not_o the_o impenitent_a and_o disobedient_a be_v they_o not_o those_o who_o live_v in_o habitual_a disobedience_n to_o the_o holy_a precept_n of_o the_o gospel_n hear_v the_o apostle_n speak_v in_o the_o case_n rom._n 2.8_o 9_o unto_o they_o who_o be_v contentious_a and_o obey_v not_o the_o truth_n but_o obey_v unrighteousness_n indignation_n and_o wrath_n tribulation_n and_o anguish_n upon_o every_o soul_n of_o man_n that_o do_v evil_a of_o the_o jew_n first_o and_o also_o of_o the_o gentile_a and_o then_o that_o no_o disobedient_a person_n may_v deceive_v himself_o as_o judge_v himself_o exempt_a or_o quit_v from_o the_o common_a doom_n of_o the_o disobedient_a he_o further_o add_v at_o the_o 11._o verse_n there_o be_v no_o respect_n of_o person_n with_o god_n he_o judge_v of_o all_o man_n as_o they_o be_v nor_o do_v admit_v of_o any_o excuse_n of_o wilful_a sin_n