we_o wilful_o despise_v or_o dishonour_v that_o high_a and_o holy_a name_n whereby_o we_o be_v call_v god_n honour_n in_o christ_n our_o anoint_a saviour_n be_v a_o prerogative_n he_o be_v exceed_v jealous_a of_o and_o therefore_o whosoever_o shall_v arrogate_v that_o glory_n to_o themselves_o or_o subtract_v that_o obedience_n which_o be_v due_a to_o the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n shall_v certain_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o his_o godhead_n we_o have_v a_o great_a many_o sad_a instance_n upon_o record_n of_o god_n justice_n and_o vengeance_n on_o purpose_n to_o deter_v we_o from_o the_o like_a offence_n how_o conspicuous_a be_v the_o tragical_a memoirs_fw-fr of_o the_o fall_v angel_n of_o herod_n pontius_n pilate_n judas_n and_o many_o other_o who_o will_v have_v set_v themselves_o in_o god_n stead_n what_o shall_v i_o tell_v you_o of_o the_o whole_a jewish_a nation_n that_o deride_v betray_v condemn_v and_o crucify_a the_o lord_n of_o life_n not_o one_o of_o all_o these_o can_v fly_v from_o justice_n but_o suffer_v the_o severe_a punishment_n in_o proportion_n to_o their_o crime_n for_o their_o wretched_a profaneness_n cruelty_n and_o irreligion_n what_o may_v i_o add_v of_o the_o late_a heretic_n as_o arrius_n nestorius_n eutyches_n servetus_n etc._n etc._n who_o life_n and_o death_n be_v and_o shall_v be_v for_o ever_o infamous_a to_o all_o posterity_n see_v therefore_o that_o god_n will_v be_v worship_v in_o spirit_n and_o in_o truth_n and_o that_o he_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n endure_v that_o his_o glory_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o another_o and_o see_v we_o have_v such_o a_o cloud_n of_o witness_n before_o we_o who_o have_v suffer_v by_o the_o contempt_n and_o neglect_v of_o his_o worship_n it_o stand_v we_o in_o hand_n to_o be_v very_o prudent_a and_o circumspect_a in_o our_o demeanour_n and_o deportment_n towards_o he_o lest_o we_o wilful_o blaspheme_v his_o name_n derogate_a from_o his_o glory_n abuse_n and_o trample_v upon_o his_o word_n and_o sacrament_n despise_v his_o servant_n neglect_v our_o duty_n transgress_v his_o just_a and_o reasonable_a command_n or_o continue_v in_o any_o one_o unlawful_a act_n of_o sin_n or_o disobedience_n unrepented_a of_o unreform_v it_o be_v our_o saviour_n own_o rule_n and_o confirm_v by_o every_o day_n experience_n â—_o joh._n 2._o ep._n â—_o he_o that_o love_v god_n will_v keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o what_o heinous_a ingratitude_n as_o well_o as_o disobedience_n must_v we_o christian_n be_v guilty_a of_o if_o we_o make_v not_o our_o life_n the_o transcript_n of_o his_o divine_a and_o excellent_a doctrine_n and_o with_o the_o high_a expression_n of_o love_n joy_n and_o thankfulness_n recognize_v his_o inconceivable_a goodness_n and_o mercy_n to_o the_o child_n of_o men._n but_o if_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o shall_v render_v he_o evil_a for_o good_a and_o hatred_n for_o goodwill_n this_o abuse_n and_o contempt_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o clemency_n shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o escape_v the_o just_a resentment_n of_o his_o wrath_n and_o vengeance_n and_o judge_v what_o a_o miserable_a condition_n those_o poor_a wretch_n will_v be_v in_o who_o not_o only_o trample_v under_o foot_n the_o son_n of_o god_n but_o have_v so_o disregard_v the_o sanction_n of_o his_o law_n and_o the_o charitable_a tender_v of_o his_o grace_n and_o goodness_n that_o salvation_n itself_o can_v save_v they_o thus_o much_o concern_v our_o saviour_n godhead_n i_o have_v be_v the_o long_o about_o it_o because_o the_o devil_n have_v be_v more_o sedulous_a in_o his_o endeavour_n to_o corrupt_v and_o undermine_v this_o than_o any_o other_o article_n of_o our_o christian_a faith_n which_o every_o man_n will_v ready_o grant_v that_o have_v the_o least_o acquaintance_n with_o ecclesiastical_a history_n and_o decree_n of_o council_n wherefore_o no_o person_n of_o any_o candour_n or_o christianity_n can_v think_v my_o time_n or_o pain_n misemployed_a and_o mis-spend_v in_o explain_v and_o confirm_v this_o article_n of_o our_o faith_n wherein_o the_o excellency_n and_o dignity_n of_o the_o person_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o our_o own_o present_a and_o eternal_a welfare_n be_v so_o emiment_o concern_v chap._n iii_o of_o our_o saviour_n manhood_n this_o be_v another_o fundamental_a article_n of_o our_o holy_a and_o excellent_a religion_n constder_v the_o humane_a nature_n of_o christ_n constder_v that_o the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n become_v true_a and_o real_a man_n for_o our_o sake_n that_o he_o assume_v the_o humane_a nature_n into_o the_o reality_n of_o his_o person_n though_o in_o a_o manner_n most_o incomprehensible_a and_o yet_o he_o be_v full_o invest_v with_o it_o and_o precise_o at_o the_o time_n appoint_v of_o the_o father_n and_o predict_v by_o the_o prophet_n be_v real_o conceive_v in_o the_o womb_n and_o bear_v of_o the_o virgin_n mary_n he_o be_v make_v that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o perfect_a man_n not_o beget_v of_o the_o seed_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o woman_n as_o all_o other_o man_n be_v differ_v from_o we_o only_o in_o the_o miraculous_a conception_n by_o the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o that_o he_o may_v be_v free_a from_o all_o sin_n himself_o especial_o since_o he_o come_v to_o suffer_v for_o we_o for_o indeed_o all_o other_o man_n be_v conceive_v by_o natural_a generation_n must_v needs_o be_v taint_v with_o the_o gild_n and_o stain_v of_o adam_n first_o sin_n which_o have_v be_v thus_o transmit_v to_o and_o propagate_v by_o his_o miserable_a posterity_n but_o though_o christ_n the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n be_v conceive_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n yet_o he_o be_v make_v of_o the_o flesh_n of_o the_o virgin_n 1.1_o gen._n 3.15_o gen._n 22.18_o mat._n 1.1_o otherwise_o he_o can_v not_o have_v be_v what_o he_o real_o be_v the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n the_o seed_n of_o david_n beside_o this_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o qualify_v he_o for_o nor_o can_v he've_o be_v otherwise_o capable_a of_o that_o mediatorship_n whereby_o he_o be_v to_o procure_v and_o establish_v a_o peace_n between_o god_n and_o man._n thus_o he_o take_v our_o nature_n and_o therefore_o no_o starry_a substance_n as_o the_o marcionite_n cerdonian_n and_o manichaean_n heretic_n vain_o dream_v nor_o yet_o a_o spiritual_a or_o elementary_a body_n as_o valentinus_n and_o other_o conjecture_v and_o though_o those_o several_a heresy_n be_v censure_v and_o explode_v by_o the_o decree_n of_o council_n in_o the_o four_o first_o century_n yet_o there_o be_v still_a a_o spawn_n of_o those_o error_n among_o we_o and_o therefore_o for_o the_o conviction_n of_o those_o that_o have_v espouse_v they_o and_o to_o confirm_v other_o in_o the_o steadfast_a belief_n of_o this_o important_a and_o save_a truth_n i_o shall_v make_v it_o full_o evident_a that_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n do_v not_o only_o assume_v our_o flesh_n but_o our_o whole_a nature_n that_o be_v one_a it_o argument_n for_o it_o a_o true_a humane_a body_n and_o a_o rational_a humane_a soul_n 2_o he_o suscept_v in_o that_o real_a body_n and_o reasonable_a soul_n all_o the_o property_n and_o infirmity_n of_o both_o first_o he_o take_v our_o whole_a nature_n body_n christ_n assume_v a_o real_a humane_a body_n viz._n ay_o a_o real_a humane_a body_n figure_v and_o circumscribe_v as_o we_o which_o have_v all_o the_o part_n and_o member_n of_o a_o true_a body_n compound_v of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n be_v visible_a and_o tangible_a do_v eat_v drink_v sleep_n increase_v in_o strength_n and_o stature_n sensible_a of_o pain_n and_o want_v and_o be_v at_o last_o subject_n to_o a_o conspicuous_a death_n for_o the_o conviction_n of_o the_o obstinate_a and_o unbelieving_a world_n the_o holy_a scripture_n have_v confirm_v and_o fortify_v this_o truth_n with_o variety_n of_o argument_n for_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v of_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n the_o seed_n of_o isaac_n 9.5_o rom._n 1.3_o rom._n 9.5_o the_o seed_n of_o jacob_n and_o particular_o of_o the_o seed_n of_o david_n for_o christ_n say_v the_o apostle_n express_o descend_v from_o david_n and_o the_o father_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n and_o again_o when_o the_o sulness_n of_o time_n be_v come_v 4.4_o gal._n 4.4_o god_n send_v forth_o his_o son_n make_v of_o a_o woman_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o the_o likeness_n of_o sinful_a flesh_n 4.16_o rom._n 8.3_o eph_n 4.16_o that_o he_o may_v condemn_v sin_n in_o the_o flesh_n by_o which_o mean_n he_o become_v the_o head_n of_o his_o body_n the_o church_n for_o asmuch_o then_n as_o we_o be_v partaker_n of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n he_o also_o likewise_o himself_o take_v part_n of_o the_o same_o 2.9_o heb._n 2.9_o that_o he_o may_v taste_v death_n which_o he_o can_v not_o otherwise_o have_v do_v for_o every_o man_n and_o therefore_o he_o take_v not_o on_o he_o the_o nature_n of_o
good_n in_o which_o holy_a confidence_n we_o shall_v rest_v secure_a and_o safe_a and_o nothing_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o disturb_v or_o interrupt_v our_o quiet_n and_o whatever_o our_o condition_n be_v in_o this_o life_n we_o shall_v enjoy_v a_o heaven_n upon_o earth_n in_o the_o peace_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o to_o a_o upright_a man_n be_v more_o precious_a than_o ruby_n and_o much_o more_o valuable_a than_o all_o the_o treasure_n of_o the_o east_n 5_o our_o pious_a reflection_n upon_o those_o infinite_a expression_n of_o god_n love_n and_o bounty_n he_o 4._o by_o our_o filial_a fear_n of_o offend_v he_o etc._n etc._n shall_v possess_v we_o with_o all_o awsul_n regard_v to_o and_o fear_v of_o offend_a he_o and_o we_o have_v many_o powerful_a enforcement_n to_o persuade_v we_o to_o a_o strict_a performance_n of_o this_o duty_n for_o the_o infinite_o wise_a god_n observe_v all_o our_o action_n 12._o psal_n 139.1_o to_o 12._o hear_v and_o consider_v all_o our_o word_n and_o see_v our_o very_a thought_n and_o inclination_n they_o be_v all_o register_v in_o his_o book_n and_o will_v infallible_o be_v bring_v to_o account_n either_o to_o our_o consolation_n or_o condemnation_n at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n but_o where_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n be_v true_o fix_v it_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o all_o other_o duty_n the_o watch-port_n and_o centinel_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o keep_v out_o temptation_n and_o in_o scripture_n language_n comprehend_v the_o whole_a duty_n of_o man._n 12.13_o ecc._n 12.13_o this_o duty_n be_v of_o that_o absolute_a importance_n that_o the_o christian_n who_o true_o fear_n god_n have_v no_o cause_n to_o be_v afraid_a of_o any_o thing_n beside_o for_o god_n can_v restrain_v the_o power_n and_o malice_n of_o devil_n and_o wicked_a man_n when_o and_o how_o he_o please_v and_o make_v our_o great_a enemy_n to_o be_v at_o peace_n with_o we_o 7_o prov._n 16_o 7_o those_o temporal_a affliction_n which_o the_o righteous_a suffer_v be_v but_o fatherly_a chastisement_n for_o the_o trial_n and_o improvement_n of_o their_o grace_n or_o the_o punishment_n of_o their_o sin_n for_o a_o time_n that_o they_o may_v not_o perish_v for_o ever_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o bless_a saviour_n exhort_v we_o not_o to_o fear_v those_o that_o can_v kill_v the_o body_n only_o for_o that_o be_v the_o worst_a they_o can_v do_v since_o our_o soul_n be_v out_o of_o their_o reach_n 10.28_o mar._n 10.28_o but_o rather_o fear_v he_o that_o can_v kill_v both_o soul_n and_o body_n in_o hell_n it_o be_v no_o matter_n then_o whether_o the_o world_n smile_v or_o frown_v on_o we_o for_o if_o we_o fear_v god_n as_o son_n out_o of_o a_o true_a principle_n of_o love_n and_o obedience_n 25.23_o rom._n 8.1_o psal_n 25.23_o it_o will_v exempt_v we_o from_o all_o other_o fear_n our_o soul_n shall_v dwell_v at_o ease_n and_o if_o god_n be_v with_o we_o who_o can_v be_v against_o we_o from_o all_o which_o it_o may_v be_v reasonable_o infer_v 10.31_o heb._n 10.31_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o it_o be_v a_o dread_a full_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o live_a god_n for_o who_o shall_v stand_v before_o the_o lord_n when_o he_o be_v angry_a 7â—_n psal_n 76._o 7â—_n or_o be_v able_a to_o conflict_n with_o everlasting_a burn_n what_o cause_n then_o have_v the_o atheist_n and_o all_o impenitent_a person_n to_o be_v afraid_a especial_o if_o they_o consider_v that_o vengeance_n do_v every_o where_o await_v they_o nor_o can_v they_o be_v secure_a one_o moment_n from_o destruction_n those_o that_o will_v not_o repent_v of_o their_o sin_n and_o reverence_v their_o heavenly_a father_n as_o son_n shall_v be_v cast_v out_o of_o his_o presence_n as_o slave_n and_o have_v their_o eternal_a portion_n assign_v they_o with_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n 25.41_o matth._n 25.41_o wherefore_o let_v the_o best_a of_o man_n tremble_v at_o god_n judgement_n and_o fly_v from_o all_o occasion_n and_o temptation_n of_o sin_v for_o since_o to_o live_v and_o die_v in_o the_o least_o sin_n unrepented_a of_o be_v damnable_a and_o if_o the_o righteous_a man_n depart_v from_o his_o righteousness_n 3.20_o ezek._n 3.20_o all_o his_o former_a piety_n and_o virtue_n shall_v stand_v he_o in_o no_o stead_n but_o the_o heavy_a wrath_n of_o god_n must_v fall_v on_o he_o for_o his_o wilful_a apostasy_n and_o disobedience_n what_o cause_n have_v we_o then_o to_o be_v watchful_a over_o ourselves_o and_o serve_v the_o lord_n with_o fear_n all_o the_o day_n of_o our_o life_n that_o we_o may_v not_o be_v afraid_a of_o his_o judgement_n at_o the_o hour_n of_o death_n or_o in_o the_o great_a day_n of_o account_n 6_o and_o last_o he_o 8._o by_o our_o stead_n fast_o hope_n in_o he_o if_o god_n spirit_n witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o have_v thus_o repent_v of_o our_o former_a sin_n and_o do_v sincere_o resolve_v to_o abandon_v they_o for_o the_o future_a if_o we_o steadfast_o believe_v all_o those_o necessary_a and_o save_a truth_n which_o god_n have_v be_v please_v to_o reveal_v to_o we_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o son_n and_o testify_v the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o faith_n by_o the_o genuine_a fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o it_o if_o our_o love_n towards_o god_n be_v attend_v with_o those_o necessary_a and_o excellent_a property_n which_o i_o have_v mention_v if_o we_o pray_v devout_o and_o humble_o and_o patient_o submit_v to_o god_n wise_a and_o gracious_a disposal_n if_o we_o be_v afraid_a to_o offend_v he_o and_o be_v willing_a to_o quit_v all_o our_o interest_n in_o this_o world_n and_o die_v a_o thousand_o death_n rather_o than_o wilful_o transgress_v the_o least_o of_o his_o command_n we_o may_v undoubted_o upon_o these_o condition_n cheerful_o and_o comfortable_o expect_v and_o hope_v for_o the_o happy_a accomplishment_n of_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o our_o endless_a joy_n and_o unspeakable_a felicity_n yet_o here_o i_o must_v note_v to_o you_o that_o we_o must_v by_o no_o mean_n depend_v upon_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o duty_n themselves_o though_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v neglect_v but_o on_o the_o infinite_a mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o the_o comfortable_a success_n of_o all_o our_o pious_a endeavour_n these_o be_v the_o principal_a duty_n of_o piety_n we_o owe_v unto_o god_n which_o he_o indispensible_o require_v of_o all_o christian_n and_o must_v be_v careful_o and_o conscientious_o perform_v by_o all_o those_o who_o expect_v and_o hope_n for_o the_o admirable_a blessing_n and_o privilege_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o as_o these_o excellent_a duty_n must_v by_o no_o mean_n be_v neglect_v so_o on_o the_o contrary_a damnable_a the_o opposite_a sin_n most_o dangerous_a and_o damnable_a we_o be_v oblige_v under_o the_o sever_v penalty_n of_o hell_n and_o damnation_n to_o avoid_v and_o abandon_v the_o sin_n of_o atheism_n polytheism_n blasphemy_n idolatry_n profane_a swear_v lie_v sacrilege_n covetousness_n the_o neglect_n or_o contempt_n of_o god_n worship_n word_n sacrament_n service_n day_n groundless_a presumption_n distrust_n dispair_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o scarlet_a sin_n be_v high_o dishonourable_a to_o god_n reflect_v a_o scandal_n upon_o our_o excellent_a religion_n will_v deprive_v those_o miscreant_n of_o all_o the_o rational_a pleasure_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o without_o a_o sincere_a repentance_n and_o reformation_n of_o life_n they_o will_v forfeit_v their_o tittle_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n and_o those_o penalty_n which_o i_o mention_v before_o shall_v be_v their_o just_a portion_n and_o punishment_n in_o another_o world_n we_o pass_v forward_o to_o the_o 2d_o ourselves_o the_o ditty_n relate_v to_o ourselves_o duty_n which_o our_o bless_a saviour_n have_v enjoin_v and_o recommend_v for_o the_o attainment_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o glory_n namely_o that_o which_o have_v a_o peculiar_a reference_n to_o ourselves_o which_o duty_n consist_v in_o the_o prudent_a and_o virtuous_a conduct_n of_o our_o life_n especial_o in_o the_o affair_n and_o business_n of_o religion_n and_o since_o this_o must_v needs_o high_o concern_v we_o it_o will_v admit_v of_o a_o serious_a and_o impartial_a consideration_n now_o christian_a prudence_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v give_v you_o a_o account_n in_o the_o first_o place_n will_v be_v of_o necessary_a use_n and_o advantage_n to_o direct_v and_o further_o we_o in_o this_o duty_n man._n prudence_n of_o general_n and_o necessary_a use_n for_o the_o government_n of_o the_o whole_a man._n this_o virrue_a will_v teach_v we_o to_o govern_v ourselves_o according_a to_o god_n word_n and_o the_o dictate_v of_o sober_a reason_n and_o prevail_v with_o we_o by_o degree_n to_o conform_v all_o the_o action_n and_o affection_n both_o of_o the_o outward_a and_o inward_a man_n to_o the_o pattern_n of_o christ_n that_o we_o may_v not_o only_o be_v moral_o virtuous_a 1.16_o john_n 1.16_o but_o receive_v
guidance_n and_o protection_n of_o so_o great_a a_o lord_n who_o bear_v to_o we_o the_o bowel_n of_o a_o man_n and_o the_o tender_a compassion_n of_o a_o brother_n we_o have_v enforce_v all_o these_o obligation_n to_o holiness_n of_o life_n and_o newness_n of_o obedience_n by_o our_o vow_n and_o covenant_n in_o baptism_n we_o repeat_v they_o frequent_o in_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o do_v oblige_v ourselves_o still_o more_o and_o more_o by_o our_o renew_a choice_n and_o promise_n in_o every_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o we_o have_v in_o all_o these_o and_o many_o other_o instance_n devote_a ourselves_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n entire_o to_o his_o service_n how_o shall_v we_o then_o in_o conformity_n with_o the_o design_n of_o this_o treatise_n make_v it_o the_o scope_n and_o aim_n of_o all_o our_o desire_n and_o endeavour_n to_o be_v where_o christ_n our_o great_a prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n be_v and_o since_o he_o be_v go_v to_o heaven_n to_o prepare_v a_o place_n for_o we_o 3â—_n joh._n 14_o 3â—_n let_v we_o make_v it_o the_o endeavour_n and_o business_n of_o our_o whole_a life_n 2d_o phil._n 3_o 2d_o according_a to_o the_o rule_v lay_v down_o in_o this_o book_n to_o dispose_v and_o qualify_v ourselves_o for_o that_o place_n by_o which_o mean_v we_o may_v not_o only_o live_v comfortable_o here_o and_o solace_v ourselves_o with_o the_o peace_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o do_v the_o duty_n of_o our_o christian_a call_v but_o after_o this_o painful_a life_n end_v we_o shall_v have_v the_o most_o perfect_a consummation_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o possession_n of_o the_o reward_n of_o eternal_a glory_n and_o bliss_n which_o god_n of_o his_o infinite_a mercy_n grant_v unto_o we_o for_o our_o bless_a saviour_n sake_n to_o who_o with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v ascribe_v by_o we_o and_o all_o the_o world_n blessing_n and_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o power_n and_o thanksgiving_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n a_o morning_n prayer_n for_o family_n o_o most_o glorious_a and_o eternal_a lord_n god_n the_o father_n of_o mercy_n and_o the_o god_n of_o all_o consolation_n thou_o be_v great_o to_o be_v fear_v in_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o to_o be_v have_v in_o reverence_n of_o all_o that_o draw_v nigh_o unto_o thou_o we_o thy_o unworthy_a servant_n desire_v with_o all_o humility_n to_o acknowledge_v our_o immediate_a dependence_n upon_o thou_o for_o by_o thy_o power_n we_o be_v make_v by_o thy_o wisdom_n we_o be_v govern_v by_o thy_o goodness_n we_o be_v provide_v for_o under_o thy_o dominion_n we_o live_v and_o we_o owe_v unto_o thou_o all_o that_o we_o have_v in_o this_o world_n or_o hope_v for_o in_o the_o next_o and_o yet_o alas_o we_o have_v make_v very_o unsuitable_a return_n unto_o thy_o bounty_n for_o we_o have_v violate_v all_o thy_o just_a &_o reasonable_a command_n not_o only_o by_o our_o mistake_n and_o indiscretion_n by_o our_o sudden_a secret_a and_o unobserved_a sin_n but_o we_o have_v set_v at_o naught_o and_o trample_v upon_o thy_o sovereign_a power_n and_o authority_n by_o our_o open_a voluntary_a deliberate_a and_o actual_a transgression_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o thy_o glorious_a name_n the_o scandal_n of_o our_o holy_a profession_n and_o the_o great_a increase_n of_o our_o shame_n and_o sorrow_n beside_o such_o be_v the_o ignorance_n of_o our_o mind_n the_o stubborness_n of_o our_o will_n and_o the_o unruliness_n of_o our_o affection_n that_o we_o have_v be_v either_o whole_o negligent_a about_o or_o careless_a and_o trifle_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o those_o incomparable_o pleasant_a duty_n of_o our_o holy_a and_o excellent_a religion_n whereby_o much_o of_o our_o precious_a time_n have_v be_v wicked_o mis-spend_v either_o in_o sinful_a recreation_n or_o idleness_n and_o vanity_n and_o to_o increase_v and_o aggravate_v our_o gild_n and_o punishment_n we_o have_v sin_v against_o many_o judgement_n and_o mercy_n vow_n and_o resolution_n the_o light_n of_o thy_o holy_a spirit_n and_o the_o many_o check_n and_o conviction_n of_o our_o own_o conscience_n by_o all_o which_o we_o have_v make_v and_o judge_v ourselves_o unworthy_a of_o eternal_a life_n wherefore_o holy_a father_n we_o may_v just_o expect_v the_o severe_a resentment_n of_o thy_o wrath_n and_o vengeance_n in_o the_o most_o due_a and_o deserve_a punishment_n of_o all_o our_o sin_n but_o thou_o be_v a_o god_n of_o mercy_n and_o with_o thou_o be_v plenteous_a redemption_n thy_o promise_n be_v full_a in_o christ_n jesus_n to_o true_o humble_a and_o penitent_a sinner_n we_o come_v with_o boldness_n therefore_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o thy_o heavenly_a grace_n most_o humble_o beg_v the_o aid_n of_o thy_o holy_a spirit_n that_o with_o a_o deep_a sorrow_n and_o hearty_a contrition_n we_o may_v steadfast_o bewail_v all_o the_o sin_n and_o offence_n of_o our_o past-live_n increase_v our_o sorrow_n and_o detestation_n of_o they_o still_o more_o and_o more_o remove_v far_o from_o we_o all_o security_n and_o presumption_n impenitence_n and_o unbelief_n and_o all_o the_o sad_a remain_n of_o apostasy_n and_o disobedience_n and_o if_o it_o be_v thy_o gracious_a pleasure_n deliver_v we_o from_o temporal_a punishment_n however_o from_o eternal_a death_n but_o since_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n whilst_o we_o continue_v in_o the_o way_n of_o sin_n and_o irreligion_n which_o lead_v to_o hell_n and_o damnation_n let_v the_o sense_n of_o our_o vileness_n prevail_v with_o we_o to_o forsake_v and_o abandon_v all_o our_o sin_n so_o that_o we_o may_v never_o return_v to_o they_o again_o with_o any_o consent_n delight_n or_o approbation_n forgive_v we_o pray_v thou_o whatever_o we_o have_v do_v speak_v or_o think_v amiss_o bury_v all_o our_o iniquity_n in_o the_o bottomless_a ocean_n of_o thy_o own_o mercy_n and_o forgetfulness_n and_o our_o saviour_n blood_n and_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o his_o infinite_a merit_n deliver_v we_o from_o the_o gild_n and_o pollution_n the_o dominion_n and_o punishment_n of_o all_o our_o offence_n lift_v up_o our_o heart_n we_o pray_v thou_o above_o all_o the_o little_a and_o empty_a yet_o allure_a trifle_n of_o this_o vain_a and_o transitory_a world_n affect_v our_o soul_n with_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a sense_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o dependence_n upon_o thou_o restore_v and_o renew_v in_o we_o that_o health_n and_o comfort_n joy_n and_o peace_n freedom_n and_o strength_n knowledge_n and_o integrity_n by_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o second_o adam_n which_o we_o forfeit_v and_o lose_v by_o the_o fall_n and_o disobedience_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n improve_v and_o cherish_v still_o more_o and_o more_o those_o holy_a resolution_n of_o growth_n and_o perseverance_n in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n that_o neither_o life_n nor_o death_n good_a report_n nor_o bad_a report_n may_v obstruct_v our_o obedience_n nor_o separate_v we_o from_o thy_o love_n conduct_v we_o safe_o through_o all_o the_o change_n and_o variety_n of_o this_o troublesome_a life_n in_o peace_n and_o safety_n and_o dispose_v and_o qualify_v we_o with_o such_o a_o holy_a and_o innocent_a frame_n and_o temper_v of_o mind_n and_o spirit_n that_o we_o may_v live_v with_o and_o enjoy_v thou_o for_o ever_o send_v forth_o thy_o light_n and_o thy_o truth_n and_o enlighten_v we_o beseech_v thou_o all_o the_o dark_a corner_n of_o the_o earth_n with_o the_o bright_a beam_n of_o thy_o glorious_a gospel_n bless_v more_o especial_o all_o estate_n and_o condition_n of_o man_n in_o the_o communion_n of_o thy_o holy_a catholic_a church_n but_o we_o entreat_v thou_o more_o particular_o for_o the_o increase_n of_o true_a wisdom_n and_o godliness_n in_o the_o church_n of_o these_o kingdom_n we_o confess_v o_o lord_n thou_o may_v just_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n from_o we_o and_o give_v it_o to_o a_o people_n more_o deserve_v than_o we_o but_o as_o thou_o have_v be_v please_v to_o magnify_v thy_o mercy_n hitherto_o in_o the_o wonderful_a defence_n of_o our_o person_n religion_n and_o government_n notwithstanding_o the_o malicious_a design_n and_o wicked_a contrivance_n of_o those_o fierce_a fiery_a and_o politic_a spirit_n who_o have_v ill_o will_v at_o our_o zion_n so_o continue_v we_o beseech_v thou_o the_o present_a establishment_n in_o church_n and_o state_n with_o a_o blessing_n upon_o both_o to_o we_o and_o our_o posterity_n for_o ever_o remember_v not_o against_o we_o our_o manifold_a provocation_n neither_o suffer_v the_o plague_n of_o atheism_n and_o apostasy_n heresy_n and_o schism_n sedition_n and_o rebellion_n to_o shake_v the_o foundation_n or_o interrupt_v the_o public_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o this_o excellent_a government_n but_o unite_v we_o all_o to_o thyself_o in_o the_o bond_n of_o true_a faith_n and_o hope_n and_o in_o brotherly_a love_n and_o charity_n one_o to_o another_o to_o this_o end_n we_o entreat_v thou_o for_o the_o health_n and_o
to_o yourself_o but_o transmit_v a_o blessing_n with_o a_o plentiful_a estate_n to_o your_o hopeful_a posterity_n and_o now_o my_o most_o kind_a and_o respective_a parishioner_n for_o who_o this_o small_a practical_a discourse_n be_v chief_o intend_v you_o be_v not_o insensible_a of_o the_o occasion_n of_o my_o removal_n from_o you_o and_o the_o inconvenience_n which_o i_o then_o suffer_v by_o it_o which_o i_o be_o now_o unwilling_a to_o repeat_v save_v that_o i_o do_v unfeigned_o pardon_v the_o unhappy_a instrument_n of_o it_o and_o though_o i_o hope_v my_o pastoral_n care_n and_o affection_n for_o you_o in_o my_o absence_n do_v not_o fall_v much_o short_a of_o my_o obligation_n yet_o because_o i_o can_v not_o personal_o discharge_v my_o duty_n i_o then_o resolve_v to_o compose_v this_o treatise_n chief_o for_o your_o use_n and_o do_v now_o present_v it_o to_o your_o candid_a acceptance_n wherein_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o remind_n you_o of_o those_o truth_n which_o i_o have_v former_o teach_v and_o wherein_o i_o hope_v you_o be_v now_o establish_v whereunto_o i_o have_v add_v some_o form_n of_o prayer_n for_o the_o benefit_n of_o private_a person_n and_o family_n which_o i_o hearty_o beg_v not_o only_o for_o my_o satisfaction_n but_o your_o own_o that_o you_o will_v sincere_o fervent_o and_o constant_o make_v use_n of_o morning_n and_o evening_n both_o with_o your_o family_n and_o in_o your_o closet_n yet_o so_o that_o when_o opportunitie_n present_a you_o do_v not_o neglect_v the_o more_o solemn_a and_o public_a service_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o wilful_a omission_n of_o this_o important_a and_o necessary_a duty_n of_o religion_n as_o it_o be_v high_o dishonourable_a to_o god_n a_o scandal_n to_o our_o holy_a profession_n and_o of_o very_o dangerous_a and_o damnable_a consequence_n to_o all_o but_o to_o master_n of_o family_n especial_o who_o have_v the_o chief_a and_o immediate_a charge_n of_o and_o inspection_n over_o the_o rest_n so_o if_o it_o be_v sincere_o and_o devout_o perform_v this_o will_v entitle_v you_o to_o and_o qualify_v you_o not_o only_o for_o the_o comfort_n and_o blessing_n of_o this_o but_o a_o future_a and_o better_a life_n nor_o have_v i_o the_o least_o cause_n to_o doubt_n but_o that_o my_o well_o mean_v endeavour_n herein_o will_v meet_v with_o a_o ready_a and_o kind_a acceptance_n from_o you_o especial_o and_o may_v your_o hearty_a compliance_n with_o the_o truth_n and_o duty_n herein_o recommend_v bring_v you_o by_o degree_n to_o the_o perfect_a knowledge_n and_o practice_n of_o true_a wisdom_n and_o holiness_n and_o make_v you_o abound_v still_o more_o and_o more_o in_o all_o the_o virtue_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o inner-man_n to_o the_o praise_n and_o glory_n of_o our_o infinite_a creator_n and_o redeemer_n this_o discourse_n i_o hope_v will_v prove_v so_o agreeable_a to_o the_o primitive_a institution_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n that_o the_o excellency_n and_o vsefulness_n thereof_o as_o the_o title_n import_v be_v in_o a_o great_a measure_n represent_v both_o in_o its_o principle_n and_o practice_n a_o religion_n which_o show_v the_o dignity_n of_o christ_n person_n the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o merit_n and_o the_o faithful_a administration_n of_o his_o office_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o he_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n a_o religion_n which_o above_o all_o thing_n teach_v we_o to_o be_v godly_a and_o honest_a pure_a and_o peaceable_a and_o to_o abound_v in_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o piety_n justice_n charity_n sobriety_n loyalty_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o these_o without_o partiality_n without_o hypocrisy_n and_o herein_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o be_v serious_a and_o practical_a rather_o than_o make_v use_n of_o any_o vain_a glorious_a digression_n of_o wit_n and_o eloquence_n and_o have_v not_o fail_v to_o beg_v the_o assistance_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o holy_a spirit_n to_o direct_v i_o in_o the_o composure_n beside_o the_o private_a satisfaction_n i_o have_v experience_v already_o and_o the_o benefit_n which_o i_o hope_v you_o will_v reap_v by_o it_o will_v not_o only_o compensate_a all_o the_o hard_a measure_n i_o can_v meet_v with_o but_o sufficient_o countervail_v all_o my_o pain_n and_o fatigue_n herein_o nor_o be_o i_o concern_v for_o any_o more_o in_o this_o world_n then_o to_o discharge_v the_o duty_n of_o my_o call_v with_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o leave_v behind_o i_o a_o good_a example_n i_o have_v not_o much_o trouble_v my_o reader_n with_o the_o quotation_n of_o those_o author_n i_o have_v make_v use_n of_o and_o the_o fault_n which_o have_v escape_v the_o press_n be_v neither_o very_a many_o nor_o material_a yet_o there_o be_v some_o which_o i_o desire_v he_o will_v either_o candid_o censure_n or_o correct_v and_o now_o let_v we_o all_o endeavour_n as_o we_o be_v oblige_v by_o the_o many_o powerful_a motive_n of_o duty_n and_o interest_n to_o adorn_v this_o most_o excellent_a religion_n of_o the_o holy_a and_o eternal_a jesus_n by_o our_o unshaken_a faith_n in_o its_o principle_n and_o hearty_a compliance_n with_o all_o its_o just_a and_o reasonable_a command_n and_o constitution_n whatsoever_o so_o that_o we_o may_v reap_v in_o this_o world_n satisfaction_n and_o peace_n of_o mind_n and_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v life_n everlasting_a and_o if_o this_o discourse_n now_o that_o it_o be_v make_v public_a may_v any_o way_n conduce_v to_o the_o magnify_v of_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o interest_n of_o his_o church_n which_o be_v the_o argument_n of_o it_o i_o shall_v return_v he_o most_o hearty_a and_o unfeigned_a thanks_o for_o the_o success_n and_o my_o friend_n for_o the_o encouragement_n in_o the_o publication_n now_o to_o god_n merciful_a guidance_n protection_n and_o blessing_n i_o commit_v you_o and_o as_o the_o assistance_n of_o your_o prayer_n to_o enable_v i_o the_o better_a to_o discharge_v my_o duty_n in_o the_o ministerial_a office_n be_v not_o the_o least_o part_n of_o my_o happiness_n for_o the_o duty_n of_o minister_n and_o people_n be_v reciprocal_a so_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o it_o will_v be_v comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n to_o you_o to_o have_v this_o assurance_n from_o i_o that_o i_o be_o in_o all_o sincerity_n your_o true_o affectionate_a pastor_n and_o faithful_a servant_n in_o christ_n s._n k._n york_n january_n 23._o 1685_o 6._o the_o excellency_n and_o usefulness_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n etc._n etc._n the_o introduction_n the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n be_v just_o prefer_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o any_o other_o religion_n or_o institution_n in_o the_o world_n not_o only_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o external_a evidence_n which_o we_o have_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o and_o the_o divine_a authority_n of_o its_o doctrine_n but_o likewise_o as_o to_o those_o internal_a excellency_n which_o no_o other_o religion_n can_v pretend_v to_o for_o all_o the_o principle_n and_o precept_n and_o duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o only_o most_o excellent_a and_o ravish_a in_o themselves_o but_o high_o advantageous_a and_o beneficial_a to_o we_o and_o so_o calculate_v to_o our_o nature_n on_o purpose_n as_o to_o make_v we_o wise_a and_o better_o holy_a and_o virtuous_a here_o and_o eternal_o glorious_a hereafter_o it_o be_v too_o obvious_a that_o the_o whole_a race_n of_o mankind_n by_o the_o fall_n and_o defection_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n in_o violate_v the_o first_o covenant_n have_v not_o only_o obscure_v the_o light_n of_o reason_n and_o divine_a knowledge_n whereby_o they_o may_v perfect_o have_v understand_v their_o duty_n both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n but_o have_v so_o deprave_v their_o will_n and_o impair_v their_o strength_n that_o such_o a_o impotency_n have_v seize_v our_o faculty_n both_o as_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o the_o power_n of_o perform_v it_o that_o we_o have_v now_o the_o great_a want_n imaginable_a as_o of_o a_o clear_a light_n to_o discover_v our_o duty_n to_o we_o with_o great_a certainty_n whereby_o we_o may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o good_a and_o acceptable_a will_n of_o god_n so_o of_o more_o powerful_a encouragement_n and_o assistance_n that_o by_o the_o gracious_a influence_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o conduct_v our_o life_n in_o a_o sincere_a and_o steadfast_a conformity_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o wisdom_n and_o to_o this_o end_n god_n almighty_n be_v please_v to_o institute_v the_o law_n of_o moses_n as_o a_o more_o perfect_a rule_n and_o transcript_n of_o our_o obedience_n than_o that_o of_o nature_n as_o now_o deprave_v and_o write_v it_o himself_o in_o table_n of_o stone_n that_o it_o may_v last_v the_o long_o yet_o this_o law_n in_o process_n of_o time_n be_v so_o falsify_v and_o corrupt_v by_o the_o erroneous_a and_o incongruous_a interpretation_n and_o false_a gloss_n of_o the_o jewish_a
doctor_n that_o thereby_o it_o become_v so_o impracticable_a and_o obscure_a that_o it_o be_v neither_o obey_v nor_o understand_v but_o because_o mankind_n shall_v not_o be_v leave_v for_o ever_o destitute_a of_o a_o suitable_a and_o sufficient_a remedy_n to_o repair_v those_o miserable_a defect_n which_o we_o have_v contract_v by_o our_o sin_n and_o disobedience_n nor_o of_o reasonable_a assistance_n to_o buoy_v we_o up_o and_o support_v we_o under_o the_o temptation_n and_o pressure_n of_o a_o calamitous_a world_n and_o at_o last_o by_o the_o save_a method_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o bring_v we_o to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o glory_n god_n be_v please_v for_o several_a reason_n best_o know_v to_o himself_o in_o this_o last_o period_n of_o the_o world_n when_o all_o other_o mean_n and_o method_n prove_v ineffectual_a to_o extol_v and_o magnify_v his_o mercy_n in_o send_v his_o own_o son_n and_o by_o a_o clear_a and_o more_o perfect_a revelation_n of_o his_o will_n to_o mankind_n 1.10_o 2_o tim._n 1.10_o which_o he_o determine_v from_o all_o eternity_n have_v now_o bring_v life_n and_o immortality_n to_o light_n through_o the_o gospel_n which_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o term_n appropriate_v to_o signify_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o our_o salvation_n purchase_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n this_o be_v the_o subject_a of_o the_o angel_n song_n to_o the_o shepherd_n 2.10_o luke_n 2.10_o the_o desire_n and_o happiness_n of_o all_o nation_n god_n manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n to_o concilate_v the_o difference_n and_o make_v up_o the_o breach_n between_o offend_a man_n and_o a_o offend_a god_n to_o rescue_v we_o from_o the_o power_n of_o our_o sin_n by_o his_o grace_n and_o from_o the_o punishment_n of_o they_o by_o his_o blood_n and_o that_o by_o the_o belief_n &_o practice_n of_o this_o most_o excellent_a holy_a and_o innocent_a religion_n all_o his_o sincere_a proselyte_n may_v become_v holy_a here_o and_o happy_a eternal_o and_o this_o be_v that_o religion_n which_o by_o god_n assistance_n i_o design_v to_o make_v the_o subject_a of_o my_o ensue_a discourse_n but_o that_o we_o may_v proceed_v with_o some_o competent_a assurance_n in_o a_o business_n of_o so_o great_a importance_n i_o shall_v premise_v something_o by_o way_n of_o introduction_n concern_v the_o truth_n and_o excellency_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n represent_v the_o truth_n and_o excellency_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n full_o represent_v and_o though_o it_o will_v be_v needless_a to_o multiply_v argument_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o a_o truth_n which_o have_v be_v so_o general_o own_a yet_o these_o follow_a topic_n may_v prove_v of_o considerable_a advantage_n to_o illustrate_v and_o recommend_v this_o admirable_a doctrine_n to_o the_o serious_a and_o impartial_a considerer_n and_o 1_o god_n the_o father_n have_v testify_v the_o truth_n of_o it_o from_o heaven_n by_o a_o audible_a voice_n 3.17_o by_o god_n own_o testimony_n mat._n 3.17_o this_o be_v my_o belove_a sâ—n_n in_o who_o i_o be_o well_o please_v and_o have_v confirm_v it_o by_o the_o miraculous_a and_o visible_a descent_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n a_o double_a sensible_a evidence_n three_o time_n repeat_v which_o be_v the_o strong_a and_o most_o convictive_a demonstration_n our_o humane_a nature_n be_v capable_a of_o 2_o all_o the_o prophecy_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n concern_v christ_n the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n he_o by_o fulfil_v of_o all_o the_o prophecy_n concern_v he_o as_o to_o all_o the_o punctuality_n of_o his_o life_n death_n resurrection_n and_o ascension_n and_o every_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n when_o where_o and_o how_o he_o shall_v be_v manifest_v have_v their_o completion_n in_o he_o so_o that_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o title_n or_o jota_n fail_v concern_v he_o from_o the_o first_o instant_n of_o his_o conception_n to_o the_o last_o period_n of_o his_o glorification_n 3_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o excellent_a doctrine_n which_o he_o deliver_v miracle_n by_o miracle_n be_v confirm_v by_o real_a &_o inexceptionable_a miracle_n such_o as_o neither_o the_o devil_n nor_o any_o of_o his_o agent_n either_o sorcerer_n or_o magician_n be_v able_a to_o counterfeit_v and_o this_o evidence_n by_o miracle_n be_v necessary_a for_o the_o conviction_n of_o the_o jew_n who_o have_v receive_v their_o law_n by_o sign_n and_o wonder_n from_o heaven_n nor_o can_v it_o be_v imagine_v they_o will_v lay_v aside_o their_o own_o or_o admit_v of_o any_o other_o institution_n how_o specious_a and_o excellent_a soever_o unless_o it_o be_v confirm_v and_o recommend_v by_o as_o powerful_a argument_n and_o demonstration_n as_o the_o former_a now_o the_o miracle_n which_o be_v do_v by_o our_o bless_a saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n can_v be_v no_o less_o than_o the_o product_n of_o a_o omnipotent_a arm_n either_o as_o to_o the_o thing_n themselves_o or_o the_o manner_n of_o produce_v they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v never_o do_v by_o any_o finite_a creature_n either_o before_o or_o since_o to_o instance_n in_o some_o particular_n as_o in_o raise_v the_o dead_a body_n of_o lazarus_n 11._o john_n 11._o the_o restore_v he_o to_o life_n and_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o his_o faculty_n after_o he_o have_v lay_v four_o day_n in_o the_o grave_a the_o cure_v the_o blind_a the_o lame_a and_o the_o sick_a and_o disease_v not_o only_o without_o and_o above_o but_o even_o contrary_a to_o mean_n the_o feed_n of_o so_o many_o thousand_o of_o man_n and_o woman_n 21._o matt._n 14.19_o 21._o with_o a_o few_o loaf_n and_o some_o small_a fish_n even_o to_o satiety_n beside_o the_o surplusage_n of_o several_a basket_n full_a 2._o john_n 2._o the_o turn_n of_o water_n into_o wine_n and_o that_o far_o more_o excellent_a than_o can_v be_v produce_v by_o the_o most_o generous_a grape_n 5._o act_n 5._o the_o sudden_a death_n of_o ananias_n and_o saphira_n at_o the_o apostle_n word_n for_o lie_v to_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n 9_o act_n 9_o the_o miraculous_a conversion_n of_o st._n paul_n who_o in_o a_o few_o day_n far_o beyond_o any_o metamorphosis_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o poet_n be_v change_v from_o a_o malicious_a virulent_a and_o fierce_a persecutor_n of_o christian_n and_o christianity_n to_o be_v a_o zealous_a professor_n of_o this_o excellent_a religion_n and_o at_o last_o testify_v the_o truth_n of_o it_o after_o he_o have_v suffer_v many_o year_n persecution_n for_o it_o by_o die_v its_o martyr_n and_o all_o these_o and_o many_o other_o miracle_n which_o will_v be_v endless_a to_o repeat_v for_o the_o whole_a life_n of_o our_o saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n be_v a_o continual_a series_n of_o miraculous_a achievement_n be_v not_o do_v clancular_o in_o a_o blind_a corner_n of_o the_o world_n but_o open_o and_o visible_o every_o where_n about_o judaea_n in_o the_o temple_n synagogue_n and_o all_o public_a place_n insomuch_o that_o his_o profess_a enemy_n be_v convince_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o it_o though_o prejudice_n and_o passion_n have_v prevail_v so_o with_o they_o that_o they_o be_v unwilling_a to_o comply_v with_o it_o beside_o there_o be_v something_o of_o piety_n and_o and_o charity_n in_o all_o the_o miracle_n which_o our_o saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n do_v for_o they_o be_v of_o special_a use_n and_o advantage_n either_o for_o the_o cure_n of_o man_n body_n and_o the_o conversion_n of_o their_o soul_n or_o the_o promote_a of_o god_n glory_n in_o the_o establishment_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n all_o which_o omnipotent_a production_n be_v not_o only_o a_o most_o certain_a and_o undeniable_a evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o our_o saviour_n doctrine_n for_o the_o divine_a providence_n will_v not_o suffer_v so_o many_o miracle_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o a_o superstitious_a and_o erroneous_a opinion_n but_o of_o the_o power_n of_o his_o divinity_n and_o that_o he_o be_v the_o true_a messiah_n the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n which_o be_v promise_v by_o god_n predict_v by_o the_o prophet_n and_o be_v already_o come_v to_o accomplish_v the_o great_a work_n and_o business_n of_o our_o redemption_n 4_o there_o be_v never_o any_o religion_n but_o this_o neither_o mahometism_n paganism_n etc._n etc._n world_n by_o the_o mean_n and_o manner_n of_o its_o establishment_n in_o the_o world_n that_o can_v ever_o be_v propagate_v by_o any_o other_o mean_n than_o either_o force_n or_o violence_n or_o by_o indulge_v its_o votary_n in_o a_o sensual_a and_o brutish_a liberty_n which_o may_v influence_n their_o appetite_n and_o affection_n into_o a_o sinful_a and_o slavish_a compliance_n with_o it_o but_o our_o heavenly_a lawgiver_n have_v recommend_v the_o christian_a religion_n to_o our_o belief_n and_o practice_n by_o other_o motive_n and_o credential_n and_o have_v settle_v it_o in_o most_o of_o the_o know_a part_n of_o the_o world_n
by_o other_o mean_n and_o method_n for_o a_o few_o day_n before_o his_o ascension_n into_o heaven_n he_o give_v commission_n to_o 20._o matt._n 28.19_o 20._o and_o invest_v his_o apostle_n and_o disciple_n with_o power_n and_o inspire_v they_o with_o ability_n to_o preach_v this_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n to_o and_o propagate_v it_o in_o the_o world_n and_o this_o be_v not_o the_o least_o miracle_n in_o it_o that_o a_o few_o person_n of_o the_o low_a extract_n slender_a education_n and_o arm_v with_o no_o external_a power_n the_o most_o of_o they_o be_v poor_a mechanic_n as_o tent-maker_n carpenter_n fisherman_n and_o such_o like_a shall_v be_v able_a to_o withstand_v all_o the_o authority_n wit_n learning_n policy_n and_o eloquence_n of_o the_o great_a monarch_n politician_n and_o philosopher_n on_o earth_n and_o all_o the_o devil_n and_o damn_a spirit_n in_o hell_n which_o be_v combine_v against_o they_o and_o in_o despite_n of_o malice_n itself_o to_o establish_v a_o religion_n which_o do_v so_o much_o check_v and_o control_v the_o ambition_n interest_n pleasure_n and_o appetite_n of_o the_o great_a prince_n and_o their_o adherent_n and_o be_v so_o direct_o opposite_a to_o the_o then_o temper_v and_o inclination_n of_o mankind_n that_o they_o must_v offer_v violence_n to_o their_o dear_a lust_n and_o deny_v themselves_o the_o sensual_a enjoyment_n of_o their_o most_o ravish_a and_o transport_v pleasure_n ere_o they_o can_v become_v proselyte_n to_o it_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o all_o these_o obstacle_n the_o apostle_n and_o disciple_n of_o our_o lord_n have_v wonderful_a success_n in_o establish_v the_o gospel_n triumph_v over_o and_o trample_v upon_o the_o great_a opposition_n and_o do_v defend_v it_o and_o its_o excellent_a author_n with_o the_o high_a manifestation_n of_o zeal_n and_o integrity_n though_o continual_a reproach_n and_o contumely_n rack_n and_o prison_n flame_n and_o martyrdom_n do_v await_v they_o in_o every_o place_n where_o they_o come_v for_o we_o have_v a_o certain_a account_n from_o ecclesiastical_a history_n that_o eleven_o of_o the_o twelve_o apostle_n and_o many_o thousand_o of_o the_o primitive_a christian_n suffer_v violent_a death_n by_o the_o hand_n of_o those_o who_o persecute_v they_o mere_o for_o their_o religion_n and_o what_o rational_a motive_n can_v carry_v they_o through_o such_o a_o hazardous_a employment_n that_o christian_n alone_o shall_v seem_v so_o fond_a of_o suffering_n that_o they_o forget_v humanity_n itself_o endure_v torment_n and_o abide_v the_o flame_n not_o only_o with_o patience_n and_o magnanimity_n but_o with_o joy_n for_o though_o this_o christian_a courage_n be_v look_v on_o by_o the_o most_o to_o be_v either_o the_o folly_n or_o frenzy_n of_o a_o distemper_a brain_n yet_o doubtless_o it_o can_v be_v no_o less_o than_o the_o absolute_a conviction_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o certainty_n of_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o deliver_v with_o a_o comfortable_a prospect_n of_o those_o inconceivable_a reward_n which_o shall_v await_v they_o in_o another_o world_n thus_o christianity_n have_v be_v always_o hitherto_o and_o shall_v be_v ever_o propagate_v by_o argument_n rather_o than_o arm_n by_o submission_n and_o suffering_n rather_o than_o force_v and_o violence_n and_o have_v far_o beyond_o all_o humane_a conceit_n be_v attend_v with_o such_o wonderful_a succcess_n and_o prevalency_n without_o any_o kind_n of_o power_n or_o earthly_a authority_n to_o back_o it_o and_o not_o so_o much_o as_o one_o sword_n except_o that_o of_o st._n peter_n 53._o matth._n 27.52_o 53._o for_o which_o our_o bless_a saviour_n severe_o reprove_v he_o have_v be_v draw_v in_o the_o defence_n of_o it_o insomuch_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o thing_n but_o truth_n itself_o which_o have_v a_o omnipotent_a and_o overrule_a force_n in_o it_o can_v by_o such_o weak_a and_o improbable_a mean_n and_o method_n have_v so_o soon_o subdue_v mankind_n to_o the_o faith_n and_o obtain_v a_o victory_n over_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n in_o so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o the_o world_n and_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n our_o religion_n have_v not_o only_o captivate_v a_o few_o of_o the_o mean_a sort_n but_o the_o great_a of_o all_o rank_n and_o degree_n even_o king_n and_o emperor_n have_v submit_v to_o christ_n sceptre_n and_o many_o of_o they_o have_v become_v nurse_v father_n of_o his_o church_n the_o great_a philosopher_n orator_n rhetorician_n etc._n etc._n such_o be_v justin_n martyr_n athenagoras_n tertullian_n origen_n clemens_n alexandrinus_n and_o many_o other_o who_o neither_o want_v wit_n learning_n eloquence_n nor_o authority_n to_o defend_v and_o maintain_v their_o heathenish_a principle_n and_o opinion_n yet_o become_v proselyte_n to_o the_o christian_a faith_n and_o zealous_a preacher_n and_o defender_n of_o it_o with_o their_o very_a life_n and_o fortune_n and_o to_o our_o great_a comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n our_o religion_n ride_v on_o prosperous_o still_o to_o conquer_v nation_n far_o remote_a and_o there_o have_v be_v few_o age_n since_o our_o saviour_n exhibition_n in_o the_o flesh_n wherein_o the_o boundary_n of_o his_o church_n have_v not_o be_v enlarge_v with_o new_a production_n 5_o the_o truth_n and_o excellency_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n be_v evict_v and_o confirm_v etc._n by_o the_o miraculous_a effusion_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n upon_o the_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n by_o the_o miraculous_a effusion_n and_o gracious_a influence_n of_o god_n holy_a and_o bless_a spirit_n according_a to_o christ_n promise_n concern_v it_o not_o only_o on_o the_o day_n of_o pentecost_n but_o in_o many_o thousand_o instance_n beside_o to_o the_o wonder_n and_o astonishment_n of_o all_o beholder_n and_o though_o the_o most_o of_o the_o apostle_n and_o disciple_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v man_n of_o very_o obscure_a fortune_n mean_a capacity_n as_o i_o hint_v before_o and_o altogether_o unskile_v in_o humane_a learning_n yet_o they_o be_v furnish_v in_o a_o moment_n with_o such_o a_o extraordinary_a measure_n of_o inspire_a wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n 10.44_o act_n 2.2_o etc._n etc._n act_v 10.44_o that_o the_o great_a doctor_n among_o the_o the_o jew_n and_o philosopher_n among_o the_o gentile_n stand_v in_o a_o maze_n at_o they_o be_v baffle_v and_o overcome_v by_o the_o dint_n of_o their_o argument_n and_o afterward_o become_v zealous_a champion_n for_o the_o defence_n and_o active_a instrument_n in_o the_o propagation_n of_o the_o gospel_n all_o which_o gift_n be_v bestow_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o their_o perfect_a guidance_n and_o instruction_n for_o their_o support_n and_o comfort_n in_o the_o great_a temptation_n and_o pressure_n which_o they_o undergo_v and_o to_o enable_v they_o to_o convince_v the_o obstinate_a and_o unbelieving_a jew_n and_o gentile_n of_o their_o legal_a and_o heathenish_a superstition_n and_o to_o convert_v they_o from_o their_o sin_n and_o error_n to_o the_o belief_n and_o practice_n of_o this_o excellent_a religigion_n of_o the_o holy_a and_o eternal_a jesus_n 6_o upon_o the_o first_o publish_v and_o promulgation_n of_o the_o gospel_n world_n by_o silence_v the_o heathen_a oracle_n at_o our_o saviour_n come_v into_o the_o world_n all_o the_o heathen_a oracle_n be_v silence_v cleombrotus_fw-la demetrius_n etc._n etc._n as_o plutarch_n relate_v though_o they_o have_v be_v former_o very_o zealous_a champion_n for_o they_o yet_o at_o christ_n come_v in_o the_o flesh_n they_o neither_o can_v nor_o dare_v speak_v one_o word_n in_o the_o defence_n of_o they_o ablata_fw-la est_fw-la pythii_n vox_fw-la haud_fw-la revocabilis_fw-la ulli_fw-la temporibus_fw-la longis_fw-la eternim_n jam_fw-la cessit_fw-la apollo_n clavibus_fw-la occlusus_fw-la silet_fw-la ergo_fw-la ritè_fw-la peractis_fw-la discedens_fw-la patriae_fw-la redeas_fw-la ad_fw-la lumina_fw-la sacris_fw-la porphyr_n ut_fw-la citatur_fw-la lib._n 5._o cap._n 8._o eus_n de_fw-fr preparat_fw-la evangelicâ_fw-la vltima_fw-la cumaei_n venit_fw-la jam_fw-la carminis_fw-la aetas_fw-la magnus_fw-la ab_fw-la integro_fw-la seclorum_fw-la nascitur_fw-la ordo_fw-la virg._n eccl._n sibyl_n oracle_n than_o draw_v their_o last_o breath_n and_o in_o they_o all_o other_o on_o which_o the_o same_o poet_n sweet_o jam_fw-la redit_fw-la &_o virgo_fw-la redeunt_fw-la saturnia_fw-la regna_fw-la jam_fw-la nova_fw-la progeny_n coelo_fw-la demittitur_fw-la alto_fw-mi and_o the_o devil_n himself_o who_o be_v the_o father_n and_o founder_n of_o all_o those_o illusive_a dream_n and_o false_a prophecy_n receive_v a_o deadly_a blow_n so_o that_o not_o only_a christ_n himself_o have_v obtain_v a_o absolute_a victory_n over_o he_o but_o all_o sincere_a christian_n of_o which_o more_o full_o afterward_o through_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o grace_n be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n over_o he_o and_o all_o his_o agent_n 7_o the_o christian_a religion_n in_o the_o new_a â—_o omnia_fw-la quae_fw-la scriptae_fw-la sunt_fw-la ad_fw-la unum_fw-la christum_fw-la referuntur_fw-la nec_fw-la saepit_fw-la vetâ—â—_n scripturae_fw-la nisi_fw-la christus_fw-la in_o ea_fw-la intelligatur_fw-la aug._n in_o ps_n 51._o id._n in_o
never_o thirst_v if_o we_o be_v naked_a he_o will_v clothe_v we_o with_o the_o robe_n of_o his_o virtue_n and_o the_o garment_n of_o his_o righteousness_n 27.27_o psal_n 45.8_o gen_n 27.27_o which_o smell_v of_o myrrh_n aloe_n and_o cassia_n and_o be_v like_o the_o smell_n of_o a_o pleasant_a field_n which_o the_o lord_n have_v bless_v if_o we_o be_v simple_a or_o ignorant_a he_o be_v our_o wisdom_n to_o instruct_v we_o if_o we_o be_v sinful_a he_o be_v our_o righteousness_n to_o save_v we_o if_o we_o desire_v to_o be_v holy_a he_o be_v our_o sanctification_n to_o bless_v we_o 3.26_o act_n 3.26_o in_o turn_v we_o away_o from_o our_o iniquity_n 2.14_o tit._n 2.14_o and_o purify_n to_o himself_o a_o peculiar_a people_n zealous_a of_o good_a work_n if_o the_o devil_n tempt_v and_o allure_v we_o to_o sin_n he_o be_v the_o captain_n of_o our_o salvation_n who_o have_v not_o only_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n countermand_v satan_n commission_n but_o dissolve_v his_o authority_n 3.8_o 1_o joh._n 3.8_o now_o as_o all_o sincere_a believer_n be_v thus_o abundant_o supply_v with_o all_o thing_n needful_a and_o convenient_a a_o hundred_o fold_n in_o this_o life_n and_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v life_n everlasting_a 3â—_n luk._n 18_o 3â—_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a all_o the_o pompous_a delight_n of_o this_o visible_a world_n though_o they_o be_v seem_o never_o so_o specious_a or_o profitable_a unless_o they_o be_v sanctify_v to_o we_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n holy_a spirit_n instead_o of_o be_v a_o comfort_n and_o blessing_n they_o will_v become_v our_o plague_n and_o punishment_n in_o like_a manner_n all_o our_o wisdom_n righteousness_n learning_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v not_o derive_v from_o this_o fountain_n and_o purify_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v but_o as_o a_o menstruous_a cloth_n or_o filthy_a rag_n and_o neither_o please_v to_o god_n nor_o beneficial_a to_o ourselves_o as_o may_v be_v instanced_a if_o it_o be_v needful_a in_o many_o particular_n those_o outward_a accomplishment_n may_v indeed_o make_v we_o appear_v great_a but_o can_v never_o make_v we_o good_a they_o may_v puff_n we_o up_o with_o pride_n and_o self-conceit_n but_o they_o seldom_o or_o never_o make_v man_n more_o holy_a and_o virtuous_a 15.5_o john_n 15.5_o without_o christ_n we_o can_v do_v nothing_o but_o by_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o spirit_n we_o be_v enable_v to_o do_v all_o thing_n 9.8_o 2_o cor._n 9.8_o our_o sufficiency_n be_v of_o he_o and_o we_o must_v ascribe_v all_o our_o holy_a performance_n not_o to_o any_o endeavour_n of_o our_o own_o but_o to_o the_o riches_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n and_o whatever_o we_o do_v that_o be_v holy_a or_o virtuous_a it_o be_v no_o more_o we_o but_o christ_n who_o by_o the_o power_n and_o presence_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n dwell_v and_o work_v in_o us._n in_o a_o word_n we_o hold_v all_o that_o we_o have_v in_o capite_fw-la from_o he_o and_o it_o be_v the_o best_a tenure_n too_o we_o be_v his_o by_o purchase_n he_o have_v pay_v a_o dear_a price_n for_o we_o and_o therefore_o how_o dear_a and_o precious_a shall_v he_o be_v to_o we_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o forsake_v all_o and_o follow_v he_o 20._o matth._n 19.27_o 1_o cor._n 6.19_o 20._o this_o be_v the_o most_o effectual_a plea_n against_o satan_n stratagem_n that_o we_o be_v not_o our_o own_o for_o we_o be_v buy_v with_o a_o price_n and_o therefore_o entire_o at_o his_o not_o our_o own_o disposal_n this_o be_v that_o seasonable_a expedient_a which_o will_v vanquish_v this_o and_o all_o other_o enemy_n even_o our_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n god_n and_o man_n in_o the_o same_o person_n 6_o and_o last_o this_o point_n of_o doctrine_n due_o consider_v will_v remind_v we_o of_o the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o other_o man_n as_o well_o as_o ourselves_o have_v god_n set_v such_o a_o inestimable_a value_n upon_o man_n soul_n as_o to_o purchase_v they_o at_o so_o dear_a a_o price_n can_v nothing_o less_o than_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n pay_v a_o sufficient_a ransom_n for_o the_o redemption_n of_o they_o how_o shall_v we_o then_o respect_v honour_n and_o indulge_v christ_n humane_a nature_n in_o the_o poor_a and_o mean_a of_o his_o servant_n and_o since_o good_a have_v be_v please_v to_o think_v we_o worthy_a of_o so_o much_o care_n and_o indulgence_n we_o have_v reason_n to_o use_v all_o possible_a endeavour_n to_o keep_v these_o precious_a jewel_n pure_a and_o unspotted_a both_o in_o ourselves_o and_o other_o have_v we_o contract_v such_o a_o honourable_a alliance_n with_o and_o do_v we_o stand_v so_o near_o relate_v to_o the_o holy_a trinity_n and_o our_o fellow_n christian_n by_o the_o union_n of_o our_o nature_n to_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n how_o then_o shall_v our_o thought_n desire_n disposition_n word_n and_o action_n be_v conformable_a to_o the_o nature_n law_n and_o dignity_n of_o such_o relation_n how_o shall_v we_o be_v afraid_a to_o submit_v to_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v base_a or_o ignoble_a lest_o we_o reflect_v dishonour_n upon_o god_n and_o that_o nature_n of_o we_o which_o he_o have_v so_o much_o dignify_v by_o his_o incarnation_n let_v we_o therefore_o endeavour_n as_o we_o be_v oblige_v both_o in_o duty_n and_o interest_n in_o every_o justance_n and_o circumstance_n of_o our_o life_n to_o be_v and_o to_o do_v good_a to_o avoid_v all_o thing_n evil_a in_o themselves_o and_o of_o evil_a report_n that_o we_o may_v thereby_o glorify_v god_n in_o our_o body_n and_o in_o our_o spirit_n which_o be_v he_o this_o will_v prove_v the_o most_o certain_a expedient_a to_o bring_v this_o excellent_a religion_n of_o the_o holy_a and_o eternal_a jesus_n into_o repute_n and_o credit_n with_o those_o that_o differ_v from_o we_o and_o by_o our_o hearty_a compliance_n with_o all_o its_o reasonable_a constitution_n we_o can_v fail_v both_o of_o the_o present_a and_o future_a reward_n which_o spring_n and_o flow_v from_o it_o thus_o i_o have_v treat_v distinct_o on_o the_o first_o branch_n of_o this_o great_a mystery_n of_o man_n redemption_n and_o herein_o particular_o of_o the_o name_n and_o nature_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o wonderful_a union_n of_o they_o both_o in_o the_o same_o person_n i_o have_v allege_v several_a important_a reason_n why_o the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v god_n why_o he_o shall_v be_v man_n and_o why_o god_n and_o man_n in_o the_o same_o person_n of_o christ_n i_o have_v consider_v those_o special_a advantage_n and_o privilege_n result_v from_o this_o heavenly_a doctrine_n with_o the_o peculiar_a influence_n which_o it_o shall_v have_v upon_o the_o life_n and_o practice_n of_o all_o christian_n god_n almighty_n give_v we_o all_o grace_n so_o to_o believe_v these_o truth_n faithful_o and_o practise_v they_o conscientious_o that_o the_o whole_a frame_n and_o contexture_n of_o our_o life_n may_v be_v true_o conformable_a to_o the_o kingdom_n and_o gospel_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n amen_n chap._n iu._n of_o the_o office_n of_o christ_n in_o general_n by_o discourse_v of_o the_o office_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o administration_n we_o may_v understand_v more_o particular_o the_o great_a end_n and_o design_n of_o our_o saviour_n come_v into_o the_o world_n and_o the_o many_o great_a thing_n which_o he_o have_v do_v and_o suffer_v for_o the_o redemption_n and_o happiness_n of_o lose_a mankind_n the_o name_n of_o christ_n as_o we_o note_v before_o be_v a_o title_n which_o import_v office_n and_o dignity_n office_n the_o name_n christ_n import_v his_o office_n it_o be_v a_o greek_a word_n in_o the_o original_a and_o answer_v to_o the_o hebrew_n messiah_n both_o which_o signify_v our_o anoint_v saviour_n historian_n tell_v we_o that_o it_o be_v a_o ancient_a custom_n in_o the_o easten_a part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o anoint_v their_o public_a officer_n king_n and_o prophet_n especial_o with_o material_a oil_n denote_v and_o symbolise_v thereby_o the_o liberal_a and_o plentiful_a effusion_n of_o extraordinary_a endowment_n such_o as_o may_v qualify_v they_o for_o and_o presignifie_v the_o hopeful_a and_o happy_a success_n of_o their_o administration_n but_o our_o christ_n the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o manage_v that_o great_a and_o important_a office_n of_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n must_v be_v sanctify_v other_o christ_n unction_n differ_v from_o all_o other_o and_o set_v a_o part_n in_o a_o more_o peculiar_a manner_n than_o any_o of_o the_o ancient_n be_v for_o they_o be_v only_o anoint_v with_o material_a oil_n but_o he_o be_v sanctify_v and_o fill_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n they_o be_v set_v apart_o by_o man_n but_o he_o be_v confirm_v by_o the_o father_n in_o this_o office_n they_o be_v invest_v with_o authority_n and_o ability_n