A * MM ^ PRINCETON, N. J. Collection of Puritan Literature. Division Section Number _scB. i n c CHRISTIAN CONFLICT: aJ T%SAT1SB^ Shewing the Difficultiesand Duties ofthis Confli&j with the Armour,and fpcciall Grace* tobccxercifcd by Cbnftian Souldicrs. T articular ty affiled to -Magistrates 7£Husbands,£CPa*bnts , ? SMastirs, Ministers, J£ Wives > \ £CHiLDREN,£2S**VANT$f The Cafe of V fury and Depopu mon % andtbc errours of ^intihomip $ tciAJiortkttj *tp di[cu§td. Preached in the Le Aire of Kttttring in the County of Nmh*mpten % and with fomc enlargement jnibhflicd by IosipH Bentiam, Rcftor of the Church of Brought on io the fame County. LONDON, I rioted by G. M. for Pbilemen Stephens and ChrifiefberX* golden Lion in P a u l s Church-yard , I p TO THE RIGHT HONOVRABLE, E D VV A R D L Ord M O U N T A G U E of Houghton in the County of Northampton , increafc of grace in this lijc^nd.ihc full fruition oigUrj and hapfivejfc in the ///V '* Right HonMAbl^my very giodUrdyarsd^/igtiUr tstuk T being aneafieand do difficult thing for rJMomm to picke quar- rels in another mans tale,and tell h worfc thanhiflifclfc^ itboif% and leave off to labour any longer. That I might ma- nifeft mine earned defire to imitate ( although afarrc •ff > himwhomlfiieceed, who living was my pat- terne I pitched upon for imitation , my famous prc- decefTour M. &/**», whofc fingular rare parts noted in Jiim,have won wd wedded to him as great reputation and refped as any man living this day earrieth or can have [of his degree and quality : A man of blcfled memory , yeafucha one, thatthey who knew him> «o»ldnot flifficieatly eft^eme.bimt'and they who did DEDICATORIE. did not cfteeme him, did never fuffieiemly know j hira. whom living I loved and admired, and being dead, Idefirctofollow. Thatas I do not envy and I repine at other mens rich gifts with an evillcye, fo } to fignifie and (hew that I do not defpife mine ownc poore mite with a way ward and wicked heart, but do . de-fire to get and gainc fbmething with my fmall ta- lent unto my good and gracious Lord, bleffecfand bountifull Matter ; That I might a little unwindc my felfe out of that fo intricate a labyrinth, in which my heart and bed thoughts are and have bcene along £ time much intanglcd and inthralled, I having oftca exa&ly examined and throughly tried and pared my thoughts to the quick ; how to teftifieand tell abroad jny humble andhearty, my true and unfained thank*. , - folnefTe for your Lordflbips redundant and reduplica- ted favours, munificently heaped upon race, ( I ranch abhorring their too bad difpofition, which •^neither affbord love, nor requited, which neither offer it with kindnefle, ner accept it with acknow- ledgement) not onely in placing and planting meat WcekUy,not only in countenancing me and my Mini- fterie being there feated and fetled, whereby I was much animated and encouraged, and continually and i copioufly contributing to me fo often and infucha- bundance, that I, my no little charge and great fa- mily lived with comfort, contentment and plenty, even to admiration, if not aftonifhraent of allfuch t who did not ad vifedly confider Gods fecret blcifing, I multiplying and making to abound a little meal fenfi- bly and plentifully where and when hirafelf picafeth - \ and who were not acquainted with the ever-runniag- A $ foimt|fec THE EPISTLE fountains of your Lordfhips liberality flowing over not oncly to our refrefliing, but enriching: But alfo after fouretcene yeares triall and experience of me, in tranfplancing mee to Brougbten to fucceed M. "Bolten , of whom I may truly fay as Saint i^A*- gufime did of Saint C)prU» 9 iMulti trat meriti, mul-^ tiptfteriiy multi^U^ multivirtutu^ He was wor- thy, wife, eloquent and religious, I havcprefii- raedtopublifhthisfmallTreatife, not expe&ingby thus doing to gaine either riches or preferment, I having of the former to content me, and of the lat- ter by your Lordfhips favour to the utmoft pitch (if not further) that Iexpc<5ted: nor hunting after or Xokfl 7.14; hopirtg hereby to havecredit and applaufc ( I ufually living folitarily and retiredly at home) well knowing that reputation is but a wcakeand wavering foundati- on, and that peoples affe&ions oft raife mens hopes, and ruine their perfons, and that wife men are not moved by rumours, fince they grow by reports, and diminifti by experience: and fiice that long con- tinuance of a thing flakes the wonder mcnt,and makes the wings of report to flag. But for theaforefaid caufes and confederations 3 as alfo to do or attempt the doing of good in the Church and my native Countrey, wcllknowing that good intentions (ex. cept from felfe-perfwafions againft Gods comman- dements which are meereimpiecies) havefuchafym- pathy with Gods owndifpofidon , that he will both affift them for their better encouragement, and for others example; and well knowing that as a fcout may uponan aecafion faeare and know what a whole feofthathiao.prefent notice of 5 fol (who am no more, DEDICATORIE. more a Granger in divcrfe difficulties and diftrefles of Ghriftianity , and in many mifcrics of this Com- mon-wealth , than he who in a (hip as a paflenger f when it is in danger declares the fame although noPi- lot) haveafTayed,whatinmeis, the good of others, difiring (and yet it is a folly to wifh where there is no hopc)t hat this which I have penned for pnblikeprofit might pleafe a!l:But alas to have expe&ed to pleafe all men,I might rather have wiflied(as I c"o no more)than imagined any poffibility. Neither (hall I much regard the malevolent bitings of envious carpers of other mens Writings. May it pleafe your Lordfhip to rake in good partthisunfained teftimony of mineob- fcquiouslove, officious fervice, and humble thank- fulneffe unto your Honour (which I hope you will doe, fince noble hearts take more thankfully that which a man defiresto give, than that he gives in- deed ) as alfo to fuflfer this Treatife to pafle under your Lordfhips noble prote£tien and patrocinie. To whom I prefent with my humble fcrvlce this fmall Treatife. Firft , Not onely becaufe true Nobility grae'd with vertue and piety , are all combin'd in your Lordfhip Honours, Authoritic, and great places the top of the defires of ambitious men , except they light on a nature of Angular moderation, rai- niftcr matter to great and grievous vices: to whom it is as little benefit and true content to have fuch height of earthly happinefle, wanting the ufe of them , as fora purblinde man to have goodly pi- ctures j and dimmc eyes to behold them. In the midft of their plenty and redundance they wanting A 4. the *he true comfort of confidence^ and the right ufe of their honour and high places , they arc in the height of mifery. For , were they able to drinke up thepleafureof the world in as plentifull manner as Cleopdtra (who drunk the value of 50000 pound) ac a draught; yet ic is but a draught, and quickly downej themfelves being like to grecneahd good- ly boughs and branches, cut downe from trees to adornemens houfes for a time, and then throwne to the dunghill* For, if allthe gravell in their ri- vers were turned into pearlcs , and every ihovver of raine from the clouds above were a fhower of Clvcr and gold into their houfes; yet as the frefh rivers run into and end in the fait fea , fo fhall aH their honour end inbafenefife, all their pleaiures in bitternefle, all their treafure in emptineffe, all their garments in nakednefle, and their viands and delica- cies in loachfomnefle and rottennetfe. Were they faftned to their greatnefTe as arc the flony moun* taines to their foundations j yet are they not of power fufficient to withftand the power of the hea- ' venly IEHOVAH, who commandeth the ligh- tening and fendeth forth the wind, and is able to fliakethe world and rend in funder the maffcof the earth. Yea the faireft and goodlicft in body being ungodly, ftand in danger of grievous difeafes, or of vile creatures to beconfumed : the founded of un- derftandingtobe tormented in mind: the richeft ia treafures to be fpoiled in an houre.- the beft inhealth to be delivered to many and ftrong deaths, not fea- red or fufpe&ed. And therefore as Damcles when he faw nothing but his golden pots, his princely and nwgnificcat magnificent entertainment, his royall attendants-^ thought himfclfemoft happy; but when he caft up his eyes and faw a naked Avord hanging onely by a horfe haire ready every minute to fall upon his head, then he began to tremble. Even fo thefe great and graceletfe men of the world , when they onely re- fpe& their pomp, they think there are none like them. But when they looke up to the great vault of heaven, and fee the j-uft God ready to powre downe his vials of vengeance on them , then they tremble. Whereas your Lordfhips humble de- portment in fuchfublimities, digefting great felici- ty without furfct (a rare vertue in great perfons) the many radiant and rcfplendent gifts and graces, for which D.Hart, and M. Bolton, and others, in their Dedicatory Epiftles , have fpread your honour and rcnowne, yet report was lcfTe than verity , re* nownefarre fhortof defert: for truth doth out-ftrip fame , and many other I would name, were I not un- able to fpcake of them as theydeferve, and in what I can unworthy . and did I not know how averfc fuchpraifes are unto yourHonoar, accounting per- fonall commendations of living great ones, in men of our fort, a verball fimony, eternize your memory, andmakeyoubleffed to alleternity. Secoadly , Not only becaufe of your Lordfhips noble Patronage of all good lea rning,fo far forth as to be abountifullandperpetuallbenefa&ourtothc breeding and training up of fchollers in good litera- ture, in a free and bountif ull beftowing of Church-li* yingsinyour Lordfhips Patronage,butalfo infhew- ing Angular regard and refpc<3 to the Miniftexs of the Lord^ THh EPISTLE Lord, efpecially tofuch whoaremofl painfulland induftriousinthe Cburchof God. Thirdly ., Not onely becaufe of your Honours prefence at the preaching of many o'f thefe Ser- mons in our Le<3ure much countenanced and en- couraged by your Lordfhips not onely often, but iifualland ordinary frequenting the fame, Tourthly, Not onely becaufe of your Lordfhips ingenuity, who will cover fuch flips and miftakings which may be in this as in other mens Bookes, your Honour well knowing that an errourat thepreffeis no calumniation in the Aut hour. Fiftly , But alfo becaufe I owe my felfe and mine wraoft abilities to do your Lordfhip honour and fervice , for what I have and do enjoy. Might I therefore be fo happy as to honour and renowne your Lord/hip, or ftirrc up fome of your farre more able Chaplaines ( for not fo much is requi- red of a little weaketreeas of a great andftrong) to do the fame. If your Lordihip be pkafed to eafl: a favourable afpeft upon thefe my poore, yet paine- full endeavours : May I be an inftrument to bene- fit, although but a few , and bring glory to God, which eught to be the end of -all ends s I have the chiefcfl of my aimes and defires. Thus leaving the fucceffc of thefe ray labori- ous endeavours to the Almighty, with my hearti- eft prayers- to God the Giver of all good , That as your love towards God doth increafe, foGods love towards your Honour may iacreafe alfo : So that the beft bkffings may ever reft upon your Honours Perfon, your honourable Lady , on your noble i DEDICATORIE. noble OfF-fpring, whole family , and all your af- faires, to your cverlafting honour in this life, and cternail happincfle in the life to come, I humbly take my leave, and reft, Tour Lordjbips chiphine in all hu mbkftr vicc^j 7 , loJSPH Bl»THill< To the Chriftian Reader. Ourttotts Reader, good men have a notable hap andhappineffe to be borne in one age ra- ther than another: We in this, wherein I wee enjoy extraordinary plenty of profi- table excellent meancs of knowledge , by Pen and Preaching , in Prejfe and Pul- pit : Teafi many and fuch, that I had not any inten- tion to adventure in this kinde, untiS by my betters encou- ragement I published aTreatife of the Societie of Saints, the approbation of which with judicious men, who perufed the fame, hath oc caponed and animated me to fecond the fame with this of the Chriftian Conflict. In which had Imedledmth none, or onely meanemen, I could not butex- feft rajh and uncharitable ccnfnrers,ftncc vertuoiu men{al- though mtnftudious ofvertue) c*n fcarce find one hand to further them in workings yet commonly have often a mul- titude qfevill tongues tofteakc dgainft their honeft doings: much more addrefing my felfe not onely again [t Antino- mifts a lawleffe and licentious kind of evd^eakersjbut al- fo again]} ufurers and depopulates the devourers of our common-wealthy and other fuch like disorderly dealers, which fwarme in and (wallow up our common- wealth • can- not hike to eft Apt the four ge of tongues* But, thobeflis,! &m as UttUambitioHS tffuch mens good word, as guilty of their bad : and I had rather be difpraifed for true f peak- ing % than honoured for lying(*lthough I know themoft had rather To the R6ad^ * :>r rather be commended with lies^th^n toprovtdvAtktruth^ being perfvoaded that he in heart hath no true.Jvtcerijty^ which keeps his mouth /but to remove vice. Maty. of\hff& ' j encounter \9ithbxvtfaire andplauftbte pritoncesi mtpjtj. that mcancs they are the more pernicious, ^fpwkfcjtrrt may be coveted wilds a fake cloth, * andfmaskedmeantig *Dumgrafi©r doth more harme thanhare-facd errour. I know it is a hard /it & magii matter to make them fee any thing,which have refolvidbe- ™*£P£ m fore hand to clofe their eyes : that none are fo blind as thej taju obumbra. who will not fee i that no paradox is.foflrange but fome ta T!J^ m,n< - fhilofopher rtiU undertake to defend in novice fofoule,but u\,;^T* it will have fome refuge ofapologie to maintains it for good: yet wiUlfpeake the truth, not. caring if they who brow-beat authority and antiquity t backbite me. Perhaps fomt wiS dijparageme to discredit the bookc V iffo,lfball notmar^ *#.$, This good Warfare rauft be fought,and why, 1 1 Chap. V Vfa. St8,\. Shewing the errour of thofe tfho thinke Chrifti- anity to be eafie. *4 Scft.2^ Shewing the errour of thofe who thinke earthly contentments their chiefeft glory. 26 SeQ.j . Shewing the errour of thofe who condemne Chri- stianity becaulq of fame difcords. 1 7 S/tf.4. Shewingtfie errour of tnofewho'fiibmic to Satan, and bppofe goodnefle and piety. 19 Chap. VI. *Z>*r;.T. Sett. 1, Chriftian'fouldiers muft endure hardnefle. *z Stft.2. '^Motive 1, Dfawne from the examples of particu- lar fouldiersintnis warfare fronvthe Church in gjsnerall, aiid Chrift our Captaine. *3 Se&.i. M§t.i. Drawnc from the prefcnt conditiqivof Chriftian fouldicrt. 3* The Contents. their fervants and why. 51 1 SeSl.S. Againft Depopulators andlnclofcrs, (hewing the hurt and harms they do to themfelves and others. 3 1 7 SeU.y. Againft greedy in^roflers of commodities, hurters of the Common- wealth. 527 5%& < ffi He life militant, fpirituall,or temporall, in for- mer times was neither difdained,nor dreaded: The Ie vves went voluntarily tathc ba.ttel^thc quarrellous Ephraimkes contended with fepb- Iu<*g 1 2. r , SH^^SI M,becau(c he did not call them to figbtiagainft t Sam j the children of t^mmom The three eldeftfonnes of fyf*fol- froLpti lowed Sa.nl to the battcll. Our predeccjfonrs (faith Den prcl" B Ant on j i Tfo Chrifihn Cotfitf. Ch At •!• Antony ofGuevaraJ fought in the field with their laHuces, but young men now a day es fight at the table with their tongues, Pythias the Lydian, when be had feaftcd Xerxes and his ' whole Army with great magnificence, profered moreovcrto give him treafure, not onelyforprovifion, but alio for wa- ges, to have his fonne difcharged of the warres ; which was fo difpleafantly taken of Xerxes y that he caufed thcyoang man in his fathers fight to be cut in peeces. Kings and Princes were rot backward to adventure themfelves to fight: Wit- neffe the many Kings of Canaan againft lofkua : Witneffe the two and thirty Kings with Beuhadad, iKing.io.i6/ Wit- ncfth'David, lehff&aphaty&c. Witneffe our owneand for* raine biiloricall narrations. In like manner the Primitive Chriftians (as Ecelefiafticall Hiftories report) of their owne accord did thruft themfelves into the hotteft brunts of the Chriftian fight and combat, where they werefure to meet with bitter , yet honourable martyrdome. To name but one of many : Luc im a by-ftan- H U fU ECC! ' ^ cr ^ c ^°^ in S tne cruc ^ dealing of Vrbicius , faid; Whati* gg ^ ' 1 7 ' *&* caufe 1 pray that thou eommandefl nen to bee put to death 9 .not for adultery , mi/leading or murder, but onelyfor be- ing Chriflians ? Thefe things do not befeeme an Emperour 4 Vrbicius anfwering , and thou feemetl to be a Chrifiian : When Lucius had replied^ lam indeed : Vrbicius commanded himalfpto be put to death : to whom Lucius fdid 9 Ithanlee thee fir releafng me from moft wicked mafiers, and fending me to £W, a good And the be ft Father and King of all, . Yea in fuch honourable repute was the martiall man,that all or meft of the titles of honour had their originall from the TtuxdJucenJo. field : W itneffe the titl e of Dulles. For their valour in leading; Mauhio, or Qf cMarqueffe from defending, fome boundsjind frontiers : . frafui-Umitar Qf BaronSi f or bdng ^ ft rengt fc f t he warre : witneffe the ! Xat Bradon. title of Kuifbtfigmfy ing a fouldier : oCZaronet or Vsnrettc, I lib. i.cap. 1. ' becaufc his father was dubbed in the field under a banner : Of Miles. JEfquire, for being an Armour-bearer to a Knight: Of Gem* Armiger. tlemanfov puiffance and courage. And witneffe mens Armes, Zrm*™' S^$ had'their beginning from bearing armes inthe field. Of a* . I : The ChrijlUn C$KJba. 3 And of fuch honourable efteeme likewife was the Chriftian There ms n6 warfare, that the glorious names of Chriftian, Church Mi- won * r ° S r,(> litant, Proteftant, &c. had their birth and beginning from the ^waCuT pious courage of the Chriftian fbuldier. Times were once zen fR Qme thus, but now alas, as in the former moft men are defirous ofj in ancient time and applaud themfelves in the warriours honourable titles, of as to fay,gOj Duke, Baron, Knight, Efquire, Gentleman: In bearing their thou Inftne- fore-fathers armes worthily given them for their valour in [^ou^hTup in the field, and to be pictured like fotildiers in harneffe when t ", yvarresf tbeyaredead. Yet partly inregard of the little refpec'tthe we do not warre*fterthtfleft % for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal} ficc. Eph, 6, 1 1 , I 2. Put j oh on the whole armour ofGod^ for we rvreftle not 4- gainflJlejhandbloudybutagainfly8cc. *Tim.*3. Thorn there •- fore as a good fouldur of Chrifi. zTim.q.j. J have fonghta good fight. Hehr. 10. 32. Fight of afflictions. I Tim. 6. 1 2. Good fight of faith. Or if you pleafe, I will divide this into three branches. Chriftiaoityisawarfare. 2 Cor. 10.3. Eph, 6. II, 12. Thofe whofe condition, calling and profeffion is to fight , * againft the enemies of Chrift and his Church, their life is a Kea f' l ° warfare, and they are fouldiers. But the condition, calling and profeiTion of Chriftians is to fight againft the enemies of Chrift and bis Church. Therefore 'the life of Christians is a warfare , and they arc fouldiers. The latter propofition is evident by the many facred injun- ctions in holy writ, to fight the good fight of faith, 1 Tim. 6. 12. 1 7"<», 2.3,e£r. By the examples of Gods Saints in all ages : Adam foyled in Paradife: lob tempted and tryed by the utmoft of Satans cruelties ; Peter winnowed ; Paul buffeted, and fighting a good fight. And by the admittance of* Chrifti- ans into the Church by baptifme, wherein they receive as it *were prefle-morey, andpromife manfully to fight under trie ' banner of Chrift crucified, againft finne, the world and the Dt- k . veil, and to continue Chrifts faithfull fcrvants and fouldiers to their lives end. Thofe whofe Lord is a Lord of hofts, fouldiers and armies^ % thcmfelves being part of his hoft and army, muft needs be fonldiers, and their life a warfare : B-3 „ But But the Lord of Chriftians is a Lord of hofts, fouldiers and armies, themfelves being part of his boil, Pfel.to. 4*7,14,1 9. 84.1,5,8,12. Therefore they muft needs be fouldiers, and their life a warfare. That which agreeth with warfare in all refpe&s , is a warfare. But Chriftianity agreeth with warfare inall refpe&s.f Be- caufe as in warfare,fo in this, 1. There is a place of conflict, namely the Chriltiaa Church Militant in this world, Rev. 1 2. 7. There was rvarre in heaven. Not in that third and higheft heaven, where God dwelleth and raigneth, the feat and manfion of bleiTed Angels and godly men; for there is no fighting, but all peace: and the Dragon was caft from thence in the beginning. But.in the vifible Church, the heaven upon earth 1 called heaven, it being a lively picture and image of heaven, the habitation of glorified Saints. 2. There are enemies to fight. For, fincc the fall of An- gels , 1 . There have beebe, and while the world (lands there will be two fides in the Church militant, the feed of the wo- man, and the ferpents; twixt which there is confknt enmity, §**• 3 • 1 5 • Michael and the Dragon who are alwayes in com- bating, Re v. 1 2.7. The Spirit and the fiefli, 'twixt which there is an irreconciliab!e jarre and contrariety, 6V.6.7* God and Mammon, both which none can ferveand obey, AUtthtfji^. 3. And the true Church upon earth hath alwaieshad* and (hall alwaies haveadverfaries and enemies. They not being of the world, Iohn 5. 19 They being chofen out of the world, hhn 5. 19. They reproving the world, teftifying that the deeds thereof are evil], hhn 7.7, They being the womans feed,and borne after the Spirit. 3. There are Generals, Captainesand Commanders, un- der whofe condncl and guidance, at whofe appointment and for whofe fake the fouldiers fight. Firfr, the Chriftians Generals and Commanders are x. God the Father, who is therefore called ufually in Scripture*, Chap. 2. TheCbtijti4nC$r,Jlidi. 7 Scripture, a Lord of hods, beciufc all creatures are under his power and difpofition, as an hoft of foul diets under their Emperour. By him we pull down ftrong holds, ex- alting againftGod, 2fir % 10, 4, £. And with his armour , \ve fight, £>£ 6.11,13 2. Chrift Iefus who h their couragious Captaine, 2 fir. I o. 5 . to the obedience of Chrifi. 2 Tim. 1.3. As a goodfonl- dier of Chrift. Rev. 127. Michael \ .i. Chrift Ieitis that ftrong and mighty Prince and Captaine of the hoft of God, Secondly, the enemies prime leader and commander is the T>lve\], lam.+.j. Reps? tht'DiveH. Rev.ii.-j. The Dragon fought and his angels : J. The Divell (likened to a Dragon in regard of his terrible fiercenefTe) who is the prince of that ar- my which maintaineth warre againftChrift , Rev.10.2. The Dragon which u the DivcR. As for the king of thofe dreadfull and hcllifh locufts, the angels of the bottomleffe pit, Rev. 9 . 1 1. the monftrous prevailing beaft,/toM$. 1, 2% they are but theDivels fubftitutes. 4. There are ordinary fouldiers in each band,namely every Saint,every widcedone: there are herfmen and chariots of each (Idc : namely, 1. Able and faithfitll Magiftrates and Minifters ; who like valiant horimen and commanders put themfelves in danger, firft running upon the pikes to rout the enemies and break their ranks ; to refcue and deliver, to fave and defend Gods people, are worthily called the chariots and horfmen ofl{rae/ f tKing.2.%2. 2. And all true profeflburs which are faithfull family-go- vernours, who (like inferiour officcrs)are helpers to the fore- named, Rom. 1 6.9. 1 Cor. \6.\6. 1 . With their prayers ( Epbef. 6. 1 8, 1 9. Trdjt for all Saints and for me* \ Tim. 2. 1,3. *P raj for Kings and all all that are in authority ) in their Magiftracy and Mini- ilcry. 2. With their purfes in their maintenance, Rom* 16. 3,6.' 64 3. With 6 m ikteLimjttanLonpct. v-hap.2. ?. With their paines in preparing and fitting their fa- milies. 4, With their advife and counfell, converfation and good example among their neighbours and families. So on the contrary, I. Wicked Magnates, who by 1. Impurity incouragc offenders in mifchiefe, ma- king oft kingdomes thereby gs»tl:y of crying crimfon fimes. 2. Which condemne the harmeleife innocent con- trary to charity, julticc, the good of the common- wealth, and God himfclfe. 3. Andneglecltorcfcuetbe gjiltleffe perfon out of the clavves of the mighty , it being in their power 10 lave them. * a. Wicked Miniftcrs, w! o by their 1. Pining, caufc Gods people to perifli for want of knowledgc,Pr 4. 7, %. I h*ve fought 4 good fight, hence- forth there is laid up for mee a crowne of righteoufnejft^ which the LORD the righteous Fudge {hall give mee at that day , &c. But the halting treacherous hypocrite , the downeright prophane wretch , yea every one who is a- gainft the Lord and his Chrilt , with the Divell that de- ceived them , (hall bee caft into the lake of fire and brim- ftone, and tormented (or ever and ever, Rcvtlatton to.x o. Gv*fl * ™ * wjTiAn conflict . ^ h a p . 5 , Chap. III. Chriftianity u a goo A warfare. CHriftianity is a good warfare, 1 Tim. 6, ii. Fight the good fight of faith. 2 Tim. 4.7. 1 have fought * good h ht - That warfare which is with a good warrant, for a good caufe, after a good manner, and for a good end > is a good warfare. But Chriftianity is a warfare, which is 1. With a good warrant, namely Gods ownecommifllon, lam.qrj. Rep ft the Dived. 2,Foragoodcaufe;namely/ffr/^/^r^/«^g, therefore called thcgtad fight of faith », 1 Tim.6. 12. To obtain* an ineor- r»ptibU crowne^ 1 Cor.g. 25. But we an incorruptible. To keepe a good confidence void of offence to god and men ', Akls 24 1 5. To pleafie Chrift who hath chofen us to be fonldiers % lTim.t.4. 3. After a good manner, Not after the flefh, although they Jive in the flefh, 2 Cor. 10.?. Not with carnali weaponry 3 Cor. -10.4. 7?utjpiritua8: The armour of God, the weapons of righteoufnefle. 4. For a good end ; namely toglorifie God,7^ obtaine the fatvation which id in Chrift lefm with e t email glory , 2 Tim.Z* IO. To ft and in the evillday, Eph.6. 13. And to pull downe 'J}rong holds -—exalting themfelves againft the knowledge of Gody%Cor>io t ^ y $, That warfare which is the Lords, Chrifts, the Spirits, An- gcls,aad Saints, againft the Divelljthe world,the flefh,and fin, is a good warfare. But Chriftianity is a warfare which is the Lords,&c.againft theDivell,&c. Therefore, &c. That warfare which is good in the five following refpe&s, is a good warfare. But \^ h A p . 4 . Jve unrtjitan lovjuct* j i But Chriftianity is a good warfare in thofe refpefls, namely, i . In regard of the Author of if, who is that God which is the Author of all good, of noeviil. gen. $.? 5. It was he who put enmity betvveene the womans bleffed feed, and the fer- pents curled brcod, and that in paradiie. 2. In regard of the fouldicrs, thefe being all and onely the holy ones of God ; thefe alfo fighting well the Lords battels in the general) calHr.g of Chriftianity , and in their perfonall and particular flat ions. 3. In oppofition to other fights 5 they being terrene and earthly, this fpirituall and heavenly. 4. In regard of the reward of this combat: namely, the Lordlefu?, Gods favour, heavens kingdome, and eternall bliffe. 5. In regard of the matter of this warfare: It-is againft the kingdome of the Divell for that ofChrift, and hrsFatfier: It is againft the flefh, that unregeneratc part of man, which is corrupt,vile, andinfected byfinne : Forthe Spirit that new quality of holineffe which is created by the Spirit in the hearts oftheelcd: It is againft the kingdome.ef death, darkened, and damnation, for heavens kingdome, of life, light and falvation. Chat. IV. Thii good warfare muft hfattght. EVery good Chriftian doth.and mr.ft of neceffity fight this - good right, or warre this good warfare. \Dolt. 3 • The Lord of hefts vvhofe we are and whom we ferve, al- though he is a God of amity, hath put fuch perpetuall enmity RtrfA. betvveene the feed of the woman and the ferpents, that they fhall ever be at defiance, and ever wage warre againft each o- ther till time be no more. This our God fends us into the field, affords us all warlike neceffaries, bids us be ftrong, and play the man , yeelds us bis helping hand , and prornifeth crown* s " lw^nripiw^onjitu. v. ha p. 4, crownes to thofethat conquer. Therefore of necefficy we ought to fight. a. The nature of our enemies fhewes the truth of this: They beare an irreconciliable hatred agrinft all mankind,efpe- cially Chriftians. To inftance only in the priiicipall and grand enemy the Divpll : whofe inveterate malice againft the blefc fed condition of the Lords precious ones : whofe infatiable tbirfting after the ruineand perdition of all mankind : and whofe inceflfant unwearied painfulnefle to devourc ibules, are plainely and plentifully decyphered and defcribed in his genu- ine and proper names exprefTing to the full the fame. The Word of truth cals him by the name of 1. A Dragon, tf*tf. 1 2.7. In regard of his terrible fierce- neffe, maintaining warre againft the Lord Ieliis. tAmongfl Tosi.i. Horn. Serpents (faith Saint Chryfoftome) what u more fell ercruell 1 ],in Mat. than a Dragon ? AndofDragonS) rshofo ontragious and fierce as the great red Dragon the Divoll f ru" \\ r - ( 5ii odi ^^ an fpeakiug of thefe our enemies, faith, Thefe do lurks under j^ a dtteslabie idols And images : thefe by their infpiration do in- fpire the heart t of Trophets, animate the inwards ofbeafls, do order the flying of birds, do governe lots, fulfii pr editions, do fold iu often faljhoods with truths y for they are deceived and do- deceive^ they diforder life, ditlurbefleepe, affright alfo (ecretlj the fair its of the fonlc, beginning in the bodies, they w reft afide members, defiroy health, they provoke difeafes to compeUto their ferzice, that being fatted vitb the favcur of altars, and the cea- fed fires of beafis, they may feeme to have cured thofe things which thej had bound fafi y tbemfelves being appointed for patne,. tbeyfeekelo themfelves companions ofpainc. Therefore necef- aarily, wc muft either warre this good warfare, orflavi&ly fubmit 14 The ChriftUn ConfliU. Ch ap.j? fubmit to theft our continual! fierce and fighting enemies. ^ Thefe three ground-works I hope are furely laid, and fuffi- ciently ftrengthened, tobe aflrme and fortified foundation, whereupon I may fafely and f urdy build the following dif« Course by way ofufe and application. ChriHUnity is a rvtrfare. This fhewes its inevitable and infeparable dangers, and uneafie difficulties. ChrislUnity it a gtotd warfare. This declares its commen- dable glory and praifefull dignity. Christians muslfi^ht this good warfare. And this demon* ftrates our many and neceffary- Chriftian duties. Chap. V. Vfe I, Shewing tbeerrenr eftbofevho thinke Crtfiianitj t* beetjic. H Ow ridiculous and abfurdly fool ifli, yetmuch tobe la- mented is the groundlefle fancy and idle conceipt of thofe men, who crowne themfelves with pleafant garlands of reftfull (ecurity , and pleafurefull delights , imagining they may go to heaven (as it were) in a bed of downe and excefc -five jollity ; thinking it the eafieft matter of twenty to go to Church, to receive the Communion, fay over a few pray- ers , to defie the Divell and all hi* workes , -and to ay God mercy for their prodigious oathes, mercilefie ufury, fatanicall lies, and other their bloudy and crimfbn, conftantly commit- ted, and continually crying impieties ; littlecor.fidcring that they are but in a fooles paradife, dreaming altogether ofim- poffibilities. Tor to pray, heare, receive the Sacraments, re- cent, &c. aright, or ro be a through fi ncere Chriftian, is a mat- ter of great difficulty, and no little dan. er, of much hardfhip and no cafie labour. To profeffe fouldiourv, being a wan- dering runnagado, to enjoy a fouldiers ftipend and tirle with a 4narumiffiojr» to folace a mans felfe with friends and familiars: tobeabillitedfouldkr, or maintained in garifon : to be-in- •treachtin field farrc remote from dreadfull foes, arc eafefull, and 5ect.I# TMCbrtJttMCtopttt. if and neither toylefome nor troublefome conditions. But to be drawne out to march in battel 1 array, to encounter an impetu- ous, inexorable, puiffant and b'oud-thirfly enemy, not onely to skirmifha little, but to fight it out pelmel, each fide being forced to imploy its bed and utmoft warlike skill, ftrength and valonr to vanquiih and deftroy the other, is (I fappofe) an eftatefull of dreadfull feares, folicitous cares, painefull la- bours, ex ce (live diligence, and watchful 1 vigilance. The cafe is thine, O thou that art a true Chriftian.Thou haft received pre fle-money from C brill thy Captaine: thy pro* felTiQn is to be his fouldier, than which, what eftate more dif. ficillfr What condition more painefull? What life more la- bourfbme?" Where there are fightings without, and combats within : where thine enemies are not few, but many : not feeble, but mighty : notmeeke, but truculent; not exorabky but implacable : not flefli and bloud, but principalities and powers : not men onely, but DiVels alfb. And is k an eafie mattertobeaChriltian? Areeafefullidlenefleand careleffe fecurity congruent couforts for Chriftianity think you ? Sure- ly no. It is a harder matter to leave and abandon finne, to make progreffe in piety, to live truly a CHriftian life, to mor* tifie the flefh, to crucifie the world, and refift the Diveil : to pray for enemies and perfecutors, to repay becediflions rot maledictions, to deny our felves,to beare the crofle, to fbrfake all,&c. than many vaine dreamers imagine. Ifpeaknottheie things to daunt or difmay any : ( for I hope to make it evi- dently apparent, that the weakeft warriourof the Lord Iefus that will be counfelkd, fhall vi&orioufly vanquilli ) bat to a- wakefuchdotingdreamers, whoarelullM afleepe in Satans fhackles, preferring a little dangerous eafe-feeming fecurity in the Divels flavifti enthral ments, before a little happy and faJ* ying laborious diligence in the ^ords army. Se ct, «f TktCbriJtmCtnflttl. Cha*.?; Sect. j. Tbeirrour of thofe who thinks earthly contentment t their chiefefl glory. NO lefle fond and unfoundis their bra indeflc conceipr, whofolacethemfelves in their noble birth, richreve- newes, large pofleffions, dainty diet, gay apparel), perfonall beauty, corporall health and abilities ; deeming thefe and fuch like fading felicities, the greateft glory and molt adorning or- naments of a Chriftian life. Surely (that I may ufe the words of a learned Knight)/ not onelj holdit Uwfull to re'pyce in thefe S*. Walter good t kings wherewith God hath ble fed us, but * note ofmncb fcawlcighJ Mb* untbanleefnlneffe to entertaine them with a fuden and unfeeling j .c. i .fag. a i . diffiofitio*. Yet thefe being common favours,not thofe prime, principall and neceflfary mercies, which are the proper chara- cters ofChriftian fouldiers. Not thefe but thofe following, are the moft glorious adorning ornaments to the Chriftian fouldier, namely, a patient induring affli&ions for the Lords fake, refitting unto blood : an impregnable refolution to be. fikhfull in Chrifts caufe even unto death : an implacable en- countering fin, Satan, the world, and the flefti with an unvan- quiftied valour, not at all moved to entertaine withafmiling looke their fyrcnian and bewitching enchauntments neither appaled a whit by their threatfull menaces, and terrible af- faul ts ; an entertaining of the trecherous fa wnings of this de- ceitfull world, with a loathfomc difdainfulneffe ; a manfull marching through its keeneft darts of fcornfull reproches,bafe ignominy, and all ill reports with undaunted courage ; being compleatly clad with the invincible armour of righteoufnefle, having a dexterity to afethe&uae, with its (everall parts and peeccs at every turne, to vanquifh the enemy , and fafeguard themfaves, &C Wt do not judge a Thilofopher (faith S.Cbry- Ch.yC Tom. J. ftftew) by his bea^d y fiafe or garment , but'byhis mind and Scrin.de vir- manners ; nor a fouldter by his fouldiers garment or arming gir- # g' a '« dlejfut by his courage and magnanimity 2 &c 9 Sect. Sict.j; tbiChtiflUnCtnflifa jy Sect, jJ The hrhtr oftbofe who condemns Cbrifliamtj btcauft of fame difiords. IS Cbrifiianity a good warfare ? Then the worldlings ce«* tamelious conclufion is vile and ungodly. Who Secaufe they lived fellowly in a filthy fraternity , in all excefle .of riot before their zealous Preachers came; but fince their fo much paines in preaching, their finftill focieties (feeraingly peace- fiill)are marred : for now if they wantonly dance and drink, fweare and fwagger,or pra&ice any fuch like tricks of youth, to grace and glad, to recreate and refrefh themfelvcs and o- thers ; they arc prefently reproved by fuch medling Mini- fies, and their fa&ious followers(as they call them .) Becaufe many profeffon before tbey forfook their fell© wly fraternity , were joctind and jovial!, pert and plealant companions : But fince they are plunged iato many laborious labyrinths of trott- blefbmc perplexities, and doubtful! diftrefles. They prefently iaferrc that preaching and Preachers, profeffion and Profek faursareneceffarily naught, and inevitably impicus. And why? Love is lacking, peace is periled, unity is vanished, good-fellow(hip is gone: inftead of kindly concord, and ami- able amity, behold diflenting diicord, and auftere averfnefle.' This O thou world is the moftof, yea all thy plea againft the Preachers and Profefiburs of piety. Becauf? we hinder love, we are therefore bad : becaute we occafion difcord, we ther- fbre arc not good. And is there not, O thou infatuated cavil- ler, and intoxicated wrangler, a love which is bad , a hatred which is good? a pious difcord and an impious concord ? a godly averfnefle, and an ungodly aflenting ? Sure I am there is a what peaee y i Kings • * * • A love not, I loh. 2. 1 5 , An hating mth a perfeEl hatred, Pfat. 139.7*. And a have nofdlowftnp, Eph^ .ii. Certaine it is that Chrift our Captaine fet fire up- on earth, jiamely his Gofpell, kindling and railing trouble amongft wicked ones which refill it, Luke 12,40. And it is C rr.oft a 8 2w Cbrtfiun Conflict. C h a p . J , Hm^umltUa t»oft certaine that there is a peace not of Chrifte, and a van- bonis^un^uam ance of God9 appointing, rofeftk>n to be abhorred as wic- ked and ungodly ? nothing lerTc. The more they bate, the leflc they love,the more they refift, the leffe they are fociable in the former fenfe,thc better the men: And the greater their combatjthe greater their comfort : for thus doing, they warre agood warfare. Jicr, S i c t .4. lbs ChrifluM C Cf) fi^* Sect. 4. The errottrofthofevtho (nbmitto Sdtan, andfrfofc goodneffe And piety , DOch every ChriHidn of duty, dnd m*jl he of neceffuy vf*rre this good warfare againft the Divell , all his a- poftate angels and their fierie and infcrnall darts ; a- gainft the wicked world, all vile, vicious, and ungodly mens feared frownes and fawning flatteries: againft the flefh and all its fowle and filthy lufts ? With what a face then ( O you fonnes ©f Belial) dare you (Firft , which flavifhly yeeld without any, yedwith- *nt your beft and utmoH refinance to be led captives by the Divell and his circumventing complices. Secondly, and you which fre profeft enemies to Chrift and his kingdome, ro the power and practice of piety, oppofing tooth and rayle godlinefle and godly men ) with what face fay I dare you take upon you the honourable name of Chriftian? ufe the tranfeendent priviledgcs of Chriftianity ? and glory of the Lord Chrift Ieius? 1. You are Chrift ians: why then doe you not ftand in open defiance with, profeffe hatefall hoftility againft , and oppofe with magnanimous relblutions , the fawning and fraudulent flatteries of this guilcfull , and the fierce and furious conflicts of this raging world ? And thofe other flefhly and hellifh, impetuous, impious and implacable e- nemies of your precious fbulcs ? If a bafe unworthy coward daunted at the firft approach of an enemy , without any refinance : or after fome Height velitation or skirmiflh ; er a male-contented mifcreant , affecting an enemies flavery more than a Soveraignes fervitude , yeelding himfelfe a flaviili vaifall to a tyrannizing foe , may glory in the de- nomination of a fouldier, becaufe he hath received prefte-' money , was recorded in the Generals lifts, and rank'd and C 2 tra) n'd Ito Tie chrlflUn Conflict. Ch a * . y. frayn'd by the captaineof his band. Then may you which cowardly feeing onely afarre off dangers and difficulties ap- proaching to affaile Christianity, without any opposition, or after fome little conflict ? And you who ( aflfeding the igno- minious Slavery of the world, the flefh and the Divell , more than the Lords precious fervice) yeeld up your felves to ferve the lufts of your fkfh, the vanities of this world, and the fug- geftions of Satan, may glory of your Chriftendorne, becanfe you are baptized, your names are recorded and regiftred a- mongft Chriftians, you are taught and trained by the chariots and horfemen of the Lord Iefiis. 2. You are Chriftians, and very aclive and bufie for to withftand and hinder what you can with 'your utmoft abilities fuch and fuch forward feliowe-s and their godly fraternity : you indcavour with mighc and mainc to advance prophane- Hcfle, Antichriftianity and Atheifme,therefore you are iouldi- crs: and being Chriftians, are therefore Chriftian fouldiers. Alas, youcollecl abfurdly, and conclude weakly. A rafcall rebell may as well argue for his prodigious villanics, and fay he is of EngHfli birth, and in continual 1 combats, although a- gainft his annointed Sovcraigne, his loyall Liegemen , and , faithfull iubjecls, therefore a good Englifh fouldier. As fuch a viperine tray tor is no good fouldier in the judgement of that 3ookc3. pag. Mafterin wavrc Smaller Raw/eigb, who faith, It ia not the 547. ptnifhment that makes * martyr— ^-nor fighting that declares a valiant wan, but fighting in a good canfe : Even fofuch nomi- *iail Chriftians, although they fight, yet are not Chriftian foul- diers, their righting being againftthe Lord and his annointed. CKryf.Tom.4. Te&me (faxhSXhrjfoflonte) how may we difcerne a fouldier ^ Horn. 1 8. m Aether by that, becaufe as an officer 'he doth defeud the King, and is maintained by him> and it called his : or whether becaufe he doth defend his right , being well affe tied to him / To (hew 0* fenly in countenance to take hit par /, to hold on his fide ^ to beare good will to his bufinejfe, and to defend him : bat yet to execute cr atchieve the enemies affaires y it farre worfe we fay ', than if he having cafi off the joke of loyalty Joad wholly given htmfelfe to the <*cmie&c* Thcfe and all true Chriftians are fouldiers, and both Sicr.y. thtCbfiftUnCMJliSt. %i both forts fight, but under contrary captaines ahd cotnmtn- ders, for ends and caufea much diffenting. S*tvUn gives a . reafen of this repugnancy. The cbiefesl cAtefe of their difiord £*' l ' ,?a *' (faith he) * f be diverfitj of wii, becAnfo either it cAnnot At a11 9 or fc tree!) come to pA±fc tent Any do th love the fume thing in a- not her, from which bimfelfe doth dijfent : // u not therefore without canfe that they bate thofe in whom they fee a& things envious And kdverfe to tbemfelves* For the one live continual- ly in wickednefle, the other in innocencie : they in Luff,, thefe in chafi tie : they in brotheQ- boa fee, thefe infolitAriefUces : they aim of} continually with the Diviti t thefe without intermiffio* with Chrift. Tfcey are not therefore to be efteemed good Chriftian fouldiers although they fight, they not warring this good warfare. Sect, j. Qhrifinnitj u a good w*rfAre % which the true Chris? id* doth And mnfi wAtre. BY thefe three ground-works I having'difcovered the Poo-^ lift* and abfurd conclufiors, the dreadralland defperatc condition of many Chriftians (in briefe thus : i. ChrifliAnity ie a wArfnre t more dangerous difficulties therefore accompany it than many fondly imagine. Neither-is every one fitted for this fo honourable, yet hard profeffion, it being too harm for nice and delicate perfbns, and effeminate cowards : Neither are worldly rejoycings, as dainty diet, gay attyre, noble birth, richrcvenewes, thegreateftgarnifti- ments of a Chriftian, as diverfe do idly dreame. * . ChrislUnity u a good wArfare. Palpable therefore is the fooliftiablurdity of fuch conclnders who condemneChriftia- nity,its profeflion and profe flours, for its difcording oppositi- ons, it being fo much the better in general), by how rn^ch thefe are bigger and bitterer* 3. ChrijiiAntdoofdmty^ Andmnfl of neceffitj fight this good warfArt. Miferablc therefore muft they needs be which fh- C 3 viftily a* The chrtJlUn C0»Jvcl* Cha* .6 . vifWy fobsiit to fcrvc the enemy 5 much more they whs fiercely fight againft, bur not this good warfare.) I will now from the Tame fiire and facred truths, joyntly* or if you will, from this inviolable threefold cord conjoyned,and twilled in- to one, thus, Cbrifi Unity id a good warfare y which the true Cbrifiian doth and m*fi warn* Endeavour to furnifh tbeie warriours with profitable directions how to fight this good fight, lo that they may efcapc and vanquifh their violent and vi- gilant enemies: how to delight their Soveraignc Comman- der the Lord Icfas ; and how to obtainc the crowne of glory after this cruell conflict : and alfo .to con folate and comfort, arme and incourage them againft the many difafterons oc- currences this profeffion doth propofe* Chap. VL -A Cbril}Un fonldier muft indure bardnejfe^ A LI yon whkh wilbe good fonldiers of Iefus Chrift, muft refolve with your felyes to indure hardneflfe, 2 Tim. i . $* mf ' . Thou therefore as agoodfonUier of Chrift % induce bardneffe ; ?uJfaZr~ orfcffercvill.' I foretell you of this, beca»fe(as faith S.wW- Bookc 2. cap. ter Rawleigb) fbarfe war re and the novelty of fudden violence * 8 'P a S i6 3*' t$fe to difmay any ft ate or conn trey , not innred to tbe lil^ei but cuflome of danger btrdeneth even tbofe that are unwarlikf. Sharpe wane , fudden violences , dreadful! dangers arc your portion, you muft through much tribulation, Ldfts 14.22. We muft through much tribulation enter into thekingdomc of God. You muft fuflfer perfection, 2 Tim, 1,1 1. Ait that will live godly in Cbrift /effu finllfafer perfiewtion. You muft go under the erode during your whole life. Ycu muft indure battell all your dayes. You muft proceed from one affliction to another. You have Divels roaring and raging againft you, fecking alwayes your definition, to rcfift continually. Yon GiiU.14. have a wicked world alwayes waging warrc againft you, which you muft crucific, and to which your felvesmuftbc crucified, SiCT.ai thtChrijtUnCwflitt' *J crucified, Ye* hive fle&lylufts fighting againft your fculet, GaLj.i* which you mud mortifie. You mud be winnowed and bufleted; you matt be tryed and tempted: you have con- tinual! boftility : you are environed with aflaylancs > you are of the Church Militant, and arc Chrifts fouldiefs, therefore you muft indure bardneflc. But what hard- neflc r In Ubessrs mere nbnndnnt , infiripes nbove men-fore, ~- Cor. ii.;x 4j in prifsns mere fiequewt , in denths §ft: in fujfring fiip+ z 1> l6 > t7 ' wrnxke* \ln jeurnryings often* in perils ef waters y in pe- rili cf 'rebbers , in perils by eeuntrtymen , in perils by bed" then y in perils in the eitie , %n perils in the witdernetfe , in perils in the fen , in perils nmengfnlfe brethren. In reenri» neffe nnd pntmefnlnfffe, in wntchsngs eft en , in hunger stud thirfl ; in failings eft en , in celd mnd nn'kednefe, &c. In tor* Hekx i.j< 16 turesandtemptings, mockings and fcourgings, bonds and 37. imprifonments, &c. In fuffering aH , or any oftheic"; or fuchlikcmifeties, if they encounter or environ you for the Lords fake, you rauft indurc haidneffc as good iouldicrt of IcfuiCfuift. And that I may the better arme and accommodate you to indure the mouthes of lions* the violence of fire, cruel- ty of mocking* j bitternefle of Tcourgings , painefulnefle of (taring, torture of (awing afondcr, uncomfortablencfie of wandring iri tkcep-skins and goatskin*, being deftitute^ afflided, tormented, to fuffcr any of thefe or the like, ( for we mflft not be our owne carveff dr choofers) I will propound and briefly profeeute fome few -motives and in- ducements. Sect, a. Motive 1. Dr4wnefrem examples ef pnrticuldeyMMers ^ in this rnnrfdreftomthe C hnrch tn generally *nd Chrift enr Saviour. TAke a view of all thofe Worthies who have gone be- fore us. C4 t.Thn 3 4 7be Chrifiun Cwjlitt. Ch af .6 . I. The Chursh of Ifrstl was put to fhamc,' fpoyled of their enemies as (heepc appointed for the (laughter, Mat- tered amonglt the Heathen, a reproach to their neighbours, a (come and derifion to them which were about them , a by- word among the Heathen, a ftiaking of the head a- mongft the people , fore broken in the place of Dragons, covered with the (hadow of death , killed all the daylong, counted as fheepe far the daughter , PfiUme 44. They were- cut off, fcattered , (hewed hard things , and made to drinke the wine of aftonifhment, Pfatme 6o, 1, 2, 3, They were prooved , tryed as filver , brought into the net, they went through fire and water, Pfalme d<5.io,i i, 1 2. Their bodies were given to be meat to the fowles of heaven, and their fleCh to the beaftt of the earth; their bloud was fhed like water , and there was none to burie them , P/aime 70. a, 3. They were fed with the bread of teares, and had tearcs given them to drinke in great meafure , they were made a laughing ftocke to their cne* tnies, and a ftrife to their neighbours, 7/dlme 80. 5, 6, They were exceedingly filled with contempt, with the fcorning of thofe that were at eafe, and the contempt of the proud, Tfdlme 113. 3,4. They were afflifted from their youth » the plowcrs plowed upon their backes , and made long forrowes> P/a/me 120. a, g>. Their bones lay fcattered at the graves mouth , as when one cutteth or heweth wood upon the earth > Pfklme 14W 7. They be- came tributarie, they wept fore in the night, they want- ed comforters, their friends dealt treachcroufly withthem,, they went into captivity , they found no reft , their gates were defolate , their Pricfts did figh , their virgins were afflicted , their adverfaries were chiefe , and their ene- mies did profper, their Princes were like harts that find no pafture* going without ftrength before the purfacr. They fell into the hand of their enemies, who mocked ac their Sabbaths, their adverfaries fpread out their hand up- on all their pleafant things , arid the heathen entred into ^tfieir Sanclqary. They Cghed and fought bread , yea they gave Sec r iz \l The ChrifiUn ConfliSl. \ 5 gave thefr pleafent things for meat to relieve the foule : Th«y were become vile, no fbrrow like unto their for- row , which was done unto them , wherewith the Lard affli<5led them in the day of his fierce anger : they were made defblatc and faint all the day , the Lord delivered them into their hands * from whom they were not able to rife. Their mighty me© were troden under foot y jheir young men were crufhed , and the comforter which (hould relieve their foule was farre from them, &c. Lament, j. &c. Yet for all this they did not forget God , nor deale falfely in his covenant; their heart did not turne backe, neither did their ftcps decline from Gods lawes , Pftlm* 44.i7,i&. a. Behold the prime and principal! particular pcrfonsof the Lords band. it Jacob, that Ifrael or Prince of the ftrong God, one who obtained principall power from the mighty God .• His life was a continued pilgrimage inftrange Countreyes* accompanied with many evils, namely the malice and threats of Efau, a tedious andtoylefbme journey to Me- fopotamia, hard fervice with his unde Lab**, feare of Eft* at his rcturne home , the defiling of his daughter ^Dinah % Simeon and Levies tyrannical 1 cruelty , the wic- kednefle of his firft-borne Reuben , the evill tydings of his fonnes by his beft beloved lofepb^ and of the lamen- table lofTe of his darling fofepb , ltidahs mariage with a Canaanitifo woman > and fharnelefle inceft with bis daugh- ter ThamaTy the heavy and hideous newes from Egypt that Simeon was in prifon* the money reftored, and that BenjAmin mud go, &c. a. David that man after Gods owne heart, the fweet finger of Ifrael , his life accompanied with much hard* ncfte; the diftaftfull difdaine of his brother: Sauls conti* nuall hatred and perfection : the fcandalous flanderrand falfe accufations of Saul* perverfe parafites : CMerab gi- ven from him : UMichal given to enfharehim: N his otter* difcom&ing difcoveries to Sanl by D*t£ and the ZTphims * the a 6 ?h* chrifiUn Cwfiitt. Ch a>.£. the malice and warres of enemies : [divifionof his pcople,and their deftru&ion by the peftilence : The mocki of UHUIaI % *nd the revilinfs of £&»*#: Amnent fbule fa& and fearefull fall : tsfbfoloms prodigious rebellion and infamous iriceft ; the death of his chiefe Captaincs, and revolt of his chiefe Counfellours : his fnamefull reproches, grievous ficknefTe, &c. Yet was he thankeFull, confident, hoping, conftant and patient. 3. Ub like whom there was none upon earth, a perfe& and upright man, fearing God and efchewing evill, endured abundance ofhardnefle, for when God had opened a gap to Sathan, leaving hbs fubflance to his mercileflc cruelty : the 3ivell robs him ofhis fifty yoke of oxen,and fifty (hee affes by theSibeans: fpoyle* him ofhis feven thou&nd flveepe by fire, takesaway his three thoufand cammels by the Caldeans : bereaves him ofhis (even fonnes and three daughters by tern- pcftuous windes overturning the houfe of banqueting : and depriving him ofhis great houfhold (thofe fbure meffengers of evill tydingsand fome few other excepted) by the afore- faid meanes, and all in one day. And after when the Divel! mooved God againft him, and gets leave to fliew his utmeft force and fury againft him, his life being faved, his body Was fmittenandfurcharged with fore and fmarting biles and bot- cbesfrom the fole of the footto the crowne of the head,C^. 1.7. his wife tempts him, Vcr. 10. His friends were refera- ble comforters, 16.2. His brethren and acquaintance were eftranged from him, ip-.T?. His inward friends abhorred him^r.i^. His wife and fervant's accounted him a {trangeiy Ver. 1 5, 1 6,\ 7. Young children defpifed him, Ver.1%. Bafc fboles and unworthy vile ones fcorned and derided him : Ghtp.io. His griefe and calamity was heavier then the &nd : Chap.6. 2,5. The arrowes of the Almighty were within him, thepoyfon whereof did drinke up his fpirit?,?^ 4.H1S flefti was clothed with wormes and clods of duft : his skin was broken and become loathfome, 7.5. 'He was full of toffingstodandfro. feared, with drearies and terrified with a s c r . I, The chnjlm CMflsct. a y I might inflancc in Icwah^EUjah, and who not ? But I will enlarge my fclfe toname butonc more 2. ChriftlefusourCaptaineand Commander, whofe J he was generally contemptible as afervant, turfed as afinrer : loaden with miferies and acenftomed to hardrefle, from his birth tohisbwiall. His parentage was pc ore, his birch with- out honour, his company being cattell, his chamber a ftable, and his cradle a cratch, Luke 3.7. His life without eafe; per- fected by #/fW being but a babe: driven into exile, being but an infant, iMatth. 2.13,16. His body was e nfeebled with watching and fafting hunger and thirft, andhisfoule afflicted with fearesand fbrrowes, but efpecially at his death, befides thofe terrible conflicts of his with Gods wrath in his agony andpaffion: befides his bufferings and fcourgings, nayling, piercing and crucifying, how were his unfupportable Offe- rings amplified and enlarged in regard of 1. Theperfonsafflicling, 1 their nnmber being great, un- certaine and indefinite. 1. Their fever all forts beeing various, paffengcrs too and from Ierufalem, 2 7. 39. High-Priefts,?Vr.4 ? .Scribes, 4 1. Elders 4 1 . Pharifees,6 2. And theeves,4J . 3. Their nature being brutifh, barbarous, blondy,cruell, fpightrall,malicious,fcornehjll,anddifgraceftill, 3 8./* 4?. 4 . Their condition being bafe, Ver. 3 9 .44 . And honoura- ble^, bond, 44 and free, 3 9.4 2. learned,42. and unlearned, 39-&vill,42. and Ecclefiafticall, 42. religious, ^r.42. and propbane, 39.44. 5 . Their drift being to bring into oblivion>hatred and ut- ter contempt the perfon,office f doclrine and miracles of our Saviour amongft the people ; and to provoke and inftigate our Saviour Chrift to murmuring, impatience and grudging: to prefumptuous tempting of God: to diftruft full doubtful 1- neifeand defperation. 6. And theirbehaviour being 1 unfeemely and uncomely in regard of their places and callings, fomeof them being Rm fcrs; and profeffion it being holy and religions, they being Scribes and Phariiees. And a Impious and ungodly, In regard of % 3 The Cbrtfiun CcpftM* C h a p . 6. of their fpeech it being fpightfull and reproachful!; andge« fture, it being fcornemll and difdainefiill, 7*M »4 X >4*>44« 1. Of the place moant Calvery,the high way, plame field and place of paflage too and fro.. 3. Of the time, It being at the houre ofdreadfull and dtfc snail death in his greateft and^xtrearaeft mifery : In hit hea- vie paffion, laft and grievous agony. When he was wearied, and as it were worne out with Gods fuflfcrings. When he was wounded with the arrovves of Gods wratto,when he was raoft to be comforted and pitied. But did not the miferies and perfections of Chrift and his members expire upon the Croffe, and then ceafe ? No fuch matter : Piter and lohn were imprifoned, threatned, A #.4. and beaten, 5 .40, The Proto-Martyr Steven was ftoned, 7. Great perlecution was raifed againft the Church, Cbap$. lames is beheaded and Peter imprifoned, 1 2. Pant is perfec- ted from /r0«/#w, and ftoned at Ljftrt, Chap, 14. Panl and Silas are whipped and imprifoned at Pkilippi, 1 6. 7**ul is perfected at Tbefa/o»$ca 9 i 7. Taken and bound at Icrufalem, lis Bufietedaadfentprifonerto Felix,v$. Accufed felfely by Tertnflus and the le wes,2 5 . And by him fent a dangerous voyage prifoner to Rome. Defcend a little lower^and from Saint Uhat time to the end of the world, fee the lot of the godly. ri. The Church of god which is the beloved Citty and new Ierufalem, Rev, ?o.p. 21.2. Gods tabernacle and his habitation^ 1.3. The Lambes wife, 1 £.7.21.9. The woman eloathed witfuhe Sun,having the Moone under her feet, and upon her head a crowneof twelve ftarres, 12.1. led by the Lambe tothc fountaine of living waters, 7. 1 7. Having God and his Chriftto ruleher,i.i. 2 2. 3. was to be trodden downe, 1 1 .2. forty moneths or one thoufand two hundred fixty daies: wastofleeand eicape into the wildernefle as the Israelites fleeing from Pharaoh, 12 ,6, where {he was to be hid and nou- rished being perfecuted by the bcafl: and Dragon, 11 .7. And overcome 1 3.7. although afterwards ihee prevailes, 17.14* 19*19* H Th l o a c t. * . The Chrift'm anflecl. 29 1. The Truckers of fhriFt lefts, which arc ftarres and !Angels 1,2,3. preaching Prophets, 11.3.14.*. A gainft Ba- by l©n,which hath made all rations drinke of the wrath of her fornication, 1 4. 8. And thofe who worfhip the beaft and his image, and thofe which receive his marke^r.^. And exhor- ting men to fear e God, and worfhip him, Verq. Thefeare kil!ed,l 1. 7.And beheaded,: o 4. 3. True Chriftiant who are laid to dwell in heaven, rj £• which worfnip God, 1 i.i6\ which are without guile, 14. 5. Notdefiled with women, * 4.1 fi. who reverence the voice of Chrifts Minifters, 4.9,10. 5.14. follow Gods Commande- ments, 14.12. which arc written in the Lambes booke of life, 21.27. Refnfe to take the beaft smarke, 15.2. who have the Lord and his waiesin admiration, 1 5 -3)4. who followed the Lambe,i4 4. having his fathers name in their foreheads, V*r. 1 .which were fealed for ailurance,C£^.7.Thefe were & are to be afflicled,i 1 .^.overcome and killed,x ? .7.H0W thefc things have been verified is related in Ecclefiafticall Hiftories, which record of the ten bloody and barbarous primiriv e perfe- ctions, which were fo cruell, thai under Trajan(ln whofe reigne Simeon the fecond Bifhop of Icruiiriem a man of 120. yeares old, wa6 tortured and crucified) fach a weight of per- iuf.Eccl.Wft. fecutitns did prejfe the Church, And fttcb infinite number cf l f*'*' '-3 z -i*® Martyrs were daily flaine, that Pliny the fecond which then did governe the proline being very much troubled at the mul- titude oftbeflatne, declared to the Smpereur that innumerable thou fads of men were daily killed, in whom by enqniry there vis found no offence committed nor any thing done againft the Romane /awes but this only ,t hat they didflng before day hjmnes to a God they called Ckrift. Yea tbe number of the perfected Was infinite. fb that fl&riv wot noplace empty in tbeprifons y and lib $.c.6.pag. that the whole count rey did fee me rather to got to prifon % them 186. the guilty to be led toprifen. And as for the torments, they were divers and intollerable. Their bodies were tome with tibXc^^ag. fconrges and then given to beaft s : Lyons, Beares, Libardt, l * 7 - Bulls, and every leinde of cruell beaft were ufed y yea the cruelty tf all foafcmcnandflemjeMs were armed again ft the worfhip* * P r A 3 ° The ChrijlUn Cwflitt. Ch a p .6. Ibid.c.S$.i$l . fers *f(/od. Some of them after fc our gings and bonds y tortures and other horrible torments of divers kinds were burnt. Some cafl into the fea^ foms Jl*ine, fome crucified with their feet upl ward, &c. Some had their fit fh tome of with pot/beard;, fame cfp'-i'o. Tent ** ? eeee * w "b trees bowed together, Cbap.£. They were beaten with ftatses, with rod/, with whips, frc. They were hanged up their hands beino bound behind them t firetched out withpulUyes^ and pulled in pieces limme by limm*. Yea flich tib.&.c.ii.pag and fo great were the torments, that the "Hiftorian faith, who 19 * • can repeate ? who can difslofe ? who can exprejfe how they were flaine with axes, their thighes were broke** they were hang dtp Jikefwinesflefb, andfmotbered with fmoke >difmembred>roafted. Yet for all thefe things, their courage was undaunted and im- pregnable, witneffe the brave and blcffed anfwer of Pclicar- Ltb+.c.n-pag ptujourefcor* and fix y ear es Ihaveferved Chrifi and he never hurt me % how can I now blafpbeme my King which hath faved Lib, ;.*<£. i,*. me ? Witnefle the invincible patience of 'Blandina and Atta- pag.ioh&c fa : Witnefle the free and voluntary fpeech oCPhiloromus y o£ Phtleas, why doe you vaincly tempt the conflancy of the man * Why would you make him who U a behever an infidcll f 'Doe you not fee that his eares he are not your words ? His eyes fee not Lib.$ t c.io.psT yourteares} How can he wbofe eyes fee and fledfaflly regard heavenly glory be turned with terrene tearest Witnefle that rich and faithfull Fiftoriautu greatly in favour with his King who anfwered the meflengers from his Soveraigne. Tell my lib.; fDe perfc. K*»g let hi m broyle me with fire Jet him fcrce me with beafisjet 6 $ Sect, 3. Motive 2 . D rAWfte from our condition. WE are men, therefore we have few daies, mam/dan- gers : few yeares, but many evils : a fhort time but much trouble, Ub 1 4. 1 . Man that is borne of a woman is of few daies and full of trouble : We are Chriftian men, there- fore to be hated of all men for Chrifts fake, ^4//£. 10.22. Being as (hcepe amongft Wolves, and lillies among thornes. Chriftians arc like Merchants in great perills, before they can enjoy their wiftied haven ; like travellers inan enemies coua- trey abiding much hard (hip, before they are free from dan- ger : we muft through much tribulation inter into the king- dome of heaven, /?#/ 14.22. Yea all that will live godly in Chrift muft fuffer perfecution, iTim.i.iz. We are Gods Per var j ofca +. wheate which muft bethrefhed : we are Gods grapes which f m p cr tat dif- tnuft be preffed : we are Gods gold which muft be tryed. As crimina rerum wewafhand wring that linnen which weeweare next our tendimusaJp*- skin ; but let facks and fuch like lie without beating : even fo niam veT * m our molt wife God wringeth with afflictions thofc children, ^^ *" which are moft deare and neare unto him, even when he letteth others whom he maketh not fuch account of enjoy their reft and quiet. Let us of necefiity make a vertue, fince as being men we arc (ubjetf to innumerable evills, as Chri- ftians to many mere, armeweour felves therefore as good Chriftian fouldiers of Chrift Iefus to endure hardnesjand as the magnanimity and valour of the Romanes was moft admirable and excellent in their greateft adverfities ; folet ours accor- . ding to the antient rule, hard&ip ennobleth vertue. ?/£<%£* SlCT. 3 1 Tfo ChriftUn Cwfiitt* Ch a* . 61 Sect. a\* Motive g. Drtwxefitm the h4rmetff*efepf them? LEt the harmelefneffe of affli&ions perfwade to fuflrr them, we being content with patience, and perfcverancc to endure that which hurts us not. Although the(e are hideous, yet not bunfull ; although drcadfull yet not difadvantagious : thayare tolerable although terrible. Like the formidable waves of the overflowing deluge, which tofled the Arke,b«| dro wnd it not : like the fire in the bu(h, which burned with- out confuming the fame : like hnabs whale,which fwallow- ed,yetdcftroyedhimnot: like the venemous Viper hanging on 'Tauls hand not harming him at all : many a time have theyafflicled me from my youth, yet theyhave not prevailed againft mefaidIfraellongagoe,P/*/.i2p.!,t. upon this rock will I build my Church and the gates of hell (hall not prevaile againft it faith our Saviour, Mattb. 1 6. 1 8. we are troubled on every fide yet not dirt rcfled ; we are perplexed, yet not in defpaire: perfecutedbutnotforfaken: caft downe, but not deftroyd, faith Saint 7W, * Cor^.Stf.isfffltftions doe not withdraw fiomtbs verity of price and faith, but doc$rr$bor4te Wpritn h ° r ft re "£ the * '»£™f* with Saint CjfrU*, who himfelfe was Mirta * Martyr, Se c t. f. Motive 4I Drwnefrom their benefit 9 4nifreftK T He fourth motive fliall be drawne from the benefit of fuchlike afflictions; each man fuffereth patiently that which hehopeth may doc him good : many perilleus blafts and boyftcrous ftormes : much toylefome travaile by fca and land,and abundance ofpainefull labours are -endured by ven- trous Mariners and martiall men, yea by all forts of traders and traffiquers to get gainc : bitter pills,piercing plaifters, un- - """' . comfortable 5ect.5. IheChrifliAnCMfttt* 35 com 'crtable cuttings, and fearefull launcingsare frfferedto ol rail c health. Incure we therefore as the goodicuidicrs of Chrill hardnefle or afflictions. i . Theie being to Chriftian k uldiers as the waves toiTing the ark, yet laving Noc.h : As the Whale (wallowing up, yet pre- ferring /«**£ from drowning. As the Dragon purfuing the woman,/?**'.! i.i . yet procuring her greater prelcrvation. As the file grating the iron,yet making it clearer and brighter. As the furnace melting, yet purifying the gold. As the mill grin- ding, yet making the wheat more ufefull. As the cards break- ing^ yet fitting the wooll for commodity. As the coales heat- ing, ) et makir g perfumes more odoriferous. 2. Thefeare as the redfea, preferving Ifrael, drowning rphnTAch and his hoft, advantagious to the Saints, although hurtful] to ungodly men : for although they procure defpera- tion to thcfe,yet they caufe a raoft certaine hope in thofe. They being inlUuments by which thegoodneffe and power of God doth appeare in comforting and fuccouring us: as alfo occafions of the moft excellent good things : for by theie our daily flips are fatherly and favourably corrected : our pride and arrogancy is preiTed and pulled downe : the flefh and wantonnclTc is cooled and quailed : our old man is deftroyed and new renewed, floth and fluggiftmelTe is fhaken off : the confeffion offaith isexpreffed; our weakeneiTe is manifefkd : we are provoked to more earned and ardent prayer : we dai- ly underlland the fragility and frowardneffe of our nature,and accuftome our (elves to patience. 3 . Thefe arc fpirituall exercif es to cxercife, precious medi- cines to cure,' and whohome balm to heal the foul ; to purge us of the droiTe and reliqucs of fome old finnc which we arc loth to leave. 4. Without thefe the rich and radiant graces in Gods Saints are often like fire covered in aheapc of afhes', and oyntment flopped into a clofc box. 5. Yhefe ft arpen the lpir its of Gods children, and make them oftentimes do things farre more excellently and ccofide- rately than they do in profperity . D 6. Thefc 34 IheCkrijitAnConfliti. Chap.c?. 6. Thefe make tryall ofour zeale, love and conftancy, be- ing to us as the furnace to the gold, to try and proove us, Prov. 17.5. and our hope waiting, Pfalm. 123. 2. Rom % 8.34. Faith not feene, 2 Cer.4. 1 8.^/^.11.7.1 3 # 2©.and patience in- during, fam.$.^.He^.i2.i. 7. Thefe ftirre up our zeale, love and devotion inprai- fing and ferving God, and make us more diligent in the fame. 8. Thefe are as thornes in our waves, left we run wrong andftrayafide. 9. Thefe oft times turne to the inlargement of Gods Church, fuch being the riches of his mereifull providence, that he turnes the weaknefTe of his children, and wickednefle of their enemies to the good of the Church : the cruelty of the one, and the cowardize of the other to the increafe of Re- lig'on, and inlargement of the Church, .^^8.1,4. The Lord workes by contraries , and beats the Divell with his owne weapons , he fhewes that mens wiidome is foolifli- rieffe with him: for when they thinkejtoput out the name of Chrift by perfecution ; when they feeke to quench the light of the Gofpell , by driving away the Preachers and ProfelTours thereof, then doth he mod of all publifh, it, making thofe painefull Preachers, and pious Profeffours like fragrant fpices , brayed and pounded , to fmell the fweeter,and fpread their fmell the further, ABs 1 1 .19. One Martyrs death oft caufirg many to be converted. xo, Thefe are advantagious beyond expreftion to the Chriftian Worthy, affording hi ma threefold excellent com- modity, namely, Firft gainfull profit ; witneffe that facred fpeechof David that worthy Warriour of Chrift Iefus, P/alme 1 19. 71. ft u good for nte that I have hene tfflifted. And of that mag- nanimous fouldier of God the Prophet hremie^ Lament \ 3. 27. 7t « good f fir a man to beare the joke from hit youth* Namely for a man which is elecled , which is the faithfull fervant of GOD, aoid fouldier of C HR 1ST, who is armed wjth the armour ojf G O D 9 ajnd indued with faith, h°P e * S e c t . 5 ^ The Chrifiidn CttfliSt. 3 ? hope, patience, meekneffe, andfiich like gifts and graces, for this man it is good % that is, a thing honcft, juft, right, comely, commendable and of good report, M» 15.20. Or a blefPed and happy , profitable and gainefull thing for him to beare the yoke, namely of Chriit Ielus, both of fub;*c"tion and cbedience, and of afflictions, crofles, ca- lamities of all forts , inward temptations and cut ward trou- bles. From his youth, that is, continually and daily: ufe'ma- ting perfect, cuftome being another nature. Secondly , Pleafurefuil delight. Though this is a mar- vellous ftrange paradox to mod men , yet not fo ftrange as true, *Acls 5. 41, Teter and lobn departed rejoydng that they were counted worthy to fuffer fhame for Chrifts name , Chap. 1 6. '2 5 . Paul and Silts fang praifes to God after they were beaten with many dripes , thruft into the inward prifon , their feet being made faft in the ftockes. Affii&ions ( wee fee ) did quicken np the Apoftles , ma- king them more chearefull and lively , they being glad to be (6 honoured, and preferred of God. Their confeience was to them acontinnall feaft , 'Proverbs 15. 15. And their good caufe increafed their comfort under' the crofTe, yeafo that the greater their crofle, the greater was their comfort , a Cor. 1.4,5. Thirdly, Whether it be true or no (I know 7 not) that is re- corded of the Mufcovians , that it is holden for a great grace inMufcovia forafervant to beftrickenof his matter, a wife of her husband , or a Noble of the great Duke. For if any of the Nobles happen to be frricken with a cudgell, he replies , Health and ftfety attend yoa my Lord and great King, vho bafl vouch fafed t§ reclaime me by thefe flripes. Yet I am fure that renowncfull honour is from hence. From hence it was that the Saints did glory in tribulation, Rom. ?. 3. And Saint Paul in the croffe of our Lord lefts Chrift, Gal. 6. 1 7. Thefe being glorious fcarres and honourable maimes : Thefe being laudable liveries of a Chriftian fouldier, making him conformable to Chrift his heavenly Captaine and prevai- ling Conquerer, 1 P % 9 , y*a the Church and our fclves, £^.3,1}. Yea fo far re forth, that the greater the croffe, the greater the comfort in this languifhing life, and more iiluftri- ous crowne in that haven of happinefle, and heaven of biifle, Rom 8,17. lTk*jf.i.<$ OfyB* I« Bi\t many of Godi dearefl: darlings and beloved favourites are deftroyed in fiery tryals, and open perfecution by fire and faggot, flaughtering fwords, fainting famine,and other dread- full and direfull deaths. Attfa* True, yet they die not in Gods difpleafure, but in his fa- vour. Their death is no fhame , but an honour to them. They are not deftroyed in foule, but in body. By the loflfe of a temporall life full of miferics y they obtainc and enjoy life eternall which is mod: happy. Stormes and tempefts drive the mariners to the haven ; fo troubles and afflictions the eleel: to their happy haven , and inexpugnable rocke, Chrift Iefus. As the vine is then fit for the tafte , when it hath beene crufiied in thepreffe : the corne is then fie to make bread of when it is ground : the gold is then pure when it hath beene tryed in the fire: fo the godly aremoft pleafing vnto God, when they have beene in the farnaceof affliction. Oijeft. 2. But perfections and afflictions caufe backfiidin* apoftafic in diverfe , who Demos-like fall away ; or like the Itony ground , who when perfecution or affliction arifeth for the • WotfJs fake,immediatly are offended, /W^.4. 1 7. tAnfo* True in counterfeit, not in currant Chriftians : intime- fervers,not in truly religious, 1 I oh. 2. 1 p. Though the fpu- ming droffis metals are confumed , yet the pure and precious gold is purged by the fiery fining furnace. Though the dufty chafFe and empty grafnes are driven and blowne away by the winnowing wind, yet the good and (blidcorh is r>erby clean- fed ; although the rotten leaking veflell perifheth by the ra- ging fea -. yet the found Chriftian like a good fliip, governed by a difcreet and wife pilot, the more he is locked and toffed with thefe boyfterous billowes, the falter he failetb. A ihip >nd (tip-man arc of great credit afcer (but not before) they have S i c t . £ iht ChrlftUn Qinflitt. 3 7 have indured many fturdy weather-beating (torines,according to that of S. Cyprian, A Pilot it k»or¥»t in a tempt ft ; afonldier is tried in battcil* Sect. c\ Motive f . Drawne from the perfons affliEling^ boik principaU and inftrnmentall. THe fift Motive drawne from the perfons afflicting. Firft , The prime and principal! , the Author and efficient of all our affli&ions is the Lord : of 'Davids re- proachfull reviling*, iSamneli6. 10. of lobs extraordinary and unfpeakable lofTe, Job i. »i. And of all evill, Amos 3.7. Confider therefore advifcdly, i. What this God is to us, namely amoft mercifulland tender-hearted Father, loving us entirely,yea beyond all com- parifon and expreffion. 2. W hy and for what caufes the Lord fo gracious doth af» flid as, namely, 1 . Either to make manifeft and reve'al openly the proper lot and peculiar portion of the godly,as in AbcL 2. To try and take an experiracntall proofeofthe faith, hop?, patience, zeale, love, conftancy, and other graces of the righteous, as in lob. 3. Toexalt and elevate from contemned bafeneflc,to mag- nificent gloryj as in lofepb. 4. Tomanifeft andfhew Gods glory, as in the man who W*s blind from his birth, 7*6.9.3. 5 . To declare and make it evident that Chrift his kingdomc is not of this world, as in his Apoftles, lob. 18.36*. 6. To correct and chaftife for finne already committed^ ii> David, % Sam. I 2.14.24. 7. To preoccupate and prevent fin to come, as in S. Pan/, 2 Cor. 1 1.7. 8. To renew and re-eftablifh dying and decaying grace, as in the Ifraelites, Hof. 5.15. D 5 ' * U 3 8 ihe Chriftia* Conflict. Ch a p . 6. p.To wean and withdraw our doting defires from the fweet and fiigred baits and bewitching enticements of this deceitful! world , thefe criicifyiig us to the world, and the world to us, CjaL 6. 14. As a nurfeufeth to annoint her breils wich fome bitter woraewood to weane her child from fucking : fo our gracious God to withdraw us from the poyfmouspleauVcs and delights oi this world , giveth us periecutions and af- flictions. 10, Or to make mute and put to fhamefull filence Sa- tan and his curfed co-ad jutours , divellifhly cavilling a- gainft the Saints, faying, fuch and fuch are religious for finifter refpecls ; gaine, favour , or the like : But if per- fection fhculd come, their hypocrifie will be perfpicu- ous. lob It. 9, II. 'Doth lob fearc God for nought? Haft thou not made an hedge about him , and about his houfe , .and about all that he hath on every fide f Thou has! blef fed the tzorke of his hands , and his fub fiance is increafed in the laud : But put forth thine hand now , and touch all that he hath y and he will curfe thee ta thy face. Chap. 2 . Verf. 4. Satan anfwered the Lord , and faid % Skj*»e for skinne. % ysa all that a mm hath mil he give for hts Ife ; 'But put forth thine hand now , and touch his bow and' hit fi?/b 9 and he vrill curfe thee to ihy face-, lob and other fin- cere fervants of God , delivered into the hands of Satan and bis cruell complices , have manifefkd the contrary to thefe fianderous objeclers, that they ferve God faithfully as well in afflicting adverfity , as in delighting profperity, lob I 3 . 1 5. lA-lthfugb he ktU me , yet-wiM I truft in him. %, Corinthians 6 '. 4, 5. 'But in all things approeving our felves as the LMwijlers of Cjod , in much patience , in ,af* pBions , in nccefftiies , in diUreffes > in firipes , in impri* fonmcntSy in tumults y in l&bours , in veatchivgs , in fail- ings , &c. If for either, any, or- all thefe caufes the Lord doth or (hall affM us, it is for cur owne good, and therefore we fliould with patience indureit. a, The perfons affii&ing us , inftruraentally being as Gods iods- S e c t • 6. The Citiftian CenpSt. 3 £ rods, whereby he fmires ; hislhffe, wherewith he beats us j and having no ability to touch, fmite, or do any thing againll us without leave and lipenfc from our good and gracious God, are either 1. Men, inch as cruel! Cain, fcoffing/^wf**/, profane 2T- fau, the ungodly Philiftims, Midianites, Moabites, Egypti- ars,&c. Among!} whom the peculiar people of God Jiva likelilliesamongftthornes, likefheep amongft wolves"; yet not therefore tobedauntedordifmayed,butroindure with in- vincible resolution, undaunted valour,andall chear full alacri- ty, their utmoft fpight and extreameft oppofitions. Which that we may do, let us wifely and advifedly confider, t . That they are but Gods rods, I fa. 1 o . 5 . Affyrian the rod of mine anger, Pfal, 1714 Fr&m men which are thine hand O Lord. By which and with which our heavenly rather doth correct us ; they not having the leaft power of themfelves to beatand buffet, to afflict and fcourge : for had they ,tbej would fvrallgw m up q*dckf,T9ben their wrath tpos \eindled again ft pu % &e t Maxentm S * c t '. 6. The chr.iJIUn Conflict. 4 J UHaxertw was drowned like PbarathjavA his army van- Eu . Cjhb 9> quifhcd-ty Conftantms. AKrwardstheArrians perfection raged fb through : yp'ajfe caslerr.e parts y y ea tie rrhcle Romane empire, effect Couftaminople, that Jcarce any bUud-thir sly Kero did x.rcife fuch cruelty as the Arrians did againsl Ort bodcxe Chriftians. Mlcrcl. p. 5 6 j . 'But behold the revenoini eye efCjod, tthicb fent donne fir ft §faH baylehlee a bowletn the greatnejje ef hands, hl(e flouts t* kardneffr, and fmote many m?n and, cattei y afterwards over- threw Nicaa : after that dtfiroyed Pbrygiawitb a very great famine , and Valns himfelfe ting -Rounded by the Goths it fghty whe* be did convaj bimfelfe into a fhepheards Cot- tage, was burnt with {ire throwne in r and wanted to mm** bur tail. Arrive fitting to cafe nature his inwards and all his bowells j? u j; n . Mift. did run our,and fo in fuch a place he came to naught and feare- Ecd.iib. 1 . cap* fully periled with a kinde of death fitting fuch a blafphe- " 3 p- l *9- ihous and filthy wretch. Jutianthc ApoPtata,and tyrannical perfecitor of the Sains, Abrah.B- warring agai aft the Pet funs, was wounded with a dart (by a cerp.6$o. horfcman,or as Theodoret reports, be was found ireunded, un- L ^ eertaine whether by an Angell ot 'man, but sertain? wbofoever pa T .^6^. didit,he was a 'Jliinifttr of Cjods wi/l) andbeinn thus wounded 3 be filled his hand with bloud, threw it into the ayr*, utter isg thefe words , O CjaliUantbou haft cvrcom*. ssi little before tbe death of this blond? wretch Libanius Iulians teacher in Pa- ganifmc,fcoffingly asked a CbrifHnu Schooltm tiler, what the Abral B. Carpenters fo»ne was doing, keatfwtred , hefrepareth * coffin p- ( ~ for Iulian, *>£#>& w is ic*tiy fulfilled. Iulian Vnkletothe fore named Iulian, was takf* with a grievous difeafe, and periled, kisbowells rotting, whentheex- crewnntswere no more.canvajed out by their parages, but that cuffed mouth, which had been* the inHrument ofblafpbemy^was tbep.%ff>igeoftbem. They report tbtt his wife, awomanftngu- Tlcol i": largoed tn faith, faid to her husband, it is meet ( htufund) cap 1 j. J>.g6j , that thou (hou/defl fraife Chrisl the Saviour, who by this in- ftrufian bath fawedtbec bis power : for thou did ft net know, againft fAl * CprihM Ar~ 27.^537. b Lib .6. c. 17. Abrab. Buchol, p.66 ikinp.Gt'). Hlcrclp^ 6 7*l Abrab Buchol. p.66}. !&M ib-£.6Ci ffc^p.JJ. 44 T** Chripm Confliil. Ch a p . 5. 4£4**/? whom thou didft contend, &?. Felix alfo wasatfailed with a divine fcoiirge ; for f*edding bloud night and day by his mouth, when from all the ? arts of his body, alihis blond in his body was come out of ins mouth he dyed. EudoxU the Empreffe of Conftantinople, that wretched Herodiasy and implacable perfecutrix of renowned Chryfo- flow, who al waies breathed out bloud and bitterneffc againft him, was fmitten with death the fourth day after his banijh* mint for that canfe, and both flee dad other bis enraged * ene* mies brought Gods judgements upon tbe city (namely afeare- full hayle) and them/elves, as a Socmen and b Socrates report. AnaftaftHs % terrified with thunder, and lightning, running from chamber to chamber through feare, was flainc by thun- der and lightning. Radagaifus, although he had in his army above two hun- dred thoufandGorhes, yet being terrified from heaven, was taken alive, and flaine,and that huge holt mifcrably fcattered, foldorflaughtered. gundecins the Vandal was flaineby the DivelJ. Hunericus t called fceleratiffimus, mosl wicked in whofe dayetif 'any /hall got about to [hew thofe things which are done in the city of Carthage he cannot Jhew, no not the names of tbe torments. This barbarous bloody butcher had Gods hand fe upon him, that his body was Jo putrified with wormes crawling and bur/ling out of it, that not a body 9 but the farts of a body were buryed* Attila the King of the Hunt, having largely drunJeewiue at 4 marriage feafi in the night Jf] bloud comming forth ofhisowne noflrills was choaked. Alboinus who vowed to root out allChriftiaus, andragiugfy began to per forme tbe fame y compelling bis wife Rofomond (being merry in Verona) to drinke out of her fathers skf*U 9 whom he had flainc, was flaine by Helmichild, perfwaded fa to doe by Rofomond in revenge of that indignity feted u her* giUmtt S b c T.7, The Chrijltin Cwflifi. 45 gitimer a bloudy parricide and cruell persecutor of the Abrab Bucfol, faithfull being overcome by Hellifarius, and inclofed in a hill £.^7» defired a friend of his to fend him a harpe,a loafe and a fpunge, aloafe,becaufe of along time he had not feene any baked bread, aharpetoaiTvvage his nailery, andafpunge to wipe away his tea res. De Kqm 1, (a blouiy perfecatour ofthempf ~Msriniol)wu AthSc Mo.t. tht m?j} wick*d and cruell m \n andaffli:led the poors Chrjfli* ans *itb mo& cruell tormfnts that could be dtvifed, the leafl painethat ever he tormented any by, was thiix to fill their bootes full of boy ling greafe,*nd toeaufe them to be pulled on, and to be holdm before a great fire, andfo to end their lives \ whereof the King bring advertifed commanded that hefbwld be cajl into prifbn and condemned, whereof he having knowledge^ withdrew himfelfe to Avinion, whereas within afhort (pace he fell fick* of a terrible difeafe, unknowne to any Phy(itioa,ex+ treamepaines and torments were in all his body, and there was no ointment, nor fomentation that could eafe him one minute of an homer, neither was there any man that could tarry neare about him 9 wherefore he was car ied to the Hofpitall, and there commanded to be well intreated, but no man dnrfl come neare unta him for the great ft inch that came out of hid body, infomuch that the fit lb fell away by great peeces and gobbets : hti body wis repleate with fores full of vsr mine, and wormts, and, oftentimes in great rage he would fay, in wbatpaine and torment am I now ? now I remtmber the great eviUs, and oppreffions that I have done Mnt§ the poors men,and k*ow that for that only caufe lam affaild oneverypart. Who will kill me ? and deliver me out of this di* ftretfe that I languifh not in theft torments ? And he himfelfe mt heino^able to abidf the flinch of hid body, afaied divers times to kill himfelfe but he had not the power fo to doe, thus this cruell Homi-side and bla/pbemer received C9nfujton,os ajvsl reward of bis cruelties, To reherfe onelj the horrible end of Rock wood the chiefs A&.& Moa. (hrrerup, ofalltheaffUBions aforefpo^en of (againffc the Prote- ctants in Ca'lice) when cvtn to the la ft breath (larizg and raging, he cryed he wxs utterly damned, being willed to as{ God mercy who 4^ The ChriftUn Conflict. Chap. 6. who was ready to forgive all that asked mercy of him, be brayed and cry ed out, all to late, for 1 h me fought mattciettjlj the deaths of a number of the honesleft men in the townc, and though 1 fo thought them in my heart, yet I did that lay in mee t$ bring them to tv'tU death, all to late therefore all to late. 2. Gr Divels.Truzh is, the divcls malice againft as is inve- terate, and fo exceeding great, that he will not be wanting to doe us what mifchiefe foever he can, although thereby he ag- gravates his ownc damnation.* Neither is his cra^t inferiour to his hatred, he being the old fubtill Serpent. He is alfo as cruell as fraudulent, being the great red Dragon, and the roa- ring Lyonfeeking whom he maydevoure. And as powerfull as truculent, being the ftrong man armed, the prince ofdark- neffe, the God of this world,and daring to contend with Mi- chad. Yet need we not either Faint or feare but rnuft. and may encounter his fierce and fiery darts.with comfort and courage, with patience and puiftance. To this end confider i. That this divell fo potent and politique, fo malevolent and mifebievous, isfubjed and fubordinate to God our mer- cirlill protedor and gracious father, from whom the evillfpi- rit received a commifTion to deceive Ahabs falfe Prophets, I King. 22. 21,13. Sathan had licenfe and liberty given and granted to affiid fob, lob 1. 11. 2.6. And without whofe leave the Divells could not enter into fvvine, iJMatth. 8.31. 2. That as the raging reftleflfe Ocean cannot exceed its li- mited bounds, lob 2 S.i 0,1 1. So neither can this raging rave- nous lyon tranfeend his permitted limits : He may fife Saint Peterytt can he not make his faith to faile, Luk^i 1.31,3 2. He may buffet Saint P*«/,but not vanqwifti him , 2 Qor* 1 2. p. en- dure we therefore hardneffe. SectJ OEcr.j, TbcChiJtunC$nfli8. 47 Sic t. 7. Motive 6. Drawne from the kind* s of them. I Loffe of riches. 2 Famine. 3 Exile. 4 Death. 5 want of bnrifdl. 6Reproches. THe fixt Motive drawne from the kindes of afflictions. Stay a little, paufe a while, examine ftri&ly and ferioufly, fome of thofe particular preffures which feemc moft dread- full and diftaftfull, ponder punctually and precifely upon them : fearch and fee if any affliction is fo adverfe ; if any hardnefle is fo barm,that a Chriftian fouldier may rot endure with patience and piety conftancy and cheerefullnefie. Firft, Is the lofle of riches incompatible and infufferable in thy conceit and apprehcnfion, O thou felecl fouldier of Chrift. Then 1. Heare what Bus a heathen man, when he loft all by the Omnia mea enemies fpoy ling his countrcy Priene, faid, I carry whatfoe- meeumpom* vcr is mine with me meaning his vertue aud learning. Tul.parad. 2. Heare what rich and religious ?<*#/***/, Bifhop ofNola faid, when the cruell Goths had ruined the citty and robbed him of all as well as others, Lord I am not grieved for gold and Aug.lihiJe Jiivcrython knowefi inhere all my treafure £, namely in heaven, civit.VcL cap* where it could not be taken from him. I0 » 3. Heare how joyfully the primitive, Chriftians tooke the fpoyling ofali their goods, £k£. 10.34. And took* \oy fully the fpojh»g of your goods. 4, Heare how patiently and piciifly that holy man lob fuffe- red the lode of all, lob 1.2 1. nakedcame 1 out of my mothers womb^and naked fjall I return thither active : the Lord bath given and takeuawajJ?U{fed be the name of the Lord. 5 . Heare what Saint Avguflinc faid of Chriftians ftript and fpoyled of their fubftance. They have loft all : whether have AvgM. 1 2>e they loft their piety t whether the irfaithi whether the good things civit > ^ei tap. of the inveard mAU> which is rich before god I Thefe are the ri- l °' *hes of Chriftians. Qodlineffe « their gune^ looftng therefore thef t 4* 7ktChtifihn Cctfiicl. Ch a p. 6\ the fe things they cry aU stitb lob, rich within, fcerenitbout, naked came I 9 &c. bleffedbethe namt y &c % 6. Conftder and iee that thefe riches arc fuch, which wee neither brought into this world, neither can we carry them away, I Tim.6.j, We brought nothing into xhu nor id, and tt is tbid. certaine we can cary nothing cut. Saint Augttfiim would not have Chriftians grieved for the lofle of thofe thirgs whiles they live, which they mull fbone leave when they die. 7 Conftder what promiles cur Saviour makes to all foch who for fake houfes, lands, or any thing for his fake and the Gofpels, Mattb.i^.iS, faying fuch fhall receive an hun- dred fold, that is, he fhall obtains fo much glory y fo much grace, fo much wonder full felicity, that (hat profit him an hundredfold more then the thing which he lc&. He who bath for faken afa~ ther y andchofen god tobehu father, it is mwifeft that he hath received more, then an hundred fold a car nail father. He who for fakes a mother ,e hat he may love more his mother the Church, hath not he an hundredfold more then a carnail mother I He ebryfoft.Hom. who for fakes a brother that he may have Chrijl his brother, tt.incapi?. hath not he better then an hundred brothers f faith Saint Mtt.v.iS. Chryfoftome, And methinkes you cannot but contentedly part with your fubftance when the Lord, the right owner of it requires it,and to take /oyfully and Chriftianly the fpoyling of your goods, knowing in your felves that youhave in heaven abetter and Hcb.10.34, an enduring fubftance. Secondly, Art thou aftonicd and affrighted with fearcof famine, a mifery fo ponderous and infupportable, that David made choyce of the deftroying peftilence, 2 Sam. 24. The diftreffed Lepers of the (laying (word rather then this, 2 Kin. 7.4,5. That it is called one of Gods evill arrowes, £>.?£. 5. 1 6. And no rnarvaile, it caufing the Ifraelites to defire Egip- tiacall bondage rather then this,£*. 1 6.3. It conftrainmg ten- der-hearted mothers toeat their owne children, 2 King,6.22 9 19. Notwithstanding armc and animate thy felfe to endure even this. And that by confidering t . The good that it hath done and may doe. It brought the riotous S i c t .f. 7le Cbriflidn fiv/Iiff. 49 riotous lafcivious prodigall tofight and fenfe of hisfin,totrue and faving repentance,L*^, 1 5 . 1 4, 1 %, 1 6. It bath taken thofe whom it bath killed from the miferies of this life, as the fclpeffes of the body y whom it bath notktlledjt hath taugbt to live more ^¥ M ^ tfariugly,tofasl more often fihh S. Augufline. ZlTi! 2. The hurt it cannot doe. Ic could not caufe our Saviowr to yccld to Sathans fuggeftions, UMatth^.^^lt never coufd, tior can conftraine Gods people to prove Apoftates, Rom.%. 35. What iliall feparate us from the love of God in Chrift ? foall famine? Nay,&c. 2 Cor. 11.27. Thirdly, Doth the thought of captivity Co cruell,which ufii- ally is accompanied with wofull lamentation, fpightfall rc- proachesjunaptnene to ferve God. Tfal. 1 27, 1 , 7 ,4. Loffe of peculiar inheritance, bitter bondage, and flaviffo fiibjedion e- ven to icrvants, Lam.*) .2. 5 .8. Yet animate thy felfe to endure this alfo,which indeed is moft miferable, ifChriftians could AngXteeti- be afligned to any place, where they could not find their God, wtrDtUap* 1 andin hi* own country \our country Serm.i --de it above jthere we [boll not be ft rangers* For every one here even ^trbk 7)amin% in hie owne country is ague ft : if he it not ague fl he /hall not paffe thence : if he is about to depart he is a gut rft : , let hint not deceive bimfelfe, will he ni3he,be is a g ueft. And a certaine writer faith, Thy country u where focver thou art weBz to be well is not in a place Jtut in a man htmfelfc—*(bort exile fhafi tranflate thee fee- . ner to thy country , and give thee smother country better by f arte, * '* Cmit whence theyfiaSbe banifbedthat wifbed thee an exile. Since the X °* lord doth never faile to be a comforter,to leave & forlake his although in excruciating captivity, although under barbarous Bzck,ix.i£ ] fevages,al though in the bowels of the whale, & bottome of the fca^ witnefle lofeph, DanieL and lonah. Since the Churchof E God JO JhcChrljliA* Conflitt. Chap.5, God in general, and many the deareft favourites of God in particular, have drunke deepcand often of the mod (harpc and aigre ingredient mixtures of this bitter cup : Since heathen men, having no hope nor promife of future felicity have en- Tu&.Of.lib-s. dured patiently and willingly, dreadfull captivities, for their honour and countries fake: witneiTe Marem Anilim Reg»liu y who forhU honours fake promifmg to returne himfelfe, or their Carthaginean Captives rand for his countries fake,know- ing that the prifoners to be exchanged, would be more peril- lous,then he could be profitable to his country, did voluntarily returne te captivity in Carthage, to finiffe his daies under hor- rible tortures. 6 " Let every fouldier of Chrift Iefus for the glory of God and his Gofpell, forChriftand his conscience lake, having an affured hope of the unperifhable crowne of glory, grounded upon the infallible promife of the Lord of glory,rcfolve to endure even this alfo. Fourthly, "Doth violent death wholly difquiet and difmay thee, this fecming infufferable,infupportable : yea fo that the 0tjo3 % very remembrance thereof doth amaze and appale thee? for thou art certainly perfwaded thou canft not endure fiich and Anfw % iuch terrible tortures and dolorous deaths,as the glorious Mar- tyrs have formerly fuffered. And wbj maift not thou have the feme Chriftian resolution to endnre,the fame pious courage & comfort in fu&ering, which the former Martyrs had? you are men & fo were they. To them it was given in the behalfc of Chrifttofurrerforhisfake, Pbil.%.i9. and why may it not be Obieft. granted to you al fo? we want thofe valourous refolutions, that undaunted courage, and thofe impregnable confolating com- Anfw* forts which they had. What then? we give our children fmall knives to-make & mend pens for writing,greater to carve and cut their meat, not fwords, not bills or fuch like inftruments, becaufc not ufefull, unneceflary for mch imployments. We give our fervants and workmen hatchets, wedges, aud beetles to cleave and cut wood, axes to fell trees; we fend our fouldi- ours into the field with armour and weapons, not with knives or fuch like things: The imployments requiring ftronger and moreufefulltooles, we afford them i And will not God ? doubtleffe Sect. 7* TheCbtilHanC$hflif3. 51 doabtleffe he will add abilities, as hec addcth afflictions* Certainely he will caufe our confolation to abound by Chrift, as the fuflferings of Chrift abound in us, 2 CVr.1.5. Aa yet we need not fuch graces in fo great and ample meaforc, we therefore want them. But if our gracious God and mer- ciful father hathdefigned and marked us out for the lame furfcrings for the fame caufe, and we ufe the fame confcioi*a« b!e care and diligence by the fame fandified meanes to ob- taine the felfe lame graces, we need not feare the enjoyment of them. *But *hj O you Chriftian fouldiers are you afraid to endure and fuffer death for Chrift and his Gofpels lake ? That a man whofe chiefeft treafure, hearty affections, hea- ven and happinefie is here upon earthly felicities, Ihould trem- ble at the fight and remembrance of death, is no unwonted thing, it marring all his mirth and merriment : impayring all his joy and jollity : (tripping, and making him naked of all his hopes and happinefle. Tint that you whofe God is the Lord, who are the fouldiers of Chrift, whofe treafure is laid up in heaven, (to whom I onely now fpeake) Ihould bee afraid of death, ftiould not eutcrtaine it as welcome metlen- ger of gladfome newes, is not a little to be wondered at, and much to be lamented. S.Cyprian faith well, To the enemies of ChriHit U a plague, to thefervamts of god a profitable depar- ture : the righteous are called to comfort f ho vickfd are drawrti topuniflmetit. i. This ends our toylelbme rigorous race, and brings us to our triumphant reward. 2. This arrives us out of the forging lea of dolefull forrow* at the glad fome haven of endlefle ha ppineffe. 3. ThU fi niftieth our fatall fight,giving us a mod honoura- ble viclory over all our hideous and hurtfull foes. 4. Thi* accomplifheth our lalTitudinous wearifomenefle and tiring painefoll labours, bringing us to perpetiull peace, and never-ending red. 5. By this we are exempted and freed from the corruption of our nature and inquinating iniquity, offending ©ur uood God,andladdingour©waioiiles 2 toperfc&i©nofgrace,and E z full- *5 z The chiflUn Conflict. Chap. 6 J fullnefle of fanflification : from mournefiill miferies and fid- ding forrowes to immortall glory and incredible folace: firom innumerable ficknefles, inevitable and infupportable difeafes^ to immutable fafety,and perfect fanity. 6. £j>f£« we are taker* from dolefull paine, to delightful! pleafure : from fervile bondage, to joy full liberty 2 from our wearifome pilgrimage, to our wi&ed home : from our earth* ly rotten tabernacles, to our heavenly manfions : from the fociety of Saints militant with and mixed amongft beafts and" Belials, abfurd and unreafonable men, where we fee as in a glafle darkely, but a glimpfe and glimmering of the m- somprehenfible communion of glorified Saints to which this brings us, namely an immediate fellowfhip of Father,. Sonne and Holy Ghoft, that holy Trinity, bleffed forever, of all thofc holy and heavenly Angells, which continued irt their firfteftate, and of the ianumerable companies of godly and pious Patriarks and Prophets,patient and zealous Martyrs 1 yaaand of all forts of Saints, whofe robes are waflied in the bloud of the Lambe, and follow him whetherfoever he goeth? where we fhall fee and know Adam, Snoch^ Abrabtm^Mofety D*v$J>EliJ4h y ,and other ourcorafortablcconfbrts, compani* ens and coheires. 1. Our knowledge there being infinitely more cleare and perfect then here ^where yet we know each other, 2. Our knowledge then being like that of Angels, who know each other perfectly. 3 . Our knowledge then being abundantly more excellent then Adamt in Paradife,, whofe then was fucb, that at the firft view and fight he knew all creatures, and his wife fo exactly, as to give names fignifying their natures. 4. Our knowledge then without all comparifon fur* paffing that of the Difciples in the Mount, and of Dives in hell: whichwasfuch that by the former they knew Mo- pes and Elij*b> and by the latter hee knew tsfbraham and La^arta. 5. We being members of that heavenly company, mnft needs know our head Chriil Icfus and our fellow members. 6. Bruit S a c t . j". *lht ChripUn Cwflitt. 5 } * 6. Bruit beads, having here a kind of knowledge oneof ano- ther for their mutuall delight : this knowledge in that life, cannot be wanting to our full and perfefl felicity and pleafure. 7# This is .neceffary to bring to life: we mud dk that we may be changed , and that our corruption may put on incor- ruption , that our mortality may put on immortality. This is the common condition of all mankind, HeSr. 9. 27. This I know (faith S. Augufline) that no man hath died, which mufi not * ... . fome times have died '. Yea the Heathen Poet could fay. It it cw.2>eLc:i\ necefary for a3 mortal! men to die. Indure we therefore this, fipgnju-n* « which all, both good and bad, juft and unjuft , have or mud fuflfcr. This being a neceflaryi path-way to etemall life ; by which we are changed from evill tegood , from woe to weale, for which we friall rejoyce when we arc departed. By which we {hall exchange our travaileintp reft , our fickneiTe into health , our earth into heaven , life tranfitory into im- mortal!: arc we now well, we fhall then be better: are we now happy, we (hall then be more happy, being delivered from this evill world, and exempted from Sathan, to live for ever with Chrift our Saviour. 'But it's violent. Care we not what kind cf death we fuf- ObjeSL fer. What doth it matter with what kind of death this life is end- Anfw. ed,whenheto whom it is ended, is not compelled to die against Lib.iJeCiJt. fmhS.Augusline. 2W*n. But I am young. Care not how (bone it cornea ; theHea- objefl.z. then Poet could fay , Hee fhall die young whom god loves. Anfw, And S. isfngnftine faith , For as much as innumerable deaths lyyi?^iyA^h in a manner do threaten every man in the daily perils of this life, * *" 9 ^*« **] 4U long at it is uncertaine which of them fhall come , / fray » whether is better , tofufftrcne by dying, or feare all by living f Neither am 1 ignorant, how foolifhly men choofe to live long un- der ft are ofifo many deaths, rather than bj once dying to feare AugJib. 1J0 none afterwards. Crj.Vei.c.iir But it is an evill frjamefull death. That death is not to be Q y « . counted t viS which foSowet a good life , neit her doth any t king I r make death ~evi3 five that which foSoweth death \ therefore ™ W they who mu(t neeejfarily die, need mot much care what doth E J bapfc* J4 * h * Cmjtttn Conflict* Ch a p . 5. bapp t* to taufe them to dte y but dying whither they are confirai- IhiL tted ** g* y faith S. Augufline. Be you therefore who ate good (ouldiers of Chrift Iefiis ptrfwaded to arrae your felves, not onely to be bou nd, but to die al fo for the name of the Lord Iefus. Beare patiently a few rough and alperate ftormes, which do bat drive you fooner to your defired haven : a little harm and currifti u&ge by this churlifli/aylor, dragging and violently driving you from this earthly prifon to an heavenly paradife. y . Artthoudauntedand difmayed/earing that thy dead bo-, dy mall want buriall, which is a promifed olef!ng,G>*.i j.i$. The deniall whereof a threatned curfc,. Ur. 22.1 9-. For which the holy men of God have beenefo carcfuH as to provide their fepulchers before their death, t King.i 3.3.0. JMat. 27. 60. And to take order for their fepulture whiles they lived, G** # 40.29. $0. ? 13. 1 King.i 3.11. Conlblate thy felfea- gainftthis, confidering,. that although it is a blefli ig unto the godly, yet onely an outward y earthly , temporal] favour % to whom the want thereof is no curie, nor any wayes hurt* foil: for,. 1 . Cannot want of buriall let or hinder the refurre&ion of our bodies to glory and immortality? 2. Hath this beene the lot and portion ofGodsdeare and beloved Saints to want buriall? P('aI. 79. 2, 3 . Augd.i.fo $• Did S.Aaguftine comfort Chriftians againft this with CtvZXU. 1 2. fuch like fayings asthefc ? It is not the fault of the living who P* H ■• could net give it, nor a punifhment of the dead who could not feel it* If honour able fepulture doth any whit profit a wicked man 9 then vile or no buriall doth hurt a good man* 4. Did the heathen men fo little regard where they mould lie when they died for their countrey, or to what beaft the/ were given as meat, that Theodorus Cyrenane anf^ered Zj* fmachxs threatning this to him after death. Let this be dread*, fall to thy Teerel or States of thy realm?, I care not whether I putrifie under or above ground. And Diogenes y If I Jball not feele it> what hurt will tearing inpeecesdo me I Yea they had away generall conizations againft want af bariall,as thefcand fuch S e c T.7. 7 he ChriftUfj Cerfitti. J ? fuch like. He u covered by the heaven which »*nti grave : nature hath given fepulture unto *B : The fame reave of tetter which cau/eth men to fujfer fofwracke, d&thhurie them: the bodies ofthofe nhich are faftned unte gibbets con fume into bn> ria/l : * tor mint doth burse thofe vthkh are burnt alive. And&allwe fearethis which may never come , or if it doth come, is no whit dreadfull or hurtfull ? 6. Do qnipfimg taunts , fcorne'ull reprodies, flanderout backbiting*, iniofent mccks and flouting nick- names dread thee , thou deeming them fo infupportabte that thou canft not indure tbem ? tbefe being threatned as a great and grievous eommination, 7^.24.9 £-5.^.14. 8. Thefe having caufed the moft patient men to complaine and cry as lob, Chap. 30. 1 J 'But now thej that ate younger than /, have me in derifton, &C. Vzxi.g.Andnowaml their [ong and by-word. The Church of God, *?/*/. 79, 4. We are become A reproach to our neigh' b&rs 9 a feorne and derijion to thofe that are round about w* D avid, Pfat* 574 KjMy ftule id among lions 9 and 1 lie even a- mong them that arefet on (tre y even thefonnes efmenjehefe teeth arefpeares andarrowes, and their tongue ajharpe /word, Ure- mic, Chap. 1 8. 1 8, 1 p. Then [aid they, come and let us [mite him with the tongue - y &c. Thefe having urged Gods deareft jewels and peculiar people to imprecate zsElifla 2 King. 2. 24. And* he turned backe, and looked in them, and cur fed them in the name of the Lord. David to wifhevill to*Doeg, and Ie- r*«w*againft thofe whofmotehim with the tongue, 7f.t8.ar. Thefe being fo keene and cutting, that they are called perfect!- tion, Gal. 4. 2 9 . Perfecuted him that was borne after the $irit. Yet let not thefe difcomfort and difhearten thee, who art a iouldier of the Lord Iefus. For although thelc forenamed are truethefes, yet to inferre thence, Therefore it is not tolera- ble , not inferable to indure reviling obtredhtions , and op- probrious upbraid ings with bad fpeeches for Chrift and his Gofpell , it ra/h and ridiculous. For thine encourage- ment to , and comfort in futfering the fcourge oi tongues , confider, I. Tbatifalltbeblack-mouth'd barking bedlam Belials of E 4 Satans -f'5 ThechriftUnConfltct. <^hap.£ # Satans kennell in the whole world, (hould belch out the mod imbittered obloquies and hell ifh calumniations againft us; de- ride us with the moft fcornfull mowes, nods,girings, and di- vcllifh grinnings : and vomit out upon us and our good names the moft Clan derous maledictions, envenomed back-biting^ pernicious lies, and malicious curfings, that hell i. fclft can batch, Satan and his abettors faine and forge, and his malignant jpinifters acl and execute : yet can they not deale worfe with us in this kind, than their curfed companions have done to ourbleffed Saviour and his happy Saints, who have beeneas fliarply ftung by the fcrpents kcd, as we can : and have drunk as deep ofthis diftaftfull cup of infamy and difgrace, as is po£ fible ; and (hall we think much to pledge them ? lob was a fong and a by- word to bate fbolcs, Chap. $ o.p, David a fong to filtbydrunkards,P/4/.6'9.i2. Elijah accounted and called the Kings enemy, i Kin t i\.io. and atroubler ofIfrael,Chap* 18.17. S.Pah/ a peftilent fellow,a mover of fedition,an herc- tick,^S.24. 5. 1 4. Our Saviour blefled for ever,a blafphemer, Mat.9. 3, a drunkard andaglutton,! 1 p. a deceiver, 27. 6\ % WcrcDavUy/c^S.Pduhhc Saints&our blefled Saviour falfly accniedjfcornefully mocked,&c.& (hall we unwillingly walk in thole paths wherein fuch pious people have ufually walked. 2. That, the better any man is,the more fubjecl he is to flan- derous reports,and the utnaoft mifchiefs the fons of Belial and their father theDivell can coy ae, againft, and caft upon him* The Divell and divellifh men throw moft cudgels of calumny and contempt at the fruitfulleft trees in Gods vineyard: bark moft bitterly againft the brighteft parts of Gods Church mili* tant, like dogs againft the Moone, and labour tooth and riaile to obnubilate, and obfcure moft, the moft ihining and glorious lights with contumelies and difgraces. And ifany good man (as many have) hath the applaufe and commendation ofthis viperine brood, yet, it's 1. either to hurt him by bewitching him by thefe fawning flatteries,to fip a.little pf the times cor- ruptions, though he will not drink a full draught; ortkkling and enticing him hereby to de(ireearneftly,andaflfecT:promi{^ circus reputation, or wooing him by this meapcs towi»keat their ; S h c T.7. The Chriftm Cwflift. 5 7 their wkkednefle, and groflely neglecT: ChrXHan reproofs. Zt Or to harme others : thus the Pharifees oppofed Cbrift by John the t BapriFt,A4ar. 2.18. Uhn is a good man, he fafts, but thou and thy Difciples faft not. Thus carpers at godlinefle and goodnefle fet godly men one againft another, little confider- ing that one man may be more infirme and weake thanano* ther; one may do a thing in feme refpeel lawfully which-the other cannot. Thus thefe fubtill Satanicall tongue-fmiters of Saints and fanclity commend fome excellent and eminent men to difcredit others more clofcly, cruelly and cunningly>not out of any We or liking they have to their rare gifts, or precious graces; not for their found profeffion and fincere piety ( thefe being as repugnant to.them as the bright fhining light to ob- fcuredarkneffei thefe being a fhame to them, ?nd condem- ning them to the pit of hell) but by fuch fawned flatteries to pierce more cruelly even the felfe fame men, and all the con- forts of their blefled fociety,including in the end, even thefe in their black bill of aH are nought. As for example, fuch and fiich men are good men, yet they will do fo and Co. But fuch and fuch are fo precife, &c. yea all the company and pack of them be ftark naught. 3 . That thefe railing Rtbfhakthh fcoffing Ifimaelt, and all the infernall troupe and rabble of thofe who revile and re- proach , difgrace and deride men for godlinefle fake , are but fboles or men deftitute of wit, yea men out of their right minds. Marvell not that I call them fooles,or men out of their wits; for not onely doth the Word of God terme them foin divcrfe places, buttheir owne deeds and actions demonftrate them fo to be. As for example. 1 . Should we fee a man tumble and wallow willingly and delightfully in the myre, we would certainly conclude the man is mad, drunk, out of his right mind: but thefe wallow willingly and delightfully in the fink of fin, more foyliag than all the molt noyfome mud and mire under the Sun. 2. Should we fee a man wound &mangle his body,break bis bones,and tear his flefh in pieces,bccaa(e fome who have been grievoufly wounded,their joints disjoined^heir bones broken, their 55 TheChrtftunCnfltft. Chap.£. their flefo rent, have obtained perfeft recovery, although with much coft and charge, (mart and forrow : would we not fay,furely the man is mad ? But thele men do therefore, wound and pierce themfdves with finnc , the greateft of fores and (kkneflcs, beeaufe David , Peter, and other the Saints of God,after long labour and feeking after, much fmart and forrow, were throughly healed. 3. Should we fee a man all the time of feeding, fummet and narveft, when all good husbands are budly imployed to fit andfurnifh themfelvcs with necefTary livelihood, to run gadding after babies and butterflies,unnece{lary, unufefull,and unfruitful], would we not aver re the man to be a foole, if not mad ? But thefc manner of men in this blefifed feeds-time and fumrner ofgrace, when all wife merchants ferioufly with all fedulitydo providently, principally feek thofe precious hea- venly pcarles, trading and trafiquing for the fame in the con- fcionable ufe of the meane*, do then with earreftneffe and ea* .gernefle purfue die fruftleife and not need full fading fbme and froth of this tranfitory world. 4. Should we fee a man. to reject and refufe fuch a (ervicc wherein he might have fulncfle of comfort,credit and content- ment, and choofe to be a galley-fiavc to fome tyrannicall ty- rant , from whom nothing could be expected fave terrible tortures, rerrours and tormenrs, would we not avouch the man to be mad ? But all wicked men difdainfully~(if not de- fpightfully) rejecl Gods fervice accompanied with , and af- fbrdingall comforts and contentments, for Satans flavifh fer- vitude, wherein there is not the leaft fhew or fhadow of con- folation and contentment, but the truth and fubftance of all kind ofintolerablewocand mifery. 5. Should we fee a man to exchange pearles for paultry pebbles ; refined gold &r ftinking droffe, would we not af- £rme the man to be a foole, if not mad? But all wicked worldlings in effect fay, farewell fbule and confeience, adieu jholinefle and faving graces, fo be we may but thrive and grow great in this world, buy and fell, and get gaine. 6, Should we fee a mm prefer re a loathforae prifbnbefone Sec T.7. The Cmftttn Conflict. 59 tpkafantpallace, would we not fay, ftrelythe man is out of his wits. Butalltbcfonnes of £*/** 1 * Biuret, If*, tx.j. And Do^s, 7yy.a2.1d. Inregard of their fubtilty, Wolves, Ifaii.6. ArA Foxes, E^t^ 1 3.4. And in regard of their malice, Afpes, 7/4.II.8. Cockatrices, Spiders, 59.5. Vi- per s, Mat. 1.7. And Scorpions, Rev f 3. If a mad manor an ignorant ideot fhould revile us, raile at us, fcorne, deride and fay all manner of evil lagainft us, we would pitic the raw, and no whit regard his fawcy fair rilities, and fcotfiiig derifions. If fnarling dogs bawlc and barjee, fordid fwine grunt and grum- ble at us, we mind our bufinefle, and fleight thefe as frivolous trifles. Why then when thefe fooles, of allfbrrs themoft fcolifa,gna(lr their teeth, nod their heads, make mowesand fay ail manner of evill againft us, do we not piue t he men, and difeegard vo TheChrijtMnCoKftct. Uhap.5. difregard their abfurd fpeecbes, and irkfome geftures ? Why therfo re cannot we endure,yea altogether flight and difregard the bra wling barking of thcfechurlifhteurres, thehiffings of thefe Terpentine afpes and adders,the bleatings and blatterings ©r thefe beads and vaine bablers, feeing they doe but tbeir kinde ? 4. That the fmiting of the tongue doth a good man no hurt at all: As Kings and Potentates, wife and wealthy menfu- ftaine no loffe of fubjcflion, reverence, or of anything they hare intereft in becatife mad men, fooles and beafts put no difference twixt them, and other men : fo godly men have Kotthekefteeme lefforicd with God, and good men, have their prayers as pleafing to God, and prevailing at Jthc throne of grace, have their graces as radiant and glorious, and their right and intercft to the blond of Chrift and crowne of life as certaine and well fealed, when they aro loaden with the heavieft preflures of reprochfull difgraces, infamous indignities, fcurrilous taunts, and helliQi girds for piety fake from the Terpentine tongues and geftures of all deboift ftigma- ticall varlets. Excellent is the faying of Titm Vefpa(tan y Sinca I doe nothing worthy for which I fyonld fa /tendered 3 I do nothing regard lies. *. ^**muchgood, fo faith our Saviour, iW*f/fc. 5; . 11,12. B(effed~~when aR men fieake all, wanner of Mil again & you f*lflyformyfal(e, rejoyce and fa exceeding glad, for great U jour rewardin heaven, \ Tet,^. 1 4. //* y* fa reproched for the name of Chrift Jhappy areyo#,for the (pirit of glory and of Cod re He th upon yon. , Say not, how can we endure the fcourge of tongues, fince Object.!* by this meanes, All true profeflbrs, as well as we in parti- cular arc deepely damnified, for by meanes of fuch falfe afperftons caft upon us, the raging tongues of dogged Doegs arcftirrcdupandfetonworketo fnarle and fnapatall for- ward profeffours : Sec {fay they) what thefe precife profeffors are, behold their pra&ife they arc all nought. a. Andourowne good names, which are more precious then odoriferous ointments, and of greater worth and value £he n Shct.7. Th*Cbrifti4*Ci»fliZl. €t than all our fubftance, by thcfc currifh, barking, and enveno- med biting Belials , lie wounded and bleeding even to ex- trearne difgrace, being gored and pierced by thekecneand cutting tongues (more fharpe than fwords) of ftigmaticall Sa- tanifts, which being alofTe fa invaluable and irrecoverable, whocanindurc? For if you give juft occafion of offence, either by doing that Anfv>\ which you ought not to doe , or leaving undene duties that mult be done, then woe to you by whom the offence corn- metb, tWttth. 1 1. 7. 2 Sam. 12. 14. becaufe by this deed thou haft given great occafion to the enemies of the Lord to blafpheme, the child alfo that is borne unto thee (hall furely die. But you onely (candalizing,why fhould the men of this world purfue fo enragedly with fierce and furious out-crfes , all pious Profeflburs of the fame truth ?* Were all the twelve felecled Apoftles incarnate Divels, becaufe one of their number was fo? Were all fincere primi- tive converts lyars againft the blcrTed Spirit of God, becaufe facrilegious inantat and Safkira were ? Are all Profeflburs diffembling hypocrites pra&ifing contrary to their profeffi- oh, becaufe there are many fuch?- God forbid. Thoubiin- ded world , why wilt not thou fee ? You uncharitable fonnes of men , why will not you underftand , but rafhly and reprochfuTly condemne the unblameable carriages and harmlefle converfations of Gods dearcft Saints, for the cul- pable crimfon crying impieties of diffolute diflfemblers ? You are not fo unwife, fenflefTe and uncharitable, as to inferre, much copper gliders, therefore all bright and glittering gold is copper: A painted connterfeited Sun gives no radiant light, therefore that mining bright Runner in the firmament is ob- fcure and darke. ludai was a fonne of perdition, therefore 'Peter ■, lames , and lohn \ fome men are heires of damnation, therefore all men. Be not therefore fo malicioufly cenfori- ous, as to conclude, fuch and fuch are fhamefully delinquent, therefore all Profeffours are fo. 2. But if you walk harmlefly and inoffenfively, living un- blameabiy and uprightly, doing iuch duties which God com- mands,. 6i The GhrijtUn Conflict. C h ap . 6. mands, allowes, loves, and will reward, from a pure heart, and faith unfained,tothe praifc and glory of Goi,confequent- lytheworkesofGod, lobn6.i%. or good works, Epb. i. 10. In regard of matter, manner, and end, and fhunning theevill you ought to avoid, and yet are taunted and fcomed, as Dsvid by fcoffing Alichal, 2 Sam.6. 20 . for dauncing before the ark : barbaroufly and bloudily back-bitten, as Abimeiecb, for relie- ving D*wW, 2 £409. 22. 9, or otherwife wounded by cruell tongue*, it being unjn(tly,with evils never a&ed nor intended; or wrefHng good things to make them fceme evill. What ,. lone of Christian reputation ? Sarely none. Opje&. g ut wc fa^fe un j n ftly cenfured, rafhly judged, and fport- , ing table-talk to difdainfull abjecls by this meanes. Jlnfrt* And^ho was ever free? was Chrift? Did they n«t judge, and in judging hardly cenfure ourblefled Saviour? Did he therefore leave off doing his Fathers will f Grew he to paf- fionate impatience ? Nothing leffe. Sect. 8. Motive 7. Drawnefrim the nature of them, [hewing how ' the j are eifiU, bow good. THe feventh and lad Motive drawne from the nature of affli&ions.True it is, the uneafie dangers,unpleafant trou- bles and rough afflictions of Gods children, Chrifts fouldiers, are exceeding great: Pf*l.4%.%. horrible pit. And very ma* ny 9 Pfitf.34.i9. Andasboyfterousiinpetujus (urging waves fucceeding one another.The Lord our gracious Father having fo appointed and decreed : our conformity with our bleffed Saviour requiring that it fhould be fo , and God being more thereby glorified in our deliverance. Yet it is as true, that there is no danger fodeepe, no griefe fo great, no temp- tation fo tumultuous and troublous,no trouble fo tempeftuoiis, out of which God cannot or will not deliver his Church and chofen children, P/4/.40. ». He brought me out of an hor- rWcpftj out of the myvkehy 7 Scc.P/kfme. 34.19. Butthe Lord Sec t .8. The chriftU* Confitft* 4$ Lord delivers Hm out of all. He being their ftrong and power- full Redeemer, //i.4 5.1. Hebeingthe mighty rock of their falvation, P/4/.05.1. Their impregnable /nield and invinci- ble buckler/PyW. 1 8. a . The Lord of hofts and armies, Pf*f. 46.7.1 1. And that great and potent Prince, ?>d».i a. i. And therefore Though they are dread full, yet (hall they not be du- rable, Though they are laborious, yet friall they not be long lafting. Though they are cruell, yet but momentany, and of fliort continuance. But they are evill. And what patience to endure that which is good? Who cannot ? Who will not ? Chrifts fouldieTs being more then ordinary men, muft doe more then they doe.' They muft love even thofe who hate them, .44. They muft pray for fuch who hurt them. They mutt render arcquitall of good for evill, They muft endure wkh comfort and coi> ftancy evill. a. Admit they are evill to fome, yetthey are notfotoal^ they were good for David, P/i/.i 19.71. And arc good to be borne of fome from their youth, Ldment.^.i 7. Although in their -owne nature of themfelves properly. At they arc fignes and demonftrations of Gods juft indignation and anger againft any. /frthey are plagues and puniftimcots for fin ; As they are a part of Gods curie for the fame : ±As they are lets and hinderanccs from any pious and holy duty : er occafions of any fin, namely of murmuring, grudging, impatiency or the like, they are evill . Tat are they good by Gods grace and b!efltiig, being fandtirled in the Croffe of Chrift. As they are an argument and evidence of Gods love and fatherly care z As they are a meanes of fantftifi cation, mortification, vivifica- tion, converfion, repentance, reformation of life; Asxhey caufcustoknowourfelvesandourfins, gen.41.11. As they fliew to others the corruption of nature in the Siints,£%*^, 3 9* a 3. A s they teach men truo obedience, lob 33.1 p. lcr. 3 1 . 1 8, 1 9. As they provoke and ft irre up to fervent prayer, Pjd. 1 © 7. 6. As they fhe w the certainty and equity of Gods threats • At they purge from fin and corruption, Pr^ao.3.0. 464?.?. At OhjeR. Anfw.li ^4 TkehriftUn CtnfliZl. Ch a *.$. *sts they preferve from definition and evill, 1(k. J 7.1,1. A thep are a path- way to the kingdome of heaven, ABs 1422* wf / they conforme a man to Chrift, 4W as they make us com- panionate and able to comfort others* They arcnot evill but good. Endure them therefore. Vponthefe undeniable truths and grounds fo certaine,rca«» (on and refolve as followeth : 1 . titth Chrift our faultleffe Mafter,that Lamb without fpot and blemifla, and his holyeft Saints and members endured a£- flier/t fling cenftattcj, L*k* *2. *8. Hck.\o$9. Cbenre/u//rejoycing 9 Cct.l.14. I Pft.+*£* And Uvi*£pr*j*r£cT our af Aiding perfecutors according to Chrift s commandement,/!/**. 5 .44 The pious prafUfe of eur blefled Saviour, £*t*3«34> And his happy Saints, AH. 7.60,. And to right ends, not lor vainc-glonous oftentationor other carnall refpeds,but for the Lords and confeience fake, that is, rather then God fhould loofe his glory, and we a good confid- ence rowards God, wepurpole confiantly to endure grkfc, hatrcd,perfecution or any manner of afflictions as the fouldiert of Chrift Iefus. Chap. VII. The ChriftUus *rm**r, ^ % Duty. ChrtftiamfouUitrs mufi fo armed. AS a fculcrier ought not onely to have a forehand refohi* don to endure hardneffe,but he moft likewife fit and fur- nifhhimfelfe with ncceflary defenfive and offensive weapons, and with expert skill to ufe and marmage the iame to difable, difadvantage,difcomfit, diiTlpatcand difpoyle the enemy :and for their o wn prefcrvation fafety and protection : even fo the fouldierofthe Lord Iefus muft joy ne to his conftaat purpofc of fuflrring, 1 . Knowledge eft he parts and pieces of the armour of God, Epb.6. 1 1 . fo called becaufe it is prefcribed by God in bis Word,given of God by his fpirir,and agreeable to the will of God. That divine and fpirituall armour,neceffary againft the fpirituall aflaults of fpirituall enemies. That pnwp/iaorcom- pleat armour furficicnt to defend us in every part,availeable to Iceepe ofFand tbrult backc every aflatf t, and every dart of our Spiritual 1 enemies* a. And * putting and keeping on,and ufing F of I 66 The chriftun Conflict. Ch a p .7. of the fame] and every part thereof (God having made none of them in vaine, they being all needful! and py nt-companu ons,fo that he that hath not all Jiath none at all) todefend hirn- fclfe and his own right which Chrift hath dearely bought with his precious bloud. And to repcll and drive away the divcll and bis inftntments.Learne we all therefore who are the fouldicrs of Chrift, what this armour is, how to put on and ufc the fame. The parts of feverall pieces of which impregnable armour ofproofe arc fix in number, largely deciphered anddefcribed bytheLordhimfelfc, Eph.6.i^ y i$y&c. namely a girdle, a breaft-plate, fhooes,a fhicld,a helmet and a fword. A helmet lor the head,a brcaft-platc for the middle, a girdle to knit them together,(hooes for their feet,a (hield for their lefc hand^nd a fword for the right,ofeach particular fome what. Sect. 2« 1 part of a*. '] m our # The Chr&tans girdle* Their girdle nth At it it, hew f Ml en y its 'neceffttj % dignity <> 4*d feversll part*. THe firft piece of a Chriftians armaur is the girdle of truth. AsMartiallmenofwarhave afayre, ftrong, fubftantialL girdle wherewith they 1 knit their armour hb and clofe unto them,and keepe the feverall pieces together,fo that they can- not (hake or loofe. * Tye and binde their loy nes thereby hol- ding the fame firme, and their bodies fteddie, that they may be able to ita nd the furer and hold out the longer. 3 And hide the / oynts of their armour that they may not be feene, fo ufing the fame for neceffity, (trength, and ornament, as we may fee, lob i*.i8,2i. 3$. 3. //*.*$. io.Evenfo the Chriftian fouldier, hath his girdle of truth,namely Firft,Truthof judgement,or a rectified judgement agreeing with the Word of God, grounded upon it and warranted by it,defirous by it to be reformed, wherein it hath beene mif-in* formedato receive further illumination from it^and increafe of favin§ S i c t.2 . ihe Chriflidfi Ccnflitt. #y faving knowledge by ic,remaining found in praflittH faylings, giving no warrant to any decaycs,2 TVf . 1.12. And therefore the true do&rinc oftheGofpell may be called, not onely true dodrine, but truth it felfe,or the girdle of truth, it being to the foulc to ftrengthen it, as a girdle to die body of a fou'dier in warre. And the word of truth^CW. 1 .5 . becaufe all truth muft be learned out of it, as for example. 1 . The true worfhip of God in general!, Mic.6.%. He hath fiewed thee O man if hat ugocd: and what doth the Lordreqnire ofti:ee y bnt to do)ufUj y and to love mercy t and to &c. 1. True holinefle and falsification. 3 . True faitb,f/r £. 1 1 . 1 . Faith is the fnb fiance of lhi*gs y &cl 4 . True love, I Cor. 13.4. Charity fnffereth fang and is kinde, charity envieth nct,cbarity vanntetb not itfeifc. l I c ^5 **•. 5 .True humility, M.i 3 . 1 5 . Tor I have given yo$t an exam* fie that you [hculd do as J have donefPhil.i. 1 3 . 6. True meekenefle, UHatth.11.2p, I am meeke and lowly in heart. 7. True wifflome,/rfiw. 3 . 1 j.Unt the wifdome that is from #> bove is fir ft pure y thcnpeaceab Urgent le y eafe to be^c. 8. True knowledge,/*^ 7. 3./* islife eternall to k**» thee and him whom thou haft pent. Phil. 3.8./ account \&c. $. True hope, Rem.% 24 For we arefaved by hope y &c* 10. True pray er,almes-decds and fafting,c^f4/.6. 1 1 .True patience,/4w.$ .to.Take my brethren the Prophets^ who havtfpoken in the name of the Lordjfor an example offnjfe- ring afflitlion and of patience y Heb.\ 2.2. la.True righteoufnes, -#/**. y. 20. Except yonr righteonfneffe exceed the righteonfneffe of the Scribes and Pharifees,&c. Secondly,Truth ofheart or uprightnefle and fiocerity which is void of deceipt and counter feting, which afliircth a man that his fins are pardoned, Pfal 31.2. That his waies pleafe God, 1 1 p. 2. That he is a citizen of the heavenly Ierufalem,?/. 1 5 .a. 24.4. Mat.i&JVhicb intcreiTeth a man that owns and poflef- feth it in all good things. Which covereth a multitude of fin*, 1 King j 5.14.2 Cbro. 1 0*. o . which makes Gods graces thrive iathefoule,/*£.i.47. And theenjoyenhereqfto approve his F 2 heart I 6& TkechrifttAn Conflict. Chap. 7. heart to the fearchcr of al hearts.*P&#V& is a comfortable cordi- allatthedifnaal! day ofdcath,//4. 5 S. 3. And makes a man ac- ceptable with the Lord, Pfy 1.6. without .whicji no true repen- tance,/^/ 2.1 2. No profitable hearing of the Word of God r Luk$. 1 2,1 ?>*4, 1 5 . No prevailing prayer,: P/4/.66 1 8. And without which the molt glorious and glittering a&ions are but filthy abominations and odious hypocritical] performances.. Thirdly, Truth of fpeech,uttering things as they be without guileful] fraud & falftiood the mouth agreeing vvith the minde & matter which is iucercd,P/:i $.1, ^.4. 2 5. which is confo- nant to the will of God .correfpondent to the end of fpccch,& ufc ofthe tongue the oiindes interpreter.Thecontrary where- of is not of God, 1 MXiU butof chcdiveV/^.8.44. Con- demned by Pagans unacquainted with the myfteries of falvati- omCaufing the lyar toloofe faith & not to be credited when he fpeakestrutb:provoking God to wrath & indignation, /y 5. 6\ Depriving of that match! efle crow ne and incomparable king- dome ofglory,R*z/.2 a. 15. And plunging into that hideous and horrible infupportable lake offire and brim(tone,#*t/,2 1 . 8. Fourthly, 7>*f* of action when deeds are juft being done truly and uprightly when there is fidelity and faithfullneffe betweene man and man in keeping juft covenants promifes, and bargaines,P/4/. 15.4. 1 Cor.13.tf. This truth of Judgement, heart tongue and action is thiVgir— dJe wherewith the Chriftian fouldicr mud be girded. And all thefe mud concurre to make up the ftrength and beauty of the &me.trithdut the firft we run into ablurd opinions, & erroni* qus hcrclksiwitbeut the fecond we are guilty of gro{fe& dam- nable hypocrifie/odious & abominable to God and good men:. Without the third men are but loth (bine lyars fpeaking againft their mindes & confeiences : And without the laft diabolical de- ceiversand odious diuemblers.But by the firftour opinions arc feafonedand made found r *By the fecond our affections are re- formed and rectified. By the third our communication is orde- red and directed : By the laft our conventions are guided and governed. All which conjoyncd make up the firft piece of the Chriftian man* armour, the girdle of truth., 1. So Sect.3. TbeChriftUnCenJlilt. 69 j .So great an ornament to the Chriftian fculdietir that it he- fioureth and graceth him before God & man:for what greater beauty to religion (which the more true the more excellent) then foundncs & evidence of truth? what greater ornament to a Saint then truth & finglencs of heart winning approbation Be commendationfromGod, ^#.13.11. What An^dicall elo- quence or rhetoricall difcourfing fo grace fall & praifc- worthy as to fpeake truth? yea and what doth crowne and commend a man fo much as houeft plaine and faithfull dealing. ■ a. And fuch an excellent means of ftrengtb,that it lirlcs,holds fift & couples other graces of Gods fpirit together, and fo up. holds the Chriftian fouldier. Nothing f© ft rong as truth to con- firme&fettk the judgement of man. Truth of heart was the ground of Ids courage & conftancy,^!^ . a 7. 5 y 6 gave an edge & qtiickning to Hez,ely*bs prayer, !(*.% 8.3. and made D*v$d bold to appeale from mens,and refer himfelf to Gods tryall & examination,P/;a6. 1 . Truth in communication flowing from fincerity of beart,not any br-refpe ftct yo TheChriftUnConflift. Chap. 7. feet and alamhorne unto your paths, Pf*l. 1 1 «. 1 © 5 .And your continual 1 conftant counfellours,P/4/.i 19.24. ^} That you may bcclcanc through this wordjob.i f.g.Being ^purged By the word ofexbortation,from flothfull idleneflc and neg- ligence in all holy and facred duties. *Bj the word of remembrance from {infill! forgetfullneffe. By the word ofconfolation from dreadfull defperation and diffident diftruftfullneffe in Gods mercies and Chrifts merits. . 'By the word of commination, from prefumptuous and o^« ftinate rebellions. By the word ofreprehenfion from open aclualltranfgreffi- ons in word or deed. 'By the word of admonition from inclination unto evillor entrance into the fame. 'By the word of confutation from dangerous and damnable errours. 'Bfthe word of knowledge orinftruclion^from fpirituall blindnefFe,,darknes and ignorance in thofe things which ought tobeknowne. That you may be wifer then your enemies,. Pf*l.\ io.o,8> have aiore underftanding then your teachers,F«r.op. And un. dcrftand more then the ancient,Fr (nine to all. 5 . The brightnefei for though the Sun be more beautifull, bright and glorious than all other ftarres : yet the Lord is thoufands of degrees brighter than the Sun. 6. The ft ability*. For although the light of the Sun be of long continuance, yet the light of the Lord iafteth Ionger,even >revcr. F 4 7 . The Ji The Chrijllan CtnfliB. CHAP.7. 7. Tin 'fficscj : For although the Sun have great power over mens bodies, and workes upon them both by his light, heat, and influence, yet the Lord himfelfehath greater power over their foules. I fay, the Lord who thus is refenabled to the San, is their Sun ; that hf illumination,dire#ion, coniza- tion: therefore, I. Such cannot want light, either understanding, judge- mentjknowlcdgejor comfort,1ife,ftrength,and health. a. The Lord will guide their wayes, and direft their thoughts and counfels. 3. The Lord will comfb? t theroin all their aflMions, tri- bulations and perfections. *. The Lord&tbik fiictdox fifety, protection and prefer- ration, A (Weld he is, not artificiall,natural],or politicall : but mo* rall,fpirituall,celeftiall, fbveraigne,fureandfuffidcnt. Shield- ing thefe fore-named, by his mercy and favour, P/i/. y . 1 2.6 1 . 7. By his powerrull right hand, Pfai.i 8:35. By his omnipo- tent arme,7y4/.4f 3. Ky his faithfull truth, P/4/.p 14* And by his grace, * Car. 1 2 9. He is their fhield, to beare offthe bitter blowes, beat back the direfiill darts, brealcethe furious force of, and to cover, ftiadow, and fave from the empoyfoned (lings of the diaboli- cal 1 a {Vaults of their implacable and hellifh adversaries* The Lord is their fhield, preferving thenairom deftrufti- ©n, delivering them from danger and diftrefle : fo that no- weapons of the wicked, nor darts of Satan can harms or hurt them, this their Shield being fure, fufficient,.pre(ent and per-- petuall. Great therefore is their happinefle in this regard; for, having God their fhield, they have r. Themoft bright and glorious fhield,. which doth not onely delight, but alfo dazzle the eyes of thole thatdobe* hold it. s. The mod ready fhield, alwayes at hand to help, fuccour atid fave them. 5, The raoft durable and lading fhield, which cannot \y W.aftcd or worncour* . Sac t:*. The ChrifiU* CtnflUt. 7 j 4. The ftroogeft and fareft flikld, which w31 never fcrink. 1 . Earthly ftiklds can fa vc the body ondy ; this both body andfoule. ». Earthly (hklds five and fhcltct from bodily darts one- ly ; this from ipirituall alio, 3. Earthly fhields feve and (kelter from feme kinds of -bo- dily dangers, this from all. The Lord will give diem * grace* Take the word for the *. ' B ^jj n £jjj anions ofaflifting grace, a*naoKly > prefervation* confervati- x #Uc \n GeH.s. on and protection . Take the word for faith and repentance, £* iir G ^ ccot whkh amongft faving graces are the raoft prkicipaJl. They ^m«hS being more often* more ear neftly^ind more umverfaUy urged foun you may get this truth of heart* 3. Togcttruthinfpeech. Confiderwithadvifedcircum- fpefl ion, that, 1. This is the precife precept and commandementof your noftabfolutc Soveraigne Lord 3 and the dire A will of your good 7* The ChrifiUn ConfHZt. Cha*«7* good God and gracious Father, J VSfi)/«» faith the Poet. b A Ho in it felfe is vile and odious, faith the »*>»«» '* x'fo»- To get truth in cariagc and in your outward con venations, *«?«• ftt your felves alwayes in Gods prefence, and before his ^^f/^l* judgement-feat. Remember that from his all-feeing prefence rfu 4«^« ><«*•> (whole eye is in every place, beholding the good and the bad, Hmi ^* ? "' *Prov. 1 5.3 . who is the fcarcher of the heart and rcines ) nor- thing canconcealeor cover either your felves or yourciofeft a&ions: Notany place in the fpacious and fplendent heavens t nor any dark or difmall creek or corner in hellfo horrible and hideous; nor yetany nooke or biding place in the utmoft parts of the whole earthy PfaL 139.7, 8, 9. For be is privy to the many motions,into and from all places: to every way and pafTage of thefc motions 1 ye* to every ftep in this way : and to all and every pofition of downe-fitting, up-rifing or lying 4owne : Vcr. V3,4j 5. Yea to every fecret thought of the inmod; 7* Tl Cha».7. •roftke Heart, i?.i 5.13. ^thereat! any part or prcc)}, deg ie e or criftx-clion of diBC,bkfc frcxr «, bom thedres dfes i ;p. i J. 2nd a tfcoiriandyearesgone and psft art bet «s yefteiday; ax! therefore C«w/ cnidl crimfon crime as frefh wirhh!rr?,3sit"cveTTtKrwk w*inafh'rg. Live therefore al- wayes in Gods pt cl ence : approve your (elves and yoor (eve- i ^clionstoGad,that *s I*fob $ tbvouallffiay bcopr tnx and boneit in yoor a&ions. a. And yc« who havt it, icllftno^,Pr#p.2 5.13. Malcenot a Height reckoning of it as mer; commonly do or foch thingi thcyfcU. Let it not goby 3*7 rrca res, upon any condition t for any refpecS, let not Sitawthat ftbtiti ferpent, let no adulte- rating Priefts and Tefuites^ot any otter imp or inffrment of that deceitfull DiveO wreft away by faire entic e me nt s, pfatv &fc arguments , or bine rperic anion, mis gmflc of troth from us. OfyB.i. Lettbew^rbattfwhmjWgemcTitiiWBjecel^ fry and very dangerous. 1. That rretrWn hero brirfpi»irard Qh rniJcs , and hard and barfceer fares of wife and worldly sen* i * 5. Let them fay there is no living in mis loofe andlkenti- oa age without lying. 4. And rhatp-aire andhoceft dealirg wTJdfe a beggar; and lKTia* Hoty Gboft puwu r ih men danced, who believe riot trje truth, a7A/f.a.x. aJdxwgb thefe iedu- eers 6y n 9 not ne cc fey. And confidently affii ineil i that k u anc" ^efle,anda matter of lrjovdng ta infer &r tbetrmn, i^fMtb. 5.10,11. Though tfccfc i*o iio iBJ tek pe- ri; ^cn?. a. As for antk or heart, it is tlsesx&abfelaae foveraigne ■nridbte aedpt d tt vi ti v^ a^f^difbirbingd e^itiui^ , J*t vj^fi. Afaoftflrot^firf^oftkigpropaxxtp Sb c t.» # The Chriflm Ctnflitt. J*) a man in the midft of his manifold miferics and mifcariages : and a moft cordiall comforter in the moft fcarefull diftreffes, //*. J 8. $. Remember O Lord hew I have walked before thee in truth y 4nd with a perfeB heart. Thefwayingof theregall Scepter of the common- wealth ofthc moft potent and politikc people of the Icwes,Gods pe- culiar people. The foveraigne rule and command over a nation which was the moft warlike and potent under the cope ©f hea- ven. The £fc conduit of many mighty vigilant conftant guar- ders* The advifed poUcie and deliberate counfels of fage Se- cateurs. The daily and diligent attendance of heroicall and princely Servitours. The arcandinduftry of the moll learned and skilfull Phi- fitians. The mod curious cates, coftly garments, harmonious mu- fickc, fwcet perfumes, and all other delights of the fonnes of men, which do mod abound in the Courts of Kings, could not folace He<,ekiab (6 on his bed of fickne(Te,asdid the foundnefle and (incerity of his pare and perfedfc heart. • Ndcher are thofe many judgements infli&ed upon the up- right, tokens of Godsirefuli indignation, bun of his fatherly love and favour, Heb. 1 2.6. And as for the harfh conceits and ram contumelious cenforious conclufions of other men, they may not diftiearten nor cannot difmayan upright man, who hath boldneffe towards God , when his owne heart doth not condemne him, 1 /0&.3.JI. 3. And as for thofe pernicious periclitations propofeda- gainft plaine dealing and true fpeaking, they are not reall,one- ly pretendcd,witne{feche common and ufuallpraftifes of moft men, defiringto deale and commerce with fuch whom they are perfwaded will dealc truly and plainly. VV itnefc Gods curfc againftgaine gotten deceitfully, Prev.io t \ 7. And Gods many mercifull favours promifed to the upright man , PfaU na. So The chriJUan Cwfltft. Ch a p .7. 1 1 2.i,i,3,&c.And as for thofe railing Teproacbes,diftruftfull difgraces,and virulent upbraidings for venue and uprightneflfe lake, they aTC but as Co many radiant and refulgent pcarles,and garnishing gemms faftly joy ned and firmly fixed, toourim- mortall cro wne of joy and glory. T The ChriM*** Hrefl-ptet. He fccond peece of armour you fouldiers of Chrift mutt buckle about you and keepe faft, is, the breft-plate of TighteoufncfTe , or a brcft-plate which is righteoufneflc, that is , a ftudy and endeavour to keepe a good confei- «ncc, and to lead a holy and upright life, in thegenerall calling of Chriitianity , and in your particular vocations This is not rightsouf iclfe of imputation which is by faith: but of imitation, an excellent fruit flowing from the former, confiding in godlineflfe towards God, innocency of private life/neighbourly love, and a faithfull performance of particu- lar duties of perfonall callings. O hjtS. Say not beloved brethren, that this righteoufneflTe of imita- ^ Anfn. tionis needlefle, where that of imputation is enjoyed ; This beingancceffary inevitable path-way, wherein we muftcon- ftantly w-alktoattainceternallfalvation, £*£.?. 7?. 1 Cor. 6* 9* ^Cf *" r *£b* eow per fox, &c. Thisbeing necerfar y to teftifie our obedience, to witnefle our thank ful neflfe, to evidence our juftification and election, to manifdt our faith, and maintaine our caufc againft contradi&ers cavills : as that is need- full to apply the righteoufneflTe of Chrift, and fupportour felves againft our manifold imperfedions , defections and wants. QijiQ. Say not beloved brethren, that this ri^hteoufnefle is no- thing worth , all our things being but loflfe, and dung , Tktl. v4*fa 3* 3- and our righteoufneflc as filthy rags, 1ft. 64. 6 For though in it felfe it is defective and oppofed to Chrifts rightGoufheffe, it is but lone : Yet as it is a heavenly workc Sic t.J. fheChriftUnCtoflilt. it worke of Gods holy and blefled Spirit, as it procccdeth from a regenerate heart purified by a lively filth , and as its imperfections are covered with Christs perfect righteoufneflfe, itpleafeth the Lord, and profits the Pro- fe flour. Say not my beloved brethren , that a man may bee too juft or righteous, Ecclcfiaftcs 7. it. Bee not righteem _*. ver mush : Which words may fceme at the firft fight to bee A needkfle perfwafion, in regard of mens curfed cor- rupt nature, neither prone nor apt to wifedome and ju- ftice. A- caufeleffe admonition, righteous men being geafon,?™* up * ''itleffe exhortation in regard of wife mens judgements, who fo highly commend thofe vertucs of wifdome and righ- teoufneffe. A gracelcfle and godlefle kind of perfwafion or precept in regard of the counfell of the Holy Ghoft,which fo oft and ear- neftly exhorts, perfwades, and provokes men to the ftudy and praclife ofwildome and righteoufnefle. Yea fbme ftrange paradox of a Heathen Philofopher, rather than a parable of a holy and heavenly Preacher. Yet in truth the words containe a double dchortation, from a double extremity, in a double venue inforcedby a double reafon drawne from a double danger, or difcommodity de- pending upon the forclaid extremities* There is a double rigbteoufhefle or juftice. Firft, Theologicall or celeftia11,which is alio 1. Active, wrought or infufed into us, called in the lan- guage of holy Writ 1 . The juftice or righteoufnefle of God,becaufe he reveals it and imputes it, Rom. 3.21,22. Bmt now the righteonf- nejfeofQod. 2. The righteoulnefle of Chrift,becaufe he hath merited or defer ved-ir. 5. The righteoolhefle of faith, becaufe faith apprehendeth if. 12 '-* 0* cmpun conjua. ^ h a p .7. ft, andapplycthk tQthc finfull fouleof fuch as fliallbc faved. %. Paffive, a) together freely befto wed upon us, which is called inherent, and ftiled in the Scripture the righteoufnefle of man, of workes, of the law. Both thefe kinds meeting in' one man , are fame times implied in , and fignifted by one word , the fame which is here ufed. Thus was Noah a j'uft man, Gtwf.6. lob, Chap. 1 . 8. Ztchariah and EH^ahetb ,L*^. I . Iofepby MAtth. 1 . were juft men. And in this ienfe a juflr man, a righteous man, a religious maa, a godly and fauhfull man are all one. Secondly, Civill or political], which only is not here under- flood, but both kinds probably joy ntly . 1. The words being general!, and generally underftoocT 1 they comprehend the fpeciall. „\\ a. Becaufe piety is the ground of all good policy, celeftiall » the mother of civill jufticc. 3* Becaufe Salome* doth oft confound precepts of piety and policy. 4* Becaufe the beginning of that wifdome which Sa~ hmon commends unto us in all his bookes, is the feare of God. Therefore thofe words are to be underflood of that righte- oufneffe alfo which reachetb to religion. But if fo : How agree thefe words with Salomons wif* dome els where ? Exhorting, perl wading, and earneftly pro- voking all men to a continuall and careful! ftudy of wifdome and juft ice ? Is Salomon contrary to bimfelfe ? Doth hee contradict the whole courie of Scripture ? For who is hee among the Prophets or Apoftles, Fathers or Philofophers , that doth not exhort to a contrary courfe ? To grow and. in- creafe, to ftudie and, ftrive for perfection, both in know- ledge and practice of honefty, piety, and godlineffe ? Anf*. Salomon neither croftetb others nor co ntradids himfelfe in this place : For, here he diffivades Not from the practice of piety ,nor yet of jufticc and equity, but OijeS. S e c t . j. The Chrifthn C*vfli&* &$ but from the vaine perfwafion of them. Not from the love and liking of the feme, bat onely from the vaine opinion. Not from the inward defire nor outward endeavour to attainc this vertue, but onely from the deceiptfull conceipt of it. Not from the practice of righteoufnefle , but from pri3e ii it. Not from the care, but conceipt of it. Not from travailing for, but from trotting in it. Not from found wifdome or juftice, but from feeming wifdome , and a feeming (hew of juftice that is fained and falfe, 7*7.9.23. Not that any felfe-wifedome can bee counted too lit- tle, or any feeming juftice not over-much. For, felfe* wifedome and feeming juftice have no meane , but arc themfclves the extreames of true and found wildome and juftice. Firft, Some are righteous or religious neither in fhewnot fubftance, but onely in name, as vile Belials and prophane un* godly men. Secondly , Some in fhew, not in deed, as hollow-hearted halting hypocrites, who are ufually too juft , being ftticl in a righteoufnefle they frame and make to themfelves , not grounded on Gods Word , cJW^^# 7, 4 counting fiich things to be finne , which by Gods law arc not made finne, being cenforious bufie-bodies without -juft ground or war- rant. Thirdly, Some are righteous or religiow in deed, not in (hew, as weake believers. Fourthly, Some both in (lie wand fubftance, asalKincere- bearted and open Profeff urs. Thefe can never bee too fuft ; For, in true righteoufnefle no man can be over- juft , that it, :oo ftrift in avoid Ittg finne, all being damnib'e and deadly : yr-k\ performing ?ny{>oundenduty, he being to y>ive anac- irountofthemall. Say not therefore (I fay) a man may be tcfo juft or righteous: G 2 For, 94 Tw Chrsjtian Cwfta. <~h af .7. For, although in palpably prophane perforw , there is-too little righteoufneffc or juftice,too much in Pharifees, Brow- nifls and Papifts : yet they who go along by the Word of God , and hold clofe to it , the rule of righteoufnefle, cannot be over-juft , or over-righteeus. And although fcwpmUm ftper/fiiioniluMar, 7.2. (jl^inghjpocrifie y CM(Hth^. 3,4, %• And blind prcpofterotu z,e*h y Rom. 1 0.2. are too much juftice, by which men are too religious : yet in the found aiid fnffici- ent praclice of piety, obferving to do all the commandements ofthe Lord, *!> harme the guiltleffe : For, fo doing, your felvcs. fiaould be chicfe actors and. agents, As David flew Vri- *h with the fword of the children of sstimmon, tSam.12. 9,10. 1 1.1 j. 4. Do not you fuffcr others to condemne or kill, to harme or 5ect.$. TheCbriJtidnCtnJiitl. S5 or hurt the harmelefle innocent, it being in yoor precinct and power to patronize and protect, to favc and i uccotir them, for fo doing you are?ccefTariesatkafr,E*^.2I.20. Det'.n* 8. Ithlf I2,l3,I7.7 > r#t;.24.if,i2. y Doe not by inhumanitie and crueltie oppreffe thein- feriour helpelefTe men. For fo doing , you will fill your hands with bJoud, //*. 1. 15. Swallow up the needy, Ames $4.7. Eat up people like bread, PyW.14 4.5? 4. Andpw)- cure many bitter pitteous cries to God and men againft you, JMr.j i.ti.13. But doe you deale juftly and uprightly in your jurif- di&ior*. Loving TJghteoumcfle and hating iniquity, Excd. i?. ir^ Having your eares open to the crie of the poqre, Tr** verbs 1 1.8,9. Regarding their caufe although they cry no:, Pre. 31.8. Giving fentence according to truth and equity. Executing judgement according to truth given. That fo you may imitate the Lord Iebovah, whofe perfon you reprefent. That fo you may follow your pious fore-runrers, Luke 1 3. 50. and teftifie your fincere obedience to Gods fcveraignc commandements, Z*cb t $.i6. a. You fathers begetting, i^r.4.14. Mothers travailing ffi birth,(7rf/4. 1 9. And Nurfes,2 Tbef.i. Feeding fbulcs toe- ternall life : You Shepbeards to draw waters out of the Wels of falvation, not for beafts, but men : not for bodies , but for foulesrnotforfinners, but for Saints. You AmbafTadours of the Lord of glory, co-workers with, and labourers for God : Airgds oftl e Churches, fait of the earth; lights of the world; andmenofGod. Let us not cither 1. By pining, caudng Gods people to be cut off and de- ftroyed for lack of knowledge, W^.4.6. 2 . By pernicious poyfoninq, departing out of the way , caufing many to Humble at the law, corrupting the covenant of Lcvi 9 t3M*/.%.$. Teaching exorbitant crrours forfacred G 3 truths, j. rsy v»r/r»i»rMw vvvi»w*i truths. Mixing and mingling the dreggy lees of our owne droffic devices, v amidfl: the delicate divine doctrine of the om^ nipotent, omnifcient,unchangeable Iehovah. Like thofe corrupt gloflers, who taught as truth that {Wea- ring by the Temple was nothing, by the gold thereof a great offence, 444M.3.18. 3. By XlothfulL negligence, occafioning the keene and glit- ter ingfword of divine difpleafure to fweepe away obftinatc offenders inieir iniquities. And }u(lly jncenfing the incom- prehenfible Iehovah to require their bloud at our (his watch- mens) hands, Ez-el^ 33 d> 4. By over- lading our faint and feeble brethren with theo* netous burdens of unneceflary things, thereby incurring the inevitable woe of the Lord Ieius, Luke 1 1 .46. And the (harp check and controll of that ancient Primitive Apoftolicall Sy- nod, Atts 15.10.28. 5. By corrupt contagious counfell and evill example,(tun> hling, fcandalizing or weakening our brethren,, Rom. 14,21. J7*/.2.I$. 1 . But let us imitating the Lords holy Prophets, iS*m 1 24 l£, 2?. His well-beloved bletfed Sonne that great and faith- full {hephcard, 7t7Tl]ll** C OnjllCTi % $ unfcnced (although the other parts have fufficient furniture} roan marcheth forward efpecfally if through thorny and crag.- gic paths ,and againft the keene and glittering, the (narpe and piercing {words, fpeares and pikes ofin raged foes, limpingly, fearfully, uncomfortably, and dangeroufly defperately.Hcnce is it that we all are carefull enough to fence and guard our feet aid leggs with £hooes,bootes, and other fuch commodi- ous defences, againft fuch miferiesand inconveniences, btirts and incumbrances thofe members (and in regard of them our bodies) arc incident and liable unto. And martiall men (as. we fee in Goliab, i Sam. 1 7 6) rhey have their leg-harrefle to faregiiard and protect their leggs, and feet from hurts and wounds, leaft thefe being battered and broken, harmed and hurt, and able toftand no longer themfelves fhould dangerou- fly pcrilK Tha will,aflR:clior,s,dcfires, cares and endeavours of the foulc (its feer,thefe being the beginning of our actions as feet arc the infttuments of motion : thefecarying carmindes up and downe as reet do our bodies) are to be looked unto>when we goe into the houfe of the Lord, Ecclcf. 5 . 1. We are to pon- der the path* of thefe our feet and remote them from evill,. Pr#.4 1^,27. To make Gods Word a light and lampe un:o thefe our feer,P/ the kingdome of God. Wh*t though many careleflc Chriftians want this weapon being naked and barefoot, or too flenderly flaod to endure 90 ThcCbrtJtunConpta. k^kkv.J. and abide all the galling girds, and bitter brants of Sathan* fide? What though many arc fhodby the Divell with his iliooes, fc. a preparation againft the Gofj^ell, to afflid Gods Church, . punim his children, persecute his fervants, fpeake evill of them and (lander the Gofpell ? Tet letusthefouldkrsof Chrift be carefull that our feet •may be ftedfaft and fafe ; for if cur legs be wearied and woun- ded, brufed and beaten, we cannot goe a fouldiers pace, nor iighttbe Chriftian warfare. Profeffc we therefore tbeGo-* ipellofGodfothat if God call us to mifery, to death, we may be prepared to goe, and fuffer rebukes and taunts, death and diftrcfles, any thing all things for the Gofpclls fake. Or be we (hod with the preparation of the Gofpell of peace ; fa called. Becaufe it worketh atonement with God : peace with our brethren,and with our owne confcicnces. Called the pre- paradon,not onely becaufe it prepares and makes us ready for the comming of Chrift; butaifo becaufe it prepareth us to fuffer all adverfity and trouble for the Gofpell. Mttive i . Is it neceffary O you fouldiers of Cbrift to perfwadc you to be (hod with the preparation of the Gofpell of peace ? Sure lam each rcafonable man knowing the feet to be naturally (b nice and tender that if we goe abroad barefoot (lones will hurt them, thornes will pricke them : and perceiving the ne- ceflary ufe of (hooes to cover andkeepe our feet from fuch like incommodious inconveniences, is carefull to have thefe members well fortified, fenced and food, that he may goe on with boldnefle and courage wbatfbeverthe way be. And (hall not every fouldier of Chrift being to pane through a very hard, har(h,and rough way, full of difgracefull reproches; troublefome taunts , variety of vexations, terrible temptations: many times full of perfections by tortures and torments,lofle of good'?, lives and liberties, and all forts of afflictions, more harfh and grievous to a naked heart and foule, then thornes and thiftles, briars and brambles to bare and unguarded feet: bea9carefulltohavehi9 foule well armed, and fenced with tfie preparation ofthe (SofpcH of peace ( withoot which there is S e c t;$.. The chrijlisn Conflift. p x is no poffibility of going on, much lefTe ofholding out in that way) that fo he may not onely dare to adventure into, but al° fo endure to hold out in this way fo hard and harfh, paffing with undaunted courage through all the tempeftuous, and ter- rible troubles, of this malicious and maligning world ? Thus armed andfhod, the Lords valiant Worthies in all ages have pa fled through the piercing pikes of the aioft outra- gious oppofing occurrences, of their many and maligning ene- mies, not daunted with nor dreading, but c^uragioufly endu- ring, the bitter blafts and brunts of (comes and fcourges, of bonds and prifonments, of fire and faggots, and innumerable fundry kindes of crofTes,to which from time to time they have bcene brought. a. As the waatoffhooes in fuch places where they arc of neceflary and important ufe, and maybe had is (hamefull and nnfeemely 2 And as cleancand decent fhooes fit for our feer, and thereto clofely tyed, are an ornamenr,decking vnd ador- ning our bodies ; So (as the Laodicean Church being poorer blinde,and naked, was wretched and miferable,/?*?!/.}, 17.) it is a fhamefull and fordid thing, for us Chriftian fbuldiers who havefalong and with fuch liberty enjoyed the Gofpell, not to be food with the preparation ofxbe Gofpelkrf peace. Where- as thefcfpirituallfeooesdeckebeautifie and adorne our fteps and goings, making our waiesand vvorkes feemely and right* Cant. 7. 1. Thattherefore we may be alwaies really and readily 'pre- pared and protected againft ail the forehand feverall kindes of troubles and temptations. 1. Sothat they never flnde us unfitted and unfurni/hed,/rf 3.25. 2. So that we be not difmayed with their dread, nor over- whelmed with their weight,! CV.4. 8,9. 3 . So that we be not degraded nor difcorrtfifed in the irridfi: and mod of them,buc more then conquerors in all thefc things, 4. So. that our confolations may abound by Chriftas the fuffc rings of C hr ift abound in us, 2 Cor. 1 . $ . J. So f% The Chifthn Conflict. Ctf av .7. 5 . So that we may be (lengthened and enabled to che arc up and confolate others groaning under like burdenfbmc *prefllires,2 £>. 1.4,6. K So that' wee may ftand out to the end to fight a good: fi^hr,to finifh our courfe and obtai-ie thecrowne of rightcoliS nefle, 2 Ti m> 4 7,8. Let us be ca re fill 1 to have our feet flhed yA h the preparation of the Gofpell of peace. Sect, j. The Christians fhield. ■ Their (hicldyits excsihKcy i *ieceffity % and thsir duty com* cermvg the fame. THe fourth piece of the armour of righteoufnefle, is tbc ih'e\d of taith. A (nield is a defenfive inftrument of war, *o award and keepe off the blowes of an enemy, having a fburefoldufe ; namely, 1. To receive andbearc blowes and frrokes. 1. To beate backe darts, arrowes, flones, and bullets, &c. $ To breakc die force of fwords, halberds,<£r. 4. To . cover,fave and fhadow the whole body. Thus «ood Mag Urates a re fliields (Pfaf.47.9. The fhields of the earth belong unto God) being inftruments offafety and defence to the good. Thus God is a fhield (<7**.i?.i. lam th) buiktr. Pf*f.l% t.The Lord fe my Irmckjer) to thofc which tru'ft in him, Pfal. 1 8 3 o. Thus is faith a fhield bearing off and beatiigback the fierce temptations ofSjthan, as carrtallc3nfi- dence, prefumptuous (ecurity,diftruftfull infidelity ,and other fierce darts of the world, the flcfli and the divell. I having formerly fpoken unto j 0:1 of this mod neceflary, profitable and comfortable, of this firft and mother grace of graces, moft of all fetting forth Gods glory, acknowledging his wifedome, truth, power, holineflfe, juftice and mercy, in another difcourfe, namely of the fociety of Saints, much I will not, yet fome things I muft needs fpeake of this capital} grace and head yfirtuc. Firft, S e c t . 5 • The chrijtian Ctrtflilf* $$ Firft, ^Although many prophage pcrfons and popiflify perfwaded thinke and fay, that fo much preaching and lear- ning of faith is a let and hinderance to good workcs, making men carelefle of piety and charity. Little confidenng rhe certainty of that irreprehenfible divine truth, Ucb+ \i.6. With- out fsitb it is if»p6Jft'*U to fUafe God, For i . Ypon whom Gods wrath abideth, they cannot pleafe God. But Gods wrath abides upon al 1 raif-belee vers, hb. 3.35. 2. Without Chrift it i$ impoffible to pleafe God. But without faith no man can have Chrift, Epbff.$* 13. 17. 3 . Without Gods fpirit it is impoffible to pleafe God. But without faith no man can have Gods fpirit, G*l. 4. Without the root there can be no fruit. But faith h the root of all acceptable obedience, Heb. 11. 4. 5. They who are in the (late of reprobates cannot pleafe God. But all that have not faith are in that ftate, 2 Cor. 1 3 . 5 . 6. They who are dead in trefpaffcs and nxs cannot pleafe God. But all who want faith are dead in trefpafles andfinnes, Epkef.i.iyZ. 7. Thofe wbofe confeiencet are defiled cannot pleafe God. But all who want faith even their confeiences are defiled, Tit.l 15. Secondly 9 *s4lthougb godlefle A theifts conceive faith to be fbmefained fi&ien,or forneunneceflary thing, for difcourfe and difputation onely, little con fiderin^ That it ismoft preci- ous and excellent, 2 'Pet, 1. 1 . 1. /* the account and eft imate of the raoft wife un-erring md oranifcient Lord Iehovah, with whom faid. finds favour, M*t.% sg. 15.18. a. IjithceiUmationand judgement of the fanclified and ilkmi- 94 The Chrifttirt CQ*fttft* Chap .7. illuminated people of God affirming,and profefllng that faith is more pretious then gold, 1 Pet,i.y. 3. In regard of the giver, and doner, God himfelfe, ?&/, I. 20. 4. In regard of the worker, Gods facred and holy Spirit, ?. In regard of the inftrumentall meanes whereby it is wrought, the Word of God>Rom.io 14. this being amoft precious and excellent thing. 1 . Containing in it mod pure, and precious promifes, Heb.% % 6.* 2. Being compared to things mod excellent and eminent, namely A rich treafure,and pretious pearle, UWaf . 1 3 .44,4?. An heritage, and thoufands of gold and filver,?/i/.iip. 1 1 1.72. 6. In regard of the object, Chrift Iefus himfelfe bleflcd for cver,vY#.i<5.3i. 7. In regard of the ground of faith, the promifes in the Gofpell ; whichpromifesareofthegreateftbleffings, 2 Cor. 6.i<*,i 8 1 77*14.8. 27V/W.4.8. And the fureft promifes tha * ca n be made, 2 Car. 1 . 2 o . Heb. 10.23. 8. In regard of the ufe and end thereof, the fakation ofour fbules,j Pet. 1.9. Thirdly, +A It bongh fottifh,and fecure ignoTant peoplc,and loofe,licentious,and lewd loflels content themfelves with that falfe, fained, and barrenfaith which is fruitleflc and unwor- fcing : yea, and boaft,and glory too, that they beleeve a& well as the beft ; Although this their faith is onely a naturall perfwa- fion which they had from the wombe, and fuckt from the breads: not that extraordinary fpcciall gift of God,?^#7.i.2p # by the fanclrified ufe of the ordinary meanes, /?& tljir truft like the fpidsrs web They (hall leans npon their houfe^ but it [hall not ft and, t hey [hall hold it faft but it (ball not tndprc, lob 8. 1 3 . &c. Secondly, what and if the moft filly and foolhli fort of men, the moft fenfeleffe and fottim worldlings, and themoft finfall ^nd fenfaall ion* of Belial think it the cafieft matter of a thou- fan& Sec t.J* TbeChfiftUnCdhflifc lot find to have a good hope. Little considering that it is averj hard and difficult thing to have a true and faving hope in God: Witnefle *D*vids fervent and frequent forcing himfelfe to hope in God, and fortifying himfelfe againft the contrary, Pf. 42.2,^,6.4;.^. Witnefle the many lets and impediments, which as obftacles hinder and keepe many and many men from found and faving hope, namely, Satans flie and fubtill guilefull deceiptsand fallehoods, the thwart and froward condition of the fledijhating purity, without which no true hope,! /#^3.g. Witnefle the many felfe-feducing deceits grounded upon vaine,groundlefle,& falle hopes,wherby every man almoft,al- though never fa fenfuall & finfull,hopes to be faved, If 4. 5 7.10 Thou 4rt wearied in the ere tines of thy way, yet faidft thou not There U no hope. Although all filch who are without Chrift,be- ing aliens from thecommon-waalthof Ifrael, and Grangers from the covenant of promifc have no hope, Eph. 2.12. And onely thofe,who have grace,have good hope, 2 Theff.%. 1 6. . Thirdly, What and if many delight and pleafe, flatter and foole themfelves with unfound and unfetied hopes, grounding their hope of falvarion upon 1. Their own over credulous conceits*, and foolifti fancies, having no more evidence for falvation, then he whofe deeds are written in water, or he whofe houfe is built upon the fea- fands:thefe building their hope onely upon their bare imagina- tions,and fond fancies. 2. Vpon their forefathers faith^nd pious progenitours gra- ces,having themfelves no perfonall piety, nor faving fan&ity ; like the proud and tombe-like Pbarifees, who hoped for hea- ven and happinefle becaufe they were Abrahams children (as if they could fee with other men6 eyes,walke with other mens feet, and live by another mans eating) CMatth.^.f. Bat they deceived themfelves,and difcredited Abraham. &c. 3. Oruponfome perfonall perfun&ory performances of fome duties of piety ,although only formally for fafhion ; not faithfully and for confcicnce fake,like thofe boafting braggards y 3 OH4ttb. yOS * ve (jnrijttan Liwpicf* v> m a r .7. UWattkj.ll. Lord,Lord have we not prophecied in thy name* and in thy name have caR the matter without the incanes of falvation. Or meanes without the matters Or Saints merits, relicks, and fochfalfe and forged trafh. To buy with falfe coyne,counterfet filver ; Having a defire without end savour; Having endeavour without defire : Oc both cold and carelefle. Their defires beii g feithlefle; Their requefts careleffc ; Prayers pithle{Te,and povverIefle,and theic endeavours negligent,flothfull,and idle. To buy careiefly,flothfuUy,and lazily,; Hngring.protradtiBg, difTerring,and dallying, being flow in hearing, bejeeving, re* penting,and obeying. What and if I &y thofethree forts of fbttifti and (educed fbules before mentioned fuffer themfelves to be fi.ifully ftupi- ficci,aadfatanicallyfurprifed. Yet let all thofc who have any well-wiChes unto their own foules. And all us who are" the fer- yants,and fouldiours of our Lord, and Mafter, King, and Cap- toineCferiftlcfus, H 4 fid\ y I ©4 The Chripan Conflict. Ch a p .7. Firft,Learne to difcerne and diftinguifti betwixt I. That bope,whofe Author, Rom.x 5.1 3. Nor* the god of hope, &c. and ObjecT:,! Tim t 6. 1 7. £*f i« *£* /w*7f£ (7^ : is God,and his precious promifcs. And that whofe author is Sa- than,and Object men, /fa ,20. 5 , They fcaHbe affraidand tea- med of Ethiopia their expectation. Vncertaine riches, I Tim* 61 7. Charge them that he rich-— not totrusl in uncertain ri* ches^c.Ot fuchlike deceitfull props of reede. 2 That hope, whofe ground and fubftancc is faith, ffcl.n.r. 1 And that whofe bafis and foundation is only humour & ima- gination^ the fight,and fenfe of their prefent profperity. ? . That hope, which is real],right, and religious. And that, which is reachleffe,ruinou9,and reprobate. 1. The one relying on Gods promiles, although they feemeunlikely,ff(?;».4.i8. who Againft hope heleeved in hope -, that he ^c. The other failing, yea falling, when the limber and brittle props and pillars of humane fupport (wherewith i^s borne up) reele, fhrinke,and faint. 2. The one being diligent and indubious in the u r e of fan- ctified rneanes: The other flacke and fluggith in the mcanes, hoping for happineffe without holineflc,glory without grace, falvarion without fan edification. Boaftingand bragging of hea- ven, wholly omitting, or at beft fleighting, and fecurely neg- lecting the way direclly tending thither. Secondly,And labour to get and hold fall that hope, which h 1 zScriptmehoipeyRvmAl.q.That we through patienze y a»d eomfor^t of the Scriptures might have hope. Frame and fafhion ©ur lives according to the guidance and direction therefore of facred Scripture; for they who lie and live in tin againft Serij> ture can have no good hope. «. That hopejwherofwe have found and fufficient evidence^ H^.i i 4 i, for which we can give good reafon, 1 TV*. 3. 15. lead we be like banckerout braving braggarts, who boaft of Lordfhips, lands, and livings, not having any evidence to Ihew for the fame, 3 .that hope, which is fruitful!, and effectual J, working id the hear* a.Ioj OECT.7- 'inecnrtjitaniionjua. IOJ I. Ioyunfpeakable and glorious from the fenfe of hea- venly bleffings prefent, and hope of full bleflednefle to come; joy during, and long lading, ftirring up to the praifes of God, in whom the Saints do joy y Rom.j< 12,12. iy.13. 1. Deflre inftant and infatiable to be delivered from the bon* dage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the formes of (jod, Rom, ,8. 19,10. Or to be partakers ofits hope, 1 Cor. p. io w 3. Piety,and purity, purging and purifying the owner and poilefTour thereof, 1 1 1^.3.3. 4. And that hope, which bath Gods image and ftpericrip- tion characlred and ingravenon it. 1. It being a lively hope, or an immoveable andcertaine expectation of Gods promifes, 1 Pet. 1.3. 2. It being a patient hope, or a quiet and fetled waiting for helpe and happineffc from God with courage and patience, tf#«.8.25. iThef.1.2. 3. Itbc'mga 6leJ[ed hope,Tit.i I$l 4. It being a fure and ftedfaft hope, Heb.6. 1 9. Firft, This found and fubftantiall hope procured and ob^ tained 1 . By knowledge of God apprehending his mercy, Pf$l \o.And they that knorv thy Name mR put their trufi in thee. 2. By humbling our foules within us, Lam. 3 . 20, 2 1 . kMj fottle u humbled in m, this I recaft to mind, therefore hav* 1 hope, 3. By dreading and reverencing the Lord lehovah, Pfa/ m 1 1 5 . 1 1 . Te that feare the Lord trufi in the Lord % &C. 4. By {hunning evill,and doing good, purifying ourfelves as he is pure, 1 lohn 3.3. The hope of the wicked perilling, Prov.u.j. Secondly, This hope warranted and fuppQrted,as by fo ma-; fiy props and pillars. 1 . By the unalterable Word of the unchangeable Iehovafy Rem. 1^.4. 2. By the facred folemne oath of our good and gracious God,tf<£.6\i8,i*. 3 • By the legacy of Chiift, bequeathing his to bis FatherJ defiringbina, who promifed to grant whatever he (Lould aske, to keepe his Saints , that they might be where he ir , John 1 7. 4. By the invaluable bloudof the immaculate Lambe Chrift Iefus,by which the promifes of God are fealed and fubferibed, Heb.\ 0.1^,20. . Thirdly, This hope thus procured, andprefcrved, 1 . Kee- ping us from, and comforting us agamft all unkindly feares, and dreadfull defperation. *. This defending us again(t,and delivering us from backe- Aiding, apoftafie, enabling us to expecl and wait for ; though we have not prefently the thing promifed, afliiring us i^ires, that though we be not now efteemed, yet time will come when we (halbe Tome body. 3. This refting and remaining with us, ilrcngthening, and fupporting us when other graces fee me to finkeand forfake us ; this (like the fiftiers corke) fwimming aloft when other ve rtues arc hidden, and almoft over- whelmed ; fo that were it not for hope, the heart would oft breake : agreeable to that faying of David, c Pfd.x m ].\%. I had fainted unlefielhadbe* iievedtofeethegoodneffe of the Lord in the land of the living % tbis(like an old mans ftaffe) fuftaining us. 4. This being our anchor whereunto we may lafelytrufr fl though afflictions and temptations like ftormes be railed a- gainft us, Heb % 6, 1 p. which hope we have as an anchor of the: foukyboth furs and ftedf aft* 5. And this being a maine part of the armour of our filva* tion, with which head-piece all Gods Saints arc and have been armed. We rnuft warre likewife continually, but in hope of victory ? What {hall move us to indurcall troubles ? The hope of ftlvation. This made patient JW, the pious Pro- fefiours, magnanimous Martyrs, conftant Confeffours not to be daunted with, nor dread the utmolt hellifh rage of bar-* barous and bloudy perfecutours : And this is as neceffary for us; forwhatf)Cverweare,wearebutinhope$ which is our tenure, and takesup our poffeflion of things to come. If wc liave all the members of our body armed, and our head$ unarmed^ Sh c r.j. The ChriftUn C*»fli6t. 107 unarmed, one blow may kill us. This hope is our helmed I Tb*fa .8. Take therefore this helmet of f alvatiofyhope. A Sect. 7. The ChriftUn fouldiers fword. Their fword j its dignity , diver fe erroneous opinions alout it^ and onr duty concerning the fame \ THe fiat and Iaft piece of our armour folio weth : Andthe {word of the Spirit, wfoch u the Word of pod ; (b called, f 7 > /«/.45. g gtrd thy (word upon thy thigh ; which pbrafe is ta- ken from the cuftonie and manner of Kings, Captaincs, and Souldiers ; and fheweth the meanes of advancing Chrift his gracious and Spirituall Ki igdome, to be the MinilTery of his Word , this Spintuall Sword : As if the Prophet fhouid fay : Give thy Word unto thyMinifters, powre thy grace into their hearts and lips; (lore them with gifts Minifteriall, and ftirrc them up to uie the fame : Send forth* and fet up a (land- ing preaching, and power full Miniftery. Hebr. 4. 1 2. For the Word of God is cjutcke, and powet j W, and fiarper than any two edged fword. R<-v. 1 .1 6, Out of kU mouth went a fharpe twe edged fword. With this Sword our Captainc and Comman- der Chrift Iefus did defend himfelfe againft the Djvels darts, . andbykhedraveaway thetempter, M*t .4,4,10. Withthis Sword he confronted and confounded his foes, Mat\h>ii* and defended himf el fc againft their conflict, JMatth. 13. With this fword tsfpofos coi qnercd, convincing the Iswes.and that publikely, fliewing by tl.t Scriptures, Ah 1 ^.24, 18. 1. This weapon will defend, and maintaine that crowned EinprerTe of all heavenly graces that dwell in a fanclified foule, and that truly victorious, and invincibly triumphant Conq jerour Faith ; againft iufidelity the mother, root, and founttineof other finnes, the grcatefr, mod dangerous , and damnable of all other finnes, lokn , 6.9. the principall law of AekingdomeofdarkQefte, which the fubull lerpcnt endea- vours «o8 The ChrifiUn Conflict. . Ch ap .7? yours to make reignc moft in the lives of men. 2. This will maintaine and defend Hope that comfortable aflurer, effecluall expe&er, and affable applier of Gods preci- ous promifes and comfortable conizations to come ; that fure and ft edfaft anchor, flay and ftaffe of the foule, ftrengthening and fupporting the fame, making it inexpugnable andunfha- ken in the raoft furious incurfions of the raging waves,ftormes, and billowes of worldly troubles, preflTurcs, perfecutions, and reproachfull oppofitions: againft death, the prince ofter- rours, the end and fumme of feared evils : againft the gates of hell, the power of darkenefle, and the Divels fierceftand fierieft darts; and againft dreadfull dcfperation, thehigheft degree in every kind of diftreffe ; the greateft oppofite to fa- ving faith, making all Gods promifes falfe and fained • the *cfoyf.Hhm. mother and fofterer of tumults, terrours, a and perplexing *h 1 * 6 %%'* 6 ' anx * eties > tne b wor ^ ©f finnes, than which nothing is c worfe, Mauij. m lt P utt * n g mao mo a ne ll «P°» eart ^ wherein he muft abide iSer.de'pen.7. torments beypnd all compafle of conceipt , or expreffion of tongue. 3. This wiirproteel: and preferve Truth, the glory and crowne of Religionf which the more tmc,the more excellent) 4 clryf.cent. Evincible truth , which cannot be d overcome , neither i* Cent. Tom. * . daunted with the many multitudes of enemies. Againft here- fie, which (viper-like) gnawes and eats out the bowels of the Church ; which ( Scorpion-like ) deceiptfully poyfoneth , which (as a canker) is mod hurtfull, and (as tares) corrupts i Tim. 2.17. good feed. Againft errours, which are dangerous and damnable, Pftl. Againft do&rines of men, or fuch doctrines which have none otherthan men for their authors,£V.i.2*. Againft the doclrine of Divels, or fuch which come from the Divell, and keep men (embracing and receiving the fame) faft in his fnares and fetters, 1 7V/W.4. 1 . Againft tbe unfavoury,fowre, contagious, corrupt doctrine ef falfe teachers,or their lying leaven polluting the fweetneffe of heavenly doctrine by their gloffes, M*u 1 cs Againft Sec t>. The chriJIUn CtTiflift. 109 AgairiY thofe deceiptfull doelrines ofTialasm, Rev. 2. 14? 'damnable herefies, 1 Pet.2.i. thole lies in hypocrifie, 1 Tim* 4.2. thofe perverfe things drawing men from the way of truth,. Afts 20.29. And all other things which ought not to be taught, Tit. mi. Wherefore (faith S.Peter) I will not be negligent to put you alwayes in remembrance of thefe things, though ye know them, and be eftablimed in the preientttttth. And S.Chryfeftome faith excellently to this purpofe i/Pfcrw you H0m.4g.in fee the abomination of deflation, Mattb.iq. i$ t that is, When Mati^.Tom.* you fee wicked here fie which u the band of Antic hi fi ftar.din the. holy places of the Church ; let tham betake themjelvet to the mountaines, that u 9 to the Scriptures; the Mount aims are the •svrifivgs of the iposlls and Prophets. And why to the Scrip- tures ? Secwfe in that time from which hi refte hath overcome thofe Churches, there can be no other froofe of trnt. Chrisliani^ V* nor *ny other refuge of Chrif} tans y defrous to k*ow the truth of faith ■} fave onely the divine Scriptures, ' 4. This will maintaine Chrift the Prince of peace, If*. 9. 6. The foundation of the Church, 1 Pet. 2.4. The Angell of Gcds prefence,?/*.^ 9. And ofthe covejwnt, MaL 3.1 .The confolation and glory of Ifrael, the lalvation of God * the an- nointed ofthe Lord, and the light of the Gentiles, Luke 2.23. %6. 20,31. The branch of the Lord, I fa 1 1* I. And of righ- teouficfTty Wr % 33.15. The fbuk-refrefhing, and Itrongly in- framing rocke, 1 Cor, 10. 4. the Head and Captaine of the Church, Rev. 1 2.7. The Lord of life and glory* Ails 3. 15. The King immortall/i Tim.i 9 lj. The worlds judge, iTim. 4.1. The Sonne of God, M*t.$.ij* AndGodhimfelfe. AgainiT-Antichrift that king of pride, Rev 9. u . who exalts himielre above all that is called God, as Kings, Emperours, and Angels, 2 Theft i. That man of finne and fbnne of perdki* on, 2 Theft. That flic and fubtill adverfary of ChrihVin fheepes clothing, Matth. 7. 15. having homes likeaLambe, fpeaking like a Dragon, Rev a 3 .1 1 . Holding a cup outward- ly glittering full of abominations, Sev.xy.^ Speaking lies ia hypocrifie, i Tim. 4. 1 . Calling hirnfelfefervantof fervants, yet claiming fuperiority a;id fovcraignty overall Kings and Emperours, * lie TbeChrtftunCwfltf. Chap. 7; Emperotirs. Being Chrifts vicar by profeflion; bat his kilter a crucifier, murtherer^nd robber by praftice. 5. This will defend God, the holy O ie of Ifrael, Pfat.-jrl 2 1. The mighty God of Iacob, wonderful I in counfell, excel- lent m works, and fmhflil]/7)w.$.a6\ The revealer of fecrets , the Lord God of thefpiritsof all fledi, Nam, 17. \6. The ftrong Redeemer, /^r.50.54. The great and mighty, whofename istheLord, ^.32 18. The living and true God, 1 The/. 1.9. And his workes which are great, P/i/.i 01. a. and wonderfully Pfi*L%, Againft man, who although heels vaine, yea vanity, yet lefle than vanity, dares belch, and breathe out blafphemies a- gainft the Lord ; likethofc, MaI.t,. whofemouthes wereo- pen againft the Lord, to grieve, vex, and wearie him, Verfc * ?.fpeaking with a ft At neck, proudly, prefumptuoufly, v\- folently, and blafpheoioufl/. Excufing and juttifying the fame fawcy and finfull ipeeches, Ver. 1 3 . Charging God with injuftice in ncglecling the righteous, and caring for the wic- ked, Vcrf. r^i?, Pleading merit, boaftiug of their owne righteoufhefTe,Verf.i4 Grudging, murmuring, and com- plaining of Gods dealing with them, VerG 14. Counting them blefled, whom God judgcth accurfed : like hard-hear- ted 7* W**^ Sxod. 5.2. JVho is the Lord> I know not 9 Jwii not) &c. Like railing /fa£/&4J^6,reproching, blafpheming, and ex- alting their voice againft the Lord, //4. 3 7. a ?. Likethofc profane Bel ials, lot 21.15. faying, What istht Almighty that we fhonU ferve him} and what profit [houldrve b*V* if we pr*j unto him I Like' thofe corrupt cavillers,who dare difpute againft Godt }uft and righteous proceedings, ffaw.i i.sb, Like that ieven-headed and ten-horned beaft, which fpeaks great things and blafphemies, £. 1 3 ?. Or any other wayes fpeajce againft the God of heaven, ei- ther detracting from God that which of due belongs unto him; - S rc t.7. Tb e chriftian Conflict. 1 1 r •him : afcfibingthat to him vvbich befeemcs him i:ot : ora- ny waves abufing his facred names in their chafing, cholcrick, fuming diftempers,0r the like. i. Further; this keene and piercing fword will cut, and kill the power and puifianceoffinnc;. that deceitfull deluder and maliciousmurtherer of mankind, R$m.\ 1.7. Sin -—decei- ved— flew me : that rerrible tormenting tyrant rigorouGy re» -quitingthe fealty and fidelity of its moft faithfullfbllowers and dutifull obfervants with death and damnation, Rom .6.7 3 . . Thar power full and forcible body of death, which makes even the beft men cry out, O wretched man that I am .who (ball de/i~ verm* 9 R*m.j.t/\. WitnefTeD4z^pra&ice, hiding the Word in his heart, that he might not finne,P/4/. 1 1 9.1 1 . Witnefle S.PauIs exhortation to heare the Word of God to ,day,leaft any of us be hardened, through the deceiptfiilnefle of finne, Heb^ 7,13. a. This warlike weapon will refift and repell the implaca- ble importunity of Satan that fubtill Serpent, ^4/. 4 4. 7.10. J f eh. 2.14* .- 3. This rod of Gods mouth, and breath of hi6 tips \yill countermine and confound, batter and beat downe the DiveJs f Jdngdome, 7/4.1 1.4. iThefi*&, i 4. This piercing power-full axe is (tarpe^nd ferviceable to •vexeandJcill, to,oppugnc and overthrow 7 the tyranny of the ikfh, Lttkr^.g. 5. This will repuife and bring to ruine, confront and con- -qoerthc deluding deceipts, bewirching baits, inchanting in- ticements, inveigling infnarements, as alfo the railings, re- .proches, ptrplexitiesjperiecutions, andthebittereft blaftsof the canning and cruell world ; alluring us Thar whofocver will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God, /4W.4-4. That if any man love the world,the love of the Father is not iin him, 1/06,2.1 j. That the yyoild iycrucified to the Saints , they toit , g*L ^.14. And ill TheChriJlUnConflia. Chkv.j. And as for the fufferings of this preferit world, thatthey are not worthy to be compared with the glory that foafl be revealed in us, Rom& i 8. 6. This will fruftrate and enfeeble mens inventions , ma* king the man of God wiler than his enemies, Pfel. 1 19.98. So that they are notabletorefift the wifdome and fpiritby which he fpeaks, AUs 6.10. 1. For this is the hand and armc of the omnipotent leh o- Vab,//#f.49.2n^.T 3 2, 2. This isthe rod of his power, PfdtA 10.2. faftaining usa- gainft the Divels violence, anH forcing him to flee. 5. This is his rod and ftaife, P/*/. 23* 4. Thy r*d and thy ft*jfe. Namely, His cha(ti(ing rod , wherewith he doth correcl, and rule his children as a Father ,or a School e-mafter his fchollers. His revenging rod of iron, to bruife and breake in pceces, killand'deftroy the ftubborne and rebellious. 4. This is his ftaffeto (hield, fafeguard, and defend his fheepe and fcrvants ; to keepe and beare off the bitter blowes and baffetings of their fpirituall enemies, dogs, and Divels: And to fapport and uphold their weakc foulesancf hearts. ?. This is his axe, Luke 3. 9. Which pierceth, pareth, killeth , and cutteth downe men of Belial like rotten and barren trees , and tornaenteth them before their time, R+- vtUtion 11. 10. Which fitteth and fafhiorieth every (tone in the (pirituall building for his proper place; Which cut- teth , and pareth off the corruption of the foule and con- fcience. 6. This is a hammer, breaking the rockes in peeces, Jerl 23 . 29. namely, the ftony hardnefTe of our hearts, and bruiting them as it were to powder, that they may become loft, hum- ble, and contrite. 7. This is fire, Ter % i $ .20. To purge outthe filthy droflfe of mans corrupt nature; To heat his cold heart with love and seale: To thaw his frozen affc&ions: To guide and enlighten his dark and blind mind : to war me and comfort his farrow- foil 5* c t .7. Tie Cbttpan Cdriflilt. Up foil fpirit: to confoHdate and bind bis broken hearth 8. This is a (haft and arrow in the heart of the K jngi, that is* Chrifls enemies, flying and going fwiftly, wounding and kil- ling afarre off. 9. This is light to drive away darknefTe,to cleanfe the mind, nnderftanding,and judgement, % Pet.i . 1 9. 1 a. This is a facrificing knife,to cut the throat of Gnnes and corruptions, Row. 1 5 . 1 6. 1 . What and if thofe barbarous and bloudy foule-murde- rers, thole horrible and hideous homicides the Papiftsdealc impioufly and ur.juflly with their people,depriving them(Phi- liftine-likc, 1 ^*w. 1 3. 19.) of this weapon wherewith they fiiould defend themfelves, and offend their caemies ; robbing them of this forcibly prevailing, {harpe, two-edged fword, and giving them in lieu thereof a weake and woodden fword of mens traditions, and humane inventions, and the pawltrie painted leaden weapons of unholy water , dirty reliques , graines, and agnw Dei wholly unavailable: Confpiring with SieDivellhimfelfe to hinder people of fafety and falvatron; and to erode and contradict the Lord himfclfc ? For lie faith, T*ke the fword of the Spirit 2 they fay, no. m For the Scriptures are dinger one. True, to difcover and dif- ObjeB. H fipate the maffie mifts of the damnable darkneffe ofPopifh pe- tAnfw. fliferous fuperftitions. For H*rctiq*es ADedge Script *rt. Tnie, for themfelvesjand objcS.zl other heretiques allcdge the letter of the Scripture,yet mifle of jittfw* \% the Word of God, becaufe ofthe fenfe and meaning. But what and if the Word of God is many and diverfc wayes abufed,being miftaken malicioufly ; mifalledged .wit- tingly by purpofely omitting,or adding (bmething to alter the ienfe and meaning,or overthrow the drift and purpofe ofthe Holy Ghoft : or mifapplied purpofely, namely, to corrupt the mind or heart, to prove untruth or errour, to perfwade to fin, or to fome other evill end or ufe : (hall the abufe of Scripture take away the right ufe thereof ? God forbid. We all ufe fire; though fbmcjnalicioufly, others negligently waft therewith, and conlumc many excellent and dcfireable things. We may I lawfully lawfully and comfortably enjoy our meats and drinks, though gluttons and drunkards finfully and (hamefnlly mifufe them. Thehoneft traveller doth fo much the more fence and furnifti himfelfe with a fword, becaufe thee ve sand robbers doe the fame. The abufing of Gods ordinances by lewd and wicked men fhould not occafion the pious and godly man torefufe them, diflike, or Iefie to love them. And Chrift: Iefus alledg- ed Scripture, although the Divell did the fame. a. What though many fleering Ifhmatis fcorne and fcoflfe at that knowledge which others have in Gods Word, and at thofe who caric the Scripture to the Church, to get and in- crea(e the fame; terming them in reproach Bible-bearers. 3. What though fome through covetoufterTe will not help forward:fome through worldlines will not attend unto:fome through negligence will not frequent: fome through blindnes will notefkem the continual 1 and ordinary, the conftantand conlcionable preaching of the Word; and fo negle&ingto gird die i word about them -, are guilty of their owne dcftructi- on : adventuring to go naked and weaponleffe without this ivvord,amidfl fo many and fuch violent enemies. Yet let us who are the fouldiers of Chrift Iefus, I . Not oxely have Bibles to lie in our houfcs,and to carie to the Church : For, what good doth a fword hanging on the wals to the-fouldier in the field ?- •2,Nct ontlj read the Scriptures,regardleiTeof thefenfe:For what advantageth a fword, if we cannot unfheath it out of the Scabbard ? j. Not onely fearch for rhe true fenfe of facred writ to main- taine difcourie,confute gaine-fayers, to determine differences, not caring to have fin thereby mortified, and our i elves edified in the faith: for what will itavaileaiouldiertohavc a iword onely to fl our ifh? • Bat alfo. 1 . Let us Minifters,who are,or ought to be the chariots and horfemen of Ifrael with AfoHos^ABs 1 8. 24'. be mighty in the Scriptures : that fo we may not onely teach found and laving doclrinc,inftrucl:,and encourage in good manners : But alfo refute S b c t .jl The CfoijlUn finflitt. r 1 J refute and refell errours and herefies, kill, and cut do wne fin and S-tan; yea deprefle and deftroy whatfoevcr makes againft Chrift, or his glorious Gofpell. a. Letusalldearely-beloved, fellow- Chriftian fouldiers, defire, and delight in no book fo much as in Gods Word, let us run and refortduly and daily to the abfolute armory of the Scripture, tofurnifhour felves thence againft all our enemies execrable enterpriles, and excurfions. 1. Let us be well acquainted with, and verftin the Scrip- ture, that fo we may have it in continuall readinefle againft the exafperate aflanlts of Satan. 2. Let us be able to judge and difcerne, as of the Divels ter- rible temptations , "fo of the feverall fom of remedies or re* plies out of Gods Word. • 3. Let us be apt and able to convict and convince any,yea all frivolous or furious gainfaying contradi&ors,as well by unde- niable tefti monies, as by venerable examples. 4. Let as fortific and fiirnifli our felves fo with the Word of God, 1. That our darke and blinded underftandings may be in- lightened with this light to onr kct , and lanthorne to our f>aths, P/*/, 1 1 9.1 05 . We taking heed to it, as to a light that {hineth in a dark place,untill the day dawn ,and the day-ftarrc arife in our hearts, 2 *Pft. 1.19* and delighted in the faving knowledge therof more than in gold, yea than in fine gold, Pf. 1 19. 1 27.morc than in hony and the hony-combe,P/*/. 1 9. 1 ©„ 2. That ourwandringand erroneous judgements maybe fetled and cftablifhed in the true way how to attaine eternal! falvation by this Word of truth, Ub.i 7.1 7. CV.1.5. j. That our confeiencesm ifled may be convinced; erring may be conducted ; drooping may be comforted ; and tor- menting may be quieted thereby. 4 That our ftubborn wils and rebellious affections exalting tbemfelvcs againft the knowledge of God , and obedience of Chrift, may be fubdued, pulled downe, and brought into fub- jeetion thereto, 2 C&r.i 0.5. 5. That our cold, frozen, lufce-warme, and dead hearts I a may H6v TbechrtjttAnwnpia. ^hap.7# maybe Warmed, heated,inflamed, and enlightened with, and made infetiable thereof 6. That our minds may be fatisfied, and content therewith more than withtreafure, Pf*l I 1 p. 97. more than with thou- sands of gold and filver, Ver.72. 7. Thatour precious Faith, 2 Tet. 1 1. being much more precious than gold, 1 Pet. 1 .7. may be quickened and nouriGi- edjftrengthenedandincreafed,! Pet.i.i* this oft bringingto our remembrance Gods precious promifes,and frequently re- newing the offrr of them. 8. That our loole and licentious lives^wandring out ofthe way of Gods commandements, maybe reformed,, rectified, and amended, P/aI. i j p.9. 9. Andthatwemaybeinabled to vanquifh and overcome temptations, (lengthening our felves againft (inne by hiding this W ord.in our hearts, PfaL 1 1 9. 1 1, and overcomming the wicked one by this- Word abiding in us, 5 lob. 2 a 4. 1. This being a warlike rod and ftanv, Pfal.% 3 q.LMica 6. 9.7 14. inrcgard ofitsfharpneiTe,ftrengcb,ftreightne{Te,aBd warlike uje. To ftay and fupport us againft the force and vio- lence of the Divell. To beat,buftet,and put to flight Satan. To correct and cure our foules being delinquent. 2. This being a fliarpe and piercing, keen and cutting axe, Lukf 3.9. To fie and fafhion (tones for the Lords building : to vexe,kill, and torment gaine-fayers : to pare and cut eff the corruption of the foule and conlcience. 2* This being the fword of the Spirit,whereby the wicked are fubdued,\vhereby our felves are defended s and Satan put to flight. &£?*#; ^ a y not > beloved brethren, you are not Scbollers,' not Anfal Preachers • therefore you will not gird this fword about you,; nor weare this weapon upon you : For, although you are not learned Lawyers, yet will you with all fedulity and diligence get and gather lufficient skill to compafle and keep your lands, fivings,and inheritance. Although you are not profelTed fencers,captaines, or chiefe commanders, yet will you guard and fortifie your fclves with f words Sztr.fi The ChriflUn Conflift. try fwordsof proofe, to fafeguard, and preferve your lives and goods from theeves and murderers. And therefore althongh you are not Preachers by profeflion ; yet fee that you get fuf- ficient skill in the Word of God,that may not oncly deck and garnifli, but alfo defend and guard y our pcerekfle andpreci- «usfoules. This being an excellent meanes to purge and purifie > nM$tive ll I . Religion , of errors,herefies, prophaneflfeand hypocrifie. a. Zeale, of ignorance,paflion, and felfe- love : tempering it with charity and difcretionj caufing it not to feeke its owne f but Gods glory. 3. ProfefTion ofChriO,and Chriftianity,of rigbteoufnes,and boIines,wbich is a necenVy fruit of faith/P/j 16. icRom. 10. 9, to. 7/^.44.5.3 thing not to be afhamedof, Rem*i. 16. ten- ding to Gods glory, Mm. 5. 16. 1 P*r.a. 13. Caufing others to give thanks for us to God,2 CV.o.i 1 ,1 2. And fome to tread in the lame fteps, 1 Tbe(f. 1. 6,7^ Havingarichpromifetobc owned and acknowledged in the number of Gods eled before fais Father which is in heaven, Mat.x ©.3 2. 1. Offaint-heartedpufillanimity; this afluring us of the truth of thofe cutting condemnations, AUr&.s 8. Of hi 00 /had ~-*fh*mid. LHkff.i6 Rev+11.8. TbefearefHli&c, a. Of vicious prophaneneffe, this certifying all forgetters ofGod,and contemners of Gods worftup, who proftfcthat they know God, but in workes deny him, being abominable, difobedient, and to every good worke reprobate, Tit. 1 . 1 6\ Who have a forme of godiinefle,butdeny the power thereof a Tim, 3. 5. And who take Gods covenant in their mouthes, yet hatingto be reformed ; that God will reprove them ; fee thefe things in order before their eyes ; teare them in peeces, and none (hall deliver them, Pf*l. 50. 17,22. a, Ofvaine-gloriousPbarifaiime,that forbidden fruit, g*i. 5.26. that fruitlefle feme, and brittle blazing bubble, which Chrift, M.8. 5 ©.54. and the heft Chriftians diiefteemed, A8t id 2 j. 14 i4./?«v.i9 J io. and for which vaine-glorious per- fons have feverely fmarted; W itneffe N ebHch*&nexz,*r turned into a bcaft, D4*.q. 30, 3 1 , and Htred buried in a moment in 1 3 d* Xi o ybeLnrtjtiani.ofijiic?. vhap./. the contemptible intrals of bafe vcrmine, 48s I a. 21 . This af- fcring us, that we have nothing in us whereofta glory,. 1 C*r+ 4.7. hh\ 15.5. That boafttng braggardslofe their reward with God,A/4f.6.r,2. whereas fecrecie and (incerity procure ac- ceptance with God, and open reward, Verf.4. 4, Weldoing, or the doing ofgoodworkes of all forts, to "God ..and man,even the whole practice of godlkefle, particu- larly,Uberal diftributing,and mercifull communicating to nee- dy Chriftians and painefull Preachers of wearifomnefle,name- lyjofcarclefnetfe^ackneflcjand fainting, Cjd .6.9. This Word of truth telling us,that/>» duefeafon ive(b4lireA?ifwe faint not \ 5. And ii'.fferingof afflictions (of which we muft all look to partake , fince the way to falvatipn is through fuffering y the way to pleafure is through paine, the way tohappinefle is through mifery ,the way to comfort is through griefe, the way to gaine is through loiTe, the way to honour is through di&o- nour, the way to exaltation is through humiliation, the way to life is through death;or in a Word, the way to the crown is the crone, ABt i4.i2.)ofiiiipatience,grudging,fearfulne{rc and fcinting.This perfwading us, 1 . That though we are in danger and diftreffe, yet we have a Father omnipotent, almighty, able torefcue and deliver us. Though- we are in mifery, our Father is a God of mercies,and of all comforts, who doth not only comfort each of his faithful '-■afrli&ed children jbut alfo in each of their troubles and afflicti- ons, 2 {or. i .2, 5. fo. 1 4. 1 7, 1 8. Yea giving the greateft courage to the greateft conflict, the greateft comfort to the greateft ^rofle.. So that when Uflna is to encounter with thofe many magnanimous gy ants, and gy ant-like nations,an Angell of the Xord appeared to him with his fword drawne in hishand, as a Captaine of the hoft of the Lord 9 rof.$..% 3, 14. when Eiifia and . his fervacit were befieged in Dathanjht mountainewas full of horfes & chariots of fire round about Eli/ha^ Kin. 6. 1 6. when the Church was in the bottome , Chrift Icfus is prefent with them,not only as an idle fpeclator,or looker on;but as a valiant, couragious,and powerfull Captaine prepared to revenge the prongs doae to his Church,^ ,i ,8 . When Chrift was in hit agony, Sec T.7. The Cbuftun Ctnjlift. 1 r 9 agony, there appeared an Angell from heaven ftrengthening him, L*k. 11.43. When S./W was in that dreadfull danger on the deep, that all hope that they ftiould be faved was taken a- way, the Angell of the Lord ftood by him, faying, fear* not Pa*/, God hath given thee all that faile with thee, ^#.27. 20, a 5, H' anc ^ when in Afia he waspreifed out of meafure, above ftrcngth, infomuch thatbedefpaired evenoflife, the Lorddid then deliver him from fb great a death, 2 CV.i .8,9. 2. That the faflerings of the faithfull are counted and called Cbrifts Offerings, 2 Cer. 1 . 5 . not onel y becaufe they (vffcr for feis fake,caufe,tTuth,and Gofpcl,P£*/. 1 . 29. 1 Pet. 4.1 3 ,but alio becaufe ChriftfufFerethinthem, ^9.4. ^**. 25.40. And therefore as the condition of pedecutours of the Saints is \vo- fiill, becaufe they perfecutc Chrift in Chriltians : fo, great is the credit and comfort of the Saints, fuffcring in fuch a caufe a where Chxift leius the Sonne of God doth fuffer with them. 5. That the fuffsrings and aflfli&ions of Gods people arc profitable and commodious : 1 . To themfelves, God chaftifing them to win them to re- pentance: to try them whether they will beare his loving cor- rec*lion,and indure his fervke unto bloud lor his fake, (/*».2 2 , i,a. To make them triumpri over Satan in their obedience, Jo£ I . Faith, the more it is fifted the cleaner it is 9 the more it is cut, the more it groweth ; the more it is troden , the thicker it comes up. To feparate them from the wicked ; therefore they are called a fan, a flayle, and fire to winnow,(ift,and fever: to confbrmethem to Chrift,andtodrawthcmnearctohimfelfe. R^- 8 '**- a. To others, AB 8.4. tfir.i.6. SothatallconftantChri- z lims *" ilians which have gone before us in. fuffcring afflictions, they are witneffes to u*, and give teftimony to Gods Word, that it is true,and that his promifes are faithfull,#*£. 1 a. 1. They com* ibrtjConfirm, and encourage us to be conftant in the profeffion ,pf the truth; we being acquainted with their examples , may jherby receive, as from a cloud, refrefhingsfor the beat of per- fecutions, fW. 1 2.1 . there being no tru]l,trouble,afflidion,or petfecution fo great,bu: the Scripture aff )rdeth fome example «XQthcr,asa cloud to qualifie and cook the (apie. And therfore I 4 wc we fhewour felves white-livered, and faint- hearted fouldier* if we dare not follow but flee away, orftandat a (ray * fince the ice isbroken,and the way troden by others. 4, This callirig upon usto looke upon oar arch-guide Chrift leftis (not his picture , but bis pracTrfe or example, his precept or word,his fpirit,promife,and providence, who is notoneiy our Commander,but Coadjutour:Our patterne,butalfo part- ner: our forerunner,, but alfo finisher) fT«£jf).-ti who for the ;oy that was fet before him endured the CrofTe, defpifed the fliame,and endured fuch contradictions of finners againft himfelf. Sorntimes without reply ing,fomtimes without rebu- king,alwaies without revenging, or refitting, without curfing jpr blafpheming,without fainting or falling away* This Word of God calls upon us to looke upon Chrift, to f afkn our eyes continually upon him, that we remernbring hit doclrine,doings,and death may not fin,nor feare,nor faint,nor fall away in troubles. It being a great incouragement to foul- dierstofee and behold their Captaine to march valiantly be- fore them : to paflengcrs over the fea to4iavc a good Pilots travellers by land to have a good guide. Such a one, nay farre more excellent is Chrift to Chriftians i for as the exam- ples of the godly in former ages have great force to incou- luge us which come after tobearc the CrofTe patiently,and to abide couftantly. So Chrifts example hath much more force then all others if all were one : for that hee is not onely fet forth as apatterne to follow, as amarke to fhoote at, but alfo as the beginner, furthercr, and finifher of our faun, our fight, and cembate. .. The meditation of whofe-pa- . tience, and perfeverance under the crofle armethus to com- fort and confirme us againft Apoftafic, feare, fainting,aiid fal» ling a way." Mttm 2* This being a curing corrofive to heale the common corrup- tion in mans naturej whereby Gods judgements executed up* on ©thers (as no w extant, and extended unto the pooire by fcarfity and famine.) 1. Are fondly miftaken ; namely ,when they are thought ^©beforOnonely j Wherrthey.ate thought to befell impenf- tent icih miners unciy ; w ucu ujcy arcmongntto DC ror great ana grievous fins onely; When they are thought to bee greater then the cffcnces,or fins punifried. 2. Or fooliffily ipifappljed ; namely, When they areap- plyedonely to the candours, or parties punifhed ; When they are chiefly applied to others, and not to our felves • When others are thereby condemned for their outward condition , whereas they fhould rather bee commenced for their carriage ; When thereby wee our felves arc juftified. 3. Or wickedly abufed; namely, When they are not at all obferved, /yd/aw 10.?. When they are lightly regar- ded, Exodns 8. p,'io. When they are fbonc forgotten, Pfdlme 106 1 3, 2r,ia. Jude 5. When men arc not hum- bled at the fight of them, Dan. 5, 22. When they doc not glorifie God for them, D**.?.t3. Wecbeing enabled by this rightly to.ufcthem, which wee doe, When wee markeand obferve them, Pf*lme^6.%9* When wee me- ditate upon them, 7y*/*/ww j.i i. To fwallow up the needie of the land , to make the poore of the land to faile,— making theEpha fmall and Shekell great, and falsifying the ballances by deceit, to buy the poore for filver,and the needie forapaireof fliooes, Am. 84,5,6% To (hut up bowels of companion and to hide your felvcs from your o wne flejfb,//5r. j 8.7* Quit Sec tX The chrifiian ConfliEt. t2j Quit your felves therefore like men, furnifli and fortifc your felves with this, furniture,, that you bee not fbylcd. For i • Whence is it that many of your ranke and quality Cro- codile-like, feemingly companionate their brethrens diftrefles with alas, alas the prices of come are too great,and yet cruelly gnaw and devoure them by enhauncing the price i J Surely the want of the girdle of truth occafioneth men to concruciate and con fume, when they feeme to^ondole with,and compa£ fionare others. i. Whence is it that many taking advantage of the extre- mities of the times ufe their utmoll abilities, and bend* their forces by ingToflx ig of come to make greater the price, that they may inrich themfelves in the mines of others, and fo ma- pifeft thcmfelves to be, in the judgement of that reverend man of God M r . Terkins, as bad as the vileft rafcals that be in the land, murderers, theeves, curled Idolaters, very Atheifts, and ftarke rebels unto. God? Surely from the want of the breaft-platc of righteoufnefle. Confider a fearefull example in a dearth, 8 * in the dayes ef Heneri the 3. when many dyed with hunger ; the rich werefo moved with covetoufneffe, that they would not relieve them, amongfl whom Walter Grey tsfrckbtfkof of Torke, hade erne fiveyeares old, yet would give none for Gedsfafy ybut comman- dedbi* tenants to take it, to pay fo much new come, who com- tftiug to tbecorne,faw in the (hemes, heads ofwormes, fir pent s s dud toads , and heard a voice out of the mowe, faying, lay no bands on the corne $ for the ssfrebbifbop and all that be bath is tbedivels y &c*. 3 . Whence is it that many becaufe their ft'atc is not fuper- fluous , and fuperabundant , as formerly it hath bcene, grudge, and grumble againft the Lord of heaven and earth,, and his righteous dealings ? Surely from the not having their feet fliod with the preparation of the Gofpell of peace. 4* Whence is it that many, contrary to UMofes hispiout pra&ife, chu(e~rather the p1eafures,and profits of fin for a fea- fon^thentofuffcralittleaffiiftion with the people of God, cftce- Stowc: pag ; 177* 224 The Chrifikn CwfiEi. Ch ap .j. efteemirig thdtrafliietreafurfcsof Egypt the greateft richest Sorely from the want of the flaield of faith. 5. Whence is it that many rich men of this world are not rich in good workes,ready to diftribute, willing to communi- cate ? Surely from the abfence of the helmet hope, which en- ables to truft in the living God, who giveth us richly all thingt to enjoy ,to doe good,&c.i Tm.6.ij y i %\ 6. And whence is it that many rich men are mercileffej fteeling their iron, and hardening their flinty adamantine hearts againft the grievous groaning, and dolefull lamentations of diftreffed men crying to them for dae,and deferved wages, for which they have laboured, and for neceffary reliefe, of which they (land in need,and fo become like the prophane Pa- gans, Rom. 1. a 1. And fiach who have forfaken the feareof GoAjok6.i^ Thereby manifefting that thcmfelves arefuch whole religion is vaine,A*w« 1.27. whofe prayers arefruit- iefle, Pro 1 1 . r$ . whofe love to God is couaterfet, i lob. $.\y« Whofe judgement fliall be mercilefle,/***/ 2.1 5. And whofe plagues (hall be dreadfoll, P/*/. 1 op. 1 6. Surely from the ab- sence of, or ability to manage the (word of the fpirit ; which weapon, if well ufed, will kill and cut downc all carnall cor- ruptions. Afcertaining a man Firft, That he may not therefore rob, and oppreffe others^ becaufe fbme oppreflc and wrong him. Secondly, "That he may not therefore fell at unconfeiona- ble, and exceflive rates , becaufe others doc fo, no more (hce thereby favouring,* and giving content tothewicked- nefle of other men) then he may be drunke with drunkards, or ran into all exceffe of riot with wicked men. Thirdry,Thathe muft be mercifull 1 . If he will be like unto God,who is the father of mercies^ 2. If he will be truly religious, Umc$ 1. %7J[*.%%.6.Htfr 9 3. If hee would have his other performances prevailing! \ 4. Ifhedefiresble(fednefle,Oli4^.y.7. ~ ~ That osctX The ChriJtiviCtnflitt. i*j That therefore you may be religious rich mo% take unto you this whole armour of God , that fo i. You may not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and truth. 2. That fo you may rot Taife your felves by the mines of others,but rather relieve them. 3. Thatfb you may not mutter and repine at Goda dca- lingjbut bleffe God for taking away. 4. That fo you may choofe rather to fuffer afflictions, with Gods people, then to enjoy the pleafures of fane for a feafon. 5. That fo you may not truft in uncertaine richcs,but in the living God,doing good,being rich in good works, ready to di- stribute,^. 6\ That fb you may put on bowels of compaffion, to commiferate the diftreffcs of others, and communicate to their neceiTitics. Give me leave to acquaint you with an excellent pafrage, I lately read in Saint Chryfoftome y and from his example to fpeakeunto you rich men in behalfe of your poore brethren. His words are thefe with which he begins his Sermon. / am ri- c . fen-up today to execute an ambajfage which isjufi Js one fi % e^ profit Scrmd* Kb**? table toy oh in the behalf e of no other mem then ofthepoore which mo/.Tom. *• dwtll in thuyour citty ; They have enjoyned me thU labour y not by their lp eechy nor by the confent andadvife of their common Appointment r but by their lamentable^ and grievous lookes : for when I haflcningto thuyonr+ffembly did pajfe through the market place and nerrowftreets y 1 did fee many lying in the mid* die of the two* forked waies,fome their hands cut ejffome blinde, fame full of 'fores ,&c. /thought it te be a matter of extreame cruelty^ not to declare thefe things to your charity ', efpeciatly fince I am compelled hereunto by a) certaine opportunity from thofe things which have btenefpo\en. It is convenient tofpea\t of almef deeds ajwaietjjtnce we alfo a/waies need mercy from the Lord. *But it U now more needfuH in regard of the great cold ; for truly infummer the gent lenes of the time doth much folate the f*ere 9 (fee an ft they ore without dengtr 9 although the] go naked whew w^j* iky 4* clothed with the fun-beames, and fl*epe fecurely mp>nthe bare pavement, neither do they need fo much, /hoes, or wine % orfuchlar^e feeding : they contenting themfelves with the fountain e $ ofwater; and that time of they eare doth furnifi afuidaine txbte to them offmzll herbes of little worth, and a lit" tlepulfe; To which h added another no lejfe commodity, for they which b uildh oh ft s, till the earth, and fayle on the fed doe much need their fervice-^. But in winter they are divers waies affli£led t andvex*di hunecr doth dcHrey their Bowels within, cold doth cenfume their flefh without : b? fides they then neede mire food, warmer tlothing, beds, fomething to lie on, fhooes, and many other things i and which timoH grievous, the time Aat h not affoord workf. Therefore becaufe they need much, and want worke, no man giving to thefe dittreffed ones hire, or enjoy- ning them worke, let us at length fir etch out oftr hands to give not onely hire, but almet -deeds, dec. I (hould be ekd,if the lamentable knguifhinglookes, if the difcomfiting dolourous diftreffes, if the painefull pinching penury, if the afperate appaling anxieties of our poore people did not paralell thofe of Antioch ; bu 1 1 feare me they furpaffe and furmount them. It is needlefle,and fuperfluous,I fuppofey for me to tell you that our pinchcd,if not pined poore are ma- ny,and much multiplied ; or that their prefent preflfuresare violently vexing if not infuflferably, and intollerably : for * i . Not onely are they conftrained in regard of other mens hard-heartednefle, want of bowels of companion, and defire of private perfonall enrichment (though with the cries and curfings, theruineanddeftriiclion of the opprefled)to part with their commodities at fiich low and under rates, that they may be faid rather to give away, then fell the fruices of their labour. Somcbail 2. But alfo that which they buy, they purchafe at exoeffive that diy, ft. P nc c s > the fcarcity and fcantneffe of all forts of neceffary food lebruw i j. being fo great,fo gcnerall, of fuch timely begining,and of fuch 1631. fold for long continuance,that,I thinke,neither we nor our fathers have tf'sidaftrikc feene the like. aafkcl"^ 3 • A ? d that wl]ich a ^ ^ S rcatei & hnden ofmiferies upon obct.s. The ChriftUv Corfift. Mj thefemifcrable, of dolours upon rhefediftrcfTed men is want of worke, and imploymenr. For alrhough a man could fell at a dearc rare and buy at a low price ; yet wanting things (alc- ablc,and not having money to buy things vendible \ he is not at all benefited by rhc/e affifting advantages. I thinke it farre better for a poo re man to give 5 s for a ftrike of come, having worke to get the fame : then to have liberty to buy .the ielfe- fame corne for 5 d, not knowing how to procure that 5 d to purcbafethefame. Say not, beloved brethren, of your diftreffed neighbours, Ob\tU % u Give them the law,and whip them ; Give them the law, and ftock thereuntil you firft give them the taw,and relieve them. Our pious and wholeibme lawes take order as well for their provision, as punifhment. Our fword of jufticc hath (or ought to have) two edges, one to punifTi, and correel the cri- minous, the other to pa tronize,and defend the diftrefTcd.Give them for every oath and curfe according to the law, I s. Give them for every one who prophaneth the Sabbath by playing, 3 s-4d : by felling, by travelling, 1 1* according to our reli- gious Statutes. Give them from your ale-houfes whokeepe riot the fizr, 1 1 • for ale houfe keepers futTering men to fit tip- ling long in their houfes, I o s : for every tipler in an ale-houie 3 s-4d &c. for every one who is drunke 5 s. Give the aged and impotent poore competent reliefe. Give the able and working poore labour and imployment, and then give cor- rection to the idle poore,and fpare not. Say not, beloved brethren, they are idle, they are idle (as OtjeB, 1 J cruel! Pbtroah faid to thediltreffed Ifraelites,exa<5ting the tale of brickes, not allowing ftrawto make them, Sxod.^.) and therefore they muft noteate. Tor fome are neceftarily idle, who are unoccupied becaufe they want worke, as well as others are voluntarily idle, who may worke and will not,cea- ling to labour through love of eafe, of which latter onely Saint SP4«/fpeakes, faying, If any will not (not,doth not) r»or\e % nti~ tber (bould he eMejiTbeff. 3.10. Say not, beloved brethren, you want ability to imcloy the OtjcR.fl ogefort, and to relieve the othet. For furcitis, ifoidmens report; %l% TheCbriJlUnConflict. Chap.7. reports are true,we have more Giver, and gold then our Fore* fathers had ; weef are more delicioufly then our forefethera did ; and our garmentsare more coftly,and gay then our fore- fathers were : Sparc we therefore fome unneceflary (uperflui- ties from our fdves ; that we may be better enabled to com- municate to others. But fincetheir condition is every way fo dreadful], anddi- fireiUng. If there be any confolation is Chriifyfany comfort of love, if any fellowftup of the fpirit, if any bowels, and memoes. i. Open your eyes, behold, andfeetheurgent neceffities of your brethren; looke upon their pale, and pining counte- nance*, their wan and watry faces ; See how many, and what able bodies are neceffarily idle, and thereby enforced • fomc to pilfer, fome to begg,and all to languid) . Caft a few loukes intopoore menshoufes, many of which Ifcare are worfc provided of neceflary comforts for this life, then rich mens iwine.yca dogs. t. Open your eares to bearc the bitter bewailing, the dole* full lamentations, forrowftill fighingsof fad and figbing pa- rents,not knowing how or which way to alTwage and miti- gate the keene and cutting, the rough and afperate hunger of , Siemfelves, and their condoling children. Open your cares to beare the grievous groaning, and miferable moanings of pin- ched, and pining children, complaining, and crying to their affli&ed parents in vaine for bread. 3. That by hearing and feeing yew brcthrens vehement,' and urgent cxtremities,thatby taking notice of,and beholding other mens miferies, you may put on bowels of compaffion, fellow-feeling andpittie; and demonftrate, or &ew your comj>affionate,mercifull,and pitti£uilhearts,which alone is not fufficient,by your compaflionate, mercifall, and pitifull band, which isalfo neceflary.Thatas companion in God is thecaufe „ of comfort towards us ; fo companion in us may be the caufe UMtiiwt 1. of comfort towards diftrefled Christians. ' That fo wee may bee free from unmcrcifullneffe, one quality, badge, and character of raitbclceving naifcreants, S«m.£.3o. a. That : Sect.S. TbeChriflidnCdxJlilt. uj %. That fo we may afllmulate our felves unto the good and godly man,whofe property is to be gracious, and full of com- pafTion,7yW.ii2.4.tofhewfavour, and to lend, v. 5. todif* perfe, and give to the poore,t/.p. 3. That fo we may be followers of Chrifl: Iefas, who is rich in mercy and ready to comfort, helpe, and fuccourjll that come unto him, call upon him, trtift in him, and walke in his waies. Who as he is able, fo is he willing tohclpc all thofe that fceke to him for fuccour ; who is full of pitty and companion towards rnankmdein mifcryjefpecially rewards the eled. 4. That fo we may obediently praclife thofe pious pre- cepts of our fbveraigne Lord, and loving Saviour, Luke 6. J 6. Bee you therefore mer cif till *t your father dlfo is merciftiU % Ephefo 3 3* 'Bee you kjnde one to another ,CoIof. 3 . 13* *P*t on therefore as the elc El of god holy and beloved, bowels of uni- ties ; kjndneffe. 5 .That fo we may avoid that dolefufl,and never enough de- plored doome of hardhearted mercileffe men, with whom their Lord is wroth,' and will deliver them to thetormen- fours untill they pay that which they ate never able to doe, becaufethey have not companion on their fellow fer- rants, as God hath had pitty on them, cJWWr.18.5 3,34. Who (hall have judgement without mercy, Umes 3.13. And who fliall one day heare that dreadfull valedicYion,Depart from me you curfed into everlaftingfire prepared for the Divell and his Angels,U^/«ir.2 5.4i. 6. That fo we may have propriety in, and participate of thofe precious promifes of rich reward from the moft mercifull, and unchangeable Iehovah recorded and regi- ftred,7ya/.4i.l. Blejfed U hee that confdereth the poor e^ and needy, the Lord wtll \&c. Pfalme 112 5. &c* Surely he flfaff netie moved for ever 3 beejhnll bee in evcrUfting remem- brnncei&c? 7. That fq we may not come fliort of other creatures, the noblenefle of which confifts in giving, of the Sun .in gi- ving light, of the Moone, and Stars in giving light, -of the K clouds If thou clo*» theft the na- ked, thou cioa« theft thy felfe with righte- ouines, if thou, bringeft the ftuanger into thy iioafe, and received tbc needy, he will procure thee die friend (hip of the Saints & eternall manil- ons j this is no fmaH favour, thou foweft corporal I things^ and re- ceived fpiritu all — furely hee is blef- fed.-but of whofe houfe the poore ne- ver goeth a- w.iy empty. Amb.officMb.l cap. 11. . I jo TheChrtjttenConflta. Chap. 7* clouds in giving raine, J of the earth in giving graffe, of the herbes in giving flowers, of trees in giving fruit.In this great famine let us give, for as a fpring which breakes from the top ofa mountaine cannot but water the lower parts, and the val* leys 1 So if our love be once fixed on God,we cannot but love* and refreih our neighbours. To thefe I will add eight out of Saint Chryfo(lome\ 1 . He tels us that works s of mercy put to flight the Divell % . ~ , his ground ts, Pfalme 41. the Lord wiU deliver him in the day oaun a 9 j w -£ J of judgement. Bee Jhall bee bleffed J. hee makes thofe to whom hee is bountiful!, andthofe which kjtow him to call him bleffed. Hee will not deliver him to the will of hit ene- mies ,i. Divels. * . He tels us,that this U more excellent then to build afump* Horn, j 5. in tuous temple, becaufe infidels, and theeves may take away that 5 Match. 1 j. But the l)ivell cannot take away this treafwre which we lay uf in heaven by giving to the psore. 3 . He tels us that worlds of mercy cleanfe from finne, his lVii. ground is, Luke 1l.4i.Bttt rather give almes, and beheld all things are cleane unto you. ibid, 4. He tchusihatalmes-deeds are better then facrifice, from Hofeah 6.6. I will have mercy \and not facrifice . 5. He tels us that this opens heaven, from Atls 10. 4, Thy &i& frayers % and t bine almes are gone up for a mem or toll before god % 6. He tels us that this is a facrifice afcending to heaven % andperfwades us, when we fee the poore, not to fleight them, Hom.ji.in but to thinke what wee fhould be were we fuch, what them would we have others doe for us * He would not have tie to re* procbthem. He would not have us examine their eonvetfatioss % but relieve them. 7. He tels us that the poore mens hands build m houfes in. heaven ; almes- deeds are a good attifl, they are the friend of Horn. 32. ia Q £^ if i t & p ur t and fincereit gives much confidence, it in- treatetfor them, it hath fuch force that it breakes bonds,dojfolvet darkmffe, cxtinguificth fire, kilt the worme 9 and expels gua/hing of teeth. & He tels us that this is the mojfgainefull and profitable art; becaufq HelMi, Sect.8. ThChfiftiinCMftZt. xjf bec&fe other Mrtsvnnijbtwnj with thisfrefent lift, withficlr. Homn a<1 neffe^&c. fat this *rt efmerctfuflneffe, when the world fnffeth p « Antiock. uw*j> doth mo ft *pf?*re whew we die t doth mo ft (line, it is fruit" full to * m*n in bisfak*e{fe l in hii old age , tndgoctb with him t§ Mother life. Befides I might furnifh yoH with many cutting conclus- ions out of this facred armorie of Gods Word againft unmer- ciful lneffc,and with many preffing places to bou nti full nes and mercy .But I will name but one place for both,and fo proceed. Mut. 25.31 .&c. At that laft^nd dr? adfbll day of jud gement, When Icfus Chrift with glorious Majefty (hal com with a pom- pous guard of attending Angels ; with great authority (hall gather al nations in a moment of time before him;with unfpeak- able wifdome fhall fever the chaffc from the wheate,the fliecp from the goates.the good from the bad, & with perfect equity ihall give an upright fentence of abfolution to the good,of con- demnation to the bad.From whofe judgement no excufe will exempt,no cave can hidc,nor cattle hold-.our comming to it not being a matter of liberty, and freedome, butofneceflity. In which laft day, when e\ r ery man mutt anfwer for himfelfe,and in his own perfbn, where no pro&our, no advocate, no fubfti- tutc,nofurety,nopledge,no friend to anfwer for other, but each man for himfelfe, the husband cannot for the wife,the fa- ther for the fon,nor one friend for another .Which (hall difco- rer and difference betweene hypocrites and true Chriftians both in regard of their nature and difpofition, and in refpeft of their ft ate and condition. t . Thofe brutifli goates,who are feparated and fecluded to the left hand : Although they claime an intereft in Chrift as well as true and faithful] Chriftians, and callthemfelves by bis name, his fervants, and him their Lord, ver.iq. Al- though they footh, and flatter themfelves in their finncs faying when faw we ? Although they qualifle, and pftifie their wicked doings, not onely in fome particular a&ion, but alfo in whatfoever they are charged withall, faying, wbtnftw vet thee an hungry ,&c i Yet (Chrift taking as denied to himfclfe the duties of love Ml which *5 i rjz \* r/njt***f* \*\tttjuv+i which arc denied to Chrift ians,v.4$. He having fuch a tender care of all true Chtiftians, that hee regifters all the wrongs which are done unto them, minding in time to right the fame* v.4*. And regarding,regi(tring, and remembring the leaft in- juries that are done to the leaft of his brethren, f.45 .) fhall have denounced againft them that dreadfull doome, Depart from mejoH curfed>\8cc. 'Depart from me a King, a Saviour, at whofe right hand are pleafures for evermore, into everUfttng jfrr,where their worme never dieth,and their fire is not (\x\zn- ched,vithtbe r D$veJsntibu Angels \ a departure dolefull, and dreadfull with fuchconforts into torments fo eafekfTe,. end- lefle,bopelefle,and helple(Te:F*rjw» g*ve menot meate 3 8cc.yo\l< are not withuut juft caufe condemned, the caufe of your con- demnation is in your ielves,and of your felves you have omit- ted good duties,and fins of omiflion are nolefle dangerous,and damnable then fins of comiffio.You have been defpiiers of the poore,carelefle contemner! of Chriftians under the Croflfe,yoa did not fccd 9 cloath, lodge, vifit me in my affiled members you have been cruel!, and cruelty is a curfed thing, and crucil perfons are curfed creatures ; yoivhave beencmercileflc men* without compaffion ,naturall affcction,and.the fin ofunmerci- fullnene comprehends all wicked nefle, and is contrary to all righteoufnes, jand the mercilcflfe man is gaceleffe, and void of all goodnes; becaufe cruelty makes men molt unlike to God, Mst.$ .48 and moft like to the dwell, I ok. S. 1 /V;.5.,8»Thex« fbre depart from me you curfed,&c. 2. Andthofeblefledflieep (landing at'Chrifts right hand* Although they are fo farre from chalenging heaven for their merit,tfiatthey diQike anddifclaimeal mention made of their good works in the caufe of their falvation, or justification, fay- m&wbem (aw we thee a* hungry ^aked^c.yti Chrift doth tefti-* fTe his good acceptance oftheir love (hewed to others for his fake,they (hewiiig mercy to Chrift in his living members, and fuchas lack meate,drink,&c in com for ting„and commending them for thefe their works of mercy. Not but 'that there arc more works of mercy then thofe fix,for according to the fevc^ 'Tall kinds of miferies,fo are mercies diftinguifhed. Sicr.f. The Chrifkhn fl*j!i&. if$ Not but that Christians fliall be commended at the day of judgement for other performances as well as thefe. Witneflc Mattb.ig. 27,2 8 . Ton which have followed \me in the re genera* tionfiail&c. Witnefle Matth. 24. 46. 'Bit fed is that fervant whom his Lord when he eommnh Ml findfo doing. And witneffe M*tth.i 5 .2 j . Well dene good andfaithfuRfervant % &C. Yet thefe inferiour workes of the fecond Table are one- ly named and preferred , Became they are fuchas each man may performe : Becaufe they beft difcovcr the hypecrifieof rounterfeit Chriftians* And they arecholen for their witnefle^ not their worth. That we therefore may (when he fhsll appeare)tiave confi- dence, and not be afliamed before him at his comming. That we therefore may ftand in the number of thofeto whom the King (hall fay> Come you blefed of my Father % inhe- rit the ki*gdome, & c. Let us (lie w thefe workes of mercy (o farre forth as occafion and ability will fer ve, and fa often as o- thers wa nt and we have. 2. You poorc people at iuch times as thefe affaulted, and tempted by Satan tofeek fuccour from, andtoeafe your (mart by meanes divelliftiand diabolicall; and to dishonour the Lord by lying,ftealing,railing,reviliiig,murmuring,and diftruit. Betake your (elves therefore to your ipirituall weapons,and take unto you the whole armour of God % that je may be ablet* Wthftaadirrtbffe evilldayes. 1 . Let your loynes be girt about with truth, whereby you maybe guarded and defended from loathfome lying, anddi- vellifh cwlimulation. 2 . Put upon you the breft- plate of righteoufneffe, to ftiield and fafegnard you againft injurious , violent, and unjuft deal- ings, pilfering, and purloining. 3 . Let your feet be (hod with tha preparation of the Gof- pell of peace, that you may pane through comfortably and couragioafly the many piercing preflures of pinching penury. , 4. Above all take the lUeld of faith. That will fo fupporc you, that yon fbali indure, feeing by it biru who is invifible, K 5 5. And — jt -m ^ 5 . And take the helmet of falvation Hope, which will com- Fort and confolate you againft diftracl:ingdifcomfits,and dread- full fearcs; ftrengthen and enable you to depend upon the Lord, and expert with patient waiting ( without limiting the holy One of Ifrael ) helpe , and deliverance from the Lord, % who is the health of your countenance^ and yonr (jod^ Pfalme 4». ii. 6. And the fwordof the Spirit, which will defend you, , and drive away the tempter* I. This will ftore you with thefe and fuch like precious promifes. Pfal.% }. I p. The herd will keep* them alive in the I time of % famine , who feare hint and hope in hid mercy. Pfal. $4, I o. They that feare the Lord fhad not noant any good thing, \ Tfal. I7.16. *A little that the righteow hath ii tetter than the riches of many wicked. Mat. 6.3 3. Tirftfeehfthe kingdeme ef heaven, and &c. %. This will (hew you that God feeds the fowlesjZ*^ 1 ». 34. Yeathemoft feeble and filthy ravens, Pfal. 147.0.^ the : beads, Pfal. 104., Infants, Pfal. 71. ft- and wicked men, (7** - af.14,19^ 3 . This will certifie you that our gracious God did feed the many Israelites which came out of Egypt in a dcfolate and barren wilderneft, Eltjah withravens,! King.xy.^6. and a , ppore widow Ver.o ,jn the time of famine. 4, This will declare and demonstrate that the Lord is your Shepheard, P/V^.i.andmercifull Father. From which precious promifcs and pradices of our good and gracious God you may thus arm and animate your(elves 3 and with this weapon wound theDivell,dif!ipateand difanull his direfull darts to diffident diltruflfulnefTe. .1. Hath the true and unchangeable Iehovahj who cannot lk,Tit. 1*1. whofe prtmifes are yea and Amen % 2 Cor. 1.2©. Blade fo many, and fuch merciful] promifes ? 2. Doth he feed, and provide for thefpwlesofthc aire, she wild beafts of the defarts, the wicked and ungodly, the young and helplefle infants ? 3. Is it undeniably wanifeft that fuch who have depended upori Sficr.pi TheChrifttdnCwfltfl. ijf upon God in extremities, have beene (ufficiently provided ' for, Luke a*. 5 5 . When I fent you without purie, and fcrip, and fhoes, lacked ye any thing ? And they (aid, Nothing, By extraordinary meanes,the ordinary failing, Exod. 1 6\ 4. Will wicked men feed their wicked, and good chil- • dren ? Will good men feed their godly and ungodly children^ Will bruit and favage beads feed and provide for their young? Will fowles ofthe aire feed and fofler theirs ? And {hall we didrud, to whom thofe lure and certaine, •fweet and precious promifet belong, we being better than beads, birds, "and lonnes of Belial ? The Lord having beene our truft from our youth, by whom we have beene holden up from the wombe,?/*/^ 1.6. He being the feme to us now, he was to hkchofen formerly : as able and ready to fuccour and fupport us now, as he did them in their extremities. And his care of,and compaflion towards us fiirpaffing infinitely,and beyond all comparifon not onely that of birds, or beads to- wards their young; but alfo thatof men^ good and bad to^ 'Wards their children ? We will not do ir. Sect. 9. tAgAinfi Antinomies* THe want of thefe warlike weapons is a prime and princi- pall caufe that fo many doting and deluded, halting and hollow-hearted, weake and wavering, -rotten and Telapfed Chriftians, unfound, and unfetled in the wayes of life, are to£ led to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine Eph.4-*$» bythefleightofmen, and . Ames. All their finnes are pardoned , yet not- fo as to free them from finne in this life ; for although the children ofGod have • the pardon of their, finnes to -come, not onely in refpeel of Gods decree to pardon : but alfo in refpeel of his promife to pardon, and in refpecl: of the procurementof pardon upon the croffe : yet- they want the pardon of their finnes, untill the Lord doth give and communicate Chrift untothem,and appli- eth to their confeience the remiffion of their finnes : and ther- fprc the pardon of their finnes is not fully and abfolutely given them untill they recover themfelves, and renew their repen- tance. God doth pardon all the finnes of his children , yea their finnes to come, not (imply, but upon condition of fumre repentance, and abfolutely, when they repent and rerew the fame, iStm.xz* a^r.5.21. Should a man inferre that be- caufe in Gods decree all men (hall die and come to judge- ment, that therefore all men are dead and come to judgement.. Should a man inferre thatbecaufe in refpecl: of Gods promife,- in refpecl: of the procurement the Saints are glorified, that therefore the Sajnts who are under trials of cruell mockings * and Sb c T ;$; The chtifiUn ctnfliff. 137 and fcourgings ; yea moreover, in bonds and imprifonments, who wander in (heeps skins and goats skins, being deft i cure, afflicted, and tormented, and they who as yet are unborne, and never faw the Sun, are already actually glorified in hea- ven. I fuppofe every man would ceniure iuch conclusions a9 irreligious, if nor unreafonable ; as unreafonable, if not fenf- lefic ; as unfound, if not abftird ; as fantafticall , if not fran- ticke ; as erroneous, i f not her eticall. I therefore (fince this their i faience is as imprudent and improbable, as incongruous, and incorfiderate) heartily and' humbly wifh 3nd defire thefe filly deluded foules tolay afide their ovvnefelfe-conceipte^ne ft .md felfe-mftice, todifcerne and deplore their owne difabihties, and defilt from difturbifig the Church w ith their diflbnant oirtraclions. Secondly, I bane clearely manifeftedthe differences and a- greenaems betweene the juftiried Iewes and Chriftians to be fach, that the covenant betweene the Lord, them and us, is one and the fame, according :o the Dofh-ine of our Church, Horn, of faith a which faith, Although they were not named Chrifien men, yet B.i. or** it a Christian faith that they had; for they /coked for all be* nrfi's of god the Father through the merits of hi* Sonne I 'e ftss Gh'tft as we do, Thts difference is betweene them and us ; for r they looked when Chrtji (houU come, and we be in the time when he U come : Therefore faith 5. Auguftine, t he time is altered \ bait not the faith : for we have bosh one faith in one Chtifl , the fame Holy Ghofl alfo that we have, had they, faith .S'.Paul ; for, as the Holy ghofl doth teach hs to trufl in god, and to call upon him as otsr Father ; fo did he teach them to fay m it is written, Thou Lord art our Father and Redeemer, thy Name is without ^ beginning, and ever lafting . god gave them then grace to be his ehildren, as he doth ns now, againft thegainefayings of thefe contradicting cavillers. Thirdly, I have clearly proved that obedience to Godspre- Book $.'Cap; cepts is one, meanes whereby we keepc covenant with doJ, and therefore a part ofthexovenant ofgrace;which theie igno- rantly condemne as falfe, {peaking evill of thofe things which they know not/or did they but understand \\hat this covenant' is 13 8 The chrifiim Cnjtill. Ch ii.yt i% betweene GA and his people ; namely Gods contradl with them concerning the obtainin \ of etermli life : did they but know chat this covenim confitb oftwo parts,Gods promife to them, ft. to give thcai C'nrifl: and his benefits, asremiflion of finnes and falvation > to be their God , an 1 to fave them, to deale mercifully aud truly with them ; and theirs to God, fc % to be his people and to ferve him, to repent of their finncs,and receive Chrift by faith , to yeeld obedience to his will ; did they but know that univerfall obedience is, if not the fubftancc of this covenant on the Saints put, yet the prjncipall part thereof, as is evident, Exed 19.8. Nebev.io. *8. £&* 10.3. They would not fo wickedly and wilfully with fuertprepofte- rous prejudice perverily pronounce this orthodoxe truth: The Law of God is part of the covenant of grace, ungrounded, ! .£ ook c and erroneous. L^pag.194; Fourthly, I have exprefly evidenced , that the Saints of Book 4.Cap. ?. God ought to feare, as well as love the Lord, contrary to their pag.250. perverfe pofition , that lore and feare cannot ftand toge- ther. Book 4 .Cap.j. Fifcly, I have delineated and defcribed the iramourin$ l*%rH7- excellency, and inevitable neceffity of fanfliication, againft the irreligious and reproachfull , diabolicall and blafphe- raous barkings againft the fame , fomc of their fraternity ( as I have heard reported ) terming it fcurvy fin&ification. Book 4.0p.^ Sixtly, I have (hewed the extent and excellency of Chrifti- pag.i 4i . an liberty , wherein I have conttadi&ed and confuted their lawleffeand licentious liberty. Book 4 Cap.j. Seventhly, I have opened and unfolded the do&rine of ju- ■t%^h flificationjtoinforme and teach them thetrath ofthatof which they[talk, and talk fa much to little purpofe, in which they would feeme wondrous wife, although they wander wide of the way. Eightly , Although their tenet of Gods not af Aiding his children for their finnes is (b repugnant to the regall rule of facred Writ, andfo ridiculous to r edified reafon,that the re- lating is a fufficient refutation thereof : Yet I much bewailing thcirerrcneouswandrings, andearneftly defiring their deli- verance Sbct.>; Th$Ci>rijH*»C*nfli8. 139 verance from their deluding dotages , will inft fuel: and in- forme them in the truth, if they are not intractable, andun- teachable. ■ True it is, that fufferings are not always and onely for fm 9 I*b» p. 3. Neither hath thu fnemfmr.ea\ nor his father. -^Great was the errour therefore of Chrifts Difciptes : In thinking there was no other caufe of the mans biindneflebut finne. In thinking he could not be jufth punifhed with Hindnefle from his birth, becaufc he had not then committed any a&uall finne; and in thinking he could not be juftly punifhed for any finne fave his owne, or his parents? for he might be punifhed (ox Adams) For although all miferies be erTefts of finne, yet finne is not the onely caufe of mans mifery , there being as well moving andfinall caufes, as that which is the procuring caufe : as for example, Firft, There are diverfe moving caufes of afflictions. 1 .> In regard of the wicked; the moving caufe is Gods juft difpleafurc, juftice.and ange r. a. In regard of the elect; the moving caufe k Gods love towards them. 3 . In regard of both • the moving caufe is Gods goo dy ill andjjleaftre- "15econd ly, 1 here are diverfe finall caufes of afflictions. . 1. In regard of God ; history, and the manifeftation of his power. 2. In regard of the parties pun iflied ; their good D and the cxercifc of Gods graces in them. 5. In regard of otheis; their fore-y/arning, and making them without excufe. Notwithftanding finne is the onely meritorious caufe of punifhmentstempf>rallandeternall, r L pudencie, horride impiety ! If thefe doe not deferve the ftiarpe cenfure, and feverc fcourge of the Church, traducing thus venemoufly and un/uflly a Church fo renowned, and a Clergy (b reverend let others judge. 1. But admit their impious, and injurious imputations to be true and credible, as they arc fond,falfe, and fantafticall : yet are all other reformed Churches enemies to the purity of the Golpell, and are all other Divines, which are and have beene famous in the fame, cowardly and corrupt, unfound and rotten? r 0? c Sa * tSa For thc Church of England,you have heard her judgement, ; 4 4 4 .BTcap. yctheareherfpeakconce againe x 4P. 1 8 $. F»r truly there u tmperfeftnns on our be ft worlees : *" doe Hom. of the not love Godfo much as wee are bound to doe pith all our hearty miferyofman- rnindandfowen me dee not fear* godfomuch a$ wee ought knd - c to doe. Hom.of works Thou {halt not kill % thou /halt not commit adultery jthou fialt S>. uotfteale—Bj which words Chrift declared that the lawes of god be the very waj that doe leade to et email life. So that this id to bee taken for amoH true lefon taught by Chrift s o.wne mouthy that the worths of the morall commandments of Cod bee the very true workes of faith which leade to thebleffed life to come. Hid. E.x. Vnder pretence *f obedience to their father in relfrion—tbey were exemfted by their rules ,a*d canons from the obedience of their natur all father and wither, and from the obedience of Em- Sec t*. 9. The chriJIUn Ctoflifl. 143 percur 9 aud King, and from ajltemporall power, whom of very Hom.ofOW duty by Gods lawes they were bound to obey, &c wherefore let w N. 1 . fub\eUsdoe our bounden duties y &c* Here let us leame of Saint Paul theelcBvcffcllof god, that ibid- N.ixi« all perfbus having fiulss doe owe of bounden duty t and oven in confcience y obedience, fubmiffion, and fubjetlion to the higher powers. Thus we k^ow partly our bounden duty to common aw- 7 ^ p # ibority,&c. How can we then be free {if not free from, then bound to) from Hom# a in jj this commandement, where fo great charge is Jayd upon us i Adultc^J^i t Our Church Catcchifme. Q^JDofi thou not tbinkethat thou art bound to beleeve, and to doe at they have,, pmmifrd for thee? A, Yes verily, &c. the things which they acknowledge themfclves bound to doe,is to obey Gods law. Anfw. before. Thirdly that I /houJd^eeps [Cjods holy will and commandements r and walke in the fame all the dates of my life. The Old Teftament is not contrary to the new, although the law given from Cjod by LMofes 4s touchhng*ceremonies and rites Artie $ doe not binde Chritlian men-~yet notwithftanding no Chnfti- an man wbatfoever is free from (therefore bound to) the obedi* ence of the commandements which are called morall. Heare fome of our worthy Divines fpeake. D r . Reinolds iaitb > the moraU law bound Iofepb and David Overtkr.of to love their neighbours and themfelves — equity thereof per- ^S^pl-F^S* tained tothe morall law^andfo is perpetually , and (imply to bee eifcrved* The morall law remaines for ever a rule of obedience toevery ^.j -. child of God ; though ho be not bound to bring the fame obedu ence for his j 'unification before God. Ecclefiafticall Hifiories mention many fuch Libertines, Simon Magus and his difciples, who taught that men might Lawfully commit fomkausn—- . Bafil ides,Eunomiu& Gnoft icke, who taught that men might live as they lift, freing now fuch li- berty was procured\them ; being freed from being under the) law any longer : which finne died not with thofe cur fed here* ticket, hut the Divellhath in theft loft dates revived it, cfpeci* 7 j m j n i u< j e ;» allyinfourefirttojmtn. Firfi the Libertines of this age, who fit.2.4. bold 144 The GhijtUn Conflict* Chap. 7.^ ■ikra h" fade &dd "*& the former, that being under grace,we are free from the j. ? 1 g . 2 e& of law or tonfeience in witnefe before Cod; For wee doe acknowledge that all Chriftiant are fubjeB to the rule and direllion , to the authority and obligation of the Morall Law, and of all the divine Law enjoying us any duty, &c, tAnd in hi* Cafes of Conference hee concludes, thai the Law of God doth binde the conscience, and fliewethwhat it is to binde, namely, To have that power, that the con* fcience ought to be fubjetl to it 9 fo that it doth Jiune, if it doth any thing againfi the Law. Heare other Writers judgements, and determination. loc.Com. Claf. Peter Martyr fakh j The Law is the rule or fqnare of -x.cap.z. confeienee* But.pet.'Je Bullinger. The Law doth order and frame the life of ?erf ;L eg«.4 3 . ^ 7T f«/, i,/, 2lf , 4 , The Centuries fay. The Scriptures teach, that we are deli* vered, or freed from the curfe and condemnation, not from the o~ bedienceofthe MoraULaw, Againe they teach, That the Law Morall, which istheim* P. 184: . moveable judgement of divine under (landing, is not difanulled, but doth endure for ever. Lib.6.dc leg* Tetanus hath diverfc reaibns to prove this. Wei- Chemnitius a Lutheranfaith , We are freed from the Law in €b ^l m C %* regard of the curfe 1 we are freed from the Law inregard of ju- £?S'P l 49 • gificMtien-^'But we are not freed from the obedience of the Law: For even the regenerate orjuslifiedare debters,not to thefieji to Hve after the ftfi, but to the Spirit, tower tifie the deeds oft ho fleft,RQm.$,ll. ChamUrm SEcr.<&' TSeCbhjifinCMfhtt. 145 ChamUrm faith; It is manifefi by the thing* fort-go* Tmx.lib.i*. ing , that an exceeding great injury id done w , when vet cap. 6, Are [aid tt denit that wee art bound to the Law before ^4* god, Wherefore if Bellarmine doth hytow thofe which fay^ that the faithfuU are fubjetl tt no law before qOD\ and that T *S* the Decalogue of Mofes doth not belong tt w , hee flail have m not adverfaries % but fellows in diluting boldly *- gainfl fuch. Againe : The fulfilling of the Law can by no meanes bee accounted by the p*rt , bat bj the whole'. For y the whole life, not fome one moment thereof, is bound} and it is bound Jt aU+ not to tne : Hence the faying of lames, Bee is jbid.l*i.cap. guilty of aR which off>ndeth in one: ^either can it other- n.Tb.it. wife bee under flood , becanfe hee is not guilty of murther , who doth onelj fteale , but of theft onely : JTet hee is gnil- tie of the breach of that whole Law , part whereof u> Thou /halt not fteale 9 and another part whereof , Thou [halt not *iff. Now whereas theadverfe Antinomift will (I fuppofe) re- ply, all this is not Scripture: I doconfeflc, that thefe words mlomany letters and fyllables are not in the Scripture: Yet I dare avow that this do -trine of the La wes binding the re- generate to obedience, being the doctrine not onely of oar Church, but of all other Chriftian Churches (fome few con- tentious Sectaries excepted, who deferve not the name of a Church) and of all found, fok'd, and ftibftantiall Divines, is the expreffe doctrine of facred Scripture : And that it is fo, I will now manifeft, and make perfpicuous by pregnant pla- ces in the New Teftament. Mat.} .i$,To,2l,&c Chrifl camenot to deflroy theLawfiiC. Yeaheconffrmes the continuance of it in every iota or tittle till the heaver* be no more 3 and prefleth punctually to a precife particular oblervationof it. Rtm. 3.31. Do we then make void the Law through faith? God for bid: yea we eflaolifb the Law, Faith therefore doth not evacuate, but eftablifti the De- calogue. Rom. } 7. By the Law we come to the knowledge of L awr 14^ The chrtpmt* dhjtiti. *^n A> .§. iHrfiH*(s, Rom.J.l2.*$. S. Pa*ldc\i$\tedi*tbcL*t* of God ~-witb bis mind he fervid the lav* tf^od, I Cor.Q.iX .'Btingnot witbtut law to God y bm under the law to Chrisl. Efb. 6.\ y i. Cbildrenobey your parent s<~H**oar thy father, dec. 1 Tim .1 .5 uTbe end ofthe commandementu charity aut of 4 pure be*rt,a»d of a good confcience y and of faith unfitted* lam.1.2. Ifyoufulfilltberoyafl law of liberty > &C.S James flhewes what Law, namely the Decalogue, Do not commit tdnlterjy &c. Verf.t 1. 1 Iob.2^ He that faith I l^now him and keepeth not bis com* manckments, is a lyar. X lohn £. 4. Sinne is the tranfgreffion of the Law. Hence I conclude*, 1. That if ever the Law bound the regenerate to obedi- ence (which I fuppofe they will acknowledge) it (till dotb, Mat.i.i$.Rom.i.$t. 2. Thatfince Chrift Iefus the beft expounder of Scripture doth fb copioufly confirme and corroborate the Morall Law in bis Sermon on the Mount, doth peremptorily pronounce that the breach thereof doth defile a man, Mar. 7. 20, 1 1 , &c. and fo qftcn inculcate that the keeping of the commandements is a fure and infallible figne of our love to him 4 lob. 14. 15,21 .23. 24. and of his love to xss> lob.i^.io. 3 . Since faith doth not fupplant,but ftrengthen the law. 4. Since the holy men of God doe often urge and prefleto do the duties commanded in the Law in their Epiftles (which they would not have done, bad not regenerate Chrift ians been * bound to the obedience ofthe fame.). 5 . Since the Apoftle S. Pan/ acknowledged that he ferved the Law of God with his mind, and that he was under the Law to Chrift. • 6. Since the Law ofGod bath not relirqdifhed its regality and regiment,being ftiled by the Holy Ghoft the royall Law. 7. Since by the Law we come to the knowledge of finne ; yea, and all finne is the tranfgreflion ofthe Law. & Since the carelefTe contemners and tranfereflburs of Gods, Ch a* .$. Tie ChrifHdn flnjltft* 147 ©ods Law hate no communion withGod, noriaving know- ledge of him. £. Since the end of the commandement is charity, &c« therefore the Law is no enemy to purity of heart, faith un- fained, or Chriftian liberty, this being theroyall Law-of li- berty. I may warrantably conclude againft the abfurd , and er- roneous ambiguous Antinomifts ; That the Law of God doth binde the conference of the regenerate Chriftian to dbedience. Furthermore , becaofe I fuppofe thefe cavillers will carpe againfl all thefe allegations as inefficient and weake , be- Caufe in none of them we are faid to be bound by the Law to obedience. I will therefore fliew them thefe exprefle words in facred Scripmre , if that will (atisfie and falve their feduced foiiles , x Corinth. 7. 15. A father or fiforis mot under bondage in fuch cafes ; namely, to performe matri- moniall duties tounbelievingyoke-fellowes which will de- parr from, and forfake them , Verf. 27. Art thou bound to m vife f Seeke not to be too/ed. Verf. 3 9 . The wife is bound by the Lit**, 04 long at her hush And /svetb. Hence I inferre, That fince the Law of God doth binde the believing husband and wife to performe all manner of matrimoniall duties to their unbelieving ydke-fellowes which are pleafed to dwell with them, and that fince the husband and wife being regenerate, arc bound by the Law each toother fo long as they live toge- ther ; therefore that part of the Law which doth comprife and comprehend the duties of husbands and wives each to o- ther, namely the fift and feventhcommandements, doth bind the confeience ofthe regenerate to obedience; therefore either -all the Morall Law doth bind, or els that this branch ofthe fe- cond Table is more authenticall, and of more abfblute authori- ty, not only than all the fecond Table befides, buc alfo than the firft Table;,yet our Saviour faith the fecond is but like unto the firftjftilingittheflrft and great commandement, Mtt.i 2. 3 8. Oh that I could perfwade them to take notice how they con- £ont,contradidt,& contend againllthc concordant confeffions La of of the reformed Churches, the found, folid, and fubftantiall truths taught and defended by the ancient and moderne Wor- thiesjand the infallible and undeniable truth of Gods Word ! . Oh that men would cordially conHder that fueh vile and vi- cious pofitions make men unfit 3 not onely for Chriftian,but alio for common commerce and company with mankind / For, how can Kings and Princes be fecured from rebellion of fuch iubjeclrs? How can matters and fathers be aflurcd of reverence and obedience from fuch children and fervants? How can hus- bands and wives be perfwaded of conjugall love and fidelity from fuch yoke-fellowes ? How can traders and traffiquers be afcertained of true and hone ft dealing from fuch people* who are conceited that the Law of God doth not bind them to obedience? Oh that thefe beguiled and unliable foules would queftion and conferre after this or the like manner with their confeiences. Tell me Conf cience,are not murders,adulteries, thefts, and fuch like finnes, and why ? Tell me Gonfcience , how thou knoweft that lying, fwearing, evill thoughts, con- cupifcence and the like, are finnes ? Tell me Confcience , whence is it that thou wilt not allow meto{teale,.kill, com-* mit adulterie, or the like? And their con fciences(except they lie in a lethall letbargie) will anfwer. Not onely arc thefts, murders, and adulteries finnes, but aifo covetous defires, un- advifed anger, and luflfull thoughts, becaufe they are a tran£ grefHon of Gods Law. I know that the fore-named, and o- ther workes ofdarkeneffe are finnes, becaufe the Law of God forbids them. And I dare not approve of the doing of fiich like things,, becaufe they are contrary to, and condemned by the moftholy and heavenly Law of God. This abject ana abfurd fboiiili fancy therefore of thefe la wle fie and licentioas Antinomilts , The Law of god doth not bind the confidence of the regenerate to obedience , being contrary and repugnant unto theteftimony of all orthodoxe Churches , and of their learned and pious Worthies • and againft the fincere and fa- cred Word of God : fupplanting and fuppreffingfubtilly and finfiilly all forts of focieties , both Chrittian and common commerce betwixt man and man j and being gainefaid by their Chap. 8. T&e CbrifUn &*$&• H9 their owne confcienccs , if they are bat illightened , is a fbttifti and finnefull , a falfc and filthy , a ridiculous and rotten , a vile and vicious , an untrue and unchriftian , a fiithlefle and fantaftkall opinion, poficion^ and abiurdity. , Chap. VIII. Cbrijtun faultier smufibe firing, wherein andwhj] <-* -«, WE being the fouldiers of Chrift , that we may warre a good warfare, let us be ftrong in the Lord , and in the power of his might, Ephef 6. 1 o. As corporal 1 ftrength, and bodily abilities are neceflary for martiall men, and a principal! meanes in fuch like combats to obtaine the victory . Witnefle Sauls policie, who when he faw any ftrong man, hetooke him to him, i Sam. 14. 52. Witnefle that match- lefle mirrour of mankind S*mfon y who. -flew a thoufand men with the jaw of an afle, ludg* 15.15. caried away the gates of Gaza, Verf. 1 6. And pulled down the houfe upon three thou- landPhiliftines, Ver.i y.Witnes the commendation of Davids Worthies for their might, 1 Sam.*}. Witnefle that faying of • theGadites,! Chron. I2.8. They were men of might > men of warre , fitforthebattefi, that could handle (hie Id and buckler, whoft faces were like the facet of Lions. Witnefle the name of the place where the young men of hab and Abner flew each other, called the field of ftrong men, 2 Sam. 2. 1 6. And wit- nefle thofe fayings in the Qanticles 3. 7. Threefc ore ftrong men about Salomons bed. 4. 4, The [hie Id of ftrong men. So in the fpirituali warfare againftthe enemies ©four (alvatkn,fpirituall ftrength is "an excellent and a neceflary meanes and helpe for Chriftian fouldiers to guard ^nd defend, to fence , and fortifle themasainft the Divell andhis hellifh complices. i This made S. Steven &> puiflant and invincible, *Afts6+ 2, 10. This made Paul fo couragious to confront Elimas the forcercr, Alls 13.9,10. to conflict with the Iewes, and L 3 Philo* X 50 The chrifikn Conflict. Chap.8 # Philofophers, A'Stt 17* r 7. and to contemne bonds and ^af- flictions, A&t\4>*6, 27. 5. This enabled him to doe all things through Chrift that (lengthened him, Pbil4.1i* This was otiemeanes whereby thofe young men 1 lob.u 14. overcame the wicked one. Hence it is .that the Apoftle Saint PWftirres up the Co- rinthian* to be ftrong, 1 Corinth. l5. 1 5. perfwades the E- phefians to be ftrong in the Lord, Bphef, 6, 10 and incites Timothy to be ftrong in the grace that is in Chrift lefts, iTimotbj 2. 1. And hence it is that the Apoftle Saiot /V- ur prayes unto the Lord to ftrengthen his Church, \Ttu 5. 10. Be we therefore-ftrongin the Spirit, or in the precious pre- vailing graces of Gods faving and fan&ify ing Spirit, fet down and fpecificd, Ga 1. 5 . 1 1 ,&c. 1. Be we ftrong in love, that we may love Firft God in .Chrift for hisowne fake , yea fo, that we? may with earneft ardency. defire, and with our utmoft endea-* vours diligently ftrive iri the frequent and faichfull ufe of the meanes to have communion with God : And that we may love his Word, and will above gold, yea above much fine gold, ?[dA 1 p. 1 29. and beyond expreffion, Verf.97. Secondly, And our neighbour for Gods fake • yea fo % that we may fhew love , and doe good even to them that wrong and abufe us. And that we may love all good men efpecially, becaufe God bearesa fpeciall affc&ion towards them , and becaufe they have in them whatfoever is amiable and lovely. And let us ftrive to be fo ftrong in this Chriftian love , that the many waters of the greateft force and violence u(ed by Tyrants and Tormentours to avert and turne the fame ^ from the Lord, may not quench, put out , or overcome it ; nor the flouds, orliberallftore of the overflowing watersof deepe and grievous afflictions drowne , extinguish, or over- throw, Cd»t.$ 7. %< Be we ftrong in joy y that divine joy which commeth from C h a p . 8. 7 be ChriflUn flmflifl. 1 5 1 from the Lord, and is placed in him, Nehem.S.iG. Where- by we may perfectly joy in God , in that joy fall workc of our regeneration , in Gods grace, and that bleflcd hope of etemall glory with him ; yea io, that it may make us to joy and re jo> ce at the good and welfare of others f Ram, 12. 15. Moderate all our griefes and forrowes, and ina- ble us to joy even in tribulation* , Rothavs j. 3. They being pledges of Gods love , and trials of our faith and pa- tience. 3. Be we ftrong in peace, that fo we may walke mthc way of peace, Rom. 3. 17. Leading quiet and peaceable lives full of unity and^good agreement , avoiding qua rrelfome con- tentions ; leeking to edifie one another by doing or taking good, £#0.14.19. and labouring to live void of cflfcnce to God and man, not willingly taking nor giving offence. 4. Be weftrong in long-fafFering,by which we (halbe ina- bled to mitigate and moderate our unadvifed anger , and dia- bolical difturbingdelires of revenge, when great and manifold wrongs and injuries are done unto us; and diligently to di£ charge the duties of our Chrittian callings, with painefiilneffe, profit, and without partiality, a Tim^.z. 5 . Be wc ftrong in gentleneCfc, that fo we may be inabled to give good fpecch , and to fhew good countenance even to them that wrong and abufeus, without intent and^purpofeof revenge ; fo that we naay be courteous and tradablc,ready to give mild words, eafie to be intreated,and to be Ipokcn to, apt to pleafe, loath to difpleafe with reafon. * 6. Be ftrong in goodneife , that fo we may become benefi- . ciall and helpefull to others (after Gods example) communi- cating to them the good things that are in us for their good and benefit. 7. Be ftrong in faith towards God, whereby we maybe certified ofthe remiflion of our finnes, of our reconciliation with God, in Chrift, and depend upon the Lords providence for food and raiment in the ufe of lawful 1 meanes 1 And to- wards man, whereby wc may be faithfulland juft inobferving and keeping our horift word and promiies. L 4 8. Be t5 * The chrifiUn Conflict. Chap .8. 8. Be wetlronginmecknefle thaKo we may yeeld with a quiet and willing fubmiffion of our judgements and affe&i- ens to the rules of Gods Word, lames i.si. And fufler abufes and injuries from men without defire of revenge,Co/, 3.12,15. 9. Be we ftrong in temperance, That (6 we may be en- abled to ufe the outward blcflings of L God with moderation of minde, this holding us backe from fuperfiuity, and excefle, and caufing us rather to refrabe from that we may doe, then in our delights and pleafuresto goe fofarre as our abilities,, eftates, and time will give us leave. Which moderation is a meanes to prevent many evills, both (ins, and putiiQiments : For by moderating our appetite in meates and drinkes, which ought to be received with perpetuail abftinence, lefle then na- - ture defires to refre fh it, and to fit man for Gods fervice ; in apparell,cloathingour felves according to our fexe, the recei- ved and feemely fafhion of our countrey, and our owne abili- ty, in getting goods, fo that we reft content having fufficient to feede, and cloath our felves and ours ; And in fpending of the fame not wailful! y,riotoufl) r , prodigally, unthriftily, tin* profitably, injuftly, injurioufly, and unneceffarily, we pre- vent many fins, as glHttonic,drunkenneffe,whoredome,pride, covetoufnefle,prodigality,^r. and punishments, as difeafes of the body^cggeryjinfamyjfecurityjfenfualityjcurrejand con- demnation, Pre. 2 3. *!.//*. 5. 1 1,12,13,14. Pirft, Although the greateft part of men therefore are wholly regard lefle of, if not contemners of this fpirituall ft re ngth, comforting, and contenting themfelves with this, they, are. mighty inpoweryhb 21 .7. their breads Arefttllofmil\e % 4»X their bones are moiflened with marro^ x v,2^. the re are n§ bands in their death Jbut their flrength itfimte • yea and often- times are ready in regard of their corporall force and abilities todifdaine,anddefie GoiUh like the fervaiits of the living Lord. Little confidering, That although bodily ftrength is a blefilng'(therefore nottobe given to wine,or women,P)r<\3 1. 3. therefore to be imployedto the glory of God the giver) yet it is 1 But a cpmmon bleffing, whereof QolUh partakes Chap, 8. Thechrift)anc*nfli£l. ij$ as well as Sampfon, Sonnes of Belial as well as heires of bliflc. * Yea fuch a benefit wherein die Vnicorue whofe flrength is great Job 32 ii. the horfe who/e necke is clothed with thunder, the glory of whofe noflriQs is terrible, who pant th in the vaUey % and rejoycetb in bis flrength, going onto me etc the armed man y who mocketh atfeare, and ts not * frighted, neither turneth back^ from the /word, 2 1. The Behemoth whofe flrength is in his loinet i nnd his force in the navtli of hit belly y whofe bones are as Prong pieces of brafe i and like bars of iron , Chap.4©.l6.&C The Leviathan, whofe fight is able to cat! one downe, whom even thefiercefi dares notflirre upjn whofe necke remaineth flrength, when he rmifeth np bimfelfe the mighty are afraid,wboe$leemcth iron as fir aw, and bra(fe as rotten wood, Chap. 4 1 .p, I o, i i , I 2, &c. notonely equalize but farreexcell them. 3 Therefore not amiable to the Lord, who delighteth not in the ftrength of the horle, nor taketh pleafure in the legs of a man, *Pfal. ? 47* 10, And therefore no caufe of glorying ; For thus faith the Lord, let not the mighty man glory .hi his might, Jeremy 9. 23. Secondly, Although too too many reft fatisfied in their fpi- riruall weakneflc, being alwaies-babes^ fuch as have need of nrlke, andnotofftrongmeate, whereas for their time they outfit to be teachers, like thofe the Apoftle reproves, 1 Cor. 3.2.&c.Heb.$.i2. Little confiderin£, that although in Chriits Fold there are lambes,in Chrifts-Orcbard there are plants, in Chrifts Family there are babes ; yet that 1 • Chrifts lambes are of bis rlocke , hearing his voice, and following his precept and practifc,M. 10.27. and therefore grow in grace,2/V/. 3 18. a. That Chriits plants are like trees planted by the waters fide which bring forth fruit in their tetfon y PfaL 1.3. and (till bring forth fruit in old zge,Pfal.$i.i 3 , 3. That babesin Chrilt defirc thefincerc milkof the Word, and grow thereby, 1 Pet 2.2. Little confidering that althongh weake faith,iftrue,is pow- erfuil and available becauk it is faith, and the promifes are made. 154 The chrifthn CmjliB. • Chap.8. made to it becaufe it is faith, and it is the fame with ftrong faith, i In regard of nature, though not in regard of the ftrength, as a babe, and a gyant. 2 In regard .of quality, though not quantity, as a drop of water, and a river. 3 In regard of property,though not proportion ; as a little veflell, and a great. 4 In regard of the ufe, though not the power, as apalfiehandandafteddie: yet that this faith is of a growing nature,#**i,i.i7. Little confidering that thofe defires of grace which are grace, which God will fulfill and fatisfie, JMtttku. are conftant, lively, operative, growing from defire to endea- vour, from endeavour to aclion. Yet all you fouldicrs of this good warfare 1 . Daily and diligently diet,fatiate, and fatisfie your fbules with that fweet, and wholefome heavenly food, and Manna fweeterthen hony,andthehony-combe,P/4/.ip. by reading, hearing, meditation, and conference ; That as, although wee have but few markets in a weeke, yet with fuch provifion we provide both there and at home,we duly and daily ftablii"h and ftrengthen our bodies vigour and abilities : So although wee have not many market daiesin the weeke for our foules, yet with that fpirituall repaft we then ftore our felvcs, and with fiich private provifion we are furnifhed withall, let us daily and diligently fortifieand ftrengthen our foules in the Lord, and in the gifts and graces of his fpirir. 2. Vfcandexercife is a meanes to continue,conrirme,and augmentthe vigour, and forces of foule and body. Vfe legs, and have them,exercife ftrength and have it ; So exercife faith, lovc,peace,joy, patience,^* . and have themefFe&uall,and in- creafing. 3. Refiftand remove all manner of fins, the foules fick- nefle, hindering and much hurting its health, ftrength, and vigour. ' 4. Pray unto God, from whom all our fuirlciency is,2 £V. 35. without whom we can doe nothing, lob.i$ 5 . by whom we may do all things,? Ai/,4.1 3 . To ftrengthen us ; for begi- vetb power to tkef**nt,&ejfa40.29 % S* And Ch a p , J. T fj e chriflian C*nfli£l. I y y 5- And waitc upon the Lord, //i.40.31. for they that waite *p * the Lord [hall renew their ftrength, they (hall mount ftp wub wings at Eagles, the) (hallrnnne, and not be wearie, they [hall walke and not faint. That fo we may be ftrong in the Lord,and the power of his might, Ephef.6. 10. That fo wee may doe all things through Chrift which ftrengtheneth us, Phil^.i^. That fo we may be ftrengthened with all might according to his glorious power unto all patience,and long-furYering with Joyfuilnefle,CV.i.ii. That fo wee may bee ftrong in the grace that is in Chrift, lTim.2.1. That fo we may overcome the wicked one, 1 /0&.2.14. This being one prime and principall prefervative to patro- ^Motive il nife and protect our felvesagainft the pollicies, power, and puiffance of ourinraged foes. 2. This being one primarie potent meanes to profper and prevaile againft, to batter and beate downe the furious forces of our formidable and fearefull foes. 3. This being the peculiar peerelefle priviledge, and pre- rogative of Gods precious ones, not common to bruit beafts and men of this world. 4. This being fa rre more heroicall, magnificent, and ho- nourable, farre more profitable, neceflary and excellent to a Chriftian fbuldier then all bodily ftrength and abilities. For had we the ftrength of Shi once Earle of Gloccfter, HQKinJb.p.471 who with an hedge (lake Hew 17 Saxons which fubtilly had ftabbed 460 Britifh Lords. Had we the ftrength of hhnConrcyt, who with oneftroke fmote through an helmet into a block that none could pull out the fwordagaine himfelfe excepted. Had we the ftrength of He8or, ^Achilles, and thofe other Trojan, and Grecian Worthies, of Hercules, and all other re- nowned for might. Had we the ftrength of Goliahihc weight of whofe coate Was fire thoufand fhekells of brafie, the ftafre of whofe fpeare i\6 TfochrifttiftCnfid. Chap.8.' fpeare was like 'a weavers beame, and the head of his lpearc weighed fix hundred fhekels of iron,i Sam. 17.^,7. Had we the bodily abilities of Sampfon, David, and all his mighty Worthies. feo.ff,4. Had we the ftrength of Giants who are called Hanuephi~ #»becaufe theyafFright,anda(tonifh men with their fice*. Had we the fained forces of *Atlas y who is for his ftrength ftined to beaie up the heavens with his ftioulders. Had we the ftrength of Horfes, Lyons, Vnicornes, Ele- phants,yea of all the beads of power, and men of might that ever the earth did beare, and the fun fa w: yet that fpirituall flrength doth far ftrpaffe and fiirmount thefe imaginary bodi- ly forces although they were reall. For what can thefe availe againft the worlds vanities, fins,' fubtilties,and Satans temptations? Nothing at all. For our ene- mies are not fled* and bloud, but fpirituall wickedneffes ,• and therefore out ward proweffe, date-policy, warlike fuhtilty, troupes of armed men,dint of fword,nor flrength of body can daunt or difaearten, appale or annoy them, orkeepeusfafe, and protecl us from them. Fortooppofe thefe fpirituall ene- mies with the power of flefti, is to fet parched draw and ftub- ble againft the (laming fire. Hear* Saint Chryfofiome fpeake of this matter. We are not therefore ftrong becaufe we have lufly andfiurdi* bodies: But he only is adorned with this vertue {although he lie upon his bed) who is mighty in inward gracet or venues, which being wanting although otherwife a man isfurnifhed withfuch flrength of body that he can pluck? up * mountaine,yet I will not fay that he ii more fir ong or mighty then a may den, orafickly old woman: for he that ufumifhedwith inward graces dvth skir~ mijl with incorporeal orinvifible vices and enemies, whereas this man dares not take a view of them. What can ye fuppofed to bee more fir ong then this woman which ft ands agaiHft with a valiant €$ry/7?Mf.T9. **™A the tyranny of nature, the force of famine, the threats of **x£*r.$. ' death^ndoveretrnmetb them *ll* V-H HP.0. Tbt Chrijlttn Conflict. I j y. Chap. IX. 7"£* Chr%ftUn fouldionr mnfl be coxragiiw, DurfAl A Re we the fouldiersof Chrift Iefus, we ought therefore to be valiant,and couragious. Martiall men muft be men of mighty minds : LMofes therefore chargeth in the name of the Lord the lfraelites, and his fiicceffcur lofluab who were deputed to the vvarre to bee of a good courage, not to feare, nor to be afraid, D enu 31.6,7. The fame charge the Lord gave to /oy$**& againc, andagaine, /ud,is much more neceflary in warre againft fpirits and fpi- rituall wickedneffes, ' ; i r. Whence it it that many faint and flexible, corrupt and cowardly Chrrflians defert devotion, relirwpiQi religion, cor- rupt conscience, fupprefle facred fincerity and fan&ified (*ric% ne(Fe,p.ervert piety,are pliant to prophaneflc/orfake their for- mer rervour,andfirft love,yeeld them^Ives vanquifhed vaflTalt to their vicious conquerours,andfhyifliiy fwimme downe the corrupt current of the times diforders, making their conditi- on by their wretched relapfes worfe then if they had nerer knownethewaiesofrighteQufnefle,2fVf,2»ii ? Is it not for want of courage?. 2. Whence is it that many timorous and trembling Chrifti- ans droop,and dare not defend, much lefTe dignifie the honou* rable and noble peerelefTe caules of Gods precious people, and their Lord Iehovah bleffed for ever ; dread to repugne and refill, much more to ruinate and reprefife the infolent, and inlupportable inordinate abominations of Belials bafeand hellifti brood, thereby unworthily betraying (fo farreasin them lieth) through their pufillanimous timiditie (propt and protected with pretences of moderation and difcretion) the inculpable. caufes and credits of good men, andmra^ing and incouraging infatuated and infernall fooles in their extrava- gant and execrable diforders ? is it not for want of cou- rage? ?. Whenceisitthat many fearefull and formidable Chri- stians arc appaled and affrighted from the propagating and promoting of Chrifts caufe, and the praclicall profeffion of Chriftianity, like Salomons (laggard, with the Ijonsin thevttyi So that they dread tofeeme more forward, or. to goc a ftcp Amber in the duties ofpiety aad religion then their negligent, if Cha*; ? ; rl$cbriJH4*C*nfi& IS 9 if not prophanc,Jicighbours. Or ifthey follow Chrift, and hit faithfull flocke,yct k is as the Ifradites followed Saul, i S*m. 1 5^7. trembling? m Surely from the cowardly puullanimity, and faint- hearted timidity predominant and prevailing in the faithleffe hearts of fome, and the foulcs cf others who are but weake and wave- ring beirg babes in Ghriflianity. i. Let me perfwade and prefle you forward,Chriftian Magi- ftrates, which are as the gcneralls, andchiefe Captaines in this Chriftian warfare to be couragious, Dem. 31.6. Doe you fay with heroicall NcbemUb 6. 11. faA/ncb a man at I amfleefDo not you dread to confront, and controle defpifers and deriders of Gods people & rcligion,although they be fuch asSantafaty Tcbiahyox (jcfhemyNeb. i.i9,io.Do you walke undauntedly in that pious,and praife-worthy path wherein good King David continually exercifid himfelfe,/Y".ioi. Do not yon beare Gods fword in vaine,but,as the Miniflersof God,take vengeance on them that do evill ,./?0«m 3.4.Astherfbreyou ought not indifc ferently to terrifie all,good,and evil! :or afflict well-doers, this being an abufe of power;& it is equally abomination unto God tocondemne an innocent,or to juftifie the wicked : So neither inuft you through carelcfheffe or feare neglect to convert your power of punifhingtothe hinderance of enormities ; for by impunity finne will waxe impudent and fruitful] ; And with God it is much one whether one bee a doer of evill, or no hinderer, and -lb a confenter and fofterer. Bee you therefore men of courage to fuppreffe evill deeds,, and doers, who with their malice oft have might, and potent friends. a .You Miniflersof Gods Wond, which are the chariots, andhorfemen of Ifrael,be ycu couragious,like Chri(t,our Ma- tter ,his Prophets, ler, 1 . 1 y.£*,ek.x6 u and Apoftlcs,/4tf .4.1 3; Preaching the ficred Word of God impartially, without re- aped of perfons fpar ing neither great nor fmall ; but telling ail men oftheir duty :Declaring the whole truth of God,concea- ling bo part therof for feare,or favour,dar gcr,or reward, AH* 29*27. reprooving fin with all authority, fo that ftubborne and. and fliffe-nedced finnersmaybe made to tremble, Tit.i.rj* not daunted with, nor dreading, but difregarding and defpi- •fingall reviling 'reproaches, and (hamefull difgraces for the pious and profitable performance of your high and honourable calling.That fo you may not by your timerous faint-hearted nes ' be quailed, much lefle be trampled under by fierce, impudent, andviolent people. But that by our cariage in declaring out meffage from our Matter freely, we may daunt theftouteft hearts, and difmay the proudeft oppofers. 3. Let us all fellow-Chriftian louldiers be couragious in Chrifts caufe in this our fpirituall warfare. And becaufe I know it's more than needfull to kindle, quicken, and increafe in you (what I can) this true fpirituall valour and magnanimi- ty; I will propofe unto you the fe following incouragements to withftand couragioufly and manfully our (pirituall foes. 1. Cowardife hath beene condemned as odious and op- probrious to all forts of people in times pad and gone. The Scottifh women of Annandale flew their owne husbands ( in the time of Corbreid Gald) becaufe they cowardly fled from the Romans. The Perfian women met their husbands and children running away from Ajiyages armies, in treating them - to returne to fight, and to move them, they uncovered their bodies, and asked whether they would run into the worabes JuftiHlib.9. of their wives and mothers. The women of Ltconia, their fonnes going to the warres, received of them ftiields with this irtu * \ Att^xg.vthetker tt (re right 1* the fakt ofGodjo obey Ged or m*n judgej oh ,Th\$ magnanimous mind was iYiP**l y Att.i\.iiJ 4mre*djn*t t§ fo M found i of Chrifl: Iefus. Bewetfactefore men of mighty minds, trwly couragious. moMvJb.p.479 Anfwer we our fpirituall enemies (as that famous CaJ/i&r lane a Brittanc anfwered G dition they continued 15 daies and then died) Never did la- vage Sclimus execute fuch tyrannicall tortures (yejt he contra- ry to his covenanted conditions flew all the feuldiers of Qyrnz^. and caufed the Captaine to be tortured to death in a hogfhead ©f nailes.) Never did Turk or Tartar,or the moft favage tiger- like Scithian in the world fo terribly tortureand torment with fuch virulence and violence their captivated foes, as Satan and his curfed complices do thofe whom they fubdue and vanquifti by fraud or force ifor what arc ftranglings and ftrappadoes, what are poverty and irnpriforjmenf,what are Mayings & fires, what are faintnefle and famines,what are rackings and rending the flefh joynt by joynt ; yea what are all earthly tortures and torments devifeablc by man or divell in regard of thofe unut- terable, unconceivable, and therefore more then intolerable (yet muft they be cndured)tormenta|Where the worme never dies,and the fire ever burneth, the fure and certaine ftipend of diofcwhom^atanfoilethj Ntceffity puts vigour and valour into, Chap.£. TbeCbriftitnCdnflilt. i6j into, adds courage and conftancy to the halre-conquered, an^ almoftvanqwfhedjhopelefTe, and defperate man : therefore prudent commanders,to make their (buldierscouragious,have taken away all hope,and meancs of flight from their fouldiers, placing them fo that they fhould have their enemies before tfhem, fome rivers, deepe ditches, or inaccefliblc mountaines behind them: or placing the mod fearefull in the forefront,the mod valiant behind to compell them to fight, and hinder their flight. Thus Ddrius leading his army into SjrU caufed the ^ngensttlum bridge by which they patted to be throwne dovvne to take a- *"*£*"• way all hope of running away. Thus AgathocUs having tranC ported his army into Afiic^e burnt his {hips to make them know that they muft manfully fight or elfe die. When all way of flight is (topped the bafeit fouldier will rather die with glory in the front of the battel!, then flie and bee killed with ignominy: So true a Miftrefle of hardy refolution k defpaire. Behold urgent neceffity islaidtrpon us tocaft away cowar- dife,and to play the men ; yea woe to u% if we yeeld to our exaiperate a(Tailants,and unwearied foes.Thoie who are over- come are perpetuall (laves to Satan that malicious enemy, who will hold them with everlafHag chaines under darknetfe in torture and tormentSjeafcleflejand endleffe, merciletTe and re- tnedileife. 4. If we are valiant we (hall vanquHh,if we are couragioue we {hall conquer, if we p!ay the men we (hall prevaile. The Divel owr grand enemy is like a Woolfe ; 1 in ficrcenefle^he aiore fiercely availing, more eagerly purfoing, moreeafily prcvailing,and more greedily devouring, when he is fearefnlly fhunned and yeelded unto, a in fearefull neffe, heihamefully flying when ftoutly refitted, faw.4. j.Reft/l the Diveil^ and hee »$Bflie; ftand therefore oouragioufly, andfbnd vic"terioufiy ; All our enemies arc daunted, and difmayed with the ttout (landing of Chriftsfouldiers, as well as heartned with their ti- moroufnefTe.TheboUneiTe oiPettr and Mn amafed their po- tent perfecutors, ^#.4.1 3. who would not therfore be valiant in this warfare, where valour gives victory, where courage M % quel* quels the adverfary, and gives fpirit and vigour to other more faint-heartcd,yet fellow fbuldicrs, 5. Call to rnind,and cordially confider of (you ChrifHan fbuldiers) the fundry and feverall parts and pieces of the ar- mour of righteoufnes, wherewith you are and muft be fenced; Thefe our weapons are impregnable : This our armour is pre- vailing,they are fafe and fure,who will ufe it,for they (liall ne- ver fall,i Pet. 1 jo .By this they overcome the world, r hb.^ m 4. and are more then conquerours,#0w.8.37.This our armour is n Dtdefe&ive,of infumcient,but complete, and entire, Efh. 6.1$ .yet not one piece for the backe parts, to foe w and figni- fie that armed Chriftians are couragious, and that cowardly Chriftians which turne their backs are naked and Uijfenfed,ancf lie opento every divelifh dart (hot from Satan, 'and other fpi- rituall enemies of their foules. d. And why (O you Chriftian fouldiers of Chrift) are you not couragious ? Your caufe is good, becaufe it is Gods. Your guard is great* becaufe Angels and all other crea* tures. Your God isomnipotent,becaufe Iebovah. Your enemies are feeble, becaufe already fpoiled.*^ Your weapons are iflnpregnable,becaufe conquering. Your encourager is cfTe&uall, becaufe the Comforter, Your Captaine is a conquerour,becaufe Chrift the Lyon of the Tribe of Iudah. Yoar crowne for which you combate is incorruptible, Be- caufe heaven. Yours is the victory, becaufe it ispromifed by God, who cannot lie ; And will you be cowards ?. 1 .A juft caufe doth infufe incredible incouragements;Wit- r>erTe/0^4w*fpcechtohis bafe brother ^Abimelechy and the ungratefollmenof5^w^»,/*^.p.Witneffe/^^f/aiifwee to the King of tAmmou, 11.27. thou do ft me vfrongficc, Wit- jieffe Ioabs fpecch to *Abifh*i % 1 Chron. I o . 1 3 . Let us behave our /elves va/itut/jfor our people, *nd the cities of our god. And. Akijths to Icnboam^nd his army,2 Cbrou.i 3 ,4,5 ,&c. What Chap. p. TheChfiftUnCtoflXt. t6j^ What caufc fo comfortable, what warfare fo warrantable* what conflict fo confidcrate, what combate fo commodious, what battaile fo blamelefTe , and biefled as that of the Christian fculdiers ? Thefe wage war againft the fabtilh, and feducing ferpenr, the wily and wicked world, and the fraudulent and -filthy flefo, who cruelly, and un juftly, yet concordantly and with joynt confent confpirc to enthrall thofe whom Chrift hath en- larged, to deftroy thofe, whom he hath delivered, to ruinate thofe whom he hath redeemed, to leade captive thofe whom he hath fet at liberty. Thefe contend earneftly for the faith delivered to the Saint% Jade g. Thefe, though they live in the flefh, doe not warre after the flefh. Calling down imaginations and every high thing which exalteth it felfe againft the knowledge of Chrift, 2 Cor 40. 3, Thefe wreftle againft the wiles of the Divell ,againft princi- palities and powers,2T/?& 6. 1 1 , 1 1. Thefe endure a great fight of afflictions, partly while they are made a gazing ftock by reproches and affliftienSjand partly while they become companions of them that were fo uied, Thefe abftaine fromfleftily lufts which fight againft theic fbules,i 7^.2.11. Thefe put on the whole armour of light, and caft off the WOTkes of darknefle,fo m. 1 3 . 1 i ? Thefe are on Chrifts fide fighting againft the Dragon 'and hi* Angels, the Serpent and his feed, thefiefti and its lufts. Thefe fight the battells of the L o r d I e h o v a h, of Christ their Saviour, of his Church their body, for €od5 glory their owne graces, for Gods honour their owne happineffc. Then which warfare none more warran- table. Then youO Chriftian fbuldiers therefore let none bee more couragious. a. Your fafeguard and protection are all Gods hoftes -and armies : All the creatures being ready armed for your M 3 " delivc- XG& 4 m cwijtun conpta. v>h ap .s; deHveranceand fafety ata yeare, at amoneth, at a day, at an houre,at a minute, at a moment : flics, and frogs, lice and lo- cufts, with other fuch like vile, yet vanquifhing and wa- fting vermine, i:*^.^.^ 10. Jfttsii. Beares, and Ly- ons with other like cruell and confuming creatures,* K**g t 2> 7)ax6. Thunder and lightning, ftormes and tempeftsj light and darkneffe, Sun and Stars, earth and waters with other dreadfullanddeftroying, magnificent and marvellous workcs of God, Theglorieus Angels of our great God, which are great in power ; one of which flopped the mouthes ofLyons, 3X*h. 6,2 2. delivered Teter out of prifon,^/#. 1 2.7.and flew a hundred fourefco?e and five thoufand in one night, !fa. 3 7. 3 8. Thefe are miniftring fpirits fent forth to minifter for them who fliall be heires offalvation,£fc£.i .14. & pitch their tents about them, PyW.34.8* Whatgreater dignities, what better defence? What greater folace,what better fafctyjthen this? To be attetK ded 3 & guarded.Not by men( which we count anhonour,and a happines) Not by Saints (which is a greater priviledge,& pro- tection.) Not by woTfhipfull, not by honourable men: But by Aogels,yea and the Lord of men and Angels, who alfo keepcth Ifrael,P/:i2i.4j7,8 ftiadingthera fromthefmitingbothofSim & Moone,preferving them from evill. The knowledge, afiii- rance, remembrance, and meditation of which gracious and gladfome prefence ofGod,86the fenfe therof will marvellou- sly comfort and encourage a godly man, This hath freed the faitfefiiU from defperate and faithlefle feare which is proper to divels & reprobate. This hath made them comfortable & cou- xagious in the valley of the fhadow o£deatb,as lofefh in the pit and t prifon ; *Z)*»*V/ in the den; lonah in the whale; the three* children lathe furnace; ,the Prophet in Doth ah. You therefore OChriftian fouldiers having-fiich a power- full puiffant guard ready preft to preserve and protect, to de- fend and deliver you,not only of all thofe contemptible craw- ling creatures (which yet con fumed proud King Herod, A&t 1 a. and greatly wafted and opprefled the fruitfull and pleafant land of Egypt) other inferiour,(ublunary,and thofe incorrupti- tye,cele{ljalljand angclicall ; JHiC of the Lord of hofts,who k a wall Ch ap .8. the ChriftAn C^nflUt. i 67 /2r/.pi.t5«5^ < 9.57.2. andBy ourtruftand confidenceinGod,P/5i/.9i.2 9. 56.3,4,1©. 57.i.)Andther- •fore that we are in great fafety and fecarity. Letus be valiant andcouragious. 3. Your God whofe you are, and whom you ferve, To whom nothing is too hard,<7*». 1 8. 1 4.or irapoffiole ; Mat 1 9. 16.T0 whom none id lik* among the Godt, glortotu in he/tnefe 9 fenrefuMnprAifes^oing wonder s.Exod.i 5 .1 1 .Whrremoovetk mountnines^llnketh the earth \f~ammandeth the Snn, ~fea- ieth the ft art Job 9.\6 % &c.&thnK&creth mgrve/louflj>6cc. 3 7. 5* from whom none can deliver, //*.4j.i 3. without whofe leave M 4 anil X63 TbcCtmjtuHCwJita. Chap.^ atid licence Satan himfelfe cannot hatme or hurt fordid fwine much leffe fan&ified Saints, Mar. 5 . 1 2 . lob 1 . & 1 . This om-* nipotent God who can do what he will, commands and char* geth you to fight, and that with courage: And will you be cowardly ? 4. Your Captainc and Commander the Lord Iefus , that invincible Lion of the Tribe of Iudah hath vi&orioufly van- quished his and your enemies, having made his enemies bit foot-ftoole, xMAtth. 22.44. Having overcome the worlds I oh. 16.31. Having led captivitie captive,, Eph^.S. Having fpailed principalities and powers, Col. a. 15. Having over- come thofethat warre againft him, Rev. 17. 14, And will not you y the members of this head, thefubjects of this King, the ranfamed of this Redeemer , the ibuldiers of this Cap- taine : For whom he hath combated with, and conquered all your fearefull and formidable foes : with whom he is grari- oufty prefent , not as an idle fpeclatour, but as a couragious, valiant, and powerfull Captainc to relieve and refcue hit Church and chofen, and to revenge upon their enemies the wrongs intended or inflicted by them upon his peculiar peo- ple, in whom he dwels by faith, Eph. 3. 1 7. and by whom yoii may do all things even through Chrift which ftrengtheneth you, Phit.4. 1 1 . will not you (I fay) be couragious ? f. Your foes are foiled, your enemies are ipoiled, there- fere fceble-,not to be feared. Sathaa is fallen from heaven like lightning, and made fubjecl to the Saints, Luke 10. 17, 18. through death, though he had the power ofdeath, is deftroy* eAy.Heb.2. 14. and his wicked netfe, 1 lob.3.2. yea and he hath beene overcome by the Saints, 1 lob. 2. 1 9, 14. The world hath not onely beene overcome by our chiefe Comman- der Chrift, lob. 16.33. but alio by allthofe who are borne of God, 1 7^.5.4. thefe being crucified to it, and having it cru- cified to them, Gal. 6. 1 4, As for the flefn, with the afFeclaons and Ms thereof, they that are Chrifts have crucified, . -24* Cafting downe imaginations— and bringing intocaptivi- ty every thought to the obedience of Chrift,* Cor. 10,4. Are ^our enemies fuchwhofe power is not foveraigne and abfo- lute <^ h ft p % g. The cmjtun CMptct* i g 9 *ute, but fubordinateand limited, whole weapons have been often battered and blunted : yea fuch which have becne of. ten fpoiled and fupplanted , not onely by Cbrift your con- quering Captaine, butalfoby Chriftians your fellow- fonldi- ers, through whom they have becre, and we alfo may be roorethancorquerer? 3 i?e».S.37 # And will you degenerate and be difcomfited ? 6. Your weapons are impenetrable and impregnable,your armour is armour of proofe, eompleat armour, every way fuk ficient to defend and keepe us harmelefle. This, if you put k on, will make you able to ftand againft the wiles of the Divell y EfheJ .6. II. This will inable you to withftand in the evill day, Verf.13.and to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked., Veri.irf. And will you (which are fo well armed out of Gods abun- dant armorie, with fuch weapons, no way deficient, every way defenfibk) abufe a gift fo great and gratifying, dishonour the doner of a benefit fobountifull and beneficial 1 , and make your felves ( fo furely fenced ) ridiculous by taint-hearted cowardife? •" 7. Your encourager is the Comforter which abideth with you for ever, Uhn 14. 1 6. The fpirit of wifdome and under- ftanding, the ipirit of ecunfell and might, ]fa. 11 , t, \ybich helpeth your infirmities, Rom 8.s6. Which fi ^h tcth againft the 1 lifts of the flefh, G*L% .17. Who is refcmbled to fir*, A8. a. 2. becaufc he kindleth and heateth our heart* with love, zeale, and other graces; comfbrteth our conferences, andcon- fumethour corruptions. To water, Uhn 3.5. becaufc he coo- leth,cleanieth,comforteth, and maketh fertile in good works. To wind, Uhn 5 . 8. becaufe he purgeth our pollutions, drives away and dries up our droffieand defacing corruptions. And will you ( who have this Comforter continuing in you, feal- ing you to the day of redemption, Spb.j^o. inabling you to cry Abb* Fttbtr, helping your infirmities,) be difheartened and difcouraged ? 8. Yours ia the viftory. God is not a man that be mould lie, neither the fonne of man that lie fhould repent; Hath be faicV i %6 Tht chtifiUn CwfliSt. Ch a p .9? feid , and (hall he not doe it * Or hath he fpoken , and ftiall he not make it good? Numbers 23. ip. The Lord whoisunchangeable, Umtsi.iy. And cannot He, Titus \\ 3. He hath promifed (and therefore will performe) to bruife Satan under your feet, Rem* 16.20. Not to fuffer yon to be tempted above that you are able, but will with the temp- tation alfb make way how to efcape, that you may be able to beare- it, 1 Corinth. 10.13. Since therefore you (hall van- tjuifh , if you are valorous 1 yours is the conqueft , if you are couragious; be not you cowardly, that foyou may con- quer. 9* Yourcrowne for which you combat is ineftimable and uncorruptible, 1 /Vf.1.4. Where you (hall be freed from finne the worft of evils, Rom. 6". 22,23. From crofles and calamities; fo that all teares (hall be wiped from your eyes, Rev. 7. 16, 17. And reft from your labours. Revel. i/\. 13, Where you fhall be as the Angels of God in heaven, A44ttb* 3 1.-3°. Yea likeChrift, I lohn%. *. Yeaheires, and -joint- heires with the Sonne of God, Rom. 8. 17. Where you (hall know as you are*knowne, 1 Cor. 13.12. Have everlafting |oy,//k5i.ii. 35.10. anderijoyfuch goodneflfe, gladnefle, and glory which is unutterable and uneoRceiveable, 1 Cor. 2. 9. And will not you be couragious in a caufe fb good,having a guard fo great,under God fo omnipotent, for Chrift fo invin- cible, againft enemies fo infeebled, with weapons fo impreg- mble,having the affiftance of the bleflcd Comforter,in a com- bat where you are fure to conquer, foy. crownefb ineftima- ble? God forbid. MtAnts of That you may be couragious, ^courage. I . Flic from all manner of finne 5 this is that which brings faintneflc into the hearts , that the found of a (haken leafe {hall chafe men and make them flee, as fleeing from afword, and fall when none purfueth them, Levit,26.^6 t This is that which makes men feare where no feareis,*and makes the wicked flee when no man purfueth, Prov.iS. 1. And be carefull to4ccepe a good eonfeience void of offence toward God and toward man. AUs 24.1$. willing to live honeftly; v> h a p , 9 . ? *, cbrtfitAn CMfltti. 1 7 1 /W.i J.I 8. For this is that which is a continuall feaft,Pr*. 1 jl 1 5 . This is that which makes the righteous bold as a lion, Pro* *8.-i.This comforted and encouraged 'Paul and his compani- ons in their great extremities, 2 Cor. 1.8, 12, and this makes Confident towards God, 1 lob. 3. 21. I know that not onely ruffian-like roifters, butjnany other better qualified are not onely ready to tbirike, Butalfo to fay, faithful! men are faint-hearted, mortification kilsman- hood, religious men are notrefolute,confcience cooles a mans courage. But I would have them to know, that godly men,and onely they are truly couragious. It's manners which makes a man , our proverbe fakh. And fare I am, manhood is one thing,mad- neflfc is another ; a man may be bold, couragious, (lout , and valiant, although he neither ftampenor flare, fwaggernor fweare, roare nor revel], brag nor brail : yea, men of beft conf- idence are alwayes men of moft and greateft courage. 'David dreads not GolUh> 1 Sam. 1 7. nor thoufands of people, Pfal. g # &. Pastkarcs not to die at Ierufalem forthe name of the Lord Icfus,/tf#.2i.23. neither was he moved with the bonds and afflictions which did abide hi m, 20.25. And who are more prodigall of thek lives,livclihood,liberty, and good names for Ghriit,andhis and the Lord (hall deliver me from every eviti rvorke. 2 fir. i .1 ©. The Lord delivered tee from fo great 4 death, and doth deliver jm whom wttruft that be viiBjet deliver. Rom.$. 3 5.37,38,39. After his rehearfall of particu- lar bitter calamities which fight againft believers, (Namely, 1 . Terrible tribulation which wringeth and vexeth. 1. DiftrefTefull anguidi' perplexing the mind, fo that the diflreffed Hnowesnot what to do. 3. Perfection ^HA Pl p, *ifjeChnjit4»CMjlt&. 17 j 3. Perfection, or extrcamc violence offred to goods, pe fon,life,or good name. 4. Famine, or want of vi&uals to fuftaine life. 5. Nakedneflcv or want of clothing to. cover and defend the body from cold* 6. Perill, ordangeroiKdiftrefles, which put men iojieriil and jeopardie. 7. Sword,or barbarous favage bloud-fhed .) He doth com- fort and encourage the faithrull againftthefe terrible things, affirming, Ver 3 7. that in all thefe we are more than conque- rors; from whence he concludeth, and upon that blefled ex- perience he groundeth that comfortable and couragious pcr- iwafion, That neither life, nor death, nor Angels, nor princU f stlitiet,nor porter s^nor things prefent, nor things to come , nor height , nor depth, nor any other creotnre fid& be Able tofpArnte us from the love of God whkb is in Chrifl lefus our Lard. A nd therefore the feme Angelicall Apoftlefltfjw.5.4. doth afcer- taine us that experience woTketh hope ; or true beleevers da gaine much heart,and more confidence io Gods goodnefle for hereafter, that he will ftrengthen and deliver them by their former triall and experience. Yea the eloquent Oratoar C*- TuftftuftM, tero tellcth us that an unskilful 1 fouldier in comparifon of one *• * experie need is as one unarmed to another armed . And Arifto- &teJ* 1 • c 9> tie the Prince of Philofcphers furnifheth me with tw© caufes, why experience doth adde valour in warfare to military men. m Theonc,becaufe fouldiers exercifed and acquainted with the fleights and fubtilties of enemies, regard not, but reject and contemne their crafty and deceitfull wiles wherewith they are wont to daunt and difmay, appale and affright canfe- fc% (there being no dread of danger in vaine affrightments) men unexperienced. TV other, becaufe the experienced fouldier can bed and meft ad vantagioufly handle and manage their weapons, are. bdt acquainted with danger, and how te difmay and deftroy their enemies. &ecord ; regifter, and keepc in remembrance ©ur finnes*. and 174 YheChrijiUnConflilf. Chap. 9? and fcfiferings for the fame, our miferies, and Gods mercies paft. i. The remembrance ©four finnes paft, 1. Is a meanes to bumble us, fhe wing us our vilenefle,?/*/. 38. 3,4. 2. To make us more thankful], 1 Tim. 1.22,1$. 3. Tocaufeus more to love Chrift, Lukej.^j. 4. To make us pray more feelingly and fervently, PfaL 50. 5. To fpend the time to come more diligently,for mHpending the time paft, 1 £V. 1 1.5. 12. 11. 6 To make us more compaffionate to o* thers, in pitying their condition, praying for them, helping to free them from Satans flavery, Ga/.C.i. 7. To renew out repentance, Z*ch. 1 2 . 1 o 4 s. The remembrance of Gods afflictions and chaftife-' ments, 1 . Is a meanes to make us mercifull and compaffionate towards others in diftreffes, Exod.t2.21. 2. To make us more thankfull to God who hath deliver- ed us from them. 3. To make us more earned and inftant in prayer i Pftlme+i. 4. To make us loath aftd diflike finne more, the caufe of £b many fcourges. 5. To make us more confident in God. 6. And to make us remember our promifes made in oar diftreffes, and ftirre us up to performe them. I . The remembrance of Gods mercies and goodnefle, 1. Is a meanes to ftirre up in us thankfulneffe, PfdtHt 2. To make us more obedient. 3 . And more confident fotthe time to come. By the remembrance oft hefe; our (innes, and fufferingsi and Gods mercies, 1 . We (hall gain experience of our curled corruptions,and the pernicious perverfnefle of our nature: as alio of our weak- neffe, bow unable, we are to beare, and*how apt to faint under burdens, T/*/. n 6 % 1 1 , which will humble our vaine afpiring imaginations : as alfo 6f our love to pod, of ota faith and " " ■ ' truft Ch h p:p . Tfje chrijthn Ctnfltft. xjy truft in God $ of our meekenetfe and gentlenefle towards men, of our patience, fortitude, courage , and other graces which will corroborate and coi firme us. 2. We frail gaine experience, as of the fpightfull hatred of profane Belials towards us, and of the unconftant and ui.ftable minds of indifferent neutrals, and of the rottenneffe e£thcir fcined friendfhip,which will make us more vigilant. So of the found and fubftantiall love of Gods peculiar people manife. ftcd to us by their counkls , prayers, and other like duties, which will make us more valiant, 3. We (hall gaine experience, notonely of Satans malice asdfubtilty in tempting, and feekingto hurt and deftroyus, which may affright us ;-but alfoof his unablenefle to harme them whom God will prcferve ;, and of his fubjection to our good God,being at his beck for the meafure and time o£temp~ ting, which may animate us. 4. We mail gaine experience, as of Gods fidelity and faith* fulneffe in his terrible threats and comminations^ and of the feverity of hisjuftice; puni&ing fin in his Saints and peculiar people, which may make us tremble. So of his fidelity in his promifes, of his great might and omnipotency in that he can uphold us, 1 C§r. 1 2.9, of his fingular mercy, in that he will fiiftaine and ftrengthen us ; of his wonderfull wifdome , in that when he hath tried and exercifed his children,he knoweth how to deliver them out of temptations, a Pet. 2.0* which will make us triumphant. 6. Anger doth wonderfully animate men ; yea this doth fo warme an J inflame the b!oud,and add luch vigour and valours this doth fo incitate and incourage, exafperate and inforce t9 encounters, that one man in anger dreads not to contend with many; and men unarmed, heated and heartened herewith,are often fearelefle to fight with weaponed men : and bruit beafts which naturally feare and flie from us, being made angry, re- . . gardlefly rum upon even deadly and deftroying weapons. And ^ f Jfc ^ as TtUty termes anger the yvhetftome offortitudefa humane hi- mixft.L.4. * fiories plentifully prove the fime by fs£*eas y Vly flb /, and o- »~Magnd'fe thers, which by anger have beene much helped and heartened txufik* irdJ ' to 4 70 y m ampin cwjua. i_ m a p .9. /rdrwa «»j«ef to combate couragioufly : and therefore they have fo enno- tffundit babe- bled this affection, that they deny it residence iavcin gene- nas. rousfpirits, ™*MitTtMM . No * c * iu in molles mhilis ir * ™ rou furor exdtat Neither is the facred Scripture (ilent, but doth produce plen- irart tifull proofs for this purpofe : witneffe Mefes, whofe anger waxing hot, he tookethe calf e which the people had made, rebuked Aaron^nd commanded the Levites to execute judge- ments upon the idolaters, Zxod> 3 *. 7 9,20,26. Witneffe Phi* neasywho being zealous for the Lord,took a javelin in his hand and flew Zimriand Cozbi finning agatnft the Lord,N»«.2?,8, 1 1 . Wicncfle Mehemiah, who was very angry, and rebuked the nobles and the rulers, Neh.5 ,6 9 j. Witnefle Jeremy, who being full of the fiiry(or anger) of the Lord, did po wre it out, Jer.6jt. Witnefle our Saviour, Mar. 3.5. who, when he had looked upon them with anger , faid to the man , Stretch forth thine hand* Convey into, and cheri(h in our foules this corroborating anger , which may make us valiant and couragious againft Cm and Satan^hc world and wicked men. , I do not countenance nor commend all fbrts ofanger. There is an anger which God forbids, Eph^. 3 1 . >Let anger be put away from yen. There is an anger which ftirres up ftrife, Pr0.15.18. Anan- gry manftirs up ftrife. There is an anger which naanifefts folly, Ec cl. 7. 9. Anger resls in the bofome offooles. There i« an anger which is a worke of the flefh, g*Uti 5. to. 8*fil inali*u$t There is an anger which diftempers all the body , as great SaiptMcos. •B^/kfefy in 4Hgry man ^ 9th i,p his comlineffe, yea the \hape of a man % andpHts on the likc*e(fe of a beasli confider a while am angry man;he ragethjse railes like a drunlejtrd^his eys are chan- ge\ and made fierce and bloudyjsit heart is inflamed, hit blond is m oved : thorn [bait fee him filing his teeth like a wild boare % Jpeaking often foeli/bly, and leaving words imperficl; he hath noreffeft of affinity $r familiars* he jpareth none tofatisfie his hi* o»ne iu]f t —he doth continudBy b*rke, See, There is an anger, which is murder, *JMat . 5.21. namely, finfull or un.-idvijedangtr. •Iris unadvifed anger which proceeds from (el fe- lave, from diflike or hatred of the perfon with whom one is angry. It is unadvifed anger which intends private relpe&s-f it oft quickly mooved, continueth long, and is defirous of re- venge. It is tanadvifed anger , when men are angry with God , doings,corre<5tions,and dealiogs,as lonab was, len.q 3. It is unadvifed anger , when men arc angry for any thing, fave for fin,and fo cauflcfly. It is unadvifed anger, when men are angry more for fmali finnes than great ; for pettie offences againft. themlelves,more than great tranfgreilions againft God. It is unadvifed anger, if it exceeds, although the caufe be juft, Gen .49. 7. It is unadvifed anger, which doth not aime at the glory of God, the reftraint of finne : but its owns glory and profit, iV0.a1.-24. It is unadvifed anger, which breakes out into execrations, curfes, and makes men unfit for the difcharging of the duties ©f their calling. It is unadvifed anger, which is not moderated in conveni- ent time, Epb.^.26. This vile and vicious anger ought fo te* be abhorred of us ; that we mould not make any friendfhip with fuch angry men, Pr0.22.24, But there is an anger which is good: for God is often angry; Chrift was angry ; and good men have beene commendably angry. 1. Let therefore the occasions of our anger be juft and weighty: likethofeof C/*f0/*/,who was angry fortherefer- vation of Manna, Exod. \6. 19. the making of the golden cdfe9Exod.31.19. and the rebellion of Ac people, N*m.i6 1 3 . Like that of Pbine*4 y vjho was angry for the fhamefull for- nication, Nhi*s 2 j. 8,1 1. Like that of D*vid 9 who was angry N for 17 8 The Christian Conftll. Chap *gl for the ftiamefull incefl of Amno* % % Sam. i $ . u Like that of Mas, who was angry for the cruelty and a poftafie of Ifrael, i King, 1 9,4. Like that of 2fjhemiab>\N\\Q was angry for their uiury and oppre[fion l i\k6.5.6\ Like that of Uremic, who was angry forrheir impenitency and contempt of the Word, ler. 6.T 1 . L&e that of our Saviour , who was angry for the hard- neffc of their hearts, Mar. 3 % . 2. Let the motives, or moving caufes of our anger be an earned defire to maintaine the glory of God, Exo.16 to. Fer- vent love of neceflley and vertue, Pf*l. 119 \ 59. utter hatred and deteftation of vice ; an indultrious care to pacific Gods wrathfull difpleafure, /*/&. 7. 8. And a carefull endeavour to fave the party with whom we are angry. 3 . Let the proper, and principall objeel: of our anger be fin onely,orTendingour good and gracious God,namcly our own, 2 Cor. y. 1 1 . and others. Nnm. % > . By accident, conf equent,fe- condary, and lefle principall the (inner. 4. Let the proportion, and meafure of our anger be more for finnes againft God ; leffe for finnes, wrongs, andtrefpak fes againft: our felves. y . Let the manner be deliberate,advifed,charitable,nierci- ful!,moderate,and companionate, lam. 1.19. 6. Let the continuance be fhort, ^.4. 26. Then our anger thus qualified, it being not againft the per- fon, but fin of our neighbour, or of our felves: it proceeding from love of the party with whom weare angry: ic being a- gainft fin,for Gods glory, becaufe he is thereby difhonoured: it is not finfull, but a holy affection, very helpf nil, and much a- vailable for us Chriftian fouldiers;as-great2? and thefe ever which the Lord hath made us $verfeers, Ails 20.28. 3 . Our foules, Dent .4.9 . Onely take heed unto thy felfe, end keepe thy foule diligently. 4. The Word of God, 1 Tim. 4.1 6. T*k* heed unto thy felfe and to the dotlrine. Heb 2*1. Therefore we ought to take the more earnesl heed to the things which we have heard , leafl at any time we fbould let them flip. 2 7>et. I . I p. We have a more fur e word of prep he fie, where unto you doe well that you take heed. Secondly, The things which irmft be taken heed of, are 1. Sin it felfe in generall : Some particular finnes in fpeci- all, as the molt dreadrull and dangerous, namely, i. Induration, or hardnefie of heart, /yw.p.5,6,7* 3 . Apoftafie, 1 ry ? *ZTak* heed brethren left there be in a* > ' r V ny of you an eviS heart of unbelief e 3. Vnbeliefe,3^* ia y in departing from the living Qod, 4. Hypocrifie, W*/. d. 1 .16. Mar.%.\ 5 . Luke 12.I. 5 . Covetoufnefle, Luke 12.15. 21.34. 6. Surfeiting and drunkenneffe, Luke 2 1 .34. 7. Fornication,^ rj / QTake heed left there beany for* > e ']?'< nicdtenr , or prophant perfen, 8. Prophanefle,S 5 ' £f* Bfau. Thefe and other finnes are the cbiefeft things we fliould take heed of. 1 . Sin being an cvill way Jonah 3.8. Yea exceeding evil). N 3 It t%% The chrifiUn Conflut. Chap.iO. It being an uncomfortable way of etarfeneffe, leading to infop- portable,and infcrnall darknciTe, i /^.i.^.Itmifleadingout of the right and royall way of Gods commandements, i hh. 3. 4. and It leading untoperdition,7y*/.i.i.e>. a.Sin(a!though few feel ks burdcn,either becaufe they know it not,or they judge it not to be (in 3 or fo grievous, or they be- leeve not Gods Word,or their hearts are hardned, or they are rot tempted,or becaufe it^ being in them, is in its proper place like water in the fea,or becaufe themfelves are dead,fo not fen> fibleof weights and burdens) being a terrible oppreffing ty- rant, Lt*k,.% 1 .34 and intollerablc insupportable burden. I.. To wicked men, and Angels, weighing and' preffing them to thatbottomleflc pit and burning lake, where there is weeping>wailing,gnafhingof teeth, and gnawing of flefh for ever and ever, 2\ Tothefinclifiedfoule,P/4/.3^.4. forcingbim toflica- maine to the Lord Iefus for cafe and fuccour, fheltcrand fup- jortation, /W*mi.i8. g # To the whole creation, caufing it to groane and travaile inpaine together until 1 now,/fow.8.2». 4. To the Lord h knfelfe, he being wearie to beare it s If*, r . 14. and prefled under it as a cart is prefled that is full of fheaves, AmoiiA 3. Sin being a burden' too heavy for heaven to beare, preffing the Divcls thence : Too heavy for Paradile, expelling Adam tbence: Too heavy for the earth, making itreele to and fro like a drunkard, //*. 24.10. Onely hell muft beare it. 3, Sinne is fhaoiefull, (bame being a fubfequent of finnc: either, 1. Shame,a fruit and figne of repentance, fV>\ 31.19. Zncb* 13.4. Rom.6A\. a. Or (hame, a punifbment for finne upon the wicked and nogodly,although not alwayes here, ltr.$ 3. 6.15. 8.12. but onely fomtimes,/*r.i.a6.yet everlaftmgdiftxneand confui?on are certaine confequents of (innes unrepented of by Gods or- dinance and juftice. a\. The occafions of fiane are to be taken heed of. Evtfie** 1& Chap. lo. 7 be ChriftUn tfwjliff. 18$ 3*6. *Z)i»^C7«f.34.i.finncd,notftiur.ningthcoccafions. U" fephGen.39.10, and fob, lob 3 t.i. avoided the occafions,to a* void the fin: agreeable whereunto are thofe divine direcli- ons, Pro. 1.15. My fonne, if finr.ers intice thee, confent not» 5.8. Come not nigh the doore of her houfe. a 3. 3 1 . Look not on the wine,& c. To avoid and decline the occafions of theft, whoredomcand drnnkennefle; itbeingaspoflibletakeepdry wood laid upon the fire from burning,as to preferve cur fclves from fin without declining its occafions. 3. The inftrumems of fin arc to be taken heed of? namely, carnall friends,evill company ,corrupt and falfe teachers. Mat. j.)$.'BewAre of falfe Prop bets. AJat .10. 1 7 .'Beware of men* Mar J 3.5. Take heed lea ft any man deceive jon. Rom. 16.I7. OMarl^ them and avoid them. Col. 2.4, 8. Beware leaft *nj man fi&ilejou. Pbil.$.l. 'Beware of dogs, beware ofevi/t workers. We are Co to beware of thefe inftrumems of fin and Satan, as that we marke and obferve, &un and avoid them ; and that they do not deceive and delude us. 4. Satan that fubtill fcrpent, the authour of finne is to be ta- ken heed of : For theDivell, like a cunning cleaver of wood, who putteth in firft a little wedge,that it may make roome for a greater, untill it be cloven into ftiivcrs, firft driving to enter into mens hearts by a little fi n,then by a greatcr,untill he hath divided their foules between God and Belial, and foftuvered thcm,that they are madefit fewell for the infernall fire of hell: Take heed therefore of him. r. Sinne is the worke of that wicked one, lobn 8. 44. Ton are of jottr father the Dive 11— and the wer\s of your father ye wit doe. 1 Jchn 3 . 8. Chrijl came to deslrey the works of the DiveB. Take heed therefore of Satan, leaft he worke in our hearts as he doth in the hearts of the children of difobedknee, Epb.2.2. a . Take heed of Satan,w ho is the enemy of mankind, Mat • 15.39. Andouradverfary, 1 Pet.%.%. Yea that wilie old fcr- pent which decciveth the whole world,K*t/. 1 1.0. therefore a Qie and lubtill enemie which will leave no wayes ^at- tempted, make uic of all advantages, and fit his enfnaring N 4 temptations X $4 Tfo ChriftUn Confli8. Cniili i. temptations to all occafions. That ftrongman,0*/4f.i2.?p. tvho hath mightily fhakenthe beftraen that ever breathed, Chrift Iefus onely excepted,therefore a potent,and powerful! enemy. That roaring Lyon walking about (eeking whom he may devoure, i Pet . 5 . 8 and ravenous red Dragon, Rev.i a. 1 3. therefore a curfed,crueil adverfary. 3. Take heed of Sathan,he being fuch an enemie. That no man can matter with might, or deftroy with flrength ; That no man can circumvent with policie,or match with fubtilty * Whom no man can allure by eloquence, or perfwade by flat- tery ; Whom no man can efcape from by flight, or efchuc by fleeing. 4. Take heed of Sathan,who can behold and fee us,and our moft privie,fecret, and retired words and actions. Who can- not be feckided from our privie chambers,or fecret clofets by locks,doores,or all fuch like fortifications ; he foing fpirituall, and therefore quickly in any place : Who is never weary , not needs any refreshing by eating,drinking, flceping,^c. as wee doe and therefore hath opportunity to husband, and manage even thc(eoccafions,as he dotb,to harme and hurt us,. 1 T>ct.$ ,4 $. Seeking al waies t to devoure. Chap. XI. 2)^- £ SouldUrs mnflbe wMchfnH. WAtchfullncflc is not onely as expedient,but alfb asne- ceffiry for*martiall men as the fore-mentioned par- ticulars : for without watchfull vigilance the ftrength of Her* f#/#/,the-hardinefle ofHeSlor, the nobleneiTe of Alexander y the pollicie ofPirrhw, and the good fuccefleof ScifU are ta little pur pofe. Scanderteg that terrour to Turkes, and mirrour for martial! men, ( who with 15000 difcomfi ted the ar niy of &4tu Bajf4 being 40000 : who with the lotle of 20 horle, and 5 foot Hew 5000 of MtifiMpbaes forces. Who with 4000 horfe* and 2©oofoot encountred Mufinpb^ and with the loffe of 500 Ch h f. 1 1 . The Chrifis* C*rtftt3. i $ j 300 menflew toooo, tooke 15 enfignes, Mufttih* bim- felfe, and 1 * others. Who with 6000 horfe encountred Dt- brtM with 14030, flew him hand to hand, and 4120 of his fouldiers. Who with thelofTc of ioo Chriftians, and So wounded flew 1 1 000 Turkes under the Command of MojCes atraiterous revolter. Who with the lode of 60 Chri- ftians flew fbme fay 30000, fome (ay 20006 under the com- mand of //4*and watch unto prayer. 5 . % 3* fiber ^ be vigilant^ becaufe jour adverfary the Dwell a* a rearing Ly- Snwa/lzttbi&c* In which Scriptures, and dive rs more, which ule this military wordjChriftlefos, and hisbleffed Apoftlcs, like wife and warlike Captaines, inftrucl us Chriftian fouldi- crs to behave our felves like thofe who in warre are appoin- ted continually to watch in fome fconce, watch-tower, or other eminent place, where they muft rowfe up themfelves *2ek.j.i7. throughly that they flcepe not : pryingly view upanddownc 2 Sam. 13.54. every where,and defcrie what may be helpfull or hurtfuil to 2Reg.$.i 7 . ^ thearmyorcitty. n*i* of nnx The word in Hebre w fignifying a watchman is derived of a word (Tgnify ing to fee a farre,to efpie,to confider diligently: So that a watchman is an efpiall, a confiderer, a viewer, an obfervcr. •>w The Greeke. words fignifying watchmen, and watchfull- yfZfrwe Men ^ an d to watch, fome of them fignific an abftaining from «f iVfrfl>. fleepe,to awake out of fleepe. Some a keeping guard,feeing to 9 ££f' anobftrving. tfi**ifl+ . In the Latine tongue the word (ignifying watchfullnefle Vigiiia,ayi- j s derived by fome of a verbe which fignifieth to bee ftrong wperevaMuin *tod\ui\y 9 to have force, and power, wherefore watchmen errobuftum ought not to bee flothfuil, faint, and lazie, as flccpers are; •tfe>qH*fi vim but fuch who are in livelinerTe ftrength and vigour. agere; quare By which particulars it iseafie to be feene that watchfull- vfgitesntn nefle is a military word, a daily duty for martiall men (and %T^u7 therefore "for us Chriftian fouldicrsj and what it is ; fwtdormien- namely, tesifed qui vi- An ear neft care to 1 ive every day as one would live upon £Qrefi9jU»t. his dying day, or upon his judgement day. A diligent obferving or'all iuch things as may helpe or hin- der us in our Chriftian warfare. A wary diligence whereby we looke to our felves, to thofe offices Ch a* . i r ; * ie chriflUn Cnflilt. i S 7 offices we take in hand, and thofe things which appertaine un- to them. A carefall obferving of our hearts, and a diligent loo- king to oar waies,that they may be pleafing and acceptable to God. A diligent obferving of our danger?, and our duties therein to be performed. • -~ 1. This watchfnllnefTe if often and ordinarily frequently an4vi^,and to whom not ? Labour wee to know, and learne, ftrive to bee rightly Vfit* inftraftedw, and preffe wee forward to the pra&ife of this pre* I0O The Chiftun Conflict. Chap.ii, prevailing and important duty of watcbfullnefle. ^Motives. I -This adding vigour and victory to our petitions, enabling us to pray more powerfully, and prevailingly, CM*t.26.q r« Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation, 2. This being a meanes to obtaine conftancy, certainty ,refb- lution,and perfeverancein well-doing, Sphef.6. 1 8. WatMng thereunto with all per fever ance, 3 . This difpefing, and fetting the fbule in order to doe all things aright in regard of manner, and end, iofincerity, with delight, with our hearts to the Lord,checrefully. 4. This enabling us to difcerne and know (it difcovering unto us) our own particular eftate and condition. Then which knowledge what more ufefall ? Then which ignorance what more uncomfortable, what more unprofitable ? 5. This fadiioning and fitting us to receive and entertainc the Lord Iefus at his comming,and whatfoever he fends in the meanc time, Mattb.i4.46. 6. This fortifying us again ft fpirituall dangers : So that hereby we are prepared for temptations, Lnke 2 1 . 3 6. enabled to encounter with them, Sphef 6. ancj procure a good iflue out of them, t»ke 21.34. So that hereby we may forefee the better to flee from and prevent the furious and fawning a (faults of our deceitfull and dreadfull enemies. So that by this we may be freed from fpirituall drcames and fancies^ enabled to weaken the body offin, to cleanfe our waies, to avoide or cover our infirmities. 7. This hath fpeciall promifes of bliffe propofed, to pro- voke and pricke us forward to the performance hereof, Rev. 1^.15. Bttfeduhetkatwatchctb. Mattk.iq a t &. l SIeffedit tHiefervtHty&c. 8. This duty being of abfolute neceffiry. Notonelyinre* fard of the infirmity ofour fk{h,Matth. 2 6.4 1. the fnaring eights and fubtilticsofthe world and Divel!, 1 Ptt.5,2. and the uncercainecommingof Chrift to judgement, Mar. 13.33. But alfb to fhun and avaide thofe terrible,and dreadfull mena- cing comminatioris threatned by the unchangeable irefull Cm re vengi ng Iehovah againft the fleighters an4 negledera of this; Ch h p\ i r . The cbrijlU* Confitf. 1 9 1 fo notable and necdfull duty, Rev.%^. If therefore thou [halt not watch I will come on thee 04 atheefe. and then (bait not know what houre Iwillcome en thee. Mattb/i^ 50,51, Tb$ Lord of that fcrvaht will come in a day when hec looketh not for him, a* dm anbonre that bee is not aware of 3 and [hall c*t him him in [under, and appoint him bis portion with hj* focrites. Bee wee all (fellow fouldiers) watchfull Chriftians, yr e ~ namely i.Such whofe delight is in the facred fhining Word of God, Signet. which is a light to our feete,and a lanthorne to our paths, PfaL 1 1 p. 1 05 . Taking heed unto our waies according unto the fame, Pfal, 119.9. As they "who are watchfull, and willing fo to continue, take pleafure in, make great account of, and have a continuall conftant eye unto gladfome lights, and uner- ring directions. 2. Such whofe defire is infatiable to mfinuate, and infert our felvcs infeparably into the fincere fociety of wife and wa- ry Chrift ians,who may helpe and availe us^ much to kecpe us watchful!. He If. I 0.2 3,24,25. Not for faking the ajfcmblin^ together at the manner offome is y &c. No whit affecting evill companions, flcepie, and dead-hearted Chriftians. As they who are vigilant, and carefull fo to perfift, love,and like well, dcfire, and delight in the company of watchfull and waking companions, whofeaflbciationaffordeth much helpe and afTi- \ v sjc. Little regarding, much leflfe requiring the fruitleflc fellowship, and unprofitable preience of fnorting deepen, or dead men, the fruition of theie affording no furtherance unto, but rather fruftrating their intentions. 2. Such whofe hearts,and affections are fet upon things a- bove, not on things below, being afliiredthat our life is hid with Chrift in God, and that when Chrift our life fliall ap- peare we alfo (hall appeare with him in glory, Col, 3^,3,4. having our converfation in heaven, looking for the Saviour, the Lord Ic fus, Phil 3 . 20. Such who are carefull to curbe, and keepe out tneoccafi* ons,and beginnings of fin, taking ftri£t notice, as watchmen doe, 192 The chrifiidti Cwjlitt. Chap.1 il doe, what wee admit, or permit to paffe by our outward members into, or from our of our hearts. For without all doubt. If we doc notaffcdt, and delight in the Word of God, which is a light to our feete, aid a lanthorne unto our paths. If we affeft corrupt companions, and can comfortably en- dure to be with e vill men, and dead-hearted Cbriftians. I four hearts are wholly carried away with the world,after our callings. If we keepenot our the beginnings, and occafions of fin. We do not watch. f AV Watch wee therefore. But over what fhould wee 2^ rv f a u^ e watch? and t»w. C * r ^> Over all,and every of our thoughts, words,and ani- ons, P/aL 1 9 . 1 . //kid I vilt take heed unto mj w*ics. 'David did, we therefore ought to keepe a conftarir, and continual! watch over all our waics. RcafiXil Becaufe the dreadful], and difadvantageous dangers, to which we are fub/e&, 'are durable, yea conftant and continu- al! : Oar fatall,and formidable foes continually fighting againft «s : Our many mighty malicious enemies being painefull and laborious to encounter and environ,to enfnare and intangle us; yea fo that we are never fafe and fecure from Sathans tempc- ftuous,and tyrannizing temptations. Noplace can patronize or protect, fafeguard or fecur^* from the (lie, andfubtill, direfall and dangerous darts of the Divell. Witneffe paradife that peculiar peerelefle pavillion of this world, that dainty, and delightrull Ede* 9 and garden of God, that immaculate inamouring pleafant place decked, and invefied wkh innocent integrity , wherein our firft parents were ftrongly aflailed by the fubtill fcrpent,and fhame- ftlly foyled. No company, no manner of conforts, or* confederates can conferve,and confirme againft the contagious circumventings; and confronting conflicts of the red Dragon. Witnefle the fearefull, yea final! and damnable fall of ludas, a coadjfutour with Chap.ii.' ihcChrt^UnConfiEi. 19$ with the Apoflles, a companion in their labours, a comfort of their communion , and a feleded fervant in Chrifts family. No condition, calling,or eftate of life can exclude, or keepe out, exempt or priviledge'us from the execrable excurfions of the evill one, Witnefle that patheticall pious prayer, of Agar^ Pr*.%0.8» Give me neither poverty y nor riches Icafti&c. No degree of Chriftianity can divert, or turne from us, defend,and free 113 from the dreadfull, diabolical], and tempe- fiuous temptations of Sathan. Witnefle Ad*m aflaulted in his fpotlcfle innocency. Witnefle 'Davids, man after Gods own heart, provoked by Sathan to number Ifracl, 1 Chron.i 1 . 1. Witnefle Peter a valiant and couragicus Champion of Chrifr, winnowed by the wicked one,£*£. 7 2. 3 1 . Witnefle Paul a victorious & vigilam ,and unwearied, and laborious workman in the Lords vineyard, buffeted by the meflenger of Sathan, 2 Cor a 2.7. Witnefle Chrift Iefus the only begotten Son of Godjthe only Saviour of man,and mediatour betweene God, and man.the Lamb without fpot and blemifh,! Pff.3a8.who never did any thing amifle, I/a, 53.9 .£*£, 2 3 .4 1 . was let upon with terrible,and treble temptations, Mat. 4. Yea the deareft of Gods children, and fervants, who are the mod eminent for parts & graces,being fitted, and called out for the bigheft, and moft honourable ferviccs muft lookc for greatefttentations, & moft of all to be molefted with the Divell. For as tyrannizing tyrants offer not violence to the vaft and vanqui(hed,buc to the refitting cities,& corporations, which are replete and repleni- shed with riches & revenues. As pillaging pirats aflaile,and fct upon not evacuated and empty, but the wealthy and richly la- den fhips. As theevifh robbers will not mind to meddle with rogues.and beggars but the well-monied travellers : So Satan, the worft and vileft of pirats,theeves, and tyrants will be dea- ling with them who have rich booties of f pirituall treafurejra- eeth and takes on moft againft fuchwho arerefcuedoutofhfs Qavery by the power of Chrift. Labouring with all his fraud, and force to retaine and recover his prey. When did the divell tempt tsfdamybut when he wasliketheima^eof God? Whew O did X9+ m j0ei*0rtjruvL**juc9. \-baf.ii # &ii he tempt 1*k?K but when he had his fathers bleffing, inci- ting EfMti againft him ? Wfc *n did he tempt /4&eB> but when his (acriSce pleafed the Lord r and then he ftirred up Cain to kill him. When did he tempt Ub y but whcnG xl faid lie was a good man ? As long a* *?*«/ was among the high-priefts, hce was in great authority, credit, and countenance, but when he was turned to Chrift, hce was many waies aflaulted by the deighrs of Satan.Thefe are fpeciall eye- fores to Satan, & a faire marlce for the arrowes of his testations. Thefe doe mod of all feekc the ruine, and doe mod of all harme and hurt the Divelt kingdome, feekingthe impayringand ruining thereof with their utmoft endeavours ; and therefore he cannot but hate,and feeke to hurt thefe moft. Since therefore no place,no compa- ny, no cftate of life, nor degree of Chriftianity can fecure us, but wee are, and mud be in continuali danger weemuft ne- ceflarily bee carefull to keepe a conftant, and continual! watch. Becaufe we are tofcrve God al the daies of our X\vt%>L*kju 75 .yea with all the parts and faculties of our foulet and bodies , I CW.6.10. It is therfbre a matter of urgent neceflity to be watchftill overall our thoughts,words, and a&ions,that fo we may (avingly ferve our good and gracious God, yeildingunta him abfolute obedience without any exception ofany his com- mandements, M*u\ 8.10. totall pbei&ncc with foule and bo- dy,ferving him folely, 1 Car.8.6\not him,and fin, or Satan;for his (acred fcrvice cannot fubiiftand ftand with the fcrviceof Divels,i O.io.to. With the fcr vice offin, Jta».6.i7,ig c WithtbcferviceofAntichrift, l hb.+%. Withtheierviceof Idols,i King+i 8. 2 1 . With the fervice of riches, kM**j& 24. or with thefervice of thebellie,P&/.3.i 8,19. Becaufe we muft be countable for all our thoughts, words, and actions. The Lord will render to every man according to Ws dccds,Rom.*.6.¥or every idle word that men (hall fpeake, Aey muft give account thereof in the day of judgement, Aist % I 2. 1 6. And God will judge the fecrets of men by Iefus Chrift,, Rom. 1. 1 6. It (lands us in hand therefore to keepe a continued conftant watch over all our thoughts, words/md a&ions. Be IV: Chap.ii. ThtChiflUnC$nJliB. iff Be we not therefore in tlie number of thofe ■mvife,«mw«y f and carele flc Chriflians, who watch by fits, and flafhes, ata Communion,on a Lords day,in feme mcrs company, or fbme fuch fpeciaUoccafiononly ;tu take full liberty to wallow in worldlinefle, and other wickednefle, to live licentioufly at other times,and occafions. For to v:atch,and ward warily ,and vigilantly, and after to give free entrance and admittance to an enragedenemy is to little or no purpofe; yea it doth aggravate the exaf perated foe, fruftrate and annihilate all future and for- ager performances. But let us carefully, and conftantly keepe a continuall watch. t . This direftlydi&rencingus from hollow hearted hat- UKbtivm* ting hypocrites,and d ifloyall diflemblers, who may watch in fliew,and for a time : and deciphering us credibly to be with- out contradiction Chriiiians indeed. a. This afluredly afcertaining us, that we are in that holy, and happy condition, intbatblened, and bcncficiail Hate of grace,a fruitfull forerunner of immortall glory. 3. This inakirg us to be punctual ly,arl3 precifcly preft, and prepared alwaies to receive, and entertaine Chriftlcfui our Soveraigne and Supreme Lord, Af «/ 14. 46. our blcfled and beneficial! Bridegroome,/fc/*M5.io. And to be alwaies rea- dy toundergoe voluntarily with vigour, and vi&ory whatfoe- ver odious obftacles, and offer five cpprcfllng occurrences op- pofe us in the meane time in this our warring pilgrimage. 4. This unwearied vigilance Securing, and freeing us from an innumerable intricate infharements, and a numberleCfe fete of fraudulent guiles, and fubuil Satanicall Heights of the Di- vill,i Ptt.1.%. 5. Thisftrengthening, and enabling ustokeepealwaiei a good confeience void of offence towards God, and man,vV#. 24. \6 By which our pretious faith is confirmed, and conser- ved,! lob. 3 .ai. By which we clafpe hold upon, and con joyne our felves in a comfortable communion with lefus Chrift, 6. This wary and continuall watchfollne fle over our (elves O a in, Riaf.v in,anu cuuiccnaanunngusujacuic luiuui iiuiu win aivvaiLS watch over us for our good, P/4/.37. 52,53,34. Let us therefore be al ivaies watchfull in all our waies, and aclions,that we thinke,fpeake,and do good,Sea(onably in time ficting,and convenient, A4*t 2 5.3,ii.Conftantly,witnout cea- fir.g,and intermiflion, Lui^i 1.35. Secondly ,Over our hearts we ought to be watchfull, yea Co as to guide, and guard them with double diligence, with fpe- ciall ftri6tne{fe,and our beft and utmoft endeavours, Deut 4 p. Onely take hesd to tbyftlfe^tnd keepe thyfoft/e diligent fj.Pre,^, 2$*Keepe thy heart with aU dilig9nce>&c. Thcfe are the* well-fpring,and beginning of good or evill,all goodnes,and all (in breeds & begins in the h eart. Thef e are the feateandfinkoffin, theroote, and fbuntaineofallfilthineflc, ^^ij.35:.U^r.7.2!.Z«^.6.45.W^.i2.i5.Thefearethc wombes wherinfin is conceived,hatched,and harboured, Luk* 22.^.^.5.3.^^.1.14. yeafromhence are theiffuesof life, Pro 4.2 ?.So thathell,or heaven,life or death is from the hearr, Thefeare the moft precious,and unmatchable things which wepoffcfle,farrefurpafTingin worth, and true valuation the pleafures,pompe,and proflrs of this whole world, Afar. 8 3 r», 37. Hence is it that the Lord our God, whofe we are, aid whom wee ought to ferve, likes, and loves beft, beholds ^nd looks at especially ,commends,and calls for mofl the heart, and its fmcerefer vice, 7^^,25.26. Hence is it likewifc that Sathan labours with tooth and naile, feekes for with might and maine to pilfer away, poffefle, and captivate the heart of man ; this being the chiefeft caftle and citadell in us little worlds to fway and over-rule , to checke and command the reft : yea -and the prime , and principall poffeiTour and prcferverpf themoft choice, and chiefeft gifts, graces, and good things wee doe or can enjoy. Yea and hence it is, that that malicious enemy of mankind cares not how much, and often men pray, heare,#r. but is well enough content that men bee frequent in all fuch like performan- ces ( and therefore hee little mplefts fuch men , which fatisfie themselves in outward formes) fo bee their hearts bs Ch a p .i i ? Ti* ChrifHw fl/ijliff. I $7 bcc rorten, and naugh^ and fo his owne. Thefe areexpofed to very many, and divers dangers in re- gard of our owne curfed corruptions, Sathans fubtilties, ri- ches, pleafures, preferments, and wicked men. And wee by them are in great hazard, and lie open to innumerable pe- rills.Thefe being deceitfull above all things, ler.if.g. Thefe being ready to run away from God, and good, from gotlli- Eeflfe and gracious performances, If*. 29. 1 3. Thefe being ea- fily ftolen away by the vanities of this world, the deceitfull dclufions of Satan, and the guilefull {kights of our own finfull flefli. Thefe are they that bring all into order, and good frame, or contrarily diflemper anddifordcrall. In the naturallbody the heart may bee found and good;, yetthe hands withered, the eyes blind, the feet lame, the whole body difeafed. But in the fpirituall man if the heart is found and fub- ftantiall , the eye is not proud , not wanton ; the eare is not deafe , but open and attentive to good counfell , the hand is not withered, but fruitfull and open to diftribute, to doe good. 1 Its therefore a matter of greateft moment, and chiefeft confequence to guide and guard, to watch and ward our hearts. That thefe our precious pearles be not ftollen away,and w r c difpoiledofthem. That thefe be not diftained and defiled : that fo wee may preferve and prefent them chad virgins to Chrift, a C*r m 11. 2. That thefe fountaincs, and ftorehoufes of our thoughts, words, and actions bee not annoyed : that fo out of the good treafurie of our hearts we may bring forth good things, M*t. 12.35. That thefe be not flony,thornie,high-way,and fo graceletfc grounds,and barren fields : that fo they may be fertile fields, and good ground, ^4^.4.2 o. That thefe forts and holds formerly potfefled by the ftrong nan of mifchiefe the divell ,a$ his principall palace* ,and prime O 3 places 1^8 The Chrifti4» ConflM. Chap, f i. places of refidence being recovered out of bis rigorous and he!- lifti flavery by Chrift lefus that victorious, and invincible Ly. onoftheTnbeofIudah,4^*>\3 27.be not regained by Satan, reduced, and reclaimed Co bis Satanicali flavery^nd reeftabli- fhed under hi3 tyrannicall regiment: for which ends,and pur- pofeSjthatbe may reentcr,ru!e,and reigne againe, yea, & witfr feven other fpirks more wicked then hirnfclf, /W^r.12.44,4^ hedotb continually beleaguer, begirt, &beftege,&alwaies af- file us with terrible temptations his mod forcible batteries. That fo they may be rich,& royall treasuries repleniftied with* and referving the pure precious, and peerelefle graces of Gods fpirit,and his facrra Word, 2 Cer. ^.Col. 3. 16. yea 6c that fo they may be. holy haSitacions ofthe God-head >the rather dwel- ling and abiding h them by hi s (bn,the fon by the fpirit,and the Motives and fpirit by his graces. 1 Cor. 5.16.2 fir .6, 16. Meanes. Which if (and that we may) doe. KaturabuiM- I# g vefj and alwaies, earnedly, and inceffantly without n iutfi™& a pTQ- intermifiionimploy them well, not fuffering them to bee at ma admotL any time idle, or ill imployed. Thefe are in continual! agita- Sen.de tran- tion,.and conftarit motion and meditation; carefully there-^ quU.anirnzc.i. f orc keepe them clofe earnellly to mind, and mufe upoh f!%r1H: things good and godly, pious and profitable : For as the Mill- in motion turning, and rolling ab^ut in its fwificft volubility, and turning motion doth forcibly and effectually worke upon fuch materialls men load it with, exquifitely grinding- grids of all forts oPgraine for the bchoofe and benefit of mankind : Or fordidly foiling itfelfe, breaking, and bruifing in pieces, with fury andviolenc: foule and filthy rubbifti if put and.pow- red into it, or being emptied and evacuated of objefts from; without, doth heate and harme, fire and inflame,, gnawing; and grating upon it felfe incommodioufiy and inceflantly : Even fo the mind of man in motion alwaies dcth either ear- neftly mind and thinke upon divine and fruitfull meditations 5 • tire and trouble it felfe with- difturbing difquieting dffcon-- tents, with concruciating carking cares, with trivial!, yet turbulent trifles, or other fuch like vicious and vitiating va-- Wiess Orelfedothwafte, weare, and weary it felfe with fruideflc Chap.ii* 7heCbnJtunCe%p3. tp? fruitleffc fome and Froth, fondtyand fruitkfly feeding ft fdfc upon imaginary fldions, atid fantaflicall fancies. Be we there- fore frequent and fertile in fpirituall and facred confidetations and meditations, reinembring Gods name, Pf*f. it p. $y. Thinking on our wayes, 5 9. meditating on God* law all the day, 97. &c. preventing and fupprefling betimt* evill though*?, which alienate from, and make enemies ts—Skee took* and eat*. To envenomed virulent Envie,i Sam, I 8.p. SanleyedDa* vid. Mat. to. 1 1 . Eye eviB. To impious irreligious Idolaters, Z>r*f .4. : o . YoufdW n+ % #^.£^.20.7,8. To pilfering and abominable Theeveries,/*^ 7.2 1 *Sa»,co+ vetedfooke. To abhorre odious Adulteries,iW4f.f .28. committed adul- tery. 2 Pet.2.l+Ejes,&c. "Or to any dreadfull and damnable deeds of darkneffe, If** Scop and fafe guide oureares, the taftcrs of our words, fob 34.5. the doores and portals of our hearts from the hearing of bloud, l[a.$ 5.15 .And from all the entifcments of (in, and fin- ners/TVa.i.io. 3. Wee doe,' and mud often call our hearts to a recko- ning. They who have a vigilant eye,over and upon faithlefle fraudulent fellowes, dcceitfulland fobtill fervants are ever and anon preffing, perfwading, and calling upon them to a through consideration, and praife-worthy performance of their duty, and will daily and diligently reckon and account with them. Our hearts are deceitfull above all things, and defperately wicked, who can know them? ler.17.9. Irs. therefore more then needfull that we fhould, and the more watchfull we are over them, the more urgent we are earnefU iy calling upon, and forcing them to a faithfully fruitfull,firme^ and frequent difcharge of their duties; and the more wee will ftrive to bring and keepe them clofe to holy psrforman* ces,.tomake confeience of them, to fhun and avoide fecret fins ; The more carefull and confiderate we ate, or will be or- dinarily and often to reckon with them : and the more labo- rious in looking Unto them continually ,not by fits and ftarts, it being a conftantcopfcionabkcourfe that makes us good and Gh a p . it , rhe chriflUn CtnfliZT. 2 © I acceptable to the Lord , Dtuteronom' 5. 19' 4. Wedo,andmuftlooketoourheartsatfpeciall occcafi* ©ns. They who are diligent watchmen, although they al waies (land upon their guard, yet at fome times, and certaine occafi- ons, they double their diligence upon fome ferious fervice,and againft feme fpeciall danger. We alfo, although we arc cqn- ftantly and refolutely to perfift without paufing or interrupti- on in an officious obferving of our hearts, yet are we to in- large our endeavours, and with more caution to combine our care and circumfpeclion over our hearts , looking to them mod heedfully and warily in fome particular times of trials by dangerous, deceiptfal), faithleffe, fawning fellowes : bydif* heartening'adverfity, by bewitching, and oftbefotting profpe- rity ; or other wife, when we arc mod provoked and pricked forward to c fiend our good and gracious God by refilling and refolving againft the temptations. Thus let us dutifully and diligently looke to our hearts, that they be found and right. That we may be fenfible of, and fee our owne corruptions,that we may heale them. And that we may performe and practice good duties fincerely with a good and hemeft heart. J. Watch, as againft all fin in generall,fo efpecially againft our perfbnall and proper, which are our mod powerfnll cor- ruptions, whereunto we ate moft prompt and prone , and a- gainft the fundry and feverall occurrences and occafions of the? ferae fins : We do and muft endeavour daily more and more to know and curbe our darling and delightfull fins. As we are throughly acquainted with, yea fo that we directly difcerne and know the difpofition of thole with whom we are conti- nualy converfant, we perceive and fee their faults more thai* Grangers do or can :- So if we are vigilant viewers of our own- hearts, and throughly acquainted with our ownewayes, wc cannot bat perceive and fee more erroars and aberrations in ©ur (elves than others can ; we cannot but find and feele our delightfull DuliUbs, our darling fins. And as duti'ull and dili- gent watchmen ufe moft fedulity,fevcrity,and ftrittnes to fub- vert and fupprefle fecret and lurking home-bred traytours : fo |*e being watchfull Chriftiaus, muti, and will be fuie to curb ftftti ae* TieGhriJtidftOmfltit* Cuatmi. .and keepe under efpecially our darling firines, thofe to which our hearts are moft: addided, and after which they hanker moft,P/*/.t8.i3. Thefe perfonall particular pollutions , to which we are naturally moft inclined, or to which we are mod incitatcd or provoked by our call ings or conditions , arc to be abhorred and avoided, as turbulent trouble fo me treache- rous per fons in a tow ne, asnoyfomc, fmoakie and dangerous chimneyes inahoufe. In thefe we are commonly corrupt judges, -extenuating and excufing thofe we ought wholly to extirpate and expulfe; pleading for, and patronizing thofe we ought to profecute and pervert- mitigating and mincing thofe we ought to maligne and ma fiacre. In thefe is the grea- reft danger, thefc winding and (cruing into our foulcsalmoft infenfibly, partly in regard of our ownc inclination to give them entertainement, partly in regard of their infatuating infi- nuations by meanes of their fawning, fleering, feeming fweet and favourie bewitching inchantments. And the breach made by thefe mud be repaired by renewed repentance. It is there- fore of abfolute ncceflity that we (hould watch and ward efpe- /j/.jo.6. Inmy profreritj I /aid I (haUnt- tmbf€cw*% ve r Be removed. For we are then much inclined and very fubjefl: to abufe the fame. By deceiptfully doting on them, letting out hearts upon them, Pfal.6 a. If). // riches increafe, fit not jour hearts ufon them. Confidently trufting intbem, and boaftingly bragging of them, Pfalme4£.6, They that trail in their wealth, and foaftt&c. Wantonly Ice k*HH»JV The CnrtJlunCtnpicf* ioj Wantonly wafting, vainely and vicioufly confuming the feme. Lake 1 3. i p. £V, drinks^ and be mcrrj. Luke I 5. j j. Slavishly ferving Mammon as our God, placing our hearts upon it as our chiefeft trcafure, M*t.6.n. Cartlefly neglecling andcurfedly contemning the poorc and needy members of ourdeare Saviour, 1 Timotk. 6. f%. I ATMS 1.5. For we are ready wretchkfly then to forget and forf ke the Lord, who hath beene fo bountifull and beneficial 1 to us, *Dcmu 8. 1 f i? 4. left I be full and deny thee, &c Pr$v. 30. p. Yea,and to fecrifice to our owne net— becaufe our portion is bXyHtb. 1 .; 6. Saying in our heart,our own power and might hath gotten us this wealth, Deut t $,\ 7. As therefore the ftag in the faireft green, and moft pleafant pafture looketh moft about him, and fcareth danger: fo fhould we incurgreateft plcafures, and profperons preferments in our moft honourable happineffe here on earth, 5. In the doing of things warrantable andlawfall , as the works and duties of our perfonall [and particular callings, wc mi ft be adviledly circumfpeft, and very vigilant, Luke 3.11, 1 3> 1 4. That we be not flaves and drudges unto the fame; but that we manage them, as with induftrHnd diligence, fo with difcretion and piety ,that we may acotf&fmg to our Rafters di- rection and precept firft feekethe kingdome of God and hir righteotifnefle, Mdttk.6>i%. giving and gaining from them time to cur lelves forthe fincere iervice of God. That we confcionablyimploy eur felves to labour in thefe our lawfiill vocations and callings lawfully, chriftianly, -namely, Teftifying hereby cur fon-likefiliall obedience to the moft juft and irreprchenfible in jun of trials, troubles and temptations. 6. Let the many prerogatives of this puiffmt and prevailing duty agitate and animate, perfwade and pre fie us forward to this divine duty of diligent watchfulneffe, That fo we may prevent thofe many peril*. That fo we may obey thofe many precepts. Thatfo we may poflefle thofe many promifes. That 106 TkCbriJtUnC*nfli8. Chai.i* That Co wc may Imitate thofe many prefidents. That fo wc may paffe through thofe many prefllirct. That fo wc may have intereft in thofe many privilcdgcs. That (b wc may evidence our (elves true and loyall (buldi- ers of the Lord Chrift lefus. And That fo wc may not oncly defcric and difcerne,but alfb difc anull and difable, yea and difperfe and difpoile the many difguifed difadvautagioui tentations of the (lie and fubtiil tempter. VigiUnhm\fi That fowc may eouragioufly and comfortably conquer; €i qui cufit for, aa want of watchfulnefle makes men of valour and va!i- ******* djjy vincible, and often vanquifhed vaflfals: So watchfull vigilance adds vigour , makes oft invincible and victorious. C«AF. XII. CkrijN**fi*fdiers mnfifiie to God for foccour. &Mtj 7. \A Art,a fl mcn °*$*t not, and Chriftian warriours do not J.V1 depend upon their ownc fortitude and furniture ; their owne valour and vigilance; their o wne ftrength and (edulity; their ownc power and policie : but on the helpe , afiiftancc , and protection of the Lord of hofts, their God • for there is no king (aved by the multitude ofan hoft, a mighty man is not delivered by much ftrength, a horfe is a vainc thing for fafety, neither (hall he deliver any by his great ftrength, TV*/. 35. ic#, 1 7. Therefore "David acknowledged that by the Lord he had tun through a troupe, and by his God he had leaped overt wall,P/*A 18. jp. That it was God who girded him with ftrength, Ver. 3 1 . Being therefore to encounter that exafpera* ted execrable Philiftine who defied the armies of the living God,i S*m.ij.i6 WhodifdaihedZ>4v^,V.4a.Curfedhim by his God, Vcrl. 43. And threatned to give his flefh fo the fowlesof theayre, and the beads of the field, Verf 44. He f ublikcly proclaimed that he came to him in the name of the Ix>rd of hofts, the God of the armies of Ifrael, Ver.45 . And confidently concluded that the Lord would deliver hint (maugrc Ch h fin. The chrifiUn C*nfti&. 307 ( maugrcallhis puiflantprowcfle and military munition ) in- to his hands to Imite , to take off his head from him , to give notonelybis, but the carcafles of the hoft of the Philiftines I unto the fbwlesof the ay re , and to the wild beafts of the earth , that all the earth might know that there is a God m Ifrael, and all that anembly might know that the Locd iaveth not with fword and fpeare, Vcrfe 46, 4 7. Hence was it that GiAfn commanded his fouldkrs to cry, the fword of the Lord, lmdget 7. 18. That U*b encouraging his brother tAbi/M , faid , the Lord doe that which fee- meth him good, *S*mu*l 10. i». And lahaziel encou- I raged lehofufhAt and all Iudah after this manner : Thus faith the Lord unto you ; Be not afraid nor difmaid by reafon of this great multitude , for the battel] is not your*, but Gods : — yee (hall not need to fight in this battell : Set your felves , ftand ftill , tnd fee the felvation of the Lord with you, &c. a Chrimicl. 10. 14, 15, 17. Hence i§ it that although fome trufl in chariots , and fome in horfes: Yet the Church and chofen of God will remember the name of the Lord our God ; and for this cauie they rife and ftand upright, whenthofc ether are brought downe and fallen, Pf*l. 10. 8. 1 . For the Lord our God is a Lord of hofls,P/i/.8o. 10.84.. i,3,8,m. 46.7,1 a. having Angels, Elements, Suo, Moone,. Stars, Wind,Raine,ftormes,tempefts, clouds, darknes,lice,*o- cufts, flies, frogs,and whatfoever hath breath or being, athis check tnd command,at his ordering and difpofing. a. Fromhimfafety and fecurity > defence and deliverance in tod from dangers and diftrefles of all forts are, a T1W.4. 1 8. 3. Thofc whom he will defend and deliver, all the tyrant* in the world cannot harm: and hurt, no not Satan, lob 1 . L*k* H.32. a Cor. ] 1.7. Rev.i.io. 4, The welfire and fafety of Chrifts Church and King- dome confifts not in chariots, in horfes, or fuch like warlike furniture, Z*ch. f.\o For no fuch can prevail e againft God, ?r#.i 1 .30. And all fuch hopes and helpes without him are WiK*jrtvani{hij&P/W«*Q.ii» le&ia, J. Fot ao8 The chrijthn Cwflifa Chap.i*; 5. Forhebreaks the bow, and cutteth the fpcarc in funder, heburneth the chariot in the fire, P/4/.46.9. 6. As no power and policy canprevaile againfthim , fo no activity nor ability withont him , Tfalmc 144. 1. Zuh. 9' 13. 7. It is he who doth all the parts of a valiant and victorious warriourfor his Church and chofen, Zick.p, 14. For he it fenfibly feene as a fupreame and foveraigne Captaine is wont to be. He as a louldier doth fight with his arrowes againft his and their enemies. He as a Centurion, or leader of a band, doth march before them in battell accompanied with whirle-winds. Hee, as a Trumpeter, doth found fo (brill and fadding a voice , which (hall difmay and dit' hearten the enemy. 8. It is the Lord which is all matter of munition and de- fence unto them, namely, A buckler to hold off bio wes and batteries, Qen. \ c. t . A fortreffe,rock,tower,horn,(trength,P/: 1 8 1,2,30,3 1,3 1 Ahelpandfbield, Pfkl.13.ro. 115.9,10,11. A battell-bow, 2^6.104. A wall of fire,2.?. And an en- camping about his Church becaufe of thearmy,^rA.9.8. He is the corner by whom we are upholden^zW^.i 0.4. He is the naileby which we are faftned, Ibid. He is the battell-bow by which we are defended ; Hence is it that his Saints and (ervants formerly have done, and ftill ought I. To repofe their truft,and wholly reft upon the Lord,and ftot fay in their hearts, our power, and the might of our hands „hathdonethis, < D^f.8.i7. But with us is the Lord our God *#&*help iis,and fight our battels, 2 Chron, 32.8. For the Lor4 will have mercy upon them, and fave them by the Lord their God, and will not fave them by bow,nor by (word, nor by bat- tell,by horfes, nor by horfmen, H*f. 1.7. , a. Topraife his name for deliverance from dangers paft, faying, PTewillrejoyceintbj ftlvmo*, and in thy »*mt, &c. P/k/me lo.f.'Be thou exulted O Goi^ & c. 2 1 . 1 5 . Therefor* »s8 I give thank*', &C. Pftlmc 18.49, jo. Exod. 15. 1,2, 3,4- Ch a p . i i i 7 be C hriflUn fln/litt* 2*9 3,4 / mil (t*g y &c. Judges y. 2. 3 . To pray to him for belpe, fuccour, (afety and defence. Plead my caufe O Lord with them that drive with me/fight a- gainft them that fight againft me;takc hold of fine Id and buck- ler and (land up for mir.e helpc ; draw out alfo the fpearc f and flop the way againft them that perfecute me , and fay un- to my fcule lam thy falvation, P(sl. 35. *>*,?. Thus lateb when £[ah came againft him, prayed to God for protection, and prevailed, Cjen. 3 1. Thus lck$[sph*t prayed, faying , O our God— we have no might againft this great company that commeth againft us, neither, know we what to do, but our eyes are upon thee, 2 CAr«*.20. 6,7,10,11,1a. Thus Hezs- kj*b prayed unto the Lord, faying, O Lord of hofts , God of I{*rsel,&c. If*. 37.1 *, 1 7,1 8, 1 9,20. Thus while lopm* and If- rael -ought with Am*tek, , Mofes prayed, Exod. 1 7.9. If in fuch concordant conflicls,wherein men and men com- bat together,like in nature, and for number, in ftature, and for ftrength, inprowefle,and for policy; being equally inftrucled in martial 1 difciplinc to manage their warlike proceedings, being equally furnifhed with all manner'farnituTc needful! andfittirg for fight. If (I fay) infighting againft fraile and feeble flefhand bloud, prayer mull be added unto, and ac- company other preparations ; and the people of God have with care and conscience continually cor joyned prayer to other : Witneffe A4ofes y Exod.tj.9. Ssmu*/, 1 Ssm.j.f.Ie* fofsphatiifhroH.to.it&c. and diverfe others. They well knowing, that meanes, although many;preparations,althoagh profitable and puifiant, to be or no ufe, PfiU. 1 ij. 2 . Except the Ltrdbuild&A. Therfore they would not truft in their bowes, knowing that their fwords could not Cave them,P/4/.44 6 and that through God they could pufh dowre their enemies, and tread them ur,der,&c.V.5,7,8,o.And they well knowing that prayer is fanfUfied by God to obtaine his help and ble£fing : that prayer is exceeding powcrfull and prevailing; yeafothat whether other meanes failed or abounded, they would never negled this: which makes fupply where and when they arc wanting, and makes diem powcrfull and fucccffefiill, if fer- P ventljr I 2i * The ChriflUn Conflict. Chap. ij. ventlyufcd. When one told Numa faying, Numa y the ene- mies prepare warre again?} thee,ht cheerfully anfm^ed y but I fit- crifice, implying that the forces of enemies are withftoo-1 and overcome more by the help of God than our own force* How much more I fay ought we to pray in our fpirituall combats a- gainft, enemies which are innumerable,namely, the world, and all wicked men;the flem,andall its filthy luftsjthe Divell, and all evill angels.The world being m aliciousjcruell^rafcyjvaine, & evill;the flefh being rebellious wanton,and decciptfull; and the Divell malignant, mighty, fierce, and fraudulent ; and out felves being fuch whofe weaknetfes arc wonderfull v whofe wants are many, whole miferies are great, and whofe necefli- ties are continuall. Pray therefore that we may prevaile. Reafons. I * ^ or without God we can do nothing, loh.i $.% .It is God which worketh in us both to will and to do of his good plea- furCjP^i.i.i f.Wc cai do all things through Chrifr, ftrengthe- AurJe lib.arb. n i n g us,Pbif 4 1 3. All our hope isin,and help from God, and tap. 6, Gods help is obtained by prayer. There is nothing fo bard, but with Gods help ft mty be mideeafie^on him therfore let w depei % of bin let its fa k help,& fo accomptifh our purpofes Szfth S. An* Chyf ad Fop. **!&**• Hence it is that S.Chryfoftome hath thefe pregnant paf* Amioch. Horn. tiges.Tbere is nothing fir on ger than a man rightly praying: for if 7 *• a woma cotildappeafe that furious governor y which neither feared God y nor reverenced wanjnuch more (hat he provoke Cjod to love who doth ft and by him contwutlly.Hedoth ov*r-mas1er the bet" . 8 ljy& chafe away delightf 3 &C.h°am } Tberci4 nothing more po-iv- in Mat. 1 7. erf mil than a man wifely praying* for if a woman could turn the cruell judge which neither feared God, nor honoured man, mack more [hat he mnke God favourable tohtm>who flick* to continual prayer ;he doth overcome the belly\ & contemn delicious daintier. 3. For prayer is of fuch force and efficacy in this our Chri- ftian wa r f are,that S, Chryfoflome faith, Prayers are weighty we a-* pom if they bee slabli^ed with neceffary wifdome ; and that yon may understand the force therof continuall pr dyer doth vanejtfifh fhamelefnes^wrongyCrueltr^ndrafhnes^and that which frtendfhip hath not done> prayer doth per forme ; and con slant prayer hath delivered her worthy which was unworthy* For thefe are great weapons Chap.I1. ThtChrifltdnCcnfaZt. 2 it weapons if tbejh founded with fervency offpirit, if wit bent falfe,andvaine glory j] with a fincere mtnd,and * contrite heart. ThU doth breai^ offwarres, thu hath made an unaccep table and unworthy nation delegable and grateful!, Againe, Although Cod moved with mercy doth fomethingjet here alfo prayer doth dfford much helpe—-you helping together in prayer —neither dcth he attribute the whole to them left he fhouldpuffe up their minds : neither againe doth he wholly remove them from the pratfe of thh benefit, that he might encourage them and make them more chearefull, and that he might bind them faft in friend/hip a* tuongH themj elves — prayer wot made without cea/ing by the Church to Cjod for him, i^lcls \o. And it had fuch force, that although the doores wers (hut, and chaines did binde the Ape* file , and the keepers did fleepe on both fides at his fide , yet it brought him out, and delivered him from all perils, Againe, Truly all kinds of heavenly weapons are cemprifed in divine prayers, which alone are able to preferve thofe which have com* mitt ed them f elves to C/od~But prayer u an invincible dart, a fecure fortreffe, which doth put to flight as well as one fouldier many thoufands : for honourable David beat downetbat Goliah furieufly running upon him like feme formidable Divell,not with weapons, not withfword, hut with prayer, grayer u the mo ft nc~ ceffary weapon. That which riches nor the multitude of helpers, nor phy fie all skill, nor Prince-like haughtineffe of mind could not effetl, that the prayer of one poor e and needy one was able to doe : prayer I fay, not thatfiender and fiothfull , but that which is ear* neft,a*d doth come from a mind grieving, and a contrite heart* The force of prayer hath quenched the force of fire y hathrepreffed the rage of lions Joath appeafed wars, hath removed battels, hath taken away tempefts y hath chafed away Divelr, hath opened the dcores of heaven, broken the chaines of death, turned away fick? sseffes ^removed dtffleafures, made ftrong cities fha\ing by means of earthquakes , abohfhedor removrd judgements falling from heave n,t he fubtilties of me f, and all evils, Againe,Sfff b force as waters have in trees , the fame have the prayers of holy men in this life; S.Paul with thefe by n'tght did refrefk his mind, did cafi- ly vanquish dangers 9 did offer hie backe as. a ftone toftriper, V % Clryf. in Tieb. ic.spome pec- cantib.Tom.^ /JemHom.iAn zCor.i. Horn, de prto. Tom,S, Tom. f. de in* compreb. Dei nat. Ibid Tom^.depree. \n aii The chriftUn Conflict. Chap. 12. in fuel fort he (hook* the frifon in Macedonia, even fo a* * Hon he brake the fetters by prayers : fo he delivered the lailorfrom crreur, fo he destroyed and difflved the tyrannie of c Divelsf>y prayer. And that which this grave,^odly and goldcn-mouth'd Father doth avouch of prayer ; namely, that nothing is Wron- ger than him who rightly prayeth,that nothing is m ^re pow- erful than a pious man praying. That prayers are great wea- pons, yea the fctcft weapons, have great force, yea fu:n, that theyeafilyranquifh theDivell. The fame dorhthe unerring Word ot God averre as authentically and of allowed authori* ty, Ex^d.jj.ii. When tJMofes held up his hands Ifrael pre- vailed,^. Ifraelceafethto conquer when Mofes ceafethto pray, but by his prayer they conquer and obtaine the victory. Samuels prayer difcomfitedthePhilitHnes, 1 Sam. 7.8,p,io # The prayer of Ifaiah 1 Ktng. t 9.4 Of He^ekiah^ ver. 1 5 . and the people of God difcomSred the huge and haughry hoft of the ArTyrians,ver. 3 5 . The prayer of the Church delivered /V- f*r,/f#.ia.5. Therefore the Apoftle S. Paul being in great danger of his countrey-menthe Iewes, defires the Romans to encounter them and refcue him, nor with fwords, < peares,and fuch like warlike weapons,but by fighting with God by pray- er for his fafety,wherin lieth more fecurity than in all force of armes, by how much Gods power exceedeth all earthly might, /?it«(as Oerr*») was difhefled with thirft,the Ghri- ftian legion, which fought not onely with weapons but prayer alfb,praycd unto God, and prefently a great temped arofe, in which God gave refreshing to the Romans , and dilcomfited their enemies with lightening, which vi&ory obtained by the Chriftians prayers,the Empcrour gave that legion the name of thundring legion. When Tbeodofius a Chriftian Emperour per- SotomMh.? ceived the war to be difficult & dangerous becaufe of the num- ca P- H* bers and ftrength of enemies ,and his Captaines dilTwafires from fighting in the ftrci>hts of the Ahxs : he having (pent the night in praycr,and received comfortable exhortation to war, led out his array in a moft fierce war did overcome the enemy being helped from heaven with great winds which were con- - trary to the enemies. Carolm M*gnw is highly commended ai a pattern for A&the xeorUjn thAt going to fight ft An ding in the Temple y he did commend kimfe (ft, the Church And Empire to Cjod,4nd did joyne mth mU pious people in prAjtr. 3 . Prayer is ofthat force and efficacy, that S. Chryfijfome cals it J weBferttfiedgMMrd, the f Aft ft fortific At ion ,4 ojtAt bulrtArkc of the Chunk rohieh cannot he b After ed dorrn y an unfhafeen muni- tion or rdmpier y A*d dreAdfui to the *Divell. And warrantably, for praier is as an impenetrable bulwark which carmot be pre- fudie'd by Satans pcmicioui&perillous,diabolical direful dart?, A4At,z6.4} 1 , Pray that ye enter not into tempt Alien > It is an im- pregnable fortrefleand tower ofdefence,{afely fuccouring and fhidding againfl: the force and fury of themoft puiflant plots and policies,the extreameft rage and rigotir,the mod barbarous and bloudy combinations of Satan and his hellifh complices, Acl m 1 1 .5 It is an invincible rampier,and irreiiftable engine re- coiling Lack with redundantand redoubled itrength, and pui£ lance the malicious and manifold machinations of the mod in- P 3 flexible Carrlib.^ Tortu^.OmM presat. fl-xibk Sc inraged furious oppofer j of Gods peoole ^ rf-s coun ell was ov C r t hro ? nc, a „d be haoged himfelf 3 , i2 , , 4-Prayermuftbe; 3 y„edtoourChriftianannou; M € r* Wecannot furmfli our felves wirh nrt ,G,i drl «>ur>eM>.e.r8. maybe girtabout with truth, that we ZlhZ^TfT 1 ' Lt we may hHcft p ay Kr fifc S T and P^" 4 usChriftiaii fouldiere S'fuchi^ £. ^ neceflar * for fnrr fV> P «»»,,«. i '" ' ucn ""PO'ttnce.that we mult be- sens Am.zpiJlM. M/", faith S. jfafcj* P'*JU Cuav.IU TheChrifUdnConfill* 115 judging this weighty and worthy workc needleffeandunne- ceftary. Let abje<5t Atheifts deluded by the Divell that decei- ver abdicate and abandon(in heart abhorring, if not defperately deriding) this duty of divine dignity, as aveTfe to their palpa- bly prophane, though pleating paths of irreligious atheifme and ungodlincfle. Letfottifliand fecure, yea all corrupt aric! careltfle Chriftians feized upon andfcdnced by Satan,(enfually fleightthts ferious fervice, ufing it as a matter of no momenr, and as a cuftomary complement, curforily mumbling over a few words when they have nothing els to do, or pattering o- ver fbme certaine fentences dreamingly betwixt flcepingand waking. Let deluding and deceiptfull diflcmblers prepofte- roufly pretermit this pious performance to our Fachcr infe- cret, pradrifing it only proudly & pharifaically in publike to be fecn of men,asan engine to fcr ue themfelves into peoples affe- clions,as a {hiking horfe to catchand inclofe popular applaufe, and as a ladder to mount themfelves aloft, that they may feem to be men of lingular and furpafling devotion. Thus rnanifeft- ing themfelves in the judgment ofSXhryfoftome men dead iii (inr.es and trefpa(Tes,and not w ell in their wits; his words arc thefe: rVhofoever doth not pray unto God daily, neither doth dc- Tom. > Jeprt* fire to nfe this heavenly communication, it dead, and doth wholly cat, want foule andftnfr^ for that u thtgreateU eoujetlmre of foo- lifhnefe And unfenpbleneffe, feeing that the noblenefft of the dig" nit j of this U not lenowne, feeing that frayer u not loved, feeing that it is not e (itemed the death of the foule not to honour God by prayer i for at this oar tody Iwetne, when the fan le is abfent id dead andflinking^ fo the foule , except it doth raife up it felfe, ta prayer J4 dead, mifer able and (linking* And that we are to judge it more grievous than death to bcb< rcaved of prayer. The T>r*+ phet Daniel teacheth tu, who was more willing to die than to be hindered three dayes from prayer; for neither did the King of the *Perfiami command to do any thing against piety, hut did endea- vour to get a refl of three day en when therefore Ifee any to fails pom the exercife of prayer, neither to be delighted with a vehe- ment and eamefl love hereof, I knew for a furety forthwith that nothing honourable arpejftng excellent itjofefed by him, P 4 And ii4 The ChriJIUfi ConflilJ. Ch ap.ii. And thefehis fayings arc authenticall, and ofavowablcao* riiority, being confonant to that unerrinq canfin of (overaigne, and abfolute authority the Word of God, this openly publi- shing and proclaiming fach perverfe and prophane perforata be thofefooles who (ay in their hearts there is no God,— wor- kers of iniquity which have no knowledge,— they not calling upon the Lord, Pfcl. 14. 1,4. and therefore god It ik and irrcli- gi-uis Atheifts. To caft offthe feare of God,/*£ 1 54 there- fore they have forfaken the Lord, which is an evil] and bitter thing,/rr.2, 1 9. and therefore the Lord will come to them to jadgement,and be a fwift witnefle againft them, 4*'*/. 3 5. To, want the fpirit of grace, Z*ch 1 2. 1 ©. or the fpirit of adop- tion, Rom, 8. 15, and therefore not to belong to Chrift, Kom% o. 2 Yet letus fellow Chriftian fouldiers Pray. Firlt,But to whom fhould we pray .* Godonely blefled forever ought to bee the object of our prayers, namely ,Father,Son,and Holy Ghoft. 1. For bee onely is omnifcient, (earching and trying the hearts and reincs, and therefore he onely can difcerne, and di- ftinguifti whether our prayersbcfincere,found, and from the heart or not, le r. 1 7. 1 o. 2. For he only is omniprefent at all times . and in all places* Ffal. 1 39.7. to heare the fukes and fupplk2ck>ns of all jaou§ petitioners. 3 . For he onely is omnipotent, able to give and grant what- foever we ask,to gratifie and glad thoic which pray unto bim, 4. For he onely is the object of out faith, 7#&.i4 i* there- fore of our prayer, Rom. 1 o. 1 4. 5 . For religious worship is due onely to him/Dew. 1 **i ♦. But fuch is prayer, cJWkf. 15.2 5 . 6. For wee muft pray according to Gods fpfrit, Romanes 8.16. which tcachcth .us onely ta pray wnto die Father, GdUt^6. Away therefore with faint pra jer* I. Wbi* ^HHF.tl. TheChftjtUnCtnftm. 2*7 t. Which robs God of that divine honour which is onefy dwctohim,c^f4/ 6.9. a. Which robs Chrift of that office of Mediator/hip which is peculiar and proper to him, 1 77m.2. 7,6,8. 1 M.2.1,2. for hee onely is Mediatour of interceffion as well asfajva- tiun. a. Which is frivilows, and fruitlefle, for they caa neither heare our prayers, know our warts and wift)e$,{/4.6'j.i 6. nor give and grant what we defire, /*jpw.» x 7- 4. Which is idle,and fupcrfhlbus^hf ift being a mcrcifull High-Prieft,fW.a 17. touched wid^bur infirmities, i<5 # to whom wemaygoeboldly,7.35. arid God through the alone mediation of Chrift being reconciled 3 and exceeding mercifull untous,2CV\i % $. % . Which is no where warranted in facred writ, either by divine precept, pracTrifc, or promifc, all which directly erode and thwart this Antiehriftian do&fine. ' And pray we to God. 1 . Which is the fearcber of the hearts and reine9, Pf*f. Mp«\ 2 3. a divine fpiritual! eflence,declaring unto man his thoughts, . lAmos^. 13. privrctoallourfteps and ftations, waict and wandrings, fyi/. 1 39.1. and therefore acquainted with the fecret plots and protects of Sathatis curfed complices. And therefore he kno -cshow tofniftrate their intendments, to turnc their confutations into fbolifhnefle, or caufe them to Tvorkeour greater good. a. Who is almighty and all-fufftcient, for he removeth the mountainesjcommandeththe Sun,{haketh the earth, Sec. lob 9-5>6>7>%> for he created all things with his word ofnothing, Gen. 1 . to him nothing is impofTiblc, gen. 1 8. 1 4 to him *ll things ore 4ud fay. Take away iniquity >a*d receive ttegracioufiy f : Mat.y.j t 4. Would we be fufficiently fortified and furnifhed againft the force, and fraud, and fury of all infernall fiends ; yea fe that, although they fift us, our faith may not faile; although they buffet us, Gods grace may bee fufficient for us ? Pray. Luke 22.31. / have prayed^ &c. 2 Cor. 1 2. 8. / befought 9 5. Would wee bee fur niflied with the fpirit of the Lord, the fpirit of wifdome , understanding, the fpirit of coun- -fell, and might, V/tf.11.2 r* Pray. Luk,. 1 1. 1 3. How much mere fhall your heavenly father give the holy fpirit to them that dike him. 6. Would we remove judgements inflicled, or prevent them being threatned? Pray. Jam,? 13. // any affiiBcd let him pray. Jeremy 26.19. He z,ckiah be fought >&c. 7. Would we have the power and predominance of fin, and the fame fubdued and fupprefled in us,and our corruption* conquered? Pray. P fats 9 13. Clean fe me from fecret finnes % keepemethat prifumptuow fins prevaile not over me. 119.133. Let not any iniquity hnve dominion ever we. 8. Would we have our daily wants fupplied, orrecom- : penfed to us ? Pray. lam. I .$ . If any lacke>&c. and it (hall bet given him, 9. Would wee have our whole life continually dandifi- ed, and wee comfortably prepared &r a better ? Pray. PhiU I.T^jlO. 10. Would we preferve, cherifli, and ftrcngthen all fpi- r ituall graces in w ? Pray . £W. 1 .9 We do not ceafe to pray . and defire that you might be filled with the knowledge of hie wiHtu aS wifdome And fpirit uak under fian&ng. 11. Would we obtaiiie, and enjoy any good ? Pray, hh. l6,2 3 . whetfotveryoufhalLmke the father in my name, he wiM give it you. - Sec9ndly,This is a feveraignc falve for every fore. 1. It Chap. 12, Thtchti{HanC*nflia. 221 1 . It ftopt, and ftayed thofe many dreadful!, and diftrcfling plagues in Egypt. 2. Ittcokeaway, and turned the contagious incurable lc- profie of o^f>«» into perfect fanity,iV*a». 1 2.13. 3. ItefFectually healed the weake, and withered hand of wicked Ierobo*m y 1 King.\$ 6. 4« It reftored Pub Urn to former health when belay fick of a fever,and of a bloudy flixe, vtfA 2 8. 8. ThirdiyjThis hath eflfeC^#». 14. it. 20. 6. 2. It caufed thofe two great lights in the firmamcnt,which continually run with incredible fwiftne(fc,and celerity to ftand flill, /«Aio. 13. in the midft of heaven about a whole day, that Gods people might be avenged ofthcir enemies. J. It occafioned the folid and ftable earth to fhake; as a figne and teftimony of Gods love and favour of his loving and gracious prcfencc to his children, 1*8.4. 31. 16.26. 4. It quenched that raging and furious fire, which was kindled by the fierce anger of the Lord by meanes of their finnes, and waftingly confumed the people in Tdcrsb, Fourthly, This is of extraordinary efficacic and power in allthings,asanVnicornes hornetoexpell, and take away the pollution and poifon, the harme and hurt from every thing ; a Ph) fitian in (icknefle,in every (trite a Lawyer, Fiftly, This is of (uch force and ftrength,that nothing is, or can bee more powerfull, itprevaileth overmen, over An- gels, H§f. 1 2.4. over Divcls, M*tth. 1 7. 2 1 . and with God, Sixthly, This is a fare meuenger, which will not, cannot be hindred : a fure friend, which will never faile, and apuifiant prevailer in the courts of heaven, Zdcb.i}.?. Lu»c*t. 3.5 6 , Mtttb.j.Z. 1 . For the Lord our God is a hearer of prayers, if pious^nd righdy performed, Dettt.+.j. ?{d % 6$ % i* Q thou that heareft prayers* 22Z TheChrijthnConflict. Chap.i2. prayers. He bath pawn'd and plighted his word and prornHe, which is yea and Amen, to grant the petitions of gratious fui- torSjP/^/.jo.ij. 2. For the Lord Iefus who offered himfelfe for us will cer- tainely offer our prayers for us. 3. ForthefpiritofGod helpesour prayers, wee by him crying Abba Father. 1 . We therefore having the aide and affiftancc of G:>ds fpirit to frame our petitions, we being not able to be our owne Meffengers. ?. We having the interceffion of our blefled Saviour, who fealeth ouftorayers with his owne. 3 . We having the gracious, and gladfome promife of our good God, with whom is no variableneffc, nor the lead iha- dow of changing. 4. And it being the nature of God to heare prayers. Pray- er miift needs be fucceflefull and fpeeding, po werfull and pre- vailing. 0bje&. 1 1 Say not beloved brethren ; wicked men, and prophane per- fons, who never pray ;profper, and are glad, their eyes fwell with fatnefle,&c./VW 7$. 'A»fw. For their favours, and felicities are but fickle, and fading, maimed,and momentany, notneedfull and principall, onely fecondary good things not worth the asking in comparifbn of the many matchleflfe mercies, and invaluable favours, which God vouchfafesto thole who faithfully and fervently call up- on him : for i 1 . Admit they are cunning and skillfull racn,furnifhed with allindowmentsofart, and nature to manage with dexterity, and difcretion even to admiration, and aftoi>i{hment the great and weightiefl pollicies , and im ploy ments of a ftatc like *Achitofhel wonderfullinfuchwifedome,2 t $'#iw. 16. 13. Todifcourfc, difpute, and determine learnedly find pro- foundly ofknQttyElenches,andfubtill Sophifmes, of matters Ethical^PhyficalljMetaphy'ficalljOfall created beings having* breath or being ir^the great underfill wqrld: of the earths. center <-hhp.I2. The ChrifunCtnflitt. 12 + center and circumference, its maffioes and magnitude, its va- riety offruks and flowers, mines, mettals, come, and cattell • inhabited,and unhabitable places; of the feas ipatioufnefie, and profundity, of its ftorming forges, irs intricate ebbin" and f3owing ; of the number and nature of many, if not the molt of thofe funreame ftarry bodies ; of the fpheresand planets; of the firft moover,the firft matter, the being of beings, and the chiefeft good with ArifiotU > that prime, and principal] of Phi'ofophers. To frame ordinarily as eloquent fpeech deck'd with all the rieceftary and garni fining ingredients of rhetoricall oratory, as ever did admired Ckero. Yet what is ail this without the laving knowledge of God, and Chrift, wherewith Gods pious petitioners are enriched, i Cor. 1.5. you are enriched in all knowledge,&c. and abound, 2 Cor.8.7 t Even dung, anddroflc,7>&7.3.8. 1. That fodeiightfull,anddefircd knowledge differenceth not from wicked men/J'f*/. 1 1 . 2 5 . 1 Cor, 1.26. This, though deformed and defaced, doth. 'Jlfyrbg 4. 1 1. a. That is no folid * and iiibftantiall, comfortable and cordi- all caufe of re joycing. This is, ler.f.14. 3. That is not life eternall. This is. lob. 17.3. a. Admittheir bodies were deck'd with beauty, and love- linerTefarreforpafTing chat of /*/>/>&, and Ahfolom^ yea of all the formes and faces which ever man fancied, or God fafhio- nec* ; were furnifhed with the ftrength and abilities of Go/iab andSamp/on indued with the utmoft heroicall fortitude and valour of the worlds Worthies ; clad with the moft curious, and coftly clothing the art of man can frame or faOiion ; fed with the choiceft cates of art, and narure, and every waiesas happy in fuch rcipe&s as heart can wifli ; yet all theft are buc fond felicities,beautifying, and delighting onely the taberna- cles, and temples of their iordid and finfull. poore and pined, loathfome,andunlovelyfoules; the matter of thefe taberna- cles being bale dud, earth, and allies ; the (late mutable, and the * 2 * The Chrtpdn Ctojiill. Ch a p . 1 2 . the continuance (hort, and momentany : for they mud bee diflblved, and then all their pompe will take her leave,leaving them helpleflfe, and unlovely to turne to rottenncfle, and cor- ruption, and their poore neglected foules to never endi. g, and eafelefle torments of tormenting Tophet, where their Worme never dieth,and their fire is not quenched,^. Whereas thofe who are fincere fuiters,and fuppliants to the God of heaven. Their foules are beautified and made bkfled with the rich robes of Ch rifts righteoufneflfe, the faving graces of Gods fpi- r if, which are ncceflary to falvation, farrc more adorning then all outward ornaments whatfoever, />/4vid loft indeed the child, but the Lord fent him in lieu thereof a Salomon. £ The Lord dothnot denie becaufe he differs : the petitions of his people are not denied becaufe it is the good will and pleafure ofGod todeferre to give the full en/ jyroent of things prayed for. Butthecaufes wherefore he doth delay our dc- fires, deferre and put off, our petitions are Firft,Either in regard ofthe wicLed,to aftonifh and affright ungodly men from their prefumptuous pcrfwafions oflate re- pentance, and their abominable abufc of Gods patience, and for- Chap. I*]; 7fo Chriptdfi Conflift. 11 J forbearance; and fo to make them the more inexcufa- ble at the la ft day : for by this dealing with his deareft darling* the Lord doth manifeft that a fleight and (len- der Lord have mercy on mee ; or Lord open to us, is not availeable at the throne of grace, but afliduous at- tendance, conftancy, and continuance in crying and calling unto God,£*^.i8.i. Secondly, In regard of his children themfelvcs 1. Sometimes to chaften , and correct their wants and weakeneffes in prayer , as namely their want of knowledge, o8/*/f£.20.i2. for they fhouldpray with un- demanding, I Cor. 14. 14. Their want of faith, lamexi. 6,7. Their want of fervency, lames 5. 16. Their want of humility, Lnke \ 8. 1 1, 1 2. Want of conftancy, Luke 1 1. Their want of obedience, Z*cb % ~]. 1 1,1 1. Their want of fin- cerity,/ > /*/.<56\i8. Andfo to make them fitter for fuch fa- vours and mercies they pray for. 2. Or to make his gifts more acceptable to us, and us better efteeme, and more highly to prife Gods peculiar mercies, and prayer by which they are procured : things dearely bought, are dearely beloved ; things hardly procu- red are highly prifed • the rarity of favours makes them re- markable, trie commonnefle of comforts caufeth too often contempt; peace after warre, a fun-fhine day after tempe- ftuous troublefbme weather, plenty after fcarcity, how wel- come ? whereas when they have long time continued they are little regarded,if not much contemned,wetoo much thirfting after variety and change 5 and loathing too much(for the leaft is too much) long lafting benefits. That therefore we may not deeme and eftimate iiich blcflings tobeofcourfe, and not of kindnefie, but might the more honour God the giver, and highly value the benefits beftowed,it is the good will,and plea- fureof our gracious God to have us wake when wee nave prayed for his gracious performance. 3 . To exercife our graces ;faith,patience,hope,and conftan- cy are tried, irn ployed, and improved by Gods delay ing,and our expecting. Thefc make us cry. louder, and knocke C^ harder harder at the gates of mercy, and pray more unto our hea- venly father* Hce holds off to give, that wee his fraile and feeble, weake and Hammering children by often peti- tioning may by exercifc become more expert : that his gifts and graces in us may bee more manifefted to our felves, and others, CWatth. 15. And becaufe hee loves and like?, defies and delights in the prayers of his people : As therefore thofe, who are delighted i\) y and raviflit with harmonious melody , pay not prefently lead they fbould bee gone, but deferre to reward the mufitians that they might delight them longer ; Even fo the Lord of heaven and earth , much delighting in the humble and hearty , faithfull and fervent prayers of his people, deferre9 to grant, yet fo that wee are no loofers by our waiting ; Hannah^ Eli^tbcth , and Sarah prayed ear- ncftly, and waited long, the firft had a Samuel , \\\z fecond a John Baptifl, and the third an Ifsack, for her (laying. Iaaoi wreflled all night, and in the end hee got a bleffing. 4. To prove our faith, whether wee will feeke unlaw- ful meanes, by gadding to the witch at £W*r, or the IdollofJ?^*. 5. To make us throughly privie to our owne infir- mities , that wee may the more heartily embrace his ftrength. 6. To ftrengthen our devotion towards him, for delay ex- tendeth our defires. Thirdly, Or in regard of Ged himfelfe, namely, to make knowne,and manifeft his 1. Wifedome, as beft knowing what is fitteft for iw. a. Iuftice,beingoflFended,andcorredingus hereby for our « teanfgreffions. 3. Love, denying that wee demand, that hee may give us better ; or when wee arc better fitted for fuch favours. 4. Liberty, he not being bound, but free to give what,and when himfelfe pleafeth. Say Chap.i^ TbiCh?ifiid*Ccnfi8. 227 Say not, beloved brethren, God is not ignorant, therefore OtjeS. 3. wee need not tell him ; hce is not forgetful], wee need rot therefore remember him of our wants 3 Hec is not careleiTe, we need not call upon him. For Though he is not ignorant, yet he will have us tefthim Anfa* thar which hee knowes, that wee may acknowledge his om- nifcience.and give him that part ofhis glory. Though hce is ret forgetfull, yet hee will have us put him in remembrance , thar fo wee may acknowledge his mindfullnefle of us, and ftirre us up to remember his promifes. Though he is continually carefull of \\s } yet hee will bee often, and earneflly called upon, and follkited with oi\r fuits, that fo we may exercife our faith, hope, patience, and other like gladfome graces. Say nor, beloved brethren, God hath determined what oh]t8.A\ to doe, decreed what to give \ therefore prayer is bootkiTe, and unprofitable. 1. For wee are to walke according to the revealed will dnfw* ofGody which en joy nesnis often and earneflly to pray, and nottopeepe,andprieiritothe hidden and infcrutable fecrets of the Almighty. 3. Though h« decrees are not changeable ; yet wee fee, and fenfibly know that his dealings are change- able in divers things, as in turning of bleffings into cur- fes, &c. 3. Though his everlafting decree is unchangeable, yet his temporary conditional! decree may be altered. 4. Though wee cannot perhaps obtaine the benefit wee de- fire ; yet we (hall get as good, or a better, and fo be no loofers but gainers. But rcafen, and refolve thus, or after the like man- ner. 1. Is our G o d fo good and gracious as to give good things to them that aske him, C-3/** /£. 7. 1 1 . Is hee fo omnipotent and almighty, that hee can doe what hee will, TfAbnt 115. 3, Doth his providence difpofe and Q^a order 1*8 The chriflUn CtnfliSt. Chap.i*. order all things, even to the haircs of our heads, and the falling of Sparrowes ? Hath hee (tricflly enjoyned , and ftraightly commanded us to pray , r P/aIme 50. 1 5. Hath hee gratioufly promifed, that thofe who aske (hall have, feeke {hallrtnde, 'JMattb.j. 7. Is hee fo willing to grant, that bis eares are open to heare the cry of the righteous, Vfd. 3 4. 1 5. And is he ready to grant before wee aske? I fa. 65. 24. 2. Is prayer acceptable with God in the courts of heaven, 1 Timothy 2 . 1 , 2. Is it availeable even fo to ad- miration, that it fhields, and fuccours, and fafe- guards us againft the Divell, Epbefians 6. That it obtained victo- ries, remooved Leprofies, cured Plagues, recovered health, ftayed the Sunne in the firmament,^. That it (ancliffeth every thing, takes away the hurt of evill, fweetneth all diftreCfes ,is a fore remge in time of danger, and brings falvation. Firft , iThen \ furely wee will not with the prophane prayerlefle Atheill negled this fweet, and (bveraigne fa- crifice of profitable , and prevailing prayer ; for in fo doing wee fhould leave our felves without excufe , we fhould demonftrate an abfence of grace, and Gods fpi* rit in our hearts, wee fhould loofe all faculty of prayer, and deprive our felves. of innumerable comforts in trou- bles, and of conqucfts over our corruptions aud Sathans conflicts. Secondly, Then furely wee will not dare to perplexe and perfecute God s- peculiar people,, whofe prayers, yea whofe groanes and fighes are fo forcible and effe&u- all with the Lor d of heaven,, iwho is both able, wil* ling, and ready preft to deliver and defend them from the depth of diftrefe, and to execute vengeance upon their perfecutours. Thirdly, Then furely wee will not dread,, nor beedif- mayed with the terrible' aflaults , furious attempts, and dreadful! temptations of Satan ; nor with the frownes, fu- 'riousrage a and irefull menaces of his instruments^ Since prayer Chap.12. the Chrifthn Conflict. 219 prayer is fo powerful! , findc wee a heart to pray, God hath an eare to heare, and a hand to helpe. Hee heard re- bellious and difbbcdient Ifrael asking a King. Egiptian i Sam.8. Hagar for her fcoffir.g Ifimael. CMofes his fervant, in- Gen % i i treating for rebellious , ftubborne , and hard-hearted 7 har oak. The Prophet praying for cruell, contradicting, Exod.7.8. and contemning leroboam. And will hee not heare mee i -j. f a Saint ? a Sonne ? and for my felfe ? Certainely hee l *' *' will. Fourthly, Then furely wee will be carefull, and circum- fped that wee pray not amifle ; for otherwife wee may aske, and not receive, fames 4.3. What man,except ftrange- ly foolifh, if notftrongly frantique, knowing that a peti- tion rightly penned, or pronounced to his dread Sovcraignc was of force to fruftrate all his enemies malicious machina- tions againft him; to procure and purcbafe more mercies then his tongue could crave, or his heart wifli 5 to winde himfelfe into, and lioke himfelfe faft for ever in his Princes favour, would not prepare to put up the fame with premedi- tation and advifement, leaft by his precipitate inconfiderat^- nefle hee not onely loofe all thofe tranfeendently excellent ex- pected clemencies and kindnefies, but alfo incenfe with in- Fatiablerage and fury his difplcafed Soveraigne ? And (hall we careleflely and cuftomarily, formally and for fafhion only, idly, or indecently, faintly or faithlefiely, finfully and not finccrely pray ? Since (Sod heareth not finners, lohn 9. 3 1. neither can abide their prayers who live in their finnes, If a. 1 . 1 5 , Since the prayers of wicked' men are abomination to the Lord, Pro. 15.8. And if wee regard iniquity in our hearts, God will not heare us, Pfalme66. 1 8. Shall wee I fay fo fleightiy, fupeificially, and finfully, fo careleflely, corruptly, and unconfcionably pradife this pious duty of prayer, as to difpleafe, and difhonour God ; to difgrace, and damning cur felvcs ;» and not rather by ra ferious, found, and fin- cere performance cf the lame pnrchafe, and procure honour to God, happinefTeto ourfelves^ glory to God, grace, and goodnefe to our owne foules ?• Qj 5. Pray aj$ TheChrijUanConpft* Chap.iz. 5 . Pray we therefore Pirft, With premeditation, taking r jinto us words, Hof. 14.1. and po wring out our meditations before die Lord, Pfal. 1 02. 1. As meditation ought to goe before fpeech in prea- ching ; fo ought it in prayer alfo. The heart ought to proceede and goe before the mouth in pious performan- ces, Pfal, I9.I4. Let the wards of my mouth, and the medita- tions of my heart, &c. CMattb. s a » 2 5 . «^/ goad man ont of the good treafure of bU heart bring*th forth goad things* As filling goeth before emptying of vertels, fo the heart, foule, minde , and fpirit in prayer muft firft bee filled with good thoughts, motions, defires, meditations, and sffeclions. Prayer therefore is no lip labour, nor a lafie werke ; but painefiill, even a breaking up of a mans heart, and a powring ont of his fbule. Whether rvee pray, or preach ( faith one ) wee ought not to come wildly , and nn- advifedly to thofe facred worses , beating the aire w$th empty words y 4nd peeking oar matter up anddowne, as S,iul his fathers ajfes; butf*rni[&ed % and prepared to our bn/tneffe with fuffcient meditation, I never fiall perfxvad* my felfethat the exa&eSl wduHrie which either tongue or pen can taJ^ in the handling of hii workes can diffleafc Cjod* Have we therefore fuch fore, hand thinking meditations which concerne 1 . Oar miferies,pre{Tures, and diftrefifes. 2. Our manifold fins and iniquities, occafioning the fame, yea deferving all Gods judgements threatned or inflicted, That from thefe two may flow contrition for fin, hatred and indignation againft the fame. 3. Gods anger arifing of them, and hisftricl jadice pro- voked by the fame, thefe meditations procuring and produ- cing feare,d read, and reverence of the divine Ma jefty. 4. Gods mercifull promifes,and gracious properties, thefe forcing and filling the faithfull and feeble foule with faith, hope,;oy,and comfort, Pfal.j7.6>j y $. Society of Secondly, With thofe neceffarie ingredient? of purity, Saints,p«i4i. &e* (for tainted affections will marre good Orifons) of which Chap. 12. TheChriJtidnCcnftti. i$x which I have fpoken in my Difcourfe ofthe Society of Saints. Thirdly, And with a dutifiall and diligent marking and ob- ferving the fruir,and event of our prayers : not dealing with our petitions as fooles and children doe with (tones andfach like toyes darting and flinging them into the ayre, not regar- ding what becomes of them, or how they fall : But like wife, arfd wary fuiters in Kings courts, who oft renue againe and a- gaine their petitions, and alwaieswaite and expeft whether they fhall fpeed, And if not, why i. That not finding fuch defired fucceffe as wee wiflhed and cxpeded,our prayers not prevailing as we fuppofed, we may imitating the Saints of God in like cafe i. Be feelingly fenfible of fuch repulfe, and mournefully grieve and forrow for the fame. />/*/. a 8. t. leaft if thou heave net I become file. 2. Submiffively difcufle, and humbly defire to know the caufe ofthe Lords forfaking us, Pfal.i 2. 1 .^Mj God, my God, 7*hj 9 8cc. 3 . Diligently fi ft our felves, and fearch out the caufe( with .JWimitable in this) why God doth not gracioufly anfwer us, I Sam 14.28. 4. Refolutely refolving to renounce and for ever to relin- quii"h that make-bate betweene God and us,though it be a dar- ling delightfull Jonathan y \ Sam. 1 4. 39. 5. And having found out this troubler of our peace, and hinderer of our prayers mortifie the fame without mercy or compaflion,^. 44. lofi, 7.25. Thus fearching, and trying our waies, as to turne againe to the Lord, Lament* $ .40. And that perceiving by experience our poore petitions and wcake prayers to find gracious and favourable acceptance at the throne of grace, and to have profpering fucceffe, we may be inflated, enlivened,and inflamed 1 . To glorirle, and give honour to our good and gracious God,P/*/.50.i5. 1. To forfake, and forever to abandon the fervice, yea flavcry of fin, and the Satanicall fociety of finfull fonnes of C^4 Beliall, Beliall,7>jfc/.tf.8. the profeft enemies oftbe Lord Iehovah. 3. To love the Lord, who hathbeene fo favourable as to heare our voice and our implications, P/al. ii6.t. 4. Andtobemorerefolute, and ready to pray : good pay encouragetb to worke cheerefully and conftantly. Liberal!, and bountifull beneFa&ours win, and allure conftant,and centi- nuall cravers. The Lords readineflfe to heare did animate T>*- vid, and fhould us like wife to perfift refolutely and conftantry in prayer, P/*/, 1 1 6. 2 . Sect, 2. Why rsefhould pray for Kings and all that are in Autho- rity ', and for T*bat y why for ^a/lours and for what, why for our Children, and why alfo for enemies. THuspray we not oneTy for our felves, but alfo for all- men,! Tim.2.x . namely which are capable of fuch gifts, graces,and good things which we pray for:Three forts are un- capable of the graces Gods people petition principally fbr.To- wit,The damned in hell/The dead in Chriftjand the defperate impenitent (inner, whoiins the fin againfl the Holy Ghoft,and therefore thefe are not to be prayed for* 1. The damned are capable of no grace, no good, no mercy, no favour. Dives defrred but one drop of water to comfort and coole his tongue burning and broiling inthofe intolerable and infernall flames^d could not obtaine fo fmall a favour. 2. ThcdeadinChriftaredeftituteof no grace, goodnefle, freedome,favour, honour, or happinefle* they enjoying to all eternity fuch and fo many glorious bleffedneffes, that the heart of man cannot conceive or imagine, much le(Te can the tongue of men and Angels expreffe, and declare the fame. To pray for the firft fort of thefe is frivolous,and fruitleffe. 3 To pray for the latter is needleffe, and unneceffary ; and im- poflible to doe good to either^ To Sicim." The Chrijlian Ctnflift. 233 To pray therefore for either is finfulJ, and unlawfoll ; be- caufe unneceflfary and unprofitable, becaufe it is not of faith s for faith, and every article of faith mull be grounded upon Gods Word and Canonical! Scripture. But to beleeve that the dead arc to be prayed for is not grounded on the fajcred Word of God, there being in the Canonicall Scripture to warrant the fame neither Teftimony or precept, Example or pra&ife, Promife of re ward, nor punifhment threarncd for the negleft thereof. Therefore fuch prayer is Impious, becaufe no where war- rantable. Hurtfull (becaufe (infull) to the petitioner. Need- lefleifin heaven. Vnprofitableif in hell. Impoffible to doe good whereibever therefore not of faith, and utterly un- lawful!. 3. The defperate living capable of fome earthly, corporall, temporall favours : but of no heavenly* fpirituall, or eternal! grace, we may net pray for any fuch in their behalfe, but one- ly for thofeotber whereof they are capable : thus CMofts foe Pbwobythe Prophet for leroboam, 1 King. 1 3. rf. CMofes was fo farre from praying for,that he prayed againft the curfed con- fpiratours,M*w£.i 6. 1 5. The Lord forbids Sumnel to mourne for SahI> 1 S*m.i6.j. D^t/^prayesagainft the wicked, ?/*/» 5.10. 50.5. And Saint Uhn telleth us there are finnersfbr whom we {hould not pray,i fob. ?.i $. But it being Gods pre- rogative to know who are his, 2 Tim. 1 . 1 p. and although they doe oppofe, God may give them repentance to the acknow- ledging of the truth, and to recover themfelves,&c. 2. Tim.z* 25,26. Take wee heed that we pray not againft, no not wicked men. 1. Pray we may againft the caufe of a wicked man, not his perfon,he being a brother. 2. Pray we may againft the plots of private enemies a- gainfl uSjnotagainft themfelves,! Sam. 15.31. 3 . Pray we may,and muft againft the whole body of Satan,. l*d £ .$.3i.Pf*I.i29; 5m 4. Pray we may againft fome notorious member of Satan* »amely 1. If *34 The Chriftun Conflict. Chap.i2. i. lfnotasour,but Gods enemies, Iliunning carnall de- fire of revenge. 2. If they are knowne to be incurable. 3 . We aiming at Gods glory, that it may (nine ; bis chil- dren bee bettered ; not limply wiping the deftruclion of the perfon. 5. Pray we may againft them conditionally,namely, rather that they may perifti,then any longer reproach God by malice, and hinder the falvation of many. But to returne, and proceed . Pray w e for Kings,Princes, and all fuch who are in authori- ty, lTim.2.2. 1 . That they may have Gods gracious favour, and needfull protection from all evill. 2. That they may have his good guidance, and divine di- rection in all their waies . 3. That they may abound in knowledge, prudence, wife- dome, and difcretiontoknowhowto goein, and out before their peoplejtounderftand how to judge them,and to difcerne betweene good , and bad, 1 King.^.jyS.p. 4. That they may be furniflied,and fitted to doe judgement, and/uftice, Df*M.i*. P/4/.1.10. 72.1. Give the Kingthj judgements O god, and thy righteou/neffe unto the Kings Sonne. $. That they may have fortitude, courage, and upright fc verity to punifh tranfgreffours with fit penalties, Pfrf. 101. 8. Pro.to.%. 6, That they may have temperance, and not be given too much to pleafures, nor to profits, c Deut.\'j.\7. ?r#.g'i.4 a fbr thefe two have perverted many, 1 King. 12.10. 7. That they may have difcrcct clemency to rule, and reigne over their people as their head, doing them good, and behaving themfel ves numbly towards thenv 8. That they may be carefull of their fubjecls good, ruling over them for God, as deputies under another King ; and therefore according to the will of God, that great King com- manding good, forbidding evill; being carefull notonelyof their ohct,2. TbeCvrijtidvCoTiftiet. 235 their bodies and eftatcs, (1^.41.49. butalfoand cfpeciallyof their foules and (alvation. And therefore that they would, 1. Pray to God for their fubjecfls, 2 £00.14.171 1 Chronl 3p. 18. 2. As alfo exhort, provoke, and ftirre them up to religion, and pious performances^ hfh. : 3 2,6,8, 11. p. That they maybe zealous for Gods glory, truth, and \vord,fuch who feare God ; praclimigitthemtlves, and fee- ing that it be praftifed in their Courts and Countries. For as well the knowledge as the practice of a righteous life is the fpeciall gift of God, and therefore to be begged o? $ and prayed for from him. Likewife the knowledge and the practice of civill ;u- fiice i6 a lingular gift of God, by prayer therefore to be eh* tained. And all Chriftian people are bound to pray for theif Prin- ces and Governours, that God would give them the rore-na* med kinds of judgement and righteoufneiTe, celefliall and ci- vil!, P/d/.7*,i.For jufticeisfo neceffary in Governours fa- preaaie and fubordinate, that S. Angnftine faith, luftice being Augufi.Ub^. removed, what are kingdom* s fave great robberies ! — Acer* ca P'4. there are all venues. The realbns to inforce people thus to pray in the behalfe of Motives. their Kings, Princes, and others in authority,are of great vari- ety and validity, pientifull and prevalent, many and of great moment. 1. Thus to do is theprefcript and command of our good Aprtceptk andgracioiw God,our fimrentf aadfoveraigne Lord,7rr.?9.7* Seeks Ah exemplo. Tertul.Apol. Marian, ie Re- ge & Reg.in~ fiit.cap.6.pa£. ^muffaxU* *$6 7 he Chrifikn CmjliB. Ch a p . 1 2 ". Seeke the f etc* of 'Babylon^ and fray unto the Lord fork. I Tim.i. i . Tray for Kings, and all in authority ,&c. 3. Thus doing we imitate the pious pra&ifes of Gods holy ones whom we ought to follow as they followed Chrilt. W* aS (faith Tertullian) pray alwaies for aB Emperours, that they way have a long life, a quiet government , a fafe family, ftronje armies i a faithful co**fe3 9 an hone/} people, a quiet c$u*trej y and whatsoever are de fired of men and C*far. Y et were E m- perours in thofe times ty rannicall periecutours. How unlike are the unchriftian tenets and diabolicall damnable praclifes of our adverfaries the Papifts to thefe of the ancient Fathers and the Primitive Chriftians.- Heareoneoftbemfpeake, loanntt diariaua in a booke of his dedicated to Philip the third King ^of Spaine, printed by authority. He commends the fact of "lames Clement a Dominican Frier killing Henry the third King of France , calling it a renowned conftancy of heart , a memorable noble ad— againe, the King being flaine, he raifed to himfelfeaH excellent name— againe, fpeaking of the weak- neffe of his body, he faith, a greater power did f trengthen his forces and courage. Before he faith, that the Monk was rc- fblved by their Divines with whom he confulted, that a ty- rant may lawfully bed eftroyed. Andhehimfelfe faith in the fame Chapter, that if Princes oppreflfe the common- wealth, if they are intolerable with vices and filthinefle, they may not onely lawfully, but alfo with praifeand honour be deftroyed. Excellently therfore faith our Church in a prayer,to be laid on the R ft of November, whofe religion is rebellion, whofe faith ufattieny whofe praElice is murthering of foules and bodies. 3 . This.is a matter of important weight and urgent necefli- tic ; for, 1 . No King, Prince, or Potentate hath thefe gifts or graces of himfelfe, but by grace and inipiration from above, 10632. 8, p. The inffirationof the Almighty giveth underftauding, fir eat men are not alwaies wife* EecL 3 . 1 6\ 5.8. I o. j . ler* 1 5 . 1 7* Every man is brutifr by his knowledge. 2. None can give thefe' graces and excellent endowments but God onely, who beftowes them upon thofe whoask bjm, M 3 £ c t. 2. The Chriflidn Ctrfiff. 237 2ob 58.3^. Whohath putwifdome in the inward pdrtf, or who bath given underHanding to the heart ! 3 8. 1 2 . where fhaf\ wif- dome be found i &C. Whence then commit h wifdome? and where it the place of under (landing? Ytx£.lo. God under ft andeth the -way thereof, &c. 23. It h Gods blefilng which makes all thing prof pen. us and fucce fie fall, Pf. X2 7. 1 .It is he that giveth falvation unto Kings, Pfal. 144. 10. It is he who leads in the way of righteoufnefle in the midft of the paths of judgement, Prov. 8. jo. A juft waight and ballance arc the Lords, all the waights of the bag are his worke, 1 6. 1 1 . Mans goings are of the Lord, Prov.io. 14, The Kings heart is in the hand of the Lord as rivers of waters , he turneth it whitherfoevcr he will, Tr ov. 2 1 . 1 . Yea every mans judgement comineth from the Lord, 15^25. 3. After he hath given he often takes away againe, as from Saul y from whom the Spirit of the Lord departed^nd an evill fpirit from the Lord troubled him, l Sum. 1 5. 1 4. and with- holds- his grace of afliftance r hb ia.20^ He removeth away the ipeech of the trufty,and taketh awaythe under (landing of the aged, he powreth contempt upon Princes, and weakenech the ftrength of the mighty. Ier. 51.57, 1 will malee drunlee her princes and her wife men, her captaines, and her rultrs, and her mighty men > faith the King nbofe name u the Lord of hoajls. 4. When thefe and fuch like graces are wanting, in the government of Kings and Princes , iubje&s dare not com- plaine, check, controllor reprove them, lob 54. 1 8. // it fit to fay to a King thou art wicked t or ta Prince s ye are ungodly! Subjecls neither can nor ought to correct their Princes. Menutfh" 5 . Where they be wanting, Kings and great men are wu> re , ked, and all things go to wracke andruinein a countreyand common-wealrh, Truv.iui 1,14. *By thebleffmg of the up- right the city U exalted, bat it U overthrown by the mouth of the wicked, where no com fell u the people fall. 29*4. The King by judgement e/Iablifheth the laud, but be that receiwtb gifts uverthroweth it. 31. $. Left they dri^and forget the law, and pervert judgement of any of the ajfliftcd.Scjlef 10, i6„#W# tht* 238 The ChriJIUn Conflict. Chap. 12, thee land when thy King U a c hil d, and thy Princes eat in the morning. Lewd Governours are like leaking (hips which drowneall. AhuiilL ^ 9 Thcfe and fuch like gifts and gracious endowments do ineftimably enrich and ennoble tl e parties themfelves with God and man: co^rlrme and eltablifh their Thrones and Scep- ters, and make their fubje&s unfpeakably gladfome and grate* full. For, 1 . A King that ftteth in the throne of judgement chafe th a- way Will with hta eye, Tro .208. 2. The throne i*t fahlifhed by right eoufnefe, Pro. 16.TI. Yea rigbteoufncffe exalteth a nation, 14. 34. Take away the wicked from before the King, and hi* Throne fhallbe efahlifhed in right eotifneffe- Prov.i^ 5 . The King by judgement eftabhfb- eth the land y Pro.79.14. 3. To doe jnflicc and judgement U more acceptable to the Lord than facrifice, Proverbs 21. 3. In thefe things, name- ly , in exersifing loving kindneffe , judgement and righte- cufneffe in the earth , 1 delight , frith the Lord, leremie p. 24. 4. Thofe bring Shelter, fuccour and fafety to fub/ec*ts, I fa 32. 1 6, 17, 1 8. Then judgement {hall dwell in the wil- derneffe , and right eoufist ffe remaine in the fruit full field y and the work* of rigbteoufncffe /ball be peace, and the effetl of right eoufneffe quietneffe and ajfurancc for ever; and my peo- ple flail dwell in a peaceable habitation , in fure dwellings , and in quiet re fling p laces, Jeremy 7. j, 7. 22. l$ , 1 6. Did not thy Father eat and drinke , and do judgement and jnflice, and then it was well with him? Hee judged the caufe of the poore and needy , and then it was well with him , &C. $. A divine fentence U in the lips of the King $ he (ball not tranfgreffe in \udgement, Prov.l 6. 1 o. 6. i/£ King that ftteth in the throne of judgement fiat' tereth away all evills with his eyes, Proz*erbs ao. 8. tA wife King fcatteretb thi wicked, and bringetb the wheele ever item, l 7>ro t 2 ; 2 5. 7. Mercy Si ^c t.z. 7 m curtjttdnctnpttt. 239 7. KMercy and truth pre ferve the King, and hU Throne is upholden by mercy, Pro, 20. 2 8. 8. Where thef- gifts and graces are, there is health, ftrength, fafety, delight, and the bleffing of goodneflc, Prov. p. And fo they are a meanes like wife to prop up and preferve the common-wealth : For, 'By a man of under- ft an ding and \*ot*lrdge the flate of the land p. all bee pro* longed, Proverbs 28. 2. Whereas, The Prince that roan' tetb under 'Handing is a great oppreffour, Proverbs 28.16. 10. From thefe do flow the conftant and comfortable con- tinuance of a country, the majefty and maintenance of a king- dome, Pro.* 8 2.29.4. 11. By meanes of thefe Princes and Potentates prolong their dayes, Pro>i$.i 6. procure health, Pro. 24. 6. and pros- perity, /*r. a 2. 15, 16. 12. Subjects live joyfully (as we do this day) re/oycing when the righteous are in authority, Pro. J p. 2. In peace,pie- ty,and boneftv, 1 TVw.2.1,2. 5. Diverfe and dreadfull are the effects and confequents of ^ **&&> evili and unjuft government. I. In regard of the Governours. For, 1 . They will keep cvillfervants, Pr 0.19 .12. 2. They will tranfgrefle for a tritie, Pr^i8.2 1 . 3» They will pervert judgement, *Pro. 1 7.23. 3 1 . j , 4. They oppreffe the poore, 7V#.28.ij,i6. 5. They are in danger of curfing,Pr*.24. 24. 6. They will be contemned, Pro.i 8.3. 2. In regard of the people or fubjeds. For, 1 . They (hall figh and mourne, T*r 0.29,2. 2. They fhall fearc and flie, Pro. 28.28. 3. They will hate and curie, Pr0.24.24.X~ . r ,. 4. They will defpifeandcontemncP^V^ ™ CrabI X 3. In regard of the countrcy. 1 . It (hall be wofull, EccLxo. 1 6 m 3. It {ball be deftroyed 3 PrQ.224, 3.1? 24 ° The chrsfikn Cwjiici* Cm a p . 1 2 5. It ft>allheconfumed,/*r.2i.i 2. Anmf.6 t y. 4* It fhall be defolatc, CMic* %$> lo, 11. Shn forjom {*k*'fi*!Mepkw9d, &c. 4. Such as the Princes and principal! men arc, fuch will the people tbcmfelves be, either in truth, or in femblance and ^hew.lFnotinpraclice,yetinprofefTion. For as all inferiom bodies are ruled by the-Moone, all the Starres are lightened 01 darkened by theSun; all celeftiall bodies caried as the firft mo- ver, fo fubjefts generally as their Princes. As the rivers taft of their fountaines or fprings, fo people of their Princes proper- ties. As members are ruled by their head, . fo people by their Scilicet & Princes. As children by their parents, as fervants by their ma- -vulguA manant fters, fofubje&s by their Soveraignes. Such as is the Prince, crovfo Ttgt*. foch will the people be, is*n ancient laying. •Tales fblentef- * Citizens are wont to be fneb in the commonwealth, as art fe in Republic* t^ir princes y faith "Plato. cives, quale: b Minfor the moil part do nfuallj loohe upon the cenverfati* fmtprincipes en 9 f ,£„> ?riw ^ f aith Hervdia*. ^kr!tluruni g The^holeworld is di^ofed tothe example of King,, faith homines vitam C/aud$ap m It is' therfore more than needful 1, of extraordinary principu fame- waight and moment, andofurgentneceffity,thatwefliouId ri. Herodian. pray for Kings and all in authority over us. « Regu ad ex- i , N ot one iy if they were vile and wicked, G^.30.7,1 7. iTpZni'Z- 47-7- ^^.8.30. iS*m.l6.l.D**.6.ii. lTim.2.1,2. f?k? Claudfan. *• ^ ut a ^° tnat we fo° u ld powre out our hearts and foules unto the Lord, that we flhould beconftant, continuall and im- portunate petitioners attbc throne of grace for our godly kings andgovernours,/p/Ii.i7. 1 Kin.i.^.PfaLioa. 71.1,1 5. and that fervently, inftantly with zeal and earneftnes, for even the ftrongeft, thewifeft, wealthieft and raoft godly Princes and Rulers have need of their peoples prayers for the fafety of their perfons, foules and bodies,as alio for the good fuccede of their goyernment,P/4/.72.i,i5. 11 8.2?; What and if therefore not onely diver fe deboift and licen- tious, riotous and tofle-pot fvvinifh drunkards who oft times drinke their wit out of their heads,their health out of their bo- die^and God out of their foules, bad rather drinke day after day S e cr.il The Chriflkn ConfliB. M* day,and night after night a whole moneth together the Kings MajeftiesheaJthjthan pray in fervency and privacy one hcure for the fame : But alfo many more moderate men deem it true devotion to drinke hourely and openly beyond excefle for the Kings health and welfare, and a part of precifenelTe to make a conference of praying conftantly and privately for the fame, and therefore they for their parts make drinking of healths a principall part of their devotion and piety towards higher Powers, and to go in lieu of their prayers in private for them, thinking they have manifefted more really and truly their love, piety, fervice and duty unto them* and done them more and reall good honour and fervice in caroufing and quaffing of their healths, than if they had prayed for them : As if great men had more need of healthings than of prayers, or as if healths were thebeft prayers they could put up for them, or the beft and moft acceptable facrifices they could offer up to God in their behalfe. When as in truth (although many vilifie and upbraid, deforme and deride, fcorne and fcoffe at, difpa* rageand difgrace all fuch who will not roareand revell,quaffe and caroule, play the good fellowes, in the worlds language^ and health it, they being reformed and reclaimed from their drunken courfes and company , taunting and taxing them of unmannerly unfociablenefle, fingular ftoicifme and furlincfle, difdainfull and dilcontented diicour telle and degeneroufneffe, proud and pragmaticall peevifhnciTe, rufticall rudenefle, coy and uncomplementall clownimnefle, humourous and fcrupu. lous perverfnefle, of factious indifcreet over-fcrupulouspre- ciieneffejthcfeheathenifti healths are but the panders, bawd« and attendants to intemperance, excefle and drunkennefle. Thefe were a part of the Divels homage, facriflce and fervice at the firlt, and had him for their Authour,as faith S. Auguftine andS.^yK. / intreat you (faith S. Augusline) and adjure jou by the 4ugje Tempo- dreadfull day of judgement , that you would bamfh when you re Swn ' **■** feafl together that filthy cuflome of drinking , by which in *\ large weafure without measure three by three witting or un- willing are wont to drinke, as being the foyfon of ths'DiveUi R for %+z TheChriftianConfliSl. Chap. 12. for that unhappy cstflome doth yet remaine as a relique of Pagans • and whofoever [bat pratlife thi* at hu owrn or other mens feaftr, let him not doubt bat he hath facrifeed to the DiveS. S. Bafil alfo in bis Sermon againft furfeiring and drunkennefl^flhe wing the drunken healths and rounds which were in ufe among the pot-companions of* his times, n^t mucb differing from ours , faith a little befb r c : They have the Dived the ant hour of that law , and finne the reward of the viftory. Thefe are condemned, and long fince cryed downe by the ancient Fathers and others, isfugnftine ^ Hafil, jlmbr6fc % and others. S. Ambrofe y the corrupt, curled, and common cuftome of fwaggering Bdials in their hellimhu- Amb cat* 17 de mours# Li* ** d r **kf t0 ^ hetlth of the Emperonr % fay Helta & J*ft m *^ e J » **^ vhofoever pledge th not his healthy let him bee 1119, guilty of devotion. A fantafieofpiow devotion. Let u* drinkf for the health of the armies t the prowejfe of the E attestor the health of children^ &c. Thefe are fuch an indignity to good and holy men ^ that tliey defire not to have others drinke or pledge their Ju2.Sem.13* laealths. For ,( as Saint t^/ugttslme faith ) None can offer 4t Tempore. 4 greater indignity to the holy Angels and holy men y than they voho by drinking in thetr names doe aifay to kj& their foules. For, in fo doing, they do make fuch the patrons* caufes , and occafions of their drunkennefTe and riot. Yea, their healths and names are made a common prologue and paflage, an ordinary fhoe-horne and uiuall inlet onto, and a frequent plea and patronage to beare out , and a not unnfuall apologie to extenuate, if not excufe the excefle, intemperance and drunkennefTe of roaring ruffians, andofloofe andbeaftly drunkards. Yet (thefe being fupreame and fbveraigne fupporters in this our warfare to ftablifh and fuftaine the kingdotne of the Lord Iefus, the womans feed, and to fupplant and fub~ vert the Serpents fide or Satans kingdome ) let us like loyal J r loving, religious and obedient fubjecls, drinke forourowne health, and never furceafe to follicit, but with all feduliry and diligence petition at the throne of grace, and heartily pray S b c t .2 i The Chriflian CenfliS. ' 24 3 pray for his Majefties health and happy raigne \ and for all that are\in authority , that they may not bee weaker or W'Orfe than in former tilnes and ages, that they may not be wanton and wilful] , fcctire and earelefle , but valiant and warlike Tilling witbflrength, vertuous and wifef ru- ling by reafon and righteoufneflc. Tray therefore and lay, give the King thy judgement O Lord, and thy righteonf- ntffe to the Kings fonne y &c. Pfaltne 72. 2. And for ad that are in Authority ^tkat under them nemay (as indeed we do) i'*da peaceable life in all gedlinefe and bonesly, I Tim, 2.2 , Thefe who are in authority beingof great ufc, and in place to do mod good. 2. Pray we for Paftours and Preachers, the Meflengers of God and Minifters of his Word, I. Before their ordination , powre out our petitions before the Lord to fend faithfall labourers, not litherand licentious loyterers into his vineyard, CMatth.g.i 3. Hence was it that the Church ordained Ember"VVeekes immediately before the times cf ordination, that people Should faftand pray for able and approved, pious and painefull,good and gra- cious guides to be let cvct the Church of Chrift which he bath fo dearely bought. a. At the ordination and when tbey are admitted we are to pray : Thus the Apoftles Paul and Harnabas werefepara- ted for this waighty work by fafting, prayer, and laying on of hands, Aflsi^.^. 3. After their ordaining alfowe ought to pray for them, Ephef.6. ?p. Tray for me. Col, 4.3. Wit hall paying for «/. I Th*fc.t$. Bret hren pray for tv. 2 Thef.^.j. Brethren pray for us > that we may be fitted and furnifhed with all abilities, gifts and gracious endowments need full for our fo excellent, eminent and difficult calling : for we watch for mensfoules, Htb. 1 3 1 7. And who is fufficient for thefe things, 2 Cor.z.\6. Asalfo with fidelity and painefalnefle in the ufc and imploy- mentofthefame. Pray for us, that our greateft defires may be (tore of fpiri- tuall gifts, 1 fir* 1 4.1 , to do good in profiting the people, fa- it 2 ving 24* rhe chriftUn Conflict. Ch a p " . ill ving our own (bules and thofe who heare us, i Timofh. 4. 1 6. Pray for us, that we mayefteeme it our grcatetrdignity to doferviceto the Church and people of God, 1 Corinth. 14.3. Eph.^ 1 i,i a. Pray for us, that we may be aflfured our beft fcrvice we can do to our people is to preach the Word aright, admonifli, re- prove, exhort and comfort them: to pray for them,toadmi- I nifter the Sacraments, tocatechife, to conferre with them, to give them good example: and therefore that we may ftirrc up our felves to be mod pain^ull,patient,con(lant and chearfiill in theie pious and principal performances, 1 Cor. 15.10. Pray for us, our calling being very difficult in regard of our waighty worke ; which is to quicken fuch as are dead in finne , to (Irengthen the wcake , encourage the feeble and faint-hearted , to comfort thofe that are troubled in confei- ence, to ftand againft all adverfe power. And we being men fubjeel to like paflions that other are, A&s 14.15. And we having no ability nor aptneffe to performe our minifteriall fun- 6tJon,except it be given us, 2 Cor. 3 . 5 y 6. Pray for us, that we may be apt to teach, r Tim.^.t, being fiirnifhed with matter worthy to be uttered, and with a facul- ty and facility well to utter the fame. Pray for us, that fuch gifts and graces as God hath beftowed on us may be bettered, continued, and fucceffefull. For if we be faithfull in our furjdions>we muft be fure moffi of all to be oppofed by Satan and his complices, Z4C.3A .Lft{* 2 2.3 1 . Satan well knowing that the way to fcatter the fheep is to imite'the fhepheard, Z*ch. 1 3.7. that the way to rout the army is todifcomfltandput to flight the chariots and horfc- men. And our failings are fo dangerous, that thofe amongft us that periftvperifh not alone,* /*g.& 24.60.7^/.! 27.3, 5. & 128.3.2^6.8.1;. 1. Thefe being as grapes to vines,gra(Te to meadowes,flow- ers to a gardcn,corne to fields ,and fifties to the fea. 2. Thefe being the building of a mans houfe , (jen. 1 6, u 'Deut.is.p.Rtitbq.ii. zSam.j.i i, 1 2,27. and therefore the p r-ua Hebre wes derive Ben of Banah to build. Loving children are the building of their parents. y 1 P o ° f f £JJ) 3 . Thefe being the prime poffeffion of parents,their chiefe heritage and inheritance, Gev.q. 1. 1 have poffetfed a man of the Lord . TfaL 1 2 7 . 5 . An inheritance. 4. Thefe being an ornament to their parents, being 1. As arrowes keen and fharpe in the hands of a mighty man : And therefore as a quiver of arrowes did adorne and accommodate an archer and a man of warre, lb do children their parents, PfaL iij. 2. As olive plants , fome higher fome lower, fomelefler fome bigger,fome younger fomeelder,deck and beautifie a fe- minary, fo children are a glorious ornament to thofe families from whence they are as fromnurferies beftowed into the world, 3 . As carved and poliflied (tones and pillars of the Temple, 1 which were not onely profitable to uphold the whole fabrick, but being finely hewen, curioufly and cunningly wrought, did . decke, adorne, and beautifie the materiall Temple , fo chil- dren well brought up and educated, did build up and polifti the fpirituall Church of God : and as it is a credit to a gentle- man to have a company of tall fellow es to wak on hin^fb it is Sect.;*; The ChriflUn CenfliSt. 247 an ornament and credit to a man to have a company of well- curnir'd children. 5. Thefe being as fruit to trees, therefore called the fruit of the wombe, Dent. 28.4. Pfst. 28. 3. & 1 32. 11. Fruit they are, becaufe they are derived and defcended from the bodies of parents, as fruit fprings from a tree. They are alio delight- full to parents as fruit is to our tad and mouth. The more fruit- full a tree, the more blefied in our efkeme. So children and childrens children are a great blefTmg,P/4/. 1 28.5. 6. Thefe being fuch favours that the having of them is a blefling. 1. In nature, which teacheth all creatures tofeekthe pro- creation of their kind,men naturally defiringthem when they arc wantingjgreatly arTe&ing them ifenjoyed,& much lamen- ting the lofle of them, thele being the works of nature in us. 2. In grace, whether they are good or bad grace teacheth us to efteeme them a blefling, 1 . If good and gracious, for then not onely a mans name is hereby continued upon earth, his fubftance remainetb in his ^ame, the common- wealth by him is furnifhed with good members, but alfo the myfticall body of Chrift is hereby in- largcd and augmented. 2. Ifevill, for then the jofticeof God is glorified in their dcftru&ion, and they may be the progenitours of pious per- fbns. This nature teacheth net. Yea thefe are fuch ablefling, that the want of them was efteemed formerly a curfe and a reprocb,(?*». 3 0.2 $.& 2 ©. 1 8. t S*m.i.6.l*dg.i i .3 8.£«t 1.15. Men fbould not murmure at,or miflike the increale of children as a burden, for thus to do is an evident argument of a diftruftfull and defperate minde, 2^r#*.4 < 43./yii47.^.^/^.6.id.& 16.31. But wanting they are to beg them of God who openeth the barren wombe,Gtf «. J5.1.&25.21.&30.12. iS4m\l.lQ.L*fa.l$. 5. All married folk chiefly and principally ought to defire •childreniocthe increafe of Gods Church apd Kingdome^Pray they muft that they may bring forth and triune up many chil- dren to the Lord, 1 Sam.u11.Pf.12S. 3,6c 144,12, one pearlc R 4 *f 148 TheChrifthnCwflid* Crap. 12. is more worth and farre better then many pebbles.Orie Iambe than many wolves, one Ifaac then .many Ifimaels, one lacob then many Efaus. Defire we children therefore not onely to prelervc and propagate our name and memory on earth which finners may doe, &'#/.34.li,i5. an horrible blafphemy. Kin^s God* deputies on earth, Eccl. 1 0.20. Rich men, Ibid. Rulers, Iudges and Magiftrates, Exod.2i.2%. ^5.23.4,5. Parents, £xod.2i.ij. Pre.2o.io. The deafe,£#w. 19.1+ E jemies, Job 3 1 . 3 o. and of all others in particular : But that all manncy of curfing is forbidden, and condemned in the word o* God, Rom.\2.i^. f 3Iefebnt curfe not, /4w.3.p,io.C*r/^&c.lj!*/r things ought not fo to be. 4. Little confidering that fuch hideous and hellifti language manifeftly declareth, not onely their barbarous and bloody curfed cruelty towards their o wnc children, whom they have notonclypoyfoned and polluted with originall corruption, butalfb with many a&uall tranfgreffions, by their noyiome negligence and execrable example. Bur alfo their owne dia- bolicall and divellifii difpofitio.i and condition, their filthy hearts fuming -up fuch infernall fury and their grace- Icfle and godleffe fpeeches , fmelling and favouring of the M* . ThechriftidnCwfliZt. Cftyi?.i2« the fire and brimftone of the bottonaeleffe pit. What and if divers careleffe parents latisfie themieltres as having Efficiently if not fuperabundantly done their devour in this particular towards their children, if they now and then curforily and carelefly, idly and inconflderately give them a concife formall & complementall God bleffe thee" Miftakc me not I pray, as ifi I di fallowed of children asking parents blef- fing,or of parents blefling their cbildren,cither of that kinde of bleffing whereby they bellow teraporall and tranfitory fa- vours on them, like Cdlefobletting his daughter, IttAg.i.l J. or of that other when they wifh and pray for good things to them, fo as 1fi*ac,l*cob, Ub y and others blefled their children. It is the thing I prefte and perfwade unto. Onely I defire that men would not make that a matter of complement which is of great confequence and fliould be a matter of confcience : that they would not (lubber over and flight duties requiring our moft feleci and ferious fedulity : that they would not frivo- loufly trifle over fuch duties for forme and fafhion fake, which crave our moft inftant and intentive fidelity, frequency, and fervency and our exa&eft indeavours: that they would not reachleflyreftfatisfyed in giving now and then a God bleflc thee more out of cuftome then confcience to them for whom they ought to fupplicate aud follicite without ceafing : po wre out their moft pious and patheticall petitions and importune the Lord Iehovah with fervour and frequency. For i . Muft we pray for all men, i Tim* 2. 1 . how much more for our children whom we have infected and poyfoned, di- ftained anddcfiled with the contagious loathfome leprofy of fin,which nothing can cure; with the foule and filthy abomi- nations which nothing can wafli away fare the precious blood of that immaculate Lambe Iefus Chrift. I 2. Muft we indeavour to doc them all the good we poflibly Iftay and can. Firft, Not ©nely concerning bodily and temporal! blef- fings and benefits. Firft,by feeding and fbftering, protecting and preferving, doachiiig and comforting, lodging and defending them, G>/k 31. Sicr.i; TheChrifiianC$nflm. 251 ax. 7,^. *Deui.r.ix. 1&M.1.23. iK$Mgij.iil lob^il 13. Pjk/.i*.?. If*,66>l%,l$. Cant.S.ic. Ltik : ll.ii i lz.& 15.22. Het.ll.2$. Secondly, by providing aforehand with forcfeeing provi- dent confideration. • 1 . Meanes of maintenance, ^8.25.5 . 1 7#w»5 .8. and thet- fore ooght to teach and trame them up in Tome honeft art, fci- ence, trade or occupation whereby to live and prcfit the Church or Common- wealth, 1 Sam.i 7.3 -$.Z*ch.\ i^.Mat. 4.21. and in fuch whereuntothey are futeft , being mod futa- ble to their natural! inclination and perfbnall endowments^: appropriating and applying the beft guifted aa.the-moft fele- cled fervice,;£v**f.2i.i$,i$, 17. 2 Chron. 21.3, Lakj 15.31. Yet not fo farre forth as to bequeath bountifully to them, to fupport their ftate, : and maintaine their greatnefle and gentility^ and leaving to the reft little or nothing, five fbme light tide as Matter or Miftrifle to live withal L' 2. Comfortable commodious and convenient marriages, gem a 1 .21 . & 24.3,4. & 28. 1 . & 34.4.^* $8.6*. Indg.!^. Ruth 3, i . yet with their own mutuall content and agreement, C?r*.x.9. Thirdly, And wonderfull commodious, profitable and ad- -vantagious. 1 . This giving light unto their cycs t Pfalme 1 9 . 8. eM 1 9. 2. This making them wifer then their elders, Pfal. 1 19. ICO. 3. This preserving them from errours and every cvill way, Prp.2.10,12,13. & $.6. &-6.21. 4. Tlfis being a matter of rejoycing unto them, Uremj 5. This being and bringing life eternall, M.17.3. 6. This fo farre excelling other knowledge, that in compa- rifon thereof it is but dung and drofle,P£*/. 3 S. And therefore although many if not themoft parents teach not, or if at all, yei teach (lightly andfloathfully too too care- lefly and aid negligently their children. 1. Either in regard of the want of knowledge and ignorance. of true religion which fwarmes and abounds in them. 2. Or in regard of fond and falfe perfwafions touching this duty wherewith they are portefled, that this and other foulc- faving duties peculiarly properly and oncly doe belong to the Minifter. 3. Either in regard of Minifters negligence and ignorance in not incitating and exhorting them hereunto. 4. X)rbecau(eof theirovvne floathfiillneffe,negligence or Idlenefle. Yet let us all beloved brethren teach our children, and that 1 Timely * c *•*£ The chrifiUn Ctnflift. a J> 3 ! "1 . That being timely fcafoned herewith it may not depart from them,P™.ia.6. 2. That mortality may not prevent them & us. 1 1 Timely< 3. That we may gaine comfort to our confei- ewces upon the difcharge of our duties. " That delayes may not damnifie nor endan- ger them. Gods religion can abide no mixture,it being pure and perfect. . The Arke and T)agon cannot (had toge- 2 Truly, , ther. for 13. God and W cannot be worshipped togc* I ther aright. J 4. Chrift and r BcU*lhwz no agreement,! Cor. 1. Leafttheybedalled, dulled, amazed or confounded, through over-much, over- x Difcretelv^f hard or over-long inftru&ions. 1 • Lead they be difcouraged o,r difmayed from going forward through difficulties difclofed unto them. 4 Diligently, for their wits are wandring and gadding,and their memories fkle and flippery. 5. And the nearer our end approacheth, the more let us apply our felves to inftrufl them carefally, Dent.^ 1 .#• 3 2.e£ 33. lojh.ii & 24. cordially and continually. Confidering 1 . The great and unfpeakable loffe of our mifpent time pad and gone, 1 ^.4 3. x. The invaluable and ineftimable gaine of time prefent,andr pretious in redeeming the fame by enriching our felves [and ©rhers,P/*/.po.i 1 C/rf/.6\i o. 3. The lamentable lacke of time to come, the day of out life being worne and wafted, and the night of our death come when we cannot worke, Pro 6.2. lob.94. 4. The eonftant and confcionable care that /hould bee in us to continue in well-doing, Matth. 34. 46, Romanes 5. The 254 TheChiJIlMnCpnflicl. Chap. 12. 5 . The privi'edges and profits of our perfeverance in piety .and pious performances,£*i\i. t o . t>. The ioceffant and incredible growth in grace which Should be, yea and is in us i f we be fuch we feeme to be : as the Saints of God are and have beene, ?/*/. 92. 12. Rev* 2. 19. All which expreffcly and earneftly incitate and exhort us hereunto. Secondly, By counfcll and advifing, exhortingand perfwa- ding them to good things, Gen. 19. 14. &^.i. Ruth 5.3,4. 2Chrtn.i2.2. Pro.%1 1,^,3. and earneftly without ceafing, calling «pon them to continue and proceed in the true fervice ofGod, 1 £fif£.2.2,3. 1 C^.28.9,10. for as it is impoflihle to keepe -flcfli well favoured without feafoning,as it is impolli- hie for fifh to live without water ; as it is irnpoflible but that the rofe fhould wither which is overgrown of thorncs.'So it is impofiible that children which with many vices are affaulted .and not fuccourcd, bur in the end they fhotsld be infamed and to the dishonour of pa rents moft wickedly overcome,and it is impoftible for parents to have any comfort ofcheir children in their age, unlefle they have inftru&ed them in vertuc and god- lineflfe in their youth. % Thirdly, By cor reeling them, gen. 3 4.30. Pre. 3.1 1. &q. 3. & 19.18. e^ ai. 15. & 13. i3>*4. & ap. 15, 17. H't. Firft, Although many parents in regard 1. Either of their fond and fooliih pity ,prepoftcrous love and carnall kindneffe. 2. Oroftheirblindnefle and blockifhneffe in looking on their childrens faults, 3. Or of the grudging and murmuring of their children, Pro.T? 18. '4. OrofthechildifhorcarcleflTefearc of hurting or mar- ring them. ?. Or in regard of trifling and frivolous feare of ill report in being accounted and reputed cruell and tyrannkall t . Either rebuke and corred not at all like Dtvid, % Kin^ \fi> 1 ^ Or S e c T.l, Tht Chrtfihtn Cttfbtf. j j j 2. OrJightly and tenderly when the fault is great Iiie J5"/j> 3 . Or for fome faults not for other* 4. If not, footh them up in their finfull waies, jdblfying and * bearing them out in evil],or praifing and commending them for the fame* Secondly* As divers on the other hand, 1. Either rebuke and corred them fharply andfevcrely, when the fault is light or little. 2. Or punifh, or rebuke at all when no offence is done* 3. Or rebuke and corred for weldoing. 4. Or without admonition and inftruftion. Yet this unplcafant and unfavoury duty 1 . Is not onely confbnant to the office and duty of parent^ for what fon is there whom the father chafteneth not : no chaftening argues baftardy but fonfhip,H#£.i 2. 8. 2. Biitalfo of necefiary importance, and inconccaveable vtility ; Ifwith moderation, councell, and according to the quality ofthe offence, Epbef.6 4. C*l. 5.21. 1. For foolifhnefle is bound in the heart of a child, this is a raeanes to drive itout,Pr*.2 2.i5. 2. Therefore it muft not be withholdcn, Pro.z$. 1 2. 3. This being am canes to deliver from hell, Pro. 2 3. 14, 4. This giving wifedomc to the correded, Pro. 29. 1 y . 5. And reft with delight to the father coneding, Provi 6. This teaching and learning them obedience, Heb.^.%. 7. W hereas impunity mcourageth in eviil, baiteneth and helpeth forward their deftrudion : Publiquely proclaimeth parents hatred, Tro.i 3.-4. and openly doth prognoftkatc jheir fhame focceeding,JV*. 1 9. 1 5 . 8. Andthisbeingfopleafingto God, whofe we are, and whom we ferve ; that Saint /iugmftine arnrmeth,that they who Auiufi. ia cruet fie their children* yonthfull *ffeEHo*s offer to God fetch d jibrf/herif, facrificeai .d^rahamdidubo offered hUfen* Fourthly, By praying for them ; for ought we to pray for all men, how much more for our children, bone of oar bone and. %%6 the chriftUn Cenflitf. QiAV.itl and flefh of our flefh, whom wc have impoyfbned p.ndpollu- ted with divers defiling diftainings of or jginall and a&uall contagious fins and tranfgreffions. They being alio to encoun- ter, not (bme effeminate and womanish forces, nor onely. fome forcible and furious foes with a few ftiort skirmifting* excurfions. But to enter Pel Mel into this Ghriftian warfare without any exception or truce. In which they muft continu- ally conflict with and confront enemies unparaleld for power, jpuifTance and pollicy, for cruelty, craft and cunning without lntermiition and interruption untill at death they having con-, quered (hall be crowned. Fourthly, Pray we not onely for friends and favourites,kin- red and acquaintance, neighbours and neare all yes, whom God hath linked to us bynaturall and civill bonds and liga- ments. The Lord having knit and conjoyned us by thefe out- Ward ties for the mutuall good one of another, and that wee . might be helpefull each to other. But alfo for Grangers, with whom we have no acquaintance, whom wee never faw or knew, yea and for enemies who hate and hurt, curie and ca- lumniate, plague, and perfecute us even unto death. Thus Abraham pioufly prayed for the wicked Sodomites, QenA 8. 1 3 . Thas to doe was expreffely enjoy ned by our Soveraigne Lord and Saviour, And why may not w£ more probably conjecture, if not conclude, that Chrifts pitifull and patheticall prayer on the Crofie was the caufe of the converfion and calling of many thoufand le wes after his death and refuuedion. Fifthly, Pray for all men,t Tim.2. 1 . of whateftate,dcgree, condition, or calling foever, be they friends or foes, good or bad, pious or prophane ; If bad, that they may be called and converted ; If good,t*hat they may be ftrengthened and eitabli- * fhed in this warfare. CW.i 9 .fVe musl not defpaire oftho/e that ^u£uft. in be evill* but we mufi more earnestly fray that they may be made Pfal. 5 6. good, for alweies the number of Saints is enUrged out of the number of the wicked, faith Saint tAuguftine. 6, Pray extraordinarily, with more then ordinary ardency ofaffection, fo as to cry mightily unto God, lonah 38. more earneftly then at other times, £«^.2 2.44. with (Irong crying, Hebrews 5, 7. fo as to wreftle with God in prayer, £*«?. 32.24. 1. Atthe point of (death. Thus that pious Proto- martyr Saint Sitven> AEls 7. 60. cryed wkh a loud voice. Thus that unp?.raleld Convert the penitent thiefe upon the Crofle, Lu^e 3$ 42, Andourblefled Saviour, 'JMatth. 27.46. cryed with a loud voice ; for ufually the tempter is then mod trouble- fome, and truculent with his laft encounters, and moft labori- ous onfets. Then are we our iclves moft difabled and unfitted S to % 5 3 The Chrifiisn ConfbSI. Ch a p . r 2 . to hold nphcad, and hold out a^aind thofe direfalr, and difinall darts of the deftroyer. And then our night haflingly approacheth when we cannot workc any longer, but we mu(t reft from our labours, Rev, 14.13. when we cannot fo praife God, P/. 6*. 5. a* to benefit the Church andchofenof God by our prayers ani other performances. It therefore behoves us; That God may have the greater honour,and glory ; our felve9 obtaine more folace, ftrcngth, and fupport againft the fierce and formidable farwellsofour furious foes: and that we may do all the good we poffibly may or can, before we reft from our labours, then to double our diligence in praying unto our good, and gratiousGod, with vehement and violent vigour, with earned and unexpreflable defires of the heart. 2, In the time of dreadful I defertions.difafterousdiitrefles, direfull difcomfitings, or any more then ordinary and u (Half dolorous occurrences. The fitted time for prayer being, whea men are in the greateft neceflkies, agonies, and perplexities : And amongft all other dutiesof a >fl ifted and affaulted foules, this of prayer being the moft needfall. This is the firft,tbe Jaft, the beft and fureft weapon for weakc faints, fouldiers, and Chriftians; and the moftfoveraigne falve for all fores, and fcddings of body and foule. Hence was it that thofe pious pil- grims accompanied with many miseries and divers dangerous difficulties as wearinefie, wandring, and want of harbour s hunger,thirft, faintne(Te,trouble and di{trefFe,P/i/.i 07.4,5,6. Hence was it thatthofe many perplexed prifoners, who fate in darkene(fe,and in the fhadow of death being bound in afflidt- on,and iron— whole hearts were brought downe with labour,, fothattbey fell downe without any to helpe them, v.\o 11,1a. Hence was it that (ick folke, whofe foule abhorred all manner of meates,and themfelves drawing ncareto the gates of death, v. 1 8.Hence was it that feafaring men whofe foule melted in thembecaufeoftroable,they reeling to and fro,ltaggering like a drunken man beingattheir wits end, v.26^7. Gtyedunto the Lord in their troubles,*/. 6, 1 3,ip,a8;and obtained delive- rance.Hence is it that the Lord commands us te call upon him in the time ©f trouble^Pfao, 1 j Jama 5 .14 Mawj sfjlitled let km Sect.*; ihtChrlfHinConftH. 250 him pray. And the people of God have ppwred out their fbules,and meditations before the Lord Iehovah,7y*4/. i o 2 . 1 . The time being then fitted, and mod feafonable for manta powrc out his heart in prayer when he is in the greateft ^riefes, pinching prcfiures,and oppreffing receflities. 1 . For then he is mod ferfible, and hath the greateft feeling of Gods wrathfull difpleafure,and his drcadfull indignation. 2. For then, hee therefore will be more fervent with the Xord in prayer to have thofe great and grievous fadding ai:d fupprefling burdens relcafed, remooved, or fweetned, and fandified, 3. For then is prayer moft necdfulljmcft feafonable, Pf. 5©. 1$ .and ufually mod fervent, 7^.7.5.2 S4m.12.16. 1 Sam.i .10 4. For then is Gods helpe neareft at hand to his people in mercy, to minifter unto them the greateft hope and aflurancc of fafety and falvation, when they are in the moft dreadfuH and dangerous diftrefles, /. « , therfore feafonable to pray for their deliverance from dolours ^ • r • and diftrefles. It being every day fafe and feafonable to pray *- for the advancement of Cbrift his Kingdome, and the good ^ w * ofhisfubjecls. Say not beloved brethren, The enemies of the Church are 0&jt8,zl mighty, and the moft of men : It is therefore vaine and fruit- leftc to pray for them. There being more and mightier for the ^*/*» S 2 Church 1 6 o 7 he Chrifihn Conjfitt. Ch a p . 1 1 . Church and cbofenofGod then againft them, namely all the blefled Saints and holy Angels, yea the Lord of hofts himfelfc, and all his armies which are innumerable. Say not beloved brethren, The Church cannot be infuch purity as in prime times, neither will it ever be free from mi- fery in this world, and therefore to what purpofe fhould wee pray for that which we cannot obtaine. But flee to the confe- deration of Gods nature 4 and properties,and let them animate, and encourage us conftantly to continue our prayers for his perplexed people. i . For God is merciful), pitirull, and tenderly afrc&ed to- wards his Church.and chofen, even as a father towards his on- ly fon : as a mother towards her fuckiag infant,yea and infinite- ly much more. a. For God is faithfull and true in all his promifes, who al- io hath promifed to repaire the mines, and build up the brea- ches ofhis Church. 3 For God is the onely wife God* beft knowing when, and what to doe. 4. For God is jealous ofhis owne glory ,and ofhis Church, Which is his Spoufe. Hetherfore neither can,nor will forever beare the wrongs and injuries done unto the fame. . But rea(bn,and refolve thus,or after the like manner as fol- loweth : I . Is it a fin againft the Lord to ceafe to pray for his peculi- ar people,- 1 Sam. 1 2 . * 3 . >. Doe the Prophets and Apoftles preffe, and perfwade, exhort,and excitate, to lay to heart and lament, bitterly to be- waile and bcmoane the miferies, and maladies of his Church andchofemyeatopray, and petition in their behalfc to our good, and gratious God* £*«. 1.18,1 p. R0m.12.1f. Sphefi. f. 1 8; And {hall we neglecl it ? 3. If Iacob forrowed fo much for his fonne lofeph a long feafon, and would not bee comforted, although all hisfbnnes and daughters laboured to confolate hkn: How much more ought we to be waile and lament;yea and labour to reiaoyc Se c r .il 7he Chriflidn Conflitt. 261 remove the miferable and grievous preflures, and perfec- tions, not of one lofepk, but of many thoufands, Gen. 37. 34>35- 4. Have good, andgTacious men, beene continually,- and commendably convcrfant m fuch Chriftian courfes, Pf*l. 123. 3,3. Z*w.?. 4 8,49, 50. and (hall we degenerate anddigreffe out of a way lb pious, and a path fo trodden in ? 5. Is conftancy and importunity fo important and prevai- ling,/;*^, 1 1.5,6,7,8. 18.1,1,5,6,7,8. and&allwefurceafe to follicite our gracious and good God ? 6. Have the faithfull, and fervent, the fincereand zealous prayers of pious people procured liberty and enlargement to Saint />*/* r,although bound with two chaines, and kept with fburc quaternions of fouldiers, A8s 1 2. 2,10. Refrefhing raine and fruitfiill feafons tothediftreffed Israelites, when the heavens were as iron, and the earth asbrafe, the raine having beene retrained the (pace of three yeares, and fix moneths, lames 5 . 1 7. And hath a refrefhing raine to the Romane army, whofe men and horfes died with third: : and thunder with lightning by which the Marcomanni or Moravians, & Quadi, or Silcfians weredifcomfited, and had a fucceflefull and unex- pected victory ; for which caufe, the Emperour ±#4*rcw tsfntontHs called the legion of Chriftian lbuldiers,the thunde- KifxmUus* ring legion, and did abrogate the many bloudy, and barbarous decrees, which then were of force againft Chriftians. And ftull weomita duty fo prevalentand prevailing? 7. Is it the will of God that wee mould pray alwaies, 1 Thefc.i 8. And (hall not we dutifully and obediently doe this,itbeingfojuftandequall ? God forbid. March we on therefore being armed with prayer : we can never pray truly except we be armed, neither can we rightly ufe our weapons without prayer. A fouldier of the Lord har- nefleth bimfelfe, and goeth on praying, befeechingGodfor helpe, afliftance,and continuance. Firft, Pray therefore with our hearts, like Abraham* fcr- vant,G'*.24.27. like that man of God tMofes, Exod. 14. ijT, like gratious Hannah, 1 Sam. 1. 13* good Nebemiab y S 3 Neb. % 6 1 The ChrijlUn Conflict. Ch a* , i il Vrntninvuk iM.1.4. and diftreffed hw*h,h*ab *. for God is not onely {tier**" aUm a ^ carcr °f * e VOIce ^ ut °^ thc nearC " Hc forchingand feeing the fecrets of the fame. Second ly,Pray with our voice* this being neceffirily requi- red, except there be fome caufe of weight, and importance to the contrary. i. For our tongues are given and granted to us to praifc and glorifie God as well as our hearts, and they are of all other parts of the body the moft proper and excellent inftrunents ofGods jilory,7y4/.j7.8. 108.1. a. For words are nor onely declarers, demonftrating and fhewing, butalfoftirrersup: ftrengtheners and increaiersof the affeclions of the heart ; for as the reflection of heate com- ming from the chimney maketh the fie r hotter, which before hath heated it, even fo words in prayer makes the heart more fervent, the ardency whereof having before occasioned the fame. 3. For words in prayer arc a prime and principal] prop, 3 markable and fpeciall meanes to prevent interruptions and di- ftra&ions, to keepethe minde from wavering, and wandring, and to hold,and kcepe it clofeto the matter in hand. Pray in publique with the Church or Congregation. 1. For fuch prayers which are mod publique, are moft powerfull,umtcd prayers make a lowder cry,and moove God fooner to open his eares. 2 . For fuch prayers manifeft our mutuall communion, and are an effectual 1 meanes of mutuall edification, ftirring up the 2eale, and inflaming the affections of each other. 3. For fuch prayers are mdft honourable, and acceptable to God, the Lord moft delighting in the joynt confent of bit- people praying unto,and worfhipping him. Pray in,and with our families like good ComeRm, AU* 1 o. 5 o.for,not only is it need full thus to do, to fanclifie our cal- lings, and Gods creatures, but alfo this bringcthboth honour and profit to our houfeholdes. Pray in fecret^hus may we pray in the field, (/**.* 4.$ 3. in •urpurney x (? w ,a8.2o t inaprifon,^. But the moil fecret place Se c t.j; TheChtiflid*C$Hfl$a. . *£j place h for this the mod convenient, /«**. 6. 6. fuck places be - ing freed from rtefrly inticements, agreeable, and anfwera- ble to Chrifts precept and pracTiie. Pray therefore in fecrer, this being a good trial! and touchftonc of our (incerity and up- rightneflc. This arguing, and augmenting our familiarity with God. This bringing mod comfort and confolation ; And in thefe we mod freely and plainely may make knowne our whole minde to the Lord. Pray we whenfocver we enterprife or goe about any thing. This ian&ify ing every thing, place,perfon,and performances ; neither can we exped a bleffing in any thing except we crave it by prayer, Pfat. 1 27.2. Pray without failing,and fntermifllon morning and evening. Let this be our Alph* and Omtg*, the beginning and ending of: ouradions,/ > /4/.5 5.i7. 1 Thejf.^iy. b*n.6.\Q. 1. For as the lewes folemnefacririces were both morning and evening, fo fhould this ofours. * V The day and night ought to be, and by this they are fea- foned and fancTified, 1 T/w.4.4. 3 .Each of thefe needs a fupply of ftefli favours and mercies* 4. And in both day and night w r e want Gods gratious and fpeciall protection, to fupport and ftrengthen, to preierve and protect usagainft the afiaultsofour fpiricuallenemies,whoare never weary, nor wanting to do miichiefc. Pray in private, with fuch geftures which are fitteil to moove, and enforce our hearts to feeling, and fervency, and which argue Firft, A zealous right and reverent faith, fuch as arc I .The lifting up of the hands, Sx.p 29. 17.11. £4.3. 17.3.41 2. The lifting up of the eyes, P/4/.121.1. 123. 1. Iob.i7.i m 3. Standing upright as waiters, (/;*. 1 8. 2 2. 1 Ki*g.$.ii. 4. Sitting upright,G*w.4 8.2. Ittdg. 20.26. 1 &uw.i.io. Secondly , or a (incere,found & zealous repentance,Uich as are I .Bowing the body,(?f».22.3 3. Eflcr 3.5 .Micah 6.6. 3. Bending the knee, 1 ^Mg*8.54.D**.6.io. Lmkf**^ e^fiF.7.^0. 9.40. Sfbifa.t^. 3. Looking downewardjLu^ig.i 3. S 4 4, Smkins 2 6 4 The chriflun Conflict. Ch a p . 1 2 . 4. Smiting on the breft or thigh, /*r.$i.lp, 2s«*J^.2t;t2« Z*(.*8 1 j. y . Kneeling on both knees, 1 Cbron % 6. l$.Dan t 6. 1 o.£»^.' 22 .41. ^#.7.60. 9.40. 6. Falling on the face,M*»*.i 6 4-/0/5. 7-6. 1 C0r.14.15. 7. Thrufting the mouth into the duft,£*w. 3.29. 8. Sitting ab/eclly clothed in duft, Neh 9. 1 . 9. Hanging downethehands > /er.3 i.i9.£*^.2i.t 2. Pray in publique with unanimous uniformity in regard of our outward carriage and gefture,keeping,ufing and obferving publique geftures prefcr-ibed and praclifed as commendable and warrantable by our Church: not breaking the bounds of comelinefle and order, Neb . 8 . 5 ,6. this being a principall pre- venting prepofterous cenfuring and condemning of others; whereas diverfity of geftures caufeth diffractions, and hinde- reth devotionJ do therfore heartily wi(h, and unfeinedly de- fire, that all perfons in publique performances of prayer with the Congregation, would fall downeand kneele before the Lord our maker ; this being enjoyned, and that rightly, religi- oufly,and warrantably,P/*/.9 5 .6,7. Mine anfwer to thefe interrogatories was it demanded fhould be as folio weth . * gut/l. 1 . Is bodily worfhip alwaies needfull ? A*fw.ln publique aflemblies, and in the Congregation it is, although not in private or fecret. f*/w.No, for in fbme it may be injurious and hurtfull, in others inconvenient,and unprofitable. t . Hurtfull to the impotent,lame,ficle, fbre,e^. and then it is contrary to that authenticall commandement,and pious pre- cept,I will have mercy and not facrifke. a . Inconvenient when the Minifters voice in prayer is thcr- by drowned, fo as that it cannot be he heard, and then it is re- pugnant to that royall rule,let all be done to edification. £>*cft.6. Is kneeling firft or moft to be ufed in Gods pub- lique fervice? Anfw. Yes,becaufe humiliation is chiefly required,and pray- er alfo ofteneft to be ufed> whereupon Gods houfe is called a houfe of prayer. Eufebiiu reports of Saint Idmes the brother of the Lord,that lib.z.tap.i^ his knees had loft the fenfe of feeling, like unto a camels, with continuall kneeling upon them in worshipping of God, and praying for the pardon of fin for the people Chap. XIII. Fdftmg Is another duty of Cbrifiianfiuldsers, vobat kindr * •ffafting is required^ its neceffitjy excellency^ comf anions % and occafions* TO our extraordinary prayers joyne we often watchfnll- neffcandfafting,£V.4.3. watch in prayer, i Cor.y.j .giv* jour J elves t o failing .andfrnyer. Firft, Thus doing we ftiall teftifie our officious,dutirall, and diligent obedience to the holy and heavenly precepts of our Soveraigne Lord God and bleffed Saviour,/**/ 1 . 1 2.1 ^ir.1.7 Secondly, Thus doing we (hall manifeft our Chriftian con- formity to the pious and praife- worthy praftifes of good men, in times andages pad: and goners of Z> Thechrifiidn&njliZl. Chap.ij. j in Iordan : as we do not defire to be placed on the pinade of L Hm 48 in ^ C ^" em P^ e t0 rcn ^ Satan : & neither in all circumdances ! Afar, niuft we imagine in our fading to imitate our Saviour ChrilV - * Pag.63. ThusS. C^rj/^w* faith: Our Saviour doth not fajbi* fajl earc to afflia « f £* imitated , although be might have propounded thofe the foule with fan y dares z "But learne of me becaufe I am meeke 9.9. extraordinary occafions, and fpeciall occurrences, private, publike or particular, earneftly calling upon us for more than ordinary humiliation and prayer. Miftake me not I pray, as if I deem'd klawfull or allowa- ble for private perfons to appoint or approve of publike fafts- without authority of Soveraigne and fupreame Magiftrates, * to whom it doth belong to authorize and command, to pub* ■ f King.ix.g a lilhand proclaimethe fame. b Which divine duties ought 9- ^Chron.io then to be performed and pra&ifed in the temple or houfe of * • Ezra 8 - **• God. And the perfons to be prefent and participate are c all Ion " 4 \ x °* forts of people, high and low, rich and poore , young and kiudg!*o.i$i. Did. Ierem.36.6. 1. Rulers and regents who have the guidance and go- Ioel 1. 14. rernment upon their fhoulders, fhouM then and there accom- c 2 Q[? n ' 2 £* aiodate themfelves to accompany the people. io.Vs.* ioel 2! 1 . Becaufe the guilt and cry of their (innes is as great, loud,. x $ t ' and clamorous, if not more than of other men, both in regard i>f their age,offices,provocations, tentations and allurements to erroneous wayes and wandrings* 2, Sccaufe 272 The Chriflkn Conflict. Chap. 13. 2, Becaufe their examples are more beneficiall or obnoxi- ous, being moreobferved and followed. 3. Becaufealfo their helping hand, councell, and counte,-^ nance isof great and urgent importance for the difcovery and difcountenancing, curbing and countermining, punifhingand preventing capitall and crying offences, caufing and occasion- ing evils of all forts. 2. Yea even harmleffe^nd belpflffe, tender and irrepre- henfible children and infants have not often and ufoally for- merly beene excluded nor exempted from thefe pub-like per- formances. I Notonely becaufe they are defiled with their owne fins and their parents, and fo are liable to the dreadfull difpleafure and irefull judgements of God, Hof. 1 2. . 1 6. 2. Butalfobecaufe the feeing and hearing the mournefuil and (adding rufulltearcs and doleful I cries of fuch perplexed perfons will much move , preffe , and provoke others to mournfull lamentations. 3. Andlaftly, becaufe this is a notable and fpcciall meancs timely to traine them up in holy and pious fer vices to our gra- cious God. 4. Laitly, the fcafons, times, occafions and ends of thefe ex- traordinary duties have been and ought to be 1. The preventing of fome future and fearefull eminent dangers and diftrefles, the obtaining deliverance from, and defence againft our mighty and malicious, fierce and furious foes, 2 Chron. *o. j . ZT/f .4. 1 ,2, 3. lontb a . 2. The removing and remitting Ibme prefent pinching preflure and calamity, lofh,j t 6. ludg. 20. : ©. loel 1 . 4. Thus %ve were enjoyned by publike authority in thofe dangerous dayes of warre, 1628. for the prefervation of his Majefties Realmes, and all reformed Churches to^taft. Thus by the fame authority we were enjoyned to fad every wednefday during that heavy vifitation of the peftilence, 1 62 $ . and alfo in the time of the dearth, 1 6 16. $. The preventing and pacifying of Gods wrath juftly fea- red, and conceived by fojae (hamefull raigning fins in a land, £tr*p.i,2j?. 4. The Chap.ij. TheChriftidnCdfipS. 273 4. The comforting, fuccouring and fupporting neighbour- Churches in their miferies and calamities , Gods people in *» their perfecutions and preflures, Afts 13.1. * 5. The recovery and regaining of Gods favours which may feeme to be loft and ecclipftd by fenfible Agues of hicin- dignatjon, Efi^.Dtn&.Mauy. 1 5,1 6. 6. The furthering and forwarding of fbme fpeciall" work of enterprife undertaken and in hand, Efter^ \ 6. AFts 1 3. 3. It is the private and particular which I now prefle and per- ftvadeallChriftianfouldiersto perfbrme andpraclile, much differing from the former. For, 1 . This is free and voluntary. That is neceflary and en;oy- ned, £^.23.29. 2. This is performed and pra&ifed by one perfon or family atthemoft, 2 Sam. 5.35. 12.16. Sfterq. i6\ Pfai. 35* 13. dgio.Ncb.i^.'DAtj p. 10. ^ff/io,a,j« £^2.8,36. That by a kingdome or countrcy joyntly. 3. This in the moft private and retired place, 2 S am. \ 2.16. Zacb.j^.Aiatth.6. iS. That in the publike congregation. For in this as in other Chriftian exercifes we rauft not defirc to be feene of men, onely to our Father in fecret : this diffe- rencing ours from hypocriticall performances: and fuch fe- queftring from company, fitting us more freely and fervently to mourne, meditate, faft and pray. 4. This may be appointed by any man who hath power o£ himfelfe, confentof fuperiours, N*m.$6. 4,1 3. or conveni- ent opportunity, Neb. 1 .4. That onely by Kings and fuch like authority. 5 . This for more ends and caufes, namely, not onely pub- like, TV**/. 5 3.13. Dan. 10.2,3. But alfo private, 2 Sam. 12. 2 O. 1 1 .2 %. That onely for ends and caufes which are pub- like and generall. Firft, The publike occafions of private fadings are I . The loflfe of the Church or common-wealth in the death i)f good governours, woithy and valiant Warriours, or other fuch like props, pillars,and patriots of the fame^i S*m.$ 1-13- T 2 Sam. ^74 The chriflUn Conflict. Chap. 14. 2&M9.I.X4. 12. 30,35. And that God would give a good fupply. a. The (orrowes and fickneffes of other men, yea of ene- <* raies,/ > /4/.35.i3.i?tfi».i2.i5./ < ««f 5.?. 5. The height and hideoufneffe of (inne raigning in a re- publique through impunity and connivence, Iojb.j. i6< Ez.ra 9 3>4« Pfd.119.1i6. 4. The fenfe and fuffrring of fome judgement befallei?,' Neb.1.4. Da*?.!. 5. The protection, fafety, and fecuring of Kings, ando- thers in authority, 1 Tim.i. 1,2,3. 6. The purchafing and procuring of fome blcffings and be- nefits for Church and Common-wealth. Secondly, The private opportunities for this private perfor- mance are thefeand fuch like. 1. The taming of the flefh, the better to pra&ife the parti- cular duties of our perfonall callings fervently and faithfully, I CV.9.27. 2for.6.6. iTim.5.23. 2. The fitting and furnifhing of a mans fclfe in time of per- fecution to beare the croffe more pioufty and patiently, com- fortably and couragioufly, (JKaitb. p. 1 3 . Zach.j, $, 1 Cor, 6 m 5 ,tf . 1 1 . 17. By this meanes oaany Martyrs became fo migh- ty and magnanimous. 9». Theftirring up,, reviving, and renewing of our repen- tance, M 4%.$.Pfal.6 how much more ought we faith Saint Augnftine P rofit tQ . ai> - prep *re our felves for our psjjfiover, according to thofc mcztzndto precepts, 2 Chron. 30. 18,1?, 20,21. 35. 6. and praclifes, vwuwierinfin, lobull.H, tt.I. to chaftifethe This private and particular faftconfifts as the publique, not body with only in bodily abftinence,butalfe o™ 8 "' "3? '" Firft, In an abfolute abftinence, acarefull Deflation, and ^nTinwic- true turning from all manner of fin and iniquity, 7/4.58.6. kedncfle ? wc cfpecially from fuch hainous abominations which helpe for- appoint abftn ward the affliction, haftcn Gods judgements,hinder and with- n cncc to the hold his mercies and favours. Abftinence from meates,and not bo<,v > , that wc from malicioufnefie : from plea fures, and not from propha- ^{Jnefron? refle : from food,and not from filthinefle : from fleepe, and v j ce vvhofoc- rotfrom finis a diabolicall.and not a divine faft for which God ver fafteth often reje&ed and reproved the Iewes,//*.? 8. 3. £4^.7.5, 6\ and livcth i n The Ninivites therefore whofe faft was pleafing to the Lord, fincn , fec- and profitable to themfeives, was accompany ed with atur- m^ to ! iaTC ning from all their evill waies,/*»4& 3 .8. And a gcnerall tur- tac , c ofmc«cs ring from all Cm hath been prefcribed to,& praftifed by Gods not of falvati* people as a principal!, and powerfull, as a neceflary and never "°« kith Saint failing meanes to avert and keepe away judgements prefaged, 4>*drofe Sena. and porting apace, Ezra 8(^p, and to avoke, and take away V\. 6 plagues and punifhments purfuing,perceived,and perplexing, x K / ' '*?' /o#/2.I2. ap. a Chron. Secondly, In an holy humbling of the foule for Gods dif- 12.6,7. £2™ pleafure felt, or feared, and for fin occafioningthe fame. Fa- ®- 2 |"*f , " ,,, ** fc fiing therefore hath this name of humbling the foule almoft, 7 ' lod *•**■ T 2 and * ^j6 The Chriftian Conflict. Chm, 14. l!lS,^- a nd altogether appropriated to it felfe. Absence is therefore know nict 111 c 3 „ . ",. r/ ^, r , , r ' . » . that faftin^ is a PPQinted or God that as a meanes it may moove,and make us acceptable to fitter to humble our foules ; for although G od i6 a fpirir, and God, not one- to be worflvipped in fpirit and truth, Yet this bodily exercife ly that we co- f fafting is enj jyned, and is extraordinary availeable to fit, wkh^abfti- ^ urn ^? anc * ^°«ific us to wreftle with, andwarre againftthe nencebut a~Ifo fle& > 7>/W.6'p. o. to make us apter to humble our foules foe ' with humility, fin incenfing and difpleafing God. Aiab.Ser.i3: This humiliation confilts primarily and principally. Firft, In caftingdowne,and abafi ^g of ourfclves before the dreadful! and offended might and Majefty of our great and glorious God, Ez,»* 8.21. Pfal. 3 $. 1 3 . 1 . So that we may have a fenfible feeling of our o wne fins, calling to minde the vilenefTe and vicioufnefle ofall fin,e(peci- ally our own,& principally our mod inbred,indeard,mtirnate and inabling iniquities, being debts we can no waies difcharge, making us liable to all plagues and punishments, denounced in Gods booke againft offenders, and occafioning our prefent perplexing preftures, TLA.6.i y z 3 6. *• So that wee may groane, and grieve, figh andjjbr- i^.z. 25.17. row, mourne and lament under the intollerablc and inlup- 21.14. 4M* portable weight and burden of the fame; yea this bewailing 7 5 io. 38.1. and bemoaning ofour fins ought to be like the forrowes of a 1.1^13* woman in travaile, of one lamenting the death of his mother, as for the loffe of a fon, yea an onely.fon, Zacb, 12.10. at the lamentation of Dragons and the mourning of Oltriches, Micab 1.8. As David for his Ahf^lom^ and Rsbtlfot her children. To this end 1. Recount and call to'minde the number of Gods beftowed benefits to provoke and win us to obedience. 2 . Weigh and confider the mcafure, greatnefle j and excel- lency of them, efpecially which concerne the foule. 3. Marke and meditate how eafily and freely they were gi- ven,and granted, unasked and undeferved. 4. Ponder and remember upon whom they have beene conferd, onus, vileand miferable earth, and afhes,vvormes and Chap.I4» ihtthrifltdnConflid. i*77 and not men, /yW.73. 5 ,£,10/11, i j. who have abufed and neglected the many mercies of our good God y L4m^i\. who have multiplyed and manifefted our rebellions,<5*.^. 1 6. '90,22,40,4 3,61, 6;. who have defcrved of due therefore, to havedirefuli Judgements denounced againft, and executed.up. on us,Z4w. 1.^,9. 3.19,20. Our ingratitude,difbbedience,and orTences,notwithftanding fuch and fo many mercies, being great and grievous: our due delerr for the fame: the danger wherein we (land in regard of the fame; and the dread fullneflc of judgements due to us, fbould the Lord dealc with us according to the fame, ought to breake and bruife our hard and ftony hearts, fo as to take downe our courage and confidence, our pride and preempti- on, fo as to make as meeke^nd mortified,to driv£ us out of our felves,to have confidence in God, 2 Cre*.j. 1 3 . 3. So that we may acknowledge and confeffe our fins and rebellion$,*Z)4».o.6",7. Pf*L$t. 7,4. wkh bleeding, beleeving and honeft hearts. Secondly, In the aflurance of the full and free forgivenefle ofour (ins ; as alfo of the procuring and obtaining of our re- queues, fo far forth as is for Gods glory, Ez,r4 r o. 3. Hope of pardon,2Uurance of remifCon and obtaining ofour requcfts being nece(Tary companions of true humiliation, 2 ChroM.20. ao. For where there is no hope to expeel reconciliation with God, there it will bee impofltble and unprofitable to en- deavour and enterprife true repentance, neither can there be fave a defperate averfenende to all good,and apromptnefTe and prones to cry out with thole, M*L 3.14. It is in vaine to ferve God Be(ide?,without this none can pleafe God,£&£. 1 1. 6. and whatfbever is without it,is but fin,/?*«. 14.13. Thirdly,In a renewed refolution againft all fin,refigning and renouncing fin, fo as never to revive, revoke, or refumethe fame ; and foas ever hereafter to walke in newneiTe of life. This renovation in minding and meaning to mend our lives, is ofabfoluteneceiTity to accommodate and accompany aright religious fall. Falling without this being but a contamina- , tingand counterfet hypocriticall fift,neither appointed by, nor T 3 approved 1 478 The ChriftUn Conflict. ' Ch ap . 13. approved of God, //*. 5 8.3,4,5,6. for the Lord choofetb, commandeth,and deligbteth in falling, which is accompanyed witharenued fife, //ii.58.6. Zacb.j. 7,9,10. Thus doing^#k we imitate and walke after our pious pattemes and predc- ceflburs, the holy ones of God, E&a 9. 10.3 . &a. whereas otherwise we doe but mocke God Co farre forth as in us lyetb, for God is not mocked. Fourthly, In crying mightily to God, gftr^.v. 5. Uel r. 14. DaH.g.19 wrefUing with God like UkobuuriW he blerte us, importuning the Lord like +s4br*h*m for the Sodomites untill he heare us, Nihem, t . 5 . Tfalm. 35, 1 j . ssffts 9 p. xo.30. Fifthly, In pardctting^nd patting by, forgiving and forget- ting injuries and indignities againft our felvrs, lf*.%%-6, Z*cb 7.9, 10. As alfo in giving gladly an \ bountifully to thofe who are in want or penury, J/k. 58. *Aft$ jo. 4, 30. 1 . For as the Ie wes had facrifices in their fafts,^^. 7.9 . fo muft we,namely fuch as are workes of mzxcyfPbil.^.x S.Helr. 13.16. At this time 2 « Giving of almes-deeds, werkes of charity, arefignes let us give be- and tokens of our true repentance,conver(ion from (in,turning fore hand our to God, of our gratitude and gladneffe for fuch reconciliation dinner to the ^ God# who fTfts and 3- T kefe two goe hand in hand together* are linkes of fihe gives not lib*, famechaine, infeparably united together in the lacred Scrip- rally to the ture, AB . I o . i , 4,30. poore, makes ^, Except we joyne almes to fafting, making the humbling h ai faft f HS h °^ our kl ves a meanes to refreth and rej'oyce others, giving fa lidnot foil to mi *h at ^ e ^ ca ^ more t0 r ^ c P°° re as wc Chou\d have fpent plcafeCod, "P^n ourowne bellies : we doe but make religion acloake but tkat hec to clad and cover coveCoufneffe. To fad that wee may fpare, might not or augment ourfabftance,is not for Gods glory, but for cq- thhS Z Am?' vetoufnefrc - knfa Ssrrlli. ">* ^ n( * ^ uc ^ ^^8 as the afore-named is injurious, not on* ly to the poore, but alfo to all a mans family, who gaine not by their abftinerjee, onely die matter if "he doth not rightly and rel> Chap.i^ TheChriJlidKCerfiiH. 279 religioufly part with and imploy fo much at lead as is fpared,to f eait and fofter others. * s Sixthly, In a reverend and right exerciiingour felves in the Word cf God read and preachedjfit may be reading and hea- ringtheratne,A^^.8.p.5?.;./^r.36.^. This being a meanes to moove men to repentance, and hu- miliation of rninde. It is therefore mod fare and feafonable, The whole comfortable and convenient, profitable, and praife- worthy and not ta^e the office of the (JeneraS to themfelves y nor binder him with their curio/tty and fablet. The fouldiers of Tamerlant durft not turne their backes in fight, it being contrary to his leave, and liking. The fouldiers of the famous Romane \tfor(uperejrc SeipioyWCvei fo obfequious, and obedient ro him their Gene- jalutu rail; that at his wifli, and willing, charge and commanding t spemretulit they would adventure upon, and attempt imminent, yeaun- mvU ni minua c @ n ceaveable difficulties, and dangers, foas not onely toen- *£ et on ™' cum counter with much hazard, and little hope, upon uneven and piures fervandi unequall termes, fierce and furious foes ; but alfo violently to frincipu ergo thro w and tumble themfelves from of the tops of Oeepe and infanu uitro craggy rockes arid mountaines. a The Perfian (buldiers were devoveantur a- fo f a i t bfull to Zerxes, that many of them fpeedily and volun- * u ' 4 ' tarily caft themfelves into the fea to Safeguard and prefervc him. Hetter Mocbintofcb a Scottifh rebejl, had two hundred fucfo faithfull Captaines, that life and liberty being offered to them, after their apprehenfion and arraignement as they were BolinJIjAcotifb going tathe gallowes, conditionally that they would declare mfi. and tell where Hefior was, they anfwered they could not tell, and if they could yet they would not by any paine or terrour of death, bee induced to breake their faith or betray their MarhnFranc rafter. Thofe licentious Locu(ls,and luxurious-Loyalifts, the deveri. lefuitesat the will and command of their barbarous, and bloudy unnaturall and irreligious Superiours , murther rMeMari^n' anc * ma fiacre the Lords annointed ones, Kings and Prin- lib. x.cti ces as a moft memorable enterprise. The fertfants of Abfolom^ and the fouldersof Abamelecb do as they are directed, put in execution what by them as their commanders was en/oyned, Iiidg.9.49. 2 Sam. f 5.27. The young men of loab and Ab- »*r, at their affixing and appointment, arofe and acted fttch fed and forrow&U parts in that serrible and audi tragedy^ where: r tnat ■ iNbed Chap.x4. ThedbrijHanCinflicl. 281 where each man (heathed his fword in his fellowesfide, Co that they fell do wne dead together, iS*m.\.\6. Yeadifo- bed fences nd unfaithfullnefle of fouldiersto their Chicfetaines and Leaders is To odious and opprobrious, fo criminous and culpable, that by the law of armes fuch arc to fufrer-even death itfelfe; which hath beene executed upon del inquenrs, not onely by renowned Commanders for faults oftentimes ~ n9l r „ normanyandmeane. Witnc(Te,CW/fx Count CMaumfclt, ur/f. who in his wars againft the Turkes, hanged an Hungarian *Fiens Tamer* horfemar, becaufe he refafed to carry a faggot todamneup Uno qwritur the trenches at Sui^oniam. * And Tamerlane the great, who P au P ercu <<* putafouldierto death for dealing a little milke from a maid ma y° num $ mi _ at her complaint, contrary to his military precepts.But alfo by Utibus lac ra~* enemies themfelves, who having made ufe of, and. taken ad- puijfefibi vantage by the trecberies and treafons of fuch unraithfull and {nwwrasp. fraudulent fellowes, have rightly repayed them withlofleof coJj} e f atirn life,asacondigne, and convenient recompenfe for fuch falfe- ma5 hearted execrable and abhorred performs. Witneflc the ftrange Raptorem and dreadrull death of Nicholas Kerepfcben, who by the com* la ^ qusratut. mandementof «5V/iw«/,was put into a hogfoead of nailes with l j?*f m this infeription : Heere receive the reward of thy avarice, and f"*^ *? te l- tre rf/*w,Gynto then haft fold for gold, if than be notfaithfull to peifera ferro * Maximilian thy Lord* neither wilt thonbe tome. Witnefle JguSju/laarh the death ofParefe Fofter-brother to Kildare, who having i mrit *">* the cu'bdy of Mainoth in Ireland betrayed it to *Breretan for V?? 1 */ 1 '**- Teward, which was faithfully paid, and then prefcntly the p^' pec * Hntrufty traytor beheaded. Canute the Dane commanded the %nZu Turk traytor Ednke ofStroton Earleof M'ercia to be put to death, Mft* who by flight had purpofely betrayed Edmundthe King, with Mori f Hifi.of the Englifh into his hands, according to his treacherous pro- ^ anJ > mile. In the Barons wars againft King Uhn, they (ent into France for Lewi* the fon of the French K"ng y to whom they Stov?c jn King^ joynedagainft their Soveraigne^r. The Vi count of Melin, l0 ^ n ' who came with the Prince into England , before his death at London, told the Barons,that if Levis did getthcKingdeme, he would banifli oat of the Realme for ever all thofe which now doe take his part and perfecute King/Viw, as Tray tors to their 1 8 2 The Chuflhn Conflict. Stowe R.j. their King. Thomas gottmey, and M» A/*/*r.*iw,the more then barbarous murderers of Edward thefecond, had alfo a Scowe. condigne reward for their crechery. Swifter who betraye4 .' bis matter the Duke of TSuckjngham to Richard the third : His fon and heire waxed mad, died in a boare-ftie, his elded daughter was ttricken with leprofie,his (econd fon made htne, his youngeft drowned in a fmallpuddle,himfelfe in his old age arraigned for murder, and for a thoufand pound promifed by King Richard ,received not one farthing, the King telling Uim that hee which would be fo untrue to fo good a matter, woufd be falfe to all other. Worthy to this purpofe is the faying of" Philip King of \Macedon, If any Athenian living in Athtns, doth fay that he prefers me before his conntrey, him verity rvottli I buy with mttch money, but not thinlee him worthy my friend" {hip. *Bnt if any for his conntrey fake (hall haje me, him mil I impstgne as acafle, a ftrongvrall, and bulwark^, yet admire his vert tie, *nd reckon th e city happy in having fucb a one. B ee we therefore who are the fervants and fouldiers of the Lord Iefiis, ducifull,and diligent, obfervant,and obedient,firme,and faithfull in our generalland particular Nations, and (landings to the precepts and prefcriptions, the doctrines, and directi- ons, the infractions and injunctions to the royall rules, and divine commandements of our Supreme Soveraigne and chiefe Commander Chrift Icfus, Ephef.6. 1 4. Stand therefore. The word there ufed is a word of conflict, implying not one onely, but many and divers duties, as namely, A fouldier-like courage in ftanding ftoutly againft every brunt ^hoofing rather to ftand and die, then ftirre and yeeld. A watchfull vigilance by which heedfull fouldiers ftand to receive their enemies whenfoever they afoul t;Pcrfeverance, ftanding dill with ar- mour firmely fattened, expecting frefh affaults, and more con- flicts. And a conftant abiding in ones proper place, and a fct- led ftanding «i ones ranke, not going or gadding into each others place,not ftartingafide or ftraggling abroad ; art, expe- rience,and warlike difcipline, teaching tliat it is a (belter and fafeguard to have the rankes well kepr ; expert Captaines therefore, and experienced fouldiers, are confidently carefull that Chap. 14. TbechriJlUnCnflitt. *?$ that neither themfelves nor other ftep allele ; but that every fouldierkeepe his ranke and file as they are ranged. Stand „, therefore ftedfaft, rernaine without removing, reft without ittirine in the true Church whereof we are members, where- in the Lords banner is bkffcdU', and bountifiilly,peaceably and plentifully difplayed : coi fidemly and couTagiouQy continu- ing conftant in retaining our pious profcffion, not ftartmg or ftraoolipo from the fame, for gaireor gnefe, for feare or fa- vourer profi: or peril!, by fchifmaucall or heretical] fepara. , by timerous an i temerarious temporizing, byapuitati- cvoksandbaclflidings ; draggling fcuildjcrslodSngthc fucccur and fafe-uard of their captaines and the aidefull affi- fiance of their fellow fouldiers. Stand we alio liable, and fiudioufly obferve ; refolutely reft upon, and religioufly obey we Chriftlefus our Commander in thofe ftations, and (landing places, performing in them fixch wrticular duties which are prefenbed to our feverall and fpeciall functions by our eracious GcneraU.and fupreme Soveraigne : or whom we may fay more truely, then was faid ofCjrHijeA.fi diligence ^fHei^athedidnothke^eg/igentfami/ygovernourtegtve fc commandements in gentr -*i % fiyimgM feme fetch water Jit feme cut wood, hut that he give commandements tofxrttcuUr per font tj name.and rememhrtd their names. Thus Chrift our Cap- taine in his holy and heavenly Word hath aiTigned and appoin- ted felecl and fpeciall duties to all, and every one of his fer- vants and fould iers feverally in his proper and particular place, and (ration in which we muft aiTiduouQy abide, 1 Cor.7.20. carefully and confcionably,dutifolly aiiddilig^nriy ferv^gthe Lord in the feverall fundions of our particular calhngs,Chrifts f^n™* precepts and Chriftians defence faith Saint Ambrofe. 1 For we muft every one be accountable to our Lord ror fuch duties which belong and appertain to our particular P a?Inthefe*e gifts and graces beftowed upon us are bed exercifed, and manifeftly revealed. 7 fox thus doing we deck, adorne,and beaotihe the Church aaibodyofari^ ^ 284 The ChriftUti Cmflii \ 4. And we have the Lords peculi inourdiftincl and proper places,?/* Sect, 2. Parents in their f laces. f . |) Arents,obcy we the charge and command of Chrift X our Chiefetaine and Captaine in our particular cal- lings. Ofthefe dntieefee before , fage - Sect, $• Children in their reverencing, and obeying, grttifie their Parents, howandnohy. %. ^^Hildren doe you carefully and ChriftianJy carry V^yourfelve6 in this your callingjwbercin Chrift hath ranged, and ranked you. Firft, In reverencing your parents, thus did hfeph bowing Jiimfelfetohis ficke, and aged father, ^.48. ia. Thus did reachlcfleand rebellious *s4bfolom % 2Sam.14.13. as well as wife and vertuous Salomon, 1 King.2.19. This being of ab- folute neccflity enjoyned by the Lord himfelfe, Levit.19 3. and generally pra&ifed by the beft and moft, CMai.i.6. Heb.li.p, tAfonne honour eth his father ,&C. We give them reverence* Firft, put away therefore farre from you O you children, all manner of irreverent and irreligious thoughts, fpeeches, and geftures towards your parents, and be not you 1. Mockers and dcriders of them, for info doing youare certainely acc.urfed>Pr^ 30, 1 7. Gen.9. 21.272. The eye that tnockfth hii father ^c. 2. Be not defpifers and contemners of them, this being a capital!, crimfbn, and crying abomination, E^e^.22.y.In thee $he]&c. < DeSit.l'].l6.Curfed>&C. 3. Bee not yoqeurfersofyour parents, for they who are fuch Chap.I4« Thechr-iJli4nC$n$Sm 2Sj filch are children of death, £xod 11.17. ^wV.iC.p . every 'cne that cPtrfeth&C. Pro.20.20.Mh /amp?,&c. ^.ConGderingthat fuch or any the like curfed and contempti- ble unchriftian,and unreverent behaviour of children towards ! parents. 1 . Is notonelyoccafioned by parents lack ofoften^andefr- neft prayer for their children : fey their light, lafcivious, and lewd behaviour in words and geftures : and by their lack of correction, th-ir indu gence, dandling, and cockering them as- we fee in •s4do*i)*h, Abfdom^xfA Elies fons. Secondly, Butalfo it is occafioned by,, and argueth in chil- dren, 1. Much pernitious privie pride, finfull and fliamefull felfe-love. 1. And abundance of ignorance of Gods ordinance,and unacquaintedneffe with the meaning of Gods law. Secondly, And be perfwaded to reverence, and rightly re- medy our parents. t 1 . For the very countenance of parents ought to be reve- rent,amiable, yea and terrible if we orflrnd them. . 2. For they are your betters, yea lb much that no image fo reprefents to a man God in a family as a father. 3. For whofoever will not reverence their parents, will hardly honour any other fuperiour. . 4. Yea thejdirane and duskie eye of nature prefleth and Contra marc* perfwadeth hereunto ; Witiieflc r*rf»//*>w/teftimonyofthe people of Pgntm their love to be fuch, th it they did eatc the dead carkefles of their parents, thinking their o wne bellies to be the fitted: fepulchers for them. Witnefle the precife pra- clife of the *L*ctdewf 4. But alfo becaufe this is moft acceptable and ami- able. 5. And becaufe the contempt and carelcfle keeping hereof is moft againft nature. ^ Reverence therefore and refpecl: your parents. If you bee rich your parents poore, rcleeve them, yet with reverence, not as if you gave an almes to a beggar with an high heart, but as a termer or tenant holding in Knights fcrvice payes reliefe unto his Lord, not of benevolence but of duty. Ifyou be wife, learned,and politique, your parents (imple unlearned and ig- norant, counfel/, advife, inftruft, and admonifti them, yet with reverence, pra&ife all your performances, doe all your duties unto your parents with reverence. Gods gifts and goodnefle to you may not canfe or incourage you to vitiate and violate,' to infring or breakc the loyall lawes of nature. For this end and purpofe. I . As parents fhould confcibnably and continually be care- full to procure honour, and cfteeme in their children towards tbem.By often and earneft, found and fincere prayer toGod for them and for that vcrtue.By due and difcreete,fafe and fea- fonablc correction. And by grave and fober carriage and behaviour. 2 .So that you may procure,purchafe and prefcrve this righ- teous, religious,and remarkable grace in your (elves. 1. Ply the throne of grace for, and labour inceflantly to plant and preferve, to compaffe and chcrifb that difficult but divine grace, true humility. 2 . And accurately acquaint your felves with, and acquire with all affiduity the knowledge of Gods ordinance, and of that authority which parents have from God,whofc command and charge it is that you ftiould honour your parents. Firft, I know that all fuperiours are meant,and called by the name father. 1. Both S* er'.s. The chrijiUn Ctnflitl. 287 1 . Both to incitate and inticc all inferiours to obedience by a name fo fweeteand favoury, fo amiable and authenticall, na- ture having taught to obey fathers. I i. Asalfo to give fuperiours an inkling tobehave them- selves like fathers,and not like raging bedlams. Secondly, I know that fuperiours or parents duties areTn- cluded in that commandement although not expreffed,as in the fourth precept. 1 . For fuperiours are or ought to be obfervers and keepers of both tables, and therfore their duties are implied in each. 2. And thcenjoyning ofdutiesto inferiours inforccth a charge upon them, the law being two edged by the nature of relation, they therefore are commanded to honour infers ours although not with reverence, yet with good ufage. Thirdly,yet the duties of inferiours of children are rather named and exprefied then of fuperiours and parent*. 1. Not onely becaufe inferiours and underlings arc more skillfulljand mindfull of their parents duties then their ownc, this being a common fin to be skillfull in other mens duties.and notcurowne. 3. Not onely because greater inconveniences may accrew,' and difcom modifies grow by negled of inferiours duties,*as by their unnilinefle,ftubborneneffe and rebellion,then by the tart- nefle and tyranny of fuperiours. 3. Butalfo becaufe inferiours are more hardly, and with more difficulty brought cither to the knowledge or praclife of their offices then fuperiours. 4. Or to teach them prccifely to pra&ifeand performe thei* duties diligently to their betters,although they fhould fruftratc theijr expectation and faile in theirs to them. 5". As alfo to manifett and make knowne that all fins com- mitted againft fellowes, or inferiours, equals, or underlings, ire not fo noyforae and notorious, not fo great and grievous, jut farre lefTe then againft fuperiours, the defacing of whom is a defacing of the image of God : the overthrowing and over- uming the order and ornament, the Rate and (lability of the world. Secondly^ 288 The ChriflUn Conflict. Chap. 14, Secondly, Tnyeelding obedience unto your parents,tbus; did ■Jfa4ck y Ge».22.7y%> thus did lofipb, gen.^j.i^. thus did the daughters of Revel, Exod.2 m \~6. thus all wife and vertuqus children doe,Pr*.l $. 1 . and thus all of you are bound to doe 3 , Pro.6.io t %\, 23.22. Epbef.6.1. Firft,Take heed therefore unto your (elves That you doe not refufe or'defpife thejr inftruc*tions. That you doe not denie them fervice, arid obfervance, tjteatth.ii.i']. -w That you reft not m faying without doing, LflUttb.zi. 30. That you doe not obey them unwillingly, retchleflcly and deceitfully. That you do not undertake or enterprize any thing in mat ters of weight as in marriage without their confent, councdJ, advice, authority, leave.and liking, ludg. 1 4.2 . That you doe not refufe, refitt, or withftand their cha- ftifementsand corre&ions,Z>2,i4. which is meant in regard of cot tiabitation,£*j^X4.2tf. which is onely a comparative fpeech (hewing S e c t . 3 . 7 be Chrijtidn C^fliB. 2 $£ (hewing that wee mud love them le{Te, &a 2. And be perfwaded in things lawfull to obey your parents % i . Commandements^although they may feeme unpleafing, and unprofitable ; you owing yourfeIves,much more your fer- vice unto them, you being in regard of your bodies trie good* of yourparents,£A\2!.7. M i.i a, 1 8. And although your pa- rents prererrc you above fcrvans,yet while you are under age, you are in condition asfervants, and put asdircctly (if not more) under your parents, asfervants are, Gal.q. 1,2. 2. Counfels,be content t© eate, drink,weare, lodge,and bee imployed in any trade of life your parents will, for if parents are to order their children concerning their vowes, and mar-" riages, much more their callings. But they are to order their children in marriage,£*. 34 16*. Dcm.j.s^i Cor.j.3$. fothac 1 .Parents may in fome cafe command and charge their chil- dren totake in marriage parties thusorthus qualified,G£ 1 8.i,» 2. Yea fruftrate, and make voide contracts lecretly made by children without or againft their confent, leave or goodli- king,f^W.22.i7.iV/i<»^30.6.D lofk.i. 1 2,1 3. Thus did Ratby Rmb 2.1 7, 1 8. And thus ought all to do , 5A I ^iw.5.4. You therefore who are the Lords fervants and fouldiers, do you abominate and abandon fuch irreligious and intolera- ble ingratitude which is or hath bcenc in the members of Sa- tan , and fonnes of Belial towards their parents , and be not like thofe mongers of mankind, t. Who re joyce at their parents difgrace and dishonour* Eccl. Ml. 2. Who S*ct.$. 7he ChriflU* Conflict. 3£I 2. Who grieve, make them fad and penfive, Prtfv.17.2r, N ?. Who difc!ofe and difcover their fhame, Gen. ?. 2 2. 3 £« 12. 4P-3,4. Lev. \%. 7. Dent 2720. 4. Who fraudulently fbrfake them. 5. Who rob and fpoite them, 6*» 51 30 Trz5f.28.24. 6. W 7 horebukt > check,andcontrollthem,i/^.45.io Z*^? 7. Who grudge and grumble at their large and liberal! dealing with the reft of their children, Luke 1 5 .29,30. B. Who cruelly curfc them, Pro. 30.1 1. 9. Who deny them reliefe and maintenance/^^?. 1 j. 10. Wbofhamefully and finfully fmite them, Eat«/.2M?. 1 1. Who currifhi v chafe or divelliflhty drive them away , frov.19.26. 12. Who curfcdJjr and cruelly kill and deftroy them, *Fro 19 26. 2 . And be inticcd and intreated t(f glad and gratifie your parents. 1. This being an honeft thing and acceptable before God, I77»f.5.4' a. This purchafing and procuring praife and good report, credit,fameand commendation from men, Ruth 2. 1 1 , 1 2. 3 . This obtaining the prayers of parents and others to God for you, Ruth 1. o. 2.12. 4. Conlldering that good and gracious, yea kind andnatu- rall children are as the (taffe and ftay of their parents. Wit- nefle not only the fore-mentioned particulars in the Scripture, but alio the practice of «^£w<#, who carried his father Anchi- Vhg. &£nead. fes upon his fhouldersout of the overthrow of Troy : And ''*•** the conftant care of young Storkes towards the old, carrying them to food when through age they are dilabled from flight, as *s£b*n teltifies. lib.ycap.i$. 5 , Considering that you were born of them, & an never re- compence them the things they have done tor you> £^.7.2 5 . 6. Confideringthat parents are or (hould be childrens Joy and glory, Pro, 17^. " V a 7. Con- 29* The chrifiUn Conflict. Ch AF.14. 7. Confidering that by thus doing you dial! glad andrc- joyce your parents, Pro. 2 5.14,35, 8. The want of thankful neflfc , noting out an irreligious J and reprobate mind> Ezek^At.j. Rom. 1. 30. p. And arguing and averring men to be fiifull anlfhame- lefle children, Prov 19.16 Behave your klves O children like children towards your parents while you have them , no limitation of age or mariage can or may exempt you. lob kept his authority over his children when they were married, and exercifed his difcipline over them fo long as they lived, fo long therefore as you have parents, reverence, obey, and'gra- tific them. SiC T, 4. Husbands muft follow Chrifl their Captaines directions in h+ ving their wives y giving them due benevolence^ giving them honour , and wifely guiding of them. How and why. HVsbands be we confcionable and circumfpecT:, refolntely and religioufty to ferve and obey Chrift our Captainc and Commander in our proper and pecu'iar place and (lation. Which that we may do, We ought with all aflfc&ionate amiablenefTe to love our wives , for thus doing we imitate the holy ones of God , as lfaac who loved Rebekah, (jen^.6^j. laeob who loved Ra- he^Gen.zpiS ,20. Samfon who loved the Timnite, ludg.14. Elkannah wholoved Hannah, 1 Sam. 1. j. And dutifully o- bey thofe many pious precepts of our gracious God, Prcv. 5. 1 8, 1 9. 'Be thou alwayes ravifht with her love. £ccl.$.p. Live joyfully with the wife whom thouloveB ) dec. &pb.$.i<;. Has- bands hve jour -wives. Verf.28. So ought men to love their wives. Ver.gj. Letevery one in particular fo love hie wife even as himfelfe. C°^l A 9* Husbands love your wives ,&c. To love is to be fo affected towards another, that we covet well to him, according to our power and poffibility. dowel! unto Sect.4. TheCbfiftdnCMfliEt. 29^ urto him for bis owne fake. Thus you fhonld love your wives O husbands, yea as Chrift loved the Church, whofe love Hvas true , fincere, chart, and perpetuall : fblikevvifefhould your love be to your wives. Whofe love was (uch , that he gave himfclfe for his Church ; anfwerably your love ftiould not confift onely in word?, but in giving and granting things neceflary for their citate and condition, 1 . Thou O husband art the male, thy wife the female, ther- nA • fore thou oughteft to love her. Mtmu 2. Thy wife is thine owne, every thing loves that which is its owne : fuch is thy wife , (he is thine ownefkfh , body, bone of thy bone?, and thou art her head, £^.5 .28,290 3. She is the next in werthinefle to thy felfe, committed Non gJ j m ^ into thy hand by the Lord of heaven and earth, fhe is almoft mu/cimarhm one perfon with thee, and wilt thou not honourably andlo- Non anciUam vinslyufe fuch an excellent creature committed to thee by the fortius es 9 fd Almighty? < nSSLmt 4. Thou art faflly and friendly chained and combined with C au.7, m many couplings and combinations unto thy wife. As for ex- ample. 1. Thy wife is a meanes peradventure to continue and conferve thy life. 2i She is an helper to thee, (/*». 2.6. to repell and rid thee from many toyles and troubles. I . She contiructh to thee progeny and pofterity. 4. She hath left friend and father, made choice of thee before all, married her felfe, foule and atTedions unto thee, and wilt thou not love her ? y . Thy wife is a good thing, Prov, 18.2a. Wh* fo fndetb 4 Dtife, findeth a good thing. 6. She is thy companion, MaLi x \^ % yea fb as to be fiefh of thy fefh, and fo is not any elfe, yea fhe is fo a companion to thee, that without her thou couldrt not live but comoerfomly ; whereas byherthcuart freed from many cares and combers to which thou haft neither skill nor will. 7-S:ehath committed to thee and tbytruft hcrgooi*, perfon,life. V 3 8. By 2^4 Tfo ChriftUn ConfliB. Ch ap . 14. 8. By her thy infirmity is relieved, by her thou haft conti- nualland conftant remedy for a continuall imperfection: with- out whom Satan might abufc concupifcence to damnation,and , therefore thou may eft fay of thy wife as "David in another > fenfe of Abt£*il y 1 Saw 2 ? . ? 3 . Bleflcd be my wife who hath preferved me from -filthincffe and fornication. Love therefore your wives O husbands as your felves, in defiring, feeking, and procuring, in preferving, maintaining and defending, in delighting, Joying and taking pleafure in their weak and welfare, the health and happinefle of their fbules and bodies^in their credit, countenance and comfort, as io your own e. objeft. 1. Say not beloved brethren, we are forbidden to love our felves,therefore our wives. Anfw* For Kyi.-™ is allowed and approved, wherein as no man can go too far in liking and loving his neighbour: fo can* not he love himfelfetoo much with true love. He who makes an idoll of himfelfe, loves not himfelfe. He who makes an idoll of his wit,loves not his wit. He who makes an idoll of his back and belly, loves neither. He who makes an idoll ol his wife, loves her not. Becaufe in all thefe men harme and hurt themfelves and their wives, and fo walk contrary to the nature and property of love, Rem. 13. 10. i^Vr.ig^, Nei- ther is pi\**fie6 felfe-loue (imply either commanded or for- bidden, faveonelyasit fecludesand feparates from the love of God or our neighbour. Ob]eEi.i. Say not beloved brethren many men do prcpo- fteroufly, iriordinately, and immoderately love themfelves, and muft they therefore fo dotingly and fondly love theit wives ? Anfv*. For fuch is rather lufl than love, rage and indul- gence, not from the law but Iuft, not from rectified nature or grace, but rather from vice and impiety. Objefi. 3. Say not beloved brethren, we muft love our wives more than our ferves, became Chrift loved his Church more than himlelfe ft A»fw\ Se cr.4; ThcChriflidnCtKfliZt* 29$ jinfrv. For Ohrift in loving of his Church which is his bo- dy, loved himfelfe. \* O&jttt* 4. Say rot beloved, we muft love our wives more than icrvants, children, and neighbours, therefore more than our felves, fince we muft love our neighbours as our f elves. Anfw. For although we are to love our neighbours as our felves , yet it is onely in regard of the manner of love, not in regard of the meafure thereof; or with a gencrall love com- mon toallChriftians,asChriftians : But we muft love our wives as our felves in regard of the meafure, or with a cer- taine fpeciall,proper,fingular,andconjugall love. 2. Give we to our wives due benevolence, 1 Cor. 7. 3 all marriage duties eipecially, bed company for juft ends, in chaft and fober manner, expreiTed by fuch like phrafes in the Booke of God as thefe. To imbrace, Eccl. IJ.To bruife the hen fit */ virginity, Ez,e\:i 3.3. To fieefe'pitb, To lie with, I Sam. 1 3 . 1 1 . To lie by, Cjen. 3 7. 1 o. To touch a vomav, Prov. 6. 2p. I C or '7' l ' To k*o* * woman, § en. ^.uTo humble her/Deu.% 1 . ] 4. To drinks waters. Pro. 5.15. Togo in unto, Gen. 28 8. To take their fiH of love, Pro. 7. 1 8. Which aft as it is not at any time to be done by fome men and women , namely Hermophro- dites,fuch who are infufficient,'andknow themfelvesfotobe for generation and conception : fuch who have infections and incurable difeafes , and fuch who be mixed and mingled in bloud foneare,that Gods Law forbids them marriage.So there are times and feafbns wherein husbands cannot performe this duty either feemly,healthfully and law6iliy,as there are when they may both feemly,healthfully,and lawfully. Not feemely in the fight or light of others : But in fecret, and by themfelves. Not healthfully in old age, or when impotent, weakened, wafted or confumed with ficknefle. But when they are yong, ftrong, and healthfull. Not lawfully all the time they be fingle, and not joyned to- gether in law full matrimony. After confummation, when it is with the wife according to the cuftome of wemen. V 4 \yhea 2 $ 6 The Chiflian Confiifl. Ch a p . 14, When they give themfelves to prayer and fading , hei 2. 16. 1 tor.7.5.. When either of them £hall be legally and lawfully feparated from the other. 3. Give honour to your wives a? to the weaker vefTels, I Pet^.y. By anhoneft care and refpeelfull regard of them and for them according to your conditions and calling?. 1. In defending, delivering, fafe-keeping, fafe-conducl- ing, protecting and preferving them : You therefore are cal- led the vale of their eyes, gem. %o.\6. And the wings of your garments are to be their covering, ftiadow, and Shelter, Rnth 3. 9. 2. In procuring providently and cheerefully for them, and allowing them all manner of neceflaries, comforts and conveniences, Exod.n 10. //*. 4 I. iS*w.i.8. No goods are fo well fpent, or more to the comfort and contentationof good men, trnn thofe which arebeftowed upon, and implod- ed for the fupply and fupporc of loyall and loving wives. Whereas thofe who rigidly reftraine them, are little better thantheeves, depriving the right owners of Gods bleffings and benefits. Granting and giving their honeit, right and rea- sonable requelts, E(ier 72,3. 1 Ki*%.l.i9. Allowing and approving of their vowes, if godly, Numb. 3 o.7>8,o. Epift.lib.Ki* ?• * n bearing with and tolerating their infirmities and je;>.8 z. imperfections, (She U unfit for wed/ocke y faith S. Ambrofejvho dtferves chiding.) they being fuch a* may be winked at , and fo that you be not caufe of fin to your felves or others. For you mad be apt and able to rule and regulate their affections , and not (infully and fhamefully yeeld to them, els many inconve- niences will unfortunately follow. In reprehending their in- firmities looke not on them without a fight of your ownc and your wives vermes, and do not delightfully bkze abroad your Numb.jo.7, wives faults and frailties , for in fo doing you confpire againft lo^-iSiiV y° u rownchoufes. 5,7. 14.2 i] 1 4- You ought to guide and governe, inftruct and direct Eph. $.. 2$. ' them in all actions and affaires, not childifhly, fondly, and in- « Pct.5.7. difcreecly, behaving your felves with themtoyiflbly as with babies 2 Sict.5^ ThechiJiUnC^nflilt. 2pj babies : nor bafely and bitterly, currilhly and churlifrily with harlhneflfe and rigour. You muft therefore behave your ielves ss well fatherly as familiarly towards your wives, governing and guiding your houfes, especially ycur wives; as preachers of piety, not like beadles of beggars. Such men onelyare furnifhed and fitted for marriage , who are fit for govern- ment in a family. S E CT, J. Wive sin their Ant j, tevereneing their hwbands y being /tibjeii unto, and helpers to them, after what manner ^nd why. Wives, although you are not, neither is it expected or expedient that you (bould be for martiall matters, or warlike imployments, like the ancient Amizones thofe vali- ant viragoes in Anatolia, twoof which women Hippoliteand Heil.par.oi. f fitters to Inti opa their Queene, challenged Her- culet and Thefetu to fingle combat. A troupe and traine of which warlike women with their renowned Queene Ptntkt- file a were prefent at the warres of Troy to the aid of Pria- tntu againft the Greeks, whofevertue and valour is fet forth and celebrated by the famous Hiftorian Infline with much ho- nour.- Or like unto Camilla Queene of the Volfcians iwho came to aid Turnw, whole power, pro weffe and valour were to admiration dekribed by 'cVir^/intheclofeof the fevenrb J^' 1 !^ Booke of his kneads. Or like unto Tomyris Queene of the Maflagetes, whole invincible ai;d unbroken fortitude and ho- nourable conqueft of fo potent an enemy as Cy rH4 > with whom full two hundred thoufand fouldiers are defcribedby Herodottu at the latter end of his Clio. Or to *^frtemifi* Herod. Clio; Queene of Caria, whole excellency of Spirit and undaunted courage to the admiration of Xerxes is fetdowne at large by InVrania, Hero dot ia. t)r to thofe flout and fouldier«like women of Bohemia which under the leading of their brave and bold Va- lafia 9 redeemed themfelves and their fex from the tyranny of Hien. Slaughtering their barbarous Lords and husbands, pof- ieffing 298 TheChriftlAn'Conflici. Cka*.i4.- 5 feflxng themfelves of their horfes, armes, treafure, and places « HolinJ&. of ftrength. Or like unto thofe ancient Scottifti women, who would keep rank and files, and be ranged in battell array with $ t9Wt men, or like Bundwcaof Britaine , a woman of noble birth, who not onely with much honour ruled amongft the Britans, . but alfo wastheSoveraigne in their warres, and had indeed a ftomacke more manly than woman-like. Yet you being the ibuldiers of Chrift Iefus, doe you doe iervice to Chrift your Cheiftaine ; ftand you ftabk and ftedfaft, and fight the Lords battels in your fcle&and fpeciall ftations and (landings. 1 . In reverencing your husbands both in thought, word, and gefture. This being the charge and commandement of our great and good, of our gracious and glorious God, Epb. 5 . 3 3 . The vnfefce that /he reverence her husband. TftL 45. 1 1 . Worfhif thou him. He is thy head and governour, therefore reverence him. This having beene the cuftome and commen- dable cariage not onely of the moft modclt matrons, but even of many of the moft loofeand licentious women amidft the prophane paynims and idolaters. Witnefle the wife of TotU fhar 9 Qen.^y.i6. Who although audacioufly adulterous , yet refpe&ively reverenced her husband as her Lord, Gen^j \6 % And witneffe amongft others the wives of Turkie, who ( as HeiUn affirmeth ) live in fuch great refpeel of their husbands, that they never (it with them ar the table, but wait untill they have done, and then withdraw tbemfelves into fome by- rooaie. If their husbands have been abroad,at their comming home they rife from the jftooles whereon they fate, kifle their husbands hands, make obeyfance, and ftand fo long as they are in prefence. This having beene ihe.pious and praife- worthy practice of chaft andChrHtian, of holy and heavenly minded I women in all ages. Witneffe Abifhag who miniftred, 1 King.. X ,6. 'Bathfheba who bowed and did obey fence, 1 King .1.20. j % I . and Sarah who obeyed and reverenced Mr Ah aw, calling j him Lord,G**.l 8.12. 1 Pet^.% y 6. Not like many domineer- 1 jng dames who are content to glad and gratifie their heads and j husbands with fome verbail titles of reverence and refpccl,in fl .the meane time ruftically, ridiculoufly and rudely ruling over jj L them • j S e c t! j^ The chrijiUn Ctnfiitt. 299 them; hers being in heart, and therefore unfained, teftified by her lubmifTive,hurrible aud lowly fpeeches and dutiful] obfer- vance. This being not onely fitting and convenient, profitable to man and pleafing to God, but alfo of urgent, and im- portant neceffity, man being the wives head, Sph 5.23.1 Cor. II. 3. the woman being the glory of the man as hcofGod, X C0r.1T. 7. She having her being from man, Ver. 8. beingthc weaker vefTei J, and therefore more imperfect. And your hus- barci^O you wives) are to be in your eyes as the father in the daughters, under which name you are comprifed in the fife comraandement, and by which you are called , Pw.3 1.29. Utfattj daughters, &c. Your husbands jnuft eftimate, prize and value you as helpers ; but you your felves rruft think and efteeme your felves as daughters, and be willingly fubjccT: un- to, and refpeclively reverencing them. Not that they fhould hide their love from you as from children, for they are to (hew it. Not that they are to correct you with, ftripes as children, this being unwarrantable. Farre be it from you O you Chriftian women to walke in thofe curfed and crooked,fal(e and filthy, finfull and (hamefull by-paths trae'd and troden in by many irreligious and anrcve- rent wives , denying or diiHaining to give reverence unto their husbands, or doing that which is contrary or repugnant lereunto : difgracefully difdaining their husbands. Difloyally difcovering their fhame: Ridiculoufiy reproaching them,rna- icioufly and immorigeroufly mocking them , or currifbly checkingand controlling of them. The carriage of fiich not jnely odioufly oppugning this fore-named duty, but alfo tend- ng and turning to their owne ignominy, fhame anddifgrace: or whereas, and when they fawcily and peeviftily befoole and lickname their husbands,they reproach them (elves ^acknow- edging that they are the wives of fuch abject and difdainefull merlons. Ob, Say not beloved fitters that Abigail befooled her hus» >and,i Sam, 2 5 .2$.Foffj is with bim >znd that for it (he is com- nended. An. iJFor neither was ftepraifed or wmmended for her fo doingp 3 ob The GhriflUh Conflict. Ch a? . 14 . doing, but for her wittie pollicy and her woncferfiill wifdome in finding out mcanes to deliver her busband from inevitable; dangers he had brought upon himfelfe, by his wicked and dogged anfwers to Davids fervants. a. Neither doth fhee call him foole, but onely alledgcth : his fimplicity for his defence, and therefore giveth no (hew of' favouring fawcy fpeeches or contemptuous carriage. But doe you reverence your owne husbands, highly cdec* mingofthem, framing your affe&ions unto their mind as toj your fupcriours, and being unto them as delightful 1 ftars ari- sing over them to calme and quiet them at all times, and to re- fresh and renue their fpirits. Sccondly,In being fubjed unto your husbands, gen.^.i6.thf de jlr e Jh xtl be fnbjeR to thy husband. Sphtf.'y a2. Wives fmbmit jour felves to your owne husbands as unto the Lord. I Ttrn, 3.12. I fuffer not anoma* to ufurpe Authority over the man, I TVf.^.J. LJkcyvifeyc vivesbe infubjeBun to your owne hm* bands. This your fubjedion Hiould be (incere,holy, and from the heart as unto the Lord, that is, toChrilt; not as to man, ; not as to the eye compelled, but as to the Lord fincerely I from the heart, and in things according to the. Lord witfi allrcare, even tofuch husbands which are evil], 1 Pet.$.j, 2.19. Away therefore with fuch proud conccipts which pofleflc the hearts, and fondly feed the fooliih fancies of divers difor- derly and felfe-conceked women, who perfwadethemfelves that might they be let alone,they could rule and governe bet- ter then their husbands:for the Lord who knoweth all things^ and is the God of order,hath (hewed and fignihed that it is not their place to guide and governe, but to fubmitand obey. Away therefore with fuch prepofteroUs and topfiturvy pra&ifes and diibrderly doings of thofe women who com- mand their husbands, for although fuch women thinke it their j happineffb and honour ; yet in truth it is nothing lefle^fwch wo-j men being accosrnted vaine, and men feolifr,. fuch men beings feminine men, women mafculine women; fuch women being infelehtand irreligious leading the life of tsfekata, as the pro- verbdi S b c rlu The Chrijtian cwflitt. 301 verbe faith, where the gray mare is the better horfe, and the matter or good man weares not the breeches. Away with thatpeevifli and per verfe difpofition, which in many women denieth fubmiffion and obedience, for a wo- man's wifedome doth (hew it felfe moft, in induring patiently a rafh husband. A womans fageneffe in obeying a fool ifh hus- band, awomans worthineffe in bearing with an unworthy husband. Be you therefore fubjed and wife in obeying, even that which they oft foolifhly command. Of>. Say not beloved that you excell your husbands, there- fore y cu wil 1 not be fab/eft. Anfa. Forfofometimesdoe children excell their parents, Servants their matters, fubjeds their Princes, yet may they not therefore intrude themfelves into their betters places. Ob. Say not beloved we are their companions, therefore will not be fub/ect. *Anf*. For you are but the left fide ottbe yokc,not fellow beads,oneIy fellow- helpers, Ob % Siy not beloved we are one fkfti with our husbands, vre will not fubmit therefore. Anfv. For fo is the Church with Chrift, yet fubjeel unto him, Efftef. 5.2 2. But r cafon and refolve thus. I . Doth that proud difpofition which is in many ofour fexe, and their impatkney to be fubje&,bewray their foolifhnesand folly, overthrowing and overturning the order of nature and of Gods ordinance, running out of their proper places into dread foil di (orders ; defcrve reprehenfion, yea and more ; for hereby Gods ordinance is prophancd, and polluted, and fo that which fhould be a bleffing, becomes a air fe,the ordinance :hanged, as if God were the author of confufion, and many iiforders fpreading themfelves fo hereby that children which [hould be a blefling, oft times prove a curfe, and that holy brme of government in a family,which (hould Tefemble hea- ven, i< become a lively reprefentation of hell, confufion, and iiforder. 2* Doth nature, reafon, and religionftrivc for^ and give priority, 3** Thtchrifttin Cwfitl. Chap. 14, priority, and prchcmincncctimo the man, and finely the cor^ ruption of nature enforce women to exalt themfelves. Wit- neffe fuch like fage fay inss of the moft grave and morall natu- nTiwlS*' ra]ifts '. Th "' hmfepleafeth »** >»* wherein the hen crovef, tht quo ^ttinl €ocl ^ e **f tltnt : of Socrates who being demanded to ftew bow cantatgallus tr> governe a family, went home, and commanded his wife tc facet, throw downe certaine veffels full of oyle and honey, faying. If you have fuch power in your houfes>jo% need not d*ubt but to leadeand live a peaceable and quiet life. And their pra&ifes Torrefpdrtdent unto the lame. The Perfian princes ordered and decreed the punifhment of Paikti for her difobedience, .andthefubjedbnoPvvoirienjE^i 9. And the Romane Se- nate banifhed a Knight, and imprifbnecl his Lady, only becauie fhe faid her husband fhould notgoe to the warres with SiB*. TSULpriwc'Ub. WitnefTe the reclified and religious Sentences of aanciencand z.cbap.6. ' orthodoxe divines Saint ^uguffine faith, If the husband tj in Aug.in P/al. fuijeRion, and the wife doth rule, the ft ace uptrverfe % if the *4J* wife doth fubmit to the hush and rulings the peace it right \ a- gaine, yeoman ii not made of the feet, nor of the head but if the fide, [0 that [he ualmoft fcfuati \ fignifying that Women (ricuid 1 neither bear* rule, nor be in. great or fl , vi(h fiibjedtion,* And witneflc the many pioas precepts of our good God, and the pra&ifes of his peculiar people. 3 . Is it equall and jait that we fhould be fubjecl. i. Becanfeofourfexe we being more tmper feel then men who are better, and perfefter then we by Gods ordinance,.Wc being inferioiirto our husbands by the order of Creation,at trx beginning whereof, be Pore the fall ; woman was inferiour ie inan,the caule ofherfubftance, and fhe therefore called VyB*. fhee-man, or weaker man, receiving her being froth 1 i*ian 3 &4*\k&%. 1 Cor % i 1.8. and owing fub/tf&ioh to man. a. Becaufe we wives are created by the Lord for others women for nKr\ 9 gen.2.io. 1 0,7 1;8. 3. Becrufe we are weaker veflels,! Pet. 3. 7.01x1 wksbeinj {tenderer then merrs/wc therefore are nnfitter for common at fajres,and our bodies weaker : we are therefore called helpen or affiftanisjwhichare not principalis : and thofe good part! whid Sect.?. ThtChriitAnConftci. 50$ whkrrare in us, not been* fa good without a guide ; mens direction who arc our heads, whofe part and place jt is toguidc md gcverne us and our family, as ic is the property of the lead to give to the body lite, motion, and f* clings there xing an excellency b them furpanlig ours, as gold doth "liver. 4. Becaufe wee arc to bee fub ject to them as to the Lord, not by mans law, but Gods, wee are tobeefubje&totbe Lord, then for the Lord to our husbands, and in our husbands to the Lord. Tnen fiirely wee will fubmiffively bee fubjecl to out Dwne husbands according to the goodwill and pleaforeof Dur good God. Thirdly, In being helpers unto your husbands ; therefore jrou were created, therefore was marriage ordained, Gtn.2. 18. Jiat man might have one to helpe,to paife away his lifchonenV !y,fweetly, godlily. Be not you therefore like Ev *h> who perfwaded tAdtm to rebell againft God ; wherefore tlie kpoftle faith, *s4dam was not deceived, but the woman, [ Tim. 2. 1 4. namely, Not fir(t,not immediately. Not by Sa- han,buthis lecondfelfe. Not by the Serpent, but his Spouic. ^ot by the divell,but a woman. Not by a beaft,but a reafona- >le creature. Notbyaftranger,butafamiliar. Notbyanene* nv,but by a friend. Not by a lye,but by love. Be not you like oh wife,tempterstoevill, fob a.$. Not like the wiyes of **Lmon who turned his heart from <5od, 1 Kings j 1. 4. for like the wife of ts4h*b who indeed him to evill, I King. 1. a?. But be you helpers unto your husbands all you can. . I* ,As againft tbdr natural! infirmity, 1 C«r. 7.1. 2. So for the generation and education of children, I Tim* .14. 3. Principally in piety, in things concerning a better life, CV.7.5. 1 Pet. 3.2. winning, and woing them to tbeobe- ience of the Word,as by feafonable and pious perfwafions,fc y your chade and godly conventions. 4. As alio ia matters of thrift 5 in ordering and taking care for 34z>#WferveS4*/,i Saw.i*. 14. 26.8,9,10 n. Thusdid Ieah kxvcDavid>\ S*m.i2.2j > t$. c Z>*me/thc King, 2).22. 3. Not -being wicked waders of your matters fobftance,. M4t.24.40;L*k.i6.i. 4. Nor theevifli and untrufty,pilferers and purloyners from your maflers,T*>w 2.1 o. 1. Such unfaichfoll fervants being of their fctherthe divel, iM.8»44. 2. Being worfe then high- way robbers,cheating and cou- fening thofe, who confidently commit their fubftance into tbeirhands. 3. And taking the ceadyroade, and traced way to blatt their Sect.& TheCbtljlidnCdfifiitl. 307 their other fubftance, begger their poftcrity (fuch goods of fraud wanting a bleffing to thrive unto pofterity) and darnr.e their owne foules. Otjefl, Perhaps the fubtill ferpent and your curfed corrupt nature follicites, and pcrfwades you to proceed in fuch pefti- lent and peftifereus pilfering courfes, by fuch like ter- pentine feducements and fupplanting fopbiftications asthefe following. 1 . None knoweth of, or is privie unto your fraudulent and guilefull curfed conveyances of your mailers wealth into your owne purfes, for yeu may fell of your mafters goods , and referve part to your fclves, they nor any clfe taking notice thereof 2. You may take thefe and thofe things which may well be fpared, there being water enough in the fea ; your mafters having fo great abundancc,may well part with fuchtriviall and trifling matters without any great detriment or dammagc, if any at all unto them* 3 . And although (they being but light matters) the lofle of them, (being fb little as not to be mifled in fuch abundance) damnifieth little or nothing your rich mafters, yet they much advantage and profit you who want abundance. 4. Befides, fuch and fuch things arc but trifles, and of ro great moment : goe on therefore and walke in thefe gai -chill and adva;itagious paths leading to profit and en- riching : and bee not difcouraged or difheartnedfronn the fame by the pra&ice or perfwafion of the precifer fort of people. 4*f*. Yet be not you mifled by thefe or fuch like firenian, and finfull inchantments. 1 For admit that no mortall eye beholds, neither dothany man nke notice of, or is acquainted with thefe damnable qiffimulations, deceitfull dealings, lyes, fraudes, and for- geries yet all thele curled carriages are open and apparent to the thought fearching Iehovah, whole eye is in every place, Pr 0. 1 5. 3. and to their own conferences, which if they condemn them God is greater,i /oh t ^i<^» X 2 a. Neither 508 The Cbrifllm Conflict. Chap .14. a. Neither may any mans abundance encourage andex* citate others by fraude or force to appropriate their allowance I unto them (elves. 1 . For you are not able, neither doth it belong to you to judge what other men may well fpare. 2. Should every man, who may as lawfully take from your wealthy matters fuch like thir.gs, they would be difabled from much or any fparing. 3. And although rich men may fpare much, yet this makes it not lawfull for others to apply and appropriate their fubftance to themfelvcs, in whole or in parr, indiredly, and unjuftly. 4. Neither fhould men be their owne carvers, no not of thofe fuperfluities which may well be fpared. 5. Achat* might well have pleaded this plea, affirming that he took nothing but that which might well be fpared, yet he and his peri(hed,and worthily, !o(b.j. 6. Neither can any mans fubftance be refembled rightly to the fea: The water of it being common; And there being no poffibility for all the world to evacuate and exhauft the lame. 5 . As for the game they get, the profit they procure by fuch accurfed additions, its like the Eagles ftolne facrifice from the altar, which cruelly confumed both neft and young : like an infe&ed garment Itolne out of a plagued peft-howfe, fud- denly (ickning,and fweeping away the whole family : or like a flaming firebrand thruft into thethatch,which presently runs over, and tuines a beautifull and well built houfe, Zach. 5. 3- 4. And whereas fom£ thinke them toyes and trifling matters. 1, They are trifles only comparatively, a§ for example, a {hilling with fome is but a trifle, with others great treafure : thus Achfint theft,, although the gold and filver was an 1 00 1, was but a trifle in comparifon of the extraordinary abundance that was in Ieriehe, yet for this trifle he and his did miferably jperi{h,/*/&.7. 2 5>2& ft. Arc S £ c t . 6. The CbMJlidn CttifliZ}. 5 b>. 2. Are they but trifles? And will you for trifies offend and difliononr God ? will you for trilks wound your owne con- sciences? will you for tribes hazard thelofle of your owne foules ? monftrcus and barbarous bafenefle. 3 . Such who Mick not urjuftly to take trifles, will not tee iqutamifli and fcrupulous to fteale greater matters when op- portunity c rfcreth occcaMon of fo doing, Lttk. 1 6.10, 1 1 , r - . 4, Such furreptitious feezing on other mens fubftance, is theft, therefore fin, and cannot be a trifle, all fin being infinite. Whereas on the contrary, raithfullnefle of fervants cowards their mailers. Vi Makes themashealthjTro.i^.iy. 1. And wilUaabliil=ithe!Pforever,Pr^.i2.Tp. Thirdly, with chearefullneffcyeadinefle, and willingnefle. Thus did l)avids fervants, 2 Sam. 1 5 . 1 5 . Thus did lonathant lad, 1 S**.io. 39,40 .Thus the Centurions fervants, Kjiiat. 8. 7.8. And dius fhoiv\d all doe fervice, Ephef.6.f$. Ccl* Fourthly, with wifdome, prudence and difcretion, wifely -doing fervice. Thus, (7^41.33. Let Pharaoh foekf out 4 wife and difcreet man, Maub % 2445 . Who is a mfe and faith- fullferv&nt t Be rot therefore like fuch fottifh fervants who can doe nothing but what is commanded them : but fo wife as to prevent your matters, 7*/*/. 123.1. acquainting your fclves with, and well knowing your maflers inclination, Luk % 1 6-$. Doing their bufineffe in due fcafon, A* For although it is truey qadtchkr* r*rst % piecious things are hard to corne by, yet they who feeke them may find them.- 2 . The fewer there be of fuch manner of men^he more we friould feeke them. 5. Do you who are parents and matters your duty intea- *ching-and inftrufling of your families, and then there would be greater plenty : Bad matters and fathers caufing fcarcity of good and godly fervanrs. Ob. ill Say not beloved brethren, that prophahe fervants arc profitable,and more gainefull then others. * A»f\».\, For godlinefleis thegreateft and befl: gaine, and therefore godly men are rhdft gainefull. 3. And asfor others ,al though they feeme tobe,yet they are tfdtfbgaincftiil s for how can they who are not faithfull to God, be faithfull or gainefull to you ? * Oh\$. Say not beloved brethren, a deare friend commended Arch and fuch a fervant to mee. ' ( Anfw. i . For the commendations of men will not juftiid ihofc whom Godcondemneth. 2. We ought to pleafe one another to edification, Ram* 15. 1. 3 . And we are to gratifie our friends in the Lord. -#*/*#. 4; Say- not beloved brethren, I mutt cake fuch and fuch, becauic they were and have beene old fervants to my* father. Anfw*. Sect .7.^ The ckrift}**Ctfrf!ict. 3 1$ An/w. "For being bad, the eider the warie; InYapparenc they are the more incurable contfnuirtg corrupt. And tke efder they are the more hurt they will doe by theirbad and evill ex- ample. Ob. % . Say not beloved brethren, we will choofe fuch who are tall and proper feliowes, luftte and able-men, \vrfo can fight for,and defend us if need bd. Auf*. For fuch excufes might well ferve forrbgues, a- mongft whominprifonsand atthegallowes a man may find much man-hood. Ob. 6. Say not beloved brethren that religions men are not •tefolute,mortirlcarionki]k a mans man-hood, and confeience cook* mens courage. \A*fw.i . For religion and manners make a man, a. A- man may have man-hood, although he neither fwag- gcr norfweare,ftaajpe not ftare, man- hood i&sne thing,mad- nefTe another. 3. Men ofconfeience are men of greateft courage, PW. 3 ,6 t 7>rfl.2 8.n wkneffe D*vid eocouotring GoHtb, 1 S*m t \j. jvhen none o£S**U army durft. But reafon and refolve as folio weth. t 1 . Have godly men ever beene carefidi to have religious fenranes, 9m.13.14. 17.13. ij.a. Ufi.^i^ Efitr^i9 9 *Pf*Lio\ 6. i. Is every good mans bonfe God* houfe,C#/^i 5. there- fore an habitation for Chrih\his fpirit,his fervants, and oot^br the limnes of Satan > 3. Is every mans family his body, thereof himfeHe is the headend will no man willi pgly be pdkred with lame,rotten, putrin"ed,{tinkingand corrupt member*, 1 C*\ £.15. 4, Doth the choice of fervarits mew the nature aad difpoff- tion of maftef s, for like will to like, birds of a feather will ffie and flocke together, therefore religious men will defire religi- ons fervar.ts. 5. DoththecurfeofGod hangaverthe heads of wicked men, and therefore over the h&ufe wrfcre ungodly xnefn-doc d well 3 ooe Ackt* being a treble to a)) Ifrael . 6.Ts 3^4 th chrift % m€wfifc C***»i4« e*. It Ss not probable that they will ever be faithfull to me n who are not faithfull to God, Ge*.i i .1 1 .. 39. 7. ' I • For,how can he feare to offend him who can only hurt the body, who feares not him who can deftroy both foule and body? 2. How can he make confeknee of the fecond table who is careleffe of the firft? R om.2. 3. And ccrtaincly no band doth hold and tie fo ft rong as that of grace and godlineffe. 1. Not of children towards parents, as we fee in 'Abfofan and Adomjah to David. 2. Not of friend to friend, as in Achitophel to*Z>4- tid^ z\(o P fa/. and is it a- difcredit to bee ferved by the Divels favou- rites > Then furely we will either wholly keepe ent of our houfes and families fuch fin-ficke perfons, asfwearers, fwaggcrers, and other prophane people from being members of ouroico- nomicall body : Or after triall made , and rinding our endea- vours fruftrate and fruitkffe to their amendment and refer ma- tion, we will rid our felves ofallmannerof railing Rabfba* kebsy profane Efaw, fcoffing l(hm*els* and all others who will rot ferveGod: neither will we much regard if for weeding out of ourhoufes fuchnoyfomeor hurtfull brambles and (lin- king dung , we ftiould be cenfured and condemned. 1 . Since paying them their covenanted due wc do them no wrong. 2. Since no man is bound tokeepea fervant longer than the covenanted time. 3. Since fuch fervants by their vicious and ungodly acliont wrong themfelvcs, qonftrainingand compelling their carcfull and conlcionable matters to be rid of them. 4. Since no man would keep a traitor, a cut-purfe or high* way fide robber, or fuch like mifcreants, becaufe he would not be counted and called cruell in expelling them out ef his family as is expedient. Neitherwill wc continue, and cherifh in our houfes and families the limbs of Satan, traitors againft the raoft high God, who rob him of his glory and fcrvice up- on fuch poore and peccant pretences. Then furely wcwill make diligent enquirie and (earchaf* tcr, we will make much of, countenance, encourage and en- tertainefuch who are faithful!. 1 . Since thefe being obedient to God, will bee obfequious to us. a. Since for fuch manner of men we maybe countable jvitbjoy. 2, In $l€ TheChrifiimConflia. Chap ,14 a. In ufing your {cnrants be you alfo circumfpecl:, careful J. ^igilant and watchful); 1. Not onely to command things lawful!, poffible, Gt*. 348. Profitable and proportionable, Exod.^.y, N^t over charging their ftrength,but refpeding their willingneiTe. 2. Notonelytodo them right, lob 31.13,14,15,38,39, 40. CV.4X . I* Providingthem fitting and convenient food, Pr*t\ 17. 26,17. And wages, 50.2 1. Or anfwerableand equivalent to either, or both, paying them duly their wages and hire , Gen\ 30.28. .Z>**r»«4.i4. Liar-p. 1 3. X King.^,6. 2. Defending them and their tight, lob 31,12,14,17. - 3 . Correcting them doing amide with Chriitiancoun- fellfor their amendment, Pro. 20 30. 19 13. 4. Preferring and commending them doing well, Levit. 19.13. pe*t.im* f 7 > ro.iy.2> 5. Taking notice of their gifts of mind and body , to im- ploy and improve them : of their weaknefles and wants , to filve and fupply them. 3 . Not onely that you doe not rule rigoroufly and tyran- nically over them, L*v. i 9.3 j . x . Remembring that they are men , and Of the fame na. Lib © Ebift turC W ^ y 0U ' ^ 3 r • * 5 • *JM afters command, yourfervants Xpift.ii. ' **fubje& to yonin condition^bm fo that yotsremember that they Contubernaks an of the fame nature with you, faith S. Ambrofe* lumilesamici* *, Remembring that they are humble friends, and your c$nfirvi.%tnzc. f e ] veg fervaflts, you having a- Matter in heaven, 7#£ 31.15. eph.6.9. 2. Remembring that yoi? mutt be countable to their and your Matter, as for other things, fofor yourcariage towards them, /*£ 30.14. 4. Remembring that yoa ftiould do as you would be done to. 5. Remembring that to handle them gently, feeking ra- ther to be beloved than feared, is the teftimony of a good na- ture. rf. Remembring that God will revenge injaries done to them. L 4* B "t S. fiSficT.S. The Chrifian Cenflift. 317 4. But alfo that they continue in true religion, Getr. 1 8. 1 g. I9fb.24.15. EJ?er^.i6. ARs 10.2. Frequenting and favou- ring the meanes,fanclifyingthe Chriftian Sabbath,. Exod. 20. 8, 10. Praying privately, and with you in your Families, praj- • M R. of c. fing God at meales, both before and after meat, living holify, ^ © "reified lighteoufly, andblameielly, youdiflfwading, dehorting, and f,^ q" 11 / 131 witb-holding them from wickednefle and fmne, 1 Sam.i^-jy that the people H. %S*m.\6.\l. 19.22. Taid hee would Thus doing, you alfo ferve the Lord Iefus, fighting his bat- o° to fh e Di. tels in this your proper place and particular Itation. ' ™J for , ln ^i. _ _ I do,I fhall a S E C T. 8. for as goo d ground as is ia Agaiufi } depopulates andinclofersi thefmrt andbarme En §l a Hd.Rcla- they do to tbemfelves and others, dec. '^cu™ « hy 7 * ^l-r.ri,aPrca- FVrther mud we continue righting the Lords battels in our when M.D. of peculiar and particular callings ? Then woe 1. To all C. hadeonfen- fuch who thruit men out of the fame. 2. To all fuch who ted ro iaclofe neither have nor will have any. 3 . And to all fuch who ^'^ an ^ hcr through pride, felfe-love and difcontent runout of,forfake ("* *£ c c ^ and leave them, cured) ■> fear*. 1 . Woe to all fuch who tragically thruft men out of thofe full and hide- ftations and (landings wherein the Lord hath let them to fight W,J noi & of this good warfare. *™> \°™ n > 1. To thofe favage fupplanters of the folacing focietiesof bftceriy beW-" mankind. Thofe dread full defolating depopulators, which ii n a 5 vvhich* like ftupi fled, if not a irreligious and bciotted Mammonifts, wrought much heedlefly and foole-hardily rufh upon thofe keene and cut- in hcr > but ting judgements of God which inevitably have confumed , c ° u!d not rc " moft of thofe who have formerly erred in thefe their wicked man" from hi wand rings, yet thefe increduloufly and inconfiderately will evilJ enterprife not by other mens harmes learne to beware, no not although to his own and the Lord hath predfely prefaged "by penfive predictions his <*hearuine, irefull indignation and dreadfull difpleafure againft fuch per- JJ h * relater, nicious and perillous plots and pro/eels , fuch perverfe and k m f m3 ^ n ™* perverting, profane and peevifh practices ? h«r. © 3*3 Tk ChriflUn Conflict. Ch ap . 14 A O you misbelieving and miflcd men into thofe cruell ccur- II fcs accurfed by God and men, confider, r . That as you are guilty of the want of (b many multi- tudes of peeple which in probability might and would have beene, had your ruined tbwnes Hill beene populous, which then as well fet orchards caufed their inhabitants tofruftifie and fpread , which being tranfplantcd into other and want- ing roome,fmother np themfelvcs and other. B.lTowne and *» 4 s y° u are § u ^ tv °^ mucn dillionour t o al mighty God, Church gone, hindering him of much fcrvice and worfhip, which priftinely hath beene performed, you leaving few people, and them oft times fear ce a Church to aflcmble in for this end and pur- pofe. 3 . As you are enemies to the Church, driving it as much as in you is out of our coafts and countrey . 4. As you are enemies to our dread Soveraigne, depri- ving him of the honour of many fubjecls , of profit and pro- tection. 5. As you are enemies to your fclves and your pofkrity, haling and haftening Gods fearefull plagues denounced in /ft. 5. 8. upon your felves and them. 6. So are you a plague and peft to the common- wealth. I. Expofing it to ibrrowfullfubverfion and utter over- throw, for what can your flieep-coats and hedges doe againft an enemy ? *• Procuring upon every fcarcity and fcantnefle dearth and penury. 5. Occasioning racking and raifing of rents bymeanesof your thruft out inhabitants (houldcring abroad to live , which makes the fub/ecls lives more uncomfortable to themfelves, and more uncharitable to others. 4. Furthering whoredome and uncleanneffe , for people multiplying, and habitations decaying, diverfe people who would cannot live in lawfijil wedlock e, and ib the land is pol- luted with (in, and too much peopled with bale and baftardly flips. 5. Occafibning much beggery and want, for ufuallyyour felves S b c t .7. The chrijlian Ctnfttltm 3 r p felves or yours arc prefently plunged into penury, and jyouf ancient inhabitants crowding into other populous places, im- poverifh themfelvesand others." 6. And depriving the inhabitants of imployment: Iamve- rily perfwaded that the town wherein I live, hath more fhep- hcards in the fame, than both our depopulated neighbouring townes, and yet the lead ofthem was formerly as great, the o- ther greater by farre, if not as big as both : yet are fhepheards the principal! people imployed in fucb defolate and decayed places. And I verily thinlce that fome one thruft out farmer hath formerly imployed and fet to worke as many people con- ftantly,as the greedy depopnlatour doth with his decayed Lord/hip. An ancient credible man not many dayes fince cer- T. C. tifiedmethat(beinga young man) he was an inhabitant in a neighbouring decayed inclofed to wne before it was inclofed, at which time he thinkes there were two hundred perfons more in it than now there are (and how -meanely the mod of them live many of us know)he affirmed to me that there were then fix or (even and thirty farmers in the fame : Twenty of which farmers he was perfwaded did conftantly keep as good houfes and hoipitality as he who after ruined himielfe and the towne. Inftead therefore of indicating unto, or juftifyiug thefc injurious and inhumane inclofings after this or the like manner withthefe or the like poliming and plaufible, yet prepofte- rous pretexts and pretences. For I not onely conceive and conjecture, but know what can be and is laid by thefe enemies of mankind, which in truth by daily experience are convinced and confuted, being manifefted to be but falfe and fained glo- fcings, and deceitfull deludings to deceive and defraud (uch who either will not or cannot dive into and difcerne their fraud and forgery. 1. Whereas they affirme that the champion is bleakeand OifeR! cold ; the inclofure being well fortified and fenced againft fuch inconveniences, nourifning and cheriGiing great (lore of wood and fruit-trees in their hedge-rowes and particular fields. Fxpericnce cxprefly explicates that with us the Anfwl inclofed 3*0 The Chrifthn Cwflitt. C inclofed towncs for the generall are worfe fenced with ] wood and firing againft ftormes, cold and tempefts,the cham- pion men planting and prelerving orchards and other wood in fie and convenient places for ornament, fhelter and profit. Whereas the other wanting men and meanes to do the lame, iatisfie themfelves with bramble bumes, and briarly thorny hedges, haying little other wood, which are no good orna- ment, nor any great (belter, neither do they afToord fuch plen- ty of few-ell unto the inhabitants, but that they would willing- ly warme themf elves • with the champion mans draw as with good firing if they had it« 2. Whereas they aifome the champion to be nothing fo commodious or profitable, the ground by meanes of the many ditches being well dreynedand much bettered, one acre in the inclofed ground with one tillage yeelding as much, oft more increafe than two in the champion with many times plowing. The incloied ground being freer from rotting of ftieep, by which meanes the champion farmer is much impo- veriflied. The inclofing, preventing unneighbourly incroach- ing upon one another by plowing, mowing, and that unmer- cifull and (uncharitable eating up of pooremen, who cannot {lore their commons by rich neighbours , which is ufuall and common in the champion field. As alfo that inclofure im- ployes the labouring men in winter as well as fummer, in hedging and ditching. Rectified reafon and grounded experi- ence manifefis thefe to be but frivolous and trifling flqurifhes without validity. For are not the champion townes abundant- ly more commodious to the common- wealth, breeding,main- taining and iraploying multitudes of families more than the other ? Are not the champion fields ( efpecially where good husbands are) as well dreyned anddreffed wittvplough and fpade? As for the abundance of corne they boaft of, it is onely after long refting, not if it be continually feeded as the cham- pion is: for then it could not compare with it, wanting fheepe and other belpes the champion hath. As for their freedome from rotting,no marvel), for either lay downe the plough or part with their fheepe. As for incroachings, there are better and >ect.8. 7heChrijl)4nCo»flitt- 3*1 > md more ole$ed meanes to order and remedy the fame , than >y fuch a medtcine farre worfe than the malady. Neither arc joore men orpreffed foby rich men, but that they have their )it,or money for the fame. And I wonder with what a Face my man can fay, that by meanes of thefe hedges and ditched he i: clofure doth imploy more than the champion doth, want :>f imploy mentbeing one of thegreateft mifchiefes they occa- ioo to the common- wealth. 3 Laftly, whereas they fay , experience in all inclofed countreyes fhewes,tbat there men live more richly and farre setter tf an in the champion. I do not wonder, fuch townes maintaining now two or three men of fafhion , whereas for- merly they maintained for the fame twenty. I know that con- tinuance of time hath skinned the skarre and healed the fcab, fb that we fee them what they are, not what they were for- merly, farre more populous than now they be. But fhew me who can in the memory of man an inclofed towne wherein 10 many (I thinke I may fay halfe fo many) able houfholders do now live and fo richly as they did then when it was champion, If in a neighbouring towne in which are two hundred people lefle,in which are three or foure ploughs where were former- ly fix or (even and thirty, thofe few live more richly (and it is well if they do) and farre better than formerly, is (I think)no great matter. Inftead of thus pleading for and patronizing fuch a curfed and cruell confumer of the common- wealth as inclofure is , I defire all men to confider, i. How by this meanes whole Zordmip* are converted from tillage to pafturing: farme-houfes decayed: husbandmen turned cottagers or fhepheards, are driven to feeke habitati- ons elfwhere. Townes utterly depopulated and unpeopled,or _ thofe who rcmaine to live for the generall in great mifery . i. How fuch and (o many pleafant and commodious habi- tations for men, are tragically turned into rude and ruinous heapes, and the many delicate and delightful! fields plentifully abounding formerly with folds and flockes , with rich and re- 'oycing fruits ; deformed and defaced, laid languifhing like Y deplored 3 2 % Tbt ChrijlUn Confttt. 'Cm aV . 143 deplored and de folate defarts, haunted and inhabited onely by\ bruit beads and a tew fblitary manflons remaining, where there is little help in time of necclTlty, comfort in time of' doubt,or iociety in time of peace. 3. How the di (ailerons and dreadfull judgements of God have like an inviolable inundation and irrevocable irruption feized upon and confumed thefe infathble minded men, I might here tell you whatour Chronicles relate of New For- reft in Hamfhire, for the making whereof King Willitm o- verthrew townes and villages by the fpace of thirty miles or more, to bring the fame into a chafe for deere : In the faid Forreft fVi/lUm lus forme with an arrow in his breaft, Richard his fonne gored and fpoilcd by the deere, and Richard his ne- j phew the fonne of Robert Duke of Normandy having his neck brokc»or(as fome (ay)hangcd in the boughs of a tree,loft their lives. I could defcend to our own times, and our fathers,. 1 and fhevryouhow Godscude hath lighted upon the prin- cipal! actors in this truculent and tyrannizing tragedy. I have a catalogue of many in this kind, as C inclofed by M.R. K. in- dofedbyS.fl.0. The two R. and //.inclofed by S.F.F. #\ inclofed by S.E.A. H.indofedbyM.S. C.inclofedby US. B.andM^E.D. P.inclofed by SE.L V. inclofed by S. Rw. why M. L. H. inclofed by M. A. L. inclofed by M. AT. and others, but I fpare to name them: which townes have vomit- ed, out awd unburdened themf elves of their former defolating and depopulating owners. 4 How carefully our fore-fathers did continually prevent filch inconveniences, not onely by mixing and intermingling their grounds together, butbyftrict and fevcrc lawes againft .nclofurc, begun in the fourth ycarc ot K. Henry the feventh, which have beenc corroborated and confirmed by his fuccef- fours in fundry Parliaments fince. 5. What an unconceiveable difference there isbetweene the towne of tillage and the inclofed. 1 . Looke into their townes. In the one you may fee holl- ies builded, beautified and inhabited, people multiplying, in« creafing 3 and neighbourly convcrfing, come, cattell, and other countre^ \ The Clerk of >ect.8. ,.yv TheOfiriftianCenfift. U$ lountrey commodities plentifully abounding. In the other you fhall behold torne and tottering houles without inhabi- tants, rude and ragged mines of ancient habitations, people daily *diminifhing\md decaying, living for the general! a dc- '^^^ plored and difconlolate life, being forced 2broadto neighbor- l0w * j n dofc3 ring towncs to worke, to gleane, to gather peafe , and oft lo u mcc, that to beg. k ,s w *g * a. Lookeinto thefields of the one, there {hall you fee cat- tcn §!°^t tell of all fort* friendly and .familiarly feeding together , not ^/ t ^ m onelythemeadowes, butalfothe (lades and lands ends fat- 7c *yf C wyca^. ted from the land loaden with grade • the lands loaden and varnifl/d with varietie of garnHhing and gladding in- crcafe; and the people from the new-going (tripling to the decrepite and nearc-dying old man , in their feqdes- tfmeSjharvcfts, and other feafbns, like painefull and indu- flrious pifmires , labouring in their feverall imployments with much folacing rejoycing , and dejightfome gladnefle. Looke into the pafhires of the other, there (hall you be- hold drie, moflle, barren, and parched grounds, a fad and fblkary filence through want of imployment for men: and a few fcattering fhecpe and other cattell, not fb ma- ny ( I fuppofe ) as is in the other quantity for quantity , although well neare two parts in three is for a certaine time exempt for graine. And no marvel 1 : For, befides Gods curie on the one, and blelTmg upon the other, Tillage maintaineth (with Itraw , cfoffe, and fuch like) many cattell , who reciprocally requite it againe with abundance of manure , which fo feedcth and fatteneth their ground, that not onely their graffe ground is more fer- tile helped from the lands , but even their tillage in its time arToordetb great plenty of young and cheriibing fee* ding. ' 3. Looke into their high- waves, where you may be- hold the former trae'd up and downe by realon of their continuall commerce with all forts of bordering neighbours, men carying and rccarying to and from faires and markets,and the waves themfelves' (except the inconvenience of the fitua- Y a tion 3 H rJje chrifiUn ConfiiSt. ' -Ch a f . 1 4J tion occafioneth the contrary) very good , or (& the worft)]] pa (Table. Firft, Byreafonof their yearely reparations , which coftl and charges is richly requited , not onelyinthe better and fafer paffage , but alio in their land, unburdened hereby of many unprofitable (tones, and much unneceffary rub-' biQi. Secondly, By reafon of the open fields, which afford- ing fo many helpes to the pafienger on bawlkes and lands in the depth of winter (no whiter little prejudiciall to the owner ) the eafed way by this meanes is never fo te- dious and toykfome as other wife it would be : by which meanes alfo it timely recovers its faftnefle and firmneue. Thirdly and Iaftly, In regard they are fo fully and free- ly expoled to Sun and wind, whereby their difadvantagious dirt is foonc dried and difperfecL Look into the other.and you fhal behold thehigh-wayes not much by themfelyes frequented, yet fo fowle and filthy, fo mi- rie and mifchievous,(o incompatible and incommodious, 1. In regard that ufually their repaires belong ta private and particular perfons,who feldome(except compelled)com- miferateand companionate the common people : or if to. the inhabitants, they ufually are but few, and the moft of them al- fo poore and penurious, wanting teames and other meanes to renew and reftore, thofe defperatedecayes. 2. Partly, in regard that neceffity inforceth all forts of pa£ fengers with cart, carriages and cattell into thofe narrow and noyfome lan.es,coping them in,and compelling them to keepe . within thofe abhorred hedges, by which furcharging without furceafing. 5. As alfo by meanes of thofe bramble and briarly hedges they are fo fheltered from wind and Sun, that they arefel- dome fate and fufferable, but generally fo intolerable and infufferabie , that if the curfes and cries of poore way- faring men forced to frequent thofe formidable and fil- thy wayes: in which they are not onely foyled like unto the difconfolated cattell they drive before them, but alfo often Sec r'&Xl The Chrijlian Cwftft. 325 often im]pc?erifhed with lofleof their faint and feeblebeanV wanting ftrength to helpe themfelves and their burdens out of thofe cff-nfive and oppretfing paths. If they (I fay J are of force, then furcly fuch men who are occafioners hereof cannot l>e bleifsd. But whither am I gone ? Zeale hath tranT. ported me ( and I hope that which is according to know-' ledge) againft theie pillagings and pullings downe of our po- pulous and puitfant common- wealth. And oh that fuch per- forms whom it concernes, would in time looke into this our ftate muchdifparaged anddispynted,muchdifeafed anddifa- Wed by theie manner of men , fo as to helpe and healc it. 'If* not by forcing the purchafers ( for I take it for granted that the aclors in this tragedy or their heires are or will be forced through want and penury to fbrfakethe fhgeand (landing in which they have acted fuch tragicall parts ) to re-edifiethe ancient habitations,and re-eftablifh farmes and farmers(\vbich were to be wi{hed) yet by damming a«d (lopping up this in- ordinate inundation. 1. That our ancient gentility may not by "the curfe of God dogging at the heeles and devouring fuch fadding flipplanters' be ruined and rooted out 2 . That our famous and flourifhlng common- wealth be not emptied and evacuated of people , and Co inevitably expos'd to iufupportable irruptions of infulting foes. 5. That our active and able men may : not be forced for' want of implement to turne pilferers and way-beaters: to' feeke into other climates, or beggar them feives and others by crouding into iuch places which necefiarily muft give harbour to too many. 4. That thofe filly and barmelelfe fheepe may no lon- ger devoure men, houfes and townes as formerly 'they have done. and in which they have beene trained up from their youth. I know my (elf who in old age wanting imploy ment hath beene forced to for- iake the plough by meanes of fuch ingurgitating ingroflcrs. Y 4 Sect, -r-r 3*8 Tht Ch'tftianConflift. C« ap . 14.^ S S C T. IC Again fi tbofe who- have ho caflivg. WOe then to fuch who neither have nor wilj haveany convenient calIings,proper and peculiar ftandings,for bow can you do fervice and homage to Chrifr our Lord and Matter? How will youfightthe battels of Chrift our King and Captaine who have nocalling, (tation or (landing allowed, al- lotted and approved of by him t 1 . Sure lam the Word of God exactly enjoynes all men to live and labour in fome certaine calling, Eve- rj man it appointed hi* vocation^ to one thisjo another that \ faith Bi(hop ; Sec t.i t TheChrtJlUnCtnfltfl* 319 Bifliop F^of^knd ofcaSings faith he, that u unlawful/. that ftooper ©n I< fghtetk and rffugnetb with the WordefGod^ their owne pretended Patrons, religions of all forts y and J acred Scripture in the Old andNtwTe* fiament, 1 5. objections anfweredy and divtrs dtjfwajives, BVt thou cruellgriping Vfurer, who eateft the bread of the ftarvingorphane, of the carefull and comfortkffe man, who liveft on the fweate of othermens browes, unconfeiona- bly and unchriftianly eating the bread which is not thine own • what is thy calling, what is thy ftation, and {landing in this Chriftian warfare. Certaine ly Firft, IfthcantientauthenticalK and much admired fatten, asSaint Jugttfiine, Ambt -oft , £Vj fofbmt r, f Baftl % and others did not delude and deceive us. Secondly, If the Convocations and Counfells of learned and religious men in aliases did not ene. Thirdly, Ifthe laudablelawes ofallforts>Canon,civiD;and of all times are light and regular. Fourth 1 y, Ifyourowne authors upon whom for this parti- cular you io-much dote, and depend ; of whom you fomuch talke and triumph, being well weighed, rightly underftoorf, bee futftred to fignirle and fee dovyne. theij owne mindes and. 3J0 The chriftikn CMfiti* \^CmST.i and«meanings, are found not to favour but to L'ghc againftj you. Fifthly, If univerfally all forts of religions, paganish, po-| cmw.^dc P% an ^ pure: heat'hehift, heretical 1 and heavenly, with hsrefibi." unity and unanimity (the hereticall Manicheesondy (that I know of except) who wickedly faid it is better to bee an 'VTurer then an husbandman, becaufe an Vfurer doth not teare the members of God which are in trees,c£r. as the husband- man doth.) Cry out againft and condemne u fury as hi> lawfull. Sixthly, If theexprefleteftimoniesoffacred Scripture be- ing rightly underftood, and interpreted by the moft Ortho- doxe, yea almoft all Divines, doe condemne as accurfed,ufury ©fall forts. Then are not you in any warrantable way : comfortable or Chriftian courfe of life, or in anyfafe or faint- like ftation, prefcribedand appointed by Chrift our General!, regulated, and ranged under the rule and regiment of Chrift our Com- mander, or appropriated and affigned to this ftation and (ten- ding by Chrift our Captaine. How therefore dare you call . Chrift Lord and Mafter, yon not departing from iniquity ? Why doe you malepertly march under the enobling enfigne of Chriftian religion, you treacheroufly and terribly tram- plingunder foot the faint and feeble, the weake and langui- shing fouldiers of our God, your felves oft caufing their pe- nury and poverty ? Why doe you not quake and tremble /*- either in his ownt name, or in another mans , nor that hee /hould expeQ any more then woe qiven, and if any did fre fume to dot otberwife, that hee Jhonld be degraded. In the ninth hundred yeare after Chrift, It was decreed, culiioncf. That not one ly Clergy men fhouid ahftaine from filthy gaines concii. and ufury, but that they fhouid inftrucl the people committed to then*) to akflaine from the fame. That a Clergy man from MoTuntin. a Deacon and upwards fhouid not lend money to ufury. That neither lay Cbriftians, nor Clergy men in their owne names ^JiX^en:- or in any others (hould lend to ufury. That David deferring Parifienf. an evangelicallman in the 1 5 . Pfalme doth forbid ufury in ali, and our Lord and ^Matter Chrisl did not give to ufury ,but did with apioia bounty give to the needy man* In the twelfth hundred yeare after Chrift, it was decreed, latero That manifesl Vfurers [hculd not be admitted to the Communi- tonal. on, nor to receive Chriftian buriall if they dyed in thU fmne % that their offerings fhouid not be taken, and whofoever tooke them, or bur ted them, hee (hould be compelled to reft ore thofe things hee had taken, and he fufpendedjrom the execution of his place tent ill hee had fatisfied his Bifhop . That Vfurers fhouid be contained nitb firi& punifhments toreflcre their ufury mo- ney to thofe they bad wronged, or their heires, or if the(e be not alive, *£?*, fa tbefoore, while they have ability to re/for*, thatpoffef [tons gotten by ufurj ought to bee fold, and the price t$ m^e reftitutiou, that fo they might be freed from puni foment andfinne, Tbdt if any Clergy man is an ttfnreY be [kould fujfer the loffe of his EcclcfiaflicAll benefice , fince the name of nfnry is fo Abominable to God and men—that all Vfurers untiB they doe fully fatisfiefor their ufury, flottldbe debarred from the Com- munion, their a/mes Jhoald net be taken, and their mils Jhould not be of force, CehnXoncil. In the thirteenth hundred yeere after Chrifr, itwasde- Onon top. cre-ed, That Vfurers fhould bee excommunicated every Lords da y~x$t admitted to the communion— that none fhould receive a/mes of them and that they (kould not have any Chrifiian bur ia 11, The Canons of our Chnrch agreedupon in the yeere ofour Lord, i£o3«en;oyne Church- Wardens and fidefmen, to pre- sent Adultery i IVhercdome, Jnceft^ < Drunkennefe, Swearing, RibauJdry, Vfuryorany other wickedneffe of life, the* they may he puni/hed with the fever it y ofthelawes — and not admitted to the Communion untitl they be reformed. For Lawes. 3> Iamnotverft in forraine Lawes, nor in the civillor Canon lawes, and therefore I cannot alledge them of mine owne reading, or upon mine owne knowlcdge,for thefe ther- fore I depend upon,and direct you unto the rhetorical) and re- ligious difcourfe of the right revered Bifliop lewel againft uiury, on l The ff. 4. 6. where he faitb,that no good man ever ufed ir, allthat feare Gods judgements, abhorre it, He faith it is filthy gaine, a workc of darkeneflc, a monfkr in nature, a plague of the world, and the mifery of the people. J^Jee faith it is not of God, nor found amongft Gods children. He faith it comes from the divell, that it is theft and murder. That there was never any religion,nor fec% nor ftate, nor de- gree nor profcfllon of men but have difliked it : and that all lawes civil], canon, temporall and naturall condemns it. Yet this I know that Linwood in his Conftitutions about tithes, al- lovveth loweth not tkhe y of ufe-moiicy ; becaufe of goods onely f!* w,< ^' V ' lawfully gotten : and this I know, that as our Canons, To our ^jff e * A for as much as all nfurj. J ttfury being forbidden by the law of God is /snne^avd deferable. And our lall law allowing 8 in the 1 oo ; is called a law againft ufury. For Authors produced as patrons ofufury, 4. I have fearched with acarefull iedulity iome of thofe Authors of great eft note,of whom ufurers are fo glad, where- ot they (b much glory, on whom they rely, as upon a 'afe and fure refuge, and to whom they have recourfc as to an impreg- nable rampart and receptacle : neither can I finde them fau- tors,favourers and furtherers of this fraternity. Amzfk confei* ?><. Ames faith,all ufury is not unk wfu:l,yet he alfo faith .that ent lib. *. de fuch kindof ufury which Vfurers ordinarily pra&ife, is jjft) y *o*raau ufu- condemned by all. Then ftiewing what ufury he thinkes is lawful], hee fets downethe(ecautions 3 and conditions, which give no allow- ance or incouragement to Vfurers. 1 . Nothtng,imh he,mufl be taken of poors men, more then the principal* y 6ut tliey musl be lent to freely t 2. Every man mufl take heed that through hope ofgaine hee' ditb not hinder any y and therefore that he doth not negletl to lend and give freely, 3. A manmuft fhnn excejfe, and therefore it ufafesl not to take fomuch m u permitted by the larses or enflome of 4 place* 4. Hemufthaverejpeclto the party of whom he tak*tb> that he brings not loffe, but profit to him* $ • He e muft obferve the rule of equity and charity f fo that hi takes no more^f another then he would willingly give in fuch ca~ fefhimfelfe* 6, He muft take heed that he gives no offence. M r . Perkjns is alledged as a favourer of ufury, yet M r . Perk.on Com. P er H ni defining ufury to be a gaine exacted by covenant above g # " the principal!, onely in lieu and recompence of the lending, faith it is quite contrary to Gqds Word : and in the place al-_ ledged,namely, isfcarce pofftblc that he which ta- Iteth ufury jhould not damnifie hU brother .In his epiflle concer- C alv. E rift. Z 2 ning ningufury he faith,/? were to be wifhedthat aS Vfurers and the name of them were bmifhed out of the werld. Th^X. commonly when money ispnt forth to ufury ,cr ueli y jnnnmer able deceits y & circumventions accompany the fame. That ^mon^fl the pracli- fes of Godly men this is one. He hath not gtvsn his money lonfu- In DJUt.25. T j^ That it is more then rare that the f*.me mm (hould bee an benettmanand an Vfurer. O 1 Dent. -23. He. faith, it can hardlybee av&ided bnt that Vfurtrs like horfe leeches wiM fucke the people sblood. That ft nee prophane writers have reckoned the praStife of n fury amongJl filthy g*ines y much le ffe it it tole- In Pfal < rable amongft the fonnes of god. On the I 5. Pfalme, He /aith, It can hardly be that in the world there can bee found an Vfurer which u not ravenous, and not given to fit thy and unjufl gaine. He faith, it is againfl reafon that while husbandmen, handy* crafts menficc, labour and offer themfelves to many troubles for the common goody only thefe fhould reapegaine by the finite s of all forts of men. If Vfurers rightly reade Calvin fiity will not thinkethem- fclves much beholding to him. Ob. But C*/w» allowethof ufury, andaffirmeth it to bet la w full. Anfw % 1. Did Calvin doe fo indeed, I fhould tbinkc that excellent men have their errours,leaftHve fhould make them more then men, and too much depend upon them. a. True it is, in fome fort he doth 1 . Provided that the lender doth not make a common or perpetuall pra&ife of this l>iude ofjending, but onely for fome jpare money wherewith he hath pleafund hid friend^ being able and willing to fbew himfelfe thankefull, doth for the pre fent ac- cept of his thankefullneffe and reqnitall. 2. 'Provided that nothing be taken above the principall of men in need ^and neceffity y or in any calamity. £• Provided that none be focautelous about thefafety of hii money as not to lend to the poore. 4. Provided that nothing be received that is not agree* able with natur all equity Recording to that rule wbatfoever yoa wovldjkc, 5. ?f9* J.. Provided that the borrower (bould gtine tsnmch or wore then the lender, 3. Whereas he names lawfull and unlawful] ufury, hee no whit contrad ids that which the ftrifteft oppofites to ufury teach and affirme: for, That which they call partner/hip, re- compence for dammage, and thankfullneffe he calle.th lawjull ufury ,taking the word in a larger fenfe then they doe, not ac- counting thefe any ufury at all. That which they tcarme ufury,he calleth unlaw full ufury. So that Qdvin is with us,aud notagainftus. Religions condemning ufiiry. 5. All forts of religions concordantly condemne ufury, both heathenifh,hereticall,and orthodoxe. For Heathens it is well knowne and ufually alledged, TuloficMhu that C at0 being demanded what it was to take ufury, asked ca B ulttm - what it was to kill a man; as if hee had faid, itjs cruelty, yea very murder. And the fame Cato faid, our Aunce- Ltb - l 'den flours punifhed a theefe twofold , % and an Vfurer foure- JjSiw,, fold. Alfo thofeufuall places of tAriftotle in the firft booke cap.6 }7 . of his politikes, Chap.6. and 7. condemning ufury as an ex- jPW/7.4. cap.i* ecrable vice : as alfo his reckoning Vfurers in the ranke < ♦ no. torioufly naughty men : doe famciently (lie w his detcftation of the fame.v*^ bis burning all Vfurers bonds: and a^- gefilata faying he never faw a clearer fire. Ciceroes faying, that ufury is more again ft nature then death, and that Vfiirer* are as thole who kill a man ; doe manifeft how Philofophers, and other Heathens did abominate, and abhor re this trade of ufury. To thefe I will add the Lflfabumetanf, who arc fb diredand downe-right,that their Alcaron faith, Thofe who 7>efa*wt vU liveofufurj Jbaltrife like men fo/feffed of dtvels, and that ^^Jd*"*^ ever j one whofeareth Qod % mufl ejpeciallj take heed that he doth ^lli reurJent. not live by ufury % Alcaron. Aw ar.1.4. Omni timenti'*Deum fumme cavendum tft nt de fecnore vivet, Azoara- 6. for Papifts, it is well knowne that they condemne ufury, Z j as 3 4 3 iwt tmjnan Lonjitct* ^ h a p • 14.. Sel * m - 1 - l , ih * as BeRarmine in divers places on the eight Commande- B'/. !S£." ment ( tne Seventh with him fpeaking)of thefts forbidden drift iana in the Commandement, in the fecond p'acchee nameth all dotf.cap.is. ufury. Gerfon hath divers Chapters again!* uliiry, where- Gcrfon de con- j n hee affirmes it to bee a mortal 1 fin, unlawful!. Bonaven- 7fTff *'<. '*" fpeakingof the fecond Table faith, heere alfo ufury is Bi*tvM*l. ' %hidden. Toilet amYmeth ufury to bee a mortall finne. dijf.^7. Zamb^rd faith, ufury is forbidden in the eight Commande- rs/ b.^ ment. JsJuoUhs de Orbeltii, handling many things about re- e . a P t 8, , ,-, ftitution and ufury, propounds this qurftion : What dee' you Iwnoara lib*** ••/ r i r i i • i • r * j r i di/?.27. ttiink* of tho[e law* t which permit nfury < and anivvererb, Nicol.de orhel. they are of no force, becaufe they are againfl the divine Uw, dift.i^.q.i 1 1 . they a*e againfl the Uw of nature — and they are abrogated by Nzvor. Man. t he Canon Uw. Tttrpu Alogi** hath divers queftions a- mjegp oclav. j X)Ut u k ir y anc j te ftj tLlt i orj) commending the one as neceffary, Ce t C 6 con deniin^g theotherasunlawfi.il!. Cent. 1 z. Cap. 2 The Orthodoxe primitive Chriltians accounted ufury un- lawfull, anVfurer worfe then the divell, beciufe the divell ufeth his owne talent to doe mifchiefe, the Vfurer not his owne, but Gods, deufu/ ™ 7 ' Ltither faith thuS ' v f* rers dre the crtielt d ™*" yg " of the Vfurari) funt whole world, they have given themfelves wholly to the DivcB 9 immanes totius neither dse they any thitg efleeme our fpeeches, although rin- orbiivoratores, ging\ of thefe I have fboken that they are to bee delivered jzterunt fe u $ atan whether living or dead, for his they would bee ; and quicqulm mo- f ^ Mt »°Cbriftian commerce bee kjpt with them : fay O Curate rantur no/it os &** ** itflwghtly forbidden to thee by the law ofQodto efleeme clamores qmn- any Vfurer for a Chriflian man, to offer him the Sacrament t y or -tuffiviifomrosi y Qne ftly to bury him. Say \ Preacher, J may not throw my de b« hcutut r t r headlong to hell with thee, goe thott and defc end into hell Cum quod finr 1 J . & , n , y. 6 „ / ; j tamviviqiiam a ^ 0He — ' admontfh therefore you Preachers t-hat you doe your mortui traden- duty, lit them die like dogs, that the divell may devoure their d l - Satanz(nam ejuiejfevolwit) ncc qutcquam drift iani commercijeum iffii habendum. 7)ie (Paroche) tibieffe interditlumd e Deoneu!himufuranumhcibia& prohomine Cbrifttano, nee Sacra* menta porrigere,. nee hone ft e fepelire. Non ideo fun Concionator (die) ut ad inferos tecum me prxcipitem, ah: iu tsf defcende foists ad inferos— ves erzo Farochos admoneo, jacite ojjidum -vefirum [mite iUos inftar eanum mori ; ut 'DiabQtas devoret cum fouUt yW*/ anybodies: wither let them bee prefent in any Chrifiiam wpmbn, a CongregAtion y for if 'any plague /ball bee fent into Cjcrm*- animabus, net uy, which ffeare will bee fljordjy it will come to pajfe priuci- uUocxtuiChri fatly for covetoufneffe and ufury y becaufe wee fufer thofe ^mfahl execrable and damned men to live amongfi */, and becaufe wee p\ a g a Germa have commerce with them, efpccial/y O&agiftrates JhaU anfwer nU fucrit im forthiitoCody and /halt be more grievoufly p unified, becaufe mi /f*i Mqw they fujfcrfuchwtckedtheeves without punifhment torpb, and ^ /■££ to dejlroy by ufury in their dominion;, ^ Td'fietpTo} ter avaritiai (? u r urfis,pr6ptcrea quj.iexccranJos is? damnatos iftos homines inter not pajft fumus v\ i erei (tf quod commercium am ijshabuimw, przcipuc Magiflratm rationem reddituri fw %)co 3 & gravifer punienmrjquodtam/celeTatos latrwes pajft Junt in ditibnibm fu'u impi yie gr ajar i ) (2 J jtBtcran.lQ depnedari. Luther Tom. 7. deuiur. Fol.42,4. Fol.4z6.fo Concerning our Church as pure and Orthodoxe as any un- der the cope of heaven, wee may boldly affirme that it is al- together oppofite to ufury : Witncflfe her 1 op Canon. Wit- nefle many of her worthy Prelates? and other grave and god- ly Divines, who have written at large againft this fin : as Bifhop Iewely B. Downtmy D.Fenton and others: and wit- nefle her pious Homilies,in one of them,calling goods gotten 5 < part again by ufury, unjnft gotten goods : and in another, goods of the pcnllofidol. divels gift,and them worfhippers of thedivell. I will con- ForRog.-ycc elude this with M. Ainfworths relation of the opinion of fome of thechiefeft Iewes concerning ufury. Vfury and Ainfoortb,o increafe areboth onet&ing, Levit.2^.^y t r Deut.2^.ip. and £x0:l lV/ z ^ why is the name of it called ne/hek. biting ufury f becaufe no- ny^TreaufTc fhekjt biteth y for it nippeth thy neighbour, andeatetb hidfiePk-- the lender an lUeewife it is unlawful to have ought to do betweene the borrow* borrower , cr and the lender upon vftsry ; and whofoever U either fur ety, or ch J P* l • Sc this is after-u- furie. Scriptures againft uftiry. 6. In trie fixe and laft place, the places of Scripture prohi- biting ufury are plentiful], plaine and pregnant. Ex id, 22.25. ThoH (halt not lay on him ufury, Lev.i$ 36. Take no ufury, but feare thy God % as if an ufurer didnotfeareGod. 'Deut, 2 3 1 9. Thou [halt not lend upon nfury to thy brother , that God may b/efe thee* Nehem. ?. 7, x o, 1 i, 1 2 ,1 $ . The Ievves are reprooved for their ufury, perfwaded and en;oyned to make refti- tution. n«p4 '• £w PfaL I <$.<;. He that putteth not hu money to ufnry. *S»';«n ?-rS Pfal$J.%I. The wicked ta^et for lending, and will not re* t accTit ft ere ' tne Words carie this fenie as they will, and theanti- tptiK&nm thefis or contrary defcription of the godly, (Ver. a 1.1 5. i?^ ftitue 1. the righteons (heweth mercy andgiveth, he id ever mercifntl And Imdeth) feerae to import. Then it is a note of a wicked man to exact for lending, and not to re ft ore, ]*<* 'PfaL $5.12. Vfury (or deceipt ) and guile depart not from rnoienp b er ftreets. The Septuagint read it ufury, fo do S. Augufline and Theodoret on this place. The iame word is uled Pfal.ji. , 14. He [bah re dee me their foule from ufury (or deceit) and violence. Vfury therefore is a lamentable note of a linfull place. m r**w r^i PfaL 89. a a. The enemie [hah not exatl upon him as an ufurer ', neither [hall &c. Noting ufurers as enemies, and fonnes of wickednefle. 'Pfal. 109. II. Let the ufurer catch all that he hath. The fame word is uftd Exod. aa. a$. and here by Pagnine and Montanw it is translated ufurer. Vfurers therefore are grie- vous oppreflburs* catchers and: consumers of mens fub- flance. ^*ct,ii. TheCbrtjttanCtnjim. 347 Prov.lt .7. The hewer Is fervtnt to the ufurer. Thus Ptgnine ariirmeth S.Hicrom to read it,and the word is fo ufed, iW&.$.4. Which placef if in that fenfc it may be readjfhew- eth two evil! eff eels ofufury,impoverifoing-the borrower,and bringing him into flavifh bondage. Prov. 29 1 5 . The poore And the *f*rer, out tranflation relids it, 7A&<:. 3 . That rich and wealthy men are to be accounted aliens and Grangers, andnottobeeflcemed brethren, if this coate- quence is not criminous and culpable, 'Dcttt.i 3 . : 9. 4. That this is no good, or well grounded inference, take not of the poore, therefore thou mayeft take of the rich for, by the famereafon we may delude and defraud, wrong and opprefle married women, children having parents, our neigh- bours and rich men , as thefe following Scriptures do fumci- ently fliew. Exod. 22.21. You [hall not affliSI Any widow or /*• t her lejfe child. Dent. 24.1 7. Thou [halt not pervert the judge- ment of the flr Anger, nor of the father lejfe, nor take a widows 1 YAiment to pledge. Deut. 2 7. 1 Q. Cttrfed be he that perverteth the judgement of the f At her left, ft ranger and widow. Prov. 2 1 r 22. Rob not the poore— nor opprefie the affliUed. Trov. 23.10. Enter not into the field of the fatherlejfe. Ier.21.3. Do no vio- lence to the fir anger, father It fie And widow. Zach. 7. 10. Op- frefe not the ftranger, father leffe and widow, which facred in* functions give not the leaft allowance to wrong and opprefle any at all, yet particularly and f pecially nominates thefe, 1. Becaufe of all others they are mod fubjeel to violence and wrong, ana! lead abk to make refiftance. 2. .Becaufe that oppreffing of thefe is an addition unto, and aggravating the raiferies of thofe who are already abundantly miferable, 3. Becaufe the good of fuch is very little(if at all)regarded or refpected. 4. Becaufe thefe cannot kt forward and farther their owne . bufinefle by bribes and friends. 5. Becaufe thefe cannot acqujt and recompence thofe who favour, help and further them. Objefi, Ob)e$ % *. Say not beloved brethren that biting ufiiry is on* ly forbidden, or that ulury ofmony to buy neceflary food or the like, is onely prohibited . eAnfw. I. For CMarbith and Nefiek. ate Sjnonima y Levit, 23. 36% 2. For all irfury is biting. 1 . Notonely in regard of the borrower, as thefeand other Credit » r m6rdet Scripturcsdemonftra.e, ^/.7..i4- Sp.M.sj. P„» a .. 7 . 'ZZfuZi 2. Not onely m regard ot the common-wealth, as B.IcweJ/ t er mordetur excellently fhewetb, cumreddit^wd 3. But alfo in regard of the ufurer himfelfe , whofe foule non ^ cc ^t •• and confcicnce in the end is thereby bitten. rmrdet u f ura '> 3. And as forthatdiftinclion of mats ^c.DeKt/^fpT^tt 1519. the Lord doth there flatly forbid all the diverie and di- mordenqui dat ftincl kinds of ufury of what fort foever. <9*/**#.3. Say not beloved brethren, the Lord allowesof feme kinde of ufury, therefore it is not (imply unlavyfull, eutq,% t 20.17.) itneither doth nor can prove ufury law full, againft the whole fcopeand current of the Scripture, which doth lively delineate, and largely demonstrate the diabolicall deformity of thiscurfed, cruell, corroding and Satanicall abomination, no more than Gods allowing the Ifraelitesto ipoilethe Egyptians, Exod. 1 2.3^. can prove theft lawfull , or UMofes permitting di- vorce, can prove it legitimate. I know that iome lay, that di- vorce and uiurie are not alike, becauie that was forbidden be- fore the law, whereas ulury was not f o. But let Inch confi- der, that ufury being againft the Morall law and the law of na- ture, was forbridden in all ages, before Mopes as well as fince a , as other kinds of theft, murder and adultery are tnd were for- bidden* Qbicft. O&jeEl. 4. Say not beloved brethren that the prohibition of ufury was only Mofaicallandludaicall, not being once named in the New Teftament , but rather approved by our Saviour fcimfelfe, Mat. 2 5 ,27. Mine own with ufury. Anfw. 1. For the Scripture brancheth this amongft the breaches of the Morall Law, yea amongft moft grofleand grievous abominations, as murder, idolatry, inceft, and fuch like, £.5,^.22.7, 12. 2. The Scripture excludes thefe oflfendors out of Gods ta- bernacle and holy hill, Pfal. if. therefore is ufury a breach of the Morall,not of the Iudaicall Law. 3. The argument is not accommodate and good which is drawne from one part of Scripture negatively, it is fufficient that it is forbidden in the Old Teftament, and reckoned a* mongft the dreaflfull and moll odious tranfgrcflions of the Morall Law. 4. Vfurie is expreflely forbidden in the New Teftament, namely. Matth. $. 42. From him that would borrow of thee turn e thou not awaj : In 'which words there is a precept of free lending. 1. For there needs no command to lend for gaine and ad- vantage,men being naturally too prone hereunto. 2. The comparing that place in Luke 6. 35. Looke for no- thing againe, namely for lending, manifeftly demonftrates as much,and that this is the meaning of the placets cleare. 1. For if theprincipall was not to be expe&ed, it wasgi- ving^nd not lending. a. For free lending is a fruit of love and mercy, which are here enjoy ned. 3 . For if men lend for advantage, what thanke have they ? Do not finners,do not ufurers the fame, Verf 3 4. 4. For this lending ought to be to all whom we ought to love and do good unto. mj\»1kr»f t ^ att % l % 1 2 > l $• 0ver tbrt» the tablet of the money-changers Nvmuiwiwn or ufurers. The fame loh. 2. 15,16. When Chrifl: fcourged them out of the Temple, and called thew thecvcs,faying, jo* havs d i civil. TheChrtjtUfJCenpuu 54^ have made it a den of t beeves , and that money changers are u- furers is clcare, Mat. 2^. ^7. Money to the ex* facers— mint gunewith ufMri*. Money changers are ufurers , and fuch are railed theeves by our blefled Saviour. I Cor. 6. 10. NorcovetoMy nor extortioners fball inherit the kingdome of heaven : Vfurers are covetous for they gree- vUnMa, i^. dily covered impjftly take increafe: they are alfo extortio- * s ' ners, for ttiey exacl: uiury. g*/. 5. 1 5 . if joubite and dtvonre one another , &c. ufurers AiWi^ bite(as before) the borrowers, 1 Sam. 22. 3. £s>«7 **; /^ '•***■ ^^ t»M in debt, namely to the ufurer, and devoure the borrowers and what they have, 1 King.q.i. The ufurer cans? to t^e fits and af!. Gal. 5.IP loii.AndfuchlikeMn^lvgthis and other breaches of the Morall Law elfwhere implied and exprefled. 5. And as for that alledged place, CMattb. 25. 26. Luke .IP .22. 1 . Take it as approving ufury , yet then it concludes that u- furers are cruell,hard,unmercifuli and unjuft men; for tbe un- profirable,evilland flothfull fervant accufing God wonderful- ly upjullly (for the Lord gives talents and increafe to the well ufers of them) the Lord from this falfe accufation confutes this wayward wretch, wounding him with his owne wea- pons,as thus; thou fayed that I am an hard man, grant fo much (which yet is falte) why then didft thou not doe for me as for hard and un ju(t men who are ufurers, &<:. which fuppofition makes nothing for ufury. 2. The words area parable taken from an cvill thing , and we are to know and underftand, 1. That all things from which Scripture borrowes fimili- tudesare not lawful!, Pfal% 8.5. 2 Tet.^.io. 2. That all things are not good from which wc are to 3earne,forasfrom unjuftftewards, Luke 16. fo from ufurers we fhould learnc fpirkuall ufury, edifying our felvesando* then? what we can. 3. The meaning is that men fliouldbe as induftrionsand diligent to do good,to increafe their gifts and graces,as ufurers are to do cvill, and to increafe their wealth. 4. Foe 35$ The Chrtfim Ctnfltct. Chap. 14. 4. For it cannot be meant of ufury literally , becaufe the Lord takes not away f rom,but gives more and more to all that have and practice the ufury here meant,Ver. 29. whereas it's cleare that he doth foone blaft and confume that other diaboli- cal] increafe ofufurie. Objctt, 5. Say not beloved brethren, we may do with our own what we will. Anfw* For we may not murder our brother becaufe our weapons are our own,nor opprefle our neighbour becaufe our money is our own. Obje8.6, Say not beloved brethren, that Chriftian com- mon-wealths allow of ufury, and ours in particular. Anfr». 1 . For fuppofe they did, and (hould make it a trade without control!, yet could it not be lawfull God forbidding the fame : the infer iour cannot abrogate or take away the law of the fuperiour ; the beft, yea all common- wealths under the frame and fabrick of heaven are fubjecl and fubordinate to God , and therefore cannot annihilate and abrogate his loyall Law. 2. But what if all lawes in all common-wealths are againft it,as B. ltvnll fheweth. 3. As for our lawes, they affirm ufury to be unlawful!; they are (Hied lawes againft ufury, to limit and reftraine it, not to allow or approve ofthe fame j and our 109 Canon com- mands Church-wardens toprefentufurers, and enjoy nes to keep them from the Communion untillthey be reformed. Objett. 7. Say not beloved brethren, that many good Di- vines and Preachers think ufury to be lawfull . Anftv. 1; Since all the learned and renowned Heathens condemneit,as AriffotUy Cicero^ CW*,&c. a. Since all the ancient Fathers cry out againft it as accur- fed,as S. Auguftitte, AmbffcB+filfiLz. 3. Since moderne Writers have written unanfwerably a- gainft it, as B. /*»*//, D.T^nuMfi^&c. 4. Since Iudat and Demos were Preachers approved of by the beft,yet evill practitioners. j . Since the beft men have had, and may have their errours. 6. Since <*. Since the allowance of man cannot make that lawfull Which God forbiddeth. 7. Since it would bee more charitable and Chriftian- like for thofe worthy Divines to fhew and fignific their grounds and reafons, to confute all antiquitie,aiidortbodoxe modcrne Writers,rather than to whifper in corners,and mut- ter in fecret by word or letters, that fo we alfo who are con- trary minded, if we fee it warrantable, may give them the right hand of fellowfhip. 8* Since iiich Divines who are allowed by and in our Church cannot be much commended for good Divines,if they approve of or practice ufury , they fubferibing to our Homi- lies which fay,that goods of ufury are from the Divell,and that ulurers do worfhipthe Divell. 9 . Since (as I have (hewed you) Divines are much wreftect and wronged in this particular by this fraternity, their fautors and fa&ours. 1 0. Since (I verily think e) no one Divine can be produced to juftifk and account as good, the prefcnt practice of thefe pe- cuniary and peccant people. This is but a ruinous and totter- ing prop and pillar to beare up and (iipport a matter fo folid and f ubftantiall,of fuch weight and importance. Ok)eft. $. Say not beloved brethren, that ufury doth good in the common- wealth, it helpes and relieves many poore and penurious men who otherwife could not borrow, yea it is (o ufefull, ferviceable and beneficiall, that common- wealths could not lland without it. Anf. 1 . For thus fome do and may as well defend the beaft - like ftewes, it is good to permit them to prevent greater evils. Thus Saul pleaded for his difobedience as a good deed to fave fome of the beads for facrifice, 1 Sam.i 5. & * . How did common-wealths before they ufed that wicked art of ufury? - Did they not then live farre better, did they not flourifh? Why els did they fo cry oat againft it, and condemne it as unnaturall?thus C$cero> Cnto y AriUotls and others, as un- equall, a man receiving more than he lends : receiving gaineg by anothers lofle , as repugnant to good manners. The Germans 35 * l%eCbriflUn Conflict. Chap. 14. Germans (faith Aretim) faidthey were happy before they knew that wicked art, and why ? Becaufe fince they lived in gluttony, delights, on other mens goods— this occafioneth idle- nelfe, to live like drones on other mens labours. 3. The goodie doth in common- wealths is eafier preten- ded than proved. It devoareth and deiolateth whole families, on whom(I think)depends the good of the common-wealth. Befide lamentable and continuall experience, the Statute a- gainft: ufury in the 1 $ yeate of Queene Elizabeth faith, the ut- ter undoing of mAnjgentlemen^mer chants ^occnpiers y and others , bath come from the cunning practices of nfnrers. And I am furethe Word of God abounds in this kind, Neh.<$.i i.fhew- cth that they were no good effects that came from ufury, but d read full and accur fed. There was a great cry of the people, the husbandmen were bitten and devoured, in them the common- wealth, which can- not fubfift without them, Eccl.5.9. This occafioned an addition to the prefent pinching dearth, and all this while the ufurers hearts were hardened againft their brethren as againft ftrangers, PfaL 8o. j 3. The enemy faU not ex a ft as An ufttrer, I op.i I . Let the ufttrer catch all 2 Kin* 4.1,2. and other Scriptures {hew , that if making men to cry out becaufe. of poverty, if to impoverifh people and bring them into ftavery,iftocatch and cpnfume all that men have are good for c6mmon-wealtbs,then are ufurers to beefteem- cd as doers of good in the fame. 4. Concerning the inevitable neceffity of this notorious and noyfome annoyance, if truly there is any, I fuppofe it is a needlefle, and I am perfwaded it is acrueil neceffity which thefe greedy money-mongers have pulled upon many com- mon- wealths paving almoft wholly eaten up charitable and Chriftian free lending,yea fo farre forth,that within this, week Ifawonepay 9 d. for the forbearance of 3 1.6 fl\.8 d, for about fix weeks time ; and a man complained to me that his fifter conft rained him to pay ufury for the forbearance of 1 7 1. be- ing her legacy, for halfe a yearcs time. 5 . And to averre or affirm that common- wealths could not (land Si c t • 1 1 ; The Chriflum Conflitl. 35 3 ftand without this finfull fupporter is much derogatory to the wifdomeand providence of God in difpofingof all things. Ob. 9. Say not beloved brethren, that borrowers confeflc a good turne in having money of Vfurers,they are very defirous of ir,very joyfull of, and thankfull for the fame ; and therefore you may fafely and fecurely goe on in this condemned courfc and kind of life. Anj-w. 1 . For it is fuch a good turne faith Bifhop lew 11 as to give cold water in an ague fit, to cure a finger by cutting of an arme,as to cure a blemifh in the eye by plucking of it out. a. Neither doth the willing and joyfull acceptance prove the Iawfullncffe of ufury, neceflity urging fome, andfcolifh defire carrying headlong many others to their own ruine, and although no man is willing to receive manifeft wrong,yet ma- ny willingly receive a deftroyinghooke covered over with a faire baite, ru(hing headlong as their blind affection leades them, Bcfides there is a miferable will,as for a man to give his purfe to a theefe,to fave his life,to caft bis goods into the fea, to prevent fhfp wracke. Laftl y the poore debtour is ufually like a horfe,which once having taken the bit, although hee often changeth his rider hath ever one or other on his backe,or like a poore prifbner remooved from jaylor to jay lor but feldome or never free. Ob. 10. Say not beloved brethren, that both borrower and lender are gainers, therefore is ufury charitable and law- full. Anf*. 1 . Tor by the fame reafon officious lies may bee de- fended, yet are they finfull becaufe forbidden : and circum* fiances cannot make things (imply evill to bee good : one thcefe is helpefull to another theefc r yet this cannot juftific or make theft lawfull. 2. Admit that both bee gainers, yet the covenant made betweene them is unequall and uncharitable, turning an ael of charity namely lending into an aft of felfc-Iovcand cove- toufneflc, and fo charity is broken. 3 . Admit they are both gaii.ers, yet that game is to the endammaging of the Common-wealth , people being A a com- 354 T &* ChriftUn Confliff* Ch ap . 14* compelled to buy at dearer rates, and fa the aftisuajuftand uncharitable- Ob.n. Say not beloved brethren, we have no other trade whereby to live, and you would not beg/ Afffjp.i, For thus maybawd«:?s,cut-purfes,and theeves plead for themfelves,yet are chey not hereby jjPtirted. a. But rather you and they are worthy double puii fhmen*,, miking choice of fuch unwarrantable and unlawful kindes of living, and yet would gaine as much or more then others doe by honeft diligence and painefull labour. Ob. 1 2. Say not beloved brethren, you do to your debtors a9 you would be done unto w the like cafe, and this is accor- ding to the rule of our Saviour Chrift. *sfnfw. 1 . For it is an eafie matter for men who know not wants,and intend not tomorrow to fay thus, as if a rich man fhouldfaytoapooremancravingan almes> I will give thee none, and thus doing I doas I would be done unto, when I crave an almes let me be denyed. 2. Bat is an Vfurer contented that as he hath gained hun- dreds, and thoufandsof pounds from others by ufury, fo that they or others fhonld regaine fo much from him ? 3. For this rule is notalwaies to be followed, Abimhch and Satt/ might not kill, becaufe they defired others to kill them, tudg 9 5 4 . 1 Sam. 3 1 . 4 And the Vfurer who faith thus knoweth that he fpcakes falfely,defiring rather to borrow freely, then upon ufury if he ftood in need of money. Ob)t£l, 1 3. Say not beloved brethren, that none fpeake a- gainft ufary but poore beggerly fcllowes who.ftand in need of money. Anfa.i . For God the Father, h is Son Iefus Chr i(t,the Pro- phets, and Apoftles fpeake againft it. Doe they do fo for fuch cnds?iHonftrous blafphemy. %. The antient Fathers, Councells,Law-makers,confident- Jy condemne it. l)id they doe thus for fuch carnall and curfed «nds? monftrous impiety; 3, Many of ©ur learned and. reverend Prelates, and famous. S e c t. 1 2i Tie CbfiftUn Ctojlitt. 355 famous Divines, men of eminency and note, much honou- red and advanced in cur Church, have preached and written learnedly and unanfwerably againft this venomous viper Did they doe thus becaufe they needed money? monftrous uncharitable ncfle. 4. The Church of E*gb*djhe Adb of Parliaments conclu- ded with confentofKings,Nobks.and Commons have in ma- ny Kings raigr.es condemned ufufy. Did they doe fb becaufe they needed money ? monflrous irreligion. 5. AsforusMiniiterSjCcuIdvverlndeittobeelawful], vvc would praetife it Co choofe, as moft befitting us who want slcilljtime,and other conveniences to trade and traffique in the world. 0£.!4« Say not beloved brethren, wbat'fhall become of widowes,and orphanes if ufury is unlaw full? What {hall they do topreferve their (locks,and to have lively hood ? tyfnfrvA . For what is this to common Vfurers who are not any fuch > 2. Whatfhallbecome of fuch who have no ftockes, for whom yet God providcth although they ufe no unlawful! meanes. I . How did the orphanes and widdowes amongft the Iewcs, did God forget them when he made fo ftricl a law a- gainft ufury ? 4. Vfnry being fimply unlawful!, how can it bee lawful! for them? 5 . Are there no more trees in the garden,but the forbidden fruit to meddle withall ? 6. Is not tifury lefie lawfiill for them then for o- theri ? 1. Becaufe they have more fpeciall promifes of pro- tection and prefervation/7/^8. 5.7^.49. 1 1 .And 2 Becaufe the Lord denounceth more dreadfull judgements againft thofe who wrong and hurt them? fW.a2.22.j23. Z*ch. 7.»o. 7. Let them therefore depend on Gods providence, and' piomifesintrjeufe of lawfull meanes. A a a 5. For 35* The chriftUn Ctnflid. Chap.i^ 8. Forfinceall mens goods in the world depend on Gods blelfitig and providence, all men (land to it, and are fubjedr, thereunto. Who are you who will exempt them from bei<)g fu'j^ft to Gods providence and difpofing? Shall they onely bee exempted that God (hould not have to doe with their ftockes, but blefle he or curfe he, they fhill be furely provided fortohavetheprincipallfecured, and yea rely lb much cer- taine, efpccially confiderifrg they have fo many excellent par- ticular^romifes made unto them. Oh, i % . Say not beloved brethren,why may we not as well take for money as fortioufes and land, &c A Anf» m \. Forthus doing you doe not examine your lives by Gods law, whether they be confonant thereunto, but you examine Gods law whether it be agreeable to reafon which is abfurd, and impious. a. For the Lord forbids ufury,denouuceth dreadfull judge- ments againft it, but alio weth of taking money for houfes,and land, Lev. 15. Cant, S II. 3. The Scripture never denounceth judgements againfl ta- king reasonable rents for houfes and lands. 4. Philofophers, Lawgivers, and all authors condemning Ufiiry allow of the other. 5 . * Vfurefs themfelves who affirme that ufury may not be taken of the poore, will I fuppofe take rent of them for houfe and land. C. There is not the fame reafon for the one as for the other. I. For houfe and landyeeld a fruitfull life ari/ing from the nature of the thing, as the benefit of dwelling, trading, &c % but money hath no fruitfull ufe of it felfe, and if it is fruitfull, its wholly by the skill and induftry of him who ufeth it, and therefore to him the gaine ought to belong. a . In r hefe things the ufe and not the property is alienated, and ufually they ate the worfe for letting : in money the fame money is not received but fo much in value ,and for the lending it is not the worfe. 3, In things let, the hazard is the owners not the tenants or S i c : t . i xl The ChriflUn Qonfifc 3 57 -or takers if they mifcarry not through the hirers default, they areonelyto pay for the time, Exod. i*. 14. and the hire fs •part of the price for the hazard, but the Vfurer doth not ha- zard any thing. 4. In things let,asboufe and land, the owner isufiully and often at charges and coft about the fame, the Vfurer at none a- bout his money. 5. Lard and houfes are not ufually wafted and fpent inthe ufing as money moft commonly is. 6: Theufeofland is feparabk from the propriety, fo that he who payes rent for it, pay.es rent for that which is another mans, but hee who payes rent for money, payes rent for that which is his owne,the property being tiis, and he bearing all the hazard, yet (which is ftrange) the Vfurer for his 100 1, wrllhave S I yearely, which 1 00 1 in land, will not give above 5 1 yeartly. But reafon and refol ve after this or the like manner. I . *Is ufury which is a gaine exafte^d by covenant above the ^rincipallonely in refped of lending (as Saint tsf*£*fti*e defineth it) oniverfelly unjuft, demanding a fore and cer- taine gaine and benefit of the borrower, it being uhconceave- abkanduncertaine whether he {ball gaine or loofc, or if he, doe get and advantage himfelfe, it is out of thefhiiteof hit painefnll induftry and laboriont endeavours, accompanyed with the bleffing of God, not out of the fruit and fertility of the money. a. Isufury,exaftinggaiiefortheverya^ of lending,not onelyundecent bat vicious, not onely uncourteous but un- charitable and nnchriftian-likc, felling a workc of charity, turning lending which is an acl of charity, and therefore ought to bee free, into letting or hiring, an ad of cove* tpufnefle. j . Are there fo many places in the booke of God punflu- allandprecife^irredanddowne.Tightagainft thisfavage and firpplantingfin of tifury ,and not any one Text in holy writ, al- lowing or approving of, countenancing or in the leaft meadrc crediting iny land of ufury. Aaj 4.Wa* BeiainLuc* 358 theChrifiknConfl'S. Cha^.14- 4.Was ^permitted to be done (when it was) as a plague and puoilbrnenr,as a difpoyling deftru&bn of the curfed Ca- nanitcs (ufury therefore is no, brotherly pare, no kind and Friendly office;; neither do Vfiircrs dcale with, borrowers as : with(bnsof^rz.e- J^Vrnanifeft and make plaine. . 6\ Mull we according to that Chriftian command,, and un* deniable precept of our bleffed Saviour, lend,looking for no- thing againe." Firft, Lending either, to thofe of whom we cannot itiope toreceivcourowne^nonotthe principall againe, as Caivit^ Bez,a % Downam, Za*cby>w& others. Then they who Iqrjdto receive more againe are worfe then- thofe fipnerf, ^r. and all ufuriotis bargaines and pracl^fes are by this condemned which lend notexcept they may receive above^the principal fiith Tez,*. If a neighbour U to be helped', xo regard being had ef receiving againe the p^^ areujmmt bar- gain* s for bidde?. . } Secondly, Or lend, looking for 'no benefit, gaine, orinr crcafe for fo doing, finners lending where they: may receive like kindneffe agafne. y t Is ufijry an effeclatid fij^it^of cankred cQVC$oufncn%and of dread fujl difrruft of divine providence, : ancf therefore . Ido r fetry and infidelity. 8. Doth the Vfnrer fin againft his neighbour by lnjuRice^ wncharitabienefre,opprefTion, and cruelty ? 9* Do Vfurers fin againftthernfelves and their pofyerity ^ leaving Gods curfe upon their rficbes, and wealth of wickea- nefle which they have raked and fcraped together r* 10. Is thefinne of ufury joyned,, and coupled, wrtfj gtofle and grievous abominations, Tfalmt 1 5. E^e^i 2. 1 3 f ' afldlsit the order of the Holy Ghoft aptly to knit, linkc, cbupla S s c t . I % \] 7ht Ch riJIUn CotfliS. 359 ' couple ari conjoyne together things which arc futableandof one fort? 11. Doe humane Authors, Philofopbers, and other Hea* then men cenfure, and cqndemne ufury as an execrable vice, as C*t*, &cero y and tsfri/iot/r> which lad in the foreriamed place faith, men neglected hone ft profitable Arts, by meaner of thliea^eandfalfekjndeofgaine. He affirmeth, that ufury is farrefrom equality. Heiaitb, it wjt ft etf> and burdeneth other t % for the private advantage of moneyed me*, and therefore that it veu pernicious to private mens eft ate sand the Common-wealth* He Jaw reafon why hoefes, lands , and labour of men [houldyeeld money , none why money [houldyeeld money. He thought st un» fit that money the matter of permutation fbould bee matter of merchandife. 12. Did theantient Fathers with unanimous confent not onely preach againft ufury as againft a mod obominable and damnable fin, hue alfo refemble Vfurers to theeves which rob and (kale when they fleepe, calling the*n latrones pufoinariot. To thepoyfon of afpes whkh fo ftingeth that a man feeks prefent delighr, and fo brings him a fleepe, in which he dieth. To the moft execrable and abhorred things,the re being nothing (iaith Saint *Ambrofe) more horrible then an Vfnrer, he is an odious man and his money is a viper \ 1 3 . Are thole few authors which arc alleeged as patrons and fupporters of ufury lamentably abufed, wrefted, and wronged, yea and forced to fpeake contrary to themselves. They fo (tinting and and limiting the lame with cautions, that it ceafeth to be ufury, andfpeaking of lawfull ufury, they ma- nifeft their meaning to be of that increafe which others call ' partnerfhip, thar.kfuUneffeard recompence for ldflfe. 14. Hath God ordained and appointed that every man {hould live in fonie lawfull condition, and calling, nottoeate the bread of idlenes, living on other mens labours, and to fight his battailes in fome warranted ftation and'ftanding,and is not ufury any ofthrs fort and fociety. Then furely we who are and have beene Vfurers witt bye and haften amaine from this fo dread full .ajid diabolicall courfe of life ; make our A a 4 peace 3 60 The chrlftian CtofliZt. Chap, if] peace with (Sad by true repentance, and teftifie the fame like good Zachem by reftkution. And we who as yet have beene preferved from this uncharitable and unchriftian kind of life will mgre and more forfake and flee from the fame, that by this we be not let or hindred from fighting rhe Lords bat- When one had tds in fome pious and praife- worthy ftations and (landings. fpokento Ro- £,#f£ Sect, i a. t$lne, to ad- vancc a poore J&gainjt changers of callings unwarrantably to Uxve trades kinfman of his, to turne MaulfterSy how lawfully and how not, hee thereupon coTfcThfe S.TpHcnlaftly woe to fuch who through pride.Telfe-love, he foIlowed 3 & 1 and difcontent, run out of, forfake and leave thofe par- receiving an- ticular places and feleA ftations wherein Chrift our Comman- fwer, that hee d er hath fetled them to war this good warfare, was an has- Miftake me not,I pray,as if I thought or taught it altogether, fwereT^why aru * abfolotely unlawfull to divert from this or that particular then 'if his calling: for changes may lawfully be made, otherwife Amos plough be bro- ap [heard fman by calling had never beene a Prophet, Amos j. ken, I will i^.Chrifts Difciplc9 who were fifhermen,and of fuch like oc- repaire it, or cll p at j ons k a j neV er beene Apoftles. Mat. i . 1 8. David had nc- faile CI boftovv a vcr come & om tne fhecphooke to the Scepter, new upon him J . Change of callings upon private ne^eiTity, when a man wherbyhemay cfrnnotby his calling maintaine himfeire and thole who rely goe on in his anf j depend upon him, is I thinke approved of by Saint Paul* butfo to .ad- P ra< ^ e > wno herewith enforced .returned to tent-making, vance°him, a as not relinquishing the other of more excellency, weight and to make him importance. forfake his 2, Change of callings for the wcale-publique and a corn- trade or condi- rpon good, to benefit more the Church and Common-wealth hTwasbrouftht ^nottobedifproved, contradicted or condemned, butcom- up,that meane mcndable : as for a private man to become a Magiftrate, this I not to doe. being warranted by Mofes leaving lethrots flieepe togoverne S*. G. Paul m an d conduct the Israelites, ^ e llfc of 3. For a man utterly and altogether difabled by want of mitt p*g°8 s 2PM*** an( * abil "ies , by incurable difeafes or the like, to leave and Sicr.'n; TbeChrifikuCMflilt. 361 and torfakebis calling, is I take it not to be difallowed of and difcomroended,fbr even Mofes difabled through old age re* figned his office to 7*#*4/&, £><•»/. 3 1 .2,7. 4 For a man legally depofed,£*,<^44.l 3. or having fuch a calling which is impofedfor acertaine (eafon onely, thefc muft refigne according to the appointment and will of fuperi- our powers. But as in the field for fbuldiers to leave and forfake their cal- lings and (landings at their owne will and liking, without the will and warrant ef their Captaines and Commanders. 1 Ar- gueth much mjbborneneffe,pride,difobedience and rebellion. a Is a meanes and eccafion todifranke and diforder the whole hoft and army, 3 Difioynts and dhTevers each from othcr,ex- pofing thcmfelves and others to ruine and overthrowe : fo in this our Chriftian warfare, for men who by profeffion are Chrifts fervanrs and fouldiers,and by him ranked in fome par- ticular ftations and (landings, without good warrant from the good will and pleadire of God, meerely upon their owne wills and liking, for the attainement ofgreater wealth, plea- fure and preferment, or to live more idly, lazily and unpro- fitably. I Argues much dilobedienceanddifloyalty. a Is a meanes to diforder the Church and Common- wealth, 3 And to expofe themfelves and others what in them ryeth to ruine~ and deftru&ion : as for example, r. For Miniftersof Gods Word through idlencfle, cove- toufnefle,fearefuUnefle or other (infiill and Imifter refpec5ts,by ends and aimes Demas-Ykz to forfake the Gofpell, and their profeffion. 2 . For decayed and decrepit ferving men or tradefmen to crecpe into the Miniftery for living fake, for although the change is to the better and more excellent eftate and calling, yet how canthefe more glorifie God, and bring greater bene- fitto the Church and Common. wealth( which men muftaimc at in change ofcallings)thefe wanting gifts if not of nature,yet of art and learning to do the fame. 5. For idle dilconrented people to part with farmes and livings to be Vfurersor Maulilers. The former of which being generally . generally and groundedly condemned a* unlawfull and un- warrantable. And as for the latter although the commodity they dealc yvithall be neceflary and ufefull in the Common-i wealuhjand although the diforderly and difibiuredrunkennqfle oftbefe times makes thefe manner of men to multiply,^ grow rich, yet whether this be a calling allowed by our State, or whether it is warrantable for a man wholly to apply himfelfe Unto the fame {this being as I take it an appertiuent appendix belonging to the husbandman, who by this fort of people is imuch abridged, and abbreviated ofone of his maine commo^ ditiesto his disadvantage and difcouragement (and yethec ought to have all manner of countenancing, and fitting refped the King himfelfe being ferved by the field, EccL^y )to the enriching, and advancing ofmcnufuallyidlcif not licentious, I much doubt. 4. For men whofe trayning up hath beene in husbandry,or in fome other honed and commendable arts or callings,to fbr- fake the fame through love of idknefle, and for fuch other finfull refpecls to turne ale-houfe- keepers. For although nc- ceiTarily there mult be houfes of refort and receipt for travel- krs and traffiquers : although theexcefiive and extraordinary extravagant exorbitances too much abounding and over- flowing in fuch places,by meanes of the fupcrabundant and un- neccflary number of thefe kinde of people, and the diflolute difpofitions of themoflof them are rather the faults of the perfons then of the places : although men may bee honcft (though with much difficulty thefe having not mcane,and ma-, ny temptations to innumerable inconveniences) in this trade of life, and it were to be wifoed that' none but honeft, well qualified, and condkionedmen might bee tolerated unto the fame : yetfonncntorelincfuifh and renounce other courfea of life and callings,far more needfull to theCommon- wealth, and more free unto themfelves, that they may live epicure- like, idly, and unprofitably, cannot but bee condemned as fha me full and finfull. 5. For men whofe education and breeding hath beene to the needle,Qiftttle,anvile, or other inferiour yet commendable ChriftrV Sictaz The Cbrifth*d4»j8Zl. f*$ ChrHHah and laudable kinds bflivingjout of aditiiaine of the bafenes ofthcfecaHmgs,felf-conccitcdncsofthcirown wor^h & wit to work woniers,ac to £unnage:matcersof greater itr*. *port»nce,oofcof a defireto*grow great, t© gaine wcakb,and got prcfenncntyorto live morcidty, and cafily : for tbefc men to foifakethefe callings to turnegrafiers, and husbandmen is not .in my apprehenfion warrantable ; and to my knowledge nfnaV- ly attended wkh fad ^ccefles^vkbcvill, unlook'd fpr,ai*iUH- welcome events; - Although therfore the re is nothing more common(Ifuppofe I may fay dangerous alfo) among mortallmen theh-to beleevc and beare themfekes in hand thai the eftate of others iafarre more beneficiall and better then-tbeif own;we being thiougly acquainted with the divers di&carie»ingian4 difadvantageotis difcommoditiesofour own callings, little or not 'at all ieene -into,ofperceiving the fame in other mens. Although male-contented, yea the moft of mortalj men are continually complayning,feldoqie tpMent,neyer latched, but al waiesdeiirous to change their, condition and exchange their eftates,fb tharthe fhepheard would be a husbandman, the hus- bandman a gentleman,tbe gentleman a {qjiic^c, Little consi- dering that this is no finall cauie of great decay es in Gommorv- wealtfcsjthat dry and withered oakes- and flirubs which have -beene nouriflred uponithe fliacpand craggy mounrainee would feemeto be dainty date trees cberi&ed in pjeafant gardens. Yet beloved brethren and feflow Chriftian fouJdiers, letua jjerfiftin^nd piouflypradife:the duties of our perfonall and •particular callings without fainting, or for faking^herp, I, Co tiideTing that as there iano kindof life in the world ,but therin vile,and wicked men may flander .their perfonf,and leofctheir foulesrfo there b no ftate or ftation in {he Church of God but moilawyclaerinXiftbejw^ felves and others:fbr as the ftate of Princes and of other prime men having precedency, predominance, prcheminence, and prerogatives is good if they abaft ft not: fo is the eftate of peo- ple ofinrcriourrankes and orders if they behave themfelres dutifully, and obediently. As the condition of rich men is good if 3$4 thickrifiiAntwjttft: Chap^. T T F ^thcydogfaciouflyandgodlilyufethcfamc, (bis that of the olHaef pa*. V° 0TC alfo * f thc y havc P ict y and paticncc*M r . ?r r^#>/ faith ex- ft 7 . -cellently- to this purpofc, Ul4en of meane pi act and calling may comfort themfelues inferving men, by per form once offomt foore andbafo duties tbejferve God,and therfore that their fer- ttice is not baft in hu fight, and although the reward ft em men be little >yet the reward at Gods hand /hall not be wanting. And S. r Mnof. Spilt* Ambrofe fpeaking cfilefephs humility in doing fervice, faith, I&7-£/>^-44« He advifodly eonfidering that it matters nothing in what condi- tion any man may fiew himfelfe prai/e-worthj-Jut that the pur m pofe of good menu, that they might be approved in wbatfoever eflatexand that to befingular and excellent, if the btbavionr doth commend the condition, rather then the eft are the behaviour -, for by how much the condition is more bafe % byfd much the defer t u more excellent, a. Confidering that during the rime of our mifcrable mor- tality, our limber and languiihing life in every conditioaand calling there is both trouble and danger. 3. Cbnfiderinelaftly, that we allare, or ought to bee the Lords fervants and fouldiers, to fight this good warfare hec hath appointed us under Chrift our Captaine and Comman- der, without ftragling and ftarting out or thofe felccl nations and (landings where in he hath f« us^nd to which he hath ap- propriated and allotted us ; not deeming the places too rite and abje<$,or our fel ves too great or good in them to war thig good warfare. When a field is loft, the Captaines blame the fouldiers, the fouldiers the Captaines, the foreward, the rero ward,the battell the wingSj&c. whet«as if every one who bla- med his fellow had done his duty all had beenc wdl. Bven Co ift&entlemen, Preachers, Farmers, Artificers, rich and poore, and all fuch others which blame each other, would do his own duty in this Chriftian warfare, all would do well. FINIS. K v An Alphabetical! Index. for.ltf. they fbould be unfit A%\ % A. as *tfo correBed. % S^jbeir dmiss to FfecYtons the feet of the fiule\ their par entt.%%^. pag.%%. Chx'\\\ what he is.i 09. i3bn9 mnfl be endured, 2 J— 1 1 8. Chrift is our Captai*e.\6%. y dre harmelejfe and good to the The fuffer ings oj Chrilt defer ibe d. 27. ood. 3 1 . 1 1 p. Chriftians muft follow Chrifts diretti* » they *rc from (jod, low from ons.179. thers.^j. Chriftianitya a warfare, 5 . they are goody hox» evill. 6l, It is a good warfare. I o. v they are for fin. T 3 8. Chriftians muff war this warfare. 1 1 .' *er evillto be avoided, good to hee Chriftians lazie and licentious cenfu- hsri%ed as afurthertr of courage. red. 1 4. I75. Courage necejfary and excellent. I £ 7. tichrift wbat.t op. Co^ardife odious and dangerous .1 60 inotnifts errors confuted. 135. Cro wnc */ Chriflians inejtimable. xjo TIQUT of a Chrifiiau feuldier, what D. t u y itsparts 9 dig»ity, and necejftty % Davids fufferings .25 . |5j. "DdTxhdreadfulli the faults, anddu- impregaable.169, ties of rich and poor e in time of B. Dearth. 1 22. es their good properties in true be Deaths advantage. 5 o. severs 75 . Depopulators hurtful/ men why and to raft-plate ofCbriflianfouldiers.So, whom. 3 1 7. riall a blejfing hsw^and why . 5 4, Diet firengtktnetb. I ^4. C. Difcords may be with true Ghrifliani'* \ fc good m*\es conragiotts . 1 64. ty.i 6. lings lawful fhtuld be h*d t 2$5 wan- Divels their names and nature.12. tors ofC al 1 i nqs cenfured, and for fa- E . *trs •/Callings unwarrantably. 500 Earthly favours though good, a*e not M t are to watch over our f elves in our Chriftians chief e good and glory, 1 5. Callings. 103. . ExcrcifeJIrengthenetb.154. iptivity dreadfutl,iet tollerable. 49 . Experience makes couragious. 172. lildrenar* s bUffing to bee fray ed Eye unguarded dangerous .I£p. Faitk XAtdy -^ - — 70:/ 2.2 v, iff- The Index* F- Husbands duties it* this warfare ; Vanha/hieldnecefary 9 & exstUm.9% Hypocrifie dreadfully i . Itfortifieth t and maizes cmragiow yj t J. Fa mine bow dreadfull & profit at fir 4 8 Iafc ohs fufferittgs. 1 % . VaRingitsueceJ/ltjjprefit, what it «, IcUcncffc^wV/.^^^wAijigJ W W r* beperformed.%6^. IngrofleTS cenfiired.ilj. Rarefiillncffe #» Chri/Iian fouidiers Inftnmcntsoffato beetakeut whence. 158. 1 8 ^ t Feet ofthefoule what they are and hew loy y ftrovg in joy. 1 5 o« r* ^ [hod. 8 8 . IfraeJs/* f*ri'*£j.24'. Feet of ChrtjlUnsfceblefiiled. 1-68. lodgements «i>/?^ ^ ». f 20. Fooks ofallfooles Are all wicked men, Iudgement day. 1 3 I , and why. 5 j. Iu(t overmuch who: 52,. K. Kneeling r* beufedinpubllquepr^ 264. Knowledge particular in heaven* Gentlenefle y?r*w£ 10 gentlenefle. t yi Girdle ofChriflians defer tbed dignifi- ed. 66 1 God ^ the Chriftiant munition \ 208, H* #/ */«» r \6 5 H. flea! things to be avoided. 2 $6. Heart of man to be watched. 1 9<\, arid why $^, They fhould be ceuragious. 1 5 p.* Mailers <&*) in thu warfare. 311, Marryed per font duties. 245, Martial] men honour able, 2, hhulfteis-cenfured. 3 60, Hecdfullnetfe^W r* what>and why Meekne(Te,yrV . P. S:ar(ity fet Dearth and Famine; r inthio wirftre.itf. Security ca*n*lldangereui t i%G, avty Scripture uajufily Senfes to be witched over .1 99, /lo\ Shoes of ChritlianfoHldiers.%Z.. are .Qods rods , ffo Sincerity noa'^es happy. y 3, */.22,2. \rij to be performed with Sufferings ofChrifi,and Chrifiians 2 $ e.i04f, Sans properties > how the Lord U a fun of things pafi frofita- to the upright . 71 . Sword of Chriflianfoulditrs defer i bed ^ at croffejetfor Chrijfs dignified, a © 7. le.ayj. Temperance, flrong in temperance. in dearth. 11%. 152, he Chrifiians breafl- Temptations to be expelled, i 9 %, 'jtinfcejfttyanddig- Titles of honour their original from ywrre&i Tongue. The Index. 1 Tongue./Wf i*i a hitter «§i8ion> yet W. to be endured. 5 5 . Warfare of the Cbrifliah fouldit Truth whence learned. £7. excellent and need full. $ . It is the ChriBUn fouldiers girdle, its Watchfullneffe s uecejfarj duty divers kinds > excellency ', and necef- wates^nd -why, 1 84 . fity.66. Wcake bdeevets who. 155. V. Weapons/** Armour. Valour vanquijheth. 1 6$ . Wel-doing not wearifome. 1 1 8, Victory belongs to Cbri&ianfoutiicrs* Wicked menfooles ofallfooles. 3 A 1 6p. Wives duties in tbiswar.ipj. Virgins wife and fooli{h 9 wherein they Wife over much who.Sj* agree ^and differ. 1 o 2 . Word ofgodourfword* 107. ynmercirull men miferablc. \ 14,1 2$>. /* cleanfeth.69. I } 1 • /* #/ the ground oftrrth6j* Voice ** pMjw ueedfall. 262, Z# V fury anfured, confuted, and Vfurert Zcak. 1 1 7^ tbjcclitns anfwered. 3 2£. FINIS.