may_v observe_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n word_n be_v a_o infallible_a mark_n whereby_o to_o know_v the_o true_a prophet_n of_o god_n and_o also_o to_o distinguish_v hâ—m_n from_o all_o false_a prophet_n god_n foretell_v his_o people_n that_o false_a prophet_n shall_v come_v among_o they_o for_o their_o trial_n deut._n 13._o but_o how_o shall_v they_o discern_v they_o sure_o by_o their_o doctrine_n for_o though_o they_o show_v wonder_n yet_o if_o their_o doctrine_n tend_v to_o draw_v man_n fâ—om_o the_o true_a god_n to_o idolatry_n they_o be_v false_a prophet_n and_o shall_v die_v when_o our_o saviour_n christ_n be_v ask_v by_o what_o authority_n he_o do_v those_o thing_n luk._n 20.2_o 3._o he_o approve_v his_o authority_n by_o the_o testimony_n of_o john_n who_o bare_a witness_n of_o he_o john_n 1.15_o and_o confirm_v the_o call_n of_o john_n by_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o doctrine_n which_o themselves_o be_v witness_n be_v from_o heaven_n luke_n 20._o ver_fw-la 4_o 5._o hereby_o than_o we_o see_v the_o error_n of_o the_o papist_n who_o teach_v that_o the_o only_a note_n of_o a_o true_a prophet_n be_v to_o confirm_v his_o doctrine_n by_o a_o miracle_n and_o that_o he_o which_o can_v do_v so_o be_v a_o false_a prophet_n but_o this_o note_n of_o difference_n be_v not_o true_a for_o false_a prophet_n may_v confirm_v their_o lie_a vanity_n by_o sign_n and_o wonder_n as_o we_o may_v see_v deut._n 13._o and_o so_o do_v antichrist_n 2._o thess._n 2.9_o the_o six_o argument_n by_o which_o this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v be_v the_o order_n and_o manâ—r_n of_o propound_v it_o to_o the_o church_n and_o it_o stand_v in_o four_o degree_n first_o god_n the_o father_n give_v it_o to_o christ_n the_o mediator_n and_o head_n of_o the_o church_n second_o christ_n give_v it_o to_o a_o angel_n three_o the_o angel_n convey_v it_o to_o john_n the_o apostle_n four_o john_n direct_v and_o assist_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n deliver_v it_o to_o the_o church_n now_o as_o this_o particular_a book_n be_v so_o no_o doubt_n all_o other_o holy_a scripture_n be_v convey_v to_o the_o church_n from_o whence_o we_o may_v observe_v first_o the_o constant_a love_n of_o god_n to_o his_o child_n by_o this_o his_o special_a care_n in_o propound_v and_o deliver_v his_o will_n and_o word_n to_o his_o church_n second_o that_o this_o book_n and_o so_o all_o other_o part_n of_o holy_a scripture_n be_v in_o their_o kind_n most_o perfect_a and_o excellent_a three_o that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n blaspheme_v in_o call_v the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n a_o dead_a letter_n and_o dumb_a judge_n match_v general_a counsel_n with_o it_o for_o authority_n and_o teach_v that_o the_o universal_a consent_n of_o the_o church_n be_v about_o scripture_n fâ—r_v interpretation_n and_o give_v life_n and_o sense_n thereto_o which_o otherwise_o of_o itself_o be_v but_o a_o inky_a letter_n and_o dumb_a word_n verse_n 3._o bless_a be_v they_o which_o read_v and_o they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n and_o keep_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v write_v therein_o for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n here_o be_v the_o seven_o and_o last_o argument_n whereby_o this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v to_o wit_n the_o fruit_n effect_n and_o the_o profit_n which_o come_v of_o it_o even_o true_a happrnesse_n this_o pprophecy_n concern_v the_o present_a and_o future_a state_n of_o the_o church_n the_o read_n and_o hear_v whereof_o join_v with_o careful_a keep_n bring_v with_o it_o true_a blessedness_n that_o be_v fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o life_n everlasting_a in_o this_o argument_n we_o may_v observe_v first_o the_o end_n of_o this_o book_n and_o so_o of_o all_o other_o book_n of_o scripture_n viz._n â—o_o bring_v man_n to_o happiness_n to_o fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o life_n everlasting_a these_o thing_n be_v write_v say_v s._n john_n that_o you_o may_v believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o christ_n and_o so_o believe_v may_v have_v eternal_a life_n john_n 20.31_o again_o he_o declare_v to_o they_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n that_o by_o it_o they_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n the_o father_n and_o with_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ._n 1._o john_n 1.3_o in_o which_o fellowship_n be_v true_a happiness_n christ_n himself_o say_v search_v the_o scripture_n for_o in_o they_o you_o think_v to_o have_v eternal_a life_n john_n 5.39_o and_o in_o this_o they_o differ_v from_o all_o other_o book_n and_o write_n of_o man_n for_o man_n write_n be_v pen_v either_o by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o so_o be_v erroneous_a and_o miss_v the_o end_n of_o true_a happiness_n or_o else_o they_o be_v pen_v by_o they_o which_o have_v direction_n from_o the_o word_n and_o so_o all_o the_o truth_n they_o have_v lead_v to_o true_a happiness_n be_v borrow_v hence_o when_o as_o the_o scripture_n of_o themselves_o do_v direct_o guide_v man_n thither_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o bless_a end_n of_o holy_a scripture_n we_o may_v observe_v first_o that_o the_o opinion_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v damnable_a who_o bar_v the_o people_n of_o god_n from_o read_v and_o hear_v the_o scripture_n in_o their_o vulgar_a tongue_n for_o in_o deprive_v they_o of_o this_o mean_n as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v they_o bar_v they_o of_o their_o salvation_n and_o they_o do_v direct_o cross_v the_o purpose_n of_o s._n john_n who_o do_v therefore_o pronounce_v he_o bless_v that_o shall_v hear_v and_o read_v this_o book_n with_o conscience_n to_o keep_v and_o obey_v it_o that_o he_o may_v allure_v and_o draw_v all_o man_n to_o do_v it_o with_o delight_n second_o we_o be_v hereby_o admonish_v with_o all_o care_n and_o diligence_n to_o read_v and_o meditate_v in_o god_n word_n that_o place_n before_o name_v be_v most_o excellent_a search_v the_o scripture_n john_n 5.39_o even_o as_o we_o will_v search_v for_o gold_n or_o some_o precious_a thing_n which_o we_o will_v fain_o find_v so_o the_o word_n import_v and_o he_o add_v the_o reason_n for_o in_o they_o you_o think_v to_o have_v eternal_a life_n the_o same_o be_v wisdom_n counsel_n prou._n 2.4_o but_o some_o will_v say_v i_o can_v read_v i_o be_v never_o bring_v up_o in_o learning_n and_o therefore_o i_o can_v search_v s._n john_n cut_v off_o his_o excuse_n in_o the_o next_o word_n say_v bless_v he_o be_v also_o which_o bear_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v though_o he_o can_v read_v yet_o if_o he_o hear_v and_o keep_v it_o he_o be_v bless_v here_o then_o iâ—_n the_o duty_n of_o those_o which_o can_v read_v the_o scripture_n they_o must_v procure_v other_o to_o read_v unto_o they_o and_o by_o hear_v and_o keep_v they_o shall_v be_v bless_v three_o by_o this_o scope_n and_o end_n of_o scripture_n we_o must_v learn_v to_o carry_v in_o mind_n this_o plain_a difference_n between_o the_o book_n of_o god_n and_o write_n of_o man_n god_n word_n bring_v a_o man_n which_o keep_v it_o to_o happiness_n but_o man_n write_n of_o themselves_o can_v do_v so_o unless_o they_o have_v light_n from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n if_o this_o distinction_n be_v imprint_v in_o our_o heart_n we_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o delight_v as_o many_o be_v to_o hear_v or_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o god_n mix_v with_o the_o word_n of_o sinful_a man_n special_o in_o the_o public_a ministry_n in_o former_a time_n the_o lord_n forbid_v his_o own_o people_n to_o sow_v their_o field_n with_o mingle_a seed_n 〈◊〉_d to_o make_v they_o garment_n of_o diverse_a thing_n as_o of_o linen_n and_o woollen_a levit._n 19.19_o and_o no_o doubt_n the_o same_o god_n do_v mislike_v that_o the_o pure_a seed_n of_o his_o word_n shall_v be_v mingle_v with_o the_o say_n of_o erroneous_a and_o sinful_a man_n when_o the_o same_o be_v sow_v upon_o the_o furrow_n of_o man_n â—_z second_o in_o this_o seven_o argument_n we_o may_v observe_v the_o right_a manner_n and_o way_n of_o hear_v and_o read_v the_o scripture_n a_o point_n worthy_a all_o serious_a consideration_n iâ—_n stand_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o we_o must_v set_v down_o with_o ourselves_o a_o certain_a end_n why_o we_o read_v and_o hear_v the_o scripture_n which_o be_v that_o we_o may_v attain_v to_o true_a happiness_n stand_v in_o fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o life_n everlasting_a this_o end_n must_v be_v the_o motive_n to_o induce_v we_o to_o hear_v and_o read_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o when_o this_o taâ—es_n place_n in_o our_o heart_n it_o will_v be_v of_o force_n to_o make_v we_o read_v and_o hear_v with_o care_n and_o conscience_n which_o beseem_v god_n word_n second_o we_o must_v keep_v in_o mind_n the_o thing_n we_o read_v or_o hear_v so_o faith_n the_o text_n and_o keep_v the_o thing_n which_o be_v
reveal_v his_o will_n not_o to_o the_o proud_a but_o to_o the_o meek_a and_o lowly_a and_o as_o isaiah_n say_v to_o they_o that_o be_v of_o a_o contrite_a spirit_n isay._n 57.15_o and_o in_o this_o humble_v of_o himself_o a_o man_n must_v renounce_v his_o own_o natural_a wit_n and_o reason_n and_o become_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o even_o a_o fool_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o own_o conceit_n also_o he_o must_v unfeigned_o pray_v to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v reveal_v unto_o he_o his_o truth_n ask_v say_v christ_n and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v you_o even_o 11.13_o the_o holy_a ghost_n unto_o they_o that_o desire_v of_o the_o father_n and_o s._n james_n say_v 1.5_o if_o any_o man_n lack_v wisdom_n let_v he_o ask_v of_o god_n which_o give_v to_o all_o man_n liberal_o second_o after_o preparation_n he_o must_v labour_v to_o know_v thorough_o what_o the_o false_a teacher_n be_v and_o what_o be_v theiâ—_n opinion_n with_o the_o ground_n and_o foundation_n thereof_o wherein_o they_o agree_v and_o wherein_o they_o differ_v from_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n maintain_v by_o the_o church_n for_o it_o be_v a_o foul_a oversight_n to_o misconceive_v the_o state_n of_o the_o adversary_n question_n by_o propound_v it_o otherwise_o than_o they_o hold_v as_o it_o fall_v out_o with_o many_o in_o the_o handle_n of_o controversy_n three_o due_a proof_n must_v be_v make_v whether_o the_o adversary_n doctrine_n be_v of_o man_n or_o of_o god_n this_o be_v god_n commandment_n 1._o john_n 4.1_o prove_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o not_o and_o for_o trial_n hereof_o we_o must_v have_v recourse_n unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n it_o must_v be_v judge_n in_o this_o cause_n isa._n 8._o vers_fw-la 20_o to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n if_o they_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o this_o word_n it_o be_v because_o there_o be_v no_o light_n in_o they_o john_n 5.39_o search_v the_o scripture_n for_o in_o they_o you_o look_v to_o have_v eternal_a life_n and_o they_o be_v they_o which_o testify_v of_o i_o who_o be_v so_o fit_a to_o judge_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n as_o god_n himself_o and_o so_o he_o do_v in_o his_o write_a word_n of_o all_o doctrine_n and_o opinion_n in_o religion_n the_o scripture_n show_v whether_o the_o doctrine_n examine_v be_v direct_o gather_v thence_o and_o by_o just_a consequent_a or_o not_o four_o serious_a consideration_n must_v be_v have_v of_o the_o faith_n and_o live_v of_o the_o teacher_n examine_v for_o a_o false_a teacher_n by_o god_n just_a judgement_n be_v usual_o a_o wicked_a liver_n and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v 1â—_n you_o shall_v know_v they_o by_o their_o fruit_n if_o they_o be_v thorough_o examine_v such_o they_o will_v appear_v howsoever_o for_o a_o time_n they_o may_v blear_v the_o eye_n of_o man_n as_o the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n in_o many_o famous_a heretic_n do_v plain_o declare_v the_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o discovery_n be_v sentence_n give_v in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n the_o church_n here_o give_v out_o a_o sharp_a and_o severe_a sentence_n against_o they_o she_o call_v they_o false_a apostle_n and_o liar_n and_o yet_o she_o sin_v not_o for_o christ_n commend_v she_o for_o it_o though_o to_o rail_v or_o taunt_n can_v beseem_v any_o yet_o magistrate_n and_o minister_n in_o their_o place_n may_v give_v ouâ—_n severe_a speech_n against_o offender_n in_o token_n of_o detestation_n to_o their_o sin_n and_o not_o offend_v thus_o john_n call_v the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n a_o generation_n of_o viper_n matth._n 3.7_o and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n call_v herod_n a_o fox_n luk._n 13.32_o and_o paul_n call_v the_o galatian_n fool_n gal._n 3.1_o and_o in_o this_o place_n the_o church_n call_v these_o false_a teacher_n liar_n which_o be_v very_o much_o for_o therein_o she_o accuse_v they_o of_o three_o thing_n first_o of_o teach_v that_o which_o be_v false_a indeed_o second_o that_o they_o know_v it_o to_o be_v false_a and_o so_o sin_v of_o knowledge_n three_o that_o they_o do_v it_o of_o malice_n with_o intent_n to_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o church_n and_o to_o deceive_v the_o people_n in_o this_o discovery_n use_n we_o may_v observe_v the_o just_a accomplishment_n of_o paul_n prophecy_n acts._n 20.29_o 30._o namely_o that_o there_o shall_v rise_v up_o among_o the_o ephesian_n grievous_a wolf_n and_o man_n speak_v perverse_a thing_n and_o such_o be_v these_o false_a apostle_n who_o after_o examination_n be_v find_v liar_n again_o see_v in_o the_o day_n of_o this_o apostle_n john_n man_n dare_v presume_v to_o claim_v apostolic_a authority_n and_o call_v themselves_o apostle_n when_o they_o be_v not_o no_o marvel_n if_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n six_o hundred_o year_n after_o do_v challenge_v to_o himself_o to_o be_v peter_n successor_n and_o to_o have_v apostolic_a authority_n and_o that_o they_o dare_v now_o avouch_v some_o book_n to_o be_v scripture_n which_o be_v not_o as_o also_o bring_v in_o their_o tradition_n &_o unwritten_a verity_n to_o be_v receive_v and_o obey_v equal_o with_o god_n word_n verse_n 3._o thou_o have_v suffer_v and_o have_v patience_n and_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n have_v labour_v here_o our_o saviour_n christ_n declare_v how_o this_o minister_n and_o church_n of_o ephesus_n oppose_v themselves_o against_o false_a teacher_n after_o their_o discovery_n the_o manner_n we_o shall_v see_v in_o handle_v the_o point_n particular_o as_o they_o lie_v in_o order_n thou_o have_v suffer_v or_o thou_o have_v bear_v a_o burden_n for_o the_o word_n signify_v to_o be_v press_v down_o under_o a_o great_a burden_n this_o burden_n be_v the_o trouble_n which_o false_a apostle_n bring_v upon_o they_o after_o they_o be_v discover_v partly_o by_o open_a affliction_n and_o persecution_n partly_o by_o the_o spread_a of_o their_o heretical_a and_o schismatical_a doctrine_n these_o false_a teacher_n be_v ebion_n cerinthus_n martion_n and_o such_o like_a who_o in_o the_o day_n of_o john_n trouble_v this_o church_n as_o history_n do_v show_v here_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v god_n will_v that_o the_o best_a church_n shall_v be_v trouble_v by_o wicked_a man_n and_o heretical_a teacher_n who_o both_o by_o false_a doctrine_n and_o persecution_n become_v grievous_a burden_n this_o the_o lord_n permit_v for_o weighty_a cause_n i._o that_o true_a believer_n may_v be_v excite_v more_o constant_o to_o embrace_v the_o sincere_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o jude_n 3._o most_o worthy_o exhort_v the_o christian_n in_o his_o time_n to_o fight_v for_o the_o common_a faith_n ii_o that_o professor_n may_v be_v try_v whether_o they_o sound_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o not_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o it_o be_v â—ette_v say_v paul_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v heresy_n in_o the_o church_n that_o they_o which_o be_v sound_a in_o the_o faith_n and_o approve_a may_v â—ee_n know_v iii_o that_o god_n may_v execute_v his_o judgement_n upon_o wicked_a man_n and_o hypocrite_n that_o have_v not_o love_v his_o truth_n reveal_v unto_o they_o 2._o thess._n 2.10_o 11._o god_n give_v they_o up_o to_o strange_a illusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o have_v not_o love_v his_o truth_n for_o many_o know_v the_o word_n that_o love_v it_o not_o this_o must_v teach_v we_o to_o take_v heed_n of_o a_o common_a scandal_n in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v use_n to_o be_v offend_v at_o religion_n because_o there_o be_v in_o the_o church_n schism_n and_o heresy_n which_o come_v not_o from_o the_o gospel_n but_o from_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n who_o sow_v his_o tare_n among_o the_o lord_n wheat_n we_o must_v consider_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n there_o shall_v be_v such_o evil_n in_o his_o church_n and_o therefore_o shall_v labour_v to_o be_v so_o far_o from_o offence_n that_o hereby_o we_o be_v rather_o provoke_v with_o more_o cheerfulness_n and_o courage_n to_o love_n and_o embrace_v religion_n and_o have_v patience_n and_o for_o my_o name_n have_v suffer_v etc._n etc._n here_o be_v set_v down_o the_o deal_n of_o this_o church_n against_o these_o false_a apostle_n in_o all_o their_o persecution_n but_o first_o note_v the_o coherence_n of_o this_o virtue_n with_o the_o former_a thou_o have_v suffer_v trouble_n and_o have_v have_v patience_n quest._n how_o can_v these_o stand_v together_o it_o be_v against_o man_n nature_n in_o trouble_n to_o be_v patient_a for_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n make_v man_n discontent_n and_o to_o fret_v against_o god_n and_o man_n answ._n they_o stand_v not_o by_o nature_n but_o by_o grace_n rom._n 5._o vers_fw-la 4._o tribulation_n bring_v forth_o patience_n namely_o to_o all_o those_o that_o have_v receive_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o to_o they_o god_n give_v the_o spirit_n of_o meekness_n in_o their_o trouble_n shed_v
sign_n or_o rule_v whereto_o he_o will_v conform_v and_o square_v the_o last_o judgement_n second_o whereas_o every_o man_n must_v be_v judge_v that_o be_v save_v or_o condemn_v according_a to_o his_o work_n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o good_a work_n be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n yet_o not_o as_o cause_n thereof_o either_o efficient_a or_o help_v any_o way_n but_o only_o as_o a_o way_n or_o mean_n to_o come_v unto_o salvation_n for_o faith_n be_v necessary_a and_o good_a work_n be_v the_o token_n and_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o be_v necessary_a three_o here_o we_o must_v be_v admonish_v to_o be_v careful_a to_o abound_v in_o good_a work_n not_o to_o win_v heaven_n by_o they_o but_o to_o get_v assurance_n of_o salvation_n in_o ourselves_o and_o these_o good_a work_n be_v the_o do_v of_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n unto_o god_n and_o of_o charity_n unto_o our_o brethren_n even_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n or_o more_o plain_o the_o do_v of_o the_o general_a duty_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o the_o particular_a duty_n of_o a_o man_n calling_n for_o if_o these_o be_v do_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o glory_n proceed_v from_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o our_o brethren_n though_o the_o call_n be_v never_o so_o base_a they_o be_v good_a work_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a this_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o evil_a way_n for_o sin_n be_v the_o mark_n of_o condemnation_n and_o so_o many_o wicked_a work_n as_o we_o commit_v so_o many_o mark_n and_o brand_n do_v we_o set_v upon_o ourselves_o of_o our_o just_a and_o deserve_a condemnation_n unless_o we_o repent_v last_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o there_o be_v degree_n of_o joy_n in_o heaven_n and_o of_o torment_n in_o hell_n for_o judgement_n and_o reward_n go_v according_a to_o man_n work_n and_o therefore_o they_o that_o testify_v their_o faith_n by_o great_a and_o many_o good_a work_n shall_v have_v great_a reward_n they_o that_o testify_v their_o faith_n by_o lesser_a and_o few_o work_n shall_v have_v lesser_a reward_n and_o so_o for_o sin_n the_o more_o heinous_a they_o be_v the_o deep_a condemnation_n they_o do_v procure_v vers._n 24._o and_o to_o you_o i_o say_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatira_n as_o many_o as_o have_v not_o this_o learning_n neither_o have_v know_v the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o speak_v i_o will_v put_v upon_o you_o none_o other_o burden_n 25._o but_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o hold_v fast_o till_o i_o come_v here_o christ_n come_v to_o a_o second_o part_n of_o his_o counsel_n which_o concern_v the_o angel_n and_o the_o better_a part_n of_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n and_o first_o he_o begin_v with_o the_o preface_n of_o this_o counsel_n wherein_o we_o may_v observe_v two_o point_n first_o who_o speak_v second_o to_o who_o he_o speak_v for_o the_o first_o he_o that_o speak_v be_v christ._n i_o say_v hereby_o christ_n challenge_v unto_o himself_o the_o absolute_a and_o all_o sufficient_a authority_n of_o the_o supreme_a doctor_n of_o his_o church_n in_o that_o he_o speak_v in_o his_o own_o name_n whereby_o he_o put_v a_o plain_a difference_n between_o himself_o and_o all_o other_o his_o minister_n either_o prophet_n apostle_n or_o ordinary_a teacher_n for_o they_o must_v not_o propound_v any_o thing_n unto_o god_n people_n in_o their_o own_o name_n but_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ._n but_o christ_n teach_v in_o his_o own_o name_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o divine_a knowledge_n and_o understanding_n that_o iâ—_n reveal_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o thus_o christ_n himself_o speak_v in_o his_o own_o name_n to_o strike_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n and_o the_o better_a part_n thereof_o with_o reverence_n and_o to_o move_v they_o to_o receive_v and_o obey_v the_o counsel_n follow_v consider_v it_o come_v immediate_o from_o christ_n the_o doctor_n of_o the_o church_n ii_o point_n the_o party_n to_o who_o he_o speak_v to_o you_o that_o be_v the_o angel_n and_o the_o better_a part_n of_o this_o church_n for_o so_o christ_n expound_v it_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v though_o first_o he_o say_v in_o general_a to_o you_o that_o be_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatira_n when_o as_o christ_n will_v behave_v himself_o as_o the_o doctor_n and_o chief_a angel_n of_o this_o church_n note_n that_o he_o make_v a_o distinction_n of_o the_o person_n in_o the_o church_n and_o also_o devide_v his_o counsel_n give_v one_o doctrine_n and_o one_o judgement_n to_o one_o part_n and_o a_o diverse_a doctrine_n and_o judgement_n to_o another_o use_n this_o give_v we_o good_a direction_n for_o sundry_a action_n for_o some_o may_v ask_v how_o must_v doctrine_n be_v deliver_v in_o a_o mix_a congregation_n where_o some_o be_v papist_n some_o protestant_n some_o be_v harden_v other_o despair_v answ._n the_o person_n must_v be_v distinguish_v after_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n and_o suitable_a doctrine_n divide_v for_o they_o that_o every_o one_o may_v have_v his_o due_n impenitent_a sinner_n must_v be_v terrify_v and_o threaten_n deliver_v against_o they_o with_o exception_n of_o they_o that_o repent_v comfort_n must_v be_v propound_v and_o apply_v to_o they_o that_o despair_n with_o restraint_n from_o all_o impenitent_a person_n that_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n if_o any_o demand_n more_o particular_o who_o these_o be_v who_o christ_n call_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatyra_n christ_n answer_v direct_o as_o the_o word_n import_v to_o as_o many_o as_o have_v not_o this_o learning_n neither_o have_v know_v the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n where_o christ_n give_v two_o note_n whereby_o to_o discern_v who_o be_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatira_n the_o first_o be_v the_o not_o receive_v or_o maintain_v of_o the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o jezabell_n whereof_o entreaty_n have_v be_v former_o make_v the_o second_o note_n be_v ignorance_n in_o the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n neither_o have_v know_v the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n that_o be_v neither_o have_v acknowledge_v nor_o approve_v the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabell_n which_o be_v the_o deep_a and_o profound_a learning_n as_o themselves_o do_v judge_v in_o this_o observe_v a_o most_o wicked_a practice_n of_o jezabell_n and_o her_o follower_n they_o esteem_v high_o of_o their_o own_o opinion_n call_v they_o profound_a and_o deep_a learning_n but_o for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n in_o it_o there_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n this_o in_o all_o age_n have_v be_v the_o practice_n of_o wicked_a person_n high_o to_o esteem_v their_o own_o conceit_n and_o base_o to_o neglect_v the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o teacher_n of_o the_o jew_n do_v hold_v to_o this_o day_n that_o the_o lord_n give_v to_o moses_n a_o most_o plain_a and_o easy_a law_n which_o he_o deliver_v to_o his_o people_n but_o the_o most_o secret_a and_o profound_a doctrine_n be_v unwritten_a show_v to_o moses_n by_o revelation_n and_o by_o he_o deliver_v to_o the_o priest_n and_o levite_n which_o they_o keep_v still_o in_o their_o cabbala_n and_o of_o the_o like_a judgement_n touch_v scripture_n be_v the_o popish_a church_n the_o word_n write_v be_v but_o a_o inky_a word_n a_o dead_a letter_n or_o a_o nose_n of_o wax_n but_o the_o most_o perfect_a scripture_n be_v unwritten_a which_o be_v the_o consent_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o doctrine_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o catholic_n and_o by_o such_o great_a term_n the_o anabaptist_n libertine_n and_o arrian_n maintain_v their_o doctrine_n and_o abuse_v scripture_n call_v the_o write_a word_n milk_n for_o every_o novice_n but_o the_o consent_n of_o heart_n among_o themselves_o with_o revelation_n that_o be_v the_o strong_a meat_n yea_o this_o opinion_n have_v creep_v in_o among_o we_o in_o part_n man_n think_v base_o of_o scripture_n and_o prefer_v other_o man_n write_n before_o it_o for_o let_v a_o man_n preach_v plain_o the_o bare_a word_n of_o god_n and_o deliver_v doctrine_n and_o exhortation_n out_o of_o the_o same_o this_o be_v but_o plain_o preach_v but_o let_v another_o come_v and_o utter_v his_o mind_n partly_o in_o latin_a and_o partly_o in_o greek_a and_o other_o language_n allege_v withal_o the_o testimony_n of_o father_n counsel_n and_o other_o writer_n that_o be_v the_o learned_a preach_n and_o thus_o do_v most_o man_n abase_v scripture_n and_o exalt_v the_o write_n of_o man_n above_o it_o but_o see_v this_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o jezabell_n and_o wicked_a man_n let_v we_o on_o the_o contrary_n learn_v to_o reverence_v the_o write_a word_n and_o give_v place_n thereto_o above_o all_o the_o testimony_n and_o say_n of_o man_n whatsoever_o the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v they_o count_v it_o deep_a learning_n but_o
must_v give_v up_o at_o the_o last_o day_n 1._o cor._n 15.24_o and_o here_o we_o must_v consider_v in_o what_o manner_n god_n give_v his_o revelation_n to_o his_o son_n first_o therefore_o christ_n jesus_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v make_v lord_n of_o this_o revelation_n so_o as_o he_o may_v say_v it_o be_v his_o own_o right_n and_o royalty_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o law_n whereby_o his_o church_n be_v now_o govern_v whereof_o he_o be_v lord_n and_o king_n again_o this_o revelation_n be_v reveal_v unto_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v man_n before_o it_o be_v ever_o know_v to_o any_o creature_n man_n or_o angel_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o union_n of_o his_o manhood_n with_o the_o godhead_n in_o this_o which_o have_v be_v say_v we_o may_v observe_v that_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v christ_n his_o right_n and_o belong_v unto_o he_o as_o his_o own_o royalty_n and_o privilege_n for_o as_o the_o law_n in_o any_o kingdom_n belong_v to_o the_o prince_n thereof_o and_o be_v call_v his_o law_n alone_o and_o no_o man_n else_o so_o this_o book_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o law_n whereby_o christ_n govern_v his_o church_n be_v his_o royalty_n alone_o for_o god_n give_v it_o he_o and_o he_o have_v by_o his_o angel_n send_v it_o to_o his_o church_n and_o that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o this_o book_n must_v be_v understand_v proportional_o of_o all_o other_o book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n christ_n be_v make_v lord_n of_o all_o and_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o his_o royalty_n and_o possession_n and_o from_o hence_o will_v follow_v necessary_o first_o that_o no_o man_n in_o the_o world_n have_v authority_n above_o this_o book_n or_o any_o other_o part_n of_o canonical_a scripture_n indeed_o monarch_n and_o prince_n have_v great_a authority_n and_o pre-eminence_n in_o their_o dominion_n over_o all_o person_n and_o over_o all_o cause_n of_o man_n but_o in_o the_o church_n they_o with_o all_o other_o owe_v homage_n unto_o christ_n there_o he_o have_v the_o canonical_a scripture_n to_o be_v his_o law_n whereto_o every_o one_o must_v subject_v himself_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n be_v his_o royal_a ordinance_n over_o which_o none_o may_v dare_v to_o claim_v rule_n or_o authority_n for_o so_o shall_v the_o scripture_n have_v be_v give_v unto_o they_o for_o their_o prerogative_n as_o they_o be_v to_o christ_n but_o god_n give_v they_o to_o he_o alone_o and_o he_o dispose_v thereof_o as_o please_v he_o and_o therefore_o the_o pope_n in_o take_v upon_o he_o to_o dispense_v with_o the_o word_n and_o to_o mangle_v the_o sacrament_n do_v herein_o step_n into_o the_o room_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o declare_v himself_o to_o be_v that_o man_n of_o sin_n by_o seek_v to_o rob_v he_o of_o that_o princely_a royalty_n which_o belong_v to_o he_o alone_o second_o that_o the_o sovereign_a power_n and_o authority_n of_o expound_v scripture_n belong_v to_o christ_n alone_o and_o to_o none_o other_o with_o he_o true_a it_o be_v that_o man_n have_v a_o ministry_n commit_v unto_o he_o by_o virtue_n whereof_o he_o may_v expound_v scripture_n by_o scripture_n but_o man_n have_v no_o power_n of_o themselves_o to_o determine_v of_o the_o proper_a sense_n of_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o the_o popish_a practice_n in_o give_v to_o the_o church_n absolute_a authority_n to_o determine_v of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n of_o themselves_o without_o scripture_n be_v flat_a robbery_n against_o christ_n for_o therein_o they_o give_v unto_o man_n that_o sovereign_a power_n which_o be_v proper_a to_o christ._n three_o herein_o we_o observe_v the_o excellency_n of_o this_o book_n and_o of_o the_o whole_a scripture_n of_o god_n for_o all_o of_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o father_n to_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o son_n unto_o his_o church_n the_o like_a can_v be_v say_v of_o any_o write_n of_o man_n whatsoever_o be_v they_o never_o so_o excellent_a herein_o the_o scripture_n surpass_v they_o all_o whereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o esteem_v more_o reverent_o of_o the_o scripture_n of_o god_n than_o of_o all_o the_o write_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n here_o then_o behold_v the_o sin_n of_o this_o age_n which_o more_o delight_v to_o speak_v and_o hear_v the_o say_n of_o man_n in_o the_o public_a ministry_n than_o the_o glorious_a word_n of_o the_o everliving_a god_n whereas_o the_o write_n of_o man_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n of_o error_n and_o deceit_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v most_o holy_a and_o pure_a and_o every_o way_n perfect_a proceed_v whole_o from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n unto_o his_o belove_a son_n who_o have_v faithful_o disperse_v the_o same_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n to_o show_v to_o his_o servant_n thing_n that_o must_v short_o be_v do_v these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o three_o and_o four_o argument_n whereby_o this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v viz._n the_o end_n of_o it_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o must_v be_v show_v and_o the_o matter_n which_o it_o contain_v arg._n ii_o the_o end_n of_o this_o revelation_n be_v to_o show_v that_o be_v to_o make_v know_v and_o manifest_a thing_n to_o come_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a church_n whence_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o papist_n err_v exceed_o in_o debar_v lie_v people_n as_o they_o call_v they_o from_o the_o read_n of_o the_o scripture_n for_o the_o end_n of_o this_o book_n be_v to_o make_v manifest_a to_o god_n servant_n thing_n to_o come_v and_o who_o be_v god_n servant_n be_v the_o clergy_n only_o and_o not_o lay_v people_n also_o god_n forbid_v the_o lie_v man_n be_v christ_n his_o servant_n as_o well_o as_o one_o of_o the_o clergy_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v god_n will_v that_o he_o shall_v learn_v to_o know_v and_o understand_v this_o book_n like_o one_o of_o his_o servant_n and_o here_o consider_v that_o if_o this_o book_n of_o scripture_n which_o be_v hard_a and_o difficult_a must_v be_v learn_v of_o the_o lie_v man_n then_o much_o more_o must_v he_o search_v into_o all_o other_o book_n of_o god_n which_o be_v more_o plain_a and_o easy_a as_o the_o history_n of_o gospel_n epistle_n etc._n etc._n arg._n iii_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o must_v be_v show_v viz._n the_o servant_n of_o christ._n this_o revelation_n be_v not_o give_v of_o god_n for_o all_o man_n indefinite_o but_o for_o all_o his_o servant_n that_o be_v such_o alone_a as_o repent_v of_o their_o sin_n and_o true_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o and_o show_v forth_o the_o same_o by_o new_a obedience_n so_o he_o teach_v elsewhere_o the_o secret_a of_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o they_o that_o fear_v he_o and_o his_o covenant_n to_o give_v they_o understanding_n psalm_n 25.14_o the_o lord_n will_v reveal_v his_o secret_n to_o his_o servant_n the_o prophet_n amos_n 3.7_o and_o god_n will_v not_o keep_v back_o from_o abraham_n the_o thing_n he_o be_v to_o do_v unto_o sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n because_o he_o know_v abraham_n will_v do_v his_o will_n and_o teach_v his_o family_n after_o he_o genes_n 18._o vers_fw-la 17.19_o the_o consideration_n whereof_o shall_v admonish_v we_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o bare_a hear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o outward_a participation_n of_o the_o sacrament_n but_o to_o labour_v principal_o to_o become_v god_n servant_n and_o to_o show_v the_o same_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o which_o we_o hear_v hereby_o shall_v we_o receive_v instruction_n from_o the_o lord_n and_o grow_v in_o knowledge_n daily_o more_o and_o more_o our_o understand_n shall_v more_o easy_o conceive_v the_o will_n of_o god_n for_o they_o that_o will_v do_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n shall_v know_v his_o doctrine_n john_n 7.17_o here_o then_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o most_o hearer_n after_o long_o teach_v profit_n little_a but_o remain_v as_o blind_v and_o ignorant_a as_o ever_o they_o be_v even_o their_o own_o impiety_n they_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n and_o labour_v not_o to_o become_v god_n servant_n second_o in_o this_o argument_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o christ_n jesus_n be_v true_a god_n for_o here_o he_o be_v make_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n every_o true_a believer_n be_v his_o servant_n and_o he_o his_o lord_n the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n be_v his_o angel_n as_o after_o we_o shall_v see_v which_o prerogative_n none_o can_v have_v but_o he_o that_o be_v true_a and_o very_o god_n three_o in_o this_o argument_n be_v those_o confute_v which_o hold_v that_o god_n will_v have_v all_o to_o be_v save_v and_o call_v all_o man_n without_o exception_n for_o if_o he_o call_v all_o effectual_o than_o he_o will_v offer_v the_o mean_n to_o all_o to_o wit_n his_o holy_a word_n that_o so_o they_o may_v
of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n here_o be_v a_o reason_n of_o the_o former_a benediction_n for_o see_v the_o time_n of_o the_o accomplish_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v at_o hand_n &_o must_v short_o be_v fulfil_v therefore_o those_o be_v bless_v which_o read_v and_o keep_v the_o same_o in_o memory_n and_o it_o be_v a_o answer_n to_o a_o secret_a objection_n for_o they_o may_v have_v say_v we_o need_v not_o to_o read_v or_o remember_v this_o prophecy_n see_v it_o shall_v not_o be_v fulfil_v in_o our_o day_n but_o he_o add_v the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n wherein_o they_o must_v be_v fulfil_v and_o therefore_o it_o must_v be_v mark_v these_o word_n for_o substance_n be_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n where_o it_o be_v say_v the_o revelation_n be_v of_o thing_n that_o must_v short_o be_v do_v and_o here_o they_o be_v repeat_v again_o whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o these_o prophecy_n contain_v weighty_a matter_n to_o be_v deep_o consider_v and_o earnest_o think_v on_o and_o s._n john_n repeat_v the_o same_o for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o awake_v the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n out_o of_o the_o sleep_n of_o security_n and_o make_v they_o stand_v upon_o their_o watch_n continual_o for_o though_o they_o can_v fall_v into_o the_o dead_a sleep_n of_o sin_n yet_o the_o slumber_n of_o security_n may_v overtake_v they_o the_o wise_a virgin_n slumber_n as_o well_o as_o the_o foolish_a matth._n 25.5_o and_o the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n the_o true_a church_n confess_v that_o she_o sleep_v though_o her_o heart_n wake_v cant._n 5.2_o second_o to_o confirm_v and_o hearten_v the_o church_n and_o all_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n against_o the_o affliction_n to_o come_v for_o herein_o be_v the_o common_a say_n true_a he_o that_o be_v forewarn_v be_v fore-armed_n now_o in_o these_o word_n the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n christ_n will_v teach_v we_o to_o observe_v that_o whatsoever_o thing_n may_v befall_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o life_n whether_o affliction_n temptation_n death_n or_o the_o last_o judgement_n itself_o all_o will_v come_v short_o this_o consideration_n ought_v to_o take_v place_n in_o our_o heart_n be_v of_o great_a use_n in_o our_o life_n as_o to_o stay_v we_o from_o many_o sin_n so_o to_o move_v we_o to_o do_v all_o thing_n with_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o want_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o much_o evil_n the_o bad_a servant_n beat_v his_o fellow_n because_o he_o think_v his_o master_n do_v defer_v his_o come_n matth._n 24.48.49_o the_o old_a world_n go_v on_o in_o sin_n never_o regard_v noah_n prophecy_n and_o so_o know_v nothing_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o sweep_v they_o all_o away_o matth._n 24.39_o we_o shall_v lay_v these_o to_o our_o heart_n and_o always_o think_v with_o paul_n 4.5_o the_o lord_n be_v at_o â—and_n the_o rather_o because_o we_o have_v have_v the_o gospel_n and_o peace_n with_o all_o temporal_a blessing_n these_o eight_o and_o thirty_o year_n now_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n be_v interchangeable_a one_o while_o peace_n and_o then_o trouble_v so_o as_o it_o be_v like_a this_o peaceable_a state_n will_v not_o long_o continue_v but_o we_o must_v be_v try_v and_o the_o time_n of_o ouâ—_n trial_n be_v at_o hand_n for_o whatsoever_o must_v befall_v the_o church_n will_v come_v short_o we_o must_v therefore_o prepare_v for_o trouble_v and_o so_o we_o shall_v find_v it_o the_o less_o grievous_a vers._n 4._o john_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o preface_n to_o wit_n the_o inscription_n of_o this_o vision_n and_o it_o have_v two_o branch_n first_o a_o dedication_n in_o these_o word_n john_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n second_o a_o salutation_n in_o the_o next_o word_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n etc._n etc._n to_o the_o nine_o verse_n in_o the_o dedication_n observe_v first_o the_o penman_n that_o dedicate_v this_o book_n second_o the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v send_v for_o the_o first_o the_o penman_n be_v john_n who_o here_o again_o repeat_v his_o name_n to_o show_v and_o certify_v every_o reader_n of_o this_o book_n that_o he_o be_v without_o all_o doubt_n the_o true_a penman_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o write_v this_o revelation_n but_o though_o he_o repeat_v his_o name_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o add_v any_o title_n of_o honour_n or_o commendation_n as_o he_o do_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n wherein_o he_o give_v we_o a_o true_a pattern_n of_o modesty_n and_o humility_n which_o be_v never_o to_o speak_v in_o our_o own_o cause_n to_o our_o own_o praise_n but_o only_o in_o case_n of_o necessity_n when_o god_n glory_n may_v be_v advance_v and_o the_o credit_n of_o our_o particular_a calling_n maintain_v this_o paul_n practise_v who_o often_o humble_v himself_o and_o call_v himself_o the_o 15._o least_o of_o all_o the_o apostle_n yea_o the_o 15_o chief_a of_o all_o sinner_n yet_o when_o the_o credit_n of_o his_o apostleship_n come_v into_o question_n than_o he_o set_v out_o himself_o show_v he_o be_v a_o true_a apostle_n one_o of_o the_o chief_a and_o above_o those_o which_o do_v false_o call_v themselves_o so_o as_o we_o may_v find_v in_o both_o of_o his_o 11.5_o epistle_n to_o the_o corinthian_n second_o the_o person_n to_o who_o he_o write_v be_v the_o seven_o church_n in_o asia_n concern_v they_o note_v two_o thing_n first_o he_o write_v to_o church_n second_o to_o the_o church_n in_o asia_n for_o the_o first_o why_o write_v he_o to_o the_o church_n rather_o than_o to_o the_o church_n see_v there_o be_v but_o one_o only_a catholic_a church_n ans._n the_o church_n may_v be_v consider_v diverse_a way_n first_o as_o it_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o the_o elect_a &_o so_o it_o be_v but_o one_o second_o as_o the_o same_o be_v part_v into_o several_a branch_n and_o company_n one_o part_n be_v in_o one_o country_n and_o another_o part_n in_o some_o other_o wherein_o also_o every_o several_a congregation_n profess_v the_o gospel_n be_v a_o particular_a church_n and_o so_o there_o may_v be_v many_o church_n all_o of_o they_o be_v member_n of_o one_o catholic_a church_n as_o the_o sea_n be_v only_o one_o yet_o it_o consist_v of_o many_o part_n which_o take_v their_o name_n of_o the_o country_n whereto_o they_o adjoine_v be_v call_v so_o many_o particular_a sea_n as_o the_o english_a sea_n the_o spanish_a sea_n french_a italian_a scottish_a sea_n etc._n etc._n and_o of_o particular_a church_n must_v john_n be_v understand_v in_o this_o place_n now_o john_n choose_v rather_o to_o write_v to_o church_n than_o to_o particular_a man_n first_o because_o the_o matter_n of_o this_o book_n concern_v the_o church_n be_v a_o prophetical_a history_n touch_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o end_n second_o because_o particular_a church_n which_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o catholic_a church_n be_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n 1._o timoth_n 3.15_o and_o the_o church_n be_v so_o call_v not_o that_o her_o authority_n be_v above_o the_o word_n but_o first_o because_o it_o be_v the_o treasure_n house_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n be_v preserve_v from_o age_n to_o age_n against_o the_o rage_n of_o god_n enemy_n second_o because_o the_o church_n give_v testimony_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n and_o three_o because_o it_o publish_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o ordinary_a ministry_n which_o god_n have_v ordain_v therein_o second_o in_o the_o dedication_n of_o this_o book_n among_o all_o particular_a church_n god_n direct_v he_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o those_o seven_o in_o asia_n no_o doubt_n for_o special_a cause_n first_o because_o they_o be_v then_o most_o famous_a church_n as_o the_o chapter_n follow_v and_o the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n do_v plain_o show_v second_o that_o the_o call_n of_o the_o gentile_n to_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o long_o before_o have_v be_v foretell_v may_v be_v more_o evident_a for_o here_o the_o jew_n be_v pass_v by_o and_o the_o gentile_n send_v unto_o last_o we_o may_v here_o observe_v that_o s._n john_n know_v no_o prerogative_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n above_o other_o church_n for_o if_o it_o be_v the_o mother_n church_n whereon_o alâ—_n other_o church_n shall_v depend_v as_o the_o papist_n will_v have_v it_o i_o will_v know_v of_o they_o why_o john_n pass_v by_o it_o in_o the_o dedication_n of_o this_o book_n which_o contain_v matter_n needful_a for_o all_o church_n to_o know_v grace_n be_v with_o
gospel_n when_o he_o preach_v god_n word_n be_v in_o the_o room_n of_o christ_n and_o speak_v that_o unto_o the_o church_n which_o christ_n will_v speak_v that_o they_o may_v be_v faithful_a witness_n sundry_a thing_n be_v require_v at_o their_o hand_n first_o they_o must_v deliver_v the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n above_o all_o other_o thing_n and_o before_o all_o testimony_n of_o man_n in_o the_o office_n of_o their_o ministry_n this_o be_v meat_n and_o drink_n to_o christ_n to_o 4.34_o teach_v his_o father_n will_n eleazar_n abraham_n elder_a servant_n show_v his_o fidelity_n in_o that_o he_o will_v not_o eat_v or_o drink_v till_o he_o have_v do_v his_o master_n message_n gen._n 24.33_o much_o more_o ought_v the_o minister_n of_o christ_n have_v special_a care_n of_o that_o weighty_a message_n commit_v unto_o they_o second_o they_o must_v testify_v all_o the_o will_n of_o god_n concern_v matter_n of_o salvation_n as_o faith_n obedience_n and_o a_o godly_a life_n among_o man_n we_o count_v he_o a_o faithful_a witness_n which_o testify_v all_o the_o truth_n and_o no_o more_o but_o the_o truth_n so_o shall_v it_o be_v with_o all_o minister_n that_o be_v god_n witness_n to_o his_o church_n herein_o paul_n clear_v himself_o 27._o that_o he_o be_v free_a from_o all_o man_n blood_n see_v he_o deliver_v the_o whole_a will_n of_o god_n in_o matter_n necessary_a for_o salvation_n and_o keep_v nothing_o back_o three_o he_o must_v neither_o add_v unto_o or_o take_v away_o much_o less_o in_o any_o case_n deprave_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o true_a mark_n of_o a_o faithful_a witness_n for_o false_a prophet_n teach_v some_o truth_n but_o withal_o they_o add_v something_o of_o their_o own_o or_o detract_v from_o god_n truth_n something_o that_o they_o ought_v not_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n a_o man_n may_v hear_v thing_n concern_v moral_a virtue_n handle_v sound_o but_o come_v to_o justification_n and_o thereto_o they_o add_v the_o merit_n of_o man_n work_n &_o so_o they_o deal_v with_o faith_n and_o repentance_n matter_n of_o salvation_n they_o take_v away_o one_o part_n and_o add_v another_o to_o the_o scripture_n they_o hold_v the_o creed_n in_o word_n yet_o in_o deed_n they_o deny_v the_o same_o as_o by_o their_o doctrine_n may_v appear_v &_o so_o show_v themselves_o false_a witness_n four_o a_o faithful_a witness_n must_v deliver_v the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n in_o that_o spiritual_a manner_n which_o best_o beseem_v the_o majesty_n of_o god_n and_o which_o he_o best_a approve_v that_o be_v in_o a_o plain_a easy_a and_o familiar_a kind_n of_o speech_n that_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o sinner_n may_v be_v touch_v &_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o simple_a may_v be_v edify_v when_o the_o word_n be_v otherwise_o deliver_v as_o in_o the_o entice_a word_n of_o man_n wisdom_n or_o for_o ostentation_n of_o wit_n or_o much_o read_n though_o nothing_o be_v say_v but_o the_o truth_n yet_o he_o that_o so_o dispense_v it_o be_v a_o unfaithful_a witness_n because_o he_o corrupt_v the_o word_n by_o his_o vain_a delivery_n and_o this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o this_o age_n in_o many_o minister_n who_o teach_v the_o truth_n indeed_o but_o yet_o in_o such_o sort_n as_o it_o may_v appear_v they_o seek_v themselves_o and_o not_o god_n glory_n respect_v little_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o simple_a so_o themselves_o may_v be_v famous_a for_o wit_n eloquence_n and_o learning_n but_o these_o man_n make_v merchandise_n of_o the_o word_n like_v to_o huxter_n that_o by_o starch_v blow_v and_o spice_v set_v a_o gloss_n upon_o their_o ware_n to_o make_v it_o seem_v that_o which_o it_o be_v not_o which_o be_v a_o grievous_a sin_n and_o such_o as_o will_v banish_v the_o gospel_n out_o of_o our_o land_n unless_o it_o be_v reform_v second_o this_o title_n of_o christ_n that_o faithful_a witness_n do_v discover_v unto_o we_o the_o damnable_a practice_n of_o man_n in_o the_o sin_n of_o unbelief_n for_o christ_n this_o faithful_a witness_n have_v give_v testimony_n to_o his_o word_n which_o be_v preach_v that_o the_o same_o be_v true_a and_o therefore_o 5.10_o they_o that_o believe_v it_o not_o do_v make_v christ_n a_o false_a witness_n and_o a_o liar_n than_o which_o what_o can_v be_v more_o horrible_a &_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o common_a sin_n of_o this_o age_n for_o when_o the_o law_n be_v apply_v who_o be_v afraid_a and_o when_o the_o gospel_n be_v preach_v yet_o who_o believe_v our_o report_n god_n minister_n may_v say_v with_o the_o little_a child_n we_o have_v pipe_v unto_o you_o but_o you_o have_v not_o dance_v we_o have_v mourn_v unto_o you_o but_o you_o have_v not_o weep_v this_o deadness_n of_o heart_n whereby_o man_n be_v not_o move_v with_o the_o word_n preach_v unto_o they_o be_v a_o evident_a argument_n of_o this_o fearful_a unbelief_n whereby_o they_o make_v christ_n a_o false_a witness_n this_o therefore_o shall_v move_v we_o to_o consider_v in_o ourselves_o the_o heinousnesse_n of_o this_o sin_n that_o so_o we_o may_v strive_v against_o it_o and_o labour_n to_o give_v free_a passage_n to_o the_o word_n into_o our_o heart_n tremble_v at_o the_o law_n and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o so_o each_o part_n thereof_o may_v have_v his_o perfect_a work_n in_o we_o for_o which_o end_n also_o we_o may_v consider_v that_o among_o those_o which_o shall_v have_v their_o portion_n in_o the_o burn_a lake_n unbeliever_n be_v set_v in_o the_o first_o rank_n revel_v 21._o vers_fw-la 8._o three_o see_v christ_n jesus_n be_v that_o faithful_a witness_n which_o give_v testimony_n to_o man_n conscience_n in_o particular_a of_o their_o salvation_n we_o learn_v that_o every_o one_o which_o profess_v himself_o to_o repent_v be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o believe_v that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o benefit_n thereof_o as_o election_n redemption_n justification_n sanctification_n and_o salvation_n belong_v to_o he_o particular_o and_o though_o this_o be_v against_o all_o humane_a sense_n and_o reason_n yet_o see_v we_o have_v a_o faithful_a witness_n avouch_v the_o same_o we_o must_v submit_v ourselves_o unto_o his_o testimony_n for_o by_o unbelief_n we_o great_o dishonour_v our_o witness_n bearer_n by_o deny_v truth_n unto_o his_o record_n here_o than_o we_o see_v it_o it_o no_o presumption_n as_o the_o papist_n say_v to_o believe_v our_o election_n and_o salvation_n in_o particular_a nay_o it_o be_v a_o horrible_a sin_n in_o every_o one_o that_o repent_v not_o to_o believe_v it_o see_v christ_n a_o most_o faithful_a witness_n testify_v the_o same_o to_o our_o conscience_n by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n hereto_o also_o serve_v the_o sacrament_n institute_v by_o god_n to_o seal_v up_o unto_o every_o worthy_a receiver_n christ_n and_o all_o his_o benefit_n the_o minister_n give_v of_o the_o bread_n and_o wine_n to_o they_o that_o true_o repent_v be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o christ_n shall_v say_v believe_v thou_o and_o life_n eternal_a belong_v to_o thou_o and_o the_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a in_o these_o word_n be_v contain_v the_o second_o office_n of_o christ_n namely_o his_o priesthood_n the_o principal_a action_n whereof_o stand_v in_o die_v in_o rise_v again_o from_o the_o dead_a and_o make_v intercession_n for_o us._n and_o here_o s._n john_n allude_v to_o the_o estate_n of_o the_o family_n among_o the_o jew_n compare_v christ_n to_o the_o first_o bear_v for_o as_o among_o they_o he_o which_o be_v first_o bear_v and_o elder_a of_o the_o family_n have_v many_o privilege_n and_o preeminence_n above_o his_o brethren_n as_o lordship_n right_a of_o the_o priesthood_n and_o double_a portion_n etc._n etc._n so_o christ_n he_o have_v his_o privilege_n yea_o even_a christ_n crucify_v he_o have_v his_o prerogative_n among_o the_o dead_a above_o all_o that_o be_v dead_a so_o paul_n expound_v this_o title_n call_v he_o the_o first_o bear_v and_o beginning_n of_o the_o dead_a that_o he_o may_v in_o all_o thing_n have_v the_o pre-eminence_n coloss._n 1._o vers_fw-la 18._o the_o privilege_n of_o christ_n dead_a and_o bury_v among_o all_o the_o dead_a be_v two_o first_o that_o he_o be_v the_o first_o that_o ever_o rise_v from_o death_n to_o life_n and_o so_o to_o glory_v some_o indeed_o have_v rise_v before_o christ_n from_o natural_a death_n to_o natural_a life_n as_o lazarus_n but_o it_o be_v to_o die_v again_o and_o moses_n and_o elias_n assume_v their_o body_n in_o the_o mount_n with_o christ_n in_o his_o transfiguration_n but_o yet_o they_o lay_v they_o down_o again_o to_o the_o former_a misery_n of_o corruption_n for_o a_o time_n but_o christ_n jesus_n rosâ—_n from_o death_n to_o life_n eternal_a never_o to_o die_v again_o and_o his_o resurrection_n be_v the_o first_o step_n into_o his_o glory_n second_o that_o by_o his_o own_o power_n he_o raise_v up_o
cast_v off_o all_o dulness_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o with_o all_o may_v stir_v up_o ourselves_o to_o attentive_a hear_n so_o shall_v the_o word_n be_v bless_v unto_o we_o otherwise_o our_o hear_n shall_v turn_v to_o our_o deep_a condemnation_n verse_n 11._o say_v i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o and_o that_o which_o thou_o see_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o send_v it_o unto_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n unto_o ephesus_n and_o unto_o smyrna_n and_o unto_o pergamus_n and_o unto_o thyatira_n and_o unto_o sardai_n and_o unto_o philadelphia_n and_o unto_o laodicea_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o three_o description_n of_o this_o voice_n whereby_o johns_n heart_n be_v prepare_v touch_v the_o substance_n and_o matter_n which_o be_v utter_v which_o consist_v in_o two_o thing_n the_o first_o be_v a_o testimony_n in_o these_o word_n i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o the_o second_o a_o commandment_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v that_o which_o thou_o see_v write_v and_o send_v etc._n etc._n i._o touch_v the_o testimony_n the_o substance_n thereof_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o eight_o verse_n where_o the_o word_n be_v handle_v and_o the_o meaning_n show_v they_o do_v serve_v direct_o to_o prove_v the_o godhead_n and_o eternity_n of_o christ_n which_o christ_n himself_o do_v here_o avouch_v to_o give_v unto_o john_n and_o unto_o the_o church_n full_a assurance_n that_o the_o thing_n now_o utter_v and_o deliver_v be_v from_o god_n for_o say_v i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o which_o speak_v unto_o thou_o be_o god_n and_o therefore_o the_o thing_n i_o deliver_v be_v from_o god_n in_o this_o testimony_n note_v god_n special_a care_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o truth_n he_o do_v not_o content_v himself_o with_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o his_o church_n but_o more_o special_o his_o care_n be_v to_o certify_v the_o church_n of_o the_o truth_n thereof_o that_o it_o be_v indeed_o from_o god_n this_o have_v be_v god_n care_n from_o the_o beginning_n when_o peter_n receive_v a_o vision_n from_o god_n withal_o 19_o god_n spirit_n assure_v he_o that_o the_o thing_n reveal_v therein_o be_v certain_a &_o sure_a and_o so_o when_o christ_n preach_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n among_o man_n he_o do_v withal_o work_v strange_a miracle_n to_o confirm_v and_o seal_v up_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o doctrine_n that_o it_o be_v from_o god_n this_o special_a care_n of_o god_n over_o his_o church_n do_v first_o confute_v the_o papist_n opinion_n touch_v scripture_n use_n they_o hold_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v certain_a in_o itself_o but_o not_o unto_o man_n till_o the_o church_n give_v testimony_n thereunto_o but_o this_o be_v false_a for_o god_n ever_o have_v this_o care_n over_o his_o church_n not_o only_o to_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o they_o but_o also_o to_o use_v mean_n for_o the_o assurance_n of_o their_o conscience_n that_o that_o which_o be_v reveal_v be_v his_o undoubted_a and_o perfect_a will_n and_o therefore_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v certain_a and_o ever_o be_v not_o only_o in_o it_o self_n bâ—t_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o believer_n and_o that_o without_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o shall_v be_v through_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v never_o come_v thereunto_o second_o hereby_o be_v confute_v many_o carnal_a man_n who_o will_v be_v of_o no_o religion_n because_o say_v they_o there_o be_v no_o certainty_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n man_n opinion_n therein_o be_v so_o diverse_a that_o so_o many_o man_n so_o many_o mind_n almost_o and_o no_o man_n can_v tell_v who_o speak_v the_o truth_n answ._n it_o may_v be_v that_o man_n in_o sundry_a matter_n hold_v sundry_a private_a opinion_n yet_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n all_o the_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n hold_v the_o same_o opinion_n touch_v the_o foundation_n of_o religion_n but_o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o all_o man_n on_o earth_n be_v of_o diverse_a opinion_n touch_v matter_n of_o religion_n shall_v religion_n therefore_o be_v uncertain_a god_n forbid_v for_o religion_n be_v certain_a unto_o man_n by_o the_o mean_n that_o god_n have_v appoint_v to_o certify_v the_o conscience_n of_o the_o truth_n thereof_o and_o thereby_o may_v man_n come_v to_o the_o truth_n and_o certainty_n of_o religion_n teach_v by_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n though_o all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n be_v of_o diverse_a opinion_n touch_v the_o same_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o testimony_n ii_o point_n the_o commandment_n give_v to_o john_n be_v in_o these_o word_n that_o which_o thou_o see_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o send_v it_o to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n this_o commandment_n have_v two_o part_n first_o to_o write_v the_o thing_n see_v in_o a_o book_n second_o to_o send_v the_o book_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n here_o name_v and_o both_o these_o must_v john_n do_v be_v now_o disable_v by_o his_o exile_n to_o preach_v these_o thing_n unto_o they_o personal_o for_o these_o cause_n first_o that_o these_o church_n may_v be_v edify_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o strengthen_v in_o these_o most_o grievous_a time_n of_o persecution_n second_o that_o they_o may_v become_v keeper_n of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o for_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n not_o only_o for_o that_o it_o publish_v god_n truth_n but_o also_o because_o it_o keep_v it_o and_o give_v testimony_n thereunto_o in_o this_o commandment_n note_v sundry_a thing_n first_o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n write_v and_o pen_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o man_n be_v a_o notable_a help_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o a_o worthy_a mean_n to_o edify_v the_o same_o else_o christ_n will_v never_o have_v command_v john_n to_o have_v write_v these_o vision_n and_o send_v they_o to_o the_o church_n which_o serve_v to_o confute_v the_o blind_a papist_n which_o say_v the_o word_n write_v be_v but_o a_o inky_a letter_n and_o a_o nose_n of_o wax_n because_o the_o sense_n thereof_o may_v be_v turn_v every_o way_n as_o man_n will_n this_o also_o confute_v the_o anabaptist_n which_o so_o much_o magnify_v their_o revelation_n and_o make_v no_o account_n of_o the_o word_n write_v if_o the_o lord_n have_v think_v it_o best_o he_o will_v have_v teach_v these_o church_n by_o revelation_n but_o they_o must_v learn_v by_o the_o word_n write_v second_o that_o the_o read_n of_o god_n word_n either_o public_o or_o private_o be_v a_o ordinance_n of_o god_n for_o the_o lord_n command_v john_n to_o write_v this_o book_n and_o send_v it_o to_o the_o church_n hereby_o imply_v that_o they_o must_v read_v the_o same_o as_o they_o do_v other_o book_n of_o scripture_n the_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n be_v indeed_o the_o most_o worthy_a instrument_n for_o the_o sound_n and_o confirm_v of_o god_n church_n whereby_o ordinary_o justify_v faith_n be_v wrought_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o yet_o read_v must_v have_v his_o due_a reverence_n as_o a_o mean_n to_o confirm_v and_o increase_v true_a knowledge_n faith_n and_o repentance_n where_o it_o be_v begin_v three_o here_o note_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v under_o the_o cross_n and_o in_o persecution_n and_o yet_o remain_v in_o the_o special_a favour_n of_o god_n for_o this_o banishment_n into_o such_o a_o desert_a place_n be_v unto_o john_n a_o grievous_a cross_n and_o yet_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v there_o to_o reveal_v himself_o unto_o he_o and_o to_o make_v he_o the_o penman_n of_o this_o book_n which_o honour_n he_o vouchsafe_v not_o to_o all_o but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v most_o dear_a unto_o he_o which_o thing_n each_o one_o shall_v careful_o observe_v for_o our_o nature_n be_v so_o corrupt_a that_o when_o we_o be_v under_o the_o cross_n it_o will_v persuade_v we_o we_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n the_o seven_o church_n ephesus_n smyrna_n and_o the_o rest_n be_v name_v which_o seven_o place_n be_v seven_o famous_a city_n in_o asia_n wherein_o be_v plant_v the_o most_o famous_a church_n that_o be_v in_o those_o part_n and_o for_o their_o excellency_n be_v they_o name_v and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o mean_n of_o johns_n preparation_n now_o follow_v the_o part_n thereof_o which_o be_v two_o first_o be_v hear_v fold_v up_o with_o the_o former_a mean_n and_o i_o hear_v a_o voice_n second_o be_v turn_v of_o himself_o to_o see_v the_o party_n that_o speak_v unto_o he_o in_o these_o word_n verse_n 12._o then_o i_o turn_v back_o to_o see_v the_o voice_n which_o speak_v with_o i_o and_o when_o i_o be_v turn_v i_o see_v seven_o
future_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o i_o will_v reveal_v it_o unto_o thou_o thus_o then_o be_v the_o whole_a book_n distinguish_v i._o it_o contain_v thing_n touch_v the_o present_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n in_o johns_n daâ—es_n ii_o it_o entreat_v of_o thing_n which_o concern_v the_o future_a estate_n thereof_o from_o johns_n time_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n use_n hence_o observe_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o the_o art_n of_o logic_n for_o division_n be_v lawful_a else_o the_o holy_a ghost_n will_v not_o here_o have_v use_v they_o and_o so_o by_o proportion_n be_v other_o argument_n of_o reason_v and_o therefore_o that_o art_n which_o give_v rule_n of_o direction_n for_o the_o right_a use_n of_o these_o argument_n be_v lawful_a and_o good_a those_o man_n than_o be_v far_o deceive_v who_o account_v the_o art_n of_o logic_n and_o rhetoric_n to_o be_v frivolous_a and_o unlawful_a and_o in_o so_o say_v they_o condemn_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o this_o place_n vers._n 20._o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n which_o thou_o see_v in_o my_o right_a hand_n and_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n be_v this_o the_o seven_o star_n be_v the_o seven_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o seven_o candlestick_n which_o thou_o see_v be_v the_o seven_o church_n this_o be_v the_o three_o action_n of_o christ_n namely_o the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o vision_n in_o the_o principal_a part_n thereof_o which_o he_o expound_v for_o these_o cause_n first_o john_n in_o this_o business_n be_v to_o show_v himself_o a_o prophet_n of_o god_n by_o declare_v the_o present_a and_o future_a estate_n of_o god_n church_n now_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o a_o prophet_n be_v to_o expound_v vision_n or_o dream_n reveal_v either_o to_o himself_o or_o to_o other_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o daniel_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o prophet_n second_o that_o john_n may_v be_v encourage_v in_o the_o publish_n of_o this_o book_n and_o of_o the_o thing_n reveal_v unto_o he_o for_o johns_n calling_n respect_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o when_o he_o shall_v perceive_v these_o vision_n to_o concern_v the_o church_n this_o will_v stir_v up_o his_o diligence_n in_o observe_v and_o pen_v the_o thing_n reveal_v now_o christ_n expound_v not_o the_o whole_a vision_n but_o two_o principal_a thing_n therein_o namely_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o seven_o star_n to_o wit_n the_o seven_o angel_n or_o the_o seven_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n and_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n namely_o the_o seven_o church_n themselves_o the_o reason_n why_o both_o be_v so_o call_v we_o have_v show_v before_o with_o the_o use_n thereof_o here_o only_o i_o will_v observe_v these_o three_o point_n first_o why_o christ_n in_o the_o interpretation_n of_o his_o vision_n do_v not_o expound_v the_o whole_a but_o only_o two_o principal_a part_n thereof_o this_o he_o do_v for_o these_o cause_n first_o because_o he_o have_v give_v unto_o his_o church_n the_o gift_n of_o interpretation_n which_o he_o will_v have_v they_o to_o exercise_v about_o this_o vision_n for_o if_o he_o have_v expound_v every_o part_n himself_o than_o he_o have_v leave_v herein_o no_o matter_n to_o his_o church_n whereabout_o she_o may_v exercise_v her_o gift_n second_o to_o provoke_v god_n minister_n especial_o with_o other_o member_n of_o his_o church_n unto_o all_o diligence_n in_o study_v this_o and_o other_o part_n of_o scripture_n for_o if_o all_o thing_n be_v easy_a and_o plain_a than_o man_n will_v grow_v careless_a in_o read_v and_o search_v out_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n word_n three_o to_o stir_v up_o in_o every_o reader_n of_o this_o book_n a_o earnest_n and_o hearty_a desire_n to_o understand_v the_o same_o four_o to_o excite_v all_o his_o servant_n to_o prayer_n and_o invocation_n upon_o god_n for_o his_o grace_n that_o they_o may_v with_o read_v the_o scripture_n understand_v the_o true_a meaning_n thereof_o ii_o point_n note_v here_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n be_v call_v angel_n what_o these_o angel_n be_v appear_v in_o the_o chapter_n follow_v to_o wit_n the_o pastor_n and_o minister_n of_o these_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n so_o mat._n 11.10_o john_n baptist_n be_v call_v christ_n angel_n or_o messenger_n whereby_o we_o have_v good_a light_n for_o the_o expound_v of_o a_o place_n in_o paul_n 1._o cor._n 11.10_o say_n that_o the_o woman_n ought_v to_o have_v power_n over_o her_o head_n that_o be_v be_v cover_v because_o of_o the_o angel_n where_o by_o angel_n may_v well_o be_v understand_v the_o preacher_n and_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o that_o precept_n may_v be_v this_o among_o the_o corinthian_n the_o cover_n of_o the_o head_n be_v not_o as_o it_o be_v with_o we_o a_o token_n of_o prelieminence_n and_o superiority_n but_o a_o sign_n of_o subjection_n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n will_v have_v the_o woman_n of_o corinth_n when_o they_o come_v into_o the_o congregation_n to_o have_v their_o head_n cover_v according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o their_o country_n in_o other_o assembly_n to_o signify_v their_o submission_n and_o reverence_n unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n use_n whereas_o minister_n be_v the_o lord_n angel_n and_o ambassador_n hence_o we_o gather_v that_o every_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n must_v carry_v himself_o as_o the_o messenger_n of_o the_o lord_n messenger_n have_v regard_n of_o two_o thing_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o message_n and_o of_o their_o manner_n of_o delivery_n that_o they_o speak_v all_o which_o they_o be_v command_v and_o in_o such_o order_n as_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n will_v have_v it_o speak_v or_o speak_v it_o himself_o if_o he_o be_v present_a and_o he_o that_o fail_v in_o either_o of_o these_o may_v just_o be_v challenge_v of_o unfaithfulness_n the_o minister_n therefore_o be_v christ_n messenger_n must_v deliver_v the_o whole_a will_n of_o christ_n alone_o unto_o his_o people_n as_o also_o in_o that_o manner_n which_o christ_n approve_v and_o will_v himself_o observe_v if_o he_o be_v present_a now_o can_v we_o once_o imagine_v that_o christ_n will_v deliver_v his_o will_n partly_o in_o english_a partly_o in_o latin_a and_o other_o language_n or_o intermingle_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n the_o sentence_n of_o father_n of_o philosopher_n poet_n and_o other_o writer_n those_o therefore_o that_o in_o this_o sort_n dispense_v christ_n gospel_n do_v hereby_o bewray_v unfaithfulness_n in_o their_o delivery_n indeed_o this_o be_v count_v the_o learned_a kind_n of_o preach_v but_o it_o be_v not_o that_o manner_n which_o christ_n approve_v and_o beside_o if_o this_o kind_n of_o teach_v may_v take_v place_n it_o will_v bring_v in_o as_o great_a barbarism_n in_o regard_n of_o true_a divinity_n as_o be_v among_o the_o schoolman_n when_o god_n word_n be_v whole_o turn_v unto_o needless_a disputation_n yea_o it_o will_v short_o banish_v the_o gospel_n out_o of_o this_o land_n iii_o point_n note_v the_o phrase_n which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n use_v he_o say_v not_o the_o seven_o star_n signify_v the_o seven_o angel_n but_o be_v the_o seven_o angel_n and_o the_o seven_o candlestick_n be_v the_o seven_o church_n give_v to_o the_o sign_n the_o name_n of_o the_o thing_n signify_v wherein_o we_o have_v a_o good_a warrant_n for_o our_o exposition_n of_o that_o phrase_n in_o the_o sacrament_n this_o bread_n be_v my_o body_n this_o cup_n be_v my_o blood_n which_o the_o papist_n understand_v proper_o of_o the_o very_a body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n by_o real_a transmutation_n but_o as_o these_o seven_o star_n be_v say_v to_o be_v seven_o minister_n because_o they_o do_v signify_v the_o seven_o minister_n so_o be_v the_o bread_n call_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n because_o it_o signify_v and_o represent_v his_o body_n and_o the_o cup_n his_o blood_n and_o as_o it_o be_v absurd_a to_o say_v the_o seven_o minister_n be_v indeed_o seven_o star_n because_o they_o be_v so_o call_v so_o it_o be_v absurd_a to_o hold_v the_o bread_n in_o the_o sacrament_n to_o be_v real_o christ_n body_n or_o the_o wine_n his_o blood_n because_o it_o be_v so_o call_v and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o three_o action_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o interpretation_n of_o this_o vision_n the_o second_o chapter_n vers._n 1._o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n in_o this_o chapter_n and_o in_o the_o next_o be_v contain_v the_o four_o action_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n wherein_o he_o give_v seven_o particular_a commandment_n to_o john_n to_o write_v unto_o the_o
of_o hart_n and_o profaneness_n of_o life_n that_o they_o be_v at_o their_o first_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n these_o must_v know_v that_o god_n judgement_n be_v on_o they_o and_o if_o they_o will_v be_v save_v they_o must_v labour_v to_o come_v out_o of_o this_o estate_n &_o endeavour_n so_o to_o hear_v with_o their_o heart_n that_o they_o may_v be_v turn_v unto_o god_n both_o in_o mind_n heart_n and_o life_n ii_o point_n the_o duty_n command_v namely_o to_o hear_v hear_v in_o scripture_n be_v not_o only_o to_o listen_v with_o the_o bodily_a ear_n but_o to_o be_v attentive_a to_o that_o which_o be_v teach_v and_o with_o attention_n to_o bring_v faith_n conversion_n and_o obedience_n every_o way_n eph._n 4.21_o 22_o the_o hear_n of_o christ_n be_v notable_o describe_v it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o conceive_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o mindâ—_n and_o to_o be_v able_a to_o utter_v it_o as_o to_o die_v unto_o sin_n and_o to_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o risâ—_n 〈◊〉_d newness_n of_o life_n and_o indeed_o a_o man_n do_v hear_v and_o learn_v no_o more_o of_o god_n word_n than_o he_o do_v believe_v and_o practice_v from_o whence_o we_o be_v again_o to_o be_v admonish_v that_o we_o so_o hear_v with_o attention_n that_o by_o hear_v we_o suffer_v ourselves_o to_o be_v change_v and_o that_o with_o our_o change_n we_o join_v â—are_v to_o believe_v and_o conscience_n to_o obey_v this_o iâ—_n that_o save_v hearing_n which_o bring_v eternal_a life_n all_o other_o hear_n do_v increase_v our_o sin_n to_o our_o further_a condemnation_n whereby_o also_o appear_v the_o fearful_a state_n of_o many_o who_o lend_v only_o the_o outward_a bodily_a ear_n to_o hâ—â—re_v the_o word_n but_o then_o heart_n be_v not_o move_v nor_o their_o life_n change_v thereby_o iii_o point_n what_o be_v to_o be_v hear_v namely_o that_o which_o the_o spirit_n say_v â—nto_o 〈◊〉_d church_n which_o word_n must_v be_v refer_v to_o that_o which_o go_v beâ—ore_o &_o not_o to_o that_o which_o follow_v for_o thiâ—_n commandment_n belong_v to_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n which_o go_v before_o the_o promise_n follow_v rather_o concern_v the_o person_n themselves_o than_o the_o matter_n the_o thing_n then_o that_o be_v to_o be_v hear_v be_v these_o christ_n his_o sharp_a reproof_n for_o sin_n his_o threaten_n of_o punishment_n a_o remedy_n prescribe_v &_o motive_n to_o practice_v the_o same_o especial_o repentance_n for_o of_o all_o these_o christ_n speak_v before_o use_n from_o this_o that_o christ_n bid_v they_o hear_v these_o thing_n which_o concern_v their_o estate_n in_o sin_n &_o amendment_n by_o repentance_n we_o learn_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o necessary_a thing_n for_o every_o church_n of_o god_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o to_o know_v and_o consider_v their_o own_o want_n and_o sin_n and_o also_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o hang_v over_o they_o for_o the_o same_o second_o that_o after_o any_o man_n or_o any_o church_n have_v consider_v of_o theri_fw-la sin_n and_o of_o god_n judgement_n it_o be_v a_o most_o necessary_a thing_n to_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o true_a repentance_n if_o they_o have_v not_o repent_v and_o if_o they_o have_v repent_v to_o renew_v the_o same_o daily_a &_o do_v it_o more_o that_o so_o god_n judgement_n both_o private_a and_o common_a may_v be_v avoid_v we_o therefore_o must_v hereby_o be_v move_v to_o search_v into_o our_o own_o way_n to_o find_v out_o our_o own_o sin_n and_o to_o consider_v of_o god_n judgement_n thereby_o deserve_v that_o by_o true_a repentance_n we_o may_v turn_v unto_o god_n and_o so_o escape_v his_o fearful_a iudgementâ—_n further_o these_o word_n what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n contain_v 〈◊〉_d reason_n to_o move_v every_o man_n to_o hear_v i._o because_o they_o be_v speak_v 〈◊〉_d the_o spirit_n that_o be_v the_o holy_a ghost_n two_o because_o they_o 〈◊〉_d speak_v to_o one_o man_n oâ—_n one_o church_n alone_o but_o to_o all_o churcheâ—_n for_o the_o firstâ—_o it_o may_v 〈◊〉_d demand_v seeinâ—_n christ_n spâ—ke_v thâ—se_a wordâ—_n how_o 〈…〉_z be_v say_v that_o the_o spirit_n speak_v theâ—_n ans._n both_o may_v stand_v first_o because_o all_o the_o outward_a 〈◊〉_d of_o 〈◊〉_d person_n in_o 〈◊〉_d be_v common_a to_o the_o 〈…〉_z to_o â—each_v the_o church_n be_v a_o outward_a action_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o it_o agree_v to_o the_o father_n and_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o when_o the_o father_n create_v thing_n in_o the_o beginning_n the_o son_n also_o create_v and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n create_v they_o so_o herâ—_n when_o the_o son_n reach_v the_o father_n teach_v and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n teach_v for_o as_o the_o three_o person_n be_v one_o in_o nature_n so_o must_v they_o be_v join_v in_o all_o outward_a action_n second_o christ_n say_v the_o spirit_n speak_v because_o he_o now_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n do_v not_o teach_v his_o church_n in_o bodily_a presence_n but_o hy_z his_o spirit_n which_o after_o his_o ascension_n he_o send_v to_o be_v their_o comforter_n and_o instructor_n here_o then_o observe_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n speak_v to_o the_o church_n in_o scripture_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n appoint_v a_o judge_n to_o speak_v unto_o man_n in_o all_o matter_n of_o controversy_n which_o be_v the_o church_n because_o say_v they_o a_o judge_n must_v speak_v and_o christ_n be_v absent_a from_o his_o church_n and_o the_o word_n be_v a_o dumb_a letter_n and_o can_v speak_v therefore_o the_o church_n must_v needs_o be_v judge_n but_o they_o err_v gross_o the_o church_n can_v be_v judge_n it_o be_v but_o christ_n minister_n to_o put_v in_o execution_n that_o which_o he_o command_v christ_n therefore_o must_v be_v judge_n unto_o his_o church_n by_o scripture_n which_o be_v not_o a_o dumb_a judge_n for_o therein_o his_o spirit_n speak_v plain_o and_o sufficient_o for_o the_o resolve_v of_o any_o point_n in_o controversy_n that_o be_v needful_a in_o god_n church_n the_o second_o reason_n to_o attention_n be_v because_o these_o thing_n be_v speak_v to_o all_o church_n where_o we_o see_v that_o thing_n speak_v to_o one_o church_n agree_v to_o all_o from_o whence_o we_o must_v learn_v this_o special_a duty_n in_o read_v and_o hear_a god_n holy_a word_n namely_o to_o read_v and_o hear_v with_o applicacation_n we_o must_v not_o rest_v in_o a_o flourish_a knowledge_n of_o the_o story_n but_o apply_v every_o precept_n and_o example_n unto_o ourselves_o if_o it_o be_v a_o example_n of_o virtue_n we_o must_v apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o for_o imitation_n if_o it_o be_v a_o example_n of_o vice_n we_o must_v apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o to_o move_v we_o to_o eschew_v and_o avoid_v the_o like_a for_o god_n will_v have_v all_o to_o learn_v that_o which_o he_o speak_v unto_o one_o and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o commandment_n to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o conclusion_n to_o wit_n a_o most_o excellent_a promise_n wherein_o consider_v two_o point_n first_o to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v second_o what_o be_v promise_v for_o the_o first_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v that_o be_v to_o he_o that_o in_o fight_v prevail_v against_o all_o the_o spiritual_a enemy_n of_o his_o salvation_n sin_n sathan_n hell_n and_o condemnation_n there_o be_v three_o thing_n requisite_a to_o make_v a_o man_n able_a to_o overcome_v these_o enemy_n first_o he_o must_v be_v bear_v anew_o in_o christ_n of_o water_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n 1._o joh._n 5.4_o he_o that_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n overcom_v the_o world_n so_o by_o regeneration_n he_o be_v free_v from_o the_o bondage_n of_o hell_n death_n sin_n and_o satan_n second_o he_o must_v have_v true_a faith_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o he_o must_v deny_v and_o renounce_v himself_o and_o be_v whatsoever_o he_o be_v in_o the_o death_n passion_n &_o obedience_n of_o christ._n therefore_o s._n john_n say_v in_o the_o same_o place_n this_o be_v the_o victory_n which_o overcom_v the_o world_n even_o your_o faith_n for_o when_o a_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n by_o faith_n he_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o christ_n his_o victory_n upon_o the_o cross_n and_o by_o it_o receive_v power_n to_o subdue_v his_o own_o corruption_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n three_o he_o that_o will_v overcome_v must_v keep_v faith_n that_o be_v true_a religion_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n stand_v out_o in_o life_n and_o death_n against_o all_o adversary_n power_n whatsoever_o use_n in_o this_o that_o life_n everlasting_a be_v promise_v to_o they_o that_o overcome_v first_o we_o observe_v that_o
the_o doctrine_n of_o universal_a grace_n affirm_v that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o life_n and_o salvation_n belong_v to_o all_o and_o every_o man_n whatsoever_o unless_o he_o will_v reject_v they_o be_v a_o device_n of_o man_n brain_n for_o life_n eternal_a be_v not_o promise_v to_o every_o man_n as_o he_o be_v a_o man_n come_v of_o adam_n but_o to_o a_o man_n as_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n by_o faith_n and_o a_o new_a creature_n the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v universal_a indeed_o to_o all_o that_o overcome_v but_o that_o be_v a_o property_n which_o restrain_v they_o whole_o to_o true_a believer_n second_o hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v so_o to_o live_v that_o we_o may_v say_v true_o in_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n we_o have_v overcome_v all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o do_v continual_o stand_v conqueror_n over_o they_o this_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o endless_a joy_n &_o comfort_n which_o will_v cheer_v the_o soul_n in_o great_a distress_n but_o to_o live_v and_o lie_v in_o sin_n be_v or_o will_v be_v a_o hell_n to_o the_o conscience_n what_o avail_n the_o treasure_n &_o honour_n of_o this_o world_n to_o any_o man_n while_o his_o conscience_n shall_v tell_v he_o he_o be_v a_o vassal_n to_o sin_n and_o sathan_n for_o while_o he_o continue_v in_o that_o estate_n he_o be_v out_o of_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o have_v no_o part_n nor_o portion_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n therefore_o it_o stand_v we_o upon_o to_o labour_v to_o feel_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o certain_a evidence_n of_o this_o victory_n over_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n by_o the_o sure_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n the_o second_o point_n be_v the_o thing_n promise_v to_o wit_n life_n everlasting_a note_v by_o this_o gift_n to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n and_o it_o be_v set_v out_o unto_o we_o by_o two_o circumstance_n first_o by_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o second_o by_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v to_o be_v find_v the_o cause_n be_v christ_n jesus_n i_o will_v give_v to_o he_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n where_o he_o make_v a_o opposition_n between_o himself_o and_o the_o first_o adam_n the_o first_o adam_n sin_v and_o thereby_o cast_v himself_o with_o all_o his_o posterity_n out_o of_o the_o earthly_a paradise_n and_o lose_v the_o benefit_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n but_o christ_n the_o second_o adam_n come_v and_o suffer_v for_o sin_n and_o thereby_o open_v the_o way_n to_o a_o better_a paradise_n than_o the_o first_o adam_n lose_v and_o to_o all_o that_o overcome_v he_o give_v liberty_n to_o enter_v in_o and_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n the_o tree_n of_o life_n proper_o be_v a_o tree_n place_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o earthy_a paradise_n and_o it_o be_v so_o call_v first_o because_o it_o be_v a_o pledge_n and_o sacrament_n unto_o adam_n that_o he_o shall_v live_v for_o ever_o if_o he_o continue_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n second_o because_o it_o have_v in_o it_o as_o may_v be_v prove_v virtue_n and_o power_n whereby_o it_o will_v have_v preserve_v he_o from_o death_n and_o old_a age_n for_o ever_o if_o he_o have_v stand_v in_o his_o innocence_n this_o earthly_a tree_n of_o life_n be_v a_o figure_n and_o sign_n of_o christ_n our_o saviour_n and_o mediator_n who_o live_v a_o eternal_a spiritual_a life_n not_o only_o as_o he_o be_v god_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n and_o that_o not_o for_o himself_o alone_o but_o for_o this_o end_n that_o hâ—e_v may_v convey_v quicken_a spiritual_a life_n to_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o term_v himself_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n further_o he_o say_v he_o will_v give_v hereof_o to_o eat_v to_o eat_v sometime_o signify_v to_o believe_v john_n 6.50_o but_o it_o can_v hear_v be_v so_o take_v for_o faith_n end_v with_o this_o life_n and_o have_v no_o use_n afterward_o therefore_o to_o eat_v in_o this_o place_n signify_v to_o have_v immediate_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n in_o heaven_n where_o christ_n shall_v be_v unto_o he_o a_o tree_n of_o life_n to_o make_v he_o live_v for_o ever_o in_o this_o promise_n note_v two_o point_n i._o in_o what_o thing_n eternal_a life_n consist_v namely_o in_o immediate_a fellowship_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o heaven_n second_o that_o life_n eternal_a stand_v not_o in_o outward_a mean_n as_o meat_n drink_n clothing_n physic_n recreation_n sleep_n and_o such_o like_a but_o in_o a_o immediate_a partake_n with_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o blessing_n so_o that_o when_o christ_n be_v all_o in_o all_o unto_o we_o immediate_o then_o do_v we_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n and_o thereby_o shall_v live_v eternal_o ii_o circum_v the_o place_n where_o eternal_a life_n be_v to_o be_v have_v be_v in_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n this_o paradise_n of_o god_n be_v the_o three_o heaven_n a_o place_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v manifest_v himself_o in_o his_o glorious_a majesty_n and_o which_o he_o have_v prepare_v for_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o his_o elect_a hereof_o christ_n speak_v to_o the_o theâ—fe_n on_o the_o cross_n say_v this_o day_n thou_o shall_v be_v with_o i_o in_o paradise_n luk._n 23.43_o and_o hither_o be_v paul_n wrap_v in_o vision_n and_o see_v and_o hear_v thing_n that_o can_v be_v utter_v 12._o and_o he_o call_v it_o the_o three_o heaven_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o heaven_n under_o it_o for_o the_o place_n wherein_o we_o breath_n be_v the_o first_o heaven_n the_o starry_a firmament_n be_v the_o second_o heaven_n and_o this_o paradise_n of_o god_n be_v the_o three_o which_o be_v therefore_o call_v paradise_n because_o it_o be_v a_o place_n of_o endless_a joy_n and_o pleasure_n and_o the_o add_v of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n do_v not_o only_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o it_o and_o adam_n earthly_a paradise_n but_o also_o show_v it_o to_o be_v a_o great_a and_o most_o excellent_a place_n so_o rabel_n say_v i_o have_v wrestle_v with_o my_o sister_n 8._o the_o wrestle_n of_o god_n that_o be_v strong_a wrestle_n and_o in_o the_o psalm_n the_o mountain_n of_o god_n do_v signify_v high_a and_o mighty_a mountain_n and_o that_o this_o paradise_n be_v such_o a_o excellent_a place_n appear_v at_o large_a revel_v 22._o for_o therein_o must_v come_v none_o unclean_a thing_n but_o the_o saint_n and_o angel_n do_v there_o enjoy_v the_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o behold_v his_o glory_n so_o much_o as_o the_o creature_n be_v able_a to_o comprehend_v there_o god_n communicate_v himself_o to_o all_o the_o elect_a and_o become_v all_o thing_n unto_o theâ—_n immediate_o so_o that_o this_o must_v needs_o beâ—â—_n place_n of_o all_o joy_n and_o comfort_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o place_n in_o this_o heavenly_a paradise_n for_o why_o shall_v we_o set_v our_o heartâ—_n upon_o the_o vain_a glory_n of_o this_o world_n which_o pass_v away_o as_o a_o shadow_n and_o come_v to_o nothing_o and_o in_o the_o end_n be_v but_o labour_n and_o sorrow_n when_o we_o have_v all_o that_o the_o world_n can_v afford_v but_o the_o joy_n and_o glory_n of_o this_o paradise_n of_o god_n be_v endless_a and_o unspeakable_a let_v we_o therefore_o deny_v ourselves_o depend_v upon_o christ_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o epistle_n verse_n 8._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o smirnian_o write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a in_o this_o verse_n and_o the_o rest_n that_o follow_v to_o the_o twelve_o iâ—_n lay_v down_o the_o second_o letter_n or_o epistle_n of_o christ_n to_o another_o church_n of_o asia_n call_v smyrna_n before_o the_o epistle_n christ_n give_v a_o second_o particular_a commandment_n unto_o john_n touch_v the_o writing_n hereof_o unto_o this_o church_n in_o these_o word_n and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o smirnian_o write_v which_o be_v prefix_v to_o this_o epistle_n that_o this_o church_n and_o all_o other_o church_n of_o god_n may_v be_v assure_v that_o 〈◊〉_d have_v sufficient_a warrant_n and_o call_n for_o the_o write_n hereof_o which_o thing_n be_v necessary_a to_o every_o penman_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n that_o the_o church_n need_v not_o to_o doubt_v of_o the_o authority_n of_o scripture_n but_o receive_v the_o same_o as_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o all_o ordinary_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n must_v have_v warrant_n and_o call_n for_o every_o doctrine_n which_o they_o teach_v in_o god_n church_n use_n for_o the_o
in_o two_o thing_n in_o due_a deserve_a praise_n &_o commendation_n &_o in_o a_o careful_a imitation_n of_o their_o good_a virtue_n &_o godly_a life_n and_o for_o this_o end_n do_v christ_n commend_v antipas_n unto_o this_o church_n that_o they_o may_v follow_v his_o good_a conversation_n but_o as_o for_o popish_a honour_n of_o invocation_n &_o adoration_n it_o have_v no_o ground_n in_o god_n word_n again_o in_o call_v he_o faithful_a martyr_n he_o commend_v more_o the_o cause_n of_o his_o death_n than_o the_o death_n to_o show_v that_o the_o cause_n make_v a_o martyr_n not_o the_o death_n for_o a_o heretic_n may_v be_v put_v to_o death_n for_o his_o damnable_a opinion_n therefore_o antipas_n be_v a_o martyr_n not_o because_o he_o be_v slay_v but_o because_o he_o be_v faithful_a unto_o death_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o christ_n true_a religion_n ii_o point_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n christ_n show_v who_o be_v the_o author_n of_o antipas_n his_o death_n namely_o such_o among_o they_o in_o who_o satan_n rule_v for_o he_o be_v slay_v say_v christ_n among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v which_o word_n he_o repent_v to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o all_o persecutor_n let_v they_o carry_v what_o face_n they_o will_v be_v in_o truth_n such_o in_o who_o the_o devil_n rule_v where_o he_o have_v his_o hold_n and_o keep_v possession_n quest._n why_o do_v satan_n more_o dwell_v there_o than_o in_o other_o place_n answ._n because_o many_o in_o this_o place_n be_v gentile_n who_o contemn_v and_o mock_v the_o gospel_n and_o maintain_v idolatry_n whereby_o they_o become_v the_o hold_n of_o satan_n and_o by_o proportion_n we_o may_v gather_v that_o all_o contemner_n of_o religion_n and_o all_o that_o walk_v in_o their_o own_o wicked_a way_n be_v indeed_o the_o stable_n and_o hold_n of_o the_o devil_n though_o they_o shall_v be_v the_o temple_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o so_o many_o family_n as_o there_o be_v where_o religion_n be_v mock_v god_n name_n blaspheme_v injustice_n and_o impiety_n practise_v so_o many_o hold_v of_o satan_n there_o be_v where_o the_o devil_n rule_v and_o such_o they_o continue_v till_o they_o reform_v themselves_o of_o their_o impiety_n and_o embrace_v the_o gospel_n sincere_o and_o therefore_o all_o master_n of_o family_n especial_o shall_v love_v the_o gospel_n and_o see_v that_o in_o their_o family_n religion_n be_v teach_v embrace_v and_o obey_v that_o so_o the_o devil_n may_v have_v no_o hold_n in_o their_o family_n que._n whether_o may_v not_o antipas_n be_v pastor_n of_o this_o church_n have_v flee_v for_o the_o safety_n of_o his_o life_n answ._n there_o be_v two_o kind_n of_o persecution_n one_o that_o be_v direct_o intend_v against_o the_o pastor_n principal_o the_o other_o against_o the_o whole_a church_n equal_o in_o the_o persecution_n direct_v against_o the_o pastor_n this_o must_v be_v consider_v whether_o god_n give_v he_o opportunity_n and_o liberty_n to_o fly_v or_o not_o if_o god_n give_v he_o liberty_n and_o opportunity_n he_o may_v fly_v and_o the_o church_n be_v to_o assist_v he_o and_o to_o use_v mean_n for_o his_o preservation_n but_o if_o god_n deny_v he_o mean_n to_o escape_v than_o he_o must_v judge_v himself_o to_o be_v call_v of_o god_n to_o suffer_v death_n for_o his_o name_n and_o so_o he_o may_v not_o fly_v and_o such_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o antipas_n in_o this_o church_n but_o if_o the_o persecution_n be_v direct_v against_o the_o whole_a church_n equal_o than_o the_o pastor_n may_v not_o fly_v but_o take_v part_n in_o their_o suffering_n that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o stay_v and_o comfort_v his_o brethren_n verse_n 14._o but_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n which_o teach_v balac_n to_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o they_o shall_v eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v unto_o idol_n and_o commit_v fornication_n here_o follow_v the_o reproof_n of_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n which_o be_v first_o general_o propound_v in_o these_o word_n i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o second_o in_o particular_a for_o want_v of_o zeal_n in_o suffer_v among_o they_o such_o as_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balam_n three_o he_o set_v down_o a_o reason_n or_o confirmation_n thereof_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o 14_o verse_n and_o in_o the_o 15._o the_o general_a reproof_n be_v the_o same_o which_o be_v give_v out_o against_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n vers_n 4._o whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o a_o special_a duty_n namely_o that_o every_o man_n must_v serious_o consider_v with_o himself_o what_o sin_n he_o have_v in_o he_o which_o christ_n may_v have_v to_o lay_v unto_o his_o charge_n for_o this_o very_a cause_n do_v christ_n rehearse_v it_o unto_o this_o church_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v call_v ourselves_o to_o reckon_n and_o examine_v ourselves_o not_o by_o our_o own_o wit_n but_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n word_n and_o search_v out_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n and_o see_v how_o many_o thing_n christ_n may_v have_v against_o we_o that_o so_o make_v a_o beforehand_a reckon_n and_o seek_v to_o be_v clear_v by_o true_a repentance_n we_o may_v not_o be_v condemn_v for_o they_o at_o the_o last_o day_n for_o if_o we_o will_v judge_v ourselves_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v judge_v this_o be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o conscionable_a obedience_n as_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o want_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n do_v perish_v eternal_o for_o a_o day_n of_o account_n will_v come_v wherein_o we_o shall_v never_o escape_v unless_o by_o a_o beforehand_a reckon_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o true_a repentance_n from_o dead_a work_n and_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n we_o prevent_v the_o same_o lamentable_a and_o fearful_a be_v the_o state_n of_o all_o those_o that_o never_o call_v themselves_o to_o this_o account_n it_o cause_v they_o to_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n without_o remorse_n hos_fw-la 7.2_o hereof_o jeremie_n complain_v 8.6_o that_o no_o man_n say_v what_o have_v i_o do_v and_o for_o that_o cause_n he_o denounce_v fearful_a judgement_n against_o the_o people_n this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o old_a world_n 24._o man_n know_v nothing_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o destroy_v they_o all_o this_o security_n bring_v man_n soul_n to_o hell_n before_o they_o wot_v where_o they_o be_v and_o therefore_o david_n cry_v out_o psal._n 50._o vers_fw-la 22._o oh_o consider_v this_o mean_v the_o account_n that_o god_n will_v take_v with_o they_o lest_o god_n tear_v they_o in_o piece_n and_o there_o be_v none_o to_o deliver_v they_o the_o end_n of_o preach_v and_o hear_v god_n word_n be_v to_o bring_v the_o soul_n to_o eternal_a life_n and_o salvation_n but_o the_o want_n of_o this_o account_n make_v the_o holy_a ordinance_n of_o god_n to_o be_v of_o none_o effect_v to_o many_o a_o one_o for_o how_o shall_v man_n embrace_v with_o comfort_n the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n till_o they_o feel_v in_o themselves_o their_o enmity_n with_o god_n and_o desert_n of_o condemnation_n ii_o point_n because_o thou_o have_v they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n etc._n etc._n here_o be_v the_o particular_a reproof_n of_o this_o church_n for_o want_n of_o zeal_n in_o that_o they_o entertain_v and_o suffer_v heretical_a minister_n to_o live_v among_o they_o which_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n this_o show_v that_o though_o they_o love_v the_o gospel_n and_o embrace_v it_o yet_o it_o be_v very_o cold_o and_o without_o that_o fervent_a zeal_n which_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v show_v against_o such_o heretic_n use_n here_o first_o christ_n teach_v this_o church_n to_o show_v forth_o zeal_n in_o excommunicate_v and_o cast_v out_o such_o heretic_n as_o by_o damnable_a doctrine_n do_v trouble_v they_o this_o place_n be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o ecclesiastical_a censure_n when_o man_n hold_v heretical_a opinion_n the_o church_n after_o two_o or_o three_o admonition_n be_v to_o excommunicate_v they_o and_o cast_v they_o out_o so_o do_v paul_n to_o hymaeneus_n and_o alexander_n 1._o tim._n 1.20_o second_o christ_n reprove_v this_o church_n for_o entertain_v such_o heretic_n and_o wicked_a man_n do_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o every_o member_n of_o god_n church_n shall_v have_v a_o great_a dislike_n of_o all_o person_n that_o hold_v not_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n in_o truth_n but_o maintain_v error_n against_o the_o tenor_n of_o scripture_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o church_n for_o this_o cause_n paul_n charge_v timothy_n to_o 5._o separat_fw-la
this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n who_o work_n be_v better_a at_o the_o last_o than_o at_o the_o first_o a_o fearful_a case_n it_o be_v to_o be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n will_v and_o a_o great_a judgement_n of_o god_n to_o decay_v in_o love_n and_o other_o grace_n and_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v prevent_v god_n judgement_n we_o must_v have_v care_n to_o get_v knowledge_n and_o to_o increase_v therein_o and_o with_o knowledge_n to_o join_v obedience_n in_o all_o good_a duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n some_o plead_v for_o themselves_o by_o reason_n of_o age_n want_v of_o memory_n and_o capacity_n but_o these_o must_v learn_v to_o show_v forth_o better_a affection_n and_o more_o sincere_a obedience_n the_o young_a sort_n also_o must_v employ_v their_o wit_n and_o strength_n to_o get_v knowledge_n and_o with_o knowledge_n join_v obedience_n that_o they_o may_v increase_v in_o grace_n as_o they_o grow_v in_o day_n yea_o every_o one_o that_o have_v any_o good_a beginning_n must_v endeavour_v to_o make_v it_o more_o for_o to_o he_o that_o have_v shall_v more_v give_v and_o he_o shall_v have_v abundance_n but_o from_o he_o that_o hide_v his_o gift_n or_o abuse_v the_o same_o shall_v be_v take_v away_o that_o which_o he_o seem_v to_o have_v luk._n 8.18_o vers._n 20._o notwithstanding_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o that_o thou_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jesabell_n which_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v &_o deceive_v my_o servant_n to_o make_v they_o to_o commit_v fornication_n and_o to_o eat_v meat_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n here_o be_v christ_n reproof_n of_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n and_o it_o be_v twofold_a first_o of_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o this_o 20._o verse_n second_o of_o a_o woman_n in_o that_o church_n vers_fw-la 21._o in_o the_o reproof_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n note_v two_o thing_n the_o reproof_n itself_o and_o the_o reason_n thereof_o the_o reproof_n itself_o be_v contain_v in_o these_o word_n notwithstanding_o i_o have_v something_o against_o thou_o that_o be_v though_o i_o have_v praise_v thou_o for_o many_o worthy_a work_n yet_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n which_o i_o do_v not_o approve_v this_o reproof_n have_v be_v handle_v in_o the_o former_a epistle_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o reproof_n follow_v in_o these_o word_n that_o thou_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jesabell_n who_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o seduce_v my_o servant_n this_o reason_n of_o her_o reproof_n contain_v sundry_a point_n worthy_a our_o consideration_n i._o from_o the_o phrase_n and_o form_n of_o the_o word_n we_o may_v consider_v the_o large_a power_n that_o god_n give_v to_o his_o church_n which_o be_v beside_o the_o power_n to_o preach_v the_o word_n &_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n a_o further_a power_n to_o appoint_v who_o shall_v preach_v among_o they_o &_o who_o shall_v not_o preach_v and_o also_o a_o power_n to_o repress_v evil_a man_n and_o evil_a woman_n &_o so_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o order_n the_o like_a power_n be_v give_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n as_o we_o have_v see_v in_o the_o epistle_n to_o that_o church_n they_o have_v power_n to_o discern_v false_a prophet_n &_o apostle_n and_o to_o restrain_v the_o same_o the_o like_a power_n do_v god_n give_v to_o all_o church_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v if_o we_o read_v the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n and_o great_a cause_n there_o be_v hereof_o for_o without_o this_o authority_n no_o church_n can_v long_o stand_v &_o be_v a_o church_n ii_o here_o note_n that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a for_o a_o church_n to_o have_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n but_o it_o must_v have_v severity_n and_o sharp_a government_n whereby_o wicked_a people_n may_v be_v restrain_v this_o church_n be_v therefore_o discommend_v for_o that_o she_o use_v not_o that_o severe_a authority_n which_o god_n have_v give_v she_o in_o suppress_v of_o sin_n and_o in_o our_o congregation_n the_o like_a fault_n be_v to_o be_v find_v where_o much_o preach_n be_v yet_o sin_n abound_v as_o adultery_n blasphemy_n usury_n and_o cruelty_n and_o the_o cause_n be_v for_o that_o this_o severe_a execution_n of_o government_n in_o restrain_v sin_n be_v not_o so_o strait_o put_v in_o practice_n as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v again_o in_o this_o reason_n of_o his_o reprofe_n christ_n do_v charge_v they_o with_o two_o fault_n first_o for_o suffer_v a_o woman_n to_o teach_v second_o for_o suffer_v a_o woman_n to_o seduce_v his_o people_n for_o the_o first_o the_o word_n translate_v teach_v be_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n common_o put_v for_o public_a teach_n in_o the_o ministry_n their_o fault_n then_o be_v this_o that_o they_o suffer_v a_o woman_n to_o teach_v open_o and_o it_o be_v against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 1._o tim._n 2.12_o i_o permit_v not_o a_o woman_n to_o teach_v and_o 1._o cor._n 14.34_o 35_o woman_n ought_v to_o keep_v silence_n in_o the_o congregation_n and_o be_v subject_a to_o their_o husband_n and_o learn_v of_o they_o at_o home_n object_n but_o deborah_n be_v a_o prophetess_n jud._n 4.4_o and_o hulda_n prophesy_v 2._o kin._n 22.4_o for_o josiah_n send_v to_o she_o for_o counsel_n 2._o chro._n 34._o and_o therefore_o woman_n may_v prophesy_v an._n these_o woman_n have_v extraordinary_a gift_n &_o call_n &_o therefore_o upon_o their_o example_n we_o may_v not_o make_v a_o ordinary_a rule_n ii_o ob._n but_o it_o may_v seem_v paul_n allow_v it_o when_o he_o say_v a_o woman_n pray_v or_o prophesy_v uncover_v dishonour_v her_o head_n 1._o co._n 11.5_o answ._n hereto_o some_o do_v answer_v thus_o that_o in_o the_o infancy_n of_o the_o church_n some_o woman_n be_v extraordinary_o endue_v with_o that_o gift_n and_o do_v indeed_o prophesy_v other_o judge_v it_o to_o have_v be_v a_o fault_n in_o that_o church_n and_o therefore_o say_v in_o the_o 14._o cha_n the_o apostle_n reprove_v it_o command_v woman_n to_o keep_v silence_n in_o the_o church_n three_o a_o woman_n may_v be_v say_v to_o pray_v when_o she_o give_v her_o assent_n to_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o minister_n by_o say_v amen_n and_o she_o may_v be_v say_v to_o prophesy_v when_o she_o sing_v psalm_n or_o read_v the_o scripture_n for_o so_o the_o word_n be_v use_v in_o scripture_n 1._o chron._n 25.1_o asaph_z and_o his_o company_n prophesy_v with_o harp_n and_o vial_n that_o be_v as_o it_o be_v translate_v they_o sing_v prophecy_n and_o play_v thereunto_o upon_o their_o instrument_n from_o the_o rebuke_n of_o christ_n against_o this_o church_n use_n we_o gather_v that_o it_o be_v not_o warrantable_a by_o god_n word_n for_o a_o woman_n to_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n for_o baptism_n be_v a_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n in_o the_o public_a ministry_n and_o so_o a_o part_n thereof_o and_o must_v go_v with_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o may_v not_o be_v administer_v by_o woman_n who_o be_v not_o allow_v to_o preach_v no_o not_o in_o time_n and_o case_n of_o necessity_n when_o man_n be_v want_v and_o although_o they_o may_v not_o teach_v public_o yet_o they_o may_v teach_v at_o home_n and_o in_o the_o absence_n of_o their_o husband_n it_o be_v her_o duty_n to_o teach_v her_o child_n proverb_n 31_o lemuel_n that_o be_v solomon_n be_v teach_v many_o worthy_a thing_n of_o his_o mother_n and_o timothy_n be_v bring_v up_o of_o a_o child_n in_o the_o scripture_n by_o his_o grandmother_n lois_fw-fr and_o his_o mother_n eunice_n 2._o tim._n 1.5_o hence_o some_o will_v gather_v that_o as_o a_o woman_n may_v not_o teach_v public_o so_o she_o may_v not_o public_o govern_v in_o the_o commonwealth_n but_o this_o consequence_n be_v not_o good_a for_o public_a teach_n be_v flat_o forbid_v to_o a_o woman_n so_o be_v not_o public_a civil_a regiment_n there_o be_v special_a reason_n why_o she_o may_v not_o public_o teach_v for_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o as_o christ_n be_v a_o man_n so_o they_o that_o stand_v in_o his_o room_n and_o stead_n in_o the_o public_a ministry_n shall_v also_o be_v man_n but_o the_o regiment_n of_o a_o kingdom_n be_v a_o civil_a thing_n and_o so_o may_v lawful_o be_v administer_v by_o a_o woman_n when_o she_o come_v unto_o it_o by_o lawful_a succession_n to_o her_o father_n who_o whole_a patrimony_n in_o the_o want_n of_o son_n she_o may_v right_o enjoy_v object_n but_o the_o woman_n must_v bâ—e_v in_o subjection_n unto_o the_o man_n 1._o cor._n 14._o â—4_n answ._n so_o she_o may_v and_o yet_o have_v sovereignty_n in_o the_o kingdom_n object_n but_o the_o man_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o woman_n 1._o cor._n 11.3_o answ._n that_o be_v the_o man_n in_o that_o he_o iâ—_n a_o man_n be_v a_o person_n more_o excellent_a than_o the_o woman_n as_o she_o be_v a_o woman_n yet_o the_o person_n that_o in_o
david_n himself_o a_o type_n of_o christ_n as_o it_o be_v most_o excellent_o dyscipher_v in_o the_o prophet_n jer._n 23.5.6_o &_o hosea_n 3.5_o where_o christ_n be_v plain_o call_v david_n by_o the_o name_n of_o he_o that_o be_v his_o type_n sign_n &_o figure_n quest._n why_o be_v not_o as_o well_o the_o kingdom_n of_o nabuchadnezzar_n and_o pharaoh_n type_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n as_o david_n answ._n because_o david_n kingdom_n be_v a_o kingdom_n of_o light_n and_o piety_n but_o they_o be_v kingdom_n of_o sin_n and_o iniquity_n and_o he_o be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n kingdom_n because_o his_o kingdom_n and_o the_o righteousness_n thereof_o be_v figure_v by_o the_o piety_n in_o david_n kingdom_n and_o this_o kind_n of_o speak_v be_v justifiable_a by_o god_n word_n so_o mat._n 2.23_o christ_n be_v call_v a_o nazarite_n which_o place_n have_v relation_n to_o that_o which_o be_v say_v proper_o of_o samson_n 13._o who_o be_v a_o most_o excellent_a figure_n of_o christ_n and_o do_v most_o notable_o represent_v he_o in_o his_o death_n wherein_o he_o kill_v more_o than_o in_o his_o life_n now_o christ_n be_v call_v a_o nazarite_n not_o because_o he_o observe_v their_o rite_n and_o order_n for_o that_o he_o do_v not_o he_o drink_v wine_n so_o do_v not_o the_o nazarite_n but_o because_o he_o be_v the_o truth_n and_o substance_n of_o that_o order_n for_o in_o he_o be_v full_o accomplish_v that_o holiness_n which_o be_v figure_v by_o that_o order_n for_o he_o be_v perfect_o sever_v from_o all_o sin_n and_o pollution_n and_o so_o here_o he_o be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n because_o he_o have_v the_o sovereignty_n which_o be_v figure_v by_o david_n kingdom_n which_o shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v and_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v here_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o house_n which_o can_v be_v open_v and_o shut_v by_o none_o but_o christ_n whereby_o be_v signify_v that_o none_o have_v power_n above_o christ_n in_o his_o kingdom_n and_o that_o his_o power_n therein_o be_v sovereign_a and_o absolute_a so_o that_o hereby_o be_v mean_v that_o christ_n jesus_n sit_v in_o heaven_n have_v sovereign_a power_n and_o authority_n over_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o god_n to_o govern_v the_o same_o that_o we_o may_v the_o better_o understand_v this_o sovereign_a power_n of_o christ_n we_o must_v know_v it_o have_v three_o part_n i._o to_o prescribe_v ii_o to_o judge_n iii_o to_o save_v or_o destroy_v in_o prescribe_v christ_n have_v absolute_a power_n and_o that_o in_o sundry_a thing_n as_o first_o in_o prescribe_v doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o religion_n unto_o his_o church_n to_o be_v believe_v and_o obey_v and_o that_o on_o pain_n of_o damnation_n this_o power_n he_o put_v in_o execution_n when_o in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n he_o prescribe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n &_o the_o gospel_n to_o be_v obey_v and_o believe_v and_o none_o but_o he_o can_v make_v a_o article_n of_o faith_n or_o a_o law_n to_o bind_v the_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o paul_n say_v whosoever_o shall_v teach_v any_o other_o doctrine_n then_o that_o which_o you_o have_v receive_v of_o we_o let_v he_o be_v accurse_v gal._n 1.8_o second_o for_o regiment_n he_o have_v absolute_a power_n to_o prescribe_v how_o he_o will_v have_v his_o church_n govern_v and_o by_o who_o and_o therefore_o moses_n when_o he_o be_v to_o make_v the_o tabernacle_n 8.5_o do_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o pattern_n that_o the_o lord_n give_v unto_o he_o so_o david_n give_v to_o solomon_n pattern_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o he_o by_o the_o spirit_n touch_v the_o build_n of_o the_o house_n of_o god_n 1._o chron._n 28.12_o three_o he_o have_v absolute_a power_n to_o appoint_v the_o time_n of_o keep_v his_o sabbath_n for_o as_o the_o ordain_v of_o a_o sabbath_n belong_v to_o christ_n so_o do_v the_o change_v thereof_o he_o that_o prescribe_v worship_n must_v prescribe_v the_o ordinary_a set_a time_n thereunto_o which_o be_v to_o continue_v to_o the_o end_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v but_o a_o opinion_n of_o man_n to_o hold_v that_o the_o church_n may_v make_v two_o or_o more_o sabbath_n day_n in_o a_o week_n if_o they_o wil._n four_o in_o prescribe_v the_o sacrament_n and_o therefore_o 23_o paul_n say_v what_o i_o have_v receive_v of_o the_o lord_n that_o deliver_v i_o unto_o you_o speak_v of_o the_o lord_n supper_n for_o he_o that_o give_v grace_n must_v also_o appoint_v the_o sign_n and_o seal_n of_o grace_n the_o second_o part_n of_o christ_n sovereign_a power_n be_v power_n of_o judgement_n which_o be_v a_o sovereign_a power_n to_o determine_v on_o his_o own_o will_n without_o the_o consent_n of_o other_o or_o submission_n to_o man_n or_o angel_n and_o in_o determine_v christ_n have_v two_o privilege_n first_o to_o expound_v scripture_n the_o absolute_a power_n of_o expound_v the_o law_n belong_v to_o the_o lawgiver_n and_o his_o exposition_n be_v authentical_a second_o to_o determine_v of_o all_o question_n and_o controversy_n in_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o wicked_a opinion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o hold_n that_o the_o principal_a judge_n of_o interpret_n scripture_n and_o decyde_v controversy_n be_v the_o church_n the_o three_o part_n of_o christ_n sovereign_a power_n be_v to_o save_v and_o destroy_v this_o be_v express_v in_o these_o word_n he_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v and_o shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v say_v 1.18_o to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o hell_n and_o of_o death_n whereby_o be_v signify_v first_o that_o he_o have_v power_n to_o forgive_v sin_n for_o that_o he_o procure_v at_o his_o father_n hand_n second_o that_o he_o have_v power_n to_o condemn_v for_o when_o man_n believe_v not_o his_o word_n he_o have_v power_n to_o hold_v they_o in_o their_o sin_n for_o which_o he_o can_v cast_v they_o into_o hell_n the_o ground_n of_o this_o threefold_a power_n of_o christ_n iâ—_n this_o because_o he_o be_v sovereign_a lord_n over_o his_o church_n and_o the_o member_n thereof_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n say_v that_o this_o key_n of_o david_n have_v more_o in_o it_o then_o sovereignty_n over_o his_o church_n to_o wit_n a_o power_n to_o make_v and_o depose_v king_n that_o be_v in_o his_o church_n this_o they_o teach_v that_o they_o may_v prove_v the_o pope_n to_o have_v title_n in_o ordain_v and_o depose_n of_o king_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o key_n but_o they_o err_v gross_o for_o though_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v above_o all_o king_n yet_o in_o that_o regard_n he_o neither_o make_v nor_o depose_v any_o king_n and_o therefore_o he_o say_v plain_o 3â—_n my_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n this_o cause_v he_o to_o refuse_v to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o office_n of_o a_o earthly_a judge_n or_o prince_n to_o 14_o divide_v a_o inheritance_n between_o two_o brethren_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o he_o 8.11_o refuse_v to_o give_v sentence_n of_o the_o adulterous_a woman_n and_o yet_o as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o make_v or_o depose_v earthly_a king_n so_o the_o wise_a mail_n speak_v of_o he_o in_o the_o person_n of_o wisdom_n 8.15_o by_o i_o king_n reign_v for_o the_o further_a clear_n of_o this_o we_o must_v handle_v another_o point_n which_o be_v derive_v hence_o keyeâ—_n concern_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n which_o be_v a_o power_n whereby_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n of_o david_n be_v put_v in_o execution_n this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v mention_v mat._n 16.19_o when_o christ_n say_v unto_o peter_n i_o will_v give_v unto_o thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v bind_v upon_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v loose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v a_o ministry_n grant_v to_o god_n church_n to_o open_v and_o shut_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n first_o i_o call_v it_o a_o ministry_n that_o be_v a_o service_n because_o whatsoever_o the_o church_n do_v in_o christ_n name_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o duty_n of_o servant_n unto_o their_o lord_n from_o whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o most_o worthy_a member_n and_o officer_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o church_n as_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v but_o the_o minister_n of_o christ._n that_o this_o be_v a_o service_n i_o show_v more_o plain_o thus_o when_o adam_n fall_v in_o his_o sin_n all_o mankind_n fall_v with_o he_o and_o thereby_o be_v all_o bar_v from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n now_o since_o that_o fall_n christ_n become_v man_n and_o in_o his_o manhood_n satisfy_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n for_o man_n sin_n and_o this_o
yet_o they_o will_v not_o take_v pain_n to_o read_v the_o same_o at_o least_o in_o such_o a_o constant_a course_n as_o they_o ought_v to_o do_v three_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n be_v break_v for_o though_o most_o man_n at_o set_a time_n will_v come_v into_o the_o congregation_n yet_o there_o be_v not_o that_o private_a sanctify_a of_o the_o sabbath_n after_o the_o congregation_n be_v dissolve_v which_o god_n word_n require_v but_o man_n betake_v themselves_o to_o their_o own_o affair_n and_o to_o outward_a delight_n to_o omit_v those_o that_o have_v no_o care_n at_o all_o of_o sanctify_v the_o sabbath_n in_o any_o sort_n now_o these_o person_n must_v needs_o want_v both_o knowledge_n obedience_n and_o all_o sound_a grace_n that_o will_v not_o set_v apart_o some_o time_n wherein_o they_o shall_v employ_v themselves_o in_o god_n word_n and_o by_o these_o sign_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o there_o be_v a_o grievous_a disease_n of_o negligence_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n that_o infect_v our_o congregation_n now_o where_o this_o negligence_n be_v though_o coldness_n be_v not_o there_o can_v be_v zeal_n and_o so_o luke-warmnesse_n must_v needs_o abound_v ii_o sign_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a the_o religion_n of_o most_o man_n be_v this_o in_o the_o general_a call_n of_o a_o christian_n they_o show_v religion_n but_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o their_o particular_a calling_n where_o be_v religion_n in_o the_o church_n they_o be_v good_a christian_n but_o in_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o their_o particular_a calling_n who_o show_v his_o religion_n for_o when_o as_o man_n shall_v practice_v their_o calling_n according_a to_o god_n word_n and_o true_a godliness_n they_o follow_v the_o desire_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n little_a conscience_n be_v make_v of_o lie_v and_o oppression_n that_o love_n and_o plain_a deal_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v between_o man_n and_o man_n be_v want_v which_o prove_v they_o plain_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a gospeler_n iii_o sign_n there_o be_v many_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a for_o though_o all_o general_o come_v to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o sacrament_n yet_o many_o when_o they_o see_v some_o make_v conscience_n to_o become_v answerable_a in_o some_o measure_n to_o the_o word_n which_o they_o hear_v and_o the_o sacrament_n which_o they_o receive_v do_v take_v up_o in_o their_o mouth_n this_o slander_n of_o precizenesse_n against_o they_o mock_v they_o for_o do_v that_o which_o in_o the_o word_n &_o sacrament_n themselves_o profess_v shall_v be_v do_v these_o man_n will_v not_o be_v enemy_n to_o the_o religion_n of_o christ_n and_o they_o profess_v themselves_o not_o to_o be_v zealous_a by_o reproach_v zeal_n in_o other_o therefore_o they_o do_v more_o than_o these_o laodicean_n do_v even_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a for_o he_o that_o reproach_v another_o for_o zeal_n in_o religion_n brand_v himself_o with_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a and_o who_o know_v not_o how_o many_o of_o this_o â—ort_n be_v every_o where_o i_o dare_v with_o good_a conscience_n say_v our_o congregation_n general_o consist_v of_o such_o now_o mark_v what_o follow_v hereupon_o first_o that_o our_o common_a professor_n of_o religion_n be_v in_o worse_a case_n than_o heathen_a man_n jew_n and_o turk_n that_o know_v not_o christ._n this_o christ_n teach_v in_o prefer_v cold_a person_n before_o the_o lukewarm_a as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v rather_o thou_o were_v a_o pagan_a than_o a_o professor_n without_o zeal_n and_o 2.21_o saint_n peter_n to_o this_o purpose_n speak_v of_o such_o say_v it_o have_v be_v better_a they_o have_v never_o know_v the_o way_n of_o truth_n than_o after_o they_o have_v know_v it_o not_o to_o obey_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n so_o that_o unless_o there_o be_v further_a matter_n in_o we_o than_o knowledge_n and_o bare_a profession_n our_o case_n be_v worse_a than_o the_o 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a_o godly_a and_o learned_a exposition_n or_o commentary_n upon_o the_o three_o first_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n preach_v in_o cambridge_n by_o that_o reverend_a and_o judicious_a divine_a master_n william_n perkins_n ann._n dom._n 1595._o first_o publish_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o god_n church_n by_o robert_n hill_n bachelor_n of_o divinity_n the_o second_o edition_n revise_v and_o enlarge_v after_o a_o more_o perfect_a copy_n at_o the_o request_n of_o m._n perkins_n executor_n by_o thomas_n pierson_n preacher_n of_o god_n word_n hereunto_o be_v prefix_v a_o analysis_n of_o the_o vision_n in_o these_o three_o chapter_n and_o a_o twofold_a table_n add_v one_o of_o place_n of_o scripture_n the_o other_o of_o special_a point_n to_o be_v observe_v prov_n 13.9_o and_o prov_n 4.18_o the_o light_n of_o the_o righteous_a rejoice_v by_o increase_n shine_v more_o and_o more_o unto_o the_o perfect_a day_n but_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o wicked_a shall_v be_v put_v out_o london_n 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family_n london_n december_n 10._o 1606._o your_o ladyship_n to_o command_v thomas_n pierson_n to_o the_o right_n worshipful_a sir_n edward_n montagu_n sir_n walter_n montagu_n sir_n henry_n montagu_n and_o sir_n charles_n montagu_n knight_n m._n james_n montagu_n doctor_n of_o divinity_n deane_n of_o his_o majesty_n chapel_n and_o m._n sidney_n montagu_n esquire_n the_o lady_n susan_n sandys_n and_o the_o lady_n theodosia_n capel_n child_n of_o that_o right_n worthy_a and_o religious_a sir_n edward_n montagu_n of_o bowghton_n in_o the_o county_n of_o north-hampton_a knight_n and_o of_o the_o lady_n elizabeth_n his_o worthy_a wife_n sister_n to_o the_o right_n honourable_a sir_n john_n harington_n baron_n of_o exton_n and_o father_n to_o the_o virtuous_a lady_n the_o countess_n of_o bedford_n grace_n and_o peace_n right_o worshipful_a as_o the_o patriarch_n jacob_n have_v â—_o twelve_o
son_n so_o christ_n the_o messiah_n have_v 10.1_o twelve_o disciple_n but_o as_o joseph_n be_v belove_v above_o 37.3_o all_o those_o son_n so_o john_n be_v belove_v above_o 21._o all_o the_o disciple_n joseph_n be_v apparel_v better_a than_o the_o rest_n and_o john_n be_v inspire_v far_o better_a than_o the_o rest_n 41.38_o have_v it_o not_o be_v for_o joseph_n egypt_n have_v want_v her_o food_n temporal_a and_o have_v it_o not_o be_v for_o john_n the_o church_n have_v want_v her_o food_n eternal_a 41.25_o the_o future_a state_n of_o egypt_n be_v reveal_v to_o joseph_n and_o the_o future_a state_n of_o the_o church_n be_v reveal_v to_o john_n the_o one_o be_v 37.4_o exile_v because_o his_o father_n love_v he_o and_o the_o other_o exile_v because_o his_o master_n love_v he_o the_o place_n of_o his_o exile_n be_v into_o the_o 1.9_o island_n of_o pathmos_n be_v before_o by_o trajan_n put_v into_o a_o vessel_n of_o temperum_fw-la scald_a oil_n but_o that_o god_n who_o show_v his_o vision_n to_o 22.12_o abraham_n in_o the_o mount_n 28._o to_o jacob_n in_o the_o field_n 40._o to_o joseph_n in_o the_o stock_n 3._o to_o moses_n in_o midian_a 38.14_o to_o jeremie_n in_o the_o prison_n 2._o to_o daniel_n in_o babylon_n 10._o and_o to_o the_o apostle_n peter_n in_o the_o house_n of_o a_o tanner_n even_o he_o show_v his_o vision_n to_o john_n in_o his_o exile_n he_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o person_n he_o can_v advance_v who_o he_o list_v he_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o place_n he_o can_v reveal_v where_o he_o list_v for_o person_n he_o can_v prefer_v 4._o abel_n before_o cain_n 1._o jacob_n before_o esau_n 16._o david_n before_o eliab_n 1._o mathias_n before_o judas_n he_o can_v make_v 10_o moses_n a_o courtier_n 1.1_o job_n a_o potentate_n 7._o samuel_n a_o judge_n 2.1_o david_n a_o king_n 1.1_o solomon_n a_o sovereign_n 19.19_o elysha_n a_o ploughman_n 1.1_o amos_n a_o neat_a hear_v 1.1_o jeremie_n a_o priest_n 6_o daniel_n a_o prince_n 1.1_o isaiah_n of_o the_o blood_n royal_a 9_o matthew_n a_o publican_n 1â—_n peter_n a_o fisher_n regi_fw-la and_o paul_n a_o tentmaker_n to_o be_v penner_n and_o preacher_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o place_n as_o no_o time_n can_v prescribe_v against_o the_o king_n of_o a_o nation_n so_o no_o place_n can_v prescribe_v against_o this_o king_n of_o all_o nation_n 5._o the_o wind_n blow_v where_o it_o list_v and_o the_o spirit_n work_v where_o it_o list_v it_o please_v christ_n who_o be_v call_v in_o this_o revelation_n 15._o that_o faithful_a witness_n that_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a 8._o that_o prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n 18._o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o last_o 16._o he_o that_o have_v the_o key_n of_o hell_n and_o of_o death_n 14._o which_o have_v that_o sharp_a sword_n 15._o his_o eye_n like_o fire_n 2.1_o his_o foot_n like_o brass_n 3.1_o the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o hand_n 7._o the_o key_n of_o david_n who_o be_v call_v here_o 14._o amen_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n and_o in_o daniel_n he_o that_o 22_o reveal_v secret_n it_o please_v this_o christ_n to_o reveal_v secret_n to_o john_n not_o by_o dream_n as_o to_o 28._o jacob_n or_o apparition_n as_o to_o 3._o moses_n or_o by_o voice_n as_o 3_o to_o adam_n but_o partly_o by_o vision_n and_o partly_o by_o voice_n as_o he_o do_v when_o he_o turn_v 9_o saul_n into_o paul_n this_o john_n be_v legatus_fw-la à _fw-la latere_fw-la that_o ambassador_n who_o lean_v on_o his_o lord_n breast_n he_o write_v christ_n history_n there_o he_o show_v his_o love_n to_o christ_n he_o write_v the_o church_n history_n revelation_n there_o christ_n show_v his_o love_n to_o he_o especial_o in_o this_o that_o he_o will_v do_v nothing_o which_o he_o do_v not_o reveal_v to_o his_o 7._o servant_n this_o prophet_n for_o the_o church_n in_o his_o time_n we_o may_v see_v how_o it_o stand_v in_o the_o three_o first_o chapter_n and_o what_o condition_n it_o shall_v have_v for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v it_o be_v plain_o set_v down_o in_o the_o rest_n of_o this_o book_n revelation_n if_o we_o respect_v the_o general_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n after_o john_n have_v describe_v the_o author_n of_o this_o revelation_n which_o be_v god_n the_o father_n chap._n 4._o and_o christ_n his_o son_n chap._n 5._o he_o come_v to_o the_o work_n of_o god_n which_o be_v prediction_n chap._n 6._o obsignation_n chap._n 7._o indignation_n chap._n 8_o 9_o prediction_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v obsignation_n of_o such_o as_o must_v be_v save_v and_o indignation_n on_o thing_n to_o be_v destroy_v and_o for_o the_o more_o particular_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n have_v chap._n 10._o show_v his_o warrant_n to_o write_v he_o come_v to_o her_o action_n first_o in_o her_o prophet_n second_o in_o her_o body_n in_o her_o prophet_n their_o fight_n fall_a rising_z chap._n 11._o in_o her_o body_n compare_v she_o to_o a_o woman_n clothe_v with_o the_o sun_n chap._n 12._o and_o describe_v she_o by_o her_o combat_n conquest_n triumph_n her_o combat_n defensive_a chap._n 13._o and_o offensive_a in_o christ_n by_o word_n chap._n 14._o threaten_n chap._n 15._o and_o judgement_n chap._n 16._o her_o victory_n get_v against_o that_o rome_n whore_n chap._n 17._o and_o 18._o the_o empâ—re_n beast_n chap._n 19_o and_o the_o dâ—â—â—ll_n dragon_n chap._n 20._o and_o all_o that_o glory_n which_o she_o shall_v have_v in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v under_o the_o type_n of_o jerusalem_n most_o comfortable_o set_v down_o chap._n 21.22_o the_o thing_n in_o this_o book_n be_v i_o grant_v very_o dark_a to_o they_o that_o live_v in_o the_o day_n of_o john_n as_o the_o prophecy_n of_o daniel_n be_v to_o they_o who_o live_v in_o the_o time_n of_o daniel_n but_o as_o that_o prophecy_n be_v fulfil_v we_o can_v now_o tell_v what_o be_v foretell_v in_o it_o so_o many_o thing_n be_v fulfil_v which_o be_v foretell_v in_o this_o book_n we_o may_v easy_o see_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o it_o and_o the_o posterity_n to_o come_v shall_v better_o understand_v this_o book_n than_o we_o do_v because_o it_o may_v be_v all_o thing_n be_v not_o yet_o fulfil_v neither_o be_v this_o book_n like_o the_o city_n of_o the_o 13._o anakims_n or_o the_o 3._o tree_n of_o knowledge_n which_o may_v not_o be_v reach_v to_o for_o 1.3_o bless_a be_v he_o that_o read_v the_o word_n of_o this_o book_n but_o to_o come_v to_o these_o three_o chapter_n write_v by_o john_n surname_v the_o divine_a and_o expound_v by_o one_o a_o most_o worthy_a divine_a the_o first_o chapter_n be_v a_o proem_n or_o preface_n to_o the_o book_n the_o two_o latter_a be_v epistle_n dedicate_a this_o book_n the_o dedication_n be_v make_v to_o 2.3_o seven_o several_a church_n and_o by_o name_n to_o the_o minister_n which_o be_v call_v angel_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n minister_n have_v many_o excellent_a title_n give_v they_o though_o now_o they_o be_v scarce_o grace_v with_o title_n they_o be_v call_v 20._o prophet_n â—_o seer_n 1.13_o remembrancer_n 58.1_o trumpet_n 3.1_o watchmen_z 3._o husbandman_n 12.14_o steward_n 9.4_o maiden_n 47._o fisher_n 23.24_o leader_n 5.1_o elder_n 9.50_o salt_n 12.2_o star_n 11.10_o angel_n and_o 14.2_o shepherd_n prophet_n to_o teach_v seer_n to_o foretell_v remembrancer_n to_o put_v in_o mind_n trumpet_n to_o sound_n watchmen_z to_o admonish_v husbandman_n to_o plough_v up_o steward_n to_o distribute_v maiden_n to_o keep_v pure_a the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n fisher_n to_o catch_v man_n leaders_z to_o go_v before_o elder_n to_o govern_v salt_n to_o season_n star_n to_o give_v light_n angel_n to_o declare_v and_o shepherd_n to_o feed_v to_o feed_v i_o say_v sound_o by_o doctrine_n liberal_o by_o charity_n and_o religious_o by_o life_n by_o doctrine_n for_o sacerdos_n sine_fw-la doctrina_fw-la est_fw-la navis_fw-la sine_fw-la velis_fw-la a_o priest_n without_o knowledge_n be_v a_o ship_n without_o sail_n by_o liberality_n for_o pauper_fw-la nihil_fw-la habet_fw-la homo_fw-la adeò_fw-la divinum_fw-la quam_fw-la benefacere_fw-la man_n be_v in_o nothing_o more_o like_a god_n than_o in_o do_v good_a by_o life_n for_o cvius_fw-la vita_fw-la despicitur_fw-la eius_fw-la oratio_fw-la contemnitur_fw-la his_o word_n be_v not_o esteem_v who_o life_n be_v not_o approve_v and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v of_o origen_n quale_n habuit_fw-la verbum_fw-la talem_fw-la habuit_fw-la vitam_fw-la as_o his_o word_n be_v so_o be_v his_o work_n they_o must_v not_o be_v barren_a like_o mount_n 1.21_o gilboah_n but_o 1.24_o wean_v as_o samuel_n be_v before_o they_o be_v offer_v unto_o the_o lord_n they_o must_v be_v pure_a water_n if_o they_o will_v cleanse_v other_o and_o more_o than_o whetstone_n if_o they_o will_v sharpen_v other_o they_o must_v be_v in_o 19_o
church_n for_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n now_o come_v to_o the_o word_n the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o he_o etc._n etc._n these_o three_o first_o chapter_n consist_v of_o two_o part_n a_o preface_n and_o a_o vision_n the_o preface_n be_v a_o entrance_n to_o the_o vision_n contain_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n from_o the_o first_o verse_n to_o the_o nine_o the_o vision_n itself_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o rest_n of_o these_o three_o chapter_n the_o preface_n have_v two_o part_n first_o the_o title_n of_o the_o book_n second_o the_o inscription_n thereof_o the_o title_n in_o the_o three_o first_o verse_n the_o inscription_n from_o the_o four_o to_o the_o nine_o verse_n the_o title_n in_o these_o word_n the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n etc._n etc._n a_o revelation_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o manifestation_n or_o discovery_n of_o thing_n secret_a in_o respect_n of_o man_n for_o the_o common_a good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o this_o word_n be_v take_v in_o this_o place_n revelation_n from_o god_n in_o scripture_n be_v show_v three_o way_n first_o by_o dream_n second_o by_o vision_n three_o by_o create_a voice_n of_o god_n face_n to_o face_n as_o we_o may_v see_v num._n 12.6_o 8._o now_o this_o be_v not_o by_o dream_n nor_o by_o vision_n or_o voice_n alone_o but_o it_o be_v a_o mix_a revelation_n receive_v partly_o by_o vision_n and_o partly_o by_o voice_n utter_v in_o the_o vision_n from_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o three_o first_o verse_n this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v by_o seven_o argument_n first_o by_o the_o author_n second_o the_o end_n three_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o be_v direct_v four_o the_o matter_n five_o the_o instrument_n six_o the_o manner_n of_o deliver_v it_o seven_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o revelation_n first_o the_o author_n be_v jesus_n christ_n it_o come_v from_o he_o and_o it_o be_v call_v his_o revelation_n in_o these_o respect_n first_o not_o to_o exclude_v the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o to_o show_v the_o special_a office_n of_o christ_n the_o second_o person_n in_o trinity_n which_o be_v to_o reveal_v to_o publish_v and_o to_o manifest_v the_o will_n of_o god_n the_o father_n to_o his_o church_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v call_v the_o 3.1_o angel_n of_o the_o covenant_n the_o â—_o doctor_n of_o the_o church_n the_o â—4_n wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n &_o the_o 1._o word_n of_o god_n second_o it_o be_v call_v the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o teach_v we_o to_o put_v difference_n between_o this_o and_o all_o satanical_a revelation_n for_o as_o god_n have_v his_o true_a revelation_n so_o satan_n who_o herein_o may_v be_v call_v god_n ape_n have_v his_o counterfeit_a vision_n and_o deliver_v they_o in_o show_n like_o to_o god_n but_o they_o differ_v much_o first_o the_o devil_n revelation_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n ambiguous_a doubtful_a and_o uncertain_a in_o speech_n and_o phrase_n so_o as_o a_o man_n can_v tell_v which_o way_n to_o take_v they_o but_o the_o revelation_n which_o come_v from_o christ_n the_o author_n of_o truth_n who_o know_v all_o thing_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o they_o be_v certain_a and_o in_o plain_a term_n deliver_v second_o the_o devil_n show_v his_o vision_n to_o none_o but_o to_o the_o wicked_a and_o bad_a man_n that_o be_v his_o instrument_n but_o the_o lord_n choose_v the_o godly_a which_o fear_v his_o name_n and_o to_o they_o he_o reveal_v his_o secret_n as_o to_o john_n in_o this_o place_n three_o the_o devil_n revelation_n evermore_o tend_v to_o set_v up_o and_o uphold_v heresy_n wickedness_n apostasy_n and_o idolatry_n deut._n 13.1_o 2._o but_o these_o that_o come_v from_o god_n serve_v to_o erect_v and_o maintain_v truth_n according_a to_o godliness_n even_o pure_a apostolical_a doctrine_n and_o the_o sincere_a worship_n of_o god_n three_o it_o be_v call_v the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n to_o show_v unto_o we_o his_o special_a kingly_a office_n in_o heaven_n for_o be_v ascend_v and_o exalt_v to_o the_o throne_n of_o majesty_n he_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n far_o above_o all_o principality_n and_o power_n might_n and_o domination_n and_o there_o do_v direct_v rule_n and_o govern_v his_o church_n upon_o earth_n according_a to_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o his_o will_n for_o all_o these_o vision_n serve_v to_o direct_v his_o church_n in_o their_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n whereas_o christ_n jesus_n be_v author_n of_o this_o revelation_n use_n and_o after_o his_o ascension_n and_o exaltation_n give_v the_o same_o unto_o his_o church_n we_o may_v observe_v his_o constant_a care_n over_o his_o church_n in_o this_o last_o age_n of_o the_o world_n before_o his_o incarnation_n even_o from_o the_o beginning_n he_o give_v unto_o his_o people_n such_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n as_o be_v needful_a for_o their_o salvation_n and_o still_o some_o time_n to_o time_n reveal_v such_o prophecy_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v as_o be_v meet_v for_o they_o to_o know_v and_o now_o behold_v the_o continuance_n or_o rather_o the_o increase_n of_o this_o his_o care_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n for_o beside_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o former_a prophecy_n and_o the_o full_a manifestation_n of_o his_o bless_a will_n by_o his_o evangelist_n and_o apostle_n for_o all_o thing_n needful_a to_o be_v believe_v and_o do_v unto_o eternal_a life_n loe_o here_o be_v add_v the_o revelation_n of_o this_o worthy_a prophecy_n concern_v thing_n to_o come_v for_o the_o great_a good_a and_o comfort_n of_o his_o child_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o he_o these_o word_n be_v add_v to_o show_v how_o this_o become_v the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n namely_o by_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n that_o be_v of_o god_n the_o father_n the_o first_o person_n in_o trinity_n for_o this_o be_v a_o rule_n to_o be_v observe_v that_o where_o the_o title_n god_n in_o any_o sentence_n of_o scripture_n be_v oppose_v to_o christ_n there_o it_o import_v the_o first_o person_n the_o father_n though_o this_o be_v also_o true_a that_o sundry_a time_n in_o scripture_n the_o father_n alone_o be_v term_v god_n without_o any_o addition_n of_o the_o other_o person_n because_o he_o be_v the_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o order_n and_o the_o fountain_n of_o the_o deity_n for_o the_o son_n receive_v the_o godhead_n by_o communication_n from_o the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n receive_v it_o from_o they_o both_o but_o the_o father_n have_v his_o godhead_n of_o himself_o and_o receive_v it_o not_o by_o communication_n from_o any_o other_o here_o some_o will_v say_v this_o seem_v strange_a that_o any_o thing_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o christ_n see_v he_o be_v god_n and_o have_v all_o thing_n of_o himself_o answ._n we_o must_v conceive_v of_o christ_n two_o way_n first_o as_o god_n second_o as_o mediator_n and_o head_n of_o the_o church_n as_o christ_n be_v god_n the_o father_n give_v he_o nothing_o for_o so_o he_o be_v of_o himself_o the_o same_o with_o the_o father_n and_o have_v all_o thing_n belong_v unto_o he_o that_o the_o father_n have_v except_v personal_a property_n and_o be_v no_o way_n inferior_a to_o the_o father_n neither_o receive_v any_o thing_n from_o he_o but_o give_v all_o thing_n as_o well_o as_o the_o father_n do_v but_o yet_o as_o christ_n be_v mediator_n he_o be_v not_o god_n simple_o but_o god_n incarnate_a or_o god_n make_v man_n and_o so_o be_v say_v to_o receive_v of_o his_o father_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o manhood_n as_o himself_o confess_v all_o power_n be_v give_v to_o i_o matth._n 28.18_o and_o paul_n say_v god_n give_v he_o a_o name_n above_o all_o name_n philip._n 2.9_o he_o receive_v of_o his_o father_n the_o promise_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v peter_n act._n 2.33_o and_o god_n make_v he_o both_o lord_n and_o christ_n ver_fw-la 36._o and_o so_o god_n give_v he_o this_o revelation_n in_o this_o place_n if_o it_o be_v say_v this_o make_v christ_n inferior_a to_o his_o father_n for_o the_o receiver_n be_v usual_o inferior_a to_o the_o giver_n answer_n as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o be_v equal_a with_o the_o father_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n god_n incarnate_a and_o make_v man_n he_o be_v inferior_a and_o receive_v of_o he_o so_o much_o himself_o confess_v my_o father_n which_o give_v they_o i_o be_v great_a than_o all_o john_n 10.29_o and_o in_o the_o same_o respect_n paul_n call_v god_n the_o father_n the_o head_n of_o christ._n 1._o cor._n 11.6_o and_o as_o christ_n now_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n be_v mediator_n and_o ruler_n of_o his_o church_n he_o be_v inferior_a to_o his_o father_n and_o receive_v his_o kingdom_n from_o his_o father_n which_o he_o
be_v call_v to_o the_o state_n of_o gâ—ace_n this_o he_o do_v not_o for_o as_o we_o see_v this_o book_n be_v give_v not_o to_o all_o but_o to_o his_o servant_n and_o that_o which_o be_v say_v of_o this_o book_n be_v true_a of_o the_o whole_a scripture_n the_o lord_n show_v his_o word_n say_v david_n not_o to_o all_o the_o world_n but_o to_o jacob_n that_o be_v his_o people_n with_o who_o he_o make_v a_o covenant_n psal._n 147.19_o 20._o the_o four_o argument_n whereby_o this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v be_v the_o matter_n thereof_o viz._n thing_n which_o must_v short_o be_v do_v that_o be_v thing_n to_o come_v whereby_o in_o general_a we_o may_v observe_v a_o difference_n of_o this_o book_n from_o the_o rest_n of_o holy_a scripture_n which_o treat_v of_o thing_n present_a or_o past_a this_o be_v a_o prophecy_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v the_o matter_n of_o this_o book_n be_v describe_v by_o two_o argument_n first_o by_o the_o necessity_n of_o these_o thing_n to_o come_v they_o must_v be_v do_v second_o by_o the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n when_o short_o or_o quick_o for_o the_o necessity_n of_o these_o thing_n they_o be_v such_o as_o must_v needs_o be_v do_v so_o speak_v the_o holy_a ghost_n elsewhere_o of_o sundry_a thing_n to_o come_v of_o offence_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o offence_n shall_v come_v mat._n 18.7_o of_o heresy_n there_o must_v be_v heresy_n in_o the_o church_n 1._o cor._n 11.19_o and_o of_o affliction_n through_o manifold_a affliction_n we_o must_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n act._n 14.22_o and_o they_o that_o will_v live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n must_v suffer_v persecution_n 2._o timoâ—h_o 3.12_o from_o whence_o i_o gather_v that_o thing_n which_o come_v to_o pass_v concern_v god_n church_n and_o the_o enemy_n thereof_o do_v come_v to_o pass_v necessary_o this_o doctrine_n must_v be_v well_o observe_v for_o though_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n yet_o the_o reason_n of_o man_n will_v not_o agree_v unto_o it_o for_o some_o will_v say_v if_o all_o thing_n come_v to_o pass_v necessary_o then_o in_o their_o action_n and_o proceed_n man_n have_v no_o free_a will_n for_o necessity_n and_o liberty_n of_o will_n can_v stand_v together_o answ._n they_o may_v indeed_o constraint_n and_o man_n free_a will_n can_v stand_v together_o but_o man_n will_n and_o unchangeable_a necessity_n may_v well_o accord_v as_o i_o show_v thus_o in_o god_n there_o be_v most_o absolute_a freedom_n of_o will_n yet_o he_o do_v many_o thing_n of_o necessity_n as_o he_o will_v that_o which_o be_v good_a necessary_o for_o he_o can_v possible_o will_v that_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o yet_o he_o will_v the_o same_o most_o free_o so_o christ_n die_v necessary_o he_o can_v not_o but_o die_v if_o we_o consider_v the_o counsel_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o he_o die_v most_o free_o for_o he_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n of_o himself_o and_o no_o man_n take_v it_o from_o he_o john_n 10.18_o it_o will_v be_v say_v again_o if_o thing_n come_v to_o pass_v by_o necessity_n than_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o use_v any_o mean_n for_o the_o effect_n of_o they_o for_o god_n will_v must_v be_v do_v do_v we_o what_o we_o will_n answ._n this_o be_v man_n corrupt_a reason_n these_o man_n must_v consider_v that_o as_o god_n have_v appoint_v what_o thing_n must_v come_v to_o pass_v so_o he_o have_v appoint_v the_o mean_n how_o they_o shall_v be_v effect_v and_o see_v the_o lord_n have_v appoint_v as_o well_o the_o mean_n as_o the_o end_n we_o shall_v by_o this_o necessity_n rather_o be_v induce_v to_o use_v the_o mean_n than_o any_o way_n move_v to_o neglect_v the_o same_o to_o make_v this_o more_o plain_a we_o must_v know_v there_o be_v a_o double_a necessity_n one_o be_v absolute_a another_o in_o part_n i_o call_v that_o absolute_a necessity_n which_o can_v be_v otherwise_o possible_o as_o that_o god_n live_v and_o can_v die_v be_v omnipotent_a infinite_a etc._n etc._n necessity_n in_o part_n be_v when_o any_o thing_n do_v be_v necessary_a only_a because_o it_o depend_v on_o necessary_a cause_n as_o fire_n to_o burn_v be_v necessary_a in_o regard_n of_o that_o order_n which_o god_n have_v set_v in_o nature_n by_o creation_n yet_o this_o necessity_n be_v not_o absolute_a for_o fire_n will_v not_o burn_v if_o god_n shall_v please_v to_o change_v that_o order_n set_v in_o nature_n as_o he_o do_v when_o the_o three_o child_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o hot_a fiery_a oven_n dan._n 3.27_o now_o whereas_o we_o say_v thing_n to_o come_v must_v necessary_o be_v do_v it_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o necessity_n in_o part_n and_o not_o of_o absolute_a for_o in_o themselves_o they_o be_v changeable_a and_o contingent_a and_o necessary_a only_o in_o regard_n of_o god_n decree_n appoint_v they_o which_o be_v unchangeable_a in_o regard_n whereof_o all_o thing_n to_o come_v be_v necessary_a and_o yet_o we_o may_v not_o think_v that_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o god_n decree_n do_v take_v away_o freedom_n from_o man_n will_n it_o only_o incline_v the_o same_o to_o one_o part_n &_o so_o dispose_v that_o man_n shall_v free_o will_v that_o to_o be_v which_o god_n eternal_o have_v decree_v the_o second_o thing_n whereby_o the_o matter_n of_o this_o book_n be_v set_v out_o unto_o we_o be_v the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n when_o these_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v shortly_n must_v be_v well_o observe_v and_o howsoever_o some_o thing_n foretell_v be_v not_o to_o be_v do_v till_o many_o hundred_o year_n after_o which_o space_n of_o time_n may_v seem_v very_o long_o yet_o in_o two_o respect_n it_o be_v but_o short_a first_o in_o regard_n of_o god_n to_o who_o a_o thousand_o year_n be_v but_o as_o one_o day_n 2._o pet._n 3.8_o second_o in_o regard_n of_o man_n to_o who_o a_o hundred_o or_o two_o hundred_o year_n seem_v but_o a_o short_a time_n when_o once_o they_o be_v expire_v though_o before_o they_o seem_v long_o this_o circumstance_n of_o time_n be_v set_v down_o for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o terrify_v all_o carnal_a and_o careless_a man_n for_o this_o book_n foretell_v judgement_n plague_n and_o destruction_n for_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n church_n which_o mâ—st_v short_o come_v upon_o they_o which_o be_v a_o thing_n worthy_a our_o careful_a consideration_n in_o this_o secure_a age_n of_o the_o world_n wherein_o man_n bless_v themselves_o in_o their_o sin_n without_o fear_n of_o god_n judgement_n and_o say_v they_o shall_v have_v peace_n though_o they_o walk_v after_o the_o stubbornness_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n put_v far_o from_o they_o the_o evil_a day_n say_v spare_v thyself_o this_o shall_v not_o come_v unto_o thou_o but_o shall_v the_o lion_n roar_v and_o the_o beast_n not_o tremble_v yet_o the_o lord_n threaten_v his_o judgement_n but_o man_n will_v not_o repent_v well_o let_v we_o consider_v this_o whether_o we_o be_v young_a or_o old_a high_a or_o low_o that_o god_n judgement_n be_v short_o to_o come_v and_o let_v this_o be_v a_o motive_n to_o raise_v we_o out_o of_o the_o sleep_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o security_n that_o which_o peter_n say_v of_o false_a teacher_n be_v also_o true_a of_o all_o impenitent_a sinner_n unless_o they_o prevent_v the_o same_o by_o speedy_a and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n their_o judgement_n long_o ago_o be_v not_o far_o off_o and_o their_o damnation_n sleep_v not_o 2._o pet._n 2.3_o second_o this_o circumstance_n of_o time_n serve_v great_o to_o comfort_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o furnish_v they_o with_o all_o patience_n and_o long_o suffer_v under_o any_o adversity_n or_o distress_n that_o may_v befall_v they_o in_o body_n or_o mind_n or_o both_o indeed_o many_o be_v bring_v to_o impatience_n and_o distrust_n by_o affliction_n and_o cross_n but_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o such_o a_o case_n must_v call_v to_o mind_n what_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v here_o set_v down_o concern_v the_o prophecy_n of_o this_o book_n which_o foretell_v deliverance_n for_o god_n church_n and_o for_o every_o member_n thereof_o namely_o that_o they_o must_v short_o be_v bring_v to_o pass_v yet_o a_o very_a little_a while_n and_o he_o that_o come_v for_o their_o deliverance_n will_v come_v and_o will_v not_o tarry_v hebr._n 10._o vers_fw-la 37._o thus_o much_o for_o the_o matter_n of_o this_o revelation_n now_o follow_v the_o instrument_n whereby_o the_o lord_n do_v convey_v the_o same_o unto_o his_o church_n which_o be_v the_o first_o argument_n whereby_o it_o be_v describe_v in_o these_o word_n which_o he_o send_v and_o show_v by_o his_o angel_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n where_o two_o point_n must_v be_v observe_v first_o the_o action_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o their_o employment_n second_o the_o person_n employ_v therein_o as_o his_o instrument_n for_o the_o
write_v which_o word_n import_v that_o by_o diligent_a observation_n we_o shall_v lay_v they_o up_o in_o our_o heart_n this_o be_v a_o weighty_a duty_n and_o serious_o commend_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n bind_v up_o the_o testimony_n seal_v up_o the_o law_n among_o my_o disciple_n isay._n 8.16_o and_o marie_n be_v therefore_o commend_v because_o she_o keep_v in_o her_o heart_n the_o word_n of_o jesus_n luke_n 2.19_o â—1_n it_o be_v david_n practice_n i_o have_v â—id_v thy_o say_n in_o my_o heart_n psal._n 119._o â—â—_o and_o hereto_o tend_v christ_n encouragement_n pronounce_v they_o rather_o bless_v which_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o keep_v it_o than_o those_o which_o bare_a christ_n and_o give_v he_o suck_v luk._n 1â—_n 27.28_o and_o james_n call_v it_o the_o ingraff_v word_n james_n 1.21_o because_o it_o shall_v abide_v in_o our_o heart_n like_o a_o syence_n in_o a_o stock_n and_o never_o be_v remove_v but_o there_o grow_v and_o fructify_v unto_o life_n eternal_a now_o because_o this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o great_a difficulty_n and_o the_o want_n hereof_o the_o cause_n of_o so_o little_a profit_v after_o much_o hear_n and_o read_v i_o will_v therefore_o show_v how_o by_o god_n grace_n in_o hear_v and_o read_v the_o word_n of_o god_n a_o man_n may_v keep_v the_o same_o in_o memory_n first_o a_o man_n must_v learn_v the_o ground_n or_o element_n of_o religion_n common_o call_v the_o catechism_n for_o they_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o knowledge_n without_o which_o a_o man_n shall_v never_o understand_v the_o scripture_n to_o his_o comfort_n nor_o keep_v the_o same_o in_o memory_n the_o apostle_n say_v the_o hebrew_n be_v dull_a of_o hear_v the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n because_o they_o have_v not_o well_o learned_a the_o first_o principle_n of_o the_o word_n hebr._n 5.11.12_o this_o all_o ignorant_a person_n shall_v well_o observe_v special_o the_o age_a that_o they_o may_v find_v in_o themselves_o the_o cause_n of_o their_o ignorance_n and_o dulness_n even_o want_v of_o knowledge_n in_o the_o catechism_n they_o think_v it_o a_o disgrace_n to_o be_v bring_v unto_o it_o now_o they_o be_v old_a but_o if_o they_o will_v not_o be_v ever_o learning_n and_o never_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n they_o must_v lay_v in_o themselves_o this_o good_a beginning_n and_o learn_v the_o principle_n of_o religion_n second_o we_o must_v not_o rush_v upon_o god_n holy_a ordinance_n but_o before_o we_o either_o come_v to_o hear_v or_o read_v with_o reverence_n prepare_v ourselves_o thereto_o most_o man_n at_o this_o day_n use_v to_o prepare_v themselves_o before_o they_o come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n and_o so_o they_o ought_v to_o do_v before_o they_o come_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n for_o god_n ordain_v both_o for_o this_o end_n to_o be_v mean_n to_o bring_v man_n to_o true_a happiness_n they_o differ_v only_o in_o this_o that_o the_o sacrament_n be_v the_o visible_a and_o the_o scripture_n the_o audible_a word_n of_o god_n at_o the_o give_n of_o the_o law_n the_o people_n that_o must_v â—eare_z it_o be_v sanctify_v three_o day_n before_o exod._n 19_o and_o when_o they_o do_v offer_v sacrifice_n or_o eat_v the_o passeover_n both_o priest_n and_o people_n must_v be_v sanctify_v and_o the_o same_o thing_n for_o substance_n must_v we_o perform_v before_o we_o come_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n this_o preparation_n stand_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o we_o must_v put_v out_o of_o our_o heart_n all_o by_o thought_n all_o delight_n and_o care_n of_o worldly_a affair_n and_o set_v our_o heart_n as_o ezra_n do_v to_o seek_v the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n ezra_n 7.10_o second_o we_o must_v make_v our_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v open_v our_o eye_n that_o we_o may_v see_v his_o will_n soften_v our_o heart_n and_o make_v our_o ear_n attentive_a as_o lâ—diaes_n be_v and_o also_o give_v we_o grace_n to_o embrace_v his_o word_n and_o keep_v it_o for_o christ_n be_v the_o only_a doctor_n of_o the_o heart_n by_o his_o spirit_n without_o who_o inward_a teach_n we_o can_v never_o learn_v unto_o salvation_n three_o when_o we_o be_v about_o the_o holy_a exercise_n of_o god_n word_n the_o frame_n of_o our_o heart_n shall_v be_v thus_o dispose_v i._o it_o must_v be_v a_o humble_a heart_n for_o the_o lord_n resist_v the_o proud_a and_o give_v grace_n to_o the_o humble_a jam._n 4.6_o they_o that_o be_v meek_a will_v he_o guide_v in_o judgement_n and_o teach_v the_o humble_a his_o way_n psal._n 25.9_o a_o proud_a heart_n be_v so_o stuff_v with_o self_n love_n that_o there_o be_v no_o room_n for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o lodge_v in_o but_o the_o heart_n that_o be_v lowly_a in_o itself_o through_o the_o conscience_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o heart_n in_o which_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o grace_n will_v take_v up_o his_o abode_n isaiah_n 57.15_o ii_o it_o must_v be_v a_o honest_a heart_n such_o as_o have_v no_o manner_n of_o purpose_n to_o live_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n whatsoever_o but_o though_o it_o feel_v corruption_n in_o itself_o be_v resolve_v to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o the_o way_n of_o his_o commandment_n and_o that_o continual_o such_o a_o heart_n have_v the_o good_a hearer_n resemble_v by_o the_o good_a ground_n luke_n 8.15_o as_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o be_v a_o wicked_a heart_n which_o resolve_v to_o cherish_v though_o it_o be_v but_o any_o one_o sin_n whatsoever_o iii_o it_o must_v be_v a_o believe_a heart_n the_o old_a jew_n hear_v the_o word_n but_o it_o profit_v they_o not_o because_o they_o mingle_v it_o not_o with_o faith_n 〈◊〉_d their_o heart_n hebrew_n 4.2_o where_o he_o compare_v the_o heart_n to_o a_o vessel_n in_o which_o there_o must_v be_v both_o the_o word_n and_o faith_n these_o two_o must_v be_v mingle_v together_o and_o then_o it_o will_v be_v a_o word_n of_o power_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n therefore_o when_o we_o hear_v the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n or_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o resolve_v our_o heart_n of_o the_o truth_n thereof_o but_o incredulity_n whereby_o man_n except_v against_o the_o word_n as_o not_o pertain_v unto_o they_o be_v the_o mother_n of_o forgetfulness_n the_o old_a world_n know_v nothing_o of_o the_o flood_n because_o they_o do_v not_o believe_v matth._n 24.39_o iv._o it_o must_v be_v a_o hear_n heart_n such_o as_o be_v pliable_a to_o the_o word_n sacrifice_n and_o burn_a offering_n say_v david_n thou_o will_v not_o but_o my_o ear_n have_v thou_o prepare_v psal._n 40.6_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v beside_o those_o bodily_a care_n which_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o by_o creation_n thou_o have_v bore_v new_a care_n in_o my_o heart_n so_o as_o i_o can_v by_o thy_o grace_n attend_v and_o listen_v to_o thy_o word_n and_o when_o god_n say_v seek_v you_o my_o face_n this_o hear_v heart_n will_v answer_v i_o seek_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n psal._n 27._o vers_fw-la 8.9_o four_o after_o we_o have_v hear_v or_o read_v the_o word_n we_o must_v become_v doer_n of_o the_o same_o even_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o our_o vocation_n we_o see_v every_o man_n more_o skilful_a in_o the_o work_n of_o his_o own_o trade_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o daily_a exercise_n therein_o even_o so_o the_o constant_a practice_n of_o god_n word_n will_v make_v we_o expert_a in_o it_o and_o cause_v we_o to_o keep_v it_o in_o perfect_a memory_n and_o these_o be_v the_o right_a mean_n to_o become_v good_a hearer_n and_o reader_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n three_o this_o benediction_n pronounce_v upon_o they_o that_o hear_v read_v &_o keep_v the_o prophecy_n of_o this_o book_n serve_v to_o induce_v every_o child_n of_o god_n as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v to_o keep_v in_o memory_n the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n but_o special_o these_o prophecy_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v that_o concern_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n for_o therefore_o do_v god_n reveal_v they_o that_o they_o may_v be_v remember_v when_o the_o angel_n have_v tell_v daniel_n the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n from_o his_o time_n to_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n he_o bid_v he_o shut_v up_o the_o word_n and_o seal_v the_o book_n till_o the_o end_n of_o the_o time_n dan._n 12.4_o meaning_n that_o he_o for_o his_o own_o comfort_n shall_v hide_v they_o in_o his_o heart_n and_o christ_n say_v to_o his_o disciple_n when_o you_o see_v the_o abomination_n of_o desolation_n speak_v of_o by_o daniel_n the_o prophet_n let_v he_o that_o read_v consider_v it_o matth._n 24.15_o behold_v i_o have_v tell_v you_o before_o mean_v thing_n to_o come_v verse_n 25._o show_v that_o he_o will_v have_v his_o child_n to_o mark_v and_o remember_v those_o weighty_a thing_n that_o be_v foretell_v concern_v the_o state_n
you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o begin_v johns_n salutation_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n salutation_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n civil_a and_o religious_a civil_a be_v that_o which_o man_n use_v ordinary_o one_o to_o another_o wish_v health_n welfare_n and_o such_o like_a religious_a be_v that_o which_o be_v peculiar_a and_o proper_a unto_o the_o church_n comprehend_v in_o it_o a_o benediction_n also_o and_o such_o be_v this_o here_o use_v by_o s._n john_n it_o may_v also_o be_v call_v apostolical_a because_o it_o be_v so_o usual_a with_o they_o in_o their_o epistle_n and_o they_o use_v it_o the_o rather_o because_o it_o be_v so_o correspondent_a to_o their_o ministry_n which_o stand_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o preach_v which_o be_v the_o ministry_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n the_o thing_n here_o desire_v second_o in_o prayer_n whereto_o belong_v the_o duty_n of_o benediction_n to_o pronounce_v a_o blessing_n upon_o the_o people_n as_o do_v the_o priest_n in_o their_o ministration_n under_o the_o law_n num._n 6.23_o and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n with_o his_o apostle_n when_o they_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o as_o every_o minister_n shall_v do_v to_o his_o whole_a congregation_n before_o they_o depart_v and_o this_o be_v also_o include_v in_o this_o salutation_n for_o hereby_o they_o bless_v those_o church_n to_o who_o they_o do_v write_v but_o to_o come_v to_o the_o word_n which_o be_v most_o excellent_a and_o contain_v in_o they_o the_o sum_n of_o the_o gospel_n grace_n in_o scripture_n signify_v two_o thing_n first_o god_n favour_n second_o some_o gift_n of_o god_n free_o bestow_v now_o here_o by_o grace_n be_v mean_v not_o any_o particular_a gift_n of_o god_n but_o the_o gracious_a favour_n and_o good_a will_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o accept_v of_o some_o in_o christ_n for_o his_o own_o for_o it_o be_v here_o oppose_v to_o peace_n a_o gift_n of_o grace_n and_o therefore_o can_v signify_v the_o same_o thing_n now_o mark_v s._n john_n in_o thiâ—_n salutation_n begin_v with_o grace_n because_o it_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o happiness_n and_o of_o all_o god_n blessing_n whatsoever_o we_o be_v and_o all_o that_o we_o have_v be_v of_o grace_n our_o election_n redemption_n vocation_n justification_n and_o sanctification_n our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n &_o our_o perseverance_n in_o they_o both_o proceed_v from_o this_o fountain_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n it_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o yea_o it_o be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o salvation_n first_o we_o must_v have_v this_o and_o then_o we_o may_v look_v for_o all_o other_o blessing_n and_o peace_n peace_n be_v take_v sundry_a way_n in_o the_o scripture_n first_o for_o welfare_n &_o good_a success_n in_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n by_o god_n blessing_n exod._n 18.7_o moses_n and_o jethroe_n salute_v ask_v each_o other_o of_o their_o peace_n that_o be_v of_o his_o welfare_n and_o so_o it_o be_v partly_o take_v in_o this_o place_n second_o for_o that_o unity_n and_o bless_a concord_n which_o be_v in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n among_o god_n child_n and_o so_o it_o be_v especial_o take_v here_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n it_o have_v six_o part_n every_o one_o whereof_o be_v a_o most_o worthy_a blessing_n the_o first_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n which_o be_v when_o we_o stand_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n reconcile_v to_o he_o in_o christ_n jesus_n rom._n 5.1_o second_o peace_n with_o god_n angel_n for_o they_o guard_v such_o as_o be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o carry_v they_o as_o a_o nurse_n do_v her_o child_n in_o her_o arm_n that_o they_o hurt_v not_o their_o foot_n at_o any_o stone_n psal._n 91.11_o and_o they_o rejoice_v at_o our_o good_a estate_n the_o three_o be_v peace_n with_o a_o man_n self_n when_o his_o conscience_n will_v not_o accuse_v he_o but_o excuse_n and_o clear_v he_o be_v wash_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n this_o be_v that_o peace_n of_o god_n which_o pass_v all_o understanding_n philip._n 4.7_o the_o four_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n church_n notable_o prefigure_v by_o the_o peaceable_a habitation_n of_o wild_a beast_n and_o tame_v together_o as_o the_o lion_n and_o the_o calf_n the_o wolf_n and_o the_o lamb_n the_o child_n and_o the_o cockatrice_n etc._n etc._n isaiah_n 11_o 6._o and_o plain_o to_o be_v see_v among_o the_o believer_n acts._n 4.32_o who_o be_v all_o of_o one_o mind_n and_o heart_n the_o five_o be_v peace_n with_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n church_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n so_o joseph_n have_v peace_n in_o pharaoh_n court_n so_o daniel_n have_v peace_n in_o the_o court_n of_o nabuchadnezzar_n for_o when_o the_o three_o child_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o oven_n we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o he_o do_v revolt_v unto_o idolatry_n or_o hide_v himself_o but_o be_v in_o favour_n in_o the_o court_n obtain_v privilege_n to_o be_v excuse_v the_o six_o be_v peace_n with_o all_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n with_o the_o beast_n of_o the_o field_n fowl_n of_o the_o air_n and_o fish_n of_o the_o sea_n this_o the_o lord_n promise_v in_o the_o covenant_n that_o he_o will_v make_v for_o they_o with_o all_o his_o creature_n hosea_n 2._o vers_fw-la 18._o yea_o the_o child_n of_o god_n shall_v tread_v upon_o the_o lion_n and_o the_o serpent_n and_o they_o shall_v not_o hurt_v he_o psalm_n 91._o vers._n 13._o and_o this_o his_o peace_n stand_v herein_o that_o by_o god_n bless_a providence_n he_o shall_v find_v help_n and_o comfort_n from_o all_o god_n creature_n in_o this_o place_n whether_o we_o take_v peace_n for_o outward_a welfare_n or_o for_o the_o concord_n of_o god_n church_n yet_o it_o be_v place_v after_o grace_n because_o it_o follow_v as_o a_o fruit_n thereof_o first_o a_o man_n must_v be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o then_o come_v all_o the_o blessing_n of_o peace_n unto_o he_o this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n that_o be_v i_o wish_v you_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o peace_n the_o bless_a fruit_n thereof_o even_o all_o outward_a welfare_n and_o especial_o the_o concord_n of_o god_n church_n have_v peace_n with_o god_n with_o his_o holy_a angel_n with_o his_o church_n with_o your_o own_o heart_n with_o your_o enemy_n as_o far_o as_o may_v be_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o with_o all_o his_o creature_n use_n whereas_o s._n john_n wish_v grace_n unto_o the_o church_n in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v seek_v for_o above_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o apostle_n practice_n must_v be_v our_o precept_n so_o do_v david_n many_o say_v who_o will_v show_v we_o any_o good_a but_o lord_n lift_v thou_o up_o the_o light_n of_o thy_o countenance_n upon_o i_o psal._n 4.6_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v let_v the_o most_o of_o the_o world_n seek_v what_o they_o will_v as_o riches_n pleasure_n etc._n etc._n yet_o my_o desire_n be_v of_o thy_o love_n and_o favour_n above_o all_o and_o oftentimes_o he_o call_v god_n his_o portion_n his_o rock_n and_o castle_n of_o defence_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v long_v for_o to_o show_v that_o all_o his_o joy_n be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o so_o it_o shall_v be_v with_o we_o but_o we_o little_o practice_v this_o because_o we_o bring_v from_o our_o cradle_n natural_a presumption_n which_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o favour_n and_o love_n of_o god_n but_o we_o must_v cast_v off_o this_o false_a persuasion_n and_o take_v a_o new_a course_n and_o labour_v first_o to_o see_v that_o we_o be_v out_o of_o god_n favour_n lose_v sheep_n prodigal_a child_n in_o ourselves_o yea_o the_o very_a firebrand_n of_o hell_n and_o this_o to_o see_v our_o own_o want_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o first_o step_n to_o grace_n second_o feel_v this_o want_n and_o misery_n in_o ourselves_o we_o must_v earnest_o desire_v and_o in_o our_o soul_n hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n three_o we_o must_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o true_a faith_n lie_v hold_v upon_o the_o grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n propound_v in_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o apply_v they_o to_o ourselves_o particular_o second_o after_o grace_n he_o wish_v unto_o they_o peace_n where_o note_n the_o true_a order_n of_o seek_v for_o the_o blessing_n of_o this_o life_n we_o must_v not_o begin_v with_o welfare_n and_o prosperity_n but_o our_o first_o and_o chief_a care_n must_v be_v to_o obtain_v the_o grace_n and_o favour_n
of_o god_n so_o christ_n bid_v we_o first_o to_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n for_o when_o we_o be_v in_o god_n kingdom_n of_o grace_n reconcile_v to_o he_o in_o christ_n than_o all_o thing_n needful_a shall_v be_v minister_v to_o we_o matth._n 6.33_o this_o discover_v the_o bad_a practice_n of_o most_o man_n every_o where_o use_n who_o in_o seek_v the_o blessing_n of_o god_n begin_v at_o the_o wrong_a end_n they_o will_v toil_v themselves_o in_o their_o calling_n to_o get_v wealth_n honour_n pleasure_n and_o preferment_n but_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v not_o regard_v which_o notwithstanding_o be_v the_o true_a and_o right_a foundation_n of_o all_o outward_a welfare_n here_o some_o will_v say_v if_o god_n give_v i_o wealth_n honour_n and_o reputation_n than_o he_o love_v i_o for_o these_o be_v sign_n thereof_o i_o answer_v these_o be_v no_o sure_a token_n of_o his_o favour_n in_o christ_n for_o those_o that_o be_v his_o enemy_n may_v enjoy_v they_o all_o as_o job._n 21.7_o to_o the_o 14._o this_o david_n perceive_v how_o the_o wicked_a may_v flourish_v in_o their_o outward_a prosperity_n have_v more_o than_o heart_n can_v wish_v psalm_n 73.3.7_o and_o yet_o they_o stand_v but_o in_o slippery_a place_n and_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n herewith_o deceive_v himself_o he_o that_o want_v god_n favour_n in_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o curse_a wretch_n and_o a_o firebrand_n of_o hell_n though_o he_o have_v all_o the_o world_n for_o outward_a thing_n at_o his_o command_n for_o all_o earthly_a thing_n sever_v from_o god_n special_a grace_n be_v but_o a_o heap_n of_o misery_n the_o wicked_a man_n peace_n be_v no_o peace_n say_v the_o lord_n isaiah_n 48.22_o and_o the_o man_n that_o have_v god_n grace_n in_o christ_n though_o he_o want_v all_o worldly_a benefit_n yet_o he_o have_v more_o than_o all_o the_o world_n without_o it_o for_o hereby_o alone_o he_o be_v true_o bless_a and_o happy_a from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o be_v set_v down_o the_o first_o cause_n and_o author_n of_o these_o two_o grace_n and_o peace_n to_o wit_n god_n himself_o distinguish_v into_o three_o person_n the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n the_o father_n be_v note_v in_o these_o word_n which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o these_o and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n the_o son_n in_o the_o five_o verse_n and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a and_o lord_n over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n unto_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o own_o blood_n etc._n etc._n s._n john_n in_o the_o first_o place_n describe_v the_o father_n by_o a_o distribution_n which_o express_v the_o true_a nature_n of_o god_n in_o these_o word_n which_o be_v be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v in_o which_o he_o allude_v to_o that_o exod._n 3.14_o 15._o where_o moses_n demand_n of_o god_n if_o the_o people_n shall_v ask_v who_o send_v he_o what_o he_o shall_v answer_v the_o lord_n bid_v he_o say_v ehich_n jehovah_n have_v send_v i_o which_o two_o name_n serve_v to_o one_o end_n namely_o to_o express_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n they_o be_v translate_v i_o be_o and_o the_o lord_n but_o these_o english_a word_n do_v not_o full_o express_v their_o signification_n yet_o s._n john_n expound_v they_o here_o make_v ehich_n to_o signify_v he_o which_o be_v which_o be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v which_o word_n of_o john_n also_o in_o the_o original_n be_v more_o full_a in_o sense_n than_o our_o english_a tongue_n can_v well_o express_v and_o yet_o they_o may_v be_v thus_o explain_v grace_n and_o peace_n be_v from_o he_o which_o be_v in_o himself_o and_o of_o himself_o a_o most_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a substance_n which_o be_v a_o most_o perfect_a substance_n and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v a_o most_o absolute_a perfect_a simple_a substance_n and_o essence_n in_o these_o word_n be_v touch_v sundry_a weighty_a point_n first_o touch_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n namely_o that_o god_n be_v a_o most_o absolute_a perfect_a substance_n and_o essence_n which_o have_v his_o be_v in_o himself_o of_o himself_o and_o from_o none_o other_o paul_n say_v a_o idol_n be_v nothing_o 1._o cor._n 8.4_o that_o be_v nothing_o subsist_v in_o nature_n but_o a_o mere_a fond_a device_n of_o man_n brain_n but_o the_o true_a god_n be_v a_o essence_n subsist_v and_o that_o of_o himself_o alone_o perfect_o and_o herein_o differ_v from_o all_o idol_n and_o false_a god_n second_o hereby_o we_o see_v a_o difference_n between_o god_n and_o all_o his_o creature_n every_o creature_n be_v a_o substance_n as_o angel_n and_o man_n likewise_o man_n body_n and_o soul_n be_v substance_n yet_o none_o of_o these_o have_v be_v of_o themselves_o but_o from_o god_n and_o of_o god_n and_o yet_o we_o must_v not_o conceive_v that_o the_o creature_n be_v part_n of_o god_n though_o they_o have_v their_o substance_n and_o be_v of_o he_o for_o then_o each_o creature_n shall_v be_v god_n for_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o divine_a substance_n can_v be_v without_o the_o divine_a nature_n but_o god_n substance_n be_v indivisible_a and_o incommunicable_a to_o the_o creature_n my_o meaning_n then_o be_v that_o god_n make_v the_o creature_n out_o of_o himself_o of_o that_o matter_n which_o he_o create_v by_o his_o word_n and_o preserve_v they_o be_v make_v which_o by_o the_o way_n shall_v teach_v we_o to_o return_v our_o body_n and_o soul_n by_o obedience_n unto_o god_n in_o lieu_n of_o thankfulness_n endeavour_v his_o glory_n all_o the_o day_n of_o our_o life_n three_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v eternal_a every_o way_n without_o beginning_n or_o end_v for_o it_o be_v he_o which_o be_v which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v angel_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n they_o be_v eternal_a but_o not_o every_o way_n though_o they_o be_v eternal_a in_o that_o they_o shall_v never_o die_v yet_o have_v they_o a_o beginning_n second_o they_o be_v eternal_a not_o absolute_o but_o by_o participation_n for_o god_n make_v they_o eternal_a but_o the_o lord_n be_v most_o absolute_o of_o himself_o eternal_a four_o note_n he_o say_v not_o from_o he_o which_o shall_v be_v but_o from_o he_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o be_v to_o judgement_n to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o this_o eternal_a god_n be_v also_o a_o judge_n of_o all_o his_o creature_n especial_o man_n and_o angel_n a_o point_n of_o special_a use_n to_o move_v we_o to_o well_o before_o god_n with_o all_o good_a conscience_n if_o any_o shall_v flatter_v himself_o think_v he_o shall_v be_v dead_a before_o that_o day_n come_v i_o answer_v iâ—_n may_v be_v so_o what_o then_o think_v thâ—u_n thereby_o to_o escape_v his_o judgement_n no_o very_o for_o this_o god_n come_v to_o judge_v thou_o particular_o by_o death_n and_o thereby_o to_o reserve_v thou_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o great_a day_n oâ—_n that_o we_o can_v serious_o think_v on_o this_o it_o will_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o move_v we_o to_o repentance_n by_o break_v of_o the_o course_n of_o sin_n and_o endeavour_v â—o_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n act_n 24.16_o and_o so_o shall_v we_o be_v ready_a to_o meet_v he_o at_o his_o come_n whether_o by_o death_n or_o judgement_n and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o 〈◊〉_d before_o his_o throne_n these_o word_n common_o be_v expound_v of_o seven_o angel_n of_o god_n which_o stand_v before_o the_o thronâ—_n and_o minister_v unto_o he_o but_o it_o can_v be_v mean_v of_o they_o for_o two_o cause_n a_o first_o because_o 〈◊〉_d and_o peace_n be_v here_o say_v to_o proceed_v from_o these_o seven_o spirit_n but_o it_o can_v come_v from_o the_o holy_a angel_n which_o attend_v to_o minister_v before_o the_o lord_n second_o in_o this_o verse_n which_o be_v a_o benediction_n or_o a_o salutation_n of_o 〈◊〉_d to_o the_o church_n the_o seven_o spirit_n be_v set_v before_o jesus_n christ_n the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o trinity_n but_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n nor_o respect_n for_o which_o the_o angel_n shall_v be_v place_v before_o christ._n the_o word_n be_v rather_o thus_o to_o be_v expound_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n this_o exposition_n be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o text_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n may_v be_v call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o the_o seven_o spirit_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o because_o though_o he_o be_v only_o one_o in_o substance_n
yet_o he_o be_v seven_o that_o be_v manifold_a in_o regard_n of_o gift_n and_o operation_n which_o proceed_v from_o he_o second_o saint_n john_n here_o speak_v of_o the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n as_o he_o see_v they_o in_o vision_n for_o here_o he_o set_v down_o one_o vision_n which_o he_o see_v now_o he_o behold_v the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o form_n of_o seven_o light_n in_o a_o vision_n revel_v 4.5_o which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n this_o he_o speak_v by_o comparison_n take_v from_o earthly_a king_n which_o sit_v in_o their_o throne_n do_v there_o show_v their_o glory_n and_o majesty_n so_o s._n john_n see_v in_o vision_n god_n the_o father_n sit_v in_o his_o throne_n and_o christ_n at_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o before_o the_o throne_n the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o manner_n of_o appearance_n prove_v not_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v inferior_a to_o the_o father_n and_o to_o the_o son_n but_o hereby_o be_v express_v the_o office_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o iâ—_n to_o be_v send_v from_o the_o father_n and_o from_o the_o son_n to_o the_o church_n to_o enlighten_v the_o member_n thereof_o this_o they_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n that_o be_v grace_n and_o peace_n be_v with_o you_o from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o spirit_n of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o son_n who_o from_o they_o both_o be_v send_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o enlighten_v to_o sanctify_v and_o to_o govern_v the_o member_n thereof_o first_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v god_n use_n for_o look_v from_o who_o come_v grace_n and_o peace_n that_o same_o be_v very_a god_n but_o here_o grace_n &_o peace_n proceed_v from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v very_a god_n second_o we_o learn_v that_o we_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o direct_v our_o prayer_n to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o by_o who_o grace_n and_o peace_n be_v give_v to_o he_o we_o may_v direct_v our_o prayer_n but_o grace_n and_o peace_n be_v give_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n therefore_o we_o may_v pray_v to_o he_o for_o they_o this_o be_v the_o rather_o to_o be_v observe_v because_o there_o be_v some_o which_o doubt_n whether_o we_o may_v pray_v to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n bâ—t_o they_o may_v as_o well_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v god_n they_o say_v we_o have_v no_o example_n hereof_o in_o scripture_n ans._n it_o be_v not_o true_a for_o in_o this_o benediction_n john_n pray_v to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v grace_n be_v wiâ—h_v you_o and_o peace_n from_o god_n the_o father_n etc._n etc._n for_o in_o substance_n it_o be_v as_o much_o â—s_n if_o he_o have_v say_v thus_o thy_o grace_n and_o peace_n o_o father_n and_o thy_o grace_n and_o peace_n o_o holy_a ghost_n and_o thou_o o_o son_n be_v with_o thy_o church_n three_o in_o this_o description_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n by_o stand_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o the_o father_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o person_n subsist_v and_o not_o a_o quality_n some_o heretic_n that_o acknowledge_v the_o godhead_n of_o the_o father_n deny_v the_o godhead_n of_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o concern_v the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v hold_v that_o he_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o virtue_n and_o quality_n of_o the_o father_n but_o this_o be_v most_o false_a for_o aâ—_n the_o father_n be_v a_o substance_n fit_v upon_o the_o throne_n so_o here_o we_o see_v the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o substance_n stand_v before_o the_o throne_n four_o here_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o distinct_a person_n from_o the_o father_n and_o from_o the_o son_n for_o he_o sit_v not_o in_o the_o throne_n as_o do_v the_o father_n nor_o sit_v at_o the_o father_n right_a hand_n as_o do_v the_o son_n but_o stand_v before_o the_o throne_n apart_o from_o they_o both_o verse_n 5._o and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a and_o lord_n over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n unto_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o son_n in_o his_o own_o blood_n that_o be_v grace_n and_o peace_n from_o jesus_n christ._n where_o christ_n jesus_n be_v join_v with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o bestow_v grace_n and_o peace_n on_o his_o church_n here_o some_o may_v ask_v why_o be_v christ_n the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o trinity_n place_v after_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o three_o personâ—_n answer_n for_o 〈◊〉_d cause_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o office_n for_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v two_o way_n first_o as_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n second_o as_o he_o be_v the_o mediator_n of_o the_o church_n as_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n he_o be_v the_o second_o person_n in_o trinity_n and_o so_o before_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o order_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n so_o he_o be_v after_o the_o holy_a ghost_n isaiah_n 61.1_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v upon_o i_o he_o have_v send_v i_o to_o preach_v where_o christ_n confess_v himself_o to_o be_v senâ—_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n he_o be_v set_v after_o he_o second_o he_o be_v place_v after_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o the_o fit_a progress_n of_o the_o history_n for_o the_o manner_n of_o they_o which_o pen_n the_o scripture_n be_v to_o set_v they_o in_o the_o last_o place_n of_o who_o they_o mean_v to_o speak_v most_o as_o matth._n 1._o the_o evangelist_n set_v down_o the_o genealogy_n of_o christ_n from_o abraham_n though_o among_o they_o all_o be_v none_o so_o excellent_a as_o christ_n yet_o place_v he_o the_o last_o because_o he_o intend_v to_o go_v on_o with_o the_o history_n of_o his_o life_n and_o death_n so_o john_n place_v christ_n the_o last_o because_o he_o purpose_v to_o make_v a_o large_a description_n of_o the_o person_n and_o office_n of_o christ_n which_o he_o can_v not_o so_o fit_o have_v bring_v in_o if_o he_o have_v place_v he_o before_o the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o this_o five_o verse_n till_o the_o nine_o he_o describe_v christ_n at_o large_a first_o by_o his_o office_n second_o by_o the_o execution_n thereof_o his_o office_n be_v three_o first_o his_o prophetical_a office_n in_o these_o word_n which_o be_v that_o faithful_a witness_n second_o his_o priestly_a office_n the_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a three_o his_o kingly_a office_n and_o that_o prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o execution_n of_o all_o his_o office_n be_v particular_o set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v to_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n and_o so_o forth_o to_o the_o nine_o verse_n touch_v his_o office_n in_o his_o prophetical_a office_n we_o may_v note_v three_o thing_n first_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n second_o a_o faithful_a witness_n three_o that_o faithful_a witness_n first_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n isay._n 55.4_o i_o give_v he_o to_o be_v a_o witness_n to_o the_o nation_n by_o his_o witness_n â—earing_v be_v signify_v two_o duty_n of_o his_o prophetical_a office_n first_o to_o reveal_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n to_o his_o church_n second_o to_o certify_v the_o church_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o same_o &_o in_o these_o two_o stand_v his_o whole_a office_n prophetical_a for_o the_o first_o to_o reveal_v his_o father_n will_n to_o the_o church_n immediate_o be_v his_o office_n as_o he_o be_v a_o prophet_n for_o none_o have_v see_v god_n but_o he_o which_o come_v from_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o father_n and_o he_o have_v declare_v he_o john_n 1.18_o now_o christ_n declare_v the_o father_n by_o make_v know_v his_o will_n and_o that_o he_o have_v do_v not_o only_o in_o his_o own_o person_n while_o he_o live_v on_o earth_n but_o from_o the_o begin_n by_o all_o the_o prophet_n and_o so_o will_v do_v to_o the_o end_n by_o all_o true_a preacher_n for_o in_o the_o church_n the_o father_n do_v all_o thing_n by_o the_o son_n when_o the_o lord_n rain_v fire_n on_o sodom_n gen._n 19.24_o there_o jehovah_n the_o father_n rain_v down_o by_o jehovah_n the_o son_n so_o when_o the_o covenant_n be_v make_v to_o our_o first_o parent_n it_o be_v make_v in_o christ_n the_o promise_a seed_n it_o be_v renew_a to_o noah_n abraham_n and_o the_o patriarch_n from_o the_o father_n by_o the_o son_n for_o that_o jehovah_n which_o appear_v to_o moses_n in_o the_o bush_n exod._n 3._o be_v by_o s._n paul_n call_v christ._n 1._o cor._n 10._o the_o prophet_n and_o the_o apostle_n write_v as_o they_o be_v inspire_v by_o christ_n they_o be_v but_o his_o instrument_n to_o speak_v and_o
pollute_v with_o sin_n that_o once_o wash_v be_v not_o enough_o but_o say_v he_o wash_v i_o again_o and_o again_o rinse_v bathe_v and_o swill_v i_o in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n till_o i_o be_v purge_v and_o cleanse_v from_o all_o my_o sin_n and_o this_o same_o affection_n shall_v be_v in_o every_o one_o of_o we_o we_o shall_v labour_v that_o our_o heart_n may_v be_v touch_v with_o a_o lively_a sense_n of_o our_o vile_a estate_n by_o reason_n of_o our_o sin_n which_o make_v both_o body_n and_o soul_n most_o ugly_a and_o filthy_a in_o god_n sight_n and_o that_o the_o stain_n hereof_o be_v so_o deep_o set_v in_o our_o soul_n that_o we_o can_v never_o be_v cleanse_v but_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o christ_n his_o own_o hand_n and_o that_o in_o his_o own_o heart_n blood_n yea_o that_o one_o wash_n will_v not_o serve_v but_o we_o must_v be_v rince_v and_o bathe_v therein_o for_o till_o such_o time_n as_o this_o consideration_n do_v in_o some_o measure_n take_v place_n in_o our_o heart_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o we_o shall_v loathe_v sin_n as_o we_o ought_v or_o come_v to_o this_o comfortable_a assurance_n of_o god_n love_n that_o he_o have_v wash_v away_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n for_o this_o humility_n in_o our_o soul_n by_o reason_n of_o our_o sin_n be_v the_o begin_n of_o all_o true_a grace_n and_o comfort_n now_o this_o work_n of_o christ_n in_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n do_v comprehend_v a_o double_a benefit_n first_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n whereby_o the_o guilt_n and_o punishment_n due_a to_o they_o be_v take_v away_o second_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n whereby_o the_o corruption_n of_o sin_n be_v remove_v and_o abolish_v and_o we_o must_v observe_v that_o s._n john_n propound_v this_o benefit_n general_o without_o limitation_n say_v which_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n that_o be_v from_o all_o our_o sin_n to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o if_o any_o believe_v true_o in_o christ_n he_o have_v pardon_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n without_o any_o restraint_n or_o limitation_n either_o of_o number_n or_o quality_n be_v they_o never_o so_o many_o or_o never_o so_o great_a by_o his_o blood_n how_o can_v blood_n wash_v away_o filthiness_n nay_o it_o rather_o defile_v a_o man_n answ._n this_o wash_n stand_v not_o in_o the_o substance_n of_o christ_n blood_n but_o in_o the_o merit_n thereof_o for_o that_o substance_n of_o blood_n which_o be_v shed_v be_v lose_v and_o we_o know_v not_o what_o be_v become_v of_o it_o whatsoever_o the_o papist_n say_v but_o the_o merit_n thereof_o remain_v still_o and_o christ_n blood_n deserve_v to_o purge_v away_o sin_n rather_o than_o any_o other_o man_n blood_n as_o of_o peter_n john_n etc._n etc._n because_o his_o blood_n be_v the_o blood_n of_o god_n not_o of_o the_o godhead_n but_o of_o he_o who_o be_v both_o god_n and_o man_n for_o the_o manhood_n of_o christ_n be_v receive_v into_o the_o union_n of_o the_o second_o person_n and_o so_o it_o may_v be_v call_v the_o blood_n of_o god_n as_o paul_n say_v 20.28_o god_n redeem_v his_o church_n by_o his_o blood_n that_o be_v christ_n god_n incarnate_a and_o so_o it_o be_v the_o blood_n of_o he_o that_o be_v god_n be_v more_o meritorious_a than_o the_o blood_n of_o any_o creature_n whatsoever_o beside_o christ_n be_v appoint_v by_o god_n to_o be_v a_o public_a person_n in_o the_o work_n of_o redemption_n and_o in_o his_o death_n and_o passion_n he_o stand_v in_o the_o room_n and_o stead_n of_o all_o his_o elect_a so_o as_o when_o his_o blood_n be_v shed_v their_o blood_n be_v shâ—â—_n because_o it_o be_v shed_v for_o they_o but_o the_o blood_n of_o other_o private_a man_n can_v answer_v for_o any_o beside_o themselves_o because_o it_o be_v shed_v only_o for_o themselves_o then_o damnable_a be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o papist_n who_o hold_v the_o blood_n of_o martyr_n can_v merit_v for_o other_o be_v apply_v unto_o they_o for_o see_v they_o be_v but_o private_a man_n and_o suffer_v in_o their_o own_o person_n only_o they_o can_v profit_v any_o other_o thereby_o by_o blood_n we_o must_v understand_v the_o passion_n of_o christ_n a_o part_n for_o the_o whole_a and_o with_o all_o his_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n upon_o the_o cross_n for_o in_o his_o suffering_n he_o fulfil_v the_o law_n and_o in_o fulfil_v the_o law_n he_o suffer_v these_o two_o can_v be_v sever_v save_v only_o in_o thought_n and_o so_o this_o word_n contain_v the_o whole_a obedience_n of_o christ_n whereby_o he_o procure_v the_o remission_n and_o mortification_n of_o our_o sin_n here_o than_o we_o see_v two_o notable_a benefit_n of_o christ_n unto_o his_o church_n his_o love_n &_o the_o wash_n away_o of_o sin_n which_o s._n john_n set_v down_o to_o move_v the_o church_n with_o reverence_n &_o diligence_n to_o read_v and_o delight_n in_o this_o book_n all_o of_o we_o will_v say_v we_o be_v sure_a god_n love_v we_o and_o have_v pardon_v our_o sin_n in_o christ_n why_o then_o do_v we_o not_o show_v our_o love_n again_o to_o he_o by_o hear_v and_o read_v his_o word_n set_v down_o in_o this_o or_o any_o other_o book_n of_o scripture_n and_o by_o yield_v answerable_a obedience_n thereto_o why_o then_o do_v we_o not_o offer_v up_o ourselves_o soul_n and_o body_n to_o serve_v he_o as_o the_o apostle_n require_v rom._n 1â—_n 1_o by_o way_n of_o recompense_n for_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n shed_v out_o unto_o we_o but_o alas_o that_o be_v more_o common_a which_o be_v most_o shameful_a to_o turn_v god_n grace_n into_o wantonness_n for_o when_o man_n say_v god_n love_v they_o and_o have_v wash_v away_o their_o sin_n yet_o they_o rebel_v against_o he_o when_o as_o these_o two_o benefit_n be_v here_o record_v to_o be_v inâ—ucements_n of_o continual_a love_n and_o obedience_n to_o his_o holy_a word_n verse_n 6._o and_o make_v we_o king_n and_o 〈◊〉_d to_o god_n even_o his_o father_n to_o he_o be_v glory_n and_o dominion_n for_o 〈◊〉_d amen_n in_o these_o word_n be_v set_v down_o the_o three_o work_n and_o benefit_n of_o christ_n bestow_v on_o his_o church_n and_o on_o every_o true_a member_n thereof_o for_o the_o better_a understanding_n whereof_o we_o must_v consider_v in_o they_o four_o point_n first_o the_o dignity_n and_o excellency_n of_o all_o true_a believer_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n they_o be_v king_n and_o priest_n second_o when_o they_o be_v make_v king_n and_o priest_n in_o this_o life_n note_v by_o the_o phrase_n of_o speech_n have_v maâ—â—_n wherein_o 〈◊〉_d speak_v of_o the_o church_n on_o earth_n and_o use_v a_o word_n that_o signify_v the_o time_n past_a three_o the_o manner_n how_o they_o become_v king_n and_o priest_n they_o be_v not_o so_o bear_v but_o christ_n have_v make_v they_o such_o four_o to_o who_o they_o be_v make_v such_o to_o god_n even_o the_o father_n for_o the_o first_o the_o dignity_n of_o all_o true_a believer_n have_v two_o head_n first_o they_o be_v king_n second_o priest_n they_o be_v call_v king_n not_o in_o regard_n of_o a_o earthly_a 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be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n by_o adoption_n in_o his_o son_n so_o that_o our_o right_n to_o that_o kingdom_n be_v not_o by_o nature_n but_o by_o grace_n second_o christ_n be_v a_o universal_a king_n over_o the_o angel_n in_o heaven_n the_o church_n on_o earth_n and_o all_o other_o creature_n wheresoever_o his_o regiment_n be_v absolute_a in_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o man_n and_o he_o can_v by_o his_o word_n bind_v all_o thing_n but_o true_a believer_n be_v not_o universal_a king_n for_o they_o have_v no_o superiority_n above_o good_a angel_n and_o the_o church_n neither_o be_v they_o absolute_a king_n as_o he_o be_v nor_o of_o themselves_o but_o by_o christ_n jesus_n and_o as_o they_o participate_v with_o christ_n in_o his_o kingdom_n the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o dignity_n of_o true_a believer_n stand_v in_o this_o that_o they_o be_v priest_n consecrate_v and_o set_v apart_o by_o christ_n to_o the_o worship_n &_o service_n of_o god_n here_o in_o this_o life_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v to_o serve_v and_o praise_v he_o eternal_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o priest_n so_o be_v all_o his_o member_n but_o yet_o there_o be_v difference_n first_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o external_a and_o real_a priest_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n which_o offer_v up_o a_o true_a real_a and_o external_a propitiatory_a sacrifice_n to_o god_n the_o father_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o mankind_n as_o for_o believer_n they_o be_v not_o real_a and_o external_a priest_n but_o spiritual_a offer_v up_o spiritual_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n as_o when_o any_o member_n of_o christ_n give_v a_o alm_n he_o offer_v a_o sacrifice_n to_o god_n not_o a_o corporal_a sacrifice_n though_o the_o thing_n give_fw-mi be_v a_o bodily_a substance_n but_o it_o be_v every_o way_n spiritual_a for_o to_o offer_v a_o real_a outward_a sacrifice_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v proper_a to_o christ._n again_o our_o saviour_n christ_n he_o be_v a_o perfect_a priest_n and_o offer_v up_o a_o perfect_a sacrifice_n but_o we_o be_v imperfect_a do_v offer_v up_o imperfect_a sacrifice_n taint_v and_o blemish_v with_o sin_n yet_o accept_v as_o perfect_v for_o the_o worthiness_n of_o christ_n sacrifice_n the_o second_o point_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v the_o time_n when_o believer_n be_v make_v king_n and_o priest_n namely_o in_o this_o life_n for_o as_o in_o the_o entrance_n into_o a_o earthly_a kingdom_n there_o be_v degree_n first_o to_o have_v good_a right_a and_o title_n to_o it_o second_o to_o get_v possession_n of_o it_o which_o be_v more_o than_o title_n only_o and_o yet_o if_o a_o man_n title_n be_v good_a though_o he_o want_v possession_n he_o may_v be_v call_v a_o king_n so_o it_o be_v with_o god_n child_n they_o have_v the_o right_n give_v they_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n in_o this_o life_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n be_v king_n further_o in_o the_o possess_n of_o a_o kingdom_n there_o be_v two_o degree_n first_o the_o entrance_n upon_o some_o part_n second_o the_o full_a and_o perfect_a enjoy_n of_o all_o now_o every_o true_a believer_n begin_v to_o enter_v possession_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n in_o this_o life_n for_o it_o stand_v 14.17_o 〈◊〉_d righteousness_n joy_n and_o peace_n and_o they_o which_o 〈◊〉_d these_o thing_n in_o their_o heart_n have_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n begin_v in_o they_o in_o this_o life_n but_o the_o full_a fruition_n and_o perfect_a possession_n of_o this_o kingdom_n be_v reserve_v to_o be_v give_v at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n and_o at_o the_o dâ—y_n of_o judgement_n and_o as_o true_a believer_n be_v king_n in_o this_o world_n so_o likewise_o be_v they_o priest_n in_o offer_v spiritual_a sacrifice_n to_o god_n and_o dedicate_a and_o consecrate_v themselves_o to_o his_o service_n all_o the_o day_n of_o their_o life_n the_o three_o point_n be_v the_o manner_n how_o true_a believer_n become_v king_n and_o priest_n they_o be_v not_o such_o by_o nature_n neither_o do_v this_o dignity_n come_v by_o descent_n in_o blood_n or_o birthright_n or_o by_o any_o other_o privilege_n they_o have_v from_o man_n but_o only_o from_o christ_n jesus_n who_o by_o divine_a call_n make_v they_o spiritual_a king_n and_o priest_n like_v as_o under_o the_o law_n by_o solemn_a election_n and_o ordination_n some_o be_v make_v earthly_a king_n and_o priest_n now_o in_o this_o call_n of_o christ_n two_o thing_n concur_v first_o christ_n give_v his_o member_n right_a to_o his_o own_o kingdom_n and_o priesthood_n yet_o not_o so_o that_o they_o can_v execute_v the_o regiment_n sustain_v by_o christ_n or_o perform_v the_o office_n of_o his_o priesthood_n but_o because_o they_o have_v right_a in_o part_n to_o these_o office_n and_o the_o benefit_n of_o they_o both_o redound_v to_o they_o whole_o and_o this_o right_n they_o have_v be_v bring_v to_o pass_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o believe_v in_o god_n through_o christ_n and_o god_n be_v bind_v again_o to_o give_v unto_o they_o christ_n with_o all_o his_o benefit_n among_o which_o these_o two_o must_v be_v account_v for_o indeed_o every_o thing_n which_o belong_v to_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v convey_v in_o some_o sort_n to_o every_o true_a believer_n second_o in_o this_o divine_a call_n christ_n endue_v all_o his_o member_n with_o gift_n and_o grace_n whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v for_o the_o duty_n of_o spiritual_a king_n and_o priest_n unto_o god_n for_o as_o christ_n be_v anoint_v so_o be_v all_o his_o member_n so_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v of_o christ_n say_v he_o be_v anoint_v with_o the_o oil_n of_o gladness_n above_o his_o fellow_n psal._n 45._o vers_fw-la 7._o therefore_o his_o fellow_n that_o be_v believer_n be_v anoint_v with_o the_o same_o oil_n though_o in_o less_o measure_n and_o saint_n john_n say_v you_o have_v receive_v the_o anoint_v 1._o john_n 2.27_o yea_o god_n himself_o charge_v wicked_a man_n not_o to_o touch_v his_o anointed_n psal._n 105.15_o mean_v not_o only_a patriarch_n king_n and_o prophet_n but_o all_o true_a believer_n who_o be_v then_o anoint_v when_o they_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n in_o some_o measure_n wherewith_o christ_n in_o his_o manhood_n be_v fill_v above_o measure_n the_o four_o point_n to_o who_o have_v he_o make_v they_o king_n and_o priest_n answ._n to_o god_n even_o the_o father_n this_o be_v add_v for_o special_a cause_n to_o prevent_v that_o carnal_a liberty_n which_o man_n nature_n may_v claim_v from_o this_o spiritual_a royalty_n for_o man_n may_v say_v if_o all_o believer_n be_v king_n then_o may_v they_o live_v as_o they_o list_v but_o these_o word_n unto_o god_n do_v show_v that_o the_o right_n of_o their_o kingdom_n with_o the_o office_n of_o their_o priesthood_n must_v all_o be_v refer_v to_o the_o honour_n and_o praise_n of_o god_n unto_o who_o they_o be_v make_v king_n and_o priest_n last_o he_o add_v even_o his_o father_n by_o way_n of_o exposition_n to_o show_v more_o particular_o to_o which_o of_o the_o person_n they_o be_v first_o of_o all_o make_v king_n and_o priest_n for_o the_o title_n god_n must_v not_o here_o be_v take_v absolute_o for_o the_o divine_a nature_n but_o with_o restraint_n to_o the_o first_o person_n the_o father_n unto_o who_o all_o true_a believer_n be_v make_v king_n and_o priest_n in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o from_o the_o father_n to_o the_o son_n and_o from_o they_o both_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o the_o first_o person_n in_o trinity_n be_v here_o name_v above_o the_o rest_n not_o as_o be_v above_o they_o in_o degree_n or_o honour_n for_o so_o they_o be_v equal_a but_o because_o he_o be_v the_o first_o in_o order_n and_o the_o fountain_n of_o the_o godhead_n which_o be_v convey_v from_o he_o to_o the_o son_n and_o from_o they_o both_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n thus_o much_o for_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n now_o follow_v sundry_a use_n from_o the_o consideration_n of_o these_o two_o dignity_n of_o believer_n and_o first_o their_o kingly_a dignity_n afford_v matter_n both_o of_o instruction_n and_o consolation_n instruct._n i._o whereas_o all_o true_a believer_n be_v make_v true_a king_n in_o this_o life_n hereby_o every_o one_o that_o profess_v christian_a religion_n be_v teach_v to_o carry_v himself_o as_o a_o enemy_n to_o all_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n as_o namely_o to_o sin_n and_o satan_n to_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o world_n even_o through_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o life_n for_o by_o call_v every_o christian_a have_v title_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n what_o affinity_n then_o can_v we_o have_v with_o those_o that_o be_v both_o enemy_n of_o this_o kingdom_n and_o of_o christ_n himself_o that_o make_v we_o king_n
son_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o friend_n of_o friend_n who_o shall_v give_v they_o not_o only_a life_n and_o motion_n but_o eternal_a life_n with_o his_o own_o majesty_n this_o be_v job_n comfort_v that_o though_o he_o die_v yet_o he_o believe_v he_o shall_v see_v his_o redeemer_n with_o his_o eye_n and_o this_o shall_v be_v our_o comfort_n against_o the_o fear_n of_o death_n and_o last_o judgement_n second_o this_o be_v a_o terror_n to_o the_o wicked_a and_o to_o all_o impenitent_a sinner_n that_o they_o shall_v will_n they_o will_v they_o be_v bring_v to_o the_o bar_n of_o christ_n judgement_n seat_n &_o there_o look_v on_o he_o who_o be_v their_o judge_n who_o they_o have_v in_o their_o life_n contemn_v and_o despise_v and_o this_o consideration_n may_v serve_v to_o move_v they_o to_o repentance_n which_o have_v noâ—_n begin_v to_o repent_v and_o to_o labour_v to_o become_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n aâ—_n also_o to_o increase_v and_o further_a repentance_n in_o they_o who_o have_v by_o god_n grace_n begin_v the_o same_o it_o may_v be_v some_o do_v think_v when_o they_o die_v all_o be_v do_v and_o there_o be_v no_o further_a account_n to_o follow_v but_o though_o we_o lie_v rot_v in_o our_o grave_n a_o thousand_o or_o two_o thousand_o year_n yet_o we_o shall_v rise_v and_o look_v upon_o our_o judge_n with_o our_o own_o eye_n and_o if_o we_o have_v not_o in_o our_o life_n time_n repent_v we_o shall_v hear_v he_o with_o our_o own_o ear_n give_v the_o dreadful_a sentence_n against_o we_o go_v you_o curse_v into_o everlasting_a fire_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v best_o for_o we_o in_o this_o day_n of_o grace_n to_o prevent_v this_o danger_n and_o now_o repent_v and_o believe_v in_o christ_n that_o then_o we_o may_v rise_v with_o joy_n and_o stand_v with_o holâ—nesse_n before_o christ_n jesus_n no_o doubt_n if_o we_o be_v persuade_v that_o we_o shall_v thus_o appear_v it_o will_v move_v we_o to_o repent_v three_o every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o that_o be_v all_o man_n with_o their_o own_o eye_n shall_v look_v on_o he_o hence_o it_o may_v be_v gather_v that_o those_o who_o want_v their_o fight_n in_o this_o life_n shall_v have_v it_o then_o restore_v it_o be_v grant_v of_o all_o divine_n that_o the_o elect_n shall_v have_v all_o their_o sense_n and_o other_o defect_n restore_v wherein_o they_o be_v want_v in_o this_o life_n and_o it_o may_v also_o be_v add_v that_o the_o wicked_a shall_v then_o have_v some_o of_o their_o sense_n restore_v if_o they_o want_v the_o same_o in_o this_o life_n as_o hear_v and_o see_v at_o the_o least_o for_o the_o deaf_a shall_v hear_v the_o blind_a shall_v see_v this_o judge_n and_o this_o can_v be_v no_o glory_n to_o they_o see_v it_o be_v to_o increase_v their_o misery_n for_o the_o more_o sense_n they_o have_v the_o more_o punishment_n they_o shall_v feel_v because_o by_o sense_n we_o apprehend_v misery_n even_o thâ—se_a which_o pierce_v he_o here_o be_v add_v a_o further_a evidence_n of_o christ_n manifestation_n of_o his_o come_n and_o that_o for_o three_o cause_n first_o to_o show_v that_o no_o power_n or_o wisdom_n in_o the_o world_n can_v free_v any_o one_o from_o his_o appearance_n for_o if_o any_o can_v escape_v in_o all_o likelihod_n it_o will_v be_v those_o jew_n and_o gentile_n who_o prevail_v most_o against_o christ_n and_o put_v he_o to_o death_n but_o none_o of_o those_o can_v escape_v his_o judgement_n for_o even_o they_o which_o pierce_v he_o they_o shall_v see_v this_o judge_n and_o be_v summon_v before_o his_o majesty_n for_o though_o they_o have_v power_n to_o kill_v he_o yet_o none_o of_o they_o shall_v have_v power_n to_o absent_v themselves_o from_o before_o his_o bar_n of_o judgement_n at_o the_o last_o day_n second_o to_o show_v the_o case_n of_o all_o wicked_a man_n namely_o that_o such_o woe_n and_o misery_n shall_v befall_v they_o as_o they_o never_o once_o think_v of_o the_o jew_n and_o gentile_n which_o crucify_v christ_n never_o dream_v of_o this_o that_o he_o who_o they_o then_o put_v to_o a_o temporal_a death_n shall_v one_o day_n be_v their_o judge_n and_o condemn_v they_o to_o eternal_a death_n unless_o they_o have_v repent_v three_o to_o show_v the_o rueful_a and_o woeful_a estate_n of_o all_o impenitent_a sinner_n they_o shall_v rise_v to_o judgement_n and_o have_v the_o great_a enemy_n their_o judge_n who_o will_v show_v rigour_n upon_o they_o and_o justice_n without_o all_o mercy_n for_o this_o pierce_a of_o christ_n be_v mean_v not_o only_o of_o the_o jew_n which_o put_v he_o to_o death_n but_o of_o all_o ungodly_a personâ—_n because_o all_o such_o do_v by_o their_o sin_n as_o with_o sword_n and_o spear_n wound_v he_o at_o the_o heart_n as_o the_o soldier_n do_v impenitent_a sinner_n be_v as_o the_o jew_n which_o crucify_v christ_n as_o judas_n which_o betray_v he_o and_o as_o the_o soldier_n which_o goar_n his_o side_n and_o unless_o they_o now_o repent_v they_o shall_v one_o day_n be_v judge_v as_o his_o enemy_n even_o they_o which_o pierce_v he_o out_o of_o these_o word_n some_o gather_v that_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n have_v still_o the_o wound_n and_o scar_n which_o be_v give_v he_o at_o his_o death_n the_o print_n of_o the_o nail_n in_o his_o hand_n and_o his_o foot_n and_o that_o these_o shall_v be_v see_v in_o he_o at_o the_o last_o day_n add_v withal_o that_o it_o be_v no_o blemish_n to_o christ_n to_o have_v these_o but_o rather_o a_o increase_n of_o his_o glory_n but_o this_o can_v be_v gather_v hence_o for_o though_o it_o be_v say_v they_o shall_v see_v he_o who_o they_o pierce_v yet_o it_o follow_v not_o that_o they_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v pierce_v what_o though_o they_o see_v the_o person_n who_o they_o wound_v shall_v they_o therefore_o see_v his_o wound_n many_o shall_v see_v king_n and_o queen_n who_o they_o crown_v in_o this_o world_n but_o it_o follow_v not_o that_o therefore_o they_o shall_v wear_v their_o crown_n so_o we_o shall_v see_v our_o father_n and_o mother_n but_o not_o as_o father_n and_o mother_n iv._o point_n the_o fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o his_o come_n especial_o in_o the_o wicked_a in_o these_o word_n and_o all_o tribe_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v wail_v before_o he_o where_o s._n john_n speak_v of_o the_o whole_a world_n according_a to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n for_o only_o that_o part_n of_o the_o world_n be_v divide_v into_o tribe_n as_o in_o like_a case_n our_o saviour_n christ_n set_v out_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n according_a to_o the_o state_n and_o manner_n of_o judge_v the_o visible_a church_n math._n 25._o so_o that_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o they_o which_o repent_v not_o of_o what_o nation_n soever_o of_o what_o state_n or_o condition_n soever_o they_o have_v be_v shall_v wail_v and_o mourn_v at_o that_o day_n and_o he_o add_v a_o reason_n of_o this_o their_o mourning_n in_o these_o word_n 〈◊〉_d for_o he_o before_o he_o or_o over_o he_o that_o be_v they_o shall_v wail_v and_o lament_v with_o exceed_a lamentation_n because_o they_o believe_v not_o his_o word_n but_o contemn_v he_o and_o his_o doctrine_n and_o therefore_o now_o they_o want_v all_o help_n to_o free_v they_o from_o the_o punishment_n of_o their_o unbelief_n and_o contempt_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o this_o life_n be_v the_o only_a time_n of_o grace_n and_o mercy_n afterward_o there_o be_v no_o work_n nor_o invention_n that_o can_v alter_v man_n estate_n hence_o than_o we_o be_v admonish_v first_o that_o in_o this_o world_n we_o labour_v above_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o get_v our_o sin_n pardon_v to_o believe_v and_o embrace_v his_o holy_a word_n and_o unless_o we_o attain_v hereunto_o in_o this_o life_n we_o shall_v wail_v eternal_o for_o when_o the_o last_o day_n be_v coâ—e_n there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o help_n no_o way_n to_o escape_v no_o time_n of_o grace_n to_o repeâ—â—_n remember_v the_o foolish_a virgin_n that_o seek_v for_o oil_n when_o it_o be_v too_o late_o and_o knock_v when_o the_o door_n be_v shut_v math._n 25._o but_o if_o by_o god_n mercy_n we_o can_v in_o this_o life_n get_v his_o love_n and_o favour_n in_o christ_n then_o shall_v we_o enjoy_v the_o same_o eternal_o yea_o at_o this_o dreadful_a day_n to_o all_o the_o wicked_a we_o shall_v lift_v up_o our_o head_n and_o our_o heart_n when_o we_o shall_v see_v christ_n come_v to_o our_o full_a redemption_n all_o tear_n shall_v be_v wipe_v from_o our_o eye_n when_o the_o wicked_a shall_v cry_v and_o howl_v woe_n and_o alas_o for_o evermore_o the_o devil_n know_v the_o worth_n of_o this_o admonition_n will_v labour_v by_o all_o mean_n to_o keep_v it_o from_o our_o heart_n
but_o this_o shall_v be_v our_o wisdom_n betimes_o to_o sue_v for_o grace_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o defeat_v satan_n and_o prevent_v eternal_a wail_n second_o here_o see_v what_o a_o evil_a conscience_n be_v it_o lie_v asleep_o here_o while_o a_o man_n live_v and_o never_o trouble_v he_o and_o so_o it_o may_v do_v in_o death_n also_o but_o in_o the_o last_o day_n when_o he_o shall_v see_v his_o judge_n with_o his_o eye_n than_o it_o will_v stir_v it_o will_v torment_v he_o it_o will_v attach_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v he_o it_o will_v lay_v to_o his_o charge_n all_o his_o sin_n his_o contempt_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o word_n his_o unbelief_n in_o the_o time_n of_o grace_n and_o than_o it_o will_v break_v his_o heart_n be_v as_o good_a as_o a_o thousand_o witness_n to_o condemn_v he_o this_o shall_v cause_v all_o man_n to_o labour_n to_o get_v a_o good_a conscience_n wash_v and_o purge_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n which_o will_v not_o suffer_v we_o to_o lie_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n and_o upon_o our_o repentance_n will_v assure_v we_o we_o be_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n which_o if_o it_o do_v in_o this_o life_n then_o will_v it_o never_o make_v we_o to_o wail_v at_o the_o last_o day_n but_o it_o will_v excuse_v we_o and_o make_v we_o look_v up_o to_o our_o redeemer_n and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o he_o but_o take_v heed_n when_o thy_o conscience_n lie_v asleep_a and_o accuse_v not_o for_o thy_o sin_n no_o not_o at_o death_n that_o be_v a_o evil_a conscience_n which_o will_v awake_v at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n to_o torment_n and_o condemn_v thou_o v._o point_n the_o mean_n whereby_o he_o confirm_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o second_o come_v of_o christ_n that_o be_v by_o a_o double_a note_n of_o asseveration_n even_o so_o amen_n one_o of_o these_o be_v take_v from_o the_o greek_n even_o so_o the_o second_o from_o the_o hebrew_n amen_n be_v both_o as_o much_o as_o amen_o amen_n or_o very_o very_o in_o which_o phrase_n saint_n john_n teach_v we_o how_o to_o confirm_v the_o thing_n we_o avouch_v there_o be_v three_o way_n whereby_o a_o thing_n may_v be_v avouch_v first_o by_o a_o simple_a and_o bare_a affirmation_n or_o negation_n second_o by_o a_o earnest_a asseveration_n three_o by_o a_o oath_n now_o s._n john_n use_v these_o two_o note_n of_o assure_v in_o this_o weighty_a matter_n of_o christ_n second_o come_v say_v he_o come_v even_o so_o amen_o that_o be_v certain_o and_o without_o all_o doubt_n it_o be_v so_o hereby_o teach_v we_o first_o that_o a_o asseveration_n must_v not_o be_v use_v but_o only_o when_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n be_v of_o great_a weight_n and_o moment_n here_o than_o we_o see_v that_o wretched_a be_v their_o practice_n who_o use_v to_o bind_v every_o word_n with_o a_o oath_n which_o be_v a_o degree_n above_o this_o asseveration_n yea_o they_o also_o be_v here_o just_o reprove_v who_o in_o their_o ordinary_a communication_n have_v ever_o in_o their_o mouth_n some_o weighty_a asseveration_n our_o saviour_n often_o use_v these_o word_n of_o asseveration_n yet_o only_o in_o matter_n of_o weight_n and_o moment_n and_o when_o the_o hearer_n be_v to_o be_v move_v to_o great_a attention_n and_o their_o heart_n be_v to_o be_v more_o full_o settle_v in_o some_o truth_n of_o great_a importance_n second_o by_o these_o asseveration_n john_n will_v teach_v we_o to_o hold_v against_o the_o practice_n of_o atheist_n that_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n be_v most_o certain_a and_o undoubted_a which_o thing_n we_o shall_v more_o serious_o observe_v because_o in_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n there_o be_v breed_v this_o false_a persuasion_n that_o either_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v summon_v to_o judgement_n or_o else_o that_o christ_n come_n be_v far_o off_o like_v to_o the_o evil_a servant_n who_o say_v my_o master_n defer_v his_o come_n which_o evil_a servant_n by_o nature_n be_v every_o one_o of_o us._n three_o hereby_o john_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v one_o special_a note_n and_o mark_v of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n namely_o to_o desire_v and_o long_o after_o unfeigned_o the_o second_o come_v of_o christ_n to_o judgement_n for_o as_o these_o word_n be_v a_o asseveration_n so_o withal_o they_o contain_v a_o most_o earnest_a desire_n even_o so_o amen_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v by_o way_n of_o answer_n to_o the_o proclaim_n of_o his_o come_n lord_n grant_v it_o be_v so_o yea_o lord_n let_v it_o be_v so_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o saint_n paul_n describe_v all_o those_o who_o must_v receive_v the_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n by_o this_o property_n that_o they_o love_v his_o appear_v 2._o tim._n 4.8_o as_o for_o the_o ungodly_a it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o they_o they_o be_v not_o justify_v nor_o sanctify_v and_o so_o not_o reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n can_v love_v this_o appear_v nay_o they_o can_v wish_v with_o all_o their_o heart_n there_o be_v no_o hell_n nor_o last_o judgement_n and_o by_o this_o one_o note_n we_o may_v well_o judge_v of_o our_o estate_n for_o if_o from_o our_o heart_n we_o desire_v and_o long_o for_o this_o second_o come_v to_o judgement_n and_o wish_v he_o will_v come_v â—0_n quick_o than_o it_o be_v a_o certain_a token_n and_o sign_n we_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o shall_v receive_v the_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n but_o if_o as_o yet_o we_o feel_v not_o this_o longing_n and_o hunger_a desire_n in_o we_o than_o we_o must_v suspect_v ourselves_o and_o labour_v every_o day_n to_o feel_v it_o for_o it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o saint_n to_o say_v 6.10_o how_o long_a lord_n and_o with_o john_n even_o so_o amen_n verse_n 8._o i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n say_v the_o lord_n which_o iâ—_n which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v even_o the_o almighty_a after_o saint_n john_n have_v describe_v christ_n at_o large_a in_o the_o former_a verse_n he_o bring_v he_o in_o speak_v of_o himself_o by_o a_o figure_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o this_o clause_n say_v the_o lord_n the_o end_n and_o scope_n of_o these_o word_n in_o this_o verse_n be_v to_o confirm_v that_o which_o be_v before_o speak_v of_o christ_n be_v a_o proof_n and_o reason_n thereof_o after_o this_o manner_n to_o be_v conceive_v he_o which_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o etc._n etc._n he_o be_v sufficient_a to_o be_v a_o king_n priest_n and_o prophet_n to_o the_o church_n and_o be_v both_o able_a and_o willing_a to_o bestow_v on_o they_o all_o blessing_n which_o serve_v for_o their_o good_a the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o argument_n be_v omit_v the_o second_o part_n be_v contain_v in_o this_o eight_o verse_n but_o i_o be_o the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n and_o therefore_o i_o be_o sufficient_a etc._n etc._n in_o this_o eight_o verse_n be_v three_o point_n concern_v christ._n first_o he_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n second_o he_o be_v be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v three_o he_o be_v almighty_a for_o the_o first_o that_o christ_n be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n saint_n john_n express_v by_o a_o comparison_n take_v from_o the_o greek_a alphabet_n and_o it_o stand_v thus_o as_o in_o the_o a_o b_o c_o of_o the_o grecian_n alpha_n be_v the_o first_o letter_n and_o therefore_o the_o beginning_n of_o all_o the_o letter_n and_o omega_n be_v the_o last_o and_o therefore_o the_o end_n of_o all_o the_o letter_n so_o say_v christ_n be_o i_o the_o begin_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o thing_n the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o similitude_n be_v in_o these_o word_n i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n that_o be_v i_o be_o as_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o second_o part_n in_o these_o word_n the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n from_o this_o and_o such_o like_a manner_n of_o speak_v the_o papist_n gather_v that_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o worship_n god_n in_o a_o strange_a language_n and_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v to_o be_v read_v and_o deliver_v to_o the_o people_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n but_o their_o collection_n be_v frivolous_a for_o though_o the_o unlearned_a english_a man_n know_v not_o what_o alpha_n and_o omega_n be_v yet_o the_o church_n to_o who_o this_o book_n be_v write_v be_v grecian_n know_v general_o what_o be_v mean_v hereby_o again_o though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n use_v here_o and_o there_o a_o strange_a word_n or_o phrase_n yet_o we_o may_v not_o follow_v that_o practice_n in_o the_o whole_a service_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o neither_o the_o word_n nor_o prayer_n shall_v be_v understand_v of_o the_o people_n as_o the_o papist_n do_v i_o be_o the_o beginning_n christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o beginning_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o because_o he_o
their_o common_a house_n which_o be_v untrue_a for_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n all_o such_o diversity_n of_o place_n be_v abolish_v in_o regard_n of_o god_n service_n and_o presence_n the_o dwell_a house_n be_v as_o holy_a as_o the_o church_n indeed_o church_n must_v be_v maintain_v because_o in_o they_o the_o people_n may_v more_o orderly_o and_o convenient_o meet_v together_o to_o serve_v god_n public_o in_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n for_o which_o time_n all_o due_a reverence_n must_v be_v observe_v in_o they_o but_o we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o they_o be_v more_o holy_a than_o other_o place_n more_o particular_o in_o this_o circumstance_n of_o place_n note_v two_o thing_n first_o by_o what_o mean_v saint_n john_n come_v thither_o second_o to_o what_o end_n and_o for_o what_o cause_n the_o mean_n be_v banishment_n by_o the_o emperor_n domitian_n the_o cause_n be_v for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o the_o first_o he_o come_v and_o abode_n in_o patmos_n be_v banish_v thither_o for_o the_o gospel_n sake_n in_o this_o his_o banishment_n consider_v many_o excellent_a thing_n first_o saint_n john_n be_v a_o most_o worthy_a apostle_n endue_v with_o rare_a gift_n a_o singular_a maintainer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o a_o famous_a founder_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o chief_a pillar_n thereof_o in_o those_o day_n when_o he_o write_v this_o book_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n most_o hate_v of_o the_o cruel_a persecutor_n domitian_n and_o of_o the_o roman_n and_o yet_o observe_v that_o whereas_o many_o other_o true_a christian_n be_v put_v to_o the_o sword_n s._n john_n be_v not_o but_o escape_v by_o banishment_n the_o cause_n of_o this_o be_v god_n special_a providence_n by_o which_o he_o reserve_v he_o for_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o church_n that_o he_o may_v receive_v this_o revelation_n and_o commit_v it_o to_o writing_n for_o the_o perpetual_a good_a of_o all_o his_o child_n and_o so_o though_o domitian_n be_v a_o cruel_a tyrant_n and_o want_v no_o malice_n towards_o john_n yet_o he_o can_v not_o kill_v he_o god_n overrule_v he_o that_o he_o do_v but_o banish_v he_o and_o that_o into_o such_o a_o island_n wherein_o he_o may_v quiet_o receive_v these_o vision_n and_o pen_v the_o same_o for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n by_o this_o we_o see_v the_o great_a care_n and_o providence_n of_o god_n over_o his_o church_n that_o he_o do_v bridle_n and_o over-rule_v the_o cruel_a mind_n and_o may_v of_o bloody_a persecutor_n that_o they_o can_v for_o their_o heart_n do_v any_o thing_n but_o that_o which_o serve_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n though_o they_o intend_v the_o contrary_n for_o domitian_n intend_v only_o the_o hurt_n of_o john_n yet_o see_v by_o his_o banishment_n into_o that_o isle_n he_o have_v fit_a place_n to_o receive_v these_o vision_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n so_o in_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n the_o jew_n and_o gentile_n and_o all_o the_o people_n band_v themselves_o together_o to_o put_v christ_n to_o death_n and_o the_o devil_n he_o labour_v to_o stir_v they_o on_o to_o practice_v their_o intend_a malice_n yet_o the_o overrule_a power_n of_o god_n who_o bring_v light_n out_o of_o darkness_n direct_v and_o order_v this_o their_o malice_n and_o wicked_a practice_n to_o the_o most_o excellent_a work_n that_o ever_o be_v even_o the_o redemption_n of_o mankind_n so_o josephs_n brethren_n intend_v no_o such_o deliverance_n as_o god_n wrought_v by_o he_o in_o sell_v their_o brother_n this_o consideration_n shall_v comfort_v all_o god_n child_n in_o the_o time_n of_o any_o outward_a distress_n even_o the_o remembrance_n of_o god_n overrule_a hand_n second_o in_o that_o john_n go_v into_o banishment_n when_o it_o be_v so_o appoint_v we_o learn_v that_o when_o we_o be_v oppress_v and_o persecute_v by_o tyrant_n for_o christ_n sake_n we_o must_v not_o make_v resistance_n or_o offer_v violence_n but_o suffer_v all_o injury_n with_o patience_n christianorum_fw-la for_o as_o one_o say_v true_o the_o christian_n weapon_n in_o persecution_n be_v only_a prayer_n and_o tear_n and_o saint_n john_n often_o in_o this_o book_n add_v this_o conclusion_n after_o the_o foretell_v of_o persecution_n here_o be_v the_o patience_n of_o saint_n show_v that_o patience_n must_v be_v the_o complete_a armour_n against_o all_o our_o bloody_a enemy_n three_o here_o also_o observe_v that_o john_n come_v into_o this_o island_n not_o of_o his_o own_o accord_n as_o choose_v a_o solitary_a life_n to_o be_v the_o most_o happy_a state_n of_o perfection_n but_o by_o violence_n and_o constraint_n for_o if_o he_o have_v come_v into_o it_o voluntary_o be_v little_a or_o not_o inhabit_v he_o can_v not_o have_v do_v the_o duty_n of_o his_o apostleship_n in_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o church_n this_o then_o confute_v the_o monkish_a life_n which_o be_v no_o life_n of_o holy_a perfection_n as_o papist_n call_v it_o but_o of_o glorious_a superstition_n and_o slat_n impiety_n before_o god_n for_o hereby_o they_o forsake_v their_o calling_n and_o utter_o disable_v themselves_o to_o do_v those_o duty_n which_o god_n require_v of_o they_o in_o church_n commonwealth_n or_o family_n four_o whereas_o john_n be_v banish_v receive_v his_o vision_n in_o a_o barren_a and_o base_a desolate_a place_n we_o see_v that_o those_o which_o honour_n god_n shall_v be_v honour_v of_o god_n even_o then_o when_o man_n seek_v most_o to_o disgrace_v they_o for_o what_o great_a disgrace_n can_v they_o have_v put_v upon_o john_n than_o to_o banish_v he_o into_o so_o base_a a_o island_n yet_o because_o it_o be_v for_o god_n glory_n even_o there_o do_v the_o lord_n appear_v unto_o he_o and_o honour_v he_o much_o in_o reveal_v unto_o he_o these_o vision_n so_o when_o joseph_n be_v sell_v of_o his_o brethren_n and_o most_o dishonour_v of_o they_o then_o do_v god_n exhalt_v he_o most_o of_o all_o the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o daniel_n in_o babylon_n who_o god_n do_v most_o advance_v when_o his_o enemy_n seek_v his_o great_a ruin_n and_o the_o same_o be_v true_a of_o all_o god_n child_n they_o which_o honour_n god_n will_v he_o honour_v ii_o point_n the_o cause_n for_o which_o he_o come_v into_o this_o isle_n be_v express_o set_v down_o for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o be_v because_o he_o be_v a_o publisher_n and_o preacher_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o the_o performance_n of_o which_o duty_n he_o be_v banish_v by_o which_o we_o may_v note_v that_o all_o natural_a man_n as_o domitian_n and_o his_o court_n and_o all_o the_o gentile_n without_o god_n special_a calling_n do_v bear_v a_o deadly_a hatred_n towards_o god_n word_n for_o s._n john_n be_v a_o most_o worthy_a apostle_n a_o famous_a man_n for_o gift_n a_o singular_a preacher_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n yet_o be_v hate_v nay_o banish_a not_o for_o his_o own_o cause_n but_o for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n this_o hatred_n have_v appear_v in_o the_o heathen_a emperor_n by_o their_o bloody_a persecution_n against_o the_o preacher_n and_o professor_n of_o this_o word_n and_o yet_o though_o man_n hate_v it_o natural_o the_o same_o word_n win_v they_o and_o take_v place_n in_o their_o heart_n for_o their_o conversion_n and_o cause_v they_o to_o love_v it_o so_o as_o successive_o it_o have_v be_v spread_v over_o all_o the_o world_n which_o show_v against_o the_o atheist_n that_o the_o word_n teach_v by_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v indeed_o the_o true_a word_n of_o god_n not_o the_o invention_n of_o man_n for_o man_n word_n be_v hate_v can_v win_v unto_o it_o he_o which_o hate_v it_o but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n prevail_v by_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o those_o who_o hate_v it_o by_o nature_n which_o it_o can_v not_o do_v unless_o there_o be_v in_o it_o some_o divine_a power_n again_o see_v john_n be_v banish_v for_o god_n word_n all_o minister_n be_v to_o cast_v their_o account_n and_o make_v this_o reckon_n that_o they_o may_v and_o must_v suffer_v trouble_n &_o persecution_n yea_o sometime_o banishment_n itself_o for_o the_o gospel_n sake_n if_o they_o will_v be_v faithful_a for_o that_o which_o befall_v the_o principal_a founder_n and_o chief_a builder_n of_o the_o church_n can_v be_v avoid_v of_o they_o which_o be_v ordinary_a minister_n if_o they_o will_v be_v faithful_a christ_n acquaint_v his_o disciple_n with_o this_o tell_v they_o 6.26_o that_o they_o be_v even_o accurse_v when_o all_o man_n speak_v well_o of_o they_o let_v none_o therefore_o think_v it_o strange_a at_o this_o day_n if_o for_o well_o do_v they_o hear_v and_o receive_v evil_a nay_o let_v they_o fear_v the_o curse_n when_o all_o man_n praise_v they_o and_o for_o the_o witness_v of_o jesus_n christ._n here_o john_n do_v note_n more_o special_o the_o
ministry_n will_v soon_o be_v taint_v with_o the_o filthy_a puddle_n of_o man_n invention_n again_o in_o this_o deal_n of_o god_n with_o john_n we_o may_v observe_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n saying_n to_o he_o that_o have_v it_o shall_v be_v give_v â—5_n for_o though_o john_n be_v endue_v with_o rare_a knowledge_n and_o singular_a gift_n yet_o the_o lord_n add_v more_o knowledge_n to_o his_o former_a the_o lord_n find_v he_o faithful_a in_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o apostle_n and_o therefore_o reveal_v the_o knowledge_n of_o many_o secret_n unto_o he_o in_o most_o full_a manner_n even_o so_o it_o be_v in_o god_n church_n at_o this_o day_n all_o that_o have_v care_n to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o do_v it_o though_o their_o knowledge_n be_v small_a at_o the_o first_o yet_o the_o lord_n will_v help_v they_o and_o add_v daily_o to_o their_o knowledge_n and_o the_o cause_n why_o many_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o profit_n not_o but_o wax_v worse_o or_o stand_v at_o a_o stay_n be_v because_o they_o labour_v not_o to_o have_v their_o knowledge_n increase_v by_o put_v in_o practice_n that_o which_o they_o know_v for_o if_o they_o do_v then_o to_o he_o which_o have_v shall_v more_o be_v add_v and_o he_o shall_v have_v abundance_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a when_o we_o be_v negligent_a to_o hear_v or_o know_v and_o to_o obey_v the_o will_n of_o god_n we_o have_v a_o spirit_n indeed_o send_v upon_o we_o yet_o not_o god_n spirit_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o slumber_n of_o blindness_n &_o ignorance_n so_o that_o we_o see_v and_o see_v not_o hear_v and_o understand_v not_o isay._n 6.9_o 6.9_o on_o the_o lord_n day_n in_o these_o word_n be_v the_o four_o circumstance_n namely_o the_o time_n when_o this_o vision_n be_v show_v to_o s._n john_n this_o day_n which_o here_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n among_o the_o jew_n be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n call_v by_o we_o sunday_n it_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o because_o on_o this_o day_n christ_n rise_v from_o death_n to_o life_n for_o christ_n be_v bury_v the_o even_a of_o the_o jew_n sabboath_n which_o be_v our_o friday_n and_o he_o rest_v in_o the_o grave_a their_o whole_a sabbath_n which_o be_v our_o saturday_n and_o rise_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n early_o in_o the_o morning_n which_o be_v our_o sunday_n second_o this_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n according_a to_o the_o jew_n account_n come_v in_o stead_n of_o the_o jew_n sabbath_n and_o be_v ordain_v a_o day_n of_o rest_n for_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o sanctify_v for_o the_o solemn_a worship_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n especial_o it_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n the_o manifestation_n whereof_o as_o some_o think_v john_n chief_o intend_v in_o this_o title_n and_o touch_v this_o time_n for_o our_o better_a understanding_n let_v we_o consider_v three_o point_n first_o who_o change_v the_o jew_n sabbath_n second_o for_o what_o cause_n three_o whether_o the_o church_n have_v now_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n power_n to_o change_v the_o sabbath_n day_n we_o now_o celebrate_v to_o any_o other_o day_n of_o the_o week_n for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v common_o think_v that_o the_o jew_n sabbath_n be_v change_v into_o this_o lord_n day_n by_o christian_n emperor_n long_v after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ._n but_o it_o be_v more_o consonant_n to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n to_o hold_v that_o christ_n himself_o be_v the_o author_n of_o this_o change_n my_o reason_n be_v these_o first_o that_o which_o the_o apostle_n deliver_v and_o enjoin_v the_o church_n that_o they_o receive_v from_o christ_n either_o by_o voice_n or_o instinct_n for_o they_o deliver_v nothing_o of_o their_o own_o head_n but_o the_o apostle_n deliver_v and_o enjoin_v this_o sabbath_n to_o the_o church_n as_o to_o be_v keep_v a_o day_n of_o holy_a rest_n to_o the_o lord_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 16.1_o where_o paul_n ordain_v in_o the_o church_n of_o galatia_n and_o corinth_n that_o the_o collection_n for_o the_o poor_a shall_v be_v on_o the_o first_o day_n in_o the_o week_n this_o he_o leave_v not_o to_o the_o choice_n of_o the_o church_n but_o appoint_v it_o by_o authority_n apostolical_a from_o christ._n now_o the_o day_n of_o collect_v for_o the_o poor_a as_o appear_v in_o the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o sabbath_n day_n when_o the_o people_n be_v assemble_v for_o god_n service_n for_o this_o be_v the_o custom_n of_o the_o church_n for_o many_o year_n after_o christ_n first_o to_o have_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v then_o to_o gather_v for_o the_o poor_a and_o for_o this_o cause_n in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o church_n the_o lord_n supper_n be_v call_v a_o sacrifice_n a_o oblation_n and_o the_o mass_n not_o a_o real_a sacrifice_n as_o the_o papist_n use_v it_o but_o spiritual_a because_o therewith_o be_v join_v collection_n for_o the_o poor_a which_o be_v a_o spiritual_a oblation_n not_o to_o the_o lord_n but_o to_o the_o church_n for_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o poor_a and_o it_o be_v call_v the_o mass_n because_o the_o collect_v relief_n thereat_o be_v send_v to_o the_o poor_a saint_n abroad_o a_o second_o reason_n be_v this_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o keep_v this_o day_n for_o the_o sabbath_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n act._n 20.7_o and_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o they_o observe_v any_o other_o day_n for_o a_o holy_a rest_n to_o the_o lord_n after_o christ_n ascension_n save_v only_o in_o one_o case_n when_o they_o come_v into_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o jew_n who_o will_v keep_v none_o other_o but_o the_o old_a sabbath_n of_o the_o law_n a_o three_o reason_n be_v john_n 20.19.26_o the_o same_o day_n whereâ—n_n christ_n rise_v from_o death_n be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n â—e_v appear_v to_o his_o disciple_n be_v gather_v together_o and_o teach_v they_o many_o thing_n which_o concern_v the_o government_n of_o his_o church_n and_o eight_o day_n after_o be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n he_o appear_v unto_o they_o for_o the_o same_o end_n now_o it_o be_v more_o than_o likely_a that_o christ_n in_o his_o own_o person_n give_v they_o a_o example_n to_o celebrate_v and_o keep_v that_o day_n wherein_o he_o rise_v again_o for_o a_o sabbath_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n ii_o point_n the_o sabbath_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v change_v for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o maintain_v the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n whereof_o this_o be_v a_o great_a part_n thaâ—_n they_o be_v free_v from_o the_o ceremony_n of_o the_o jew_n for_o when_o this_o day_n be_v change_v the_o church_n be_v no_o more_o tie_v to_o the_o jew_n sabbath_n neither_o have_v any_o such_o regard_n of_o day_n and_o time_n second_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o more_o fit_a time_n for_o the_o memory_n of_o the_o work_n of_o man_n redemption_n for_o as_o god_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n appoint_v the_o seven_o day_n to_o be_v a_o day_n of_o rest_n to_o remember_v the_o first_o creation_n so_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n it_o stand_v with_o reason_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o day_n to_o celebrate_v this_o work_n of_o redemption_n which_o be_v a_o wonderful_a creation_n wherein_o as_o isaiah_n say_v be_v make_v a_o new_a heaven_n &_o a_o new_a earth_n chap._n 66._o and_o whereby_o man_n become_v new_a creature_n 2._o cor._n 5.17_o nay_o this_o redemption_n be_v a_o more_o glorious_a work_n than_o the_o creation_n for_o in_o that_o creation_n adam_n be_v the_o head_n but_o in_o this_o redemption_n christ_n jesus_n be_v our_o head_n by_o the_o first_o creation_n we_o receive_v a_o temporal_a life_n but_o by_o redemption_n we_o receive_v life_n eternal_a in_o the_o creation_n adam_n be_v espouse_v to_o eve_n but_o in_o the_o work_n of_o redemption_n every_o christian_n be_v espouse_v to_o christ_n jesus_n by_o creation_n adam_n have_v a_o earthly_a paradise_n in_o this_o redemption_n we_o have_v a_o heavenly_a kingdom_n in_o the_o creation_n god_n power_n and_o wisdom_n do_v principal_o appear_v in_o this_o redemption_n with_o power_n and_o wisdom_n he_o show_v mercy_n and_o justice_n justice_n in_o christ_n passion_n and_o mercy_n in_o our_o forgiveness_n by_o creation_n he_o make_v man_n of_o nothing_o but_o by_o redemption_n he_o make_v he_o of_o worse_a than_o nothing_o and_o better_a than_o he_o be_v therefore_o see_v this_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n be_v far_o pass_v the_o creation_n it_o be_v meet_v a_o day_n shall_v be_v set_v a_o apart_o for_o the_o memory_n thereof_o now_o no_o day_n can_v be_v more_o fit_a than_o the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n in_o which_o christ_n rise_v again_o whereby_o he_o confirm_v
the_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n for_o he_o die_v for_o oâ—r_a sin_n and_o rise_v again_o for_o our_o justification_n rom._n 4.25_o iii_o point_n whether_o may_v the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n change_v this_o sabbath_n day_n to_o any_o other_o day_n of_o the_o week_n as_o to_o tewsday_n wednesday_n etc._n etc._n ans._n the_o church_n have_v no_o such_o power_n for_o time_n be_v the_o lord_n and_o the_o dispose_n thereof_o be_v in_o his_o hand_n therefore_o christ_n say_v to_o his_o disciple_n it_o be_v not_o for_o you_o to_o know_v the_o time_n and_o season_n which_o the_o father_n have_v keep_v in_o his_o own_o hand_n act._n 1.6_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v the_o father_n have_v keep_v time_n and_o season_n in_o hiâ—_n own_o power_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o for_o you_o to_o know_v they_o now_o if_o that_o be_v a_o good_a reason_n as_o no_o doubt_n it_o be_v then_o be_v this_o also_o sound_a and_o good_a if_o god_n have_v the_o dispose_n of_o time_n in_o his_o hand_n than_o it_o belong_v not_o to_o the_o church_n to_o dispose_v of_o they_o but_o god_n have_v the_o dispose_n of_o all_o time_n in_o his_o hand_n ergo_fw-la and_o it_o may_v be_v otherwise_o henâ—e_v gather_v thus_o if_o that_o which_o be_v less_o belong_v not_o to_o the_o church_n then_o that_o which_o be_v more_o do_v not_o but_o the_o knowledge_n of_o time_n and_o season_n which_o god_n have_v in_o his_o power_n belong_v not_o to_o the_o church_n which_o be_v less_o than_o the_o dispose_n of_o time_n and_o season_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n have_v not_o power_n to_o dispose_v of_o they_o and_o so_o by_o consequent_a may_v not_o alter_v the_o sabbath_n day_n object_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o jew_n appoint_v festival_n day_n as_o the_o feast_n of_o dedication_n which_o christ_n keep_v holy_a joh._n 10.22_o institute_v by_o the_o maccabee_n 4._o in_o token_n of_o thankfulness_n for_o their_o deliverance_n and_o for_o restore_v of_o religion_n and_o the_o temple_n which_o antiochus_n have_v pull_v down_o and_o also_o mordichay_n institute_v the_o feast_n purim_n 17._o which_o be_v celebrate_v of_o the_o jew_n afterward_o now_o if_o they_o have_v power_n to_o make_v holiday_n than_o they_o may_v alter_v the_o sabbath_n day_n and_o so_o may_v the_o church_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n ans._n these_o feast_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v no_o saboath_n set_v whole_o apart_o for_o the_o solemn_a worship_n of_o god_n but_o be_v only_a day_n of_o the_o solemnity_n appoint_v by_o the_o church_n in_o token_n of_o joy_n and_o thankfulness_n for_o the_o repair_n of_o the_o temple_n &_o deliverance_n of_o god_n people_n and_o be_v only_o celebrate_v as_o they_o serve_v to_o put_v the_o people_n in_o mind_n of_o these_o outward_a benefit_n so_o that_o whereas_o some_o hold_n that_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o alter_v the_o sabbath_n day_n or_o to_o make_v two_o more_o sabbath_n day_n in_o a_o week_n if_o it_o be_v convenient_a it_o have_v no_o ground_n in_o god_n word_n for_o that_o authority_n which_o do_v alter_v this_o day_n must_v not_o be_v less_o than_o apostolical_a and_o thus_o we_o see_v why_o this_o day_n be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n now_o if_o the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n be_v the_o lord_n day_n use_n set_v apart_o for_o his_o honour_n in_o the_o memory_n of_o so_o great_a redemption_n than_o here_o be_v three_o sort_n of_o man_n reprove_v first_o those_o that_o make_v the_o lord_n day_n a_o day_n of_o vain_a pleasure_n and_o delight_n this_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n but_o especial_o of_o the_o young_a sort_n and_o servant_n who_o spend_v this_o day_n in_o carnal_a rejoice_v in_o riot_n game_n and_o wantonness_n never_o think_v of_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n which_o be_v then_o to_o be_v perform_v but_o these_o sin_n great_o against_o the_o lord_n for_o hereby_o they_o pervert_v the_o end_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n it_o shall_v be_v keep_v holy_a and_o glorious_a to_o the_o lord_n but_o they_o turn_v it_o to_o the_o worship_n and_o service_n of_o the_o devil_n the_o second_o sort_n here_o reprove_v be_v those_o which_o live_v more_o civilltie_n than_o the_o former_a but_o yet_o they_o think_v they_o may_v do_v what_o they_o will_v on_o the_o lord_n day_n as_o to_o take_v their_o journey_n thereon_o and_o employ_v themselves_o in_o their_o ordinary_a affair_n persuade_v themselves_o they_o may_v serve_v god_n with_o as_o good_a a_o heart_n when_o they_o be_v alone_o about_o their_o business_n as_o they_o do_v who_o go_v to_o the_o church_n but_o these_o man_n sin_v grievous_o against_o the_o four_o commandment_n for_o hereby_o they_o make_v that_o their_o own_o day_n which_o be_v the_o lord_n a_o three_o sort_n here_o reprove_v though_o not_o so_o bad_a as_o the_o former_a be_v those_o who_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o serve_v god_n at_o those_o ordinary_a time_n of_o the_o sabbath_n which_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n enjoin_v unto_o man_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v come_v due_o to_o morning_n and_o evening_n prayer_n think_v that_o they_o be_v not_o bind_v beside_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v and_o that_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o day_n they_o may_v do_v what_o they_o will_v pertain_v either_o to_o their_o profit_n or_o pleasure_n of_o this_o sort_n be_v our_o ignorant_a people_n and_o a_o great_a number_n every_o where_o but_o they_o sin_v grievous_o against_o god_n for_o the_o sabbath_n day_n be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n because_o it_o be_v whole_o consecrate_v to_o his_o worship_n but_o they_o part_v stake_n with_o the_o lord_n and_o give_v he_o but_o a_o part_n of_o his_o own_o day_n and_o that_o the_o lesser_a take_v the_o rest_n unto_o themselves_o which_o thou_o misspend_v upon_o their_o lust_n now_o as_o these_o vice_n must_v be_v abhor_v so_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o must_v with_o all_o conscience_n keep_v the_o lord_n sabbath_n holy_a according_a to_o thâ—_n four_o commandment_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v thereon_o cease_v from_o all_o work_n of_o sin_n and_o from_o the_o work_n of_o our_o calling_n and_o sanctify_v this_o day_n whole_o by_o apply_v it_o all_o to_o the_o honour_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o here_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o there_o be_v a_o double_a sanctification_n of_o the_o sabbath_n public_a and_o private_a public_a when_o man_n assemble_v themselves_o together_o public_o to_o hear_v god_n word_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n and_o to_o call_v on_o god_n name_n for_o further_a grace_n as_o also_o to_o give_v he_o thanks_n for_o his_o mercy_n and_o to_o receive_v his_o sacraman_n private_a when_o man_n in_o their_o private_a place_n employ_v themselves_o in_o holy_a duty_n of_o prayer_n read_v and_o meditation_n upon_o god_n word_n &_o work_n whereby_o god_n be_v honour_v and_o their_o soul_n edify_v and_o both_o these_o must_v be_v perform_v to_o the_o lord_n every_o sabbath_n day_n of_o every_o man_n for_o we_o may_v not_o abridge_v god_n of_o that_o timâ—_n wherein_o glory_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o his_o name_n if_o the_o officer_n shall_v take_v our_o servant_n in_o the_o week_n day_n from_o our_o private_a business_n &_o employ_v they_o in_o public_a affair_n we_o will_v think_v much_o at_o it_o though_o it_o be_v for_o the_o common_a good_a and_o shall_v we_o not_o think_v that_o god_n will_v take_v himself_o dishonour_v of_o we_o when_o we_o shall_v take_v either_o whole_a or_o part_n of_o his_o holiday_n and_o employ_v it_o in_o our_o business_n a_o main_a cause_n why_o many_o profit_n little_a by_o the_o public_a mininisterie_n be_v want_n of_o private_a sanctification_n of_o this_o day_n therefore_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o sanctify_v the_o sabbath_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o else_o we_o shall_v never_o increase_v in_o faith_n knowledge_n or_o obedience_n as_o we_o shall_v for_o the_o beget_n and_o increase_v whereof_o this_o day_n have_v be_v set_v apart_o and_o sanctify_a from_o the_o beginning_n object_n 2._o why_o do_v the_o lord_n show_v this_o vision_n unto_o john_n rather_o on_o this_o day_n than_o any_o other_o answ._n though_o john_n be_v absent_a from_o the_o church_n in_o regard_n of_o bodily_a presence_n yet_o he_o be_v present_a in_o spirit_n withal_o the_o faithful_a and_o therefore_o no_o doubt_n on_o this_o day_n he_o give_v himself_o to_o prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n which_o he_o can_v perform_v for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o that_o solitary_a place_n now_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n manner_n when_o his_o servant_n be_v thus_o humble_v then_o to_o come_v and_o reveal_v himself_o unto_o they_o in_o special_a manner_n so_o he_o do_v unto_o daniel_n dan._n 9_o and_o to_o cornelius_n act._n 10._o and_o to_o peter_n pray_v
golden_a candlestick_n that_o be_v so_o soon_o as_o i_o hear_v this_o sudden_a and_o mighty_a voice_n i_o turn_v myself_o to_o see_v who_o it_o be_v that_o utter_v the_o same_o in_o this_o behaviour_n of_o john_n we_o be_v to_o learn_v our_o duty_n so_o to_o dispose_v our_o heart_n towards_o god_n in_o the_o receive_n of_o his_o word_n as_o john_n dispose_v himself_o towards_o christ_n in_o the_o receive_n of_o this_o vision_n so_o soon_o as_o the_o voice_n speak_v john_n hearken_v and_o because_o the_o sound_n thereof_o come_v behind_o he_o he_o turn_v himself_o to_o look_v on_o he_o that_o utter_v it_o even_o so_o must_v we_o do_v we_o be_v by_o nature_n stranger_n with_o god_n slow_a to_o hear_v when_o he_o speak_v and_o ready_a to_o turn_v our_o heart_n from_o god_n when_o we_o hear_v therefore_o when_o god_n speak_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n we_o must_v hearken_v and_o though_o we_o be_v go_v another_o way_n yet_o we_o must_v turn_v ourselves_o from_o our_o evil_a way_n and_o incline_v our_o heart_n to_o his_o voice_n that_o we_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o he_o saint_n john_n have_v not_o see_v this_o marvelous_a vision_n unless_o he_o have_v turn_v himself_o to_o behold_v he_o that_o speak_v no_o more_o shall_v we_o at_o any_o time_n feel_v true_a fellowship_n with_o the_o lord_n unless_o we_o turn_v our_o heart_n unto_o his_o word_n and_o that_o betimes_o while_o he_o speak_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o ministry_n thereof_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o vision_n viz._n the_o entrance_n thereunto_o the_o second_o part_n it_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o vision_n contain_v a_o most_o worthy_a representation_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o majesty_n as_o he_o be_v the_o prophet_n king_n and_o priest_n of_o his_o church_n set_v down_o at_o large_a by_o a_o description_n of_o christ_n continue_v from_o this_o twelve_o verse_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o chapter_n wherein_o john_n show_v what_o he_o receive_v of_o christ_n partly_o by_o hear_v and_o partly_o by_o see_v and_o first_o he_o begin_v his_o description_n of_o christ_n as_o he_o see_v he_o represent_v in_o vision_n and_o so_o describe_v he_o by_o two_o argument_n first_o by_o the_o place_n where_o he_o see_v he_o second_o by_o his_o form_n and_o figure_n wherein_o he_o appear_v i._o for_o the_o place_n john_n see_v he_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n these_o seven_o candlestick_n here_o see_v be_v the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n the_o particular_a church_n of_o god_n be_v compare_v to_o candlestick_n as_o christ_n expound_v himself_o vers_fw-la 20._o now_o the_o particular_a congregation_n of_o god_n church_n be_v call_v candlestick_n for_o that_o resemblance_n which_o be_v between_o they_o for_o as_o the_o candlestick_n serve_v to_o bear_v up_o and_o hold_v forth_o the_o light_n that_o be_v set_v therein_o so_o the_o particular_a church_n of_o god_n on_o earth_n they_o bear_v up_o and_o show_v forth_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o whole_a world_n partly_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o world_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o christ._n from_o hence_o sundry_a thing_n be_v to_o be_v learn_v first_o observe_v that_o the_o church_n be_v rather_o call_v candlestick_n than_o candle_n to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o they_o have_v no_o light_n of_o themselves_o or_o from_o themselves_o but_o only_o be_v god_n instrument_n to_o bear_v up_o and_o hold_v forth_o the_o light_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n for_o christ_n jesus_n be_v the_o only_a true_a lamp_n and_o candle_n that_o give_v light_a to_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o word_n second_o hence_o every_o one_o that_o profess_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o true_a member_n of_o god_n church_n must_v learn_v his_o duty_n which_o be_v earnest_o to_o labour_v to_o become_v a_o shine_a and_o burn_a candle_n indeed_o this_o principal_o concern_v the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o john_n baptist_n be_v call_v a_o burn_a and_o shine_a light_n john_n 5._o vers_fw-la 35._o but_o yet_o it_o must_v also_o be_v verify_v of_o every_o member_n thereof_o as_o saint_n paul_n command_v 16._o shine_v say_v he_o as_o light_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o naughty_a and_o crooked_a nation_n hold_v forth_o the_o doctrine_n of_o life_n that_o be_v the_o gospel_n quest._n how_o shall_v every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n become_v a_o burn_a light_n answ._n first_o he_o must_v have_v his_o mind_n enlighten_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_v and_o word_n and_o then_o as_o a_o candlestick_n hold_v out_o and_o send_v forth_o the_o beaâ—es_n thereof_o to_o other_o partly_o by_o teach_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o call_n and_o partly_o by_o example_n of_o a_o honest_a and_o blameless_a life_n and_o conversation_n thus_o we_o shall_v do_v if_o we_o will_v be_v answerable_a to_o our_o profession_n and_o to_o induce_v we_o hereunto_o let_v we_o observe_v the_o reason_n follow_v first_o it_o be_v god_n commandment_n shine_v as_o light_n say_v s._n paul_n in_o the_o world_n philip_n 2.15_o and_o walk_v as_o child_n of_o the_o light_n ephes._n 5.8_o second_o consider_v the_o fruit_n hereof_o which_o be_v wonderful_a great_a for_o by_o godly_a instruction_n in_o our_o place_n and_o by_o answerable_a obedience_n in_o our_o life_n we_o win_v many_o to_o the_o lord_n show_v forth_o such_o light_n whereby_o other_o may_v walk_v in_o this_o dark_a world_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n which_o be_v a_o most_o bless_a light_n in_o the_o winter_n season_n man_n think_v they_o do_v other_o great_a pleasure_n if_o in_o the_o night_n they_o hang_v forth_o a_o light_n to_o guide_v passenger_n a_o little_a way_n in_o a_o earthly_a walk_n what_o a_o bless_a thing_n then_o be_v this_o that_o a_o man_n shall_v always_o hold_v forth_o that_o light_n which_o shall_v guide_v a_o sinful_a wicked_a wretch_n to_o leave_v the_o way_n of_o death_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o path_n of_o righteousness_n to_o eternal_a life_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a when_o man_n live_v in_o god_n church_n like_o candle_n put_v out_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o blindness_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o the_o badness_n of_o their_o life_n hence_o come_v great_a hurt_n and_o danger_n to_o other_o with_o who_o they_o live_v for_o they_o lead_v other_o that_o depend_v upon_o they_o to_o the_o pit_n of_o destruction_n especial_o they_o who_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o make_v not_o conscience_n to_o show_v forth_o the_o same_o by_o good_a example_n of_o a_o godly_a life_n for_o as_o in_o a_o haven_n town_n if_o any_o man_n in_o the_o night_n time_n do_v remove_v the_o sea-mark_a which_o guide_v the_o ship_n in_o the_o right_a channel_n he_o do_v as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v cast_v away_o all_o the_o ship_n that_o be_v come_v near_o the_o shore_n by_o cause_v they_o to_o run_v on_o rock_n and_o sand_n even_o so_o they_o that_o shall_v give_v light_n in_o the_o church_n if_o they_o give_v either_o no_o light_n or_o false_a light_n to_o such_o as_o depend_v upon_o they_o who_o be_v sail_v in_o the_o sea_n of_o this_o sinful_a world_n hereby_o they_o lead_v and_o direct_v they_o to_o a_o wrong_a haven_n and_o instead_o of_o heaven_n bring_v their_o soul_n to_o eternal_a perdition_n which_o must_v terrify_v we_o from_o ignorance_n and_o evil_a work_n and_o make_v we_o labour_n to_o shine_v as_o light_n in_o this_o world_n by_o good_a instruction_n and_o godly_a conversation_n three_o reason_n consider_v the_o fearful_a judgment_n of_o god_n against_o such_o as_o live_v in_o his_o church_n as_o member_n thereof_o and_o yet_o give_v no_o light_n they_o do_v incur_v the_o fearful_a wrath_n of_o christ._n in_o the_o temple_n the_o keep_n of_o the_o lamp_n and_o light_n belong_v to_o the_o priest_n and_o therefore_o he_o have_v his_o snuffer_n and_o other_o instrument_n to_o trim_v the_o same_o which_o notable_o figure_v the_o duty_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n for_o he_o be_v our_o high_a priest_n who_o look_v to_o every_o light_n in_o the_o sanctuary_n that_o be_v to_o every_o member_n of_o his_o church_n who_o ought_v to_o shine_v as_o a_o lamp_n and_o when_o they_o burn_v but_o dim_o and_o dark_a he_o have_v his_o snuffer_n to_o trim_v they_o and_o make_v they_o give_v a_o better_a light_n both_o by_o godly_a life_n and_o good_a instruction_n but_o when_o he_o have_v snuff_v they_o again_o and_o again_o if_o still_o they_o burn_v dark_a and_o dim_a and_o give_v either_o no_o light_n or_o else_o a_o false_a light_n
yet_o so_o long_o as_o christ_n be_v present_a their_o commission_n must_v cease_v and_o it_o be_v as_o great_a pride_n and_o great_a for_o any_o to_o presume_v to_o be_v head_n of_o all_o church_n in_o christ_n presence_n than_o for_o a_o man_n to_o sit_v vicegerent_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o prince_n second_o see_v christ_n be_v always_o present_a with_o his_o church_n we_o be_v teach_v to_o walk_v with_o god_n and_o before_o god_n as_o enoch_n do_v genes_n 5.22_o which_o duty_n stand_v in_o these_o point_n first_o whatsoever_o we_o say_v or_o take_v in_o hand_n we_o must_v do_v it_o as_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o christ._n second_o we_o must_v continual_o depend_v upon_o christ_n providence_n who_o be_v ever_o present_a with_o his_o church_n provide_v all_o thing_n for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o of_o every_o member_n thereof_o three_o we_o must_v do_v all_o our_o action_n as_o look_v for_o approbation_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n for_o which_o end_n we_o must_v take_v direction_n for_o the_o same_o out_o of_o his_o word_n the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n be_v most_o excellent_a for_o by_o walk_v with_o god_n we_o shall_v be_v enable_v to_o many_o good_a duty_n as_o namely_o live_v unblamable_o in_o this_o wicked_a world_n make_v conscience_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o approve_v ourselves_o both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n in_o hart_n and_o life_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o place_n where_o john_n see_v christ._n the_o second_o argument_n whereby_o john_n describe_v christ_n be_v his_o figure_n or_o form_n in_o these_o word_n one_o like_o the_o son_n of_o man_n some_o think_v that_o these_o word_n be_v a_o description_n of_o some_o angel_n not_o of_o christ_n because_o he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v like_o the_o son_n of_o man_n not_o the_o son_n of_o man_n himself_o but_o they_o be_v deceive_v for_o he_o which_o be_v here_o describe_v be_v before_o call_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o it_o be_v he_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a which_o can_v agree_v to_o any_o but_o to_o christ._n now_o the_o word_n may_v more_o significant_o be_v translate_v thus_o one_o like_a to_o a_o son_n of_o man_n for_o if_o it_o be_v translate_v that_o son_n of_o man_n than_o christ_n must_v needs_o be_v the_o resemblance_n for_o so_o he_o be_v call_v act._n 7.56_o but_o here_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v like_a to_o a_o son_n of_o man_n by_o the_o usual_a phrase_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n whereby_o be_v mean_v that_o he_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o man_n and_o christ_n be_v not_o here_o call_v a_o man_n but_o be_v say_v to_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o man_n because_o he_o appear_v unto_o john_n not_o in_o his_o true_a manhood_n which_o be_v then_o in_o heaven_n but_o in_o the_o likeness_n of_o his_o manhood_n and_o note_v this_o that_o as_o christ_n here_o appear_v to_o john_n in_o this_o vision_n so_o do_v he_o always_o appear_v after_o his_o ascension_n steven_n indeed_o see_v his_o true_a manhood_n act._n 7._o but_o it_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o paul_n hear_v his_o voice_n when_o he_o be_v convert_v acts._n 9.5_o and_o see_v the_o lord_n 1._o cor._n 9.1_o but_o no_o man_n can_v prove_v that_o chrst_n appear_v unto_o he_o in_o his_o true_a manhood_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o in_o all_o these_o vision_n john_n see_v not_o his_o true_a manhood_n but_o a_o resemblance_n thereof_o now_o christ_n appear_v thus_o for_o special_a consideration_n for_o man_n be_v too_o much_o addict_v to_o his_o bodily_a presence_n this_o be_v the_o fault_n of_o his_o own_o friend_n and_o disciple_n therefore_o christ_n will_v hereby_o teach_v we_o not_o to_o seek_v for_o his_o bodily_a presence_n but_o rather_o to_o lift_v up_o our_o heart_n to_o heaven_n and_o therefore_o seek_v to_o have_v fellowship_n with_o he_o by_o faith_n for_o this_o cause_n he_o say_v to_o marie_n after_o his_o resurrection_n touch_v i_o not_o i_o be_o not_o yet_o ascend_v to_o my_o father_n john_n 20.17_o this_o paul_n have_v learn_v though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n say_v he_o after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o 2._o cor._n 5.15_o now_o if_o christ_n after_o his_o ascension_n never_o appear_v in_o his_o true_a manhood_n iâ—_n teach_v we_o that_o the_o defence_n of_o christ_n real_a presence_n in_o the_o sacrament_n be_v needless_a for_o if_o god_n church_n have_v spiritual_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n by_o faith_n it_o be_v sufficient_a again_o whereas_o christ_n appear_v in_o the_o shape_n and_o form_n of_o man_n after_o his_o ascension_n the_o papist_n gather_v that_o we_o may_v make_v image_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o answerable_o of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o those_o form_n wherein_o they_o appear_v as_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o form_n of_o a_o 2._o dove_n and_o 9_o of_o the_o father_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o a_o old_a man_n ans._n it_o be_v not_o unlawful_a to_o make_v or_o to_o have_v a_o image_n of_o christ_n manhood_n so_o that_o it_o be_v out_o of_o religious_a use_n though_o it_o be_v doubtful_a whether_o any_o now_o have_v a_o true_a picture_n thereof_o but_o if_o it_o be_v to_o represent_v whole_a christ_n god_n and_o man_n or_o be_v use_v to_o remember_v christ_n thereby_o or_o to_o worship_n christ_n therein_o it_o be_v a_o idol_n as_o for_o the_o form_n of_o a_o old_a man_n or_o of_o a_o dove_n they_o may_v be_v make_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o history_n of_o the_o bible_n when_o it_o be_v paint_v or_o picture_v but_o then_o we_o must_v conceive_v that_o these_o form_n be_v no_o image_n of_o the_o father_n son_n or_o holy_a ghost_n but_o only_a representation_n of_o such_o visible_a appearance_n as_o sometime_o be_v sign_n and_o pledge_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o those_o person_n but_o now_o to_o abstract_n those_o form_n apart_o from_o the_o history_n and_o to_o make_v they_o image_n of_o any_o person_n in_o trinity_n be_v flat_a against_o the_o second_o commandment_n which_o do_v general_o forbid_v all_o image_n of_o god_n not_o except_v those_o very_a shape_n in_o which_o himself_o take_v liberty_n to_o testify_v his_o presence_n for_o some_o time_n and_o there_o be_v no_o exception_n against_o god_n commandment_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o seek_v shift_n &_o excuse_n for_o a_o thing_n forbid_v deo_fw-la special_o consider_v we_o may_v not_o meddle_v with_o god_n beyond_o our_o commission_n from_o god_n clothe_v with_o a_o garment_n down_o to_o his_o foot_n here_o christ_n be_v further_o describe_v by_o his_o attire_n the_o first_o part_n whereof_o be_v a_o long_a garment_n reach_v to_o his_o foot_n the_o cause_n why_o he_o so_o appear_v may_v be_v these_o first_o to_o signify_v that_o he_o be_v the_o high_a priest_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o so_o continue_v do_v the_o office_n of_o the_o high_a priest_n for_o his_o church_n after_o his_o ascension_n in_o present_v the_o merit_n of_o his_o one_o only_a sacrifice_n and_o make_v intercession_n to_o god_n the_o father_n for_o they_o for_o the_o long_a garment_n be_v one_o of_o those_o wherewith_o the_o high_a priest_n be_v clothe_v in_o his_o ministration_n under_o the_o law_n second_o to_o signify_v that_o he_o be_v the_o prince_n of_o peace_n for_o the_o long_a garment_n not_o only_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o among_o the_o heathen_a have_v be_v always_o a_o note_n of_o peace_n and_o so_o christ_n be_v call_v isa._n 9.6_o three_o to_o show_v that_o he_o have_v in_o his_o breast_n the_o 2.3_o treasure_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n and_o the_o 11.2_o spirit_n of_o counsel_n for_o this_o long_a robe_n always_o pertain_v to_o they_o that_o excel_v in_o counsel_n and_o wisdom_n and_o so_o christ_n be_v describe_v isaiah_n 11.2_o now_o in_o this_o example_n of_o christ_n we_o may_v learn_v a_o duty_n touch_v our_o attire_n namely_o that_o the_o outward_a garment_n of_o the_o body_n shall_v be_v suitable_a to_o the_o good_a thing_n that_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n as_o to_o our_o wisdom_n knowledge_n fear_v of_o god_n name_n to_o our_o sobriety_n modesty_n temperance_n humility_n and_o all_o other_o virtue_n whatsoever_o we_o must_v not_o only_o in_o speech_n and_o action_n as_o in_o hear_v god_n word_n and_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n show_v ourselves_o to_o be_v burn_a light_n but_o even_o by_o the_o gesture_n and_o attire_n of_o our_o body_n both_o for_o matter_n and_o form_n show_v forth_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o heart_n but_o miserable_a be_v these_o time_n wherein_o man_n attire_n be_v suitable_a not_o to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o their_o heart_n but_o to_o the_o common_a corruption_n of_o the_o time_n for_o such_o it_o be_v
do_v into_o the_o substance_n of_o bodily_a thing_n and_o there_o be_v great_a necessity_n it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o be_v head_n and_o governor_n of_o his_o church_n he_o must_v know_v all_o the_o part_n and_o member_n thereof_o he_o must_v behold_v their_o several_a estate_n and_o see_v the_o malice_n and_o practice_n of_o satan_n and_o other_o enemy_n against_o they_o now_o in_o that_o christ_n our_o saviour_n have_v this_o pierce_a sight_n we_o be_v teach_v to_o have_v care_n not_o only_o of_o our_o word_n and_o action_n but_o also_o of_o the_o very_a secret_a thought_n purpose_n and_o desire_n of_o our_o heart_n for_o the_o pierce_a eye_n of_o christ_n see_v they_o all_o therefore_o we_o must_v be_v sure_o they_o be_v well_o order_v in_o the_o court_n of_o man_n thought_n and_o inward_a motion_n bear_v no_o action_n but_o with_o god_n it_o be_v otherwise_o christ_n jesus_n have_v a_o fiery_a eye_n that_o see_v into_o all_o our_o thought_n and_o there_o he_o hold_v a_o court_n of_o judgement_n therefore_o we_o must_v keep_v a_o godly_a watch_n over_o all_o the_o imagination_n of_o our_o heart_n that_o they_o may_v be_v approve_v of_o christ_n lest_o for_o they_o we_o be_v judge_v and_o condemn_v second_o this_o teach_v we_o in_o matter_n of_o religion_n to_o be_v that_o indeed_o which_o we_o seem_v to_o be_v in_o profession_n for_o though_o we_o may_v deceive_v man_n which_o know_v not_o our_o heart_n yet_o we_o can_v deceive_v christ_n for_o by_o his_o fiery_a eye_n he_o see_v whatsoever_o be_v in_o us._n and_o yet_o the_o common_a practice_n of_o the_o world_n be_v here_o to_o be_v reprove_v who_o term_v they_o hypocrite_n that_o take_v upon_o they_o any_o profession_n for_o the_o name_n and_o religion_n of_o christ._n but_o herein_o man_n go_v beyond_o their_o call_n it_o belong_v only_o unto_o the_o pierce_a eye_n of_o christ_n to_o judge_v and_o look_v at_o man_n hypocrisy_n of_o heart_n second_o by_o these_o fiery_a eye_n be_v signify_v that_o christ_n be_v full_a of_o anger_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n against_o all_o sinner_n ready_a to_o take_v vengeance_n on_o all_o those_o that_o will_v not_o yield_v subjection_n unto_o he_o by_o turn_v from_o their_o sin_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o for_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v a_o saviour_n so_o be_v he_o a_o judge_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o parable_n he_o say_v those_o my_o enemy_n that_o will_v not_o that_o i_o shall_v rule_v over_o they_o 19.27_o bring_v they_o hither_o and_o stay_v they_o before_o i_o the_o consideration_n hereof_o serve_v to_o awake_v many_o a_o one_o out_o of_o the_o sleep_n of_o sin_n this_o age_n be_v miserable_a if_o we_o regard_v the_o practice_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n which_o god_n require_v for_o man_n live_v in_o ignorance_n without_o knowledge_n they_o go_v on_o in_o looseness_n of_o life_n without_o reformation_n which_o be_v both_o scandalous_a unto_o man_n and_o odious_a unto_o god_n not_o one_o of_o a_o hundred_o turn_v to_o god_n at_o the_o preach_n of_o his_o word_n renew_v his_o way_n by_o daily_a repentance_n but_o unto_o many_o it_o be_v meat_n and_o drink_n to_o go_v on_o in_o those_o sin_n wherein_o their_o heart_n delight_n but_o let_v these_o man_n consider_v that_o christ_n be_v a_o righteous_a judge_n behold_v his_o enemy_n with_o fierce_a and_o fiery_a eye_n always_o ready_a 〈◊〉_d take_v vengeance_n on_o they_o that_o do_v noâ—_n repent_v and_o therefore_o they_o must_v in_o time_n consider_v their_o estate_n for_o if_o they_o persevere_v in_o their_o evil_a way_n as_o they_o have_v begin_v the_o truth_n be_v he_o still_o behold_v they_o with_o his_o fiery_a eye_n and_o though_o in_o his_o great_a patience_n he_o spare_v they_o for_o a_o time_n yet_o at_o length_n he_o will_v put_v in_o practice_v the_o execution_n of_o his_o judgement_n and_o slay_v they_o for_o enemy_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o parable_n luke_n 19_o 27._o let_v they_o remember_v what_o a_o fearful_a thing_n it_o be_v to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n if_o his_o wrath_n be_v kindle_v never_o so_o little_a psal._n â—_o 12_o vers._n 15._o and_o his_o â—eele_n like_a unto_o fine_a brass_n burn_v as_o in_o a_o furnace_n and_o his_o voice_n as_o the_o sound_n of_o many_o water_n the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n signify_v brass_n that_o shine_v which_o for_o substance_n be_v pure_a and_o durable_a a_o very_a choice_n and_o excellent_a kind_n of_o brass_n and_o hereunto_o christ_n foot_n be_v compare_v to_o signify_v unto_o we_o his_o invincible_a power_n whereby_o he_o be_v able_a not_o only_o to_o encounter_v with_o sin_n satan_n and_o death_n but_o also_o that_o he_o have_v already_o enter_v combat_n with_o they_o and_o have_v bruise_v the_o head_n of_o these_o his_o enemy_n yea_o hereby_o be_v signify_v that_o he_o have_v not_o only_o do_v these_o thing_n in_o his_o own_o person_n but_o also_o will_v do_v the_o same_o in_o all_o his_o member_n by_o his_o invincible_a power_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n which_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o exceed_v great_a comfort_n to_o god_n church_n and_o people_n never_o to_o be_v forget_v if_o any_o man_n be_v exercise_v in_o any_o grievous_a temptation_n of_o satan_n he_o must_v not_o be_v astonish_v and_o confound_v therewith_o but_o remember_v that_o christ_n our_o saviour_n have_v the_o brazen_a foot_n wherewith_o he_o have_v bruise_v the_o head_n of_o the_o serpent_n and_o will_v if_o he_o seek_v unto_o he_o unfeigned_o bruise_v in_o he_o the_o serpent_n head_n so_o by_o experience_n shall_v we_o find_v the_o benefit_n of_o his_o brazen_a foot_n if_o any_o be_v oppress_v with_o the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o thought_n or_o affection_n let_v he_o come_v unto_o christ_n jesus_n lay_v open_a his_o want_n before_o he_o show_v his_o sin_n and_o make_v know_v the_o strength_n thereof_o unto_o he_o and_o withal_o cry_v unto_o he_o for_o help_v and_o he_o shall_v find_v by_o joyful_a experience_n though_o they_o be_v never_o so_o many_o or_o mighty_a that_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n in_o he_o will_v vanquish_v and_o subdue_v they_o all_o again_o do_v any_o fear_n the_o terror_n of_o death_n as_o all_o man_n do_v by_o nature_n let_v he_o consider_v that_o christ_n have_v the_o foot_n of_o brass_n wherewith_o he_o do_v encounter_v with_o death_n upon_o the_o cross_n and_o not_o content_a with_o that_o go_v down_o with_o he_o into_o his_o own_o den_n and_o there_o do_v bruise_v his_o head_n and_o subdue_v his_o power_n indeed_o if_o death_n be_v to_o encounter_v with_o we_o in_o his_o full_a strength_n it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o fear_n but_o consider_v that_o christ_n have_v bruise_v his_o head_n this_o must_v stay_v our_o heartâ—_n against_o overmuch_o dread_a and_o as_o it_o serve_v to_o minister_v comfort_n to_o the_o godly_a so_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o all_o terror_n and_o woe_n unto_o those_o that_o live_v impenitent_a for_o christ_n have_v foot_n of_o brass_n to_o bruise_v the_o head_n of_o all_o his_o enemy_n and_o such_o be_v all_o those_o that_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n unless_o they_o turn_v destruction_n will_v be_v their_o end_n let_v every_o one_o therefore_o look_v unto_o his_o soul_n that_o have_v lead_v a_o course_n in_o any_o sin_n let_v he_o forsake_v his_o old_a master_n satan_n and_o the_o work_n of_o darkness_n and_o turn_v unfeigned_o to_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o faith_n and_o true_a repentance_n and_o by_o all_o obedience_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o calling_n for_o howsoever_o the_o patience_n of_o god_n may_v stay_v for_o a_o time_n the_o execution_n of_o his_o justice_n and_o wrath_n yet_o in_o the_o end_n they_o shall_v feel_v by_o woeful_a experience_n the_o destroy_a power_n of_o these_o his_o brazen_a foot_n burn_v as_o in_o a_o furnace_n foot_n ascribe_v to_o god_n and_o man_n in_o scripture_n do_v oft_o time_n betoken_v their_o way_n so_o here_o by_o christ_n foot_n we_o may_v understand_v his_o work_n and_o way_n and_o whereas_o they_o be_v say_v to_o burn_v as_o in_o a_o furnace_n thereby_o be_v signify_v the_o perfection_n thereof_o all_o the_o counsel_n of_o god_n with_o the_o execution_n thereof_o in_o the_o creation_n and_o government_n of_o the_o world_n with_o all_o his_o work_n therein_o be_v all_o most_o holy_a &_o pure_a like_o fine_a brass_n purge_v in_o the_o furnace_n psa._n 18.30_o 7._o the_o way_n of_o god_n be_v uncorrupt_a yea_o he_o be_v holy_a in_o all_o his_o way_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o must_v teach_v we_o to_o conceive_v and_o speak_v reverent_o of_o all_o the_o work_n of_o god_n even_o of_o those_o most_o secret_a &_o strange_a judgement_n whereof_o we_o can_v comprehend_v a_o reason_n yet_o because_o they_o proceed_v from_o
be_v a_o inducement_n unto_o all_o those_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o gift_n fit_a for_o this_o call_n to_o affect_v the_o same_o last_o every_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n must_v hereby_o learn_v to_o be_v faithful_a in_o his_o call_n and_o holy_a in_o his_o conversation_n for_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o call_n he_o be_v place_v in_o christ_n right_a hand_n now_o shall_v we_o think_v that_o christ_n will_v long_o bear_v in_o his_o right_a hand_n any_o that_o be_v unfaithful_a or_o profane_v nay_o he_o will_v take_v they_o out_o of_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o put_v they_o under_o his_o foot_n of_o brass_n and_o there_o grind_v they_o to_o powder_n for_o as_o they_o be_v honour_v above_o other_o by_o their_o place_n so_o shall_v their_o confusion_n be_v the_o great_a unless_o they_o be_v faithful_a this_o we_o may_v see_v in_o nadab_n and_o abihu_n levit._n 10.1_o and_o hophâ—â—â—_n and_o phineas_n 1._o sam._n 3.13_o and_o in_o the_o same_o respect_n ought_v all_o the_o people_n of_o god_n to_o be_v careful_a to_o their_o way_n for_o by_o their_o call_n of_o christianity_n they_o be_v member_n of_o christ._n now_o if_o they_o be_v not_o faithful_a and_o answerable_a to_o their_o profession_n he_o will_v sure_o deal_v with_o they_o as_o with_o unfaithful_a minister_n put_v they_o under_o his_o foot_n of_o brass_n &_o confound_v they_o for_o ever_o they_o must_v therefore_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o become_v not_o hearer_n only_o but_o doer_n of_o his_o will_n so_o shall_v christ_n protect_v they_o in_o this_o life_n and_o save_v they_o eternal_o and_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a two_o edge_a sword_n this_o sword_n that_o come_v out_o of_o his_o mouth_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n utter_v and_o propound_v in_o the_o write_n and_o ministry_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n heb._n 4.12_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v lively_a mighty_a in_o operation_n and_o sharp_a than_o any_o two_o edge_a sword_n and_o it_o be_v thereto_o compare_v because_o as_o a_o sword_n with_o a_o double_a edge_n enter_v sharp_o into_o the_o flesh_n and_o pierce_v deep_o into_o the_o bone_n even_o to_o the_o very_a marrow_n so_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n enter_v sharp_o and_o pierce_v deep_o into_o the_o very_a marrow_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o man_n to_o the_o divide_n of_o the_o thought_n and_o the_o spirit_n this_o two_o edge_a sword_n the_o word_n of_o god_n have_v a_o twofold_a operation_n one_o upon_o the_o wicked_a another_o in_o the_o elect_a it_o wound_v the_o wicked_a at_o the_o very_a heart_n with_o a_o deadly_a wound_n and_o thereby_o bring_v they_o to_o eternal_a death_n isay._n 11.4_o christ_n shall_v slay_v the_o wicked_a with_o the_o breath_n of_o his_o lip_n that_o be_v with_o his_o word_n which_o be_v this_o two_o edge_a sword_n herewith_o shall_v he_o consume_v antichrist_n 2._o thes._n 2.8_o visit_v leviathan_n and_o slay_v the_o dragon_n that_o be_v the_o great_a enemy_n of_o his_o church_n isay._n 27._o vers_fw-la 1._o here_o consider_v how_o the_o word_n of_o god_n shall_v kill_v a_o impenitent_a sinner_n there_o be_v three_o degree_n of_o spiritual_a death_n first_o in_o this_o life_n where_o a_o impenitent_a sinner_n receive_v his_o deadly_a wound_n the_o second_o at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n when_o the_o body_n be_v lay_v in_o the_o grave_n but_o the_o soul_n go_v to_o the_o torment_n of_o the_o damn_a the_o three_o at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n when_o body_n and_o soul_n together_o go_v to_o hell_n eternal_o now_o a_o sinner_n receive_v in_o this_o life_n his_o deadly_a wound_n after_o this_o manner_n christ_n in_o the_o give_v thereof_o have_v a_o threefold_a work_n in_o his_o heart_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n which_o be_v this_o two_o edge_a sword_n first_o hereby_o he_o reveal_v unto_o he_o his_o sin_n as_o hypocrisy_n pride_n and_o rebellion_n of_o heart_n with_o all_o other_o his_o horrible_a and_o damnable_a transgression_n against_o the_o first_o and_o second_o table_n 1._o cor._n 14.24.25_o when_o all_o prophecy_n and_o there_o come_v in_o one_o unlearned_a he_o be_v reprove_v of_o all_o the_o prophet_n by_o the_o word_n judge_v he_o and_o thereby_o lie_v open_a unto_o he_o the_o secret_a sin_n of_o his_o heart_n with_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o life_n second_o christ_n hereby_o reveâ—leth_v unto_o he_o his_o indignation_n and_o wrath_n which_o be_v the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n due_a unto_o he_o in_o which_o regard_n the_o law_n be_v call_v 3.6_o a_o kill_a letter_n show_v no_o mercy_n but_o only_o thunder_v out_o the_o fierce_a wrath_n of_o god_n upon_o transgressor_n three_o hereby_o christ_n awake_v his_o guilty_a conscience_n sharpen_v the_o sting_n thereof_o and_o terrify_v he_o at_o the_o hear_n of_o his_o word_n thus_o wicked_a felix_n tremble_v when_o he_o hear_v paul_n preach_v 24.25_o of_o temperance_n righteousness_n and_o the_o â—udgement_n to_o come_v so_o when_o king_n 4.6_o belshazzer_n see_v the_o palm_n of_o the_o hand_n writing_n thing_n against_o he_o upon_o the_o â—all_n his_o countenance_n be_v change_v his_o thought_n trouble_v he_o his_o joint_n be_v loose_v and_o his_o knee_n stand_v one_o against_o another_o and_o all_o these_o be_v wrought_v in_o the_o wicked_a without_o apprehension_n of_o mercy_n or_o reformation_n of_o life_n it_o may_v please_v god_n to_o recover_v one_o that_o â—s_v 〈◊〉_d wound_v but_o while_o he_o be_v 〈◊〉_d this_o estate_n he_o have_v receive_v a_o deadly_a wound_n and_o without_o unfamed_a repentance_n be_v already_o in_o thâ—_n first_o step_n towards_o eternal_a death_n for_o these_o horror_n oâ—_n conscience_n sever_v from_o the_o apprehension_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n be_v no_o grace_n but_o the_o flash_n of_o hell_n fire_n and_o the_o beginning_n of_o eternal_a woe_n and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o christ_n by_o this_o sword_n wound_v his_o enemy_n hence_o we_o be_v to_o learn_v sundry_a duty_n first_o how_o to_o earn_v ourselves_o towards_o they_o that_o after_o they_o have_v hear_v the_o word_n preach_v unto_o they_o will_v rage_v and_o storm_n against_o it_o and_o the_o preacher_n thereof_o because_o it_o touch_v they_o we_o must_v not_o despise_v or_o malign_v they_o but_o rather_o be_v move_v with_o compassion_n towards_o they_o for_o this_o their_o behaviour_n be_v a_o token_n they_o be_v wound_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o christ_n at_o the_o very_a heart_n and_o these_o their_o raging_n be_v nothing_o but_o struggle_n before_o death_n eternal_a unless_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n recover_v they_o of_o this_o deadly_a wound_n ii_o hereby_o we_o be_v let_v to_o see_v and_o know_v the_o lamentable_a state_n of_o the_o great_a number_n in_o those_o congregation_n where_o the_o word_n have_v long_o be_v preach_v for_o we_o shall_v find_v by_o lamentable_a experience_n that_o in_o those_o placeâ—_n few_o come_v to_o true_a knowledge_n repentance_n and_o obedience_n but_o most_o remain_v ignorant_a and_o impenitent_a now_o this_o their_o condition_n be_v most_o fearful_a a_o terrible_a judgement_n of_o god_n be_v upon_o they_o for_o when_o man_n have_v long_o hear_v god_n word_n and_o be_v not_o thereby_o better_v for_o knowledge_n in_o mind_n and_o obedience_n of_o life_n they_o be_v thereby_o wound_v unto_o death_n this_o two_o edge_a sword_n have_v always_o his_o work_n it_o either_o cure_v unto_o life_n by_o work_a repentance_n and_o other_o grace_n of_o salvation_n or_o wound_v unto_o death_n they_o that_o receive_v it_o not_o we_o must_v therefore_o lament_v the_o case_n of_o such_o person_n as_o remain_v ignorant_a and_o impenitent_a under_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n for_o they_o be_v as_o yet_o dead_a man_n for_o aught_o we_o know_v how_o soever_o they_o may_v make_v a_o fair_a show_n by_o their_o â—â—ill_a honesty_n if_o any_o man_n shall_v come_v into_o a_o field_n and_o there_o behold_v many_o thousand_o slaughter_a and_o 〈◊〉_d ouâ—_n bloâ—d_v some_o in_o the_o â—ead_a some_o in_o the_o side_n etc._n etc._n this_o sight_n will_v make_v his_o heart_n to_o bleed_v well_o this_o 〈…〉_z god_n be_v church_n though_o it_o be_v not_o see_v with_o bodily_a eye_n the_o most_o man_n be_v wound_v with_o this_o sword_n of_o god_n word_n and_o lie_v 〈◊〉_d wallow_v in_o the_o bloâ—d_n of_o their_o soul_n 〈◊〉_d they_o continue_v in_o ignorance_n in_o security_n and_o want_n of_o repentance_n iii_o this_o mâ—st_v admonish_v we_o all_o to_o labour_v earnest_o to_o have_v further_a thing_n wrought_v in_o we_o than_o a_o knowledge_n of_o our_o sin_n a_o apprehension_n of_o wrath_n oâ—_n horror_n of_o conscience_n namely_o 〈◊〉_d faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o sound_a reformation_n of_o life_n for_o without_o this_o we_o have_v nothing_o in_o we_o
but_o the_o deadly_a wound_n of_o christ_n enemy_n and_o 〈◊〉_d much_o for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o word_n upon_o the_o wicked_a the_o second_o work_n of_o this_o two_o edge_a sword_n be_v in_o god_n elect_v in_o they_o it_o have_v sundry_a work_n all_o which_o â—end_n to_o their_o subjection_n first_o it_o wound_v to_o the_o quick_a the_o corruption_n of_o their_o nature_n this_o be_v one_o special_a cause_n why_o it_o be_v call_v a_o two_o edge_a sword_n because_o it_o enter_v deep_o into_o the_o heart_n of_o god_n child_n and_o give_v their_o corruption_n such_o a_o deadly_a blow_n as_o it_o shall_v never_o recover_v again_o it_o kill_v not_o the_o person_n as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o wicked_a but_o quicken_a the_o soul_n it_o wound_v his_o corruption_n paul_n minister_v the_o gospel_n 16_o that_o the_o offer_v up_o of_o the_o gentile_n may_v be_v acceptable_a where_o resemble_v god_n church_n to_o a_o sacrifice_n he_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o every_o true_a christian_a must_v be_v slay_v though_o not_o in_o body_n and_o soul_n yet_o in_o regard_n of_o sinful_a motion_n corrupt_a affection_n and_o rebellious_a action_n by_o this_o two_o edge_a sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o this_o be_v his_o conversion_n whereby_o the_o root_n of_o corruption_n be_v stock_v up_o second_o after_o conversion_n this_o two_o edge_a sword_n serve_v to_o cut_v off_o and_o pare_v away_o the_o remnant_n of_o unbelief_n doubt_v impiety_n anger_n and_o other_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o the_o elect_a 15._o every_o branch_n say_v christ_n that_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n in_o i_o my_o father_n the_o husbandman_n grune_v to_o make_v it_o bring_v foâ—rth_o more_o fruit_n three_o it_o serve_v to_o keep_v god_n child_n in_o awe_n and_o subjection_n unto_o he_o in_o this_o vision_n christ_n stand_v in_o his_o church_n hold_v up_o the_o sceptre_n of_o his_o kingdom_n which_o he_o bear_v in_o his_o mouth_n for_o this_o end_n that_o though_o his_o enemy_n will_v not_o be_v bring_v in_o subjection_n unto_o he_o yet_o his_o own_o child_n may_v hereby_o be_v keep_v in_o awe_n of_o he_o he_o therefore_o that_o will_v not_o at_o the_o lift_n up_o of_o this_o two_o edge_a sword_n tremble_v and_o fear_n before_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o rebellious_a subject_n if_o there_o be_v brawl_v in_o humane_a society_n let_v the_o magistrate_n but_o show_v himself_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o justice_n and_o straightway_o every_o one_o be_v quiet_a if_o any_o resist_n he_o be_v take_v for_o a_o rebel_n now_o shall_v this_o be_v effect_v in_o civil_a policy_n and_o not_o be_v true_a in_o christ_n spiritual_a government_n unless_o therefore_o we_o will_v show_v ourselves_o rebel_v against_o christ_n let_v we_o cease_v from_o sin_n and_o tremble_v before_o he_o see_v he_o hold_v out_o unto_o we_o the_o sceptre_n of_o his_o word_n four_o this_o sword_n serve_v notable_o for_o our_o defence_n and_o victory_n in_o all_o temptation_n ephes_n 6._o â—â—_o this_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v one_o piece_n of_o the_o complete_a armour_n of_o a_o christian._n herewith_o do_v christ_n vanquish_v satan_n matth._n 4_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v a_o two_o edge_a sword_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o elect_a hence_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o when_o we_o have_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o of_o the_o gospel_n preach_v unto_o we_o we_o must_v with_o all_o reverence_n hear_v and_o receive_v the_o same_o man_n will_v hear_v it_o while_o it_o be_v teach_v general_o but_o if_o it_o once_o touch_v their_o particular_a fault_n than_o they_o can_v brook_v it_o but_o we_o must_v suffer_v it_o to_o ransack_v our_o heart_n and_o be_v glad_a thereof_o for_o by_o this_o mean_v our_o corruption_n be_v wound_v and_o sin_n slay_v in_o we_o our_o soul_n be_v convert_v unto_o god_n and_o shall_v be_v save_v if_o any_o man_n be_v disease_v with_o a_o fistula_n or_o any_o other_o dangerous_a sore_n he_o will_v willing_o suffer_v the_o surgeon_n to_o search_v and_o pierce_v into_o the_o fame_n shall_v we_o do_v this_o for_o our_o bodily_a health_n and_o shall_v we_o not_o suffer_v the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o enter_v into_o our_o heart_n to_o rip_v up_o our_o sin_n that_o they_o be_v wound_v and_o subdue_v we_o may_v be_v heal_v and_o so_o our_o soul_n live_v for_o ever_o we_o can_v live_v unto_o god_n till_o we_o die_v unto_o sin_n and_o we_o can_v never_o die_v unto_o sin_n till_o the_o same_o be_v wound_v in_o we_o by_o this_o two_o edge_a sword_n away_o therefore_o with_o all_o niceness_n in_o dislike_a the_o word_n when_o it_o cross_v our_o humour_n and_o if_o we_o love_v eternal_a life_n let_v we_o then_o embrace_v it_o most_o willing_o saint_n john_n say_v fâ—â—ther_o of_o this_o two_o edge_a sword_n that_o it_o come_v out_o of_o christ_n mouth_n other_o king_n carry_v their_o sword_n and_o sceptre_n in_o their_o hand_n but_o christ_n bear_v he_o in_o his_o mouth_n to_o teach_v we_o this_o special_a point_n that_o we_o must_v receive_v no_o doctrine_n from_o any_o man_n which_o he_o have_v not_o receive_v from_o thâ—_n mouth_n of_o christ._n for_o first_o god_n reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o his_o son_n &_o christ_n deliver_v it_o unto_o his_o prophetâ—_n and_o apostles_n by_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o his_o minister_n in_o their_o write_n they_o therefore_o must_v deliver_v nothing_o unto_o god_n people_n but_o that_o which_o they_o have_v from_o christ_n if_o they_o deliver_v aught_o else_o they_o hold_v noâ—_n forth_o christ_n sword_n neither_o can_v it_o have_v that_o powerful_a effect_n either_o in_o the_o godly_a or_o in_o the_o wicked_a and_o his_o face_n 〈…〉_z the_o sun_n shine_v iâ—_n his_o brightness_n here_o be_v the_o last_o branch_n of_o this_o description_n of_o christ_n his_o face_n be_v compare_v to_o the_o shine_a of_o the_o sun_n and_o that_o in_o his_o strength_n because_o christ_n be_v unto_o his_o churchy_n as_o the_o sun_n be_v to_o the_o world_n and_o look_v what_o duty_n the_o sun_n perform_v unto_o the_o world_n the_o same_o duty_n christ_n perform_v unto_o his_o church_n in_o a_o more_o excellent_a manner_n as_o their_o resemblance_n will_v evident_o declare_v first_o the_o sun_n in_o the_o world_n dispel_v night_n and_o darkness_n and_o make_v the_o day_n by_o bring_v light_n so_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o righteousness_n malach._n 4.2_o send_v down_o the_o bright_a beam_n of_o knowledge_n and_o grace_n into_o his_o church_n whereby_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n be_v take_v away_o 2._o corinth_n 4.6_o and_o hereby_o every_o one_o of_o what_o sort_n or_o place_n soever_o be_v teach_v first_o to_o labour_v for_o knowledge_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n a_o great_a shame_n it_o be_v for_o any_o to_o be_v ignorant_a herâ—in_n when_o the_o day_n come_v we_o set_v open_a our_o window_n to_o let_v in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n for_o our_o comfort_n behold_v christ_n jesus_n be_v ever_o a_o shine_a light_n in_o his_o church_n why_o then_o shall_v we_o not_o open_v our_o heart_n that_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n and_o knowledge_n which_o descend_v from_o he_o may_v enter_v into_o we_o and_o give_v we_o light_n second_o we_o must_v hereby_o learn_v in_o our_o whole_a conversation_n among_o man_n to_o walk_v by_o this_o light_n we_o be_v here_o but_o pilgrim_n travel_v towards_o heaven_n and_o the_o way_n of_o this_o miserable_a word_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n yet_o christ_n jesus_n be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o church_n shine_v as_o the_o sun_n in_o his_o strength_n to_o give_v the_o light_n of_o knowledge_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v the_o right_a way_n thither_o without_o he_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o darkness_n and_o wander_a his_o word_n be_v the_o light_n and_o himself_o the_o day_n star_n we_o therefore_o must_v attend_v unto_o he_o in_o all_o our_o affair_n of_o this_o life_n and_o in_o the_o particular_a duty_n of_o our_o lawful_a calling_n take_v direction_n from_o the_o light_n which_o shine_v from_o his_o face_n second_o the_o sun_n serve_v most_o excellent_o to_o comfort_n and_o revive_v cold_a and_o dead_a starve_a body_n as_o experience_n in_o the_o spring_n time_n teach_v so_o christ_n jesus_n by_o the_o work_n of_o his_o spirit_n convey_v spiritual_a life_n and_o heat_n â—nto_o the_o dead_a and_o freeze_a heart_n of_o man_n he_o be_v of_o power_n to_o comfort_v they_o that_o mourn_v to_o give_v life_n to_o the_o break_a heart_a and_o to_o revive_v the_o spirit_n of_o the_o humble_a isay._n 57.15_o and_o for_o this_o most_o excellent_a work_n may_v well_o be_v call_v the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n in_o regard_v whereof_o we_o must_v labour_v above_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v partaker_n of_o this_o life_n and_o joy_n which_o come_v
reverence_n as_o from_o the_o lord_n last_o in_o this_o exceed_a fear_n of_o john_n who_o be_v a_o apostle_n and_o a_o very_a godly_a and_o righteous_a man_n we_o learn_v that_o the_o most_o holy_a man_n that_o be_v will_v be_v astonish_v even_o to_o death_n with_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n glorious_a majesty_n and_o if_o no_o man_n be_v he_o never_o so_o holy_a can_v stand_v before_o god_n presence_n much_o less_o can_v the_o most_o righteous_a work_n of_o any_o man_n endure_v the_o trial_n of_o his_o judgement_n if_o his_o person_n can_v abide_v his_o presence_n his_o work_n will_v never_o bear_v his_o judgement_n for_o the_o person_n must_v first_o be_v approve_v before_o the_o work_n be_v accept_v therefore_o damnable_a be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o teach_v that_o such_o as_o in_o themselves_o be_v sinful_a man_n must_v stand_v before_o god_n judgement_n seat_n bring_v with_o they_o work_v of_o grace_n as_o mean_n of_o their_o justification_n and_o part_n of_o satisfaction_n to_o god_n justice_n it_o be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o desperation_n for_o how_o can_v our_o work_n be_v perfect_o holy_a see_v our_o person_n be_v but_o sanctify_v here_o in_o part_n and_o who_o can_v think_v that_o the_o infinite_a justice_n of_o god_n can_v be_v satisfy_v by_o the_o imperfect_a righteousness_n of_o man_n ii_o point_n the_o effect_n of_o this_o fear_n in_o his_o body_n he_o fall_v down_o as_o dead_a at_o his_o foot_n this_o be_v no_o small_a fear_n but_o exceed_v great_a astonish_v his_o sense_n and_o lay_v he_o down_o as_o dead_a physician_n say_v and_o that_o true_o the_o mind_n follow_v the_o temperature_n of_o the_o body_n but_o hence_o we_o may_v as_o true_o say_v that_o the_o body_n follow_v the_o disposition_n of_o the_o mind_n for_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o soul_n will_v work_v upon_o the_o body_n like_v unto_o strong_a disease_n johns_n fear_n cast_v his_o body_n into_o a_o sound_n and_o so_o horror_n of_o conscience_n when_o the_o heart_n be_v cold_a will_v make_v the_o body_n hot_a and_o the_o entrails_n to_o roll_n in_o the_o body_n the_o same_o may_v be_v say_v of_o anger_n 1._o reg._n 21.4_o when_o ahab_n can_v not_o obtain_v nabals_n vineyard_n he_o lay_v he_o down_o on_o his_o bed_n in_o displeasure_n and_o be_v almost_o dead_a even_o so_o will_v other_o affection_n work_v upon_o the_o body_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o body_n of_o man_n be_v disease_v must_v not_o always_o be_v cure_v by_o bare_a physic_n but_o sometime_o by_o cure_v of_o the_o mind_n and_o order_n of_o the_o affection_n for_o when_o the_o distemper_n of_o the_o body_n arise_v from_o the_o disorder_n of_o the_o mind_n then_o till_o the_o mind_n be_v well_o compose_v and_o settle_v physic_n will_v little_o avail_v iii_o point_n the_o kind_n of_o this_o fear_n be_v insinuate_v in_o these_o word_n he_o fall_v at_o his_o foot_n whereby_o the_o holy_a ghost_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o this_o be_v a_o religious_a reverend_a fear_n which_o he_o bear_v to_o christ_n for_o this_o kind_n of_o prostrate_v the_o body_n betoken_v humility_n and_o argue_v a_o reverend_a estimation_n of_o the_o thing_n fear_v hence_o we_o be_v teach_v when_o we_o come_v into_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n we_o must_v prostrate_v ourselves_o as_o john_n do_v and_o look_v that_o we_o be_v strike_v with_o a_o religious_a fear_n of_o his_o majesty_n if_o any_o shall_v think_v that_o christ_n be_v now_o ascend_v into_o heaven_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v now_o fall_v down_o at_o his_o foot_n as_o john_n do_v i_o answer_v though_o christ_n be_v now_o in_o heaven_n yet_o have_v he_o his_o foot_n upon_o earth_n at_o which_o we_o must_v fall_v down_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o mercy-seat_n be_v the_o pledge_n of_o god_n presence_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v god_n footstool_n psal._n 99.5_o before_o which_o the_o jew_n be_v to_o fall_v down_o well_o though_o the_o mercy-seat_n be_v now_o take_v away_o yet_o some_o thing_n be_v instead_o thereof_o for_o wheresoever_o god_n people_n assemble_v themselves_o in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n there_o be_v his_o footstool_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o assembly_n of_o god_n saint_n we_o must_v cast_v down_o ourselves_o before_o christ_n jesus_n and_o do_v all_o duty_n unto_o he_o with_o all_o fear_n awe_n and_o reverence_n of_o his_o majesty_n this_o fear_n of_o john_n though_o it_o be_v holy_a yet_o be_v it_o taint_v with_o some_o sin_n and_o corruption_n for_o it_o be_v a_o immoderate_a fear_n of_o death_n which_o make_v he_o thus_o astonish_v and_o affright_v whence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o most_o holy_a affection_n of_o righteous_a man_n be_v not_o perfect_o holy_a but_o mix_v with_o imperfection_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o sanctification_n which_o be_v always_o in_o part_n in_o this_o life_n whereby_o it_o appear_v that_o no_o man_n have_v in_o he_o a_o filial_a fear_n of_o god_n alone_o but_o some_o servile_a fear_n whereby_o we_o fear_v god_n for_o his_o judgement_n be_v mix_v therewith_o and_o thus_o much_o for_o johns_n fear_n which_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o his_o confirmation_n now_o follow_v the_o mean_n of_o his_o confirmation_n in_o these_o word_n then_o he_o lay_v his_o right_a hand_n upon_o i_o say_v fear_v not_o i_o be_o the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o and_o i_o be_o alive_a but_o i_o be_v dead_a and_o behold_v i_o be_o alive_a for_o evermore_o amen_n and_o i_o have_v the_o key_n of_o hell_n and_o death_n here_o note_v two_o thing_n first_o the_o time_n when_o christ_n use_v these_o mean_n for_o johns_n confirmation_n second_o the_o mean_n themselves_o the_o time_n be_v note_v in_o this_o word_n then_o that_o be_v after_o his_o presence_n have_v strike_v a_o fear_n in_o my_o heart_n which_o make_v i_o as_o dead_a then_o the_o lord_n use_v mean_n to_o comfort_v i_o the_o mean_n of_o comfort_n and_o confirmation_n be_v then_o use_v when_o the_o party_n be_v humble_v and_o thus_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o all_o his_o servant_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o salvation_n first_o he_o bruise_v their_o stony_a heart_n and_o wound_v their_o sinful_a soul_n before_o he_o pour_v in_o the_o oil_n of_o grace_n first_o a_o man_n must_v be_v a_o lose_a sheep_n and_o then_o christ_n find_v he_o and_o lay_v he_o on_o his_o shoulder_n and_o bring_v he_o home_o and_o indeed_o they_o that_o will_v feel_v sound_a comfort_n by_o christ_n must_v first_o be_v humble_v in_o themselves_o and_o the_o reason_n why_o man_n reap_v so_o little_a comfort_n either_o by_o the_o word_n or_o sacrament_n be_v the_o want_n of_o true_a humiliation_n before_o they_o come_v whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v fit_v for_o grace_n and_o consolation_n ii_o point_n the_o mean_v use_v by_o christ_n to_o confirm_v john_n and_o they_o be_v two_o first_o a_o sensible_a sign_n he_o lay_v his_o right_a hand_n upon_o i_o second_o comfortable_a word_n fear_v not_o here_o first_o observe_v in_o general_a christ_n gracious_a deal_n with_o john_n he_o use_v not_o one_o mean_n apart_o but_o in_o great_a mercy_n that_o he_o may_v thorough_o confirm_v john_n he_o give_v he_o both_o a_o sign_n and_o word_n and_o so_o he_o have_v always_o deal_v with_o his_o servant_n when_o he_o call_v moses_n to_o be_v a_o deliverer_n of_o his_o people_n first_o he_o give_v he_o his_o word_n say_v i_o will_v be_v with_o thou_o and_o then_o a_o sign_n say_v upon_o this_o mountain_n shall_v you_o serve_v god_n exâ—d_n 3.12_o so_o when_o he_o will_v confirm_v the_o heart_n of_o 7._o ahaz_n against_o his_o enemy_n he_o first_o give_v he_o a_o promise_n of_o deliverance_n verse_n 7._o then_o bid_v he_o ask_v a_o sign_n vers_fw-la 11._o and_o for_o this_o cause_n christ_n in_o the_o publish_n of_o his_o gospel_n add_v sign_n and_o miracle_n unto_o his_o word_n that_o the_o truth_n thereof_o may_v be_v full_o confirm_v and_o so_o in_o the_o work_n of_o our_o salvation_n beside_o his_o merciful_a promise_n which_o be_v sufficient_a in_o respect_n of_o his_o fidelity_n he_o give_v we_o further_o sign_n and_o seal_n to_o support_v our_o weakness_n and_o to_o confirm_v our_o faith_n in_o the_o assurance_n thereof_o even_o the_o use_n of_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n this_o teach_v we_o that_o christ_n have_v a_o special_a care_n over_o his_o church_n and_o people_n in_o that_o he_o do_v so_o condescend_v and_o abase_v himself_o unto_o their_o weakness_n add_v unto_o his_o word_n which_o of_o itself_o be_v sufficient_a sign_n and_o token_n that_o by_o both_o he_o may_v more_o evident_o give_v that_o assurance_n which_o by_o one_o alone_a our_o weakness_n will_v not_o so_o well_o conceive_v again_o in_o this_o mean_n of_o confirmation_n note_v the_o order_n which_o christ_n use_v
seven_o church_n of_o asia_n and_o to_o send_v unto_o they_o seven_o letter_n or_o epistle_n the_o first_o of_o which_o commandment_n be_v express_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o first_o verse_n unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v then_o after_o follow_v the_o epistle_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o etc._n etc._n continue_v to_o the_o eight_o verse_n first_o for_o the_o commandment_n the_o party_n to_o who_o john_n must_v write_v be_v the_o angel_n which_o word_n may_v be_v expound_v two_o way_n either_o to_o signify_v the_o minister_n or_o pastor_n of_o the_o particular_a church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o so_o it_o be_v common_o take_v of_o the_o most_o or_o else_o it_o may_v be_v token_n the_o company_n of_o the_o minister_n teacher_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n for_o therein_o be_v many_o pastor_n and_o governor_n as_o appear_v act._n 20.28_o where_o paul_n call_v together_o the_o bishop_n as_o the_o word_n signify_v and_o give_v they_o charge_n over_o their_o particular_a flock_n now_o in_o scripture_n the_o name_n of_o one_o person_n take_v collective_o oftentimes_o signify_v the_o whole_a multitude_n as_o exod._n 4.22_o israel_n be_v my_o son_n even_o my_o first_o bear_v where_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o one_o man_n and_o so_o though_o antichrist_n be_v not_o one_o particular_a man_n but_o a_o state_n and_o company_n of_o man_n in_o the_o succession_n of_o pope_n yet_o be_v that_o whole_a estate_n note_v by_o the_o special_a name_n of_o one_o manâ—_n as_o that_o 2._o antichrist_n that_o man_n of_o sin_n and_o son_n of_o perdition_n thus_o we_o see_v how_o the_o word_n angel_n may_v be_v take_v and_o whether_o we_o understand_v it_o of_o one_o man_n or_o of_o the_o whole_a company_n of_o elder_n it_o be_v not_o much_o material_a in_o this_o particular_a commandment_n note_v two_o point_n first_o that_o christ_n his_o intent_n be_v to_o write_v to_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o ephesus_n as_o appear_z chap._n 1.11_o where_o john_n be_v command_v to_o write_v in_o a_o boohe_o and_o send_v it_o to_o the_o church_n as_o also_o by_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n where_o it_o be_v say_v let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n â—_o and_o yet_o he_o direct_v his_o epistle_n not_o to_o the_o whole_a church_n but_o particular_o to_o the_o angel_n or_o pastor_n thereof_o this_o he_o do_v for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o intimate_v unto_o this_o minister_n his_o duty_n which_o stand_v in_o two_o thing_n in_o teach_v the_o content_n of_o this_o epistle_n unto_o the_o whole_a church_n &_o in_o become_v a_o pattern_n and_o example_n to_o they_o all_o of_o do_v the_o thing_n therein_o require_v second_o because_o either_o much_o good_a or_o much_o evil_n come_v to_o every_o particular_a church_n by_o the_o minister_n thereof_o such_o be_v the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o place_n and_o calling_n if_o he_o be_v faithful_a he_o bring_v great_a good_a to_o the_o church_n if_o unfaithful_a exceed_v great_a hurt_n as_o may_v easy_o be_v prove_v by_o many_o example_n in_o all_o age_n now_o christ_n write_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o mean_n of_o much_o good_a unto_o they_o all_o by_o exciting_a they_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o good_a duty_n require_v in_o this_o epistle_n ii_o point_n among_o all_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n christ_n write_v first_o to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n not_o for_o that_o this_o church_n have_v authority_n over_o the_o rest_n for_o they_o be_v all_o candlestick_n and_o all_o of_o gold_n but_o because_o ephesus_n be_v the_o mother_n city_n far_o exceed_v the_o rest_n in_o riches_n and_o estimation_n whereby_o christ_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o his_o will_n be_v that_o those_o people_n town_n and_o city_n which_o excel_v other_o in_o estimation_n and_o wealth_n shall_v also_o go_v before_o they_o in_o knowledge_n obedience_n and_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o so_o answerable_o shall_v it_o be_v with_o particular_a person_n they_o which_o excel_v other_o for_o outward_a reputation_n and_o temporal_a blessing_n aught_o to_o go_v before_o they_o in_o spiritual_a grace_n as_o godliness_n and_o religion_n those_o which_o shall_v fail_v herein_o and_o suffer_v other_o that_o be_v far_o their_o inferior_n for_o outward_a thing_n to_o go_v before_o they_o in_o spiritual_a grace_n shall_v find_v it_o true_a to_o their_o shame_n before_o man_n but_o especial_o at_o the_o tribunal_n seat_n of_o jesus_n christ._n thus_o much_o for_o the_o commandment_n now_o follow_v the_o example_n itself_o which_o contain_v three_o part_n as_o all_o ordinary_a epistle_n do_v a_o pereface_n a_o proposition_n and_o the_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n be_v in_o these_o word_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n the_o proposition_n and_o conclusion_n in_o the_o verse_n follow_v the_o preface_n be_v borrow_v from_o the_o former_a chapter_n verse_n 16._o and_o 13._o where_o also_o it_o be_v handle_v the_o intent_n of_o christ_n herein_o be_v to_o draw_v this_o church_n to_o a_o reverend_a adoration_n of_o his_o person_n and_o to_o cause_v in_o they_o a_o great_a care_n to_o embrace_v and_o obey_v his_o admonition_n this_o appear_v by_o that_o twofold_a action_n which_o he_o avouch_v of_o himself_o to_o wit_n his_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o his_o walk_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n by_o the_o first_o whereof_o be_v signify_v his_o power_n in_o protect_v and_o govern_v his_o minister_n and_o by_o the_o second_o be_v note_v his_o presence_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o church_n guide_v and_o bless_v his_o minister_n with_o all_o the_o member_n thereof_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v if_o i_o be_v he_o that_o have_v power_n to_o protect_v and_o govern_v that_o be_o present_a also_o to_o bless_v and_o direct_v both_o minister_n and_o people_n then_o my_o admonition_n be_v to_o be_v reverence_v and_o obey_v in_o this_o preface_n note_v two_o special_a point_n first_o that_o christ_n here_o again_o repeat_v that_o which_o be_v before_o deliver_v touch_v his_o presence_n in_o his_o church_n and_o his_o mighty_a power_n and_o providence_n over_o the_o same_o in_o protect_v guide_a and_o blessing_n both_o minister_v and_o people_n by_o which_o reputation_n he_o will_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v the_o specall_a weight_n and_o moment_n of_o this_o point_n to_o wit_n that_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v engrave_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o one_o in_o god_n church_n and_o indeed_o till_o we_o be_v persuade_v thereof_o we_o shall_v never_o learn_v religion_n sound_o the_o ground_n of_o true_a religion_n be_v this_o to_o take_v the_o true_a god_n for_o our_o god_n and_o christ_n jesus_n for_o our_o redeemer_n and_o it_o consist_v not_o in_o a_o swim_a notion_n hereof_o in_o the_o brain_n but_o in_o the_o sure_a persuasion_n of_o the_o heart_n which_o we_o never_o have_v till_o we_o be_v resolve_v both_o of_o christ_n presence_n with_o we_o and_o of_o his_o providence_n over_o we_o for_o our_o blessing_n and_o defence_n ii_o point_n in_o this_o preface_n also_o note_n that_o the_o persuasion_n of_o christ_n presence_n and_o special_a providence_n in_o his_o church_n be_v a_o notable_a mean_n to_o draw_v we_o on_o to_o all_o good_a duty_n for_o thereby_o christ_n will_v persuade_v both_o the_o minister_n and_o people_n of_o ephesus_n to_o receive_v and_o embrace_v this_o his_o epistle_n and_o no_o doubt_n he_o that_o be_v indeed_o persuade_v hereof_o can_v but_o be_v move_v to_o walk_v before_o god_n in_o all_o holiness_n and_o obedience_n as_o do_v enoch_n abraham_n and_o all_o the_o godly_a patriarch_n thus_o much_o for_o the_o preface_n verse_n 2._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o thy_o labour_n and_o thy_o patience_n and_o how_o thou_o can_v not_o forbear_v they_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o have_v examine_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n the_o proposition_n contain_v the_o substance_n and_o matter_n of_o the_o whole_a epistle_n this_o proposition_n have_v two_o point_n first_o a_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n in_o the_o second_o and_o three_o verse_n second_o a_o rebuke_n and_o reprehension_n in_o the_o four_o verse_n the_o commenâ—ation_n be_v first_o general_n in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n then_o more_o particular_a for_o special_a duty_n &_o action_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v and_o thy_o labour_n and_o patience_n etc._n etc._n
for_o the_o first_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n many_o do_v expound_v this_o of_o work_n of_o mercy_n and_o liberality_n but_o that_o will_v not_o so_o well_o stand_v for_o he_o say_v to_o every_o church_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o yet_o some_o of_o they_o be_v blame_v for_o want_n of_o these_o good_a work_n by_o work_n than_o be_v mean_v the_o way_n that_o be_v the_o practice_n and_o deal_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n as_o well_o of_o minister_n as_o people_n in_o all_o their_o affair_n also_o by_o knowledge_n here_o we_o must_v understand_v a_o knowledge_n that_o go_v with_o application_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o compare_v this_o with_o the_o four_o verse_n whither_o it_o have_v relation_n for_o thus_o they_o must_v go_v i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o approve_v of_o they_o and_o yet_o i_o have_v something_o against_o thou_o so_o that_o his_o meaning_n be_v i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v all_o thy_o way_n and_o deal_n in_o thy_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v manifest_a unto_o i_o and_o i_o do_v general_o approve_v of_o they_o here_o first_o in_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o knowledge_n christ_n minister_v a_o remedy_n against_o secret_a sin_n and_o offence_n the_o thief_n the_o murderer_n and_o adulterer_n wait_v for_o the_o night_n wherein_o to_o attempt_v their_o shameful_a practice_n the_o tradesman_n in_o secret_n falsify_v his_o weight_n and_o mingle_v his_o ware_n among_o most_o man_n fraud_n oppression_n and_o injustice_n do_v abound_v and_o all_o because_o they_o think_v that_o if_o man_n see_v not_o all_o be_v well_o as_o david_n say_v the_o wicked_a man_n say_v god_n shall_v not_o see_v he_o will_v not_o regard_v 94.7_o but_o if_o man_n can_v think_v and_o be_v persuade_v of_o this_o that_o christ_n see_v and_o know_v all_o their_o way_n it_o will_v cause_v they_o to_o make_v conscience_n not_o only_o of_o gross_a sin_n but_o even_o of_o their_o hide_a and_o secret_a offence_n second_o whereas_o this_o knowledge_n be_v join_v with_o approbation_n it_o may_v be_v demand_v how_o this_o can_v stand_v with_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n to_o approve_v of_o that_o which_o be_v not_o answerable_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o his_o law_n as_o the_o best_a work_n of_o the_o most_o righteous_a man_n be_v not_o be_v stain_v with_o some_o corruption_n isay._n 64_o 6._o answ._n the_o gospel_n which_o be_v another_o part_n of_o god_n will_n reveal_v more_o unto_o we_o than_o ever_o the_o law_n can_v do_v namely_o that_o if_o a_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n to_o he_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n and_o that_o god_n will_v accept_v his_o true_a desire_n and_o endeavour_n to_o please_v he_o for_o the_o deed_n itself_o 2._o cor._n 8.12_o and_o thus_o according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o gospel_n christ_n approve_v of_o their_o work_n in_o this_o place_n though_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o abide_v the_o â—igor_n of_o his_o law_n but_o a_o papist_n will_v here_o reason_v thus_o if_o a_o righteous_a man_n work_n be_v approve_v of_o god_n than_o they_o be_v no_o sin_n for_o god_n will_v not_o approve_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v sinful_a and_o if_o his_o work_n be_v no_o sin_n than_o he_o may_v fulfil_v the_o law_n and_o so_o be_v justify_v by_o his_o work_n answ._n that_o which_o christ_n approve_v simple_o have_v no_o sin_n in_o it_o but_o here_o he_o only_o approve_v of_o their_o work_n in_o part_n namely_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o come_v from_o the_o work_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o they_o but_o as_o they_o proceed_v from_o the_o will_n of_o the_o worker_n which_o be_v in_o part_n corrupt_v they_o be_v not_o free_a from_o the_o stain_n of_o sin_n and_o so_o he_o approve_v they_o not_o again_o work_v of_o grace_n be_v approve_v of_o christ_n with_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o accept_v of_o the_o person_n he_o remit_v the_o fault_n that_o be_v in_o his_o good_a work_n and_o so_o only_o approve_v his_o own_o work_n in_o he_o and_o so_o here_o we_o must_v conceive_v of_o his_o approbation_n of_o their_o work_n to_o wit_n as_o proceed_v from_o his_o spirit_n and_o have_v the_o fault_n thereof_o remit_v in_o his_o own_o merit_n the_o special_a commendation_n of_o this_o church_n be_v for_o particular_a action_n the_o first_o whereof_o be_v diligent_a labour_n which_o be_v a_o excellent_a work_n especal_o in_o a_o minister_n of_o god_n word_n to_o be_v painful_a in_o his_o particular_a call_n for_o the_o faithful_a instruction_n and_o godly_a regiment_n of_o his_o particular_a charge_n hence_o paul_n say_v 1._o tim._n 5.17_o he_o that_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n be_v principal_o worthy_a double_a honour_n and_o herein_o paul_n match_v yea_o prefer_v himself_o before_o other_o apostle_n that_o he_o labour_v more_o abundant_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n than_o they_o all_o 1._o cor._n 15.10_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n use_n if_o it_o be_v do_v as_o it_o ought_v be_v a_o work_n full_a of_o great_a pain_n and_o labour_n contrary_a to_o the_o common_a opinion_n of_o man_n who_o think_v that_o the_o life_n of_o the_o minister_n be_v full_a of_o ease_n and_o his_o calling_n a_o matter_n of_o nothing_o such_o as_o may_v be_v do_v with_o the_o turn_n of_o the_o hand_n but_o here_o the_o judgement_n of_o christ_n be_v other_o way_n who_o use_v not_o thus_o to_o approve_v a_o light_n or_o idle_a work_n second_o this_o commendation_n of_o diligence_n in_o the_o minister_n must_v admonish_v all_o christian_n that_o desire_v to_o be_v approve_v of_o christ_n to_o give_v all_o diligence_n to_o learn_v and_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o they_o may_v do_v the_o same_o and_o here_o a_o common_a fault_n be_v to_o be_v reprove_v many_o will_v hear_v but_o where_o be_v their_o labour_n to_o grow_v in_o knowledge_n &_o in_o grace_n that_o be_v want_v which_o iâ—_n the_o cause_n of_o such_o fruitless_a hear_n as_o be_v common_a in_o the_o world_n for_o earthly_a thing_n man_n refuse_v no_o pain_n but_o god_n heavenly_a knowledge_n and_o grace_n be_v not_o regard_v what_o a_o shame_n be_v this_o that_o man_n shall_v bestow_v their_o strength_n and_o wit_n about_o base_a and_o transitory_a thing_n and_o yet_o neglect_v the_o main_a good_a which_o concern_v their_o soul_n for_o ever_o three_o the_o minister_n diligence_n in_o teach_v must_v provoke_v conscience_n of_o obedience_n in_o the_o hearer_n that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o his_o work_n without_o this_o he_o spend_v his_o strength_n in_o vain_a and_o therefore_o with_o the_o apostle_n they_o must_v endeavour_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n before_o god_n and_o all_o man_n act._n 24.16_o the_o second_o thing_n which_o christ_n here_o commend_v be_v patience_n in_o bear_v the_o cross_n which_o do_v usual_o accompany_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ._n and_o this_o indeed_o be_v praise_n worthy_a in_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n for_o herein_o he_o go_v before_o sundry_a worthy_a prophet_n jeremie_n be_v marvelous_a impatient_a for_o the_o mock_n of_o the_o people_n 15._o and_o though_o jonas_n have_v be_v school_v in_o the_o whale_n belly_n yet_o when_o all_o thing_n go_v not_o according_a to_o his_o mind_n in_o the_o destruction_n of_o niniveh_n he_o become_v exceed_v discontent_a herein_o must_v all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n become_v follower_n of_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n use_n while_o they_o labour_v in_o the_o gospel_n of_o god_n they_o must_v possess_v their_o soul_n with_o patience_n and_o make_v know_v to_o all_o man_n their_o meek_a and_o mild_a spirit_n yea_o every_o christian_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o religion_n must_v learn_v to_o practice_v this_o duty_n luk._n 8.16_o the_o good_a ground_n receive_v the_o seed_n and_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n but_o how_o with_o patience_n neither_o can_v we_o possible_o attain_v to_o eternal_a life_n unless_o we_o arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n to_o bear_v the_o cross_n for_o whosoever_o will_v live_v godly_a must_v suffer_v affliction_n 2._o tim._n 3.12_o through_o many_o tribulation_n we_o must_v enter_v into_o heaven_n act._n 14.22_o ii_o again_o here_o observe_v how_o christ_n join_v labour_n and_o patience_n together_o this_o he_o do_v for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o let_v we_o see_v the_o fruit_n of_o sin_n which_o god_n have_v set_v on_o the_o labour_n of_o man_n before_o the_o fall_n the_o labour_n of_o man_n calling_n be_v practise_v without_o all_o trouble_n or_o pain_n but_o since_o man_n fall_n the_o best_a calling_n have_v their_o cross_n and_o vexation_n which_o be_v the_o punishment_n of_o man_n transgression_n socond_o to_o show_v we_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n against_o the_o good_a progress_n of_o the_o gospel_n 2.18_o paul_n say_v to_o the_o thessalonian_n
he_o will_v have_v come_v to_o they_o but_o satan_n do_v hinder_v he_o he_o seek_v the_o trouble_n and_o sorrow_n of_o the_o minister_n not_o only_o by_o stir_v up_o persecution_n but_o by_o keepinh_v his_o people_n from_o profit_v by_o his_o ministry_n and_o therefore_o every_o minister_n have_v need_v to_o take_v pain_n with_o patience_n in_o his_o call_n and_o as_o christ_n join_v together_o labour_n and_o patience_n in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n so_o shall_v every_o christian_n after_o this_o direction_n join_v patience_n with_o his_o pain_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o particular_a call_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o church_n commonwealth_n or_o family_n for_o look_v what_o be_v the_o estate_n of_o the_o minister_n in_o his_o place_n such_o shall_v be_v the_o estate_n of_o every_o child_n of_o god_n in_o he_o this_o therefore_o they_o must_v do_v first_o seek_v to_o know_v the_o duty_n of_o their_o particular_a call_n and_o therein_o labour_n and_o take_v pain_n with_o all_o good_a conscience_n then_o consider_v the_o cross_n do_v accompany_v godly_a diligence_n they_o must_v labour_v to_o join_v patience_n with_o their_o diligence_n for_o their_o continuance_n in_o welldoing_a even_o under_o the_o cross_n and_o for_o attain_v of_o this_o patience_n they_o must_v set_v before_o they_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n blessing_n and_o protection_n while_o they_o so_o continue_v not_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v dismay_v by_o any_o affliction_n and_o if_o we_o shall_v thus_o walk_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o our_o particular_a place_n painful_o and_o with_o patience_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o commendation_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o bless_a reward_n which_o far_o surpass_v the_o praise_n of_o man_n and_o their_o reward_n but_o on_o contrary_a if_o we_o walk_v in_o our_o calling_n negligent_o or_o else_o forsake_v they_o because_o of_o affliction_n or_o be_v impatient_a in_o our_o labour_n we_o shall_v loose_v our_o reward_n and_o undergo_v the_o rebuke_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v worse_o than_o all_o outward_a evil_n that_o can_v befall_v us._n the_o three_o special_a work_n for_o which_o christ_n commend_v this_o church_n be_v severity_n show_v against_o wicked_a man_n in_o these_o word_n and_o how_o thou_o can_v not_o bear_v they_o which_o be_v evil_a by_o evil_a man_n he_o mean_v such_o as_o live_v offensive_o and_o maintain_v manifest_a error_n and_o heresy_n these_o she_o can_v not_o bear_v but_o judge_v they_o as_o burden_n and_o therefore_o seek_v to_o disburden_v herself_o of_o they_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o it_o be_v a_o necessary_a thing_n for_o every_o church_n to_o be_v purge_v of_o evil_a man_n use_n the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o all_o age_n have_v put_v in_o practice_v this_o work_n so_o soon_o as_o cain_n have_v slay_v his_o brother_n abel_n 4.14_o god_n cast_v he_o out_o from_o his_o face_n as_o appear_z by_o his_o own_o complaint_n to_o wit_n from_o that_o particular_a place_n where_o adam_n and_o his_o family_n worship_v god_n when_o false_a prophet_n and_o idolater_n do_v arise_v among_o the_o israelit_n the_o lord_n command_v 8._o that_o they_o shall_v be_v kill_v and_o take_v from_o among_o they_o and_o therefore_o he_o say_v to_o jeremie_n 15.19_o if_o thou_o turn_v and_o repent_v i_o will_v bring_v thou_o again_o and_o if_o thou_o take_v away_o the_o precious_a from_o the_o vile_a thou_o shall_v be_v according_a to_o my_o word_n 1._o cor._n 5.4_o 5_o paul_n command_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o incestuous_a man_n be_v deliver_v unto_o satan_n the_o church_n purge_v of_o that_o old_a leaven_n and_o that_o wicked_a man_n put_v from_o among_o they_o verse_n 13._o beside_o the_o evidence_n of_o these_o testimony_n some_o reason_n may_v be_v add_v to_o prove_v the_o necessity_n of_o this_o separation_n first_o god_n will_v be_v worship_v in_o a_o holy_a manner_n and_o they_o that_o worship_n god_n must_v be_v purge_v and_o sanctify_v but_o evil_a man_n defile_v god_n worship_n and_o therefore_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v sever_v from_o the_o church_n second_o lest_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v infect_v with_o the_o contagion_n of_o their_o doctrine_n or_o the_o infection_n of_o their_o life_n for_o as_o leaven_n sour_v the_o whole_a lump_n so_o will_v evil_a man_n defile_v the_o whole_a church_n three_o they_o be_v burden_n to_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o must_v be_v cast_v out_o for_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v ease_v of_o every_o burden_n this_o doctrine_n be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n &_o aught_o to_o be_v practise_v of_o god_n church_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v a_o common_a fault_n in_o the_o most_o congregation_n among_o we_o wherein_o all_o that_o will_v be_v admit_v not_o only_o to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n but_o also_o unto_o the_o lord_n table_n hand_n over_o head_n without_o restraint_n as_o though_o every_o man_n be_v a_o good_a &_o sound_a christian_n whereas_o experience_n show_v that_o many_o be_v ignorant_a many_o contemner_n of_o the_o gospel_n many_o sabbath_n breaker_n drunkard_n and_o blasphemer_n all_o which_o ought_v to_o be_v bar_v from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n sever_v from_o the_o church_n as_o burden_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o christ_n have_v give_v to_o his_o church_n a_o power_n judicial_a to_o suspend_v evil_a man_n from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o to_o excommunicate_v they_o from_o the_o outward_a fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n for_o else_o he_o will_v not_o have_v commend_v this_o minister_n with_o his_o church_n for_o the_o execution_n of_o this_o power_n the_o reason_n allege_v to_o the_o contrary_a be_v of_o no_o force_n i._o say_v they_o the_o parable_n matth._n 13.30_o allow_v the_o grow_v together_o of_o tare_n and_o wheat_n till_o harvest_n and_o therefore_o evil_a man_n must_v be_v suffer_v in_o the_o church_n without_o separation_n answ._n in_o that_o parable_n christ_n speak_v not_o of_o any_o particular_a purge_n of_o the_o church_n by_o ecclesiastical_a jurisdiction_n but_o of_o the_o universal_a purge_n of_o his_o whole_a church_n by_o his_o holy_a angel_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n for_o there_o the_o field_n do_v not_o signify_v any_o particular_a church_n but_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o the_o servant_n be_v not_o mâ—n_z but_o angel_n that_o must_v gather_v together_o all_o both_o good_a and_o bad_a in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o last_o judgement_n again_o they_o allege_v luk_n 14.23_o compel_v they_o in_o the_o high_a way_n to_o come_v into_o the_o supper_n here_o say_v they_o all_o must_v be_v bring_v in_o but_o none_o must_v be_v exclude_v the_o society_n of_o the_o church_n ans._n christ_n speak_v not_o of_o compel_a man_n unto_o the_o sacrament_n but_o unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n whereto_o man_n must_v be_v cause_v to_o subject_v themselves_o which_o hinder_v nothing_o why_o the_o ungodly_a shall_v not_o be_v debar_v from_o the_o sacrament_n which_o be_v the_o seal_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n ordain_v only_o for_o such_o as_o repent_v and_o believe_v qu._n see_v this_o separation_n must_v be_v make_v how_o far_o forth_o may_v we_o converse_v with_o those_o that_o be_v open_o evil_a &_o offensive_a either_o for_o life_n or_o doctrine_n ans._n evil_a man_n must_v be_v consider_v diverse_a way_n first_o as_o they_o be_v member_n of_o some_o commonwealth_n of_o some_o city_n or_o incorporation_n second_o as_o they_o be_v member_n of_o some_o particular_a church_n by_o toleration_n in_o the_o first_o regard_n it_o be_v lawful_a for_o we_o to_o converse_v with_o they_o i._o for_o outward_a deal_n and_o civil_a affair_n as_o bargain_v buy_v and_o sell_v etc._n etc._n ii_o we_o may_v maintain_v outward_a civil_a peace_n with_o they_o so_o paul_n command_v the_o roman_n 12.18_o to_o have_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n so_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lay_v that_o be_v so_o far_o as_o it_o will_v stand_v with_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n iii_o in_o this_o civil_a converse_v with_o the_o wicked_a we_o must_v perform_v all_o duty_n of_o outward_a courtesy_n and_o love_n unto_o they_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o do_v not_o dishonour_n god_n or_o hinder_v the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o paul_n command_v we_o to_o be_v 3.2_o soft_a and_o courteous_a show_v all_o meekness_n unto_o all_o man_n even_o to_o evil_a man_n as_o the_o reason_n follow_v show_v 3._o for_o we_o ourselves_o be_v in_o time_n past_o unwise_a disobedient_a deceive_v etc._n etc._n and_o then_o be_v we_o evil_a second_o consider_v they_o as_o dweller_n in_o the_o church_n and_o member_n by_o permission_n and_o so_o we_o may_v live_v with_o they_o in_o it_o for_o we_o may_v not_o make_v a_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n because_o wicked_a man_n be_v permit_v therein_o christ_n live_v among_o the_o
jew_n though_o their_o teacher_n and_o ruler_n be_v both_o heretic_n and_o hypocrite_n and_o yet_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o live_v among_o they_o and_o behold_v their_o wicked_a conversation_n we_o must_v not_o approve_v of_o their_o ungodliness_n but_o be_v grieve_v for_o the_o same_o as_o righteous_a lot_n be_v for_o the_o abomination_n of_o sodom_n 2._o pet._n 2.7_o further_n if_o it_o fall_v out_o by_o the_o negligence_n of_o the_o governor_n that_o evil_a man_n be_v admit_v to_o the_o sacrament_n we_o must_v not_o for_o their_o company_n refuse_v to_o communicate_v for_o our_o saviour_n christ_n live_v among_o the_o jew_n communicate_v with_o they_o in_o their_o sacrament_n and_o service_n of_o the_o temple_n though_o many_o of_o they_o be_v notorious_a both_o for_o wicked_a life_n and_o false_a doctrine_n the_o reason_n be_v for_o that_o another_o man_n evil_a conscience_n do_v not_o defile_v our_o good_a conscience_n but_o we_o may_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o that_o action_n wherein_o the_o wicked_a be_v defile_v now_o though_o we_o may_v thus_o converse_v with_o evil_a man_n yet_o these_o two_o caveat_n must_v be_v observe_v i._o to_o have_v no_o private_a company_n with_o know_v and_o open_a evil_a person_n this_o paul_n express_o forbid_v say_v i_o have_v write_v unto_o you_o 1â—_n that_o you_o company_n not_o together_o that_o be_v in_o private_a and_o familiar_a manner_n ii_o we_o must_v not_o show_v special_a familiaritâ—â—_n to_o evil_a person_n god_n will_v not_o take_v the_o wicked_a by_o the_o hand_n job._n 8.20_o and_o we_o shall_v be_v follower_n of_o god_n therefore_o s._n john_n say_v if_o any_o man_n come_v unto_o you_o and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o house_n neither_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n 2._o john_n 9_o which_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o special_a familiarity_n for_o thereby_o we_o do_v not_o only_o perform_v outward_a duty_n to_o the_o person_n but_o also_o give_v countenance_n to_o their_o sin_n which_o in_o any_o case_n we_o must_v not_o do_v and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o to_o converse_v with_o evil_a man_n hereby_o all_o those_o be_v just_o blame_v which_o fit_a themselves_o for_o the_o humour_n and_o disposition_n of_o all_o company_n use_n this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v if_o any_o be_v know_v to_o be_v open_o wicked_a either_o for_o life_n or_o opinion_n we_o must_v not_o keep_v private_a company_n with_o they_o or_o afford_v they_o our_o special_a familiarity_n but_o by_o withdraw_v ourselves_o from_o they_o case_v we_o of_o such_o burden_n our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v commend_v this_o church_n for_o her_o severity_n against_o the_o wicked_a in_o that_o she_o can_v not_o endure_v they_o do_v prove_v the_o same_o to_o be_v true_a by_o two_o argument_n the_o first_o whereof_o be_v contain_v in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o verse_n the_o second_o in_o the_o six_o verse_n for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v take_v from_o the_o sharp_a and_o round_o deal_n of_o this_o church_n against_o evil_a man_n and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n first_o her_o discovery_n of_o false_a apostle_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n second_o her_o oppose_a herself_o against_o they_o be_v discover_v in_o the_o three_o verse_n thou_o have_v suffer_v and_o have_v patience_n etc._n etc._n in_o their_o discovery_n of_o these_o false_a apostle_n note_v two_o special_a point_n first_o that_o god_n have_v give_v to_o particular_a church_n the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v this_o appear_v by_o sundry_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n 1._o cor._n 2.15_o the_o spiritual_a man_n that_o be_v be_v which_o be_v endue_v with_o god_n holy_a spirit_n discern_v all_o thing_n and_o paul_n 11.29_o assume_v that_o the_o faithful_a corinthian_n do_v discern_v the_o lord_n body_n that_o be_v see_v and_o put_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o bread_n and_o wine_n in_o that_o sacrament_n and_o other_o common_a bread_n &_o wine_n which_o none_o that_o want_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n can_v do_v again_o he_o bid_v they_o 13.5_o prove_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o they_o have_v a_o gift_n of_o discern_v whereby_o they_o do_v know_v their_o own_o estate_n whether_o they_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n or_o under_o grace_n and_o s._n john_n bid_v the_o church_n to_o 4.1_o try_v the_o spirit_n that_o be_v those_o doctrine_n which_o man_n pretend_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v teach_v and_o in_o this_o place_n this_o church_n discover_v of_o false_a apostle_n declare_v plain_o that_o she_o have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v who_o be_v send_v of_o god_n to_o teach_v his_o church_n and_o who_o not_o and_o hence_o the_o godly_a learned_a in_o the_o church_n be_v say_v to_o have_v their_o sense_n exercise_v to_o discern_v both_o good_a and_o evil_a heb._n 5.14_o and_o in_o this_o regard_n the_o church_n of_o god_n differ_v from_o all_o other_o company_n of_o man_n for_o unless_o man_n be_v of_o god_n church_n they_o want_v this_o gift_n of_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n that_o differ_v as_o true_a apostle_n and_o false_a good_a and_o bad_a truth_n and_o falsehood_n etc._n etc._n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v which_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o which_o be_v not_o use_n for_o the_o church_n can_v discern_v whether_o a_o man_n be_v a_o true_a apostle_n or_o not_o and_o by_o the_o same_o gift_n it_o may_v discern_v the_o state_n of_o any_o particular_a church_n whence_o also_o it_o follow_v that_o we_o may_v easy_o see_v whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a church_n or_o not_o it_o please_v some_o to_o call_v it_o into_o question_n as_o it_o now_o stand_v and_o they_o avouch_v that_o it_o be_v no_o church_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v no_o true_a minister_n no_o true_a preach_n or_o right_a administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n in_o it_o and_o that_o these_o thing_n with_o we_o be_v illusion_n of_o satan_n and_o our_o church_n his_o synagogue_n but_o that_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v thus_o prove_v the_o church_n of_o germany_n france_n scotland_n and_o italy_n that_o have_v receive_v the_o gospel_n be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o they_o have_v the_o gift_n of_o discern_v which_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n and_o which_o be_v not_o now_o they_o give_v the_o right_a hand_n of_o fellowship_n unto_o we_o and_o reverence_v our_o church_n as_o the_o church_n of_o god_n to_o who_o testimony_n we_o must_v rather_o cleave_v than_o to_o the_o opinion_n of_o a_o few_o private_a man_n and_o so_o resolve_v ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v scripture_n from_o that_o which_o be_v no_o scripture_n the_o papist_n say_v the_o church_n indeed_o have_v this_o gift_n but_o it_o be_v by_o counsel_n and_o commission_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o be_v a_o mere_a forgery_n for_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n which_o can_v discern_v of_o false_a apostle_n can_v no_o doubt_n by_o the_o same_o gift_n discern_v of_o the_o bookeâ—_n of_o god_n and_o that_o without_o counsel_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o at_o this_o time_n when_o john_n write_v it_o be_v a_o more_o famous_a church_n than_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o therefore_o go_v not_o thither_o for_o counsel_n ii_o point_n in_o what_o thing_n this_o discern_a of_o false_a apostle_n do_v consist_v it_o be_v a_o judicial_a action_n of_o the_o church_n consist_v in_o two_o thing_n here_o note_v first_o in_o examination_n of_o false_a doctrine_n and_o false_a teacher_n second_o in_o condemnation_n afterward_o the_o examination_n of_o they_o be_v set_v down_o in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o that_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o their_o condemn_a or_o sentence_n give_v in_o the_o word_n follow_v and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n for_o the_o first_o examination_n be_v a_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o his_o church_n and_o be_v here_o use_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o false_a apostle_n que._n how_o may_v any_o church_n try_v a_o false_a teacher_n answ._n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o large_a discourse_n but_o the_o head_n of_o true_a examination_n be_v these_o first_o that_o church_n or_o that_o man_n that_o will_v right_o examine_v a_o false_a teacher_n must_v prepare_v himself_o thereunto_o after_o this_o manner_n he_o must_v look_v that_o he_o have_v a_o meek_a spirit_n and_o a_o humble_a heart_n for_o god_n
his_o love_n into_o their_o heart_n whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o suffer_v any_o thing_n for_o his_o name_n even_o with_o joy_n and_o have_v patience_n this_o be_v the_o first_o mean_n whereby_o this_o church_n oppose_v herself_o against_o the_o false_a apostle_n they_o trouble_v she_o two_o way_n by_o persecution_n and_o by_o false_a doctrine_n now_o by_o patience_n this_o church_n oppose_v herself_o against_o their_o persecution_n and_o indeed_o that_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a mean_n for_o any_o man_n or_o any_o church_n to_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o their_o enemy_n and_o to_o vanquish_v they_o for_o hereby_o they_o shall_v stop_v their_o mouth_n and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a win_v they_o to_o their_o faith_n and_o religion_n in_o this_o their_o practice_n we_o have_v a_o example_n for_o our_o direction_n use_n how_o to_o oppose_v ourselves_o against_o wicked_a man_n with_o who_o we_o live_v or_o any_o enemy_n that_o shall_v trouble_v we_o either_o by_o oppression_n or_o heretical_a doctrine_n we_o must_v not_o render_v taunt_n for_o taunt_v and_o abuse_v for_o abuse_v but_o labour_n for_o patience_n not_o in_o bear_v with_o their_o sin_n that_o may_v not_o be_v but_o in_o a_o meek_a endure_v of_o their_o injury_n and_o wrong_n whereby_o they_o trouble_v us._n thus_o shall_v we_o stop_v their_o mouth_n and_o soon_o overcome_v they_o and_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n have_v labour_v here_o christ_n set_v down_o the_o second_o mean_n whereby_o this_o church_n oppose_v herself_o against_o the_o spread_a of_o false_a doctrine_n by_o these_o false_a apostle_n which_o be_v the_o second_o way_n whereby_o they_o become_v a_o burden_n unto_o she_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n be_v this_o that_o they_o have_v take_v much_o pain_n to_o maintain_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n jesus_n labour_v therein_o as_o much_o as_o the_o false_a apostle_n do_v to_o broach_v their_o damnable_a heresy_n here_o we_o be_v teach_v a_o second_o duty_n how_o we_o be_v to_o oppose_v ourselves_o against_o all_o heretical_a and_o scismaticall_a teacher_n namely_o as_o they_o labour_v to_o publish_v their_o false_a doctrine_n so_o must_v we_o endeavour_n to_o maintain_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o his_o true_a religion_n hereunto_o a_o twofold_a labour_n be_v require_v partly_o of_o the_o minister_n and_o partly_o of_o the_o people_n the_o labour_n of_o the_o minister_n stand_v in_o these_o thing_n principal_o i._o he_o must_v endeavour_n by_o read_v and_o study_n to_o furnish_v himself_o with_o the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o the_o foundation_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o gospel_n &_o true_a religion_n that_o he_o may_v be_v able_a sound_o and_o plain_o to_o teach_v the_o same_o for_o this_o cause_n s._n john_n be_v command_v to_o eat_v the_o little_a book_n re._n 10.9_o 10_o which_o be_v as_o it_o be_v by_o study_n and_o meditation_n to_o have_v the_o same_o digest_v and_o settle_v in_o his_o heart_n hence_o malachi_n say_v 2.7_o the_o priest_n lip_n shall_v preserve_v wisdom_n and_o thither_o shall_v the_o people_n come_v for_o instruction_n and_o every_o scribe_n teach_v of_o god_n must_v have_v store_n in_o the_o treasury_n of_o his_o harâ—_n like_o a_o good_a householder_n matth._n 〈…〉_z he_o must_v deliver_v the_o whole_a will_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n concern_v salvation_n true_o and_o distinct_o unto_o his_o people_n as_o it_o be_v propound_v in_o the_o bookeâ—_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n this_o paul_n commend_v by_o his_o own_o example_n act._n 20.27_o testify_v unto_o this_o church_n that_o he_o have_v teach_v they_o all_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o keep_v backâ—_n nothing_o which_o he_o be_v command_v to_o deliver_v unto_o they_o iii_o he_o must_v labour_v to_o discern_v and_o be_v able_a to_o discover_v false_a teacher_n unto_o the_o people_n that_o he_o may_v not_o only_o know_v they_o himself_o but_o also_o cause_v the_o church_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o they_o tit._n 19_o paul_n require_v that_o the_o teacher_n in_o the_o church_n be_v able_a to_o convince_v the_o gainsayer_n to_o his_o truth_n in_o this_o discovery_n he_o must_v do_v two_o thing_n first_o detect_v their_o heretical_a doctrine_n second_o their_o wicked_a manner_n thus_o deal_v our_o saviour_n christ_n in_o his_o own_o person_n live_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n with_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n he_o do_v detect_v unto_o the_o people_n their_o false_a interpretation_n of_o the_o law_n mat._n 5.21_o to_o the_o end_n and_o also_o their_o wicked_a life_n and_o damnable_a hypocrisy_n mat._n 23.3_o 4._o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n and_o saint_n paul_n in_o all_o his_o epistle_n labour_v to_o discover_v the_o wicked_a life_n and_o to_o confute_v the_o heretical_a opinion_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n iv._o he_o must_v endeavour_n that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n thus_o publish_v may_v edify_v this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o teach_n as_o paul_n show_v 1._o cor._n 14._o throughout_o the_o whole_a chapter_n now_o it_o do_v edify_v when_o it_o be_v so_o apply_v to_o the_o hearer_n that_o thereby_o they_o be_v win_v to_o christ_n suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v reform_v by_o it_o in_o heart_n and_o life_n &_o so_o make_v fit_a for_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n v._o he_o must_v be_v careful_a in_o his_o own_o person_n to_o become_v a_o pattern_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o he_o teach_v that_o so_o the_o people_n may_v have_v a_o double_a light_n to_o follow_v this_o be_v a_o notable_a mean_n in_o the_o minister_n to_o make_v man_n love_v the_o gospel_n and_o the_o neglect_n hereof_o cause_v many_o to_o contemn_v and_o despise_v the_o same_o vi_o last_o he_o must_v be_v diligent_a in_o pray_v for_o his_o own_o and_o other_o particular_a church_n of_o god_n that_o they_o may_v know_v believe_v and_o obey_v the_o same_o doctrine_n which_o be_v teach_v they_o out_o of_o god_n word_n thus_o do_v paul_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o his_o particular_a epistle_n pray_v for_o every_o church_n that_o by_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o may_v embrace_v and_o obey_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n phil._n 1.4.9_o 10._o col._n 1.9_o 10_o 11._o the_o people_n also_o for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o religion_n must_v undergo_v a_o threefold_a labour_n i._o every_o one_o must_v see_v that_o himself_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o true_a and_o sincere_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o christ_n injoin_v to_o all_o in_o this_o commandment_n repent_v and_o believe_v which_o none_o can_v do_v unless_o they_o first_o know_v and_o understand_v the_o doctrine_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o every_o one_o must_v do_v as_o mary_n do_v for_o which_o christ_n so_o commend_v she_o namely_o lay_v aside_o matter_n of_o lesser_a moment_n &_o give_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v and_o learn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n luke_n 10.39.42_o ii_o every_o one_o must_v use_v all_o good_a mean_n that_o knowledge_n of_o religion_n which_o himself_o have_v receive_v be_v convey_v to_o other_o and_o indeed_o if_o we_o true_o believe_v we_o can_v contain_v ourselves_o but_o must_v needs_o teach_v other_o for_o as_o christ_n say_v he_o 7.38_o that_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n of_o life_n out_o of_o his_o belly_n shall_v flow_v river_n of_o water_n of_o life_n stream_v out_o for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o que._n how_o shall_v private_a man_n convey_v their_o knowledge_n unto_o other_o answ._n i._n all_o master_n and_o governor_n of_o family_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o teach_v those_o that_o be_v under_o they_o the_o main_a point_n and_o ground_n of_o true_a religion_n his_o place_n require_v gift_n and_o god_n look_v for_o increase_v for_o every_o christian_n family_n shall_v be_v a_o little_a church_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o house_n of_o aquila_n and_o priscilla_n 1._o corinth_n 16.19_o two_o every_o man_n in_o his_o place_n must_v labour_v to_o convey_v that_o knowledge_n he_o have_v unto_o his_o neighbour_n yea_o to_o his_o enemy_n the_o jew_n 23.15_o will_v compass_v sea_n and_o land_n to_o make_v a_o man_n a_o prosylite_n and_o idolater_n at_o this_o day_n will_v travel_v far_o and_o near_o to_o make_v a_o man_n of_o their_o profession_n much_o more_o therefore_o must_v all_o true_a christian_n labour_v to_o convey_v their_o knowledge_n to_o other_o so_o to_o win_v they_o unto_o christ._n iii_o every_o man_n be_v to_o edify_v those_o that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n in_o these_o three_o thing_n faith_n hope_n and_o love_n as_o jude_n notable_o exhort_v in_o the_o end_n of_o his_o epistle_n edify_v one_o another_o in_o your_o most_o holy_a faith_n verse_n 20._o have_v compassion_n of_o some_o in_o put_v difference_n and_o other_o save_v with_o fear_n in_o pull_v they_o out_o of_o the_o fire_n
ver_fw-la 22.23_o iv._o every_o private_a man_n must_v profess_v and_o defend_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o christ_n against_o all_o the_o enemy_n thereof_o 1._o pet._n 3.15_o be_v ready_a always_o to_o give_v a_o answer_n to_o every_o man_n that_o ask_v you_o a_o reason_n of_o the_o hope_n that_o be_v in_o you_o and_o this_o confession_n must_v be_v not_o only_o in_o word_n but_o in_o deed_n for_o by_o a_o blameless_a and_o holy_a conversation_n every_o christian_n hold_v forth_o the_o word_n of_o life_n phil._n 2_o 15_o 16._o see_v the_o maintenance_n of_o true_a religion_n be_v so_o excellent_a a_o work_n use_n we_o must_v be_v admonish_v every_o one_o in_o our_o place_n to_o take_v pain_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n that_o belong_v unto_o we_o that_o by_o we_o christâ—_n religion_n may_v be_v further_v for_o god_n church_n be_v not_o call_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n only_o because_o the_o minister_n thereof_o maintain_v god_n truth_n but_o also_o because_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v as_o a_o pillar_n in_o his_o place_n to_o maintain_v and_o profess_v the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n for_o his_o glory_n beside_o this_o be_v a_o duty_n of_o the_o first_o table_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v have_v more_o special_a care_n for_o the_o performance_n thereof_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v the_o two_o mean_n whereby_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n oppose_v herself_o against_o false_a teacher_n and_o have_v not_o faint_v here_o christ_n set_v down_o in_o what_o manner_n this_o church_n labour_v to_o maintain_v his_o true_a religion_n and_o thereby_o his_o honour_n and_o glory_n namely_o by_o constancy_n and_o perseverance_n in_o labour_n this_o be_v a_o excellent_a virtue_n and_o a_o notable_a example_n for_o we_o to_o follow_v for_o we_o through_o god_n goodness_n have_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o christ_n among_o we_o and_o for_o many_o year_n sundry_a among_o we_o have_v maintain_v the_o same_o against_o all_o enemy_n though_o not_o without_o some_o trouble_n and_o danger_n now_o this_o which_o have_v be_v do_v be_v nothing_o unless_o we_o hold_v on_o our_o good_a course_n constant_o and_o labour_n unto_o death_n in_o the_o maintenance_n thereof_o this_o exhortation_n be_v the_o more_o necessary_a because_o we_o know_v not_o how_o long_o we_o shall_v enjoy_v the_o gospel_n with_o peace_n for_o usual_o after_o long_a peace_n god_n try_v he_o by_o persecution_n neither_o know_v we_o by_o what_o mean_v of_o trial_n god_n will_v exercise_v us._n therefore_o as_o we_o now_o profess_v the_o gospel_n so_o let_v we_o continue_v constant_a therein_o and_o not_o turn_v with_o time_n or_o state_n for_o than_o we_o lose_v our_o commendation_n at_o christ_n hand_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n for_o her_o virtue_n verse_n 4._o nevertheless_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v leave_v thy_o first_o love_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o proposition_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n a_o sharp_a and_o severe_a reproof_n of_o this_o church_n for_o decay_n in_o grace_n as_o will_v appear_v in_o the_o open_n of_o the_o word_n nevertheless_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o here_o christ_n speak_v as_o a_o judge_n unto_o this_o church_n and_o to_o the_o minister_n thereof_o and_o lay_v this_o action_n unto_o their_o charge_n that_o they_o have_v leave_v their_o first_o love_n that_o be_v that_o love_n which_o they_o bear_v to_o god_n and_o his_o religion_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n at_o that_o time_n when_o they_o be_v first_o call_v unto_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o love_n they_o be_v say_v to_o have_v leave_v not_o as_o though_o they_o have_v quite_o lose_v it_o but_o only_o because_o they_o suffer_v it_o to_o decay_v and_o to_o wax_v cold_a in_o good_a work_n but_o some_o will_v say_v they_o be_v before_o commend_v for_o their_o zeal_n and_o labour_n for_o god_n glory_n and_o for_o their_o severity_n against_o false_a teacher_n how_o then_o have_v they_o leave_v their_o first_o love_n answ._n at_o this_o time_n when_o christ_n do_v thus_o reprove_v they_o their_o love_n be_v commendable_a but_o yet_o it_o be_v nothing_o in_o regard_n of_o that_o which_o they_o have_v at_o their_o first_o conversion_n if_o christ_n have_v something_o against_o this_o church_n for_o leave_v her_o first_o love_n use_n then_o no_o doubt_n he_o have_v something_o against_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o against_o we_o at_o this_o day_n howsoever_o we_o may_v persuade_v ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v high_a in_o his_o favour_n yet_o we_o be_v in_o the_o like_a or_o a_o worse_a estate_n than_o this_o church_n now_o be_v for_o a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o body_n of_o our_o church_n have_v leave_v off_o their_o first_o love_n and_o the_o great_a part_n have_v no_o love_n at_o all_o that_o many_o have_v leave_v their_o first_o love_n be_v too_o too_o evident_a for_o such_o as_o in_o queen_n mary_n time_n be_v content_a to_o suffer_v much_o for_o the_o gospel_n as_o the_o history_n of_o our_o church_n do_v show_v after_o they_o enjoy_v a_o little_a quietness_n become_v mere_a worldling_n as_o their_o life_n have_v testify_v afterward_o and_o in_o such_o congregation_n where_o the_o word_n have_v long_o be_v preach_v this_o be_v too_o apparent_a that_o man_n who_o for_o the_o space_n of_o twenty_o of_o ten_o or_o seven_o year_n have_v show_v fervent_a love_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n do_v now_o fall_v away_o and_o show_v none_o at_o all_o he_o that_o have_v but_o half_a a_o eye_n may_v see_v many_o for_o a_o year_n or_o two_o very_o forward_o and_o zealous_a in_o religion_n who_o soon_o after_o suffer_v pleasure_n profit_n or_o preferment_n to_o draw_v they_o quite_o away_o some_o i_o confess_v through_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n be_v free_a from_o this_o decay_n but_o there_o be_v yet_o a_o more_o grievous_a fault_n among_o we_o for_o the_o great_a part_n of_o our_o people_n have_v no_o love_n at_o all_o these_o be_v the_o day_n whereof_o christ_n say_v 24.12.22_o love_n shall_v wax_v cold_a and_o whereof_o paul_n say_v man_n shall_v be_v 3.2_o lover_n of_o themselves_o for_o take_v the_o most_o congregation_n where_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v long_o preach_v yet_o you_o shall_v find_v that_o the_o hearer_n be_v neither_o better_v for_o knowledge_n nor_o for_o obedience_n but_o remain_v still_o as_o ignorant_a and_o profane_a as_o ever_o they_o be_v this_o argue_v that_o they_o have_v no_o love_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n though_o they_o have_v a_o formal_a profession_n of_o his_o name_n in_o their_o mouth_n for_o where_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v there_o most_o needs_o be_v increase_n in_o knowledge_n in_o grace_n and_o in_o obedience_n again_o see_v how_o man_n general_o walk_v in_o their_o calling_n and_o therein_o behold_v a_o mere_a defect_n of_o love_n all_o the_o pain_n they_o take_v be_v for_o their_o private_a gain_n and_o pleasure_n no_o regard_n be_v have_v of_o god_n glory_n of_o the_o maintenance_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o of_o the_o good_a of_o their_o brethren_n herein_o their_o own_o conscience_n shall_v be_v the_o witness_n so_o that_o general_o this_o may_v be_v say_v we_o have_v no_o love_n at_o all_o what_o a_o action_n than_o shall_v we_o think_v have_v christ_n against_o we_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v grievous_a and_o so_o our_o case_n fearful_a and_o dangerous_a if_o a_o earthly_a prince_n and_o potentat_fw-la have_v a_o action_n against_o we_o and_o his_o case_n be_v good_a it_o will_v make_v we_o look_v about_o we_o yea_o to_o tremble_v and_o quake_v and_o to_o be_v at_o our_o wit_n end_n behold_v not_o a_o worldly_a prince_n but_o the_o king_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n have_v a_o matter_n against_o we_o just_a and_o grievoâ—â—â—_o oh_o how_o shall_v this_o move_v we_o to_o search_v ourselves_o to_o try_v our_o estate_n and_o to_o humble_v ourselves_o upon_o the_o knee_n of_o our_o heart_n before_o his_o majesty_n we_o may_v not_o imagine_v that_o this_o charge_n of_o christ_n do_v not_o concern_v we_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n show_v it_o belong_v to_o all_o that_o have_v ear_n to_o hear_v and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v labour_v to_o prevent_v god_n judgement_n by_o judge_v ourselves_o for_o our_o decay_n and_o want_v of_o love_n again_o this_o rebuke_n of_o christ_n for_o decay_n of_o love_n shall_v teach_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o increase_v in_o love_n to_o god_n and_o to_o our_o brethren_n add_v grace_n to_o grace_n in_o our_o heart_n as_o we_o add_v day_n unto_o day_n in_o our_o life_n that_o so_o our_o love_n may_v obound_v read_v 1._o thes._n 4.1.9_o 10_o where_o paul_n urge_v this_o duty_n at_o large_a he_o confess_v they_o do_v love_v one_o
another_o and_o yet_o beseech_v they_o to_o increase_v therein_o phil._n 3.13.4_o in_o paul_n person_n we_o have_v a_o worthy_a precedent_n which_o we_o must_v follow_v if_o we_o think_v to_o come_v whither_o he_o be_v go_v before_o though_o he_o have_v go_v far_o in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n yet_o he_o labour_v to_o perfection_n and_o therefore_o consider_v not_o that_o which_o be_v past_a as_o rest_v in_o it_o but_o rather_o how_o far_o he_o be_v too_o short_a that_o so_o he_o may_v use_v mean_n to_o increase_v in_o love_n and_o in_o all_o other_o good_a grace_n till_o he_o come_v to_o perfection_n a_o christian_n man_v life_n be_v a_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o heaven_n wherein_o we_o once_o set_v foot_n must_v â—uer_o go_v forward_o and_o not_o stand_v still_o or_o turn_v back_o lest_o we_o never_o come_v there_o the_o state_n of_o a_o christian_n be_v like_a unto_o a_o child_n which_o still_o grow_v till_o it_o come_v to_o a_o perfect_a strength_n and_o so_o must_v every_o child_n of_o god_n labour_n to_o grow_v in_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n till_o they_o be_v perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n for_o if_o they_o stand_v still_o christ_n have_v something_o against_o they_o the_o rhemist_n in_o their_o annotation_n abuse_v this_o place_n to_o prove_v that_o a_o man_n may_v quite_o fall_v away_o from_o grace_n therefore_o to_o clear_v this_o text_n and_o to_o confirm_v our_o heart_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n thiâ—_n question_n must_v be_v scan_v whether_o a_o man_n may_v quite_o fall_v away_o from_o grace_n answ._n grace_n in_o scripture_n be_v take_v two_o way_n first_o for_o that_o favour_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o accept_v of_o some_o for_o his_o child_n in_o christ._n this_o be_v the_o first_o grace_n and_o the_o fountain_n of_o all_o other_o and_o take_v grace_n in_o this_o sense_n i_o say_v that_o the_o sign_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o sense_n thereof_o in_o the_o heart_n may_v be_v lose_v but_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n itself_o can_v be_v lose_v of_o they_o that_o true_o believe_v when_o a_o earthly_a father_n be_v displease_v with_o his_o child_n for_o some_o notorious_a crime_n he_o will_v turn_v the_o sign_n of_o his_o favour_n into_o sign_n of_o displeasure_n and_o show_v the_o same_o partly_o by_o word_n and_o partly_o by_o stripe_n and_o yet_o he_o still_o continue_v his_o father_n and_o hold_v he_o for_o his_o son_n without_o any_o purpose_n to_o disinherit_v he_o even_o so_o god_n deal_v with_o his_o child_n for_o their_o sin_n and_o corruption_n he_o will_v turn_v away_o his_o love_a countenance_n from_o they_o and_o change_v the_o sign_n of_o his_o favour_n into_o anger_n and_o displeasure_n when_o as_o yet_o the_o good_a purpose_n of_o their_o adoption_n be_v not_o alter_v but_o remain_v firm_a for_o ever_o and_o god_n be_v still_o their_o father_n though_o a_o angry_a father_n through_o the_o provocation_n of_o their_o sin_n second_o grace_n in_o scripture_n be_v take_v for_o the_o gift_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v bestow_v on_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o christ._n these_o gift_n of_o grace_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n some_o more_o principal_a of_o absolute_a necessity_n unto_o salvation_n without_o which_o none_o can_v be_v save_v as_o faith_n and_o also_o hope_v and_o love_n which_o proceed_v from_o faith_n there_o be_v other_o also_o less_o principal_a which_o be_v very_o profitable_a and_o requisite_a yet_o not_o absolute_o needful_a unto_o salvation_n as_o the_o feel_n of_o god_n favour_n alacrity_n in_o prayer_n &_o sense_n of_o joy_n and_o comfort_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n these_o less_o principal_a grace_n may_v quite_o be_v lose_v the_o principal_a grace_n also_o may_v be_v decay_v lessen_v and_o cover_v in_o regard_n of_o operation_n even_o in_o god_n child_n but_o quite_o extinguish_v they_o can_v be_v for_o god_n uphold_v they_o by_o perseverance_n where_o faith_n hope_n &_o love_n be_v once_o true_o wrought_v by_o god_n spirit_n they_o be_v never_o whole_o or_o final_o take_v away_o but_o only_o in_o part_n and_o in_o sense_n and_o feel_n for_o a_o time_n this_o answer_n be_v agreeable_a to_o this_o text_n for_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v here_o blame_v not_o for_o quite_o lose_v her_o loveâ—_n but_o because_o she_o have_v leave_v she_o first_o love_n suffer_v it_o to_o decay_v and_o waxelesse_a than_o it_o be_v at_o their_o first_o conversion_n and_o because_o this_o doctrine_n be_v oppugn_v earnest_o not_o only_o by_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n but_o also_o by_o some_o church_n and_o school_n of_o the_o protestant_n i_o will_v first_o show_v the_o truth_n hereof_o out_o of_o god_n word_n and_o then_o scan_v the_o chief_a reason_n that_o be_v bring_v against_o it_o that_o grace_n can_v be_v whole_o and_o final_o lose_v these_o reason_n prove_v i._o matth._n 16.18_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o peter_n and_o in_o he_o to_o all_o the_o faithful_a that_o upon_o that_o faith_n which_o he_o profess_v christ_n will_v build_v his_o temple_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o which_o last_o word_n must_v be_v mark_v for_o they_o intimate_v that_o the_o devil_n with_o his_o adherent_n will_v show_v much_o force_n and_o violence_n against_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o elect_a but_o yet_o they_o shall_v never_o get_v the_o victory_n or_o overcome_v it_o whole_o ii_o matth._n 24.24_o christ_n foretell_v that_o false_a prophet_n shall_v come_v say_v they_o shall_v seduce_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a the_o very_a elect_a where_o he_o take_v this_o for_o grant_v that_o the_o elect_v albeit_o they_o may_v be_v assault_v grievous_o yet_o they_o can_v never_o be_v whole_o or_o final_o draw_v away_o from_o their_o faith_n iii_o john_n 10.27_o 28_o my_o sheep_n hear_v my_o voice_n say_v christ_n and_o i_o know_v they_o and_o they_o follow_v i_o and_o i_o give_v unto_o they_o eternal_a life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o perish_v to_o this_o they_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a they_o shall_v never_o perish_v so_o long_o as_o they_o remain_v the_o sheep_n of_o christ._n but_o that_o cavil_n be_v cut_v off_o in_o the_o next_o word_n neither_o shall_v any_o pluck_v they_o out_o of_o my_o hand_n my_o father_n which_o give_v they_o i_o be_v great_a than_o all_o and_o none_o be_v able_a to_o pluck_v they_o out_o of_o my_o father_n hand_n and_o therefore_o neither_o the_o devil_n nor_o the_o world_n nor_o the_o flesh_n can_v by_o any_o temptation_n draw_v the_o sheep_n of_o christ_n from_o their_o faith_n and_o make_v they_o to_o be_v no_o sheep_n iv._o reason_n john_n 3.36_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n have_v eternal_a life_n they_o say_v he_o have_v it_o in_o hope_n and_o no_o otherwise_o i_o answer_v if_o they_o have_v it_o in_o hope_n they_o shall_v never_o perish_v 5.5_o for_o hope_n make_v not_o ashamed_a v._o reason_n rom._n 8.30_o who_o he_o predestinat_a they_o also_o he_o call_v and_o who_o he_o call_v they_o also_o be_v justify_v and_o who_o he_o justify_v they_o also_o be_v glorify_v those_o which_o be_v elect_v call_v and_o justify_v by_o faith_n must_v needs_o be_v glorify_v and_o therefore_o can_v fall_v away_o final_o for_o such_o shall_v never_o be_v glorify_v and_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n vers_fw-la 38._o he_o add_v that_o neither_o death_n nor_o life_n angel_n principality_n nor_o power_n nor_o any_o thing_n else_o can_v separate_v we_o viz._n the_o faithful_a from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n but_o if_o the_o faithful_a may_v fall_v away_o final_o than_o they_o may_v be_v sever_v from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n vi_o reason_n rom._n 11.29_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n call_v that_o be_v the_o peculiar_a gift_n that_o pertain_v to_o salvation_n be_v without_o repentance_n they_o say_v it_o be_v true_a god_n indeed_o never_o repent_v he_o of_o his_o gift_n but_o yet_o a_o man_n may_v perish_v and_o fall_v away_o because_o he_o may_v refuse_v and_o reject_v god_n grace_n give_v unto_o he_o this_o answer_n be_v frivolous_a maintain_v this_o absurdity_n that_o the_o powerful_a will_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v bring_v under_o the_o silly_a will_n of_o the_o creature_n if_o man_n can_v repel_v god_n grace_n give_v unto_o he_o than_o shall_v man_n will_v take_v place_n and_o god_n will_v be_v make_v frustrate_a and_o void_a vii_o reason_n 1._o john_n 3.9_o whosoever_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n sin_v not_o because_o his_o seed_n remain_v in_o he_o neither_o can_v be_v sin_n because_o he_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n how_o be_v that_o true_a for_o chap._n 1.10_o he_o that_o say_v he_o have_v not_o sin_v make_v god_n a_o liar_n and_o his_o word_n be_v not_o in_o he_o answ._n the_o place_n must_v be_v understand_v thus_o he_o that_o be_v bear_v
that_o thence_o we_o may_v offer_v up_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n of_o praise_n and_o thanksgiving_n unto_o the_o lord_n second_o we_o must_v stir_v up_o the_o gift_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o we_o as_o paul_n say_v to_o timothy_n 2._o tim._n 1.6_o use_v a_o comparison_n from_o the_o fire_n which_o burn_v more_o bright_a and_o clear_a when_o it_o be_v stir_v up_o last_o we_o must_v exercise_v ourselves_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n as_o faith_n repentance_n love_n and_o such_o like_a &_o so_o shall_v they_o not_o decay_v and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o this_o church_n verse_n 5._o remember_v therefore_o whence_o thou_o be_v fall_v and_o repent_v and_o do_v thy_o first_o work_n or_o else_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o short_o and_o will_v remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n except_o thou_o amend_v our_o saviour_n christ_n the_o faithful_a physician_n of_o our_o soul_n have_v sharp_o rebuke_v this_o church_n do_v here_o prescribe_v unto_o they_o a_o sovereign_a remedy_n against_o their_o sin_n of_o decay_n in_o love_n fron_n whence_o we_o may_v learn_v that_o the_o law_n whereby_o sin_n be_v reprove_v be_v to_o be_v teach_v but_o yet_o with_o this_o qualification_n that_o withal_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v join_v thereunto_o that_o the_o sin_n which_o be_v rip_v up_o by_o the_o law_n may_v be_v cure_v by_o the_o gospel_n this_o be_v christ_n manner_n of_o preach_v in_o this_o place_n who_o practice_n be_v a_o most_o worthy_a platform_n for_o all_o his_o minister_n for_o we_o have_v no_o warrant_n at_o this_o day_n to_o preach_v the_o law_n bare_o which_o only_o make_v the_o wound_n without_o the_o gospel_n which_o alone_o show_v the_o remedy_n this_o remedy_n here_o prescribe_v be_v of_o special_a use_n and_o worthy_a our_o consideration_n general_o by_o it_o we_o have_v direction_n to_o answer_v to_o two_o necessary_a question_n of_o practice_n which_o often_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o life_n of_o man_n first_o a_o man_n be_v effectual_o call_v to_o profess_v the_o gospel_n and_o yet_o after_o his_o conversion_n either_o through_o the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n or_o by_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o world_n fall_v into_o sin_n again_o what_o must_v this_o man_n do_v for_o his_o recovery_n ans._n he_o must_v remember_v whence_o he_o be_v fall_v and_o repent_v of_o those_o his_o sin_n and_o do_v his_o first_o work_n the_o second_o question_n be_v this_o a_o man_n that_o have_v all_o his_o life_n long_o live_v in_o ignorance_n and_o sin_n be_v now_o touch_v in_o conscience_n for_o his_o loose_a life_n how_o shall_v this_o man_n escape_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n &_o become_v reconcile_v unto_o he_o ans._n he_o must_v first_o remember_v whence_o he_o be_v fall_v by_o adam_n sin_n and_o by_o his_o own_o transgression_n second_o he_o must_v repent_v of_o his_o sin_n three_o endeavour_n to_o do_v the_o first_o work_n whereto_o he_o be_v bind_v by_o the_o law_n of_o creation_n &_o so_o shall_v he_o escape_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n and_o be_v receive_v into_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n in_o particular_a this_o remedy_n have_v three_o part_n the_o first_o remember_v whence_o thou_o be_v fall_v the_o second_o and_o repent_v the_o three_o and_o do_v thy_o first_o work_n the_o word_n follow_v or_o else_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o etc._n etc._n be_v a_o reason_n of_o this_o remedy_n to_o persuade_v they_o to_o do_v the_o duty_n prescribe_v for_o the_o first_o remember_v whence_o thou_o be_v fall_v the_o word_n bear_v this_o sense_n examine_v thyself_o thorough_o &_o see_v in_o thyself_o the_o decay_n of_o thy_o former_a love_n and_o then_o ponder_v the_o same_o in_o thy_o heart_n serious_o and_o thorough_o here_o christ_n injoin_v to_o this_o church_n two_o duty_n i._o examination_n whereby_o she_o must_v descend_v into_o she_o own_o heart_n and_o search_v out_o her_o own_o want_n especial_o the_o want_n of_o her_o love_n to_o god_n to_o his_o word_n and_o to_o her_o brethren_n ii_o consideration_n whereby_o she_o must_v often_o think_v of_o these_o her_o want_n and_o lay_v the_o same_o to_o her_o heart_n unfeigned_o this_o course_n which_o christ_n take_v with_o this_o church_n teach_v we_o first_o that_o it_o be_v a_o dangerous_a thing_n for_o any_o person_n in_o god_n church_n not_o to_o be_v acquaint_v thorough_o with_o his_o own_o estate_n that_o so_o he_o may_v search_v out_o his_o own_o want_n and_o deep_o consider_v of_o the_o same_o for_o this_o very_a thing_n jeremie_n blame_v the_o people_n in_o his_o time_n that_o no_o man_n say_v with_o himself_o 8.6_o what_o have_v i_o do_v and_o christ_n lay_v this_o sin_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o people_n of_o the_o old_a world_n that_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o their_o estate_n 39_o they_o know_v nothing_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o â—â—oke_v they_o all_o away_o and_o this_o be_v the_o common_a sin_n of_o this_o age_n no_o man_n almost_o do_v examine_v himself_o &_o consider_v in_o his_o hart_n his_o own_o estate_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o want_n nay_o man_n be_v grow_v to_o this_o that_o they_o count_v it_o a_o mean_n to_o breed_v melancholy_n and_o therefore_o do_v â—lie_v the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o so_o nuzzell_v themselves_o in_o their_o fearful_a security_n second_o here_o we_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v a_o special_a duty_n for_o they_o that_o live_v in_o god_n church_n to_o be_v thorough_o acquaint_v with_o their_o own_o estate_n to_o examine_v and_o search_v out_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o often_o to_o consider_v serious_o of_o their_o particular_a want_n zephanie_n preach_v the_o doctrine_n of_o repentance_n unto_o the_o people_n 2.1_o begin_v thus_o search_v you_o search_v yourselves_o oh_o nation_n not_o worthy_a to_o be_v belove_v where_o the_o word_n translate_v search_n signify_v such_o a_o search_n as_o a_o man_n will_v make_v for_o some_o small_a thing_n in_o a_o great_a heap_n of_o chaff_n this_o be_v the_o lord_n counsel_n hag._n 1.7_o consider_v your_o own_o way_n in_o your_o heart_n and_o it_o must_v be_v our_o practice_n if_o we_o will_v be_v save_v this_o duty_n be_v the_o beginning_n and_o ground_n of_o true_a repentance_n and_o therefore_o christ_n here_o give_v it_o the_o first_o place_n for_o no_o man_n can_v true_o repent_v before_o he_o be_v acquaint_v with_o his_o own_o infirmity_n and_o with_o his_o own_o fearful_a and_o damnable_a estate_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o therefore_o david_n say_v 119.59_o i_o first_o consider_v my_o way_n and_o then_o i_o turn_v my_o foot_n into_o thy_o testimony_n the_o cause_n why_o so_o few_o in_o the_o world_n do_v true_o repent_v be_v want_n of_o consideration_n from_o whence_o they_o be_v fall_v and_o what_o be_v their_o sin_n and_o the_o dreadful_a judgement_n thereby_o deserve_v for_o till_o the_o mind_n do_v true_o conceive_v she_o own_o misery_n the_o hart_n can_v never_o right_o hunger_n after_o mercy_n sin_n must_v be_v our_o great_a woe_n before_o christ_n become_v our_o chief_a joy_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n be_v repentance_n iâ—_n self_n for_o after_o a_o man_n be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o his_o want_n and_o have_v thorough_o consider_v of_o his_o own_o misery_n than_o he_o come_v to_o repent_v in_o the_o handle_n hereof_o five_o point_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v i._o what_o repentanceis_n ii_o how_o it_o be_v to_o be_v practise_v iii_o who_o command_v it_o iv._o to_o who_o it_o be_v command_v v._o for_o what_o they_o must_v repent_v for_o the_o first_o repentance_n proper_o be_v in_o the_o mind_n as_o the_o word_n in_o this_o place_n do_v import_v for_o it_o signify_v thus_o much_o after_o some_o folly_n or_o overslip_v to_o be_v better_o advise_v repentance_n then_o in_o the_o mind_n be_v a_o change_n from_o evil_a to_o good_a or_o a_o turn_n from_o sin_n unto_o god_n act._n 26.20_o repent_v and_o turn_v to_o god_n which_o latter_a word_n expound_v the_o former_a &_o plain_o show_v what_o repentance_n be_v and_o this_o change_n in_o the_o mind_n stand_v in_o this_o resolution_n whereby_o a_o man_n by_o god_n grace_n purpose_v to_o leave_v all_o his_o former_a sin_n and_o to_o cleave_v unto_o god_n in_o holy_a obedience_n unto_o all_o his_o commandment_n and_o when_o this_o resolution_n be_v in_o the_o mind_n therewithal_o follow_v a_o turn_n of_o the_o whole_a man_n in_o will_n in_o affection_n and_o in_o all_o the_o action_n of_o his_o life_n this_o appear_v by_o that_o description_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o repentance_n which_o paul_n reduce_v to_o seven_o head_n viz._n care_n clear_v of_o themselves_o indignation_n fear_n great_a desire_n zeal_n and_o revenge_n 2._o cor._n 7.11_o whereof_o some_o be_v renew_v affection_n
he_o must_v begin_v to_o repent_v when_o he_o be_v receive_v to_o mercy_n he_o must_v renew_v that_o repentance_n for_o his_o daily_a offence_n if_o god_n therefore_o have_v give_v â—s_a grace_n to_o repent_v use_n we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o that_o good_a beginning_n but_o add_v more_o repentance_n daily_o unto_o it_o for_o no_o man_n live_v that_o have_v receive_v grace_n to_o repent_v but_o he_o see_v in_o himself_o continual_a cause_n of_o renew_v the_o same_o by_o reason_n of_o his_o daily_a sâ—ilâ—_n and_o want_n for_o every_o sin_n decay_v grace_n which_o must_v be_v repair_v by_o a_o new_a practice_n of_o repentance_n this_o duty_n must_v needs_o be_v practise_v it_o be_v the_o most_o dangerous_a case_n that_o can_v be_v for_o any_o man_n to_o lie_v in_o sin_n for_o sin_n make_v a_o man_n liable_a to_o all_o god_n judgement_n and_o it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o act_n of_o sin_n as_o the_o lie_v in_o sin_n that_o bring_v damnation_n for_o this_o cause_n paul_n 2._o corin._n 5.20_o speak_v to_o those_o that_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n do_v still_o most_o earnest_o beseech_v they_o to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o he_o say_v we_o beseech_v you_o in_o christ_n steed_n as_o though_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o through_o we_o that_o you_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n intend_v thereby_o to_o provoke_v they_o to_o the_o daily_a renew_n of_o their_o repentance_n that_o thereby_o they_o may_v get_v a_o more_o full_a assurance_n of_o their_o reconciliation_n v._o point_n for_o what_o must_v they_o repent_v namely_o for_o the_o decay_n of_o their_o love_n not_o for_o the_o want_n thereof_o but_o for_o that_o they_o suffer_v it_o to_o wax_v lesser_a both_o towards_o god_n and_o his_o word_n and_o towards_o their_o brethren_n the_o same_o thing_n be_v speak_v to_o we_o daily_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n that_o whereas_o our_o first_o love_n be_v go_v many_o have_v fall_v from_o it_o and_o more_o have_a none_o at_o all_o we_o will_v unfeigned_o repent_v of_o this_o our_o decay_n and_o want_v that_o if_o we_o have_v have_v love_n and_o now_o wax_v cold_a we_o may_v renew_v it_o and_o if_o we_o never_o have_v it_o we_o may_v labour_v for_o it_o that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v answerable_a to_o his_o bless_a desire_n and_o here_o observe_v that_o christ_n enjoin_v we_o a_o strait_a repentance_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o for_o man_n to_o repent_v they_o of_o gross_a sin_n as_o whoredom_n theft_n drunkenness_n and_o such_o like_a but_o they_o must_v repent_v they_o of_o their_o wantâ—_n of_o grace_n as_o of_o the_o knowledge_n and_o fear_v and_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o brotherly_a love_n and_o of_o decay_n in_o any_o grace_n be_v it_o never_o so_o little_a we_o have_v many_o iusticiaries_n in_o conceit_n that_o be_v pharisaical_o mind_v think_v too_o well_o of_o themselves_o that_o they_o need_v no_o repentance_n because_o they_o live_v civile_o and_o be_v not_o taint_v with_o gross_a sin_n but_o these_o consider_v little_a what_o god_n do_v here_o require_v even_o repentance_n for_o our_o secret_a want_n and_o decay_n and_o great_a reason_n it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o else_o to_o what_o end_n shall_v we_o examine_v ourselves_o of_o our_o secret_a want_n unless_o we_o shall_v repent_v we_o of_o they_o have_v find_v they_o in_o we_o again_o if_o this_o church_n must_v repent_v for_o her_o want_n then_o what_o great_a cause_n have_v we_o to_o repent_v in_o this_o last_o age_n of_o atheism_n a_o gross_a and_o common_a sin_n of_o outward_a pride_n in_o apparel_n a_o sin_n flat_a against_o god_n word_n and_o for_o contempt_n of_o the_o gospel_n a_o sin_n that_o enlarge_v itself_o more_o and_o more_o among_o us._n and_o for_o cruelty_n and_o want_v of_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n all_o which_o be_v rife_o in_o our_o church_n and_o may_v more_o easy_o remove_v the_o candlestick_n from_o we_o then_o want_v of_o love_n can_v remove_v the_o candlestick_n from_o this_o church_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n be_v to_o do_v their_o first_o work_n that_o be_v show_v the_o like_a zeal_n and_o fervency_n of_o love_n to_o god_n to_o his_o word_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n that_o they_o do_v at_o the_o first_o time_n of_o their_o conversion_n this_o duty_n christ_n add_v to_o the_o former_a because_o true_a repentance_n never_o perish_v in_o the_o heart_n but_o always_o break_v out_o into_o action_n in_o the_o life_n here_o then_o be_v a_o excellent_a lesson_n for_o we_o to_o learn_v and_o put_v in_o practice_n we_o must_v search_v our_o own_o heart_n and_o see_v what_o good_a thing_n have_v be_v in_o we_o what_o good_a motion_n and_o desire_n or_o good_a affection_n we_o must_v also_o call_v to_o mind_v our_o former_a way_n and_o see_v what_o good_a thing_n we_o have_v do_v and_o if_o in_o heart_n or_o life_n we_o find_v decay_v we_o must_v recover_v our_o loss_n and_o seek_v to_o do_v our_o first_o work_n and_o strive_v to_o continue_v so_o do_v to_o our_o life_n end_n that_o so_o we_o may_v escape_v this_o heavy_a charge_n of_o decay_n in_o grace_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n if_o not_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o short_o and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n except_o thou_o amend_v in_o these_o word_n christ_n lay_v down_o a_o reason_n to_o persuade_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o former_a remedy_n especial_o for_o repentance_n this_o reason_n contain_v three_o part_n i._o a_o general_a commination_n in_o these_o word_n if_o not_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o short_o ii_o a_o particular_a threaten_n of_o a_o particular_a judgement_n and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n iii_o the_o condition_n of_o they_o both_o except_o thou_o amend_v i._o point_n if_o not_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o short_o that_o be_v if_o thou_o do_v not_o practice_v this_o remedy_n and_o the_o duty_n therein_o prescribe_v especial_o the_o duty_n of_o repentance_n then_o will_v i_o come_v against_o thou_o short_o the_o word_n may_v as_o well_o be_v read_v thus_o if_o not_o then_o will_v i_o come_v to_o thou_o short_o for_o so_o they_o be_v in_o the_o original_n and_o do_v contain_v in_o they_o sufficient_a and_o profitable_a instruction_n god_n be_v say_v to_o come_v to_o any_o people_n two_o way_n in_o mercy_n and_o in_o judgement_n in_o mercy_n when_o he_o testify_v his_o presence_n by_o work_n of_o mercy_n as_o when_o christ_n in_o spirit_n go_v unto_o the_o old_a world_n and_o preach_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o person_n of_o no_o a_o hundred_o and_o twenty_o year_n before_o the_o flood_n 1._o pet._n 3.19_o 20._o second_o god_n come_v in_o judgement_n when_o he_o testify_v his_o presence_n by_o judgement_n in_o the_o second_o commandment_n god_n say_v he_o will_v visit_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n that_o be_v he_o will_v make_v inquiry_n among_o the_o child_n for_o the_o father_n sin_n and_o if_o he_o find_v they_o to_o live_v in_o the_o same_o sin_n that_o their_o father_n do_v then_o will_v he_o punish_v they_o this_o be_v proper_o to_o visit_v so_o in_o this_o place_n if_o thou_o repent_v not_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o and_o testify_v my_o presence_n not_o in_o mercy_n but_o in_o judgement_n in_o this_o general_a threaten_n we_o may_v observe_v use_n that_o when_o a_o church_n or_o people_n decay_v in_o love_n to_o god_n to_o his_o word_n or_o to_o their_o brethren_n or_o else_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n then_o god_n prepare_v himself_o to_o come_v unto_o they_o in_o judgement_n amoâ—_n 4.12_o because_o i_o will_v do_v thus_o and_o thus_o unto_o thou_o for_o thy_o sin_n therefore_o prepare_v to_o meet_v thy_o god_n oh_o israel_n meaning_n that_o because_o they_o lie_v still_o in_o their_o sin_n therefore_o he_o will_v make_v know_v his_o presence_n by_o more_o fearful_a judgement_n this_o doctrine_n according_a to_o christ_n direction_n be_v to_o be_v apply_v to_o we_o and_o to_o our_o church_n for_o the_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v the_o sin_n of_o our_o church_n and_o people_n they_o decay_v in_o love_n to_o god_n to_o his_o word_n and_o to_o the_o brethren_n so_o do_v we_o nay_o general_o there_o be_v no_o love_n at_o all_o in_o we_o as_o have_v be_v show_v and_o beside_o these_o want_n there_o be_v many_o other_o gross_a sin_n wherein_o our_o church_n and_o people_n do_v lie_v as_o in_o atheism_n both_o in_o judgement_n and_o practice_n in_o contempt_n and_o neglect_n of_o god_n worship_n and_o true_a religion_n in_o cruelty_n oppression_n and_o want_v of_o mercy_n and_o that_o which_o be_v
more_o though_o god_n summon_v man_n to_o repent_v by_o his_o daily_a judgement_n yet_o few_o or_o none_o by_o true_a humility_n prepare_v to_o meet_v god_n and_o to_o prevent_v his_o judgement_n security_n spread_v itself_o over_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o our_o people_n and_o this_o be_v our_o case_n and_o state_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o god_n have_v be_v long_o since_o in_o come_v to_o we_o by_o his_o judgement_n and_o aâ—_n this_o day_n he_o be_v still_o come_v because_o we_o still_o decay_v in_o love_n and_o other_o grace_n and_o more_o and_o more_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n so_o that_o if_o we_o thus_o continue_v the_o truth_n be_v he_o will_v come_v short_o unto_o we_o and_o that_o by_o most_o fearful_a judgement_n for_o this_o be_v write_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o be_v a_o direction_n not_o only_o unto_o they_o but_o to_o all_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v in_o the_o like_a or_o worse_a case_n what_o shall_v we_o then_o do_v our_o duty_n be_v teach_v we_o in_o these_o word_n if_o not_o that_o be_v if_o thou_o repent_v not_o we_o must_v prevent_v the_o lord_n come_v in_o judgement_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n every_o man_n and_o every_o family_n apart_o must_v repent_v private_o and_o the_o whole_a church_n open_o and_o public_o no_o way_n else_o we_o have_v to_o stay_v the_o lord_n come_v against_o we_o by_o his_o fearful_a judgement_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v a_o more_o particular_a threaten_n than_o the_o former_a and_o will_v remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n where_o he_o show_v with_o what_o particular_a judgement_n he_o will_v punish_v this_o church_n namely_o by_o remove_v away_o the_o candlestick_n the_o meaning_n whereof_o may_v be_v gather_v out_o of_o the_o former_a chapter_n where_o particular_a church_n be_v call_v candlestick_n therefore_o here_o he_o threaten_v to_o remove_v his_o church_n from_o the_o city_n of_o ephesus_n to_o take_v away_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o gospel_n and_o the_o profession_n thereof_o and_o in_o his_o just_a judgement_n to_o send_v among_o they_o ignorance_n apostasy_n and_o heresy_n in_o steed_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o truth_n this_o particular_a judgement_n must_v be_v refer_v to_o the_o first_o word_n if_o not_o that_o be_v if_o thou_o repent_v not_o this_o will_v i_o do_v i_o will_v make_v thou_o to_o be_v no_o church_n and_o take_v my_o gospel_n from_o thou_o in_o this_o particular_a threaten_n three_o point_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v one_o concern_v the_o minister_n the_o second_o concern_v the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o church_n the_o three_o concern_v every_o private_a man_n touch_v the_o minister_n note_v this_o if_o he_o shall_v decay_v in_o love_n to_o god_n to_o his_o word_n or_o to_o his_o brethren_n or_o if_o he_o lie_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n know_v to_o himself_o it_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o deprive_v he_o either_o of_o his_o call_n or_o of_o god_n gift_n bestow_v on_o he_o for_o this_o threaten_n be_v here_o direct_v especial_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n of_o ephesus_n when_o jeremie_n have_v be_v want_v in_o deliver_v the_o lordâ—_n will_v unto_o the_o people_n partly_o for_o fear_n &_o partly_o through_o impatience_n then_o the_o lord_n become_v a_o prophet_n unto_o he_o say_v if_o thou_o â—â—â—â—_o return_v i_o will_v bring_v thou_o again_o and_o thou_o shall_v stand_v before_o i_o whereby_o he_o will_v give_v he_o to_o understand_v that_o if_o he_o return_v not_o he_o shall_v cease_v to_o be_v a_o prophet_n unto_o he_o the_o same_o thing_n be_v true_a of_o all_o god_n minister_n if_o they_o decay_v in_o love_n fail_v in_o their_o duty_n or_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n they_o must_v speedy_o renew_v themselves_o by_o repentance_n or_o else_o god_n will_v deprive_v they_o either_o of_o their_o call_n or_o of_o the_o gift_n thereof_o true_a repentance_n and_o the_o renew_n thereof_o be_v needful_a unto_o all_o christian_n but_o especial_o to_o god_n minister_n if_o they_o will_v continue_v in_o his_o favour_n and_o stand_v before_o he_o become_v his_o mouth_n unto_o the_o people_n the_o second_o point_n concern_v the_o whole_a body_n of_o a_o church_n to_o wit_n if_o a_o church_n or_o people_n decay_v in_o love_n to_o god_n to_o religion_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n or_o do_v lie_v in_o any_o common_a sin_n they_o procure_v hereby_o the_o remove_n of_o the_o gospel_n from_o they_o and_o the_o abolish_n of_o true_a religion_n 9.7_o the_o prophet_n be_v a_o 〈◊〉_d say_v the_o lord_n and_o the_o man_n of_o the_o spirit_n iâ—_n mad_a this_o be_v a_o great_a and_o fearful_a judgement_n but_o markâ—_n the_o cause_n all_o be_v 〈◊〉_d thy_o iniquity_n that_o be_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n do_v god_n send_v foolish_a minister_n if_o this_o be_v so_o than_o we_o have_v just_a cause_n in_o our_o church_n to_o fear_v the_o remove_n of_o the_o gospel_n from_o we_o for_o there_o be_v a_o general_a decay_n of_o love_n in_o many_o and_o in_o the_o most_o no_o love_v at_o all_o many_o scorn_n and_o contemn_v true_a religion_n and_o hate_v the_o professor_n thereof_o in_o regard_v whereof_o we_o may_v wonder_v at_o the_o great_a patience_n of_o god_n that_o yet_o continue_v his_o gospel_n among_o we_o for_o 2.11_o god_n give_v man_n up_o to_o strong_a delusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o love_v not_o his_o truth_n wherefore_o be_v in_o this_o danger_n our_o duty_n be_v to_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o prevent_v this_o judgement_n of_o god_n which_o can_v no_o other_o way_n be_v do_v than_o by_o true_a and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n by_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o general_a and_o by_o every_o man_n apart_o and_o every_o family_n apart_o for_o when_o god_n shall_v speak_v sudden_o against_o a_o nation_n or_o kingdom_n to_o root_v it_o up_o and_o to_o destroy_v it_o if_o that_o people_n repent_v of_o their_o wickedness_n the_o lord_n will_v repent_v of_o the_o plague_n and_o judgement_n which_o he_o think_v to_o bring_v upon_o they_o jerem._n 18_o vers_fw-la 7_o 8._o the_o three_o point_n concern_v every_o private_a man_n and_o it_o be_v this_o if_o any_o man_n decay_n in_o love_n or_o want_v love_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o brethren_n or_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n know_v to_o himself_o this_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o remove_v the_o candlestick_n from_o he_o to_o deprive_v he_o of_o his_o knowledge_n and_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n the_o affection_n of_o love_n in_o the_o heart_n be_v like_o the_o watch_n of_o the_o clock_n if_o the_o watch_n stand_v the_o wheel_n stand_v as_o the_o watch_n go_v fast_o or_o soft_o so_o go_v the_o wheel_n answerable_o and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o man_n if_o his_o love_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o gospel_n do_v increase_v then_o do_v his_o knowledge_n and_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n increase_n in_o his_o heart_n but_o if_o his_o love_n decay_n than_o other_o grace_n decay_n and_o if_o love_v be_v go_v then_o farewell_n all_o piety_n and_o true_a religion_n if_o we_o will_v know_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o palpable_a ignorance_n as_o be_v in_o many_o that_o have_v long_o hear_v the_o gospel_n preach_v it_o be_v nothing_o but_o want_n of_o love_n heb._n 3.12_o 13._o the_o holy_a ghost_n show_v by_o what_o degree_n man_n come_v to_o fall_v away_o from_o god_n first_o sin_n deceive_v they_o by_o draw_v they_o to_o commit_v it_o then_o their_o heart_n be_v harden_v by_o custom_n of_o sin_v thence_o follow_v unbelief_n in_o main_a point_n of_o religion_n and_o so_o they_o make_v apostasy_n from_o god_n and_o set_v themselves_o against_o his_o truth_n take_v heed_n therefore_o of_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n for_o that_o be_v the_o high_a way_n to_o final_a apostasy_n rather_o strive_v to_o increase_v in_o love_n unto_o god_n and_o unto_o his_o word_n and_o so_o shall_v all_o his_o good_a grace_n increase_v in_o thy_o heart_n out_o of_o this_o particular_a threaten_v some_o gather_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n &_o fall_v away_o final_o from_o true_a faith_n and_o repentance_n for_o say_v they_o if_o a_o whole_a church_n may_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n and_o become_v no_o church_n then_o may_v any_o one_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v cut_v off_o and_o become_v no_o member_n but_o a_o whole_a church_n may_v be_v cut_v off_o as_o here_o we_o see_v and_o therefore_o may_v any_o one_o man_n answ._n this_o reason_n be_v not_o good_a there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o the_o state_n of_o a_o whole_a church_n and_o of_o one_o man_n that_o be_v a_o true_a member_n of_o christ._n for_o a_o particular_a church_n be_v a_o mix_a company_n of_o true_a professor_n and_o dissembler_n like_v
unto_o a_o field_n wherein_o be_v good_a corn_n and_o tare_n and_o like_v unto_o a_o barn_n floor_n wherein_o be_v wheat_n and_o chaff_n mingle_v together_o and_o yet_o all_o be_v repute_v believer_n because_o they_o profess_v the_o gospel_n outward_o now_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o mixture_n it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o a_o particular_a visible_a church_n may_v fall_v away_o and_o become_v no_o church_n either_o when_o the_o godly_a be_v take_v away_o and_o hypocrite_n and_o dissembler_n make_v manifest_a or_o else_o when_o true_a believer_n wax_v few_o be_v not_o able_a to_o maintain_v the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o truth_n against_o the_o might_n and_o multitude_n of_o the_o enemy_n which_o may_v daily_o increase_v but_o the_o case_n be_v not_o so_o with_o a_o particular_a member_n of_o christ_n he_o can_v final_o fall_v away_o as_o have_v be_v show_v at_o large_a vers_n 4._o and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v the_o condition_n of_o both_o the_o former_a threaten_n in_o these_o word_n except_o thâ—â—_n amend_v that_o be_v i_o will_v come_v in_o judgement_n unto_o thou_o and_o take_v my_o gospel_n from_o thou_o unless_o thou_o prevent_v my_o come_n by_o true_a repentance_n here_o note_n that_o all_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n be_v conditional_a 〈◊〉_d come_v to_o ninive_n and_o cry_v yet_o forty_o day_n and_o ninive_n shall_v be_v destroy_v he_o say_v no_o more_o but_o yet_o that_o threaten_a must_v be_v understand_v with_o this_o exception_n unless_o they_o repent_v why_o will_n some_o say_v be_v the_o threaten_n in_o god_n word_n propound_v conditional_o answ._n god_n whole_a will_n and_o pleasure_n be_v one_o alone_o in_o itself_o and_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v thus_o distinguish_v to_o be_v partly_o secret_a and_o partly_o reveal_v god_n secret_a will_n be_v touch_v those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v not_o make_v manifest_a unto_o man_n he_o reveal_v will_n be_v touch_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v manifest_v in_o scripture_n or_o do_v fall_v out_o every_o day_n now_o god_n secret_a will_n be_v without_o condition_n for_o as_o every_o thing_n come_v to_o pass_v so_o god_n will_v it_o when_o good_a thing_n come_v to_o pass_v they_o he_o will_v simple_o when_o evil_a thing_n fall_v out_o they_o he_o permit_v to_o be_v do_v and_o to_o make_v god_n secret_a will_n conditional_a be_v to_o bring_v god_n will_v under_o the_o power_n of_o man_n and_o to_o subject_v the_o creator_n unto_o the_o creature_n but_o god_n reveal_v will_n be_v conditional_a because_o it_o contain_v the_o matter_n of_o man_n salvation_n and_o this_o manner_n of_o propound_v it_o be_v a_o most_o effectual_a way_n to_o bring_v the_o same_o to_o pass_v for_o it_o keep_v man_n more_o in_o awful_a obedience_n than_o if_o it_o be_v absolute_a in_o this_o condition_n note_v this_o thing_n that_o christ_n repeat_v it_o twice_o both_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o reason_n if_o not_o and_o in_o the_o end_n except_o thou_o amend_v hereby_o he_o will_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o when_o man_n commit_v sin_n and_o lie_v therein_o or_o when_o they_o decay_v in_o any_o grace_n then_o have_v they_o most_o necessary_a cause_n to_o repent_v if_o they_o will_v escape_v god_n fearful_a judgement_n and_o see_v our_o estate_n be_v like_a to_o the_o state_n of_o this_o church_n or_o else_o worser_o by_o much_o for_o we_o lie_v in_o sin_n and_o thereby_o cause_n god_n to_o come_v to_o we_o in_o judgement_n as_o we_o tender_v our_o own_o good_a both_o in_o this_o life_n and_o after_o death_n let_v we_o turn_v from_o our_o sin_n and_o repent_v every_o man_n apart_o every_o family_n apart_o and_o the_o whole_a church_n public_o for_o repentance_n be_v most_o needful_a else_o will_v not_o the_o lord_n have_v double_v this_o condition_n verse_n 6._o but_o this_o thou_o haâ—â—_n that_o thou_o 〈◊〉_d the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o which_o i_o also_o hate_n these_o word_n be_v a_o second_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o which_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o second_o verse_n namely_o that_o this_o church_n can_v not_o abide_v they_o that_o be_v evil_a in_o the_o second_o verse_n this_o be_v make_v manifest_a by_o their_o discovery_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n and_o here_o he_o prove_v it_o by_o their_o affection_n of_o hatred_n towards_o the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o these_o nicolaitan_o be_v certain_a heretic_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n that_o hold_v these_o two_o opinion_n first_o that_o adultery_n and_o fornication_n be_v no_o sin_n second_o that_o man_n may_v communicate_v with_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o idolater_n in_o their_o idol_n temple_n and_o according_a to_o their_o opinion_n be_v their_o practice_n these_o heretic_n as_o it_o be_v think_v come_v of_o one_o nicholas_n one_o of_o the_o seven_o deacons_n mention_v act_v 6._o who_o though_o for_o a_o while_o he_o do_v faithful_o discharge_v his_o duty_n outward_o yet_o after_o fall_v away_o and_o become_v the_o head_n of_o this_o heretical_a sect_n but_o this_o thou_o have_v this_o particle_n but_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o former_a verse_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v though_o this_o be_v thy_o fault_n that_o thou_o fail_v in_o thy_o first_o love_n yet_o for_o this_o i_o commend_v thou_o that_o thou_o hate_v the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o this_o practice_n of_o christ_n discover_v the_o common_a sin_n of_o this_o age_n which_o be_v use_n to_o set_v out_o in_o their_o colour_n man_n fault_n and_o infirmity_n to_o their_o great_a disgrace_n and_o yet_o by_o silence_n and_o oblivion_n to_o bury_v all_o their_o virtue_n which_o be_v praise_v worthy_a this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v so_o we_o must_v follow_v christ_n example_n who_o with_o just_a reproof_n adjoin_v due_a deserve_v praise_n if_o our_o friend_n or_o our_o foe_n have_v a_o fault_n when_o we_o be_v call_v thereunto_o we_o may_v speak_v of_o it_o and_o we_o must_v reprove_v they_o but_o yet_o withal_o we_o must_v commend_v the_o good_a thing_n that_o be_v in_o they_o second_o christ_n here_o teach_v we_o that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o anymans_n good_a estate_n before_o god_n that_o he_o have_v good_a thing_n in_o he_o for_o that_o a_o man_n may_v have_v and_o yet_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ._n saul_n have_v good_a thing_n in_o he_o at_o the_o first_o entrance_n into_o his_o kingdom_n but_o what_o be_v he_o afterward_o john_n be_v very_o zealous_a for_o god_n glory_n in_o kill_v all_o the_o idolatrous_a priest_n 31._o but_o he_o will_v not_o depart_v from_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la and_o judas_n no_o doubt_n have_v many_o good_a gift_n while_o he_o be_v with_o christ_n but_o his_o end_n be_v most_o fearful_a and_o this_o church_n have_v many_o good_a thing_n in_o she_o yet_o iâ—_n she_o in_o danger_n of_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n and_o so_o many_o among_o we_o have_v excellent_a gift_n some_o for_o knowledge_n some_o for_o 〈◊〉_d and_o conceive_v of_o prayer_n &_o yet_o for_o all_o these_o they_o may_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ._n therefore_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o these_o but_o labour_n for_o the_o principal_n which_o be_v true_a hearty_a and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n which_o we_o must_v daily_o renew_v for_o our_o continual_a fall_n and_o this_o will_v keep_v we_o in_o god_n favour_n and_o from_o his_o judgement_n more_o particular_o christ_n here_o commend_v this_o church_n for_o hate_v the_o error_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o our_o duty_n if_o we_o be_v christian_n namely_o to_o take_v knowledge_n of_o the_o sin_n and_o error_n of_o our_o time_n and_o to_o hate_v the_o same_o unfeigned_o yet_o note_n he_o commend_v they_o for_o hate_v their_o work_n not_o their_o person_n give_v we_o direction_n how_o to_o temper_v our_o hatred_n in_o the_o world_n we_o must_v set_v it_o against_o the_o sin_n not_o against_o the_o person_n of_o any_o man_n some_o will_v say_v the_o prophet_n pray_v against_o the_o person_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o david_n profess_v hatred_n of_o the_o man_n psalm_n 139.21_o do_v not_o i_o hate_v they_o that_o hate_v thou_o answ._n david_n be_v a_o extraordinary_a prophet_n and_o no_o doubt_n have_v this_o reveal_v unto_o he_o that_o those_o his_o enemy_n be_v obstinate_a and_o will_v not_o repent_v again_o imprecation_n of_o the_o prophet_n in_o scripture_n must_v be_v understand_v as_o prophecy_n of_o god_n judgement_n to_o come_v upon_o those_o against_o who_o they_o pray_v but_o we_o which_o want_v that_o extraordinary_a spirit_n must_v keep_v ourselves_o to_o our_o ordinary_a rule_n hate_v the_o sin_n and_o love_v the_o person_n further_o observe_v the_o work_n here_o
hate_v namely_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n which_o be_v join_v together_o in_o these_o nicolaitan_o adultery_n be_v the_o punishment_n of_o idolatry_n and_o idolatry_n the_o punishment_n of_o adultery_n spiritual_a adultery_n be_v punish_v with_o bodily_a adultery_n this_o be_v verify_v in_o the_o old_a jew_n when_o they_o fall_v a_o whore_v after_o strange_a god_n god_n give_v they_o up_o to_o unclean_a lust_n and_o it_o be_v palpable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n they_o be_v fall_v to_o idolatry_n do_v abound_v in_o all_o uncleanness_n for_o they_o tolerate_v stew_n for_o fornication_n and_o adultery_n and_o sodomic_a be_v common_a among_o they_o again_o sundry_a man_n may_v here_o be_v well_o admonish_v who_o will_v be_v of_o no_o religion_n because_o there_o be_v many_o sect_n and_o schism_n among_o the_o professor_n thereof_o these_o man_n shall_v consider_v that_o in_o the_o best_a church_n plant_v by_o the_o apostle_n there_o be_v sect_n and_o heresy_n even_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n as_o here_o in_o ephesus_n and_o therefore_o no_o marvel_n if_o there_o be_v sect_n and_o schism_n among_o we_o at_o this_o day_n this_o offence_n shall_v not_o move_v any_o to_o dislike_v the_o gospel_n but_o rather_o cause_v they_o more_o firm_o to_o cleave_v unto_o the_o truth_n which_o i_o also_o do_v hate_n this_o christ_n add_v to_o encourage_v they_o to_o go_v forward_o in_o the_o virtue_n for_o which_o he_o commend_v they_o in_o hate_v evil_a work_n for_o what_o can_v more_o provoke_v they_o to_o zeal_n and_o constancy_n therein_o than_o to_o know_v they_o do_v that_o which_o christ_n himself_o do_v and_o here_o we_o see_v that_o christ_n will_v have_v every_o member_n of_o his_o church_n to_o be_v like_o mind_a and_o like_v affect_v unto_o he_o as_o he_o be_v man_n we_o must_v love_v those_o thing_n which_o christ_n love_v and_o hate_v those_o thing_n which_o christ_n hate_v rejoice_v wherein_o christ_n rejoice_v and_o mourn_v for_o those_o thing_n for_o which_o christ_n mourn_v and_o great_a reason_n it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o we_o profess_v ourselves_o to_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n bone_n of_o his_o bone_n and_o flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n for_o out_o of_o his_o blood_n spring_v the_o church_n and_o there_o must_v be_v consent_n and_o conformity_n between_o the_o head_n and_o the_o member_n quest._n if_o christ_n hate_v these_o wicked_a man_n why_o do_v he_o suffer_v they_o to_o live_v and_o not_o cut_v they_o off_o from_o trouble_v his_o church_n answ._n because_o hereby_o he_o will_v manifest_v his_o love_n to_o his_o church_n and_o his_o justice_n upon_o the_o wicked_a for_o he_o can_v bring_v light_a out_o of_o darkness_n and_o good_a not_o only_o out_o of_o good_a but_o out_o of_o evil_a verse_n 7._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n the_o scope_n whereof_o be_v to_o excite_v this_o church_n to_o the_o more_o careful_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n before_o prescribe_v this_o conclusion_n have_v two_o part_n a_o commandment_n and_o a_o promise_n the_o commandment_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o verse_n let_v he_o that_o have_v aspare_a he_o arâ—_n what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n in_o this_o commandment_n note_v three_o point_n i._n who_o be_v command_v these_o which_o have_v ear_n ii_o the_o duty_n command_v they_o must_v hear_v iii_o what_o they_o must_v hear_v namely_o what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n i._n point_n the_o party_n command_v be_v thus_o set_v forth_o he_o which_o have_v a_o ear_n who_o these_o be_v christ_n do_v more_o full_o expound_v matth._n 13.9_o when_o he_o say_v let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v hear_v where_o he_o make_v this_o distinction_n of_o hearer_n that_o some_o be_v deaf_a hearer_n some_o hear_v hearer_n the_o deaf_a hearer_n be_v those_o that_o bring_v with_o they_o to_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n their_o outward_a ear_n only_o but_o their_o heart_n be_v not_o affect_v with_o it_o neither_o do_v they_o care_v to_o learn_v to_o believe_v or_o obey_v that_o which_o be_v teach_v they_o the_o hear_v hearer_n be_v all_o such_o as_o beside_o their_o bodily_a ear_n have_v ear_n pierce_v in_o their_o heart_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n whereby_o they_o do_v not_o only_o hear_v the_o word_n outward_o but_o their_o heart_n be_v also_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o make_v pliable_a unto_o it_o so_o as_o they_o believe_v it_o and_o bring_v forth_o obedience_n unto_o it_o this_o hear_a ear_n be_v set_v forth_o by_o david_n when_o he_o say_v 6._o sacrifice_n and_o burn_a offering_n thou_o will_v not_o have_v but_o my_o â—ares_n have_v thou_o open_v and_o prepare_v and_o then_o i_o say_v loâ—_n i_o come_v hereof_o isaiah_n say_v thou_o 50.5_o open_v my_o ear_n and_o i_o be_v noâ—_n rebellious_a and_o this_o hear_a ear_n 〈…〉_z give_v she_o when_o god_n 16.14_o open_v her_o heart_n whereby_o she_o become_v attentive_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v by_o paul_n by_o this_o distinction_n of_o hearer_n which_o christ_n make_v use_n we_o may_v learn_v that_o god_n grace_n unto_o salvation_n be_v not_o universal_a that_o be_v god_n give_v not_o unto_o all_o man_n such_o measure_n of_o grace_n whereby_o if_o they_o will_v themselves_o they_o may_v believe_v repent_v and_o be_v save_v for_o in_o christ_n time_n and_o ever_o since_o there_o have_v be_v in_o the_o church_n these_o two_o kind_a of_o hearer_n whereof_o the_o deaf_a hearer_n do_v not_o receive_v nor_o believe_v the_o gospel_n unto_o salvation_n neither_o be_v it_o true_a that_o god_n give_v grace_n sufficient_a unto_o all_o whereby_o they_o may_v be_v save_v if_o they_o by_o their_o malice_n and_o sin_n do_v not_o abolish_v the_o same_o for_o though_o he_o admit_v all_o sort_n into_o his_o church_n yet_o not_o all_o but_o some_o only_o have_v ear_n pierce_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n that_o they_o can_v hear_v and_o therefore_o when_o the_o disciple_n ask_v christ_n 13._o why_o he_o speak_v in_o parable_n he_o answer_v thus_o to_o you_o it_o be_v give_v to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n 11_o and_o the_o secret_n of_o his_o kingdom_n but_o to_o other_o it_o be_v not_o give_v show_v plain_o that_o the_o gift_n of_o hear_v to_o salvation_n be_v not_o give_v to_o all_o and_o in_o some_o make_v void_a by_o their_o own_o wilfulness_n but_o to_o some_o it_o be_v give_v and_o they_o have_v hear_v ear_n and_o to_o some_o it_o be_v not_o give_v and_o their_o ear_n be_v deaf_a second_o see_v this_o commandment_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o hear_n hearer_n we_o must_v hereby_o be_v admonish_v to_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o become_v good_a hearer_n of_o god_n word_n bring_v with_o we_o not_o only_o the_o bodily_a ear_n which_o we_o have_v by_o creation_n but_o the_o spiritual_a ear_n of_o the_o heart_n which_o we_o have_v by_o regeneration_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o our_o salvation_n to_o receive_v the_o word_n into_o the_o outward_a bodily_a ear_n unless_o the_o inward_a ear_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v open_v that_o our_o soul_n may_v be_v affect_v with_o the_o word_n and_o fit_v to_o receive_v to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o same_o thus_o do_v good_a king_n iâ—sias_n hear_v the_o law_n read_v the_o text_n say_v 34·27_n his_o heart_n 〈◊〉_d within_o he_o and_o thus_o do_v david_n hear_v when_o the_o lord_n say_v to_o the_o church_n 27.8_o seek_v â—ee_n my_o face_n his_o heart_n answer_v i_o seek_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n and_o as_o we_o must_v be_v careful_a to_o get_v spiritual_a ear_n so_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o deaf_a ear_n which_o be_v when_o a_o man_n come_v &_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o yet_o have_v no_o care_n in_o his_o heart_n to_o learn_v believe_v or_o obey_v the_o same_o this_o deaf_a ear_n be_v a_o fearful_a judgement_n of_o god_n whereof_o we_o may_v read_v isay._n 6.9_o where_o the_o prophet_n be_v send_v to_o make_v their_o ear_n heavy_a and_o their_o heart_n fat_a that_o they_o may_v not_o bear_v nor_o believe_v lest_o they_o shall_v turn_v and_o be_v save_v and_o this_o the_o rather_o we_o must_v look_v unto_o because_o it_o be_v a_o judgement_n of_o god_n upon_o many_o among_o we_o at_o this_o day_n the_o great_a part_n of_o hearer_n be_v deaf_a hearer_n which_o appear_v by_o this_o that_o after_o long_o teach_v they_o neither_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n nor_o in_o faith_n nor_o in_o obedience_n but_o remain_v the_o same_o for_o blindness_n of_o mind_n hardness_n
apostle_n that_o be_v extraordinary_a man_n of_o moâ—e_n excellent_a gift_n may_v do_v nothing_o without_o warrant_n of_o the_o part_n of_o this_o commandment_n we_o speak_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n of_o this_o chapter_n the_o epistle_n itself_o follow_v contain_v thrâ—e_a part_n a_o preface_n a_o proposition_n and_o a_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n contain_v a_o preparation_n to_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n in_o these_o word_n these_o thing_n say_v â—e_n that_o be_v the_o first_o to_o 〈◊〉_d last_n which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a in_o this_o preface_n he_o show_v in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v unto_o this_o church_n namely_o in_o christ_n name_n which_o he_o set_v down_o for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o stir_v up_o the_o people_n in_o this_o church_n to_o a_o religious_a attention_n and_o a_o reverend_a care_n of_o receive_v the_o thing_n therein_o write_v as_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o christ_n jesus_n second_o because_o no_o commandment_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n worship_n and_o religion_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v from_o any_o creature_n but_o from_o christ_n alone_o and_o therefore_o this_o epistle_n concern_v the_o true_a worship_n and_o religion_n of_o god_n be_v propound_v in_o his_o name_n alone_o in_o this_o preface_n christ_n be_v describe_v by_o two_o notable_a argument_n first_o to_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o second_o that_o he_o be_v dead_a but_o be_v alive_a the_o meaning_n of_o they_o both_o be_v show_v in_o the_o 17_o and_o 18_o verse_n of_o the_o former_a chapter_n whence_o they_o be_v borrow_v by_o the_o first_o christ_n will_v signify_v that_o he_o be_v everliving_a god_n without_o beginning_n or_o end_v before_o all_o creature_n and_o after_o they_o by_o the_o second_o that_o he_o be_v true_a man_n and_o assume_v man_n nature_n to_o suffer_v death_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o rise_v again_o to_o live_v for_o ever_o and_o to_o give_v to_o man_n eternal_a life_n in_o this_o description_n two_o point_n of_o doctrine_n be_v express_v i._o that_o christ_n be_v a_o person_n consist_v of_o two_o nature_n godhead_n and_o manhood_n he_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o and_o therefore_o god_n he_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a and_o therefore_o be_v true_a man_n if_o any_o ask_v how_o one_o person_n can_v consist_v of_o two_o nature_n answ._n as_o body_n and_o soul_n concur_v to_o make_v one_o man_n so_o the_o godhead_n and_o manhood_n of_o christ_n concur_v to_o make_v one_o christ_n and_o therefore_o be_v unite_v ii_o doctr._n here_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o true_a comfort_n unto_o god_n church_n and_o people_n in_o any_o misery_n or_o affliction_n which_o stand_v in_o two_o point_n first_o that_o christ_n be_v able_a to_o help_v they_o in_o any_o misery_n either_o by_o free_v they_o quite_o from_o it_o or_o ease_v they_o in_o it_o see_v he_o be_v god_n the_o first_o and_o last_o second_o that_o as_o he_o be_v able_a so_o he_o be_v willing_a and_o ready_a to_o help_v they_o for_o he_o be_v man_n who_o take_v on_o he_o our_o nature_n die_v for_o we_o and_o rise_v again_o unto_o life_n to_o give_v to_o we_o eternal_a life_n this_o be_v the_o very_a scope_n and_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n thus_o describe_v himself_o to_o this_o church_n that_o be_v in_o affliction_n here_o than_o we_o have_v direction_n where_o and_o whence_o to_o seek_v for_o true_a comfort_n 〈…〉_z tribulation_n of_o this_o life_n namely_o we_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o christ_n and_o in_o he_o consider_v both_o his_o ability_n and_o his_o willingness_n to_o â—ase_v all_o 〈◊〉_d child_n in_o affliction_n and_o by_o these_o we_o must_v arm_v ourselves_o against_o despair_n and_o against_o immoderate_a griefâ—_n and_o sorrow_n under_o the_o cross_n verse_n 9_o i_o knâ—â—_n thy_o work_n and_o tribulation_n and_o 〈◊〉_d but_o thâ—â—_n arâ—_n 〈◊〉_d and_o i_o know_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n 〈…〉_z but_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n here_o begin_v the_o proposition_n of_o this_o epistle_n contain_v the_o matter_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o whole_a epistle_n this_o proposition_n have_v two_o part_n a_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n and_o counsel_n how_o to_o behave_v 〈◊〉_d self_n in_o the_o time_n to_o come_v the_o commendation_n be_v in_o this_o nine_o verse_n wherewithal_o be_v mingle_v some_o comfort_n unto_o this_o church_n be_v in_o affliction_n i_o knâ—w_v thy_o workâ—â—_n these_o wordâ—_n be_v handle_v in_o the_o former_a epistle_n the_o meaning_n brief_o be_v this_o i_o know_v all_o thy_o deal_n &_o thy_o way_n i_o know_v the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o thy_o life_n and_o i_o do_v withal_o well_o like_o and_o approve_v of_o they_o here_o christ_n set_v down_o a_o excellent_a property_n touch_v himself_o namely_o that_o he_o see_v and_o know_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o nothing_o be_v hide_v from_o he_o and_o that_o this_o church_n may_v be_v resolve_v hereof_o he_o repeat_v this_o unto_o they_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n neither_o be_v it_o any_o vain_a repetition_n be_v indeed_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o true_a piety_n and_o sincere_a obedience_n we_o therefore_o in_o a_o our_o affair_n be_v here_o teach_v to_o labour_n to_o be_v full_o resolve_v in_o our_o conscience_n that_o christ_n be_v with_o we_o and_o see_v we_o and_o know_v the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o our_o way_n in_o thought_n word_n and_o â—â—eds_o david_n have_v learn_v this_o when_o as_o he_o say_v 〈…〉_z thou_o know_v my_o sit_n and_o my_o rise_n thou_o understand_v my_o thought_n a_o far_o off_o thou_o compasse_v my_o path_n and_o my_o lie_v down_o and_o be_v accustom_v unto_o all_o my_o way_n there_o be_v not_o a_o word_n in_o my_o tongue_n but_o thou_o know_v it_o whole_o this_o persuasion_n be_v very_o necessary_a for_o it_o will_v move_v a_o man_n to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n and_o of_o his_o whole_a behaviour_n but_o where_o this_o persuasion_n be_v want_v there_o be_v no_o religion_n in_o the_o heart_n nor_o good_a behaviour_n in_o the_o life_n when_o this_o take_v place_n religion_n begin_v and_o increase_v with_o it_o so_o do_v good_a conscience_n and_o true_a obedience_n for_o he_o that_o have_v the_o lord_n always_o before_o he_o will_v not_o great_o fall_v psal._n 16.8_o and_o tribulation_n mark_v here_o how_o work_n that_o be_v a_o godly_a conversation_n and_o tribulation_n go_v together_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o god_n will_v have_v tribulation_n join_v with_o his_o grace_n where_o he_o bestow_v his_o grace_n there_o also_o he_o lay_v tribulation_n and_o that_o for_o weighty_a cause_n as_o to_o humble_v they_o for_o their_o sin_n past_a to_o make_v trial_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n and_o to_o prevent_v in_o they_o sin_n to_o come_v the_o consideration_n whereof_o must_v move_v all_o god_n child_n in_o this_o our_o church_n to_o look_v for_o some_o tribulation_n for_o god_n have_v bestow_v among_o we_o plenty_n of_o his_o grace_n with_o long_a peace_n and_o many_o outward_a blessing_n and_o his_o will_n be_v that_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n shall_v accompany_v the_o same_o further_o christ_n say_v i_o know_v thy_o tribulation_n will_v hereby_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v true_a it_o be_v thou_o be_v in_o great_a trouble_n but_o it_o come_v not_o by_o chance_n but_o by_o the_o special_a providence_n of_o my_o father_n and_o i_o do_v know_v and_o regard_v the_o same_o psal._n 113.6_o 7_o the_o raise_n up_o of_o the_o poor_a and_o needy_a be_v make_v a_o fruit_n of_o god_n behold_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v do_v upon_o the_o earth_n this_o be_v a_o excellent_a comfort_n for_o any_o church_n or_o people_n that_o be_v in_o affliction_n for_o when_o they_o shall_v know_v that_o beside_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n therein_o christ_n jesus_n regard_v their_o sorrow_n this_o must_v needs_o arm_v they_o with_o long_a suffering_n and_o joyfulness_n we_o in_o this_o church_n as_o have_v be_v show_v may_v persuade_v ourselves_o that_o god_n will_v send_v tribulation_n among_o we_o now_o when_o they_o come_v what_o shall_v we_o do_v shall_v we_o sink_v under_o they_o no_o but_o we_o must_v now_o forecast_v to_o use_v the_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v stay_v our_o heart_n under_o the_o smart_n and_o burden_n of_o they_o that_o be_v by_o settle_v our_o heart_n in_o this_o persuasion_n that_o christ_n see_v our_o affliction_n and_o withal_o have_v special_a care_n to_o comfort_n or_o deliver_v we_o as_o he_o see_v most_o for_o his_o glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o our_o souleâ—_n in_o the_o next_o word_v christ_n set_v down_o two_o kind_n of_o tribulation_n in_o this_o church_n poverty_n and_o reproach_n by_o poverty_n he_o mean_v want_n of_o temporal_a thing_n to_o maintain_v this_o
this_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o all_o wicked_a man_n to_o bless_v â—_o themselves_o in_o their_o wickedness_n and_o whatsoever_o they_o do_v yet_o still_o to_o say_v and_o think_v god_n will_v bless_v they_o take_v a_o heretickâ—_n who_o overthrow_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n by_o his_o error_n and_o he_o will_v say_v he_o teach_v that_o which_o in_o conscience_n he_o be_v persuade_v be_v the_o truth_n for_o which_o he_o will_v shed_v his_o blood_n and_o whereto_o he_o will_v have_v all_o man_n yield_v so_o take_v a_o profess_a witch_n man_n or_o woman_n they_o will_v say_v all_o that_o they_o do_v be_v by_o the_o power_n of_o the_o good_a angel_n and_o by_o some_o special_a gift_n give_v unto_o they_o above_o other_o but_o they_o will_v not_o be_v bring_v to_o acknowledge_v that_o they_o do_v any_o thing_n by_o virtue_n of_o their_o league_n with_o the_o devil_n from_o whence_o indeed_o come_v all_o they_o can_v do_v and_o so_o the_o carnal_a protestant_n of_o our_o time_n they_o look_v for_o god_n blessing_n in_o this_o life_n and_o for_o eternal_a life_n by_o christ_n after_o death_n and_o yet_o walk_v in_o the_o broad_a way_n to_o destruction_n in_o sin_n &_o profaneness_n thus_o they_o bless_v themselves_o in_o their_o evil_a way_n and_o make_v christ_n a_o packhorse_n for_o their_o iniquity_n but_o in_o the_o example_n of_o these_o jew_n we_o must_v learn_v to_o lay_v down_o all_o presumptuous_a thought_n of_o our_o own_o goodness_n and_o vain_a persuasion_n of_o god_n favour_n without_o his_o true_a grace_n and_o rather_o look_v unto_o our_o sin_n and_o be_v humble_v for_o they_o that_o god_n may_v lift_v we_o up_o ii_o point_n christ_n judgement_n of_o they_o be_v this_o they_o be_v not_o jew_n but_o a_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n that_o be_v a_o company_n of_o man_n that_o seem_v to_o serve_v god_n after_o the_o jewish_a manner_n but_o do_v indeed_o worship_v the_o devil_n herein_o be_v many_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v i._n how_o this_o can_v be_v true_a of_o any_o company_n of_o the_o jew_n who_o be_v the_o choose_a people_n of_o god_n answ._n election_n be_v twofold_a special_a and_o general_a god_n special_a election_n be_v when_o in_o his_o eternal_a counsâ—ll_v he_o choose_v a_o man_n to_o life_n eternal_a and_o â—his_n befall_v not_o all_o the_o jew_n but_o some_o only_o god_n general_a election_n be_v â—hen_o he_o â—ouchsafeth_v any_o people_n to_o become_v his_o visible_a church_n to_o have_v and_o 〈◊〉_d the_o outward_a signeâ—_n and_o 〈…〉_z his_o covenant_n &_o thus_o be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o jew_n elect_v and_o therefore_o be_v circumcise_v and_o receive_v the_o passover_o from_o this_o general_a election_n a_o church_n and_o people_n may_v fall_v as_o the_o jew_n do_v 9_o and_o so_o become_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n be_v indeed_o never_o within_o the_o particular_a call_n from_o which_o a_o man_n can_v fall_v away_o for_o god_n election_n remain_v sâ—â—e_z 2._o tim._n 2.19_o his_o calling_n be_v without_o repentance_n rom._n 11._o â—9_n ii_o point_n at_o what_o time_n do_v the_o jew_n begin_v to_o be_v a_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n answ._n not_o at_o the_o crucify_a of_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n though_o that_o be_v a_o most_o heinous_a sin_n for_o though_o some_o therein_o sin_v of_o malice_n yet_o many_o do_v it_o of_o ignorance_n this_o peter_n confess_v acts._n 3.17_o and_o therefore_o in_o his_o first_o sermon_n after_o christ_n ascension_n tell_v they_o that_o the_o 〈◊〉_d belong_v to_o they_o and_o to_o 〈…〉_z that_o be_v a_o far_o off_o act_n â—_o â—â—_o but_o when_o the_o apostle_n have_v a_o long_a time_n preach_v christ_n unto_o they_o &_o convince_v their_o conscience_n out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n that_o he_o be_v the_o true_a messiah_n and_o yet_o they_o remain_v obstinate_a reject_v and_o persecute_v both_o they_o and_o their_o doctrine_n then_o they_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o church_n of_o god_n and_o become_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n for_o this_o cause_n paul_n and_o barnabas_n shake_v off_o the_o dust_n of_o their_o foot_n against_o they_o and_o turn_v to_o the_o gâ—â—â—ils_n â—_o whereby_o we_o see_v when_o a_o church_n of_o god_n become_v no_o church_n namely_o not_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o hold_v a_o heresy_n for_o the_o church_n of_o the_o galatian_n hold_v justification_n by_o work_n yet_o thereupon_o cease_v not_o to_o be_v a_o church_n but_o when_o they_o embrace_v a_o heresy_n against_o the_o foundation_n of_o religion_n and_o be_v convict_v of_o it_o not_o by_o private_a man_n but_o by_o apostolical_a authority_n or_o by_o public_a judicial_a sentence_n of_o the_o church_n from_o the_o authority_n of_o god_n word_n hence_o we_o may_v learn_v first_o what_o we_o be_v to_o think_v and_o judge_v of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o papist_n of_o the_o libertine_n and_o anabaptist_n family_n of_o love_n and_o such_o like_a namely_o that_o they_o be_v no_o church_n of_o god_n for_o they_o hold_v heresy_n against_o the_o foundation_n which_o the_o church_n long_o ago_o condemn_v by_o apostolical_a and_o judicial_a authority_n again_o here_o we_o learn_v what_o to_o judge_v of_o this_o our_o church_n of_o england_n many_o there_o be_v that_o say_v we_o have_v no_o church_n among_o we_o because_o some_o private_a man_n have_v reprove_v the_o same_o for_o some_o thing_n that_o be_v amiss_o and_o yet_o they_o be_v not_o reform_v but_o this_o be_v a_o fond_a and_o foolish_a reason_n for_o first_o the_o error_n must_v be_v against_o the_o foundation_n and_o yet_o that_o make_v not_o a_o church_n to_o be_v no_o church_n unless_o it_o be_v obstinate_o maintain_v after_o sufficient_a reproof_n and_o judicial_a conviction_n by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o no_o such_o thing_n can_v be_v affirm_v of_o we_o and_o therefore_o we_o remain_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n iii_o point_n how_o become_v the_o jew_n a_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n answ._n through_o their_o unbelief_n as_o be_v plain_o prove_v roman_a 11.20_o object_n but_o they_o hold_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o defend_v the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n for_o which_o we_o be_v behold_v unto_o they_o answ._n indeed_o they_o hold_v the_o letter_n but_o if_o we_o regard_v the_o true_a meaning_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o the_o subject_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n which_o be_v jesus_n christ_n that_o they_o raze_v out_o and_o deny_v and_o so_o though_o they_o hold_v the_o letter_n yet_o worship_v god_n out_o of_o christ_n they_o worship_v a_o idol_n and_o not_o that_o god_n which_o will_v give_v unto_o they_o eternal_a life_n for_o out_o of_o christ_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o so_o we_o may_v say_v of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n though_o they_o hold_v the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n with_o the_o creed_n of_o the_o apostle_n whereupon_o some_o say_v we_o ought_v not_o to_o depart_v from_o they_o yet_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o indeed_o they_o hold_v they_o not_o the_o christ_n of_o the_o papist_n be_v but_o a_o feign_a christ_n for_o they_o take_v from_o he_o both_o his_o nature_n especial_o his_o humanity_n and_o his_o office_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v just_a cause_n to_o separat_fw-la from_o they_o this_o example_n of_o the_o jew_n that_o be_v once_o a_o most_o famous_a people_n but_o be_v now_o become_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n must_v be_v set_v before_o our_o eye_n continual_o for_o when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v reject_v they_o stand_v high_a in_o god_n favour_n but_o now_o for_o their_o unbelief_n they_o be_v cast_v off_o from_o god_n and_o be_v become_v the_o synagogue_n of_o the_o devil_n which_o must_v admonish_v we_o not_o to_o be_v high_o mind_v but_o to_o fear_n ro._n 11.20_o for_o if_o god_n spare_v not_o the_o natural_a branch_n they_o that_o be_v his_o first_o choose_v people_n he_o will_v not_o spare_v we_o that_o be_v but_o wild_a olive_n graff_v into_o the_o true_a vine_n we_o must_v therefore_o take_v heed_n of_o unbelief_n and_o labour_n for_o true_a faith_n which_o we_o must_v testify_v by_o obedience_n in_o our_o life_n &_o conversation_n verse_n 10._o fear_v none_o of_o thâ—se_a thing_n which_o thou_o shall_v suffer_v behold_v it_o shall_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o 〈◊〉_d shall_v cast_v 〈◊〉_d of_o you_o into_o prison_n that_o you_o may_v be_v trieâ—_n and_o you_o shall_v have_v tribulation_n ten_o day_n be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o the_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n here_o follow_v the_o second_o part_n of_o thâ—_n proposition_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n that_o heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a counsel_n which_o christ_n give_v to_o this_o church_n of_o smyrna_n which_o i_o call_v counsel_n because_o in_o the_o next_o chapter_n our_o saviour_n christ_n call_v such_o kind_n of_o instruction_n
thing_n for_o christ_n sake_n gal._n 5.14_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n iâ—_n 〈◊〉_d whole_a rejoice_v and_o if_o he_o will_v â—ost_o of_o any_o thing_n it_o shall_v be_v herein_o 2._o cor._n 1â—_n 9_o 10._o thus_o be_v god_n servant_n affect_v and_o therefore_o they_o that_o repent_v and_o believe_v need_v not_o to_o fear_v what_o flesh_n can_v do_v unto_o they_o the_o second_o part_n of_o christ_n counsel_n be_v his_o pprophecy_n which_o be_v a_o prediction_n of_o that_o particular_a affliction_n which_o this_o church_n of_o smirna_n shall_v suffer_v and_o first_o he_o prefix_v this_o note_n of_o attention_n behold_v then_o he_o set_v down_o the_o pprophecy_n itself_o the_o devil_n shall_v cast_v some_o of_o you_o into_o prison_n behold_v hereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o a_o excellent_a lesson_n that_o we_o must_v often_o consider_v before_o â—and_n of_o the_o day_n of_o our_o visitation_n wherein_o god_n will_v try_v uâ—_n lest_o we_o perish_v therein_o our_o saviour_n christ_n come_v towards_o jerusalem_n 29.41_o weep_v over_o it_o and_o when_o he_o come_v to_o it_o he_o foretell_v the_o final_a destruction_n of_o that_o city_n which_o therefore_o come_v upon_o they_o because_o they_o consider_v not_o the_o day_n of_o their_o visitation_n neither_o the_o thing_n therein_o foretell_v that_o do_v concern_v their_o peace_n and_o the_o like_a destruction_n will_v come_v upon_o we_o in_o this_o land_n if_o we_o consider_v not_o the_o day_n of_o our_o visitation_n let_v we_o therefore_o now_o in_o the_o day_n of_o peace_n forecast_v what_o be_v to_o come_v and_o prepare_v ourselves_o against_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n trial_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o escape_v the_o fearful_a and_o final_a destruction_n that_o shall_v come_v upon_o the_o wicked_a it_o shall_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o devil_n shall_v cast_v some_o of_o you_o into_o prison_n that_o you_o may_v be_v try_v and_o you_o shall_v have_v tribulation_n ten_o day_n these_o word_n contain_v christ_n pprophecy_n wherein_o he_o show_v himself_o to_o be_v true_a god_n for_o as_o isaiah_n in_o many_o place_n show_v it_o be_v a_o property_n of_o god_n alone_o to_o 44.7_o foretell_v a_o particular_a affliction_n that_o be_v contingent_a but_o some_o will_v say_v other_o can_v foretell_v certain_a thing_n to_o come_v as_o the_o physician_n the_o sick_a man_n death_n and_o the_o astronomer_n the_o time_n of_o the_o eclipse_n how_o then_o be_v this_o proper_a to_o god_n answ._n the_o physician_n foretell_v the_o sick_a man_n death_n only_o by_o virtue_n of_o cause_n present_a in_o which_o the_o future_a death_n be_v to_o he_o apparent_a and_o the_o astronomer_n foretell_v the_o eclipse_n by_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o natural_a and_o ordinary_a course_n of_o the_o heaven_n in_o present_a and_o by_o that_o can_v come_v to_o foretell_v it_o in_o time_n to_o come_v so_o that_o simple_o none_o can_v foretell_v a_o thing_n contingent_a except_o he_o see_v it_o present_a in_o the_o cause_n but_o christ_n foretell_v thing_n to_o come_v simple_o of_o himself_o though_o no_o cause_n be_v present_a as_o appear_z in_o this_o place_n in_o this_o pprophecy_n christ_n describe_v this_o affliction_n by_o sundry_a argument_n first_o by_o the_o cause_n thereof_o which_o be_v the_o devil_n second_o by_o the_o party_n that_o be_v to_o be_v afflict_v some_o of_o you_o of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n three_o by_o the_o kind_n of_o punishment_n imprisonment_n four_o by_o the_o end_n thereof_o their_o trial_n and_o fifthly_o by_o the_o time_n of_o it_o continuance_n for_o ten_o day_n i._o argument_n the_o cause_n of_o their_o affliction_n be_v the_o devil_n quest._n how_o can_v that_o be_v for_o be_v a_o spirit_n he_o can_v offer_v violence_n to_o man_n body_n to_o cast_v they_o into_o prison_n answ._n true_a but_o he_o be_v the_o god_n of_o the_o world_n that_o rule_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o wicked_a he_o incline_v their_o will_n to_o hate_v god_n child_n he_o stir_v they_o up_o to_o persecute_v and_o make_v they_o hiâ—_n instrument_n to_o cast_v godâ—_n servant_n into_o prison_n in_o this_o that_o the_o devil_n cause_v the_o affliction_n of_o god_n church_n we_o learn_v sundry_a point_n i._o what_o manner_n of_o man_n those_o be_v that_o persecute_v the_o church_n of_o god_n namely_o wicked_a man_n such_o as_o arâ—_n inspire_v by_o satan_n and_o whole_o guide_v in_o mind_n will_n and_o in_o affection_n by_o he_o this_o make_v paul_n say_v 1.15_o he_o be_v the_o head_n of_o all_o sinner_n because_o in_o persecute_v the_o church_n of_o god_n he_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o make_v his_o minister_n which_o must_v teach_v we_o to_o take_v heed_n how_o we_o persecute_v the_o church_n of_o god_n or_o any_o member_n thereof_o either_o in_o word_n or_o deed_n for_o he_o that_o do_v so_o be_v the_o vassal_n of_o satan_n in_o that_o action_n and_o while_o he_o hold_v that_o course_n he_o show_v himself_o to_o be_v no_o better_o than_o one_o that_o be_v whole_o guide_v by_o the_o devil_n for_o the_o devil_n be_v the_o principal_a agent_n in_o persecution_n and_o wicked_a man_n be_v his_o instrument_n ii_o hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o take_v pity_n upon_o all_o persecutor_n be_v they_o king_n or_o monarch_n or_o whatsoever_o yea_o we_o must_v pray_v for_o they_o though_o they_o be_v our_o enemy_n because_o they_o be_v possess_v and_o guide_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o in_o their_o persecution_n do_v his_o will_n and_o become_v his_o servant_n and_o vassal_n iii_o hence_o we_o learn_v with_o what_o weapon_n we_o be_v to_o defend_v ourselves_o in_o time_n of_o persecution_n namely_o with_o spiritual_a weapon_n of_o prayer_n &_o invocation_n wherein_o we_o must_v show_v our_o faith_n in_o christ_n our_o repentance_n &_o true_a obedience_n for_o our_o principal_a adversary_n be_v a_o spirit_n and_o hereby_o we_o shall_v best_o defend_v ourselves_o against_o he_o and_o get_v the_o chief_a victory_n eliaâ—_n for_o his_o prayer_n be_v call_v â—2_n the_o chariot_n and_o horseman_n of_o israel_n nothing_o do_v so_o much_o prevail_v in_o trouble_n and_o persecution_n as_o prayer_n from_o a_o penitent_a &_o believe_a heart_n and_o if_o god_n shall_v send_v a_o foreign_a nation_n against_o we_o howsoever_o the_o weapon_n of_o the_o soldier_n must_v be_v use_v yet_o our_o principal_a weapon_n must_v be_v prayer_n and_o fast_v for_o thereby_o we_o shall_v soon_o foil_v our_o principal_a adversary_n satan_n who_o cease_v not_o the_o spear_n nor_o sword_n and_o yet_o will_v fly_v before_o these_o spiritual_a weapon_n ii_o argument_n the_o party_n that_o must_v be_v afflict_v be_v some_o of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n not_o all_o iii_o argument_n the_o kind_n of_o their_o affliction_n be_v imprisonment_n iv._o argument_n the_o end_n of_o their_o affliction_n be_v the_o trial_n of_o their_o faith_n hope_n love_n and_o patience_n with_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o same_o first_o to_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o then_o unto_o the_o world_n in_o these_o three_o argument_n note_v first_o a_o special_a point_n touch_v god_n providence_n to_o wit_n that_o it_o be_v the_o first_o cause_n of_o all_o above_o all_o cause_n rule_v and_o dispose_v they_o all_o god_n in_o govern_v the_o world_n by_o his_o providence_n use_v instrument_n of_o two_o sort_n good_a or_o evil_a the_o good_a instrument_n be_v good_a angel_n and_o regenerate_a man_n by_o who_o come_v no_o disorder_n for_o god_n work_v both_o in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o wicked_a instrument_n be_v the_o devil_n and_o wicked_a man_n and_o though_o god_n use_v they_o well_o yet_o from_o they_o be_v much_o disorder_n and_o sin_n for_o he_o work_v not_o in_o they_o but_o only_o by_o they_o permit_v their_o sin_n and_o disorder_n that_o thereby_o he_o may_v show_v forth_o his_o justice_n mercy_n and_o power_n which_o herein_o do_v notable_o appear_v in_o use_v these_o instrument_n which_o be_v evil_a in_o themselves_o that_o notwithstanding_o their_o malice_n he_o cause_v wonderful_a order_n for_o first_o by_o his_o providence_n he_o restrain_v their_o fury_n and_o rage_n so_o as_o they_o can_v show_v it_o to_o the_o full_a as_o they_o desire_v see_v this_o in_o the_o devil_n persecution_n against_o this_o church_n he_o can_v kill_v the_o member_n hereof_o but_o only_o cast_v they_o into_o prison_n he_o can_v imprison_v they_o all_o but_o some_o only_o neither_o can_v he_o keep_v they_o in_o prison_n always_o but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n second_o by_o his_o providence_n he_o turn_v all_o that_o they_o do_v to_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n the_o devil_n afflict_v the_o church_n for_o the_o destruction_n and_o damnation_n of_o their_o soul_n but_o god_n turn_v it_o to_o their_o good_a to_o make_v their_o faith_n manifest_a and_o to_o prevent_v many_o
sin_n in_o they_o these_o thing_n we_o shall_v often_o think_v of_o and_o bless_v god_n name_n for_o ever_o that_o by_o his_o providence_n he_o do_v master_n satan_n power_n &_o malice_n and_o so_o dispose_v of_o all_o action_n of_o the_o wicked_a that_o they_o tend_v to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n this_o must_v also_o teach_v we_o to_o renounce_v ourselves_o and_o to_o put_v all_o our_o trust_n and_o confidence_n in_o christ_n his_o providence_n make_v that_o our_o comfort_n our_o stay_n and_o protection_n in_o all_o distress_n again_o whereas_o the_o end_n of_o affliction_n in_o god_n church_n be_v the_o trial_n of_o faith_n &_o other_o grace_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v many_o thing_n first_o to_o labour_v to_o have_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o power_n of_o godliness_n in_o true_a faith_n and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o form_n and_o show_v thereof_o in_o a_o naked_a profession_n only_o for_o we_o must_v be_v cast_v into_o the_o fiery_a trial_n of_o affliction_n to_o see_v what_o be_v in_o our_o heart_n in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n show_v will_v not_o serve_v the_o turn_n nor_o stand_v we_o in_o steâ—d_n trial_n and_o affliction_n will_v consume_v they_o as_o the_o fire_n do_v dross_n and_o stubble_n second_o to_o be_v joyful_a and_o glad_a when_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o call_v we_o to_o suffer_v for_o his_o sake_n because_o this_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o make_v know_v good_a grace_n in_o our_o heart_n james_n 1.2_o brethren_n count_v it_o exceed_v great_a joy_n when_o you_o fall_v into_o diverse_a affliction_n know_v that_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n bring_v forth_o patience_n v._o argument_n the_o time_n of_o their_o continuance_n in_o affliction_n be_v for_o ten_o day_n by_o which_o some_o understand_v a_o long_a time_n according_a unto_o that_o which_o jacob_n say_v to_o laban_n 41._o thou_o have_v change_v my_o wage_n ten_o time_n that_o be_v often_o and_o so_o the_o israelit_n be_v say_v to_o sin_n 14.22_o ten_o time_n against_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v many_o time_n but_o this_o exposition_n will_v not_o so_o fit_o stand_v in_o this_o place_n for_o christ_n intend_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n but_o what_o comfort_n can_v this_o be_v to_o say_v they_o shall_v be_v so_o long_o in_o affliction_n other_o expound_v ten_o day_n to_o be_v ten_o year_n and_o so_o the_o word_n day_n be_v sometime_o use_v to_o betoken_v year_n for_o in_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v year_n of_o day_n as_o well_o as_o year_n of_o week_n but_o though_o this_o exposition_n may_v well_o stand_v with_o the_o word_n yet_o none_o can_v show_v by_o true_a record_n that_o this_o church_n be_v afflict_v only_o fâ—â—tenne_v year_n and_o no_o long_o therefore_o a_o three_o exposition_n be_v this_o that_o by_o ten_o day_n be_v mean_v some_o short_a space_n of_o time_n and_o i_o so_o understand_v this_o place_n because_o it_o be_v most_o suitable_a to_o all_o circumstance_n for_o here_o christ_n intend_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n which_o be_v most_o fit_o do_v by_o foretell_v a_o short_a time_n of_o their_o affliction_n use_n in_o this_o circumstance_n of_o time_n christ_n set_v down_o two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o affliction_n of_o god_n church_n and_o people_n be_v for_o a_o certain_a time_n decree_v of_o god_n which_o can_v be_v change_v lengthen_a or_o shorten_v particular_a proof_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o scripture_n so_o god_n foretell_v abraham_n that_o the_o affliction_n of_o his_o people_n shall_v be_v 430_o year_n which_o time_n they_o be_v afflict_v especial_o in_o egypt_n but_o at_o the_o same_o night_n when_o those_o year_n be_v expire_v they_o be_v lead_v out_o of_o egypt_n and_o their_o affliction_n cease_v exod._n 12.46_o and_o the_o 70_o year_n captivity_n be_v well_o know_v unto_o daniel_n to_o be_v determine_v of_o the_o lord_n and_o therefore_o he_o arm_v himself_o with_o patience_n during_o that_o time_n and_o pray_v not_o for_o deliverance_n until_o it_o shall_v be_v expire_v the_o consideration_n hereof_o must_v move_v we_o to_o arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n when_o god_n shall_v send_v affliction_n because_o we_o can_v deliver_v ourselves_o before_o the_o time_n which_o god_n have_v appoint_v for_o the_o continuance_n of_o our_o affliction_n be_v set_v down_o by_o god_n and_o can_v be_v change_v by_o us._n second_o here_o christ_n show_v that_o the_o affliction_n of_o his_o church_n be_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n and_o therefore_o paul_n 4.17_o call_v they_o moment_n any_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v reveal_v at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n and_o never_o have_v end_n which_o be_v a_o singular_a ground_n of_o comfort_n unto_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o any_o distress_n thus_o we_o see_v the_o part_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n yet_o in_o the_o word_n there_o be_v a_o further_a thing_n intend_v for_o every_o word_n contain_v a_o reason_n to_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o first_o from_o the_o cause_n of_o their_o persecution_n which_o be_v the_o devil_n and_o therefore_o they_o must_v not_o fear_v for_o if_o he_o cast_v they_o into_o prison_n their_o case_n be_v good_a he_o be_v god_n enemy_n and_o so_o the_o lord_n be_v on_o their_o side_n who_o then_o can_v be_v against_o they_o to_o do_v they_o hurt_v second_o not_o all_o your_o whole_a church_n but_o only_o some_o say_v christ_n must_v be_v afflict_v three_o satan_n can_v kill_v you_o but_o only_o cast_v you_o into_o prison_n four_o his_o imprisonment_n shall_v not_o tend_v to_o your_o damnation_n but_o make_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o grace_n and_o last_o it_o be_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n in_o all_o which_o you_o may_v see_v the_o power_n of_o god_n providence_n overrule_a your_o enemy_n and_o turn_v his_o rage_n unto_o your_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o take_v comfort_n and_o courage_n unto_o your_o soul_n lay_v aside_o all_o fear_n and_o all_o dread_a and_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n to_o the_o end_n the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o counsel_n be_v a_o most_o bless_a precept_n contain_v most_o heavenly_a advice_n be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n god_n servant_n be_v call_v faithful_a in_o regard_n of_o their_o fidelity_n which_o they_o owe_v to_o god_n and_o that_o be_v in_o two_o respect_n i._n every_o member_n of_o christ_n be_v baptize_v wherein_o god_n for_o his_o part_n promise_v christ_n with_o life_n everlasting_a and_o the_o party_n baptize_v promise_v unto_o god_n again_o that_o he_o will_v deny_v himself_o and_o cast_v himself_o whole_o upon_o god_n in_o life_n and_o death_n and_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o promise_n â—s_v call_v the_o stipulation_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 1._o pet._n 3.21_o and_o when_o a_o man_n keep_v this_o promise_n make_v to_o god_n then_o be_v he_o faithful_a and_o when_o he_o break_v it_o he_o be_v unfaithful_a ii_o god_n give_v unto_o his_o child_n many_o good_a gift_n and_o grace_n as_o knowledge_n faith_n repentance_n and_o care_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n which_o he_o will_v have_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o keep_v and_o preserve_v and_o therefore_o paul_n bid_v timothy_n â—0_n keep_v that_o thing_n which_o be_v commit_v unto_o he_o of_o trust_n now_o a_o man_n be_v faithful_a unto_o god_n when_o he_o make_v good_a use_n of_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o still_o preserve_v the_o same_o use_v they_o for_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o of_o his_o brethren_n like_a as_o we_o be_v count_v faithful_a with_o man_n when_o we_o keep_v that_o thing_n safe_a which_o be_v commit_v unto_o we_o of_o trust_n the_o meaning_n then_o of_o christ_n be_v this_o thou_o have_v make_v a_o promise_n unto_o i_o in_o baptism_n to_o renounce_v sin_n and_o satan_n and_o to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o death_n therefore_o perform_v this_o thy_o promise_n and_o for_o those_o gift_n which_o i_o have_v commit_v of_o trust_n unto_o thou_o see_v thou_o keep_v they_o well_o and_o use_v they_o to_o my_o glory_n in_o the_o good_a of_o thy_o brethren_n against_o this_o precept_n three_o sort_n of_o man_n offend_v and_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n i._n those_o that_o be_v baptize_v do_v yet_o live_v in_o ignorance_n and_o security_n never_o seek_v to_o know_v god_n or_o to_o understand_v his_o will_n no_o not_o so_o much_o as_o for_o their_o own_o vow_n in_o baptism_n though_o none_o will_v brag_v more_o of_o fidelity_n unto_o god_n than_o these_o man_n do_v ii_o those_o that_o have_v knowledge_n and_o understanding_n in_o god_n will_n and_o yet_o make_v no_o conscience_n to_o live_v according_o
iii_o those_o that_o for_o a_o time_n show_v forth_o many_o good_a thing_n as_o care_v to_o get_v knowledge_n and_o to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o after_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v entangle_v and_o draw_v away_o with_o the_o profit_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n or_o else_o to_o be_v drive_v back_o by_o trial_n and_o persecution_n and_o of_o these_o three_o sort_n be_v most_o man_n general_o who_o case_n be_v fearful_a and_o dangerous_a for_o they_o shall_v never_o have_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n if_o they_o continue_v thus_o unfaithful_a to_o induce_v man_n to_o fidelity_n christ_n add_v a_o most_o forcible_a reason_n promise_v thereunto_o the_o crown_n of_o eternal_a life_n hence_o the_o papist_n conclude_v that_o martyr_n by_o suffer_a martyrdom_n do_v merit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n because_o it_o be_v call_v a_o crown_n therefore_o say_v they_o it_o be_v a_o reward_n whereto_o i_o answer_v two_o way_n i._n the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v call_v a_o crown_n only_o in_o resemblance_n because_o as_o with_o man_n after_o the_o race_n be_v run_v they_o receive_v the_o garland_n even_o so_o after_o man_n have_v fight_v the_o good_a fight_n of_o faith_n and_o keep_v good_a conscience_n in_o this_o life_n then_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v they_o receive_v the_o crown_n of_o glory_n for_o the_o keep_n of_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o the_o cause_n but_o the_o antecedent_n of_o eternal_a life_n second_o the_o reward_n be_v promise_v not_o to_o the_o martyrdom_n but_o to_o the_o martyr_n and_o yet_o not_o for_o his_o suffering_n but_o because_o he_o be_v a_o member_n of_o christ_n and_o by_o suffer_a death_n have_v show_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o who_o merit_n alone_o he_o be_v so_o reward_v and_o so_o must_v this_o and_o all_o other_o promise_n of_o like_a sort_n be_v understand_v for_o the_o papist_n do_v foul_o err_v when_o they_o apply_v the_o promise_n unto_o the_o work_n which_o be_v make_v unto_o the_o worker_n by_o this_o promise_n we_o all_o that_o have_v make_v our_o vow_n to_o god_n in_o baptism_n must_v learn_v to_o become_v faithful_a in_o keep_v the_o same_o unto_o the_o end_n it_o be_v a_o shame_n for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o man_n much_o more_o with_o god_n and_o the_o more_o fearful_a be_v this_o sin_n because_o only_o the_o faithful_a shall_v inherit_v eternal_a life_n second_o all_o such_o as_o have_v make_v a_o show_n of_o good_a thing_n heretofore_o and_o now_o do_v suffer_v the_o same_o to_o decay_v must_v call_v to_o mind_n from_o whence_o they_o be_v fall_v and_o become_v faithful_a keeper_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n and_o walk_v constant_o in_o obedience_n and_o then_o shall_v they_o have_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n though_o not_o for_o their_o desert_n but_o only_o for_o the_o merit_n of_o christ._n verse_n 11._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o last_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n namely_o the_o conclusion_n wherein_o observe_v general_o as_o also_o in_o the_o two_o next_o verse_n that_o christ_n repeat_v the_o same_o thing_n which_o he_o speak_v before_o in_o this_o and_o the_o former_a chapter_n yea_o in_o the_o very_a same_o word_n this_o must_v be_v consider_v because_o it_o be_v do_v by_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o doctor_n of_o his_o church_n who_o example_n both_o for_o matter_n and_o manner_n of_o teach_v must_v be_v our_o rule_n and_o precept_n the_o like_a do_v the_o apostle_n it_o grieve_v not_o paul_n to_o write_v the_o same_o thing_n phil._n 3.1_o and_o peter_n say_v unto_o the_o disperse_a church_n 12_o that_o he_o will_v often_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n of_o the_o same_o thing_n before_o his_o depart_n wherein_o they_o have_v knowledge_n and_o be_v establish_v hereby_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o their_o ministry_n have_v warrant_n often_o to_o teach_v and_o repeat_v the_o same_o point_n of_o doctrine_n even_o in_o the_o same_o word_n yea_o god_n faithful_a minister_n may_v preach_v the_o same_o sermon_n oftentimes_o if_o he_o do_v it_o not_o for_o ease_v to_o himself_o but_o for_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o people_n and_o therefore_o if_o any_o hearer_n of_o god_n word_n shall_v at_o any_o time_n mark_v the_o minister_n to_o deliver_v the_o same_o thing_n often_o he_o be_v not_o curious_o to_o find_v fault_n with_o his_o ministry_n for_o by_o that_o reason_n they_o may_v find_v fault_n with_o christ_n who_o seven_o time_n repeat_v the_o same_o thing_n unto_o these_o church_n this_o conclusion_n have_v two_o part_n a_o commandment_n and_o a_o promise_n the_o word_n of_o this_o commandment_n have_v be_v expound_v in_o the_o seven_o verse_n with_o the_o doctrine_n and_o use_n thereof_o yet_o here_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v what_o the_o spirit_n commend_v thus_o serious_o to_o our_o hear_n the_o thing_n be_v three_o which_o be_v handle_v in_o the_o former_a verse_n first_o touch_v god_n providence_n that_o he_o see_v and_o regard_v the_o tribulation_n of_o his_o church_n the_o second_o touch_v trial_n that_o god_n church_n and_o people_n ought_v beforehand_o to_o consider_v of_o the_o day_n of_o visitation_n and_o thereby_o arm_v themselves_o with_o courage_n against_o all_o affliction_n that_o they_o suffer_v not_o themselves_o to_o be_v overmuch_o daunt_v with_o any_o fear_n the_o three_o touch_v faithfulness_n god_n people_n must_v consider_v what_o promise_v they_o have_v make_v to_o god_n in_o baptism_n namely_o to_o keep_v faith_n true_a religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o these_o they_o must_v perform_v unto_o death_n these_o thing_n be_v so_o careful_o commend_v unto_o we_o by_o christ_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o have_v they_o engrave_v in_o our_o heart_n that_o we_o may_v practice_v they_o in_o our_o life_n and_o to_o incite_v we_o hereunto_o we_o must_v mark_v the_o two_o reason_n contain_v in_o the_o word_n first_o because_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n speak_v to_o us._n second_o because_o they_o concern_v all_o church_n though_o principal_o they_o be_v speak_v to_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o therefore_o none_o may_v seek_v excuse_n to_o exempt_v himself_o from_o learning_n and_o obey_v these_o thing_n the_o promise_n he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o overcome_v we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o seven_o verse_n by_o second_o death_n be_v mean_v the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o body_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o for_o there_o be_v two_o kind_n of_o death_n mention_v in_o scripture_n the_o first_o be_v the_o separation_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n asunder_o at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n the_o second_o be_v when_o soul_n and_o body_n both_o be_v sâ—â—ered_v for_o ever_o from_o god_n comfortable_a presence_n reu._n 21.8_o this_o second_o death_n be_v expound_v to_o be_v a_o abode_n in_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n the_o meaning_n therefore_o of_o the_o promise_n be_v this_o that_o they_o which_o overcome_v though_o they_o may_v suffer_v the_o first_o death_n yet_o they_o shall_v never_o suffer_v damnation_n their_o soul_n and_o body_n may_v be_v sever_v one_o from_o the_o other_o for_o a_o time_n but_o neither_o soul_n nor_o body_n shall_v ever_o be_v sever_v from_o god_n to_o go_v into_o that_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n which_o be_v a_o most_o gracious_a and_o happy_a promise_n here_o first_o mark_n to_o who_o this_o promise_n be_v make_v namely_o to_o they_o that_o overcome_v where_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a for_o a_o man_n to_o profess_v and_o approve_v or_o to_o teach_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o withal_o he_o must_v join_v a_o fight_n against_o himself_o against_o sin_n the_o world_n the_o devil_n and_o against_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o his_o salvation_n and_o not_o suffer_v they_o to_o reign_v over_o he_o but_o so_o fight_v as_o by_o god_n grace_n he_o may_v overcome_v and_o then_o shall_v the_o second_o death_n never_o hurt_v he_o it_o be_v nothing_o to_o profess_v if_o we_o still_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o knowledge_n but_o labour_v to_o feel_v in_o our_o heart_n such_o power_n of_o grace_n as_o will_v make_v we_o true_o to_o say_v we_o be_v conqueror_n over_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n this_o be_v that_o bless_a state_n of_o all_o those_o unto_o who_o life_n everlasting_a belong_v who_o shall_v never_o taste_v of_o the_o second_o death_n second_o here_o be_v answer_v a_o great_a question_n which_o
every_o man_n conscience_n will_v move_v unto_o he_o namely_o how_o may_v i_o escape_v the_o second_o death_n that_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n answ._n thou_o must_v in_o this_o life_n true_o turn_v unto_o god_n from_o all_o thy_o evil_a way_n renounce_v thyself_o and_o put_v all_o thy_o affiance_n in_o christ_n his_o death_n and_o passion_n and_o evermore_o labour_v to_o keep_v true_a religion_n faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o death_n in_o all_o estate_n this_o do_v and_o though_o thou_o taste_v of_o the_o first_o yet_o the_o second_o death_n shall_v never_o touch_v thou_o three_o hereby_o christ_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o of_o the_o two_o death_n the_o second_o be_v the_o worse_a the_o bodily_a death_n be_v terrible_a unto_o nature_n but_o the_o second_o be_v the_o proper_a death_n indeed_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o creature_n in_o soul_n and_o body_n eternal_o and_o yet_o behold_v the_o madness_n of_o man_n who_o fear_v great_o the_o first_o death_n and_o regard_v nothing_o the_o burn_a lake_n like_v unto_o little_a child_n that_o fear_v their_o own_o shadow_n and_o yet_o be_v not_o afraid_a of_o fire_n and_o water_n that_o will_v burn_v and_o drown_v they_o this_o be_v man_n miserable_a estate_n through_o the_o blindness_n of_o his_o mind_n &_o the_o hardness_n of_o his_o heart_n verse_n 12._o and_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o pergamus_n write_v this_o say_v he_o that_o have_v that_o sharp_a sword_n with_o two_o edge_n here_o be_v the_o three_o particular_a commandment_n which_o christ_n give_v to_o john_n whereof_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n show_v there_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o angel_n and_o why_o this_o particular_a commandment_n be_v give_v unto_o john_n this_o three_o epistle_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o former_a have_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n in_o this_o verse_n the_o proposition_n of_o the_o epistle_n verse_n 13_o and_o so_o forward_o unto_o the_o 17_o and_o the_o conclusion_n in_o the_o 17_o verse_n i._o part_n the_o preface_n show_v in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v namely_o in_o christ_n name_n the_o cause_n whereof_o we_o have_v show_v before_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n christ_n be_v here_o set_v forth_o by_o a_o action_n of_o his_o kingly_a office_n borrow_v from_o the_o former_a chapter_n verse_n 16._o these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v that_o sharp_a two_o edge_a sword_n that_o be_v he_o who_o be_v not_o only_a priest_n and_o prophet_n of_o his_o church_n but_o the_o king_n thereof_o to_o guide_v and_o govern_v the_o same_o the_o sword_n which_o he_o have_v in_o his_o hand_n or_o in_o his_o mouth_n as_o isaiah_n say_v be_v that_o two_o edge_a sword_n yea_o that_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n thereby_o be_v signify_v the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n the_o law_n and_o gospel_n which_o be_v so_o call_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o operation_n thereof_o as_o it_o be_v hebr._n the_o 4.12_o christ_n be_v thus_o describe_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n for_o hereby_o three_o thing_n be_v signify_v first_o his_o wonderful_a power_n in_o slay_v original_a sin_n and_o corruption_n by_o his_o word_n in_o all_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o so_o as_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o recovery_n for_o sin_n after_o it_o be_v once_o wound_v second_o that_o he_o will_v strengthen_v and_o preserve_v his_o church_n and_o all_o the_o true_a member_n thereof_o by_o the_o same_o word_n against_o all_o their_o enemy_n this_o it_o do_v after_o this_o manner_n the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n both_o law_n and_o gospel_n must_v both_o be_v know_v and_o believe_v then_o whensoever_o any_o temptation_n come_v faith_n make_v the_o same_o word_n powerful_a in_o we_o to_o repel_v the_o temptation_n and_o to_o strengthen_v we_o in_o affliction_n for_o it_o be_v that_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o we_o wound_v all_o our_o enemy_n but_o if_o it_o be_v not_o believe_v it_o be_v but_o as_o a_o sword_n in_o a_o sheath_n and_o will_v nothing_o help_v us._n three_o hereby_o he_o signify_v that_o he_o destroy_v all_o their_o enemy_n this_o be_v the_o chief_a end_n why_o he_o so_o describe_v himself_o in_o this_o place_n how_o christ_n wound_v his_o enemy_n herewith_o we_o have_v show_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n and_o the_o sixteen_o verse_n with_o the_o use_v thereof_o verse_n 13._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o where_o thou_o dwell_v even_o where_o satan_n throne_n be_v and_o thou_o keep_v my_o name_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n even_o in_o thâ—se_a day_n when_o antipas_n my_o faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n the_o proposition_n which_o contain_v two_o part_n a_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n in_o this_o verse_n and_o a_o reproof_n vers_fw-la 14_o 15._o the_o commendation_n be_v twofold_a first_o general_a in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n then_o special_a in_o the_o word_n follow_v i_o know_v where_o thou_o dwell_v etc._n etc._n of_o the_o general_a commendation_n we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o former_a epistle_n verse_n 2._o and_o 9_o this_o yet_o must_v be_v observe_v that_o christ_n herewith_o begin_v the_o matter_n of_o all_o his_o epistle_n intend_v no_o doubt_n hereby_o to_o settle_v the_o persuasion_n of_o his_o presence_n deep_o in_o every_o one_o of_o our_o heart_n for_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o holy_a fear_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o all_o true_a religion_n and_o godliness_n and_o here_o christ_n give_v a_o precedent_n for_o his_o minister_n namely_o that_o the_o first_o thing_n they_o must_v teach_v their_o people_n be_v to_o be_v persuade_v of_o this_o presence_n of_o christ_n wheresoever_o they_o be_v christ_n be_v with_o they_o and_o whatsoever_o they_o do_v he_o see_v they_o this_o will_v cause_v they_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o their_o way_n and_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o shall_v ever_o have_v sound_a knowledge_n or_o good_a conscience_n till_o he_o be_v persuade_v hereof_o abraham_n know_v well_o that_o in_o abimelekes_fw-mi court_n they_o will_v make_v no_o conscience_n of_o murder_n because_o they_o 20.11_o want_v this_o fear_n of_o god_n to_o fear_n god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n be_v the_o whole_a man_n and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v give_v all_o diligence_n hereunto_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o hard_a lesson_n for_o we_o to_o learn_v and_o of_o ourselves_o we_o can_v learn_v it_o but_o if_o we_o use_v the_o mean_n god_n blessing_n will_v be_v upon_o our_o endeavour_n and_o then_o shall_v we_o have_v knowledge_n upon_o knowledge_n and_o grace_n upon_o grace_n with_o the_o comfort_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n the_o particular_a commendation_n of_o this_o church_n be_v for_o her_o constancy_n in_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v where_o thou_o dwell_v even_o in_o a_o place_n where_o satan_n throne_n be_v and_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o thou_o keep_v my_o name_n that_o be_v thou_o hold_v still_o my_o true_a religion_n and_o doctrine_n the_o throne_n of_o satan_n be_v any_o place_n where_o superstition_n idolatry_n or_o profaneness_n be_v maintain_v without_o controlment_n and_o from_o whence_o wickedness_n be_v convey_v to_o other_o place_n for_o the_o devil_n be_v the_o god_n of_o the_o world_n and_o he_o have_v his_o throne_n among_o man_n pergamus_n be_v a_o great_a city_n of_o the_o gentile_n which_o maintain_v idolatry_n and_o persecute_v the_o gospel_n from_o whence_o also_o iniquity_n be_v derive_v to_o other_o town_n and_o place_n therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o devil_n throne_n herein_o we_o may_v observe_v sundry_a point_n of_o great_a importance_n first_o the_o exceed_a policy_n of_o satan_n he_o have_v his_o kingdom_n in_o this_o world_n and_o for_o the_o establish_n thereof_o he_o must_v have_v his_o throne_n where_o wickedness_n and_o idolatry_n be_v maintain_v without_o controlment_n and_o whence_o sin_n be_v derive_v to_o other_o place_n in_o all_o age_n it_o have_v be_v thus_o and_o will_v continue_v so_o to_o the_o end_n in_o the_o old_a world_n he_o have_v his_o throne_n among_o cain_n posterity_n in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n even_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n the_o high_a place_n and_o grove_n where_o the_o people_n sacrifice_v to_o their_o idol_n be_v the_o devil_n throne_n the_o oracle_n of_o the_o gentile_n where_o the_o devil_n give_v answer_v unto_o man_n be_v his_o chief_a throne_n in_o the_o day_n of_o popery_n every_o church_n and_o chapel_n be_v throne_n of_o satan_n wherein_o be_v erect_v image_n &_o holy_a rood_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o saint_n whither_o the_o people_n come_v to_o worship_n from_o
notable_a mean_n to_o draw_v man_n to_o love_n and_o embrace_v faith_n and_o true_a religion_n 1._o pet._n 3.1_o iii_o that_o god_n may_v show_v on_o the_o godly_a token_n of_o his_o special_a love_n and_o favour_n which_o he_o do_v when_o he_o send_v judgement_n upon_o the_o wicked_a and_o spare_v his_o child_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v bring_v a_o common_a judgement_n upon_o the_o jew_n he_o cause_v those_o that_o mourn_v for_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o for_o the_o abomination_n of_o the_o people_n 9.4_o to_o be_v mark_v in_o the_o forehead_n that_o they_o may_v bespared_a so_o that_o if_o any_o godly_a person_n dwell_v among_o such_o as_o hate_v religion_n and_o be_v profane_a he_o must_v content_v himself_o know_v it_o be_v god_n will_v his_o church_n shall_v be_v vex_v and_o trouble_v by_o the_o society_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a six_o hence_o it_o appear_v that_o god_n people_n may_v lawful_o dwell_v among_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a man_n always_o remember_v that_o they_o communicate_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o sin_n and_o rebellion_n against_o god_n for_o so_o lâ—t_v dwell_v in_o sodom_n and_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n where_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o throne_n 1._o cor._n 7.2_o this_o question_n be_v answer_v a_o master_n be_v a_o heathen_a man_n and_o his_o servant_n be_v convert_v to_o the_o faith_n whereupon_o he_o think_v that_o he_o be_v free_a from_o serve_v his_o master_n but_o paul_n tell_v he_o he_o must_v do_v external_a service_n still_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o he_o keep_v good_a conscience_n and_o be_v not_o constrain_v to_o renounce_v true_a religion_n last_o hence_o we_o have_v direction_n to_o answer_v a_o question_n much_o urge_v against_o we_o by_o the_o papist_n to_o wit_n where_o our_o church_n be_v fourscore_o year_n ago_o when_o luther_n first_o begin_v to_o preach_v they_o intend_v hereby_o to_o prove_v our_o church_n to_o be_v but_o of_o fourscore_o year_n continuance_n and_o so_o our_o religion_n to_o be_v new_a we_o answer_v by_o the_o like_a where_o be_v the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n when_o the_o devil_n throne_n be_v in_o that_o city_n sure_o it_o be_v there_o where_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o throne_n and_o so_o when_o antichrist_n that_o man_n of_o sin_n have_v spread_v popery_n over_o all_o europe_n at_o that_o very_o same_o time_n be_v god_n church_n in_o europe_n where_o popery_n be_v profess_v mingle_v with_o the_o papist_n which_o to_o be_v true_a appear_v by_o this_o that_o in_o all_o age_n there_o have_v be_v some_o who_o open_o have_v oppugn_v popery_n more_o or_o less_o partly_o by_o writing_n and_o partly_o by_o speak_v as_o the_o record_n of_o all_o age_n do_v testify_v &_o make_v manifest_a so_o that_o though_o iniquity_n have_v the_o upper_a hand_n yet_o our_o church_n have_v his_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o popery_n and_o thou_o keep_v my_o name_n that_o be_v though_o thou_o dwell_v in_o a_o place_n where_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o throne_n yet_o thou_o hold_v fast_v my_o name_n so_o as_o neither_o force_n nor_o fraud_n of_o the_o adversary_n can_v take_v my_o name_n from_o thou_o so_o much_o the_o word_n import_v by_o christ_n name_n we_o must_v understand_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n so_o paul_n be_v say_v to_o be_v 9.15_o a_o choose_a vessel_n to_o carry_v christ_n name_n among_o the_o gentile_n that_o be_v to_o publish_v among_o they_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n here_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n be_v particular_o commend_v for_o her_o constancy_n in_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n against_o all_o adversary_n power_n whatsoever_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o teach_v or_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o time_n of_o peace_n but_o we_o must_v be_v constant_a in_o hold_v it_o fast_o against_o all_o gainsayer_n and_o not_o be_v turn_v about_o with_o every_o wind_n of_o doctrine_n but_o in_o life_n and_o death_n keep_v sure_o the_o truth_n that_o neither_o fraud_n nor_o forcâ—_n of_o any_o adversary_n power_n draw_v it_o from_o we_o or_o we_o from_o it_o mat._n 13._o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n 〈◊〉_d compare_v to_o a_o treasure_n hide_v in_o the_o field_n which_o when_o a_o man_n sud_v be_v go_v and_o sell_v all_o he_o have_v to_o buy_v the_o field_n the_o scope_n of_o that_o parable_n be_v this_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v come_v into_o any_o of_o our_o field_n &_o by_o search_v find_v a_o gold_n i_o he_o will_v not_o make_v it_o know_v to_o any_o but_o cover_v it_o close_o and_o go_v his_o way_n and_o sell_v all_o that_o he_o have_v to_o buy_v that_o field_n that_o thereby_o he_o may_v enrich_v himself_o even_o so_o have_v find_v this_o that_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v the_o way_n to_o life_n everlasting_a though_o we_o must_v not_o conceal_v the_o same_o from_o other_o yet_o we_o must_v be_v like_o this_o man_n herein_o that_o we_o can_v be_v content_a to_o part_v with_o all_o that_o we_o have_v that_o so_o we_o may_v make_v the_o gospel_n we_o 1._o tim._n 3.9_o deacon_n must_v have_v this_o property_n to_o have_v the_o ministry_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n there_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o sure_a treasure_n house_n which_o can_v be_v rob_v by_o any_o adversary_n power_n and_o faith_n that_o be_v true_a religion_n be_v the_o treasure_n that_o be_v there_o safe_o lay_v up_o such_o a_o store-house_n must_v we_o get_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o faith_n any_o thing_n else_o we_o may_v lose_v but_o if_o we_o part_v with_o true_a religion_n salvation_n be_v go_v and_o all_o be_v lose_v and_o therefore_o in_o life_n and_o death_n we_o must_v keep_v fast_o the_o faith_n further_o christ_n amplifi_v the_o praise_n of_o their_o conscience_n by_o two_o argument_n first_o that_o they_o hold_v christ_n name_n without_o denial_n second_o that_o they_o keep_v the_o faith_n in_o the_o time_n of_o bloody_a persecution_n for_o the_o first_o in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n this_o be_v a_o excellent_a commendation_n for_o many_o will_v hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o a_o time_n and_o yet_o after_o deny_v the_o same_o by_o apostasy_n but_o this_o church_n hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n without_o any_o revolt_n at_o all_o their_o practice_n must_v we_o follow_v and_o so_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n that_o therein_o we_o never_o make_v revolt_n for_o if_o we_o shall_v once_o deny_v religion_n we_o know_v not_o whether_o god_n will_v give_v we_o the_o grace_n of_o repentance_n that_o wâ—e_n may_v profess_v it_o again_o which_o if_o he_o do_v not_o we_o perish_v eternal_o consider_v esauâ—_n example_n who_o sell_v his_o birth_n right_a for_o a_o mess_n of_o red_a broth_n and_o after_o lose_v the_o blessing_n which_o when_o he_o will_v have_v recover_v he_o be_v reject_v 12.17_o and_o find_v no_o place_n to_o repentance_n though_o be_v seek_v it_o with_o tear_n therefore_o to_o prevent_v the_o fearful_a danger_n of_o not_o repent_v after_o revoult_v we_o must_v still_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n without_o denial_n here_o in_o this_o place_n the_o faith_n of_o christ_n be_v all_o one_o with_o christ_n name_n that_o be_v with_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o it_o be_v call_v christ_n faith_n first_o because_o christ_n with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o author_n thereof_o second_o because_o christ_n reveal_v the_o same_o from_o the_o bosom_n of_o his_o father_n for_o god_n reveal_v his_o gospel_n unto_o man_n by_o his_o son_n christ_n jesus_n three_o because_o christ_n be_v the_o substance_n and_o matter_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o indeed_o christ_n jesus_n be_v the_o principal_a subject_n of_o the_o whole_a bible_n be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n &_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o second_o argument_n of_o their_o praise_n for_o conscience_n be_v take_v from_o the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n they_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n in_o the_o time_n of_o bloody_a persecution_n even_o in_o those_o day_n say_v christ_n when_o antipas_n my_o faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v who_o this_o antipas_n be_v be_v not_o know_v neither_o certain_o record_v in_o any_o history_n it_o be_v think_v he_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n unto_o oppose_a himself_o against_o idolatry_n and_o gentilism_n in_o this_o city_n of_o pergamus_n in_o this_o argument_n note_v two_o point_n i._o that_o christ_n commend_v antipas_n call_v he_o his_o faithful_a martyr_n whereby_o we_o see_v that_o in_o god_n church_n it_o be_v lawful_a to_o honour_v saint_n and_o martyr_n for_o that_o which_o christ_n do_v his_o church_n may_v do_v this_o their_o honour_n must_v stand_v
create_v or_o ordain_v of_o god_n it_o have_v no_o property_n of_o the_o godhead_n but_o yet_o a_o idol_n be_v something_o in_o man_n imagination_n which_o give_v to_o it_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o repute_v it_o as_o god_n make_v it_o a_o god_n unto_o himself_o iii_o reason_n nâ—aman_n the_o syrian_a 1â—_n go_v into_o the_o temple_n of_o the_o god_n rimmon_n and_o there_o kneel_v down_o even_o so_o may_v christian_n go_v eat_v in_o idol_n temple_n ans._n when_o naaman_n go_v in_o thither_o he_o do_v not_o kneel_v down_o to_o the_o idol_n but_o to_o the_o king_n perform_v a_o civil_a duty_n unto_o his_o prince_n who_o use_v to_o lean_v on_o naamans_n shoulder_n and_o worship_v his_o false_a god_n and_o though_o naaman_n be_v present_a at_o idoll-worship_n &_o service_n yet_o it_o be_v with_o protestation_n against_o it_o for_o be_v cure_v of_o his_o leprosy_n he_o promise_v to_o worship_v no_o god_n but_o the_o god_n of_o israel_n and_o thereupon_o he_o jade_a two_o mule_n with_o the_o earth_n of_o the_o land_n of_o israel_n in_o token_n of_o his_o public_a profession_n of_o thankfulness_n to_o the_o true_a god_n for_o his_o cleanse_n if_o these_o in_o pergamus_n who_o christ_n dislike_v have_v go_v as_o naaman_n do_v into_o idol_n temple_n they_o have_v not_o sin_v as_o they_o do_v and_o at_o this_o day_n if_o man_n protest_v against_o the_o idolatry_n of_o the_o mass_n they_o may_v enter_v into_o those_o congregation_n where_o mass_n be_v say_v for_o this_o protestation_n be_v a_o flat_a condemn_v of_o their_o false_a worship_n the_o second_o opinion_n of_o these_o nicolaitan_o be_v that_o man_n may_v lawful_o commit_v fornication_n this_o opinion_n they_o will_v thus_o justify_v first_o from_o the_o practice_n of_o lot_n who_o 19.8_o offer_v to_o the_o man_n of_o sodom_n his_o daughter_n when_o they_o call_v for_o the_o stranger_n that_o be_v come_v into_o his_o house_n which_o thing_n say_v they_o lot_n will_v never_o have_v do_v if_o fornication_n have_v be_v a_o sin_n ans._n it_o seem_v that_o lot_n can_v be_v excuse_v in_o that_o action_n though_o his_o purpose_n be_v by_o a_o lesser_a evil_n to_o prevent_v a_o great_a but_o god_n have_v plain_o teach_v that_o no_o man_n may_v do_v the_o least_o evil_a for_o the_o procure_n of_o the_o great_a good_a that_o can_v be_v rom._n 3.8_o ii_o reason_n the_o lord_n say_v they_o command_v hosea_n to_o take_v a_o wife_n of_o fornication_n and_o child_n of_o fornication_n hos._n 1.2_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o unlawful_a ans._n there_o be_v diverse_a interpretation_n of_o that_o place_n some_o say_v that_o be_v only_o in_o vision_n and_o not_o a_o fact_n do_v other_o say_v it_o be_v in_o speech_n only_o because_o he_o prophesy_v unto_o the_o people_n that_o he_o himself_o be_v as_o a_o man_n of_o fornication_n unto_o they_o these_o exposition_n may_v well_o stand_v yet_o other_o hold_v that_o the_o lord_n command_v he_o this_o it_o be_v to_o be_v do_v and_o be_v do_v indeed_o and_o sundry_a circumstance_n seem_v to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v a_o fact_n do_v for_o the_o woman_n name_n be_v set_v down_o to_o be_v 3._o goâ—er_n and_o her_o father_n name_n diblaim_v second_o a_o thing_n in_o vision_n or_o in_o speech_n only_o do_v not_o so_o much_o prevail_v with_o wicked_a people_n as_o that_o which_o be_v do_v indeed_o three_o the_o ancient_a opinion_n of_o best_a divine_n that_o live_v near_a to_o the_o apostle_n time_n avouch_v it_o be_v a_o fact_n do_v object_n but_o this_o maintain_v fornication_n against_o good_a manner_n and_o the_o express_a law_n of_o god_n ans._n it_o be_v so_o indeed_o if_o the_o prophet_n have_v do_v it_o on_o his_o own_o head_n but_o he_o do_v it_o by_o god_n special_a appointment_n who_o be_v lord_n of_o his_o own_o law_n and_o may_v dispense_v with_o it_o at_o his_o pleasure_n god_n in_o his_o law_n forbid_v to_o kill_v yet_o abraham_n be_v command_v to_o kill_v his_o son_n which_o if_o he_o have_v do_v he_o have_v not_o sin_v because_o he_o have_v a_o special_a commandment_n for_o it_o which_o a_o man_n must_v obey_v though_o it_o be_v against_o a_o moral_a precept_n again_o hosea_n take_v a_o wife_n of_o fornication_n not_o to_o maintain_v she_o in_o her_o sin_n but_o to_o make_v she_o a_o chaste_a woman_n and_o whereas_o he_o be_v command_v also_o to_o take_v unto_o he_o child_n of_o fornication_n it_o must_v not_o be_v understand_v of_o child_n beget_v by_o he_o but_o bear_v of_o she_o in_o fornication_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v take_v a_o wife_n with_o her_o child_n which_o she_o bring_v forth_o in_o fornication_n so_o that_o this_o place_n which_o way_n soever_o we_o take_v it_o do_v nothing_o maintain_v their_o wicked_a error_n iii_o reason_n acts._n 15._o the_o apostle_n charge_v the_o church_n to_o abstain_v from_o that_o which_o be_v strangle_v from_o blood_n and_o from_o fornication_n there_o say_v they_o fornication_n be_v reckon_v among_o thing_n indifferent_a and_o therefore_o may_v be_v use_v lawful_o answ._n it_o be_v there_o reckon_v among_o thing_n indifferent_a first_o because_o it_o be_v so_o account_v of_o among_o the_o gentile_n second_o because_o the_o gentile_n do_v joint_o by_o these_o three_o thing_n offend_v the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n but_o hence_o it_o follow_v not_o that_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o thing_n indifferent_a ii_o point_n the_o affection_n of_o christ_n towards_o these_o man_n be_v note_v in_o these_o word_n which_o thing_n i_o hate_v this_o hatred_n must_v be_v refer_v not_o to_o the_o person_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o but_o to_o their_o opinion_n life_n and_o practice_n hereby_o christ_n will_v instruct_v we_o in_o sundry_a needful_a duty_n first_o use_n if_o we_o will_v follow_v he_o we_o must_v hate_v all_o honour_n and_o approbation_n that_o may_v be_v give_v to_o idol_n be_v it_o never_o so_o little_a these_o nicolaitan_o may_v say_v they_o abhor_v idol_n and_o worship_v they_o not_o only_o they_o go_v with_o their_o friend_n into_o their_o temple_n and_o sit_v down_o to_o eat_v meat_n before_o they_o now_o even_o this_o deal_n christ_n hate_v wherein_o he_o do_v notable_o condemn_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o romish_a church_n which_o say_v they_o worship_v not_o idol_n but_o the_o true_a god_n and_o yet_o they_o do_v that_o which_o christ_n hate_v for_o they_o kneel_v down_o before_o they_o they_o adore_v they_o and_o light_a candle_n unto_o they_o and_o offer_v unto_o they_o many_o rich_a jewel_n and_o much_o sumptuous_a attire_n which_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o than_o the_o nicolaitan_o do_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v much_o more_o to_o be_v condemn_v and_o their_o practice_n also_o hate_v of_o us._n second_o christ_n hatred_n of_o the_o lest_o honour_n of_o idol_n do_v afford_v a_o special_a caveat_n to_o such_o man_n as_o give_v themselves_o to_o a_o travel_a life_n as_o into_o italy_n spain_n and_o other_o idolatrous_a place_n they_o shall_v content_v themselves_o within_o the_o precinct_n of_o the_o church_n and_o not_o proceed_v further_o without_o warrant_n of_o a_o special_a call_n whereby_o they_o may_v assure_v themselves_o of_o god_n gracious_a protection_n for_o hereby_o they_o give_v occasion_n to_o themselves_o to_o do_v that_o which_o christ_n hate_v though_o they_o say_v they_o hate_v idolatry_n for_o if_o a_o man_n escape_v to_o be_v present_a at_o their_o abominable_a service_n yet_o he_o can_v avoid_v go_v to_o their_o temple_n where_o he_o be_v to_o offer_v some_o gift_n or_o perform_v some_o ceremony_n after_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o country_n whereby_o he_o shall_v give_v some_o approbatition_n at_o the_o least_o of_o their_o idolatry_n whereas_o he_o ought_v to_o hate_v the_o least_o appearance_n thereof_o even_o the_o garment_n spot_v with_o the_o flesh_n three_o by_o this_o his_o affection_n christ_n will_v teach_v we_o to_o grow_v to_o a_o hatred_n of_o all_o familiar_a society_n with_o idolater_n for_o though_o we_o may_v have_v society_n of_o concord_n with_o they_o yet_o society_n of_o amity_n which_o be_v a_o special_a like_n between_o man_n &_o man_n we_o must_v not_o maintain_v with_o they_o four_o christ_n hate_v not_o only_o their_o idolatry_n but_o their_o fornication_n also_o hereby_o teach_v we_o to_o grow_v to_o a_o hatred_n of_o fornication_n which_o the_o rather_o must_v be_v detest_v because_o 6.19_o the_o body_n of_o every_o man_n and_o woman_n be_v not_o their_o own_o but_o christ_n and_o therefore_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v employ_v in_o the_o honour_n or_o service_n of_o the_o devil_n but_o of_o christ._n again_o the_o body_n of_o every_o christian_n man_n and_o woman_n be_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n now_o it_o be_v a_o unseemly_a thing_n to_o take_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n and_o make_v it_o the_o member_n
of_o a_o harlot_n five_o their_o body_n be_v temple_n and_o dwell_v place_n not_o for_o earthly_a prince_n but_o for_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o must_v be_v furnish_v with_o god_n grace_n and_o adorn_v with_o chastity_n &_o other_o gift_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o they_o may_v be_v fit_a mansion_n place_n for_o so_o worthy_a a_o guest_n but_o by_o fornication_n they_o be_v make_v the_o sâ—ies_n &_o stable_n of_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n verse_n 16._o repent_v thyself_o or_o else_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o short_o and_o will_v fight_v against_o thou_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n christ_n have_v lay_v down_o the_o sin_n of_o this_o church_n and_o the_o error_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_o do_v here_o propound_v unto_o this_o church_n first_o a_o remedy_n for_o her_o recovery_n second_o a_o reason_n to_o enforce_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o remedy_n the_o remedy_n be_v in_o these_o word_n repent_v thyself_o in_o it_o consider_v these_o point_n first_o what_o it_o be_v to_o repent_v second_o why_o christ_n so_o often_o urge_v thereunto_o three_o to_o who_o christ_n prescribe_v this_o remedy_n of_o the_o first_o we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n of_o this_o chapter_n brief_o therefore_o repentance_n be_v a_o change_n of_o the_o mind_n from_o evil_a to_o good_a and_o a_o turn_n from_o sin_n unto_o god_n here_o repentance_n must_v be_v take_v more_o large_o for_o all_o the_o duty_n that_o accompany_v repentance_n in_o the_o practice_n thereof_o as_o i._o humiliation_n of_o a_o man_n by_o confess_v of_o his_o sin_n unto_o god_n and_o condemn_v of_o himself_o for_o the_o sin_n ii_o prayer_n whereby_o a_o man_n do_v earnest_o entreat_v the_o lord_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o the_o same_o sin_n iii_o reformation_n whereby_o a_o man_n in_o hart_n propose_v and_o in_o life_n endeavour_v to_o leave_v all_o his_o former_a sin_n and_o for_o ever_o after_o to_o do_v all_o thing_n in_o obedience_n unto_o god_n unto_o all_o these_o do_v the_o holy_a ghost_n exhort_v they_o in_o this_o place_n ii_o point_n why_o do_v christ_n so_o often_o prescribe_v this_o duty_n of_o repentance_n and_o so_o much_o urge_v it_o an._n not_o for_o that_o it_o be_v a_o cause_n or_o a_o meritorious_a mean_n to_o procure_v remission_n of_o sin_n &_o life_n everlasting_a as_o the_o papist_n do_v false_o and_o damnable_o teach_v for_o that_o nothing_o can_v do_v but_o the_o obedience_n &_o passion_n of_o christ_n but_o first_o because_o it_o be_v a_o token_n of_o god_n favour_n procure_v &_o a_o most_o excellent_a fruit_n of_o faith_n such_o as_o make_v a_o man_n cease_v to_o do_v evil_a and_o move_v he_o to_o do_v good_a second_o because_o it_o be_v a_o way_n wherein_o man_n must_v walk_v unto_o the_o end_n that_o will_v have_v remission_n of_o sin_n &_o life_n eternal_a iii_o point_n to_o who_o be_v this_o remedy_n prescribe_v answ._n first_o to_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o then_o to_o the_o nicholaitan_o in_o that_o church_n though_o they_o be_v most_o wicked_a man_n touch_v the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n they_o be_v before_o commend_v for_o most_o worthy_a grace_n for_o they_o have_v repentance_n and_o yet_o note_n christ_n say_v still_o unto_o they_o repent_v thyself_o herein_o teach_v we_o a_o most_o worthy_a lesson_n which_o every_o one_o ought_v to_o learn_v and_o practice_v namely_o that_o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v a_o continual_a practice_n of_o repentance_n when_o a_o man_n have_v once_o repent_v that_o be_v not_o sufficient_a but_o every_o new_a day_n must_v have_v a_o new_a repentance_n for_o his_o daily_a slip_n we_o 5.2_o be_v god_n ambassador_n say_v paul_n for_o christ_n beseech_v you_o in_o christ_n steed_n that_o you_o will_v be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n now_o they_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n before_o for_o they_o be_v call_v 16._o the_o temple_n of_o the_o live_a god_n his_o meaning_n therefore_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v strive_v more_o and_o more_o after_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o further_a assurance_n and_o also_o for_o their_o particular_a sin_n wherein_o they_o daily_o offend_v every_o christian_a must_v daily_o wresâ—â—e_v with_o his_o own_o corruption_n which_o he_o feel_v in_o himself_o that_o the_o long_o he_o live_v the_o more_o he_o may_v grow_v in_o dislike_n with_o himself_o and_o in_o this_o distaste_n of_o himself_o he_o must_v daily_o proceed_v that_o he_o may_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o grow_v up_o in_o christ._n and_o lest_o any_o shall_v think_v that_o this_o be_v speak_v to_o this_o church_n alone_o and_o not_o to_o we_o consider_v that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o same_o case_n with_o they_o their_o sin_n be_v our_o sin_n as_o we_o have_v prove_v we_o want_v zeal_n and_o severity_n against_o sin_n and_o sinner_n now_o be_v in_o the_o same_o fault_n with_o they_o we_o must_v therefore_o practice_v the_o same_o remedy_n and_o renew_v our_o repentance_n though_o we_o have_v repent_v heretofore_o second_o he_o prescribe_v this_o duty_n to_o the_o nicolaitan_o that_o hold_v two_o damnable_a error_n and_o no_o doubt_n live_v according_o in_o those_o sin_n and_o yet_o christ_n bar_v they_o not_o from_o his_o kingdom_n but_o bid_v they_o repent_v where_o note_n that_o great_a and_o grievous_a sinner_n be_v not_o bar_v from_o god_n mercy_n if_o they_o will_v repent_v excellent_a be_v that_o say_n of_o isaiah_n god_n iâ—_n much_o in_o spare_v and_o that_o of_o david_n also_o with_o god_n be_v plentiful_a redemption_n 130.7_o this_o point_n be_v serious_o to_o be_v consider_v for_o we_o have_v in_o our_o congregation_n many_o that_o be_v well_o speak_v of_o in_o the_o world_n and_o yet_o for_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o practice_n of_o life_n be_v flat_a atheist_n we_o have_v also_o among_o we_o epicure_n blasphemer_n murderer_n and_o fornicator_n with_o these_o nicolaitan_o now_o to_o all_o these_o and_o such_o like_a this_o doctrine_n appertain_v not_o to_o embolden_v they_o in_o sin_n but_o to_o assure_v they_o there_o be_v mercy_n in_o store_n for_o they_o with_o god_n if_o they_o will_v true_o repent_v they_o must_v not_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n â—o_o wantonness_n and_o make_v his_o mercy_n a_o bolster_n to_o their_o iniquity_n for_o this_o be_v despise_v of_o god_n bounty_n whereby_o they_o help_v up_o unto_o themselves_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n but_o if_o with_o job_n they_o humble_v themselves_o in_o dust_n and_o ash_n and_o cry_v to_o heaven_n for_o mercy_n from_o a_o break_a heart_n that_o carry_v a_o resolute_a purpose_n to_o leave_v all_o sin_n then_o though_o their_o sin_n be_v never_o so_o many_o they_o shall_v all_o be_v drown_v in_o the_o bottomless_a sea_n of_o god_n mercy_n though_o they_o be_v as_o crimson_a and_o scarlet_a which_o will_v take_v no_o other_o die_v yet_o in_o christ_n blood_n they_o shall_v be_v make_v as_o white_a as_o wool_n &_o snow_n yea_o though_o they_o have_v fall_v often_o into_o the_o same_o sin_n which_o be_v most_o fearful_a and_o dangerous_a yet_o upon_o this_o unfeigned_a repentance_n they_o shall_v be_v restore_v to_o mercy_n for_o the_o fountain_n thereof_o can_v be_v dry_v up_o but_o see_v they_o do_v repent_v for_o whosoever_o look_v for_o christ_n merit_n must_v know_v that_o he_o look_v for_o true_a repentance_n thus_o much_o for_o the_o remedy_n ii_o point_n the_o reason_n whereby_o christ_n will_v set_v a_o edge_n upon_o the_o former_a remedy_n contain_v a_o twofold_a threaten_a or_o commination_n the_o first_o against_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o these_o word_n if_o not_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o short_o the_o second_o against_o the_o nicolaitan_o in_o these_o word_n and_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n for_o the_o first_o if_o not_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o short_o these_o word_n be_v expound_v in_o the_o five_o verse_n the_o meaning_n be_v this_o if_o thou_o repent_v not_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o &_o testify_v my_o presence_n by_o take_v punishment_n upon_o thou_o for_o thy_o want_n of_o zeal_n and_o of_o severity_n against_o sin_n and_o sinner_n to_o this_o effect_n the_o prophet_n isaiah_n say_v chap._n 30.27_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v come_v from_o far_o to_o take_v punishment_n upon_o the_o assyrian_n in_o this_o threaten_a the_o phrase_n be_v to_o be_v note_v christ_n say_v if_o not_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o express_v a_o thing_n to_o come_v by_o a_o word_n of_o the_o time_n present_a to_o give_v they_o to_o understand_v that_o his_o come_n unto_o they_o by_o judgement_n be_v as_o certain_a as_o if_o it_o be_v present_a unless_o they_o do_v repent_v where_o this_o general_a rule_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v of_o all_o namely_o that_o when_o a_o church_n or_o
people_n do_v not_o repent_v the_o lord_n will_v come_v unto_o they_o to_o execute_v his_o judgement_n upon_o they_o yea_o though_o they_o have_v before_o repent_v if_o for_o particular_a sin_n and_o want_n they_o do_v not_o renew_v their_o repentance_n he_o will_v sure_o come_v to_o punish_v they_o this_o may_v be_v prove_v at_o large_a by_o testimony_n of_o the_o prophet_n &_o apostle_n but_o it_o be_v so_o evident_a in_o this_o text_n that_o i_o omit_v all_o further_a proof_n only_o i_o will_v apply_v it_o to_o this_o our_o church_n of_o which_o this_o may_v be_v true_o say_v thou_o do_v not_o repent_v nor_o renew_v thy_o repentance_n for_o thy_o daily_a sin_n for_o albeit_o there_o be_v some_o among_o we_o that_o by_o god_n grace_n repent_v and_o set_v themselves_o daily_o to_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o yet_o take_v the_o great_a part_n of_o our_o congregation_n and_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o renew_v their_o repentance_n that_o they_o do_v not_o repent_v at_o all_o for_o either_o they_o have_v no_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n or_o if_o they_o have_v knowledge_n yet_o they_o want_v care_n and_o conscience_n to_o put_v the_o same_o in_o practice_n this_o be_v our_o case_n and_o condition_n what_o man_n may_v not_o be_v a_o prophet_n against_o our_o church_n and_o congregation_n be_v thus_o direct_v by_o this_o portion_n of_o scripture_n to_o say_v and_o that_o true_o that_o god_n will_v come_v unto_o we_o in_o judgment_n to_o plague_v and_o punish_v we_o for_o our_o sin_n and_o iniquity_n we_o may_v soothe_v ourselves_o in_o hope_n of_o mercy_n still_o but_o the_o state_n of_o our_o church_n continue_v as_o it_o be_v nothing_o can_v be_v expect_v but_o judgement_n from_o the_o lord_n this_o then_o must_v be_v a_o motive_n to_o persuade_v we_o to_o repent_v every_o person_n apart_o and_o every_o family_n &_o congregation_n apart_o we_o must_v humble_v ourselves_o in_o dust_n and_o ash_n for_o our_o sin_n past_a entreat_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o we_o and_o purpose_n full_o in_o our_o heart_n and_o strive_v in_o our_o life_n to_o obey_v god_n in_o all_o his_o commandment_n yea_o though_o we_o can_v say_v we_o have_v repent_v yet_o for_o our_o daily_a want_n and_o sin_n we_o must_v renew_v our_o repentance_n thus_o do_v we_o shall_v stay_v the_o lord_n when_o he_o be_v come_v against_o us._n but_o if_o we_o go_v on_o in_o blindness_n ignorance_n and_o rebellion_n follow_v the_o lust_n of_o our_o own_o heart_n than_o nothing_o but_o vengeance_n and_o judgement_n be_v to_o be_v expect_v for_o this_o conclusion_n must_v stand_v with_o all_o church_n and_o people_n if_o they_o repent_v not_o god_n will_v come_v in_o judgement_n against_o they_o the_o second_o threaten_v or_o commination_n be_v direct_v unto_o the_o nicolaitan_o in_o these_o word_n and_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n that_o be_v i_o will_v be_v at_o emnitie_n with_o they_o and_o testify_v the_o same_o by_o wage_n battle_n against_o those_o among_o you_o that_o maintain_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o of_o fornication_n thus_o i_o say_v will_v i_o fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n that_o be_v with_o the_o preach_n of_o my_o word_n the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n in_o this_o commination_n christ_n allude_v still_o to_o the_o story_n of_o balaam_n for_o when_o he_o be_v send_v for_o by_o balac_n to_o curse_v the_o people_n of_o god_n the_o lord_n stand_v against_o he_o in_o the_o way_n with_o a_o naked_a sword_n to_o keep_v he_o from_o go_v and_o when_o his_o eye_n be_v open_v that_o he_o see_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o lord_n withstand_v he_o in_o that_o sort_n he_o fall_v down_o and_o adore_v the_o angel_n for_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n yet_o because_o he_o cease_v not_o from_o his_o wicked_a covetousness_n but_o give_v bad_a counsel_n against_o the_o israelite_n when_o he_o can_v not_o curse_v they_o to_o cause_v they_o to_o sin_n therefore_o he_o be_v slay_v with_o the_o edge_n of_o the_o sword_n among_o the_o midianite_n by_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n num._n 31.8_o even_o so_o christ_n deal_v with_o the_o nicolaitan_o because_o they_o go_v on_o in_o their_o bad_a counsel_n persuade_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n &_o also_o of_o fornication_n therefore_o first_o he_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n thereby_o to_o reclaim_v they_o from_o their_o wicked_a way_n if_o it_o be_v possible_a but_o if_o that_o will_v not_o serve_v he_o will_v still_o fight_v against_o they_o and_o with_o the_o same_o sword_n destroy_v they_o for_o ever_o first_o here_o mark_v christ_n say_v not_o use_n i_o will_v kill_v they_o but_o fight_v against_o they_o for_o he_o intend_v not_o at_o the_o first_o to_o destroy_v these_o nicolaitan_o but_o his_o purpose_n be_v to_o withdraw_v they_o from_o their_o wicked_a way_n yet_o so_o as_o afterward_o if_o they_o will_v not_o be_v reclaim_v by_o his_o word_n he_o will_v therewith_o destroy_v they_o wherein_o we_o may_v behold_v the_o exceed_a patience_n of_o christ_n jesus_n towards_o lewd_a and_o grievous_a sinner_n that_o maintain_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o idolatry_n and_o fornication_n and_o give_v themselves_o thereunto_o so_o the_o lord_n use_n in_o spirit_n stroâ—e_n with_o the_o old_a world_n and_o spare_v they_o 120_o year_n to_o withdraw_v they_o from_o their_o wickedness_n by_o the_o preach_n of_o noe._n so_o likewise_o he_o spare_v the_o ammonite_n 15.16_o till_o their_o sin_n be_v come_v to_o the_o full_a and_o the_o egyptian_n also_o for_o many_o hundred_o year_n though_o they_o be_v most_o cruel_a persecutor_n of_o his_o own_o people_n and_o though_o the_o jew_n most_o malicious_o crucify_v the_o lord_n of_o life_n yet_o he_o spare_v they_o fifty_o year_n before_o he_o cut_v they_o off_o from_o be_v a_o people_n yea_o daily_a experience_n teach_v we_o this_o his_o long_a suffering_n we_o may_v hear_v most_o bloody_a and_o bitter_a oath_n from_o blasphemer_n whereby_o they_o daily_o crucify_v christ_n with_o their_o tongue_n the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o the_o adulterer_n and_o all_o cruel_a person_n and_o yet_o he_o forbear_v the_o same_o yea_o in_o our_o own_o self_n we_o daily_o taste_v of_o this_o his_o patience_n for_o so_o soon_o as_o we_o be_v bear_v we_o deserve_v to_o be_v cast_v into_o hell_n and_o yet_o in_o mercy_n he_o vouchsafe_v unto_o we_o to_o some_o twenty_o to_o some_o thirty_o and_o to_o some_o more_o year_n for_o a_o time_n of_o repentance_n when_o as_o every_o day_n he_o may_v in_o justice_n condemn_v us._n this_o therefore_o must_v admonish_v we_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n not_o to_o abuse_v this_o his_o long_a suffer_v any_o long_o but_o now_o while_o the_o day_n of_o mercy_n last_v to_o humble_v ourselves_o and_o turn_v unto_o he_o by_o true_a repentance_n these_o be_v the_o day_n of_o grace_n but_o how_o long_o they_o will_v last_v god_n only_o know_v for_o when_o death_n once_o come_v he_o show_v no_o more_o mercy_n the_o old_a world_n because_o they_o abuse_v the_o long_a suffering_n of_o god_n â—0_n be_v destroy_v and_o be_v now_o in_o hell_n in_o prison_n for_o it_o as_o peter_n teach_v and_o undoubted_o the_o same_o prison_n will_v be_v our_o portion_n if_o we_o take_v the_o same_o course_n that_o they_o do_v second_o in_o this_o threaten_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o all_o irrepentant_a sinner_n have_v god_n for_o their_o enemy_n to_o fight_v against_o they_o with_o a_o draw_a sword_n for_o this_o cause_n sin_n in_o scripture_n be_v call_v rebellion_n and_o every_o sinner_n be_v a_o rebel_n against_o god_n a_o fearful_a thing_n it_o be_v to_o have_v god_n for_o a_o enemy_n and_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o condition_n not_o only_o of_o such_o as_o do_v never_o repent_v but_o of_o all_o those_o that_o hold_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n in_o profession_n and_o yet_o continue_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n without_o renew_v their_o repentance_n this_o also_o must_v serve_v to_o induce_v every_o man_n that_o have_v not_o repent_v now_o to_o begin_v and_o if_o they_o have_v begin_v to_o repent_v more_o daily_o renew_v the_o same_o for_o their_o daily_a slip_n and_o so_o shall_v they_o be_v the_o friend_n of_o christ_n as_o 13_o abraham_n be_v and_o aâ—_n his_o disciple_n be_v joâ—_a 15.15_o three_o in_o these_o two_o threatening_n christ_n show_v himself_o to_o be_v the_o true_a doctor_n of_o his_o church_n for_o he_o will_v fight_v against_o these_o nicolaitan_o when_o as_o he_o will_v only_o come_v unto_o his_o church_n where_o we_o see_v he_o devide_v his_o word_n aright_o wherein_o consist_v the_o principal_a wisdom_n of_o a_o true_a
prophet_n give_v comfort_n to_o who_o comfort_n belong_v and_o threaten_a judgement_n to_o who_o judgement_n be_v due_a and_o make_v difference_n of_o judgement_n according_a to_o the_o state_n of_o the_o person_n against_o who_o they_o be_v threaten_v for_o the_o heavy_a judgement_n of_o god_n must_v not_o be_v threaten_v against_o all_o person_n but_o against_o the_o impenitent_a and_o because_o there_o be_v degree_n of_o judgement_n temporal_a and_o eternal_a therefore_o temporal_a judgement_n must_v be_v threaten_v to_o those_o to_o who_o they_o belong_v &_o eternal_a judgement_n denounce_v against_o those_o to_o who_o they_o belong_v observe_v the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n place_n and_o person_n according_a to_o christ_n example_n in_o this_o place_n and_o else_o where_o so_o likewise_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o to_o be_v propound_v to_o every_o person_n hand_n over_o head_n without_o difference_n but_o with_o restraint_n to_o some_o only_a as_o god_n prophet_n have_v do_v it_o be_v often_o a_o great_a offence_n in_o the_o church_n when_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v propound_v to_o all_o and_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n denounce_v against_o all_o without_o limitation_n or_o restraint_n the_o condition_n therefore_o of_o repentance_n &_o impenitency_n of_o faith_n and_o unbelief_n and_o also_o the_o degree_n of_o they_o all_o must_v careful_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n four_o the_o end_n of_o christ_n fight_n must_v be_v consider_v for_o first_o he_o intend_v to_o reclaim_v they_o from_o their_o evil_a way_n but_o if_o they_o will_v not_o be_v reclaim_v then_o to_o cause_v the_o same_o word_n to_o be_v a_o occasion_n of_o their_o deep_a condemnation_n this_o must_v be_v deep_o weigh_v of_o we_o all_o who_o have_v have_v by_o god_n mercy_n for_o many_o year_n the_o plentiful_a preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o which_o god_n have_v continual_o rebuke_v &_o check_v the_o sin_n that_o be_v among_o we_o as_o ignorance_n blasphemy_n and_o filthiness_n cruelty_n and_o all_o iniquity_n whatsoever_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n the_o lord_n yet_o continue_v to_o do_v unto_o us._n we_o therefore_o must_v think_v that_o all_o this_o while_n the_o lord_n be_v fight_v against_o we_o when_o ignorance_n be_v reprove_v in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n the_o ignorant_a person_n must_v think_v the_o lord_n be_v fight_v against_o he_o and_o so_o all_o atheist_n blasphemer_n adulterer_n oppresser_n and_o cruel_a person_n when_o their_o sin_n be_v reprove_v they_o must_v know_v that_o the_o lord_n stand_v face_n to_o face_n against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n seek_v to_o reclaim_v they_o from_o these_o iniquity_n as_o he_o do_v to_o balaam_n in_o his_o way_n and_o when_o any_o man_n sin_n be_v thus_o touch_v he_o must_v not_o rebel_v but_o humble_v himself_o as_o balaam_n fall_v before_o the_o angel_n consider_v it_o be_v the_o lord_n that_o wage_v battle_n against_o he_o when_o we_o hear_v that_o foreign_a nation_n shake_v their_o sword_n against_o we_o how_o be_v we_o move_v both_o high_a and_o low_a shall_v we_o fear_v the_o sword_n of_o mortal_a man_n and_o shall_v we_o not_o tremble_v when_o we_o hear_v that_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o everliving_a god_n be_v shake_v against_o we_o those_o therefore_o who_o heart_n be_v guilty_a of_o any_o one_o sin_n must_v humble_v themselves_o by_o true_a and_o speedy_a repentance_n there_o be_v no_o withstand_v of_o the_o lord_n if_o his_o sword_n do_v not_o cure_v we_o it_o will_v cut_v we_o in_o piece_n if_o his_o word_n do_v not_o convert_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n it_o will_v be_v a_o occasion_n to_o cast_v our_o soul_n deep_a into_o hell_n thus_o he_o deal_v with_o balaam_n when_o he_o will_v not_o be_v restrain_v from_o give_v bad_a counsel_n he_o be_v slay_v among_o the_o midianite_n few_o think_v on_o these_o thing_n from_o whence_o come_v such_o great_a contempt_n of_o god_n ordinance_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n as_o we_o see_v at_o this_o day_n but_o they_o must_v know_v that_o either_o death_n or_o life_n come_v by_o the_o stroke_n of_o this_o sword_n and_o therefore_o they_o must_v repent_v five_o note_v the_o title_n give_v to_o god_n word_n it_o be_v call_v the_o sword_n of_o christ_n mouth_n not_o only_o because_o it_o be_v once_o deliver_v by_o himself_o from_o his_o own_o mouth_n but_o because_o it_o do_v daily_o proceed_v from_o his_o mouth_n for_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o be_v true_o call_v be_v the_o very_a mouth_n of_o christ_n from_o which_o god_n people_n receive_v his_o word_n 19_o if_o thou_o shall_v return_v say_v the_o lord_n to_o jeremie_n and_o shall_v separate_v the_o precious_a from_o the_o vile_a then_o shall_v thou_o stand_v before_o i_o and_o be_v according_a to_o my_o word_n 2._o cor._n 5.19_o we_o be_v the_o embassador_n of_o christ_n beseech_v you_o in_o his_o steed_n which_o be_v a_o high_a and_o wonderful_a honour_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o be_v a_o ground_n of_o sundry_a duty_n first_o all_o student_n that_o be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o preparation_n to_o high_a calling_n must_v hereby_o learn_v to_o conceive_v a_o good_a opinion_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o to_o affect_v the_o same_o above_o other_o calling_n for_o though_o the_o blind_a world_n count_v it_o a_o base_a call_n yet_o christ_n we_o see_v make_v the_o minister_n his_o own_o mouth_n which_o honour_n be_v not_o give_v either_o to_o the_o lawyer_n or_o to_o the_o physician_n second_o hereby_o every_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v teach_v to_o deliver_v nothing_o in_o his_o public_a ministry_n but_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o christ_n shall_v enable_v he_o and_o that_o also_o in_o so_o pure_a a_o manner_n as_o in_o the_o persuasion_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n he_o think_v christ_n will_v speak_v if_o he_o be_v there_o present_a like_v unto_o faithful_a ambassador_n who_o speak_v only_o the_o will_n of_o their_o lord_n and_o prince_n and_o in_o that_o manner_n which_o their_o lord_n and_o prince_n do_v best_a approve_v if_o this_o be_v well_o weigh_v we_o shall_v not_o have_v such_o preach_n as_o be_v common_o use_v consist_v of_o a_o mixture_n of_o testimony_n partly_o divine_a and_o partly_o humane_a consider_v that_o neither_o christ_n nor_o his_o apostle_n preach_v so_o three_o the_o people_n also_o be_v hence_o teach_v their_o duty_n when_o they_o hear_v a_o sinful_a man_n like_o unto_o themselves_o speak_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n they_o must_v not_o despise_v god_n ordinance_n because_o it_o be_v deliver_v by_o man_n but_o receive_v the_o same_o as_o from_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n and_o as_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o consent_v with_o holy_a scripture_n in_o this_o behalf_n paul_n bless_v god_n for_o the_o thessalonian_n that_o they_o receive_v the_o word_n from_o he_o not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 1._o thess._n 2._o vers_fw-la 13._o six_o where_o christ_n say_v i_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n be_v spiritual_a and_o not_o of_o this_o world_n for_o if_o it_o be_v worldly_a than_o a_o civil_a sword_n wield_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o man_n shall_v belong_v unto_o he_o but_o he_o have_v no_o such_o sword_n he_o govern_v his_o church_n and_o people_n by_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n his_o holy_a word_n whereby_o appear_v that_o the_o primacy_n of_o the_o sea_n of_o rome_n be_v from_o hell_n not_o from_o heaven_n for_o the_o pope_n say_v he_o be_v christ_n vicar_n and_o yet_o he_o will_v be_v arm_v with_o both_o sword_n when_o as_o christ_n deal_v not_o with_o the_o civil_a sword_n but_o only_o use_v the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n verse_n 17._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o manna_n which_o be_v hide_v and_o will_v give_v he_o a_o white_a stone_n and_o in_o the_o stone_n a_o new_a name_n write_v which_o no_o man_n know_v save_v he_o that_o receive_v it_o these_o word_n be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n which_o contain_v two_o part_n a_o commandment_n and_o a_o promise_n the_o commandment_n in_o these_o word_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n the_o promise_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v etc._n etc._n the_o commandment_n serve_v to_o stir_v up_o god_n church_n to_o attention_n in_o mark_v that_o which_o
christ_n deliver_v unto_o they_o as_o have_v be_v show_v before_o verse_n 7._o in_o this_o commandment_n of_o christ_n note_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o all_o man_n in_o god_n church_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o frequent_a sermon_n whereby_o they_o may_v come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o those_o thing_n that_o god_n prescribe_v unto_o they_o at_o the_o nativity_n easter_n and_o such_o good_a time_n as_o they_o be_v call_v ignorant_a people_n will_v come_v to_o the_o church_n but_o it_o may_v be_v not_o once_o more_o of_o a_o month_n after_o or_o a_o quarter_n of_o a_o year_n but_o christ_n say_v 10.27_o my_o sheep_n hear_v my_o voice_n so_o that_o he_o that_o will_v not_o come_v to_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o christ_n be_v none_o of_o his_o sheep_n math._n 16.19_o christ_n say_v to_o peter_n i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n there_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n so_o that_o look_v how_o necessary_a it_o be_v for_o a_o man_n to_o have_v his_o soul_n save_v and_o to_o enter_v into_o heaven_n so_o behooveful_a be_v it_o for_o he_o to_o hear_v sermon_n for_o that_o be_v the_o turn_n of_o the_o key_n whereby_o we_o enter_v into_o this_o kingdom_n 2._o cor._n 5.18_o the_o preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o therefore_o look_v how_o necessary_a it_o be_v for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n so_o needful_a be_v it_o for_o he_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n preach_v he_o that_o be_v of_o god_n bear_v god_n word_n and_o he_o that_o bear_v it_o not_o be_v not_o of_o god_n 1._o john_n 4.6_o but_o man_n have_v many_o excuse_n to_o exempt_v themselves_o from_o hear_v sermon_n some_o say_v if_o god_n himself_o will_v preach_v or_o christ_n or_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n than_o they_o will_v hear_v but_o so_o long_o as_o sinful_a man_n preach_v it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n though_o they_o absent_v themselves_o answ._n this_o be_v a_o presumptuous_a reason_n for_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o man_n be_v god_n own_o ordinance_n and_o that_o for_o these_o cause_n first_o since_o adam_n fall_n man_n can_v abide_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n so_o as_o if_o man_n shall_v hear_v god_n speak_v he_o will_v cry_v out_o with_o the_o jew_n exod_a 20.19_o let_v not_o god_n talk_v with_o we_o lest_o we_o die_v and_o with_o peter_n â—_o depart_v from_o i_o i_o be_o a_o miserable_a sinner_n second_o god_n speak_v by_o man_n to_o try_v the_o obedience_n and_o humility_n of_o man_n to_o see_v whether_o they_o will_v be_v content_a to_o receive_v and_o believe_v his_o word_n be_v propound_v by_o sinful_a man_n that_o be_v like_a unto_o themselves_o and_o three_o to_o maintain_v love_n between_o man_n and_o man_n by_o mutual_a converse_v in_o this_o holy_a ordinance_n other_o do_v say_v they_o may_v well_o enough_o keep_v themselves_o in_o their_o family_n for_o there_o they_o have_v their_o bible_n wherein_o be_v the_o sermon_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o his_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n than_o which_o no_o minister_n can_v preach_v better_o ans._n it_o be_v god_n ordinance_n that_o these_o sermon_n of_o christ_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n shall_v be_v again_o handle_v preach_v and_o expound_v in_o his_o church_n and_o therefore_o every_o man_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o come_v into_o the_o congregation_n &_o there_o to_o hear_v with_o reverence_n god_n holy_a word_n other_o will_v not_o come_v to_o the_o church_n for_o they_o thank_v god_n they_o can_v serve_v god_n with_o as_o good_a a_o heart_n on_o horseback_n or_o on_o their_o journey_n as_o those_o that_o come_v unto_o the_o sermon_n answ._n these_o person_n be_v blind_a and_o ignorant_a a_o seduce_a heart_n beguile_v they_o and_o therefore_o they_o despise_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n but_o let_v they_o hear_v what_o solomon_n say_v 28.9_o he_o that_o turn_v away_o his_o ear_n from_o hear_v the_o law_n that_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n even_o his_o prayer_n shall_v be_v abominable_a god_n speak_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n and_o if_o we_o refuse_v to_o hear_v he_o there_o shall_v we_o think_v he_o will_v hear_v we_o when_o we_o pray_v know_v therefore_o if_o thou_o refuse_v his_o word_n he_o will_v refuse_v thy_o prayer_n neither_o indeed_o can_v any_o without_o the_o word_n pray_v aright_o such_o people_n deceive_v themselves_o their_o prayer_n in_o their_o needless_a journey_n shall_v be_v their_o judge_n to_o condemn_v they_o for_o therein_o they_o confess_v god_n be_v to_o be_v worship_v and_o yet_o in_o practice_n they_o reject_v his_o direction_n for_o the_o same_o last_o other_o say_v they_o have_v knowledge_n enough_o the_o minister_n can_v teach_v they_o no_o more_o than_o they_o know_v and_o therefore_o they_o need_v not_o go_v hear_v so_o much_o preach_v answ._n these_o that_o pretend_v such_o perfect_a knowledge_n be_v common_o the_o most_o ignorant_a not_o know_v the_o end_n of_o this_o ordinance_n of_o god_n for_o preach_v serve_v not_o only_o to_o teach_v man_n to_o know_v god_n and_o his_o will_n but_o also_o to_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n and_o to_o yield_v obedience_n to_o that_o which_o they_o know_v if_o therefore_o thou_o have_v knowledge_n it_o be_v well_o but_o that_o be_v not_o enough_o if_o thou_o will_v be_v bless_v thou_o must_v do_v that_o which_o thou_o know_v john_n 13.17_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n the_o most_o learned_a man_n that_o be_v must_v still_o frequent_v the_o hear_n of_o sermon_n to_o further_o himself_o in_o obedience_n because_o a_o man_n may_v know_v much_o and_o yet_o want_v conscience_n to_o obey_v second_o in_o this_o commandment_n man_n be_v enjoin_v the_o read_n of_o the_o word_n &_o hear_v of_o it_o read_v not_o only_o public_o but_o also_o private_o in_o their_o family_n that_o thereby_o also_o they_o may_v come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o that_o thing_n which_o christ_n propound_v unto_o they_o luk._n 10.26_o christ_n say_v to_o one_o of_o the_o scribe_n what_o be_v write_v how_o read_v thou_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o man_n must_v read_v the_o scripture_n private_o and_o the_o lord_n say_v 1â—_n my_o people_n go_v into_o captivity_n because_o they_o have_v no_o knowledge_n yea_o they_o perish_v hose_n 4.6_o but_o woeful_a be_v the_o defect_n of_o this_o duty_n for_o many_o have_v not_o the_o bible_n in_o their_o house_n for_o their_o private_a exercise_n in_o the_o word_n and_o in_o many_o family_n it_o be_v set_v up_o for_o a_o show_n or_o lie_v cover_v with_o dust_n when_o as_o card_n and_o table_n be_v wear_v with_o use_n it_o be_v not_o amiss_o for_o man_n to_o get_v the_o statute_n of_o the_o land_n into_o their_o house_n and_o to_o read_v therein_o for_o the_o knowledge_n of_o man_n law_n but_o yet_o herein_o they_o be_v blame_v worthy_a that_o either_o they_o have_v not_o or_o else_o regard_v not_o the_o book_n of_o god_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o statute_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o better_a guide_n of_o our_o unruly_a affection_n other_o thing_n in_o this_o commandment_n have_v be_v observe_v before_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o conclusion_n be_v a_o excellent_a promise_n make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v which_o for_o substance_n have_v be_v handle_v in_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o former_a epistle_n here_o only_o some_o special_a blessing_n be_v particular_o promise_v in_o the_o handle_n whereof_o two_o point_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v first_o the_o person_n to_o who_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v whereof_o entreaty_n be_v make_v before_o verse_n 7._o second_o the_o blessing_n promise_v comprise_v in_o this_o threefold_a gift_n of_o god_n first_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o mannah_n which_o be_v hide_v second_o to_o receive_v a_o white_a stone_n three_o a_o new_a name_n write_v in_o the_o stone_n all_o which_o three_o signify_v in_o effect_n the_o election_n vocation_n justification_n and_o glorification_n of_o god_n people_n but_o i_o will_v handle_v they_o in_o particular_a the_o i._o benefit_n be_v the_o give_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n to_o eat_v manna_n proper_o signify_v that_o food_n which_o god_n give_v from_o the_o cloud_n to_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n which_o for_o the_o excellency_n of_o it_o be_v call_v the_o 78.24_o wheat_n of_o heaven_n the_o 25._o food_n of_o the_o strong_a oâ—_n the_o food_n of_o angel_n in_o form_n it_o be_v like_o 16.31_o coriander_n seed_n and_o in_o colour_n white_a in_o taste_v it_o be_v pleasant_a and_o sweet_a herewith_o god_n feed_v his_o people_n in_o the_o wilderness_n 40._o year_n to_o 8.3_o teach_v they_o that_o man_n live_v not_o by_o bread_n only_o but_o by_o
charity_n to_o be_v persuade_v that_o godly_a professor_n be_v the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o god_n but_o the_o man_n himself_o that_o have_v receive_v this_o new_a name_n and_o new_a estate_n he_o know_v it_o otherwise_o and_o therefore_o certain_o and_o infallible_o second_o if_o no_o man_n know_v this_o name_n but_o he_o that_o receive_v it_o then_o can_v none_o beside_o god_n and_o the_o conscience_n know_v from_o within_o the_o man_n his_o particular_a faith_n and_o adoption_n and_o hereby_o we_o be_v to_o be_v admonish_v to_o beware_v of_o charge_v the_o evil_a and_o hard_a censure_n of_o hypocrisy_n upon_o any_o that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n in_o so_o do_v we_o overshoot_v ourselves_o this_o judgement_n belong_v to_o god_n not_o to_o man_n save_v only_o to_o the_o man_n himself_o for_o we_o can_v discern_v the_o good_a within_o the_o man_n proper_o but_o by_o effect_n quest._n how_o far_o forth_o may_v a_o man_n judge_v of_o another_o man_n election_n answ._n there_o be_v two_o degree_n of_o judgement_n judgement_n of_o certainty_n and_o judgement_n of_o charity_n judgement_n of_o certainty_n be_v when_o a_o man_n can_v set_v down_o certain_o such_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v save_v this_o be_v peremptory_a judgement_n belong_v unto_o god_n and_o to_o some_o man_n only_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o the_o lord_n reveal_v it_o unto_o they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o estate_n of_o some_o man_n to_o david_n and_o to_o some_o prophet_n whereupon_o david_n sometime_o pray_v for_o the_o final_a destruction_n of_o his_o enemy_n but_o this_o be_v not_o give_v ordinary_o no_o not_o to_o god_n minister_n the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n be_v that_o which_o bind_v a_o man_n to_o judge_v the_o best_a of_o another_o and_o herein_o be_v two_o degree_n first_o touch_v the_o unregenerate_a charity_n bind_v we_o not_o to_o despair_v of_o such_o as_o yet_o live_v profane_o but_o to_o hope_v that_o god_n will_v in_o good_a time_n call_v they_o and_o touch_v the_o regenerate_a who_o have_v give_v good_a testimony_n of_o their_o vocation_n charity_n bind_v we_o to_o be_v persuade_v without_o doubt_n that_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o this_o we_o may_v do_v without_o repugnance_n to_o this_o place_n for_o though_o we_o can_v from_o within_o the_o man_n know_v his_o estate_n yet_o by_o the_o fruit_n we_o may_v which_o be_v the_o high_a degree_n of_o judgement_n that_o charity_n can_v exercise_v three_o here_o we_o see_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v deceive_v who_o make_v visibilitie_n the_o mark_n of_o god_n church_n for_o god_n church_n be_v a_o company_n of_o man_n which_o believe_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o church_n be_v god_n election_n and_o adoption_n and_o man_n faith_n which_o none_o other_o can_v see_v but_o the_o party_n that_o have_v they_o the_o sign_n thereof_o may_v be_v see_v but_o proper_o the_o church_n can_v be_v see_v it_o come_v to_o be_v visible_a by_o the_o fruit_n of_o election_n and_o by_o the_o outward_a work_n of_o love_n which_o proceed_v from_o faith_n we_o therefore_o hold_v far_o better_o that_o we_o believe_v there_o be_v a_o church_n and_o not_o that_o we_o see_v the_o church_n last_o if_o other_o know_v not_o the_o name_n of_o god_n child_n than_o what_o marvel_n be_v it_o if_o the_o wicked_a miscall_v they_o 1._o john_n 3.2_o the_o world_n know_v we_o not_o god_n child_n therefore_o must_v not_o be_v daunt_v at_o the_o reproach_n of_o the_o wicked_a but_o pray_v with_o christ_n father_n forgive_v they_o they_o know_v not_o what_o they_o do_v luk._n 23.34_o verse_n 18._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n which_o be_v at_o thyatira_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v the_o son_n of_o god_n which_o have_v his_o eye_n like_v to_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o his_o foot_n like_o fine_a brass_n here_o follow_v the_o four_o particular_a commandment_n of_o christ_n unto_o john_n as_o also_o the_o four_o particular_a epistle_n the_o commandment_n in_o these_o word_n to_o the_o angel_n which_o be_v at_o thyatira_n write_v of_o the_o substance_n of_o this_o commandment_n i_o have_v speak_v before_o only_o remember_v the_o end_n thereof_o which_o be_v to_o certify_v this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n that_o john_n have_v a_o calling_n and_o commandment_n from_o god_n to_o write_v this_o epistle_n unto_o they_o and_o further_o to_o certify_v the_o whole_a church_n of_o god_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n of_o his_o calling_n to_o write_v this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n the_o epistle_n itself_o contain_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n a_o proposition_n and_o a_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n in_o these_o word_n these_o thing_n say_v the_o son_n of_o god_n which_o have_v his_o eye_n like_v unto_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o his_o foot_n like_o fine_a brass_n all_o which_o thing_n almost_o have_v be_v handle_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o chapter_n and_o in_o the_o former_a 1â—.15_n from_o whence_o they_o be_v borrow_v in_o the_o preface_n first_o be_v set_v down_o in_o who_o name_n the_o epistle_n be_v write_v to_o wit_n in_o christ_n name_n the_o cause_n thereof_o we_o have_v show_v before_o then_o christ_n be_v describe_v by_o three_o argument_n first_o to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n second_o to_o have_v eye_n like_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n three_o to_o have_v foot_n like_o fine_a brass_n for_o the_o first_o in_o the_o former_a chapter_n he_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o man_n but_o here_o he_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n where_o by_o god_n we_o must_v not_o absolute_o understand_v the_o godhead_n of_o the_o whole_a trinity_n but_o the_o person_n of_o the_o father_n who_o be_v oppose_v either_o to_o the_o son_n or_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v usual_o call_v god_n not_o that_o he_o be_v god_n more_o than_o the_o son_n or_o than_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o because_o he_o be_v the_o first_o in_o order_n and_o because_o he_o be_v that_o person_n from_o who_o the_o godhead_n be_v communicate_v to_o the_o son_n and_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n so_o that_o here_o christ_n be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n which_o mystery_n we_o can_v full_o understand_v for_o the_o word_n have_v not_o reveal_v the_o same_o neither_o can_v we_o find_v it_o elsewhere_o out_o of_o the_o word_n but_o yet_o for_o the_o better_a conceive_v thereof_o remember_v these_o two_o rule_n i._o that_o christ_n be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n not_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o godhead_n but_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o person_n for_o the_o godhead_n of_o the_o son_n be_v the_o same_o with_o the_o godhead_n of_o the_o father_n the_o godhead_n of_o the_o father_n do_v not_o beget_v neither_o be_v the_o godhead_n of_o the_o son_n beget_v ii_o rule_n christ_n be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n not_o by_o creation_n as_o the_o angel_n and_o adam_n be_v nor_o by_o adoption_n as_o every_o believer_n be_v but_o by_o nature_n in_o that_o he_o be_v beget_v of_o the_o substance_n of_o his_o father_n before_o all_o world_n for_o the_o father_n communicate_v from_o himself_o the_o whole_a godhead_n that_o be_v in_o himself_o unto_o his_o son_n christ_n be_v here_o call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n use_n to_o stir_v up_o reverence_n attention_n and_o care_n in_o this_o church_n in_o mark_v and_o obey_v the_o thing_n that_o follow_v in_o this_o particular_a epistle_n and_o in_o their_o example_n christ_n also_o teach_v we_o that_o when_o we_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v or_o read_v unto_o we_o we_o shall_v receive_v it_o with_o fear_n and_o tremble_v and_o reverence_n because_o he_o that_o speak_v unto_o we_o out_o of_o his_o word_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n when_o pilate_n be_v about_o to_o condemn_v our_o saviour_n christ_n he_o hear_v it_o say_v that_o christ_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o thereupon_o he_o tremble_v and_o be_v the_o more_o afraid_a joh._n 19_o verse_n 8._o shall_v a_o â—illie_a heathen_a man_n that_o know_v not_o christ_n tremble_v towards_o he_o when_o he_o hear_v his_o name_n and_o yet_o we_o that_o profess_v ourselves_o to_o believe_v in_o he_o be_v nothing_o move_v with_o reverence_n towards_o he_o when_o he_o speak_v unto_o we_o in_o his_o word_n at_o his_o presence_n the_o hill_n melt_v and_o at_o his_o voice_n the_o rock_n cleave_v in_o sunder_o and_o therefore_o if_o our_o heart_n shall_v not_o melt_v and_o cleave_v asunder_o with_o a_o reverend_a fear_n when_o he_o shall_v speak_v unto_o we_o we_o be_v worse_a than_o these_o senseless_a creature_n second_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v eye_n like_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n which_o we_o must_v not_o conceive_v literal_o the_o word_n be_v borrow_v from_o the_o former_a chapter_n vers_fw-la 14._o where_o christ_n be_v describe_v not_o as_o he_o be_v in_o truth_n but_o
as_o he_o appear_v to_o john_n in_o vision_n we_o have_v show_v before_o what_o be_v signify_v by_o these_o fiery_a eye_n namely_o christ_n infinite_a wisdom_n in_o himself_o and_o vigilant_a zeal_n over_o his_o church_n the_o end_n wherefore_o he_o so_o describe_v himself_o to_o this_o church_n be_v to_o give_v they_o to_o understand_v that_o he_o can_v see_v and_o discern_v their_o very_a secret_a sin_n for_o sundry_a among_o they_o be_v give_v to_o private_a offence_n as_o to_o fornication_n and_o idolatry_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v afterward_o here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o excellent_a remedy_n against_o secret_a sin_n use_n shame_n and_o fear_n of_o punishment_n will_v restrain_v some_o man_n from_o open_a sin_n but_o yet_o the_o same_o man_n when_o they_o be_v in_o secret_a do_v without_o fear_n commit_v privy_a sin_n against_o the_o first_o and_o second_o table_n but_o these_o man_n must_v remember_v that_o be_v withdraw_v from_o the_o presence_n of_o man_n they_o be_v yet_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n for_o he_o have_v fiery_a eye_n wherewith_o he_o see_v their_o most_o secret_a sin_n which_o they_o hide_v from_o the_o world_n for_o though_o we_o may_v make_v fair_a weather_n with_o man_n yet_o we_o can_v never_o blear_v the_o eye_n of_o christ._n if_o fornicator_n wanton_n usurer_n and_o blasphemer_n will_v remember_v this_o by_o god_n grace_n it_o will_v be_v a_o notable_a mean_n at_o least_o to_o restrain_v they_o from_o their_o secret_a sin_n if_o not_o to_o move_v they_o unto_o the_o practice_n of_o true_a repentance_n three_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v foot_n like_o fine_a brass_n whereby_o be_v signify_v as_o have_v be_v show_v his_o infinite_a power_n and_o strength_n whereby_o he_o do_v subdue_v sin_n satan_n and_o all_o his_o enemy_n first_o unto_o himself_o and_o then_o unto_o his_o member_n and_o christ_n be_v thus_o describe_v unto_o this_o church_n to_o terrify_v certain_a wicked_a man_n among_o they_o that_o give_v themselves_o to_o fornication_n idolatry_n and_o other_o sin_n as_o also_o to_o affright_v this_o whole_a church_n who_o by_o their_o wicked_a company_n be_v almost_o draw_v away_o to_o the_o same_o sin_n here_o we_o have_v a_o notable_a remedy_n against_o looseness_n of_o life_n namely_o use_n to_o consider_v that_o christ_n who_o we_o call_v our_o saviour_n walk_v continual_o in_o his_o church_n with_o foot_n of_o brass_n to_o tread_v satan_n and_o all_o his_o enemy_n under_o his_o foot_n and_o such_o be_v all_o that_o will_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o regiment_n of_o his_o word_n luk._n 19.27_o if_o the_o blasphemer_n can_v consider_v this_o it_o will_v stop_v his_o mouth_n and_o when_o the_o adulterer_n the_o thief_n or_o any_o sinner_n go_v about_o his_o wicked_a device_n this_o by_o god_n grace_n will_v be_v a_o notable_a mean_n to_o make_v he_o break_v off_o his_o wicked_a purpose_n when_o benhadad_n hear_v that_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n will_v come_v against_o he_o in_o battle_n â—1_n he_o send_v his_o man_n with_o rope_n about_o their_o neck_n to_o crave_v peace_n and_o in_o they_o humble_v himself_o shall_v man_n be_v thus_o afraid_a at_o the_o fury_n of_o man_n and_o shall_v not_o we_o tremble_v and_o fear_v at_o the_o fury_n of_o christ_n who_o have_v these_o foot_n of_o brass_n to_o trample_v in_o piece_n all_o his_o enemy_n the_o want_n of_o this_o consideration_n be_v one_o main_a cause_n why_o sin_n do_v abound_v verse_n 19_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o thy_o love_n and_o service_n and_o faith_n and_o thy_o patience_n and_o thy_o deed_n which_o be_v more_o at_o the_o last_o than_o at_o the_o first_o here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n the_o proposition_n which_o contain_v the_o substance_n &_o matter_n thereof_o and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n a_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n and_o a_o rebuke_n thereof_o the_o commendation_n in_o the_o 19_o verse_n the_o rebuke_n or_o dispraise_v in_o the_o 20_o verse_n and_o those_o that_o follow_v almost_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n the_o commendation_n be_v twofold_a general_a in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n this_o have_v be_v handle_v before_o vers_fw-la 2._o the_o particular_a commendation_n stand_v in_o five_o notable_a work_n to_o wit_n love_n service_n faith_n patience_n and_o increase_v in_o godliness_n for_o the_o first_o by_o love_n we_o must_v understand_v love_n to_o man_n for_o afterward_o they_o be_v commend_v for_o duty_n to_o god_n in_o faith_n and_o patience_n but_o love_n and_o service_n be_v duty_n of_o man_n to_o man_n touch_v love_n note_v three_o point_n what_o this_o love_n be_v what_o be_v the_o property_n of_o this_o love_n and_o how_o it_o be_v to_o be_v practise_v first_o love_n to_o man_n be_v a_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v well_o affect_v to_o his_o neighbour_n for_o god_n sake_n that_o love_n be_v a_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v plain_a galat._n 5._o verse_n 22._o where_o it_o be_v reckon_v among_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n next_o i_o add_v that_o hereby_o a_o man_n be_v well_o affect_v to_o his_o neighbour_n to_o be_v well_o affect_v to_o another_o be_v to_o rejoice_v at_o his_o good_a and_o to_o desire_v and_o seek_v the_o same_o and_o withal_o to_o be_v grieve_v at_o his_o misery_n and_o to_o â—eare_z the_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n towards_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o relieve_v and_o help_v he_o to_o our_o uttermost_a by_o neighbour_n we_o must_v not_o understand_v only_o those_o that_o be_v near_o unto_o we_o in_o habitation_n but_o even_o all_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o we_o even_o any_o of_o mankind_n he_o be_v thy_o neighbour_n that_o be_v a_o man_n as_o thou_o be_v and_o so_o bear_v the_o image_n of_o god_n as_o thou_o do_v be_v he_o friend_n or_o foe_n near_o or_o strange_a unto_o thou_o and_o to_o he_o must_v thou_o be_v well_o affect_v last_o i_o say_v for_o god_n sake_n for_o god_n be_v first_o and_o principal_o to_o be_v love_v for_o himself_o and_o man_n in_o god_n and_o for_o god_n because_o he_o be_v the_o creature_n of_o god_n and_o bear_v his_o image_n the_o love_n we_o bear_v to_o man_n be_v a_o fruit_n of_o our_o love_n unto_o god_n for_o this_o commandment_n we_o have_v of_o he_o that_o he_o that_o love_v god_n shall_v love_v his_o brother_n also_o 1._o john_n 4.21_o ii_o point_n the_o property_n of_o this_o love_n be_v to_o be_v fervent_a and_o that_o for_o two_o cause_n first_o if_o need_v require_v every_o man_n be_v bind_v within_o his_o calling_n to_o testify_v his_o love_n 3.16_o by_o give_v his_o life_n for_o his_o neighbour_n though_o he_o be_v our_o enemy_n or_o a_o stranger_n which_o we_o shall_v never_o do_v unless_o our_o love_n be_v fervent_a second_o there_o be_v much_o ingratitude_n hatred_n emulation_n and_o many_o injury_n in_o the_o world_n now_o the_o person_n from_o who_o these_o come_v must_v be_v love_v the_o unworthiness_n of_o the_o party_n must_v not_o quench_v our_o love_n but_o it_o must_v burn_v when_o the_o water_n of_o man_n injury_n and_o malice_n will_v quench_v the_o same_o iii_o point_n the_o practice_n of_o our_o love_n must_v be_v square_v by_o this_o rule_n the_o love_n of_o ourselves_o as_o we_o wish_v our_o own_o good_a hearty_o so_o we_o must_v wish_v our_o neighbour_n good_a this_o be_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n to_o do_v as_o a_o man_n will_v be_v do_v unto_o and_o it_o be_v the_o law_n of_o god_n thou_o shall_v love_v thy_o neighbour_n as_o thyself_o example_n a_o man_n of_o some_o trade_n be_v to_o make_v a_o bargain_n and_o if_o he_o will_v lie_v or_o use_v false_a weight_n and_o measure_n he_o may_v advantage_v himself_o this_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o own_o corruption_n will_v suggest_v unto_o he_o while_o he_o be_v about_o the_o bargain_n he_o therefore_o must_v call_v to_o mind_v this_o rule_n of_o love_n and_o examine_v his_o own_o heart_n whether_o he_o will_v have_v another_o man_n to_o deceive_v he_o by_o lie_v by_o false_a weight_n etc._n etc._n the_o same_o thing_n must_v man_n do_v when_o they_o be_v tempt_v to_o oppression_n or_o cruelty_n let_v they_o think_v whether_o they_o will_v have_v other_o to_o wrong_n or_o oppress_v they_o and_o so_o show_v forth_o love_n by_o this_o rule_n do_v as_o they_o will_v be_v do_v unto_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o our_o church_n may_v have_v the_o deserve_a praise_n of_o this_o virtue_n of_o love_n but_o christ_n foretell_v of_o these_o our_o day_n that_o love_n shall_v wax_v cold_a matth._n 24.12_o and_o 3.2_o that_o man_n shall_v be_v lover_n of_o themselves_o and_o so_o it_o be_v for_o every_o man_n now_o be_v for_o himself_o no_o man_n
seek_v another_o good_a go_v through_o town_n market_n and_o fair_n and_o rare_a it_o be_v to_o find_v a_o man_n that_o in_o his_o affair_n seek_v the_o common_a good_a as_o well_o as_o his_o own_o for_o this_o be_v the_o common_a rule_n may_v i_o not_o make_v of_o my_o own_o what_o i_o will_v but_o he_o that_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o love_n seek_v not_o his_o own_o only_a but_o the_o good_a of_o other_o also_o 1._o corinth_n 13.5_o here_o than_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o practice_v this_o virtue_n use_n that_o we_o may_v have_v christ_n commendation_n with_o this_o church_n every_o man_n in_o the_o general_a call_n of_o a_o christian_n will_v make_v great_a show_n of_o love_n as_o when_o he_o come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n &_o in_o prayer_n but_o in_o their_o particular_a affair_n few_o show_n forth_o true_a love_n nay_o many_o by_o lie_v oppression_n cruelty_n flea_n the_o skin_n from_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o flesh_n from_o the_o bone_n of_o the_o poor_a 3_o and_o break_v the_o bone_n within_o the_o flesh_n and_o chap_v they_o as_o for_o the_o pot_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v these_o little_a consider_v this_o rule_n or_o that_o account_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v take_v of_o they_o who_o have_v swear_v never_o to_o forget_v these_o work_n amos._n 8.7_o learn_v therefore_o in_o thy_o particular_a calling_n to_o show_v forth_o love_n and_o employ_v thy_o commodity_n not_o for_o thyself_o alone_o but_o for_o the_o good_a of_o those_o with_o who_o thou_o live_v herein_o be_v love_n and_o hereby_o shall_v thou_o be_v know_v to_o be_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n john_n 13.35_o and_o the_o child_n of_o god_n translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n 1._o john_n 3._o vers_fw-la 14._o the_o second_o thing_n for_o which_o this_o church_n be_v commend_v be_v service_n to_o omit_v the_o diverse_a signification_n of_o the_o word_n here_o it_o betoken_v a_o work_n of_o love_n whereby_o a_o man_n within_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o call_n become_v a_o servant_n unto_o every_o man_n for_o that_o man_n good_a read_v heb._n 6.10_o where_o this_o be_v both_o commend_v and_o describe_v gal._n 5.13_o do_v service_n one_o to_o another_o in_o love_n 1._o cor._n 13.5_o love_n seek_v not_o her_o own_o but_o make_v herself_o servant_n to_o all_o to_o do_v they_o good_a and_o christ_n commandment_n be_v let_v he_o that_o will_v be_v chief_a among_o you_o be_v as_o the_o servant_n luke_n 22.26_o now_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o this_o service_n be_v when_o a_o man_n be_v ready_a with_o hâ—s_a good_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n to_o help_v the_o poor_a especial_o those_o that_o be_v godly_a this_o be_v a_o fruit_n of_o love_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v here_o set_v after_o it_o as_o also_o in_o the_o place_n before_o name_v hebr._n 6._o vers_fw-la 10._o gal._n 5.13_o use_n it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o our_o church_n and_o people_n may_v have_v the_o like_a praise_n for_o this_o virtue_n but_o the_o rich_a sort_n spend_v their_o substance_n and_o wealth_n upon_o hawk_n and_o hound_n bull_n and_o bear_v upon_o costly_a attire_n and_o banquet_v so_o as_o when_o the_o poor_a that_o be_v in_o need_n come_v for_o relief_n they_o have_v nothing_o to_o spare_v and_o if_o any_o thing_n be_v give_v it_o be_v draw_v as_o hardly_o from_o they_o as_o a_o rib_n out_o of_o their_o side_n man_n will_v give_v frank_o to_o delight_v themselves_o with_o play_n and_o pastime_n and_o such_o like_a vanity_n but_o the_o poor_a that_o be_v their_o own_o flesh_n may_v die_v in_o the_o street_n for_o want_n of_o that_o which_o man_n give_v to_o their_o dog_n but_o if_o we_o respect_v the_o commendation_n of_o christ_n jesus_n let_v we_o abandon_v these_o vanity_n which_o hinder_v we_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o virtue_n of_o service_n for_o the_o good_a of_o our_o brethren_n and_o to_o induce_v all_o man_n hereto_o let_v they_o consider_v i._o how_o the_o church_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v charge_v with_o give_v the_o first_o fruit_n of_o their_o wine_n corn_n and_o oil_n and_o likewise_o with_o many_o sacrifice_n and_o ceremony_n which_o belong_v to_o the_o temple_n these_o thing_n indeed_o be_v cease_v and_o yet_o we_o may_v not_o misspend_v these_o good_a which_o hereby_o be_v spare_v for_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n the_o poor_a be_v in_o steed_n of_o the_o altar_n and_o they_o must_v have_v that_o which_o the_o altar_n have_v among_o the_o jew_n again_o isay._n 58.18_o he_o that_o pour_v forth_o his_o soul_n to_o the_o hungry_a that_o be_v he_o that_o see_v the_o poor_a in_o misery_n have_v the_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n move_v towards_o they_o and_o from_o his_o pitiful_a hart_n relieve_v their_o want_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n his_o light_n shall_v never_o be_v put_v out_o but_o shall_v spring_v out_o of_o the_o darkness_n and_o his_o darkness_n shall_v be_v as_o the_o noon_n day_n this_o be_v pure_a religion_n 27·_v and_o undefiled_a before_o god_n to_o visit_v the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n in_o their_o adversity_n remember_v this_o he_o that_o have_v mercy_n upon_o the_o poor_a dare_v unto_o the_o lord_n prou._n 19.17_o so_o that_o when_o the_o poor_a come_v for_o relief_n god_n come_v to_o borrow_v of_o we_o some_o of_o that_o which_o he_o have_v give_v us._n the_o poor_a be_v the_o lord_n collector_n now_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v borrow_v of_o we_o shall_v we_o make_v denial_n &_o send_v he_o empty_a away_o three_o consider_v that_o christ_n himself_o come_v in_o the_o person_n of_o the_o poor_a that_o be_v hungry_a sick_a naked_a or_o in_o any_o want_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o will_v escape_v the_o fearful_a sentence_n of_o condemnation_n at_o the_o last_o day_n away_o from_o i_o you_o curse_v into_o everlasting_a fire_n for_o i_o be_v a_o hunger_a and_o you_o give_v i_o no_o meat_n etc._n etc._n then_o we_o must_v have_v regard_n unto_o the_o poor_a and_o show_v our_o bounty_n in_o their_o relief_n who_o be_v our_o own_o flesh_n so_o shall_v we_o make_v god_n our_o debtor_n and_o be_v commend_v with_o this_o church_n by_o christ_n himself_o in_o this_o world_n and_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n hear_v that_o bless_a voice_n of_o his_o approbation_n come_v you_o bless_v math._n 25.34_o the_o three_o virtue_n for_o which_o this_o church_n be_v commend_v be_v their_o faith_n by_o faith_n here_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v fidelity_n which_o be_v a_o virtue_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v faithful_a to_o god_n in_o keep_v that_o vow_n and_o promise_v which_o he_o make_v to_o he_o in_o his_o baptism_n which_o be_v to_o renounce_v and_o deny_v himself_o and_o whole_o to_o give_v up_o himself_o to_o acknowledge_v one_o god_n in_o three_o person_n and_o according_o to_o believe_v in_o to_o worship_n and_o obey_v the_o same_o god_n all_o his_o life_n long_o in_o this_o sense_n be_v faith_n take_v of_o paul_n 5.12_o when_o he_o say_v that_o young_a widow_n have_v damnation_n because_o they_o have_v forsake_v their_o first_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o former_a epistle_n of_o christ_n unto_o these_o church_n where_o he_o command_v they_o to_o be_v faithful_a use_n it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o our_o church_n and_o congregation_n may_v in_o like_a manner_n be_v commend_v for_o their_o fidelity_n to_o god_n but_o that_o can_v true_o be_v do_v of_o we_o general_o it_o be_v a_o common_a thing_n for_o man_n to_o swear_v by_o their_o faith_n but_o it_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n to_o find_v a_o man_n to_o keep_v his_o faith_n as_o will_v appear_v by_o this_o short_a survey_n of_o our_o people_n for_o first_o the_o great_a part_n in_o all_o place_n be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n of_o his_o word_n and_o of_o their_o vow_n to_o he_o in_o baptism_n and_o also_o void_a of_o care_n to_o attain_v hereto_o now_o all_o these_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n other_o though_o they_o have_v knowledge_n yet_o they_o have_v no_o love_n nor_o care_n of_o good_a thing_n which_o concern_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n but_o all_o their_o delight_n be_v in_o eat_v drink_v game_a and_o in_o pastime_n and_o pleasure_n herein_o they_o spend_v their_o time_n and_o strength_n and_o these_o also_o have_v deny_v their_o first_o faith_n &_o their_o case_n be_v dangerous_a for_o as_o yet_o their_o belly_n and_o their_o pleasure_n be_v their_o god_n and_o their_o end_n will_v be_v damnation_n a_o three_o sort_n be_v term_v the_o wise_a man_n of_o the_o world_n but_o if_o we_o regard_v their_o fidelity_n to_o god_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o they_o they_o be_v worldly_a person_n and_o earthly_a mind_v such_o as_o spend_v both_o wit_n and_o strength_n to_o get_v wealth_n like_v unto_o the_o mole_n who_o be_v always_o in_o the_o earth_n these_o also_o
be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o vow_n in_o baptism_n for_o as_o they_o account_v gain_v godliness_n so_o gold_n be_v their_o god_n and_o they_o say_v to_o the_o wedge_n of_o gold_n thou_o be_v my_o confidence_n see_v then_o all_o these_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n we_o must_v hereby_o be_v admonish_v to_o remember_v what_o we_o have_v promise_v in_o our_o baptism_n and_o withal_o have_v care_n to_o perform_v the_o same_o as_o we_o tender_v the_o salvation_n of_o our_o soul_n for_o if_o we_o be_v unfaithful_a as_o paul_n say_v of_o the_o young_a widow_n damnation_n belong_v unto_o us._n the_o four_o virtue_n for_o which_o this_o church_n be_v commend_v be_v patience_n of_o this_o i_o have_v speak_v before_o verse_n 2._o here_o only_a note_n that_o it_o be_v join_v with_o love_n to_o man_n with_o fidelity_n to_o god_n and_o with_o service_n both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o love_n whereby_o christ_n will_v signify_v that_o no_o good_a thing_n can_v be_v do_v by_o any_o man_n without_o patience_n love_n be_v no_o love_n without_o patience_n neither_o be_v faith_n any_o faith_n without_o patience_n for_o when_o a_o man_n love_v another_o for_o his_o love_n he_o shall_v sometime_o receive_v hatred_n now_o unless_o he_o have_v patience_n to_o bear_v that_o hatred_n his_o love_n will_v surcease_v and_o so_o if_o a_o man_n have_v care_n to_o be_v faithful_a unto_o god_n in_o the_o world_n he_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o have_v much_o contempt_n so_o that_o unless_o he_o have_v patience_n to_o bear_v the_o same_o his_o faithfulness_n will_v fail_v patience_n bring_v forth_o experience_n and_o experience_n hope_v rom._n 5.4_o &_o rom._n 15.4_o no_o comfort_n of_o the_o scripture_n nor_o hope_v without_o patience_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o sour_a the_o good_a ground_n 8.15_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n with_o patience_n though_o a_o man_n have_v never_o so_o good_a gift_n yet_o without_o patience_n he_o can_v put_v they_o in_o practice_n this_o therefore_o we_o must_v join_v with_o all_o the_o good_a grace_n we_o have_v as_o peter_n counsel_v we_o 2._o peter_n 1.6_o when_o a_o man_n be_v in_o temptation_n and_o apprehend_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o sore_a thing_n that_o can_v be_v without_o patience_n he_o will_v despair_v without_o patience_n a_o man_n will_v be_v weary_a of_o well-doing_n both_o in_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n and_o to_o his_o own_o soul_n hence_o the_o apostle_n say_v you_o have_v need_n of_o patience_n heb._n 10.36_o and_o thy_o work_n here_o christ_n repeat_v his_o general_a commendation_n of_o this_o church_n which_o we_o must_v not_o think_v to_o be_v do_v in_o vain_a but_o hereby_o he_o will_v let_v we_o see_v how_o exceed_v well_o he_o do_v approve_v of_o their_o work_n the_o cause_n why_o he_o like_v they_o so_o well_o be_v their_o increase_n in_o well-doing_n whereof_o we_o shall_v entreat_v afterward_o christ_n repeat_v his_o 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faith_n be_v sin_n second_o love_n be_v necessary_a in_o every_o good_a work_n we_o go_v about_o for_o faith_n work_v by_o love_n gal._n 5.6_o hence_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1._o cor._n 13.3_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v give_v his_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v and_o bestow_v all_o his_o good_n in_o alm_n upon_o the_o poor_a yet_o if_o he_o do_v not_o these_o in_o love_n it_o will_v not_o please_v god_n three_o service_n to_o man_n be_v require_v in_o our_o good_a work_n this_o must_v be_v careful_o mark_v for_o the_o end_n of_o man_n life_n be_v in_o his_o calling_n to_o serve_v man_n and_o by_o that_o to_o serve_v god_n col._n 3.24_o servant_n must_v obey_v their_o master_n and_o in_o their_o person_n do_v service_n unto_o christ._n and_o that_o which_o be_v there_o speak_v of_o servant_n must_v be_v refer_v to_o the_o work_n of_o every_o man_n in_o his_o call_n they_o must_v be_v do_v for_o the_o good_a of_o man_n so_o as_o god_n may_v be_v serve_v in_o they_o this_o overthrow_v the_o 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that_o be_v good_a ground_n bring_v forth_o fruit_n with_o patience_n use_n these_o be_v the_o virtue_n that_o make_v a_o work_n acceptable_a to_o god_n we_o must_v labour_v in_o every_o action_n of_o our_o lawful_a call_n whatsoever_o it_o be_v to_o practice_v the_o same_o in_o faith_n love_n service_n and_o patience_n we_o must_v not_o tie_v good_a work_n to_o church_n matter_n only_o as_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o give_v alm_n but_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o work_n of_o a_o man_n lawful_a call_n be_v it_o never_o so_o base_a with_o these_o virtue_n be_v a_o good_a work_n and_o approve_v of_o god_n in_o it_o kind_a as_o well_o as_o the_o best_a work_n that_o be_v not_o for_o the_o work_n itself_o but_o because_o therein_o do_v appear_v faith_n love_n service_n and_o patience_n and_o because_o this_o church_n so_o perform_v their_o work_n therefore_o do_v god_n double_a his_o approbation_n the_o last_o virtue_n for_o which_o this_o church_n be_v commend_v be_v increase_v in_o godliness_n in_o these_o word_n and_o that_o they_o be_v more_o at_o the_o last_o than_o at_o the_o first_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v before_o reprove_v for_o decay_n and_o loss_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n but_o this_o church_n do_v grow_v and_o increase_v in_o grace_n and_o therefore_o be_v her_o work_n more_o approve_v than_o the_o work_n of_o any_o other_o church_n it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o our_o congregation_n may_v be_v commend_v for_o their_o increase_n in_o godliness_n in_o faith_n obedience_n use_n and_o other_o good_a work_n but_o that_o can_v just_o be_v do_v for_o the_o number_n of_o our_o people_n be_v increase_v but_o their_o growth_n in_o grace_n do_v not_o appear_v many_o live_v in_o ignorance_n and_o though_o they_o hear_v much_o yet_o they_o profit_v little_a so_o as_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o they_o as_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n say_v 5.12_o whereas_o concern_v the_o time_n you_o ought_v to_o be_v teacher_n you_o have_v need_v again_o that_o we_o teach_v you_o the_o first_o principle_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o as_o paul_n say_v of_o certain_a woman_n 7_o they_o be_v always_o learning_n and_o never_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n other_o also_o though_o they_o know_v something_o yet_o they_o practise_v less_o than_o they_o which_o know_v nothing_o and_o which_o be_v worst_a of_o all_o many_o that_o heretofore_o have_v â—ad_v good_a beginning_n in_o they_o by_o their_o bad_a conversation_n and_o the_o greedy_a care_n of_o this_o world_n have_v lose_v the_o same_o again_o and_o go_v backward_o in_o knowledge_n in_o obedience_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n rare_a it_o be_v to_o find_v those_o that_o be_v like_a to_o
regard_n of_o sex_n be_v inferior_a may_v have_v more_o excellent_a gift_n and_o so_o likewise_o may_v exercise_v authority_n and_o rule_n and_o we_o find_v by_o good_a experience_n that_o the_o government_n of_o a_o woman_n be_v a_o haâ—pie_a government_n no_o record_n of_o time_n can_v show_v a_o more_o happy_a regiment_n for_o blessing_n temporal_a and_o spiritual_a under_o any_o man_n than_o we_o have_v long_o enjoy_v under_o our_o noble_a queen_n the_o second_o fault_n of_o this_o church_n be_v that_o they_o suffer_v a_o woman_n to_o seduce_v and_o teach_v false_a doctrine_n and_o thereby_o to_o seduce_v god_n people_n that_o this_o be_v a_o fault_n christ_n reproof_n show_v evident_o and_o therefore_o i_o will_v not_o stand_v to_o prove_v it_o use_n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o every_o man_n be_v not_o to_o be_v leave_v to_o his_o own_o conscience_n to_o teach_v and_o hold_v what_o doctrine_n he_o will_v but_o all_o such_o man_n or_o woman_n as_o â—each_v erroneous_a 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first_o by_o her_o property_n in_o this_o name_n iâ—zabell_n that_o be_v one_o like_o jezabell_n second_o by_o her_o action_n which_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n her_o teach_n be_v describe_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n touch_v her_o property_n christ_n call_v her_o jezabell_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o for_o that_o she_o be_v like_a to_o jezabell_n and_o in_o her_o person_n revive_v the_o manner_n and_o opinion_n of_o jezabell_n for_o as_o jezabell_n bring_v among_o the_o israelite_n the_o false_a worship_n of_o the_o idol_n baal_n so_o this_o woman_n labour_v to_o bring_v into_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n idolatry_n and_o other_o sin_n again_o jezabell_n be_v give_v to_o fornication_n as_o the_o scripture_n record_v of_o she_o by_o the_o mouth_n of_o jehu_n 2._o king_n 9.22_o and_o so_o be_v this_o woman_n give_v to_o fornication_n three_o jezabell_n be_v a_o woman_n of_o authority_n and_o by_o her_o place_n and_o dignity_n do_v countenance_n and_o maintain_v idolatry_n and_o her_o wicked_a sin_n so_o it_o be_v like_a that_o this_o woman_n be_v of_o some_o place_n and_o authority_n and_o do_v thereby_o countenance_v her_o wicked_a opinion_n and_o damnable_a sin_n in_o this_o reason_n of_o her_o name_n use_n note_v first_o a_o notable_a practice_n of_o satan_n for_o the_o furtherance_n of_o his_o kingdom_n which_o be_v this_o in_o succeed_a age_n he_o labour_v to_o revive_v the_o erroneous_a opinion_n and_o wicked_a vice_n of_o ungodly_a person_n of_o former_a time_n this_o we_o see_v plain_a in_o this_o place_n for_o long_o after_o â—â—zabelâ—_n death_n the_o wife_n of_o ahab_n a_o wicked_a woman_n â—uen_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n he_o raise_v up_o â—nother_n woman_n like_o jezabell_n both_o for_o wicked_a life_n and_o doctrine_n and_o the_o like_a practice_n he_o use_v at_o this_o day_n in_o all_o such_o as_o follow_v the_o rule_n and_o counsel_n of_o machiavelli_n be_v reviue_v the_o craft_n of_o achitophel_n in_o the_o papist_n be_v reviue_v the_o opinion_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o wicked_a scribe_n and_o pharisee_n in_o the_o recusant_n protestant_n be_v reviue_v the_o sect_n of_o the_o donatist_n and_o the_o sect_n call_v audiani_n the_o family_n of_o love_n revive_v the_o opinion_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o valentinian_o and_o the_o montanist_n and_o many_o other_o damnable_a error_n now_o this_o the_o devil_n do_v because_o he_o know_v by_o experience_n the_o great_a hurt_n that_o these_o opinion_n and_o sin_n have_v former_o do_v unto_o god_n church_n second_o christ_n call_v this_o woman_n jezabell_n that_o he_o may_v provoke_v this_o church_n to_o a_o great_a detestation_n of_o she_o in_o regard_n of_o her_o damnable_a way_n and_o that_o she_o may_v be_v in_o as_o great_a disgrace_n with_o they_o as_o be_v jezabell_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n that_o so_o they_o may_v better_o eschew_v her_o wicked_a seducement_n and_o herein_o we_o have_v a_o good_a direction_n for_o our_o profitable_a read_n of_o the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n namely_o that_o when_o we_o meet_v with_o example_n of_o wicked_a man_n and_o wicked_a woman_n we_o must_v thereby_o take_v occasion_n to_o be_v unlike_o they_o and_o if_o we_o find_v ourselves_o like_o they_o any_o way_n either_o in_o wicked_a opinion_n or_o in_o practice_n we_o must_v thereupon_o grow_v to_o a_o dislike_n with_o ourselves_o again_o find_v the_o example_n of_o good_a man_n or_o good_a woman_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o conform_v ourselves_o thereto_o and_o become_v like_o they_o and_o in_o this_o regard_n approve_v ourselves_o when_o we_o see_v ourselves_o conformable_a unto_o the_o godly_a in_o any_o virtue_n and_o grace_n the_o second_o argument_n whereby_o christ_n describe_v this_o woman_n be_v her_o action_n she_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n that_o be_v she_o challenge_v herself_o to_o be_v one_o that_o do_v teach_v god_n will_n by_o the_o instinct_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o herein_o she_o become_v a_o notable_a patron_n of_o the_o damnable_a sect_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o for_o she_o hold_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o fornication_n and_o of_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o for_o the_o maintenance_n hereof_o she_o say_v she_o be_v a_o prophetess_n one_o that_o speak_v nothing_o but_o as_o she_o be_v teach_v by_o god_n spirit_n this_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o heretic_n under_o pretence_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o maintain_v their_o damnable_a device_n as_o may_v easy_o be_v prove_v by_o induction_n of_o particular_a heretic_n in_o former_a age_n first_o use_n hence_o than_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o labour_n to_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o discern_a whereby_o we_o may_v try_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o not_o many_o will_v be_v of_o no_o religion_n because_o there_o be_v so_o many_o false_a teacher_n and_o such_o diversity_n of_o opinion_n in_o religion_n but_o herein_o they_o bewray_v their_o profaneness_n they_o ought_v the_o rather_o to_o labour_v for_o this_o gift_n of_o discern_v whereby_o to_o know_v what_o be_v from_o god_n and_o what_o be_v not_o second_o hence_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o when_o we_o be_v unjust_o slander_v disgrace_v or_o injure_v we_o ought_v not_o to_o fret_v and_o fume_n but_o by_o patience_n to_o content_v ourselves_o for_o we_o see_v that_o wicked_a man_n to_o maintain_v their_o wicked_a opinion_n and_o manner_n will_v not_o stick_v to_o abuse_v god_n himself_o and_o make_v his_o bless_a spirit_n the_o author_n and_o patron_n of_o their_o error_n and_o sin_n we_o by_o our_o sin_n deserve_v disgrace_n and_o reproach_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v do_v nothing_o amiss_o and_o therefore_o we_o must_v be_v patient_a be_v in_o the_o same_o condemnation_n as_o luke_n 23.40_o 41._o and_o rather_o rejoice_v in_o as_o much_o as_o we_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o suffering_n of_o the_o spirit_n 1._o pet._n 4_o vers_fw-la 13._o again_o here_o observe_v how_o she_o prove_v herself_o to_o be_v a_o prophetess_n namely_o by_o her_o own_o testimony_n only_o she_o call_v herself_o so_o where_o we_o may_v see_v the_o note_n and_o mark_v of_o a_o false_a prophet_n to_o wiâ—_n their_o own_o bare_a word_n and_o testimony_n a_o true_a prophet_n or_o prophetess_n have_v sundry_a testimony_n beside_o their_o own_o word_n to_o prove_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o their_o call_n as_o in_o the_o primitive_a church_n they_o have_v the_o gift_n of_o speak_v diverse_a language_n without_o study_n and_o of_o work_a miracle_n they_o have_v also_o purity_n of_o doctrine_n join_v with_o integrity_n of_o life_n &_o last_o many_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n as_o zeal_n courage_n and_o constancy_n to_o maintain_v the_o same_o christ_n have_v describe_v this_o woman_n for_o her_o further_a disgrace_n as_o also_o to_o aggravate_v the_o fault_n of_o this_o church_n in_o suffer_v
heart_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v to_o jesabell_n and_o her_o company_n you_o may_v persuade_v yourselves_o that_o because_o your_o sin_n be_v secret_a therefore_o my_o judgement_n shall_v not_o befall_v you_o but_o know_v that_o i_o will_v discover_v your_o secret_a sin_n and_o practice_n in_o such_o sort_n as_o all_o church_n shall_v know_v by_o experience_n in_o your_o person_n that_o i_o do_v see_v and_o discern_v the_o most_o hide_a thought_n of_o man_n heart_n first_o here_o observe_v to_o who_o christ_n will_v discover_v their_o sin_n not_o to_o all_o the_o world_n but_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n all_o church_n shall_v know_v this_o christ_n do_v to_o terrify_v jesabell_n &_o her_o company_n for_o as_o it_o be_v a_o excellent_a honour_n to_o be_v well_o esteem_v of_o with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n so_o it_o be_v a_o most_o shameful_a dishonour_n to_o be_v in_o disgrace_n with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n for_o 1â—_n whatsoever_o be_v bind_v or_o loose_v by_o the_o church_n on_o earth_n the_o same_o be_v bind_v or_o loose_v in_o heaven_n and_o therefore_o by_o due_a proportion_n it_o follow_v that_o they_o which_o be_v in_o disgrace_n with_o godâ—_n church_n on_o earth_n be_v also_o in_o disgrace_n with_o god_n himself_o in_o heaven_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o howsoever_o we_o must_v so_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v endeavour_n to_o approve_v ourselves_o to_o the_o whole_a world_n use_n yet_o especial_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o be_v in_o good_a account_n with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o the_o member_n thereof_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o must_v continual_o avoid_v the_o do_n of_o all_o such_o thing_n as_o may_v just_o bring_v we_o into_o disgrace_n with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n rom._n 16.16_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n salute_v you_o and_o 1._o cor._n 16.19_o all_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n salute_v you_o where_o the_o apostle_n mean_v not_o that_o they_o do_v by_o word_n of_o mouth_n send_v greeting_n unto_o they_o but_o hereby_o he_o will_v signify_v that_o all_o church_n do_v approve_v of_o they_o which_o he_o say_v for_o their_o great_a comfort_n paul_n receive_v timothy_n into_o the_o company_n because_o the_o church_n give_v he_o a_o good_a report_n act._n 16.2.3_o but_o what_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o all_o church_n shall_v know_v by_o experience_n in_o the_o person_n of_o jezabell_n and_o her_o company_n namely_o that_o christ_n be_v he_o which_o do_v indeed_o search_v the_o reins_n and_o the_o heart_n where_o by_o reins_n and_o heart_n we_o must_v understand_v the_o same_o thing_n namely_o the_o thought_n and_o affection_n of_o man_n for_o in_o that_o sense_n those_o word_n be_v often_o use_v in_o the_o old_a testament_n quest._n how_o can_v reins_n signify_v the_o thought_n and_o affection_n see_v the_o thought_n be_v seat_v in_o the_o brain_n and_o the_o affection_n in_o the_o heart_n answ._n the_o reins_n be_v put_v for_o the_o thought_n and_o affection_n not_o because_o they_o be_v seat_v therein_o but_o for_o that_o resemblance_n and_o analogy_n that_o be_v between_o they_o for_o as_o the_o reins_n be_v seat_v in_o the_o most_o secret_a part_n of_o the_o body_n so_o the_o thought_n and_o affection_n be_v seat_v in_o the_o most_o secret_a place_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o heart_n be_v pâ—rt_n for_o the_o thought_n and_o affection_n first_o because_o the_o affection_n be_v there_o seat_v second_o because_o the_o thought_n though_o they_o be_v seat_v in_o the_o brain_n yet_o they_o have_v their_o operation_n in_o the_o heart_n for_o joyful_a thought_n make_v a_o merry_a heart_n and_o fearful_a thought_n a_o heavy_a heart_n again_o the_o word_n search_n signify_v a_o most_o narrow_a search_n and_o such_o a_o one_o as_o go_v with_o find_v thereby_o show_v that_o nothing_o be_v so_o secret_a in_o man_n but_o the_o lord_n both_o can_v and_o do_v see_v and_o discern_v the_o same_o use_n hence_o we_o learn_v first_o that_o christ_n our_o saviour_n be_v not_o only_a man_n but_o very_o god_n one_o person_n stand_v of_o two_o nature_n that_o christ_n be_v man_n heretic_n deny_v not_o but_o whether_o he_o be_v god_n or_o not_o there_o be_v the_o question_n which_o yet_o be_v here_o evident_o prove_v for_o he_o that_o have_v in_o he_o the_o peculiar_a property_n of_o god_n must_v needs_o be_v god_n but_o christ_n have_v in_o he_o the_o true_a property_n of_o god_n he_o can_v search_v and_o discern_v all_o the_o thought_n and_o all_o the_o affection_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o man_n which_o none_o can_v do_v but_o god_n only_o jerem_n 17.9_o 10_o the_o heart_n be_v deceitful_a and_o wicked_a above_o all_o thing_n who_o can_v know_v it_o i_o the_o lord_n search_v the_o heâ—â—t_n and_o try_v the_o reins_n and_o therefore_o christ_n be_v the_o true_a and_o very_a god_n second_o hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o beware_v and_o take_v heed_n of_o hypocrisy_n in_o all_o thing_n but_o especial_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n hypocrisy_n be_v when_o a_o man_n seem_v outward_o to_o be_v that_o which_o he_o be_v not_o inward_o but_o we_o must_v have_v care_n to_o be_v true_o in_o heart_n that_o which_o we_o appear_v to_o be_v in_o life_n and_o profession_n we_o must_v come_v as_o near_o christ_n in_o thought_n and_o affection_n as_o in_o our_o outward_a action_n for_o christ_n know_v as_o well_o the_o whole_a estate_n of_o every_o man_n reins_n and_o heart_n as_o he_o do_v their_o speech_n and_o their_o deed_n three_o hereby_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o suspect_v ourselves_o of_o our_o unknown_a sin_n as_o of_o our_o unbelief_n and_o presumption_n not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o a_o acknowledgement_n of_o our_o know_a sin_n for_o we_o can_v never_o discern_v the_o depth_n of_o our_o corrupt_a heart_n and_o yet_o god_n know_v they_o this_o be_v david_n practice_n 19.12_o after_o due_a examination_n of_o himself_o he_o yet_o cry_v lord_n cleanse_v i_o from_o my_o secret_a sin_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v o_o lord_n search_v my_o heart_n but_o i_o can_v sufficient_o know_v my_o own_o corruption_n therefore_o do_v thou_o o_o lord_n help_v to_o cleanse_v i_o from_o they_o if_o this_o be_v practise_v true_a religion_n will_v flourish_v for_o many_o justify_v themselves_o when_o as_o they_o know_v not_o what_o be_v in_o their_o heart_n little_o consider_v what_o christ_n say_v unto_o the_o pharisee_n 16.15_o you_o be_v they_o which_o justify_v yourselves_o before_o man_n but_o christ_n know_v your_o heart_n and_o i_o will_v give_v to_o every_o one_o of_o you_o according_a to_o your_o work_n here_o christ_n proceed_v to_o remove_v a_o second_o wicked_a conceit_n whereby_o they_o may_v seem_v to_o illude_v god_n judgement_n threaten_v for_o they_o may_v say_v let_v the_o lord_n send_v judgment_n and_o plague_n upon_o we_o yet_o we_o shall_v escape_v they_o as_o isaiah_n say_v of_o the_o wicked_a in_o his_o time_n that_o they_o make_v a_o league_n with_o death_n and_o hell_n and_o say_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n shall_v pass_v over_o they_o isay._n 28._o verse_n 15._o but_o to_o cut_v off_o this_o vain_a conceit_n christ_n threaten_v a_o just_a reward_n to_o every_o one_o according_a to_o his_o work_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v you_o may_v soothe_v up_o yourselves_o and_o false_o think_v that_o you_o shall_v escape_v my_o judgement_n but_o know_v it_o that_o i_o will_v reward_v every_o one_o of_o you_o partly_o in_o this_o life_n and_o principal_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n according_a to_o your_o work_n be_v they_o good_a or_o bad_a for_o these_o word_n must_v especial_o â—ee_n understand_v of_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n as_o they_o be_v use_v 〈◊〉_d 2._o â—_o and_o revel_v 2d_o 12_o hence_o the_o papist_n gather_v use_n that_o man_n be_v save_v not_o only_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n but_o also_o by_o work_n for_o thus_o they_o reason_n â—y_a that_o whereby_o we_o must_v be_v judge_v must_v we_o be_v justify_v and_o â—aâ—ed_v but_o by_o work_n we_o must_v be_v judge_v and_o therefore_o save_v answ_n the_o proposition_n be_v false_a there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o justify_v and_o judge_v for_o judge_v be_v only_o the_o declaration_n of_o a_o man_n to_o be_v just_a but_o justification_n be_v the_o make_n of_o a_o man_n just_a and_o because_o the_o declaration_n of_o a_o man_n to_o be_v just_a be_v by_o work_n therefore_o be_v judgement_n by_o work_n again_o it_o be_v not_o say_v i_o will_v give_v to_o you_o for_o your_o work_n but_o according_a to_o your_o work_n if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o will_v give_v to_o every_o one_o of_o you_o for_o your_o work_n than_o it_o may_v have_v seem_v they_o have_v be_v justify_v by_o they_o but_o here_o christ_n do_v only_o make_v work_v a_o outward_a
it_o be_v the_o learning_n of_o the_o devil_n wherein_o you_o may_v see_v his_o profound_a craft_n and_o policy_n where_o note_n that_o when_o christ_n will_v allege_v the_o speech_n of_o jezabell_n and_o her_o follower_n he_o do_v it_o with_o disgrace_n unto_o they_o for_o they_o count_v their_o doctrine_n deep_a learning_n but_o christ_n repeat_v their_o opinion_n call_v it_o the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n hence_o i_o gather_v use_n that_o christian_n can_v safe_o act_v and_o play_v the_o comedy_n of_o heathen_a man_n for_o they_o be_v full_a of_o many_o blasphemous_a speech_n and_o oath_n flat_a against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o repeat_v but_o with_o disgrace_n unto_o they_o for_o christ_n practice_n must_v be_v a_o pattern_n for_o our_o imitation_n he_o will_v not_o repeat_v so_o much_o as_o one_o word_n of_o a_o wicked_a woman_n without_o some_o note_n of_o disgrace_n if_o it_o be_v say_v they_o repeat_v these_o speech_n with_o disgrace_n and_o dislike_v i_o answer_v it_o be_v not_o so_o for_o if_o they_o do_v that_o will_v take_v away_o the_o whole_a comedy_n be_v full_a of_o such_o bad_a speech_n and_o this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v the_o equity_n of_o god_n word_n thus_o to_o reason_n from_o christ_n example_n as_o they_o speak_v these_o word_n christ_n add_v first_o to_o show_v that_o the_o word_n go_v before_o be_v not_o his_o own_o but_o the_o word_n of_o jezabels_n follower_n touch_v her_o doctrine_n second_o to_o show_v the_o proud_a and_o presumptuous_a mind_n of_o heretic_n in_o maintain_v their_o wicked_a opinion_n thus_o have_v false_a teacher_n uphold_v their_o error_n by_o proud_a and_o swell_a word_n as_o jude_n the_o 16._o and_o 2._o pet._n 2.18_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n be_v not_o so_o maintain_v but_o in_o the_o humility_n and_o lowliness_n of_o spirit_n and_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o piety_n from_o a_o humble_a heart_n for_o god_n teach_v the_o lowly_a his_o way_n and_o give_v grace_n to_o the_o humble_a psal._n 25.14_o and_o therefore_o this_o be_v a_o note_n of_o false_a doctrine_n by_o swell_a word_n to_o maintain_v the_o same_o hitherto_o we_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o preface_n before_o christ_n counsel_n now_o follow_v the_o counsel_n itself_o in_o this_o sentence_n though_o i_o lay_v no_o other_o burden_n upon_o you_o yet_o i_o will_v have_v you_o to_o hold_v fast_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o till_o i_o come_v this_o sentence_n be_v a_o distinction_n contain_v two_o part_n first_o in_o these_o word_n i_o will_v lay_v no_o other_o burden_n upon_o you_o than_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o that_o be_v howsoever_o i_o threaten_v my_o judgement_n unto_o jezabell_n and_o her_o follower_n yet_o i_o will_v lay_v none_o other_o punishment_n upon_o you_o but_o my_o reproof_n only_o for_o suffer_v jezabell_n among_o you_o with_o her_o false_a doctrine_n and_o follower_n this_o branch_n of_o this_o distinction_n contain_v a_o most_o comfortable_a instruction_n namely_o that_o all_o those_o that_o give_v themselves_o to_o maintain_v purity_n of_o doctrine_n and_o sincerity_n of_o life_n shall_v be_v safe_o preserve_v in_o the_o time_n of_o common_a judgement_n under_o the_o bless_a protection_n of_o god_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o be_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o their_o good_a and_o consider_v this_o mercy_n be_v offer_v to_o the_o godly_a we_o must_v hereby_o learn_v to_o become_v follower_n of_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n that_o be_v we_o must_v endeavour_n to_o maintain_v the_o pure_a truth_n of_o god_n holy_a word_n and_o withal_o have_v care_n to_o show_v forth_o sincerity_n of_o manner_n in_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n and_o endevor_v ourselves_o to_o walk_v in_o all_o the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n with_o cheerfulness_n hereby_o we_o shall_v get_v protection_n from_o common_a judgement_n when_o they_o be_v lay_v upon_o the_o wicked_a but_o if_o we_o partake_v with_o the_o wicked_a in_o their_o sin_n we_o shall_v receive_v part_n in_o their_o plague_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o distinction_n be_v in_o these_o word_n 25._o but_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o hold_v fast_o till_o i_o come_v that_o be_v my_o apostle_n have_v deliver_v unto_o you_o the_o pure_a and_o sound_a doctrine_n of_o salvation_n now_o i_o charge_v you_o that_o you_o hold_v that_o fast_o and_o maintain_v it_o until_o i_o come_v to_o judgement_n here_o be_v a_o plain_a and_o most_o excellent_a commandment_n contain_v special_a instruction_n meeâ—_n for_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n and_o all_o church_n before_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v commend_v this_o church_n for_o not_o approve_v the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabell_n and_o her_o company_n but_o here_o he_o give_v they_o another_o commandment_n to_o hold_v fast_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n teach_v they_o by_o his_o apostle_n whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v they_o and_o in_o they_o all_o church_n to_o content_v themselves_o with_o the_o pure_a doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o not_o to_o affect_v or_o approve_v any_o other_o doctrine_n beside_o whatsoever_o according_a as_o paul_n bid_v the_o galatian_n 1.8_o though_o we_o or_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n preach_v unto_o you_o any_o other_o doctrine_n than_o that_o which_o we_o have_v preach_v unto_o you_o let_v he_o be_v accurse_v by_o the_o light_n of_o this_o commandment_n we_o be_v direct_v in_o sundry_a duty_n first_o use_n not_o to_o regard_v unwritten_a tradition_n which_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n do_v so_o high_o magnify_v for_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o the_o apostle_n ever_o teach_v they_o second_o not_o to_o regard_v the_o doctrine_n of_o man_n which_o some_o bring_v unto_o we_o under_o colour_n of_o revelation_n from_o god_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n three_o hereby_o we_o learn_v what_o to_o think_v and_o judge_v of_o the_o three_o great_a religion_n of_o the_o turk_n the_o jew_n and_o papist_n at_o this_o day_n the_o turkish_a religion_n be_v not_o to_o be_v regard_v for_o it_o have_v it_o beginning_n six_o hundred_o year_n after_o the_o apostle_n time_n with_o who_o doctrine_n only_o we_o must_v content_v ourselves_o also_o the_o jewish_a religion_n we_o must_v not_o regard_v for_o they_o reject_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o papist_n we_o must_v renounce_v because_o it_o be_v not_o of_o the_o apostle_n teach_v but_o have_v it_o beginning_n by_o little_a and_o little_a long_a after_o their_o time_n if_o this_o commandment_n be_v safe_o keep_v which_o be_v lay_v on_o this_o church_n man_n will_v not_o be_v of_o so_o many_o religion_n but_o all_o will_v be_v of_o one_o religion_n cleave_v fast_o to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o content_v themselves_o with_o it_o which_o be_v the_o true_a rule_n for_o reformation_n of_o life_n and_o the_o right_a way_n to_o attain_v salvation_n last_o here_o be_v a_o rule_n and_o direction_n for_o those_o which_o will_v be_v of_o no_o religion_n because_o of_o the_o diversity_n of_o opinion_n touch_v the_o same_o they_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o content_v themselves_o therewith_o nothing_o regard_v new_a doctrine_n be_v they_o never_o so_o glorious_a till_o i_o come_v here_o christ_n show_v how_o long_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n must_v be_v hold_v fast_o namely_o not_o for_o a_o short_a time_n but_o till_o his_o second_o come_v to_o judgement_n whereby_o we_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o god_n church_n to_o preserve_v and_o maintain_v the_o purity_n of_o true_a religion_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n this_o be_v no_o small_a matter_n but_o a_o most_o needful_a duty_n enjoin_v unto_o we_o by_o special_a commandment_n and_o withal_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a consequence_n for_o the_o purity_n of_o religion_n be_v the_o foundation_n and_o mark_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o right_a way_n to_o direct_v man_n soul_n to_o eternal_a life_n for_o this_o cause_n paul_n charge_v timothy_n 3.14_o to_o keep_v the_o true_a pattern_n of_o wholesome_a word_n and_o to_o continue_v in_o the_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v learn_v and_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o duty_n 3.15_o the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n and_o christ_n for_o this_o cause_n give_v to_o his_o church_n both_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n â—1_n pastor_n to_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o purity_n in_o manner_n and_o teacher_n to_o maintain_v the_o purity_n of_o doctrine_n in_o soundness_n of_o judgement_n this_o therefore_o must_v admonish_v we_o that_o we_o have_v care_v not_o only_o to_o learn_v religion_n in_o our_o own_o person_n but_o also_o to_o convey_v the_o same_o to_o age_n follow_v that_o the_o purity_n thereof_o may_v be_v preserve_v to_o the_o come_n of_o christ._n
be_v not_o call_v the_o morning_n star_n because_o he_o shine_v to_o all_o the_o world_n in_o all_o time_n as_o the_o morning_n star_n do_v but_o because_o he_o shine_v unto_o man_n in_o the_o last_o age_n of_o the_o world_n it_o be_v further_a say_v i_o will_v give_v he_o it_o where_o be_v promise_v fellowship_n and_o participation_n with_o christ_n aâ—_n he_o be_v this_o daystar_n and_o herein_o be_v two_o benefit_n comprise_v first_o perfect_a illumination_n whereby_o ignorance_n shall_v be_v whole_o take_v away_o after_o this_o life_n when_o as_o man_n shall_v know_v god_n full_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o a_o creature_n can_v know_v the_o creator_n second_o the_o light_n of_o perfect_a glory_n for_o by_o fellowship_n with_o christ_n we_o shall_v be_v make_v to_o shine_v as_o the_o star_n as_o daniel_n 3_o speak_v yea_o we_o shall_v become_v 1.12_o saint_n in_o light_n â—s_v the_o apostle_n say_v whereas_o christ_n compare_v himself_o to_o the_o morning_n star_n first_o use_n we_o see_v the_o gross_a error_n of_o many_o among_o we_o who_o live_v in_o blindness_n of_o mind_n and_o ignorance_n walk_v in_o their_o wicked_a lust_n and_o pleasure_n without_o care_n of_o keep_v faith_n or_o good_a conscience_n and_o yet_o persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o have_v part_n in_o christ_n and_o shall_v be_v partaker_n of_o his_o light_n and_o glory_n but_o they_o be_v deceive_v for_o all_o such_o as_o live_v in_o blind_a ignorance_n and_o in_o sin_n be_v mere_a darkness_n and_o so_o can_v have_v no_o fellowship_n with_o christ_n who_o be_v that_o bright_a morning_n star_n for_o what_o fellowship_n can_v be_v between_o light_n and_o darkness_n this_o bright_a morning_n star_n serve_v only_o for_o they_o that_o receive_v the_o light_n thereof_o and_o walk_v by_o it_o but_o those_o that_o walk_v in_o the_o darkness_n of_o their_o sin_n have_v no_o benefit_n by_o it_o second_o see_v christ_n be_v this_o morning_n star_n we_o must_v have_v care_n to_o learn_v peter_n instruction_n namely_o labour_v that_o this_o bright_a star_n may_v rise_v and_o shine_v in_o our_o heart_n this_o we_o shall_v feel_v when_o we_o use_v those_o mean_n whereby_o the_o beam_n of_o this_o star_n may_v shine_v upon_o we_o not_o only_o for_o the_o enlighten_v of_o our_o mind_n but_o also_o for_o the_o heat_n and_o reviue_n of_o our_o freeze_a and_o dead_a heart_n for_o as_o the_o sun_n in_o the_o spring_n time_n quicken_v by_o it_o warm_a beam_n some_o thing_n that_o lie_v dead_a all_o winter_n so_o christ_n jesus_n this_o morning_n star_n by_o the_o beam_n of_o his_o grace_n do_v enlighten_v our_o mind_n and_o revive_v our_o dead_a and_o freeze_a heart_n and_o till_o such_o time_n as_o we_o feel_v these_o thing_n wrought_v in_o we_o we_o can_v say_v that_o this_o morning_n star_n be_v rise_v unto_o we_o or_o have_v shine_v into_o our_o heart_n three_o whereas_o christ_n appear_v in_o the_o morning_n when_o darkness_n be_v past_a we_o be_v hereby_o teach_v to_o lead_v our_o life_n in_o godliness_n righteousness_n sobriety_n and_o in_o all_o manner_n of_o upright_o and_o godly_a conversation_n for_o the_o night_n be_v past_a and_o the_o day_n be_v come_v wherein_o we_o may_v see_v to_o walk_v upright_o and_o therefore_o we_o must_v cast_v off_o the_o unprofitable_a work_n of_o darkness_n as_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o rom._n 13.12_o and_o know_v this_o that_o those_o who_o in_o this_o light_n do_v not_o walk_v according_o but_o delight_n in_o sin_n the_o work_n of_o darkness_n shall_v one_o day_n have_v their_o fill_n he_o that_o love_v the_o dark_a 2â—.30_n for_o the_o hide_v of_o his_o talon_n must_v be_v cast_v for_o his_o reward_n into_o utter_a darkness_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v 29._o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n here_o be_v christ_n commandment_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o conclusion_n but_o hereof_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o motive_n to_o proceed_v prou._n 15.32_o he_o that_o refuse_v instruction_n despise_v his_o own_o soul_n luk._n 9.62_o no_o man_n that_o put_v his_o hand_n to_o the_o plough_n and_o look_v back_o be_v apt_a to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n gal._n 6.9_o let_v we_o not_o be_v weary_a of_o well_o do_v for_o in_o due_a time_n we_o shall_v reap_v if_o we_o faint_v not_o 1._o cor._n 12.31_o desire_v you_o the_o best_a gift_n and_o i_o will_v show_v you_o a_o more_o excellent_a way_n the_o three_o chapter_n verse_n 1._o and_o write_v unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v at_o sardis_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n for_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a these_o word_n contain_v the_o five_o particular_a commandment_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n unto_o john_n wherein_o he_o be_v enjoin_v to_o write_v &_o send_v a_o special_a epistle_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o sardis_n of_o this_o commandment_n we_o have_v speak_v before_o the_o epistle_n itself_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o six_o first_o verse_n &_o it_o have_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n &_o the_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n in_o these_o word_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n in_o this_o preface_n first_o be_v set_v down_o in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v to_o procure_v authority_n unto_o it_o it_o be_v in_o christ_n name_n who_o sovereignty_n be_v describe_v by_o two_o royalty_n that_o be_v by_o two_o prerogative_n or_o privilege_n belong_v to_o he_o as_o he_o be_v a_o sovereign_a king_n of_o his_o church_n the_o first_o be_v the_o have_v of_o the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o second_o his_o have_v of_o the_o seven_o star_n for_o the_o first_o royalty_n in_o the_o first_o chap._n vers_fw-la 4._o i_o show_v that_o by_o seven_o spirit_n be_v mean_v the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o who_o proceed_v all_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n that_o any_o man_n enjoy_v and_o therefore_o whereas_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o meaning_n be_v that_o he_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o this_o be_v a_o royalty_n of_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v the_o king_n and_o head_n of_o his_o church_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o other_o servant_n of_o god_n as_o david_n peter_n and_o paul_n have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n answ._n it_o be_v true_a but_o not_o in_o the_o same_o manner_n with_o christ_n for_o he_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n two_o way_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o divine_a nature_n &_o of_o his_o manhood_n as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o person_n in_o the_o trinity_n proceed_v from_o the_o son_n as_o well_o as_o from_o the_o father_n in_o regard_n of_o which_o proceed_v christ_n be_v say_v to_o send_v the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o to_o do_v whatsoever_o he_o do_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o to_o overcome_v death_n by_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n and_o to_o rise_v from_o death_n to_o life_n second_o as_o christ_n be_v man_n he_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n because_o the_o holy_a ghost_n pour_v into_o he_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o gift_n whatsoever_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v 45.7_o anoint_a with_o the_o oil_n of_o gladness_n above_o his_o fellow_n and_o to_o be_v enrich_v with_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o that_o two_o way_n both_o for_o number_n and_o degree_n for_o number_v with_o man_n some_o have_v some_o grace_n and_o some_o man_n other_o but_o christ_n he_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o all_o man_n and_o all_o angel_n nay_o more_o grace_n in_o number_n then_o all_o man_n and_o all_o angel_n have_v and_o as_o they_o be_v in_o number_n perfect_a so_o they_o be_v perfect_a in_o degree_n for_o in_o measure_n they_o exceed_v the_o grace_n of_o all_o creature_n man_n or_o angel_n and_o therefore_o the_o father_n be_v say_v to_o have_v give_v the_o spirit_n unto_o his_o son_n 3.14_o without_o measure_n &_o thus_o much_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o first_o royalty_n of_o christ._n now_o the_o end_n why_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v to_o show_v that_o he_o be_v a_o most_o lively_a head_n of_o his_o church_n who_o be_v fill_v with_o plenty_n of_o all_o store_n of_o grace_n whereby_o he_o be_v able_a to_o enrich_v his_o church_n and_o to_o revive_v the_o member_n thereof_o who_o be_v dead_a in_o their_o sin_n and_o such_o indeed_o be_v the_o special_a state_n of_o this_o church_n first_o hence_o we_o learn_v use_n no_o man_n can_v have_v true_a fellowship_n with_o the_o
holy_a ghost_n but_o by_o christ_n it_o be_v manifest_a that_o none_o can_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o father_n but_o by_o christ._n and_o here_o the_o same_o be_v verify_v touch_v fellowship_n with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n especial_o for_o the_o obtain_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o concern_v eternal_a life_n this_o serve_v for_o our_o special_a instruction_n for_o among_o the_o papist_n there_o be_v many_o that_o have_v worthy_a and_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n as_o knowledge_n memory_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o in_o they_o be_v want_v the_o special_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o faith_n which_o justify_v &_o regeneration_n for_o touch_v assurance_n of_o these_o in_o themselves_o they_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v ignorant_a and_o whence_o come_v this_o but_o only_o from_o their_o want_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o christ_n of_o the_o papist_n as_o they_o teach_v he_o be_v a_o idol_n christ_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o to_o marvel_v though_o we_o see_v the_o most_o learned_a among_o they_o to_o scoff_n and_o mock_v at_o our_o doctrine_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n &_o certainty_n of_o election_n second_o we_o have_v many_o among_o we_o that_o will_v say_v they_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o christ_n &_o to_o have_v their_o sin_n pardon_v by_o he_o and_o yet_o you_o shall_v perceive_v in_o they_o no_o grace_n of_o knowledge_n or_o conscience_n of_o true_a obedience_n but_o these_o thing_n can_v stand_v together_o to_o wit_n looseness_n of_o life_n and_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n &_o therefore_o these_o man_n deceive_v themselves_o for_o if_o they_o have_v christ_n they_o shall_v have_v his_o spirit_n and_o the_o grace_n thereof_o purge_v their_o heart_n for_o christ_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v never_o sever_v he_o that_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n work_v in_o he_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n have_v a_o infallible_a token_n that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v he_o this_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o 〈◊〉_d union_n with_o christ_n jesus_n our_o head_n to_o become_v flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n &_o bone_n of_o his_o bone_n that_o in_o he_o we_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o till_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n we_o shall_v never_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o salvation_n wrought_v effectual_o in_o our_o heart_n the_o second_o royalty_n of_o christ_n be_v that_o he_o have_v the_o seven_o star_n that_o be_v the_o seven_o pastor_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n they_o be_v call_v star_n because_o in_o their_o ministry_n they_o enlighten_v man_n in_o the_o way_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n and_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v they_o because_o he_o be_v a_o sovereign_a lord_n over_o they_o &_o they_o be_v his_o servant_n for_o he_o appoint_v that_o person_n that_o shall_v be_v his_o minister_n among_o man_n he_o give_v he_o gift_n meet_v for_o his_o call_n he_o prescribe_v also_o unto_o he_o his_o office_n and_o duty_n but_o the_o pastor_n of_o church_n will_n some_o say_v be_v make_v by_o the_o church_n answ._n the_o right_a of_o ordain_v pastor_n belong_v to_o christ_n as_o his_o royalty_n the_o office_n of_o the_o church_n be_v to_o testify_v ratify_v &_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o approve_v of_o they_o who_o christ_n make_v and_o endue_v with_o gift_n and_o for_o that_o cause_n be_v the_o church_n say_v to_o call_v and_o ordain_v minister_n the_o end_n why_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v sovereignty_n over_o the_o minister_n be_v to_o strike_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n with_o conscience_n of_o his_o former_a negligence_n &_o to_o stir_v he_o up_o to_o diligence_n and_o carefulness_n in_o his_o place_n and_o indeed_o the_o consideration_n of_o christ_n sovereignty_n over_o they_o be_v a_o excellent_a motive_n to_o stir_v up_o all_o minister_n to_o be_v diligent_a in_o their_o place_n and_o so_o likewise_o all_o christian_n for_o consider_v that_o they_o be_v christ_n and_o the_o gift_n they_o have_v come_v from_o he_o this_o must_v move_v they_o to_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o good_a duty_n for_o be_v christ_n they_o must_v give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o christ_n who_o they_o be_v if_o he_o will_v have_v we_o live_v we_o must_v be_v thankful_a because_o he_o be_v lord_n of_o life_n if_o our_o death_n will_v glorify_v he_o we_o must_v be_v content_a because_o we_o be_v his_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o preface_n the_o matter_n of_o this_o epistle_n contain_v two_o part_n a_o reproof_n of_o a_o vice_n with_o the_o remedy_n thereof_o vers._n 1.2.3_o and_o a_o praise_n or_o commendation_n vers_fw-la 4._o the_o reproof_n in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v i_o know_v all_o thy_o work_n they_o be_v all_o manifest_a unto_o i_o and_o i_o mislike_v of_o they_o so_o must_v these_o word_n be_v understand_v in_o this_o place_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o reproof_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a wherein_o be_v set_v down_o the_o fault_n of_o this_o church_n namely_o hypocrisy_n for_o that_o they_o pretend_v christian_n religion_n in_o outward_a profession_n but_o yet_o want_v the_o life_n of_o christianity_n &_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n for_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o reason_n be_v this_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v that_o be_v church_n round_o about_o thou_o judge_v and_o speak_v of_o thou_o as_o of_o a_o church_n that_o be_v bear_v anew_o in_o christ_n and_o be_v guide_v by_o his_o spirit_n for_o by_o life_n we_o must_v understand_v spiritual_a life_n not_o corporal_a but_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o thou_o be_v dead_a that_o be_v thou_o want_v true_a spiritual_a life_n by_o regeneration_n and_o be_v indeed_o dead_a in_o thy_o sin_n this_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o sharp_a reproof_n that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n may_v be_v true_o verify_v of_o diverse_a church_n in_o this_o age_n as_o first_o of_o the_o great_a church_n of_o rome_n who_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o pope_n as_o by_o their_o head_n that_o church_n have_v a_o name_n to_o be_v alive_a &_o in_o their_o own_o pretence_n it_o be_v the_o only_a true_a church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n but_o in_o truth_n and_o before_o god_n it_o be_v dead_a some_o say_v it_o be_v as_o a_o body_n full_a of_o disease_n and_o who_o throat_n be_v cut_v but_o yet_o the_o heart_n pant_v &_o life_n remain_v therein_o but_o we_o may_v say_v it_o have_v no_o manner_n of_o spiritual_a life_n but_o lie_v stark_o dead_a as_o a_o carcase_n in_o the_o grave_n the_o reason_n that_o some_o allege_v for_o it_o be_v of_o small_a moment_n first_o they_o say_v it_o have_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n which_o be_v a_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o therefore_o it_o have_v some_o life_n ans._n first_o baptism_n be_v not_o always_o a_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n for_o circumcision_n in_o who_o stead_n come_v baptism_n be_v a_o sacrament_n use_v of_o the_o samaritan_n when_o they_o be_v 1.9_o no_o people_n of_o god_n and_o so_o no_o church_n of_o god_n again_o baptism_n without_o the_o true_a preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n be_v no_o infallible_a sign_n of_o a_o church_n it_o be_v but_o a_o seal_n pull_v from_o the_o writing_n or_o set_v to_o a_o bare_a paper_n to_o no_o use_n and_o further_o outward_a baptism_n without_o inward_a baptism_n be_v no_o note_n of_o a_o church_n but_o such_o be_v baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n it_o have_v not_o inward_a baptism_n join_v unto_o it_o neither_o the_o true_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n for_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o teach_v be_v a_o quite_o overturning_a of_o christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o outward_a baptism_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o church_n second_o i_o answer_v that_o baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o sacrament_n not_o to_o their_o synagogue_n but_o to_o the_o hide_a church_n of_o god_n among_o they_o for_o god_n have_v his_o church_n among_o they_o even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o popery_n there_o be_v always_o some_o among_o they_o that_o renounce_v their_o religion_n who_o god_n call_v home_o unto_o himself_o by_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v among_o they_o as_o the_o use_n of_o this_o sacrament_n the_o apostle_n creed_n and_o of_o other_o book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n for_o as_o god_n say_v to_o elias_n in_o ahab_n time_n 19.18_o i_o have_v reserve_v seven_o thousand_o that_o never_o bow_v the_o knee_n to_o baal_n so_o may_v it_o be_v say_v of_o many_o among_o the_o papist_n god_n have_v there_o his_o secret_a church_n who_o never_o yield_v to_o the_o pope_n government_n
of_o mankind_n neither_o be_v there_o any_o other_o mean_v appoint_v hereunto_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n this_o show_v that_o their_o opinion_n be_v false_a who_o teach_v that_o god_n call_v all_o â—he_n world_n effectual_o unto_o salvation_n use_n for_o how_o can_v thâ—y_o be_v call_v that_o never_o hear_v of_o the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o god_n but_o all_o in_o all_o age_n never_o 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n albeit_o 〈◊〉_d the_o come_n of_o christ_n their_o sound_n have_v go_v forth_o into_o all_o nation_n second_o this_o show_v the_o fondness_n of_o their_o opinion_n who_o defend_v the_o doctrine_n of_o universal_a grace_n that_o god_n shall_v give_v grace_n pertain_v to_o salvation_n unto_o every_o man_n in_o the_o world_n so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v save_v if_o he_o will_v for_o the_o mean_n to_o receive_v grace_n be_v the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n which_o all_o man_n in_o all_o age_n never_o have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o they_o the_o second_o duty_n prescribe_v be_v the_o hold_v fast_o of_o this_o doctrine_n to_o hold_v fast_o here_o signify_v two_o thing_n first_o to_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n receive_v and_o teach_v by_o the_o apostle_n second_o to_o put_v the_o same_o in_o practice_n in_o a_o godly_a life_n of_o these_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o cap._n 2.25_o the_o three_o duty_n be_v to_o repent_v where_o by_o repentance_n be_v not_o mean_v the_o begin_n of_o repentance_n but_o the_o renew_n and_o restore_v of_o the_o same_o for_o their_o hardness_n and_o deadness_n of_o heart_n whereby_o they_o do_v slack_o and_o cold_o practice_v the_o good_a duty_n which_o they_o do_v profess_v use_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o begin_n of_o repentance_n but_o we_o must_v renew_v the_o same_o continual_o &_o that_o not_o for_o gross_a sin_n only_o but_o even_o for_o the_o want_n that_o be_v in_o we_o as_o for_o our_o dulness_n and_o deadness_n of_o heart_n and_o for_o our_o hypocrisy_n and_o decay_v in_o god_n grace_n and_o because_o this_o church_n be_v very_o dead_a and_o dull_a of_o heart_n therefore_o christ_n add_v a_o reason_n to_o move_v they_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n which_o be_v a_o most_o terrible_a threaten_n in_o these_o word_n if_o thou_o will_v not_o watch_v i_o will_v come_v on_o thou_o 〈◊〉_d a_o thief_n and_o thou_o shall_v not_o know_v what_o hour_n i_o will_v come_v upon_o thou_o here_o mark_v christ_n order_n and_o deal_n have_v prescribe_v a_o remedy_n for_o their_o fault_n he_o give_v they_o a_o direction_n to_o practice_v the_o same_o and_o after_o add_v a_o most_o terrible_a threaten_n to_o drive_v they_o thereunto_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v if_o thou_o will_v not_o watch_v against_o sin_n and_o against_o death_n and_o for_o that_o end_n remember_v my_o word_n hold_v fast_o the_o same_o and_o repent_v then_o look_v as_o a_o thief_n come_v upon_o a_o man_n on_o a_o sudden_a and_o spoil_n his_o good_n and_o cut_v the_o throat_n of_o his_o child_n so_o will_v i_o come_v on_o thou_o on_o a_o sudden_a and_o power_n upon_o thou_o my_o wrath_n whereby_o i_o will_v 〈◊〉_d cut_v the_o throat_n of_o thy_o soul_n and_o thou_o shall_v have_v no_o mean_n to_o escape_v my_o punishment_n here_o christ_n threaten_v sudden_a and_o speedy_a destruction_n but_o yet_o with_o condition_n and_o limitation_n of_o repentance_n now_o because_o we_o be_v like_o this_o church_n as_o have_v be_v show_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o long_a peace_n which_o we_o enjoy_v we_o may_v also_o use_v the_o same_o reason_n and_o threaten_n at_o this_o day_n to_o stir_v up_o our_o dead_a heart_n we_o must_v watch_v against_o all_o sin_n and_o against_o death_n and_o for_o this_o end_n must_v have_v in_o memory_n the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o hold_v fast_o the_o faith_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o repent_v continual_o of_o all_o want_n but_o if_o we_o do_v not_o this_o then_o be_v the_o vengeance_n and_o eternal_a punishment_n of_o god_n to_o be_v pour_v upon_o we_o without_o measure_n and_o that_o sudden_o when_o we_o can_v prevent_v they_o if_o a_o man_n have_v but_o a_o spark_n of_o grace_n the_o consideration_n hereof_o will_v move_v he_o to_o repentance_n and_o to_o watchfulness_n but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o awake_v a_o man_n out_o of_o his_o sin_n than_o nothing_o remain_v but_o a_o fearful_a expectation_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n which_o shall_v be_v unavoidable_a and_o endure_v for_o ever_o indeed_o if_o a_o man_n have_v some_o thousand_o year_n allot_v for_o the_o punishment_n of_o his_o sin_n there_o be_v some_o cause_n why_o he_o may_v continue_v in_o they_o but_o see_v this_o punishment_n be_v eternal_a and_o when_o many_o thousand_o year_n be_v expire_v they_o be_v as_o far_o from_o the_o end_n of_o their_o woe_n as_o ever_o they_o be_v therefore_o it_o must_v stir_v up_o all_o dead_a and_o drowsy_a heart_n unto_o repentance_n and_o cause_v they_o to_o shake_v off_o security_n ignorance_n and_o coldness_n in_o religion_n and_o to_o break_v off_o the_o course_n of_o every_o sin_n vers._n 4._o notwithstanding_o thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n yet_o in_o sardie_a which_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n and_o thâ—y_n shall_v walk_v with_o i_o in_o white_a for_o they_o be_v worthy_a here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o this_o epistle_n namely_o the_o praise_n and_o commendation_n of_o some_o part_n of_o this_o church_n the_o word_n do_v thus_o depend_v upon_o those_o which_o go_v before_o whereas_o christ_n have_v say_v that_o this_o church_n be_v dead_a in_o sin_n and_o have_v only_o a_o name_n to_o live_v some_o man_n may_v aâ—ke_v how_o it_o can_v be_v a_o true_a church_n to_o this_o christ_n answer_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o verse_n that_o though_o the_o great_a part_n in_o this_o church_n be_v dead_a in_o their_o sin_n yet_o some_o few_o there_o be_v among_o they_o that_o be_v alive_a in_o christ_n and_o do_v testify_v the_o the_o same_o by_o true_a and_o sincere_a obedience_n in_o this_o coherence_n we_o may_v observe_v two_o instruction_n i._o that_o a_o particular_a congregation_n on_o earth_n be_v make_v a_o church_n of_o god_n and_o so_o call_v in_o regard_n of_o god_n elect_v therein_o who_o do_v true_o believe_v for_o the_o privilege_n of_o a_o church_n belong_v unto_o particular_a congregation_n only_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o elect_a among_o they_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o the_o elect_a true_o beleve_v in_o christ_n &_o particular_a congregation_n be_v member_n of_o it_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o do_v true_o believe_v the_o rest_n that_o do_v not_o true_o believe_v be_v not_o member_n of_o the_o church_n before_o god_n but_o 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n like_v unto_o superfluous_a humour_n which_o be_v in_o the_o body_n but_o no_o part_n thereof_o this_o confute_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n who_o teach_v that_o wicked_a man_n that_o be_v reject_v in_o god_n decree_n may_v yet_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n second_o in_o this_o coherence_n christ_n intimate_v unto_o we_o a_o distinction_n between_o man_n and_o man_n in_o this_o church_n for_o all_o that_o be_v in_o this_o church_n be_v man_n call_v profess_v christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n and_o yet_o of_o they_o some_o be_v dead_a in_o their_o sin_n and_o other_o be_v alive_a in_o christ._n touch_v this_o distinction_n of_o man_n we_o must_v search_v the_o cause_n thereof_o it_o must_v not_o be_v ascribe_v to_o any_o power_n or_o will_v in_o man_n but_o to_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n as_o the_o scripture_n teach_v for_o when_o the_o body_n of_o the_o israelite_n have_v give_v themselves_o to_o idolatry_n there_o be_v yet_o 11.4_o seven_o thousand_o that_o never_o bow_v the_o knee_n to_o baal_n what_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o they_o do_v not_o live_v like_a to_o the_o other_o israelite_n surely_n nothing_o in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n though_o the_o idolatry_n of_o the_o other_o be_v to_o be_v ascribe_v to_o themselves_o but_o the_o text_n be_v clear_a it_o be_v the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n who_o have_v preserve_v and_o keep_v they_o by_o this_o we_o see_v how_o erroneous_a and_o false_a the_o divinity_n of_o some_o protestant_n be_v use_n which_o ascribe_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o distinction_n between_o man_n and_o man_n to_o the_o liberty_n of_o man_n will_n be_v renew_v by_o grace_n say_v that_o god_n give_v to_o everye_o man_n save_v grace_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o he_o may_v repent_v and_o believe_v if_o he_o will_v but_o yet_o because_o the_o will_n of_o man_n do_v still_o remain_v sinful_a hence_o it_o come_v that_o he_o have_v liberty_n to_o obey_v
of_o god_n so_o that_o here_o these_o few_o have_v a_o promise_n to_o be_v free_v from_o all_o want_n and_o to_o live_v with_o christ_n in_o all_o glory_n joy_n and_o pleasure_n this_o benefit_n have_v be_v in_o effect_n further_o urge_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n here_o only_o i_o will_v note_v one_o doctrine_n namely_o that_o they_o which_o live_v in_o the_o world_n among_o the_o wicked_a and_o do_v not_o communicate_v with_o their_o sin_n shall_v not_o partake_v with_o they_o in_o their_o punishment_n for_o the_o body_n of_o this_o church_n must_v have_v christ_n to_o come_v amongst_o they_o as_o a_o thief_n but_o the_o godly_a must_v walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a in_o glory_n 19_o lot_z be_v free_v from_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o sodomite_n because_o he_o partake_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o sin_n and_o among_o the_o israelite_n 9.6_o those_o that_o mourn_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o people_n be_v mark_v in_o the_o forehead_n that_o when_o judgement_n come_v upon_o the_o wicked_a they_o may_v be_v spare_v this_o point_n must_v be_v remember_v for_o by_o reason_n of_o long_a peace_n and_o prosperity_n among_o we_o many_o sin_n abound_v as_o ignorance_n atheism_n contempt_n of_o religion_n and_o profane_v of_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n with_o innumerable_a sin_n of_o the_o second_o table_n all_o which_o call_v for_o judgement_n from_o heaven_n and_o no_o doubt_n they_o will_v be_v punish_v partly_o in_o this_o life_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v unless_o our_o people_n do_v repent_v those_o therefore_o that_o will_v not_o partake_v of_o the_o common_a judgement_n that_o be_v to_o come_v must_v now_o beware_v that_o they_o communicate_v not_o with_o the_o common_a sin_n that_o dâ—e_v abound_v and_o see_v that_o they_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n have_v their_o righteous_a and_o zealous_a heart_n grieve_v for_o the_o abomination_n among_o which_o they_o live_v after_o the_o promise_n be_v adjoin_v the_o reason_n thereof_o for_o they_o be_v worthy_a hence_o the_o church_n of_o room_n do_v conclude_v that_o a_o man_n by_o his_o work_n may_v merit_v heaven_n because_o they_o be_v worthy_a of_o reward_n a_o most_o blasphemous_a conclusion_n and_o a_o manifest_a abuse_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god._n god_n child_n indeed_o be_v worthy_a life_n everlasting_a but_o not_o by_o the_o merit_n of_o their_o work_n worthiness_n for_o than_o they_o shall_v be_v do_v according_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n but_o for_o the_o worthiness_n of_o their_o person_n when_o as_o they_o stand_v righteous_a before_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o when_o god_n will_v save_v any_o man_n he_o give_v christ_n unto_o that_o man_n true_o and_o real_o so_o as_o he_o may_v say_v christ_n be_v i_o and_o with_o christ_n god_n give_v his_o spirit_n which_o work_v in_o his_o heart_n true_a save_v faith_n whereby_o he_o do_v receive_v christ_n and_o so_o christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n belong_v unto_o that_o man_n reallye_o and_o by_o virtue_n thereof_o he_o be_v worthy_a life_n everlasting_a and_o this_o be_v the_o worthiness_n which_o christ_n mean_v in_o this_o place_n and_o not_o any_o worthiness_n of_o their_o work_n so_o that_o this_o do_v help_v they_o nothing_o at_o all_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v the_o most_o probable_a place_n of_o scripture_n to_o prove_v and_o justify_v the_o doctrine_n of_o man_n merit_n vers._n 5._o he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n but_o i_o will_v confess_v his_o name_n before_o my_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angel_n vers._n 6._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n here_o be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n and_o it_o contain_v two_o part_n a_o promise_n and_o a_o commandment_n the_o promise_n in_o the_o five_o verse_n and_o the_o commandment_n in_o the_o six_o in_o the_o promise_n note_v two_o thing_n first_o the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v whereof_o we_o have_v speak_v 2.7_o before_o second_o the_o thing_n promise_v to_o wit_n glory_n and_o eternal_a happiness_n which_o be_v express_v three_o way_n first_o thus_o he_o shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n that_o be_v he_o shall_v have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o happiness_n so_o much_o be_v signify_v by_o white_a â—ayment_n as_o we_o have_v already_o show_v hence_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n conclude_v that_o a_o man_n may_v do_v good_a work_n respect_v a_o reward_n use_n answer_n in_o some_o sort_n it_o be_v true_a for_o so_o it_o be_v record_v of_o moses_n hebr._n 11.26_o he_o have_v respect_n to_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n but_o yet_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n must_v not_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o our_o good_a work_n for_o chief_o we_o must_v thereby_o intend_v to_o testify_v our_o faith_n and_o our_o obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o with_o that_o we_o may_v have_v respect_n to_o everlasting_a life_n the_o second_o thing_n promise_v and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n for_o the_o understanding_n of_o this_o two_o question_n must_v be_v scan_v first_o what_o this_o book_n of_o life_n be_v second_o whether_o a_o man_n may_v be_v blot_v out_o of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o first_o this_o book_n of_o life_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o god_n predestination_n or_o eternal_a decree_n of_o election_n whereby_o he_o have_v choose_v some_o man_n unto_o salvation_n upon_o his_o good_a pleasure_n and_o this_o be_v call_v a_o book_n because_o it_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o book_n for_o as_o the_o general_n in_o a_o camp_n have_v the_o name_n of_o all_o his_o soldier_n that_o fight_v under_o he_o in_o a_o book_n and_o as_o the_o magistrate_n of_o a_o town_n have_v the_o name_n of_o every_o free_a man_n and_o denison_n inâ—owled_v so_o god_n in_o the_o book_n of_o his_o election_n have_v the_o name_n of_o all_o that_o shall_v be_v save_v for_o the_o second_o question_n a_o man_n may_v be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n two_o way_n either_o true_o before_o god_n or_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n only_o those_o who_o name_n be_v true_o before_o god_n write_v in_o this_o book_n can_v be_v blot_v out_o for_o god_n counsel_n touch_v the_o eternal_a state_n of_o every_o man_n be_v unchangeable_a this_o the_o golden_a chain_n of_o god_n decree_n do_v plain_o show_v for_o who_o he_o have_v predestinate_a 8.30_o they_o he_o have_v call_v and_o who_o he_o call_v they_o also_o he_o justify_v and_o who_o he_o justify_v they_o he_o also_o glorify_v other_o there_o be_v that_o have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o this_o book_n only_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n and_o thus_o be_v all_o man_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n that_o profess_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n for_o so_o charity_n bind_v we_o to_o judge_v of_o they_o and_o these_o may_v have_v their_o name_n blot_v out_o in_o this_o sense_n do_v the_o scripture_n often_o speak_v as_o when_o the_o prophet_n wish_v 69.28_o that_o god_n will_v blot_v his_o enemy_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n meaning_n judas_n principal_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v make_v manifest_a his_o name_n be_v never_o write_v therein_o this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o this_o promise_n that_o they_o who_o do_v avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o sin_n and_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v blot_v out_o hence_o i_o gather_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a in_o respect_n of_o god_n be_v certain_a for_o the_o name_n of_o those_o which_o be_v to_o be_v save_v be_v as_o it_o be_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o be_v once_o write_v in_o they_o remain_v there_o for_o ever_o some_o do_v teach_v that_o all_o may_v be_v save_v if_o they_o will_v but_o this_o be_v a_o mere_a fancy_n of_o man_n for_o what_o shall_v thâ—â—e_v need_n any_o book_n of_o life_n if_o that_o be_v so_o second_o hence_o i_o gather_v that_o this_o number_n can_v neither_o increase_v nor_o be_v diminish_v let_v man_n do_v whaâ—_n they_o can_v if_o they_o have_v be_v of_o we_o they_o will_v have_v continue_v with_o us._n 1._o joh._n 2.19_o all_o that_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o have_v i_o keep_v and_o none_o of_o they_o be_v lose_v joh._n 17.12_o whereas_o a_o man_n may_v be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n to_o wit_n use_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n and_o yet_o be_v blot_v out_o hereby_o we_o be_v to_o be_v admonish_v to_o look_v
satisfaction_n of_o christ_n be_v proper_o that_o key_n whereby_o heaven_n be_v open_v be_v opposite_a to_o man_n sin_n whereby_o it_o be_v shut_v and_o god_n church_n and_o minister_n can_v proper_o open_v heaven_n by_o any_o power_n they_o have_v but_o only_o reveal_v unto_o man_n what_o christ_n have_v do_v for_o they_o and_o withal_o apply_v unto_o they_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n satisfaction_n which_o be_v reveal_v and_o in_o this_o regard_n they_o be_v say_v to_o open_v and_o shut_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n not_o as_o lord_n but_o as_o minister_n &_o servant_n next_o i_o add_v that_o this_o power_n be_v give_v to_o the_o church_n that_o be_v to_o the_o company_n of_o of_o true_a believer_n call_v to_o salvation_n by_o christ_n and_o to_o none_o other_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v of_o they_o 1â—_n whatsoever_o you_o bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n etc._n etc._n three_o i_o add_v the_o end_n of_o this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n to_o open_a and_o to_o shut_v heaven_n how_o the_o church_n do_v this_o christ_n that_o give_v this_o power_n know_v best_a and_o he_o have_v set_v it_o down_o john_n 20.23_o whosoever_n sin_n you_o remit_v they_o be_v remit_v and_o whosoever_n sin_n you_o retain_v they_o be_v retain_v the_o church_n therefore_o open_v heaven_n when_o it_o pardon_v man_n sin_n and_o it_o shut_v the_o same_o when_o it_o lawful_o retain_v their_o sin_n and_o hold_v they_o unpardoned_a beside_o this_o there_o be_v no_o open_v and_o shut_v of_o heaven_n commit_v to_o the_o church_n quest._n can_v the_o church_n pardon_v sin_n or_o retain_v the_o same_o answ._n yes_o for_o these_o be_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n but_o let_v we_o see_v how_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o give_v sentence_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o another_o to_o pronounce_v the_o same_o sentence_n give_v to_o give_v the_o sentence_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n be_v only_o proper_a to_o christ_n the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n no_o saint_n nor_o angel_n have_v that_o privilege_n but_o yet_o the_o church_n pronounce_v the_o sentence_n of_o pardon_n give_v by_o christ._n if_o we_o shall_v say_v the_o the_o church_n shall_v pardon_v sin_n we_o shall_v rob_v christ_n of_o his_o honour_n for_o that_o be_v a_o privilege_n of_o his_o godhead_n thus_o we_o seâ—_n what_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v the_o right_a use_n of_o this_o power_n be_v when_o the_o church_n do_v use_v the_o same_o for_o the_o open_n and_o shut_v of_o heaven_n first_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n alone_o as_o a_o servant_n second_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n word_n not_o after_o man_n affection_n or_o invention_n three_o for_o this_o end_n to_o bring_v sinner_n to_o repentance_n &_o to_o continue_v they_o therein_o that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v and_o to_o the_o church_n thus_o use_v this_o power_n christ_n have_v promise_v that_o whatsoever_o they_o bind_v in_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o they_o lose_v in_o earth_n shall_v be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n mat._n 18.18_o further_o this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n have_v two_o part_n the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o spiritual_a jurisdiction_n the_o key_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v set_v down_o &_o establish_v by_o christ_n mat._n 16.19_o i_o will_v give_v unto_o thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n etc._n etc._n this_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v a_o key_n because_o it_o open_v &_o shut_v heaven_n this_o it_o do_v two_o way_n first_o by_o teach_v and_o explayn_v the_o substance_n of_o religion_n the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n whereby_o man_n must_v come_v to_o heaven_n &_o in_o that_o regard_n be_v call_v the_o key_n of_o knowledge_n lu._n 11.52_o second_o by_o apply_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n for_o when_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n the_o promise_n of_o remission_n of_o sin_n &_o life_n everlasting_a be_v apply_v to_o believer_n that_o repent_v than_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v open_v &_o when_o as_o in_o the_o same_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n be_v denounce_v against_o impenitent_a sinner_n then_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n shut_v yet_o touch_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n this_o distinction_n must_v be_v remember_v that_o otherwhiles_o the_o church_n be_v certain_a of_o the_o faith_n &_o repentance_n of_o some_o man_n or_o some_o congregation_n and_o then_o they_o may_v pronounce_v remission_n of_o sin_n absolute_o but_o otherwhiles_o they_o be_v uncerten_a of_o their_o faith_n and_o repentance_n or_o of_o their_o impenitency_n &_o then_o they_o must_v according_o remit_v or_o retain_v man_n sin_n that_o be_v conditional_o pronounce_v the_o remission_n of_o sin_n to_o all_o that_o repent_v &_o denounce_v damnation_n to_o all_o that_o repent_v not_o and_o thus_o be_v the_o word_n to_o be_v public_o handle_v in_o god_n church_n at_o this_o day_n because_o our_o congregation_n be_v mix_v company_n consist_v of_o some_o that_o repent_v &_o believe_v and_o of_o other_o that_o do_v not_o true_o repent_v nor_o believe_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v spiritual_a jurisdiction_n i_o call_v it_o spiritual_a to_o distinguish_v it_o from_o that_o outward_a jurisdiction_n whereby_o the_o commonwealth_n be_v govern_v that_o this_o spiritual_a jurisdiction_n be_v a_o key_n may_v appear_v mat._n 18.16.17.18_o if_o thy_o brother_n offend_v thou_o say_v christ_n admonish_v he_o private_o if_o he_o hear_v thou_o not_o yet_o take_v with_o thou_o two_o or_o three_o if_o he_o hear_v not_o they_o tell_v it_o to_o the_o church_n &_o if_o he_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n and_o as_o a_o publican_n then_o follow_v the_o promise_n very_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o whatsoever_o you_o bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o what_o soever_o you_o lose_v shall_v be_v loose_v in_o haaven_n this_o spiritual_a jurisdiction_n be_v a_o power_n whereby_o the_o church_n pronounce_v sentence_n upon_o obstinate_a offender_n in_o the_o church_n and_o put_v the_o same_o in_o execution_n and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n excommunication_n and_o absolution_n excommunication_n be_v a_o action_n of_o the_o church_n in_o christ_n name_n exclude_v a_o obstinate_a offender_n that_o be_v a_o professor_n of_o the_o gospel_n from_o all_o the_o privildedge_n of_o the_o church_n and_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n so_o paul_n 5.5_o command_v the_o incestuous_a man_n to_o be_v commit_v to_o satan_n that_o be_v not_o only_o put_v out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n but_o also_o after_o a_o sort_n make_v subject_a unto_o satan_n to_o be_v outward_o afflict_v by_o he_o and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v if_o 18.18_o he_o hear_v not_o the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n that_o be_v as_o one_o that_o have_v no_o title_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n here_o may_v some_o say_v can_v the_o church_n thrust_v any_o man_n out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n answ._n it_o be_v christ_n only_o that_o receive_v man_n in_o thither_o and_o it_o be_v he_o alone_o that_o must_v thrust_v they_o out_o the_o church_n do_v not_o proper_o either_o receive_v man_n in_o or_o put_v they_o out_o but_o only_o pronounce_v and_o declare_v what_o christ_n do_v in_o this_o behalf_n as_o if_o a_o man_n that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n be_v a_o common_a drunkard_n the_o church_n find_v in_o god_n word_n that_o 6.10_o no_o drunkard_n can_v inherit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n which_o be_v the_o sentence_n of_o christ_n may_v pronounce_v the_o same_o against_o he_o and_o so_o exclude_v he_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n object_n the_o true_a child_n of_o god_n may_v be_v excommunicate_v but_o he_o can_v never_o be_v exclude_v from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n ans._n the_o true_a child_n of_o god_n may_v for_o a_o time_n and_o in_o part_n be_v exclude_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n in_o part_n as_o a_o man_n that_o have_v freedom_n in_o a_o incorporation_n may_v lie_v in_o prison_n for_o some_o trespass_n and_o so_o want_v the_o use_n of_o his_o freedom_n though_o he_o be_v a_o freeman_n so_o the_o child_n of_o god_n for_o commit_v sin_n may_v want_v the_o use_n of_o his_o liberty_n and_o freedom_n which_o he_o have_v in_o god_n kingdom_n and_o for_o a_o time_n while_o he_o live_v in_o sin_n without_o repentance_n yet_o whole_o and_o for_o ever_o he_o can_v but_o so_o soon_o as_o he_o repent_v he_o shall_v be_v receive_v certain_o again_o for_o no_o man_n be_v to_o be_v bar_v either_o from_o heaven_n or_o the_o church_n any_o long_a than_o he_o
remain_v impenitent_a use_n whereas_o this_o censure_n be_v such_o as_o do_v exclude_v a_o man_n both_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n till_o he_o repent_v we_o may_v here_o see_v that_o this_o censure_n ought_v to_o be_v use_v with_o great_a reverence_n fear_v and_o consideration_n even_o such_o or_o great_a as_o we_o will_v use_v in_o the_o cut_n of_o a_o member_n from_o the_o body_n the_o abuse_v therefore_o of_o this_o sentence_n in_o small_a matter_n can_v but_o be_v a_o grievous_a sin_n and_o a_o breach_n of_o the_o three_o commandment_n wherein_o one_o of_o god_n most_o weighty_a ordinance_n be_v take_v in_o vain_a further_o one_o special_a degree_n of_o excommunication_n be_v anathema_n which_o be_v when_o one_o be_v pronounce_v to_o be_v condemn_v whereof_o paul_n speak_v 1._o cor._n 16.22_o but_o this_o be_v not_o pronounce_v upon_o any_o but_o on_o those_o that_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v seldom_o use_v because_o that_o sin_n be_v hardly_o discern_v consist_v not_o so_o much_o in_o the_o speech_n as_o in_o the_o malice_n of_o the_o heart_n against_o christ._n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o spiritual_a jurisdiction_n be_v absolution_n which_o be_v when_o a_o malefactor_n upon_o his_o sufficient_a repentance_n be_v approve_v to_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o be_v admit_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o yet_o here_o the_o church_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n but_o only_o declare_v upon_o his_o repentance_n what_o christ_n do_v and_o thus_o we_o see_v wherein_o ecclesiastical_a jurisdiction_n consist_v &_o what_o be_v the_o part_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n for_o the_o better_a discern_v of_o this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n we_o must_v remember_v four_o special_a abuse_n hereof_o that_o have_v take_v place_n in_o god_n church_n for_o many_o hundred_o year_n the_o first_o be_v this_o that_o in_o former_a age_n the_o church_n have_v give_v this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n to_o peter_n alone_o debar_v the_o same_o from_o all_o other_o even_o from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n as_o though_o they_o have_v only_o the_o use_n not_o the_o right_a of_o this_o power_n but_o the_o ease_n be_v plain_a this_o power_n belong_v to_o every_o true_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n though_o they_o be_v not_o apostle_n as_o well_o as_o it_o do_v to_o peter_n for_o in_o the_o promulgation_n of_o this_o power_n mat._n 16.19_o though_o christ_n direct_v his_o speech_n to_o peter_n yet_o he_o speak_v unto_o all_o as_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o place_n do_v plain_o show_v for_o christ_n question_n who_o say_v you_o that_o i_o be_o be_v make_v to_o all_o now_o because_o it_o will_v have_v be_v great_a disorder_n in_o that_o holy_a company_n for_o all_o of_o they_o to_o have_v speak_v therefore_o peter_n be_v both_o ancient_a and_o bold_a of_o speech_n speak_v for_o all_o and_o the_o rest_n answer_v in_o his_o person_n and_o so_o according_o christ_n speak_v to_o peter_n do_v make_v a_o grant_n of_o this_o power_n unto_o all_o his_o disciple_n in_o his_o person_n and_o therefore_o joh._n 20.23_o he_o give_v this_o power_n to_o all_o say_v plain_o whosoever_n sin_n you_o retain_v they_o be_v retain_v etc._n etc._n so_o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v plain_a in_o this_o point_n to_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n of_o any_o that_o be_v not_o wilful_o addict_v to_o the_o popish_a religion_n quest._n whence_o have_v the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o power_n answ._n by_o succession_n from_o the_o apostle_n for_o christ_n say_v mat._n 28.19.20_o go_v and_o preach_v i_o will_v be_v with_o you_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n where_o he_o can_v mean_v the_o apostle_n only_o but_o with_o they_o all_o minister_n that_o do_v preach_v and_o baptise_v after_o they_o make_v this_o promise_n to_o the_o apostle_n not_o as_o they_o be_v apostle_n but_o as_o they_o be_v minister_n and_o preacher_n of_o his_o gospel_n the_o second_o abuse_n be_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v turn_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n into_o a_o supremacy_n over_o the_o church_n make_v it_o to_o be_v a_o sovereign_a authority_n whereby_o peter_n and_o his_o successor_n the_o pope_n have_v liberty_n to_o make_v law_n canon_n &_o constitution_n which_o bind_v the_o conscience_n as_o also_o to_o make_v king_n and_o to_o depose_v the_o same_o a_o most_o notorious_a abuse_n of_o this_o power_n which_o be_v no_o superiority_n but_o a_o ministry_n the_o chief_a power_n whereof_o consist_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n &_o will_v of_o christ._n for_o christ_n say_v not_o to_o peter_n i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o man_n but_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o three_o abuse_v hereof_o be_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v thereby_o for_o a_o 1000_o year_n almost_o bar_a king_n queen_n and_o emperor_n from_o be_v governor_n over_o the_o church_n of_o god_n a_o error_n flat_a against_o scripture_n for_o when_o as_o good_a king_n josias_n intend_v the_o reformation_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o abandon_v of_o idolatry_n he_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o same_o &_o be_v say_v 34.32_o to_o have_v cause_v all_o that_o be_v find_v in_o jerusalem_n and_o benjamin_n to_o stand_v to_o the_o covenant_n which_o he_o make_v now_o shall_v we_o say_v josias_n do_v evil_a in_o cause_v they_o so_o to_o do_v god_n forbid_v it_o be_v record_v of_o he_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o his_o commendation_n object_n but_o god_n pastor_n &_o teacher_n have_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n and_o prince_n have_v not_o ans._n true_a but_o yet_o they_o have_v a_o civil_a power_n whereby_o they_o rule_v over_o god_n church_n for_o there_o be_v a_o civil_a power_n &_o a_o spiritual_a power_n prince_n rule_v not_o by_o any_o spiritual_a power_n but_o civil_o &_o thereby_o they_o 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of_o pardon_n be_v a_o most_o notorious_a practice_n whereby_o christ_n be_v rob_v of_o his_o honour_n for_o the_o pharisee_n can_v say_v none_o can_v forgive_v sin_n but_o god_n that_o be_v proper_o mark_n 2.7_o which_o christ_n approve_v and_o it_o be_v must_v true_a for_o he_o that_o can_v forgive_v sin_n proper_o must_v make_v satisfaction_n for_o sin_n three_o they_o absolve_v from_o the_o fault_n but_o they_o will_v not_o forgive_v the_o punishment_n and_o thereby_o they_o rob_v other_o to_o enrich_v themselves_o four_o they_o enjoin_v satisfaction_n to_o god_n by_o man_n for_o their_o sin_n whereby_o they_o do_v nothing_o else_o but_o overturn_v the_o al-sufficient_a satisfaction_n of_o christ_n and_o enjoin_v that_o to_o man_n which_o be_v impossible_a all_o these_o be_v most_o
horrible_a abuse_n of_o this_o power_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v know_v and_o consider_v be_v a_o sufficient_a warrant_n unto_o we_o that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v no_o true_a church_n of_o god_n for_o though_o the_o pope_n carry_v in_o his_o arm_n the_o key_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o the_o key_n of_o heaven_n but_o of_o hell_n for_o he_o have_v make_v more_o place_n of_o rest_n and_o woe_n than_o ever_o god_n do_v as_o limbus_n potgun_n and_o purgatory_n &_o therefore_o must_v needs_o make_v more_o door_n thither_o and_o so_o more_o lock_n &_o key_n by_o this_o doctrine_n use_n touch_v the_o key_n of_o david_n give_v to_o christ_n and_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n in_o the_o church_n derive_v thence_o we_o may_v learn_v sundry_a thing_n first_o that_o christ_n who_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n to_o open_v and_o shut_v do_v not_o open_a to_o all_o but_o to_o some_o only_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v this_o adam_n be_v create_v in_o integrity_n be_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n but_o by_o his_o sin_n he_o lose_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n &_o so_o bar_v himself_o both_o out_o of_o the_o earthly_a and_o heavenly_a paradise_n and_o all_o his_o posterity_n by_o the_o same_o sin_n and_o by_o their_o own_o actual_a sin_n be_v likewise_o debar_v for_o 59.2_o sin_n be_v a_o partition_n wall_n between_o we_o and_o god_n and_o a_o 3.44_o cloud_n between_o our_o prayer_n and_o god_n himself_o as_o jeremie_n speak_v so_o that_o sin_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o exclusion_n and_o so_o many_o sin_n as_o a_o man_n commit_v so_o many_o bolt_n and_o bar_n he_o make_v to_o exclude_v himself_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o shall_v move_v every_o one_o to_o take_v a_o narrow_a view_n of_o his_o miserable_a state_n in_o himself_o through_o adam_n for_o by_o original_a sin_n wherein_o we_o be_v bear_v and_o by_o our_o actual_a transgression_n wherein_o we_o live_v we_o bar_v ourself_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n it_o be_v lamentable_a to_o see_v how_o the_o whole_a world_n lie_v in_o sin_n and_o how_o the_o devil_n bewitch_v man_n to_o conceal_v or_o diminish_v their_o sin_n make_v great_a sin_n small_a and_o little_a sin_n none_o at_o all_o when_o as_o the_o least_o sin_n which_o they_o commit_v without_o repentance_n be_v sufficient_a to_o bar_v they_o for_o ever_o out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n again_o see_v every_o sin_n do_v bar_v we_o out_o of_o heaven_n this_o must_v be_v a_o motive_n to_o induce_v every_o one_o of_o we_o to_o repent_v of_o all_o our_o sin_n to_o bewail_v the_o same_o &_o to_o pray_v earnest_o for_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o in_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n and_o continual_o to_o labour_v to_o turn_v unto_o god_n from_o all_o sin_n because_o if_o we_o live_v but_o in_o one_o sin_n it_o will_v be_v a_o mighty_a barâ—e_n sufficient_a to_o exclude_v we_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n eternal_o three_o see_v christ_n keep_v the_o key_n of_o heaven_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o come_v unto_o christ_n &_o to_o seek_v by_o he_o to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n for_o christ_n by_o his_o death_n have_v open_v heaven_n as_o he_o say_v unto_o nathaniel_n and_o philip_n 1.51_o very_o very_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o hereafter_o shall_v you_o see_v heaven_n open_a meaning_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o see_v it_o be_v open_a we_o must_v strive_v to_o enter_v into_o it_o as_o the_o man_n in_o john_n baptist_n time_n do_v mat._n 11.12_o this_o we_o do_v by_o endevor_v to_o become_v good_a member_n of_o god_n church_n on_o earth_n for_o that_o be_v the_o door_n and_o suburb_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n which_o every_o one_o must_v enter_v into_o that_o will_v come_v to_o heaven_n itself_o even_o as_o a_o man_n that_o will_v go_v into_o a_o house_n must_v needs_o come_v to_o the_o door_n now_o in_o the_o church_n there_o be_v the_o true_a door_n which_o be_v christ_n himself_o and_o the_o key_n thereof_o which_o be_v his_o word_n and_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n which_o do_v lock_v and_o unlock_v the_o same_o quest._n what_o shall_v we_o do_v to_o become_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n ans._n we_o must_v do_v two_o thing_n first_o humble_a ourselves_o for_o all_o our_o sin_n pray_v unto_o god_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o and_o believe_v the_o same_o through_o christ._n second_o endeavour_v and_o purpose_n by_o god_n grace_n every_o day_n to_o leave_v the_o same_o sin_n this_o do_v we_o be_v at_o the_o door_n of_o heaven_n and_o if_o we_o will_v have_v our_o soul_n enter_v into_o heaven_n when_o we_o die_v this_o we_o must_v do_v while_o we_o live_v but_o if_o we_o enter_v not_o into_o the_o door_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o key_n of_o knowledge_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n while_o we_o live_v we_o shall_v never_o come_v to_o the_o gate_n of_o glory_n after_o death_n vers._n 8._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n behold_v i_o have_v set_v before_o thou_o a_o open_a door_n and_o no_o man_n can_v shut_v it_o for_o thou_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n in_o this_o verse_n and_o so_o forward_o to_o the_o twelve_o be_v contain_v the_o matter_n of_o this_o epistle_n which_o may_v be_v reduce_v to_o three_o â—eads_n a_o praise_n a_o promise_n and_o a_o commandment_n the_o praise_n in_o this_o eight_o verse_n the_o promise_n in_o the_o 9_o and_o 10._o the_o commandment_n in_o the_o 11._o for_o the_o first_o the_o praise_n of_o this_o church_n be_v first_o summary_o propound_v i_o know_v thy_o work_n which_o have_v be_v expound_v and_o the_o end_n thereof_o with_o the_o use_n in_o the_o former_a epistle_n then_o he_o add_v the_o reason_n of_o his_o commendation_n wherein_o be_v two_o thing_n to_o be_v observe_v i_o the_o sign_n of_o christ_n approbation_n in_o these_o word_n i_o have_v set_v before_o thou_o a_o open_a door_n ii_o their_o conversation_n or_o the_o work_n which_o christ_n approve_v in_o the_o word_n follow_v thou_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n &_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n both_o these_o may_v be_v undetstood_v either_o of_o the_o angel_n and_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n or_o of_o the_o whole_a church_n also_o i_o take_v it_o to_o be_v mean_v of_o both_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n the_o word_n bear_v this_o sense_n behold_v i_o have_v set_v before_o thou_o a_o open_a door_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v behold_v and_o consider_v i_o have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o thou_o opportunity_n and_o liberty_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o thereby_o to_o convert_v man_n unto_o i_o so_o much_o s._n paul_n mean_v by_o the_o door_n of_o utterance_n 1._o cor._n 16.9_o for_o thou_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n that_o be_v though_o thou_o be_v endue_v but_o with_o a_o small_a measure_n of_o gift_n pertain_v to_o thy_o call_n yet_o thou_o have_v maintain_v my_o gospel_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n these_o word_n be_v thus_o expound_v do_v afford_v we_o these_o instruction_n first_o from_o the_o sign_n of_o his_o approbation_n we_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v a_o great_a privilege_n for_o any_o minister_n to_o have_v liberty_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o thereby_o to_o convert_v man_n unto_o christ_n so_o much_o the_o word_n of_o attention_n behold_v import_v which_o may_v also_o further_o appear_v by_o this_o that_o the_o most_o famous_a and_o worthy_a prophet_n of_o god_n be_v not_o always_o vouchsafe_v this_o favour_n as_o isaiah_n and_o ezekiell_n who_o be_v send_v sometime_o to_o harden_v 6.9_o thy_o people_n and_o christ_n himself_o complain_v of_o the_o want_n of_o this_o privilege_n say_v 49.4_o i_o have_v spend_v my_o strength_n in_o vain_a and_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o privilege_n the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v call_v 1â—_n saviors_n and_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o liberty_n they_o have_v title_n to_o the_o promise_n of_o shine_v as_o star_n in_o glory_n dan_o 12.3_o this_o therefore_o be_v a_o unspeakable_a mercy_n and_o so_o ought_v to_o be_v esteem_v and_o all_o minister_n that_o have_v the_o same_o vouchsafe_v unto_o they_o ought_v high_o to_o magnify_v the_o name_n of_o god_n for_o it_o and_o to_o value_v it_o more_o worth_a than_o all_o earthly_a blessing_n whatsoever_o second_o from_o the_o work_n which_o christ_n approve_v in_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o minister_n endue_v with_o small_a measure_n of_o gift_n may_v be_v able_a to_o do_v great_a service_n unto_o god_n in_o his_o church_n this_o thing_n
be_v plain_a in_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n and_o may_v also_o be_v show_v by_o manifold_a example_n of_o such_o man_n in_o all_o age_n but_o to_o come_v to_o our_o time_n in_o the_o day_n of_o queen_n marie_n when_o religion_n be_v in_o banish_v this_o our_o famous_a school_n of_o the_o prophet_n cambridge_n have_v many_o learned_a man_n in_o it_o yet_o not_o one_o of_o they_o stand_v out_o for_o the_o defence_n of_o the_o gospel_n when_o as_o a_o poor_a secular_a priest_n not_o three_o mile_n off_o who_o be_v far_o behind_o they_o in_o gift_n of_o learning_n and_o knowledge_n yet_o have_v the_o truth_n reveal_v unto_o he_o do_v stand_v out_o for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o the_o same_o even_o to_o the_o seal_n of_o it_o with_o his_o blood_n and_o at_o this_o day_n many_o man_n of_o small_a gift_n in_o the_o ministry_n do_v more_o further_a the_o gospel_n by_o the_o increase_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n crucify_v and_o true_a obedience_n than_o those_o that_o be_v enrich_v with_o far_o great_a gift_n of_o knowledge_n both_o in_o tongue_n and_o art_n so_o as_o though_o they_o be_v many_o hundred_o degree_n short_a in_o regard_n of_o school-learning_n yet_o they_o go_v as_o far_o before_o they_o in_o benefit_v god_n church_n if_o this_o be_v so_o will_n some_o say_v than_o it_o be_v needless_a for_o man_n to_o be_v bring_v up_o so_o much_o in_o the_o school_n of_o learning_n ans._n not_o so_o for_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v god_n minister_n ought_v to_o have_v knowledge_n of_o school-learning_n both_o in_o art_n and_o tongue_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o it_o oft_o come_v to_o pass_v by_o god_n providence_n that_o the_o great_a clerk_n for_o learning_n be_v less_o profitable_a to_o the_o church_n than_o man_n of_o small_a gift_n this_o god_n do_v to_o humble_v the_o learned_a that_o they_o be_v not_o proud_a in_o themselves_o and_o to_o magnify_v the_o work_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o the_o weak_a instrument_n further_o these_o word_n must_v also_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o then_o they_o bear_v this_o sense_n i_o have_v set_v before_o thou_o a_o open_a door_n that_o be_v i_o have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o thou_o a_o special_a privilege_n even_o liberty_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n from_o whence_o we_o observe_v that_o liberty_n to_o life_n everlasting_a be_v a_o special_a priuâ—ledge_n belong_v not_o to_o all_o man_n but_o only_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o the_o true_a member_n of_o christ._n this_o point_n have_v sundry_a use_n i._o to_o confute_v this_o erroneous_a opinion_n that_o christ_n do_v effectual_o redeem_v all_o and_o every_o man_n which_o be_v â—â—at_a against_o god_n word_n and_o this_o text_n for_o those_o that_o be_v effectual_o redeem_v have_v liberty_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n but_o all_o man_n have_v not_o that_o liberty_n for_o than_o it_o be_v no_o privilege_n of_o god_n church_n alone_o to_o have_v heaven_n open_v unto_o they_o ii_o see_v this_o be_v a_o privilege_n which_o god_n vouchsafe_v unto_o his_o church_n to_o have_v heaven_n gate_n open_v unto_o they_o hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o take_v the_o benefit_n of_o this_o liberty_n while_o the_o door_n be_v open_a and_o in_o time_n to_o strive_v to_o enter_v therein_o for_o as_o christ_n tell_v nathaniel_n the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n shall_v by_o faith_n see_v heaven_n open_a 5â—_n we_o must_v not_o therefore_o neglect_v this_o opportunity_n but_o it_o be_v our_o common_a shame_n that_o we_o be_v slack_a in_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o the_o righteousness_n thereof_o suffer_v ourselves_o so_o to_o be_v clog_v with_o heap_n of_o sin_n and_o worldly_a lust_n that_o we_o can_v neither_o walk_v in_o that_o straight_a way_n nor_o enter_v into_o that_o door_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n for_o sin_n be_v â—n_o heavy_a burden_n like_o a_o great_a pack_n that_o will_v not_o suffer_v a_o man_n to_o enter_v into_o so_o strait_a a_o door_n we_o must_v therefore_o cast_v off_o all_o sin_n that_o he_o may_v so_o enter_v in_o and_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o life_n and_o no_o man_n can_v shut_v it_o here_o be_v the_o continuance_n of_o the_o former_a benefit_n against_o all_o adversary_n power_n whatsoever_o and_o this_o again_o confute_v another_o opinion_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n with_o the_o former_a to_o wit_n that_o christ_n die_v for_o every_o man_n but_o yet_o some_o be_v not_o save_v because_o they_o will_v not_o they_o shut_v heaven_n door_n against_o themselves_o but_o this_o opinion_n can_v stand_v for_o none_o can_v shut_v heaven_n door_n against_o they_o to_o who_o christ_n have_v set_v it_o open_v effectual_o neither_o sin_n satan_n nor_o the_o world_n no_o not_o man_n himself_o nor_o all_o their_o power_n together_o for_o herein_o be_v the_o will_n of_o man_n rule_v by_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o look_v who_o god_n will_v have_v to_o enter_v into_o heaven_n they_o do_v he_o incline_v to_o will_v their_o own_o salvation_n and_o also_o make_v unwilling_a ever_o to_o shut_v this_o door_n against_o themselves_o for_o thou_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v thou_o be_v endue_v with_o some_o measure_n of_o grace_n as_o of_o faith_n hope_n and_o righteousness_n and_o according_a to_o that_o measure_n thou_o have_v maintain_v my_o word_n and_o not_o deny_v my_o name_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o a_o man_n endue_v with_o a_o small_a measure_n of_o god_n grace_n may_v do_v work_n please_v unto_o god_n &_o by_o the_o same_o grace_n come_v to_o life_n â—uerlasting_a christ_n say_v to_o his_o disciple_n 17.20_o if_o your_o faith_n be_v as_o much_o as_o a_o grain_n of_o mustard_n seed_n by_o it_o shall_v you_o be_v able_a to_o remove_v mountain_n now_o that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o the_o faith_n of_o miracle_n may_v in_o like_a sort_n be_v say_v of_o all_o faith_n and_o so_o of_o justify_v faith_n if_o a_o man_n have_v never_o so_o small_a a_o measure_n thereof_o yet_o thereby_o he_o shall_v do_v work_n acceptable_a to_o god_n for_o as_o paul_n teach_v god_n child_n receive_v not_o the_o ten_o but_o 23_o the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v a_o small_a measure_n of_o grace_n in_o this_o life_n which_o be_v only_o a_o pledge_n of_o that_o which_o they_o shall_v full_o receive_v in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v for_o this_o cause_n be_v rahab_n commend_v for_o her_o faith_n 31_o although_o it_o be_v but_o small_a and_o weak_a as_o we_o shall_v see_v if_o we_o read_v the_o whole_a history_n joshâ—_n 2_o for_o god_n accept_v of_o man_n according_a to_o that_o he_o have_v receive_v it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n that_o save_v a_o man_n as_o the_o truth_n of_o grace_n before_o god_n this_o serve_v notable_o for_o the_o comfort_n of_o those_o that_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n use_n such_o be_v most_o dismay_v by_o reason_n of_o their_o want_n &_o corruption_n but_o they_o must_v know_v that_o god_n approve_v of_o their_o grace_n though_o it_o be_v but_o small_a if_o so_o be_v they_o have_v care_n to_o increase_v in_o grace_n and_o do_v strive_v to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v ii_o hereby_o every_o one_o must_v be_v encorage_v to_o embrace_v and_o obey_v true_a religion_n many_o be_v dismay_v herein_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o obedience_n which_o they_o think_v god_n require_v and_o therefore_o they_o leave_v of_o all_o obedience_n but_o this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v so_o for_o god_n approve_v of_o a_o man_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o that_o grace_n which_o he_o have_v be_v it_o more_o or_o less_o and_o not_o according_a to_o that_o which_o by_o the_o law_n he_o ought_v to_o have_v and_o yet_o none_o of_o all_o this_o must_v make_v we_o slack_v and_o negligent_a in_o use_v those_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o we_o for_o the_o increase_n of_o grace_n that_o so_o we_o may_v also_o increase_v in_o true_a obedience_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n here_o he_o set_v down_o two_o work_n for_o the_o which_o he_o commend_v this_o church_n first_o their_o faithful_a keep_n of_o the_o word_n of_o christ._n second_o the_o profession_n of_o his_o name_n in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n this_o behaviour_n of_o this_o church_n must_v be_v a_o pattern_n and_o a_o look_a glass_n for_o we_o to_o square_v our_o conversation_n by_o for_o these_o work_n thou_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n though_o the_o word_n be_v few_o yet_o they_o continue_v much_o in_o
they_o signify_v that_o this_o church_n have_v special_a care_n of_o keep_v god_n word_n in_o every_o commandment_n both_o legal_a and_o evangelical_a happy_a be_v our_o church_n if_o the_o same_o may_v true_o be_v say_v of_o we_o that_o we_o have_v care_n of_o obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o of_o the_o true_a profession_n of_o his_o name_n but_o general_o we_o fail_v in_o practice_n though_o in_o outward_a profession_n we_o make_v some_o show_n thereof_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o praise_n of_o this_o church_n vers._n 9_o behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o of_o the_o synagog_n of_o satan_n which_o call_v themselves_o jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o do_v lie_v behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v come_v and_o worship_n before_o thy_o foot_n and_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o here_o follow_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n namely_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v two_o first_o concern_v the_o conversion_n of_o certain_a jew_n vers_fw-la 9_o second_o concern_v the_o deliverance_n of_o these_o philadelphian_o in_o the_o time_n of_o temptation_n vers_fw-la 10._o for_o the_o first_o of_o these_o promise_n in_o all_o likelihood_n there_o be_v in_o this_o city_n of_o philadelphia_n a_o synagog_n of_o the_o jew_n which_o bear_v a_o outward_a show_n that_o they_o be_v the_o true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n albeit_o they_o deny_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o persecute_v his_o church_n yet_o christ_n here_o promise_v that_o he_o will_v convert_v they_o and_o make_v they_o member_n of_o his_o church_n and_o cause_v they_o to_o worship_v he_o in_o the_o congregation_n before_o this_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n in_o this_o promise_n note_v three_o point_n touch_v the_o conversion_n of_o these_o jew_n the_o author_n thereof_o the_o party_n convert_v and_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o conversion_n for_o the_o first_o i_o say_v christ_n behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o the_o word_n be_v very_o significant_a be_v double_v and_o they_o make_v christ_n the_o whole_a and_o sole_a author_n of_o their_o conversion_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o in_o the_o conversision_n of_o a_o sinner_n god_n have_v the_o whole_a and_o sole_a work_n true_a it_o be_v that_o a_o man_n will_v his_o conversion_n in_o the_o act_n thereof_o but_o yet_o it_o be_v god_n that_o work_v that_o will_n in_o he_o it_o be_v not_o of_o himself_o this_o confute_v the_o erroneous_a doctrine_n of_o freewill_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n whereby_o they_o teach_v that_o a_o man_n can_v dispose_v himself_o to_o work_v out_o his_o salvation_n be_v only_o help_v by_o god_n grace_n like_o unto_o a_o sick_a man_n who_o though_o he_o be_v weak_a yet_o be_v hold_v up_o by_o another_o can_v go_v of_o himself_o ans._n but_o saint_n paul_n teach_v we_o that_o a_o man_n by_o nature_n be_v not_o sick_a or_o weak_a with_o sin_n but_o stark_o 2.1_o dead_a in_o sin_n and_o can_v no_o more_o move_v himself_o in_o the_o work_n of_o his_o conversion_n than_o a_o dead_a man_n in_o the_o grave_n in_o the_o work_n of_o his_o resurrection_n but_o they_o say_v by_o this_o we_o make_v a_o man_n like_o unto_o a_o block_n answ._n not_o so_o for_o though_o he_o can_v turn_v himself_o unto_o god_n yet_o he_o have_v his_o will_n and_o understanding_n free_a to_o use_v in_o civil_a and_o outward_a action_n and_o beside_o theâ—e_n be_v a_o possibility_n in_o his_o nature_n to_o be_v convert_v by_o grace_n which_o be_v not_o in_o a_o block_n again_o whereas_o christ_n say_v i_o will_v make_v they_o come_v and_o they_o shall_v come_v here_o be_v plain_o confute_v the_o doctrine_n and_o opinion_n of_o some_o which_o hold_v that_o a_o man_n be_v effectual_o call_v may_v come_v unto_o christ_n or_o not_o come_v at_o his_o pleasure_n when_o god_n have_v give_v grace_n man_n may_v receive_v it_o or_o refuse_v it_o if_o he_o will_n this_o be_v flat_a against_o this_o text_n for_o god_n will_v make_v they_o come_v and_o man_n will_n must_v be_v pliable_a to_o god_n will_v in_o this_o matter_n but_o they_o allege_v mat._n 23.37_o oh_o jerusalem_n jerusalem_n how_o oft_o will_v i_o have_v gather_v thou_o as_o a_o hen_n etc._n etc._n but_o thou_o will_v not_o answ._n christ_n there_o speak_v not_o of_o the_o will_n of_o his_o good_a pleasure_n for_o that_o can_v be_v resist_v but_o of_o his_o signify_v will_v in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o prophet_n and_o by_o himself_o as_o he_o be_v a_o prophet_n and_o the_o minister_n of_o circumcision_n unto_o the_o jew_n for_o so_o he_o may_v will_v their_o conversion_n and_o yet_o they_o will_v it_o not_o object_n 2._o act._n 7.51_o you_o stiffnecked_a jew_n you_o have_v always_o resist_v the_o holy_a ghost_n answ._n that_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n who_o speak_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o not_o of_o the_o spirit_n himself_o ii_o point_n the_o party_n convert_v namely_o they_o of_o the_o synagog_n of_o satan_n such_o as_o call_v themselves_o the_o only_a true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o indeed_o and_o in_o truth_n be_v no_o better_a than_o the_o slave_n of_o satan_n this_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v for_o hereby_o we_o may_v see_v that_o not_o only_a sinner_n which_o commit_v small_a sin_n be_v convert_v unto_o god_n but_o even_o grievous_a and_o ancient_a sinner_n such_o as_o have_v long_o concâ—â—ued_v the_o slave_n of_o satan_n christ_n die_v not_o for_o paint_a sinner_n but_o for_o grievous_a sinner_n and_o therefore_o paul_n charge_v timothy_n and_o the_o minister_n with_o he_o 2.26_o to_o wait_v for_o the_o conversion_n and_o repentance_n of_o they_o that_o be_v take_v in_o the_o snare_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o devil_n own_a will_n rom._n 1.28_o paul_n speak_v of_o some_o gentile_n that_o be_v give_v up_o to_o a_o reprobate_a sense_n which_o be_v a_o fearful_a case_n and_o yet_o no_o doubt_n many_o of_o they_o be_v after_o turn_v to_o believe_v the_o gospel_n for_o such_o be_v they_o that_o be_v take_v in_o the_o snare_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o yet_o there_o be_v repentance_n to_o be_v wait_v for_o of_o they_o this_o doctrine_n must_v not_o be_v abuse_v to_o liberty_n in_o sin_v use_n for_o that_o be_v the_o right_a way_n to_o cast_v our_o soul_n into_o the_o pit_n of_o destruction_n but_o yet_o see_v christ_n will_v bring_v home_o into_o his_o kingdom_n most_o grievous_a sinner_n we_o must_v hereby_o take_v occasion_n not_o to_o be_v discourage_v either_o by_o the_o greatness_n or_o multitude_n of_o our_o sin_n from_o come_v unto_o christ._n for_o mark_v christ_n only_o raise_v three_o that_o be_v dead_a to_o life_n jayrus_n daughter_n that_o be_v new_a dead_a the_o widow_n son_n that_o lie_v on_o the_o herste_fw-mi and_o lazarus_n that_o lie_v stink_v in_o the_o grave_n this_o be_v a_o notable_a figure_n of_o the_o conversion_n of_o sinner_n he_o will_v not_o only_o call_v to_o repentance_n small_a and_o young_a sinner_n but_o even_o great_a and_o old_a sinner_n that_o lie_v rot_v and_o stink_v in_o the_o grave_n of_o sin_n as_o lazarus_n do_v in_o the_o grave_n of_o death_n he_o come_v to_o call_v sinner_n to_o repentance_n and_o to_o save_v the_o lose_a sheep_n which_o be_v ready_a to_o be_v devour_v by_o wolf_n and_o wild_a beast_n we_o must_v all_o bless_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n for_o this_o his_o large_a mercy_n and_o in_o time_n lie_v hold_v upon_o it_o and_o repent_v iii_o point_n the_o fruit_n of_o their_o conversion_n in_o these_o word_n they_o shall_v come_v and_o worship_n before_o thy_o foot_n and_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o these_o word_n may_v be_v fit_o expound_v by_o another_o place_n of_o scripture_n 1._o corinth_n 14.24.25_o if_o all_o pprophecy_n and_o there_o come_v in_o one_o that_o believe_v not_o or_o one_o unlearned_a he_o be_v rebuke_v of_o all_o man_n and_o judge_v of_o all_o so_o as_o the_o secret_n of_o his_o heart_n be_v disclose_v and_o he_o will_v fall_v down_o on_o his_o face_n and_o worship_n god_n and_o say_v plain_o god_n be_v in_o you_o indeed_o so_o that_o the_o meaning_n of_o these_o word_n be_v this_o i_o will_v cause_v they_o to_o come_v to_o the_o congregation_n of_o god_n people_n &_o at_o their_o foot_n to_o fall_v down_o and_o worship_v the_o true_a god_n here_o be_v set_v down_o two_o notable_a fruit_n of_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o sinner_n first_o concern_v god_n the_o second_o concern_v the_o church_n the_o fruit_n of_o conversion_n that_o respect_v god_n be_v the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n note_v in_o these_o word_n i_o will_v make_v they_o come_v and_o worship_n that_o be_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n with_o body_n and_o soul_n to_o adore_v the_o true_a
god_n this_o fruit_n no_o man_n can_v bring_v forth_o till_o he_o be_v convert_v for_o 14.4_o the_o wicked_a and_o natural_a man_n call_v not_o upon_o god_n true_a it_o be_v they_o will_v acknowledge_v there_o be_v a_o god_n and_o that_o the_o same_o god_n be_v to_o be_v worship_v and_o therefore_o they_o will_v come_v outward_o and_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o receive_v the_o element_n of_o the_o sacrament_n but_o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n be_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n from_o the_o heart_n which_o a_o natural_a man_n can_v perform_v unto_o god_n this_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o true_a conversion_n which_o when_o a_o man_n receive_v he_o do_v hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n with_o reverence_n tremble_v at_o god_n judgement_n and_o mingle_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n with_o faith_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o in_o call_v upon_o god_n he_o feel_v his_o sin_n and_o therefore_o by_o prayer_n do_v earnest_o desire_v the_o supply_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o remission_n of_o his_o sin_n have_v his_o hart_n also_o believe_v that_o he_o shall_v receive_v mercy_n and_o in_o thanksgiving_n his_o heart_n be_v fill_v with_o joy_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o thankfulness_n so_o as_o be_v convert_v all_o his_o worship_n unto_o god_n be_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o these_o jew_n be_v note_v three_o property_n require_v in_o godâ—_n service_n first_o it_o must_v be_v willing_a and_o cheerful_a so_o do_v these_o jew_n worship_n god_n for_o they_o be_v say_v not_o only_o to_o worship_n god_n but_o to_o come_v and_o worship_n god_n and_o thus_o do_v all_o god_n child_n worship_v he_o isay._n 56.7_o those_o who_o god_n bring_v to_o his_o mountain_n he_o make_v joyful_a in_o his_o house_n of_o prayer_n psal._n 110.3_o they_o shall_v come_v willing_o in_o the_o day_n of_o assembly_n by_o this_o property_n we_o may_v see_v a_o great_a number_n at_o this_o day_n every_o where_o come_v far_o short_a in_o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n for_o most_o man_n never_o regard_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n but_o content_v themselves_o with_o morning_n and_o evening_n prayer_n which_o they_o frequent_a to_o avoid_v the_o penalty_n of_o the_o law_n of_o the_o magistrate_n and_o the_o shame_n of_o the_o world_n but_o these_o be_v miserable_a worshipper_n of_o god_n his_o worship_n ought_v to_o be_v free_a and_o willing_a the_o second_o property_n the_o worship_n of_o god_n must_v be_v express_v with_o seemly_a meet_v and_o convenient_a gesture_n the_o word_n translate_v worship_n signify_v do_v of_o reverence_n with_o bow_v of_o the_o body_n and_o knee_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o a_o indifferent_a thing_n but_o necessary_a to_o use_v convenient_a gesture_n in_o god_n worship_n that_o thereby_o the_o grace_n and_o humility_n of_o the_o heart_n may_v be_v express_v the_o â—_o angel_n that_o stand_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n have_v two_o wing_n to_o cover_v their_o foot_n and_o two_o to_o cover_v their_o face_n thereby_o testify_v their_o reverence_n to_o god_n majesty_n in_o this_o point_n also_o many_o come_v short_a for_o as_o the_o common_a complaint_n be_v the_o manner_n of_o many_o be_v to_o lie_v snort_v and_o sleep_v under_o man_n elbow_n at_o sermon_n and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o prayer_n to_o sit_v unreverent_o with_o their_o head_n cover_v these_o thing_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v for_o god_n be_v lord_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v worship_v with_o both_o the_o three_o property_n all_o that_o will_v true_o worship_v god_n must_v first_o be_v humble_v for_o their_o sin_n and_o have_v the_o pride_n of_o their_o heart_n bring_v down_o and_o be_v strike_v with_o a_o fear_n of_o god_n glorious_a majesty_n so_o these_o jew_n do_v prostrate_v their_o body_n at_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o congregation_n when_o they_o come_v to_o worship_v god._n the_o â—â—_o jailor_n that_o imprison_v paul_n and_o silas_n overnight_o and_o put_v their_o foot_n in_o the_o stock_n will_v then_o have_v very_o little_o regard_v paul_n doctrine_n be_v so_o cruel_a and_o rigorous_a to_o their_o person_n yet_o when_o he_o be_v about_o to_o have_v kill_v himself_o with_o his_o sword_n suppose_v the_o prisoner_n have_v be_v go_v because_o he_o see_v the_o door_n open_v he_o be_v glad_a and_o joyful_a to_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o paul_n who_o call_v unto_o he_o that_o he_o shall_v do_v himself_o no_o harm_n for_o they_o be_v all_o there_o then_o be_v humble_v by_o that_o strange_a and_o wonder_a work_n of_o god_n he_o come_v in_o unto_o they_o humble_v himself_o and_o fall_v down_o before_o they_o crave_v they_o to_o tell_v he_o what_o he_o must_v do_v to_o be_v save_v in_o like_a manner_n so_o long_o as_o man_n have_v not_o their_o proud_a heart_n beat_v down_o they_o will_v never_o worship_v god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n will_v we_o therefore_o know_v why_o the_o most_o part_n worship_n god_n formal_o sure_o it_o be_v because_o they_o have_v not_o be_v humble_v with_o a_o fear_n of_o god_n majesty_n and_o a_o terror_n of_o hell_n neither_o can_v it_o be_v hope_v that_o we_o shall_v ever_o worship_n god_n sincere_o till_o our_o heart_n be_v thus_o break_v within_o we_o and_o we_o touch_v with_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n judgement_n the_o want_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o man_n and_o woman_n content_v themselves_o with_o a_o bare_a mumble_v over_o of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n prayer_n the_o creed_n and_o ten_o commandment_n never_o seek_v in_o the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o heart_n cheerful_o and_o willing_o both_o with_o soul_n and_o body_n to_o do_v worship_n unto_o god_n the_o second_o fruit_n of_o true_a conversion_n concern_v man_n and_o that_o be_v a_o reverence_n of_o the_o true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n note_v in_o these_o word_n before_o thy_o foot_n these_o jew_n when_o they_o be_v convert_v do_v not_o think_v themselves_o worthy_a to_o be_v member_n of_o this_o congregation_n but_o submit_v themselves_o to_o be_v footstool_n unto_o they_o this_o reverence_n show_v itself_o in_o this_o one_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o ground_n thereof_o namely_o a_o base_a opinion_n which_o every_o true_a convert_a person_n have_v of_o himself_o by_o reason_n of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n this_o be_v in_o paul_n cause_v he_o to_o call_v himself_o the_o 1.15_o chief_n of_o all_o sinner_n and_o the_o same_o aught_o to_o be_v in_o every_o one_o of_o we_o for_o this_o be_v true_a grace_n and_o a_o note_n of_o true_a repentance_n when_o a_o man_n or_o woman_n can_v true_o abase_v themselves_o beneath_o all_o god_n people_n so_o as_o if_o the_o question_n be_v who_o be_v the_o vile_a person_n in_o the_o church_n the_o conscience_n of_o every_o man_n shall_v answer_v i_o myself_o the_o proud_a and_o pharesaicall_a heart_n be_v far_o from_o true_a conversion_n but_o the_o humble_a hart_n be_v please_v to_o god_n and_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o these_o word_n contain_v a_o reason_n of_o the_o former_a submiss_a behaviour_n of_o these_o jew_n for_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v why_o shall_v these_o jew_n come_v to_o join_v themselves_o with_o god_n people_n and_o be_v content_a to_o make_v themselves_o footstool_n unto_o they_o the_o answer_n be_v because_o christ_n will_v make_v they_o know_v that_o he_o have_v love_v his_o church_n here_o mark_v and_o see_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o true_a reverence_n god_n love_n and_o favour_n sundry_a person_n both_o in_o church_n and_o common_a wealth_n have_v reverence_n due_a unto_o they_o as_o master_n from_o their_o servant_n parent_n from_o their_o child_n and_o all_o superior_n from_o their_o inferior_n now_o if_o these_o man_n will_v attain_v to_o true_a reverence_n indeed_o first_o they_o must_v seek_v to_o be_v in_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o child_n and_o so_o shall_v they_o procure_v unto_o themselves_o true_a reverence_n for_o when_o man_n set_v their_o heart_n to_o fear_n god_n then_o will_v god_n turn_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n to_o reverence_v they_o this_o aught_o to_o be_v think_v upon_o of_o those_o that_o be_v great_a in_o birth_n and_o wealth_n they_o must_v not_o stand_v on_o these_o thing_n but_o look_v to_o the_o foundation_n of_o true_a reverence_n namely_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n which_o they_o must_v seek_v for_o and_o get_v that_o god_n will_v get_v they_o reverence_n even_o of_o wicked_a man_n the_o cause_n why_o many_o in_o high_a place_n as_o magistrate_n master_n etc._n etc._n want_v due_a reverence_n be_v for_o that_o they_o care_v not_o for_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n the_o ground_n thereof_o vers._n 10._o because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n therefore_o will_v i_o deliver_v thou_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n which_o will_v
come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o promise_n of_o christ_n unto_o this_o church_n concern_v their_o preservation_n in_o time_n of_o most_o bloody_a persecution_n for_o this_o epistle_n unto_o this_o church_n as_o also_o this_o book_n be_v write_v by_o john_n after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o day_n of_o domitian_n the_o emperor_n of_o rome_n after_o who_o succeed_v traâ—anus_n who_o when_o he_o be_v seat_v in_o his_o empire_n raise_v up_o grievous_a persecution_n against_o god_n church_n in_o all_o place_n of_o his_o dominion_n wherein_o he_o put_v to_o death_n innumerable_a thousand_o of_o christian_n for_o the_o space_n of_o fourteen_o year_n of_o this_o persecution_n our_o saviour_n christ_n foretell_v this_o church_n call_v it_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n and_o withal_o he_o promise_v to_o preserve_v this_o church_n in_o the_o time_n of_o this_o bloody_a persecution_n add_v a_o reason_n thereof_o because_o they_o have_v constant_o and_o sincere_o profess_v his_o gospel_n in_o this_o promise_n of_o preservation_n note_v sundry_a point_n i._o the_o occasion_n thereof_o the_o keep_n of_o the_o word_n of_o his_o patience_n ii_o the_o thing_n promise_v deliverance_n under_o traianus_n iii_o a_o prediction_n of_o this_o persecution_n that_o it_o shall_v come_v upon_o the_o world_n for_o this_o end_n to_o try_v they_o i._o point_n the_o word_n of_o christ_n patience_n some_o expound_v to_o be_v christ_n commandment_n of_o patience_n but_o that_o exposition_n be_v too_o straight_o here_o it_o signify_v the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o salvation_n by_o christ_n which_o be_v call_v the_o word_n of_o patience_n first_o because_o it_o teach_v patience_n second_o because_o it_o be_v the_o instrument_n of_o patience_n for_o when_o a_o man_n know_v salvation_n by_o christ_n and_o also_o believe_v the_o same_o to_o belong_v to_o he_o that_o will_v make_v he_o patient_a in_o all_o the_o misery_n of_o this_o life_n three_o because_o it_o can_v be_v profess_v and_o hold_v unto_o death_n without_o patience_n but_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o good_a ground_n it_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n with_o patience_n so_o must_v every_o one_o do_v that_o profess_v this_o gospel_n in_o this_o occasion_n of_o god_n promise_v observe_v that_o god_n grace_n well_o use_v be_v reward_v with_o increase_n those_o which_o have_v receive_v but_o small_a measure_n of_o grace_n at_o the_o first_o by_o become_v faithful_a therein_o have_v receive_v increase_n which_o serve_v to_o move_v we_o to_o be_v faithful_a in_o the_o use_n of_o those_o talent_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v for_o hereby_o we_o shall_v receive_v increase_n when_o as_o those_o which_o have_v receive_v good_a gift_n from_o god_n as_o knowledge_n and_o such_o like_a because_o they_o have_v not_o be_v faithful_a in_o the_o use_n thereof_o have_v be_v deprive_v of_o the_o same_o wherefore_o whosoever_o have_v begin_v to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o believe_v and_o to_o repent_v let_v the_o same_o party_n proceed_v to_o use_v those_o gift_n still_o to_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o people_n among_o who_o they_o live_v and_o they_o shall_v see_v the_o lord_n will_v double_v and_o treble_a and_o great_o increase_v the_o same_o unto_o they_o again_o note_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o patience_n this_o show_v how_o good_a and_o meet_v it_o be_v for_o every_o one_o to_o learn_v the_o gospel_n in_o the_o day_n of_o peace_n for_o every_o one_o in_o time_n of_o trial_n will_v wish_v for_o strength_n and_o patience_n and_o we_o know_v not_o how_o long_o these_o day_n of_o peace_n will_v last_v again_o each_o man_n in_o his_o call_n be_v subject_a to_o many_o cross_n and_o misery_n for_o in_o the_o sweat_n of_o our_o face_n must_v we_o eat_v our_o bread_n and_o who_o be_v free_a from_o pain_n and_o disease_n yea_o who_o can_v escape_v death_n itself_o now_o in_o all_o these_o and_o in_o all_o other_o trouble_n we_o have_v need_n of_o patience_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o time_n of_o health_n and_o ease_n let_v we_o hide_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o seed_n of_o this_o grace_n to_o wit_n the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o then_o in_o due_a time_n we_o shall_v reap_v the_o fruit_n of_o patience_n which_o will_v make_v we_o content_v in_o all_o distress_n both_o of_o life_n and_o death_n and_o if_o we_o will_v know_v why_o most_o man_n be_v so_o impatient_a in_o affliction_n it_o be_v because_o they_o have_v so_o little_a knowledge_n and_o faith_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o his_o grace_n second_o see_v the_o gospel_n be_v the_o word_n of_o patience_n hereby_o all_o person_n that_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o the_o gospel_n must_v learn_v to_o put_v on_o patience_n keep_v a_o moderation_n in_o all_o their_o thought_n will_n and_o affection_n for_o when_o we_o be_v impatienâ—_n any_o way_n we_o be_v not_o suitable_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o salvation_n three_o this_o word_n of_o patience_n be_v call_v christ_n the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n because_o christ_n be_v the_o author_n of_o it_o this_o be_v add_v to_o beat_v down_o the_o pride_n of_o this_o church_n for_o when_o god_n do_v praise_v they_o for_o their_o obedience_n their_o heart_n may_v have_v be_v puff_v up_o with_o pride_n but_o to_o prevent_v this_o evil_n in_o this_o church_n who_o he_o now_o praise_v he_o call_v it_o his_o patience_n that_o they_o may_v not_o think_v this_o good_a thing_n be_v of_o themselves_o and_o the_o same_o consideration_n must_v check_v the_o proud_a thought_n that_o rise_v in_o our_o heart_n namely_o to_o remember_v that_o no_o good_a thing_n we_o have_v be_v our_o own_o but_o christ_n what_o have_v thou_o which_o thou_o have_v not_o receive_v why_o then_o shall_v thou_o boast_v 1._o corinth_n 4.7_o ii_o point_n the_o thing_n promise_v be_v preservation_n and_o deliverance_n in_o the_o bloody_a persecution_n under_o traianuâ—_n in_o which_o for_o the_o space_n of_o fourteen_o year_n innumerable_a christian_n be_v put_v to_o death_n i_o will_v deliver_v thou_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n here_o first_o observe_v that_o god_n have_v appoint_v certain_a set_v hour_n and_o time_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o church_n as_o well_o for_o the_o gift_n of_o his_o grace_n as_o of_o their_o wickedness_n and_o hypocrisy_n thus_o he_o lead_v the_o israelite_n 1.2_o forty_o year_n in_o the_o wilderness_n to_o see_v whether_o they_o will_v obey_v he_o and_o he_o send_v 13.3_o false_a prophet_n among_o they_o to_o try_v whether_o they_o will_v turn_v from_o the_o true_a god_n or_o no._n and_o as_o god_n thus_o deal_v with_o his_o church_n so_o he_o bathe_v appoint_v particular_a time_n and_o hour_n wherein_o he_o will_v try_v particular_a person_n 2_o god_n bid_v abraham_n kill_v his_o son_n and_o that_o be_v his_o trial_n and_o 32.31_o hezekias_n be_v leave_v unto_o himself_o that_o the_o lord_n may_v see_v all_o that_o be_v in_o his_o heart_n and_o so_o for_o every_o christian_a god_n have_v a_o set_a time_n of_o trial_n wherein_o he_o will_v either_o make_v manifest_a his_o grace_n or_o disclose_v their_o hypocrisy_n this_o point_n ought_v to_o be_v well_o weigh_v for_o herein_o the_o lord_n deal_v like_o the_o worthy_a founder_n of_o great_a school_n use_n who_o have_v appoint_v certain_a set_v time_n of_o pose_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o scholar_n to_o see_v what_o every_a one_o proceed_v be_v that_o they_o may_v be_v according_o reward_v and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o shame_n for_o one_o to_o have_v be_v long_o in_o a_o good_a school_n and_o to_o have_v make_v no_o proceed_n in_o learning_n so_o it_o be_v for_o any_o one_o that_o have_v live_v long_o in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n and_o have_v not_o profit_v in_o grace_n this_o therefore_o must_v teach_v we_o these_o duty_n first_o to_o try_v our_o self_n and_o that_o staight_o concern_v our_o progress_n in_o knowledge_n faith_n repentance_n and_o obedience_n for_o god_n himself_o will_v try_v we_o who_o eye_n we_o can_v never_o blind_v though_o we_o may_v deceive_v man_n he_o will_v lay_v open_a our_o heart_n and_o make_v know_v what_o be_v in_o we_o whether_o it_o be_v true_a grace_n or_o false_a hypocrisy_n let_v we_o not_o cover_v ourselves_o with_o fig_n leave_v for_o god_n will_v strip_v we_o naked_a but_o rather_o let_v we_o search_v our_o self_n touch_v our_o sin_n and_o god_n grace_n and_o never_o rest_v content_v till_o we_o have_v find_v in_o our_o soul_n the_o good_a gift_n of_o grace_n which_o will_v abide_v his_o trial_n second_o hereby_o we_o be_v admonish_v as_o near_o as_o we_o can_v to_o conform_v our_o heart_n and_o life_n unto_o the_o word_n and_o will_n
of_o god_n for_o he_o will_v try_v we_o wonder_a it_o be_v to_o see_v how_o common_a the_o reproach_n of_o presizenesse_n be_v and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o well_o know_v that_o the_o world_n be_v full_a of_o atheist_n that_o may_v discourage_v many_o a_o christian._n but_o the_o remembrance_n of_o this_o trial_n wherein_o hypocrisy_n will_v vanish_v as_o the_o stubble_n before_o the_o fire_n must_v move_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o sincerity_n when_o we_o have_v do_v our_o best_a we_o shall_v be_v far_o short_a of_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v and_o therefore_o through_o the_o reproach_n of_o the_o world_n let_v we_o hold_v on_o our_o good_a endeavour_n and_o labour_n to_o have_v the_o main_a grace_n of_o true_a faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n with_o a_o resolute_a purpose_n not_o to_o sin_n that_o so_o we_o may_v stand_v in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n but_o if_o we_o want_v these_o and_o live_v loose_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v like_o the_o foolish_a virgin_n that_o have_v only_o the_o blaze_a lamp_n of_o a_o outward_a profession_n and_o want_v the_o save_a oil_n of_o grace_n which_o may_v make_v we_o acceptable_a unto_o god_n at_o his_o appear_v we_o have_v be_v train_v up_o in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n what_o a_o shame_n will_v it_o be_v if_o when_o christ_n come_v to_o prove_v we_o we_o be_v then_o find_v barren_a and_o void_a of_o sound_a grace_n david_n bethink_v himself_o of_o this_o trial_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v conform_v himself_o unto_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o offer_v himself_o unto_o his_o trial_n say_v 2d_o lord_n prove_v i_o meaning_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n not_o of_o the_o perfectness_n of_o his_o own_o way_n and_o hereunto_o must_v we_o endeavour_v not_o suffer_v any_o sin_n to_o reign_v in_o us._n qu._n but_o how_o be_v this_o promise_n verify_v touch_v their_o deliverance_n from_o persecution_n see_v no_o church_n be_v free_a from_o it_o for_o even_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n whereof_o this_o in_o philadelphia_n be_v a_o principal_a one_o be_v persecute_v by_o traianus_n answ._n this_o and_o such_o like_a promise_n of_o deliverance_n to_o god_n child_n from_o trial_n and_o affliction_n must_v be_v understand_v not_o simple_o but_o with_o condition_n to_o wit_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o may_v be_v hurtful_a unto_o they_o and_o in_o the_o least_o measure_n hinder_v their_o salvation_n and_o indeed_o they_o be_v promise_n of_o deliverance_n from_o the_o evil_a of_o temptation_n and_o persecution_n not_o from_o persecution_n and_o temptation_n itself_o psal._n 91.10_o the_o lord_n promise_v to_o he_o that_o trust_v in_o god_n the_o plague_n shall_v not_o come_v near_o his_o dwell_n and_o yet_o by_o experience_n we_o know_v that_o god_n child_n in_o general_a plague_n be_v take_v away_o as_o well_o as_o other_o and_o therefore_o that_o promise_n must_v be_v understand_v of_o deliverance_n not_o from_o the_o plague_n itself_o but_o from_o the_o hurt_n thereof_o so_o as_o it_o shall_v not_o hinder_v the_o good_a or_o salvation_n of_o any_o in_o the_o godly_a man_n house_n we_o pray_v lead_v we_o not_o into_o temptation_n which_o we_o must_v not_o understand_v of_o freedom_n from_o all_o temptation_n for_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v be_v try_v but_o therein_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v not_o forsake_v we_o in_o our_o temptation_n or_o give_v we_o up_o whole_o to_o the_o power_n of_o the_o devil_n but_o that_o it_o may_v tend_v to_o our_o profit_n and_o not_o to_o our_o hurt_n as_o well_o in_o respect_n of_o grace_n as_o of_o salvation_n and_o so_o far_o forth_o be_v this_o promise_n accomplish_v to_o this_o church_n use_n the_o due_a consideration_n whereof_o be_v most_o comfortable_a to_o god_n church_n and_o people_n teach_v they_o not_o to_o fear_v the_o cross_n in_o any_o temptation_n god_n will_v have_v his_o church_n try_v but_o the_o faithful_a therein_o need_v not_o to_o be_v dismay_v for_o god_n by_o his_o promise_n have_v take_v away_o the_o evil_a and_o poison_n of_o all_o trial_n and_o temptation_n to_o they_o that_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n though_o they_o suffer_v a_o thousand_o cross_n in_o this_o world_n never_o so_o long_o yea_o though_o they_o die_v under_o the_o cross_n which_o may_v put_v comfort_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o any_o distress_a soul_n whatsoever_o &_o revive_v those_o that_o be_v oppress_v with_o temptation_n again_o in_o that_o this_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v simple_o and_o absolute_o but_o with_o restraint_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o the_o petition_n of_o those_o person_n which_o pray_v simple_o and_o absolute_o to_o be_v free_v from_o all_o temptation_n and_o adversity_n be_v not_o according_a to_o god_n will_v and_o word_n for_o every_o petition_n must_v depend_v upon_o some_o promise_n of_o god_n but_o we_o have_v no_o absolute_a promise_n of_o freedom_n from_o all_o trial_n and_o temptation_n but_o only_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o be_v evil_a and_o therefore_o in_o pray_v against_o temptation_n we_o must_v qualify_v our_o petition_n for_o temporal_a deliverance_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v so_o far_o forth_o as_o may_v most_o advance_v god_n glory_n and_o best_o further_a our_o salvation_n quest._n how_o can_v this_o great_a persecution_n be_v call_v but_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n see_v it_o last_v 14._o year_n answ._n in_o diverse_a respect_n it_o may_v be_v so_o call_v first_o in_o regard_n of_o god_n 3.3_o with_o who_o a_o thousand_o year_n be_v but_o as_o one_o day_n and_o therefore_o 14._o year_n with_o god_n be_v but_o as_o one_o hour_n second_o in_o regard_n of_o that_o punishment_n which_o every_o man_n by_o his_o sin_n deserve_v in_o hell_n eternal_o three_o in_o the_o affection_n of_o god_n people_n which_o be_v try_v when_o jacob_n serve_v laban_n seven_o year_n for_o rahell_n his_o affection_n make_v he_o think_v 20_o it_o be_v but_o a_o short_a time_n so_o when_o god_n child_n suffer_v for_o the_o name_n and_o gospel_n of_o christ_n the_o consideration_n thereof_o will_v make_v they_o think_v long_a affliction_n to_o be_v but_o short_a this_o affection_n cause_v paul_n to_o wish_v to_o himself_o eternal_a perdition_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o jew_n rom._n 9.3_o the_o end_n of_o this_o phrase_n touch_v the_o shortness_n of_o time_n be_v to_o comfort_v this_o and_o all_o other_o church_n in_o the_o time_n of_o this_o grievous_a persecution_n for_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o shortness_n of_o the_o time_n be_v a_o mean_n to_o ease_v any_o affliction_n and_o to_o arm_v a_o impatient_a man_n with_o some_o measure_n of_o contentation_n iii_o point_n the_o prophecy_n or_o prediction_n of_o this_o affliction_n be_v in_o these_o word_n which_o will_v come_v on_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n here_o christ_n foretell_v a_o thing_n which_o be_v to_o come_v simple_o by_o himself_o and_o from_o himself_o not_o by_o the_o help_n of_o any_o cause_n or_o any_o man_n or_o angel_n and_o hereby_o he_o prove_v himself_o to_o be_v true_a god_n for_o it_o be_v a_o property_n and_o privilege_n of_o the_o true_a god_n of_o himself_o and_o by_o himself_o to_o foretell_v a_o thing_n to_o come_v before_o it_o can_v be_v see_v either_o in_o itself_o or_o in_o the_o cause_n thereof_o no_o man_n nor_o angel_n can_v so_o absolute_o foretell_v that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v but_o in_o their_o prediction_n they_o first_o see_v the_o thing_n present_v in_o their_o cause_n unless_o they_o be_v reveal_v unto_o they_o from_o god_n but_o some_o may_v here_o demand_v whether_o christ_n foreknowledge_n and_o prediction_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o grievous_a persecution_n answ._n not_o so_o for_o thing_n come_v not_o to_o pass_v because_o of_o god_n foreknowledge_n thereof_o but_o because_o they_o will_v come_v to_o pass_v therefore_o god_n forsee_v &_o foretell_v they_o there_o be_v a_o high_a cause_n of_o all_o thing_n than_o prescience_n and_o prediction_n to_o wit_n the_o good_a will_n and_o pleasure_n and_o decree_n of_o god_n so_o christ_n be_v say_v 2.23_o to_o be_v deliver_v to_o be_v crucify_v by_o the_o determinate_a will_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n and_o from_o the_o same_o eternal_a counsel_n do_v this_o persecution_n under_o trajan_n original_o proceed_v for_o the_o first_o cause_n of_o the_o event_n of_o every_o thing_n be_v god_n decree_n either_o orday_v or_o dispose_v the_o same_o it_o will_v be_v say_v if_o this_o be_v so_o then_o be_v god_n the_o author_n of_o sin_n answ._n god_n forbid_v for_o the_o manner_n of_o god_n will_v and_o decree_n be_v
diverse_a some_o thing_n he_o decree_v to_o cause_n and_o effect_n of_o himself_o and_o by_o himself_o as_o all_o good_a thing_n some_o other_o thing_n god_n decree_v to_o be_v effect_v by_o other_o as_o sin_n and_o so_o evil_a thing_n though_o they_o be_v not_o according_a to_o his_o reveal_v will_n yet_o they_o come_v in_o some_o sort_n from_o his_o will_n &_o decree_n for_o if_o he_o simple_o nill_v they_o they_o can_v never_o be_v beside_o in_o god_n decree_n be_v set_v down_o not_o only_o the_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v but_o also_o the_o mean_n and_o circumstance_n thereof_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o this_o persecution_n the_o place_n and_o end_n be_v plain_o note_v this_o we_o must_v remember_v &_o on_o the_o contrary_n take_v heed_n of_o the_o opinion_n of_o some_o protestant_n which_o hold_v and_o teach_v that_o sundry_a thing_n come_v to_o pass_v god_n only_o foresee_v they_o and_o no_o way_n decree_a or_o will_v they_o as_o namely_o sin_n but_o to_o give_v unto_o god_n a_o bare_a foreknowledge_n without_o a_o decree_n be_v to_o put_v upon_o he_o a_o idle_a providence_n which_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n will_v not_o admit_v the_o end_n why_o christ_n allege_v this_o prophecy_n be_v to_o expound_v his_o former_a say_n for_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v why_o do_v christ_n call_v this_o persecution_n the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n christ_n answer_v because_o it_o will_v certain_o come_v to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v on_o earth_n where_o we_o may_v note_v what_o be_v the_o property_n of_o affliction_n and_o persecution_n be_v they_o public_a or_o private_a namely_o they_o serve_v to_o discover_v the_o state_n of_o man_n heart_n either_o by_o make_v manifest_a their_o faith_n repentance_n and_o fear_v of_o god_n or_o by_o detect_v their_o impatience_n &_o hypocrisy_n verse_n 11._o behold_v i_o come_v short_o hold_v that_o which_o thou_o have_v that_o no_o man_n take_v thy_o crown_n here_o be_v christ_n commandment_n to_o this_o church_n wherein_o consider_v first_o what_o he_o injoin_v they_o then_o the_o reason_n thereof_o the_o thing_n he_o enjoin_v be_v this_o hold_v fast_o that_o which_o thou_o have_v that_o be_v hold_v as_o it_o be_v with_o both_o hand_n that_o little_a meaof_n faith_n and_o grace_n which_o thou_o have_v receive_v from_o i_o and_o in_o no_o wise_a part_n with_o the_o same_o this_o commandment_n have_v be_v before_o expound_v chap._n 2._o vers_fw-la 25._o the_o reason_n to_o enforce_v this_o commandment_n be_v two_o one_o go_v before_o it_o in_o these_o word_n i_o come_v short_o that_o be_v either_o in_o the_o general_a judgement_n or_o by_o death_n unto_o thou_o particular_o before_o this_o reason_n be_v put_v a_o note_n of_o attention_n behold_v to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o the_o speedy_a come_n of_o christ_n unto_o we_o either_o by_o death_n in_o particular_a or_o in_o judgement_n general_a be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a moment_n never_o to_o be_v forget_v but_o â—aid_v up_o &_o treasure_v even_o in_o the_o bottom_n of_o our_o heart_n herein_o we_o must_v not_o flatter_v ourselves_o and_o say_v with_o the_o bad_a servant_n mat._n 24.48_o my_o master_n do_v foreslowe_v his_o come_n for_o that_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o so_o much_o wickedness_n and_o impenitency_n as_o be_v in_o the_o world_n but_o rather_o with_o a_o ancient_a jerome_n father_n think_v we_o ever_o hear_v the_o sound_n of_o his_o trumpet_n this_o daily_a persuasion_n of_o the_o speedy_a come_n of_o christ_n be_v of_o notable_a use_n for_o first_o it_o will_v daunt_v the_o most_o desperate_a wretch_n that_o be_v and_o make_v he_o to_o tremble_v in_o himself_o and_o restrain_v he_o from_o many_o sin_n and_o if_o a_o man_n belong_v to_o god_n and_o be_v yet_o a_o loose_a liver_n this_o persuasion_n will_v rouse_v he_o out_o of_o his_o sin_n and_o make_v he_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o use_v the_o mean_n of_o repentance_n for_o who_o will_v not_o seek_v to_o save_v his_o soul_n if_o he_o be_v persuade_v that_o christ_n be_v now_o come_v to_o give_v he_o his_o final_a reward_n second_o if_o a_o man_n have_v grace_n and_o have_v repent_v and_o do_v believe_v this_o persuasion_n be_v a_o notable_a mean_n to_o make_v he_o constant_a in_o every_o good_a duty_n both_o of_o piety_n to_o god_n and_o of_o charity_n towards_o his_o brethren_n three_o this_o serve_v to_o comfort_v any_o person_n that_o be_v in_o affliction_n for_o when_o he_o shall_v believe_v this_o which_o christ_n have_v say_v i_o come_v short_o he_o can_v but_o think_v but_o his_o deliverance_n be_v at_o hand_n for_o at_o his_o come_n he_o bring_v perfect_a redemption_n to_o all_o his_o elect._n the_o second_o reason_n be_v set_v after_o the_o commandment_n that_o no_o man_n take_v thy_o crown_n that_o be_v the_o crown_n of_o thy_o glory_n even_o everlasting_a life_n this_o must_v not_o be_v restrain_v to_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n take_v it_o only_o for_o the_o crown_n of_o his_o ministry_n though_o it_o be_v also_o understand_v of_o he_o but_o the_o same_o must_v be_v refer_v to_o the_o whole_a church_n as_o if_o our_o saviour_n christ_n shall_v say_v if_o thou_o hold_v not_o fast_o thy_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n thou_o will_v loose_v the_o crown_n of_o glory_n that_o be_v ordain_v for_o thou_o hence_o some_o gather_v that_o a_o man_n ordain_v to_o life_n may_v final_o perish_v because_o another_o may_v have_v that_o crown_n which_o be_v ordain_v for_o he_o but_o this_o be_v a_o flat_a abuse_n of_o this_o and_o such_o like_a text_n of_o scripture_n for_o the_o word_n be_v not_o absolute_a that_o a_o man_n may_v loose_v his_o crown_n but_o conditional_a hold_v fast_o or_o else_o thou_o shall_v perish_v and_o loose_v eternal_a life_n though_o it_o be_v ordain_v for_o thou_o now_o the_o use_n of_o such_o speech_n be_v not_o to_o signify_v fall_v from_o grace_n but_o to_o show_v unto_o we_o our_o own_o weakness_n in_o ourselves_o that_o we_o may_v acknowledge_v that_o if_o we_o be_v leave_v of_o god_n whole_o to_o ourselves_o we_o can_v not_o but_o perish_v therefore_o they_o serve_v to_o stir_v up_o the_o child_n of_o god_n to_o humble_v himself_o in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o own_o weakness_n unto_o a_o careful_a use_v of_o the_o mean_n to_o come_v to_o salvation_n like_a as_o a_o father_n that_o take_v his_o child_n and_o set_v he_o on_o a_o horse_n guide_v the_o horse_n with_o one_o hand_n and_o hold_v he_o with_o the_o other_o and_o then_o say_v unto_o the_o child_n take_v heed_n lest_o thou_o fall_v not_o mean_v thereby_o that_o the_o child_n shall_v fall_v but_o intend_v to_o make_v he_o sit_v fast_o &_o to_o let_v he_o know_v that_o if_o he_o shall_v leave_v he_o he_o will_v fall_v second_o christ_n use_v such_o speech_n that_o thereby_o he_o may_v make_v his_o church_n persevere_v in_o grace_n unto_o the_o end_n for_o all_o exhortation_n and_o threaten_n in_o god_n word_n be_v instrument_n of_o perseverance_n in_o grace_n unto_o god_n child_n because_o as_o god_n have_v appoint_v who_o shall_v be_v save_v certain_o so_o he_o have_v ordain_v certain_a mean_n to_o bring_v the_o same_o to_o pass_v part_v whereof_o be_v exhortation_n &_o threaten_n which_o do_v not_o import_v any_o final_a relapse_n but_o serve_v as_o mean_n &_o cause_n of_o perseverance_n and_o for_o this_o end_n do_v christ_n here_o bid_v this_o church_n hold_v fast_o lest_o another_o take_v her_o crown_n in_o this_o threaten_n we_o may_v note_v that_o when_o god_n withdraw_v his_o grace_n from_o one_o man_n or_o his_o blessing_n from_o any_o one_o people_n for_o the_o abuse_n thereof_o he_o have_v other_o ready_a to_o bestow_v the_o same_o upon_o who_o will_v use_v the_o same_o well_o when_o judas_n be_v cut_v off_o from_o the_o apostleship_n mathias_n be_v choose_v in_o his_o room_n and_o when_o the_o jew_n by_o infidelity_n fall_v away_o from_o god_n he_o have_v the_o gentile_n in_o store_n to_o engraph_v in_o their_o stead_n for_o the_o the_o arm_n of_o god_n be_v not_o shorten_v when_o any_o one_o people_n shall_v abuse_v his_o gospel_n he_o can_v give_v it_o to_o another_o that_o will_v bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o mat._n 21.43_o this_o must_v be_v think_v upon_o for_o by_o god_n mercy_n we_o be_v now_o god_n people_n use_n and_o do_v enjoy_v his_o gospel_n but_o we_o must_v not_o flatter_v ourselves_o herewith_o for_o if_o we_o abuse_v the_o same_o we_o must_v know_v that_o he_o have_v another_o nation_n in_o store_n who_o we_o now_o contemn_v whither_o he_o can_v send_v his_o gospel_n and_o cause_v they_o to_o bring_v forth_o the_o plentiful_a fruit_n thereof_o we_o therefore_o must_v embrace_v and_o hold_v fast_o this_o blessing_n of_o god_n which_o now_o we_o enjoy_v and_o show_v
forth_o the_o power_n of_o obedience_n or_o else_o god_n will_v take_v it_o from_o us._n and_o we_o know_v not_o how_o near_o this_o judgement_n be_v see_v other_o particular_a judgement_n have_v not_o bring_v we_o to_o repent_v and_o what_o else_o mean_v the_o rumour_n of_o war_n be_v they_o not_o god_n warning_n bid_v we_o hold_v fast_o his_o gospel_n or_o else_o it_o will_v be_v take_v from_o we_o although_o therefore_o we_o lose_v all_o other_o thing_n as_o honour_n riches_n land_n or_o life_n itself_o yet_o let_v we_o hold_v fast_o our_o crown_n when_o the_o ark_n of_o god_n be_v go_v no_o glory_n be_v leave_v 1._o sam._n 4.21_o vers._n 12._o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o make_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o my_o god_n &_o he_o shall_v go_v no_o more_o out_o and_o i_o will_v write_v upon_o he_o the_o name_n of_o my_o god_n and_o the_o name_n of_o the_o city_n of_o my_o god_n which_o be_v the_o new_a jerusalem_n which_o come_v down_o out_o of_o heaven_n from_o my_o god_n and_o i_o will_v write_v upon_o he_o my_o new_a name_n vers._n 13._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n these_o word_n be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n which_o contain_v two_o part_n first_o a_o promise_n in_o the_o twelve_o vers_fw-la second_o a_o commandment_n in_o the_o 13._o for_o the_o promise_n in_o it_o we_o be_v to_o observe_v two_o point_n the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v and_o the_o thing_n promise_v the_o party_n be_v he_o that_o overcom_v of_o who_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o for_o this_o promise_n have_v be_v propound_v six_o time_n for_o substance_n the_o same_o though_o in_o other_o term_n yet_o here_o the_o very_a word_n overcome_v do_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o he_o that_o will_v have_v his_o service_n please_v to_o god_n must_v dispose_v himself_o to_o a_o battle_n or_o combat_n for_o overcome_v presuppose_v a_o fight_n the_o enemy_n which_o he_o be_v to_o fight_v against_o be_v spiritual_a to_o wit_n his_o own_o corrupt_a nature_n the_o wicked_a world_n and_o the_o devil_n and_o in_o this_o spiritual_a combat_n a_o man_n must_v be_v a_o good_a soldier_n before_o he_o can_v be_v a_o good_a christian_a for_o all_o these_o enemy_n will_v seek_v to_o draw_v he_o back_o and_o hinder_v he_o so_o soon_o as_o he_o shall_v any_o way_n endeavour_n to_o please_v god_n indeed_o god_n can_v have_v free_v his_o servant_n from_o all_o temptation_n but_o he_o will_v not_o it_o be_v god_n pleasure_n by_o temptation_n to_o have_v his_o servant_n try_v whereby_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o they_o be_v deceive_v that_o imagine_v the_o state_n of_o a_o christian_n to_o be_v a_o freedom_n from_o all_o misery_n and_o temptation_n or_o a_o state_n of_o ease_n wherein_o be_v no_o strife_n or_o trouble_n to_o disquiet_v the_o mind_n nay_o it_o be_v a_o soldier_n condition_n in_o which_o he_o that_o will_v overcome_v must_v wage_v aperpetuall_a battle_n against_o all_o his_o enemy_n both_o within_o he_o and_o without_o he_o and_o that_o unto_o death_n the_o thing_n promise_v will_v i_o make_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o house_n of_o my_o god_n and_o he_o shall_v go_v no_o more_o out_o here_o christ_n do_v most_o notable_o express_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o eternal_a life_n in_o the_o description_n whereof_o he_o do_v allude_v to_o the_o custom_n &_o practice_n of_o man_n who_o mind_v to_o perserue_v the_o memory_n of_o their_o name_n after_o their_o death_n use_v to_o erect_v durable_a pillar_n of_o wood_n or_o stone_n in_o some_o town_n valley_n or_o mountain_n with_o their_o name_n engrave_v or_o write_v thereon_o this_o practice_n be_v common_a in_o humane_a history_n and_o 18_o absalon_n want_v issue_n set_v up_o a_o pillar_n with_o his_o own_o name_n upon_o it_o in_o the_o king_n dale_n thereby_o to_o continue_v his_o remembrance_n with_o posterity_n the_o meaning_n than_o be_v as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v other_o for_o the_o continue_n of_o their_o memory_n after_o their_o death_n do_v in_o some_o special_a place_n erect_v some_o durable_a pillar_n of_o wood_n or_o stone_n with_o their_o own_o name_n write_v or_o engrave_v thereon_o but_o to_o he_o that_o overcom_v i_o will_v not_o set_v up_o such_o a_o pillar_n but_o even_o make_v he_o a_o pillar_n durable_a and_o everlasting_a who_o memory_n shall_v always_o continue_v he_o add_v further_a he_o shall_v be_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o my_o god_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v other_o set_v up_o their_o pillar_n in_o valley_n and_o mountain_n or_o such_o place_n where_o some_o notable_a exploit_n have_v be_v wrought_v but_o the_o place_n which_o i_o will_v choose_v say_v christ_n be_v the_o temple_n of_o my_o god_n that_o be_v the_o church_n triumphant_a which_o be_v figure_v by_o the_o temple_n in_o jerusalem_n and_o by_o the_o tabernacle_n as_o we_o may_v see_v heb._n 9.9_o and_o revel_v 21.3_o for_o those_o be_v two_o place_n where_o god_n people_n worship_v he_o &_o where_o god_n testify_v his_o presence_n in_o a_o special_a manner_n unto_o his_o people_n and_o so_o in_o the_o true_a temple_n the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n god_n saint_n and_o angel_n do_v worship_n he_o immediate_o where_o god_n be_v present_a with_o they_o in_o most_o glorious_a &_o comfortable_a manner_n this_o then_o be_v christ_n meaning_n he_o shall_v not_o only_o be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o temple_n but_o a_o excellent_a part_n even_o a_o pillar_n in_o the_o triumphant_a church_n in_o heaven_n and_o to_o show_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o temple_n christ_n call_v it_o the_o temple_n of_o his_o god_n thereby_o note_v the_o high_a heaven_n where_o observe_v that_o god_n be_v call_v christ_n god_n which_o argue_v inferioritie_n and_o therefore_o it_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v man_n and_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n in_o which_o respect_n he_o receive_v from_o his_o father_n all_o his_o office_n and_o power_n to_o execute_v the_o same_o but_o as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o be_v equal_a with_o his_o father_n and_o receive_v nothing_o from_o he_o and_o to_o instruct_v be_v yet_o further_o herein_o christ_n say_v he_o shall_v go_v no_o more_o out_o when_o man_n erect_v pillar_n for_o their_o memorial_n in_o process_n of_o time_n they_o will_v wear_v away_o and_o therefore_o they_o cause_v they_o to_o be_v renew_v or_o else_o their_o remembrance_n thereby_o will_v not_o continue_v but_o he_o that_o be_v once_o make_v a_o member_n of_o the_o triumphant_a church_n shall_v there_o remain_v for_o ever_o and_o ever_o and_o no_o time_n shall_v ever_o come_v wherein_o he_o shall_v cease_v to_o be_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o same_o further_o in_o the_o pillar_n erect_v by_o man_n their_o name_n be_v write_v or_o engrave_v and_o to_o this_o practice_n christ_n allude_v say_v that_o he_o that_o be_v make_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o triumphant_a church_n shall_v have_v name_n write_v on_o he_o these_o name_n be_v three_o i._o the_o name_n of_o my_o god_n that_o be_v i_o will_v make_v it_o manifest_a that_o this_o man_n be_v indeed_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o that_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o unto_o he_o the_o second_o name_n be_v the_o name_n of_o the_o city_n of_o my_o god_n by_o city_n he_o mean_v not_o the_o triumphant_a church_n but_o the_o place_n where_o the_o triumphant_a church_n shall_v be_v to_o wit_n the_o high_a heaven_n as_o it_o be_v take_v revel_v 21.10_o so_o that_o hereby_o christ_n will_v teach_v we_o thus_o much_o that_o he_o which_o overcom_v shall_v be_v know_v to_o be_v a_o citizen_n of_o heaven_n and_o that_o the_o privilege_n of_o that_o kingdom_n belong_v unto_o he_o and_o lest_o any_o shall_v doubt_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o city_n of_o god_n christ_n here_o describe_v it_o first_o by_o the_o resemblance_n thereof_o call_v it_o jerusalem_n because_o that_o city_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o temple_n especial_o be_v a_o figure_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n second_o he_o call_v it_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n that_o be_v the_o place_n of_o the_o triumphant_a church_n even_o the_o high_a heaven_n which_o be_v not_o call_v new_a in_o respect_n of_o be_v for_o it_o be_v from_o the_o beginning_n but_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o manner_n of_o reveal_v and_o manifest_v it_o for_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o new_a jerusalem_n be_v reveal_v to_o the_o jew_n only_o and_o that_o obscure_o but_o under_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v more_o full_o reveal_v not_o only_o to_o the_o jew_n but_o to_o all_o the_o world_n three_o he_o add_v that_o it_o do_v now_o descend_v out_o of_o heaven_n from_o his_o god_n therein_o answer_v to_o a_o objection_n for_o it_o may_v
that_o no_o man_n can_v have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o by_o christ_n we_o must_v not_o look_v to_o have_v immediate_a fellowship_n with_o god_n of_o ourselves_o or_o by_o any_o other_o but_o by_o christ_n god_n hear_v not_o god_n help_v not_o god_n save_v not_o but_o by_o christ_n nay_o god_n be_v no_o god_n unto_o we_o out_o of_o christ._n for_o first_o he_o be_v a_o god_n unto_o christ_n and_o then_o in_o he_o and_o by_o he_o unto_o us._n therefore_o if_o we_o will_v call_v upon_o god_n we_o must_v call_v on_o he_o through_o christ_n if_o we_o will_v give_v he_o thanks_n it_o must_v be_v in_o and_o by_o christ_n for_o in_o he_o only_o be_v we_o hear_v if_o we_o will_v know_v god_n it_o must_v be_v by_o christ_n for_o he_o be_v the_o very_a engraven_a image_n of_o his_o father_n in_o who_o be_v manife_v the_o wisdom_n justice_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o he_o dwell_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o godhead_n and_o to_o conceive_v of_o god_n out_o of_o christ_n be_v to_o make_v god_n a_o idol_n in_o the_o brain_n last_o if_o we_o will_v receive_v any_o temporal_a blessing_n from_o god_n it_o must_v be_v in_o and_o by_o christ_n as_o meat_n drink_n and_o clothing_n for_o if_o we_o receive_v they_o from_o god_n out_o of_o christ_n we_o be_v but_o usurper_n of_o they_o and_o the_o use_n thereof_o shall_v turn_v to_o our_o further_a condemnation_n four_o he_o say_v i_o will_v write_v on_o he_o the_o name_n of_o the_o city_n of_o my_o god_n that_o be_v he_o shall_v have_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n we_o do_v all_o desire_n and_o look_v for_o the_o inheritance_n of_o god_n kingdom_n after_o this_o life_n therefore_o here_o we_o must_v live_v as_o citizen_n of_o god_n kingdom_n conform_v ourselves_o to_o god_n commandment_n abandon_v all_o sin_n and_o so_o live_v in_o faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n that_o after_o this_o life_n we_o may_v assure_o persuade_v ourselves_o we_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o this_o kingdom_n five_o it_o be_v say_v this_o city_n of_o god_n be_v the_o new_a jerusalem_n which_o come_v down_o out_o of_o heaven_n from_o god_n that_o be_v by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v more_o careful_o to_o seek_v to_o attain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n for_o behold_v god_n endless_a mercy_n herein_o our_o sin_n shut_v heaven_n gate_n against_o we_o but_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n he_o have_v open_v they_o and_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n he_o make_v heaven_n come_v down_o unto_o man_n god_n therefore_o will_v not_o see_v we_o damn_v he_o have_v make_v open_a away_o even_o a_o new_a and_o live_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v come_v to_o heaven_n and_o escape_n hell_n god_n have_v bring_v down_o heaven_n among_o man_n we_o must_v therefore_o with_o the_o people_n in_o john_n baptist_n time_n violent_o enter_v into_o this_o kingdom_n and_o strive_v to_o take_v it_o by_o force_n matt._n 11.12_o last_o he_o say_v i_o will_v write_v my_o new_a name_n on_o he_o that_o be_v i_o will_v make_v he_o partaker_n of_o that_o glory_n and_o digniâ—ie_v wherewith_o i_o myself_o be_o glorify_v since_o my_o death_n and_o resurrection_n mark_v this_o all_o that_o after_o this_o life_n must_v have_v christ_n new_a name_n must_v in_o this_o life_n become_v new_a creature_n so_o paul_n say_v 5.17_o if_o any_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o new_a creature_n and_o again_o 6.15_o neither_o circumcision_n nor_o uncircumcision_n avail_v any_o thing_n but_o a_o new_a creation_n will_v we_o then_o partake_v with_o christ_n in_o his_o glory_n we_o must_v here_o be_v partaker_n of_o his_o grace_n herein_o stand_v true_a religion_n to_o become_v new_a creature_n and_o not_o in_o bare_a knowledge_n and_o profession_n we_o must_v therefore_o put_v of_o 4.23.24_o the_o old_a man_n which_o be_v corrupt_a with_o sin_n and_o be_v renew_a in_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o mâ—â—ds_n 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 but_o if_o we_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o image_n of_o the_o old_a man_n wherein_o we_o be_v bear_v we_o shall_v never_o partake_v of_o christ_n glory_n for_o this_o new_a name_n must_v be_v give_v to_o the_o new_a creature_n the_o old_a man_n and_o it_o can_v agree_v together_o vers._n 13._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n this_o conclusion_n have_v be_v handle_v in_o in_o the_o former_a epistle_n vers._n 14._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v amen_o that_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n that_o beginning_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n here_o follow_v the_o seven_o and_o last_o epistle_n to_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n whereto_o be_v prefix_v a_o commandment_n unto_o john_n whereby_o he_o be_v authorise_v to_o pen_v the_o same_o in_o these_o word_n and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n write_v which_o have_v be_v handle_v before_o the_o epistle_n itself_o have_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n the_o substance_n or_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n and_o the_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n be_v this_o 14._o verse_n wherein_o be_v set_v down_o in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v to_o wit_n christ_n who_o be_v here_o describe_v by_o two_o argument_n i._o he_o be_v call_v amen_o which_o be_v that_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n ii_o he_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n for_o the_o first_o amen_o be_v a_o hebrew_n aduerbe_n of_o asseveration_n signify_v as_o much_o as_o very_o true_o or_o certain_o this_o title_n be_v give_v to_o christ_n &_o the_o reason_n thereof_o be_v express_v in_o the_o word_n follow_v which_o be_v a_o full_a exposition_n of_o the_o same_o amen_n be_v that_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n so_o that_o christ_n be_v call_v amen_o to_o testify_v that_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o a_o true_a witness_n which_o title_n be_v give_v to_o christ_n in_o the_o 5._o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n where_o it_o be_v expound_v and_o reason_n render_v why_o he_o be_v so_o call_v unto_o which_o title_n be_v here_o add_v that_o he_o be_v a_o true_a witness_n because_o he_o speak_v the_o truth_n according_a as_o every_o thing_n be_v in_o itself_o without_o error_n deceit_n or_o falsehood_n for_o that_o which_o he_o receive_v from_o his_o father_n be_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n which_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o all_o truth_n that_o we_o may_v come_v to_o the_o right_a use_n of_o this_o argument_n we_o must_v first_o search_v out_o the_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v amen_o that_o a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n which_o by_o the_o content_n of_o the_o epistle_n we_o may_v easy_o guess_v to_o be_v these_o first_o to_o set_v forth_o himself_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n a_o example_n and_o pattern_n of_o fidelity_n in_o his_o ministry_n in_o the_o duty_n whereof_o he_o have_v be_v slack_a and_o negligent_a christ_n therefore_o by_o his_o own_o example_n will_v teach_v he_o without_o respect_n of_o person_n to_o instruct_v the_o church_n of_o god_n true_o and_o faithful_o how_o this_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v have_v be_v show_v before_o chap._n 1.5_o and_o not_o only_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n but_o also_o to_o all_o the_o church_n and_o to_o all_o they_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v his_o member_n do_v christ_n propound_v himself_o a_o example_n of_o two_o most_o worthy_a virtue_n faith_n and_o truth_n for_o the_o first_o faith_n be_v a_o virtue_n whereby_o a_o man_n make_v good_a all_o his_o lawful_a word_n promise_n oath_n league_n compact_n and_o bargain_n whatsoever_o so_o as_o his_o word_n be_v as_o sure_a as_o a_o obligation_n as_o we_o use_v to_o speak_v truth_n be_v another_o virtue_n whereby_o a_o man_n without_o fraud_n lie_v or_o deceit_n speak_v the_o truth_n from_o his_o heart_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v know_v for_o his_o own_o good_a the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o other_o we_o therefore_o must_v set_v before_o our_o eye_n this_o precedent_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n as_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n yea_o a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n without_o any_o fame_a or_o falsehood_n so_o let_v we_o labour_n to_o show_v ourselves_o faithful_a in_o all_o lawful_a promise_n and_o true_a in_o all_o our_o speech_n that_o so_o by_o these_o virtue_n we_o may_v be_v know_v to_o be_v like_a unto_o christ_n through_o our_o whole_a life_n and_o conversation_n second_o
christ_n be_v here_o call_v amen_o to_o induce_v this_o church_n of_o laodicia_n to_o apply_v effectual_o unto_o herself_o the_o word_n of_o god_n whether_o threaten_n or_o promise_n this_o church_n have_v be_v negligent_a in_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n which_o come_v for_o want_v of_o apply_v god_n word_n unto_o the_o self_n the_o right_a manner_n of_o apply_v god_n word_n be_v this_o in_o god_n word_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o law_n there_o be_v commandment_n and_o threaten_n now_o a_o man_n must_v apply_v to_o his_o own_o person_n and_o life_n god_n commandment_n particular_o that_o thereby_o he_o may_v come_v to_o know_v his_o particular_a sin_n then_o he_o must_v also_o apply_v the_o threaten_n of_o god_n unto_o himself_o that_o thereby_o he_o may_v be_v humble_v through_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o misery_n and_o so_o make_v fit_a &_o capable_a of_o god_n grace_n thus_o the_o prodigal_a son_n apply_v the_o law_n unto_o himself_o when_o he_o say_v 15.21_o i_o have_v sin_v against_o heaven_n and_o against_o thou_o and_o be_o no_o more_o worthy_a to_o be_v call_v thy_o son_n so_o do_v 9_o daniel_n and_o 9_o ezrah_n by_o apply_v the_o law_n unto_o themselves_o humble_v themselves_o and_o their_o people_n for_o this_o be_v the_o way_n to_o humble_v any_o man_n &_o to_o make_v he_o fit_a to_o receve_v grace_n for_o the_o law_n be_v our_o schoolmaster_n to_o bring_v we_o to_o christ._n gal_n 3.24_o and_o the_o want_n of_o this_o special_a application_n of_o the_o law_n be_v a_o cause_n of_o the_o dulness_n of_o the_o laodician_n and_o be_v also_o of_o our_o slackness_n in_o religion_n at_o this_o day_n second_o the_o gospel_n also_o must_v be_v apply_v not_o only_o by_o belee_v it_o to_o be_v true_a as_o the_o papist_n teach_v but_o also_o by_o apply_v unto_o ourselves_o particular_o the_o promise_n of_o righteousness_n and_o life_n everlasting_a by_o christ._n accord_v as_o paul_n say_v 10._o i_o desire_v to_o win_v christ_n &_o to_o be_v find_v in_o he_o not_o have_v my_o own_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o the_o law_n but_o that_o which_o be_v through_o the_o faith_n of_o christ._n vers._n 15_o let_v we_o say_v he_o as_o many_o as_o be_v perfect_a be_v thus_o mind_v teach_v every_o one_o this_o special_a duty_n of_o particular_a application_n for_o as_o saint_n john_n say_v he_o that_o by_o faith_n do_v not_o apply_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n particular_o to_o himself_o 5.10_o make_v god_n a_o liar_n and_o the_o want_n of_o this_o application_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o negligence_n in_o religion_n and_o of_o so_o many_o lukewarm_a gospeler_n as_o be_v at_o this_o day_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o know_v the_o gospel_n to_o be_v true_a or_o to_o be_v able_a to_o teach_v it_o unto_o other_o unless_o we_o can_v thus_o apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o this_o then_o serve_v to_o prove_v that_o justify_n faith_n must_v not_o only_o be_v a_o bare_a assent_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o a_o special_a faith_n which_o do_v apply_v particular_o unto_o a_o man_n those_o promise_n which_o be_v propound_v concern_v righteousness_n and_o life_n everlasting_a by_o christ._n the_o second_o argument_n and_o title_n whereby_o christ_n be_v describe_v be_v this_o that_o he_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n the_o meaning_n whereof_o be_v that_o christ_n be_v he_o that_o be_v the_o creator_n of_o all_o god_n creature_n that_o be_v create_v so_o it_o be_v say_v 1.16_o by_o he_o all_o thing_n be_v create_v in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n and_o though_o this_o be_v true_a yet_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n for_o a_o further_a respect_n namely_o because_o he_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n in_o regeneration_n so_o it_o be_v say_v 2.10_o we_o be_v the_o workemaâ—ship_n of_o god_n create_v in_o christ_n unto_o good_a work_n so_o that_o every_o regenerate_a person_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n to_o which_o purpose_n it_o be_v say_v of_o christ_n 53.10_o when_o he_o shall_v give_v his_o soul_n a_o offering_n for_o sin_n he_o shall_v see_v his_o seed_n etc._n etc._n because_o christ_n be_v the_o root_n and_o seed_n of_o all_o that_o be_v bear_v again_o how_o be_v christ_n will_n some_o say_v the_o beginning_n of_o a_o new_a creature_n answ._n two_o way_n i._o as_o he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o regeneration_n for_o he_o be_v the_o cause_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v regenerate_v in_o which_o respect_n he_o be_v call_v the_o father_n of_o eternity_n isaiah_n 9.6_o and_o again_o he_o say_v behold_v 8.18_o i_o and_o the_o child_n who_o thou_o hest_n give_v i_o second_o because_o he_o be_v the_o matter_n and_o root_n out_o of_o which_o a_o new_a creature_n do_v spring_n and_o so_o the_o church_n be_v call_v 5.30_o bone_n of_o his_o bone_n and_o flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n allude_v unto_o adam_n and_o eve_n who_o be_v a_o type_n of_o christ_n &_o his_o church_n for_o as_o eve_n be_v take_v out_o of_o adam_n side_n so_o the_o church_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o spring_v of_o the_o blood_n that_o issue_v out_o of_o christ_n side_n which_o be_v of_o infinite_a merit_n be_v the_o blood_n of_o he_o that_o be_v god_n the_o end_n why_o christ_n in_o this_o epistle_n be_v call_v the_o beginning_n of_o god_n creature_n as_o we_o see_v by_o the_o content_n thereof_o be_v to_o meet_v with_o this_o common_a vice_n of_o this_o church_n that_o they_o have_v more_o care_n to_o seem_v to_o be_v religious_a then_o to_o be_v religious_a indeed_o now_o châ—ist_n will_v by_o this_o his_o title_n give_v they_o to_o understand_v that_o their_o chief_a caâ—e_n must_v be_v to_o become_v new_a creature_n indeed_o and_o no_o doubt_n this_o be_v the_o fault_n of_o our_o day_n our_o care_n be_v less_o for_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n then_o for_o the_o name_n thereof_o we_o more_o respect_v show_v than_o substance_n and_o shadow_n than_o truth_n itself_o which_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v for_o if_o we_o will_v be_v in_o christ_n we_o must_v become_v new_a creature_n to_o exercise_v ourselves_o in_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n be_v good_a in_o their_o kind_n but_o without_o this_o new_a creation_n they_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o salvation_n second_o hereby_o he_o will_v meet_v with_o this_o special_a pride_n of_o they_o whereby_o they_o do_v boast_v themselves_o to_o be_v rich_a and_o to_o want_v nothing_o but_o christ_n tell_v they_o that_o there_o be_v no_o dignity_n in_o any_o thing_n out_o of_o this_o whereby_o in_o christ_n they_o be_v make_v new_a creature_n we_o therefore_o must_v learn_v by_o they_o not_o to_o be_v puff_v up_o with_o outward_a privilege_n of_o nobility_n wealth_n strength_n or_o such_o like_a as_o many_o do_v but_o he_o that_o will_v rejoice_v must_v rejoice_v in_o this_o that_o he_o be_v a_o new_a creature_n in_o christ_n jesus_n further_o by_o call_v himself_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n christ_n will_v teach_v they_o and_o we_o that_o he_o do_v love_v his_o church_n and_o preserve_v the_o same_o eve_n be_v create_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n not_o a_o part_n from_o adam_n but_o of_o his_o rib_n for_o this_o end_n that_o he_o may_v love_v and_o protect_v she_o &_o that_o she_o may_v reverence_v and_o serve_v he_o even_o so_o every_o new_a creature_n spring_v out_o of_o christ_n heart_n blood_n which_o god_n have_v so_o wrought_v that_o we_o may_v know_v how_o christ_n have_v love_v we_o and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o magnify_v and_o honour_v he_o adam_n be_v not_o the_o author_n but_o the_o matter_n only_o whereof_o eve_n be_v make_v but_o christ_n be_v both_o the_o author_n and_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o regeneration_n wherein_o appear_v his_o exceed_a love_n unto_o us._n and_o look_n as_o the_o root_n spend_v itself_o for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o branch_n so_o do_v ghrist_n spend_v his_o own_o blood_n for_o the_o salvation_n of_o his_o church_n four_o whereas_o he_o be_v call_v the_o beginning_n of_o his_o regeneration_n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v erroneous_a which_o teach_v that_o a_o man_n in_o his_o first_o conversion_n hatâ—_n use_v of_o his_o natural_a freewill_n and_o can_v dispose_v himself_o in_o the_o act_n of_o his_o regeneration_n but_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n can_v dispose_v himself_o in_o his_o creation_n now_o every_o man_n that_o be_v regenerate_v be_v the_o new_a creature_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o power_n to_o dispose_v himself_o in_o his_o new_a creation_n vers._n 15._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a
three_o man_n will_v profess_v that_o they_o be_v rich_a in_o love_n both_o towards_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n when_o as_o they_o love_v the_o world_n and_o the_o pleasure_n thereof_o more_o than_o christ_n and_o so_o have_v no_o true_a love_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n four_o to_o make_v more_o plain_a that_o this_o spiritual_a pride_n reign_v in_o man_n heart_n mark_v this_o let_v any_o bodily_a calamity_n be_v make_v know_v to_o a_o man_n that_o be_v new_o befall_v he_o oh_o how_o be_v he_o present_o perplex_v but_o let_v god_n minister_v out_o of_o his_o word_n make_v know_v unto_o he_o his_o inward_a fearful_a estate_n that_o by_o reason_n of_o sin_n he_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o god_n judgement_n and_o a_o firebrand_n of_o hell_n he_o be_v not_o afraid_a worldly_a news_n do_v affright_v man_n much_o when_o as_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o word_n move_v they_o nothing_o what_o argue_v this_o but_o that_o their_o heart_n be_v forestalled_n with_o this_o false_a conceit_n i_o be_o rich_a the_o drunkard_n in_o his_o drunkenness_n the_o filthy_a person_n in_o his_o uncleanness_n and_o every_o man_n in_o his_o sin_n soothe_v himself_o with_o this_o god_n be_v merciful_a i_o be_o rich_a and_o in_o his_o favour_n he_o will_v not_o condemn_v i_o well_o it_o be_v thus_o manifest_a that_o spiritual_a pride_n be_v our_o common_a sin_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o see_v it_o in_o ourselves_o and_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n that_o it_o may_v be_v remove_v the_o mean_n follow_v afterward_o and_o increase_v with_o good_n or_o be_o make_v rich_a so_o the_o word_n be_v these_o word_n be_v add_v only_o for_o amplification_n to_o show_v that_o this_o church_n have_v not_o any_o small_a portion_n but_o a_o exceed_a measure_n of_o spiritual_a pride_n the_o double_n of_o the_o word_n show_v the_o strength_n of_o this_o conceit_n what_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o this_o church_n be_v grow_v to_o such_o a_o height_n of_o pride_n answ._n it_o may_v be_v it_o be_v knowledge_n wherewith_o no_o doubt_n the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n and_o many_o therein_o do_v abound_v now_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v 1_o that_o knowledge_n puss_v up_o this_o be_v true_a in_o all_o place_n great_a knowledge_n without_o special_a grace_n great_a pride_n this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o school_n of_o learning_n where_o knowledge_n abound_v there_o pride_n of_o heart_n abound_v and_o man_n be_v puff_v up_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o gift_n unless_o by_o his_o grace_n and_o the_o sight_n of_o their_o sin_n god_n do_v humble_a they_o and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o this_o be_v a_o further_a sign_n of_o their_o great_a pride_n that_o they_o think_v they_o need_v not_o the_o help_n of_o any_o thing_n or_o any_o person_n beside_o themselves_o and_o all_o such_o as_o think_v they_o have_v no_o need_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o wash_n away_o of_o their_o sin_n do_v surfeit_n and_o abound_v with_o this_o spiritual_a pride_n of_o heart_n this_o serve_v further_a to_o convince_v our_o congregation_n of_o this_o damnable_a spiritual_a pride_n if_o any_o one_o be_v sick_a in_o body_n he_o straight_o send_v to_o the_o physician_n but_o not_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o seek_v to_o the_o minister_n till_o the_o pang_n of_o death_n draw_v near_o the_o soul_n disease_n by_o sin_n be_v not_o feel_v there_o be_v no_o complaint_n for_o want_v of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n but_o if_o we_o will_v be_v empty_v of_o this_o pride_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o see_v that_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o christ_n and_o every_o drop_n of_o his_o blood_n till_o such_o time_n as_o we_o feel_v that_o in_o we_o there_o be_v no_o goodness_n in_o our_o heart_n we_o be_v but_o the_o proud_a laodicean_n and_o our_o case_n be_v wretched_a and_o damnable_a and_o know_v not_o how_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a and_o poor_a and_o blind_a and_o naked_a christ_n intend_v to_o strike_v this_o sin_n of_o pride_n to_o the_o very_a heart_n do_v here_o set_v down_o the_o true_a cause_n thereof_o to_o wit_n ignorance_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v thou_o know_v not_o thy_o own_o natural_a estate_n as_o thou_o be_v bear_v of_o adam_n out_o of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o thou_o be_v proud_a and_o thy_o pride_n make_v thou_o lukewarm_a then_o he_o show_v whereof_o they_o be_v ignorant_a namely_o of_o their_o natural_a estate_n for_o the_o first_o christ_n make_v ignorance_n the_o cause_n of_o their_o pride_n teach_v we_o that_o pride_n be_v not_o the_o first_o sin_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n as_o many_o both_o papist_n and_o other_o have_v think_v true_a it_o be_v pride_n be_v a_o great_a and_o mother_n sin_n and_o the_o cause_n of_o many_o foul_a iniquity_n but_o yet_o ignorance_n be_v a_o mother_n sin_n whereof_o pride_n spring_v the_o cause_n why_o any_o person_n swell_v with_o pride_n in_o himself_o be_v ignorance_n of_o his_o own_o natural_a estate_n by_o this_o than_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o learn_v to_o know_v our_o own_o estate_n what_o we_o be_v by_o nature_n in_o ourselves_o without_o christ_n for_o that_o be_v the_o way_n to_o pull_v down_o our_o heart_n for_o this_o cause_n the_o prophet_n of_o god_n use_v to_o call_v man_n to_o a_o search_n of_o themselves_o zeph._n 2.1_o when_o they_o will_v bring_v the_o people_n to_o humility_n and_o grace_n that_o man_n see_v their_o estate_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o sin_n to_o be_v damnable_a may_v be_v humble_v and_o cause_v to_o forsake_v themselves_o and_o come_v unto_o christ._n and_o sure_o till_o such_o time_n as_o man_n be_v humble_v for_o their_o sin_n they_o will_v never_o get_v sound_a grace_n but_o be_v as_o the_o proud_a pharisie_n hypocrite_n and_o dissembler_n though_o they_o have_v much_o knowledge_n but_o when_o a_o man_n have_v search_v his_o natural_a estate_n then_o beside_o knowledge_n of_o himself_o come_v other_o most_o excellent_a grace_n as_o humility_n the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o true_a obedience_n with_o good_a conscience_n and_o therefore_o first_o of_o all_o let_v we_o labour_n to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o our_o own_o estate_n in_o ourselves_o &_o with_o our_o personal_a sin_n &_o with_o god_n judgment_n due_a unto_o we_o for_o they_o for_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o true_a grace_n the_o spot_n and_o blemish_n of_o our_o body_n we_o can_v soon_o espy_v and_o wipe_v away_o and_o why_o shall_v we_o be_v less_o careful_a of_o our_o soul_n which_o be_v far_o better_a that_o christ_n may_v full_o make_v know_v unto_o they_o their_o ignorance_n of_o themselves_o it_o please_v he_o to_o desrcibe_v to_o they_o their_o natural_a estate_n &_o so_o proportional_o the_o natural_a condition_n of_o all_o church_n &_o of_o all_o people_n which_o be_v the_o state_n of_o man_n misery_n this_o he_o propound_v two_o way_n first_o general_o in_o these_o word_n and_o know_v not_o how_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a then_o by_o the_o part_n thereof_o which_o be_v three_o poverty_n blindness_n and_o nakedness_n for_o the_o first_o the_o word_n translate_v wretched_a signify_v one_o subject_a to_o calamity_n grief_n and_o in_o a_o word_n to_o all_o misery_n and_o that_o we_o may_v know_v who_o be_v thus_o wretched_a i_o will_v enter_v into_o a_o description_n of_o man_n misery_n whereof_o that_o we_o may_v conceive_v aright_o two_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v first_o the_o root_n and_o fountain_n thereof_o for_o therein_o we_o shall_v best_o see_v what_o misery_n mean_v this_o root_n be_v original_a sin_n and_o it_o have_v two_o branch_n first_o that_o particular_a transgression_n whereby_o adam_n sin_v which_o be_v not_o only_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o person_n but_o also_o of_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o man_n spread_v itself_o to_o all_o his_o posterity_n christ_n except_v second_o the_o deface_a of_o god_n image_n and_o the_o corrupt_a of_o man_n heart_n which_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o fall_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n have_v in_o it_o a_o pronesse_n unto_o all_o sin_n both_o in_o will_n affection_n and_o in_o all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o these_o two_o stand_v original_a sin_n and_o in_o they_o and_o with_o they_o must_v we_o conceive_v of_o man_n misery_n as_o in_o the_o root_n thereof_o second_o we_o must_v conceive_v of_o man_n misery_n under_o the_o form_n of_o punishment_n have_v relation_n to_o the_o first_o sin_n of_o adam_n &_o to_o the_o corruption_n of_o each_o man_n nature_n thereby_o receive_v the_o punishment_n of_o sin_n must_v be_v consider_v sundry_a way_n according_a to_o the_o diverse_a kind_n of_o man_n be_v either_o in_o this_o world_n or_o after_o for_o it_o be_v either_o in_o this_o life_n or_o at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n or_o after_o this_o life_n
counsel_n unto_o his_o church_n the_o principale_a counsellor_n be_v christ_n so_o he_o say_v in_o the_o person_n of_o wisdom_n pro._n 8.14_o counsel_n be_v i_o 9.6_o and_o isaiah_n say_v to_o we_o a_o child_n be_v bear_v and_o he_o shall_v call_v his_o name_n wonderful_a counsellor_n the_o mighty_a god_n the_o everlasting_a father_n the_o prince_n of_o peace_n yea_o he_o be_v both_o king_n &_o counsellor_n to_o his_o church_n this_o office_n christ_n challenge_v to_o himself_o for_o these_o cause_n first_o because_o he_o advise_v his_o church_n touch_v the_o way_n whereby_o they_o must_v escape_v everlasting_a death_n and_o come_v to_o eternal_a life_n second_o because_o he_o teach_v they_o how_o they_o may_v practice_v every_o business_n so_o as_o it_o may_v please_v god_n three_o because_o he_o teach_v they_o how_o they_o may_v in_o grievous_a danger_n and_o distress_n find_v a_o good_a issue_n or_o else_o be_v able_a with_o patience_n to_o bear_v they_o these_o thing_n he_o work_v daily_o in_o his_o church_n not_o by_o extraordinary_a mean_n but_o ordinary_o by_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o may_v just_o challenge_v this_o honour_n to_o be_v call_v the_o counsellor_n of_o his_o church_n from_o this_o office_n of_o christ_n use_n we_o learn_v two_o thing_n first_o to_o do_v all_o the_o honour_n and_o reverence_n we_o can_v unto_o his_o majesty_n for_o he_o be_v our_o profess_a counsellor_n who_o employ_v himself_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n counsellor_n of_o the_o state_n and_o of_o the_o law_n be_v high_o honour_v and_o respect_v of_o all_o sort_n even_o for_o their_o counsel_n in_o worldly_a matter_n though_o often_o it_o fail_v how_o much_o more_o ought_v we_o to_o honour_n christ_n our_o heavenly_a counsellor_n who_o counsel_n lead_v unto_o glory_n and_o be_v stable_a and_o sure_a for_o ever_o look_v how_o much_o his_o counsel_n excel_v they_o so_o much_o ought_v he_o to_o be_v honour_v above_o they_o all_o second_o in_o all_o distress_n and_o grievous_a temptation_n and_o danger_n either_o of_o soul_n or_o body_n we_o must_v take_v counsel_n and_o advise_v from_o christ_n jesus_n for_o to_o this_o end_n do_v he_o reveal_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o counsellor_n that_o man_n in_o distress_n come_v to_o he_o by_o his_o advice_n may_v be_v comfort_v and_o ease_v when_o moab_n ammon_n and_o mount_v seir_n band_v themselves_o against_o juda_n the_o people_n be_v in_o great_a distress_n and_o danger_n but_o mark_v what_o good_a king_n jehosophat_n do_v he_o betake_v himself_o to_o the_o lord_n his_o counsellor_n say_v lord_n we_o know_v not_o what_o to_o do_v but_o our_o eye_n be_v towards_o thou_o 2._o chron._n 20.12_o that_o be_v direct_v thou_o we_o in_o this_o danger_n for_o of_o ourselves_o we_o know_v not_o how_o to_o escape_v this_o pratise_n ought_v to_o be_v follow_v of_o all_o man_n especial_o in_o time_n of_o any_o danger_n such_o as_o these_o day_n be_v by_o reason_n of_o sin_n the_o counsel_n of_o wizard_n sorcerer_n and_o astrologian_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v seek_v after_o but_o by_o prayer_n we_o ought_v to_o humble_v ourselves_o and_o call_v only_o and_o continual_o on_o this_o our_o only_a true_a counsellor_n ii_o point_n the_o remedy_n itself_o which_o have_v relation_n to_o the_o former_a verse_n for_o there_o he_o set_v down_o the_o misery_n of_o this_o church_n in_o three_o part_n which_o be_v all_o great_a misery_n and_o here_o he_o so_o propound_v his_o remedy_n that_o it_o be_v answerable_a to_o their_o misery_n in_o the_o several_a part_n thereof_o for_o first_o here_o be_v gold_n to_o make_v they_o rich_a answerable_a to_o their_o poverty_n second_o raiment_n to_o hide_v their_o nakedness_n three_o ointment_n to_o take_v away_o their_o blindness_n for_o the_o first_o by_o gold_n according_a to_o the_o analogy_n of_o the_o scripture_n we_o be_v to_o understand_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n as_o true_a faith_n repentance_n the_o fear_n of_o god_n love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o true_a love_n of_o man_n 1._o pet._n 1.7_o faith_n be_v compare_v to_o gold_n in_o the_o trial_n thereof_o and_o so_o may_v all_o other_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v hereby_o understand_v second_o by_o gold_n we_o be_v to_o understand_v christ_n merit_n yea_o christ_n himself_o as_o the_o fountain_n of_o all_o grace_n this_o gold_n be_v further_o say_v to_o be_v try_v by_o the_o fire_n that_o be_v most_o pure_a and_o precious_a gold_n purge_v from_o all_o dross_n as_o fine_a as_o can_v be_v make_v by_o the_o art_n of_o man_n this_o be_v add_v to_o express_v the_o property_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o gift_n namely_o that_o they_o be_v more_o precious_a unto_o god_n then_o gold_n yea_o than_o gold_n try_v by_o the_o fire_n as_o peter_n say_v use_n by_o this_o every_o person_n be_v teach_v how_o to_o beautify_v themselves_o both_o in_o soul_n &_o body_n it_o be_v the_o common_a blind_a opinion_n of_o the_o world_n that_o foreign_a attire_n and_o rich_a jewel_n do_v adorn_v the_o body_n and_o indeed_o in_o some_o case_n the_o body_n may_v be_v adorn_v with_o pearl_n and_o jewel_n but_o the_o right_a way_n to_o adorn_v any_o person_n indeed_o be_v to_o furnish_v the_o soul_n with_o these_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o unto_o god_n be_v more_o precious_a than_o fine_a gold_n our_o body_n and_o soul_n ought_v to_o be_v the_o dwell_a place_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n &_o therefore_o we_o must_v adorn_v they_o and_o make_v they_o fit_a for_o so_o worthy_a a_o guest_n which_o must_v be_v do_v by_o the_o good_a grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o not_o by_o strange_a and_o foreign_a attire_n which_o no_o good_a man_n can_v ever_o abide_v second_o these_o grace_n have_v a_o further_a effect_n than_o to_o beautify_v and_o that_o be_v to_o make_v rich_a here_o then_o see_v the_o common_a folly_n yea_o the_o spiritual_a madness_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n who_o spend_v all_o their_o time_n wit_n and_o strength_n to_o furnish_v their_o house_n with_o treasure_n &_o to_o enrich_v their_o body_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n leave_v their_o soul_n ungarnished_a what_o a_o madness_n be_v this_o that_o man_n shall_v neglect_v the_o true_a riches_n and_o follow_v after_o that_o which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o counterfeit_a copper_n see_v therefore_o god_n grace_n be_v the_o true_a treasure_n which_o fade_v not_o let_v we_o seek_v after_o they_o as_o wisdom_n counsel_v pro._n 8.10_o 11_o receive_v my_o instruction_n and_o not_o silver_n and_o knowledge_n rather_o than_o fine_a gold_n for_o wisdom_n be_v better_a than_o precious_a stone_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n be_v a_o white_a garment_n that_o be_v christ_n himself_o and_o his_o righteousness_n impute_v so_o paul_n say_v 3.27_o all_o that_o be_v baptize_v into_o christ_n have_v put_v on_o christ_n there_o christ_n be_v make_v a_o garment_n who_o every_o one_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o do_v put_v on_o again_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v a_o garment_n &_o therefore_o we_o be_v command_v to_o 3.12_o put_v on_o tender_a mercy_n kindness_n humbleness_n of_o mind_n meekness_n and_o long_o suffer_v further_o christ_n show_v the_o end_n of_o this_o garment_n namely_o to_o cover_v the_o nakedness_n of_o our_o soul_n lest_o the_o filthynesse_n thereof_o which_o we_o by_o our_o sin_n have_v bring_v upon_o we_o do_v appear_v the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n be_v anoint_v with_o eye-salue_n where_o by_o eye-salue_n we_o must_v understand_v the_o spirit_n of_o illumination_n and_o knowledge_n wrought_v in_o the_o mind_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n whereby_o man_n know_v themselves_o and_o their_o estate_n for_o as_o eye-salue_n sharpen_v the_o eye_n and_o clear_v the_o sight_n where_o it_o be_v by_o some_o occasion_n dimn_v so_o do_v christ_n by_o the_o illumination_n of_o the_o spirit_n make_v a_o man_n know_v god_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o discern_v between_o good_a and_o evil_a and_o between_o thing_n temporal_a and_o blessing_n eternal_a thus_o we_o have_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v that_o by_o all_o these_o three_o we_o can_v understand_v nothing_o else_o but_o christ_n himself_o and_o his_o merit_n now_o one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n in_o christ_n be_v signify_v by_o diverse_a term_n to_o show_v that_o there_o be_v in_o christ_n the_o fullness_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o plentiful_a redemption_n yea_o store_n of_o supply_n for_o all_o our_o want_n the_o laodicean_n be_v poor_a but_o christ_n be_v their_o riches_n they_o be_v naked_a christ_n be_v their_o garment_n and_o last_o they_o be_v blind_a but_o christ_n be_v their_o eye-salue_n so_o that_o what_o want_v soever_o be_v in_o we_o there_o be_v store_n of_o supply_n thereof_o in_o christ._n this_o must_v the_o more_o diligent_o be_v mark_v
here_o see_v the_o proper_a â—nd_n of_o all_o reproof_n and_o correction_n namely_o the_o reformation_n and_o amendment_n of_o man_n fault_n &_o misdemeanour_n whatsoever_o that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v more_o careful_a of_o their_o way_n and_o more_o zealous_a in_o good_a duty_n then_o ever_o they_o be_v whensoever_o therefore_o we_o be_v reprove_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o when_o the_o lord_n shall_v visit_v we_o in_o body_n mind_n or_o good_n by_o any_o kind_n of_o cross_n we_o must_v remember_v to_o take_v occasion_n thereby_o to_o repent_v and_o amend_v know_v that_o by_o all_o these_o as_o by_o so_o many_o sermon_n the_o lord_n call_v we_o to_o amendment_n now_o come_v to_o the_o remedy_n of_o their_o luke-warmnesse_n be_v zealous_a that_o we_o may_v understand_v this_o commandment_n we_o be_v to_o handle_v some_o point_n touch_v zeal_n first_o what_o be_v zeal_n zeal_n be_v a_o burn_a affection_n in_o regard_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n this_o zeal_n be_v compound_v of_o two_o affection_n of_o love_n and_o anger_n or_o indignation_n so_o that_o in_o this_o commandment_n be_v two_o duty_n enjoin_v unto_o this_o church_n first_o that_o they_o shall_v love_v christ_n and_o his_o religion_n above_o all_o thing_n second_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v grieve_v especial_o for_o this_o that_o christ_n be_v dishonour_v his_o worship_n profane_v and_o his_o doctrine_n not_o embrace_v but_o instead_o thereof_o false_a worship_n and_o false_a doctrine_n entertain_v when_o both_o these_o concur_v than_o zeal_n be_v in_o the_o heart_n a_o most_o notable_a example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o christ_n psalm_n 69.9_o where_o the_o prophet_n david_n in_o his_o person_n say_v the_o zeal_n of_o god_n house_n have_v eat_v he_o up_o whereby_o thus_o much_o be_v signify_v that_o the_o heat_n of_o his_o love_n for_o the_o maintain_n of_o his_o father_n glory_n have_v even_o consume_v he_o and_o that_o his_o indignation_n be_v so_o great_a because_o his_o father_n name_n be_v dishonour_v and_o his_o worship_n profane_v that_o it_o do_v even_o care_v he_o up_o this_o we_o shall_v see_v to_o be_v true_a in_o christ_n if_o we_o read_v the_o history_n of_o his_o life_n john_n 2.17_o yea_o he_o profess_v of_o himself_o that_o it_o be_v meat_n and_o drink_v unto_o he_o to_o do_v his_o father_n will_n joh._n 4.34_o that_o thing_n he_o prefer_v before_o his_o own_o life_n or_o safety_n nay_o for_o the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o he_o be_v content_a to_o suffer_v the_o pang_n of_o hell_n the_o like_a zeal_n be_v in_o elias_n when_o all_o israel_n be_v fall_v to_o idolatry_n his_o heart_n be_v zealous_a for_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n 1._o king_n 19.14_o ii_o point_n the_o kind_n of_o zeal_n zeal_n be_v either_o good_a or_o bad_a in_o good_a zeal_n be_v these_o thing_n require_v i._o true_a faith_n as_o the_o root_n thereof_o 1._o tim._n 1._o vers_fw-la 5._o the_o end_n of_o the_o commandment_n be_v love_n 〈◊〉_d of_o a_o pure_a heart_n and_o of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o of_o faith_n unfeigned_a now_o one_o apart_o of_o zeal_n be_v love_n and_o therefore_o 〈…〉_z procee_v from_o true_a faith_n so_o must_v true_a zeal_n 〈◊〉_d and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o faith_n be_v rather_o rashness_n and_o fierceness_n of_o nature_n than_o true_a zeal_n ii_o repentance_n 2._o cor._n 7.11_o there_o be_v seven_o 〈◊〉_d of_o repentance_n recite_v whereof_o zeal_n be_v one_o that_o be_v good_a zeal_n even_o a_o burn_a love_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o a_o godly_a indignation_n when_o false_a religion_n be_v embrace_v there_o may_v be_v zeal_n in_o a_o man_n that_o have_v no_o repentance_n as_o be_v in_o jehu_n 2._o king_n 10.16_o come_v with_o i_o say_v he_o and_o see_v the_o zeal_n that_o i_o have_v for_o the_o lord_n yet_o he_o want_v repentance_n for_o vers._n 29.31_o it_o be_v say_v jehu_n regard_v not_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n of_o israel_n with_o all_o his_o heart_n for_o he_o depart_v not_o from_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la which_o make_v israel_n to_o sin_n and_o therefore_o he_o have_v not_o in_o he_o the_o true_a zeal_n that_o be_v here_o command_v iii_o zeal_n must_v come_v from_o knowledge_n for_o without_o knowledge_n it_o be_v but_o rashness_n and_o bold-hardinesse_n such_o as_o the_o jew_n have_v rom._n 10.2_o who_o zeal_n be_v without_o knowledge_n and_o such_o as_o paul_n have_v before_o his_o conversion_n phil._n 3._o vers_fw-la 6._o in_o zeal_n he_o persecute_v god_n church_n knowledge_n therefore_o in_o god_n word_n must_v be_v the_o guide_n and_o conductor_n of_o our_o zeal_n iii_o point_n the_o fruit_n of_o zeal_n must_v be_v consider_v for_o the_o better_a discern_v of_o true_a zeal_n first_o true_a zeal_n constrain_v a_o man_n in_o every_o thing_n to_o seek_v to_o please_v god_n 5.13.14_o whether_o we_o be_v out_o of_o 〈◊〉_d wit_n we_o be_v it_o unto_o god_n or_o whether_o we_o be_v in_o our_o right_a mind_n we_o be_v it_o unto_o you_o for_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n constrain_v us._n so_o wheresoever_o this_o true_a zeal_n be_v in_o any_o measure_n it_o offer_v violence_n to_o the_o heart_n so_o as_o a_o man_n can_v but_o endeavour_n to_o do_v his_o duty_n for_o the_o love_n he_o bear_v unto_o christ._n elihu_n say_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v in_o his_o heart_n as_o new_a wine_n in_o a_o vessel_n which_o must_v needs_o vent_v out_o job._n 32.18.19_o second_o true_a zeal_n make_v a_o man_n endeavour_n to_o serve_v and_o please_v god_n with_o all_o his_o heart_n power_n and_o strength_n so_o good_a king_n josiah_n hear_v the_o word_n of_o the_o law_n read_v he_o turn_v not_o slacke_o or_o negligent_o but_o 23.25_o with_o all_o his_o heart_n and_o all_o his_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o his_o might_n according_a to_o all_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n so_o as_o like_v he_o be_v no_o king_n before_o neither_o after_o he_o arise_v there_o any_o like_o he_o psal._n 51_o david_n humble_v himself_o for_o his_o sin_n pray_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o with_o such_o marvelous_a zeal_n as_o no_o tongue_n can_v utter_v desire_v god_n to_o remember_v he_o according_a to_o the_o multitude_n of_o his_o mercy_n often_o repeat_v the_o same_o thing_n in_o diverse_a term_n that_o in_o some_o sort_n he_o may_v express_v the_o earnest_a desire_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o in_o give_v god_n thanks_n for_o his_o benefit_n he_o put_v all_o the_o strength_n of_o his_o heart_n thereto_o cry_v out_o my_o soul_n praise_n thou_o the_o lord_n and_o all_o that_o be_v within_o i_o psa._n 103.1_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v what_o a_o thing_n it_o be_v to_o be_v zealous_a whence_o true_a zeal_n arise_v and_o what_o it_o work_v in_o man_n heart_n use_n see_v we_o as_o have_v be_v show_v be_v taint_v with_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmnesse_n and_o coldness_n in_o religion_n let_v we_o here_o learn_v how_o to_o redress_v this_o vice_n we_o must_v become_v zealous_a have_v in_o our_o heart_n a_o fervent_a love_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o a_o vehement_a indignation_n when_o the_o same_o be_v disgrace_v and_o false_a worship_n take_v place_n let_v religion_n therefore_o take_v place_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o let_v we_o be_v fervent_a and_o show_n that_o same_o in_o our_o life_n by_o zealous_a obedience_n away_o with_o all_o slackness_n and_o lukewarmnesse_n it_o be_v better_a to_o be_v jews_n and_o turk_n and_o to_o hold_v no_o religion_n then_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a in_o the_o true_a profession_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o zeal_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n be_v to_o repent_v or_o amend_v this_o they_o be_v also_o enjoin_v because_o zeal_n without_o repentance_n be_v nothing_o but_o rashness_n jehues_n zeal_n be_v no_o true_a zeal_n because_o he_o want_v repentance_n even_o then_o when_o he_o be_v zealous_a but_o wherefore_o be_v this_o church_n enjoin_v to_o repent_v namely_o for_o lukewarmness_n not_o for_o that_o she_o have_v commit_v any_o horrible_a sin_n but_o because_o she_o be_v slack_a in_o good_a duty_n here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o good_a lesson_n for_o the_o ignorant_a sort_n that_o challenge_n god_n mercy_n unto_o themselves_o because_o they_o be_v no_o notorious_a malefactor_n as_o murderer_n &_o adulterer_n they_o hate_v no_o man_n but_o do_v good_a unto_o all_o but_o here_o they_o be_v teach_v to_o reform_v this_o their_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n for_o repentance_n must_v be_v for_o want_n of_o good_a duty_n yea_o for_o slackness_n therein_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n soothe_v himself_o in_o his_o ignorance_n with_o a_o false_a persuasion_n that_o all_o be_v well_o if_o he_o live_v not_o in_o gross_a sin_n this_o be_v the_o enchantment_n of_o the_o devil_n whereby_o he_o rock_n many_o asleep_a in_o
their_o sin_n till_o he_o carry_v their_o soul_n to_o hell_n a_o good_a meaning_n will_v not_o serve_v the_o turn_n god_n require_v true_a zeal_n in_o well-doing_n vers._n 20._o behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o here_o christ_n to_o keep_v his_o church_n from_o despair_n minister_n unto_o they_o the_o sign_n and_o token_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o before_o the_o same_o set_v down_o this_o note_n of_o attention_n behold_v hereby_o intend_v to_o make_v they_o more_o attentive_o to_o mark_v the_o token_n of_o his_o love_n that_o plain_o see_v the_o same_o they_o may_v not_o doubt_v thereof_o hereby_o in_o general_n we_o be_v teach_v that_o if_o we_o will_v arm_v ourselves_o against_o desperation_n and_o distrust_n in_o any_o distress_n we_o must_v both_o often_o and_o serious_o consider_v and_o mark_v the_o token_n of_o god_n love_n unto_o we_o and_o that_o will_v fortify_v our_o faith_n read_v psal._n 23_o in_o every_o verse_n save_o the_o last_o he_o set_v down_o token_n of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n towards_o he_o and_o then_o in_o the_o last_o conclude_v thus_o without_o doubt_n kindesse_n &_o mercy_n shall_v follow_v i_o all_o the_o day_n of_o my_o life_n and_o i_o shall_v remain_v a_o long_a season_n in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n our_o heart_n be_v natural_o fill_v with_o doubt_v which_o will_v bewray_v itself_o in_o any_o distress_n but_o to_o prevent_v and_o cut_v off_o all_o hurt_n that_o may_v come_v thereby_o let_v we_o mark_v the_o good_a deal_n of_o our_o god_n towards_o we_o and_o observe_v the_o token_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n in_o his_o ordinary_a providence_n and_o these_o will_v notable_o strengthen_v we_o against_o distrust_n and_o sure_o no_o person_n be_v so_o full_a of_o despair_n but_o if_o he_o can_v look_v back_o into_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n from_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o day_n and_o lay_v they_o to_o his_o heart_n they_o will_v minister_v comfort_n unto_o he_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n at_o that_o instant_n more_o particular_o christ_n minister_a comfort_n unto_o this_o church_n do_v express_v his_o meaning_n by_o a_o borrow_a speech_n compare_v every_o man_n unto_o a_o house_n his_o heart_n unto_o a_o door_n whereby_o entrance_n be_v make_v and_o himself_o unto_o a_o guest_n or_o stranger_n desire_v to_o come_v and_o enter_v in_o not_o so_o much_o to_o find_v courtesy_n as_o to_o show_v favour_n and_o kindness_n in_o the_o word_n of_o this_o verse_n there_o be_v two_o sign_n of_o his_o love_n set_v down_o first_o a_o hearty_a desire_n of_o their_o conversion_n which_o he_o earnest_o seek_v second_o a_o promise_n of_o mutual_a fellowship_n after_o their_o conversion_n the_o first_o in_o these_o word_n behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n in_o this_o desire_n christ_n express_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o this_o church_n if_o we_o regard_v the_o great_a part_n thereof_o have_v no_o true_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n nor_o christ_n with_o they_o for_o he_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n which_o be_v close_v up_o against_o he_o this_o may_v seem_v strange_a but_o the_o case_n be_v evident_a for_o though_o they_o have_v in_o they_o many_o good_a thing_n as_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o do_v profess_v the_o gospel_n and_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o sign_n and_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n yet_o they_o be_v taint_v with_o this_o notorious_a sin_n of_o luke-warmnesse_n which_o close_v up_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n against_o christ_n and_o bar_v he_o out_o here_o than_o we_o be_v careful_o to_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n may_v have_v in_o he_o many_o good_a thing_n and_o yet_o by_o live_v in_o one_o sin_n we_o be_v quite_o cut_v off_o from_o all_o true_a fellowship_n with_o christ._n judas_n have_v many_o excellent_a gift_n he_o forsake_v all_o and_o follow_v christ_n he_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n and_o yet_o by_o covetousness_n the_o door_n of_o his_o heart_n be_v quite_o bar_v against_o christ._n so_o herode_fw-la reverence_v john_n and_o hear_v he_o glad_o and_o do_v many_o thing_n at_o his_o instruction_n mark_n 6.20_o yet_o by_o the_o sin_n of_o incest_n his_o heart_n be_v so_o close_v that_o he_o have_v no_o fellowship_n with_o christ._n and_o so_o it_o be_v with_o we_o it_o be_v good_a that_o we_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o approve_v the_o same_o and_o profess_v the_o gospel_n and_o also_o receive_v the_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n but_o yet_o for_o all_o these_o our_o case_n may_v be_v such_o as_o we_o shall_v have_v no_o true_a fellowship_n with_o christ._n for_o if_o we_o nourish_v though_o but_o one_o sin_n and_o live_v therein_o that_o will_v make_v a_o separation_n between_o christ_n and_o we_o be_v the_o sin_n what_o it_o will_v as_o covetousness_n adultery_n profaneness_n or_o such_o like_a hereby_o then_o all_o that_o desire_v to_o have_v true_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v warn_v to_o purge_v their_o life_n from_o all_o sin_n so_o as_o their_o heart_n be_v not_o taint_v with_o nourish_v any_o one_o sin_n for_o even_o one_o sin_n wâ—â—â—â—soever_o it_o be_v be_v a_o strong_a bar_n 〈◊〉_d will_v keep_v christ_n from_o come_v into_o us._n second_o whereas_o he_o say_v 〈◊〉_d i_o have_v stand_v at_o the_o door_n for_o so_o the_o word_n be_v here_o he_o speak_v to_o this_o church_n as_o he_o use_v to_o speak_v by_o his_o old_a prophet_n as_o by_o jeremie_n 13._o i_o have_v send_v unto_o you_o all_o my_o prophet_n rise_v early_o every_o day_n and_o send_v they_o and_o by_o isaiah_n 65.2_o i_o have_v spread_v out_o my_o hand_n all_o the_o day_n unto_o a_o rebellious_a people_n which_o walk_v in_o a_o way_n that_o be_v not_o good_a even_o after_o their_o own_o imagination_n so_o here_o i_o have_v stand_v at_o the_o door_n that_o be_v long_o even_o till_o night_n as_o the_o word_n sup_v import_v hereby_o christ_n will_v signify_v his_o great_a patience_n in_o wait_v for_o the_o conversion_n of_o this_o people_n of_o loadicea_n in_o justice_n he_o may_v long_o ago_o have_v cast_v they_o to_o the_o pit_n of_o destruction_n for_o their_o sin_n and_o yet_o in_o mercy_n he_o wait_v for_o their_o conversion_n and_o complain_v that_o he_o have_v wait_v long_o here_o than_o we_o have_v just_a occasion_n to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o god_n patience_n in_o wait_v for_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o sinner_n and_o that_o which_o he_o say_v to_o this_o church_n he_o may_v as_o just_o say_v unto_o we_o for_o he_o have_v stand_v very_o long_o at_o our_o door_n even_o 36._o year_n and_o upward_o and_o yet_o still_o continue_v knock_v so_o as_o he_o may_v just_o complain_v of_o his_o long_a wait_v let_v we_o then_o here_o learn_v to_o know_v the_o day_n of_o our_o visitation_n which_o be_v then_o to_o any_o people_n when_o christ_n stand_v at_o their_o door_n and_o knock_n and_o unto_o we_o this_o day_n be_v present_a we_o have_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v be_v persuade_v that_o this_o be_v the_o time_n of_o our_o visitation_n and_o hereupon_o learn_v the_o duty_n which_o christ_n teach_v the_o jew_n namely_o acknowledge_v the_o day_n of_o our_o visitation_n which_o if_o we_o do_v not_o we_o must_v look_v for_o like_a vengeance_n which_o fall_v upon_o the_o jew_n because_o they_o regard_v not_o when_o god_n send_v his_o own_o son_n from_o his_o bosom_n to_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o knock_v here_o be_v a_o further_a signification_n of_o his_o desire_n of_o their_o conversion_n wherein_o we_o may_v behold_v his_o great_a &_o unspeakable_a mercy_n towards_o this_o church_n and_o in_o they_o towards_o all_o other_o his_o child_n this_o church_n have_v bar_v out_o christ_n by_o their_o sin_n and_o yet_o he_o pursue_v they_o he_o knock_v he_o use_v mean_n to_o enter_v for_o 〈◊〉_d good_a and_o vouchsafe_v they_o mercy_n 〈◊〉_d then_o when_o they_o refuse_v it_o thus_o when_o adam_n have_v sin_v and_o flee_v and_o hide_v himself_o do_v the_o lord_n seek_v he_o in_o the_o garden_n &_o make_v with_o he_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v true_o say_v in_o 65.1_o isaiah_n the_o lord_n be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o never_o seek_v he_o luk._n 15.4.5_o christ_n fetch_v the_o lose_a sheep_n that_o be_v go_v astray_o all_o which_o show_n and_o set_v out_o unto_o we_o the_o unspeakable_a greatness_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n unto_o miserable_a man_n who_o then_o show_v mercy_n unto_o he_o when_o he_o
never_o seek_v it_o this_o his_o mercy_n be_v verify_v in_o all_o church_n and_o unto_o we_o which_o must_v be_v a_o occasion_n to_o enlarge_v and_o stir_v up_o our_o heart_n to_o bless_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n for_o this_o unspeakable_a mercy_n in_o vouchsafe_v we_o favour_n when_o we_o never_o seek_v it_o but_o refuse_v it_o quest._n how_o do_v christ_n knock_v answ._n the_o word_n go_v before_o whereto_o these_o have_v reference_n give_v light_n unto_o this_o question_n before_o christ_n have_v threaten_v this_o church_n even_o to_o spew_v she_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n for_o her_o lukewarmenesse_a and_o after_o he_o counsel_v she_o to_o buy_v of_o he_o gold_n and_o other_o remedy_n now_o upon_o this_o grievous_a threaten_n the_o church_n may_v despair_v of_o his_o mercy_n but_o christ_n to_o comfort_v she_o tell_v she_o here_o that_o these_o reproof_n and_o rebuke_n be_v but_o knock_v be_v at_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n to_o make_v they_o open_a for_o then_o christ_n knock_v at_o the_o heart_n of_o any_o people_n when_o he_o vouchsafe_v they_o mean_n to_o see_v their_o sin_n and_o threaten_v they_o for_o the_o same_o and_o withal_o give_v they_o coun_fw-fr whereby_o they_o may_v escape_v the_o fearful_a punishment_n thereby_o deserve_v here_o then_o note_v the_o state_n of_o any_o people_n that_o have_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n vouchsafe_v unto_o they_o they_o have_v christ_n among_o they_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o knock_v to_o come_v in_o by_o exhortation_n admonition_n threaten_n and_o by_o promise_n which_o be_v a_o great_a and_o endless_a mercy_n first_o see_v we_o have_v christ_n knock_v at_o our_o door_n use_n there_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v in_o we_o such_o dulness_n and_o deadness_n of_o heart_n in_o hear_v he_o knock_v if_o a_o man_n of_o any_o account_n come_v and_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o our_o house_n oh_o what_o a_o stir_n will_v we_o make_v to_o let_v he_o in_o quick_o what_o a_o shame_n than_o be_v it_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v dead-harted_n when_o christ_n jesus_n the_o king_n of_o heaven_n knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n second_o this_o must_v admonish_v we_o with_o all_o speed_n to_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o true_a repentance_n for_o we_o know_v not_o how_o long_o he_o will_v continue_v knock_v and_o if_o we_o do_v not_o hear_v and_o turn_v before_o he_o withdraw_v himself_o from_o we_o we_o perish_v eternal_o for_o if_o we_o refuse_v when_o he_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n he_o will_v refuse_v when_o we_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o his_o mercy_n prou._n 1._o 25.26_o mat._n 25.11.12_o note_v further_o this_o knock_n be_v not_o ordinary_a but_o it_o be_v join_v with_o cry_v for_o he_o say_v if_o he_o hear_v my_o voice_n so_o that_o he_o both_o knock_v &_o cry_n it_o be_v then_o the_o knock_n of_o one_o that_o will_v enter_v we_o therefore_o ought_v answerable_o with_o serious_a regard_n to_o receive_v the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o grace_n and_o so_o be_v as_o earnest_n in_o receive_v and_o embrace_v he_o as_o he_o be_v in_o knock_v to_o come_v into_o us._n the_o second_o token_n of_o christ_n love_n be_v a_o gracious_a promise_n of_o fellowship_n with_o they_o in_o these_o word_n if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o these_o word_n have_v be_v much_o abuse_v and_o therefore_o i_o will_v stand_v to_o set_v down_o the_o true_a use_n and_o meaning_n of_o the_o same_o mark_v the_o form_n of_o speech_n be_v such_o as_o give_v unto_o a_o man_n will_n &_o soul_n a_o action_n in_o his_o conversion_n whereby_o he_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o receive_v christ._n this_o may_v seem_v strange_a but_o it_o be_v for_o just_a cause_n use_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o in_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o sinner_n there_o be_v three_o worker_n the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o word_n and_o man_n will_n the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v the_o principal_a agent_n enlighten_v the_o mind_n with_o true_a knowledge_n soften_a the_o heart_n and_o change_v the_o will_n from_o evil_a to_o good_a the_o word_n be_v the_o instrument_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o now_o he_o work_v not_o by_o revelation_n or_o special_a instinct_n but_o ordinary_o in_o and_o by_o the_o word_n when_o a_o man_n be_v read_v hear_v or_o meditate_v either_o public_o or_o private_o for_o the_o word_n preach_v be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o man_n salvation_n from_o faith_n to_o faith_n three_o man_v will_n though_o by_o nature_n it_o be_v evil_a and_o dead_a unto_o grace_n yet_o be_v renew_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o first_o act_n of_o conversion_n move_v and_o strive_v to_o be_v turn_v it_o be_v not_o like_o a_o piece_n of_o wax_n only_o passive_a which_o without_o any_o action_n receive_v impression_n but_o as_o fire_n so_o soon_o as_o it_o fire_n do_v bear_v and_o so_o soon_o as_o it_o burn_v it_o be_v fire_n so_o the_o will_n though_o by_o nature_n it_o move_v not_o yet_o be_v renew_v by_o grace_n it_o move_v and_o so_o some_o as_o it_o move_v it_o be_v renew_v and_o hereupon_o it_o be_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n ascribe_v action_n unto_o a_o sinner_n that_o be_v to_o be_v convert_v which_o argue_v not_o that_o by_o themselves_o man_n can_v have_v a_o will_n to_o be_v convert_v but_o that_o be_v renew_v they_o may_v will_v their_o conversion_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n be_v the_o gospel_n preach_v in_o these_o term_n repent_v and_o believe_v not_o to_o show_v that_o man_n by_o nature_n can_v repent_v or_o believe_v but_o that_o god_n in_o man_n conversion_n do_v give_v he_o grace_v to_o will_n and_o desire_v the_o same_o hence_o than_o it_o follow_v thar_z this_o text_n have_v be_v diverse_a way_n abuse_v first_o by_o the_o papist_n who_o hence_o will_v gather_v free_a will_n of_o conversion_n in_o a_o sinner_n by_o nature_n true_a it_o be_v a_o man_n have_v free_a will_n in_o his_o conversion_n yet_o not_o by_o nature_n but_o by_o grace_n neither_o can_v any_o more_o be_v gather_v hence_o for_o here_o it_o be_v only_o say_v if_o any_o man_n hear_v and_o open_v when_o i_o knock_v nay_o hence_o we_o may_v rather_o gather_v that_o a_o man_n by_o nature_n can_v hear_v nor_o open_a because_o the_o counsel_n be_v give_v to_o such_o as_o be_v poor_a and_o blind_a and_o naked_a by_o nature_n second_o they_o also_o abuse_v this_o text_n that_o hereby_o will_v prove_v a_o flexible_a free_a will_n by_o grace_n to_o be_v in_o man_n which_o be_v this_o sundry_a man_n think_v that_o after_o the_o fall_n of_o adam_n all_o be_v wrap_v up_o in_o sin_n god_n give_v a_o general_a grace_n whereby_o any_o man_n may_v will_v and_o receive_v that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o this_o grace_n though_o it_o dispose_v the_o will_n in_o some_o part_n to_o that_o which_o be_v good_a yet_o it_o take_v not_o the_o corruption_n away_o but_o that_o remain_v still_o whereupon_o if_o he_o will_v he_o may_v receive_v christ_n by_o that_o general_a grace_n or_o if_o he_o will_v not_o he_o may_v refuse_v christ_n by_o his_o natural_a corruption_n which_o yet_o remain_v in_o he_o it_o be_v say_v this_o may_v be_v gather_v from_o this_o text_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v here_o be_v no_o foundation_n for_o flexible_a freewill_n all_o that_o can_v here_o be_v gather_v be_v that_o man_n have_v freewill_n in_o his_o conversion_n yet_o not_o by_o a_o general_a but_o by_o god_n special_a grace_n nay_o christ_n ministry_n serueâ—_n for_o this_o end_n that_o those_o which_o before_o can_v not_o turn_v of_o themselves_o may_v by_o grace_n be_v convert_v this_o flexible_a grace_n be_v against_o god_n word_n christ_n say_v 6.45_o every_o one_o that_o have_v hear_v and_o have_v learn_v of_o the_o father_n come_v unto_o i_o he_o say_v not_o may_v come_v if_o he_o will_v but_o peremptory_o come_v for_o man_n will_n can_v dispose_v and_o over_o 〈◊〉_d the_o work_n of_o god_n but_o the_o work_n 〈◊〉_d god_n overrule_v the_o will_n of_o man_n though_o man_n be_v unwilling_a yet_o when_o god_n call_v effectual_o he_o can_v but_o come_v for_o the_o creature_n can_v reject_v or_o resist_v the_o will_n and_o call_n of_o his_o creator_n if_o any_o man_n open_a unto_o i_o i_o will_v come_v etc._n etc._n the_o proper_a intent_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o conditional_a promise_n be_v to_o provoke_v they_o that_o be_v dull_a and_o heavy_a to_o listen_v diligent_o to_o christ_n word_n and_o to_o receive_v the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n from_o he_o glad_o in_o the_o example_n of_o this_o church_n we_o be_v teach_v our_o duty_n see_v
&_o 110._o c._n 2._o 5_o 11.12_o 10_o c._n 1_o &_o 137._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 14_o 76._o c._n 2._o 6_o 10_o 135._o c._n 1._o 8_o 5_o 178_o c._n 2._o 9_o 7_o 169_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 9_o 194_o c._n 2._o 10_o 36_o 136_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 37_o 6_o c._n 2._o 11_o 3_o 57_o c_o 1._o  _fw-fr 22_o 145_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 24_o 25_o 26_o 195_o c._n â—_o &_o 174_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 31_o 185_o c._n 1._o 12_o 2_o 195_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 38_o c_o 1._o  _fw-fr 17_o 114._o c._n c._n 1._o james._n 1_o 2_o 38._o c._n 1._o &_o 107_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 5_o 77._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 10._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 27_o 135._o c._n 2._o 2_o 23_o 125_o c._n 1._o 4_o 6_o 10._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 45_o c._n 2._o 5_o 7_o 38._o c._n 1._o 1._o peter_n 1_o 7_o 208._o c._n 1._o 3_o 1_o 113._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 15_o 80._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 19.20_o 90_o c._n 2._o &_o 125._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 108_o c._n 1._o 4_o 23_o 27._o c._n 2._o &_o 140._o c._n 2._o 2._o peter_n 1_o 12_o 109._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 19_o 155._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 20_o 143._o c._n 1._o 2_o 3_o 6._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 7_o 75._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 205._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 18_o 151._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 202._o c_o 1._o 3_o 8_o 6._o c._n 1._o &_o 191._o c._n 1._o 1._o joh._n 1_o 3_o 9_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 6_o 62._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 10_o 83._o c._n 1._o 2_o 13_o 54._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 19_o 174._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 27_o 26._o c._n 1._o 3_o 1_o 23._o c._n 1._o &_o 131._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 2_o 232._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 3_o 176._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 9_o 83_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 14_o 135._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 16_o 134._o c._n 1_o 4_o 1_o 76._o c._n 1._o &_o 77._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 6_o 127._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 134._o c._n 1._o 5_o 4_o 97_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 10_o 198._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 11_o 66._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 18_o 27._o c._n 1._o 2._o joh._n 0_o 10_o 75_o c._n 2._o &_o 116._o c._n 1._o jude._n  _fw-fr 3_o 78._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 16_o 151._o c._n â—_o  _fw-fr 20.22_o 80._o c._n 1._o revelation_n 3_o 7_o 21._o c._n 2._o 4_o 5_o 16._o c._n 2._o 6_o 10_o 34._o c._n 1_o 7_o 9_o 118._o c._n 2._o â—0_n 9.19_o 79_o c._n 1._o 19_o 9_o 129._o c._n 2._o 20_o 12_o 148._o c._n 2._o 21_o 3_o 194._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 6_o 129._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 20._o c._n 1._o &_o 105._o c._n 1._o 109._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 10_o 194._o c._n 2._o 22_o 15_o 177._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 16_o 155._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 20_o 34._o c._n 1_o â§_o a_o table_n of_o the_o special_a point_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o this_o exposition_n the_o first_o number_n note_v the_o page_n the_o second_o the_o column_n bâ—_n note_n the_o beginning_n of_o the_o column_n m_n the_o middle_a and_o e_z the_o end_n a_o absolution_n belong_v to_o the_o church_n 181.1_o m._n adam_n and_o christ_n oppose_v 97.2_o m._n adultery_n spiritual_a and_o bodily_a 〈◊〉_d punishment_n each_o of_o other·_n 94.1_o m._n and_o 120.1_o c._n affection_n of_o the_o soul_n work_v strong_o upon_o the_o body_n 63_o â—_o c._n we_o ought_v to_o be_v like_o affected_a to_o christ._n 94.2_o b._n affliction_n the_o ordinary_a state_n of_o believer_n 38.1_o b_o they_o be_v profitable_a 203_o â—_o c._n they_o discover_v 〈◊〉_d state_n of_o man_n heart_n 192.1_o m_o christ_n temper_v they_o according_a to_o the_o disposition_n of_o offender_n 211.1_o how_o grievous_a affliction_n seem_v short_a â—â—â—â—_o 1_o c._n ground_n of_o true_a comfort_n in_o affect_v 〈◊〉_d 48.2_o m._n 99.1_o 〈…〉_z m._n â—07_n 2._o m._n 11â—_n 〈…〉_z 15â—_n 2_o c._n 1â—5_n â—_o m._n age_a man_n honour_v 54.2_o b._n there_o duty_n thereupon_o ibid._n amen_o a_o title_n give_v to_o christ._n 197_o â—_o m_o angel_n the_o good_a angel_n be_v 〈◊〉_d for_o god_n church_n â—_o 1_o b._n application_n of_o the_o word_n needful_a 96._o â—_o c._n the_o right_a manner_n of_o it_o 〈…〉_z the_o true_a â—round_n thereof_o ibid._n â—_o approve_v we_o must_v seek_v to_o approve_v ourselves_o to_o god_n church_n 147._o â—_o m._n but_o chief_o to_o christ._n 166.1_o b._n assâ—â—erations_n when_o to_o be_v use_v 33.2_o b._n assurance_n of_o salvation_n by_o faith_n â—8_o 2_o b_o attyreâ—_n a_o rule_n for_o it_o 53.2_o b._n b_o how_o to_o beautâ—fie_v soul_n &_o body_n 208._o â—_o m_o believer_n be_v 〈…〉_z 25.21_o b._n when_o ibid._n 2._o 〈◊〉_d their_o duty_n in_o regard_n 〈…〉_z and_o 27._o â—_o consolation_n thence_o â—8_o 1_o m._n bless_v 〈◊〉_d how_o to_o be_v seek_v 14.1_o c._n blind_a spiritual_o who_o 206.1_o m._n book_n of_o life_n 17.4.1_o m._n how_o a_o man_n may_v be_v blâ—â—ed_v out_o of_o it_o ibid._n c._n buy_v to_o buy_v of_o christ_n how_o &_o what_o 209.1_o m._n few_o bargain_n with_o he_o â—10_n 1_o b._n c_o calling_n a_o man_n shall_v have_v a_o good_a call_n for_o every_o action_n 6._o â—_o m._n in_o our_o particular_a calling_n we_o shall_v 〈…〉_z christ._n 7.2_o m._n best_o 〈…〉_z have_v their_o 〈◊〉_d â—4_n 1_o b._n 〈◊〉_d law_n of_o 〈…〉_z unclean_a 171.2_o m._n childreâ—â—_n how_o punish_v 〈…〉_z father_n offence_n 〈…〉_z m._n christ_n be_v 〈◊〉_d godpunc_fw-la 〈…〉_z 1._o m._n god_n of_o himself_o 〈…〉_z 34.2_o m._n all_o see_v 99_o 〈…〉_z â—33_n â—_o m._n 〈…〉_z with_o the_o father_n 35._o â—_o 〈…〉_z 35.2_o m._n his_o power_n for_o his_o church_n â—6_n 1_o b._n and_o 133.2_o b._n and_o 153._o â—_o c._n over_o his_o church_n threefold_a 178._o â—_o c._n christ_n true_a man_n 99_o â—_o m._n goâ—â—e_v aâ—an_n 99_o â—_o â—_o 14â—_n â—_o m._n christâ—_n officies_n 〈…〉_z office_n 2.2_o m._n &_o 21.1_o m._n his_o kingdom_n â—â—_o 1_o c._n and_o 2.6_o christ_n prophetical_a office_n in_o two_o duty_n 17.1_o m._n and_o â—_o â—_o 1_o â—_o christâ—_n priesthood_n and_o the_o â—_z thereof_o 20.1_o 〈…〉_z our_o highpriest_n 5â—_n 1_o m._n he_o have_v 〈◊〉_d holy_a ghost_n 1â—3_n â—_o c._n his_o 〈◊〉_d of_o his_o church_n 2._o â—_o c._n &_o 64._o â—_o b._n christ_n the_o son_n of_o the_o â—ather_n â—nd_v how_o 132.2_o m._n 〈…〉_z of_o his_o father_n 3._o â—_o m._n his_o holiness_n as_o man_n 175._o 〈◊〉_d 176.1_o his_o 〈◊〉_d presence_n not_o â—o_o be_v regard_v 52.2_o m._n he_o be_v spiritual_a food_n 128.2_o â—_o hide_a food_n 130.1_o b._n 〈◊〉_d catholic_a only_o one_o 12.1_o â—_o church_n triumphant_a 19â—_n 2_o m._n church_n 〈…〉_z the_o cross_v 37.1_o c_o church_n have_v power_n to_o appoint_v 〈…〉_z 13â—_n 1._o m._n several_a congregationâ—_n be_v particular_a churcheâ—_n 〈…〉_z b._n a 1_n â—_o b._n they_o be_v candlestick_n 49.2_o of_o gold_n â—1_n 1_o m._n the_o 〈…〉_z truth_n â—_o â—_o b._n 1â—_n 2_o m._n it_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v 76.2_o c._n it_o shall_v be_v purge_v of_o evil_a man_n 74.2_o b_o it_o shall_v be_v severe_a against_o they_o 138.1_o c._n and_o 139.1_o c._n when_o a_o church_n become_v no_o church_n 102.2_o c._n whence_o god_n church_n be_v gather_v 112.1_o c._n where_o our_o church_n be_v before_o luther_n 113.2_o b._n material_a church_n no_o more_o holy_a than_o other_o house_n 39.1_o c._n 196.1_o c._n commandment_n their_o use_n in_o the_o church_n 89.1_o comedy_n unlawful_a â—50_n 2_o c._n communion_n of_o saint_n 38.2_o m._n communicant_n ungrateful_a 217.2_o c._n confession_n of_o christ._n 175.1_o c._n conscience_n evil_a 33.1_o m._n good_a conscience_n a_o sure_a treasury_n 114.1_o b._n consideration_n of_o a_o man_n sin_n 115.2_o constancy_n for_o the_o truth_n 113.2_o c._n sign_n of_o it_o 114.1_o m._n controversy_n in_o religion_n how_o to_o know_v truth_n therein_o 18.1_o c._n converse_v with_o evil_a man_n 75.1_o c._n &_o 2._o convert_v of_o soul_n a_o great_a privilege_n 183.2_o c._n of_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o sinner_n 186.1_o b._n 215.2_o c._n fruit_n of_o true_a conversion_n 187.1.188.1_o correction_n shall_v be_v for_o reformation_n 211.1_o and_o 212._o corruption_n of_o nature_n help_n against_o it_o 60.1_o b._n corruption_n in_o a_o church_n do_v not_o present_o make_v it_o no_o church_n 165.2_o c._n chief_a counsellor_n christ._n 207.1_o c._n d_o damnation_n how_o escape_v 110.1_o b._n david_n fall_n 85.1_o b._n dead_a christ_n privilege_n among_o the_o dead_a 20.2_o b._n and_o 21.1_o b._n death_n twofold_n 109.2_o b._n spiritual_a death_n have_v 3._o degree_n 58.2_o c._n comfort_n against_o death_n 20.2_o c._n &_o 56.1_o c._n decay_n in_o love_n and_o grace_n 86.1.89.2_o c._n 90.2_o c._n 92.1_o m._n degree_n in_o glory_n 149.1_o c._n despair_n help_n against_o it_o 213.2_o c._n diligence_n in_o a_o minister_n 73.1_o m._n disgrace_v of_o other_o 93.2_o m._n distrust_v in_o god_n providence_n 104.1_o c._n doctor_n of_o the_o church_n
of_o god_n in_o the_o good_a of_o other_o hereto_o i_o aim_v in_o this_o second_o edition_n of_o this_o book_n for_o my_o call_n to_o this_o work_n when_o my_o accuser_n stand_v forth_o the_o executor_n of_o the_o dead_a shall_v answer_v for_o my_o discharge_n and_o for_o my_o endeavour_n to_o do_v good_a the_o small_a gain_n of_o this_o revised_a work_n be_v true_o return_v to_o the_o right_a owner_n thereof_o if_o thou_o therefore_o return_v glory_n to_o god_n for_o good_a receive_v to_o thy_o soul_n in_o this_o behalf_n i_o have_v my_o desire_n here_o only_o rest_v the_o doubt_n how_o this_o second_o edition_n shall_v not_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o his_o good_a estimation_n that_o publish_v the_o former_a i_o answer_v well_o enough_o for_o i_o hope_v he_o intend_v end_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o the_o credit_n of_o the_o reverend_a author_n of_o this_o work_n now_o if_o any_o addition_n be_v bring_v hereunto_o his_o intent_n be_v further_v and_o wherein_o then_o can_v he_o be_v grieve_v if_o one_o man_n shall_v help_v poor_a orphan_n to_o some_o land_n or_o live_a he_o will_v not_o think_v himself_o wrong_v by_o another_o that_o shall_v enlarge_v their_o just_a claim_n or_o settle_v their_o possession_n in_o a_o better_a tenure_n so_o i_o trust_v it_o fare_v in_o this_o work_n where_o thou_o shall_v find_v upon_o thy_o diligent_a view_n in_o some_o doubtful_a 1._o thing_n the_o author_n meaning_n true_o clear_v his_o method_n rectify_v many_o repetition_n omit_v and_o the_o matter_n special_o towards_o the_o latter_a end_n somewhat_o enlarge_v if_o any_o thing_n be_v dissonant_n to_o the_o author_n judgement_n in_o his_o live-work_n which_o i_o hope_v thou_o shall_v not_o perceive_v rather_o charge_v the_o fault_n on_o i_o through_o ignorance_n or_o misunderstanding_n than_o entertain_v in_o thy_o heart_n the_o least_o conceit_n of_o waver_a levity_n in_o so_o godly_a learned_a and_o judicious_a a_o divine_a who_o have_v so_o well_o deserve_v of_o thy_o love_n if_o thou_o love_v the_o truth_n thus_o crave_v thy_o favourable_a acceptance_n of_o my_o help_a hand_n to_o do_v thou_o good_a i_o end_v with_o he_o that_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n thou_o in_o he_o who_o be_v lord_n of_o all_o t.p._n â§_o a_o general_n analysis_n of_o the_o vision_n show_v to_o john_n the_o three_o first_o chapter_n consist_v of_o a_o preface_n contain_v the_o title_n of_o the_o book_n viz._n apocalypse_n or_o revelation_n describe_v by_o seven_o argument_n vers_fw-la 1_o 2_o 3._o inscription_n of_o the_o vision_n wherein_o be_v johns_n dedication_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n verse_n 4._o salutation_n include_v the_o blessing_n wish_v for_o grace_n verse_n 4._o peace_n verse_n 4._o author_n of_o they_o viz._n 1._o the_o father_n verse_n 4._o 2._o the_o holy_a ghost_n verse_n 4._o 3._o the_o son_n who_o be_v describe_v by_o his_o office_n prophetical_a vers._n 5._o priestly_n vers._n 5._o kingly_a vers._n 5._o the_o execution_n of_o his_o office_n in_o four_o work_n 1._o love_v us._n vers._n 5._o 2._o wash_v away_o our_o sin_n vers._n 5._o 3._o make_v we_o king_n &_o priest_n vers._n 6._o 4._o come_v to_o â—â—dgement_n vers._n 7._o do_v confirm_v the_o former_a description_n vers._n 8._o a_o vision_n contain_v circumstance_n four_o person_n to_o who_o john_n vers._n 9_o place_v where_o isle_n pathmâ—â—_n vers._n 9_o manner_n how_o in_o a_o trance_n vers._n 10._o time_n when_o on_o the_o lord_n day_n vers._n 10._o part_v the_o entrance_n into_o it_o contain_v the_o mean_n of_o johns_n preparation_n viz._n a_o voice_n set_v out_o by_o the_o place_n whence_o it_o come_v vers._n 10._o the_o greatness_n of_o it_o vers._n 10._o the_o matter_n of_o it_o vers._n 11._o part_n of_o his_o preparation_n hear_v note_v in_o the_o mean_n vers._n 10._o turn_v himself_o vers._n 12._o matter_n viz._n a_o representation_n of_o christ_n in_o majesty_n set_v out_o by_o the_o place_n where_o john_n see_v he_o vers._n 13._o his_o form_n or_o figure_n in_o his_o attire_n vers._n 13._o the_o part_n of_o his_o body_n vers._n 14.15_o the_o property_n thereof_o vers._n 16._o his_o action_n 1._o a_o confirmation_n of_o john_n be_v sore_o afraid_a vers._n 17_o 18._o 2._o a_o commandment_n to_o write_v vers._n 19_o 3._o the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o vision_n vers._n 20._o 4._o seven_o several_a commandment_n to_o write_v seven_o epistle_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n chap._n 2._o &_o 3_o a_o godly_a and_o learned_a exposition_n of_o the_o three_o first_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n revel_v 1.1_o the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o 〈…〉_z his_o servant_n thing_n which_o must_v short_o be_v do_v which_o he_o send_v and_o show_v by_o his_o angel_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n before_o we_o come_v to_o the_o word_n where_o in_o be_v contain_v singular_a mater_fw-la fit_a for_o the_o time_n &_o age_n this_o question_n must_v be_v handle_v whether_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v canonical_a scripture_n for_o some_o have_v heretofore_o as_o also_o in_o our_o time_n call_v the_o authority_n of_o it_o in_o question_n but_o we_o be_v without_o all_o doubt_n to_o resolve_v ourselves_o that_o it_o be_v canonical_a scripture_n of_o equal_a authority_n with_o the_o rest_n of_o god_n book_n our_o reason_n be_v these_o first_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o this_o book_n be_v apostolical_a as_o any_o shall_v perceive_v which_o serious_o read_v the_o same_o second_o the_o stile_n of_o this_o book_n be_v apostolical_a that_o be_v plain_a simple_a and_o easy_a if_o we_o consider_v that_o the_o matter_n thereof_o be_v prophetical_a three_o this_o book_n have_v be_v approve_v and_o receive_v for_o canonical_a by_o the_o common_a consent_n of_o god_n church_n in_o all_o age_n since_o the_o day_n of_o john_n and_o be_v never_o refuse_v of_o any_o whole_a church_n but_o only_o of_o some_o private_a man_n four_o the_o thing_n foretell_v in_o this_o book_n come_v to_o pass_v as_o they_o be_v foretell_v as_o among_o the_o rest_n in_o one_o for_o all_o may_v appear_v by_o the_o pprophecy_n of_o the_o two_o beast_n whereof_o one_o come_v out_o of_o the_o sea_n the_o other_o out_o of_o the_o earth_n chap._n 13._o the_o one_o prefigure_v the_o roman_a empire_n the_o other_o the_o heretical_a apostatical_a church_n of_o rome_n both_o which_o in_o all_o thing_n be_v come_v to_o pass_v in_o these_o latter_a age_n answerable_a to_o the_o prophecy_n the_o contrary_a reason_n bring_v to_o improve_v the_o authority_n of_o this_o book_n be_v of_o no_o moment_n 1._o reason_n john_n name_v himself_o sundry_a time_n in_o this_o book_n whereas_o in_o pen_v the_o gospel_n he_o do_v not_o once_o mention_v his_o own_o name_n though_o he_o have_v just_a occasion_n so_o to_o do_v therefore_o it_o be_v not_o pen_v by_o john_n but_o by_o some_o other_o and_o publish_v afterward_o in_o johns_n name_n answ._n the_o reason_n be_v not_o good_a for_o there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o a_o history_n and_o a_o prophecy_n the_o gospel_n of_o john_n be_v a_o history_n of_o christ_n now_o there_o be_v no_o necessary_a reason_n why_o one_o man_n pen_v the_o history_n of_o another_o shall_v name_v himself_o but_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v a_o prophecy_n in_o pen_v whereof_o it_o be_v more_o requisite_a the_o prophet_n shall_v put_v to_o his_o own_o name_n so_o do_v the_o former_a prophet_n jeremy_n mention_v his_o name_n in_o his_o book_n at_o least_o a_o hundred_o time_n so_o do_v isaiah_n and_o daniel_n almost_o in_o every_o chapter_n then_o see_v they_o do_v it_o so_o often_o it_o be_v no_o marvel_n if_o s._n john_n repeat_v his_o name_n five_o sundry_a time_n in_o this_o whole_a book_n 2._o they_o object_n that_o his_o stile_n in_o this_o book_n be_v not_o the_o same_o with_o that_o he_o use_v in_o the_o pen_n of_o the_o gospel_n ans._n the_o difference_n of_o the_o stile_n arise_v from_o the_o difference_n of_o the_o matter_n see_v there_o he_o write_v a_o history_n here_o he_o pen_v a_o prophecy_n again_o he_o write_v not_o his_o own_o word_n but_o those_o which_o he_o receive_v from_o christ_n by_o particular_a revelation_n 3._o they_o say_v this_o book_n have_v be_v reject_v in_o diverse_a age_n as_o not_o canonical_a ans._n it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o it_o be_v ever_o refuse_v of_o any_o whole_a church_n but_o of_o some_o particular_a man_n now_o the_o disallow_n of_o any_o private_a man_n can_v make_v a_o whole_a book_n to_o be_v reject_v for_o then_o the_o epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n of_o james_n and_o of_o john_n shall_v not_o be_v canonical_a which_o yet_o be_v receive_v of_o all_o
first_o christ_n send_v and_o show_v this_o revelation_n this_o action_n of_o christ_n be_v note_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o two_o special_a cause_n first_o to_o show_v that_o s._n john_n do_v not_o pen_n and_o publish_v this_o book_n rash_o but_o by_o call_v and_o warrant_n from_o god_n this_o teach_v we_o what_o must_v be_v our_o behaviour_n in_o all_o our_o action_n whatsoever_o we_o take_v in_o hand_n we_o must_v look_v we_o have_v warrant_n from_o god_n for_o the_o do_v of_o the_o same_o by_o virtue_n of_o our_o call_n and_o with_o out_o this_o we_o shall_v not_o dare_v to_o enterprise_v any_o thing_n if_o this_o duty_n be_v practise_v there_o will_v be_v more_o conscience_n of_o the_o service_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o more_o care_n of_o just_a deal_n with_o man_n then_o there_o be_v in_o the_o affair_n of_o this_o life_n second_o this_o action_n of_o christ_n be_v note_v to_o get_v more_o reverend_a acceptance_n and_o great_a authority_n to_o this_o book_n for_o which_o cause_n also_o it_o be_v send_v by_o a_o holy_a angel_n if_o a_o earthly_a prince_n shall_v write_v his_o letter_n to_o his_o subject_n and_o withal_o send_v it_o by_o one_o of_o his_o guard_n we_o doubt_v the_o subject_n will_v receive_v it_o most_o reverent_o behold_v this_o book_n be_v the_o epistle_n and_o letter_n of_o jesus_n christ_n send_v by_o his_o angel_n for_o the_o benefit_n of_o his_o church_n what_o reverence_n therefore_o and_o acceptation_n ought_v this_o to_o find_v sure_o a_o thousand_o fold_n more_o with_o every_o one_o than_o the_o writing_n of_o any_o earthly_a prince_n whatsoever_o the_o second_o point_n to_o be_v observe_v be_v the_o person_n who_o christ_n employ_v about_o this_o revelation_n and_o they_o be_v two_o a_o holy_a angel_n and_o saint_n john_n for_o the_o first_o it_o have_v please_v god_n in_o all_o age_n to_o use_v the_o ministry_n of_o angel_n as_o a_o mean_n whereby_o he_o will_v convey_v the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o will_n unto_o his_o church_n the_o law_n in_o mount_n sinai_n be_v give_v to_o moses_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o a_o angel_n act._n 7.38_o gal._n 3.19_o and_o daniel_n receive_v the_o exposition_n of_o sundry_a dream_n and_o vision_n by_o a_o angel_n dan._n 8.19_o and_o 9.21_o and_o 10.14_o and_o the_o seven_o vision_n which_o contain_v the_o substance_n of_o this_o book_n be_v show_v to_o john_n by_o a_o holy_a angel_n but_o here_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o like_o the_o papist_n ground_n hereupon_o the_o invocation_n of_o angel_n because_o they_o be_v about_o we_o and_o bring_v unto_o we_o particular_a message_n from_o the_o lord_n for_o before_o we_o may_v pray_v unto_o they_o we_o must_v have_v from_o god_n a_o particular_a commandment_n so_o to_o do_v and_o also_o a_o promise_n to_o be_v hear_v in_o that_o we_o ask_v or_o else_o our_o prayer_n be_v not_o of_o faith_n but_o the_o whole_a scripture_n afford_v no_o word_n of_o command_n or_o promise_v for_o any_o such_o action_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v do_v it_o without_o sin_n the_o second_o instrument_n here_o employ_v by_o christ_n be_v john_n this_o john_n be_v son_n to_o zebedeus_n and_o so_o kinsman_n unto_o christ_n a_o bless_a apostle_n and_o evangelist_n which_o pen_v one_o of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o three_o epistle_n which_o bear_v his_o name_n this_o be_v that_o disciple_n who_o jesus_n love_v and_o to_o procure_v the_o more_o credit_n and_o reverence_n to_o this_o book_n he_o describe_v himself_o by_o two_o argument_n first_o by_o a_o property_n call_v himself_o christ_n his_o servant_n second_o by_o a_o effect_n or_o action_n in_o bear_v record_n to_o god_n word_n vers_fw-la 2._o for_o the_o first_o note_z that_o john_n do_v not_o call_v himself_o that_o disciple_n who_o jesus_n love_v nor_o the_o kinsman_n of_o christ_n which_o he_o may_v have_v do_v be_v ally_v unto_o he_o for_o johns_n mother_n be_v sister_n to_o joseph_n christ_n suppose_v father_n and_o cousin_n german_a to_o the_o virgin_n mary_n john_n have_v learn_v of_o christ_n himself_o that_o the_o â—earers_n and_o doer_n of_o the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n be_v esteem_v more_o dear_a and_o near_o unto_o he_o than_o any_o bond_n of_o outward_a alliance_n can_v possible_o make_v they_o math._n 12.50_o luk._n 11.28_o but_o he_o call_v himself_o christ_n servant_n have_v yield_v up_o himself_o to_o do_v his_o will_n for_o herein_o stand_v the_o dignity_n of_o a_o christian_n to_o do_v service_n unto_o christ._n the_o bless_a virgin_n have_v never_o find_v such_o favour_n with_o god_n to_o have_v be_v christ_n mother_n if_o she_o have_v not_o withal_o become_v christ_n servant_n she_o bear_v he_o in_o her_o heart_n by_o faith_n as_o well_o as_o in_o her_o womb_n by_o conception_n or_o else_o she_o have_v never_o be_v save_v by_o he_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o outward_a dignity_n as_o blood_n royal_a noble_a parentage_n and_o such_o like_a will_v nothing_o further_a a_o man_n salvation_n he_o that_o will_v be_v acceptable_a unto_o christ_n must_v become_v his_o servant_n by_o believe_v his_o word_n and_o do_v his_o will_n have_v cast_v off_o the_o old_a man_n which_o be_v corrupt_a and_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 so_o paul_n say_v circumcision_n be_v nothing_o and_o uncircumcision_n be_v nothing_o but_o keep_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n 1._o cor._n 7.19_o and_o henceforth_o know_v i_o no_o man_n after_o the_o flesh_n but_o if_o any_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o new_a creature_n 2._o cor._n â—_o 16_o 17._o again_o consider_v in_o what_o regard_n john_n be_v here_o call_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n not_o only_o for_o that_o he_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o obey_v his_o will_n as_o all_o true_a christian_n do_v but_o more_o special_o because_o he_o be_v a_o apostle_n and_o do_v service_n unto_o christ_n in_o the_o work_n of_o his_o ministry_n which_o be_v his_o particular_a call_n so_o paul_n write_v to_o the_o roman_n call_v himself_o a_o apostle_n &_o servant_n of_o christ_n cap._n 1.1_o and_o he_o render_v a_o reason_n thereof_o vers_fw-la 9_o because_o he_o do_v service_n unto_o he_o in_o preach_v the_o gospel_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o we_o must_v not_o only_o show_v ourselves_o christ_n servant_n in_o our_o general_a call_n of_o christianity_n but_o especial_o in_o our_o particular_a calling_n and_o office_n after_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n bless_a apostle_n it_o be_v a_o good_a thing_n to_o profess_v service_n unto_o christ_n by_o hear_v his_o word_n receive_v his_o sacrament_n and_o keep_v his_o saboathe_n but_o unless_o therewithal_o we_o show_v the_o power_n of_o godliness_n in_o our_o particular_a calling_n our_o outward_a profession_n be_v flat_a hypocrisy_n this_o magistrate_n minister_n husband_n wife_n parent_n child_n master_n servant_n buyer_n seller_n and_o every_o one_o in_o his_o lawful_a call_n shall_v careful_o observe_v for_o unless_o in_o the_o particular_a duty_n of_o their_o special_a calling_n as_o the_o magistrate_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o magistrate_n etc._n etc._n they_o do_v service_n unto_o christ_n their_o public_a service_n in_o the_o outward_a duty_n of_o religion_n shall_v never_o commend_v they_o unto_o god_n be_v it_o never_o so_o glorious_a micha_n 6.6_o 7_o 8._o vers._n 2._o which_o bare_a record_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o of_o the_o thâ—ngs_n that_o he_o see_v here_o be_v the_o second_o argument_n whereby_o john_n describe_v himself_o namely_o by_o this_o action_n or_o effect_n in_o bear_v record_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o partly_o by_o write_v the_o gospel_n and_o partly_o by_o preach_v he_o bare_a witness_n and_o testify_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v true_a and_o because_o the_o word_n of_o god_n have_v diverse_a part_n the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n he_o show_v in_o the_o next_o word_n that_o he_o mean_v especial_o the_o gospel_n add_v and_o of_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o jesus_n say_v and_o do_v and_o that_o no_o man_n may_v call_v into_o question_n the_o truth_n of_o his_o testimony_n he_o profess_v himself_o to_o have_v be_v a_o eye_n witness_n of_o all_o those_o thing_n whereof_o he_o bare_a record_n say_v and_o of_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o see_v and_o here_o he_o allege_v his_o testimony_n to_o the_o gospel_n to_o prove_v himself_o a_o faithful_a penman_n of_o this_o book_n that_o so_o it_o may_v have_v more_o reverence_n for_o he_o which_o be_v faithful_a in_o pen_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n the_o same_o also_o be_v faithful_a in_o pen_v this_o prophecy_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o testimony_n we_o
write_v that_o he_o put_v into_o they_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o matter_n and_o the_o style_n and_o phrase_n of_o the_o scripture_n all_o come_v from_o christ._n nay_o when_o any_o particular_a man_n come_v to_o understand_v the_o scripture_n this_o be_v by_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n he_o open_v his_o eye_n he_o give_v the_o disciple_n understanding_n 24._o as_o they_o go_v unto_o emaus_n to_o understand_v the_o scripture_n the_o second_o duty_n of_o christ_n prophetical_a office_n be_v to_o certify_v man_n in_o conscience_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o father_n will_n this_o certificate_n be_v two_o fold_n general_a or_o particular_a general_a when_o he_o certify_v man_n in_o conscience_n that_o the_o word_n write_v or_o speak_v by_o man_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n neither_o nature_n nor_o learning_n can_v do_v this_o but_o it_o be_v proper_a to_o christ_n prophetical_a office_n and_o for_o this_o he_o say_v to_o his_o disciple_n 16.13_o he_o will_v send_v they_o the_o comforter_n which_o shall_v lead_v they_o into_o all_o truth_n that_o be_v reveal_v god_n will_v unto_o they_o and_o assure_v their_o heart_n that_o the_o same_o be_v true_a unto_o this_o assurance_n two_o thing_n be_v require_v the_o outward_a mean_n which_o be_v the_o word_n itself_o and_o a_o inward_a cause_n which_o be_v the_o principal_a to_o wit_n the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o this_o doctrine_n three_o point_n be_v resolve_v first_o use_n this_o demand_n of_o the_o papist_n how_o a_o man_n can_v come_v to_o know_v that_o the_o scripture_n read_v and_o teach_v be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n answ._n we_o must_v here_o have_v recourse_n to_o this_o faithful_a witness_n and_o desire_v of_o he_o his_o spirit_n whereby_o the_o mind_n must_v be_v enlighten_v and_o make_v able_a to_o discern_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n for_o natural_a man_n can_v do_v it_o of_o himself_o second_o we_o must_v have_v christ_n his_o testimony_n of_o scripture_n in_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o for_o in_o they_o he_o set_v down_o his_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n but_o some_o will_v say_v if_o christ_n testimony_n of_o scripture_n be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o scripture_n why_o do_v not_o alâ—_n man_n know_v this_o testimony_n and_o receive_v it_o i_o answer_v the_o shine_a of_o the_o sun_n before_o a_o man_n face_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o cause_v he_o to_o see_v unless_o he_o have_v in_o his_o eye_n the_o gift_n and_o sense_n of_o see_v even_o so_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o for_o a_o man_n to_o have_v in_o god_n word_n the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n that_o scripture_n be_v scripture_n but_o withal_o he_o must_v have_v in_o himself_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o testimony_n to_o his_o conscience_n and_o then_o in_o read_v or_o hear_v the_o scripture_n in_o mark_v the_o manner_n and_o style_n the_o majesty_n and_o power_n thereof_o he_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o see_v in_o every_o sentence_n the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n assure_v his_o conscience_n that_o the_o same_o be_v undoubted_o the_o word_n of_o god_n a_o second_o doubt_v resolve_v by_o this_o doctrine_n be_v this_o how_o can_v a_o man_n know_v the_o true_a religion_n see_v the_o turk_n papist_n jew_n and_o protestant_n have_v their_o several_a religion_n and_o die_v in_o they_o i_o answer_v we_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o christ_n this_o faithful_a witness_n and_o look_v whereto_o he_o give_v his_o testimony_n that_o we_o must_v hold_v for_o true_a religion_n now_o the_o scripture_n be_v as_o a_o letter_n send_v from_o heaven_n to_o the_o church_n wherein_o christ_n have_v set_v down_o his_o own_o testimony_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n which_o in_o trial_n shall_v be_v find_v to_o be_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o protestant_n and_o not_o the_o religion_n of_o jew_n turk_n or_o papist_n a_o three_o doubt_n to_o be_v resolve_v by_o this_o doctrine_n be_v how_o to_o know_v the_o particular_a truth_n in_o matter_n of_o religion_n when_o as_o sundry_a man_n profess_v the_o same_o religion_n be_v of_o diverse_a opinion_n answ._n still_o we_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o this_o faithful_a witness_n and_o prophet_n of_o the_o church_n he_o be_v the_o judge_n of_o all_o controversy_n in_o religion_n and_o in_o the_o scripture_n if_o we_o mark_v they_o we_o shall_v see_v his_o judgement_n quest._n but_o if_o there_o be_v diverse_a opinion_n about_o scripture_n itself_o and_o every_o one_o give_v a_o several_a sense_n unto_o it_o who_o must_v then_o be_v judge_n answ._n in_o this_o diversity_n of_o opinion_n yea_o of_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o we_o must_v still_o have_v recourse_n to_o christ_n and_o that_o in_o the_o scripture_n alone_o for_o though_o there_o be_v a_o thousand_o diverse_a exposition_n of_o one_o place_n yet_o by_o the_o scope_n and_o circumstance_n thereof_o confer_v it_o with_o other_o like_a place_n of_o scripture_n a_o man_n shall_v be_v able_a to_o find_v out_o the_o true_a sense_n for_o christ_n in_o the_o scripture_n expound_v himself_o the_o particular_a certificate_n of_o christ_n belong_v also_o to_o his_o prophetical_a office_n and_o that_o be_v to_o assure_v man_n in_o their_o conscience_n that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n with_o all_o the_o benefit_n therein_o contain_v as_o justification_n sanctification_n and_o life_n eternal_a which_o in_o the_o word_n be_v general_o expound_v do_v belong_v unto_o they_o particular_o as_o to_o peter_n to_o john_n etc._n etc._n and_o this_o assurance_n as_o the_o former_a be_v principal_o wrought_v by_o the_o word_n not_o bare_o read_v but_o preach_v for_o therein_o by_o the_o inward_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o general_a promise_n be_v particular_o apply_v this_o paul_n import_v say_v you_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n which_o testify_v with_o our_o spirit_n we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n rom._n 8.15_o 16._o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n use_n and_o of_o all_o other_o which_o hold_v that_o man_n can_v be_v assure_v of_o their_o salvation_n by_o faith_n be_v wicked_a and_o damnable_a for_o hereby_o they_o cut_v off_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n prophetical_a office_n wherein_o the_o dignity_n thereof_o do_v consist_v that_o be_v to_o assure_v a_o man_n particular_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n promise_n unto_o himself_o and_o in_o this_o he_o differ_v from_o all_o other_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n which_o be_v witness_n for_o they_o can_v witness_v only_o outward_o to_o the_o ear_n but_o he_o can_v speak_v and_o testify_v to_o the_o conscience_n neither_o can_v any_o of_o they_o certify_v any_o man_n particular_o though_o their_o ministry_n tend_v to_o that_o end_n second_o observe_v christ_n be_v not_o only_o a_o witness_n but_o a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o so_o he_o be_v for_o these_o cause_n first_o because_o he_o testify_v not_o his_o own_o will_n but_o he_o which_o send_v he_o namely_o his_o father_n john_n 8.26_o second_o he_o testify_v all_o his_o father_n will_n neither_o add_v thereto_o nor_o detract_n from_o it_o john_n 17.4_o three_o because_o he_o teach_v his_o father_n will_v sincere_o in_o the_o same_o manner_n which_o he_o receive_v it_o not_o alter_v change_a or_o deprave_v any_o part_n thereof_o as_o my_o father_n teach_v i_o so_o i_o speak_v these_o thing_n john_n 8.28_o three_o christ_n be_v call_v that_o faithful_a witness_n to_o distinguish_v he_o from_o all_o other_o witness_n the_o lord_n have_v sundry_a faithful_a witness_n as_o the_o prophet_n apostle_n the_o church_n nay_o the_o sun_n and_o moon_n psalm_n 89.37_o but_o christ_n alone_o be_v that_o faithful_a witness_n first_o because_o his_o witness_n be_v 8.14_o authentical_a sufficient_a of_o itself_o and_o needs_o no_o other_o confirmation_n the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o prophet_n be_v not_o of_o itself_o authentical_a and_o certain_a but_o as_o it_o consent_v with_o christ_n witness_n and_o proceed_v from_o his_o spirit_n second_o he_o be_v that_o witness_n because_o he_o be_v the_o lord_n of_o that_o house_n whereto_o he_o give_v witness_n namely_o the_o church_n but_o the_o apostle_n and_o prophet_n be_v but_o servant_n there_o hebr._fw-la 5.5_o 6._o three_o christ_n his_o witness_n be_v inward_a it_o speak_v direct_o to_o the_o conscience_n and_o there_o give_v undoubted_a assurance_n but_o the_o witness_n of_o man_n as_o of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v outward_a only_a it_o come_v to_o the_o ear_n it_o never_o bind_v and_o assure_v the_o conscience_n of_o itself_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v why_o he_o be_v call_v here_o that_o faithful_a witness_n use_n first_o whereas_o christ_n the_o doctor_n and_o prophet_n of_o the_o church_n be_v call_v that_o faithful_a witness_n we_o learn_v that_o all_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n ought_v to_o be_v faithful_a witness_n for_o every_o minister_n of_o the_o
himself_o from_o such_o aâ—_n teach_v otherwise_o than_o he_o have_v give_v direct_a on_o and_o consent_v not_o unto_o the_o wholesome_a word_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o the_o doctrine_n which_o be_v according_a to_o godliness_n be_v puff_v up_o and_o know_v nothing_o this_o than_o must_v be_v our_o careful_a practice_n we_o have_v by_o god_n mercy_n true_a religion_n among_o we_o which_o we_o must_v maintain_v with_o zeal_n and_o if_o any_o bring_v in_o other_o doctrine_n we_o must_v reject_v it_o and_o show_v forth_o detestation_n to_o he_o that_o bring_v it_o not_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n 2._o john_n 10._o we_o must_v rather_o loose_v our_o life_n than_o suffer_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n to_o be_v deface_v three_o that_o which_o christ_n lay_v to_o the_o charge_n of_o this_o church_n may_v in_o sundry_a respect_n be_v charge_v upon_o our_o church_n and_o congregation_n at_o this_o day_n namely_o want_v of_o zeal_n against_o sin_n and_o severity_n against_o sinner_n for_o though_o the_o governor_n of_o our_o church_n repel_v the_o heresy_n of_o popery_n anabaptist_n and_o family_n of_o love_n and_o suppress_v all_o doctrine_n that_o race_n the_o foundation_n which_o be_v commendable_a thing_n yet_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o our_o congregation_n be_v abundance_n of_o atheist_n who_o by_o deed_n and_o conversation_n deny_v christ_n jesus_n for_o many_o know_v nothing_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o more_o be_v profane_a who_o both_o think_v and_o speak_v most_o base_o of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o teacher_n and_o professor_n thereof_o yea_o we_o have_v flat_a epicure_n permit_v to_o live_v in_o our_o church_n such_o as_o make_v their_o belly_n their_o god_n who_o give_v themselves_o whole_o unto_o eat_v drink_v sport_n and_o delight_n without_o all_o regard_n either_o of_o the_o general_a duty_n of_o christianity_n or_o of_o the_o particular_a duty_n of_o their_o call_n we_o have_v also_o among_o we_o many_o cruel_a and_o merciless_a person_n that_o in_o their_o affair_n abound_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o fraud_n wrong_v usury_n and_o oppression_n 5.11_o who_o tread_v be_v upon_o the_o poor_a in_o the_o pride_n of_o their_o covetousness_n whereby_o also_o they_o eat_v the_o flesh_n of_o godâ—_n people_n and_o flay_v off_o their_o skin_n from_o they_o and_o break_v their_o bone_n and_o chap_v they_o in_o piece_n as_o for_o the_o pot_n and_o as_o flesh_n within_o the_o cauldron_n mich._n 3.6_o and_o yet_o all_o these_o because_o they_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o civil_a authority_n be_v permit_v without_o controlment_n to_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o god_n church_n even_o to_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o seal_n of_o god_n covenant_n be_v themselves_o flat_a enemy_n to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n yea_o many_o of_o these_o be_v great_o countenance_v and_o grace_v for_o wisdom_n and_o reputation_n when_o as_o such_o as_o fear_v god_n and_o make_v conscience_n of_o their_o way_n be_v count_v vile_a all_o which_o as_o it_o argue_v exceed_v want_n of_o zeal_n in_o severity_n against_o sin_n so_o it_o can_v choose_v but_o provoke_v the_o lord_n to_o come_v against_o we_o in_o judgement_n as_o he_o do_v against_o this_o church_n the_o mean_n whereby_o this_o evil_a be_v to_o be_v reform_v do_v follow_v afterward_o iii_o point_n the_o reason_n or_o confirmation_n of_o the_o former_a reproof_n whereby_o the_o lord_n will_v move_v this_o church_n to_o detest_v these_o false_a teacher_n be_v take_v from_o the_o effect_n of_o their_o doctrine_n and_o it_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o this_o similitude_n as_o balaam_n the_o false_a prophet_n teach_v balac_n to_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o cause_v they_o to_o eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n so_o this_o church_n maintain_v among_o they_o nicholaitan_o who_o teach_v it_o be_v lawful_a to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n at_o idol_n feast_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o similitude_n be_v in_o the_o end_n of_o this_o 14_o verse_n which_o teach_v balac_n to_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n etc._n etc._n the_o second_o part_n be_v in_o the_o 15_o verse_n touch_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n we_o be_v to_o observe_v three_o point_n first_o what_o a_o stumble_a block_n or_o a_o offence_n be_v second_o what_o it_o be_v to_o cast_v or_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n three_o by_o what_o mean_v king_n balac_n do_v cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n for_o the_o first_o a_o stumble_a block_n be_v proper_o any_o thing_n as_o wood_n or_o stone_n or_o such_o like_a that_o be_v cast_v in_o a_o man_n way_n to_o hinder_v he_o in_o his_o gate_n and_o to_o cause_v he_o to_o trip_v or_o fall_v and_o by_o resemblance_n in_o this_o place_n a_o offence_n be_v any_o thing_n that_o cause_v a_o man_n to_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o so_o to_o slip_v or_o fall_v or_o to_o go_v out_o of_o his_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o life_n further_o a_o offence_n be_v twofold_a either_o give_v or_o take_v a_o offence_n give_v be_v any_o speech_n or_o deed_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v provoke_v to_o sin_n and_o so_o be_v peter_n a_o offence_n unto_o christ_n though_o he_o take_v it_o not_o mat._n 16.23_o a_o offence_n take_v be_v when_o any_o man_n take_v occasion_n to_o fall_v and_o sin_n by_o that_o which_o be_v well_o do_v by_o other_o so_o be_v the_o pharisy_n offend_v at_o the_o sacred_a preach_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ._n ii_o point_n the_o cast_n or_o put_v of_o a_o stumble_a block_n or_o give_v a_o offence_n be_v the_o do_v or_o say_v of_o any_o thing_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v occasion_v to_o sin_n and_o this_o be_v do_v either_o about_o thing_n evil_a in_o themselves_o or_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a thing_n evil_a be_v such_o as_o god_n word_n forbid_v and_o they_o be_v twofold_a either_o persuasion_n or_o example_n bad_a persuasion_n be_v false_a doctrine_n and_o evil_a counsel_n bad_a example_n be_v also_o a_o give_v of_o offence_n because_o it_o do_v embolden_v evil_a man_n in_o their_o sin_n and_o draw_v the_o godly_a to_o evil_n again_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a as_o meat_n drink_n apparel_n etc._n etc._n may_v offence_n be_v give_v when_o as_o they_o be_v use_v unreasonable_o not_o in_o fit_a time_n and_o place_n and_o before_o fit_a person_n and_o of_o this_o paul_n speak_v say_v if_o i_o know_v my_o eat_n do_v offend_v my_o brother_n i_o will_v eat_v no_o flesh_n while_o the_o world_n stand_v the_o offence_n here_o speak_v of_o be_v a_o offence_n give_v in_o evil_a thing_n for_o it_o be_v a_o evil_a act_n do_v by_o balaam_n and_o according_o receive_v and_o take_v of_o the_o israelit_n for_o he_o use_v outward_a provocation_n to_o allure_v they_o unto_o sin_n iii_o point_n the_o mean_n whereby_o king_n balac_n do_v cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n by_o provoke_v they_o to_o eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n that_o we_o may_v understand_v this_o full_o read_v number_n 25._o the_o sum_n of_o the_o history_n be_v this_o when_o balaam_n have_v assay_v sundry_a way_n to_o curse_v the_o child_n of_o israel_n and_o can_v not_o he_o give_v balac_n counsel_v to_o use_v mean_n to_o cause_v they_o to_o sin_n at_o his_o counsel_n balac_n send_v forth_o the_o most_o beautiful_a woman_n in_o his_o kingdom_n into_o the_o camp_n of_o israel_n to_o entice_v they_o to_o the_o service_n of_o their_o idol_n and_o to_o banquet_n with_o they_o at_o their_o idol_n feast_n that_o so_o they_o may_v draw_v they_o to_o fornication_n whereunto_o the_o israelite_n condescend_v and_o so_o sin_v against_o god_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n first_o use_n here_o observe_v a_o special_a property_n of_o false_a teacher_n namely_o to_o cast_v offence_n before_o man_n to_o cause_v they_o to_o fall_v in_o the_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o salvation_n by_o this_o christ_n intend_v to_o make_v know_v unto_o this_o church_n the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o balaam_n paul_n in_o his_o epistle_n 1.1_o call_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n a_o truth_n according_a to_o godliness_n because_o the_o intent_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o lead_v man_n to_o true_a godliness_n on_o the_o contrary_a the_o doctrine_n of_o antichrist_n be_v call_v â—_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n because_o the_o scope_n thereof_o be_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o all_o iniquity_n and_o abomination_n here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o rule_n whereby_o we_o may_v judge_v between_o true_a doctrine_n and_o false_a even_o by_o look_v into_o the_o end_n and_o scope_n thereof_o if_o it_o aim_v at_o true_a
christ_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n knock_v both_o by_o threaten_n by_o promise_n and_o good_a counsel_n therefore_o we_o must_v all_o of_o we_o listen_v unto_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n &_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o receive_v he_o into_o the_o same_o but_o alas_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o world_n be_v far_o otherwise_o man_n be_v churlish_a nabal_n unto_o christ_n who_o though_o he_o come_v friendly_a yet_o they_o repel_v he_o make_v no_o account_n of_o such_o against_o nay_o we_o be_v bethlemites_n which_o have_v no_o room_n for_o christ_n in_o the_o inn_n of_o our_o heart_n if_o christ_n will_v needs_o lodge_v with_o we_o he_o must_v lie_v among_o the_o beast_n in_o the_o filthy_a stable_n nay_o many_o send_v he_o out_o of_o their_o gate_n with_o the_o jew_n and_o crucify_v he_o with_o their_o sin_n but_o let_v we_o abandon_v this_o grievous_a sin_n for_o it_o be_v the_o right_a way_n to_o plunge_v our_o soul_n into_o the_o pit_n of_o destruction_n quest._n how_o must_v a_o man_n open_v his_o hart_n to_o receive_v christ_n answ._n by_o do_v two_o thing_n first_o he_o must_v labour_v to_o see_v his_o own_o vileness_n that_o he_o be_v unworthy_a to_o receive_v so_o bless_v a_o guest_n than_o he_o must_v humble_v himself_o and_o acknowledge_v this_o his_o unworthiness_n even_o as_o the_o ruler_n do_v when_o he_o say_v unto_o christ_n lord_n i_o be_o not_o worthy_a that_o thou_o shall_v come_v under_o my_o roof_n mat._n 8.8_o this_o humiliation_n be_v the_o begin_n of_o grace_n this_o do_v he_o must_v by_o true_a faith_n lie_v hold_v on_o christ_n that_o be_v believe_v that_o christ_n death_n and_o passion_n be_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o for_o the_o salvation_n of_o his_o soul_n for_o as_o christ_n dwell_v in_o man_n heart_n by_o faith_n so_o by_o faith_n he_o must_v be_v receive_v into_o their_o heart_n here_o some_o will_v say_v if_o this_o be_v to_o receive_v christ_n than_o all_o be_v well_o but_o take_v heed_n thou_o deceive_v not_o thyself_o with_o a_o vain_a imagination_n of_o thy_o own_o brain_n in_o stead_n of_o faith_n look_v therefore_o that_o thy_o faith_n be_v true_a &_o sound_a if_o it_o be_v true_a faith_n it_o will_v work_v by_o love_n even_o a_o true_a love_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o member_n which_o will_v appear_v by_o keep_v his_o commandment_n joh._n 14.23_o i_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o here_o be_v the_o thing_n promise_v to_o wit_n mutual_a communion_n and_o fellowship_n with_o christ._n this_o be_v the_o principal_a token_n of_o christ_n love_n be_v indeed_o the_o very_a ground_n of_o all_o true_a happiness_n joy_n and_o comfort_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v add_v to_o move_v they_o to_o open_v unto_o christ._n this_o society_n be_v here_o propound_v in_o two_o part_n first_o the_o sinner_n be_v convert_v make_v a_o feast_n unto_o christ_n i_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o sup_v with_o he_o second_o christ_n make_v a_o feast_n unto_o he_o and_o he_o shall_v sup_v with_o i_o and_o in_o these_o two_o consist_v the_o sum_n of_o salomon_n song_n of_o song_n where_o christ_n entertain_v the_o church_n and_o the_o church_n again_o feast_v christ._n for_o the_o first_o some_o may_v ask_v how_o can_v a_o poor_a sinner_n make_v a_o feast_n for_o christ_n answ._n cantic_a 4.16_o the_o church_n or_o every_o christian_n soul_n call_v christ_n unto_o a_o feast_n in_o his_o garden_n to_o eat_v his_o pleasant_a thing_n this_o feast_n consist_v of_o these_o thing_n first_o of_o the_o fruit_n of_o true_a repentance_n psal._n 51_o 17_o a_o break_a and_o contrite_a heart_n be_v a_o dainty_a diâ—â—_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n second_o of_o a_o hart_n believe_v the_o word_n and_o promise_n to_o god_n for_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n heb._n 11.6_o three_o the_o penitent_a sinner_n must_v 1_o give_v up_o himself_o in_o soul_n and_o body_n a_o holy_a and_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n by_o serve_v god_n faithful_o not_o only_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n but_o also_o in_o the_o faithful_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o particular_a call_n these_o be_v the_o delightful_a dish_n wherewith_o christ_n be_v feed_v the_o second_o feast_n be_v make_v by_o christ_n and_o he_o shall_v sup_v with_o i_o christ_n come_v not_o to_o be_v entertain_v only_o but_o to_o entertain_v and_o the_o feast_n which_o he_o make_v be_v his_o own_o body_n and_o blood_n 6.55_o for_o his_o flesh_n be_v meat_n indeed_o and_o his_o blood_n be_v drink_v indeed_o the_o vessel_n whereon_o these_o meat_n be_v carry_v be_v the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o all_o that_o be_v his_o welcome_a guest_n be_v true_a penitent_a sinner_n which_o have_v hunger_a and_o thirst_a heart_n after_o his_o body_n and_o blood_n luk._n 1.58_o and_o from_o this_o feast_n arise_v these_o blessing_n 14.17_o righteousness_n peace_n of_o conscience_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n see_v this_o fellowship_n with_o christ_n be_v here_o promise_v to_o those_o that_o open_a &_o receive_v he_o into_o their_o heart_n first_o use_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o renounce_v all_o earthly_a and_o carnal_a pleasure_n and_o not_o to_o addict_v ourselves_o to_o drink_v and_o quaff_v or_o sumptuous_a fare_n for_o here_o be_v a_o better_a feast_n set_v before_o we_o whereupon_o we_o must_v set_v our_o heart_n turn_v our_o eye_n from_o all_o worldly_a pleasure_n we_o know_v by_o experience_n how_o friend_n entertain_v each_o other_o but_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o know_v how_o to_o entertain_v christ_n and_o to_o feast_v he_o with_o his_o own_o grace_n that_o he_o may_v sup_v with_o we_o and_o we_o with_o he_o and_o so_o have_v true_a fellowship_n with_o he_o again_o by_o this_o we_o may_v see_v a_o notable_a abuse_n of_o many_o that_o come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n for_o here_o we_o see_v be_v require_v a_o interchange_n of_o feast_v between_o christ_n and_o a_o christian_a but_o many_o there_o be_v that_o will_v come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n and_o feast_v with_o christ_n that_o will_v never_o feast_v christ_n again_o and_o yet_o we_o ougt_v to_o be_v as_o careful_a to_o feast_v he_o as_o to_o feast_v with_o he_o it_o be_v a_o shame_n to_o sup_v often_o with_o christ_n and_o yet_o like_o ungrateful_a nabal_n never_o to_o have_v one_o good_a dish_n of_o grace_n and_o holy_a obedience_n to_o set_v before_o he_o wherewith_o indeed_o we_o shall_v feast_v he_o daily_o other_o will_v seem_v to_o give_v he_o good_a entertainment_n for_o that_o day_n whereon_o they_o feast_v with_o christ_n but_o soon_o after_o they_o give_v he_o gall_n to_o eat_v and_o vinegar_n to_o drink_v by_o their_o daily_a sin_n vers._n 21._o to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o make_v to_o sit_v with_o i_o in_o my_o throne_n even_o as_o i_o overcome_v and_o sit_v with_o my_o father_n in_o his_o throne_n vers._n 22._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n here_o be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n a_o promise_n vers_fw-la 21_o and_o a_o commandment_n vers_fw-la 22._o in_o the_o promise_n note_v two_o thing_n first_o to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v hereof_o we_o have_v speak_v second_o the_o thing_n promise_v that_o be_v fellowship_n with_o christ_n in_o glory_n i_o will_v make_v to_o sit_v etc._n etc._n whereby_o be_v not_o mean_v equality_n of_o glory_n and_o honour_n for_o that_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o any_o creature_n to_o receive_v but_o a_o participation_n only_o of_o some_o part_n of_o his_o glory_n so_o much_o as_o shall_v suffice_v for_o his_o perfect_a happiness_n and_o because_o it_o may_v be_v think_v no_o great_a matter_n therefore_o it_o be_v illustrate_v by_o a_o comparison_n as_o i_o overcome_v and_o sit_v with_o my_o father_n in_o his_o throne_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o will_v advance_v they_o that_o overcome_v their_o spiritual_a enemy_n into_o the_o participation_n of_o my_o glory_n even_o as_o my_o father_n when_o i_o have_v overcome_v advance_v i_o into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o his_o glory_n now_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v inferior_a to_o his_o father_n and_o in_o that_o regard_n be_v not_o advance_v to_o equal_a glory_n with_o his_o father_n though_o he_o sit_v with_o he_o so_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n be_v inferior_a unto_o he_o may_v sit_v with_o he_o in_o his_o throne_n though_o their_o glory_n be_v unequal_a these_o thing_n for_o substance_n have_v be_v handle_v chap._n 2._o vers_fw-la 26.28_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o conclusion_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v etc._n etc._n have_v also_o