v:-'/l :^ t PEINCETON, N. J. % Presented by Mr. Samuel Agnew of Philadelphia, Pa. Agneiu Coll. on Baptism, No, £j ■■« - I , . ... .-'■•Jr. .i*?-- •Ji. •- n Co^' \ » .^. -^ TWO F I R S T, THE PRACTICALL GATE CHI SMB. WHEREIN, 1 HO S E P J. I N C r PA L L Truthes, which moft diredly, tend to life and.godl*jar€5 are handled, SEC o NDL y; A TREATISE OF THE TWO SACRAMBNTSv Of the GofpcII, Baptifmc and the ^ Lt)rds Supper. iV Pivided into tm parts » ^" ' p Itie firft, flicwing the nature of the Sacraments in GcneralL The fecond/ the manner of due preparatioh to the grecciving of the Lords Slipper, and our bcJiaviour> in and after the iame^ Bj'DVkogers'^.inDiv'm. andMrni^QX^the ^fpell, — " • : — ■ — : 1 ; ' — * Printedat London by /.!>. £oxIohnBellamky znd kalph Smitk^^t the tVffee golden Lyon* in ComhiU^^^^ tfie RoyaU Eatchange. x 6 4c, IT ^ • I, CATECHISM E / Or, A view of thofe principall truths of the, word, which moft dirc^ly tend co life * and godlinefTe, JOivided into three Farts o The firfljfhcwmg the mifery of all mtn by nature^both in refped oF linne and punifbment;^with the true ufe of the morrall Law in that bchalfc. The fecond^manifcfting the remedy ordained by God to deliver them ftom this mifery, together with the mcanes of receiving it, viz. Paith^and how it may be attained. The third, declaring how thofe who arc delivered, ought to orde^^ ijjdr whole Converfation ; with the meanes to procure it^thc lets refifting, and the priviledges encouraging to it. ' Serviiigfor the ufe of thofe who firft heard them taught, as alfo foaf r all others who fhail carefully perufe them. The third Edition, cerreHfd 4nd much enlarged. By -P. Rogers B.in Divin. and Minifter of the Gofpell.' ^om.j,9JorIrpHS once ahve withoHt the Lm i but ipphen the Law carnal jinne r'^vived^and I died, Efay 12.3. Therefore mthjty draypjee waters out of the wels offafvation, tyCor.y. I. Having therefore thefe p-onjifes, let m clenfe our felves from allfiithinejfe oftkefleJhandfpirii.perfe^Hnghc/inep tn thefeare of God, Frinted at London by/. J0>. For lohnSe/iamie, and Ralph ^;w///^,atthc tk^goldcnLyonsinOr^^^^^^^ Exchange. 1^40,-. ' 3 To the] Right Honorable and vertuous Lady, S v s a n n a, Counteflc of ^Waripkki vvik to the Right Honorable """^^ Robert, Earlc ofWkrmd^ Barott of ii^<;«,&c. Grace and peace. hfi^c MAVJM: O o d Readers love good bookcs for themfelves,and were all Readers fuch; ( which neither they ever Were, nor ever will be) I mcane ingenuous or judtj cious, there would be the lefTe ufe ot Dedications. But itis with bookes as with Meatcs ; not all our cooking and drcding (doe what we can) will faftcnthem pponluch as have no appetites. And the moft Will want them; cither out of diftaftc of Stomacke^ or clfc infirmity; carping at whatfocverfntesnot with their malicious fulfomnefTe, cunofityjor igaqrancc. Againftfuch as thcfe, bookcs juftly. ~~ A^ fteke / 7k Eptftk1)eXcafory. feeke PrGteftion from eminent perfonages ; and fo doth mine from your Honor.Both that the ill affcdcdand prcjudicatcmay leffe hurt us, being {hrowded under fuch covert; and that the wcake (ifpoflible ) feeing wifer and better than them- felves to rely and ftcdcupon that favorily,which they ref ufc, may recover appetite, and treadc in their fteps. , , . Another reafon of my oflFeris. That this my Treatifc bath heretofore come forth torne and difguifed, partly by accident, partly by wilfull de- fault- You know ragged children run mto holes to hide themfelvesas aOiamcdjbut having gotten apparel! upon them amended; they dare pre- fent thcmfelves to their beft friends* Thetrutb is . fuUloath I was to offer the former difmem** btcdcopy tothcviewof many fuch as I ought fpeciallferviceunto. But having now byprovii denccjfomewhat darned it up,andrcftQred it to order, I am bold to off'er it, ( fuch^ it is ) to youjc Honours vitw and acceptance. But becaufc thofc who are wifc,do not fomuch lecke great oncs,as good onc5, to be patrons of cheir workcs ; Therefore to fpcake the truth,the maine motive mooviflg me to entitle your Ho- Bour to thcfe my labours Jsthis,That I ha\^ dee- med you one, in whofe perfon greatneflc and , ipodneifc do concur ; your Ladiftiips more than brdinary re^cd unto fomefaithfull Minift^rs of Chrift (my felfcone of t&e unworthiefl: of theni|^ not being cxcludedjjhath witncffcd for you, that aotgrcatneflc oncly, but goodneffc hath found favour with you. And I doubt not, but that ex- perience hath taught youjby fo much the more to let a price upon goodneffe, by howmuch you fee, that oncly it<:an makcyou grcat,when greac« ncffc alone can create no goodnefle.Not to Q)eak much of your religious care to worffiip God in fecrcr, mourning for nothing more than for your inability to fcrve him with the beft of your ftrcngthand courage, in yoiirvlvieditations and private en tercourfe with his Majefty* AH which pcrfwade mc^that God will enable your Honour to afford my poorc labours fuch patronage, as both they fpecially feckcjand this age moft needs * that iSi of your praflife, and the cxprcffion of thofe three (acred Truthes; of SeIfe«deniall,Faitb^' ,and the New Creature, which are therein prcfen- tcdtoyou. Alas i ( Right Honourable ) as the provcrbe ( which in all languages is (b common ) telles us, trhereisaSatietyofali things ( outward )heerc below, yea the choy feft of them. Thofc wha know you can tell, firft what parentage and de- fcent God hath vouchfafedyou; To that, what wealth and eftate he hath added ; To both, what titles of honour he hath caft in upon you^ But whatofali thefc three ^ They are not that three* foldcordj not eafily bjcoken^ they arc not thofc Dcjicates which admit no Surfeit j they cannot all of them make up ia crowne which withers not • No,rather they arc of themfclvcs (without goodaeflc ) wormewood, withering garlands. lYea, had you ( befidcs thefe three ) all other ac- compliflbmcnts which either your o wne heart,or any friend could wifii either to your felfe, or to your Honorable Gompeere (to whom my fclfe am much obliged for fundry favours) If,I fay,y ou might wiflb and have cither worldly profpcrity cither foryour felves, or for that pofterity which marriage hath intereffed both your Honours in; with the bleffedcft harmony and correlpondencc ofbody,pfibuLc,which this world can afford* "Alas yet i Where is your happincffe? Can Tharaob'^s privy Chamber it fclfe keepe out frogs? Can all Worldly welfare fhut out regret and fulfomnef^e^ [You know it cannot. But the thing* which the Lord offers to you in the three linkes of this Golden chaine before mentioned{acoid not eafily broken) are dainties and fatncffcjin which your foulc may delight it felfc without wearineflc; and will fet a crowne upon your head, which fades notj and afford you ? 7?^?rE? ^!?^^!} 5?' J"^^®^^!??? ^'§ through or ftcalc, *lie Mplflk inikatoryl itcilc^Buficjrourfelfcthea (Right Honourable) 4s your jprivacy fhall occafion(whcrcof you have enough )in the meditation andpradiccofthefe ihrcejtill they have io poffcflcdyoujthac your fb* litary houres with God may become pleafancun* to youy You fliall ( by perulall ) eafily meere with them mixt with other like ingrcdients;in this en- fuing treatifcjfclfcdeniall firft will frame your fpi- lit to fuch an abaf cment in your o wne cyesi Yea, it will rcfigne you up (o wholly from your (elfe, unto mcere grace; that what good foevcr you en- joy, youflial takcit with a kind & thankful heart & hand from God,as being Icfler than the Icafl: of mercies5& whatfocver you want^you flial be con* tentjas confeffing that whatfoevcr is not utter mi- fcryjis more than you defervcjAnd when you can not equall your objeds to their defires, yet you dial levell your defircs to thcmsbccaufe youdcfirc to be no other than God will have you te be. Then fccondly , Faithjin thclif e thereof, will f d ftrengthcn your heart ( through hope ) that what ever you fhall be called to be, to do , or to fufFcr s the promifc of God al fuflBcient (hall enable y ou therctOjfuftainc you therein ;fo that you fliall fay* Not I now, but Ghrift dwelling in me, fliall doe 6ar.£:io: all my workcs for mCo My ftrength flialFbe to fit EfvAt'T^*^ ftilisnot as wholly careleftcjbut as wholly cafting ^^^H- my cares upon him 5 Yea by this Qiicld of Faith, '. -""■"' ~~^~ -^ all Ihe^lftk Dedicatory: ^ all tKe fiery dares of cItveIs,ofmcn,of DiicontiHt^ of Difcouragcmentjfliall be quenched and vanifli; Thirdlyjby the influence of the New Qcature,' you fliall finde the Spirit of Chrift to infpire your fpirit from Hcaven,in fuch fort, as to carry you ;^^»^ forth to ail good convcrfation, both inward to God,and outward to man,witb comelincflc and dueproportionj your heart fhall be alway on lE«][ef.xo.a. your right hand wifedome fliall ari(e,walkc,and lye downe with you 5 She fhali attend you in fc- erecy,in company,at home, abroad^ in your me- ditations>your devotions jRcjoyce with you in your Comfort- bcafflidlcd with you in all your troubles I To conclude, it fliall cftablifli your thoughts with counfell, and in all your doubts, it fliall be asavoyce behindeyou,faying,This is the way,walke in it; And what more (good Madaml^ can be wiflied than this ? Surely if Providence fore- fee any other Comfort mecte for you which you waat(fo that yoii feeke his kingdomc firft ) God will caft it in as an overplus-He fliall gtant your Honour fwcec complacence at home, grace and favour with God and man 5 carry you ( as Noah's Arke above the hils) above your corruptions, your fearcs.And when your warfare fliall be accomplifiicd, fliall take you and fliut you up for ever in the Arke of Heaven^ where no floods of waters fliall come necre the Epiflk^eJkatoryl nscre you 5 For the which (good Lady) priy^ watch, and waitie continually 3 and my Ibulc ftal fever crave anfwcr for you from the Almighty- to whofc grace and bleffing,recommcnding the perufall of this your Booke, but clpecially your ' ^ >rolpcnty,Ireft, ~ " - ~" ~ Ym HmmnmtegeimtoaU im ferykemtheUrJ^ To my loving Countrjmen in genera!!, wlio have embraced die truth of the G olpelljor defire to embrace it rand in fpeciall to my beloved Brethren and neighbours who have heard thefe things handled in the Miniftry : greeting. pccrc friends, C Auditors and Readcrs>j Y i^f^o new things for fluff c md fuhftma^ which l$ffcrte^omfi't his enfuing Traciihonn canljnan Argument oft bis nature ^herein, the oh]eB determines the minde and fen ef : the WriteriiftherforenBvelt'j he your ayme^ faveyeurhhoiir*Onlyforthe ma^nermd order efexprefsion, this 1 would f ay :T hat as the Ancient sjioehe what they defer ed deefeiy to f often upon themfelves er their children^hey were wont to conveigh in it the familiarity of a, Song or Rime ^t hat it might hecome their own with eafe :fo doe iheere, under the eafe andfamiliarneffeofCatechifme^ (which is no other than a forme ofgodlineffeyeach out to thee ^ thine ^a direciion t$ Heaven fb that if hereby the truth as it is in lefus^may he em* flanttd in thyfpirit in any meafure^ I have my defere, ihou wilt fay ^ who ever denied but Catechifmeferves tot his end?. J an fife y J wijh that the fraBife of all that catechize and are catechized did approove it She flight anfwer of men betray es them^who being askedy if their Minifler did preach to day ?, anJwer^No : he did but Catechize : If the Preaching of aCa- techift were conceived as his befl worke^could menfofpeakef, Nsfurely.'were Catechizing nfed tofuchfolemne ends^ none hnt bar bar &m ^ blind enes couldbe ignorant of thtminency TheEpiftlefothe KekdeK ' dndfruiU themf. 1 tAxe nsne^ I finely ddde^ As thUffe G$d thAt CAt€chix,ing isfo frequent^ and that there are many Able Vreachers wht ameat & frofitahU e4ur(e : S,ol wifh that at pfhfi doenfit^i^oMfcSowfuch examfles, I m(h dlffi that before tU handling efthe ordinary heads $f tfintem^ation which Catechifme afffirds,^ fifthe Deity ^ Creation^ PredefiinAtion^ and the like : or fifthofs moft ufua^ feeces^ as the Cemmandements , Creed ^and Lords Prayer^the farmer whereof escceede the sapaeity , the latter confound tk^ memory of m^fi hearer si men vfouldbef leafed to chS out fome fraSficall heads y hreefly atfirjt^ and mere largely Afterward^ whireby mt onely weake memorymight be conf.ned^and capa- city might be releevediBut the hearer might further befweeti nedby thegoodneffeofCatechlfmeiOsrvellas enlightnedbytkt truth thereof Andfo^ being frepared by the order and fweeti Tiejfe of pratique frinciffles tending tfij^fcfpe of converfioio andSAhAtipn^ both Minifier and HeArcr might after voard returne to their ordinary coftrfe^ with difcretitnto conceive^ andgracetofroftby aU other points of pQcirine in their or^ dtr^whieh commonly are j^Ut^a^d^iihemre is the fifty )doc mt grounder edifie them* ^u^\-,\> As touching you^my ChriJlianAuditorsiTsnkndw^onefuS. third part ofmypoore Ubmrs hath beene^ t husband in this or* der and aynie)t^ Catechise. Andvshere asl ebferved in the f reaching hereof^ tluit the particulars grew to a Urger extent ythan I locked for ^ yon knew that once ayeare at leafl^ I gave yonabreefe^iew of aUtbe parts in a few Sermons* Which €9Hrfe becaufe Jfaw to if c profitable then^ thtrefere ( bethin» -king my felfe now in ihis my privacy , how I might witpejfe the continuing care of my heart for your gecd ) / havesonctityfilf^ Jhoiddhav(Jhnfmid)t9 frintthcCfipy* ^' J{r9' The Epifilc to the Reader: JfHteided.^ (yeu kn8w^)in my Mmftery tef^ardsthetadtf the Satisfilfi§n^kmgtkejt€0'f}d Article ef the fecond fart . I h^e^y r»y laBoftr ^net ( with Gods bksfi»^ ) Added the refi of the f Arts ^' i heirArutlesthv^^gh t$the tnd\hmdling both $fn 4nd6thtr{for the mofifurt) Accerding t6 tbefr$f6rti0n of my Urger cettrfeiAt IcAfty nofdift ^fSubfiAnce being omitted, Tonr ioffe{in Afort)becomesyottr guine in this.ThAt where asfcAret in twd yeAresym ^ouldhAveheArdthxt fthieh is heere added; SOy nmyoft have it prefe^ted to ymat once. Let not ( in any €Afe)thkgAin ifytnrs become your Ujfk bycdrileffenesxhttt let itTAther by your diligeneebecoms a double gAintoyou^yonrs^ New to the intent that this "view ofCatechifme may beprofi- tAbUyinfeno words conceive it thus. Three i^orsis containe all fnjffcopein thisfra{f: Sinne^Grace^ obedience^ Sinne^ in the frfl part, that eAch unregenerate man mAy know how to get ont ^fhisfAlfefeA€e^feeinghlm(elfein tbeglajfeofthe Law to be that curfed one. Grace, inthefecond ythAt each humbled one wnder his burden ymAy(in the mtrror of the GofpeU^Andthe of* fer of KeconeitiAtion^ behold And embrace the he Arty and un.* feigned meaning of the L ordtoforgi've and f Ave him, obedi» ence in the third y that each forgiven foule may know ^ that Gody infhewing him mercy ^ aimes not onely at the eafe^fthe M^uii* tffoules burden , but at his otvne honour , in Uying on another ^ ~ purdentjthougij eafy and fweet)$f living by faith ^And obeying hi^ CommAndements ,Set thefe three t hen before thy eyt as the fcope of the whole, Andfo each p Art JhAH not onely froft thee in the fever ASbrAnches , bat much more in the connexion of the fcope thereof: Attending to makethefoulehAppy here and heereafterjjthen thou meete in the firfi part with many Arti» des and heads of weight ^refi not in the deHrine of the things, kutcmceive themfrofnjirftt'olafi ^ Atfeps and degrees to €Qnvincethee offinne.*tbAt the fence ofthi nAturA&efiatemay ' maketheeAndleAvetheefuchanonein thine owneeyes^as rhoHMtln the Lerisjfin tJl^fif^Jl^ ^^^^ mjtfmthfundr^ , TfleEpiuIctOi;hcRcad€K 'difmrfis^ of the vif4ydHdm(4i0tefBeliveram^dmSfi0tui: €» thefmmthtmfelvesjjut eonfider their fccpetthat Ged, i» tffiriftg thee Chrifh Righteoufrejfs^t^ he thine^jf^akes as trn^ ly and according t0 hff pftrpofe y i» this , as he di din the firfi^tbat he might convince thee of his Rigkeoufnep, Like^: wife in the third jforeade ai^d meditate oft he grounds theretK contained as rememhring that all of them tend to this one mar ke, That the truth as it is in leftes^muft convince thee of at great a mcespty ofptttUng off the old, and putting on the nem manias Before it did oft hy Righteonfnejfe, And thus thy rea* ding ever and over this Treatife with meditation and pray * er^ may through the Grace of Gods Spirit^ leade thee to^ wards Heaven, The Chri^ian acceptance By aB forts of my firmer Edition^ {wherein their love caufedthem to hide a multitude oferrors^ ioth ofdiforder and print-. ) hath cau fed me In Like love ^ and due rejpe^ to their charity y totaketheoccafwn oft his third imfre^ionpre^ore the one^andcerre^the other ^Net without additions ( the Subflance eft he fame heads not altered) to en* large andfupph fuch defers, as the hafteand mifcarriageof the former Prejfe had committed, T.f^ecidy\l''havefHpflyed thofe maine points ofthefacond part.viz, The W el firings ^t he priviledges of Condition^ the Offer ^Preparation to faith^and ufes of faith itfelfe,which(l doubt not)with other many^wii not be unwelcome to the weUaffe^ed Reader ^ whom ldefiret9 take the morepainesin his pern fall: Not thinking it enough ts buy a booke^andfoto keepe itfalreandneate^in a cloathtjbut to 'verft it carefully till God make it his owne by frequent atten> dance. As touching the order of the Treatife ^and their owne parts I chufefrfi topremifefuch a Text of Scripture to each of the ^, parts as may naturally and familiarly comprize the breefe fum of what is contained fully in the part followinglt by which conrfe the Header maynrfeive , that not a rnav^ but the Holy TIieEplftletothe Reader: A^Jhort vfepf'yjiffdtifhf^^afiert»aj'd,Idffgfrtfcedt$ A?imxe the Urger exflieathn ofthdtview^i mthefsrme ofCatechizing, And ttofv 6ne defirt is alaa end , for whkh ikleffk Ged\ t9 in^ 3 thfs third Edition, But onr defires 4re enileffein mrim thg:ffayinor»^lbav€an»tber^thMas^ttcmyde4twUhhii ^ 5^ *• frofUecits^he terete them in a Rode, that they might he in ddi» ly s^iew and better beleevedi Seth^edfmyfeo^le {for I fee fnany goe for fuch as they are not ) xsh^ would never ky. the f reaching ofthefefomts^ under^andthe coherence and ufe of ^tttJ alt, I. ^f^^^ Snmme sfGodlineffe^might now fland upon this Pifgah, " And Meld this QzTiZZ.nofPra6iicallKeligion^andth.itgood» ly hthmont hereof efpeeially^ imeanetheBoBrine of faith in Reconctliationy and the new Creature, 7 he ufe oft he whole Tofe of all the Flowers herein bound together is^ That ye may be better groundedin knowledge^ and hear e Sermons daily with better underftandlng ^ difcerning and fraHife^. KeAde therefor t and con ftder. Pray for blesjingalfo^t hat thi^ Treatifi may returne into your bofomes with double fruiter If you froft not^ howfhallftrangers f In hope rohereof^lcom^ mend your ReAdingtothe Lord^ andmyp^fctoyourfrayers^ pp^ i h ^5/ t J "/...;y.';i.^'i"\N " ^- i^1%r|i An AJphabeticall Table of the j;hree Parts of this Catechifmc. %-v m. S-rt- OfthefirflPart. m>e''^ V^^^• A. I'age, B mafi. Bftinence omly from Jin ^ "Tyody ofmancyeated itt ^c&Ilen^ Tvkhmt arming aginft D cy , both for produUfofk-^d it,dmgeroHi. i6. frame. !>' Adams jinne not to be Body of man his frame in^..thmgS9 7j4t enlarged to the utter*- i.OrganicalnejJe. 2. ImmortHlitj, 30. i.Pemliarneffe. 6.j^ AccompUJhments of Nature or Arty Boafiing of Gods gifts finfulL i j mfifi not blemijh our originall un- The barres of true light and fight of naturallinfeClion by fn. ^ 5 Ji^nefremoved by the Lai» of God Authority of God the Lawgiver pre- preached, 44.45 fented to the Confcience, Sfcovers What they are. ibid fnne. 4^ Bondage to fmne, a property of ori- Aggravating poKver cf the Law, one ginallfin. 58 part of her extent ^ to difco^er Jin, BlindneJJe of the foule in refeBing 5 2 her -ovpne wretchednes upon herfelf^ ASluall Jlnne compared with origi- very great. 61 ^6z nail, a fpeciall difcovery of origi- nalL 57 C Abufes of legall terror two : and /^^Reators excellency difcoverei what they Mk , oH the right hand V—/ in the perfe^ion of mans cre^ And the left, 86 ation»^ 9 il Crmttrfg d The Table; €r7aiumfrfi excellency , Sfcovers fnelanchollji^dndfHlUnms,6r hoh^ \ both the iafinejfe of the fall ^ and dagedndmipap, lo'S tquity of his forfaking hj God, 9. 10 ^ Cttflom of dark^ejfe one great ene- fny ofenlightnlng about Jinne. 45 "V^EfeSls In mans body ^foule^or Ccnce'itednejfe an enemy to true en- JL^ ferfon not to bee difdained, lightning about Jin. .46 8 (Coherence and confent of the Law, Degeneratef^^Jfe of man from his dijcoz^rs Jintothe foule^andhow. excellency ^fe'arefulL 8.p 47 Heath of fprituall excellency the Confultation yplthfalfe ivitnejfes, as fiaine of originall Jinne, 2 1 '-jcrojfes-.carnallwifedome, blind mi- And that both in underfianding , ■nijlers, flatterers c^'C,to be fiunned rpill, ajfeElions , confcience, acd ^yid the Law to be clave to for the members. zz dtfcovery of Jin. 5 9 Death bfthe operations of nature in ConviHion of the confcience the fe- all the Commandements. 33 condpartofthe Lareesroorkl^andDerivall of Adams finne to all his flow manifold it is , visa, either of pojlerity Joovp to be underfiood, -^2, ^udgemmt or whole man. 6z 33.^4 Convincing worl^ of the Law, how Difperjion of the mijl of ignorance, it differs from the enlightning one part ofdijcoveringjin, 45 rporkey \ ikyidL. Injiances of this dijperjion. ibid Convincing power very weake 'in our Dulne^e andincapablenejfe anene-' daies^and what caufe it is ofmour- my of en lightning about Jin. 45 "ning, . 62 Deadnejfe offpirit remooved by the ConviBion properly fo called, totally convincing power of the Law, and And of the whole man ^what it is, ihow this deadnejfeis caujed. 6% 'vi^.-.Terror or conjlernation . 'jtD ijferences of legall terror ^andfli- Ceazingupon the whole man by the all feare, five. 81. 82. Tvrath of God and curfe of finne,a Befpaire an extremity of legall ter- maine vart of legall Terror. 74 ror, . 9$ Confternation or cajiing down^ the foule at Gods feet another part of E it, y6 Troubled confciexces mufi not put T^ Nligjotning of the confeience off the counfels arid comforts Mlu in the difcoverj oforiginal and yf^ch are mntfired to them, by a^all fm^whatj •» 43 The Table: Z^iemoftheLmiQmmmrpher- Grace m Adam'y infmour u the bj pjedifcovers fmne» 51 g/'ace of Chrifi. 17 Wherein it con^fts, 52 Gfdlt of ori£tmll finne y a reflexion Bminemy of fmf nines ^ one property of Confcieme^telling him rvhat be^ ofon^inaUfinyOndhon^, 56 longs to htm for his fmni. 20 JEvidence of Law to convince con-^ Generality of our infection by A-^ fcience ^in how many t hinges it damsfinne, a great meane to adde fiands ; viK,> w fonre particulars, humiliation unto us . 34.55, * 6g.6j. 6% Grace is a my fiery. 2p EfeEls ofterrour three, 'jy^J^ Genefalnepy or flightnefe of kfiow- End of God in fpecmlly in his terri- ingfinne^an enemy of true enlicht- fyingtheconfcience. , 82 ning about ftnne, aj Three fid. 83 Godnot tyedto one fcantl'mgof dif* Extremities oflegall terrourSy how coverie of ftnne y but as hepleafeth^ many y and rfihat. 84 ^4 Gla^^ of the Law in fight of finne, F • f V^f^fi prepare us for the gla][e of the All of Mamy howdefcribed by Gcfpellyandtheftght of mercy, 6lj the holy Ghofi- in Scripture, li. Fall of Adam procured by thme H things: changeable jfe of mil J un- armedneffeyoptnejfeofth'etempta- TTArdnefieofhearf, a great bat* ^'f' 1 2 J- A' of true enlightning about r all of man caufed immediately by y finne. '■'■■■ aj I oTtc^ing^z, Snaring. 3 . Confent of The Lord by an Hope ofpofiftblepar-' _'^f' 13 donyfufiaines the terrified confei^ rally attended mthCuriofityy Cre- cncc offuch as he willfave. 1 o r dulttyy and Dalliance, ibid. Befcriptionofit. ibidj Tall of man hath a fardel^f iniquity Hope ofpofiible mercy hoyv r^roHghr, *n it yandrvhat in particular. 15" 1 05 Andgenerall ibid, Hope of this kinde is not true grace. rtilneifeyandforciblenes of originall . ibid, finne, do argue how predominant it The markes of this Hope. 1 03 . 1 04 ^* 57^^P^ofthe Gofpellin the terrified^ Gj, ^^^fi ^^'{/^ *< venturini^ upon the Ijts of God in them that are promife, rather than a lying fiil itt excellent yto be honoured. 8 fin: a doubtfull hope to be prefer* ' (iffts^hfed provoke God dffply^lb, redfoafurewoe, '"" 109 The Table: IVantofthe Layif infems mcejfity 1 efmiferjandthatunknorfiing, A-g rMpUt4ti^» of the finite of Adam Law of Goirporkes 2. things in the to his pofterity^ is the true dsri- foule/ui^.knowledie offime , and vail of it, 9 J conviflion.^i.and how, 42 J^ is fimply impojjible for man toLawofGodenlightensahoutaSlttall cfcapethe contagion of ftn^ or pH- Jtnnesjfothin themfelijes ^and in ■atijhment, 35 theirpe-aalties.. ^5 Theproofesofitt i^aA Light of ths Law oneljtobe come Jmpoffibility ofefcape^ err to help our vnto, if -we -would difcover. Jwne, felves out of our finne , a great %o ^ound of humiliation, ^S How the ^aw grapples -with deadnes^ Integrity andfoundnejfe ofths Law. fothjandfuhiltji of heart in can" is one meane to difcover finne, 4P inncing. 64. 65 ^Inquifitiveneffsandfearching powLetS0fconzjiU:ionto he abandoned, er of the Law^a part of the extent 70 xfit^difcoveringdnne. <^i Such as are without the Law in their ^Jufi 'judgement of God in fingering naturall corruptiony mofi; mifera^ the -wicked to Ije fo long in dark^ ble, pj TJeJfe ^-without Law convincement, ^ M 61 "X/T Am created in all integrity , Judgement ho-w convinced by the IW^ and in Gods Image ^ for mat" Law of Ged powerfully preached : ter^ manner 9 and endowments, q^ I md7vhat}tisy6^,and-whereinft body. 4.5J~ 0andsjin three things, ^4 Man lofi his 'inte^ity by eating the forbidden fruit, 10 K Mancreatedonelj changeablj good, SInnes of Knowledge and igno' il ranee -what. 4^ Mi fiery of zy^dam fiands not in his ash of falling onely^ but in finne L and penalties, 1 8 LOve ef Chrifi ^reat , Engaging Mans nature cinrfi^f or finne, to bee the depth of all Adams mife-^ that ffhich himfi Ife coveted to be, rytariiifatisfyingforit. 28 so 'MffraU Law. of God^fioundly prea- Mankinde overfpread mth Adams ^hedto the confidence, is the meane fin. wholy^ll withftt exception. 3 ^- ^nfsicb fime tl'^^^l^d to us. Proved, ibid, Mmi^ The Table: 'jyiftifierf of God hdd need to bee yvellfeeneintheLay^ ofGod,and V ^j, 6z T^Erfon of man created in exceUn- Minifiers muflfeeke the gift of con- j, cie,as ths modell of ferfeW^on vincement by the Law. ^9 and Lird of creatures, 7 Jldinifiers mttft feparate eonctipi- Perfons interefied in Adams fadl^ Jcence and confcience from their yvere,fatanyferpent^ themfelves, league. 93 ^ ^^ Mimfiersfalfdyaccufedforfetting Penalties of fmne , impenitency , de- mm at oddS) yvh:n they preach the dolency^ ohfilnacy ^ Apojiacy ^ q-c, llhv, ibid. 18 Mlnifters mufl dtfcerne the eftates 'Pollution andfiaine ofOrigindlfn ofjuch as are fit for conzfort,and rchat,and -wherein it con^ts. 2 a appiy it wifely and by degrees,- J 07 Penalties of fin , either concerne the foule or the body . 24? N tvhat they are in both. ibid. NAture of man wholly defied PapiBs error touching the penalties with finne in all her powers of finne, 'viz.that we are but halfe and operations, vid, Sitfne , and dead. 27 mans nature. Pelagians error. ibid ^aturalne^e of originallfinyonepro' Providence ofGodtomtttgate and perty of it, 5 7 refiraine the intention and extenti- on ofmansmifery. 29.30 O Parents hadneedbe fpecially hunt- O Hdinances and helpes why they bled for infe Ring their children doe little good. 1 6. 1 7 by originall finne ^fpecially if they Originall finne wherein itfiands ; in feeki not their reflraintjromaRH" Jmpotency J Averfene^e^Mncapa- all. 35 blenejfcidarkenejfe , erroneoufneffe. Purging from the infeEiion and.pro- capti'vity-iinfenfiblenesy &c. I p. 2 O pagation of finne ^a great grace . 3 6" Originall finne confifis of guilt and Pharifee and^7iblican equally lear fiaine. ■ . 20 venedwith originall fin ^ and bafe Siitnes of Omijfton and commijfiony before God. 36 what they are ? 49 popijh and perfonall arrogancy Originall finne how revealed to the checked by the impoffibility of all foule by the morall law , and how refcue from our felves, 3P manywayes. 55 Prejudice againfi light one maine Overflow of originall finne, onrp^o- barre of light. 44 perty of it, ~ 57 ' "" *2, Pre-^^ The Table; Trefumptmm fmne^one meane to the word mofi da^rouT, pi fmne unpardonable^ 5 1 Rebellion in the regenerate decreafes Vtirity, ef the mor all law one part of hy Terror ^in the hypocrite it increa- her extent for the d^fcovery of fin fes, pj * 5S»')^J^^^e/Hon turnes to deeper hfimbling The penalties, of aEiuall jinjhave dif- inall-pchomGodmllfave, 5^4 covered by the morall Law, J4 Properties of Originallfn difcove- S redy cattfe Grigmall Ji'^ne to bee ^Onle of man created in exce lien- known. $6ij cyJbothforNatnreyTunUionsc^ FredominancyofJlnfulneSj one pro- Infirtiments attending her. 6.J.S perty ofonginalljtn, 5 7 Serpents a^ in temptinghdamwhap Perpetuity ofOriginallJin^onepro' n perty of it, "^y Satan feares no colours in tempting Popery nouKjels the foule in the ig- thebefi, 15.16 fiorance ofjinne. 59 Self-deniall contrary to Adams cor^ Places of ignorance to be pjunnedhy ruption. ij all fuch as would come to know fin SpnofAd2Lmsacl,puniJhtmth ori^ by theLavp, jp ginall corruption. 18 Prefentingofrvrath and Penalties what that is. ibid. of finto the fonle ^one part of terror . Sin of hdi\a\ an unlimited excejfe, 72.73 ibid, Prjfumption one extremity from le- Staine of fimie.Vid. Death of Na- gall terrors of how many forts pre- ture and operations, fumption is, 84 Sin both originall and alluall df- coverd by the law preached. 45 R Selfeloveagreatbarreofenligtnmg R Eliques of excellency pre ferved about the nature of fm. 45 in fallen man by providence, 8 Spiritualne^eoftheLaw,onepartof Royalty of Gods Law, caufes difco- the extent thereof to difc over fin. veryoffinne. 4B.4y 5^ Rebellion ofconcupifcence againft le- Scripture termes very emphatic allto gallconvi[lion defcribed. 87.88 lay open the nature of Originall Rebellion of finne again fi the law is fin J 5 of three forts : Naturall, Pamll, Sloth and eaferentooved by the con- and Mixt:rs>hat thefe 3 are infe- vincement of the Law. 6^ verall. ^o.^i Slynes and fubtilty re?nooved frorii Rebellion ypilfull again fi the Law or thefoule by the co nv}mmsntofth& ~ ■ - - Law^ The Table: J' Ldwl ._ ^ . MA.TnalLofrehelltoHVpheHitlsfi-$ntfm Stonifi^ of A Jlnmr h M eviil andrvhen front confcienceifoure of conrfe one e^eli of Terror . ^7 themUyddon>ne. p2 Spirit of bondage a fpeci^ll effect of Terror urged upon the unregenerate Terrour, 80. to fit tkm for the Gofpell^ g6 what Godaymes at thereby t ibid Sin nnconvincedis an hideous man- V fter. 9S . VNbeleefe not difcovered by the morall Law. 43 Vnlimitednejfe ofjinne^ a Property T FrkeJy Pagans, €ewes and infi- oforiginaUJtn, 58 dels^miferable doubly iboth by Ynfettling and unriveting thefoule fin, andbyvpantofthe conviSiion fromherrotten peace ^ one reork, of of the lave, 41 terror, 78 Tryalofthe tvork^of legall convi^U on how to be attempted, 7° W Tef^or by the Larw how it differs from the onelj conviUion ofthe^InnesofjVeakenesAndprefiimp'^ judgement: 72 l3 t ion what, 51. Terror or legall confirfnatlon^yphat Why Godfupporteth thefoule under 72 terror bj an hope } ^ Reborn, lOS- The Table of the fccondPart, A Adopted of Godfiemc hafiyhHt are Active obedience of Chrifi th honourable, 150 fvrft part of his merit. 5*3 Adoption Jhottld teach Gods people AUive obedience of Chrifl wherein how to carry themfehes here, 150 itconfifls. > ibid. Onr efiate of Adopted onesmnft be zA^ive obedience is both of mattery tryed. • 155 9nanner,m€afftreandend'.aUme'^ Ninetriallsofit, ibid. ritorious, 54 'ACHve obedience ofChrifi explica- B ted. 55 'Ajfurance of faithyViBory in Com- 'VyAptifme of Chrifi his chief e batesyand perfeverance ycffeSls of XJ unliion, ^4 the Conqueft of Chrifi-. "jo ASt of beleevin^ mt the formall application of the ment of Chrifi caufe of our juflification, -79 by his advocatfijip, the feaven wel- Benefits ijfningto a bdeever in point fpringy and what ^ 74'75 of his condition. See VrivMedges. Applpng power of Chrifis merit to Birth, the third a^ of the Spirit of what ufes intends, ibid. Regeneration, ijo Adoring of Gods jufiice a dne ufe of Bafiards who have no fpirit of A- the freed one , and foveraignty of doption, in a fearefull cafe. 151 §r ace , giving to whom he will^and Bondage and fiavery by Adams finy denying to others. 9 5 wherein itfiands. '157 Amity with God the fruit of Re- Bondmen to fin^andby fin^in afear^ conciliation y and the priv ledge of full condition. 15^9 it, 1 44 Laid downe at large. '\60yi6i All lets of it to be refified. 1 47 Bodies of the Saints both living and Adoption the ftxth benefit of Chrifi dead.objelis of Communion afwell , whatit is yTo what it is contrary, asfoules. 12.06 147 And what fervi'Ce is due to them, Adoption to what Iqffe it anfweres ^ 208 vlz..ourfonjhip in Adam. 1 48 Beleeving in Chrifi , and embracing Adoption how recovered in Chrifi, the prom ife urged, 245 i^p Cove^ The Table: COvemfti of gracey^h^^ it U, Charph vijtblejjer prhiledges . j^^ 7.8 CkHrchi>f Gpimay bte comfort^ Jt is contmoit or peculiar, ibid, ^tther privlledges, j^r Commott Covenrnt to he difpettfed D ^Urm of Chmchef right to her • generally hy the Minifieys. ^ibid. p prmledges (bottldhumbie us, ip i Covenant of grace fljould he as an a- And teach ^ love. 19 1 laymeintheearesoffHch^as are m Communion of Saiftts an adju»^ covenant with hell and Jm, 12 offheChurik. ip^ Commands to beleeve or obey ^ mt Th qu^lificatiou of 4 iftember of import in us any ftren^h. 20 the Church, ip j Carnail reafon confuted hy the fea-D oHrine of CommtfmoH of Saints, fon of Chrifts incarnation, 31 what ufe it affords. 20% Conquefi of Chrifithe 6.yvelfpringy Condition of faith ivhatiwhat works what tt is J and wherein it conjifts. it: even the fame which works faiths Con^H^P of Chrlfi conjidered in Cavils againfi the condition of fai^ ^.re/pe6ts. i.Befc^e.l.At.-^.Af- mfweredjOt Idirge, .. T-Hyll^ ter his pajfion, 6S ^ ^ ai5 Chrifl by his conquefi of death me* Condition^ fyith ^ennded upoff rited hfs owne exaltation. dp Scr/pfure. 217.21^ Conquefi of Chrifi affo'ds great Cafiing thefinUHfrnGodinbehc' confidence and conjolmon ton ^ing,what, „..„ . ... .aiy foule under the condition of a pro-' .'.m^^ vvii;i««wKvi'J 'V> i^hiy/.l! mile. ibid. D Cavillt rs that defcant upon the free 'V^Eiivermce a^wited >4>y God (n-ace of God reprooved. p,y JL>^ out of mans thraldome and Conception the firfiworkjf the Jpl' mijery, 5 tiF of rea-eneration. 128 A^s of dertverance both by eternaX Condition of naturall men 'uery fear- purpofeand by exprejfe covenant, full. \6i 4 Efpecially In point of their thraldom 0.iffeKe»ces,(ftbeFJirfoMf,i^ Trini^ to Jin. 16 2 tjydemoiffiratcd hy the MdiatioH Church ofGodinvifible^thefubjeft of Chrifi . 38 if all Chrifi s benefits, 118 1 . 1 8 2 Thefeare of death and the grave tA" 183 k^jtpr^y by the conqn^ of Chrifi Names of Church opened, a Church 7 1 confiitHted^vifible^inviJiblefmilh' Sneh At di'fcernc mt the gruff of the The Tabled Gofpell.convmedi g6 firu»*eft} fiffatisfaBm ^ jp Dalliers attdflij^hter'S of ip reproO" The fiejh ^Chrlfi ow^ hother y a 'vedythatujf^h\fts-fref&re,.t!nyha- ground of feekin^^ to Ged for am hies. .x=3vlvi'.n,r-vj-\^y ^rm/if^fv^ . :*-V '^-.v'v-wj'/^as. jyifferences dfthe coftditwnal'pn't/i' Neerenefff of C'hrifis fiejh to w;^a< ledgesofabeleeverfofire. IIQ meams t^ quicken the lip of faith 3 Differences of Adimis Vnlon ivith ^ and make it familiar to us... ibi^^ Cody from a heleevers 1 1 5 The fiejh of ^hrifi mufi, releeve ns Partly in theimmediatmerofityparf in our- flares avd^.hfrdens , anfl ty the inftrumentsi ' * ' \ ttj. 1 1 6. weakenei^ m 'isrh,^ \ 3 3^ ■■i,^i ^ Faith in the fiejh ofChrifi-muft draw ,u«»&2.\i ii'.'5»\;B^.>i»»,'5'': vMter of cotj^ort to forgive us, ib, .V -". • K Flefhof Chrifi one meaneof ri^ht ElkUioH md Covenant of [Gody conceiving . aright of the perfons in hovftheydiffer. '■. ' ^^j Aj'rinity.. ; 41,42 MleUi^nofGodwhat ? ib. Furniture of Chrifls Priefihood, £nemesroPh^€r^fi^/Chrifi'hth y^hatJ ~ ^' 45 herstitally atheifik/ill audmorall, Faitb-whether it applf Chrifi parti-' tonfuted, 64 cularlyorno. • -79 '3Enimiies't9 the 'fii& Gr'iB^e iff Chrifi Faith an excellent gift ^becaufe itre- ^ fff all forts , Neuters, - Sctnciiers, ceives our imputation of a gift jithe^s^ \EpfCf^es)hypp€tit^^ t0^ without ut. Three refpeSls of faiths '^bevers, con vinced. . '«'^ ■» « ... - 9^ excellency. 84 JExerciJe. of Communion of Saints The feares^.of a:weake foule much yphat ? wherein ^Ectaratloft of the rich Grace ($-^ Fidelity P4 aJ g^wy ffGod m Bs Sonne y u free offer of Faith precious in receiving the life And of the truth ofailTrotmfis, 40 sf the Spirit '.vf Regeneration, The Gofpell^ the field in which tha 129 Pearle of redef^ptionj faith i atut Furniture of Cotnnimionyof S^n^ .the premife is hidden, 8^ Tvhatl • i^^ Glorification the ninth privUedge, Furniture of CommmionyConft ft s in , what?de/cribed: negatwely and ^ things ylove, equalne ffe , tender- po^tively, 175 neffe, 196,197.1^8 . I74«l75r 'paithiis the maine iffueand fcope of Gyj^ces .pf Cfmmunion in generaS. thefccondpartofthe Catechifme . - ferving for the furnkttre thereof, 212. 19^ tAndnvhatitis, loii, Commmion in graces of the Spirit, Gods people ought to proceed from .yy hat ^ and what rules to trade ^ faith to faith , till they come to Af- fo^ ^ace. 191 .viz., \,Gift to eX" fHrdnce'.rvhatarethenm'kes of it. ckange graces ^ 2, Hnmbleneff^ ' .\\^x^^o to^ communicate y 3, (^^^^ff^g '■•1 'tfc t-iKj^Vo^ot-v** :^-v, , v. '^ TheTable; ef each others ^4ce,/{f^ji extraH' of oufjuftijicationl my ' *^J^X^ft' 2 o 1 . 202 . Therford tmpntation htm m/mj t^tiies ^iye dJfvBhfJsfor extra^ion, 303 ufed,and how to bee Conceived, 7 8 the termes cleared, ibidi H Iwj>utation isalwajesofath'mffreAl ^Utmtinhsre»t.%o,andh9yt;>'^:ii(i, 1 "^f^mitj ofChrifi thefirfi^l- Imputation yvohat e fee} it hathHoid . XM. fprm^offalvatim, ■■ i"] Ifffiljication how caiied free having fo 0%^titu, ib. \reat a price payed for tt. 81 Jioyp many things cdhfderHhh in it, Ddihrine of imputation of Ged^ free ib, ff'OCe^ofTtvhat power itjhould hee M^^p^eifpnrie fi^oi/eM hj -where it hath heene much taught TJi^dltatidh of the God-head of -^^-^ 'Vi- "■'■ 81, 82. ^hrijt, 40 Infidelity and rejeSing the ojfer^or Hifthmiatio^ h taught all Gods peo- receiving grace in vaineyfearefull, pe hy fMr tTftpufat^dh, 87 100 ^fiy and impatient bfggers »ffhe Itihditationofthe Spirit^ the effeEi ''iS^'e iff fr'te grocer (proved. loi ofthefpirit of union, 106 J^f^lkfiie^'^ndMle^^ferfoWstohe luftification afourthprhiledgeofa ihrrifisdhy the Do^rine of union, beleever. ija 118 !C I \r Ingdome Chrifi^ how it affip Tffe Zordf^'Chri^theo^^ly X\, hia prophejie, 50 ^(i^anHfnekhe dnd f^erito- K^ngdomeofChrifiy how it ajfifis ■'^^ taufeofouyiletii^'a^e,z:^ hid priefihood, 51 opened and illuminated. ibid. JVhatChrifi doth for us M ourKing^ 'Jncnyifhtion of Chrifi in'^.main re- ft^jeHs m to his Lawfs: ^rcte^s ype^s iBffh^ JiroiHt ordindry hs in mr dangers, ibid. %irths andi^ri'bitie's^ 28 '!fffc^r»ation of (^hrifi a maine part D ^ifthe^yPer^of^}}M^f^k^je'U T Ove of Godto tTtan^ who being ^'the JthrktiSh, amnrattif^ itnd Lj ^nenemy,jet would find out a .^fajfeoffhe'Chtireh, 31 ypay of deliver iitncey \6 ItfitWee'Jjfidn of 'Chrifi ^vid. App^a- Vfe to be made :e«. 232 lifeandbeingi'withf.HcceJfionofmi'' %..Bj pander ingity 2. by convince- fery by- it, and her danger lying ^.W€»tofity'^*cleavingtoiti^,coa' in thisftate : alfo a legall fence . fentandyealding toit %, pleading af it from pag. 123 to page »V,/r5. vimtj,andVnion. 26 SbciabUne^e in Communion yvhat, Vnion perfonall m Chrifi^ what. 14 in what grace it ftandsy Amiable- Vnion ofChrifi:,an excellent hottcme nefe, Humblene£e, and fdfe-de- of comfort to all that dare not draw *^i . ]^p8 Vnion with Chrift, affords comfort Terror to all boafters of faith, wan- to a belee-ver. ' i20 ting all preparations. 2 22 Vnion teaches Gods people both their MfQPtifionesditllkrsj, ^23 dignity, and their dff tie, tio * * * Vnrcgene-^ The Table: Vhr^eiUrAte anes to he ur rifird, 130 nifefimg htmfelfe in hU CovtHAnt VnjtifiifieAonffsaccHrfedhecAMfi they of deliverance, n want peace. '54-135 ^'^^ 7- T»el-fyri»gs of Salvation in fnreconcikdonestobeternfted,\^\ Chrifi mentioned in order ^ and W Tivhatf T TT llJedomeofGod to bee ado' Weaks ones exceedingly comforted hy •v^ V V ^^ fff the^ manner of ma* the doUrine of Imputation, 8 3 .'^*- wm^mww^'m'^' $^5?c^?^^ 2^^4®Si . ,_5^ i^^^^^^^%^\^'h^\^\%^^:i>'^%^\>^%^%^ The Table of the third Part. r 2V TfeiBons a malne yvheele of in' JLX Kvard converfation . how to he ordered in fpeciall rhope^lovCy joyfearejfarrorvyanger^&c, 42 JiHions how to bee ordered and gui- ded Jboth in their ground^y manner ^ weafure, and ends. 45.46.47 '^meurofa Chriftian in the fixe fortsffit^hoyp tobeufed^ 171 172 B BOdjyhow renned, 1 7 Bent an^ fireame of the foule the chief fubje^ offan^ifcation, ib. Saptifme thffenkof the nfVf crea- ture. " " 53 Beauty of Converfation yTvhat. 36 Baptifme afpeciaUfealing ordinance Rules ofdireUion about it* 1 1 1; 112 C Every one in Chrifi is a nerf crea^ ture. 6 Severall names by yphich Regenera,'^ tton isfliled ib.' what ii to be confidered herein, 7 New creature and fdth how they differ, 7 Confcience how renewed,. 10 QtvfTt tmealers of lufls under colour,: The Table. colour of ConverfioH^ fHonflrous, 26 D Converfation taeuording to Cody wnfifolUw the new creature. 3 4 Y\TreUions of the mwAll t»» ^onftmcy one grace of coftverfatu- LJ m pomt of obedience ^ yohat. f!^' , 39 . 93,94 pi Communion mth God, tnwafd or Differences hetweene the divells oHtward.$l.vilConverfation. temptations and our owne corrupt Communion tn outward fer vices tions tempting i^S, Five Jifereft^ twofold ; Generally Occa^onaB, ces^ ^ . . . ^^ Converfatton-wtth men *n €omtftoft £ life what, 6^ Callings of msn how to be ordered, pf/^fif of the Spirit of regen^a^ ^ ,.r r I , ^.^ ^ f*^»^r%*'^e either in habit or Common life of men how to be orde- operation. j r j If^' 1 .L J ^ ^7 Exercife of the graces of the Spirit^ Company, how to be ord-nc^, 7c ^p^, ,f oHrinwa^lcomnLniol dJoctrmeof converfattony a terror with God. -^ u allfrophane ones, hypocrites and Experience afpeciallhelpe tofodlt Ttme-fervers. 80 nes, examples of it 12112% New creatures mufi be fiirred to Extraordinary meancs of godliZs^ converfatton, 81. motives to it. what} - J & » 82 '^^ Converfktion , differs from good p moods and pangs. 84 Cottfctence a fingular guide of con- ^^ffon 8 J Vi^^t^^^''*i^^rdin(lrumeHtlHUi Chr^flhatheafedusoftheburdenr to receive the new CrZtnT. rmur ana bondage of the Law, Faith how it receives both the ai-Je hothasourKing^Pr.jt,andPro^ cfiryutationandrege^l^l / : -r , ,"91. 9-^ Faiths aa double h^ein.i.y^rnl Comparifons betweene Gods ordi- mentation,!, infu /ion rlH ' nances odious.. ^3^ P^^th no branch ofSan£ii£eJil\i HI ' The Table. Famtiy how to ^e ordered, j 3 both in fiiferiors ardinfmors. 75 T . tdthmnfi convey all abilitie tnto'W N te^ity one grace of Ci^^erfattonl ns for duties. , 103 A 28 J.afling an extraordinary helpe of Im^dimentofgodllne^e^vide Lfits^ godUnejfe.HoTV to h ufed.rules z^, i3,?.TS4 L ^aitb in the ufe of ordinances v^hat? T Ife of faith wherein it ftands ? ^ , 141 -L 4p, ^aithonely without ho line ffe not to Life of faith in efiates^dHties^raeans he trufied to. ip i graces, JO- 5 1 . 5 2 . 5. ? G Liberties of Chrifiians how to be or" 'Oly Ghefi the invi^ard forming dered. ' ^2 >. canfe of the new creature Md. Law ofGod^morall^the rule of con' Spirit. verfationyandwhy? and how} 86 '^(Tjd judges all his people by the bet- %y ter part. 30 Lawes yoke and impojlbility to be ^0ra€es ofconverfation are either ge- perforrnedjoew eafedfviz.by Chrifi mrallorfpeciall. 3^-37 ^o '^tonnds of ACiions how corrupted: Lawes dire Uion to be embraced by in fever all, 45 Gods people. pg jfGroundsoffeyvina our time what'i Life offaith in duties handled more 6\ efpectally. joo ^^odisnot-tyedt4>hi6owne Law %^ Lets of a godly life many y and why, C od not tyed to his ordinances. 105 Godhathfufferedus tobeeencum- ilods people honoured with privi- bred with fo many , their forts ^, hedges ^although theyfeem to bemofi 1 43 • 144. 145: depituteofthem^andhow? 183 Lets not all alike. i^^ Gods people muft bee inwardly ac DoClrine of lets what ufe they ajford f^umnted with aU their priviledges. 16 j 187 Lufis that fight againfi us our grea- tef enemies. Counfels'and Reme^ _ ; • H dies againfi them four e. IJZ. HYpefites dijfembling the new Creature convinced. 26 ' M Mitmiliation of Gods people under all llL/r Ortification wh^t ? and the Siseiriets {^iftcumbrances. 1 63 yet^ IVX degrees of the working ther" confoUtion alfo. 1 64 .T*^ bee wait- of ' 1 8 , i p . The Table: ■Jl/orttficatlofttywdr^ (fthefpi- OrMnancnofGod mufi^ee fatth2 rltw ten particulars i&c. ip.20. fnllj and partictilarlj clave unta ' 2i^arriage condition how to be orde-* J4I red. ^5 P, 'Morall Law how it eoncernes the godl) , and how the -wicked :] the one XyArts of man renewed. 17 as a convincing Lawythe other oi a X. Perfecmers , or hurters of the direi^lng, Objeliions anfwered. new creatures, accnrfed. 27 ^J' Popjh mortification confuted 31 Ji^eanes ordained of God for thefup- Perfens who mufi walke in holy con"* ■pertofConverfation. ,104. 10 5 ' verfation, ~" ' 3^ Jl^editation a fpeciall ordinance of proportion ofConverfation one pro" God' howtobeufedyrules for it psrty. j6 three. 1^^.126 Projperitj one ^race of ronverjfatiS^* Jldiniflers of God mufi teach the ■ ' 3^ priviledges of Gods people .^ "with Jtfiands in rooted'/iejfeyf'mtfulnejfe reifedome, anifutttng difference, growth. ' ibid. x».V'. V 1^$ Promifesrelyedgnby fdthin affli-^ J\4€rcj muf; he the toadftom of obe- SHons. 5*»5.5 dience, "1^9 Performances of fervice in our fpne whatlin fotre things..i. life of O f(iith,i..Affen.ions Concerning M» ^-^ ^,Meanesto heeufed, ^, Endea'^ O Ld creature s fk^kwofullfl ate, vours. 62.6^ *4 Papifis' confuted in their* contri>lling Order of Converfation^-what ? 34 the law of God. ' '^" ^6 Obfervation of the times 'yOur duty of Prayer a fpeciall ordinance of God fervin^ the time, 6 1 kow to be ufedy') .rnks, 1 1 5 , 1 1 5 obedience of hypocrites convinced, > ., II7 102 A digrejpon about prayer ,'iij. 118 Gods ordinances andwayes ofrevea- 'Properties of Satan as a . tempter ling in former times differ from foure. 149 .- ours, ■• »^v 107 'Triviledges of Gods people to helps Ordinances of God not equall in ex.- them againfi their letSy many : their cellency, 108 differences from them in 2. parts ^ Ordinances andmeanes of fdvation from Afeanes , Commands^ ^heir nam?d.iog. ordinary , extraordi- nature in 2. things fprecioufntSypC" ■ nary ypubliki private, ^c, culiarneffe, ^ 375 "i?^ ' " - '^ 2 ■ " Prjvi? * * * , The Table; ^^riviled^es cmcerning^ mr efiam things in it ?^^.€ra€es,fttyjeU^O^' .whathnhertepfpomllor fpirimall jeUoftt, ibid. ij^ Simplicity one grace cfconverfation, ^friviledges concerning affli6Hdns, 37 179 Sn^je^ ofcmverfation 3 .ThoHghts, Spirltuallpriviledgeswh^t'iandhow jiffdiions y and Anions , 41 manjfeither concerning faith , or Spirituall converfktion with God obedience , 180 what ^andwherln} inward outward, ^riviledges concerning our worjhip The inward wheria it Jl-ands? In the of God. 180 life of faith. 49 friviledges concerning ow conver- Service of the time^ what ? handled fation, 181 infpsciall.GroHndofitidmies. 61 Triviledges of Saints in death, ib. Solitarineffe how to he ordered, 70 jifter death, 182 Sacraments afpeciall msanes offal- Trofane perfons who df»y priviled- vation -.rules about them, 1 1 1 . 1 1 2 ges of Saint Sy confnted, 1 84 Supper of the Lord^a fpeciaU fealing Triviiedges mufi teach us to long ordinance:rules about it Jixe. 115 After them, 185 Sin and corruption the maine let to R godlines.i/^^.andhojv? ibid, REifolters from aprofeffion of Smthreewayesconjideredas a let: the new creatures, wofull,2'y i.Naturall corruption. i.Inward Jiemedy of revolt isfirfi to beleeue'i.g aBuall lufls.i,Ofttward acis.i/^'y 'Renewed ones and Hypocrites how Sinne annoyes both by her felfe and they differ. 29 her penalties, 1^6 "Refolvedneffe y a b/ejfed m^ane of Satan amdn enemy to godllne^e , he godlinejfeywhat it fs, and how mA- Is notunjufily accufed. How hee. 9iy branches, viz.. of judgement or tempt eth, 147 fral^ice with the ufe. 1 27.1 28 Satan, to be confidered either in the 'Remedies againfi the temptations of properties of a tempter , or in his Satan and the world, I<^8 temptations themfelves-, 149.150 Satan tempts though boottleffe. 151 S Scope of the thlrdpart of the CatC' Spirit d'}th 5 things in the- new chifms^to urge all that are in Chrifi creation f perfpfodsth , i^orketh , lefus^ta be holy, 188 feaUth: p.io.ii T SubjeSh of the new creature wh^le ^T^Rials of the new creature^o,^! man both faculties and members 16 X The thmghts how to he framed SHbfia>Keofc jyorlddeadhurts 2.rfayes:examples many'ifeaven. 156 or errors. ibid V Examples of world hurt 3 waies, /- ^Nderjianding how renued, 1 6 mitationjexchange,Jiream^ 158.159 , yivification what f 24 tVorlds error how they hurty% waies yprightncs one grace of Cenverfati' vi!z..By tradition, fcandal , cuftomc on. 37 conceit ^coofenage, 160.161 fertues ofthefoule immediately heU pyovld living hurts and tempts either pingconverfation, what they are^^o by words or deeds, and what they f^ftproftable»efe under meanes of are, 161.162, grace^earefull. i^j Deeds of the living world, ibid W Watching one helpe againfi enemies^ Will how renued, 16 16 J^ fVifidome one generallWifdom another helpe, ibid. grace of good converfation^ 3 n Want of C.hrifl marres all obedience i Weake Chrfiians who difjoyne faith ipo and converfation reprooyed, 7P Watching andfiirringup ofthefpirit^ Wilvf Q^Is this ail which Paiiidefcribes Jmneify } yl. No , he iifeth three other ddcriptions : firfthe fayth thef ^ere deceived, that is, As a foole is ch.^ated eaiily by every one .- io is a fpirituall foole: this tolKheth the adiwU lim^s of the minde. 'Xh^zkconAiSyServinglufis : which imploycs a Slavery to the Dcviil,world>,and lufts, luits of the heart, lufts of theeye^ and pride of life : as a beaft led to the Shambles. The third is^^ Tradmg and Converfing in adiiall fumes, fuch as accord with the ^rticular nature of eachiinner : fome of which diitempcrs are noted, a few of the commoneft for all the xc^^PicafHres andrm" fnvie, hating, and bsinihdtedyCj-c, all which are addcdco give a bitter rellifti to this mifery,as clfe- where Ephef.^.\iQ names lyma €^c, Thefe three are the penalties of the minde,will, andco^* vcrfation : To be deceived, is a pcnaltic fa blind mind .- to fervc Ms, IS a plague of the heart and will : and to be a Trader in iinncjis a punilhmcnt of our courfc; and this is the curfe of finnc. <\jVhy fajth hefo Iktk of the ather^oi-t of mifcrj, fntuimv m the cur/is f . ji. Not bccaaf«hcexcltidesanycffentiallpartof it,hutbecauie one Text will not coatcine all, but that which the drift of it lyes unto. Some Texts include ail three parts in one Vcrfe, as ^phef.^,S, Some exprcfle one gcnerall partiome another, and in that part, fome one branch, fomc another. Therefore whet is here lacking, mull Le fiipplyed by feme other. Q, JVhat doe other Scriptftra adds ? ^ A They adde thefe. i Spirituallcnmiti^againft God, hating iHm whom we have hurt, and being hated of t j o d • Cutting off pnd eftrangcmcnt from God and the lite of God ^ excommuni- cated from him by our Apollacy: impotent propenfeneflc to all cvills and jllpradf ice, which our nature is taynted with ( though with feme rertraint of providence) impotent averfncs from all polTible willmgnes to recover any better eftate in our felvcs Aiid 2. Temporallcurlednes in our foules,in.our bodies,namcs states, Polteritie/afiayrcsiuidwhatfoeY* belong* to its, which B a "" the j| ATrABkdlCAtechifme, *> PartiT the Holy Ghoft calles plaguing with all adverfitic: as frcnzic diftraughtnes of the minde : drfeafcdiies, fevers, gouts, dropfies. bcggery , povertie : bafeaes and fcorne : crofllng in attempts : ill marriage? curfed children: bad government i in Magiftracy, ^diniftry, family ; peftilencc, fword, famine. Thirdly, ctcrnall, that is, after feparation of loule and hod y, horror fbrihe day of Iudgement,.and departing from God to eternall Torment. The which are mentioned in£;>^/4.and j.Ofwhich ('God willing) I treate at large in the Articles following : But it's meet that yif c have fuch draughts of Scripture before our eyes, that as corner Hones they may hold in thcfe grounds firom vaniilxing. Let us come now to the ArticlcSo H £ FiR5tArTIGl.E of the firft part. Queftion. H A T i^ tfj^ ^eneraU fcope of thefe Articies f AV5^mxv@//^ «^- AH tend more or lefle to lay forth the The gencrali 'm^'^^^M^ fabftance of the firft part, ( which is finne ) in kopeofthis il^wPf^i® her colours, and what ufe the ibuleis to make thereof. ^^,,^.,.n.^. — ^ Q^prhat is thefifi of thefe ? v^. That in -(^t/^»^i niankinde was created in per feftion of light jArudei. ^ndholmefle. Q. fvhv^rvasfiotnf^ff^'f^f^^^^f^o^^^^^^^Z'^^^^ff^/ Sdan at at€d ^^ -^^^ -^^ ^^^ ^^^^^ -p^j. (Jq j abated maft, mde anAfenMleln h'iii roa°c* ' oyonc imAgCy Ecclef/j, 19, Ge>t,i.26. i Cor. 1 1.7. Col. 3 .1 o,Ephef, iZccUPf.i^. 4. 34.Reade the places. Firfi, for the matter : in refpea of his i^Bor matter, better part, he was made a Ipirituall, immortall, invifible, intel- ligible being, as Ged. Alittlefparke ofdivinitie. .5'unfell,underftanding,dc- liberating, refoiving, Uifcourjfmg and Judging faculties being Divine fparkes. ^;^Bnaio«s, Secondly, The feverall funiflions and powers thereof, refem- blin§ the communicable Attributes of G o d, in their perfedi- on ; his knowledge, his purencfTe, his firecdome, his righteouf- alnwaid, ^^^^ ; Thefe may be referred to twolbrtcs : inward and outward The inward, Ihnding in underftandmg, will, and confcience^ The underftanding having perfed: knowledge of God his nature attribatcsjwilland woriliip,Gf himfelfe, of ail other things, yea the formes and very natures thereof, whence he gave them, names : in all relpeds his underftanding was an rWw^of diftind:,, pure and pcrfed light ; lo was his will ( as I may fay ) a Xh^mmmoi Ho lines ^ pfrfed rightcoufneflc, originall reditude, and wasthorowly iubjedtotheedid and charge of the mind; and fo the operations and adions fijtable to both. God then late ip.the throne of the mindc as iiipreme, the will was fub/cd to the mind, thcradions to both. In the confcience, he enjoyed a puce and true reflex of himfelfe in all thefe : perfcdly gladingand comforting himfelfe in the privity to this ejceellcney : a Mulicali barinouy without all jarre,re0wrie oi aQ^etic, Secondly Article I. A PrdSfteallCdtecbifme. j Secondly, the outward a<51:s of the fences, members, mturaH, *»0"'w»r4. civill, oeconomicall or religious, ordered by knowledge. There was a poiitive power and fre'e will to good, and to evill negative : [ as now in the unregenerate there is a freedome to evill and net good ; and in the regenerate, partly to good, partly to evill.] . - Onely not unchangeably io : not bccaufe (as fome dreainc ) he mu!l then have beene as God ; for many Angels were nachangc- ably fo, and yet but creattures : but bccaufe it pleafed the Creator fo far and no farther to impart himfelfeunto him, for what caufes, bafe curiofitic muft not defcant. ^ Q. whailma^eefGodrvasinhisPerfan? Hisperfoa. A» That which I fpake ofliis bodily excellency (fcr the inftri^- mentiilneSj/is much truer of his whole Pcrfon, that ic was an ex- prcffc Image of God. Firfi, in hismoft reverend andawfuU bchaviour^as being ( under God ) the Lord of the Creaturej, Secondly, I n that honorable entertainment v ouchfafed him by th« LordjCven as a Prince into his Palace; all the world being jSni- i\^zA in,her:duc parts and ornaments; man is brc^ghtin as th« royall Creature, poflcfled of all the rich trealure of the Creation, fct therein as in a Theatre of the workmanfhip of God, that ali Ihould bcfubjcd to him. Cl^Vhat ufethn is there toi>£ nude thereof ^ A, Manifold i. for although tlie ■crooked nature of man thinks^ it but hermifcry, to thinke how happy iKe hath bcene ; yettb^ Lord purpofeth by this meanes, to bring her backe to her firft excellcncy,ifilie will be ruled by him. i^jV/ then-, this fhould. |teach us to adore that decpe workman- Vfi ll fhip of God , which once . enfta^nocd iuch a lively Im^ge of ]]im- fslfe in man, as cannot be quite defaced, no nat by iinne '-iX. felfe,I meane,in relped of fome Charaders of it, which by his merciful providence he hath left in common nature, not onely va the Noti- ons of die mind,but the I mage of iheperfon.,_,, . This poynt will hptteriute the third Article : here onely I bring it in, to ftirre us up to two Meditations : Firft, If Irnne ( as defacing a blemifh as it is ^ yet could not fo quite roote out that honour and Majeftie ojf God in man, but ftiU he hath r«- lervcd(for uniyerfall end? ) fome relifjues thereof ^ .(for die whence is it, that the Lord hath dcnyed thofeufe&l crea curias theHorfe and the Oxe and others, to feele their .©vvn ftreti^th andthcairfe of aian,{o that they fhould quite renounce his ler- B 4 vice )J A Fr^iiicAR CAtechifme, Partri vice? Doe they not dill feare the (hadow of Gods Imagcand aretheynotavvefall, nay doc they not yecld the/nfelves to his taming and fubduing power ^ even Lyons,and Bcares, and" the moft 2ivagc ? ) If then there be fuch a deepe Print uf this Creating ^tflo/.j.a.j. hand; what anindeUblcCharadler is ther^ inhis fecond Image of righteouftes, enllamped by the Spirit of Chriil ? Who dare lay, that any thing can ever deface that iaft ing Image ? And i'fc\\tThirdly ,2X\d. efoeciallyit fliould finite a terror and.a we into ^'^ 5* u$> of their perfons.to wliom the Lord hath committed the go- vernment of inferiors, as Magiftr^atcs, Minifters, Parents, and Superiours, yea although unfan Aified, ( but much more ifrenued by grace ) let us behold God in tbem prcf.Tving his authoritie in Tr» 1 7. S' them, though they have raz'd it out by their finnc. If the dcfpifer .^ * 4=-3 ' • of the pooreft ( not religious } diilionour his Maker : how much more luches difdaine tlicgihsofGod in thofe that are learned, experienced, wife^and of good,comcly carriage, perfjnage, and behaviour ? ^f^±, Fourthlj, Nay : hoAV fearefuU a confitffon doe they bring in^^ who adde a fecond defacing to this once defaced, (yet merci- fully continued ) Image of God,abufiiig their parts of Authori- tie,of Policyjof Efteeme,of Beaucie,goodpcrfonage,prcfenGe and "tchaviour, to the abominable maintenance of finne, profancneiTe, Atheilme, Stage-phyes, wheredome, opprefUon, rapine, flat- tery, or ^eliKe ? Shall God give them a third reftitution of Image? 17^ % f^ft^^fjy The recognifmce of this firft Image of G g d , fhould •^ oecafion to us ( that now by the Miniffery of the Law are -con- vinced of our AvoefulliofTejfirft^toiliamcour felvcs : fccondly,. to provoke our felves. To lliame onr felves firft, by the reflex of our odious and dege« ^^^ h. Pirate qualities, upon our owne fpirits. Oh /that one created to "' ' immorality Article I ? A fraCiieall CAtechi me] $ immortality and vertuein the Image of his Creator, flioi^d fo deeply and far difguiie and forget himfelfe, as to bow to an Idoil of wood and ftonc / to gtiib here in the pit of this world among bafe pebbles and dirt, thinking the attaining thereof to be an happinefle ? nay, to grow to fuch villany^as to deftroy th3 Image of God by blond (Kcd and crucli ic? Would it be thought that it were poiTible for any to decline fb far from that originall, if they did but knjw it ? If that Keithen thought it a reafonable ipeech. What can kerne great in this world to him, by whoni the frame and dimcnfions of the whole world are comprehended ? how much more here ? What wealth, profits, bafe pleafurcs, riot, drunkcnnclfe canfe:!me fvvect,to whom that beautifuUl mage of God himielfe ( according to which he was made ) is made knownc ? how fhoirid common fence l"hame fuch ? Branch a. Secondly, How iliould the thought hereof provoke fuch (as are not quite forlorne). both to mournc, that tor fobale obje^s and lufts fake, th :y have dcfpifedfo great graces as have beene offredthem; and alfo excite their appetite f as oft as they hearc , the Lord oif jr to reftore them againc to their integritie ) to long after it,and to grone under thfcirinabhlitre to- beleeve it Pfaying, Oh Lord, I was borne to excellency and honor : and (hall not thy perfwafions draw my heart to recover my loft ftatc ? If we had but loft a faire Di,yf> A He was actually fo,but not unchangeably. Therefore having his will left \n her freedome, &nd uneft'abliOit by gracious dcter^ mining thereof to good : Loe, when a lenlible object is prej^ted • by the Devill, firit llic (as the weaker) then he by her meaiies^ freely chof: to leave God, and to embrace the creature. And hereby, when he was made able if he would, toftand , ( although ib,a$ he might ^11) he turned this voluntary might, into a ne- ceHitie of falling, and an impoiBblcnes of returnc by himfellc, Q^ How lay jee forth thisjinne morefullj^ A. By two things. Firft, The defeription of the Holy Ghoft. The fall ope. Secondly, By the parcels of the finnc. For the firft ; The Scripture ned i w?.yc$, calles ityThat dlfobedlf ace .-That offence-.That tfianfgrejfton:.notmg it G'ew. j.S." to be the compound ofal in one, yea the roote of all, mod; odious ^^^'^' of al,as being the firft of all, which durft enterfcer with the righte- ^"^'^.^J-- ^ ous nature and will of G o d . But efpecially Solomon,EceUf,j^ult,. i.'^y the «« ^ttgell of a^Pei-ron //^k; but he and his fellows -("as other Scriptures doe prove) 2 Cor!" I. being left jaftly by God to the temptation of Ambition, and afpiring to be as God, kli to be difcontent with their eftate, Ie4«6. ^^^^ ^^ P"^'^ ^P themlelves with pride, and to withdraw them- [elves from their placcy and forfoohe their Jerviccy ( for how ihould pride ftand befpre a God of nolinefTe ? ) Oh / this dipt pAl.\(^6. their wings of readineffe, TfaLi'^6. Then all ch ear efiill, loy- all ferviccablenes was gone./ By this meanes, God cad them downe to Hell, and there refervtd thsm inehaines : they having loil that they had, and that they defired, turne their rage a- gainft God wl:o had plagued them, and their cnvie agamit man his ftvouritc, never linning till they had alio caft him out of Paradife, s.^crfon. The third is Eux and Adam jointly : who did moft immcdi- iv Evc& Aiam. ately concurre to this tl-eir owne traufgrellion. y^Wh^t things ohferve yon in their fall} ^'^e remote f^. Things of two forts'. iFirit, The remote caufes. Se- cauiw three. ct>ndly. The more neerc ?(n^ proper. The former were thefe : F.irftj changeablenefle of their will. Secondly, Vnarmedncflc a- ^ainfl the temptation Thirdly,thepecuharity of the temptation, 5^ Tor the firft. Let us not blame God : tut looke at man: wiic.^'«?/?r»,. 'to interchange. talke and fpeech. with a crea- ture, (he being-.the. Lady of all the creatures, (yea knowing her foveraigntie J. ^a^d therefore {hould. not have admitted fuch a parlee,but wifely have thought^, This is no place for a fcrvant to uitiudc himfclfc, and to jangle with me, being un- called calted .• Speech is not f jr a Serpent : it becomes not me to feckc better content than I have,by an idic,curious and vaine difcourfe, jtDaDUnce. ^ ^"^w not what, whence, nor to whatpurpofc. But this ber ^ ' vainc /angling was her ruine.Tbea / ''Miancein bandying ib many replies one after another f who knowes how many ? ) and ven- turing to prate of fo wcightie a thing as her happine{re,not doub- ting that fo miiiie a point threatned her ruine, but hazzarding all Upon herownewit, tongue, conceits and aniwers, asif Ihee coald haveplucktbackcherfooteather pleafure, and prevented Unne in the very kindling : I fay, what is this but bold ventu- roufncflc upon the danger, becaufe ihcfelt heirfelfeas yet. un- touched? The J.caufe, Thefc three brought forth the fccond, which was Snaring: Snaring, ^r by this ticldiug of her^ Ine takes the Devils fiiarc into her wil and thoughts, fo farre, that" as a bird in a grin, iliee could neither goe backward nor forward : but is limed and hampered with that which at the fir(i fhe was free from : her wings beginnc to becUpt ;and now (he is ready to tell where her great llrength lyeth . and now an uncleanc delight begins to defile her, her frcedame ftaggers, tlic admits a thought. What if I venture and try; what hurt can come of it? Now her diredivc light begins to dazle, her, purencHc to be defiled, and faUefweetto cxpell true : And fa ceafes to be in her own power, as the bo wle rolling (iowne the hill. -y- ■ ' ^ TThe j.cjufe. And fo thirdly, fiiccceJsS-'fy^i^ djfrnf to^ the ttmptstion, and Secrct-aflcnt, yceldsup the inward, weapon of her Jnnoccncy, to the Devili,refts iti the thing ofFred, as very good, meet,iweet,delightfall,(faiiding Uponthorncs till ihedoe, as (he is tempted. Whatwonda? when Ihe refoies to be led by that in waril light and grace Ihe had received ? Therefore Gqd leaves her to call good evill, and cvill E/aj/'Lio, good. And ib (lice tooke it, eate it, gave it her husland, who though he were not firft, yet he was lait in t'hc tranfgrcfliofi ; and 1 Tim.7.. r4» y eeided to doe as the Devill had dra wne h^ to doe ; and laboth of them difobeyd. • ' * ■' " -• Q^JVhai: conjii^ youlnthe fallit felfe'^ ,Thcz4<^>««»;^ and judgement there- by, then to handle him roughly, knowing him ( by his mefTen- gfer) not tobc ftroff. Befidss /beware of an afpiring heart, dif- content with our portion and eftatc ; If y^^w? had argued thus. To what a dignitie hath my Creator railed mc from the duft? who am I, poore ean:h,earth,eardi / He had flood nrme ; but now looking about hiniandlcttingup his briftlcs, loe, pride caufes his ruinc ! Oh I how jfafe arc we, while we arc under ! iBtAmh 2 "^^^ ^*b^^)i f^°^ -f "^^ '^^^ Adatffy Let us learne not to truft 3>r/p« by Dalila^ and would ra%,i<5»i^. ^ine get off the hooke, but cannot, being fnared. Thus men thinke it cannot be dangcroiis to admire, prayle and accom- pany bcautifull women,, to thruft thcmfclves into the com- pany of Hne fdlowes in their plcafures, and to rulli our fdvcs uponfnares of deepe Worldly bufintO'e, They purpofc not tq be catcht (they fay) till their wing* be finged with t}ieir venturing lonecre the candle, and then theyftrugglein yaine. Bettcr^ had it beene for them to hav« beene birds with wings, and fo in vaine fnould the net have beene fpred for them. And to end this ufc, how llnould the defcription of Adams iinne, for ever icaceus from flighting it ? We cftecme it by the outward a(^ : but that Which makes it fo odious, is the atten- dant f:;arefull circumftance of it. To let fall a peccc of coinc into the dirt is httle; but to throw it and Oamp it under our feetje in fcorne, is treafon, • Not to give all to the ule of the Church, ( being ours ) is nothing : but to withdraw it being A3.i.^» Gods, with a lye to the Holy Ghoit, is mortall i Oh, the finne. of Ad4p» isiaexcuiabie;! committed m the full ftrength of grace, in the fulne0c of allParadife contentment, needlcfly for a'tri;fle, when there iwas no.finne to .draw them, and the like j ere they bad fandified one Sabbath of Thankes. SeeoftMy, Lztitba inftrudtion to fhew us what little Wonder there is to be made, that now inour corrupt cnat£,thc abundance ©f gift5^ blcflings,, encouragements, good helpes of nature, edu- "' ' ' cation^ ■:-a. 'Article 2. 7heufestfihe[ec6ndArHcUi X'j cation, art j tiay^lioly ordinances of God granted us for the better, doc not profit thoiifands,nayjturne to our hurt ? Surcly,if -4,ji«w in all his exceliency,yct by mcere abfence of confirn:jing gracc,could. a bulc his freewill to fb fearefull a fall ; wc neede not wonder^ that in this ftate of his necefiary milery, he profits fo little by allhelpes: no wifedomc or righteoufneffeof his could free him then ; and /hall any'thiiig in the want of both hclpc him now ? Man is fetupby God, and yet is a bcaft. The Cat was. once made a Queene, but in her glory i}ie hunts after a moufe. How much more being corrupt ? T/&ir<^,BkfrcGod, that in bis iccond grace by Chrift, he Vfe %l changed old sidams perfection into a better and furer, from a ielfe-fubfiftance in grace according to our owne freedomc, to a fubfiUing in another ; betrulling us no nwre with our ownc TrcafurCjbut keeping it under the locke and key of his ownc power in Chrift.So yet lookc what we come {hort of Adam in the meafure of grace in this life, wc goc beyond him in the un- changcablencfTe : iR>r alas ! how little arc wc fit to be trufted withall, but we would lavilli it, if under our owne keeping? The Lord is fainc to humble us rather under the burthen of our in- firmities and corruptions, bccaufcwc are not lierc capable of any great matter. Being fo unfeithfiill in the fmaller, who fHould laj^Jitf^ e,^ truft us with the great treafurc ? Laftly, It teaches us to eftccme highly of the gr ace of felfe dc- yft 4, niall, as being the contrary grace to Adams corruption. For he fell by too much truftinghimfclfe : wc (land by the grace of felfc renouncing: Anditsnotamiffctoconftder; how Juftly thcgrca- tell pen^tic of man (laiids in the lofle oi\m free-will,ind in the flavery of the will to finne : becaufe this freedomc abufed,caui«l hsruine. So fearefull is the error of themtliat maintaine, that man hath ftill free-will in himfelfc rcmayning to that which is good. \^ u ' Art ich n 1% Adams jltfnemAde Mm miferdle. Partr* Article. 1 11. CJu. Tf^as thre no other thing to make up hk mlfery^ fave onehf hkfdll '^^imfinne ^, ^^^^^^ES.Thc efFedfe ofit ciufed him to be miicra- made bim ^K^S^3 ^^^ • ^<^^^ ^^° effecfts of fin and pmiilhment. jmfetabie, m ^^s^i&l For finne firft , his aduall brought forth ' *^ ' ^^S K^m original!; his origirtallalladuallfinnes; arid ^^^^^^A thus. God having tbreatned him death if he fiiincd, did juftly inflidre finnc for finne, and gave him over to his dcfire, and concupifcence. Seeing he would forfeit !his Image for a trifle, he left him to be as hedefired; amaflc of. corruption and rebellion. As a Pitcher dafliiag it felfe againft a ftone waU,is juftlyfplitto pecces. So that by the wrath of God wasinflided upon hini the lofle of Gods Image fkanding in righteoufiiefle and true hoUiiefTe : a deprivall of the glory of God,both in foule and body : as if the Lord fhould fay,S€eing. thou wouldft needs thusrebell, fill thy felfe with it, be lb to the fiiU.. Hence came that utter impotency of minde and members, to purpofe, to will, or execute any good. Nay ,an utter averie- nefle from it, an utter incapablcncflc of it, a contrarietie of fpirit 3«jb» 14.4. unto it , loh, 1 4.4. and 5 . 1 4. "TfaL 5.15. Kom, 7.23.2^, and many -^bhn 514^ other. For a tafte,take thele:originall darkeneffejCrroneoufnefTe of F/d/.jo.if. jaclgement,captivitie,.and thraldomeof will, infenfibleneflc of ''*'^* heart, impotency of the faculties, enmitie to all goodnefle, total impuritie of the whole fpirit, propeniion to any .fin,and unaptnes to any good occafionedjfervilenefTe of the will> unfiibj&ftneflc of the outward man, unfavorineffe,. and in a word, the death of the grace of Creation.This for finne.. ^ . a.?€naltic$ So for the penalties, a feed of utter impenitcncy, dedokncy offiar*t* obftinacy, apoftacic, and excommunication from God, i?/?i^4, 18. Prom this fbuntainc, proceeded, both adluall finnes, and aftuall penalties, finnes of^commilfion, omiflion, ignorance, prefumption, inward habits ; as hypocrifie,earthlinefre,ignorancc crrours, prophaneneffe, unthankfiuneflejhardnefle of heart ; and otttw«:da^j as in both Tables, impioufneffei Winrightcouf- Article J AdAiHsflnnemAdehimmiferAhle, ip ncffe, intcmperancyj and the like ; of^which, fee Rom, I. Si^d f ^7^** V; 3. iTim, ij. I, 2, 3,4. 5, So penalties aduall, as the impuri- ^a.j.^ * tic and curfc of conception) and birth, the lofTc of the right and dominion of the Creatures, the curfe upon Godsblcffings, lidlifh tcrrours, difeafes, povertie, difcredit, imprifonment, ieare of death, guiltineffe of judgement, and utter nufery of loflc and fence of heU. Q. Toft have laid mAny thmgs together : andlconfent to alt : Tet J Hefire a little more difiintl order of them : bringtherefwe all thefc tofomeferfi heads, ^ A, i will in this Article lay downe the order of the point, "i^otMU^^ and leave the further enlargement of it, to his due place 1"^/^^!*^"^ * the fift Article following. Conceive then the point by the ' ' Apoftlcs ipeech, Rom.$.i2, ivherefore as hj one man, fi**^ entrcd into the worldy and death by ftnne, ^c. Where we fee, that the aduall finnc of y^^»?, determined not the bound or mifcry, but brought a fecond mifery with it, even the mife- ry of our whole nature. While wee. ftood in Adam^ his obe- dience kept his whole ^ftate and nature entire : but when be- fell, though the finne were a limited thing ill aft of eating, y€t it was an unlimited exccflein refpeft of the committer, and the frame of his revolting heart. And therefore it was }uft with God to plague his \y hole nature, for this finfull adl ; Goijaftln And the plagnc thereof was, to inflicflf fuch a pcnaltie upon F««'fl^»ng fi« nyidams nature ( of the Propagation I fliall fpeake in Article w«l» fio. 4. j as made it truely miferablc, in ftead of being -before tru- ly happie. Note then, Adam having adually dilobeyed, the lufticc of God offended highly by it, doth punilTi whole na- ture forit^ As if he had faid thus. Haft thou indeed freely chofen to leave me on plaine ground? To embrace luft and Sa- tan, and pleafure of appetite before me ? To caft dirt upon my pure Image? Be it then fo with thee, as thou defireft I Be that in nature, which thou chuleft in thy free will to doe. That Image of mine which thou caredft not to preferve, be ftrippcd oft': that image of thine owne invention, which thou preferredft, be fatisfied with, fill thy felfe with, enjoy and deliglit thy felfe with to the uttermoft : I will not fuffer mine to harbour with thine, light and darknplTe, corruption and purcneflc i therefore depart my Image,, from this ft ic ofuncleancnefle, and let him who necdcs would be filthy» ': Ca ■ "^ iyc aor Addffis'finne made him mtfera^le, Pafti? - lye downe in his filth, and he that would forfake arcall fire of heat, to compaflfehimlelfe in his owne fparl<:es,let him lye down^ in forrow.As I threatned, fo I lentence thee, In djing^ dye : dye the death of thy finne, and finde thy ovvne inventions to the felfe; I utterly cut thee ofi:',and excommunicate thee from my preicnec, and in token of it, from Paradife the place of thy former happi- neflc : in one word, BemiferaGk. Note then whatfoever Adam brought himfdfe untoby hisacfloHinning^was penall: becaufe it was a ftroke of juftice. Not oncly death and allother punifti- ' ' iTicntSjbefore and after it, but even Originall finne it ielfe is a pe- naltis ; it is a finne indeed , but it is a penall one, God juftly puni- fhing adualL with originall : and fo wc muft conceive, that al- though in us it be truly finne, yet God inflidling it, did notinfiifo it as finne into us, but onely as a juft penaltic of that v/hich/^dam himfelfe in the freedome.of his wicked .will,., had, firll forged in his owne heart againO: God. Q, Hvw m4ny branches doe yee divide this Jldifiry into I Miftryef fin -^. Into two. The milery of finne, and themifery ofpunifli- double. nient ; cithec of which, had beene mifery alone.but juftice would I not luSer miferjjrfo be within narrower bounds than thefc ; that Ori^jiall, he who by doing made himfelfe,might by fufFering be made mi- ferable. The former,!/*-?:, mifcry of finne,, is either of the roote^ Originall,orthebraaches> Adiiall finne :both making the foule truly though not equally mifa-able. Q^ ^hitt is the former ofthefe ? Shew in -what the mifery cf Ori" ^^inall Jinne fiandeth ? . la thin s ' ^* -Intv/o things. I. Originall guilt. 2. Originall ftaine or i.*Giulr^ * pollution ;.both being the foiintaincs^ of all adiiall guiU^and pol- lution of confeience. Whatiti* tind Originall guilt is that privitie and reflexion of confciencc in what if ifl -4 naked -^ and Adam, whdn God called him, hid himfelfe tn thf- inJhefyZiid gave the reafon, he.caufe hee vroi nakid. The Lord askes him how he knew it ? The meaning was, his confeience in prcfcnting to him his fiult, did gugge*him alfo with fcarc, and cjipe^ation of revenge. Sothat^ as in his innocency, one excellent Article I ThemifirycferfgiriAllJinnel St excellent, part of his welfttii'Ayas,/tlwt lie l^new Wmf^ffc fa • |b ritDw'bneefpccMl parti'^f M'S Wocis^ tHat the conTcicrite to ri^g his fmAe slwsy in bis- eares, and mtici'c him obnoxionS, tbat is,tb fear c God in point 'of that piuiiih merit, which he loolxrd for from his luftice for his iinne. And tp 'fay the jruth, -whait mifery Is like to this ? to be ever on the rpcke of a ntans owtie ipirit, iiigg'^ftin^ ; and tpa^ing ' to iiim fad- things' io tome for his iinne? dogging him;a§ the lay lt)r,wfio will not fuj[Fer his prifoner to goc one inch froM his aifttydy > Hb\v bitter doth tt make all things, when as a fwofd tianging by atwiti^d thi'cd dvl^ .a mansTlead, it dcth threat^ him pcfr pctii^il' ruine and tpi him over f aS'a boii!''ahd* r^cb|nimiice of gieat forfeit j to the great alTize of wrath and jiid^mentj there to anfwer for hirafclf: ? yea, ^lid there withbut all bayle or maincprize, ujiefcapeably ' to luffer ctcmall death of bodyand foule ? TMs^h^'/'ujhor. to the'i^^.;il.f^: t^clTCth, ^^^ ^\^^ f^^i,^; ''irB:0l( their ^ lift'tlf^c-yf thfi^e''ofWa^'iv€y-&\fuhj6ti ' * "** r<7* jrondage r ■ id tfi, Walked lindct' the chaine 6f this guili, al Way afiaid left by death-of bodyj, their foulefhould Aide into fiell, to abide thetc/tiU the bod^- came thither. True it is, a^dam Sycd not 'at the tirll-cbixlmitting oi the finn^ x btit had he foundi noh^W fiVptn^ i^tatr ^^r« tlid, lbe,'all ithofc^ tiivit hundred Vear^s he had'b^yne toffed^nd terrified with this guilt, till it jfrad feaz^d upon him. And whereas yee will fay that, tbole that livdr,"they had lavv enough in tfeto tb' hptd them under a guilt of hbt^or for luch cVills ds they commiWed agsinft the naturall light, although ignorance had wprne.out the true dint of this confcience. Be- tides, although to know a mans jnif.ry, onely, ihcreafeihit ^ yet fo.to know it as wema^ prevent it, is better, thgii by not Knowfrti| it to dcap^, Ithe ience attd bbndagc of that ivliich yet lycthajSbncEs;''^' ,' • ' ' .^ ;.'^.:- C^ ' Jf^^/din doth the mifcfy of OrmnaUfialne offinne vonfiSl ? ^ A, Wee itiay cither conceive it in the whole, or in the Tbe ftain€ of parts/^ Touching the whole, the beft way will be, to take the fia«e,what. word which the Holy Ghoft ufeth, which is Btath. Pbr death is' the tefblution of nature :, and fo is tl-us death of the foule, a totall aboUihment and corruption of th^t bk fled frame of creation, (^meaneiti the point other PurcnefTeVJ in mind C 3 ~ ht . %i Themifcrj oforighAllfmne, Part 17 fay light, ia will and heart by hoUncffe. Now thcalookc how contrary a carcalffe is toahvcly body: fo is this to the life of creation, as in thefe few things may appearc ; in the weli framed conftitution of body, appearc, Firft, Vnion of parts. Secondly, Order. Thirdly, Sweetncffc and Beautic. Fourthly, Strength and A div itie, Aptncffe to the end it ferves for. But in a dead carcafic, together with theabfcnceof the life and foule of reafon, what appeares fave contrary eff As ? Impotency to all former Gm,€,^, Operations, diforder,ftench,and putrifadion, confufion, and irk- fomnc{re?Thegencrallthenis Deftrudionof the frame of Na« Jtcw.l.a|. ture, corruption of the Image of G o d . Tc^hing the parts both faculties and powers of the foiile and boc*j||it were endleffct<> mCBtion all, i nphef,p%. Ii^ the mindc there is a d:ath of all pure light and. know* ledge, 1 nakcdncffe of Gods Image in poynt of that ruling and over-ruling power, by which ihee conveyed diredion to all the intcriour faculties, will firA, and then afre<^ions and operations s nowise is both d^rkneife in her felfe, and lofll? of her birth-right, to rule other parts : unto darknefle, addc death of judgement, eafily deceived in matter of difcerning o£ ;rrdvAAto the naiures and truths of things; and foalfo, impotency and io«4:i4.1i languor of apprelicnfion, dulnefte and ipabilitic to conceive good things ; and befidcs this privative indifpofition, alfo ^ a poiitive pronelTe and propenlltic to all cvill of the minde, ill conceits, fallc, hcreticall, erroneous opinions, vaina prophanc, idolatrous, vnfavoury imaginations, difcourfcs, thoughts, and F.ors.S . 5. 'ju^gementSjkeeping in memory iwy fome^and hurtfullob jeds. So fccondlv. Death of the will, efpccially in the matter of her ^m'7,u fubjedion to* th« lore and leading of the underftanding ; thea alfo in her facultic of willing and nilling, or fufpending, a cor- ruptnefle in the Ircedome thereof by mcerc bondage botkunto iinne and by fmne^ a depravednefle of the chufing ftcultie,. and fo of the rcftjyca'adilpofcdhede to will onely and continaally eviil,to nillgood,to fulpend onely from good, and not evill,(avc forbadrcfpeds,to chufe cvill before good. So truely.doth the .Vvj.4 1; I^rd cemplaine. That ths whole frame^ of the foule is onelj evill >:6ri«/7.27. fontiriHaliy* n , - j To thefe adde, the death of affedions in poynt of their due diredion to the ob/eds, and whole incHnation of them to a pre ^oftergws and difwdercd jiJyng of eviU, diflike of good^ difpofi- *ion thereof to extremities on either hand, either to love, hopCj ^ertp i j; forrow, feare, pittie, fli?me,2calc,and the reO,more tlian oughtto Efhef^.zf, be, or under that ihould be : and thereby to overthrow the courfc and order of the whole converiation, loyne to thcfc the death of the confcicncc, both in rcfp^^ if;,,.», TitAAf. As touching the ipirits,and the fences, andthc members, there ^ow.tfA is a death in them of that abilitie, foundneffc, vigor ,and lervice- ablcnefle to the foule in good things, and a proncue and tickling to bo vainely and frothily imployed, except wor fe be of!red ,evcft prophanely and unholily. And to conclude, there is a death of the perfon, in refpecfl of that right and fovcraigntie over thg creatures, with a llaviiliproneffe rather to Idolize them both in the worfhipof lbme,andthclove orufc oi others :a declcnfi- on from God ,and a revolt to the bafc creature, as £ve did to the forbidden fruit. Qj^ Now Tufhat is thg mfcry pf AthiAU fmne ? A. The depravcdnefte and death of ; all the operations flowing from the /bulc within, or the body without.- for whereas thefe refemblcd the pufenefTe of .the principle at the firft, loe, now, they bewray the contrary ; all ^onfufion, dif- order, ignorance, and unrightcoufnetfe, being broken into . them. As appeares in this,thatin the firft table, the Ibule de- par ting from God, lets up to her felfe other gods ; profit^ pleafure, eale, worldly lufts ; worships him after her owns devices ^ Jives as feemcth , bcft to her ielfe in her converiati-. on, abhorrcs his Sabbaths, and the like. In the fecond, that fbrlaking the law, of righteoufneffe and ibhrietie, the foule defiles h^r fclfe withdifobedipnce and rebellion to man, to unnatural!, ; auell and :unmercifuii carriage, to uncleannelTe, to revenge, to wrath, to unjuft, oppr^fifing, defrauding ^/(tfiy.rj; wayes, to lyes, tricks, and flanderous aiperfions : to a con-S'<«'^.5«»9« , tinuaU lufting after unrightcoufnefle. And all thcfc not one- *^'**3*^^ ly in o^cn a^s ( which arc not fo ufuall) but in the adtuall^V/^,^^. C 4 ' Ihoughts, ' '' 24 Themifi-y^fH99ifhiiiUt . V^rtu fi-Vibii 8.4^/^pnglifg,''Se/TJc^;'pfoJe(^^.a¥Jel cdfinf^lsof the he^,ycclding "5pm J .^, and cdnfdnting^hereto, ani'ileUghtiJig to tbinke of,talke ofj to love and commend linftiUpradiifes ; as, fw earing, drurtkcnneflfe, (lebate,wrong, intemperancy, and the like. For thefe arc i:.utone . of a thoiifand of thofe adiiall finrtes, which as fparkcsflienp ffem the formsf fuifiace. Nor all thdein e\^ery ifianybut lame in dne, \Ccr 6.7. and feme in another. Sec i Cor.6.j. Such were jeeyfome of yee^c^c. Which phf afe is the fame with this. Q^ Andwh:rewfiandsth€fecondge?tera!i part of miferjit^ wit, ofpt4>iiJhment} A, 111 the manifold penalties both of foule and body: and thofe properly expreffe that threat of God, when thou enteftythoti jhdt dye the death. In the foule firft , ( for of all other, theie are fearefullsftj becaule they are iinfuU penalties of finne ) rirft,an avcrfeneflb from God ,or from returni.ng^toGod any more,bat go- ing from him further and farther infinitely : an inlcniiblenefTe of "B^lef.^.iA' foule in this double mifery ::a dedolcncy of heart,utterly and im- ' 5* penitently hardnedinit": an uncapablenefle of admitting of any l^m.%.7* meancs to draw the foule out of mifery to any better e tate: a {pirit a Cor. z!i «. of rsfiiling and oppofition ofaity luch,an infinite peaceableneflc & CanBcr, &c. content of heart in the prcfent condition, thmkingthis bondage As a ftonc and hell another libertie and heaven ; and if bereft of it,raging as cannotmelt, ^^^ £earero^i;edofherwhe/pes :2Lndio?i pronsnefle to be riveted more and more deeply into this woe, with leiTe and leffe fee- IRom.x, 3,4, ijiig or bekeving it.Now thcfc (wc mnft know ) 'are^ofa deeper ^T^otIIVa* ^y^ ^^^^^ ^^^ formcr,asbeiiTg curies of CTod upoh andagainfl a lin- full Rebell- giving hini ova-to himfelfe, and lealing him to wrath and perdition, which though th^ Lord doth not alwayes eiiiargCj to anguilli and defperation,but rather fiilpend till the due feafon therecS": ydt they; art-all inherent in our corrupt native. €c7i.i 17. .Touching the' bbdy,- whferb lli<»ll 1 begin or end ? ' What W^} 53-4' languors and' tiiffcaicis" are there 'incident to the body: what povertie, bafeneffej^; beggery and-wanttothc eftate? what re- proach to the name and credit, afper([ions, llauaders, 'd'ifho- iiout? What mifery in family, in Churchi ComnioFpwcalth ? What. obnoiiou'fiKlTe to -Sa^anr, to 'his'; inftrament»' "Ctrhpta- tiohsV.iiiiichief^,, bondage to the ungodly, luites, fer vices, depcudauces with hard conditious,Crofles, ftreights, purfuites, ipffes forfeits, death of friends, imprifonm'-nt, accidents, and liy:ey^d turnes^bad-ty dirigSjConlHiioh ia the ftatc, famine,- >=acre> ' ^ '^ peftilence. ArdcJei? Themiferyofpmfhmenti i^ peftilence/and'a tboufand wayes for him to goewofuily out, who came but one way into the world ? Befides griefe of minde, melancholy paflioiiSjand diftempers of the fpirit, bad conicience ill marriage, lewd children, ill luccefle, ruine of eftate,and at laft a itiifcrable death ? Andyet the upfhot of all is worft after, viz* A finall reparation from God, andloiTeof his eternall prefence, with the fence of unutterable, intolerable,unavoydable wrath of God inhell upon the whole man for ever, withx^ut the kafthopc ofhelpe or redreffe in or from himfdfe. And to this place not un- fitly ( in my judgement ) belong all thofe vanities^vncertainties, cafualties and hazards which the poore life of man is obnoxious unto. Before his creation,how lafc,happyjfecurea creature wa'ked he ?. So that Z>ar-like body, difeafed, and difconBlate ( for lacke of grace ) doth many a poore bed-rid wretch live } Asloh faith^ why is the light given to wretched man, to behold his milery ? How are others of good worth and place fuddenly Inared by banquerupts, and fo through difcontent and Worldly forrow, fw allowed up ii^ death. Others how oppreflcd in their good caufs by* Eilfe evi- dences, forfworne witneflbs, corrupt ludgcs ? Their judgement wholly taken away from off the earth, and they left to iTiift with the amends in their owne hands ? How many a mans cafe .is it to be robbed by thesves,kfc not worth * gr^PJ and perhaps abufed Gth^r wife ^ How many irinocehts, both old and yonger inter -^ cept'd by violent hands,poyfoned in their meate and drink,kno.ckt on the head, laid wait for and deftroyed, yea perhaps through the miftake of fome other man , and yet none left to revenge ? How long doth the Lord f as one a (leeoe in a tempefl, and caring, for nothing) f lifter hrs poore beloved Church, to be toiTcd as a fhip with the waves of moft hideous, trouble ? Oh tlie A4 dangers not of thebadd onelybut even of the beft ! That all things lliould fill out alike to the one and to the other ? Heere one Humbling on plainc giftundpaEiid breaking a lirabe, another oflf his.. ^? T^fmifery0ffH»tfhment.'^ Part rv hishorfejbruifcd anddoofinghis liife, notonely in hisdrunken- ncfle,bm in bis greateft fobriety ? So that as Solomon faith, onr Hfeis among fnares, and loolieas the filly bird, peark and luly, hopps about the fnare,andfearcs nothing, by the bayt of a worms isfaddenlyentrapt and taken, even fo is this more filly creature iaared and fnatcht, ere he be aware. For alas, race is not to the . fwift, nor battel to the ftrong, nor wealth to the wife, but time and fucceflc is a like to all .- Some bafe unworthy wretch in a towne (neither of goodnefie nor parts) carries away more mucke, then- ten v/ife,godly, and provident men / Is it not ai burden, to fee the Prince goe on fbote, bntthc pezanttoridc on horsbacke,thcwifetokecpefilence4and fooles to fpeake their minds ? I fay, thsie are all vanities and vexations which though they befall not every one, yet none is free,and4ie who is nov/ frecftjis at another time catcht in the gin. This is but an hand- fijll of the reft : It comes to ray mind, what I have read iii the ftoryof the Emperors of a valiant Captaine B f/ii/arw who nf* ter may conquefts, being taken captive, was faine to proftitute his Lady to defilement, and to ftand by( his eyes being put out) with his hands extended, fiying Givc^ Betlifarim one haliepeny. Whofe heart fhould not fuch a fight peirce? How mifcrable a lot is it to behold anhon^ft man matchtwitfh aQueanc which de- files his bed continually? Is it not irkefome neither to know how to live, or die from fuch an one? Toieea moft innocent crea--^ furc, fall into the hands of fo me cur fed helhound, who accufcs him, and bear es him dow^ie upon oath of Adultery or fome in- famous crime the innocent having no redrefle, but forced to lye under the reproach all his day es / onely fupported by a good con- fcience. ^^ Oh ! that the M^RI&tian of this Vainty of our lire,might pro- cure other manner of ufc, then it doth from the world , who doc nothing but gaze upon fiich examples, and having fodone give over and vanifhl Never mourning to fee the fiiiftlefiemi- fery, which finnc hath brought upon man, nor laboring to workc uponfucbas are thus opprefled: never wondring that the Lord iKould fo mercifiillyiave them in the midft ofib many calamities, never thankfiiU for cither themielves or their children from fuch accidents as they i^t fome inftnts borne with, lame, blind, mon- gers in exce{l"e,or the defed ,and lo in other kind : Oh 1 1 fay,ho w i^Wbumbjc their iowies under the mi§hty hand ofGod,and call ""■■ *'""^ "■ " ' ""- ■ ' ~' ' to Atticlff^^ Thiufes of the third Article: Jy to mind that bitter root which all comes from? and fb walks holily and thankfully forthcefcape of fuch maladies as might have fallen on themielves Nay v^brayding their Maker with a mocking tonguc,and laughing at others for that which provokes the deepeft pitty. Sure lb me time (hould be employed in fuch meditations I This I thought to put in an vie by it felfcjeaving the gcnerall to the next qusQion. And to conclade,^ what wife man would not in thefe refpeds, fcrioufly fceke the Lord for mercy and grace : which onely can make a vaine uncomfortable life, chcerfoU and (avory, which is the priveledgc onely of the bclec vcr;he only makes that fweet which others find miferable. Q. I partly conceive this view and mappe of the nufery ofths fall i now conclnde the Article mth fame ufe of it. A, Firft, here is confutation^ of aU Papids, who flatly de- /^i» iiy this Article, and tell lis, that our nature is indeed (lirewd- * ly. maimed and wounded, much like him rvhofellamon^theevesLufie'to.iQfl hetrvccm JerufaUmand lerlchoy and If t halfe dead. But as for \xs, that maintainc this dying the death, this quite and cleaner ^r^wci&i^ dcadnede in finnesand trefpaffes, they cannot aSide. No( fay they ) there be left even in the unregenerate fuch abilies, arid devotions, a» may congruoufly difpofc God to pardon them: And by fome helpc of grace, merit alio fiill forgivenelTc. Yea they boafl themfelves of their performances, and du* ties, whereas Tatil tels us, that all hoafling is cut off. Kiidi Rm ^ .xji they tell us, Baptilmc wailieth away all originall finne, when • as yet /*<««/ groncs under the burdenof not being regenerate^ Alio all Pelagians or thdx: adherents, who affirme that c3d Adam Branch %} is, as one in vorld> to addrelTc himfclfe to live? Thisalfo reproovcs HVBranch^, Naturall Papifts, ,that doat upon their civill, morall, or reli- gious duties and devotions, and cannot abide to hcarc thac thaife who fo duly pay all .debts, all dues, who give iomany " ' almcs , 2 ^ rk rfes Bfihs third Article. Part u almcs to the poorc, hearc fo many Sermons, kccpe fo manj' Sabbath^^ ireade fomany bo<^kes, kcepc fo-mucfa good com- pany, conkmend the Miniftetisi ahd welcome them, and mairt^ MAtf'),xo, taind them, ihould' yet hcasihepHblicansandjtnners: I doc not fay yee are ; but I fay this/ Except yce alio deny your felves, and behold this mifery of your- Natures, yce will fare "Worfe ill time even' by your righteoufiieffe, than if yee had none*; for why ? doe yee not graife upon a rotten {l:ocke,and Branch K» gu^l*^ a rotten poft ? So alfo, fucH as commend mens natures in the poynt of Religion, faying, Oh fuch are fo fweetly na- tured, courteous, loving, mil4c and harmleffc, that there is but little bctwcenc thcm^nd Heaven 1 Alas, how many o^thefe fweet creatures are as bitter enemies to Gods grace, as friends ^raH^h$; tbcivilitie and fiirc carriage I Alfo fuch as ayme at Religion, onely thus ferre, to colour their wings and tip their tongues, ot their outward dcaHngs with fome out-fide : but as for that heart ^jrmch.'j, withln,.andnature,thcyiufoe(5l:not. And to conclude, fUch alS ' being told of their palTions, defend them by their nature,! t's my nature to be fo hot. I have foone done. Why pooi^ fbole, thinkft thou thy nature is more exeufable than thy paflion ? and yet what is more common with men. to fiy, than this If I were an Adiiltcrcr or Drunkard, I were willing the Miniftcr fliould thus fiiarply Tcbuke me j btit to be (o bitter for mens infirmities, and againfi: thst which we cann(it doc with, nor heale, and avoyde, and againil unbeleefe,. or the like, mcthinkes be might be wifer 1 Oh, God would feme draw thee from the open to the fecret finnes of thy heart , left thy freedome from the grofier fhould deftroy thee. He would even weary and tyre thee by thy curfcd nature, when thoa Iceftallthy other defences arc but dawbings with Juntcmpered mortal*. ^e.il Secondly, This fhould caufe thee to looke upvrard, and" to gage the greatneffc of Chrifls love, which could findq in his heart to fatis fie for fuch a mifery, and to fetch happinefic but of the depth of it. Even in this Article is layd the foundation of thy cfteeme of Chrift, in the next part of the Catechifmc : Chrift will be little fet by, thehstgk find depth of mercy cannot be founded, tiU thou take meafure of it by a Rcedeof thy milcry. Little (innc to forgive, will make Chrill little loved. As we fee at the Affyfes, that bafe theefe thatthinkes to conce ale fome of ""'""' "'" ■ ■ ' " ' " ■ - - ' his Article 5- ThtufsrofthtthhrdArtklt, 2^ his robberies,, and is loth to have all come oat at once fearing the mercy of the ludge : when his inditemeiits come to be ?ead the fecpnd time,loies his life. Let us beware left it be fo witii'us. Let us not lelfen and mince our. finncs, in hope of , more caiic pardon: but if we. would magnifie the grace o£ Chrift, let v& firft magnifie and enlarge our finneto the. utter- moft ; if Chrift fee, that we rather hope in pur fmall finne than his great graci,. we are dead men.,The way to get pardon,, is to equall his price to all our milcry. Say^thns, If Lord, ray. finne had beene onely a- (hare in v^it is a tricks of youth,&c. And the truth is,from the Ilbnder efteeme of (in^comes that bafe eftceme ofChrifl: with many. Where.is,exceptChri'ihad been made lin in the roote it lelfe,by imputation and fatisfied for it,allthcimputation o^adual, could not have profited us.Ifto raze the pidture of a Prince be fuch a crime, vvhat is it to deface the Lords ? Oh wofull wretches, ;who dare fay Baptifme'doth abolilh that wliich all the grace of Ciirili cannot wa(h 0^ till death ? All other finnes are commit- Areicte47 Ahmi^mmlseurjtnnei tz'^ in a -corrupt eftatc, this in a pure One • and therefore Ch'ift that immaculate Sonne of God was feinetolay alide all his ho- nneflfe^that he might clenfe the. ftaine and the guilt thcteof( as a double dye) out of our natiifc. Oheof the miferies of brigi- nall {inne,. is, that its uncapable o f the due conceiving its owne woe -.-but thinkes itfelfe in good cafe, as a drunkard forgets the fcHtence of death, and dreamcs of great wealth. And therefore >y*ehad not need addc thirft to this our drunkennelTe, by eftee- ming it flight, but defire the Lord rather that he would awaked us out of this delufion. Butmorcfball bcfaid of the ufeof this in tMefixt Article. ^i A R- T \ Q u B rv. Qtl. Whatisfitl thu miferj to mjin^o never Jlnned Adams finn^ inthekindg? j^l |^i5^?@^^<^T is^over-fpredas aleprofie of the whole Aimm fitae body over the whole nature of mankinde, »* o""^ ^innc ali.iorts^fexesjftates, degrees: .Not one i-ee : as all mifery is in every one, fo , over all without e:^ception, .g7^/,i4.- i^^M'-*'**** 2. 3 . Frov, io. 9. I King.%, ^6. Ecclef.j. Pre.io 9. il. Rom,^.^, Jam.%.i, I Job i.S.Ioi I4.4^;^3i5. l4J7^/.5' I. t t{t^£.S.46^ 5. Examine the Texts, y?//, hth lew and Gentile^ Barbarian', Eccief.j-n* Scnhian, bond and free, noble, jimphy learned ind idiots, yea all ^*^* wno are to be. For as they are in ourloynes,fowe were in Adams : Adam not being a fingle perfon, bat in the whole ftead 6f mankinde, before heiifld ilTue. " ^. In this : That firft the a<51:uall (irine of Adam and £ve, ca- Inwhat order ^-j^g ^j^^ forbidden fruit,is.conveyed and made over to us : then wedto us ^"" originall, then aduiili, then penalties,all hanging each upon other, from Admi as the leffer boates tyed to the great Shippe.But yee willobjed, that Paul himlelf;, Rom. $ .fayth. That others finned not after the Cfy^, fimilitfide of yldams tranfgreffon I anfwcr. True : nor againft a let Law as Adam did, but yet they were held guiltic before 'Anfv9» G o D of Adams finne, as if they had knowne It. So then, markej although we did not individually and perfonally fee, talkc with the Serpent,put forth our owne hands, and put the fruit into onr mouth : yet we did eate it as well as he. And why f Becaufc thefinne which Adaf» committed ere he had begotten a lonne or childe, was. the (inne of nature, not of a Pcrfon, As it is fayd, L^'ui himfelfe f'ayde tithes in Abraham: {owe in Adam; he to Hd>'7'9. God, and we to Satan, . And that by the jufticeofGod : who, as he would mofl: juftly have imputed the integritie of ^^w to • us, if he had ftood therein, fo might impute his finne. We were all.in Adams loynes, for better or for worfe. And as it was in thcfecond Adam, the Lord dfd imputeour finnesto him, who yet never finned after the fimilitudeof ours,againftahw; be- caufc he:looked at him in the nature he fuftained: So he. doth impute Adams Unne to us, although we in perfon finned not, becaufc we finned in his nature. And as our Lord lefus had- becne wronged, if he had fuffered for that finne ^which was none of hi$ £ and we alio were farrc from Redemption o£ rightcouTncirc Article 4» Sinne is derived fr^m Adam tdsu. 3S righteoudicfTe could iiot be really fettled upon us by imputation,"] fb except Adams finne were firCt made oars by imputation, wee ftiould be wronged in liiftaining the penalties thereof. ^ Imputation, I grant, difters in the manner and forme of it,being Ftt*thcr H{«. in Chrift, oncly by Gods account,in us inherent : but ftitl ^U iu ftratica of «« both,(' refpcds dueiy obfcrved.)A.nd thus by partaking with him in the ad, wa alfo pgrtake with him in all the confe^uents of finne,and penalties following. If it be demanded C as 'Paul ^ m * doth there ) whether Heathens and Infidels that lived from Adam -Qjf/* to Mofisy and lo fince, were thus defiled ? The anfwer is. Yea, .^. , Sinne reigned both in the guilt and punilliments, all that timc^ Rm !^^, among millions of*finners, wailing and deftroying generation "*•*•*'• after generation : onely the difference is, Before Mojis there was little fence of it, they wereunderthereigneofit,the guilt, the plagues of it; but ftiU they never fa w the face of their King, lull and concupifcnce, old Adamj the law of the members, thefinne'and cmfo of Adam, who hurt them, they knewno^ oncly felt the fmart of a blind ftroke : never the forther oftTrom the mifery, but much furth:r from eafo or remedie. As for the Reliqucofthatlaw they carried within them, alas, it was eafiljr dazeled by forgetftilneiTe, or damped b_y ftrong lulls ( being dimme in it fdfe) but as for the roote ofthc difeafe, that they never faw by that lawj as after in Aft.5.fhall befpoken. Q. Is, there aftj thirty elfe to befaii to open ths ? A. Yea .- The Lord would refcmble t;his contagion of fin,' from Adam to his poftcritie, by that fpeech, Ge>t, j. 3. that ^dam ( hiving finned ) i^egat a fonw in his owne Image jwho ^^''•^♦J* elfc {hould have beene begotten in Gops. Noting that with the generation, the finne alfo was derived. And al- though this be a dead notioa in the generall : yqt when wee fee how the L o r d ^ inflids a fenfibl.e marke hereof, even ftiU in our propagation : as namely, when fome notorious vices of uucleancncfle,malice,hollowncire, intemperancy, treachery, cru- eltie,choler, and fiiry, doeeven goein abloud,as inaftreame; overflowing not onely fome families, but even fome Countries, v/hich are as by-words and reproaches for their drunkenneflfejva- nitie, pride, andiuxury ;furdy by theaa:uall infedion thatap- ,pcares,the other of originall may be dilcovcred unto us . Qfc That it U thiuj it appeares plainly, hfit J dejire to k^rp ^J what meatt^s this conveyance is made a for thf difference tf 54 ShKedtfivedfr^m Adam torn. Vzxtil msninthuiymakesfomedmytfifit^ Move fully of A, That fliali not ncede. And alt grant it. And all m^ ahiscornrcy- confeffe thai generally it is by Cods jiift imputation, which ^^% realities the infeAion into the whole race oi tddam. But as touching the way, feme thinking it to be by bodily genera- tion, others by Gods infufiai of the ibuleftained with her bloti both being unlafe,. this I would briefly fay > Man begets Man? not a peeceothiin :. and therefore in begetting man, he muft ncedes beget finfoll man alfo. How that is, I may cxprcfl'e thus : Befide the bodily Tradutftion, man begets man, in his ReceptivenefTe of the fc>ule,and inthole bapdsand tycs,which knit body and fotdt, to wity thofc Spirits of Reafbnablc na- ture ; and by the infe^ion of thefe Ipirits, the foule is alio corrupted^ For my felfe, I confeile it decides all the doubt, when I thinkc of the rcalnefle of Gods imputing, though I ihould know no more. I izy therefore againe, the taint of #te fpirits of man, flowing fi'om the power of Generation doth convey it^ Man not on«ly begettmg the body of man, but man, with ieci habitude of Ipirits to infc(5t the foulco. But let it be enough that whatfocver the manner of conveyance be : fureit is, the curie of fini'ic is incurably, and perpetually »and wholly ovcr-fprcad over all our nature : though ( as I noted ) with iome indulgence to fome,in relpc<^.ofopen CKr prelTion. Ql^H^hAt njt fiih»eth frsm hence? JiTsiU '^' ^^ill J a goo^ R^^vd^r would be glad to apply each Article l^radicalty to himfclfe, for the better infight into thenaturc of his corruption. Each Article fhouldadde to the view of finne.And fo doth this. For what a depth of dye, how fd^red a canker or lepro- fie,how deadly a poylbn is in this.fin of ^^4«, which could not be wallit out info many waters as it hath puffed throi^h in many jhundrcd generations ?. Nay ,thc iron-moli and the ftaine of it is as firelli, and will be to the worlds end ,as at the firft, and the fruits much fouler. Its a true £pecch,old Ad^m is not as other old mens crazie withage: his.age is renued in every new generation • as the father in the fonnc. It muft needs be ftrong poylbn, which ^thifo parefent adifperfion of it felfe through the body into each '^cinc and artery of the whole to make it like it felfe. What then is it which God would teach us by this leaven? Surely when we fee feow ithath livened fuch a lump of fl^^talitic, it (bould uiake u& Article 5« ThiVfcs$fthef$urth Article] 3J lye downe with horrour under the hugeneffe of it, and fcele It ^ cruftiour foules,yetmorefeniibly. It ftiQuld take away all life and fpirit in us in ftcad of our priding our fdves in our brats, and their features , being the generation of Viper«. Secondly, it ihould make fomeot us to tremble to thinkc what Vfiil we have put into them, even a leaven, which grace it Iclfe will never throughly purge them of in this world. What joy Ihould be in our fpirits, while this thought abides iuKs? Efpecially howfliould we endure tothinkethat fomeof us doefufler our children ( thus alreadie poyfoned) to runne up and downe the world, to gather more and more a(5luaU fcurfte to their natural!, and wee never reftraine them from this riot ? I fpeake to fuch as have great pofterities, o fall others ( for although thou haft but one, it concernes thee too : for feme one may have as much poy- fon in him, as fomc five or fix ) let thefe lookc to themfelvcs :thou haft diiperled old Adam^ and lowne his feed at large : take heed thou be as carefiili to rootc it our, and plant the feconi^ "" *""■« O poffibUtie to maii-ward of himfdfe ^ -r^h.- K uncapable Of anyway orfred him, therefore much Mb able tn "«f^^' embrace it. No manner of feelina of it frifr cl! ■ '^'r/°"= 'o or hops of refcue. Nothine talawre „ 'm '"^' °^ '""F^ . of worth or congruitie, nof hhg from fc fe o'o hT' ""*'"^ Angek, t6 helplout of this d^eCTteSne SaJ *"'".' °" r<;medy is offred, nothing in an/ naturalI(Tadom/*„7 f"» con«rr.ng withcbe mean% can ioeit Nay"hc?r!celfdfe of God imparted to the fouie, cannot worke it felf/ffl ritin^ rf a pardon, if weakened by fm^ excel rh^'rf" f^e^me of mercy ftiouM ftiU tyeitfdfetS M "" eleft childe of Go'd canoutof himWe,SL r^^^^ of acceptance, Ciffeparate from arift Ko much . /^if ' felfe, much lefle anothw. See Pn,l ao^ ' % ^ , •"■"- offaices cScS'tUft' L""f ^ ^' gr.nted,that all EMic,.,-,„ g.i>t=andthcreSefXec S'rSf-fe^^^ chufcte require the offence atX Ssof?£ r ''"''^f"^ byhoUinshLiuderguUtandpu'Srh^^^i?;^^-^* jS rhtuftsoftht fifth Article. Parti? can It beimagined tBat there fhoiiU be any thing ina finite finning nature to procure her peace, at the hand of an infinite wronged Ma/eftie ? Its true» that a Prince may at the inftance of an cquall, yea inferior, pardon a treafon, although no fitisfadion be made : becaule the oftcnce was but finite. But to thinke {<:> of God were blafphemous. Againe, let the reader looke backe into the third Ar- ticle, and lee what is faid ofthe fpirituall penalties inflided upon man for fin.Tf they be truc,that is, if man be both fo infenfible of his woe, fo uncapable ofthe way which God bath devifed to redeemc hinijfo oppofit and rd)eUious againft it, fo well fatisfied in that his Hell, as if an Heaven; who can thinke h:(hould fo much as thinke of a recovery ? much Icfle be able to comprehend ' Siiy way to ge t out of it ^ Q, fVhatufe it to be m>ide hereof} Ki^-'^* jl^ Still each ftayre muft bring this wo full foulc lower and lower, till it can fall no further. Thefe Articles fervc to plucke out, each of tlicm one or other, and all of them, all thofe falfe crootches and props which corrupt-felfe holds upon, to kcepe her from catching this deadly fall under her mifery. If there be any cvafion for flelli and bloud , any ftar- iing hole to get out at, fhcc will be lure to findc it. This is the lail: ftoppe of all: which iTiould quite finke the proud heart of a finncr, though hee carry his chin all this while a- bove water. I lay to all the former, thii one of utter irrecovcra- ' blencHc, and dcfperatc impoflibleneffe to get out, fhould e- ven kill the hopes of a wretched heart, and burft the belly of iu Hopeleffc milery fliould make an helplefle foule, ly- ing panting at the mercy of a Saviour, and galping for breath, tikt if there be no more for her, out of her felfe, than with- in her, iliee may give overall,. And while Ihec fees no hope in her felfe, flice may defpairc in her felfe. Till this laft Le- 6:ure be read and beleeved by the foule, in vaine is . Chrift offred to her ; while {he hath a wing of her owne, to flie o- vcr him with negled: : Both wings and fret muft be cut off. Thole that come to Chrift, muft be wholly beaten out of all holds, and thofe* ftrong holds of felfc-hopes and felfe-loves, cither of nature meere, or mixt withfome helpe fupernaturalh Qirift will never be fought to ; if any other can be deviled. ^ipdm reports,, that when fpnie Sopldiers w^re furprizcd m Articles* 7hevfe$tifthtffthAfticiei i$ in their Caftlc, and all thrownc downe from the top of it t© be dafht in pecces : one of them ( among the reft ) falling through the boughes of a Mulbery tree, clafping thereon with both armes, ftucke by it,and laved himlelfe from death. Wee may conceive he was loth to dye. Much more are we I From the top of the firft Article of this firft Part, to this lall and loweft ftayre, the Lord throwes downe the foulc of a (inner, to kill his fpirit, and humble him : but fo long as the leaft crootch lafts, the foulc that loves her owne corrupt life, abhorres to be killed. But in Gods feare let this put an' end to all j&ncies, and corrupt conceits of flcdi : and let it bring the Ibule to the earth, awd caft downe every high thing and ftrong hold, which fets up it lelfc againll the necde of a Chrill, and the necefifitie of faith. Give up now all weapons, and fay. If it be thus. Lord, thou haft overcome ! I am bereft of all, and I muft ftand to the mercy cf a Conquerour ! I have nothing to merit, or hclpe mc: it remaincs now tliat uttei; mifery provoke mercy at the hands of a mercifull God : with whom the fatherlcfle fhall findeit. To conclude, put cafe the Angels fhould mediate for us, yea if a man were for his owhc part as free of finne as AAAmy yet for that which is paft,the of^ fence of an infinite Majeftie, he could not fay anything to it, itir , a matter of higher nature. Secondly, It quaQieth all Popilli pride and arrogancy, ali Vfi^x> Pelagian znd Popifli conceit of the remnant of free will in us towards our owne recovery. Not oncly in devifingor fee- ling needc of any belpe, but accepting it being offred by the helpo of iiipernaturall light and grace prefented. Man is SiS trucly blinde inhimlelfc,as in a dungeon of darkenefic. -Though light be offered, hee is as impotent to lee it, as unable to pro- cure it in the want of it. The very roote of all errour and cvill, herofie and prophancneflfc, being nothing elfc, feve their ignorance of originall thraldome under fmne. It fhoald great- ly abafe us that wee are thus hurt, and know not how: much lefl'e how to outgrow it. This ufe our age greatly needcth ,; wherein formalitie is readic to blot -out the impreflion of all truths of this kindc, and nouzle it felf e in an eafie R.cligion,voy dc ofpower. . li.;utr' ( .,., ,r^.:h Thirdly, It teacheth what a myftery grace is, , It'ij^^tmp yj^ 2; which Pa»l faith, Gnat is the mjfifry of pdUn^e^ vphich is \ Tim j.b//. P 4 ^ C^^' 40 Wxoi' 6,$* JL&^tz.^,4. rherfeseftheJiftArHcli. Vzxttl Chrifi mamfejhdi &c. When Chrift came and brought light fburc thouland yearcs after the Creation, it was as ftrangc a$ at firft. And now when grace findes any man, how doth it pre- vent him ? even as the light comes upon the drunkard in the depth of his ffiorting and furfet. Oh, the fwect peace the finner findes in his mif-ry !, As Ifrael made their bondage an eaie : h we Hell it felfc our Heaven by cuftomc. Ws adde delu- fions to our blindneffe and fcnlefneffe, by falfe erroursof our own and others.We lleepe as Peter by worfe than fixteene men armed even betweene foure qftatemionx of our Keepers ^ ' Devils, Sinnes, Law, and Wrath. The Proverbe is verified, The life of an idcot, is the Iweetefl of all, for he hath nothing to trouble him. So here, thehfeofamandeadin (iime, is not to be aware of it; pinch, tairne>. wound him,, its nothing to him • threaten^ allure* all is one ; preach terror or hope, woe or weale, he is dead.Tfae Law, curie,.Chrift and gracCihopeof Heaven, areindifferent.Nay,£ich a fearefoll offence is the Word to a dead finner ,that even that which tiiould occafion convincement and fcarc, workes confidence in him : the Jewes tooke the Law ( a killing letter ) to be the way and objed of juftification. Nothing can worke the fouleto humi- liation, fave wofull experience, when all is too late. Thus much for this Article. A R T I C t E VL CKl. Is there any yvay then from the Lord, for th revealing of thismi/eiy} A'^^M^^^ A, and that is the moral! Law of G oi> found- ly preached to the Confcience. See i77w. i.j. The Law is not given to the rlghteow^ but to the Sfobedient^, ^c. where the Apoftle divides the . .. .r. worke of the Law, into tvfo forts f by implicati- «t this mjfcry % ^^ • i • i • ii "^ ^ j iri/a^i.f. ^"^z One IS upon thenghteous, as its aneternall. patterne and; ^ ' ' direction of righteoufneffe : and fo it conccrnes the third Part of the Catechifme, but in this fenfe it belongs not to this place. Secondly, as its ^ mcane to convince the wngodly, and to revcalc The convia- ciiigMinifie- ry of the mo- rail LaWjis the revealing Articled J T:htmtrAllLAvrevealesthismlfej» * 4^ to them their finfiill and ciirfed condition. Note this double ufc of the Law, to avoyd© the confiifion which thoufands ninne into, both in writing,and licaring the Word preached. CL pyhatfajyoH then of fnch as -want this Law ? A, They are of many lor ts, yet truely it may be laid of all. They arc without the true knowledge of the Law. Touching Heathens, Turkes, and Infidels, the qucftion will be ths kfTejbc- caule they wholly want the revealing of the Law; and there- fore of them its verified-. That although finne reigneth among them in the guilt and curfeofit on Gods part, yet not on their partjby vertue of any light from God, Vovjlnn^ is not imputed ^^^*%- *4r without a Law, that is, not laid to their charge by Ciods enlight- i ning theicconlcience, concerning the true ob/ed, roote, nature, or fruit of (innc. As concerning thofe notions which were left in them, and were in ftcad of a law, they were onely enough to condemne them, not othcrwile. The moft ignorant and vicious among them, eafily blew out that dime Iparke they had, by the blaft of their ftrong lufts, and were given up to a reprobate leiifc, and horrible lufts. Their moft morall PhilolbpluTS, although ^ { to the fhame of Chrifl ians it may be Ipoken ) hateht up their Sparkles of dime light to fome mealure,yet as touching the true knowledge of finne, they had it not .they thought fome finncs no finnes, fome finnes, vertues ; and fbmc vertues, vices : and the (innes they fa w, they neverfaw tbembya word,or in the curfe • due to them .* they faw a dimme twilight of an unknowne Gcd, vertue, vice, pU':iilhment, or reward, and therefore were far from -""^ any true cnlightning : and much more from convcrfion ; in an ordinary way. Q^ But what doth the Law v^orkf in pankular ? A. Two diftin(5l things : Knowledge and Convi(?lion. For T*hc woike ' the firft, reade Rom.y. I had not known€fnne,ifthe Law had mt °^^^^ j.*^ faldy Then Jhalt net lufi. In which refpcd, {\nv\c\si^\>itorai^rK ^Yinov^U4iPfi from Adam to Mofes : yea and under the old Liw, in relpedV of * cf finne as any convincement. Butfincc the Miniftery oftbe Wordof re- finne. conciliation cam 2, the Lord hath enlarged the power of the Mi- Romj.f. niftry of the Law, as a preparative thereto in the hearts of men. As F^«/faith, I C^. 14. Thofe thathearc the Word plainly x .Cor. ii,i J." preached, and byname the Law, in the true fpirituall fence and favour of it, they falldowne and fay :, that God i$ in yon of a truth. . Nibt tliat the Miuiftery of Chrift is properly I,egall, (for we are : Minifters 42 Tht msraU L aw re vales this miferj I Pa rt r 7 Matth*s*^7' '^^"^^^^^^^^cpnciliatioii ) but not excluding it. Chr ifl came nh to dcfiroy the Law in the dodrinc of it ; for it leads to Chrift, f^y'c in the rigour and dominion of it. The Law then firftfearches Fres/.ao.aj. the foule, its th candle of the Lerd^ and pierces tlie bowels of the 'ipirit, thofe fecrct windings and corners, fhifts, and cvaflons of itjbe they never fo colourable and fubtili. It is as a great torch-light in the dead time of night, in the hand of an In- quifeourjwhich fearches an hoafe for Papifts and lefuites, and finds them in their MalTe, and takes them with all their bookes and trinkets. As the perfecutors of the Saints fearched all vaults and privy doores, barn-^sand mowcs of hay andcorne, with fpearesjlharpefpitsand fwords : foistke Law adled by lol. \6.^: that fpirit of convincement and fearch ; Joh.i6 9. the difcoverer *it^,4,ii. ^fthe thoughts : and Heb. 4. i 2. pierceth betwcene ths joynts and ^itrrow. The Lord hath given it authoritic over the confcience as his o wne Bay lifl'', to hunt out and difcerne finnc in the colours, in the kindes of it, open , fecret thoughts, aflFedions, yea con- cupifcence ; not the bare letter of the Law, but the fpirit : for Rm7'7. JP they f are as a Beare robbedof her whelp cs, and .light againftthe light of the Law, as Pharaoh againft the returningwatcrs : be-: ExQi.\i^,zfl caufe their free-hold is toucht :. Lofe their lufts, cofeu age in buy^ iHg and felling,deceit, lying, pride, revenge,they \ok tlieir life, , Fourthly, That wofiill duhielfe of edge and bluntnefTe of ^irit i by which they make themfelves incapable of knowledge^ 4 Beb.'y. Elpccially of any maine and materiall points.. Heb,%.x u Fifthly, Generalnefle or flightneflfejby which they pleafc them- felves to know the meere common finncs w hich every one may % readc in great letters, running : and through eafe,feeke no fiir- thcr; becaule indeede knowledge, is not their ay me,, but their policic to avoyde the Ihame oFgrolTe ignorance. A man that Hath no more- ufe of a Mappe,,than to icz the breadth or fituation of Effexjwill content himfelfe with the generall. Mappc of that Shire : but if a man would have a due Survey of fome Townc, what breadth it hath, whatfucha Lordlliip therein lituateis 1 what lands^ woods, paftures, hop-grounds :ne will get a Draught of thatTowne, or Survey of thof- particulars. So here : If God meane to enlighten a carnall, generall, and fjrmall profeflbr, hee will take from him his 'generall Mappe, and fubtill uni- verfalitieSjWhercby he detaincs the truth in unrighteoufneflp,3nd teach him a more Ipeciall Mappe of finne to ftudy upon,...:! ^^ ■-■ Sixtly,. Ke will rem oove his felfe-love, by which he is loth 5- to be informed in truths : his partialitie and fubtiltie, which fui^ fhc^ him not to hear e fuch Truths, as are like to oppofe his.per.- ibnall, precious, and beloved evils : whereby he is loth to heare of any iinncs, favc other mens, no this owne ; and fohefhunncs particular.,' ^6 ThemdrdlLdt&difcevers AoiuASfianel Part i^ particular light of things,%hich might proove either againft his lufts, eafe, credit, or courfe in evilltp underftand. If" a man be a go6d Iuftice,hee is willing to know the Statutes and be ^inforaiedin them well, that hce .may be able to punnilhfinne topurpofe- If notjhee is willing not to be informed of them. So is it here ; but if the Lord will enlighten him, hec will enlarge his Law to him* and him to his Law, that he fliali be gladded., when he meets with the moft diftind and cleere light. And £o I might be infinite i let this view be fufficient for this former. , 1 Seventhly, It fcatters thofe errors of our ownc conceit of found righteoufneffe, to wit. That we have ferved God well, both in (hunning of linne, or doing of dutie, when we have becne drawne to itonely by forreinc compulfion, or outward occafions : As when God by providence doth ftop us : when \ye can no other doe, ©r not doe : neceflitie^ fcare, (hamc, awe of fuperiours, example of others, draw iisfrom fome evill ^ or fomc advantage hoped for, in good acceptance with men, in the J©ve x)f Parents, hope of credite , gainc , good marriage,good trading good opinion by the company of the good, or tlie light of our Confcience moovcd us to lome good. The law pluckes oflffuch mufflers, and layeth the foulcopen for hypocrific and fahhood, Q. Ho-pif doth the Law give Ughtt» theey^s in knowing A^MoMJins ? A, Both in themlelves,and in their penalties. How the law C^^ In themfehes how ? cnligfetcHs. A, Sundry wayes i fome of which ( and the chicfe ) I wiU 1 intke an* ^?^'^» ^^ ^^^^ defiriiig the wife Reader to judge of the reft, theaifelvcs ,; ^i^^* The Law doth prefcnt the fbulc with the authoritie of andthatma- God in commanding, and lets up her felfe, not in the fences ny wayes, or back-parts of man, but in his confcience, the moft privic 7^.1^1^^^ chamber of the foule. This no Law of man can doc. No,nor can any deftitute of the Law, be truly feazed in confcience by any finne.Butthe Law fets up the Law-giver in the confcience, prefenting him to her in all his foveraigne Iuftice,Wifedomc,and Power., that fb, (hi may efteemc of {inn.-, not as touching man, but 'trenching upcnGodin allliis attribiites; as for example^ when unbelief e is layd forth by the contempt of patience,of mer- cy, of providence, the continuance of the Gofpcll, and the warnings of Confcience, This is a great difco very, and caufes linne to be conceived as it hs, not as the palling ad feemcs,which begins licraucho Articled. rhtmdrall La^ Mfavtrs ASit^llfinnil- 47 beginsand ccafes with time, but this is infinite in time, merit, extent, and fcope, becaufc againft an infinite God. For exam pie : An ignorant man having hurt" his neighbour, lookes at the fad cohfcquent of the faf^ onely, how he hath hurt him in his name, cattcU, wif'^j goods, and fo the damage is the (inne to him. But the cnlightned confcieiice lookes at the Law-giver; knowing that not man, but God hath made the Law againft hurting mant: man is the next, but God is the chiefe and lall object of his finne. And therefore God mull be agreed with, or elfe confciencc will kccpe it upon Gods record to appearein due time. And,put cafe man would beappeafed,yea. is latisfiedj yea, perhaps mans Law is fatisficd by the death of the offender, yet Godftillmuft bc: compounded with, as chiefly ofended ias for theft, murther, un-^ clcanene{re,&;c. - ' _. Q. Howfedondly I \/f. It prefeiits it felfe to the foule in the coherence and con-* fent of the Law, This no man can fee except enlightncd.S./<«W(?j cleeres this, lam.^. i o. Hee that hrcakes one, is culpable of all. The t.9ttjl Meaning, that fuch is the chaine of the Law, and fo arc the words Her harmo- couched together ,that being by one and the fame Spirit ordained, " X* hee that breakes one, violates alias hee that brcakes any '*'"•* *— linke of a golden chaine, brcakes the coherence.. Men thinke othewile : But as hee who breakes- his neighbours fences trefpafles him as well as if hee ranged all over his ground, , becaufe ths bond is broken: fo here. It were ftrange to tell adrunkard, he hath broke more than the feventh Gjmmande- mcnt. But to tell him that hee hath broken all f as indeed hcc hath ) w-Te ftrange tohim. Not perhaps in a(fluail ^iQCd. ; but yet in power and efF;d,becaufe he hath broken the bond of that God who hath made all the reil:. And y:r there is a further thing in • it than fo : iox in a fort, fome adoali finne breakes all. As one hath dcfciibcd it in covetouf leffe, ij might I doe it in dranken- nclTe. For what drunkard makes not his cup, and companions, . anIdoU-ged? what cares hee for Gods wonhip, darmg to-be drunke in an Ale houfe, within the found of the Preacher ? What converlation toward man lookes heat infeiaily, neigh- - hour- hood, oaths, vowcs to God or men ? What Sabbaths doth he not breake ? What parents and Magiftrates doth he care for ? • but rather undoes the eftate of the one, and contemtics the ccnfurc Off the other? What cares he in his cups to breake the head of, . yea,, 4' ThentiraS Law^ifcBvirs A^HillftnH.', Part u yea, to ftabbc Ills fellow? What unelcancffe and baftardyishee not guiltie of? \Vhat booty by the high way will hcc balke^ and perhaps with bloudfhed, to get money to drinke ? What lyes and Ganders ? wiiat colours and fbifts to defend his villanies and cover his finne, will he forbeare ? This is meet to thinkc of, to open the hirmony of a law.But ho wfoever this be, fure it is, there is no (inner, not oncly grofle; but even fecret, who is not guiltie of all the Law in the breach of any Commandement becaufe his undue carriage fights againftthe Lord of the whole Law. The difcovery of this light might be as much as fome mens foules arc worth : for what is the fpeech of men f As for unrighteoufnefle, I aske God no merc^ \As for ftealing (fai.th one) or for adultery ((aith a fecond) or flander or murther, or ufiiry, I never fearc what Go d can alledge againft mecl Indeed fuch, or fuch a finne I aske him mercy for ! Well laid : but in the means time, its no thanke to thee: God and providence fuflfred thee not, for thou wouldft have broken all as well as one, thy heart was bad cnough,if he had not limited thecl Oh, this light well received, prepares way for convidion. ff^; God hath fhut up all under one difobedience. Oh,its E/a/3o«5j' a great abating of a proud heart,! One finne, one hell, one wrath, one Tophet for Princes, for iubjeds, for learned, for ,. g idiots, for noble and bale, for Pharifes, and Publicanes ! This '^ ' '*^' ' cuts the combe of the (inner] Pfal 149.8. H e bind-th Kin^s at Chaynesyand Nobles in fetters of iron \ Neither can the poorcft fcapeat a little mafli, nor the richeft at a great, of Gods net. Againe, his Lawes are no Cobwebs. Apply this f as it is the fcopc of the fourth Articley»p-4J to thy ielfc. Articled. '^^^fff^^^^^^^^ifi^versA^Mall^nne, 4^ Q^ HoKvfmrthlj} A, it diicovcrsit felfe to the (inner in [the point of intc-xke *,trar ^jtic^and foundneffe of her light : That is, opens finne to thcHeritcgri- loule in one kindcas well as another. Such is the corruption tie. of Adam, that it will fuffer much of the body of finne to vanifK ^ in the liiry ey . If finne be either of knowledge or ignorancc,al- though knowledge iliaU be of feme note, yet ignorance will * * vanirti. If othcriinnesbeofoinifrion-or commiffion, oinmiffion bi^-rcna of fmnes Will faylem the reckoning. If againe finne be of prdump- fiBocj. tion or infirmitie, Sinnes oHnfirmitie are counted nothing, •If prefumptuous finnes be either of particular prefumption, or ©f totall revolt. Particulars feeme nothing to a felfe-lovin'' rotten heart. But where God enlightens, loe, he difcovers fmr5 in all her fcxes, male and female, ftrong and weakc,remembred and forgotten, ignorance, or knowledge ; and in a word one and other : And this alfo is a great difcovery ; for want of which, .many a foule never comes to the barre of Gods conviaion.But how, this rule will not oncJy tell the foule the differences of thefe : to wit, that one is of greater crime than other; one may both omit and commit finne, and yet know neither .• hec may fia of knowledge, yet not of prefumption neceflarily, becaufe he may be prevented by feare, Satan, violent luft, and not volun- Whartfaefe tarily confent : he may alfo prefumc with a different heart yet the fianesarc^j leaft of thefe in their nature is damnable. Q^^Make a little fiof by the occAfioncf mmingthoft forts sffmw of Ignorance or Knowledge, of Omijfion or CammifienjofTVeakneffe or Vrefumptiony of Prefumption aUudl, andhditHaU or f nail .- and fljew the Differences of thefe, A, It is a thing of fome weight and ufe ; For as the concei- A digrcffion : ving hereof is profitable for fundry caufes, fo mens erroneous ^^^'"S ''x • miftakeof themlsgreat.Briefly then,Ianfwer; branches. ^ Firft, Sinnes of Omiflion, are paflings by and balking offome « dutie behooving to be done, whether againft or without know- • • ledge : ( ignorance not excufing omiflTion of any thing which ' we are bound to doc ) whether it be an omiflion of tlie oppor- tunity of fitting us to dutie, as,to get graceand pardon while it is offered : or of fome Ipeciall dutie it felfe, either vowed by us, ( as to negledl reformation of our felves, upon fome great afflidi- ' on) or at leaft required of God, as of pray.er,Bifting, i»ercyto i^diftrcffed, duties of familie, and the li^^^^ -' ^ 50 ihem&rAlltmdifcQ'vers ASimllfmm: Parti.^ 1 Secondly, Sinnes of Commiflion arc aftuall doings offome evill ( in thought, word, or deed ) againft the revealed will of God, whether wee be convinced ornot convinced there- of, to be finne: As, To workc upon the Sabbath, to fpeake ^ vainely, to nourifh bafe thoughts : whsthec the finne reach to the committing of the higheft degree, or the putting our felves upon the occafions leading thereto. Generally note, finnes of O)mmiflion are more haynous than finnes or OmilTion, and yet ( .as the cafe may ftand ) fome finnes oi Omiflion may exceed fome of Gommiflion, becaufe their confeqijence may bemorefearcfull. ^ Thirdly, Sinnes of Knowledge arc Tranfgreflions of the ^ Law of God, againft a mans Conicience, and the check ofit, whether greater or foialler: as, v^hsxx Shemei paffed Jordan againft his owne covenant : or, when a man goeth againft his Qwnclight. Sinnes of ignorance are, when a man tranfgreflTeth, but yet not knowing his. finne to be finne: as ^bimelecks CDVztm^oi Sarah, Phef. 1. lO. Q^^^ what afls may it appemrei^rhat Cod hath verotight thh Deli-^ verance, Afts of'« two; J, Partly, by his etcrnall purpofe within himfelfe , and part- If^y that expreftion of himfelfe to his Church and to his eleft. Both thefe, the intention of his heart toward themjand the decla- ration thereof to them in his word , doe (hew that it was not the Will of God that man (imke into the dungeon of woe^ (hould lye ftill there and perifli , but recover out of it and live : and this he would ha?6 no (ecret in his own-bofome, nor hidden from us, but known and revealed; By ^ertue of both winch , he tefti- fics, that he will not hold enmity againft us, but be freely recon- ciled : yea and befide that, will afford us all good things, apd &ew tis both mercy to reftore, and reunite us unto him felfe : and alfb his Allufficient grace to uphold and fiiftain ns, in himfelfe foi' ■ cver/o that nothing (hall be wanting to us , in this pilgrimage of ^urs : Nay further, he wiH fettle upon us,afarre other and more perfeft eftate, than ever Adam was^apable of, and all' this with*' out forfeit or feare of lofle, which Adam never bsid. Hec differed ' aot lot man to perifli in his finne, nor a chaos of confofion to co- • vcr Article i ^Beliverance orddned by God from this mifeiy* 7 vcr the face of the world, but fayd within himfelfe and uttered k by a Covenant,! will cull out to my Telfe a Remnant,a peculiar, to whom I will bea Godjand they (hall be my people : yea , this I vjill doe by occafion of the finnc and curfe of man j thence will I fcarch matter of my infinite praile and glory. Q. // there then no difference^ betweene tbeEle^ion and the Covi^ >mm ofCfod ? if there be, fljerp it, A, The difference is great and large. ForthceleftionofGod Diffcrdncc is a fccret within his own breii and bofome , hidden from iis(till between thcof. we believe ) and fo come CO know it by the fruit* I (ay, kisal-- together abrolutCjUnrcfpcftive. unconditional!, the cauft of every thing and the effect of nothing. But the Covenant is a publi* fliingjand Proclayming from Heaven this his meaning, thaclb the Church might not lye in darknefle : as if the Lf the wicked world : Now,when his voice reachtth to all, none camexcept themfelves out cf his CaH:Tho(e who receive it, (hew ihcmfelvcs ele£t s thole wHo finally rejeft it , periffi by their own unbeliefe , . and ihew themfelves, to be none of Gods num- il)er.l.HisMinifteK being his ordinary inftrurnents,cannotpuc dit-^ Wence between the Ele^, arid the riot tleft : therefore they ait to publifh it generally to all , that fo it may irppearc Whoni the Lord will call. 3. It the covenant ffiould be difpenfedwithre- ftraint, thi^ might ftrengt hen the rebellious, in their cavilling a- gainft the decrec,and faften tiie caUfe^f their perdition upon God which only is from themfelves. This I heere adde to make (pme difference betweene the waycs of Gcd manifcfting himfelte. To thefe J^ich I. God the Father applkfthkrdel^^^ 9 thefe may be added jThe promifeof God, which is an enccnragcr inent annexed to the oflPer , aiid taken from the faithfulnefle d^ him tJiat offerethtq all that perfofme the conditioirof the Gof^ pclljWhich i^to beleeve.Of the which in their due place. Article 3. for this whole fecond part is nothing ^Ife, fave- a declaring' xif this covenant in all the parts thereof. • Q^But dsth not the ScriptHre tell u-sUch. 8. \^^& 1 0. that theh ^AS mother old covtmnt mJxr the l!ayr.iwhich- k now abolijhedby fh'is net> me of the GofpU Irehtit I hath God two Covenants? " A. You doe w^li to mention this ; and^ it had bin well? i£ fome of our firft moderne Divines had anfwered this doubt. To proceede with more clcernes, I anfwer by a di^nftion , that tC wc looke at the fiibftance of Gods Covenant with his elcd., it^ but one, which is that he will be the God of his people .reconci- led firft 3 then All-fuftlcient.' But if you aske touching the ex- preffion, or the condition of it , its divers, yea contrary : the one requiring on owr parts, obedience and doing: Doe thi^'ahd live : tlie other favtb, belceve this and live .whidi two a recoil- trary. , ~ n - QJiowcan that be ? Joth God fpeake vontrkrtes ^Mdrn^ l^tani^ • fnea/id the fUme thing ? '^' ', ■ ^^'''^J' A.Hq picafed firlt toi^ake a covenant with' J^z^-aw ^3 df imhidti tality and happines in paradife on coi^dition , that Ke contir^ed in his cicated integrity, whei^ofaterkcli^s, his btcyingth'fe charge of onely eating of the Tree of life. Buf this covenant oiT workes (though he was then able t6 have RcpE it ) yet he brake it and lb forfeited lite. Now his ^7.ofterity ftanding bereby ac^ curfed, the Lorcfby follemne voycc , renewed this cdvejtigut with the Church of J/'r^f/ 5 at the mount Sinai., andoften^er- Wdixdihy Mofes ^ ilrenghtningitbylegall ordinances^ ceremo- nies afid facrifices, all ftandrnginthedeed done, that if they fayled in doing the morall , yet they njigbt be reiievec|.and par- doned by doing the ceremoniall. 'And this is the firiftahdoLI covenant. Nowlincethis, he hath made UnofhcrinChrift, with his Church, that he will giveherlife, upon the condition o£ believing only, theft are contrary in their conditions : yet no5 in their icopes .for therein the covenant of workes is oiily (iibor-^ - dinat to the lattef covenant of grace. " ' ''^U* ''^''. Q. Uovp doth that ap-peare? .... ^.Bythis, th^t firft, notwithftanditig the covenant olworlres,' yet I o Deliverance ordained by God from this mifery, Patt.l^ yet the Lord did both to Adanty and to Abraham , and after to th€ Prophets declare his other covenant of grace, that the feed of the woman (hould brc.vkc the Serpents head : and that hi his feed , ail the Nations of the Earth (hould be blcflcd : that is in Chrift vvhofe Father God promifed to be, and of his feed, that is, all believers. By which it appearesthat the Law of worlrcs comming about 4C00, yeercs after, could not infringe the firft covenant of grace : And olflll, that the Lord didnctexpeft any due performance of obedience ro him(cl te , through any ftcent'th of many for why-^ he knew be had loft it, and that hewHsdifa- bled thereto. But he cnjoyned it to thofe blind and fturdy lewcs, to curbe their rebeUions,and to. drivcthemoutpfthemfelvesto another, whicfi was Chrift. Adde hereto,, that even the (acrifices Sacraments , and ceremonies of the old covenant, although con- tidered barely in themfclvcs , they required no more ^hen doing : yet, in their true Icope , they lead the people out of themlclvcs to another, who by the facrifice of himfelfcjfhould grive pardon of finne, true rightcoufnes and life to all that fticuld tnift in him. Thefc things being feen into by men but darkely , were thelcflc ^ffeftuall , and therefore men clave to that earnall way of doing wliich they underftood better , and fo overthrew^ the way of God in the fecond covenant of grace in Chrift. But fo many as (aw into the fcope of thefe, renounced their Law righteoafncfTe anci the old covenant, and clave tothecJ5/ A. It ftionld teach us to adore the wifedome of God ih this -^z^. g manner of Riariifefting himfelfe. The Lord held in this covenant v ' of his a long time , «*eit could breakc otit cleerely : only fuffercd ' a dim lig1;\t of a v^/fe-f to come , to'be fcattered among his peq- ple/but from all me world befidc kept it wholly ) yea, he dark'' ' Aithfz world oP Ceremonies and ShadowcS'^andyfctfor-' thcjE" It Tbeufetof the fir!i Article. Part.a, ther by a Covenant of workcs , which fecmed quite contrary to a covenantof grace ; and yet by jmpliciition , nude a darkc \Hray to itconvincing men ofcheir inability to kcepe it 5 that (btbeo- thet might be defired. The loving heart of the Lord was iiiW one and.che fame to his Church , howbeit the expreflion of it was referved to riper times , u?hen the Lord Jefus brought the Spirit of the Covenant with him • Oh ! Then how (hould we in theft times, blefle God for making his league and covenant more evi- denc,and not fpeaking in parables to us as to them ? How ftiould the Minifters of God now rejoyce , that the leaft of thekingdonjc of -the Gofpeli is greater and more glorious, than the greateft was who lived in and under the miniltration of the letter , and out- ward Covenant only > How (hould the people cryout and fay, Why haft thou revealed thy felfetous, and not to the World? Efpecially (iich as lye under the (ence ofmifery Cent oiFfrom hope in themlelves Jhow fliould they wonder and lay : If God had noc ftooped to thif! courle , what had become of us ; where had our amends bceujlave in our own hands ? How fliould it canfe them to be Well (cen in this Charter of God ? to fcan and confider well of the parcels and particulars of it, never linning till they be throughly informed of Gods meaning in it,and that to themfelves? How fliould it cut oflPall our cavils and prepofterous exceptions, all carnall reafbn,bcndage, and enmity againft God ? Vft . 2, Secondly,how (hould this Covenant of God be as an hiew and cry in the eares of all fuch as arc in theheate of their flight from God^nd in the purftiit of other objefts, which they are in league withjtheirluftsjwill, plcafures, profits^ vanities, which bereave them of mercy 1 Poore wretch, whither in the Name of God,nin- neft thau,orflyeftthouto£eekeea(e ? or fay, thou flyeft from the angry brow of wrath ; yet I fay , why doll thou fo 1 Looke back and hearken, Lo, heereisacovenantofmercyftreng^thenedwith the oath and feale of God that cannot lye , and all to perfwade thee to brcake ofFthy old league, and to embrace thisDcwoBc, this eternall onejthe fure mercies oi David. There is hope (poore wreitch ) in a covenant , except thou,be fo (aped in finne or lo^en ^ with bondage, that no hopeofadeliyciyoutofJ'/o» (to favc his people from all their iniquities ) can iavour with thee ? If thy medicine be fo unpleafant, how unwclcoriiethould thy dileaie of being out of Covenant be unto thee ?efpccijB|'(ince that God wl|0 efiers • Covenant to thee ^ hath power to berevengedof thee Article I. Theifet of the fir^. Article, 13 iheefor fuch contempt , and to be revenged of theefor the quar- rel! of his covenant :that thoti walked contrary to him both in law and Gofpell : how fliould he ebooie but wilke contrary to thee ? Shall thy league with lufts and hell fence thee from the revenge of God for this contempt t ( ScAEfay 28.9 )No verily , for thou makeft thy Telfe equall to that ft-ch-enemy of God , Satan; him- ielte, anddebarreft thy lelfe wilfully of jhat Covenant of grace pHeredjwhich he is excluded from finally ; but thou excllideilthy fclFc.Thisfor the point of Covenant. Q^Vhat elfe may he f aid , to lay efen - this feint af, ■ Gods finding out this dsllverance ? ^.This may aggravate it^ that the Lord God deVi/ed this out ofthe abundance of his love , and the riches; df his mercy ,which the holy Ghoft ufeth to call in one word,the gratioufncfle ofGod, ofwhich more ftialJ be fpoken in the fourth Articlp. ' ' Ci_ Speaks fomewhat ofthefe , rphat is thegoodnt^e of^od, or hi* lovc,andm^cy ? ; ; ■ rpt '1 ]>■:[[ - ' ':' .V-. ^.It is that attribute of God , whcfeb;^ ;h< (lands well affe(flcd to his creature , wifhirag it w^U , and'deiirous to communicate himlelfe unto it 5 in all the meaner of the well-fare of it , for the perf^ftion thereof. This goodnefle , or loving kindneilc iirft ut- tered it felfe in mans Creation : wherein (lich was Gods admi- rable goodnefle of nature that whereas he might have contented himfclfe with the enjoying of himlelfe in his own aboundant excellency ,, or in the angelical! natures and Ipirits which he framed at the firft, as neereft to himfelfc :he yet, would not, but caused his infinite fulneflfe ofgoodncife, to overflow and to communicate it felfe to Earth and duft : as it were to (hew what hecowMdoCj in Co ba(e and filly an objeft : Wherefore, ofthe Earth he framed his flefh, and of his own breath, his (pitit : fur- nifhing both with the perfeflcion of his image. Now, whennvan had loft this goodncfTe , yet God loft not his, but ftill held it outj and continued good to the loft creature. Q^ HoTv did he utter it ? . J. In a peculiar kind ofgoodncflrejthatis-tbc'lovcofhismer^ cy : which is the perfection of the other : whereby the Lord, when he might quite have dcftroyed man , yet would behold him with an eye of love and an heart of mercy as he was mifera- ble, utterly (unke into a dungeon of woe. Then he beheld him: yith a better goodnefle, etew a goodnefle j which imparted it fclfc jyj. Apra^icM Cateehifm»' Part. 2. fclfe to a miferable one : finding in the bottome of "his heart ( though juftly enraged again ft man for his traBfgrcflion ) a fccdofmercy: which mercy was fo rich, that, bothitfilenced the loudcry of) utticc and revenge ; overcame it, exalted it (elfe above it : and not only prevailed ap the bare rcftitution of man, ( for (b he might have done 5 if faf had created another Kdam : ) Buttothereftoringof him to an uncreated, unchangeable, and eternall happineflfe5fubfiftinginChrift5untofinaIl perfevcraoce : yea , deviled meanes by this fall , how he might both declare all other his attributes in their fiill beauty, ( which in the creati- on did not appeare) jofticc, wifedome, mercy and all in one way of deliverance: and alfb make man happier then ever. In the which two ( befides other ) ftands the riches of this goodnefic and mercy of God to the loft nature ofAdam^ as in that QfTittu, 3.3.4. hath bin before faid in the preface. Qj^hat ufe may be made hereof* A, Surely this^ firft to teach us to efteeme this attribute of rich inercy andjacccpt it thankfully according to the excellent and full nature thereof. A rich man may give what he will: no hurt to him. Secondly, nottoreft in any inferior goodnefle, as being oflcfle uft now , in this our misery , then before,Trueit is, there is a relique of Gods firft goodnes to be feen in the creature, and in providence 3 to fupport the poore being of man : the Lord 'in goodnes extends himielfc to man andbcaft, yea, tofuchashe never meanes to (hew mercy unto : but this is only as the afi: of a Prince, granting to a tray tor his life, and liberty of aprifon, with meate and drinke for a while, that fb he may bring him torth at laft in open view to execute his ;uft revenge upon, by condemning him to moft bitter execution. Moft men reft them- felves fatisfied with this gcnerall goodnes to the Creature (which yet I grant hath generally mercy in it ) but, that excellence of goodnes and love which ftands in peculiar mercy J in compaftion of a miferable loft creature , for the pardoning of it , reconciling of it to God J (avingit^ and fettling it infuchaneftateasnever (hall decay 3 a better then ever kdam had, oh this, thfey have nojoy to looke after .'Any inferior degree of kindnefle, in life, health , wealth, fliarrjage, pofterity, filling belly and pnrfe, clo- thing back^^dfc.willferve their turne, though they never e<|uali t4ie Lords beft love of mercy by applying if! They care for no ot her goodnefic , lave that which may leave them as curled as it found theai. • The Article I. jipra&icdlCatechrfme- 'i^\j:o 15 The love of God differs not in fiibftance fronf Rig mercy or^ grace , buc in circumftancc only ; As our condition by naturCj is one 5 that is eornipc , howbeit it admits many refpefts; fo Gods^^ gooaneffeto ns is one , yet it refpcAs us diverfly : as we are fliift- Icfletohelpeourfelves^fo he embraces us by free gr^ce, when we never dreamt of it ; as we are milerable and ftript of all good and hope of it, fo he embraces uswith mercy and compaflion: and as wc were enemies, who having hurt the L®rd, hated hiai tray tor-like, and rebelled againft him, fo he embraces us with love and affeftion : (hewing what a bottomlcfle Ipirit he hath of good- ncs and a fatherly heart, how neere love fits to his (bule , that it is more deeply fcated in it, then jufticc and difpieafure. Teach- ing bs 5 not only to gage our own fpirits throughly , that we may find otit the uttermoft rancor and venom that lurkes in us againft him J But to brcake our hearts in the bofbme of this lovcgand fay, Who would fo entreate his enemy ( having him at fo infinite ad- vantage j as thou, Lord, haft entreated me ?And more then fo^ to caft out all bafe enmity out of our ipirits , which judges of God J by our own meafure, mufing of liim as we ufe to others. Yea 5 flicWing forth a placable , and forgiving heart even to our enemies, that wemayfticwour (elves truely bred of the feed of mercy. Q. JVhat other tifes -flow front the Article ; irfelfe > -.^.Singular, and that many waies, firft. That although Re- demption be one undivided worfee of the whole TriYiity in(e- ^^• parably ( as all workes are which are called, without ; ) yet even in this, there be (everall and incommunicable workes of every per(<>n concurring : The Son- merits and workes out the way of redemptions The Holy Ohoft workes the perfwafion of it in the Soule. But God the Father is the firlt moover and or- deyner of it, as the wcl-fpring whence the purpole and al(b manifeftation thcrxjof proceeded. Beware then , leaft either we confound thefe three aftions , or yet exclude any of the perfo'ns from their own operationR. Rut let us adore them all : the Spirit in the v/orke of applying of Ghrift, and the Father in the worke of giving Ghrift , and in that love of his frota which both Ghrift and the Satisfaftion came. We (eethat, Titus ^,^, the Father iscalled our Saviour, ^phsf, 1 . 3. God die Father is the fountainc of all bkfGng both earthly and heavenly : and fo ill 2 T*tt, 152,3 . and in Efhef, 1. 18. Z*^/ pray es that God the Father l6i Gffdfhe Father appl/es this deUverafice. "Part. 2^ Father WOuM reveale the my fiery of (^hrifi in the ack»ovi>ied(xe' ment of him, Therefore do not only learne to conceavc aright of. God in thy mind, but to dire^ thy loule aright in Prayer unto him : That as he is the Koot ct F\.edcmption , and was in Ghrift, 2 Cor. 5 16. ly. reconcihng the world «) himfelfc, and is the God OiChrift and above him ( aS Mediator:) fohc would gracioufly be the firlt mooving cacife of thy effe6:uaU Calling alio. And yet let not this hinder thee from approach- ingthis fealed fountaine, in and by Chrili, whoonely hath re- vealed him ; for cl(e he is inacccfliblc » yea , a gulfc and depth todevoure, but an open fountaine in him , as in Zach, 12. 10. Thus ( I fay j thou mayelt come to the Father, befceching him to accept his Sonne, and (end his Spirit into thy heart to draw theCjto convert thee , an-d to feale up his love unto thee , accor- ding to his firft good pleafure in chufing of thee. That ib thy Iprings beiHg all in God,and thy hope in God , thy ftreamcs alfo of tbankesgiving and glory may all flow through Chrift unto hif Sca,againe ; of which after. 2. Secondly , behold in the Father an infinite depth of love and mercy toward fiinken man , thus to repay re him : Let it be as a great depth unto theepaft fadoming : fay with Taul^ 'Oh I The depth of the riches of the wifedomeandtheloveofGod.' how are his wayes paft finding out ! Aggravate it to thy (elfeas the Scripture doth 5 Mic(i. 7. end. Who is a God like to our God, palfing by , pardoning artd fiibduing the finnes of his heritage ! So Rom, 5. Doubtkfle lcar(e for a good man one would dye, but not for an liBiightcous ; but God even while we were yetene- mieSjgave-his Sonne even as a pacterne of bottomlcfle love • For wlio will fave his enemy having him at vantage "i So i loh. 3. Here- in is love , not that we loved him firft , but he loved us having nothing but odioufneflie in us , even that he might fhew what was in his heartjand what he could doe. So £fay 5 5- 7« For my wayes are not as your wayes, nor my thoughts as yours : but as much above them as the Heaven above the earth. You tbinke that your enemy would not fpare you, becaule you know your own heart would not fpare him. But God intended to deftroy all enmity in Redeeming man. 'c«. i' Thcreforejudge aright ofthis love firft : And fecondly, proi fit by the meditation of it. Judge of it, 60 be the veryfulnefle ot all in all ; to bea length, depth^heigbt, and brcdth, neither to be Article.!. Yhe ufes of the ftrfl Article, ^7 be reached unto, (earchedintOjCompr^hendedor atteyned:bm; only by faith embraced and refted upon. The height of it was froir. all eternity , from the Love of the good pleafiire of his will J paft our reafon , yea above the Angels, asmuch above our fence, as before all time. The depth ofif/eaching lower than hell, beyond the polTibilityofdevils and all the gates of Hell to reveffeordiianull. The length of it extending to all eternity -and^nduring for ever without all repentance or (haddow of change. Thebredth of it univer(ail , even as wide as all the ends of the earthjas far as God hath any eleft : and inclofin'^ all (inne, guilt and curie within a circle , fo that none of them can get ■beyond the compafle of the fulnefle and intent of it. Oh I What a meditation might it afFord to the boundlefle , reftles thoughts of nian^ Lookc back into the text, Tit, 3.3. what bath been fayd of the kind ofthis love : it was above tiie love of Creation , by which God ( out of his perfeftion ) would communicate fome- what of himfelfe to a peece of earth : But by this love of mercy he would finde out further goodilefle to the diftrefled. This for our judgement, •For our benefit , let it comfort all poore (bules that need it, Bramh 2, both as concerning the Propenlenefle of God to love them .* and his conftancy of love toward them whom he already loveth. If thou hadft procured this love , well mightft thou feare the Joileofit ; But if infinite goodnelTe and a breadth incomprehen- (iblc were the fountaineofit ( I fpeaketoapoorefouleunder the conditionjloden and loft ) what doubt is there of his loving thee ? If he ft eely firft meant it , and cut ofFthe way of juftice, and the bridge of vengeance that he might not pafle it over 5 why fhouldft thou thinke that he fhould deftroy his owne worke ? Why Ihould he not be willing to love thee, whatfbever thylinne be ^ And having loved thee eternally, what fhallor can enter into hira to change this principle in him 9 or caulc hira to repent? Moreover, this Do^rine ferveth cfpecially to ftay the heart "^j^J. of a diftrefled wretch in the fight of his niifcry, by this light mddore of hope : Although farre from believing it , yet by hope to iiiftaine it (elfe from utter finking. Oh , blerfe that foun- taine which could not be dryed up byfinne ! rather occafion- cd it (elfe to mercy by miilery. Wonder wfey Angels were left tcmcdileflej not wc / Ponder it in our deepc fwrcs , and Bb rcmcm- i8 Theufetof the frit Article. •: Part.r:2 remember the Gofpell of deliverance is from God as well as the Law of terror : defpaire not 5 the Lord ciuts off none, who cut not off themfclves. - - ' - Vfe /^, Againe, let it teach us to gather to our fclvesaftrongbot- tome 3 againft that flavifh feare and enmity of our fpiritagainfl- God.Why, Oh, man ! If God were as thou frameft him, where had thy hope been 1 Doft thou not fee that the Lord Jefii$ himfelfe came from the mercy of an enemy ? Is then angir a- lone in God, who againft the cry of infinite juftice, had adecpcr mercy in ttore ^ darefl thou call him an hard Mafley or adver- Cary, who of his own will and love cut offhisowne plea, and devifed a delivery , when no man or Angell could dreame of it > Is he like to rejeft a poorc foule , who hath layd the foundation of his grace in fuch a foundation as lEmmtiel f Doeft thou Co re- quite him^Did he fo love tht World,and doeft thou ftilJ deeme him fo hateful!? • '^fi'}' ■" Fifthly 5 let it teach the Miniftersofthc Gofpell to looke to the order and fubflancc of their teaching. The order, nottomif^ match thefe two doftrines of the firft and fecond part of the Gatechirme,tcaching this before the other be well grounded in the hearer. For the flibftance, taking heed leaft they defraud the foule of this point5when fhe is low brought : but to offer it to heras an upholder for a time^till more come. Vre6t -i'But efpecially , let this be a meane to carry a poore heart thacwouldfaine believe 3 quitebeyondandoutof hcrfelfe. The meditation of this frecdome of Gods purpofe firft and efpecial- ly for the glorifying of himfelfe in all his attributes, fhouldra- vifti the hcarti, and carry it out of the bafeneffe of feUe and felfe- ends, into the ftreame of this fbveraigne will and glory of God. It fhould be above our own falvation. And it cannot be well conceive i how thofc preparatives to faith fhould be wrought in the hearer favingly, and not flavKhly, as endeavours of our own J except this ftreame of Gods Glory , and ayme at hi« own endcs above ours ^ be fct before our eyes, to abandon all felfe-refpefts in the matter of faith and falvation. Let us dili^ gently try our own fpirit-from the true Spirit of Grace by thi^ _ . .j.^marke. onoftfeefcope" ^^^^telfe deth this KniclQCont nine ? «n^ purpofe of -^' Befides this g that God hath not left man to finke in his thii Article, own mifery , but hath in his deepe wifedome found out th» - way Article:i . C&d the Fathef applies this deiiverattce, T 9 way of his t^Iiverance : this Article aymes at a further end, vi.^t to make.GQci the Father , the nioft free and foveraigne worker and applyer of this deliverance to the (buIe.For what elfq fhould it profit us that he hath deviled fuch a way as Chriftjand iuch nieancs as the Gofpell believed : except he tooke it upon him to polTefle the foule of it alfo ? And the Holy Ghoft is free- quent in Scripture, to, proove God the Father to be the only free agent in this work e : calling him the begetter of us ^ of ^/V j^j^.i,,^ otPYi free n>Ul : the Worker of both ivill and deed inHsofhtsovt>ne-'^\iA.%. ig. ffood fleafur^ : the faiihfull begi'/jnsr . and finijhir of his ow^tfHcb. 10.23. Tvcrt^, Efoecially that ic is neither oi the wilier 9r rnnner : but l^o«i-9-i^. -meerelyothis wf-r-ythatwebe called cffeftually. No. mm cm ^°"^*44. come to C^rifi , except God draw him. God is as (bveraigne in his applying, as in the finding out of this way. And why? Sure^ ly, beeaufeasintheway, foin the working the foule to it, he ' feekes his own glory, and the deepc riches of his grace to be magnified , and himlelfe to be adored in the joynt meeting of hisjuftice,. mercy, power and truth , in one: that through lefui Col, j. 17. (^hrift praife may be given to God the Father ; and that as all things j» ere.fromhimy and by him y ft) they all may be to him and to the ' pray fe of his glory. This point well weighed, would lead us as by a thred through each branch or Article of this fecond part, with light and fe- vour : when we conceive the Lord Jefiis himftlfe only as a Servant of this foveraigne Will of God : who is therefore called Gods C^rifl^ readc 2 ^or.-^.Hlt, when We conceive the offer of *^*^* ^'^' -Grace his ; the benefits offered his ; yea not only faith, but alft) the conditions of it, an humbh and hungering foule j his gift, his preparations: and {b throughout all this lecondpart, looke upon God as that free principle , in whole meere will it is to enlarge or reftreine the heart of a man , as he lees good.A point of fpeeiall confequencc, and properly 'belonging to this place, a. Cor. 5.17, 18- he being as the root of all,and being in Chrifiyreconcu ling the World to himfelfe, not imputing /^^/wJ-j till which great worke be cffeded,this deliverance is not effcfted in us. And there* fore r/al.^2iJ .the Lord is faid to impute no ftn^znd 2 C^, 5. 2 x. f • makeushis righteoufhejfe. » And, although I referre the point of imputation to the fe^ cond Article of Chrift 3 ( as prefupp.ofing his merit of neceflity ) yet for the Worker, its properly a confeqiient of this Article. B b 2 "* God 20 GodtheFather Applies this deliverance. •Parts'. God doing all his woikes peifeftly, and as I faid freely, for the attaining of his own ends in us, that he whoboafteth>raigltt boaft of the Lord. - Q^ Doth this point tend to any ufe ? nA* Yea, and that fuch , as I wiflh evei7 good hearer and rea- der of the points following, to lay it to heart: For firit, this will teach us to conceive in what (twct the Lord doth offer us his Chrift , command us to believe , and promi(ctoea(eusif we hunger, mourne, be poorein fpirit : To wit, thathcisfarre from intimating any power or will in us , to concurrcwith him in any the leaft of thefe, or to afcribc ought to him that w7- leth or runneth. Butrather^to fhew what thofe excellent graces are 3 which he freely worketh in all whom he will (ave. He for his honour fake will effeft all theie meanes in whomfoever he hath appointed to the end it (elfeoFRedemption. Sweete is that place, 2 Thejj. I. ^. 10. That he may be admired in all fuch as Ifeleeve^ becaufe they, have received our wordj^V; that day. He fait h not that all they may be admired who have themfelves believed: but he admired in them. For what ? furely not for their working grace in themfelves, but for the works fake of God that hath wrought it. ■ Secondly, this will hel pens to judge, who thofe parties are, in all likely hood 3 whom God will concurre with and afllft in the u(e of meanes tending to deliverance. Such is theba(e(lave- ryofman, that he diftrufts him fooner in no one thing , than in that wherein God offershimlelfe Botha foule. As in Mamas cxampleand Gcdeons z^Tpeares^Iffdg. 13. 32. and 6. 13. Oh, faith a fearefoU heart / God is free , andneedenotworke^faveV'herc he lift , and therefore be is bound to none , and I feare he will workein 100, creheworke in me ! Oh, poore wretch. Hath he not (ht wed his will, inwhomhewillworke V Eveninthofc that feeke his end more than their own in theuie of meanes* If thou knowing what God only aymes at in all his Redempti- on, riz. theglory of his rich grace, and all his holy Attributes (:and not atthine or my falvatron for our ends) (halt yet gee to worke heere thine own way, then know , God never did orwillcroflTe his own end 5 nor blefle any fuch asfet up other end« of their own againft , with, or above his. Eut this fol- loweth foundly ♦ That all fuch as in meaHesuf'ng , doe f xe their tye upon Qoh purpofe, and abaf^ themfelves in the fight©!? ^ their Article I. God thc^Fatker applies this ddiverance. 5r their Gwn lil!inefl"e , to reach fuch a thing as.dellvcrance is : ami adore his free (bveraigne working , as the only able efFefter here- of: ail fuch I fay 5 as tkiisworke with God, and under God, may know that the Lor-d will afTift them : for why ?hea(rifts and feconds his own way in them who feeke his glory above their own falvation. And although he be fo free , thvit he is eyed to none, yet I fay ( with reverence ) he tyes himfelfegra- ciouily to (uch as doe feeke him ,■ not themfelves 5 for elfe (hould hecontradift his own ends^ which is blafphemons- And this point I delre to b^ marked. For who fo they are who will not fee this truth ofGods free working for his own glorious ends :. I affimie its unavoidable , but either they muft moft murmu- ringlyandrepiningly rejeftthe way of God to Heaven, ascon-> trary to flefh , ( which is the greateil fignc of a caftaway ) or elfe niixe themfelves, their wits, wifcdomej policy, and devices in the getting of Heaven , Vvith GoJs grace and mercyjand fo make GhriLt a Stalking hoifc to their own parts, andtolervethera- lelves. Thirdly, this point doth mofl lively inftru£V us how ^N^Bmyich 5/ may fb goe to worke in the ufe of meanes , as our own Con- Note and pon- fcience may not accufe us, for taking Gods office- of freedome '^^'^ well this and^foveraignty out of his hands. It troubleth hiany ( toin- ftance in one particular ) how they (hould fb goe to worke in hearing, praying, and Sacraments , for the attayning of the Condition of Faith, that is, mourning and hunger, &c. that they might not feeke faith upon their own tcrmes, "They fee the word full of promifcs of eafe and comfort, to fuch as doe mournc : arfd they would gladly feeke Heaven in Gods wayr only they cannot fee how a condition to Faith can be urged of us, without our own labour and will be acccffary (which if it be j whatdothour doftrine of the condition differ from Popery, andherdifpofitions ? ) I anfwer. The reafon of this" darkcnefle is, bccaufe men cannot be beaten from this , that in feeking thefe conditions , they mufl: (ccke , firft their owne good -and welfare •' This is the maineayme of moft hearers, if they have Faiths they are fure to fcapc hell : and if theyhav47 the conditions of Faith wrought. Faith will follow : hence the- condition isfb lay d at by people : even as men covet money- or wares, for their ufe. But poore foule : tell me if this be" thy ayme , wherein diffcrefl thcu from a drunkard or (wotiicr f Bb3 Is 22 Gddtkc'^Father applies this delivtroince* Part. 2c Is any man To fcrl:)rne , as not to delire to dje the death eft h light eoHS ? »^ 1 , _" Ok (fay meil) liiit drunkards ufe not the mcanes , and wc doe> I anlwcr , Yes, Tnow all lot ts \ifc meanes , none are (b vile, but they will be religious ) but I will grant thee it. Is the queftion whether thou be lefle ill than fuch , or whether thy ayriie be found in feeking the condition or no ! If fo , then I fay , thou in ayming finally that it may goe well with thee, differeft not in kinde from fuch an one ! No , the honeft foule fets up God in hisownwayof Chrifl, in kis own ends, the glory of all his attributes ( that he may he admired in working Faith in luch a wretch ) the freedome of his working , that in all thcfc her own thoughts, affeftions and zcalc , might ftinke asT^ffr/netsdid, Cwhen Chrift fo ftrangely had hfhed for him ) and the truth is, ker fcopc is as much to abhorre her felfc , and lookc into an higher caufe , as thine is to get Heaven for thy fdfc. She feekes theglory ofhiswifedomcj power, mercy j and freedome ; who ibught out luch a deliverance, workes it in her, and all that con- ceme it,Faith and the conditions of it : the thought of the A^es .is turned to the thought for the Sonne ; fhe fees that divine purity and excellency in being Gods inftrument to thcfc ends, that fheloofes he." felfc, and all in the meditation thereof, and ftifiers the Lord to fave her , while her foule is fetto adore him in his own ends, as moft precious. And this fetting ayme afide, her feeking the condition ofFaithjisbutasamorall workevvith her, favorrngof her felfe. Qurfl, Some v/ill aliedge , Doe y-e thinkc every weakc beginner to be fo holy as to prefer re Gods glory to his own Salvation H an- Uiyper. f^^^' s No,not aJJ,but I take them to be in forwardnefle to it, and not fane from it. And fecondly I fay , its one thing to aske fiich a queftion of a weake beginner ( who would perhaps ftaggcrat it ) another thing to fiy what God works in fuch a one, although he iknow it not 1 For fiire it is , fuch is Gods workein his , as toconvince them in experience , that all feeking of grace, for a'mansownhappinefJc, is poore feeking (for the prcfent, till God worke better : ) and all feeking for felfe muft be ftom felfe and by C'dh. But when the boate is tyed to the Ship of God^ gloryjfhc needs no more rowing of her felfe, than the boatc doth: its enough for her, that fhe isfetupon fiichaflreame, andtyed to fodi a Ship , as can carry her of it lelfe , and drown all her own Article 2. TheinfirftmentfffthisdeUveraneeitCyift, 29 own welfare in the Lord. Sweete was that ipcech of heneft Mefhibo(heth oi Zlha : Ten , let him taJ^ all, forafmvtch as my * Sam. 1 3- Jo, Lrrri the King is come home in peace : The loflc of his owni lands was forgot in Vavids happinefle. The greater pitty that hefhould {o requite an innocent : but however he fared' at D^ Wjhands^doethoiifOjand try if the Lord can faile thce.'Ghj fay tkuSjLord fo farre am I from feeking the condition! of Faith, for Faith and my felfcj that I defire to fay. If Lord thon fee that a broke hearCjtnoumingjpoverty of fpirit^yea.faith it icife may tend to thy glory of the working them in the : Oh , worke theni.El^^ LordjWhat joy ihould 1 finde in thtnijas they come from ray felfe> What were Heaven it felfc», if it were not to glorifie thee thpre I LordiLwottld delirc to have none , rather thanin having all tg Want an heart to admire thee in thy wayes of mercy and triith, or ce^fe to be raviftit with the fight of thy glory / For with- out this, its impd)ifii>Ie but either I muft miict my fVpfFe witll thine^ar which is worfe/ret rfnd rage at the freedom of thy work- ing. And this I deli re may be weighed : and fo much for this firft <^nicle. Article I /. QMefiio}7, » "Hat is thefecond Article ofthisfecond p4rt ? I u4. That the only happy ifteane and inftrnment the onely iji^i ^(ordained by God for thefoundationofele^tionj^fUQ^enc of land the puichaiingor making good this his pur- working due jpofc of deiiverance,was the Lord Jefus,the etcniall Jance, b ihc -word of the Father , made Emanuel^ God with us. Lord lefus. " No tnhername Hficier Heaven is giventafave us, by way of mediati'- Eph. i. j. ^i on or inftrumeivtjbut ht^ » Q/Tellme what efpecial/ hea^s maj/ this -whole worl^e ofhismedita- tioft he referred to ? ,■}' .. A, Its a maine point to confider of for the ftayof apoore foule 5 for feeing the fcope of God and Chrift was to gne and No'e^ow^m*- receive fo full a price of reconciliation , that Juftice. accepting bcwcu'oroun^ it ^thelinneand curfe of the eleft, might as fully b£ pardoned ded in fatiifaif and removed, as if they had never finned , or could themselves Aion. have fufficiently fatisfied, it imports us to be well feen ia the contents thereof. For looke how many heads there are there- of, fo many wel-heads or fprings the foule hath to revive and encourage ^ rhehfirndent efihis deUvtrmce is chrifi, ^ ^'m*^^ The pans cf it encourage it fqlfe by 3 in the approching to the Father. I aufweP 'WO. then, this whole price of Chiift flood partly in a qualification of oi«"«^S* jfjat^jje of the fatisfadion it felfe. CL, Touching the ^aiifieatioft of psr/on , i^^A/zf ^^/^ it c&n" taine ? A. Two parts. Union and Unftion/ (^^JVhatmeaneyimbjVnhn? • • A view of all A. Three diftinft things? Firft, The incarnation of flefh of the wdfprings Chfift. Secondly jThc Divinity of Chrift*Thirdly, Thejoyning •°/ ^^^ c\^^^ of thefe two natures into one perfbn ; or more trucly , the aflii- I ° Vnion hath "^^"§ of ^he nature of flefh unto the fecond perfon of the Sonne of :^%t!iL^s. Ood,not to fwalloir it,up,but to retaine ftill each his own diftinS fiatlire , yet ■^ithiti tlhion. Let th« le^itled pariion my Jogique in thisdivifion. ' '. ■-■' >'o'' - . .: : r-. QSProceede o'4,md name the Yeflj that they may be vnder 6ur view Altogether, and then rre will poiich them briefelj in feVi^nU rff^^ mean&ymfy FnSlio^i ?■- ' .i^.:^^ _.: ir! hzHji>tu>rim:^XiMicii'. a Vftaion. ^A.'ThccAM^'citfhp^imAof tlie Lbf d Jefu^ being tBii'^'tiihii ted in his riatoreSjtb bfe' Wtttette Mediator .-which Wa^ the Saiifti- ficatibn of him in tinie actually to the workc of a Misdiator, to which before alhimejGod had deputed him; Q.Being;hpu ejualifedjwhath theperfo7-ma^'eit'fe/fi ? A. It ilantJg bl" two parts : either Meriting this price for all the cfcft^oi^aftualli^pplying it unto them. Q^What is the ?j>rerittng part ? i Mem. A. ICs a doubTe performance, both of Aftuallofcedienceto I in aaiveo. ^jjg L^W, and fofferln'g the ttatk r^^ivir^d' thereby and due to A f eiv ntme. • , » . r. -- ^ '•' not only an Q^And hoiv performed he thefe two F Artiicr. * ft/^.By way of reall furctifhipi, and no otherwiler for taking up- on him the perfon of a Mediator , to ftand between wrath and us, ftot by. Arbitrem^hr^ a's in hi^Jiiine Sequcftei fhips j but by pay- itleht f^rliS : loe^Bi'taiits therfefe're our perfon up^nhlm^ becomes i^iaeulat3t^ati^,flr0jj?ea2ed with our fmne by impntati« n, that by hi^righteoufiiefTe he might defence it , and fulfiil the Law brokert by lis : and fecondly , feazed with our eurfcpthat by his fufFering Heb*i.^5. ' deathjhe rtiight qiiit uS of the feare aild puhiflrtilent tllereof. Thi^ ground is to'bcfpeciallyjTOted. Q^ Touching the lattrr of thefe : hiS fufferiiig or Taffim^ ( hf- eaufe Am<^ 2. the Infirument of this Miverdncc is Chrifl> 27 CftnTe it 'hdh the honour cf a more immedldtly eJfe^tiaM o^e^ems and merit^tell me how many farts hath it? zA* Two, theSacriHceit felfeorPafllon, and thcconqueftor * Pafllve viftoryenfuingit^whereby he gave the palfion a full power to be- 4 The Con- Gomcjor rather to be declared iatisfaftoiy, ^^ Q/To conclude^ what is the Apply iftf part ? ^. The aft of his iaterccdjng Mediatioriiieerc on Earth , and jAppUcarfoa efpecially in Hcaven/erveth to fettle the merit of redemption up- of ^icrU. on all the eleft in the due fcafon thereof. QTou having given a briefe view of thismaine Article j ietime^ Tvhy yoH call them wet-fpringi ef falvation ^ /hew me the number ef ,. them, and then in order fijeW what each of them is ^ with the ufe thereof? Al firft call them fojbecaufe the holy GhoftjE/^; 1 2. 3. termes Why called them fo,and becanfe they are fo many grounds of juftifylng Faith, wel-fprings. at leaft meanes of warranting the foule to apply a promife if " duely preached and heard .Their number is feaven. Firft, Imarna' '^^^'^ ""«- /iw/. Secondly ,Z)mwVjy .Thirdly, Ptfr/o»4^ FJ2io»,witb Annotntlng V^* attendingit. Fourthly, JBfiallobcdie»ce.Fihhlj,Paffive.Sixth' 0^ ly, Concfuefl. Seventhly^ . When man is made man without Father pr motherj as aAdam in his creation :The 2, when man is made without a woman, as H^ve was : The 5. when man is made both by man and woman, and fb are all her poflerity made : The Jaft when man is made vvithoirt eyther man or woman, and fbwas the flefh of Chrifl made. Thirdly, in regard of himfelfcthm borne, who was not as other men, fiibfiftingperfonaliyitithem- ieives as individualls ; But he tooke our nature, , the feed e of ^dant according to the Scriptures : and c?.ufed it to fiibfift in the 2 perfon of the. God-head : which could not have beene ifiic had been a man in perfon, for then a perfon had been fwal- lo.ved Article.2. Thlnc^rmti&n ofChrifl. jcj lowed itp in a perfon, or elfe there could not have been one perfbn of the Mediator. But his flefli being a meere nature might ealily be aflliriiGci into a perfon , and rfiake up one and the fame perfon of Ema/inel. " • . ■ ^ Thethitdpointistherefolvingoffoniedoubls : which may 5. bethcle three : the firft is, Why it was neceiTary that our Lord The doubft. Jcfus fhould be flcfh > I anfwere as before, that he might thereby i^ be fitted and accommodatai for' thfe worke of (ufFering; which elfe could not be. R-eade Heb. i\ (^.Lo^J come^ in the volume of thy bookeit is written of me, that rjhould doe thy Will O God: Sacrifice thou wouldeft not ( for their bloud could not fatisfie in a (had- do w j. but a body thou haft prepared for me , wherein 1 might perforine the worke. No expiation of the LaW could be done^ fave by bloud j but the expiation of the Gofpell muft be done , by better bloud. The God-head could ^bt fuflPer : the man-hood h^i, ^^ eould not merit infinitely uhe God-head therefore muft merit by a^efli that could fuffer. .. Secondly, wby muft the flefhofa man and his nature be takien 2. Qaeff:, to (atisfic ? lanfwere. The flefh of a perfon could have reached to a perfonail (mihdc\ov\ only. Blrt theflefttofourniatui'e, or tlie nature of fleftij might fatisfie fornaturc it (elfe , and allpcr- Ibns contained under it. Not to ipeake of another caufe^to wit, Chrifttooke fkfh of his Mother, not his Fathcr^that he might ayoyd the contagion ;• Contagion in the aftive principle of na- ture and the finne of v4^<^w. As we:knowthatarao^^the7/?•<^^- /.'>f J the Males only were circumcifed , not becau(e the females alfo might not (for we rcade in ftory that iuridryijf the po- fterity of //w4f/,circumcifed thcrr females alfo)but tc3*typify this very thing. But to the quettion it felfe , I fay further , The rea* fon why the flefh of man muft fatisfie, is, becaufe the threat of God to (tAdam was this. That when he ate' of the Tr£e\\z iTiould dye the death : now this muft needs be fufferefl >hy )Am^ felfe5 or by one in his nature ^ for as the foulctlutfiiiTieclifliall dye , (b the nature that finneth muft dye.See HthreWe^ 2. 1 4,'i5. He tooke not the flefh of Angells ; but feeing; the claildfen did partake of fle(h and blond , therefore it was meets!; alio that he ikould take part with them. As if a mail (hoold buihl an houfe of Cedar, having pulled down a^^ houfebf ftiidds : fbdotbthri Lord by this his device glorify his power and love-, in'rayfing! up a buHdiiig of glorious immortality in Heaven , outof our ^:^o Thejncamationofchriji. Part. 2. (»Wn ruiacis, the flefli of ^^(^w, &c. 'Secondly that fo he might be a fit perfon to picdiate and goe between two parties at oddes .• for a mediator is not of one, (j^/. 3.20. and therefore himfelfe muft partake of both, that he might reconcile both. Thirdly, our right of redemption muft come from Chrift as next of ki nnc to as, that he might ray(c up feed to his dead kinfman old Aiam^ who dyed without jifue of grace ; and fo by this mcancs the in- Ierem.31. 4. heritance ( not the old, but a better ) is fettled upon our fa- mily. Laftly 5 hereby we are affiired of our Refurreftion ; (ceing ithc head of the body is rifen , the body (hall not be drowned in the water, nor abide in corruption r So faith T^/y/i ^ ■ ^ ; .. ■ • Brmeh 2 Thirdly , let us learnc whither to goe when we want any pi-^i ferment in priviledges ;'or any grace to ftirnifh our hearts ctf JiveSjOr to fit us for our places, duties and callings, or forHft of ordinances : eipecially when we^re .under ftreights and bit- ter enemies , Oh .' doc as the kindred of a favorite in Xllourt would doe J :they would confidently Jniproovc that favour which a brother, father,, or kin f-man -of theirs hath with the Prince, aud hope ( as dv/arfes upon Giants ftioulder^ ) to get ^bovc their adverfarie , or to attaine fomc grant of their petiti- ons : fb let us be pcrfwaded "alfo. That our flefti glorified in Heaven 5 beares (uch ftroke with the Father , that he will hcarc him' in all he rcquefts^, yea let us reraeaiber that he therefore tooke flefh and felt all our aylcs and infirmities , thatheinight pitty us , and be afflifted with us in all our affli(5lions and temp- tations, as Efny 63,9. andivillnotlet us lye under any ftreits whichhecanridosof: For. be counts ours his, and our (elves his ; will doe for us in this as in all other things , as for hh oWn flefh , purge our flelh of our finfalneffe, and heale us of our difeafes ^ and {an£tifie us 5 with his excellencies , that they may appeare ia us, and he be admired in us both here and at hiscomming 5 and after his glory, to which he will not linne till he hath brought us &rre above the reach of iinne, Satan and forrow. .^^ Thirdly , \tt it exhort us to fiindry duties : I will preflc them »" ! /' , by degrees. Firft , in the difficulty which we finde in the life . ' *. of our Faith, lee us draw necrc to the flcfti of our Mediator for influence and (uccour : Oh .' bow farreoff doe promises Icemc tobeuntous^ Chriftisourpeacc in guiltof confcience,ftrength to flifteine us with patience in our. crofles : liberty from all bondage : (iifficicncy to enable «s to walke with GOD, to crucifie corruption , topetfevcr, to attaine the RcfurreftioB of the dead. Why then arc thcle and we no more fajniliftr > Sure- Anicle 2. The Jncarnation of Chriji. ^^ ly: Linbeliefe makes them (Irangers to us. Why fo? 1st he Lord Jefus lirangfi 1 Is he ib farre off that ive fhoiild needc to clim^ up to Heaven for him jordigge to Hell for him ? No, heis neerc uSjhlsflefhisthefamewithus, bone of ottr bone : And (hould it be fo hard with us to apply him in thefe our wants 3 as if he and we were as farre diltant as Heaven and Earth ? No finely.- his Word and promife are neerc us, made yea and Amen by his fldh, and by tlie famcneffe of nature with us ; let us heJpe our felves by his neerenefle, and be ftrengtimed to believe, that thefe graces cannot be farre off^v/hen the iubjedl of them, our fleih is (b neerc us? Secondly , it fhould encourage our faint , timorous hearts, Branch 2 ( fo many as are loden with our burdens ) to come to the flefii of fcmcfteps. of this Mediator for eale. And heere note thefe fteps follow- i, ing. Firft, that we behold in thisflefli of Chrifiagenerailiit- neire in him to receive every one whofe nature hce beareth : for in that nature each perfon is inclofed. And as at his birth all forts welcortimed him ^ feme idiots , fome wife fomc Glti- 2ens, fome rude fwaines, fome noble, fome meane, foine poore fome rich ; fo, it was a figne that he was a Chrift for all forts fave unbelievers : and as he was, foisheftill, fo that none that neede him, ought to diftruft him. Secondly , we fhould hclpe ^' ourweakenefle in commin'^ to God the Father, by comming by this Mi\ of the Lord Jefus. Learned men tell usthat in old times thofe that went farre jorneyes by Sea, as for example when Salomon went to Ophir , he could not goe the dired way bymayneSeas:but was faine by the Ihore-iide, to faylewith long and f;ifer journeys, for lack of experience. The like ayde ftiould this fafe and ealie fliore of Chrilts flefh,become to cur un- experienced and untrayned fpirits in the point of belicvine The B>ther of himfelk is a deepe Sea, yea there is a gulfefet between him and us : wee cannot come at him : but by this ftiore we may fayle fafely to him , without feare of bein<» fwal- lowedup. Thndly, let us come and plead our part in the Lord Jefiis for our portion of forgivenelfe and mercy : when thofe trechet-ous ten tribes fell out with the two Tribes (or David thejr .argument was, he was of their flcfh , yea they had tm parts m him, to their two. But the two tribes being necrer in kind* red to D^^.<^ than they , overcame them in the eagcmefTe of their fpuit, buch a difference there is betweene them that Cc holj 54 theJncsrmionfffChriP Part. 2. hold upOH'Chrift : Some are of general! kinne to him, who will talke luftily , and beare themfelves boldly upon him in words : Others are neerer a kinne and clofer to Chrift, fuch as doe pleade his fleOi and kindred to be theirs , and will not be beaten from him , nor give over : Such ftiould all truely poore foulesbe:they (houH pleade their part in the Sonne of God, and the fiercer their afFeftions are towards him,the ftirer they (hall be to fpeed of him. ^^vtd was not fo loving to the men oiluda^ as Chrift will be to theej ifthou canft clairae kindred : he will not fcorile thee for thy labour 5 as the rich doe the poore that cJaymc theirs. Fourthly by Faith come and draw waters from this wel- fpringoffalvation. The Pfahniil faith , that Chrift dranke of thebrooke(chegraceof the Divinity) and therefore (houldlifc up his head. Even fo {houldft thou come and drinke of this Brooke(the merit and fatisfa£tion of this fle(h of Chrift ) In this flefh and the holincffe thercof,hath our head overcome allenemks, finandSatan,w4:athof God,he41anddeath,that fo hemight bring' KSto God ; Yea , the Father beftowed upon him abody^and he fubmitted to accept it^and in the l tcerraolt Abaiement thereof in lift and death to worke out the Salvation of the eleft. So thattbe lord hanng taken all W^yes for c!omi3a{rmg the good of a poore , foiile ■• and having eVen in that flefh of curs(which is moft corrupt and finfull) merited mercy , and appeafed ju.ftice^ : What a ftrong confolation is this wel-fpring to all that fly for refuge from the Heb.yivhich was,i^f and is to eome. He is perfeftj needing nothing. ASls 14.25 .giving to all. He is moft holy and wiie,immortall, invidble. i T'/W.i.iy, Heisincomprehenfibic, Eplief. I . u/t. fills all in alt. He is alway with his to the end. ^4at, 28 end .So alio unlpeakeablej^/^j 5 ?, whoffyall declare hisgenc'- ration f He gives being to all things./tf^. I. >2. JVtthoMt him no* thing was made, Workes not agreeing to any (ave toGod, are given to him .• forgivenefle of finnes^i^^r. f,6. To worke miracles ofhimfelfe/sfe.io.ay. So divine honour./*^, 14.2. Soallbthe Propagation of the Goipell, r 7Vftw.^yid.Hls power declared iit his Saints, both doing, Efh,i^io.2 \ .and(iiffering,as^^v^/.i 2. 1 1. C 3 And %$ fkGod'headdfChrifi, Part. 2 , Reafons And it was moft abfclutely ncceflary, that he fiiould fndecdbc Why ? y^py God.For both thofe evills which he was to expiate, as finne '• and unclcanncfle ;and thoie enemies he was to vanqiiiih^as Satan ^- deathjwrath ; and thofe good things he was to pure ha ie, Eteinall 3' Righteoufnefle ,. the Image of God, and Glory hereafter in the prefencc of God f farre above Adams happinefle) I fay thefc evils could never have been rcmooved , nor thofe enemies fobdued nor thoft good things purchafed,(ave by him that was God ;Thc infinite worthinefle of the Lord our righteoufne(!c could only compaflethem. Q^'JBut T^hat neceffity voas there .^ that our -Mediator mnU be a God? ^^. Befide what I have generally faidjUnderiland the neceflity thereof in three grounds. Firft , by the remioovall of all other Mediators(whoarenotGod) as infufficient. The divinefl crea- ture is an Angell ; who for two caufes could not (atis fie Firft Through their finitneffe which hathno proportion to the offended Majcfty being infinite. He found folly in his Angels ( U\thIoh\ noting that they had need of eftabliihing in their Condition elfe they 05ight have fallen as their fellowcs. Agaiujif the Angels were able to redeeme, yet they are but PerfbnSj, they are no natures and therefore they could redeeme but each of them a perfbn. Now if the Angels cannot do ft , how much lefle the Saints in tiuumph ? To which of the Saints wilt thou turne thee ? Leaft of all can a righteous man upon the Earth, no nor all the righte- ous ones of it laid together, efFeft fuch a workc.Nonc but Ghrift^ God can do it. Tbefc have Qyle little enough fc«: them-- Icives. _ t 2. Ground ^ fin cannot be taken away till fatisfafl^ion be gi-i ven, both to God^and to his Law thereby deftroyed. Sinne is cn-\ Jnity to both. Theleall title of the Lawespurity^ is better then' Heaven and earth. Touching the Law^ithath 2 parts ;the Commanding part. and thcforbidding. As we are GrcaiureSjWe owe both pbfitivc and negative fbedience to both, and as we are finncrsjwc owe pay- ment of our debt in Hell for ever. If we faile in the leait point weareheld' flPendersagainftall. Among menjif a fcrvant faile- one dayes worke, ht may fatisfy by another. Not fo hccre. Now for this finne we cannot fatisfy. /,»% 17.10.. VVeare unprofita- ble (ervams; of our bcii obedience we may fay as he did of his axe-head axe-headj AIas..'.Mafter it was but borrowed, a nd how fliould we pay detj^s with that which is not out own? '■ ' '• - ' ^ ■' ' • ^ j . SoforaiirfpflFering. Had we all^oneto Hcll^ wehadii'otbin ■ able lo fatif fie x: bat alway lye there,and-ii6y:er have out our bond: Never could fay, Its finiftied. No Creafiire could ever reacH fo mucKlovc, a5 to fatistie for others J by enduring WFath, a.sRorf/,- 5. Peihaps for a good man one would dy, but-notforabad.P^^^/ wiflittx) be Anathema for tlfe Chtfrch, but not ever bereft of Godtfr confideraOle ? A, Union of both natures into om perfb>'yhy the qnconceiva- The 3 The ble workc of the Spirit; Its much that a fpule and bodjjbut much Kypoftafc ;«5 mor&that fle(h,and the Word fiiould be really one peribn. I doe "^'°", °^ "*** .. not fay that the Divinity of Chrift was a natupe as the humanity : '"^^0^"^° °*"^ for Chrift was fo a nature , that yet a diftinift (iibfifting perfbn of ^ himfelfe. But the meaning iSjthat this perfon of the Word' tooke the nature ofhis fleih into his perlbn^t herein to fiibfift. The flefh of Chrift wasno perlbn,as Ahraham^f or David^ but a nature only having no fubfifting of it (elte at alj, but as it dwelt in the God? head.See /.; Qjf^hat u/esfltw from this third wel-fpring ? the Lord is willing to unite hiaifclfe unto thee ^poorp ioule ) m his Sonhe,by vertue of his unbn with thy fearehiU and ftaile nature/ Nay, hereof he hadi givenalfluranceinandbythrs perfonall union. For by this union he hath purchafed a Spiri-cuall union between himielfe and the finfuU Soulc. There is ho be- nefit of Chrift , which can be conveyed to it,ncither /uftifati- oojadoption , regeneration, or the like, till union goe beforc.How iihgular an encouragement then (hould this be to a poorc ibulc to taftcH upon the promife,when he fees it alfifted by this Al-fuffci- ent meritjiflliing from the unioH of both natures, both (uffering & meriting? What holyjyet reverend boldnefle fliould this dotVrinc put into the foule ? 1 he Lord beeing willing to beftow himfelfc upon it,wholly by union , before he vouchfafe any (peciall Grace of Sanftification upon iti? He that gives himfelfe to thec^what can he deny thee 1 Perfbnall union derives the properties of God to the man-hood 5 and the properties of it to the God-head. InOi much that it is faid,thaE we were redeemed by the bloud of God 3f c. And why 1 Save^to afliirc us that heereby the Lord wilI<-om- municatc to a poore foule his own blefled properties of mercy and holineflfc, by the union of his Spirit ? Let us therefore come and drinkc of this wel-(pring alfo with confidence : and (aj^ Sithence the God-head and man-hood were united in the workc of (ufFering and meriting, what queition is there of the Sufficiency thereof to the foule which believes ? Lafllyjis this doftrine moft fweet to all broken fbules* in their Vfe 4. approach to the Throne of graee. What is fb bottomlefle and unfubfifting a thing in it (elfe , as « foule in the anguifti of confti- ence ? Yet even then lookeup to Entanmly and he will unite thy poore emptyabottoralefle (pirit to his own perfon, that in him thou mayft have a rcall being and ftbfiftcnce I Oh, poore foule, who thinkeft thy felfc meerely loft in this frhy eftate jln time thou ftialt fee it was mercy brought thee to be out of hope in thy felfe, that the hope of thy well being might be in him: for even the flefli of Jefus himfelfe had the like unableneffe of fubiiiling , except the (econd perfon had taken it to himfelfc. Q.>lVhatotherHfe may bemacUofh ? AXo fay the truthjall the following points touching the Merit of the Lord jeftiSjhis Un^ion , his obedience to the LaW^his paf- fion , death and buriallj Rcfurreftion, Aiccnfion, Interceffion, de- pend 44 thenn&ionofChrifi^-: Article 2\, pcnd uponthis : Neither is it poflible that the ufe of any of them j fhonldreach to us ^ if the vertiic.of that Union whereby Chriftj Godandmanismadeoncperfotv and our flefhjis afltmied to iub? fift in the Divinity ofChriih 0;ir happines piirchaied by our Lordjefus, ftandes in union for ever with God : But iiow (hall that become ours , {ave by this union ? How fliall there be any true union between our pcrfon of body and foule , with his pcrr- (on, fave by this union of his God-head with our Nature ? Hoiv fliall the "Word of God-be able to become one with us ? how fliaU it affeft us with feare , reverence, or obsdienccj except the vcrtuc of this Word of the Father, who firft ordeyned it as the in- ftrument of Faith and converfion , did not accommodate it ito our apprehcnfions , and aifeftions 1 If Chrifts flefh were noij workinginthc Miniftery, and conveighing the pov/er of God into itby a promife, how ftiould our ftiallownes be capable of it ? How ftiould the Lord L^fus be faeramenully united to Bread and Wine, fave by the conveyance of his flefli ? How is it paf- fiblcj that he (hould be afiBifted in all our afRiftions,to (uccor USj howcanitbe.that we are kept from finking under them, if heour head by his fleflfi did not fuileyne us ? How fhould wee clay nic audience of our prayers by the vcrtue of his , how fliould Kc hope to conquer finne, Hell , and death , how (bould wee Jooke one day to be where he is 3 to have all enemies put under our feet , to rife again® from the dead and ftand up at the Refiir- reftibn, ifit were not for the union ofour Lord Jefus, God and man ? ind fo of all other bcnefics. Therefore hold- Union , and holdall. QjVhat istheVnBiomfChrlfl? n '' . A^ It is a coniequent upon his perfbnall union, whereby- The Vnaion.^he God-head made the man-hood full of himfelfc , and of all U is included gifts and graces of the Spirit ; mcete to enable him to his ?^^^P^"'r" worke of mediation 5 and by narhe ,. feparated.him fromaien tiuemu""^'! ^^ be excellent , as to be the Trophet ^ Friefi and Kin^ of his * (^h'Hrch. That this was from the v/ombe ^ appeares by .(lindry B',pr\meof it:Lt& '. and many glorious effe(fls exceeding man , as that in ChHft his if4.% 2^.at twelue yeares old. Yet efpecially his Baptifme was the anoynting or nim to the entire and.iirimediateexecutioa Pfa!. 2,.- of thele Offices : for therein hee did more fully receive the Efhy42. I. annoyntiag- rpith the Oyle of gUdne(fe above his fellorfes^ aswas Ifay 61 J, 3, prophecied; ■ ?fda. . Efay 42,1. aad Efay 6 1 .1, 2,3. He«was ArtiGle2. The un&ionofCbnJi, 45 Pricft tofatisfiennd pray for. Prophet to teach, and King to rule and deliver his people. Which three offices doc numialiy ferve each other. So then , in a word, this holy union of Na- tures hi Chi it-i , did fanftsfinhefieftiofChrilt ; made it full of the graces ot the God-head, yea made it pure, holyjUndeiiled : and (ecoiidly infufed all graces into it j for the worke of a Me- diator. Q^ This j)ointofVnBion is of^reatuvsi^n^ affoording much light to the next Article of the priviledges : th -refore explane it a little : *a>jd firfi, fVh/jt is the VrSion ofPriefi-kaoi ? and ivhat Is to be con- Jii:redinit ? , . A, To the firft part of the Qiieftion, I anfv/er. That it is .^''P'^*^^"°'' ®^ the chieFc part olf the Unftion of Chrift ; becaufeby vertueof*^' that oftjce he performed -the great worke of fatisfaftion : and i . therefore hee received from his Father the moft abundant mea- what it is. furcofthefpirit, as wereade£/^/,6i. wr/^ 1,255. To thefeeond qiiefHon, I anfwer. Two things arc to bee confidered in this 2. AnnoyntingbfChriftoiu'Pri'^ft : firft, the peciiliarnefle; ; fe- Wherein it .. xoudly 3 the furniture of gifts. For the firft. Although there '^""^^^^ were many things in the ordinary Prieft-hood of a^^rc« which ^ ^ refembled Chrift both in his Perfon and performance, for7" * Pf *:"^"" ' thcgenerall : yetbccaufc , there were many things ( in both ^^'^ ^" refpefts ) very different 3 therefore the Holy Ghoft fits him „ , , forth to us by the type o{ Melchifedecs Prieft-hood : For as g^c. he was without beginning and end ( in his ftory) (b was Chrift, notdiS, AaroMy mortall, mutable, fmfuU. >^4r(7;? had need to of- fer Sacrifices for himfelfe : Aaren fliew other Sacrifices of Biills 5 Goates , and Lanibes : Aaron facrificed often, becaufe he offered Creatures : Aaron had {ucceflTors : Aarms Sacri- fices purged the Geremoniall con fcience : v^^ye^j Sacrifice and prieft-hood ceaied. But the Lord Jefus offered only Sacrifice for others , not for himfelfe : Chrift oflFered up himftlfc as a Sacrifice ; Chrift offered himfelfe but once for .all as moft per- feft : Chrift is an eter nail Prieft abiding for ever 5 and of his Prieft-hood there (hall be no end : None fhall abolifti his Sacri- fice, but it ftiall be as himfelfe is, perpetualltotheendof the World .'.. Jeftis Chrifi ycfierday , and f day , and ths fame for- tver, , . . : The (econd thing is the fijrniturcwhich this Unftion filled xhei.Furni* the Lord Jefus our Prieft witfaall, and that without meafiire.iureofit. For. •45 theun&ion of Chi/i. Part. 7. Harmony of the 3- ofiiceE ofChrift. iForjas the fulnefle of the God- head dwelt in him bodily : Co all the communicabie gifts and excellencies thereof dwelt in him : Eminent wifedomejrighteoufneflcj humility, unblameablenefle, holincfle, reparation from finners, and all other graces. But (as I take it) 6ne fruit of his Unftron was his peculiar fitnefTe to (a- tisfie : That holy 5 free con^ntofhis to the will ofhis Father to doe, fuffer and fulfill all rrgbteoufneffejlfayjthisabfoluteand nnftaynedobedicnccjto goe through all difficulties, meekelyjiong fufferinglyjCheerefuIlyjUniverfally.andconftantlyjcmptyinghim- felfe to the death of the Croflc^was the maine effe^ of his Unfti- on , and the bottome of that infinite Complacency which his Father hid in himjfayingj This u my w^li beloved Sonne, in -whom I amrpellf leafed. X^hisjhdlfervefof the firjf VnEiion of Trie^~hood,beca.Hfe this whole fecond Part following {hall treat only ofit^andthe ufe of it .Pro* ceed to the other two^ andfirfi, JVhat relation there is between the one and the other? zA, AH the three offices of Chrift doe confpire moft iweet- ly together 5 The Pricfi:- hood before the other two , becaufe clfe we can have no right to them. But then the prophecy and the Kingdome doe returne their ayde to the Pricft-hood. Firll, the Prophecy teaches what the Prieft-hood is , and by what order and degrees the Lord fettles reconciliation and peace upon a poore finner ; opens the Doftrine of Faith , and is the revcaler of the myftery of Salvation : Then it teaches how to put on the Lord jefus our Prieft dayly, to apply him continually for forgivenefle as our dayly Sacrifice , and how to live by Faith, and to be guided in our particular courfe and converfation ac- cording to knowledge { as in Part third , and Article third appeares. ) Secondly , the Kingdome conveyes the power of the Pricft-hood intothefoule J and eifefts that which the Pro- ,phecie teaches ; and then having fo done, it (ets up a perpetuall rule in the Ibule j giving it power to obey both in doing and fuf^ -feringj according to the truth revealed ; fiiftcyn^ing and prefer- ring the whole body of elcft, in the Faith and obedience, and imder the proteftion of the Lord Jefus , til all ufe of thefe offices fhall ceafejand the Kingdome (hall be delivered up to the Father, that he may be all in all^after the whole worke of Mediatorfbip Js accomfyliijbed. Q^ T-ottfaf ypell. Ofen Ot link the Jecond VnBion offrdpht" 0^ Article 2. The nn^hnofChrifi. 47 -ffjr , fhew what it is , and Tvhat frmte T»ee reape hy it ? A.\t is that infnfion of divine light intothe manhood of Chrift, The 2. office by veitueofwhichhe did all at once habitually receive all that ^^ P'^*'P"«<^y knowledge and wifedome of God whereof be was poflibly capa- ble,far above all that nature. Art, experience, or education could attaine to^yea far above all that ( not Philofophers only and wift heathcns3but)wha£rocver ProphctSjApoftles or any creature renu- cd,yea Angels themfelves could ever comprehend. Only thofe my» fteries excepted which finit flefh could not conceive j as the day of judgment, &c. Thefulnesoflightdidnot fwallowup hisun- derftandingjbut endued it with fuch knowledge as it could reach; yet foas(according to our Nature) he ftill grew in knowledge in , refpeft ofthe manifertation of light,by the capacity of his yeeres. QlW'hat gaine rr>e hereby , fptch Imeane as believe ? A. He is made unto us ofthe Father by vertuc hereof true ^'^°^'^" l^' wifcdooie. Both in the purging of our corrupt minds from all ^ • h blindenefle, and our judgments of all raflmeflc, error^ headlong it. ^ conceitc,and our (pirits from all mifleading and miiguiding of \\i- .inourconveriations. So that neither the delufion of Satan, nor ^P^"*»^*' diccplay of men 5 nor other errour can carry us from thetnith asitisinjelus. Andagaine, it infuleth into our underftandings a renewed light of knowledge of things in their lively and fpi- rituall nature J reftoring the principle of light in u& which we lort in Adam , as the firft part of Gods Image ; caufingus to Search and dive into the (ecrets of truth, which of a natural! JCor.sr man cannot be conceived ; To difcerne of things that differ, and of Gods matters efpccially ; laying afide prejudice, fal/c opinions, carnall reafon and the love of lufts which fmites out the eyes ofthe (bulc. And this gift is partly tending to make irs wife to Salvation, and to judge of our eftate to be good by found evidence , and grounds of the word , of which VahI (peakes, 1 Tim, 3. I 5. As alfo to direft our feete in the way of Peace, Sv'} i^*% 2, 74. that is, to leadens from one part of life<««c^fhouldciai(e it to be ^ proclaymed in England^ that hcc commands all the Englifh ^ freely to turae (iibjefts co bltn , kow riciiculous were it "*, Buc i, Chrift Article 2. The nn&idn ofchrjfi. 4^ Ghrift hath (libdued the confcicnces of men at his bare Word Co himfclfe. So againcj Princes have homage done , and tribute payd them by their fabjefts : (hew me a penny j&c. So hath Ghrift the bodies and foulcs of all , efpeciaily his Church liibjeftto him. All knees muft bow. The very freeft thoughts aretributaties to him, and nothing can preferibe againft his prerogative , the very iecret thoughts and inner manjthe very fpirit of the foule , and consci- ence ftands to this barrc. Kings by their power proteft their harmclefleand quiet people from the rage and wrong of their more injurious fubjefts. So doth Ghrift fend out his Minifters and poore Sheepc among Wolves, Foxes, Lions and all (brts of wild boafts, to convince and condemns them by the word : now if he had nota ftronger proteftion thcq man, how fhould his filly ones (iibfiitjand not be tornc in pieces ? Q, Before we proceed, is there any ufe hereof^ A, Yes, And firft we muft know 5 that till the time appointed of manifefting this Kingdome , it fcemes a poore matter to the word, as Ghrifts riding upon an Alfe, to the Pharifes : its unfeene, unregarded ^ more fpirituall then externall. As we fee it foretold Pfal.2. As it was fulfilled when Jierods Souldicrs and Pilate^ fcorn'd him, whipt him , fet a Grown of thornes upon his head, fmote him and bid him prophecy. A faddc eelipfc : and now juft is it fb , it appeares not^till his comming in his glory at the latter timcSjCither what he isor what we arc. Secondly , yet be admonifht, whatfoevcr the World doth, let us adore him , put our hands imder his Fecte , let us kiffe the Sonne , as our King , for he is great and will at laft prevaile , and become that mighty Stone which (hall tumble down and beat down the great Tree ( as 'D^^/V/fayth ) he (halUaiagh his enemies to (come , and be annointed upon Zion, Let us (b demean car felves as towards fuch an one , leaft he wax fierce , and teare us in pieces, Leaft he (ay to us. Thofe who would not have niee reignc over them 5 bring them hither, and Oay them bei'ore my face. Let not his enemy who (eekes thy ruine have thee at greater bay, then thy King who dyed, and overcaUie death for thee? Hate them who hate him , with a deadly hatred. Do to thy ut- termoft yea fome lingular thing , to approove thy loyalnelle to him. Dye in his quarrell. Trwit his eternall ftrcngth , agiinft D d World, 5^ tk Vn&ionofChri^* Pdrt.2f; Worldj Luft, and all the infernall crue , Satan and his infini- ments . Do all in his ttrength , and know thine ow n is as Samfins cords and withe? jnot worth the tiiifting to. Thirdly, pray, wait, bee patient till the eomming of this Kingdome:believe£7%^6. 26. that thy prajers fliall notdic. He will come and bring healing in his Wings. i;achd;iy ofde* lay haftens his eomming : And then all his proud enemies j, per- fecutors, blafphemers of his Name , and ftoppers ot his King- dome, ftiall be fure to pay for it and licke the dift ot his feetc. Rejoy ce in all thou (iiffcreft for hhtijhe th^t hath edde captivity captivcjwil redeemc thee fully, Mica,j.%.^.2Lud tread them down as ray re in theftreets. Do not cry a league with his cnemies,fear not their fearcs,fcut (anftify the L ord in thine heart,3nd let him bfe thy feaie. He {hall one day equall all incongn?jties , reconcile ail differences, and pull down the Babell of hypocrites over their heads with confufion. Q^ore -^articularlj , hove dvth this Kii^gdome of Chrifi a/pfi hh Frophecy ? . ■ Howitaflifts e^. By Mcyning and ftrcngthcning the mcanes of Sal- the piopnccy. vation , that his Gofpell , Sacraments, Sabbaths and all his Or- dinances , together with the Miniftery thereof, not on'ely in being , but alfo in their full effeftualnclTe of working in the hearts of his people, with conviftion, and authority, it is no fmall Power to preferve thefe Fillers of his Throne from ruine. For, how many enemies arc rifen t!p fince his-afcenfi- on , openly or (ecrctly tO perfecute or undermine the truth ? How hath Satan beftirred himfelfe by thofe Lyon like Emper- ours in the firft 360. yeares , and fince by thofe wolvilh Popes, and by herctikes and other inftmmcnts of the Di veil , to raze the Scriptures 3 to deface the chicfe truth of God, the divinity, thfe humanity , the Union, the purity of Spirituall worfhip , the in- tegrity of Sacraments , thejuftification of afinner by only Faith, the workcsofthe Spirit, the Refurredion of the body,^nd the tvhole power of godlirtefle^Tb this veryhourc he worketh a^ainfl all thefe. But in vaide : for this our King lookcth down from '^ his Throne and laugheth them to (cornc, and dcftroyeth their Policies : No deUige or flood of his malice could ever prev^ile againft thefe : but iVil! they continue as a brazen Pillar , and (hall Survive them ^11, till his fecond eomming. Arid not on^y {o, but ftill he iupports thefe in their Authority and ablcncfie to over- rule mle the confcicnces cf men ( whom no other Lord can controll) to piercejperfwadejconvincejconvertjor condemnejWhcther they bdievc or defpife them.Aad to (ettle upon the eleft ali the liber- ticsof Redempiion.Adoptionj Holinefle and Glory. In which Tefpeil he is called the Lord that Spirit of liberty or Prerogatives. See I C^r,% . fnd. This for a taft may ferve. . Qj^Ahdhow doth he arjjtj} the Friefi-hood by hif\K'mgdon3€ ? ^.Byiuftcyningancl holding up his believing iervantSj in that pjQ^ it afliftt cftate of grace,?both Faith and fauftification in which he hath (ct the Kingdom.; iheiji. For it is the Kingdom of Chrift which giveth efficacy both to his fatisfaftion and intercelTion , for the keeping oi: 3II fuch as are given him by the Father, in his truth and name. He enables his facrifice to forgive them and reconcile their per- sons: his holinefle to fanftifie them, to change their natures, to (iibduc their iniquities , to fet up his Kingdom in their Rct. 1. hearts ; £0 make them fpirltuali Kings and Priefts to God^, in the raortiirying of their luits , and their living to God in the power of Faith and godlineffe. He makes them, ^f^. 1.20. to partake that exceeding mighty power of his , whereby he railed Ghrift from the dead. He for fakes them not , till he have broi^ht them to finall perieverance ; and in the meane time makes them partners of the Divine Nature, 2 Pet. i , 2. Which is Jiiore than a Creation : Alfb he infufeth into them the fellow- ihip of his lufFerings , enabling themto endure the uttermoft bit- ternefle of them,and all the circumftances thereof, till they par" iake his Iioline0e,and become more than conquerors. QjVhat elfe doth Chrifi as our King ? eX He (lib/edeth all his people tohimfelfeby theLawesof x^g Lav»«%,^ his Kingdome. For, he rules not by t y ra nny ^but by Law , and hit, Kingdom*^ Command. Although he be abfolute , yet righteoufnefleisthe Scepter by which he rules. And therefore in Ejay^^,^. he is called the commander of his people, Thc(e Lawes he fettles iipon his Church, both in refpeft of ^onverfation, and admini- ftration. For the former, he is the Law-e:iver of his Chu; ch,pro- ipounding all rules for obedience to hlmfelfe and to others : writing them in the foules of his people. Foi the latter , he iis the Lord upon whofe foot-ftook all inferiour Lords and Ma- :giftratesdoe hold and depend, both civill,if» all their Lawes and Penalties to keepc men under (ub^eft ion: and fpirituall, to exe» cate his Oiirn€eofui:e6, admonitions, fufpeniions and excommu- D d a nications: 5^ The VnBUnofChrift. F^rt.2. nications : and whatfocver Lavves he hath ordayned for the go- verning of his Church. Q. Doth he any thing elfe ? „. „. yi. Yea. He is the Lord of prote.«; D d 3 . ti.Iefus 514 th^ilfhe^MUHceifCkrifi, Fart, a, 32. Jeffts »f NaxAreth f a man af proved by Ged in many Jlgnes . 4«^ Wtfwtr/ , cJ'r, Preaching vfrom City to City 5 yea praying ; for his enemies : fouaceke, that he fctj forth hiinfclfc as an r example, Matth. 1 1. ap.jo. he would not kr^ke a hrmfedree^e.^ nsr (jHench thejmoaking fiaxe. ^ .Efay 42*2,5. He would not Hft uphisvoyce , but as the peepe rrhkh is dumb hefere tkefici^er^ fo ^fened hte not his mouth. In the judgment of the worft , he did all things well : He grew in grace and favour with God and ; , HicBj as he grew in ftature ; his meditations were heavenly, his, words ^rrffw;#/, even to admiration , Lnl^ 4, The workes of mercy and eompaffion to the miferablcf were infinite, towards all he was harmelede, unblameable, confuting them who would gainfay, and (topping their mouthsjTii his out-fide of carriage ^f tj humble , riding ufo» an A^e ^ farre from worldly porapc ;ind poore,without ^ p////ir f fl / without any o- bedience to the Law , he might have been as harmelefle an high Prieft, by the purity of his nature^ as by obeying -, lb that if there be no other uic of bis obedience , than this , to qualifie the perfon of the Obeyer ,. it had been ftipirfluous. Thirdly, , ^ , " fome part of his aftuall obedience was a dircft part of his me- " ^ diation , as'lii a prayer , John 1 7. Why not all the reft as well > ^* Fourthly, ht itbc fuppofcd true , ( which yet is not to be gran- ted ) that where ixnne is pardoned by rcmovall of cur(c, there of {leccffity • righteoufneffe and life is rcftorcd : yetwcmuftknow 4hat Chrift rcftorcs not his dcd , to the meerc righteoufncfle and life that nyiddm had, but to therightcoufneflcwhichisof Faith , and unchangeable , and to a life in the prefence of God, not of Paradift : therefore it requires a price of a (utabk rightcoufncflt: i« Chrift j more than a mere (tircty was bound to. But as I faid , the former is doubtfull : although each defedt of righteburneflc is a degree ofiinne : yet there is more in the ftainc Pit pollution offinRe, thaninthcdefe&ofrightcoufnefle. When a Traitor is pardoned, though he be in a poISbility of rcftoring to favour and dignities by his Prince, yet they arc two thingi^ and arc oft fevered : and if both coneurrc , the benefit is double. And Fifthly, where it is ob;cfl:cd, that if totall imputation of " this righteoufnes be granted , there were noufe ofthepjglHoiJ : I answer, its falfe : for we arc to be confidercd as liable to the curfc ot death , for that whichiis already paft ; When thou eatefi-^ tho» fitalt Jye. , QJV^II^I /imfatijfifd,prote file ttth* fifth SrsnchjthePi^fftve %/f, The whole Humiliation of th&lord Jelus, both in the The fifth. abafcment and fiif&riags of hiswhok life, through the which ThePaffire lie was as ©Rc Imitccn of Cod and humbled^yca a man of forrows: Ohcdiwut . Dd 4 tnd lohn 1.7. Heb.ia.»4r Wherein It ftan^Sjiti twoi I, Preparation In X. thitigs 1. Sabjeftion, cf a fervani. i.Tbc for- rowcsof bis I»»I),S>f,7. 56 thVoJAvtehedieneeojChrifi*. ^ Part.2. and cfpccially that one mainc fiiiFering upon the Croflc, ukcreby he emptied himfelfe moft throughly , and yccldcd hiinfelfe a ia- erifice moft freely to the wrath of his Father by his death : in the one bearing the incemprehenfible weight of his Fathers )iifticc : in the other the exhauftlon of his life, bloud, and feparation of his (bule from body : That thereby (inne with all her penalties ^ in- ward,outward, andcternall, with that power which the Law and all enemies, hell and death, had thereby over us ,might be aboli- ftied, J uftice appealed, and nghtcoufaefTe and life obteined«i2»w.5. a5,H^^.9. 13,24. iSPet. I.I 9. Q. Tou heap€ up much matter together : divide this anfwerand unfoUit ? A, This Paflive Obedience will appeare,by diftioguilhing it in- to the preparation, and the paflion it ftlfe. Q. And wherein j^oed the Preparation? A, It partly ftood in the condition he undertookcjpartly the antecedent fufferings of his life. For the firft,it was a willing put- ting of his neck into the collar of fiibjeftion , forgetting ( yea emptying himfelfe of ) his glory (b farr€,as being Lord of all* to become in the fafliion of a fervant chiefly to his Father, alto to raenjVea the ba(cft of his flaves upon earth, both for us, and our falvation,in which relped he refafed notearmeSj but defpifed all fh a me, PA;7. 2. 4. 5 , 6. Hf ^. 1 2. 2 . 5 . Secondly, (' having (iibjcfted himfelfe to be amecteobjeft of {ufFering,and Ibrrow, ) he.becameindcedanianoffbrroweJ through his life, inuring himfelfe berime to the yoke which he yeelded to •, as to be borne of nieane parentage^to fall to handy-ta* boiir for his living , to lye in a cratch as imworthy or unabU to hire rooir.e in the Line ; lo be perftcuted and fly mio Eijpt even at a month old, to undcrgoethe reproach of the tongue, being called DemJtiUck^^ JVlnc-hibbcr, Deceiver^ enemy to Cafkr^ Tra:- for, fri'rJofPHblicanes • 10 be the ob je£t of tentaticn , to the vtr Jei-and bafeft creature the Divell himfelfe ; to crcUch in (bule and body under the fentence of wrath , ready to feafeupon him not only at the inftanr,but long before, which dryeduphismoi- .^e as a ivhkcred branch , and made him be thought fifty yearcs old, (or upon) being little above thirty ;lofingall hisbcauty^ and being asaman.ever under ftrokeSj afflifted and humbled i carrying our common penaltic (not perfonall of this or thatdif- «^ait)of hunger,thirft,fain£cidre, wearineffcj harborkffc, and po- vcrt/. 'Mri61e.2. theT^jfrmobtdienk^fChn^. 57 verty , &e; abbut him. To have thcnimicncc of his deity alw^y (in a maiincf' j rcftramcd, (b thif he appeared not to be that he wasxo his dcareft friends : And therefore he concealed his glory, . farther than it made forthc difcbarge of his Office of Mediator,as a Prophet or a King , ( forthen he ftept outof his bafenefle. Sec V Qj And what mafh^ (aid iouchirtg ihe ^^fftov it felfe. f " . j^. Soinc what tonchingthe'parcdls'df k-r yet to^^ thePaffion'L touching the mceiiity of moderation. .v ;. . - .. fcifc. For the psrts, firlt he endured the forfa^kingof hi^clwi-fjl DIG Tt«^f«rti ciples ; to be taken by his bWn {erv.nnt luias^. j^y his bWfi fpeciall . i. Officers, and at the hands^f his pwrtdep1at|^5 td^^f^ iotolerabie indigniti^tjtobe accbfedjaitiyihed, eiiditfed, and ftn- tcnced, as the viletl malcfaftor , and that^at'tfee ^aoffe delivery of' felons and murthcrcrs* . , , •:ap^* ,V. *- After that(befides their barbarous fpitting upon , TwififrttiYilg, " a , mocking with a Robe Groxvneiof Thornesjandi^en Scei)t^^r^^ to be put to that fhimefull, accurfcd death of the, Croflc J a death, ,^or fech aSiidt only mencompted vilMns, but (5od hlhafelfc in it jfort held accrtrfed. , , .' V >a'\ 1 Towh?(ihfrfdethegreatcftof ali'^ both in: the u^^ ^' afonthcGroflc, that moftbkferC^^/Jofwrithj Which he dhn^c from the Hand of his Father, which made' him. in ^n a^gonyr of ,. , . >$pkit, to [yet M di^ofs of hloud •^ii^^xirjyihki the Cf^^ from himffrom fearc of drinking it)and to cry om^ Mj^GoJ^- my Qvd^why hafi thou forfaken mee > Art'd (b in that dccpeanguifli of this Spirit to give tip the f7/rff/:Alf thedivelsitt Hetlbandinff.theni'-' • ie!\?es inV/?^r^c«^(?c/d6^ndjlii|periQdjoft.h?^4f^P'Jin.d^ ^ '"^ abridged to 46. , f Qt^.TVltat didhe ^eB her'ehy f The efPjft 'of '^X/Me Being our Surety in all this , did'for us pHrehai«a full " f r1?^ft^^° ,ratisfa(5l:ion(of which in the qiieMpnii^ftcr). and withall, firft all % Cliqft. > tho^bene^t* J (n Abjcle tj&e Ipuf th. /f hen the ratification of his „ ^ . Aegac^eSi, andTcfe Ldw^Sinnf^Satan^ Col. a. 14. * 'i^rtiit\Plell^anX Veath: As wc knO w if a Court be quite put dowoa ,;S>h«C ». *tf« .»ll4b.^fficcqi belonging to.it,are down alfo. So alfo , liberty to Ifffiba^o. t«» . enter'lieaYen^^ii /m»^^^jj,nQt,f:Ke bloud of a beaft Awichiiindrj ..Why the Vt'^. ^Q^feUtloi^e Serlpt^^ dwell upon thefMfftve^ 4nd p .HoRondyiiio: little Hpdn the ABiveohedleriee, infoint ofeurfatisfaBion f ■nuchdwele , ^„ As I intimated before, the Holy Ghoftdothinorcufiiaily ^^^f — '^VCPot^Iwaies^S^^ ^l^^\:^.^i,, MMriQ^^.Rom,%A%,) ^ cxprcflc' it ^h if ^ay ./,'",/'/ ,r^ ',.■• •• Hesfnt i« ?. JFirlljbccauIe in this curie ta^cii a Way ,a^tTie whole (atisfaftion . 6egan to take cffe£^ : as weraythatthccffedofaPrilbnersre- JIeafc is delivery froh) pri'fori : not as iftliat were all his rcleafc : yci . ihcnce its denoniinated :. ^ t^eca(^i^ though the debt be paid bcfor<^ • yet this flQ^ftioUo^k^^^^^ ^;, ;^,,,:^" ., l,,„, LnV n; rj^'v^. js, ' Seconcdy , becauIc the ciia of a thing is better than the begin- ning , and the conjfutnmation pf a thing i^ from the end. Bcrleve- r^ncc hath(we kaowj the prehejninenceof all obedcncc^otas if itwcrcanyraorctlian.apafrtofitj but its the fini&ing^ndnia* 4thg jdi oBt of queftion. Each moment of a Gla(Ies course is partlof the Jiput^, tliough tfe.ls^ dufiofhbethehouresend. ""But.-- .T ■ . ,, / ,.,. .^ ■/../.-... .'■ , . ._'. 3. Thittilyv ilipd fefpecially : because the Paflii^^ eft, greitcft J hardf ft j ' and hjllcft part of the whole fatisfa&ion. As , Fortitude cayfjetK the name of Vertue. U9% cxcla4iipg»- , e^ For the latter I aitfwer, bccaufc this price is like the price • oT^piamond |>a^d fo|ien~Malcfa&QES,which isn«ither-allpayd fpr zny pnejnojf i^iyHfifi^r^l part tfecr,«ci'foi: onc^^and aigthcr for ' another' •'t>iit generally 'th'ciAwhQlc for them all , and each ffiaring in thc-wjiqic. Jl^erlbrclooke wh^t is raiddiftiadtly of the btncfit- of this meritjinuft ifliic from bech>AS[ivc andPaifivcjoyntly. \4. i'lrli:, ihc d^^rinic hcr€p*tii3)J^y afFoord o«a rwcct'm^ botH' tlon ( w hie h^s.;^hci^l?fP!fc)»!ilBCiem or godly writer shut have pwcsof the objftnredj.vfo itisp^ty WfifhgUid ne^lc^? ) r^c. The excellency ^^*^* ofthc grace of the GGfpclljpurchaled.by this Satisfa(5tion, whicfv- ii[iil fpp?ai"e by a ^OiTipari6)n'''of£h"e workeqf Creation '^ with t^iis jq)f;]^cdenipgiop.^.,The f^rfBtfX grant ivaw f^kmacworkej ■ wlienthc.-^^fr;M//./^afffl4jde^f^a^^ inipi- ; r;ng ic with the breath, of God , not oi^ely to.be a living p^ea- r«r 6o Vft^&fhdthpms^tht4fti^yH.^' 'IPart.-l Secofldlj^,Ict us abhorre the cxjnccitWf (uch SeSaJrie j , as iina- p^nc that there was noireceffity sut all of arty (*ich price paying ta Juttice : nor any barrein God* Jutticb'at att ; ■wjhy hemight not!^ have Arcwcd mercy to finnergjWichOOCany fechlfiftisfa'^ion ek3«' at all. Its an horrible d«v<^ti€m c6^ thid^Scriptures j^ Wircdome of God: ai\d •(avotieith of a pro&hane aiiidaciotis fpirif,' making finneand gfifce of fmall efteetiw. ^-' -' , . . |::: r; ; . ^ Rather let it prefent to us the hideons ftaturc of fin and |ait!Cc. SdomoH bids us. behold tbedmfekard'ih his redneflcof coloar^ blueneflc of wound $, tfesit Wt inight loachc Bi^ fin. But rather be* ' holdit in this glaflc of thcLord Jefiishi* (atisfaftion. Efaj 6^.i, IVha is hi that commethfrom Botra , vo'tth his red garments f I kavg trod the wine-'prcjff oftisewyAthtfphe^Lerdy&c, If the glaflc of th<^"' Law liave not doncf itjiet thi$ do il ; yea be^oM the fins which wl' count moft vcniall in this objdQ: of Jufticc: Not the pcttieft oath,' orleaftofourfaincwdrdscbtildbcpaydfor, With tbepficpoft Icfferthing than the bloud o^Chrili;Jl^ftice would admit of no o- . ther. And the Faherff^edmt hit brelj S^mte'in this i^omtlb^i^ would hatreiiiai drinfce tb« dregs of hfs wrath , What (hall be- . CDmc of fijch wretches ita^^aj d£(p**fethis prioc ? Ho\^ fliall they^^ ftniggJtwith this infinitcwrath of God, which the Lordjefas ' had bin cnifhr under as tinlupportable,if hi«: God-head had not held him up ? Now while fin is iH herclenKnt, itsccfunt^daj lightas ieathcrs 5 but bein^ «ndcr the weight otjuftitc, and the! (encc^lffrathjit will proo^tf wtollerable.Let us couit it fojioWj whilcsive maygctit ftirowdcd under theLordJeius : Ictus fivea^ water and bloud^and fccic that in us which cauRd thoft outtriej^^ My God^my God^ vphy bafi tf-cn forfak^ftire ^ Not to becottic Me- diators to our {elves,butt:oid'ri\'Ciiii5 to him that overcame this an* • gui(b,and was heard, *" ^^^ ^^^rc^' If fin in our felrcs will not brcake cur hearts , let it breake /them in the view of Ghrift broken by thcm^: let us , Zach. 1 2, 1Q, fee him tvhom ree have pierced y A-nd mourne. Not asPapiits , who whip their bodyei , and cry rut of them tliat betrayed ,ac- ■ . cufcd, icourged and crowned Ghrift , and crucified him : but as thofewhoweretlieAsftorsoftliiS Tragedy oiir felves^that ( if : by any mcancs) omt hearts may he p-ickcdas theirSytehy heard Pe- '5'« ter urge the kiUiitg ef the Lord of Life, :©h, unfpeakcablelove, to be willing to be pierced for ratirthercrSjthat they might efcape ! fi o fay, Qi\ Father, hecre is the fiircty , lay no ddit orpunifli- mcnt Article 2 . Vfes of both j^arts of the merit. 6 1 jTient upon ihtCc debtors I I have taken all upon nic , if thou wikneedes have the uttcrnioib, powreout thy wrath upon him that can ladsfy, boc upon them that cannot : Try whether there be any drop of mournlug in thee , by this due light of finncandjiillice, andiay, Oh, Lord, if I were left to be my own fatistier, if thotrfhouldlt havefaydto Ckr i st, as once to JHofes^ Them that (inns againft 7K.ce, I will ]>nnifh ,^ of thee I tvill require nmhmg , Oh 3 how terrible- had- OIU' condition been ^ Fifthly ,let this doftrineconfiite.Firft, allSediarieSj whothae "^y? 5. they might be fingnlar ( to fay no more ) teach heere of late , a- Branch.ii mong us 3 that Ghrift had no guilt ot iinne caft upon him by julUce, for then he could have been no fatisfiel: (confounding (inne imputed and fin inherent) that Chriil fuffered nothing- in his foulCjfrom Gods Wrath , feaiing upon him ; nor yet in either body of mind , but that which man could inftiSE by either paine or difcontent. But God keepe them, that are the broa-^ chers of fuch ftufFe 3 from fiich a (atisfaftion as this in the day of their diftrefle. And whereas they adde^ Gods juftice ac ceptcd this for an equall price of finne : I anfwer , who hath taught them to drcame of an acceptance , of that which is not equivalent toJulHce ^ Might they not afwell overthrow any ne- cefllty of a latisfying Juftice, as teach JulHcc to accept that which is rrot Juftice ? Is it not well for w,, that the Lord will accompt a truely juft fatisfaftion of a (iirety to anfwer our debt, ( which was more than he ought lis) but we muft goe a- bout to corrupt the price it (clfe , and dreame of an imputing of ^uall fatisfaftion to an uncquall price t Let us abhorre (uch no- velties, and know if Chrift fuffercd no more than the raalicc of man, there remaincth a necelfity of a lecond fufFering for us, from juftice. Let us beware, v;hile we goe about to mince and lefTen the fuffirrings of Chrift j leaft we deftroy the truth of a Mediator , and bereave the foule of that which fhoiild uphold her, in her conflift with Juftice. Not to fpeakc of unfavory dalliance with thofe Texts , which are brought to confute them, Efay ^1^, 2 Cor. J. 2 1, and-^thers. For inftance , When we iirec that text ^T^j 69. i. they elude it thus. That it fpeakes of the Lord Je(us his cmflhing the enemies of his Church .* as if it were not familiar to the Holy Ghoft to exprcflfe both A^^Fj I meane of fatisfaftion and conqucft , in one hidlbx phrafe, meet ^ #a "Vfitofhoth farts' of thennrit* Pjtrt.^ meetetocxprcfle: As here. To treade the winc-preile, may be referred either A(flivcly to dcftroy all Rebells, or palfively , to fatisfief©r the ekS:, by treading out all wrath; So , whcnwc prefle our Saviours bloudyjlweat , painc of foule to th^ death, complaint of being forfaken of God r and To , of his being heard by h is Father in that he feared , and cryed out with ftrong eryeg to him that could help hinij &c. They anfwerjAU this mnft be underftood of that babarous iifage which Fllttte and ^^hc le-^ss ^cwed towards him : which is infinitely to the 6\C- honor of him whom they pretend to honour ;, in making him mor^totake on for mans cruelty, than poore Marty res, finfuH men have done. Bat the truth is , God is not honoured by iuch curious diftinSions 5 which neither any of the Fathers, norlact writers ( one or othepj except fuch as arc taxed for Novelty ) have ever dreamt of. But we may cafily judge from whence iijch errors grow : if they were truthes, Satan and his inftru* ments would more ftirre againft them : But they are quiet, ufing ftich trickes, as meanes to cover their own Piojcfts, not caring how many -of them are broached. And verily I doe not (b much impute fuch Novelties to the Authors thereof, as to ihe juft Hand of God, punilhing the people for contempt of tlieir grfunds. Mrsmh S. Secondly , Let it teach us to tibhcrre the opinion of thofc Lft» therans ^ who teach that our Juftification ftands in the (b apply- ing ofChrifts righteoufnefle toafiriner, that he may plead it from the Tenor of the Law; Dof this artdiive. Meaning tftat we tnuftbe poiTclfed with the very {elfe.-faraerighteoulhes where* withChrift obeyed and Tuffcred. And this they imagine to bcthc fnatterofourjaftification> and that elft God cannot in Jufticc acc]uite us. They (ay , The eleft dot (iiftaine one per. bn with JChrift 5 in all his ads and fiifFcrin^ , and they urc all made theirs : But thus they make Gh rift lerve to no other ends , but to make us become our own Mediator , and to dcftroy hfs own. The error of this conceit arofe froin a confounding of the valour of worth of this right eouihefle , ivith the fubftance of righteoufte^ it (elfe. For akhojUIgh we cannot be ^uttifi-d without fmputiition of the fulnefle of the merit , yet wc att not capable of that which Bigritcd, cxcepi we will become In* &iite. Mrmch 3 . Thirdly , It cotifates thoic Se^rics, who affirrae that God ftctli AttM^S.. Vfes.efhofkparttdfthemsrif, 69 leeth no fin in any of his , it he have once imputed Chiifts rii>ht€- ou&cfTe CO thetii. This error arises from not ditiinguifhing thefe twOg ifBpiTtarion of pcrfcdr rightepufnefle and perfeti impu-~ t^igoraci.ee'tiiag of iniplittd righteGU.l«eHe. No maiiisjuftified without the former : but oiir Faith fayling in the acceptance, mtift needs be loolied upon by Gad. I confeife he fbesnofinne^, but hfe pardons it to his in Chrift , upon Faith and repentance | but he punifties itfor theirgood in imtcy» Agaiiie , what if we grantjCrod (et$ no finne in thsna in vsCpoSt of tiicir juftification i is therefore their Sanftification pcrfe£t ? Why then didDaz^idy ftdukery djfpleafe the Lord ? Or why dofe we pray, forgive nx onrdebts^ or why faith our Saviourji'^j' TvhenallUdonp^jeearejiH^ frof tabic ? , .• Fourthly, tccohfees all iuch as oit ofFthe AftiYeobcdi*- Bmmh 4, cncre of Ghrilt , from the fatisfaifbion, as they cot the garments *Sam.i«,^ of Davids i"crva«ts by th-e middle. I blame them not now a* PapiftSi, for dei'jying Chrift to be our price, but for their "tnrioufe dividing ofonc member of it 5 from another. It may be granted them, that the 'Paffive istl^ mor6 immediate confiiflTiwation of the fatisfaftiou "i but to exclude the Adive , is. m&ft aui. ckciows.they iay ^Chrift was bound to the^beyrng of the La^Mo fts a mm'h^ade uttderit, I anlwer. Yea, butexcept he%ad'bin ib , . giade piirpofely for us, he needed never to be fo at all ; therefore ^^/^' • his willing being fo| made the merit the greater : and although "^"f^^^- being a man,: he muft obey; yet feeing his being a man, was that he might obey for us , it muft be of greater depart. A- gaine,as the PafTive is the ncercr merit, inrefpeft of theeftate^ in. tvhich we flood accurted 5 So this Alftive is as eflentiall in rcffteUt of recovering that Image of righteooihes , which makes uslikeGod,and in which we were created. Neither was it Hell couldTiave hurt us without fin. Beiides(to lay truth) if v^^/^w af- ter his fin had not bin accurftd, yet in finning only he had bin mifei-able. It is therefore as effentiall to Juftification , that he be made ;uft as rid;ofguilt,and brought to Heaven as rid of Hel!;Bi«; of this before. Qj^e th^reai^y other u/es heftdes confutation ? v^.Yea.Sixthly^to teach all Gods people to abhor^heflavery Vfe 6. 6f hypocrites. Mvhoiftheycouldfhun Hell, won Wiwfcr care for rlghteoufncfleOods PedpIe,although they could fin unfecne and unpunifticd^ yet would loathe it. They take as deepe thought for God ^4 Vfes of both pArU0f the merit* Part^. aS«m»S44o, God as for their own wel-farc. When ^^/<'/ How great is this love then ? and how deare ftiould he be for ta- king cf our imputed finne and blemifh upon him ^ The more coft, the more love. \ffh%, Eightly, ( to touch his-PafTion a little ) how (hould it teach us toabhorreallenemieioftheCrofle, AthciftSj Papifts, Jewcs, and Eagans5( to whom itis either a ftumbling block or foolifhnefle j yea all iiich as hold upon a Ghrift in profeifion, but are farre from an humbled fuffering and crucified Ghrift, carrying themfelvej, rather fb in their haire,fafhians and oathes, the loftinefle of their " ttomackes, as if their Chrift were rather fbme great Epicure, Liber- tine5or Champion of the world 1 not only in the twelve dayes,but all the yeare long ? ."yfe 9' Ninthly , if this death of theLord]efiisbeour{atisfa6:ion, -and the freedome from fin and curfcjour pardon, peace,and Hea- ven 5 where is the dwelling of our hearts upon it, the delight of our fbules in it ? Commonly we will weare our choife Jewell nee- reft our heart ; and why is this Jewell which coft the bloud ctf the Son of God fo ferx>fFit 'i Surely except this be our foulescrownc more than the.crowne of the aged areiheir children ^ or the Mi- nifters crowne his people j or the husbands h"(s deere wife, (^ not to fpeake of gold, pleafures, or outward wel-fare ) how can it b^well with us ? If the perfection of love be joy, and tlrQipcfiJrteii. the objeft is^ the greater the love : How is it, jfciiHteachbareftaddowofjoycan affedt 115, when this cannot? i Cor.15.1,?. rf :-^Mr hom ' i¥p:e:, heere o^ely in Chrifi, ^ of fill -others^pee ipert Artide.2. jheufesofhothpArtsoftheMeriU . 6% mofl miferahle. Nothing heerecankeepetheefrommifery j what IS then thy happineflfe > This (atisfaftion only. Let it be all in all to thce,the (eafonirtg of thy blefling?j| ijiipply of all wants : if thou wert left as an O wle in the Defart , if no CtUfi '^ere left in thefiall^ yi^h^- 1 7, yetlet God bcthy S^^hmoirLct thj life he hmd up m k^AS pcoh in Beniami^, TenthlVj and efpecially, let the chiefeftrcame of this point* '^fi ^®- ufcj bee this : Fifft , To all Mimftcrs to teach it,and the peopk to apply it to themfelves in all their feares , yea the greateft ago- ny , yea death it lelfe 5 whatfoevM- thou forgocft , hold, this. For Minilkrsj let them remembei their office (as hceto^r- C0I.5, endi chlfpiis ) and fnl fill it, Taul preiTes it : compare a Cor.552 i.with * Cor.y , ii. 26. Him that kf^erc nafinne hee made fii^ne^ that wes might bee his rightfoufne^e. And what of this 1 Wee being Embu^Adrrs of Gody AS if Qorifl by m didcntreate jou^ (owe urge. Be reconci- lelto God. Be no Idols, none Preachers, be no Preachers of a- ny thing before this : Preach not with a vcile as Mofes : ftand with open facejand hold this mirror to poore finners, that they may behold The Lord their riqhteoufne^e. If the worth of a foulc ^ Cor^j, 14. were knowne by uSjand the blood of loules prized and pitied^thcn the preaching and declaring oUhisrighteoufncfle,/^^ 3 3. would bethefcope of opr labours. WeareMiniftersoftheLaw, bui not only fo j but alfb ferving the Mhiifiery ofreconciHatlon, Let us maincly looke to this, to fave our felves^avd them that heare us ; if we have wrought the ufe oFthe laft Article , af the former part upon thcmj learne the skill of this fecond , and linne not with . . ^ God, till he lay to us. Deliver him^f have received a rnnfome. If Mgtih^j. .. we could find thisvc'me^andthetrea.'urehidin thKsfield^^il ourwork G«n.i?,io, would be as 7int of jiilii- lying thee : ponder well then this ftrengeh, as thouwouldeft the weight of gold in the balldOGe. li thou eanft fecle this ftrength fo farreas to fay, Sftj 27, 4. or to hearethe Lord 0y , ji>t^errs)jotiymei'Iamappeafed^ thon beginft weiJ. Anger abides in God , without this price , and thoj art but asthe bufh and dry ftubble before it. Be aflkirei then , that no promile fpeakes to thy foule , and to thy heart, except it have this itrength of Chrift, in whom each one isyea and Amen. LdoIcc upon a promife if thou need it , as its fiirnrfhed with this : for hence conies all wrath to be turned to love a and this will make God willing to offer, and faithfull to perforii^ejeHe not. That bottomleOe depth of mercy in thy Judge and enemy, can- not begaged without this buciiet : by this, thou niaylt reach It. ' . ■' ■ ,v . lOalyttis Againe,asthisisrufficiexiti!rength, foitisthatonl/, which theftrenath can redeeme thee. Let that Mountebanke of Rome who ofihcfotjle. would bring thee to the trealure of Saints merits ^ be odious to Mica.tf. thee : Say thus , Mich. 6, PVhat Jlall I ghe the Lord for the Jime of my fmU ; My Gold or Pearles,Oy]e or Winc,or the firfi home of n:y body ? No, he h.uh (hewed me the only way , to be iFet.i. j^jg righteoufhefle. He redeeitied us ( faith Tetcr ) not with Pearles , but with thepretipns bloud of his L\mbc. Wilt thou goetotheJioiy ones in E.arth? Alas , they were as vile as thou but for this 5 ^and they Have no more of it tlVan will ferve their - turnes* Wilt thou goe fo Heaven to Saints and Angels? Alas, Mjth.jf. ^, Yjfaj 6"^, Abraham hnowcs thee ;?/5/^. What then ? Wilt thou goe to Efay ^j, thy dutieS5performances3gtace> Alas, they had no bloud of expia* tioh in them ; all thefe will fay , Satisfaftion is norin us. Where then 1 Surely here only. Vfeii, Twelfthly, If fo , abandon all, and cling to this only. Take hold of this (lifficient and only fufficient fh ength, as the Pro- lob 9.ir. phet bids thee.Carrj it with thee to thy Judge, and make (Tip I Pct.-3 . .1 9. plication to him in this (Irength. Z'i?/-^r,calle? it the anfwer of a con-^ fcience^goodintheRefirreBionofChrlf. What ever enemy pur- fiie thee at the hecles , this is thy refuge : that here thou mightH: have ftrong confolat'ion in all feares, againft all enemies., Feareft thou the finnes of y o^th, or age 1 fhe Lord Jefus was coHceived in the wombe, that the|nlant(elev^) which never faw light, might be iiived by him;, youth notwithitanding her difobedlcnce , age for tor all her rebellion, might be forgiven. Doe thy morallTlBnes, Ap^^'cattoa of of inurther5ft€a1th,i]ncieanfle(re, fwc^rf^ diftreffe thee > This ic^affonrrnd Lord ]e(u? fulfilled all righteoufnefre for fc. Doc thy.rpirituall coalitions, wickednefles oppiefTe thee, aed the penalties of them : an unbeiic- vingj feciire , hard-heart by the contempt of the Gofpell ? The Lord Jefus fuffred the pcwring out of his bloud ^to breake the heart of thofe that pierced him upon the Crofie. Art thou poore ? Thy SatisEer .was fc. Rich > Hee was the Lord of all. Are thy {innes great? He dyed for iViJ^/drunkennefle, Lots inceft. Da- vids adultery , Small > Loc , even thy leaftvainei^Ord ,- coft hivci his life- bloud. But perhaps not fome Imnes^but finne^it felfe and the body ofdeatli troubles thee : He was made fnm that J^ew none.. Oh then , whatfoever finne can fay, yet gee on to the throne of grace, asHeh. 4. i6. and \ookQ to finde mercy in time of neede. *^**"'^**^' Doth the divell, the gates of Hell , confeience, or the Juftice of Heb 4.1^. God threaten thcc > They cannot/ave for finne : if they doe , thy confeience hath her anfwer to God againft all. And fo plead this ~^ thy pardon to the Lord, Say thas, Oh^Father, even thou cuiteffc off thy plea in giving this price, in accepting it, in offring of it to niee, I ( Lord) am hcere before theCjpinched and damned by my finne ; if thou doe not , reckon it unto me. Oh Lord, I put this hleffed price between mc and wrath : Lord have no power to de* ny it nie. Even I, if I were left with an orphans eftate, could not. > keepeitfromhim:Lod, I am fatherlefTe , my orphans flock is in thy keeping : thou tbokeft it, to beftow it. Lord, let my foule have ilrong confolation in her Peeking refuge to thee, becaufe this price warrants mc. If a defetor be in prifon, and be bid to come forth,he will anftver, I am heere for debt, Lcannot : kit if urged, he will lay hold upon this Strength,Surely fome Surety hath payd my debt : and then his heart anfwersj will come out. Oh /So let this ftrength be layd hold on by thee,if thou looke for deliveranct: In the end of this (econd part , I ftiall adde fomewhk't touching Faith. Meanetime let this bcasthe river leading to the^Sc^. And thus much of the merit of obedience. Q^fVhkt is thefixih branch of this Art kle^knd wherein fiavds it ? xh f h w T A, The conqucft of Chrift. For notwithftanding all this fprinr jhc fatisfaftion of Chnft thus performed : yet , if it had been conqucft poflible for any enemy , to have prevented himoftheeffcftof Wb«iti$?and it, that he could not have overcome all enemies, and death it ^'^^S'^o^nd of felfe , his whole worke bad been fruftrate. But this could not "' Ee 2 be: 68 theConqueflofChriJi, Part. 2 be : for he rofe againe from the dead, and gave a full being to themerit of his fatisl%^on. Conceive the point in three cftates. In 3 rcfpects- ^^Chrift, briefly. Firft, Before ; Secondly, AtThirdly^After his death. 1. In the firft rcfpcv^, though theLord Jefushisflcfh wasnot exempt from mortality and infirmity, but fubje^i to all through our (mne : yet even under all thefe through his whole.life, he conquered in (ufFcring : for he endured no more than him plea- led : before the time of his death 3 no enemy had power over himjtorurprifehimbyanycaftjaltyj byanyotherdeath, orat any other feafonthiinhimreire would. In Z»4? 4- we readcjthat his own Citizens, Led him up to the krow of the Hilito have broke /?«;?fc,^^.Oft were Officers fent to take him :ftones caft at him; upon the Sea he was fubjeft.to the violence of the Waves : none of thefe had power to faftcn upon him, heewent through the midft of them, and through a thoufand deaths , without hurt. Efoy 43,2.. It was prophccied of him , The fire fhould not bttrne him , nor wa' ters devour e him : till his hourev^as come to fujfer that Dfath, and oncly that which God had layd out for him 3 and then nothing could hinder. , 2 . SecojKlly , at de^Jth 5 although as our mediator he muft needcs >driuke that Cup> which his Father gave him : yer he was a con- Afts.2,24. ♦, qucror even then too, and above aiTf'y enemy. JudiU, thePrie/l^s and Pi/ate could do no more, thm himfeltb was willing to yecld lohn i«.i8. to his Father in. No m.in tmhs away mj //# from mee, I Uy it d'nvnemy fclfe. Hce yeclded to tho^thattookehim, even when he had caft them to the ground as a con<^ueror. And therefore by the Union of his God-head j even mthat hmre andpowcrof darkcneffe^ when his life was taken from him, and they loo- ked to have had all their wiU on him : al! the infernall powers ; aflaulting^him at once, by reafon of the withdrawing of his Divine Natiife^ and the wrath of God , yet 5 even then he gave "^ them the greateft foylc of ail 5 and in dath overcame him -n ho had the power of it\ and all his inftnimeitts ; made his Crofle, his Tiophee, and his Chariot of Triumph over them all : like Samfon who more hurt' his enemies at d^ath , than all his life. ^ 3- So thirdly, after death, when they had got hisdead Body in- to the grave, thinking that the fealingof the ftone could have, miftde him theirs" ^ never to rife any more : . Loe, \>^ his power he Articlc.2. rheConqmJiofChrifi. 69 he kept his union ft ill, and after his tbrtyhouresfleepc was- over, he reiUmed his body and loule againe,and gave them another blow worfc than all : role agaiuc , conquered their malice 5 never more ^ ^* ^'*^^ to be conquered,^ tf die n$ more : All the enemies in hell , and upon phii.i j 67. earth ; his triumph being begun,hc was out of their reach. See for QjVbat ufe. make you hereof? ayf. Itjis a nice Schoole point, whether Chrift by all his doingsand Offerings, did merit any thing for himfelfe ; Some- what like to that other queftion , Whether Chrilt as a man wereifubjeft to the Law t The anfwere which they make is. That Chrilt merited onely one thing for himlelfe. That is, exaltation : of which I ceafe hcere to fpcake much : not doubting but that bare Union with the God- head did ne- ceflatilie procure that, without (atisfa^tion. Yet to yeeld ibrae-r what to the words of Paul ^ Phil. 2.. 5. 6, when fore G O jy .( exdltedhim onhigh^ andgavehima Name above att Names^ ^e* Yet doubtlefle both his obligation, to the Law, and his whole conqucft was efpecially for his Church , and for her fake hee both merited and conquej^ed. Many things might cpn^ fcquently befalf the Lord jefus as Mediatpf , ^ but the maine and Hrft refpcft which hee had was our Salvation and bene- fe 6t. Firlt, therefore the maine ufe (which is alio the fcope of this Vfi i« fixth Branch) i^jthe afliirancc which the poorc fbule under a con- dition of grace, may take to it felte in pleading her part in this fatisfaftion. For, what gave a being and life to this fufFering of Chrift ? Surely his conqueft. If any enemy could have held him under chaines from his viftqrious Refurreftion, all his fatisfadi- on had^in fruftrate. But that could not be. It wtts un^offible^Ai we {ztASls2. 1^, that death fhqtild hold him. Now then by his con- qucl,how lively, renowned, powerful! a merit gave hee to all his Offerings ^ Hee lent his Church into aflured pofleflion of all his merits. Oh^ as the author to PJeb, 10. 22,faith, Let ut come with Heb.io. aii thua^urance of Faith to the throne of grave^ (aying, Lord, give • .;vi>5 thy poorc needing (ervant,, the, fruit of my Lord ]efns his'obcr dience, the power of his Conqueft, the full efccy df his re* demption : ThatasheiJ(7w. i^ ^.Eph.t.21. hy his God-headde* Rom.i> j'. clarcd himfelfe a Conqueror, and aflured the truth of hisJnie- Eph.i.ij^- rit and deathly ca CQufufUmated jt, ( although he faydjiipon the; E c 5 Groflc Mat. fc^« Grofl^j ARmkffitM^'^ot^y fotilc hiay take hold of this firength^ and<;laiiiitthclifeand{>owcrofthisfatisfaftiGn3 with fuller af^ farancc. OhjlctusfiotwanttheftrcngtUofthisfperfwifion, but jpreffe it and layjLord, I comcto thee inthe merit ofa Chtift not llcacl but alive, a GotK^uercr that made goodto rn6c all his (uf* fcrings by his viftory , and gave all his enemies a deadly blow, when they looked to have overthrowne him. Let this bethcfirft aft : karnc this aS the iftainejto drinke at this ciftcrne,this well of Salvation , as the former, and then the other Comfortable Ufcs will follow of themfelvcs. • Q^hat other follow hertpt^n ? : V/ei, «^« Sundry confolations to a believing (bulc, touching the Sundry confo. Afcahcc of Faith and Pcricverance, Vidloryin cpmbatsand latiofls. all affliftions. The Lord Jefus hath the Key of Death in his Handjand will make his, more thaii Conquerours in all : nothing I. fhall feparatc,^(7/». S. tth. any of his from him. ToHchii-'sg Faith, how Biariy are the feares that a poore foil le hath', that (hccftial] ftevcr bee able to believe ? Within her (elf^t what wcakcncflc, forget folneflc 5 melancholy, guilt of Confciencc through cor- ruption, and dfead heart, (lavifli and fearcfull, preiiimptuous, hatdaed by the deceit of (inne, anworthincCc , negleft of the feafonofgtaccj thit body of deAth oppofing all favour of good- neflie ? And fo even death of body makes them afraid , they may dye ere they believe. So without them, what temptations a- gaiilft God, and the ScriiJturcs^ what enemies have they to darken and dull them , their ,(eHCCS> undcrftandings and heart ? W'hat enemies of the wicked have they without them ? HI hut ba«d« , Wives , to diirnay them, telling them that they cimnot beaflijredilithislife of their falvation. How doc enemies af- ftight tbem with malice, threats, bigge loofees, difdaincahd fconie 3 putting them in fearc they fhall never elcapc out of their clawes Hn this variety of afflidlion-, what is there to ((i()aine them t What is it which tcacheth them tokiflc^therod, takie ap their croffc g and btari the indigywtion of the Lord , till hee Mica.7>^. fleude^.fheir dtptfe ^ and brin^ forth their liqht ?■ Surely the ftrengtih of their C^ptaine, and Coriqu*id comfort^ I have overcome the World. Its he that tells them, till Gods feafon of their fuffering be come, (o ntuch, fo longjand ^t very ciX>Cc God hath ordcined for them, no enemie &all do« doc ;hpm . hurt. And when they docj^hec will make it tollcrablje arid ea(y unto thcra, doa them good for their fakes that hurt thclri. But above all, they are mads C7<9«^»ir<^/,aad their chinnc is kept above water , tkcy figh; under hope otviftory, and fay i^o^.j^ witl>theChijrck,^K'"-v>- 7. S. Rejoyce not aver m?e^ Ohmjfiue- 'fny\ for ovhert I .am ioypne I fball rife • And when- fbm4rtfAUeny}AiiA7, %, ^hj W0fi)^d f}(ill bee incurable. There is a fable thit wkea the Goatc cropped the Vine branches , ihce bids thi Goatc, bite and fpare not, bat (hec (honld bcarc fb much WiaGasfljouldftrvc tQ facrificc the G^atc. This Vine i» the militant Bpdy pf Chrift : fo that as hce feared not hi§ eneiiiiosj, b^caiifi: jjcc fiibdiied them in fotfering , fo (hould they. Reade the third Article, in the point of Redeniptioiij t3^ore fully of this ufc. . ; ^jrhai elfer ', A, Thirdjy, it comforl^a them by Faith , in the Conqii»cft,of our Lord JcfuSjagainft the power of Death and the gravc.For as ic was with their Head , hee -cosildnot bee held in it : ih with theai, ^^^ ^ ^ theirfie^rqftsin hope of that triuiBph : Oh Hell^i^here is thj ' '• ,fiin^^ Oh jfrave prfhere ts thy vi^srj ? I (^orinthians t$. The full i Cor.ifa redemption of xheir bodies 5, caufcs thenV to feare .n(? Death, nor ^rave. Nay, their hope makes them fty , If wee hopedl onely in Chrift heere , wee were of all other moft miicrabic: but this conqiseli makes us happy in all our mifery. For why ? even by that very death which is the la(J enemy , and the gate of utter riiifery to the wicked^, the Lord opens a doore oifull and finall redemption to the faithfull. Their Ipweft ebbs is the next ftep to the higheft tyde of their fbuleshippincflc, audfi- siallfreedome from all iinncj forrow^ andencipies. Aswcqfcc our Lord Jefus his death and grave were the next ftcppe to his fxaltation. True it is, che Saints have many pcttit deliverances In this World. But they are not fully redeemed till death, from all enemies, nor from the dominion of death till the Refu^refti- =. on i But then is their finall rcdcmptioa. Therefore let not death, grave , npr the rottennelTc thereof difmay us : for hee who brake the chaines thereof for himfclfe, n^Sampfon bra{;eh;« «ords , hee ftiall alfo breakc them for us , that they fhallnol hold us. Wee Ihall bee more than conquerors by him that lo- ved us : and by his power Ihall wee rife though not ib quick- ly 3 yet as fu;:ely as hce did. Whom fhould not ihis conqucft E c 4 ftrengohen 72 TkConquefl efChrift* ^ / Part.2. flrengtheti againft the unwillingneflfe to *(>e unclothed ? THc ray fing of our head, puts us in hope , that we (hall rife and con- quer finally : fo that no enemy , no Divell, no per (edition Ihall ever come neere us .' We fhal! be as much out of gun-(hot of thsm , as the Lord Je(iis himfclfc was after his conqiieft. Were it not for this : long , many , and deepe troubles would difmay us ■ but this hope hclpes all. And not only outward erodes, butal(bourpooregraces of knowledge, Fiaith, patience is fu- ftained with this Spirit of the Lord Jefus, that one day it (hall be better , when all imperfeft things (ball be done away, the Y. body fliake off corruption , and they fee him in whom now they believe : Their life is Jsid yvithChrifi in God : andalthorgh ? h^* itappeare not now what they are , yet when their Captaine ^* ' comeS5they (hall be conquerours as he : therefore in the njeane time, though they be ba(ely eitcerned of, and (et at nought; yet their fpirit of viftory and hope props thiem up and makes them merry,becau(e ad'ay is coraming will pay for all. rrjp^. . This alfo is terror to all prophane ones , and (iich as (till abide iotheGallofbitterneffe : Theconqueft of the Lord Jeiiis, is the cru(hing *and treading of them as Grapes in the W Jne-pre(Te of wrath : Its the entry of Chriit into hisKingdome, for the nttcr (upp'rc(Fion of all his enemies :w horn Efaj 63. he will de- ftroy in his fury. As he is mighty thereby , to fave all his^ fo he is as potent to deftroy all them that be his foes. Now he hath recovered power and (Inength , viftory and triumph : and now he turnes the wheele over their heads, and "vvillcrulh both" them and their Prince, the Devill. He will now cau(e all thole barrcs which he hath broken, of (hame , feare, affliftions, horrors, deathjthe grave, to returne back upon them : And , as the fame waters which were the (afegard of Nde , werfe the de(trn(5lion of the' old World : and the fame Sea which Was a double vvaH to the 7/9/?(?/f>^x palTing through the red Sea, yet was the over- whelming of their enemieSjtheir Chariots jHorfes, Tharao him- (clfe , his Princes and Souldiers : So , that cro(Je which is the Pillar of Salvation " to the Eleft , (hall bee the. Chariot of Triumph to the wicked, and Ihall turne upon them whatfoever they impoled upon Chriil, to cru(h them , and to become their utter confufion, He will cau(e a fpirit of enmity to po(re(Ie them, they fliallone deftroy aaother : their Coun(ells againft him, (hall fall upon themselves. His agony (hall worke in thqir (pirits fuch Article.2. rheCekqutflofChiji, 73 (uch an unfpiakcable horror and angnifli of confcicncc, as cannot be pacified : Death fhall ceaie upon them as a Viikur upon a Carcas ; it fhall be as a King of fcares unto them : The face of it fhall be terrible : the very thoughts of it a farre of fiiall bca^ a Sward hanging by a briftle over their heads, and appall them as the hand- writing did BelJhazLzar^ inthemidftofhisCilps : And when it comes , it (hall caufe their lips to quiver ;> and their bones to tremble : it (hall be with them as with him , who cryed out, v/rdtched man, muft 1 die^ What I All my bagges, my trcafures, n^y ddlicatiefare, my pleafiiresjmy revenues, my forti- ptiious apparrell and dwellings, myretince', friends and flat- terers, all pulled away ! Oh! itfliallopcnandprefcntHelljand the jawesofSatan anddeftruftiong wrath and eternall fire; to Twallow them •' What (hift now wilt thou make , Opoor^ (btile, which wcrt wont to fport thy felle, to folace thy heavy thoughts andipirits, with jeftsandgiggestogo, todoj to talke 5 to lye dowhjto rife up at thy pkafure , and to gird thy felfe ;but now, another fhall gird thee,what wilt thou now doe t when all thefe fhall leave tfacedrencht and drown'd in the pit of defpaire , and finall deftruftion \ Oh I betimes labour to get thy linne par- doned, the fling of it removed , the power of it fiibdned , the Divell conquered, thy con fcience at peace 0 thy reckoning rea- dy J and all the enemies of thy peace at league with thee not falfe- \y but truly^that fb the (ting of death being taken out , thy hor- Efayag.ij. rors and feares may alfo vanifh. Except Ghritts Conqaeft be for thy Redemption,it ferves for thy fubverfion. Contrary wife , ( as ! fa yd before ) this viftory of ChrifJ, ferves for the infinite comfort of them that fight under his Banner, becaufe for them C hrifthath conquered as for him felfe : and f as meane as heere they feerae) he hath taken them up in- to]his triumphant Chariot. Noneofthecroffes, enemies which he hath conquered , fhall hurt them. Death it felfe ( the laft ene- my) fhall be made a friend as H their rags arc caft off, their robes arc put on. Or , do they mp«rne , bccaufc tl|ey are taken away in their Hiiddleage ? §o W:^? Chri^, biit he prevented eternity , and. h^$ Crowne , thereby. Qr are they afrayd of t>he (eparatioo of foulc and body? But they are united already ia their head, and their fiip^ration fliall be a perfcftion at their rctnrne. Or, fliall they loofe their friends i Kay cheirfricndsihallloofc them ^ but their gaine (hall be^ flOt to need them. Or, (hall they part with the Ordinances of Qhrift 1 They (hall loofc fome love tokens , but enjoy their Bridegroome. Or, (hall they be layd by the walls and in the moulds 1 That di(honor (hall tend to purify, to beau- tify thfcm, when th^jf -conqueft fliall appcarc* Or, (hajlthfy 'tiotfeeihc wel-fare of their children, fcvtit leave them to the wide World ? They (hut them up m the Arke of Chrifts CoH- quelt, never to be hurt or wronged. Thus much of the conqueft. The 7 vwl- C^ Having ended tite Merit , frofced to the feventh and Uft .{j^ing. Jhe Braneh ofthisfceondArtkk '. What if. the np^lfm^ werke efChri^ •/ihl'^e''" ^nd-tvyeremdothitjt^nd? . ^ What it i"?' ^' ^^ ^^ ^^^^ folerane part of his Mediation,for the (ake where- of he for(bokc the earth, and was exalted above all principalities and fitteth at the right Hand of God, his Father, thatbyhisin- terceflioa alwayes made for his Church, he might apply to all tht members, the power of this fatisfaftion , that it might workc w^ . ^ Faith in thofe that want it,and confirmc it in tho(e that have it* 3>u . ^-^Qiy i^^,ult. The Prophet addeth this to the powring out of hi* I I«hn z, foule, that h^prayedfor the traufgreffors. And S. lohrt ^wcs hifQ the name of our yfdvoeate with the J-'/tther : for this cau(c, that the Church may 6njoy the fruit of his death contipnally .And the Au- thor to the Hehrewei (kith. That he ever iiv^th tatfiake interccffiou form. The High Prieft under the Law, appeared onccaycarc with blood in the Holy of Holies, to bring forth a gcnerall i-ccoo- ciliatioR, but the Lord Jefus, forever. Aadasthecndehecrcof arc many, to wit, to prcfent the prayers ofhis people unto God, to A«ide2* Chriftisik4fflpr<>fhhmiHU 7% to hold them clofe to his Fxtherj and kwpe them in his love % tfS <0vcr their daily offenccSjand continue their jnftification and ac« (Jtptancc^to unite them one to another, and to pr oteft them from enemies : fe efpecially to bleffe the MinUtery of his GofpcU, for «hc breeding Faith in the foules of the eleft, by the pre> chitig of this his blood and death. As wee may icccleerelyln lohn 17. ( that Iwavcnly Chapter ) where ail thcfc ^rc dekri* I<»hn i^" m. • • ■' ' ''^''-^ Marke thertjit is not enough for the Lord JefuSjto procure the price of our peace, bwt he plyes the Father with it, and offers up by bis eternall Spirit, the merit and valour of hialatisfadion, for the effeaualldrav/itigbfthe hearts of his people, to belleyc the Gofpeli. His bloud is the feede of the Churth(forwhat Werd Wprd or Saaanient , but for him t ) but that which doth cherifli this ftede , and give a body to it in the conlciences of men, is the application of it by this intercelTion. More fully thuSjAs by flilr filling ali righteouthelle , . the Lord Jefus h^th pleafed the Father, and is fo gracious to him , that he granti him whatfoever hee as- kethrfodoth Jefus to the uttermoif in' proove this favour, and applyeth the comfort thereof to all his, that they may undeffland how powerfuli and prevayling hee istoobtainewhatfbeverhcc dcfircth. And hence it is, that till his aicenfion, the Comforter iohld not bei fent : but after when he prayed, then came hCj and brought to minde^7A-\6. fealed to the hearts of his Difciples, whatso- ever they hiftl heard preached before. So that when wee (ce the prevailing pov^rcr of the Word and Sacraments in the weakeMi- niftery of flefti 5 what fhall we afcribc it unto, but the povi^er of this applying workc of our Advocate , who convcyes (avor of life,ofbrokenncflre of heart, Faith and regeneration thereby in- to the foules of his t And in this refpcft hee is the Key of his Fathers bofomc and Fountaine, to unlock and fet it open ( be- ing (ealed before)for Ineiah and Jerufalem to wafti in,as Zach, 13. Zacli.x ?,i. I. Let the Reader looke in the third Article in thepriviledge of Adoption. VT Qjyhat is the ufe thereof ? A. As it i( fingulai for 9II ufcs to the Church in gcnerallg '^f' *» and all the lively members thereof in all concerncments of it whatibever : as acceptance of their prayers, being perfumed with the fwcetc rnccnfc heertjof ; protcftion of their pcrfonSj fafcgard againft enemies , fuftentation of their foules in grace, perfc- ^6 Chrift Applies his fatisfa^ion^ Part. 2. jjerfeverancc and the like : io efpecially that which we readc Heb. I o. I ?. Beb,. 1 0. 19. 1 0.2 1. Seeing \by the Bbud ef lefus wee have a living way made umo us by his fle(h : Let us draw neere with a, ytire heart in a^nrance of Faith. Oh 1 it (hould bee as a wcl- ipring of Salvation for every dry (biilc to come unto , even in the grcateft barrenHcfle, deadnefle and feareot heart, that the merit of Chrift (hould not belong to it. Doe but conftderthis Advocateftiippe of Ch R i s T, continued for ever for thee, lefns Chrifi jefierdayj today at^dfor ever^ Hebrewes 1 3,8. to this Heb«4. end , that the Gofpell and the preaching of the promife might bee lively , pearcing and powerful! to divide the joynts and warrow j and to create in thy ibule the fruite of the Lippef, wliich is peace. If thou hadft the Kings Sonne for thy Advo- cate to the King for fome fuite , wouldft not thou thinke there . '-«, were life in it t Therefore goenottothe Word and Sacrament any more with a dead and C^ddQ heart, as if there were nothing in them, fave an out-fide of mans voyce, and efficacy to per- -^ — " Iwade : befcold Chrift in them , who by his applying power, convey es into them , ttrength , favor , perfwafion and grace, that his poore people may not heaire his Word as a dead letter, or receive the Sealcs as dumbe elements , but as divine ordi.-' nances aflifted with the Spirit of Chrift; and therefore able to breed Faith in the foule^ and truely to carry it into the ftreame of hisfatisfaftion. What is the ufuall complaint of moft peoplein their hearings and ufe of meanes , but this : That the Minifter is uneffcftuall to them, they hcare with fiiiall light or quickning of heart ? The promife. they grant to be faithfiill, and the Sacrifice of Chrift full J)f merit : but they are (b to iiich as mixc them with Faith. Why poore fou^c ? doth the Lord fo offer thee Chrift in his Gofpell, as if he left it to thee to fhift for Fajth ? Is not Faith his gift who gave Chrift ?Pivide no^ the things which God hath put together* Deceive not thy fclfe in the condition of FaithjandafTure thy (elf^ Kcvel 1' the Lord Jefus will give thee both mcatc and appetite 5the objeft Heb.ii) 3. of his righteoufhefle ^and Faith to believe it alfo. He is Alpha and Omega^the author and fini^^er of ffur,F,aithf Meb, 12^ ^. and he doth live for ever withGod,to make good his fatisfaftion to his people, by giving power to hisu'ord to breed Faith : that as it cannot be without \xfi) it may lumift in it , and our Faith might not reft in naaiijbut in Cod, , ,, .^ ;,>.'; Secondly, Article, g. Gods Imputation the forme of luliification- Jj Secondiyjct atl ftich be exhorted to deny their owncftrcngtfa. yfg 2. conceits, hopes or feafes , and as oft as they goe to the Word, remember it is a word of reconciliation. And therefore looke up to this grand Mafter of Pvcqiiefts, and apply the worthi»e(Ie ofthis Prayer to thy poore empty foule : Yiiy thus ^ The caufe of my unbelieving hearing , is my little relped to him who hath the Key of all grace : if I could looke upon him and (ay , Lord Jedis, convey fjmc part of thy F.ithers Fountaine into my heart : derive it by a channell for the nonce into mee ; Oh, thou ftioaldft finde the Spirit of peifawfion to rew/e^yea to fill thy foule in thy hearings/ Yea, let all the faithful! Minilkrs of God comfort themielvcS Vfe, 3. in their weakenelTe 5 and defefts of preaching, in their deadnefic of heart to the workc of Faith , in the little fuccefle of their labours , in the wofuU hardfteffe of heart in the people ; The Lord Jefus , by his Spuic of intercelTiorj holo'es them as his ^ ' Can^le-flickes hi his right Hand : hee doth as thofe two Olives^ ^*''^^" ^* Zzch,i\. alTift his LarKpes , and drop in this Oyle of gifts and grace 2ach.4,^« upon them : hee doth make them as Pau/^ able Minifiers of Recoyiciliation^ that by them and out of their nothing hee aray *'^°''"5* create the fruit "f the /ipfjVeace : and he will uphold Gofpell^ gr Miniiltry, and the power of both, in the midft of their enemies : '^ ^* a nd ale hough they be never fb furious, yet, /l//V^. 2. 7. his Spirit Mica.2,7. (hall oot bee y^-aitncd , but his Word (hill ftill bee good to fuch as walke uprightly. And of the (eaveti branches of the (econd Ar- ticle,thus much. Article III. Qj4efii9-f7. ^■Hat ii the third Article of the /econd Fart ? q^ js ioipu- A, That the aft of God tlic Fathcrimputing tadon is the the merit of Adtive and Paffive rightcoufncfle of fomieofour ourratisfier^toafinfuU {oule, is the true formall j'>ftifi«afio"' and being cauie of Juftification. Q; This vpord of ImpHtcitioni4 indeed oft tifed in the point of lufification : what doth it intport ? |!' e^. It is (tich?n aft of God the Father iatisfied, as doth take ... this righteoufneire and reckon it to the needing foule as her ^ **' *'^"* owe. 78 G9dt ImpHMkn the firms ofjufiificatim^ Part. 3»^ own, (although it be inherent in another ) tocaft upon it an eftatCj of as full and pcrfeft freedome and acceptance j a^ifit had never finne, or had fully fatislied. For lookc how he dealt with our furety j he made him iinnc for us, that is, imputed it to him as his , ( which imputation the Lord Jeftis found ro be no conceit or notion but a reall thing ) fo doth he take his righte- oulhede and count it ours^that it might be really ours indeed -Ac- comptantsof (ummes of money or creditors, if they differ a- bout their reckoningSj fall toefteemingofadebtjOrare^eipt, as t(iey c^n : and fb at length ^ cither by not intiputinga funirne due, which yetmay bedue, oreHeimputinga fiim-fiicaspayd, which perhaps is not^grow to an iiliie. And that v/hich moovet h t hem hereto, is peace. So heere^the Lord cnclining to make peace with the fbiile, efteeaies not a defperate debt, which yet is ft debt,and efteemesit as payd by the foule, wl^ch yet fhee cannot pay. See texts. And this imputation is a full difcharge, no hole can be pickt in it. Q^This doEirine of Imfutation is fcmevphAt da^ke totnee, there-' fore exfUine it j and fir ft the fkrafes ufed i^j the Holy Ghofi .- for. fometime heefpeak^s of lm^i\t\ng,fcme-ivhat^ fometlme- of not Iin- puting, and againe in one^lace, hee jpeakts'oflmfwx.mg rigliteouf^ nefle, fometime of Imputing Faith tor righteoufneflc : Rom. 4.5 . £learethefetermes, v^.By the terme of not-imputing rinne^and imputing righteouf^ nefle ; he intimates in how many reipeds Chrifl hath holpen us : to wit.both to forgiveneilfe in the onejbelng made fnne for hs : and to acceptation in the other 5 by clothing, us with his ligfcteour nefie : yet lb, as by both Aftive and Padive righteoufncfle joynt- Pfal.jijT: ly,not feverally confidercd. Conferre/y^/.32.i.with 2 C^^r. 5.17. »Cor.5'i7» xvhercboth cover itJg fnne and reco^cilin^^ are made the effefts of not imputing finne. By the (econd phrafe, we muft conceive one thingto be meaot. For its familiar with Pauho ufe theie two phrafes for one thing j namely,imputation ofFaith^and of righteoufncs.Notthat Faith can in any Icnfe be our righteoufnefie : but becaufe Chrift appre- hended by Faith , is the fame thing , with Faith it felfein the Scripture. Befides, wc know. Faith muft ever concunre with im- putation in the aft of it j and therefore the Holy Ghoft honours itjWith the nawe of being imputed to rightcoufnefTe. That Faith inufl needs Co conciirjHOtc three things in this workc ; Fir ft, God enables Article^g. Gddsjfftputathn theforme&flHJiific^ition* 79 enables th2 foule to believe on th^ Lord Jefus by the promile, m^ \ the fpirit thereof. Sscondiy , the -foale yecldeth and confen.t- j eth. Thirdly 3 God calteth hereby this righteoufnefle, ( thus believed ) upon the Soule , and imputes it to pardon and life. \ Faith then alway co.icarres withiniputation : the like where- to may be Tayd of juftitication, which it were biafphemy to a- fcribe to Faith (feeing its God that jaftificth) but yet Faith is ftill n^yd to j'Jltifie , because of her neceff[iry concurrence. The which Phrafe is tropicall , the ififirptmint being put for the prinapall agent, Ocherwife in proper fpeech, alas 1 How fhall poore faith apprehend in the (oule an infinite righteouf^ nefTe , except wc take it thus , that God by Faith (as his owne inftrument ) doth convey all the objeft of Ghriftatonceinto us ? . And this I would have the Reader to marke fortwocaufes. The Hrft, to decide this queltion fo much demanded , whether Faith apply Chrift in each of his merits particularly, or no? ^^ft- To which 1 fayjihat it is the Worke of God tha Father ,• to pro*- ^ r y. pbftidn the merits of Chrift Jefus in' particular to the fojles ^ iieed ; its God the Father, who accepts the merit , and there- fore only can proportion it. Poore finite Faith ( though it know never lb much ofthe particular merit ) yet cannot doe it, be- cause the merit, is infinite. Faith only hearmg the offv^r of God C already rccc^iled and appealed by this merit) to be freely ten- drcd to her, rcccaves this tender as God makes it, all that is , the Lord Je(iis made by God t j the foule, vvifdome, righteoulhcs, and what clfe (bever. So that whether we comprehend the thing offered or no , its not materiall , if we believe the offer to bee truely made to us,. we r.€ccive it in the kind wherein God be- ftowesit ; and in a word when wee cannot comprehend it, the Lord comprehends us. So tiiat Faith is a calting of the foule up- on the offer of C h r i s t from the Father , giving him all at once in all his good thin£;s C ^^diichthe Spirit reveales 5 and the more the better ) yet Faith is not in this mofl to be admired for particular applying each benefit , but for her accepting of what the Lord h.\th couched in theofFir,thatis,whokChrilh Secondly, I fay^ thisanfwere is to bee noted againft a Schifmati- call opinion of fonie, that hold , ths aft of believing5to beetb.at which God accepts to juftification. A dangerous conceit-'which makes Chrift a ineere r«rvant to Faith, aiidwrider the colour of 4 iffcribing 1 8o Godt Imputation the forme ofjujlification* Part.2/ . afcribing honour to Faiib 5 takes ^way all Chrifts prehemjnence. For although this opinion exclude not Chrift wholly, from the reckoning , yet in the aft 'of juftifying , it onely gives all to the worke of Faith. And they fay, as the aft of e^^^wi fianc condemned him : lb the aft of our Faith juftiiies us. But the Parallell is fooliih and ablurd. zAdams fitine might Gondemne himfelfeand us : bus our Faith can neither fave ours nor our lelveSjOf it felfe : that wiaich it faves us by, is the ob jcft and merit which it apprehends, and that by the aft of Gods imputing it to us. * Qy\g^ Q; Ton fieme te make imputation an atl of Gods free grace : theypordisufedai an aU ofjujiice^ for Paul faith ^ To him who Rom-4,4,f . worktthjrighteoufnes is imputed by debt ? I, anfwer, P^/^/ there oppofing juftification by workcs , and /uftification by Faith j ( for the more currant expretfion ) ufeth one word in both cafes : but very improperly. For its as if a man ftiould fay to his debtor. Pay me an hundred pounds , and I will impute it as a whole dif- ch?rge. This w^c know is no proper fpeech, for in liich a cafe its fm^U thanke to him to impute that, for which he is bound to give acquittance : fo that imputing(properIy")i8 gracious-For it is fuch an aft of God, as comming betwcene our believing and his jufti- fyingj dothnotlcgallytakeany difchargeof debtfromus, but doth gracioufly impute that which is net ours , as if it were ours, for the making of iis guiltleflfe and accepted. «^ Ql^ J conceive joh fomewhat better, Howheit IfiiUfee that int" putation is of fuch a thing as is our own really : vphy then not as well of a thing inherent ^ viz. a righteof^nejfe of our own ^ as the Pafijls dreame ? • - A fecond -^.Becaufe the(e two have a wide difference, 'i/iz. to bee really doubt. made ourSjand to be from, or inherently in us : The righteoufhes Anfw, of Chrift imputed,cannot juftifie us, except it be ours ; howbeit it is fo,notbecaufe it comes from whin us, but bccauie its call up- on us ; and in a word,its not firft in us and then imputed : but firft imputed,and then made ours. ^l^ut hew can meere imputation make a thing really curs ? A, Yea, Nothing can be more reall than imputation. The HowimpuW' imputing of a man is reall, when heimputesanuncertaine and tion is a rcall undue payment , as if ccrtaine and due ; and this is good and thing? firme among men. I^<«wV/f net imputing i'/?t«!^/V ray ling , is % Sam4i9. i?. ^ fufllcient rckaife to him of the offence aad punifhmcnt. The , ' imputing Ar tide. ^,Geds Imputation the for fm oflujlification* 8 1 imputing o^ Adams finne to us, is as rcoll, as ifivehadbeene in the Garden with him. Chrifts taking our guilt upon him, was .iis reallj and as really felt, as if himfelfe had been theoiFender. And -fhall not his imputed lighteoufiieffe bee as reall as if our (elves could In Our own perfons have fatisfied , or as if wee had needed none ? Yes verily. 'Q^ JVhatiifueththenfrom-thiiimpatationofCfod'? A, The aft of God )uftifylT5g us really, and freely from all our Theifluecf finne and guilt, and all the curfe due theretOj quitting us by pro- this dotSrinc. clamation (as I may fay) fr6m Heaven, by thevoyceofhisSpi- ^^°"^'^*33* rit through faith : fo that heaving difabled all enemies from giving in evidencejlochc abfolveth us as having nothing come in againft us. As once hee icattered thole accufers of the Woman, /f?/?;? 8. lobnS. fo that none came in to accufe her, but turned their backs with .confufion, and (b difcharged the Woman : fo doth heehcre! having difabled all evidence againft us,, hee doth impute blame- .ablcnefle unto us, and dcclaFC to us our rightcoufnefre, yea loh-^i •proclaiming us righteous.) And as the Creditor abhorres to ' A-eceive the debt of his debtors furety, and yet to count him a debtor ftill : fo the Lord having accepted Chrifts price for uSg abhorres fo to difable his Sonnes payment, as to require the debt at our hands the fecond time: but rather difables his owne Wrath and Juftice from thinkingof any further demand of us. ' Whereas it^^ight bee ob/eftcd. How can that bee his free aft, Qy.g^ which hath luch a price paid to purchale it M answer. No ^»Ay* man dare call it free on tke behalfc of the Fathera^idChrift: for fo its the deareft purchafe that the World ever heard of : but inrefpeft of both the Father and Chrift to us;'Ward : the Father hath freely given himlclfe content in his Sonne, and Chrift hath freely yeelded it to the Father: fo that (whatioever it coft Chrift) it cofts us nothing : wee may coime (nay muft j without our coft, with empty bands, and buy it fornothing ; fo that in ft*uth, the more it coft to purchafe, and the Icfle ic coft us to come by, the freer is that juftification which abfblves us : and the truer is that of Taul^ Kom»^.iAf. Being jptftijiedfreelj hj his grace » : Q^What is the tife hereof ? > ^-^^ < '• A, The Vies arc many. Let mee beginne witli-yoa of my vfe i, ownc Congregation, to whom although as d«ad, yet I fpeake Ff this S2 0o^s mputatioH' theferme oflnfitficatioH* Part. 2 • this (being as you know, the laft Sermon I preacht among you) let, I (ay, my admonition unto you, be this : It hath not beene with you as with every Congregation wherein preaching hath beene. To you I may truly fay , that now toward theft fifty fix yeeres the Lord Jeftis hath beene crucified among you. I doubt not but the Lord hath thoufands in many Congregations of this land a who though they have wanted that full and cleare light which you have enjoyed, yet (as faithtull (er?antsof God) waike with him, and ferve him inftantly day and night in hmplicity of heart and innocency of life, Givt me leave to iay unto you • in this five or fix yeeres of my labours paft (befidcs Sermons) God hath revived the doftrine of Chrift and Sacraments : of fclfe- deniall, faith, the (atisfadiouj the imputation of righteoufhefle among you, (and God grant you long to enjoy the doftrine and praftifc of thefc grounds :) but what anfwer fliall yec make to God, if as he hath walked in and out with you in all his truths opening unto you ^11 theft well-fprings of falvation , and con- cealing nothing from you , which humane wcakncfle hath beene able to utter i you (till ftiall faile and come (hort of fiich people as fl may truly (ay) have had but the Baptifoie of7o/;« among them 1 Thus I fpeak in refpcft of that clccre light of all Chrifl- both in his (atisfadion and Gods imputation, in (calbn and out of feafon urged unto you. Remember; To whom mnchis given , of them much n>ill here- tjuiredl What would many Sunuchf^ Cornelififfes;mnd Profelytesy (ignorant of thole things that have beene pind to your fleevcs ) give that the things you have heardmighrfound in their eares? Why is all this coft, but that you might alfowalke in and out, with God, in all your wayes? not onely in a moralljabftinent, harmelefle J and honeit manner (which yet is a great favour) but with a broken and felfedenied heart, living by daily in this impu- Mcb.iJ.*, 1 tation ofa fatisfaftion ? holding your part in it yefterday, to day and for ever? Do ye not accompt it one thing to live by gueflc and devout aymes : and another to know by it your Righteoufkefle 5 " to cleave to it by a promife ? To clcnle your felves from all loofe- Hcfle andprivielufts? to leaibn all your liberties, to alleniate and lupply your erodes, to enable you to allduti.es, to fruftifie all meaneSi to fanftifie all eftates, and to make your death happy and welcome 1 Beware, beware, left there be fou!id among poore peo- j^le (that never heard of the Do6:rines which thus long have founded Article 5. The ufe of the third Articles S5 (bunded in your earCs) many whofe fimplicity, innocencyand zeale exceeds yours. Oh / let not any of you be found naked (at the comming of Chrift) of this robe of his, or lying at thefe wel- fprings without power to tafte them ! Be not unfetlcd in a Chri- ftian courie, ftand faft in your liberty : go on with God in all racancs^ duties, and graces, yea even in the hardeft times, ftrcights and diftempers : fuffer no love of the earth, profit, ealcyluft, to cclipfe the lultre of th« Lord Jefiis which hath fliined among you | Butj as many of Gods Saints, before by parting , and fincej have dyed with joy and triumph by this imputation of Chrilt : fo ftrive ye, and run ye as ye may overtake them , and none maj tak* a,vpAf this your crovf»e from youi Decline not (as you do) to (chfu- ality, formality and Gommonnefle. Secondly, let this bee coniblation to all faint and wcake "^P^* children of God, in the fight of their little grace and mcane gifts ; and in the feare of perfevering to the end. For the firft, tell ^^^^^j^ j. me, weakc (bule, if I (hould come and (ay , Thou wert as holy as Job^ as upright as Di^W, bcleeving as yi^r/t^^?», zealous as PA/» w^^/, would it not make thy heart leape within thee ? Surelyj al- though I dare not fay thefe of thee, yet I dare fay this, If all thelc had not the Robe of Chrifts imputed Righteoufnefle caft over the holieft of all their graces , their unhallowednefle had defiled them^ and the greateft of their holincfle had not profited them. And loe, this Robe thou haft as fully, largely, and deepcly, as th« fecft of all theft ever had. The imputation of God is cquall to all his juftified ones : one hath no more than another. If thou couldft come in and (ay. That AbrfihAm or /'^^^jp^ -' ! Thirdly, inrefpeft of the prerogative oFit,' that its aidmitted to be all in all with God for the (cule : I maylay itisthatupptf ?arth in this militant courfe, which HoliiaciTe {hall bein Heaven. ' ■ ■ For Article 3 • thenfii&fib third Artkk; §5 For *th faith only whick maintaines Unionjand thereby c©nima« nion with God. She is as the Lord privic Scale, thorow whole hands all grants paflTe and take effeft : no one profliile can be Yea and Amen, without her. Shec receives from God a right to all mercies, ordinances, and priviledges : concurres with God in this great work of imputing Chrifts righteoulnefle, yea, and the Lord dares truft her with her prerogative. Its faid, Salomon {&, his mother Bfithjheha by him fitting on his Throne; forlhewas (afe, and would not pull aw^y, but afcribe glory to hi-ni, and compt hers to reft in bis. So is faith admitted in a fort CQdoe all under God,to juftificjtd imputejto reconcilcjand the rett ; becaufe ftee is made for thenoficej ftiee is Icyall, and made for the honour of God all that can be (thinking her lelfe {afe when (he can fet the Crowne upon bis head •) but abhorring all treachery , flieeis a grace that excels all which AiiUnf ever had ; becauft flio hides aM her life, hopes, and welfare with Chrift in God ; hethatftealee away her treafure, muft rob the Lord firlt, who keepes it. Where- as, Adam in the midft of all his perfeftion, yet eould keepe no "one parcell of it, but loft all at once 5 fliec can both apply the pronii(e offered in Chrifl,and the imputation of righteoufiiefle from God the Father, both ac once, and hath (in a (brt) a kindc of omnipo* tence with God, and fo alfb 5 makes that which comes from her^ (as prayer, hearingsSacramcnts^and the like) of the (ame,precious, elfeftuail nature with her felfe. , Fourthly, let it provoke all that partake this imputation, to bee thankfull to God for his moft wile and gracious providence, ^7^ 4* that hath cafttheu' portion (bin this life, that if there be any dc* feft, it fhould bee in things of lefle neceflity : but for thofe that are moft eflentiall, hee is moft large and full in his provifiou for them. I may lay, the Lord dealcs for the foules of his people, at for their mindes: hee hath fo written the Scriptures, that if any obfcuritics remaine, they are about things of circumftance.which are not Co abfolutely needfull to bee knowne: but if they bee of weight and eflence, they are left plaine and evident* So here, if he faile us in any grace, it is in ibme fruits of faith , as the grace of thankfiilneflc, love, and joy,which are to be imperfeli^ in this li/e, and (o in knowledge of particular calesjor the like,(n6he of which, though we had them, could juftine us : ) but as for the grace of re- conciliation, and imputation of perfect righteourne(Ie,which only can accept usj and pardon us, and cover all our wants, this hee F f 3 hath 86 ThenfesefthethirdArtkk^ Part. 2. hath provided to the full for uSjCven in this lifeto enjoy. I fay^in theinidfiofalliiTiperfeftion, yet the perfedtion ot that which cannot be wanted^he hath given us. Yca,and this he will have his people to know^al though it is the bane of hypocrites j Yet it is the cordial! of each poorebeliever 5 Dogs only wiU Inap at it,to nian- tainc themiclvcs in alicentiouscourie , but the believer will blcflc God for it , and be fo farre from laying it in his own way, as a block of prelumptton.that rather he will fay, it the Lord hath fo regarded me, as to accomptmchi« perfect righteculhes, in the midft of my unavoydable corruptions of Nature and life 5 (hall I turne his grace into wanton/ie^e?ot (hal not I kecpeall wilfull wicic- cdnefTe from his eyes, who hath turned his eyefrom all ray tranf^ gteflions? Vfe 5. Fifthly, let it be a ground of Selfideniall to us. As we would ob- taine this rigbteoufiies ( f anotherjiJb let us be naked of our felves. J r en i ember what is written of that wot thyjlearncd and holy Scot Mafter Rollock^^m his life ; That being on his deathbcdjand much encouraged bvithem that vifited hinijby his worthy labours,! ab- horre((aith he^fpyrjedorftiip of Uaivcrlity,readerftiip of Divini- ty,and paftorfhip of jE(^f;?^/^r^/7(all which with great proht to sll^ be underwent ) that I may be found in Ghrilt, doathed with his righteoufnefle : all mine own is dung in comparifort of this. , . Ifwebejuffjby imputingoftherighteoufnesofother.whatflial become of Gur own ? As once a Philolopher handled a Gallanc th^t boafted of his great Lands in ^Athens , he (hewed him a Map and asked him where they lay \ fo in this Map of Gods juihfica- tionjall our abilities muif vaniih:we know,a full iiimof debt pay- ?d 5 needs no ithjjutation, it may plead acquittance. Coraeto the Lord,forhisroyallworkejhisi''/>r,without any thing, empty and bafcjthat thou maift concurre with him in that he feekethjthe Calory of his grace in bis Sonne,Come as Mefhiyofhethy a limping a Sam. 19. cripple to 1)avid , TVhea I was a dead dog , my Lord accepted me, hy fOovG Abigail fent for to be a Qaeene, faid. Let mehtan hofdfisaid^ to wajhthefeeteof thy fervams, Shec knew, mcere aSaraaf. mairiage to a King would make a Qyeene , without bringing any thing. And thus doing , thy nnworthinesfhali not hurt thee, but helpe on this robe upon thy bare (houlders. Gome thus to thetord and ray^HccrCjLordjis a naked wretch ; put ont the Lord Jcfusupanrae I have no clothing to hinder thee ; thoubidft mep/f f himm j Rom, 1 3 . hU. but Lordjdoe tho« fit him for me in par- Article.5' 1'he ufes of the third Article. %y particular, for my {oul?, for my finne, againft my curfe* and then take him. Lord, put him on tne aKb, reckon him to mc. accompt with mee i-n him, and make mee his righteoufiieflc, as t hou madeft him my nnne , Jind I fhail accompt it as real! , a^ it I had it of my owne. Sixthly, let it ftabliih and comfort every belecvcr againft all his fcares. Oh I it cannot finke into a poorefouleprivietoall her defilements, that the Lord fhoiild ever pardon or accept her. The daily and hourely objcfts of her finnes are before her. But rcmemberj imputation is not a taking of all fin out of thee at once (that muft abalc the heart 3 as it aba(ed thy furetv) but a not im- puting it unto thee. Latimer preaching to King Sdward^ told him that once a King o^ EngUnd had a Cup-bearer, who bring ng him a Cup of wine, by errour let it fall af his foot. The King olfendcd with his raftinefle, asked him if that were not ill done t Hc/iiddenlyanrweredj Noj if it plea (c your Grace, ifyouthinkc fo. Even (q in this, our bleflcdneflTc ftands notmourwant of finne, but in the Lords not imputing it. The Bufti btirnt, but the wonder was, that it was not conftimed. The Lord imputes not thy finne, covers it, takes away thecondcmning power » imputes not the aftuall offences thereof to thee. Hee lookes at his ownc Image in thee ; in all thy duties, prayers, there is thy Dung- hill, and his Pearle, hcc beholds that which is his, covers that which is thine (not to make thee bold, but thankfull and hum- ble ) If thou have a cup of precious wine, thou fayett not to thy friend, Pledge mee in water , though thou have put more water then there is wii.c into it. Thou eftcemeft it by the better part. Hold this, and thou may ft (ay with Pdul^Romq, Imyjtlfe delight in the Law of God: and not /, but finne in me : though elle he faid» O wretchedman that J aniy who fhall del ver mi> ? Thus much of this fifth branch or fpring of falvation : drink of this Brook, and thou flialt indeed, ^'<7^ it. 3. draw water eft ffthp web of alvation, 1 have beenc larger here, becauleitisthechicfeofthefevenj more briefcofthcreft. Laftly, let this excellency of faith , as it is comfortable in one icfpeft, (b it may yet humble us in another. For imput-ition is < n- ly for this life , and argueth a deleft of that which (hall be in iho- thcr. The thing imputed is p'-rftft * but the perfon t > whom, is corrupt: and faith her (eltc fliall cca(e and bee abolifht. vVee. will perhaps confcfle that wee (hould blank for our corruptions F f 4 of ^/*7. 8g The GofitU revedes Chrifi. Part. 2 • of pride and covetoufneflTe : ba^ the tmthis^ oar grace, andver- tues ftiCHiU humble us: yea, faith it felte, becaufet^ilJ our life of inherence and perteft holinefie is wanting. And fo much for this tWrd Article. TheGofpell and the offer of grace in U, is the.rcvcalcr of this deUve- raace. HcM.iJ, iCor.y.i©,si Article IV. Roceed to the fourth ay^rikle^fhew what it is. and the Coherence thereof with the former m A. Ic layes fortli the meane or whyjby which (ordinarily) the Lord exhibits unto and icttles upon the poore (inner this deliverance. As touch- ling the coherence, as in the three forn.erAiti- cles,the fcuntaine m God, and the foundation of it in Chrift isdefcribed : fo in this fourth is fhewed^how thefoule may.know them both to be hers : Its faid, Beh. 4. 13. That Gad yoith whom we have to do, is a Searcher, &c. Note it. The foule in her djftrcffe hath to doe with God, to his Tribunail Ihee ftands as her Judge. NoWg it is not the hearing of his giving of Chrift, nor of a fa- tisfaftion, which can quiet her: but this, that fhee Hiay know its given and performed for her. Htre therefore in this fourth Ar- "ticle, I fay, the offended Father hath accepted this latisfacHon, is well pleaded with it, his heart ismadeplacablebyit, and now hi« heart is opeDed,and his boibme of love bared towards a poore wretch ; and this hee utters by a procJUmation, and by ao offer of grace to them, if they will beleeve hira to meane as he fpeakcs. See 2 Cor. 5. 20j 21. Him that k^etvmfinne^ hee made f%nne,tffc; And what of this 1 Therefore he io.tt\i^ Be reconciled to God, Now when the foule hcaresofthis ground and building, flaee feclcs her felfe to have foracwhat to fay for her felfe in this her defiling with God : I thankc thee , O Lord, for granting it, and for the price paid : but now,^ feeing thou haft done ir, that in thy be- ing latisfied, I might have my part in it, as offered aod pmd to my flceve, when I iee a thing more previous thrm the world, layd in my lap by thy hand^ I tremble to think I Ihouldrefufe my own ialvation* Q^Becanfe this feint Is larrge ^therefore Uy downe feme farticw tars -Articl^i^. the Golf ell reveals Chriji, 89 lars to unfolf^. Andfirfh^whAt is thfa- tui'e. than' cjf the Gofpdli : no <>ne fparkle oi the latter is in us by nature j, it (lands itiserely in Revealing. Hence /*^»/' fo oft preflfeth it as a Mjfiery hidden from th? Foundations of thr: Wjrld, a T^ra.i.?. 10, till now the Gofpell unveyled the Curtaine. And although tl*e Loxd reve,tled this in a dai'fee feft^alnd within narrow boundsj and ill fMndry forts in tinges pajt, according to their capacity, yet now , oncly by tJiis mtms' »f hi* Sonne in the GafpeH^^^^'^'^' ■ Beb.i.i, ^o ihtdofj^tUsofferreveaUChrift* A^ Part 2. Q_^Ht is there notjome pecnliar thing in the^tfpel/Jjjg which he re-- veal'- s it ? cX. Yes and that is his gracious ofFcT,niade to the foule there- in : which is nothing elfe, but the ex^reflioH ot the covenant of Grace, that he is willing a poorc foule may come to him without doubting and feare, because he holds oftt the Golden Scefter unt a ky and bids ityBee reconciled. Hither rcfcrre all thofc texts where- in this offer is made, both in the covenant and in the fcalc otBap- Ef,^ y < 5 . 1. tifrae , Efay 5 %. i .Ho^ every tne thAt thirfteih ccme. And, Let him Rcv.ta- z7« thdtthirfieth, drinke freely jR.ev.%1,1 J. and John y.'^j.Jn the j^reat lohn 7>37» day of the feafi^ lefm cryed^ If any man thirjfrylet him come.So that as a Prince,having fet up his Proclamation in all places , intimates his mind : fo the Lord by this 1 ender of Ghriil,is acquitted from all afperfion of unbcteamingnefle. The opening And ftrely who fd will profit by this Article,rnufl: get thisle^ of the point, f^^ by i^^garj ; T^^t the Lord who freely puFpoftdjand faithfully (cnt his Sonne into the world , ttill continues his freedome, and doth offer the Lord Je(us with his excellency moft tiecly. A bot- tome ot molt unff^eakable comfort to all poorcjbruifcd reeds and broken foules. For it he be freely offredj what poore (buk Ihould doubt to accept him ? VV hat is freer than gift 1 He that gave him freeIy,oan not withdraw him again€,nor keepe back his latisfa^i- on from a needing foule,as if he repented. And having given him once, hee cannot recall him , for why then gave hee him 1 And if he be wholly given, even with all his excellency, what par- ticttlar thing can be dcnyed with him ^ It behooves us then much to underftand the truth of this freedome ; which in a few patti- Atttiehatin cularsi wiilname. ^"f,7^*'"' Firft, God offers Chrift ofhisowne accord, the eforefree- cu aiS' j^^ j^ never came mto the heart of Angellormantodreamcof it, or dcfire it, Romans 5 , When we were yet enemies. The SuBne doth net ariic more freely over the: head of a Dmnkard fnorting in his bed , ov wallowing in his vomit, than the Lord Jcftis came and is offered to a linner in his blood and woefidl miftry. Fr eventing kind neffe is tree, ere wcdcfir edit. See ^/^7 Secondly, he jpffers us better than /Mi?w^ loft :: T he buining downe or our houfe was the.dccaiion of onr greater repairing. A^ he faydj' had pei ifljied if I had not beene taken prisoner. ^, Tiiifdl/jhe offers to the uadeicrving. JVe wtre then weake^ Rom, 5.3. Some Article.4. rkGofpeMsoff^frepeil^Chrift. .91 5.3. Sa.as hsathsn frknisaretacnousiattorytor k>utt?ngthim- feives fortli tar tbsir t( ieri is : As thole cwo^r^Ti^/ an 1 i; ;*/-.^/«/, and Fj/adfs^iid Or^jhs^ &c, Buc v/e-.were i^eSjTraytorsaad enemies. Wh^n we did all we could co pisU ^li" ^^^ ^ his ch one, yea flew tho Lord of life.then dyed he for us, /4^?-2;^I iy ,he p:nn®s this offjrii jon oil fliivej wtisn wc miaiei it not, pjc it orf^and flighted it.it" J/?/f/ had hid atl poiObk weicoaie^yet he had been a rcec Savijur : foC litl : B it as their , fooar aiiguith ot bondage caused us n jc tare^ari iiim : Wfto would not hive Oceiis diirn^y- cd heer eby ^ Fourthly, hs offer^th freely who offers iiiftantly upon our ^, necdc. No fooner d;d //^f^^ fall, but the offer followed^ Thg feed of th J Wjm.tn^ &c. Nj foon*t doth a poore wrecch need mercy, but it prevents him. Hi^ ev^'-y om^ com;^ &c. He that offer* iealureiy ,13 but a cold giver : B it Ipec iy off eaug , is 4^uole grace. . :■' ^ .•i'jj<-> .U'v .7vl^> Fifthly, whenliee hath offered and givCii,he repents not. Of all woikes of which God is fay d. to r-pcuC hun , it iv never ^' fayd, he repented to offermercy. Nay, he is laiaue trotn it, th^t he hath fworni; and will not repe A. VVliac is more uuutoadi with uiibeteaming men , than to wilh taeirmja-y m theK puric againe? God ne/er repents of msrcy, thit we .iiigat re- pent us of our iinthankefulneire , and unbeliefe. Sixthly, the 6, Lord is exceeding ghd when his offer is taken , and no way l^ difpleafed, as when its in vainc. 2 eor,6,2. HsLz,^,^ Nodiu obedience is (b odious to him as unbeliefs. John 3. ip. Nor for which he will fo feverely punifh. 2 ^ after death DO ut des* -when it cannot pieafurehim.Tiilthen he will have rent. And We have a fee ret ayma in ourgift^, I give, that he may requite, A pktrone adopts a (bnne ; A Prince marries a poore Orphan; yet fome (uch as is dele&able, and pleafing^but the Lord offers to fuch as can no way content himjor be pleafing ,* He gives firft to make them fo , 6ut findcs them odious , that he may ftiew what he can findcjn his heart to doc, and make all men aftoniftit at his mcere gracious grace , and to boaft of the Lord« ', ' ^. Eightly, he requires nothing in ^oward the accepting Mj offer. All our own makes dur accepting frullrate. Come^Reve/. 32.and drinke freely of the waters, lohny. If any mantbirft, let him drinke freely. God gives, and upbraydes not our no- thing. Nay our craptinefle is our beft plea ; Efaj 5 5.1. Come and buy for nothing. 5 (elfedeniall is our beft price ; and hee that comes and offers to God any thing , and brings cofttoGodj loofes his gift. Thus much for the opening of the Free- dome. To this, may fecondly be added the meditation of his attribute of gratioufnefle: fo oft fpoken of, as in Exod.^i.leei 2. Ffay. 55. which imports not only his free giving and accepting of theLord Jefiis , butefpecially hisoffring him fireely and fully to us in the Gbfpell. This gratioufnefle in God , refpefts 2 things,Firft ful- nes of grace : as a Princes grace , is not as a fubjefts , but fulnes , of bounty : Princes difdaine to give other gifts then their perfbns admit, that is bountifuU ones,SeGondly,Frcedome of grace. And thefe two may appcare in thefe particulars. Firfl^ln that God can beftow whatsoever he hath a will to befVow : we ( poore dry pitts ) are limited by our poverty from doing what we would : $€c 2, , Kings 6^21. As men are rich in gold, &c. SoOodsgrace is rich grace. JSphefa,^. Secondly, no man can compell him to be thus gratious : he is (o out of his owne meer frecdome. We do food againft our wils, as Hawan honortd. Mordecai . Thirdly^ e doth good by no abfolute neceffity of nature, but by a vo- luntary principle. God could do otherwifc then communicate his Article.4» rhcojpeiif offafrcveiUChrifl:. 93^ his full bounty , if he would : but he chufeth it^mercy pleafeth him. FourthlyjGod is gracious, becaufe all nsed him , but he needs none.P>/. id. 2. Fifthly, the Lord is gracious, becaufe he is bound by no Law to it : we are bound to God and manj, to the utcermoft good doing : But God is bound to none , he is upon his own bottome. Sixtlyj hcis exempt from all tyes and rela- ^ tions : We ftand tyed by thefe : but not he. Rom. 9, 1 5. Seventh- ly all Creatures are meerely beholding to him. He may doe with • his own as he pleafe: If he fhev;ed no mercy, VA?ho can claime it 1 Ifhcdo, its of his own. 2 C^rt?».2p.i5 Eightlyjthereisnocon- gruity in the World in us either before , or after grace todeferve anythbg. Men may flicw kindncs-to one more then others by fome refpefh But not fo the Lord. The better fome may feeme, the further they are off from God, without grace. Ninthly , he is graciousiurefpe£itof theeftateinwhithhcnnds man, when he (liewes him nrercy : to wit, deferving hell infinitely, and never a-: ble to fitisfie JulHce by all which he can fufFer. Thus rauchto o- • pen that Attribute, which is the Fountaine of this offer of grace and fdlvation. v :i ': n-'/Ji.- YetthisIadde, That this effer will appeare fo much the- freer , if alfb we marjie the circumftances in the which the Scrip- ture exprefleththe^ofF^r, called t^ie cords of love by Hofea: by 3yexprefllon^ which he drawes thefoule to fee his meaning,fometimes by his long patience and wayting upon her , notwithflarKling all her deafenefTe of eare, and deadnefTe of heart, and dallying with his ,- offer. Oil ! his lockes" are bedewed with th© drops of the night / His long fuffering and patience is a bottomlefle depth beyond all" the expeftation of man 1 It is long ere thy unbelicfe could weary him J. he hath lengthn^d out the feaion of grace, acCbrding to the length of grace it felfe 5 forebome thee long , kept ofFju'dgemenc a long whilcjwhich might have fwept theeaway froiw hope many ye.ircs iince. He hath recovered the lives of many of uSjtwice or thrife.that we might renue our covenants and keep them. And fee' hath fparcd us when we have broake them, pretVing" in upon us with renuing of good motions and affeftions which we had quenched^as being loth to loole ijs,giving us helpes.and meanes e- ven out of fca{bn,after long coiitempt,profe{ling himfelf to meane as he fpeak^s 5 Why lay you out your money, and not for bread;' and your filver for that which profits not ? Hearken unto me !eat)> good things .' So oi^ th Gofpells offer reveals Chrtfi. Part. 2. j^ So {bmctimes by his proteftationsofhislothneflcthat any poore foule fhould perifti • Why will yee dye Oh yee houfe of Ifr0el \ Anger is not in mee , why (hould flame conlume the ftubble 1 What (hould I doe to my Vine which I have not done? Sometirabshis pallions and Lamentation, Z«% 19.42. Oh .' That thou hadft feene, even in that day , the things that concerne thy peace 5 but now they are hidden •' Thofe teares and mournings owetferufalem iot her hard heart and contempt, havebin and are ftill over thee .' If there be any dampmgs and ftreightenings of ipirit 5 thou haft cauied them by thy dalliance and heart that would not repent. But the Lord for his part ftill crycs, how oft would I have gathered thee as the Hen doth her Chickens ^ Some- times by bis invitiugs to this feaft of his Sonne, (bmetimes by his ElayJ5'*.! conteftations , as €'fa^. 55. 2. Sometimes by his entreaties and Gen.9a^. c^rneftexhortlngjfometimes by his 'allurements, //ffer thereof, prcferte their Oxen and Farmes, their (elfe-love ^rAuch i, ends and liberties before it : and although they dare not bee ^"kci4. openly profane, yet fuffer not themfelves to be convinced of this excellency which the Gofpell offers t&emj reriiaioe ftill in their c^ivjlity, their hypocrifie, their defires, and performances, doirict ^andgoodaffeaions: but alas I TheofFer of grate and reconcl- hatioH in the Gofpell is nothing with them. If all be trne Whicb 1 liave faid of this offer, and the properties of it, whatfidlbc- ^^^of th«n that for drofTe rc/ea it , arid reft in^fcijicwhat tin- der the grace of the^Gofpein Jfthe Mole ih the Earth had rci- ion, (he would chufc rather to live in the Ayrc : if the tree had reafon, it would chufe a nobler life of fenfe : if a Beafl had wii: & '^T"^'^ covjthereafonabler natureofaman: butAc .u % °? n"^."?.r^'§ ^^ ^ Morne Ibft.rmher than the gniceSf ^ Gofpell the life of God andimiportility, how it^lS m^f«irnr > if ^^?*^*»^^««^P0"2i»g hypocrites, of carnall Jew good d^res: but as for that which nq hypocrite! orun- how Jiar^ i?^> T^^^^^^ ^''" "^'t' ^nt^^^n^ dwell thdre, ok now harfti IS It > Therefore, remember that inHei, 2 is 1 nrt. u ^^^drnnkenne^e ta' thirf : Nay, if they that f^nhed^onj^^^^^ XTSf r ^\ Tr'-^'^^^r,, were condSt What MI they looke for that defpife the grace of the GofDel? an^ fX fer Which God hath honoured by fo many mffl and fuchabundanceofSermons, andthepo^rfuTlSil^^^^^^ 10 many Preachers > Beware of refAg fi,ch falvation 11 kS? mor^^rituaM^^^^ S^tSk mnrS ^r '' '5' <;^venant of>vorkeS, and although to^^ilS^^ '°™' ^°^^ of g^aceThey come ^o ^ftc tbwfliold of grace, but enter not into it, into the palace Gg of 98 the ufe of the foHtth Article* Part. 2. of it : Gods grace pairetb before, them, and they fee that it is every way graciouSj, or elfe no way : yet they cannot be gotten out of their own botton^e of works,or of (elfe-Goncurrence.They know not, they embrace not the grace of God in truth,. Co/. 1.6. As the truth is in Jefus, Ephef.^, 2 5. As that Prince who came to fee the plenty, 2 Kings 7. but not to eat of it. So5theiecome fair^ly unto grace, bii^ not infQ it. Andfo, they fall off from grace, as thofe Galathians diidyCal.'^.^. Its not enough to (ee our ielves loft, and to bee convinced of our rottennefie, and that wee are in the eftate of bitterncffe : for fuch an one may feeme to bee weary of his lo^d, and fall to the contrary good duties ; but ala^ i ftill thc^ freq grace of God is wanting, and; the fouk lyes as a branch halfcpuU'd olBfiirom her old ftock; and yet not taken in, and ingraffcd into a new. This is receiving of the grace of Gpd in vaine, 2 Cor.d.i.and lude. 14. Many a man doth mentally apply gface, bptnot cordially and effet^ually to his own foulc. They come Ihort.of it, Hf ^.4-,V:if any fhall lay, Whatfhould we do more, then we floe ? I at^wer. They ihould renounce the authority of all works, and come under the banner of grace: fo that worke may bee no worke with them, but grace may beeall grace . The foule muft leave and.foff^kc all the feifc-relifli of her working, all her duties, dcvotions,.andi^oings, rra^ bee as- no- thing to her : Grace is as the Law of Mort^rnaine, cutting ofiEall the hands that work, in point of grace. True it is, grace having taken pofleflion once of the foule, fets it a work fo fruitfully, as if there were no beleeving : but when grace firft ceazes upon, the fttile,it fb takes off felfe,asif thcrewereno working in the world: A foiile under grace is. dead to working j. it ceafes tO/be-: work is no work. A man that heares an holy man pray, or preach, or ' vilifie himfelfe, as Paula in Hieromes Epiftks, as Bradfordi &c. would think them odious perfbns. But indeed they doe fo, be- caufe work is no work with them. All vaniflieth in thisMap of grace. Secondly, all truly under grace, confeflc,thatitswell,if ever they have it, though after never fiich attendance, paincs,and diligence, for why ? its free. Thirdly, (uch a foule thinkcs it (elfe with that Publican, unworthy to breathe, to livjc, to eat one cjurabe, much more to befaved. As lacQb]^ Cep.^2.^.. Fpurthly, it cannot wholly give God over,in the deepeft Jhakings,qual^ngSj doubts, fearies,- the feed {iiiUivcthy IoKah2S,Lam.$. Still the Needles pomt will go to the North-poIc. It cannot give over, its ftillpUII'd up, as the woman of Canaan. Secondly, Article 4» The ufi &f the fourth Ar^ctei 99 Secondly, its reproofs to all cavillers that defcant Upon this Branch 2, free, plainc, and fimple-hearted offer of God. Being urged to receive it, they anfwer, Co they would if they knew themfclves elefted. But (fay they) we are afraid God mcanes it«s not. If We be cholen, we are lure to be called to beleeve it ; if not, none of their Preachers can give it us. It muft be God (fay they) and not man that muft work our hearts.and draw us. But, oh vaine jangler, tell mee, hath not God revealed his will in his offer > Doeft thou know his (ecrets? Is not his offer ingenuous^ Say Rom.io.tf; not in thine hearty fVhopjAllgo up to Beaven^or defcend, &c ? Loy theWordisinthymouth/itisneerethee. Vl leremj in the dungeon had told Ebedtnelecy he knew not whether he meant to heipe him out or no, and (b have refu(ed to come out, had he not juftly bcea left there ftilH So when the Lord lets downe the ladder of his offer, into the dungeon, cafts thee his cords and rags to put under thy anneholcs, that he may draw thee out, doeft thou cavill and iay. Lord, I know not whether thou meaneft me well or no, per- haps I am not clefted I Is not this a wofull diftionour to the fim- plicity of the offer ? Was he ever tyed at all to offer it? and doeft thou diftruft his ingenuous meaning in it >. Thy blood be upon thy oWne head, in that thou chuleft rather to (mite the Lord to thy ownedeftruc^ion, than to (et thy foot in his ladder, and put on his cordf, that thou mightell come out .' The way for thee is firfl to ftep upward that thou maift come to the topjthan to Icapc to jhe top at firft, to break thy necjk backward. The fourth u(e is, advertifement to Gods Minifters, to magni- „^ fie their Miniftery in ileed and pradice, by befeeching the peo- ^^ '^' pie to be reconciled to God. Conceale no part ofthis truth of God ; but above all ply thy Miniftery of reconciliation. This will fweeten, and familiarize all other dofkrine: thefirftParc oftheCatcchifme about fmnewillleadetheway , and the third about godly life, will fpllow this fecond Part of Reconciliation. Its the office God hath put upon thee, 0 Archifpn4, fulfill it. Col. j. end. Woe be to thee who maift preach, andcanft, and doeft not. Or doeft, and yet doeft not this. Thou art one of Wifdomcs hand- maids, one of the Kings fervants, (ent out to bring in guefts to this feaft of his Sonne : learne thyerrand weIl>miftakeitHot, get it by heart, let not the fault of rejecting this call, be laid upon thee, and thoii haft faved thy owne fbulc. ^aul was fo acquainted with this work) that he faith, ItwasLcommitteduntohim: Nay, Gg 2 1 Tim.i' loo '^th^^^'riffiPii^AmcU. t>4irltJa; I jTz*. t; • he aideth. It was (Jns) GdfftH, As M^ids ufe to fty, I ihuft |6 dreil^ up my Ghaiab^rs snd make tiiy beds, (not beeaufc theirs, but becaufe it is thfeir office) Co T afsl cals the Gofpe/l his irCor.4.4. **'*^ ours t 2 Cor.^.i^, [^If our^ GofftH he hid :"] becaiilfe it was his office. Let us thchalljoyheihpreaehingitj and offering it, not with a veiie Hfsn ourface^ as MofeSy but 2 C^r. 5.13.1^. -with of en aCor.3.1^. facie [hfw the people this j^/Vrcr^that they niay he transfermed hy it froin gUir^ to gliirji " Vfi 5. Fifthly, this lh(MM Ifcare all from infidelity and contempt of Braftchl, Gods offe^ .• Oh / Its free and from mecrc good will, the Lord is lycd to none; He hath re jefted Millions of Jewes and Turkcs arid baptized ones, and cholcn to offer grace to thee. And, fhall the contempt of the free offer of that which thoufands would hiive bccric gkd of (upon the price of going from fea to (ea fOT it) bcfe pard6»abic? Doe but confider wh^twoefull punifli- ment will lye iipOn thee, who refufcftliich an offer laid in thy lappe, when as many peore foules would re/oyce if the |Lftt x3'4*' {pending of dayes and nights might procure them a tender awd Heb 2U,2,|.> iJelceving heart to feceiVe it ; arid yet coriiplairie, that they can- H€b.4.i» j^,jj. ji^g jjy jt/ oh, treriible at the freedomc of this offer / Bee hiimWc ilrid bafc in thy (elfe to confidcr but this ; I arti a poore 'Wretch, Sanding to the mercy of a free Ood^ who hath it to gire whete he will, arid to deny it at his pleafure. If he give it to aB'odigail (brine, and deri^ it tb a morall Civilian : if hee give it to one that came into the Vineyard at the eleventh houre, and deny it to him that came in at the fe^enth : if hee deny it to the wilier and runner, and bee found of (uch as (ought him notj who (hali a'iltdge agairift freedome? May hee hot doe with his oymk as him pleatesl Oh, defptfe riori^! Left the Lordmalire the defpifers teekcto the defpifcd (as the Gilfadues fougkt to lf/>?^) and be glad of their portiori. Oh? Turneallemufati- on and (corrie into humility 5 and dee^e adoring of this free- dome. ■ Mrmch 2 . Secondly, as this freedome (hould teach thee ^wefiiineilej fo It (hdiild teach thee to become a Begger arid bafe, a Lazer, an Orphan, a Greeple, that freedome may finde thee a meet ohje^- for her gift. Givers arc honoured by beggars : and that is {eerie on many, who being whole will wound themiclvesj arid toiiriterfetipoVerty aridnakedriefretoprWbtepitty. Wee irould count him mad 3 who going tobcgge, daouldborrow good Artiele.4-- ^^^ »/^ of the fourth Article* ipi good clothes to make himfelfe better than hee is. We are (iich t lo farre from (eeming what wee are, that wee crolfe our owne ends, and carry a dcDJall about us, by our bravery, and wealth. Proud beggars, and able to worke and get their living, lo(e almesBut iiichas lye bafely at the foot of mercy,asp€ri(hingel(e finde reliefe : Wee miift ftill have our pride ; and fbmcwhat to crofle free gift. Thirdly, let it teach us to wait. Impatient and hafty beg- Branch 3 . gers arc as unhappy as proud ones. Such as will fret they are not aniwered fooncr, but are made to wait. Wee thinke they may well ftay oucleafure, who doe nothing elfe for their almes: and if they Icornetodoefb, wee bid them bee gone , whoftnt for them ^ So doth the Lord to all impatient malecontents for Gods delay. What? have I not waited upon you longer? Haft ?iot thou long fought dallying? Will not my gift requite thy tarryance? Fourthly, let it teach thee to mend thy flow pace, and run. Branch 4* yea, flyc to this offer and free gift. What crowding is there at Doles, and great Almes of Princes ? If wares in a Market were given, who would not flock? How did thofe liraclites 2 Kings %. for corne? But the Lord offers freely, andcanaot (ell. And why ? Alas, the foule hath not Jonely loft the firft gift of God , but hath loft alfo the fenle of her lofle. Still (hec thinkes God beholding toherforcommingtohim: Still there is an heart within, contradidting this offer, loath to confefle her loflc, and to ftand to Gods curtenc* Let a Preacher preflc never Co much our owne bcggery ; yet there is a Preacher within that preaches another doftrine, although not with an audible voice. Juft like the Mizer in the Poet : The Boyes (corne him for a bale fellow : but he applaudes himfelfe nevertheleflc, that he haththat in his Coffers, which makes him rich ; even fo wee, when Gods Minillers would begger us and ftrip us , anlwer. But yet hce fhall never make mee worfe than lam : my good meanings, prayers, and deeds, nomanfliallftrippemeof. But Oh, poore (bijc ! How then canlt thou beleeve, and take this gift with a naked hand? Perhaps bccaufe thou canft not want God , thou art willing to gainc by him : But to have God thou art as unwilling upon his owne tearmes , and that hce may have the fble entire glory of flwing thee. Onely (elfe-deniall makes the royall heart of faith. Faith will not be well by ftealth: Gg 3 But 1 6a Thiufi of ike fourth Article* Paywi. Butas^tf^s^oiild have Z^^W have thchonour of it^^/S^jfo Faith dai cs make no ufe of God,rave3as(For his glory) God may make life of her. Vfe <5. And the next branch is , Dally not with this offer cf grace. Bra/sch 5. There is a while o[ iCj a fe.ifon annexed to the offer. Reade 2 Cor. 6^i^2y^. The fame breath which urgcch to receive the grace of Gjd^adds a charge. For he hath laidjin an accepted time I have heard thee 5 and in the day of falvation have I iu^coured thee. Oh , that in that thy day tho J hadlt Cccnc I Now when is this day ^ Surely it is not the day of polfible inercy,but of iealonablc mercy: Then, when as, ( befides health, meanes and the offer of grace) the Lord puts a fpeciall fpirit into the Miniftery of the Word, Co that it pierces into the heart with per fwalion ; when the terrors of it are weighty and ferioiis, thepVomifeit is (as the early fruit of Summer) welcome and favory.- when . (innc is bitter to the Soule , and when it is yrkelbme to it ^ to be out of Gods favour : when the heart breakes and mourncs after God , and can fpcnd nights after dayes in feeking and enquiry ; it cannot be quiet, but is held on by peculiar tcii- derneffc to attend grace. Lookcto your felves, you who have had this Icafon of God upon your loule : ply it and dally not, weary not the Lord who ftill waites and askes. When fliill it be > Put him not to a fecond feafon,leaft he rtoppc up all icafons,and {wearc5that leafon (hall be no more. When thy gold is turned to braffcjthy tendernelTe into dead nelle, Gods patiencCjConteftings into bttter weepings Pray that thine head rather,and heart were Fountaines of tcarcs to mourne for him whom thou haft pierced than that the Lords Souie (hould mourne in fecrct for thy rebel- lion and dcftruclion. When all beames Ihall be darkned, and aU mercy and bowels of compaflTion dryed up , and thy heart hard- ned .Efpecially let fuch looke to this, as lye under the penalty of this fi jne. Alas 1 There will be a feafon of Gods wearinefle j and his rpirit fliall not alfo ftrive with man. He will have alio a ka- fon of leaving thee to that contempt 3 which defpifcd the couu- /cll qf God for thy falvation. tibhoriing of light, preferring darkneffe , defpifing the Miniftery and ordinances ^ revolting from thofe infinuations of grace which once feemcd precious, I fey theie are fpirituall wickednefJes , and farre exceed morall evils. ( Although it be juft with God that when the Chimney .hatb Article 4» [Theufeefthefonrtk Artkk^ 103 hath long been foule, at length it be on fire j and that by de* grecs inward infidelity and trechery grow out to open con- tempt, jpurfuiteand malice, yea adnhery, riot, intcmperancy iph.t.x9, and aUprofaneflc.) The Lord hath his withdrawing tirae 5 and his forfakiag time as well as his drawing neere. See H^/^. 17. and 5.6. The Lord fliall laugh atthedeftruftionofthofcthat having been oft provoked to receive his offer, have refufed: *pr.v. I. Provoked mercy turnes to fury ; and the hotted place of hell is provided for unbelievers 5 and revolters. I deny not but the patience of God doth long endure the veflcis prepared to deftruftion ; and fuch defpifers , may a while floiiriih and profper : and the Lord chufeth rather ft rokes of inward venge- anccjto fmite the confcicnce, than outward crofles , oftentimes^ But yet 2 Cron.^6. 1 6. When there is no remedy , his decree of deftruftion comes forth ftronger than that of Medcs and Perfi- ajis) accurfing them, 2 Cor. 4. 3. Ifthat fig-tree which wanted ' figgcs OHt of the fcafon of it, were accurfed : much more thp/i that are paft their feafon. QjVhut other ptfes are there hereof? A. E(pecially this 5 that this Article be a (wcet preparative yfg \^ unto us, to firame as to believe. Entertaine we notanybafL curfed thoughts of God in the fimplicity of his offer. Nourim all poflTible perfwafion in the foulc, of his unfeigned meaning to- ward thee in this kind : thou cantt honour him no better, than to agree with him , in his meaning well to thee. There is no greater difficulty of Faith than this feed of bondage in us, to judge of God by our (elves. We mufe at we ufe. If we have an crrcmy, we cannot forget his wrongs, we meete him not with- out indignation : and therefore Co we thinke of God alfo tp us^and the rather , becaufc he hath fo much vantage over us. But, Oh, poorc wretch .'Is this the way to get out of his dil^ pleafure. to nourifli jealoufy againft his love ? Is it not rather oyle to the flame ? Pull down thy traitours heart , hate not hira whom thou haft hurt, put on an holy, and childlike opinion of him,who when he needed not, yet purposed , fent, received this fatisfaftion for thee , and therefore cannot lye in offering it to thee. Say thus. Lord, thy fweete offer, naked bolbmc, cords of love , Paflions of fick love , fometime to allure, fometirae to conr eft, command, iirge, threaten, audbclecch, turning thee into all formes of perfwafion,' "to Winne' my (bule 5 all thcfc G g 4 con- i©4 the nfi of the fourth Article^ Part. 2. convince me of thy well meaning toward me. If ray own en- mity to my enciny , and the flander of Satan that thou envieft my good, docaflTault me never fo much , andray ownetraite- rous heart confpire with them .yet this thy gracious offer in thy Gofpell, feall bear* down all. Headed <«; 55.7. For mj nvayes - are not asytnr yvayes^ nor my thoughts atyonr thonghts : bttt oifarre -J J- above them ^ as Heaven above the earth, Adde this : All the un- ' derftanding of nian cannot comprehend the love of this offer, no more than the eye of a needle can the great Camell : and (hall I goe aboutto leflen it ^ Surely, this fliouldiie a great ftay to my heart, that God hath offered me this grace ;and as bale as I am , what though it can- not enter into fuch a narrow breft as mine is , that he meanes as he fpeakes : yet if it be the plcafure of a great God Co give it ( as his offer imports ) (hall I looke at my bafeneflc , or at his greatneflc , whom it were a difhonour unto , to give meane things ? Oh Lord, rather by this bounty open my narrow heart, and make it large. If the offer of a Miniller of God be preci- ous 5 who dares feale it upon earth to my poore fbule • (hail not iSamr^M^. the offer of God himfelfe, the firength of Ifrael that cannot lye^ much more fway with me ! Oh Lord, captivate all my. hatred of fpirit, and ba(e trechery againft thee / Its reported ofacer- taine Merchant of iWow ( in the Story, of .£»^/4iW) that lie made much of a poore Cobler that dwelt by him, a cankred Papift , and did as good as maintaine him ; yet this Traytor ivent about to betray him to death: This Merchant having c(- caped his handsjyet out of his love ufed all meanes to be friends with him againe , and uled him as before:all this would not doc, iiis heart was fo villanous , he wouldlhunnethe way ofbim, and not looke at him. It fellfb out at length, that he met him in fuch a narrow lane , as he could not balke him ; but Hiuft needs talke with him. The good Merchant takes him to him , and told him , he was glad he had met him , and hee wondred what he meant Xo to decline from him ! What, faid he, doc you thinke me your enemy 1 If I were , could I not crufh you with a word fpeaking ? Alas , I am not offended with yoUjfor all. your trechery , but forgive and forget it. The words ofthis man fo pierced the Coblers heart , that it brake inftantly, and he falling down upon his Knees, and with bitter teares confeffed his villany , and repented of it , told him : This Article.4. rkufcofthefoHrthArttch. 105 This love fliould for evrer bind hun uito him , and fohe con- tinued. , , r ij * ; U' This bafe Papiftjis the heart of every child ot old Adam : this royall Merchant is the Lord : this narrow lane istheftreight of confcience befct with linne and curfe : this kind behaviour is this offer of Grace : Let us not be worfc to it than a cankred Papift : but brcake our hearts , and melt into teares , and with Sau/ to "David, fay, Wherefliall a man finde fuch love, as to rpare his enemy, when he had him in his hand, and to be content to cut off the lap of a Garment , when he might **^™* *'^^* have cut ay throate> Breake my heart in thebofomeofthis . love. X^) Is there any more fifes of h ? Anf. Yes5This may be onejto informe us of the heightjdepth, . length and bredth of free grace , from the firft fteppe of our -l^ 7' calling, tothelaltap-fhotofglory. Surely if the offer begra- ciouSjthenwhatibeverisconteind in the offer 5 is fb alio. Not only Gpd is gratious in making that foule his, which was not, but his enemy : Butalfo in futtcyning that foule whi^h is his|,~ in the eftate of grace and favor : yea, in the quicknirig up the ha-^ bites of graces, that they may not lye dead , but have their o- peration i yeaj that the foule may perfev'^er in that grace. As zAtifiin fayth , Its grace which caufeth- the nilling. Wrll j to be willing^ 'and the fame grace Which caUfeth it- not to will in vaine : and grace alio , which caufeih it to periever in willing well. In the next Article I fhall dwell upon the priviledges of a believer, allofFred m Chrift : heere I lay , that all thole good things are free gifts of grace.. Eleclion iS of free grace,^ But now , Lo 5 he is reconciled , he cannot be angry with a poore Creature. He hath taken order to Satisfy } ftice by his Sonne : to the end that he might abolifll the Pro- ceeding of Juftice, and cut off his own advantage and power to condemne. For a time hee was angey for the iniquity of thy finne ; but not for ever, leaftflelh fhould fayle before him. Oh 1 let us well obferve this", That all in promife and an offer, is little enough to fettle a poore foule againfl herfearcs. And this will caufe us to be glad to cling to the word and fay, if I periOi I perifti. And thus much be fayd of this fourth Arti- cle. Article V, Queft. ion» The Lord cf fcrs Chrift to the foule tur- nillit with all his beneiits. Hat is the fifth Article ? Alt is this : That the Lord offering Chrift to the foule5doth not offer him nakedly and barely, but furniftit with all the benefits of his fatisfadi- ori.So that in this point, we are to confider what _ the parcels of thele good things are, which the Lord reaches to his Church in the gift of Ws Sonne. If a Prince come under a fubjeasroofe, he comesnotemptyand bare, but with all his bounty, and leaves the markes of his prelence behind him So heere,the Father offering Chrift^would not have us think him*toi>eadryandbaregift, but arich Cabinet of all ch-^yfc Jcwrels of good things , that fo we might be ftored and enriched AtticieS. ChnfiofferedrnthAllhisknefiu. 109 by him. This is that which the Apoftic in£phef,i^^. utgeth:^^i»i^ Siepd be God i who hath hie fed m with ^11 hlejfmgs in Heaven- ly places. And Saint P■'<■ A. No. Fpr chough aU are the waterthatflowethfepm this ivel-lprihg , yet for order iakc , wc iiiall doe Well to bdpe oar conceit thereof W'ith a diftinftion to avoydconfufion. Some of thefe Benefits of Ghrift arc concurrent with our firft ingraf. ting with him , and accompany our firft converfion : and theife I call benefits concerning a believer, in reaped of that conditir- dn and eftate of grace whereto he ii called , and in which he is fettled. And thefe concerne this Article CO handle. Other ar« Gonftqiient upon this condition , as royalties and priviledges following upon it, and ftand not fo much in the generall calliqg of abelicvcrjas ia Ipeciall belonging to it:whethcr inward graces, - or outward bleffingSj according to the fcverall promifes in , and by which God convcyes them. The former (brt doe containe the full Right andTitleofabelievcr^^to Ghrift himfelfe : the lattef; die poflcflion of thole good thingswhich iflue from him,thrQugh the whole Ufc,and the divers occafions thereof, of which in th*^ third partjGod willing. ^.Name then thofe of the former for t^that belong to the being or efi-ateofabdlever, ; i A, The Holy Ghoft in the Scripture doth mentionthq^^*' iiccording to the (everall circumftances of ourmifery : astlwc brought us into an eftate of guilt, bondage and enmity With God 5 {b this brings us by jnftification , to a contrary eftate of peace,by Redemption to an eftate of liberty , by reconciliation to amity With Godjand fo of the reft. All in fubftance are one- recovery of an happy eftate : only they differ in theft refpefts.. Now for the naming of them the holy Ghoft doth it foriic-r^ times more briefely, fomctimes more fully : briefely in i Cor, 1,3 o. He u made unto us rvifedame^ righte^ufheffe , SanBipcation. , (^©j. i , ^ ©, midredemptipn,MtrefHlly in the i of the '7. Q^ Hotv many things confider ypein this Article of the benefit if lio ekrifi offeredmth allhentfitf* Part.2. Three tWngi J, Three. Firft, the difference. Secondly, the order.Third- Th *"S'ff^ n!^y» *^^ nature and ufe of them to our foulc. As touching the c^i 4. ^ " firil,there is a fourefold difference to be noted of them. Firft,that . ' f ;•, ' 'I - tome; of thera are before time, others in time, And in this refpeft, £le£ti6n differs from all the reft. For juftificatiou, reconciliati- on and the reft, prefuppofe Chrift really theirs, and ifllie imrac- diately from him : but Eleftion is before Chrift hinifelfe^ and prefiippofeth nothing but the firftcaufe of Gods good pleafurc arid will. A^d yet its true , that in Chrift wee enjoy all : onely with difference, bcGaufe we are not clefted for Chrift , but wcc are adopted and reconciled for him. Eleftion being that aft of <3od from all eternityj whereby forefeeing the ruine of man, hee purpofed out of his free will to chule (bme of thoic fallen ones, to mercy and (alvation. So that wee lee its one of the benefits of the bclecver in Chrift, yet not for Chrifts fake, but the Fathers, who gave Chrift himfclfe to this end, that hee might bee a foundation of that whereof himlcife was a firft cau(e. t Difference. . j Tlie fecond difference is , in refpeft of the benefits that fol- low Chrift. In Which refpeft, Vocation differs from all the reft. ' For vocation is no fruit of faith as the reft are , but of ele- ftibti, feeing whom God eleftedj he callcth to know^it. Calling then is a benefit whereby God brings the (bule to bee capa- ble 6f all the reft through faith in thcOolpellj and therefore Goncernes the cleft as they are To in God 3 not to themfelvesras yet, and (erves to this end, to make thera to know it by faith. But none of the reft can be wrought in the (bule without faith, being the fruits of calling to faith, as to bee juftifiedj adopted, &c. % Difference. The third difference is , betweene thofe benefits of Chrifl, which concerne us in this life, and thole that reach to a bet- ter. And the difference is great. The former being fuch as relecvc the necefllty of our prefent condition , in which wee are imperfeftly conformed to Chrift in his eftate of Humility, and befet with (inne, Satan and enemies : of this nature arc our juftification, reconciliation, adoption and the like : which all ftiall ceafe (as faith, hope and patience fliali) in re- fpeft'of the evils they doe here conflift with : although, out of thele relations the good of them ftiairibidc, as (bnne- ffaip|)e, liberty, amity, an^ the like. But faich in the(c bene- fits Article 5 . Chriji ojfered mth all his benefit s> ill fits. (hall ceafe, bccaafe all confli the Lord finding the heart uncap^ble of a promise, brings it and^^pares it to b?e ftich ah one as jHay fee it felfe capable, and*tiHder conditioh of belceviri^ fiich an one as may bele«vc. For j as for the opinion of fiich as imagine that God breeds faith all at once , without pre- paring the heart, they overthrow that grace (in refpcft of ioi^jj'i'jf* foules triall of her (elfc , and in refpeft of Gods glory) wtr ~ - n^iiich they would fcemc to magnifie. And they ftrengthcn the hand of iinnefiiil men in their n-rour, thinking there is no difference bctweene men; all may beleeve in Chrift. This by the way. The %, finifc- The latter is tfeat by which the Lord doth finifli the worke iog* of faith with power • which is the condition of the Gofpcll, without which no man can partakeany of the privilcdges fol- lowing. For it fucceeds the cohdition of the Law : and in ftead NoteVfflU oiDothisy (aitk, Beleeve this and live^ Note wellthefetcarmcs.* . . . ; ^: , T reparation is the cmdition offdth^ and^ith the condition ofthtet' (vii'ifHfljf Q. lyhatarethfifiprepar/ttives? -/^.Partly Article 5- Vnidft a kmfit by Chrifi* ' '3 <>A. Partly Icgall, partly Evangelicall • in a word , whet: the Spirit of God by both, leaves fuch an impreflfion in a trou- bled Ibuleuader the fpirit of bondage (of which in the firft part) that it comes fby the fight oftheGolpell) to fo much hope, as workes the heart to mourning and brok^nnefle , to defire of mercy to eileeme it , and to bee nothing in its owne eyes in comparifbn of it • together with diligent unwearicdneuc till it have obtained it# All which are the preventions and affi- ihnc-c of the Spirit of calling, drawing the foule home to God, by fuch fteps and degrees as the foule is capable of. See the ope- ning of the whole doftrine of Preparation in the laft Article of this Part. Q^ And, what is the finijlnng ivorkj y^.That wherein calling is perfededjand wherein true convcr- (ationofthc foole in begetting it, and bringing it home to God, doth confift : For when the foule thus prepared ftcs that the pro- mise belongs to her, and that fhe may and muft belcevc it, then the Spirit Itamps this gift of faith to receive it. Of which fee Article feveujin the preparation to faith. And To much for Vo- cation. Q^ what is t he fee and friviledge ? A. The {ccond is Vmon» Which is the firft benefit (in or- The i.Bcncfic der I meane, for elfe all are together in refpeft of the foules title union, What? and right to Chiift) and this oppofeth the cutting off of the fin- Her from God, and all influence and communion with hirgrace : and by faith fo bringeth the foule unto Gc d,that its united, made one, and incorporated againe into him by the flcfti of Chrift united to his Godhead, (as Article 2.) And its the worke of the Spirit of Chrift, making the Lord and theibi!le"(?^^^y^/n>, and caufing the foule to partake, by vertue thereof, all that power of his, both in privilcdges and graces, which follow. And there- fore I let it \ n the forefront of the reft : for its fure, the foule can no more repive ought from God, tiU.icbeeonewithhimby Chriftj than Clirift could merit any thing for us, till the D^^ity and flcChwere really united: and no more th^.n the body and foule can impart or receive to or fro, till they be one. See Texts, Pphef, EpiSef.r-j «. 5.3 1 .42. lohn ij. often. By all which its evident, that till we be loha 7. ulc. one with God in Chrift, wee Avcrrithout Ivm in th? world', the Lord abhornng all relations that want Vnioh. But if once uni- n u r f ted, then he is in us, we in hmi, he d wels in us, we in him, 4s a-n *** ' ' H h ' inhabitant 114 VmonabenefitbyChnft, Part. 2. inhabitant in his houfcjandthefbule in the body 5 heis one with us, me are ofhim^ l Cor. 1,30. inhiniy lehn 1 7. fleftj ofhisfiffi), heis our husband 3 and we are his fpoufe, and t hcrefore hence iffncth HoHa. ^^^ vertiie, vigor and power into us, xhM is meet for our lupport, Ephcf.j. either earthly or (pirituall, till our union be perfefted in glory. _ _ . To this that belongeth, that is faid, v^e arc engrafted into H ??, as a fic,nce into a ftockj which fetchethall her nourifhment thence: As the two (eales ofBaptilme and the Lords Supper do typifie: there being no poflibility o^the Communion of the latter, with- out the union of the firit. Q:_ / fee union is one of the maine hinges wherenpon th: life and comfort of a heleever tiir>ies. Therefore Idefrs to know what ii island "ivhat nt(iy be knowne favingly about- it I Opcnfiiiofit e^. I will endeavour to fatisfie you. And therefore having in 4 things, deicribed it, I would firft ftiew the neceflity of an anion : Then the difference of created union ffom gracious union, with the caufeofit. Thirdly how this union is wrought in the foale: Defcription of and laftly what efre£t followes upon it. fouching thefirit, I «. defcfibed it thus/ It is the firftpriviledgeofthe condition of a man called, iffiiing from henec (being indeed the complement of faith, (for faith determines calling, and feegins union) whereby the beleeving (bul is fo brought honiCjand knit to God inChrilt, that it Io{es her former corrupteftate of cutting off from God> and puts on a new, ofbeingone wichtheLord,and h^withit; that ioi the foulc may be feazd with true title and intereli to all good things which either tiie Lord cane nveyj or the fbule re- ceive; and that in a farre betterkind and mGafine ihan ever A.hm was. Now to the fcure branches. Branch i. ^^^^ ^ ^"^^s Union v/ith God is iiecefTary to all that would par- Nccefliiy of it ^^^ ^^-^ graces. For as it Vv as in the Creation , till the Lord hid breathed the Spirit of life and himfelfeintohim, y^^^xw^could have no communion with God • (b is it in this fecond creation ; no benefit, no fruit thereof can come to the foule till this fecond creation and union be. But by this as by a channell the reft fol- low. Reconciliation with amity. Adoption with worfhip and li- berty, &c.Hence it is, that our Saviour fb oft prefTeth this,He that abides not in me,is as a branch Ciit fromthe Vine,which withers. Contrarily lie that abides in me, draweth life from me and nou- rifhment : he liveth in mc. as the living armc receiveth vertue of motion and ftrensUi to bejafefull to the body, from the head. ^ . . •■ ■ *' The Arti.cle5. Vniotta Unefit by Chrili. - 115 The fecond thing ;s the difFerence of Unions. The Union Brmch - ot grace IS not like tli^t of Creation ^ neither in the meafure, Di^renccT nor in the mftrument of it. Nodin meafure : for the Creation of unioas. there was a total! and immediate Union (in that kinde) and it ' ■ was a perfeft one, having Gods Image in it without let or im- peachment. But this Union ofgraceis an impirfed Union for meafure in this life: beeaofethereliqaesofcorruptionandold AdAm as drofTe mixing themfelves with the foulc, fuffernoc Ood and it to knit fully. But as it is with the branch of a l4en put into a clifc ofa ftock , if therebe any droffe m theclift betweene the ftock andfien, it cannot bee clofe and grow nftv tettly ; So here. The Lofd and the Soule cannot bee io T^V"i ^^^'^' feecaufe there is fo ^uch fcurfe within us. that God and wee cannot clofe, God being contrary and dilagreeing with Belial. And this appeares further in this, ^Corif H Ihat the cftate which anfwers Paradife, is not of grace, btic that to come in glory, when corruption and fmne and death M I ^^^^^owed up in incorruption,ful righteoufneffe and life. Wot that there is not even here, a true and real 1 union, but not a ull and entire one. Secondly, the inltmnigtits of Unions are unlike. For that of the Creation needed no other tye or band, ^* fave the immediate prefence of God in his image , which had then no fmnc nor let to divide it. But that Union which now is incumbrcd with lets and enemies, muft needs be main- tained by a band of greater Perfeftion than any is in us : The meerc inftifcd grace of light and holinefle joyned Ad<;im to God, and that tree will in his nature-upheld that Image of God in her exercife and adionj but it is otherwKe now in this de- cay of nature ^ there niuft bee wrought in the (onle another in- ftrument to knit us to God, and hol4 his grace in continuall ex- ercife. The third thing is the inftrumcnt by which imion is begot Mranck z iiXthe foulej and that is (on our parts) faith^ on the Lords Thelnftru- papc, the Spirit of life in Chritt, conveyed by the promife and mcnt. baptifme. \ grant it is but a poore and lame one , even a crutch (as it were) because our life and union is hid with GodinChrift, and (hall inHeavcnbec(as itwasininnoccn- cy) immediate and perfeftj when the crutch fliall bee throwne away, and the foale fliall bee one with God in the fullinfufion of all glorious holinefle ; 1 fay, it is but a lame inftrnmcnt, yet Mh c a Il6 Vmon a benefit by Chrift, Part. 2. a true one. And marke well; Faith niiift needs bee the knitter of this Union, becaufe it refiits that pcrFedly which cuts us o^ from God 5 1 meane guilt and curie. I fay it felfe is imperfedl, yet it refills pcrfeftly ; becaufe its given by God to this purpofe, to receive a perfeftdilchargc in Chrift from all that finne which cuts us off; and from that excommunication andfeparation from God which came thereby. Faith then is that which ef- . fefts this union in this life abfblutely. That holincfle which is infufed here into us, is imperfeft, and therefore cailnot folly knit us to a perfeft God : faith only can hold Chrift to the fo'jle (who is this life of Union) and fo keepe us dole and knit to God, even when our Image of God in holxncfje, is wcake. A fweet point. And note againc: by this meanes fo foone as faith hath abolifht that which formerly cut off Union, it (cts the foulc in ftate of Union as before, and fo breeds in it, the true iifeof grace through pardon and forgivenelicjand cowming to God. Howbcit faith refts not in this her uniting quality : true it is, (he holds this her worke through the whole life ofa bcleever, to cover the defefts of Gods Image , and to keepe true and full union on foot, fupplying all wants. But ftiee ftill ftiives to fet- tle a beginning of holinelle alfo in the foule, and an union there- by alfo : it applyes it weakely and in part, yet it truly ap- plyes it; and even here infufeth fby the Spirit) a moft true be- ing of Gods Image, and makes the foule parcaker of the di- vine Nature thereby : even that participation which in glory -> P^r T T , Hallbee one and the fam« for kiadei, thoueh fuller for nica- lure. ... ''' < vj-j/iid-M ,-: Jfju ; --jOAf -;s n ; How theSpi- From hence may bee conceived y'hov¥ the Spirit effe.fts this fit effects this Union, even (as I faid).by the word of proniile and the fealc. union. According as Chrift was given by God to bring all unto him, and to prelent them ttntofhim fpotleffe and unbLmeable : fo -dc^th .Ae W ord convey, thi? power of Chrift to the foule. A* by Ohrif^itcomes to pafie , that :thofe who were cut offi ^euoja? farre off, Aliens.frQm the Community of Ifi-ael, and thelife' Epher4. of God, were masle neei e and one, Efhef. 4. j 6. So Saint Pml^ A^s26, tcls us, That hee was called to preach,to the intent, tha-t - ' hee might bring men from; IddU tg the living God : andcSf > ^aptifi«e it i«'faid, That wee are ingrafted into Chrift, andr.. planted into the likeneirc of his death jf- and made one with God Article5. Vniona bemfthji Chrid* iiy God. And that thus in a word '-i (for each' of thcfe beiicfits requires a fpeciall coiifiderationj though in effeftall are be- longing to one happineflfe ). Fir ft^ thie word 6f the Law gafterfe theioulelor hercurfed cutting off from God, and chafes it homeward 5 giving it fma 11 peace in her divorce and feparati- on ; and'caufing thofe lufts which' have united it^iemftlves^to her, and taken up the pofleflion attd' ttfe of feer^j to becc>W noyfbine and yrkefome to her. Fbr=Why •..th^havefoepthei'- fromChrifther headend husband, whofe ftie' is. - Secondly,' the Word of the Golpell comes injind makes a Pitlee and trcai- ty with her ( in this loft cafe ) aboutarfeturne-apdreftitatioiV to former uniop againe :and tbe fonle thUS jfubduied , after- ma*, ny gaincraying8,at laft fuffers her felf e to be rent off ifrbm het ol^ ftock, and by the prevayling of Chrift , which isthc Spirit of per(wa{ion , is content to obey and open the dores bf the (bule for him to enter , furrendring all to him , that (be might behis , and be marryed to him , and become one with him y eveft bohfe of his bon?. And thusChrift commingin/urriendefs andij^ites • hin»{elfc al{b to her , and becomes the fouleSjand (b they liVelii* eachother. : ;!%!i]!:- The fourth thing is the effeft.of this union , even inhabiting ^^^^^ . and indwelling of the Spirit in that foulewhichlsbeifebme one EfFcftofJnl- with himfelfe ; That fo it may enjoy communion and fellow- on. /hip with them in the entercourfe of all graces, proteftionr up- holding , and rule as feemes beft to himfelfe ; fo that liow God in Chrift by the Spirit, is that to the fbul^ which before he^.lufts werejallinalljl/ord ^ndKmg, light arid defence^ : Hea^ veri and happineflc. As .wee- fc,e,i:hat the owner dwels- in' HiS' Houfe, the King in his Kingdome , and the foule in thebi)dy : both for the wel-f arc of the poffeffed, and the honour of the PoirefTor. The fame Hou/c of the foule , ; the lame ieate which w^s before IS ftjU: but new Rule and ;Law.; Much adoe thcric is betvvech Ch'rift and old ufurpinginrpates, luftj >world,* felfe-i pride and revenge : but yet the foule gives the precedency to her Lord J and refignes up Keyes andpofioffidn to him : Shec is under his Authority,, he fwayes her by/his Kingdomeftt up in her ; defends his houfe from all Thepvcs and intruders^ he makes Lawcs and writes ihom,, in their h^afiCs, fo that as the wife'ls thfe giatffe of her husband? p.uf.pofes , will and affeftions, anfwering him as* the face dcth the face in water ;fo doth the H h 3 Church 1 18 Vnionabenefit hj Chrifi. Part. 2. Church anfwcr Chriil ruling her, notwithftanding her dilqui- ccing with old tyranny of corruptions. In a wora, whatioe- \es influence , power or authority any head either Cmii , jna- crimonialljor ot Family ^ can bcare over their body, or die ibuie over the natural! body j that may be laid ot this Lord who is leather of all the Family ot his Church , husband ot his Ipoule, Lprcl of hi^ SubJ€}£l:s, the foule.ot his body, j to a£t , direct , dc- fendj providc,tQrj andbeallinaUtoher, till he bring her to j^ory. As a Principle ofunioncaufeth Communion i 10 doth he : communicates hinifelfe 3 all his wifedome, humbleneiie^ hplincfle, experience to her : imparts himfelte to her as her necdes are jAhh^LrUfeighEs he is her Redemption 5 in her feares her ppace by JqiiificatioQ . : in her complaint of corruption, her SanftificatiOn to mortify her, renuc hcrjahd To of the rcit. This is to make her an habitation to himlelfe by the Spirit ^ not now and then to cpp^c ftuanger^like, or upon plealure as to a ban- q^aetinghoafe for 3 day : but towalkeinthcinidltofher, co qhaleaway all diftempers, and to allow her to walke before him in and outjas his owne 5 receiving honour from her , as the brightnefle of his Image, and affording to her Protection for his . own glory. Vfe i« Br^fp u((& fliajl ferye. ' Firft ,. it is terror to all hang-bicfe ^ncl' timi£-l«?rverSi Wfho have it at their tongues end, they are Gbds^' and they (hall be laved , how iew lo ever are. But' they can- not proove it by any ingrafting qr union. No pJiicking cftfrom theoldftoek, appeares in them , no plantmg into a new, no life of grace, no Ghrift to bethcirsy no bringing to God by his flcfti and.the union of it to God ; ht) proriiifc to fallen upon, b^'. which they may come j no Spirit oi God to be betweene therri^ and God to unite both , as the fpirits knit the body and foule inone. No Faithtohand-faft them > to marry them , to cut off their old reparation, to forgive and reconcile them, and to reftore them by the union of Favour , acceptance, and life , to the union of Gods Image, his qualities and holinelTe. Away yee counterfeits iThis rule argues that you are none of the Lords, becaufe old union continues : Can a twigge live in two flockes aj once >Ifit cleave-to the one, muftit not renounce the other? Therefore. tremble 5 yec are -11111 cut off as branches that i^lthejr, and are (as yet) none of Gods, bucintlieO^llol bii^,' ternefle... ■ ''■■' ' • ' '^'^ ■ Secondly^ Article.5- VmondbtnefithyChriB^ 119 Secondly, all that will needs claime to be the Lords, chXmtVfet, it 'by union rirfl-. Try your felvcs about it. Ifyce be united to God , then hath the Lord chafed you from your wandring vagaries and old haunts , and brought yee back like the pro^ digall : TheLord hath cdnvinced you as he did that wbman, /o^>«4.(aying, Thofi hafi had five husbands , and he whom thoH loh. 4* haft nowy is none of thy husband : he hath flaine thee by his Law, by thy cutting off from Godjfrom light, life, favor, and (ence of Godjthy faplefle,and wofiiU barrennes,and dryneflfejWhich (haJl be as fearcfull a& Adultery to thee : Thy long trading with ftrange lovers fhpU fting thee. Being left thus and divorced from thy husband and thy Father, thou haft beene taken up as a ftray , as that Levites concubinc,and the prodigal! were a- bufed J put to thy fhifts to (ceke comfort from the dry pits of thy lulls, in tteed of the Foumaine. Bythismeane thou ieeft how deftjtute, forlorne and robbed of all, they have left tftee,"having firft had their will ot thee. Secondly ^the Lord drives thee to an utter unfubfiftcnce , emptineflfe and raifcryj in thy (elfeas a branch puld off.In other unions, as of friend- (hip, marriage , each party brings fomewhat : but in this the Lord witl have tkec fubfift in hi m and under him , being ho bo- dy of thy felfe : forfake all and cleave to him , that thow niayft be oncflefh. God wll beare rule in a voydcd houfe. Thirdly, the Lord hath by his Promife aflTurcd thee, jFer.3. ^^*^ notwlth- ftanding thy old adulteries and debauchedncfle , yet he will marry thee againe after divorcement. Yea, H<7/. 2. 1 2. in righ- teoufnefle taithfiilneflc and mercy he will bctroath thee to hini- leifc And by the flefh of the Lord Jefus he will make a way for thee to God , who clfe cannot be approached to .• creating the fruit of the lips, that is. Faithinthee, whowert a farreoffj Efay 57. and- fb make thee one with him, hisownc Servahf, {poure3(bnne and daughter,called by his name. That looke wh.at union we have withjGhrift , the fame we might have with the Father.Reade/i'/i.iy.^/f. That as they are one, fo might wcbc one with him,and he might dwell in us by Faith; 8ph,;:^AJ^An'6} become another fame with us.' La lily , bcereby he pullsdowne' old imion and the old hoiile from the Foundations, he ftiakes and deftroyes Satans dwelling, all old lulls , peace and joy and accord with thcm:that his influence may be all in alVartd he may come into thee with all his graces. Try thy feUe then by'thefe 4, Hh 4 markes. Branch i. Brdnch 2. Branch,^. VM' 1 20 ^X)nlonabemfitfyChnft' Part. 2. raarkcs, in what eftate choj abideilaf indeed thou haft this Lt- moajthou hiii faftened th/ Pipes so the Fouacnne oF living wa- ter.Sjaridderiveft da/ly retrefhingfroai thence , for the llippiy ot* thy whole courfc. ;w ■■■'?■.:■-■ : L.w, .; ? . Thivdlyyacs ufc'of th.inkefiilnefiff arid io.iiFoit to all GoJs people, i>oi than -is , , tor who art thou that the Lord Ihould thus Unite hitnfelfe to fuch alarape ot E.ii'ch and lin i As Eliz^ahech fay 4, Who am I that the Mother otmy Lard fliould come to itie l?As;/?^^j^<*f/dIiydi.Letnisbcan'han(dinaid to wUh thet'eete qfjthe {crya^its of my Loi'd ' When Sdomon hUd-a promile o: the Lor^sdwelUnginhis Ternple, he wondred. Should he dwell in this houfe whom the Heaven ot Heavens cannot concaine ? So fliouldft thou (ay , Lord (ho jldil thou m ike a lin fall wretch thy dwelling and delight,and repaftjthine Heaven upon Earth \Lord depart from me afi/ifuli mm ! Oh! what a light is herel come and lee, not the Palace of a PrincCjbut the habitation of God. Secondly jcomfort ag lintt all thy bad in nates and lufts which difqiiiet thccjan J make thee often to thinke. thy (ojIc a ity of un- cieannefle father thdn an Houle of God : Be of good cheere : the ;Lc|rd€llceMes thee not by thefe necedary inmatesjbut by the vd^^ luncary j Keepe out them , and the Lord will iooke upori his' PearleSj not thy Dunghill 5 andindnetime^ fcoutetheecleaiie from them , though for a time he (iifFer them to try Faithjand combat in .t^ee. .; • ^ i; \\ Mft^Ys - 5f2t wisthall it is caution for all (iich ^ That they make^' notjtjie Lords Spirit (ad by the Returne of any luftei to dilqm- et,him,leaft!he hide hiiKfelte in his communion, and leavethee to tjiy,(elfe^a fllift.: .; ; ■ • ;m' ' ^ ^f Jpour^lily, \m^to teach us, both what dignity antl what dil-i/ ^, Jies npoii God3 people in this re(peft ot- their unitr.i. The' ?i§f?'i^y i^t necd^ bee great , to bee one with God ; for by this mcanes all his and our things are common, hee fuffersinand with us in all ocir crolTes : Hee is honoured or reproathed in aU pur Qbedience or dilbbedience ; wee Itand not,- nor fell tapiir (elves, but to him. To him therefore wee may goeiri tlM our ^roubles , .befecching him t6 be afEifted with us. To curbe our enemies,, that they may not inliik, and fay. Where is their God?yea^topurgeoutof us, or remoove from us whatlbever evill might^;(hf|nour his naracjor be an eyc-(bre. And fccorid- ly^'';itStoteacl^wsgiirdituy i'z//^. To be fenlible of this union continuallv Article. 5r ^ Regeneration a benefit by Chrifi. lai contin-ially wherefbever wee becoaic. A Wife that honours her H isban JjWili fo carry her felfe that her Hasb4n(i( whom fhee is one with ) may nocbeimpeachedby any no feemely carriage, iJle lookes, fpeeches, or liberties ; ikzz lookes at his credite vvhoic (hee is. Such a narrow eye (hoiiid this union with the Lord worke in lis : That his iionour and name (houidbethe markewe fhoot at, and luoke what we thinks would jarre with" his affeiTtionSj or trench upon his glory, chat we (bouldcaftoffi. Itthe //'>"'?! //f^-miight not leave theii'excrements'uncoVeredj be- cause the Lox'd was among them, how mach more in thciXi I And fb much tor this benefit. ' i^Toa h.tve [aid enough ofVnion. Now ^rocecde tp the third '^^^^'^^^^^\ benefit of Regenerathy^, And firfl (hew in vehat fei^rce-pu take it "^^S^^^r.au* here I ■"- ^ ' \' -^ _^ " v^.There being a Joiible raeining in this wordjthe bri^ligrti^'*' Double fence ing the begetting ot the foule to God which was none of his be- °f»f>anil how fore : The odier an enftamping ot thelmage of God really in the " *"' foule : I doc take this word hcere in the tirll ilnic^ : and in the eight Driviledge, in the fecondltnce. Q. whj fo ? Doeyoti divide the t hinges which God puts together ? WhyfetjoHthipitrtsofonethingCofizrreafHnder'?. ' . • /^.No,God forbid. For even in Scripture fometimes the wor^ is taken joyntly to exprefle both. But becatiie the word i^ doubtlull and taken in both (ences, therefore it is nieete that the handling thereof in the Miniitry, and the hearing and readinjg of itj be conceived with diftinftion : leaft otherwife the niarkes of vocation and Faith being confounded ivith the markesof lanftiHcation, the hearer m^y be unable to ti-y himfclfe. O- thcrwile fure itiSjthat conveifioaY'conlifting of both)is wrought in the foulr, as it is offered by God and fealed with Btiptifme at Once. ■ . ' Q^am f(}tijfied:Now proceed and fhew the difference betweene this md other Priviledgesn . ' *^' A, All the reft doe agree with this in the fubftance of our How it differs reftoring from our loll Hate to an happy eftate in Ghrift : onely fro'»^''«i<=ft* this more fpecially hath a refpeft unto the meanCs by which the Lord worketh thofe in the fouIe,to witjboth the oirtward and ' ' • theinward,the word,the feale,and the fpirit that begets us again. Therefore it fliall not be amifle to infilhi'pon it a little,for the utj- derftandingof fundry ScrijJturcS that fpeake of it inthat fence.- 122 l^egemration a benefit hyChrifi, Part.2, Q. Is there theft any u(e of handling thisfubje^ ? . . (v^. Yea, forely , For as moft men quite omic and over-jfec If it ncccfiary ^^*^ regeneration ot Faithjand begetting the foule to God. both Minifters in their Diicourfes, and people in underftandings : thinking that there is no ricgeneration lave onelyt renewing of the will, and changing of the corrupt nature of old Adam from bad to good : Co heereby they grow to this abfurd error, namely to imagine , that whcnibever any duty of mortification orholinefleisuigcdj by and by, and without any more adoc they are the paiti.s fpoken to , andfb of themfelvescanmor- tifie their owne Iiifts ; ceale to iwearejy e,or blafphcme : which is to nouzle people in little better than Pelagian or Popifli free- will. Whereas if the Regeneration of Faith and all the prepa- ratives thereto were fpoken of and urged firfl , to caft them out of themfelves, and lay them at Gods Feete, they would come to heare the point of mortification with more awe and reverence, as knowing it requires anothergates difpofition joF heart than they have attayned , and other praftife than they be- wray. For although in their moodes ihey are bote upon re- forming their oathes and lewd companies and oth«r lufts , yet alas / Their.frec-will pangs are as the morning dew, and they fall to their trade worfe than ever before , for want , of a true Principle. The Scripture Qj^hy ? Doth the Scfi^ture any where intimate thu RegeMera- diftinguifhcth tion ofFmth and begetting to God , ere God his image can be begotten it. in Hi ? A, Yea, furely. To which end, itwillnotbeeamifle to al- ledge fbmc. Moft eminent is that , 'Tit. 3, 5, 6, According to his mercy he favcdus, by the wafhing of Regeneration and r?- nuingof the Holy Ghoft : which he (heddc on us abundantly, through Chrilt our Saviour, That being juftifred by his grace, Not«thcfc ^^ might be made heires of life. Who fceth not an evident Texts. ; regeneration of the fbule unto God to be wrought , before re- nuing of Gods Image 1 A like place is that /^w. 1.18. Ofhis owne will hee begat us, that wee mightbeakinde of hisfirft fruites of the Creatures. What is thisfirft fruit ? The .early Efay f7' 1^' worke of Faith, creating the foule againe to God, and giving it the birth-rjght of the firft borne, beloved, and accepted of pod. FaftldXCotoihtGaUthians, hath a lutab/ie fpecch ; My Uttlc Children,^^ of whom I travell in birth againe till Chrift bee formed Articles* Regeneration a Benefit hj Chrifi. 123 formcci in you. Meaning^till by the word and Faith ( which is theinttrunient of the Spirit j he had begotten them to God. O^ ther texts {h.ill be named in the (equele. But when hefpeakes ^ of the other Regeneration of Sanftification , hee u(eth other words, zsJBphef./^ 1.8, If yce have indeed recei'^ed the trath as it is in Jefus, ThatyceputofFtheoIdman3 and put on the new, as it is created in the Image of God in righteoufncfle and tiue bo- linefle. QJ^ underfiand joH 'jNowfiew the order of ^dds 'T^^rkb^g ^ ^^^^ Keqenertition, ' AX ftiali breefly doe it,yet with this caveat , That if heerc- Caveat, after other priviledgesftiall offer themfelves in the like manner, of handling to this heere^the Reader yet be not offended at them as repetitions , but conlidei* that I labour 10 bouEKl' each privi- ledgewithin his ownecompaOe, that he may make diftinft life of - each. The order then is this. > Firftj the word prefents to the foulejher lofle of God , not in ^jj^ ^^j^^ ^^f . a few beamcs or ray es of his, but his whole divine nature,' life, Gods regenc* and being. Life(weknowj is the excellency of being ; Things mting. that arc without life , are in a fort efteemed not to be : and thofe Creatures that have a kinde of life without motion and (ence, although they haue a growing life, yet are but halfe fubfifting, as Trees and Plants : a gnat in refped of her life is a more ex- cellent Creature than a Cedar. The pooreft creeple is of mofc ex- cellent naturcthaii the goodlyeft Elephant : A reafonable beeing and life, exceedes a fenfible life , as much as a (cnfiblc exceedes anaturall or vegetable : How much more then doth a divine and fpirituall being exceede a reasonable ^ If amcerefupcrnaturall life of common enlightning and knowledge of Gods revealed \^ill( which is but a quality) doth {b much exceede reaibn, as the fpirit of an Angell exceedes the fpirit of a godly man : how much more then doth a ^fpirituall life and being of a believer, exceede a {iipematurall life of knowledge alone ^ All which I fpeake to fliew whut Jdam loft when h^e loft the (pirituall being of his Creation, the Image, life, and nature of him that created him after his owne p^tterne I This lolTc of our be- ing and true life ot God (as PkulcAls it, Bpfief. 4. ) the Lord by his Law prelents firft to that (bule ih vvhith he pufpOfeS to quicken up thii' (econd life of^race by the Lord Jefus thhi; quickningSpiri€ji'C(?rmr^. 15.' By thifilofleman isftriptand deprived X 2 4 Regeneration a benefit by Chrifi, Part. 2 . deprived of the glory of God, that is, that excellent beauty- and honour, which the life of God did refleft upon him, (b that as lacob (ayd of Reuben , Thy dignitie is gone. I fay not that finnehathbereftmanofhis being j but that divinenefle of being iufteyned his reafonablc nature in amoftfirmemanneroffiib- fifting.: So that now there is a diflTolution of this Image, and " nothing left fave the bare Ruinesofa frame without beauty or amiableneffe. He is become a meere emptineflcj a chaos and dunghill of confufion , the very reliques of himlelfe rcvenas the iadde and difmall Earth being bereft of the Sunne and in- fluence of Heaven , differs from the fweete feafon of May or the Summer , wherein fhee is cladde with all her beau- tic. . , ..'j .. '^jnjls.iif :; '.: It is a (ad fight to fee a GarcafJe voyde of life and breath of man •• But to fee fuch a Carcafle as wants life , to creepe »and breathe , and ftinke in the loathfomenefle of it , were worfe. What a fight is it then , to behold a man endued with naturall life and* breath j to walke, and crawle up and downc, voydeofthe life of his life , dead, a meere carrion breathing death of grace in his naturall life, and ftinking even above ground in the noftrils of God and man , who areable to fmell and difcerne ? Breathing corruption in Gods noflrils, and carting the noyfome favour of it before men •' loathfbme oathes, drunljennefTe/wearingjCoofcnagej dcceite, lying , falf^ hood : not to fpeake of inward loathfomenefle of felfe-Iove carnall eafe, uncleane thoughts, infidelity, hypocrifie, (ecu- rity 3 profanenefle and the like t All thefe the Lord by his Word difcpvers to the fbule. And befides that wofullDelu- l?on of his heartjwhich makes him to thinkc his wound to be healed when he can keepe it fweete :as if a Prince cail out of his throne and juftly depofcd from his Crowne, into a dungeon, fhould applaud himfelfe in fomeof his belt Robes and ap- parrcll. Sx) is it Jieere; - When hypocrites cm furnilh them- (clves with fome of Gods Attire, and pride themftlvesin their knowledge, parts, ^wealth, wit,, credit^ and efteeme, or fome gifts of reflraint and mdrall vertucs and abflinencefrom evill: I05 they conceive themfelves hereby to be the perfon.s they arc not, and takea counterfeit fhew of a Parrots tongue, or Sn Apes: laughter , or an Image chattering i to k^_ the tru^ life of gr?xe. Thefc the Lord doth difcQver to the foule, cffeftually andfiir* ringly. Article 5 . Regeneration a bemfit by thrift* 125 ringly, where hee will regenerate and beget againe^j HeewiH eaule the odioiifncfle of. fpirituall death and deprivallof God,to pierce the foule to the quicke, and willgiveitienceaadconlci- ence thereof. Secondly, hee presents hereby the fuccetTion of mifery upon The fecond this ioffejand that moftdeferved; all the curies, woes and l^e- ^°^'^' nalties wtitten in the law , aie written alfo and engravenjby the finger oi Gods convincing Spirit upon this perfan as a booke written all over, within and without: the emptineflcj and barrenncffe of themindand rpiritofallgood,thepronenes ^1 cinto all cviil, a body of death , and dead mcmbers^a very numb- ' ' Pallie of all holy motion, aftion, thought or delight in righte- oufncfle: atotall withdrawing of God from the foule in all his influence and communion, his Spirit, graces, ordinances : a fpirituall, totall defertion of th^ feule in point of peace, joy, reft andhappineffe: a lofTe of the immortality , not of foule, but of a foule in glory ; and a leaning it to the pollution of luftj domi- nion and rulejteraptation and malice, of Satan, world, and cor- ruption, as chaines holding a forlorne creature, till the day of utter calling off from the prefence oFGod and from hope of recovering the life of God, into utter darknefle ; .which is the fecond deatJh, fiich a deprivall of Gadjas can neuer be recovered any moreby himfelfe. . Thirdly, the Lord prcfents this roule,with her fearfull con- The thirdt i dition in a third refpeft; Vlz' That dangerous eafe and quiet wo;k. vyhich the deluded Ibulelycsin, inthe middes of all this pri- vation and lode of God; No little infant having loft Father, Mother, and friends and all at once: no Idiot deprived of his wits and underftanding, arc more fenflefle of their condition than this (bule is ; for being deprived of God, itiswithalla 'foole deprived of the fenfe of it ; and as afoole pleafeshim- {clfe as much in his bable asin all the inheritance he hath loft; Co ' doth this foole in his painted fheath of carhall qualities and en- dowments of Nature 5 which in truth doe as Jittle grace him as the gawdy coate ofa foole ftript of his wits- As it was with iV;2ir/f-c^^r, being driven from his Kingdome and men, to live among beafts, (whether really or in his opinion )hc loft as well the reflexion of hi* minde to tell him in what cafe he was, as his underftanding it felfe (yea much more) foisitherej A moft milerable fpeftaclc to behold, a creature miferable, and thinking . 126 Regeneration a hemfithyChr? ft. Part. 2. thinking it felfe pofiTefled of all J rich, cloathed, and fiirni/liE with all neceffaries. Once the Gouncell of France, fearing tlie mutiny of the Peopleupon the death of the King^deviled a po- li@y,to array the dead body with all his wonted attire and robes, putting a Scepter into his hand, and a Crownc upon his head ^ fb planting him upon his bed, and all his Chamber richly befet and his Courtiers about hinij and his pale face painted : That To this being given out and by fomc beheld, might delude the people. So is it heere. The dead foule befooled with her own dekifions^ being wholly miferablcj pleaieth her {k\k with a (ireame that ihe is otherwifejand this (erves her, in Uead of life it felfe. The fourilt Fourthly , where the Lord will regenerate to a new life , he work. brings the foule to the fence of her loflTe by the light of his law ftiining as in a darkc place (as the light of the morning difc overs to a man robbed in the night oi his Trcafure at once ; what a cafe heeis left in) and feafcs it with a fpirit of mifery and beggery , really ignorant now what to doe, wringing his hands and faying, what feall become of me ? How Ihall I live and pafle my life V how (hall I avoyde the pinch of beggery , the (hame of an undone »ian, and the Ibrrowes that will enftie^ I fayg when once the Lord favingly warkcs this, (for elfe it may vanifh) hee doth inifea(bn prefent the foule with the newes of a fccond life ( to prevent utter iinking) and ftayes the heart thereby : Hee fhewes it, that (as loft and forlorne as fhe isjyet there is a way to reftore her to her former integrity a- gaine. Two things Now as touching this way, the Lord firft enlightens the done about rhc foule in it , and fecondly , applyes and faftens it upon the iame* waytoncw jj^g enlightens it intwokindes: ftrft, about the order of this ' way : fecondly, about the wayitfclfe. Touching the order of Enliaht'ens. ^^s ^^^ ^^^^^ her that forasmuch as fhee once, had this life and J. In order ©f Image of God created in her , and hath wilfully loft it : There- it* fore, before hee can reftore her to it the fecond time, his juftice w^hich is wronged by her finne, and hath juftly accurfed her for itVmuft firft be iatisfied jand the foule muft apprehend this (atis- faftion to her felfe, as her owne ; and by this Eieanes her guilti- ncffc and curle'muft bee wafhed off and removed out of his way : a. The nature For otherwife how can hee and the corrupt foule be brought ofh. together ? What commuaion can there bee betwecne (inne and Article. 5. Regeneration a henefitrhy Chrifl. 1 27 linne and purenefle ? Secondly, he enlightens the foule in the way it lelfe : To wit, that in his wilBoine and love hee hath granted his owne Sonne, true God^ and thenaiurfc which was offendedjtofufFertheiinpiitationofguilt, and the death which it prociiredj in the nature and for the natwre of guilty man : and hy this fulFering he fatisiied jiiftice to the full, lo tJiat hereby the way which finne had (hup iip^ might" ftaad and lye open for the reftoring of the pooreloft foule, to her former nature and life otGodagaine. - Having thus enlightned the foule about this way 5 heathen „ , applyes it to the foule. And that by a fecond and clofer worke pjyesic. ^^' of his grace. For firft, he applyes this worke of Regeneration by theinlbiimentofhis wordand promi(e,whichisas a feed of Re- ' ^y the pro- generation caft into the wombe o-f the foule by hearing it preach- '"'^'^* ed. As S. Ifimes (aith^ Of his good will begat he r^s^ by his word of trfAh. • • This word, carrieth with it a forming power of the fecond iBythcSpi- birth, even a creating of God in the ioule againc, Secondly, the rkofRcgenc- efficient caufe is the Spirit of Regeneration, taking this word, nation, and carting it into the foule, and there hatching and cberifhing thefamx!, till it have formed Chrift therein, whois thefecond Adj?n, the true way and lifcj thatquickning Spiiit. And thirdly, hee efFcfts this in the Ibule by the power of i'aith which receives this feed of the word^ and this quickning of the Spirit : and pof- j.By effcfting fe/feth the foule therewith. • *^'' Onely note this,that fa'th doth theft two things : 1. it receives p^.^j^ ^^^^^ the way of this life into the foule, which is the putting away of two things, guilt and curfc which ^ri^w^fincontrafted, and that is pardon and fqrgiveneffe : Secondly it receives therewith and at oncc^the at1:uall and reall properties and nature of God, to inhere and dwell in the fouled And howfoever, when Divines fpeak ofthis work, they moft properly Icittle regeneration upon this lattertyet in workingand prafti[e,ii is moft certaine,that it confifts in them both. I fay, faith (as S. Peter fpeaks) doth make us partakers of ^^p^^ j tlie divine Nature in both, though the conceaving of fuch a my- (lery, exceed us. Having faid thus much in generall of the way and applying Aasofthc of it, it-fhall not beamifleto helpethedefirous Reader with fome Spirit of of thofe A6Es which the Spirit of Reger^cration by the word of Kcgcncration . Projnile and the Sacrament of Eaptifms workcsupon the foule, [^when 128 VmfiH ak^efit bj/ChrTft, Part.2. [^whenKpeakeofBaptilmej let no man raiftake mec, asifftyed TrcatilebfSa- ^^^ ^piric of Regeneration to it or the Word, in all regenerate cramcnts, ones, for hee worketh in Infants another way , aselfewhereC havevrrittcn.] To returnc then : The Lord offers to a loft foule, \^°^^^^^J this word ot promife , I will that thou O dead foule, (halt live ^ ° ' in my Sonne : I being (atisfied by his death, am content thatthy (bule receive againe, this life of mine againe. See this Promile in Sz,€f, iel 1 8. verfe 32. Vor I have ne-pleafurein the death of a [inner ((aith the Lord:) ivherefore twrne -^e jour [elves urii live je."* So £-\)hef, chap, 5. ver/e i^» Wherefore he faith, (tAvp by which the foulc retaines and keepes this feed of life, differs it not to pafle away and be fpilt (as in hypocrites) but digefts and holds the pro- mife to it felfe, till it have bred it longings after this life. Con- ceptions (wee know) provoke longings of the appetite, lufting after a kindeof alteration of fpirituall appetite, and a delire after this life. This is that Sfay meanes. Chap- 'y^, 4,, Incline your hearts, and hearken to me. That is. Bee fo affeftej withthis promiie of life, that yee do incline tov/ard it, and make to it, that ye walkc in Gods way appointed to bring yee to it : Bee affefted ferioufly with the excellency of this^ife , and the happy change which God offers you : that your foules doe diligently enfue it in the meanes : So that in this firft work is contained thcwholc work of the Lords preparing the {bu^e for the receiving of this life, (tanding in thofe miiny affeftions created in the fame by the glad tydmgs of this word of life : that is, T^at it ftirs the fbule to mourneiorfo long living a dead life, aiTd refidiug the offers of life, and refting in a fhew of a falfe conception : ic doth long after this exceeding grtat priviledge, to be partaker of the nature Articles. RegenerdttoHnhenefithyChrift^ 12^ and life of God : it doth prizs ic above the moft excellent iiitc- rioiir life of this world, though ic were Salomons felicity in coin*, parifon of it: it empties ic ikUc and is voyded from all other hopes and delires of lite , even as the wombe that conceives mii^x be cieere from all former conceptions : it ufcs all meanes which God hath appointed with all eagerneffe of foule , reftlefle till it obtaine it. . Tlie {econd worke is the qiiickniag power ofthe Spirit of The 2. Promife, whereby the Lord infufeth this life ofGod into the Qnickning (biile; which is nothing elie fave the Ibules breaking through po'-vcr, tlie manifold ftruglings and {hires, which felfe and unbeliefc doe worke within her fclfe ; doth obey the voyceand conamaild of the promilc, that io it may live. As wee fee the naturall frnii hath muny changes^, p^ngs and ftrifes within the wombe ^ ere it come to the birth ; To licre, the foule hath manifold refiftances and oppofitions in frer (elfe againft this promiftjcannot tell what to lay of her (elfe, whether (he fliould list or no .- often gives over thepromifeas too good, difconrages her (elfe by the prelence of a body ofdeath which (till abid<;s : an awke bafe heart cliu(ing to lye (linking in her grave of death and (bttiflieafe, and Iu(ls : That (b (he may turne back to her old vomitgdnd avoide the trou- ble and difHculty of this new birth : Oh^ it is a? the* (bund of ma- ny waters to her , to heare that (he (hould live to God , being a very carcafle of death ! Tell not her ef it, it i^ irapoi!ible : There bee two Nations in her Wombe , death (trugling againft lite, whether (hould prevaile : All (cemcs to be againif any hope of quickning to grace and life ; But when flie (ees the promile to cany the power ofthe (econd Adam is it, which can breathe the Spirit of life and immortality into the dead earth, nay corrupt fleth : and that the law of the Spirit of life which is in Chrift Jc(tiS5 :s able to deliver her from the Law ofiinne and death ; and to breathe into her this breath and life ot God, that flicmay live unto him the (econd time forever. Loe, fheeyeeldstothls Law, and obeycs the Command thereof that (he may live. Ac- knowledging that this law of life in Chrift is able to beare downe unbeliefe, as the Law of Terrour was able to controll and (Iibdue rebellion before. And fo by this gift of faith (hee liveth : according to that, Hce that beleeveth in the Sonyic hath life : and againe, / ghe my flcp-jfor the life ofjthe world : He that e^mrb mj ^ejhy and drinksth iff] hlood^ hath eterndlUfe. hiee that I i heteeveth Vfe I. Branch i. See John 31 No Heaven without re- generation. 130 Kegemratien a benefit hj/Chrift, Part. 2, heleeveth in mee ^ (kail live though h:e dye : With an hundred more* The third worke ofthe Spirit, is the birth of this fpirituall life : when the fbule comes out ofthe wombe into the light^thac is, difcovers her felfe to be alive, and apprehends (as I may fay) her owne lifej and that God hath begotten her to himftlfe. Which is the higheft ftep and degree of life which is bred in her. For as the fruit in the wombe being quickned, yet wanteth the full proportion of its parts, till the forming power of generati- on, doe by weekes and moncths more and moreperfeft and fa- ftion them all to a comely being and crdature, whichatlaftis brought forth : fo here , the poore foule having received the life of God into her , by her weakc and poore faith , fcarce felt and perceived , yet by the fecret power ofthe Spirit ^ growcs from degree to degree : that although (hee hath noothcr life at the birth, than in the quickning; yet this life is more apparent and ftnfible every day than other, till a^aft the fpirit fall in travel! and bring forth Chrift formed in the (bule, fo that the (bule ap- peares to her felfe aod to others, to live and to bejeeve: becaufc now jhe is in the lightj perfefted and brought forth : So that? the infant that is borne doth notm^rcbewray thenaturalllife, by weeping, laughing, breathing, feeding, flecping, Itirring, feel- ing, growing : than thelifeof abeleeving fonle, once brought forth, appeares in the operations and works ofthe new Creature. And this is the effeft of the (caling Spirit of Baptifme, added to thepromife, and ftablifhingthe weake faith of this poore Infant, till it knoW it felfe to live, and declare it to others by the fruits of regeneration. And \hus much of the Doftrineofthis benefit of regeneration (in the firft fcnfe) befaid. Now I come briefly to fliutitupintheufc. Firft, let it be Terror to all fuch as being voideofthis life of God (as unregenerate ones are, Sfhef.^?) yet walke as alive,meiTy and jolly in the death of their corruption. Thus was T^anl^ Rom, 7. alive to fin^ ere the Law came, and who but he > Till the killing lettei- came, and flew him, and made him pull in his homes. Oh.' That God fbould fo long endure a croaking Toade, a carrion, to come into his Temple and fpit venome upon himfelfe,and his Of dinances,and defile the Congregation with the ftench thereof- Cry out'to the Lord, and fay, Oh Lord, I have no one flep of thy life begun ! Lord fet thy law on wock to killmy life, that thine rpay fucceed., AUo Article5. Regemration a benefit by Chrilt- 1 3 1 Alfo to all Counterfeits whaadorne their dead CarcaflTes with Brdtfch 2. the ornaments of Religion : Duties of life and worihip of God they will bee full of ; but the life of duties, faith to apprehend the Lord Jefus for reftoring of themfelves to the life of dutieSjaind of obedience, they care not for. Why lay ye out your money for no bread? If {hewes of a living man, and a name that there is life, be ib precious, when yet thou art dead 5 what were tnie life worth? Oh I reil not in any iiifcriour bale life, when the Lord ^gy ,, offers thee true fpirituall life! Once one made an Image to fpeak: Bat was not the pooreft Creeple better than it, though the head were of Brafle ? Abhorre all falfe colours of life, dutiesaudper- Seelohiis.^^. ' formances, when there is no fubftance: Who would not afFed offldhoniy the moft excellent life, if it might be had ? If men have funne in- *^°"'^* * to Gels, Tubs, and cloyfters to thun the life of the world, and to live a religious life (which was but hypocriiie) whither (houldft not thou lunnc for the lite of God in Chrift, if thou mightft have it > Secondly, learne here the price of faith / Its that whereby the Vfe 2. foule lives here, the life of Go i , a life better than a Princes, fnftrti^ion, without it. But who cares for it? A life of plea fure^flothjcafe, honour, telling of money, is the only life with mOft men. But till the heart be purged of this life,Chrifts life is unfavory .No wombc can conceive twice. This life of faith, is an hidden one to the world. But till the (bule live to God, God cannot live in her. It is faith which muft breed all operations of true life in the fbule : heare, pray, love God and hispeople,repent,aHd walk with God : Shee onely can keepe watch and ward in the fbule , to ftop and turne the courfe of linne back. She onely can task and (et the foule on work clofely, to be meeke, innocent, patient : She on- ly can live with God, becaufe God by her lives, in the foule. And yet of all other graces, (he is leaft Cti by ! Why ? fave because (he is unknowne.'No other grace can rettore the life of God here but (he. Lcther be precious. I grant it (hould humble thee here tbat thou art faint to live the life of faith, and not of (en(e : But bee content : prize her, andihe (hall never leave thee till (he have fet upon the life of glory. \ Thirdly, pray for the Spirit of the Lord Jefiis his Re(ii|e6^i- Vfe^, on, (by which the foule is regenerated to this new birth, i Tet, i.5.jand never lin till by the word and Baptifine, hehathin- Ipired thy {©ule with this life of Regeneration. Mournefor li 2 thy 132 TheufesofKegeneraHoft* Part. 2, thy drivings againft this birth,aiid cry out (with Rebecca) to the Lord 5 whence is this rebellion in my foule ? Why d©e I /b refift thy free and gracious quickning power.LordJcfiiSjbreake in with thy life,and cauft dead bones to live.For thou art dhle.EKeckA 7. 3.g. As E-cekia (aid^fb fay thou, Lord, The fruite is come to the biith,and there is no ftrength to bring forth. Helpe Lord, I am ready to faint in this travell, deliver me 3 for my paines have op- preffed me Be at hand when I am foent with wraftling,and I fhall forever praife thee. Vje 4. Fourthly , try thy ielfe about this birth, and be not cozened by Satan / Bee content to refigr.e up the belt hopes thou haft of life heere, To that the Lord would give thee found m^rkes of true life. See.iF^r, i.^.Truclifeisaliteofhopeofeternalllifej yea lively hope : it rejoyceth under the hope of it. It is a clenfing life and purifies the foule. It is a noble pretious life, and will not polluteitfelfe with dead carrion. It is a way ting, patient life under Crofies, becaufe the up-flhot of it is hidde with Chrift in Cod .-and the like. And bee thou comforted if God have thus borne tbecto himfelfeaud forget thy fbrrowes, more than a woman that hath borne a manchild. And fo much for the third benefits . .-' ;;.'/■ The 4. benefit Q^Freceed to ti-)e.fomth hcvcft, jiiftificatron .A, The fourth is JLifti^ication , which is contrary to the ftate what. ofguiltandcur(cby iin. Andby this benefit . the (ouleobtaincs aneftate of quletncffe and peace toward God. And that by a cleering and acquitting lierat his Tribunall ( as \i fhe had never offendeti,) hilly, and perrcftly. Vv'hich I ad for a difference be- tweenejuHifica'tior>and|ian8:ificacion, the former is an whole RoBi.S, ?o. puFPing us from all our fumes, asSainr John. EpiJf.i.cnp.i n- ^ ^^ Iheotherapurgmgnsmpart, otwhichreade/x-^t'. 9.1^. X^g former purging is from gnilt and curfe , and tftat muft be per'^eft by imputation f for clif howthonld {infill fiefh ftandbeforea per- feft God ) the.latter is from the Dominion and rule of it ; which in thJaliFe is Impei feft. Q^ar^jmuch m hovh t he mattir and forme ofjuflificatlon,M hand' led at iai'ge in the l.and 3 . ArtlcLs before Ijere I fparere fpeake of the doStr^f^ufit : and only infif: upon the priviiedir.e ljfmn,V^^g? ", ' ■ ' " • '^ - fiMtbnl^"*^'" ^' "^^^^ ^ P^^'^^ ^""^ ^^*^^ "^^ ^^"^^ ^s ^ ^^^'^ ^^'d , a moft- Peace ' i^eeufaiaifeing : contrary 6^: diofe garboiks and horrors which the Articles. Jttjiificaticn akneftby Chrid^ I39 the' convinced confcience felt , beeing under wrath ; as aKa to that rotten peace which the unconvinced confcience walked with, through error : either one, orotherofthefeistheeftatc of all unjiiftiHed ones. But when as once the fbule is (et at liber- ty and difcharged by Proclamation from thele , there being no enemy to accufe, neither will the Lord hold thy (buJe guil- ty, but fpcakes peace to it : fo that by this meancs it draw« new breath , and lives at other tcarmes of content and com* placencyjthan before.Looke what peace and welfare y^^^w/ in- nocency reflefted upon him, before he finned : that doth /uftifi- cationcaftuponthc foule, by forgivenefle. Fearcs are all (cac- tercd by this perfcft love of God received by Faith , no guilt or accuQition by linn«or any enemy, without or within , can now takepltice. Looke how different the ftate of a poore man is, whea hee is molefted with /uites aqd put in feare of lohng his whole eftate by the wrong of an adverfary : from that which he fceles after he hath got the day , and is paft all former feares : Such is the odds between the finfull and the juftified foule. She rcturnes unto her reft (as r>^z'/WfpeakcS5) andeatea, drinkes, fleepes, and workes in peace, yea, her flefh which was withered and her bones confumed with the fcorching hcate of confcience ( the wound whereof who can beare ; ) now returnes as the Rfh of a little child. ^ Hence , the Holy Ghoft never ccafts to magnific this bene- UlttftrMhn i fit, as ^ffij 5 7. I create the fruite of the lips, peace to him that ^^ /^ ^ ' is neere, and a farre off. Its a worke onely belonging to God. and above the firft Creation, for hcere, Peace is made of a con- trary, even warre. The Lord is the oncly former of the Con- Iciencc , and therefore its a worke equall to Gods power to cre- ate peace in itjand toreftore it being loft , is farre greater. The Sea raging and calmed doth not more differ, than the peace of Confcience from the rage and diftcftiper of it. Therefore ics faid. That Christ iittled peace, and ftilled this raging Sa| of Confcience, Spki.fy. Having abolifticd in his flelh the en- mity, fo iettling peace ; and^ Thou ieeft a pretious objeft 3 a fonne of Peace. He carries that within his bofome , which coft the Sonne of God his heart blood, which farre exceedes all Cold and Pearlcs ; Fox why ? he hath Peace within : he is at lcagi» with all fearcSjand in the Suburbes li 4 o^- 136 "jufiipcatim A benefit by Chrift, Part. 2. of all profpcrity. He hath peace with the ve.y Stones of his field, snd may vifite hh habitation with joy : his lite, health, . wife^ childrenj wel-fare, and ellate, are ali at kigae with him, they are his , and he is Ghrifts : he doth not behold thefe as the wicked doc, treafured up for others, but their ownc, given them in love. Nay more , when lults and corruptions rile up in their foules, or be injefted by Satan, to cggc them away; Loe, they feele fomewhat within them fweete and precious that makes the image of the other defpifcd ; Co thitthcy fay. Away bafe companions ! Yce have fought long in my members, lam. 4. I. and wafted my peace. I will not buy you at fo deare a rate as (brrow and repentance , nor forfeit my peace for all the fruit I have got by you , which is (hame and death. That Peace of God which pafleth underftandmg , (hall lb rule me, that I will renounce you all ere Ilooleonc dram of my Peace. Bring mee fuch peace as Ghrift hath, brought mee by forgivcneflc, and then I will fay fomewhat to you. But till then, farewell, forever. Nay, yet more, this peace followes them in affliftion j when the Lord feinies to have a controverfy with them , and to write bitter things againlt them, in their married cftate, children, health, name, calling, fticcefles, in their Minifters, neighbours, and beft friends , ( tor this World isfullofTime-fervers ). even then they have peace to ftand by them, and as £^7 faith, 27.4. They have already taken hold ©fpeacfijand had peace : that is, helditin their ftreights. As one laid , 1 will bcare ray paine patiently , becaufe I know the har- deft,and that I fliall never feele the paine of the wicked. There-, fore I ftiould not feare if I were in the vale of death ; for thy Rod. and Staffe doe comfort mee. If now my peace were to make, it were woefuU with mee. But I blefleGod, I am now in, peace and enjoy the fruit of it. Nay , laftly this Peace is/byned with a Complacence and joy of heart, telling the foule its happ y : and therefore cannot lye hid in the foule idlely, but as leaven which (eafons and favours thelumpe : So doth this / alFeft the heart with a liking and jjy in her wel-fare. Nofoolc-* is fo tickled with his Paradife, as this foule is really joyedin this benefit. All ye that would have your teeth water after thefe dain- ties, behold them and be in love witkthem, to ddSre them yoar own portion. Laflly 5 let allTueh as have got this peace, prayieGodand kecpc Article. 5« ReeonciliaHen a benefit hyGhrifi. I37 keepe it. Pray yce with the Apoftle : The Peace of God rule Phil 4. our hearts and mind^^Lord eftablilh our feete with this Pre^ paration of the Go^pp 3 and let it be as the Souldiers fhooes of Biafle, enabling us to walke upon the Pikes fafely. Oh/ Buy this jcwell , but iell it not. Beware yee^grow not to flight it. Noiirifh it in your foules, fir ft, by abhorring all fmnes that wafte the Conlcicnce and other l^irituall fecrct filth ^ which might fpring up as a bitter rootc to defile their fweete peace. Poyfon not this wel-fpring of life from whence all the iffues of life or death proceeJe. Enlue peace, if we delire holineffe^Hf ^, 12. Take heed of any lecret doling with finne J upon any falfe colours, diipeniations, and diftinftions in a nibbling kindcjand dallying with fome degrees^ when we dare not attempt greater ; forwhenonceourpeaceftaggersj Ihortly it will proove defiled. Keepe it therefore as a tender Jewell , entire found and honeft, and {o wee fliall finde it. Even as the tender eye-iight^if it bee lalhc never fo little , nay , if it have but a moate fall into it , is troubled iVraightway ;ib will our peace-be. Therefore preierve it trom the daily foyle of appearances , of lawfull liberties from the encroaching of eale 5 worldlinefle , flightnelTe, formality, and the like. Rcnuing it often by Faith in thecovcnant of Par- don, and renuing our owne covenant ^ that by daily and oft reckoning we may long keepe him our iriend,who hath given us our peace, as the pledge thereof. And this be iaid of the fourth benefit. ' . QjVhat u the fifth benefip ? , A. Ihe huh is Reconciliation , contrary to the blemiflh' The fifth Bcr ot Emnity with God, and God with us : bringing us into ami- "^li^t";^'^'^""" ty andiavour with him againe. Ei)he, i. 5. Pnai calles it our ^^^^ j^ ;j ^ acceptation and belovedncfle with God. Finding of mercy with Eph.i, y. God is the ground of finding favour in his light. Then wee returne to our former efteeme and be'aufty in the Eyes ot God, we ftand before him as favorites , finde acceffe to him .going inandoutwithwel-pleafing, ^V. 1. all former treachery be- kig forgotten. And this addeth yet a further weight to the former benefit. Peace in not periling is a bleliing , yet ad- 'railfionto former royalties and dignity is moie. Princes oft pardon their fubjec^s , as David did zAbjolon , granting them their lives tor a prey, when yet they keepe theni tarrc oft their pfcfence, and fuffer them not to returne to their places. not i^B Ret^^ndlr^kfttibempk^CbKjfi* Fart.2. nor to enjoy their favours *• but the Lord having as great power to purge the heart of a traitor , as to p^|||Bthe offence^ admits every juftified perfon to be his friend jl|pithing him with the Hof.i 4, t« i\.Qbe of righteourneffejand Bof» 1 4. 2.calling her belovedj which wasno,t beloved. Q. Seeing it is profital^/e to underji-and the due bounds of each be* nefts, both for cleere conceiving thQ ScriftHres , and for fHlter comfcft I jhew more fu6,y ^ what t.hts beneft /ij and ifg what it eonfifis ? . ' ' -4. As I conceivejthreepointsvviil include the chiefefubftance of this do^rine. Firft if we ihallenquirejwhereiu the nature of- this benefit ftands. Secondly, (hew how God conferres it upon the fbule. Thirdlyjwhat ufe may be made of it.For the firftjThc benefit of reconciliation offered byChrift, is the firrae, folid SfeH I . agreement and friendftiip of the foule with the Lord of Hcavetr, who before was our deadly adversary . The foule which was be* fore an enemy to God,and by him denounced, purfued^ and put- lawedjcut off from the liberty and proteftjon of a fubje^t'iis nbwby thismeane,rcftoredagaineto love and amity againe, as if never any Tray tor bcforeJts now become the Lords hleph^uba^^ his delightfuU one 5 amiable one, his favorite and friend in moft inward manner : yea received into dcereli account and accep- tance. For the opening whereof, (lirvey a little thcfe few bran- * ches.Firft from hence, iflueth a Covenant of God made with the foule, and of the foule with him. Deere friends breake into lea* gues and (weare brother- hood : Surely the Lords loves his with his hearty as his owne fbulc : his covenant with themismoff EfiiyH*, firme andcverlaftlng, a covenant of fait. Forits eftabiifliedin the blood of the covenant , which to day j.yefterday, and for* ever holds it firme and fure.By yertue of this covenant hee is not aihamed of us , but vouchfafeth us to be his. T)etita6> 1 7^1 8^ 1,9. The Lord hath avouched thee this day to bee hb peculiar p£tpic^ as hee hath promifed thee^ &c, A fweeteText :as the Lord di(claymcd and dilavowed us in Adam : (b by the reconcilia- tion of the fecond ^f thi^ amity of the g Lord with the Soule^ a very pledge of that felicity in Heaven, which fhalitill the glorified foule in the light of God : Faith (I fay) prefentsa privitieand confcioufnefle of this holy agreement with God, ivith iwifpeakable fecurity of heart and foule : which none can utter , fave they that feele it. To know our felves to be beloved , to bee fainted as Marj was , by the name of one that found favour : yea, i Corinthians 1 To have the Spirit of this reconciliation put mto u?j to nnderftand the good things which ^' God hath given his friends (even here , ere they come home to him) 1 fii'y, to know our feet to be fet in a large.pkce; and that no enemy Ih.dl ever fo icrew himfeife into our Prince, as to loo- ^tn us from him, or to feparate us from his love : Oh hoiv great things are theie ? The happinefTe of Princes Favorites is (etled upon the fickle conceit of manS opinion, or (at beft) ends with the breath of his nortrils .• Nay, the leafl whifper (ofttinjes)of a faftioiis enemy, will come betweene Bark and Tree, and make it waipe : But our agreement is founded upon the blood of the .covenant : the immortall love of an unchan-gcableGod, who loves his better and betterj and the longer, thefurer. This for a draught of the hrft point of the three, w^,- the nature of the be- neiit.. '•.••': ^"''y, ''^- ." The fecond is. The #j RecomiliationhjChrid' 145 Thirdly, this fervcs to exhort all to prize and efteeme the fruit of this privilcdge, which is the grace and favour of the high-God of Heaven and Earth : in whofeloveislife; whofe anger is the Mcflenger of death. As he faith of filyer, -i/Z-t,. ThatitanfwerS all ; fo fay I of this; its the price of all bleflingSjgraceSjpriviledges befides. When the Miniftery of the Word prcfents the hearer with all the promifesof God, all the priviledgcs of grace, all the Efficiency of God to his : what's the queftion but this. Have I any right unto them, are they mine ? Yes, if thou art the Lords, reconciled unto him, and brought into his favour; elft they arc none of thine : But as lob faith, although thou treaftire themupj yet the righteous Ihall divide the booty. So that this is all in all, firft get the fruit of Reconciliation, and then all things both in Heaven and Earth arc thine : on Earth peace, in Heaven accep- tance, good will toward men : yea, a true league with death and allmi(ery, no wrath, ill confcience, no ill newes, no floods of great waters (hall come neerc thee :Chrift,C£?/^i. hath- recon- ciled all for thee, and made even the (tones of the itreet at peace with thee. Hence in the firft place the Apo(tle wiChes gracci mer- cy, and peace to all he writes to, and (b bids them farewell, grace be with thy (pirit, Amen ; the Alpha and Omega of all. The (weetner of each blefling, the fupplyer of each want, the £an£ki(icr of each affli^ion. If the Lord favour u.s, ((aith Caleh^ Nuwlf, 1 4. 5.) we (hall overcome thole GyantSjand pofleflfc this good Land. In that curfed old world, yet Noah did well, and only he : why ? Becaulc Noah found favour with God. v^*'/^/ praying for all pro(perity for lo/eph, Dent. 52. premifcth this, the good will of him that dwelt in the Bu(h bee upon his head j and what then > The bleifings of the Hils and Valleys, the influence of the Sunne, Moone, and all the Hoaft of Heaven (hall follow : all Rom.S.^z, even (inne it (clfe, oppo(ition of the malicious. Crofles (hall turnc to the beft to them that love God, and are loved of him. There- fore let this favour of God be chicfc with thee. All men (ceke the face of the prince, but feek thou the favour of God , and therein let thy trcafure be. All Nations walke in the ftrength of their gods, and we will walke in the ftrength of ours, even in his light and favour. Shew it unto, us O I ord, and we (hall be (afe. And befideSjlet it exhort us to nourifti this favour of God daily : that it may abideinus,yefterday, today,andforevtrpH^/^ i. 8. If the Lord (hall withdraw it never (b little, inthepteienceofhis K k Spirit , \ 146 KeconcilUtionhy Chrrfl, Part. 2. Spirit : the peace of the confcience : Oh, let it bee unto us as death, and letus never lin hearkning, till we have he^rd the Lord fpcak peace, that wee may no more returne to folly. Beware of any fuch fpirituall or morall rebellionsj as threaten the eclipie of this favour ; but if"wc have fallen jlye not ftill,let not theSunne go downe upon our finne, or the anger of God , but recover fa- vour, agree with thine adverfary, while he is in the way : and kt thy fcule abide in his love, and the peace of God, which pafleth underftanding (hall rule and keep thy heart in this love- make thee loth to forgoe it,^nd caufe thee in the comfort of it,to go on with an enlarged heart in all doing and fuffering of the will of God, with all cheerefulnefle, fruitfulncffe, long-fufFering, and joyfui- neffe ; which elle will be a meere yoke and burden, and not to be endured : but by this, all meancs will be favour/, all duties wel- come, and all graces profperous. '\- Vfe 4. Fourthly, let it be an ufe of Triall to us, ivhethcr we be recon- cikd. If we are not, we arecurfed. If weare : then this Covenant hath drawnc from us, an Oath and Covenant with God againe : as thefingular amity oiD£zida.nd lor.athan begat a covenant and a renewing of it with an oath of God. Oh I fuch a ibule will fwcare to keepeGods righteous judgements; and to walk in all weil-pleafing. This is the laft marke of all : As our Saviour (aith, ^^ Ton are myf'-icnds^ loh'/j 1 5 . 1 4. if you do w hAtfmvcr I ccmwdndjoK-^ ffr Butmore than this jfriencls have fhed their blood foreach othcq (ftjch is the power ofa fmkiU league) yea for their friends friend. So fhouid we do, even for our brc thren. But alas ! are w,e at fiich Goft for God^ Are wee Martyrs or Gonfeflors for him? When David heard fo/iarhan wasfliineupon 6'//i't'^, hecurfedit I Hee mourned for him I we do not (o much for GodjWhcn he is woun- ded by fwearers, enemies, and |- eiTecutors of his truth I Alas I we hold a Covenant without the power of it 1 When Vt^vrd could do foiimh^n no good, he enquired for any of his race : and having found a childe of his, a lame Creeple, Mephibojheth^how he ma?^i; of him / How few make good that amity of God in the Saints, lame, deftitutc, and forfciken in the world, yet the off-fpring' of God> Fifthly, improve this ber:efit ; Seeing the Lord will havens his *" '^ ^* beloveds and crowr.e us with fijch favours, let us not decline them : its a fafer ambition then Hamans was,for a beleever to lay, Wliom (liould the King r;,therhonourthan mee? Not for thy worth. Article 5 . adoption a hemp fy cirifL 1 47 worth, but for his own favour. Do as Favourites do with Prin- ces. They chiifer favour above all BooneSjbecanle its aj^ountaine of all. Let not the parcels draw away thine heart from the Foun- taine. Let not wealth, and wifcj and lands, blemifh the worth of grace, humblenefTe^ meekneffe, and the like : nor let all diminifti the worth of God himielfe, wherxe all come. Say as David^ Ma- ny ask who will fhew us any good j But Lord Jherv tu thy countC' Pfal.4. nance ^ and for thefe we w ill take no thought. Seek the face oila- cc^,and all (hall profper. Laftly, abhorre all bafe roots of bittcrneffcrifing up to defile yr^ 5^ this am icy, and weakeii it. Firft abhorre all enmity of imbelicfe ; fufpition of God, diftruft of his promifts, as if he meant nothing leflc. This is the deepeft villany : Never lin till thy large heart can better anfwer the Lord , rhanMi'»^.^ That is Adoption .- anfwering to her contrary , mifery The fixth through fin, to wit baftardy, and lo(rc of the right and bleifingof benefit, Adop. Children. Adam was the Sonne of God by Creation, Luke '^.ult, tion, What? By his fall hclolt it 5 is become a Baltard, itript himfelfe of his royalties, birth-right, and inheritance ; the dignity of the firft borne, dominion and Lordfhip of the Creatures, title to Paradife and immortality. Adoption is the cnfranchifement of the foule into her former eftate of Sonncfhip againe , being freed from the fpirit of bondage asd flaviib feare, G.i/.^.6. For as a man freely, and without defert, t.ikes one that is not his owne childc, to be- Kk 2 come 148 Adoptiort ahenefithy thrift. Part.2. come feis owns, changing his namcjadopting him into his Fami- ly, and fetiing that inheritance upon him, which belonged to RoBJ.8. one dcfcended from his loyncs : fo doth the Lord here, he re- ftorcs a finner to former livelyhood, Sonnefhip, LordOiip, and Rom i 1 f . coheireftiip, with Chrift the Heire of all. And this beneht aptly and 8.1 5 . * followes theformer. For having received us to favour, he doth as Ephcf.i.io. a Prince (reconciled to a Traytourous fon) reftore him to the Ephef.x.5. right of his Crowne : fo doth the Lord for all his ; not only re- Cal.4#f . fioring them to the old, but to a farre better than they loft .- even the right of a Saint in light. Qj_ Open this frivUedge of (tAdoftion a litt'^- Tfac opening e^- I^ we obfcrve three things, we (hall the better underftand of it. ic. I. What we had and loft in ^^^w. 2. What wee recover and 3 Things hold in Chrift. 3. Whatufc we (hould make of them both. And 1 Gencrall. £qj. ^hc firft,although we were no adopted fons in Ma»f({oTwhn needed iO) yet we were fons by creation, as Adam^ Lnc.^. is cal- led the Son of God, being infpired with the breath of God, and framed in body according to his own Image > we bare the Simili- tude of God about usinboth,(reeArt:cie i.ofthe i Partj even as a fon reftmbles the father, fo did wee of the Lord Almighty : refembling our originall in all light and holincfle. We carried both in mind, will, affeaion, fen(e3,body,ge(ture,authority and prefence, the glory of our Father about us : were to God moft accepted in our walking before him^ to the Creatures moft hono - rable and awftill, as Gods Deputies : in the fight of the Angels moft excellent j and in our felves moft happy, by the reflex and view of our own integrity of (bnfliip : To t hat we had whatlbever an earthly veflell could contain.Being thus heirs of al and (bns of immortality, planted in a Paradifeofcxquii-te perfection: even 5n the habitation of our gloryj when we were full of it,wc profti- tuted our felves willingly to tranfgrefle the boimds of children and fonnes, and the law of our Creation : fo I hat we muft either be better than fons, and cquall with God, or el(e nothing : and Co by yeelding to the Devill, we fell from God, ate the forbid- den fruit : tainted not our (pirits only and beings, but our blood alfb and became moft degenerate Baftards, and (laves in our con- dition, not having one dram left inusofthat {bnnelikenature> temper and integrity which we h.id:in fteed of bearing tht Image of H:'aven, we beare the image oh earth, (Iript of oui* honour, and put downe to the lowcft. forme ofbafenclTejandmidemeere (had-- dov/ffs Article. 5 • AddptUnaknefitbyChri^* 149 dowes of what we had beene ; forfeited all our royalties , not only of inward contentjefteeme^peace and beholding the Face of God as children : buJ alfo of outward Title to the earth and to Paradifejdominion ofcreatureSjbrother-hdod with Angels :And being thruft owtf of the garden , we became drudges of the Earthy flaves to Satan, and lived in continuall feare of death and Wratk: only having a poore hole and corner of the Earth to confine us as prifbncys, and to hide our heads in. (^Aadivhat yecoverwein Ckrtfl i ^.HebeingGodby nature, the eternall word, and alfo flefli tGcncrall by the power of the holy Ghoft , did by his bloody (atisfaftion over entreatc our Father ,pacifie his juftice 5 and wafhed off our rebellion and guilt with the curfe thereof from us ; That fo we might pafle into the former priviledgc of S®n-fhip^and what ever honour of grace appertained thereto : and that by adoption. For as a rich PrincCjhaving loft his fbnj takes another child, not his own, and ftrips him of his name and family, andcaufeshimto take his own nameupon him, and to becontit his ownjand gives him right to all he hath , and makes him his heire • So doth the Lord take us poore loft baftards j flrips us of our name, and takes us into his ftock , arrayes us with his owne robe, fets us at his own table , caufes us to forget our Fathers houfe and all the baft- neffc thereof ;.re(k)res us to the right of fans of the Almighty, be- gat of his ownTeede and fpirit , gives tis the liberty of fonnes, the title to all his Creatures with purenefle • without feare of evei: * being catt out any more : till we come to pofTeflc Heaven with' himfelfc for ever.Indeed there is difference betweenGods Adoj>- Difference be- tion & mans.For man adopts no child, if he haveoneof his own; '^w^cnc Adop« but theLord having a moft beloved Sonne of his,yet adopts us to ^^°'**' ' becoheires* A man adopts feme fuch as may in fome kind coii- '* tent him • But the Lord adopts Baflards : (hewing that he lookes ^' not at any thing in us , but at what his grace can betcame us. A man adopts to an earthly eftate of better quality than before : ^' But the Lord adopts to a better eftate in nature, even from Earth to Heaven 5 to a better than Adam loft. A man adopts to an in- 4' heritance^which if it were divided , were lefle ; The Lord to fuch an one as which cannot be leflcned by multitude of heires.A man ^* adopts to an eftate which may leave the heire as bareofitasit found him ; TheLord to an eftnte unchangeable , which can ne- ver be loft as -<^^<«w/ was.but is eternall and undefeatable. In all K k 3 thefc 150 ddoptionahnefitbjii Chrifi, Part. 3, thele oiir privilcdge of adoption exceeds our Creation ; and now we become better Tonnes than ever^as loh after his recovery ^grea- ter than before jevcn the arft fruits of his creatures,and the birth- light of them. : 1: Q^But AUsMtfeemesfarreothsrv^ifelF&ry roho are hnfer than Juch ? A, Its the ftate of Heaven which di recti J anfwers Paradi(c, Therefore i John 3. 3. It cannot appear e hecre tvhat wee are home to. Heere v/e arc as hcires under age,and in our minority : wc fccme therefore little to differ from Servants , yea from Ab- Gal'4.*r jefts : wondering often with our (elves, yea doubting, how God ihould raeane us (uch excellency heereafter, and yet en- dure that wc fliould be fo bafe the whijeft .' We are as the Doves amongthe Pots, fullyed with the col©uf of corruption, fmcard with the balenefie of afflidion, tanned by the Sunne ot'perlccu- tion : made the fcorne of men , and fpeftacle of AngcJIs ; yea wc ferve for meei-e Tennis-balls for bafe baftards to tofle up and ciownc : But yet w» are even heere, Ucobs oiGod^ haying the birth-right ; Jacobs (ecd was almoft 500 yearc old ere they reco- vered the birth-right. In a word , this World is a totall eclipfc of our Adoption, in rcipeft of other mens efteeme 5 yet the (ecde of God for our Regeneration abides conftantly , in us : as the Son- fhip of Chrift abode upon him even in all his ahaferaent .• and by thismeanesit iswithusinlecret, far otherwift than the ma- lignant Worldcould imagine; If the Jewes could have known the Lord of life^th^ woijild never have killed him : but our honour is purpofely hidden from them, that our bafenefle might conforme ushteretoounheadi. . : i.. j • . . ■ Thellfes follosv^ And firft, itihould teach Hs wifely to di- geft and carry that difproportion of our condition below in the meanc time ! Oh .'what hurablenes mcekenes, raeane opinion of our (elves, fclfedeniall (to fubjeftourfeivesfora whiletothis ftatcofconformityto our elder brother' ) fhould we (eeke for? What Faith efpccially need we , firmcly to cleave to the woi d of promiie, which affiircs us that the Lord efteemes us as we arc 1 And to abhorrc to live by fence , in judging our felves to be bale becaule we feeme fo , and t^ie World counts us (b I Oh 3 what a dealc of grace need we to repute and bearc our (elves with that freedome , eheerefulnes and joy , that befeemes fiich as are adopted Tonnes and heires of God .'How fhould we hugge and Article 5. Adepti on a benefit hy Chrifi. 151 and prize that lively hope , which makes us not afhamed, whidi fuffcfsusnottobe miferable in oui? own thoughts ? Rom.^.'^. \ (^or.1%.1^. and makes us happy ih the undoubted affijFance of the adoption of fonnes ! Whereby , in our greateft baftneffe G>U, 4' we dare call our ielves fonnes and daughters of the Lord Al- mighty, i«eing God hath taught us to fay (b, 2 Cor,6,Ufi.i. j9h.^A,i^pGai.^, 5, bearing theniarkes of Gods children in us> and the fir ft fruits of light and holinedc, going in and out before him , as confident we (hall never be caft out againe : We may be chaftiicd as fonnes , that we may live,Hf ^. 1 2.bHt neve/ caft off: Let as therefore dofo: and as a Princes heirc travelling in a pri- vate habite, bearcsitwdlifheberaeanelyefteemcd, bccaUfeits his happinefle to ^now what his hopes are : So let us compt this our hope and earneS of adoption jto be our ehiefe jewel! he'ere in the reproaches of the World . Secpndlyjthislhouldfcareungodly men and make them trem- Vfi 2. ble at their condition,that they are baftards & no fbns, or daugh- ters of the Almighty .Who is afFefiked duly with this mi{ery > To be taken drunke, or in a lie, how it difquiets men I In the meane while to be baftards • to be ftript of Gods Image and qualities, to bccutoff fro^i the birth-right of the creatureSjthe preeminence & blood of a Sonne , to be caft out from all liberties and titleis ofa (bnne, whom doth it trouble ? As if a man ftiould fret for be- ing robbed of 20. {hillings by the way : and in the meane time to be never troubled with the burning down of his houft o- verhis eares, a^^Jie loofing of his^oods and eftate by fire, yea his childrdp||pnfelves I Oh wotbll ones ! How dare ye venture to come to Gods houfe , jetting among his children ? Durft baftards come into the Temple for many generations? Would they not have feared that God would have ftruck them down right "i And yet who feares any thing heere ? Men boaft themfelvcs that they ar^he fonnes of men , Ana kirns like their Ancetors,men of brave ftomackeSjas proud and rebellious as thei^ parents : fiich as Giant-like doc fight againft Heavenj and walke according to the (way of their lufts / But to be the Sons of God, they regard not .' If one noble man in a Country adopt a (on, its the wonSerof theCountrey : whereas an adopted ibn of God ' lies by as nobody/ Titles of honour, worftiipjlearningjparentag^ blood are all in all • But titles of adoption , tme nobility , and grace,are of no value with men* The houfe of Aufirid goes for the Kk 4 ' only 152 Adoption abenefithyChrift. Part2. only houfe of honour : The houfe of God is dcipifed^who counts them trucly noble who are the brethren of Chrift , the naturall off-rptingof God ^ Oh 'therefore howle and mourne all yee baftards for your degenerate condition / mourne each one apart, husband for him- felfe and wife fo^ hers, each for other, and both for their chil- dren,that the Image ofGod is defaced, and the Image of corrupt Addtn fct up in fteed of it /Oh / how ffnall joy (hould it be imto you , to fee your children boa^ of their parentagejtheir inheri- tances and their hopes here,when they are caft out like ballards, not as Ipta from his brethren, but as Cain from the Lord? What did it boote him or will it boote thefe to goe and build them Citties, to while themfelves with the rattles of f^lfe honours, contents and cftccme among mcn,when ( like Reuben) their true dignity is gone?Oh / that the meditation hereof might once fink into fuch hearts , to thinke themfelves fiich as ©od thinkes and knowes them, and not to judge themfelves according to the falle repute of men. Children in their playjand fooles upon the ftage, make and aft the pcrfons and parts of Kings, Lords, Knights and Ladies ; But is any fo idle as to count them truly fo? Or to thinke any to be honourable whom the King hath not made to, , Eyai fo , not whom men applaud for jolly ones, but whom God approoves, they are men 5 The reft are moft bafe, vile and abjeft with God , when they feeme moft glorious and brave in the worldjand when God ftiall pull ofFtheir vi2orS;they ihall appeart in their likenefJcgWofull Cains ^|^egencrate ones, having no portion with the fonnes of Godi|Bplthedainned^in Hell : except by this or the like warnings anU terrors , they get out of this their woe betimes ; Say to the Wormes, to the duft, yearemy riilersjSaytohcll, thou art my portion ; Pull down your ftomaekeSjpranke not up your /elves in other birds feathers: but confclTe that beggeryjnakedneffe&r^ges are the true armes ofprodigalls and baftard« : Humble your (elves under this , and cornein^nd I will receive you (faith the Lord) to be (bnnes and daughters t j the Lord Almighty. And this is the Third ufe of it. If the Lord jfhallindsed prick your hear s for this(I fpeake now to great ones whom this point moft touches ) then let the promife of receiving you foke into your hearts. Confidcr on the other fide, what I have fayd of Adoption and the prerogative thereof: doe as adopted children doe. Article. 5* Adoption a benefit hyChrift, 153 doe, forfake your Fathers poore houfe, rciigne your ftlves to him who gives you wealth and true honour, paflc into his family, come to the Lords Herauldjthe Lord Jefus God and manjthe Son of God and nian,theMediator of adoptic)n,and offer your fclves, unto him , as your elder brother ; befeech him to prefer ye to be fbnnes and daughters,to fit at the right hand and left hand in his Kip.gdome :. Ifherhakc ye fonnes ye are fonncs indeed, andba- ftards no more , feaife it n :t3 none fhal ever caft ye in teeth with it.IfGod juftify5who fnall condemne Uf he reconcile and reftore you to your blood^youi' fon^ftiip ; If he vouchfafe yee reftitudon to the inheritance of fuch as are fadQ:ificd by Faith in him , who &all defeate ye of it,? Therefore come in, receive this ojffer , and God will be your God,yea your Father, ye (hall walke iii and one before him as his own with the confidenceoffonsy hefhall guide you here till glory. ^^ , Laftly, this fhould exhort all Gods people that they deceive « ^ 1 not themfelves, in this great priviledge , for feare that they for- feit the comforts of it. Try it firfl: 5 and then improove it : a true Xriallsof it; io\-\ and daughter of God partakes of the fon-fhip of Chriit their i. head. The Angels worlhipt Chrift the Sonne, when he was 2. brought into the World , and" for his fake the Angels are Mini- ihing Spirits for the goodof us , and of ours; The Father ac- knowledged Chriit laying , Thit day I have, hegotun thee ;So 3» doth God in him acknowledge thee, for his child , and himfelfe thy Father : The Father iHttde Ghrilt the heire of all chings.and .^ all things which thy Father hath are thine,, as thou art Chriffs. -* Chrift was pittied and heard by the Father in that hce feared, and thy Father will be afflifted with thee in all thy affliftions. Chrift was faichfuli in all Gods Houfe as a funne, fu)hllingali righteouuitfle. If thou bee a fonne, what lave thy faithfull s. fearc and obedience fliould proove it ? The Lord ]efi.is being ♦ the Lord of all, yet denied all; even to a pillow to leane his hfad on,and an hole to hidejhimfclfe in. And thouTifa (bn)fhalt and wilt deny thy felfc ^ and take up thy CrofTcj and learne o- ' ' bedicnce by fuffcring , defpife the World and compt all dung towinnc his acceptance. Briefly , if a ion ; then art thou an g^ Heire of God , and Coheire of Chrift : What everiswnnting j^om. 8. hterefhallbe fupplyed in Heaven : and yet hee^c, thoufhalt partake all the good things of God , For why ? Whofnd*»th 9* a Father provide for,buc for his children l Whole is all that he hatb, 154 Adoption a benefit kyChrifi. Part. 2, hath 3 iavc theirs 1 Againe , if a fonnc , then thou fcnoweft the way to thethrone of grace, even to the Father, in the Mediation of Ghrift 5 and thetc canlt with the fpirit of a fon grone at leaft unutterable defires to the Lord, that thou ttiightft be once free from bondage to this body of death , from unbeliefe , from an unfavory heartjfrom worldlineflTe, from the error of the wicked and this finfull World, and the like. Oh / With humble confi- dence thou wilt make known thy requeft to God, and that ih (ccret, filch as none but thy felfe can be privy to : and wilt ; improove this liberty , when ftrangcrs and flaves Ihall not dare tocomeneerc. Much more I might ad. By thcfe few try thy (elfe 5 and if thou finde the Spiritof Adoption to bee a ftran- lirmch 2, &^fi^ "o^ ^^^1 ^^^ Lord have created it : if he have done it, itand Toimuroovc f^^ i" thispriviledgc and maintaineit by thy awe and feare of it. thy Father , not leaft he fliould caft thee off againe,butbccaule being once a fonne thou flialt never be difpofleflcd , either of thy right heerc , or thine inheritance hereafter. Rely upon thy Fathetjbearc thy felfe upon him , not to prefimie to offend him, ortotrycoHclufions, whiiit a Father can beare,but to feare him, to keepe thine heart in^ awe , childlike, tender to prile thy pri- viledge, and wonder that thousands fliould be left as baftards, and others caft out as Ifmaels , and thou taken in as a fon, and kept in the houfc not to be caft out. Blefle the Lord for this : and feekc no other bafe proppes, as if they could better thy pri- vilcdge 3 or addc to it; honor notWng (o farre as to come into competition with a Father : Abraham hath forgot thce,but thou art our Father O Lord- Efaj 6^, Hold thy fon-iliip by Faith, thatfo, thou mayft hold withall the love of thy Father, and cofript it a fecret bleffing , which no fervant or ftranger can partake or underftand .- In all thy baie revolts , reft not in any ^ of thy falfe amends by duty , till the thought of thy Father have recovered thee to thy former condition. U fe him as a Father , and thinkc not thou canft come too oft unto him in Prayer : Icarne to acquaint with him,and lob. Z2, be no ftranger, walke in and out with a mixture of feare and confidence : for ads he is a confiiming fire ; (b yet he re/oyceth togethischildrensi hearts reft on him : Confider what an unspeakable depth of love is in a Fathers heart>/)' 6^. 1% thy Name may t>c ElimsUch , or Abimelec , my God,my Father is a King, he will be even with them that totich his annoynted .-Read Ej)h.i.i^i\9. See there the great hopes, and the inheritance which a fonne of this Father hath title to : What endeavours • arcfopoore, which a Father rfifpefts not in a child > who (hall ever (eparatc a Ton from his B'ather "i Could Satan come betwccne God diwA lob ? caf.i. GhildrenjWivcSjServants, Friends, Bre- thren jali Cirnall relations may fayle : this is everiafting. Sec Efay 63. 16, And fo much for Adoption. y-QjVhat 16 the feVe/ith heaefit ? (•^.Redemption oppofite to two things : fir ft Thraldome and The 7. Piivi- fldvcry to iinne, andfo to all enemies , who by finneftrove to ledge, ReHcm-' hold the foule under feare and bandage. Secondly , to the fting P"°"> ^" 2 rcf« and dint of all fuch crofles as (inne hath brought into the ^vorld, ^ ' as the tokens of Gods difpleafure for It. Toucfhing the firff^ redemption fets the foule at liberty from all that fcrvitude and i. tyranny 5 it buyes out and reftores the foule to the liberty of ^P'riftjall- releafed and ranfomed ones : makes it fr^c onely to righ- p^^^^^ ^^ teoufneflTe, and th.it for ever, bores the eare for God, and yet not to make the foule flavifli , but a farvam ( being delive- red from all enemies ^ yea , death it felfe , the laft enemy ) to fcrvc the Lord in righteoufncfle 'and holinefle alwayes. From hence ifliies an heart enlarged to God, fq fearing him , as fea- ring nothing elfe •, not (erving in the oldnefle of the letter, Rora.7. but the newnefle of the fpirit : delivered ftom the Ordinances Col.j.i*^. oiMofis, the Traditions of Phari fees and Papift^ 3 the bonds impo^d unjuttly by bad man upon eon(ci-:rjce. Hence fecond- ly 5 floweth a rfght to the Proteftionanc^ providence of God,' and to his holy Hand over us and ours againft the violence of outward enemies , or thofe erodes which threaten our lives, health, liberty, andwel-farc, begem in this life, ending at the Refurreftion : and laftly to thefe two may be added freedome to Romj.tf, Gods (ervice, to finde it an eafieyoke , and a light burden ; yea, ^ ^<*^ *• l^* tocompt t our happinefleto deny oiirown wils, becaufe bodies |Pj^!:''^* and foules are bought with a price , that we fhouldnotbcat ^ ^^* our own , but at his will whodeerely bought us- See 2 Cor, 5. 15. . Qi This Priviledge having a large roome in the Scriptures, and i$6 Redemption a benefit by thrift. Part. 2. and fervittg for the explication thereof , open the fame morf fnlly ' ©ptnjftgofit. cx^. The Lord made (t/^ii/k;?? a free and abfolute Creature in 1 What Adaoj point of command,that all fliould be put under his Feetc , and he ^^** needed feare neither Creatures in Heaven,nor yet in Earth ; The ^ Obedience to the Creator being his perfeft freedome, both within by thefreedomeof hisiecure and quiet confcience 5 and without , fearing no hurt by any thing. Now, becaufe aAdAm being let in this bJefled and uncontrolled liberty , chofe to vio- late that charge of God ( the keeping whereof was the pledge of this freedome 9 and eiKlined his free-will to the voluntary breach of that Law 5 it was /uft with God to lay this burden upon his whole nature ( wherein he finned ;) as to take away What he loft* this liberty from him , being a Jewell too good for one that knew not the pi'ice of it ) and to give him over to bondage both Bondage 10 unto fin ne,to be ruled by it , and byfinne, to be afrayd of God fane whence. ^"*^ of any goodneffe; tolyeopentoallfearesandpunifiiment * through a guilty Conkience , continually binding him over thereto. That fo he who would not be fiec when he might flaould be a flave when he would not : and that to thoft two enemies, Satan and finne, whom he firft yeelded to, in the wor- king of his Ruine. To Satan firft, becaufe he was given over as a flave> that he might rule in the hearts of children ot Dilbbedi- ence and hale them to all Mifery : becaufe he being of all others the baleft of Gods Creatures , yet' wjjs preferred to God the beft good. To finne , becauie having had the experience of a bleffed liberty of "heart by obeying ; yet at the firft entifing, (even becauie he was weary of wel-fareas fooneashehadit ) he refigned it up to a bafe luft and carnall appetite : therefore it was meete he fhould be left to fcrve hisluftandbeavafTallto his own corruptionjto the cheine of Pride, Atheifme,rebelliohj profaneneflejconcupifcence, the luft of the heart, of the eye, and of life. How it i» made lender this bafe bondage , lies each fonne of Adam , till ours» Chrift fetch him out : both he and his : even as, both a flavc himfelfe, and all hisare his Mafters ; The will hath loflher free- dome to all trucly good: and is tyed to evill only and continu- ally : The Confcience hath loft hers by gurlt , and accufeth in ilead of excufing 5 or elfeexcufeth deceitfully, ot elfe is fence- leflc of either. Sorrow begins at home by finne , but ends a- broad, Article.5* Redemption a benefit by Chrift, 157 broad, for by this mcanes whatfoever fearcor eviJJiinne hath incurred, that the DcviJl abu(es to hold under the fmi^ by : as the wrath of God, the purcneffe and terrors of the Law, the one to tcmptjthe other to terrific .• the day of accompt and laft jiidgc- mcHt : the time of death which is the fcntenceinthis life: eternall niifery Iiereafter, befides many calamities here either felt or fea- red, from which though ^ finner be aftually (afe, yet not fecure of, but all the life long fubjeft to bondage. By theie Satan en- flavcs.the foule- Doe but confider this bondage in refpeft of two Heb.*, lawes contrary to each other : The one the Law of God moft holy, in each point preffing the foule to that obedience, which it is impoflible for it to performe, nay rather by which its the more -^^^ g provoked to rebellion : The other the Law of finne, which hath Dominion over the, foule , prefling her continually to evill with Rom.7.9,1©, delight : betweene the(e two what bondage is (he in ? But if the Law of God once graple with the Law of finne, then comes ano- ther bondage, that is, horror and unquictnefle of confci nee con- ^'^^^ ^^^^' ' vinced of her guilt j till the Lord turnes it to liberty. So that ei- ther bondage to fin or by fin is the eftate of every fonne of Adam: only bondage by fin is ufed by the Lord as a ftep to deliver from bondage tofinne, iftheLordJeftis his Redemption be added to pcrfeft it. Briefly then thus; S!nne bath (et up a Court in the Mans mircry confcience of man. In this Courts the debt or crime impleaded fhadowed, is finne;the Pleader and Informer is Satan. The rule of proceed- ing is the Law of Juftice. The evidence-giver or witnefle is Con- fcience ; the Judge, the Lord ^ the penalties, death, and deftrufti- on. DuringthefiibfiltingofthisCourtjinwhatapicklcisman? The ftrong man Satan by this houfe of confcicnce, holds this fin- ner bound and (hut up under brafen barres, and bolts not to bee broke open by a mortall oppofite, but rules and keeps all at peace andathisownpleafure. Now marke, as wee fee in Courts of men , Take away all xhe benefit of Coppy holds and buy all free, and then Courts are of finall value. Chtift. Remove debts and pleas,and what fhould the Kings Bench conic -^ to? If the Court be downe, what fiiould become ot Sergeants, Writs, Arrefts, Executions, Oiulawryes, or Fine^, and For'^eirs ^ So it is here. The Lord fcius begins with fin and gt>ilt; he re- moves them : paycs the price and Ranfome of hij< bloo i en make a (atisfaftion for them to jnllice; and by this meines.deiie sthe foule from both the guilt and dojninion.of fin. The chiete thing being 153 Redemption a yenefithyChrifl* Part 2. being gone, the reft fall ot therafelves •, there is no place for plead- ing, for4|ptenGe, for evidence, for punifliment ; in the fall of ^he Gourt,i.inals which appertaines to it,at once; and the foule freed from the one, is freed from the other togetherjand fears no Baile, no ill confcience, no devill,bat beholds all as things difabled,and cannot hurt. For the proofe cf which, coniider fome texts.Firft Texts for our ^^^ flavery to finne, readc Tit.^.^^%. Serving divers Ufis. So bondage* Rom*6, As ye have given tipyoptr members a,i tveafons pftdnrifhteouf- nejj^e tofervejinne. Hence the Apoftle. Rom.'jt i. faith, (in is -a Law in the members, as *an husband is a law to his wife. And againe, yee Were the fervants to finnc. Secondly, for flavery by linne reade, Kom.j. Where Taul tels us ; we are fold under Imne, and therefore thereby fearc that God will punilh, the Law will ac- cu'^e, hell will execute ; wee feare that wee fhall not beleeve or rc- pcrui, wee thinke God an enemy, feare his wrath, and tremble at both Law and Gofpellas things too pure and too fweet,rebclling and diitrufting both at ons and other. Now Chrift hathredee- naed as from finne, and therefore from all bondage thereto, and thereby. Texts for our Saint Peter cleeres the former : Wee are redeemed not by RedcniptiGn. Pearies, or Gold, but by the blood of Chrift ; and P^an/^ Sphef, I. . i.y. In whom we have redemption thropf/rh his blood, even the for- From fm. gtvenefe ofourjinnes; and Rom. 3, 3(5. JufHfied by the Redemption that is by Chrift Jefiis. Hence fo oft in the Epiftles, the fatisfa^ ftion of Chrift is called a price, a ranfbme to buy out a thing which yfi^s fold, and redeeme that which was forfeited and taken away. And the like Texts doealfo prove redemption from all enemies.' As from Sztzn, Luke.l l, The ftronger man enters^ and ' . Ifindicstheflrong^ and fpoyles him, and divides his goods. And againe, ' The Prince of this world is caft out. Further, the Lord Jefiis fpoyled Principalities and Powers, and nayled them to. his The Law. Crofle. So for the Law, G^f-.a^-/^. Made under the Law, (that is, to obey it, and fatisfie for the curfe) that wee might have the adoption of (bnnes, by being redeemed from the Law. So for Ceremonies, other bondage, by the Law of Ceremony, Eph'efi, 15. Having abolijht in his^efl>theetimitj^esev\the Lawofl^ommandepe-nts, in Death. - Ordinances, &c. So for death, Heb.i. 14,1 ^.Thathe might dejlroy hiin bj dhith^ rvho had the poller df death (mark the phrasfe; ho w fin gives up the keyes of all mifery to Satan.) And deliver them, who' Wrath, through the feare of death were ftib\eU to bondage. And ifb for wrath and Article 5* Eedej^fHon a benefit by Chrift- 159 aod hell. -J Theff, i Mt. Even . lejm who huth delivered mfrom the wrath to co?nc. So he is faid to deftroy the (econd death. So a- HelL gainejG^/. 3, Clmfi hath redt'cr/f:£d pts from the mrfeofthe Law , ilmdry Texts might bee add^sd ;. if inyTcope.w^rs.not rather to prcfle the priviledge, than to prove the mci it;oi: it- Therefore in a word, mar kc \ Text or two tor that, w^. That hereby wee ob- tdine freedome So faith PW, We have notthefpiritofbon- 2 dage to feare, but the fpirit offree dome, and of a (ound rainde. Vntofreedomc So Gi^L'y. I» Stand fc'.fl in ih^t liberty wherewith Chrifi hath m>jde pm of righteouf- free* So /i;?;^. 7.24,15. IVhoflyali deliver me from this body ofArath f ^tiie. ' 1 1 hank^God through lefus Porijl. And OLir Saviour hinifeliej lohn ,8,56. If theyi the Sonne haihmi^de youfree, ye are free indeed'^ So Rom.6, 1 6, .1 S . Know ye not that hisJervAntsye are whom ye obey ? drcB^irg;^ fr.e frcrn fn,yc -are fervants torlghtf.ouf/U-jfp^ ioLuke^'^^^^'^^'^^' .l,74«. \ThM being ddhered from om\enemies^ vns might ferve%m °"^^^"'^' without feare. Other places I forbeare. The cohckifion of the do- drlneis, That Redemption is a peculiar benefit , Vfherewitb Chrirt is offered to the foule. Adde hereto our redemption from all (piritaaii penalties ; for redemption looks at the freedome of the iouie from the enthralling efFed of finne, together with the * fnaringiind defiling power thereof, alfo from that wrath of God which ceazes upon the fpiritofafinnerj by darkneffe of mindcj delufionSj deadneffe of heart, dedolencyjfecurityjimpeniency, and the like judgements. Eeiides the continuall feares of aflii£ii- onandde.th, Hf^.2. ,. Q. Well : Now what ufe make you of this dcSirine ?. A. The ufes are many. Firft it IS terror to all that lye fiill in VQi this theii' eftate of unregeneracy, in "what degree fb ever it bee '' more or ieile ; I lay to all Fapilh,. freewill-mongers, profatie per- fbns and hypocrites : who either compt this fl-'.very to bee free- dome , or at leait live in it as ifth:y were free men, and fearc no- thing. Can yee feaft it out-merrily when the fword hangs over your head by a briiHe, ready to d.ut into you ? Do not finne and curfc put the fpiric of tht als into you! Oh / of what hardy mettall are ye made? Goufider then what I (hall fay^ and tremble. It is not in this fpirituall bondage, as in the bodily and carnall. fn bodily captivity all fortsarctaken prifofters^and made bondmen, but yet there is fome oddcs in their mifcry. For fome are noble ilaves, who can redccme themselves by ran feme, and fo go free : while the pooi:cr fort ?tbide flaves ftill for want of price. But here (alasl) i 60 Redemption a benefit by Chrifi. Part. 2, Calas .') it is not (b. All Satans and finnes (laves are alikcjand none Can redeeme themfelves from their bondage. Not that there are not here alio all forts of men chained up in mifery j for there are PrinceSj Nobles, and Rich ones, learned flaves, witty flaves, lub- tillg as well as poore and filly ; butln point ofranfomej one hath as much as another to'delivcr him, that is,; uft nothing. The Devill bags up ^U in one pocket, as Counters in a Purfe. All arc alike ignorantj^ rebellious, profane, and ungodly 5 led by their lufts, and at the will and plealiire of the Devill. Golden fetters diifer from Iron, but both are bonds aliketoholdfaftaflave. Think of this and tremble, ye haughty and proud ftomacksjWho ttand fo much upon tcarms of honour and birth! comedowne and lick the duft, ftiafee hands with the bafeft in this point. The Goalcr of Hell is like Nebftchadnez^Zjar , of whom the Prophet (aith, that he would take no rewards. Other Goalers will knock off mens bolts and chaines for money. But this Goalcr looks at nothing (avc the cternall thtaldome of foules without bayle or maine prize. Againe, confider this : Wee pittyiuchpdfbners as lye chai- ned by the aeck, or wrcfts, or feet. But alas I There may bee li- berty of (bulc m all (tich chaines : but Satans flaves lye under worie chaines ; upon their thoughts, wils. affeftions, and confcl- ence (not to be rclea^d by Arminian or Popifti freewill j fb that if Heaven might be given themjthey arc Co bound that not a good thought or defire can come from them; thy are free to all ba(e vile thoughts^ and lults, yea,tofomenaturallorcivillgooda£l:s and employments 5 but unto good and holy ones, allfreedome is loft. They cannot fliake off their chainctheir balejVainejearth- ly, envious thoughts and paffions. Thofe Ifraelites had as much lift to (hake off their y oakc (when they were gorged with their fleflipots. Onions, and Garlick) as theft have to renounce their lufts, feeling the falfe Iweetnefle of them. If Heathens could con- clude that all bad men are flaves, (t hough it fceme a Paradox) much more may truth it felfe affirme lu Perhaps Satan may (iif- fer them to dreame of liberty, as Pharaohs Baker did, with his chaines upon him- But this dreame ends as his did , in utter mife- ry : yea, to conclude,if tkcy do get out of his armes at a pufli^and fomctimes by a Sermon, or by feare of confcience, or by crofles, ftiould think of an efcape : yet even then hee fo amplifies their fwect cafe in this flavery, that hepuls them back to a leven fold (trongcr Article. 5 . Redemption 4 beneflthy Chrid, 161 ftronger rcfblution to revolt to their lufts^than beforeieiichanting' them fbj as no Crofles or Threats can prevaile. I know where the Lord will defeat Satan, there men Ihall at onetime or other, by the painfull aad patient waiting of the Minifter, get out of his fnares and chaines. But if he may have his will,; they (hall never go further either in hearing Law or Gofpell, than hypocrites may go, that is, to have the liberty of their Prifon, and Co as the Devill may pull them back by the cheinc upon their hecle to their wonted ftate. Oh / then let this terror pierce all fiich bondflaves, from the moft odious drunkard to the clofeft hypocrite / Know ye, that till the Law have left ye under the fpirit of this bondage, to compt your felves as ye are, and lye uader thiseftate, as (enii- ble of it and in your felves paft hope > Cairn and lu/ias his cafe is not more wofull thjin yours. God open your eyes. Secondly, its inftruftion to all forts , to make them behold ^r ^ theirnaturall condition, as in a glaflfe.Sinae is no Cich tame and ^^ " harmelcfle beaft as ye imagine. Nothing fave this redemption by the blood of God is able to ranfomcyou.' For fin hath fet the doore open to Sacan and all enemies, wrath, hell, law, CQnfcienee and death to have their wilsef us. So that an infinite ftrength is needed to deliver us / When the Ifraelites would needs have a King, the Lord bids i'/iz»»f/ tell them the conditions of it, That he fhould take their choice fons and daughters to make them his ^ Sam.8. t^. Oftlers and Kitchinmaids : yet ftill they would have one : all the liberty of living under Gods immediate iccpter by Judges could not fo affeft them as their wils to have a King, whatfocver it coft them. So is it here. Tell a man ot the infinite priviledge of redemption, and the Devill will more prevaile to kccpe men in his ba{e chaines, notwithftanding his hard conditions, than the Lord can by all liberty and fruits of deliverance. Why, (ave that the heart is perverted, clle nothing is Co unwelcome as bondage. All men fmg as the Jewcs , We are freemen, and children of the free-woman. But ftill they abide thrals, as they then*were to the Romans. Oh / that curfed import of cruell bondage which Satan puts upon wicked men, (hould teach them their nature, ft was fearful! bondage which^W^e/jputuponZ/r^f/tobroileinthc Fornace, and toyle both to get ftravv, and to make Brick. But they had good fare for their vvork. This Tharaohakev hee hath worried his flaves requites them with empty foules, and hell it (elfe. All will grant thofe gimpowder traytors were ill requited 'LI (and x6a KedtmptioHabenefithji Chrift, Part. 2, (and yiX well enoHgh for (uch ivork) when Gcntle.iicn of hun- dreds by the yeerc, were glad todigge in a vault and carry out earth by baskets upon their fliouldcrsi farre off; and when all came to all, to betray their plot, and reward them with the Gal- lowes. But alas \ what other meed doth he hire all other flaves with 'i Drunkards I mcane, fweare s, profaners of Sabbath, Epi- cures and time (ervers ? how doth he rule them as he lift > ^h^t bale ones doth he make them t Be they honourable, or learned or rich, what oddes bctweenc them and the vileft and bafeft varJets doth there appearCj in their lufts? Their time, their trclh youth:, their preciouiname, health, crediCj wealth, gifts and parts, what are they unto them^in comparifbn of ferving their M >fter in their lufts ? Will they ftick to gage all to plealc him ? Oi will hee bee content with a bare title o^ftrvants, except he can debauch them ' with extreme (lavery ? No, let it coft them beggery, infamy,toyle and dileafednefle, yea acurfedconfcienceandhellitlelfe, they are (b faft bound, that they will, for none of thcfe give him over. Ohl if this were well vyeighcd , what an entrance might it pro- cure to true libeity ? Vfe 5, Thirdly, this flioiild teach all who wouldnot be (uch flaves, to prove their* redemption by the maikes of it. Firft, all truly re- X Mark> deemed ones of the Lord (as they are called, Efaj 63.4. j feCjfieh under aad arc weary ofthis their bondage, defirous to be freed from it. Oh ! they are fane from the px-adlifc of that drunken ty^g^g^ who, when Samuel cA\€.d him out to hew him in pieces am. I >. before the Lord, came leaping, and laughing. Truly (faith hee^ the bittcrncflc of death is paflcd. Oh ! men make the hell of this their bondage^ another heaven to the.r. But the fpirit of Gods freemen is contrary : They ligh under crneli bondage, and never more than when God offers themfreedome. They cry out of the depth ofthis prifon, as David Aid /yS/.i 16,6. They have fmall lift to (ing the Songs ofthc Temple in a ftrangc land : no, they turnethem to bowlings and out-cry es. They &w their bondage EMdai .4 U ^^ ^*°^^"^ 5^ them, not naturall . As t he Church carryed to Babel * * • hung their Harpes upon the WillowcSjfodothey : and lay to heart their fad cftate. Secondly, the offer ofthis Redemption in Chrift is precious to them : both the purcha(er of it^ the offer of it, and the purchafc it klfc. They do as the Ifraelites in Egypt did ; when they were in anguifti for their bondage, they minded Bot Mofes nor (aw him to be their deliverer : But after, when the Lord Article 5. Btdtfftptionhy Chrifii^ 163 Lord did enlrghtcn them with a cleere fight of Gods regatd of thenijthey bowed themfelves and worftiippcd. So do thefe 5 they wonder that ever the Lord thould pitty fo bafe Haves as themfelves, andratherlofe his Sonne, than lofe the>ri ! Lordj, was my liberty fo pcecious unto thee > Wert thou affliitcd in my afflldion ? Was thy foiila grieved for my bondage t Art thou come downe from Heaven to fee itj and to fend, wol Mofes, but the Lord Jefos to redeeme us from our woe? yeatoredeemeustothee> Oh/ it breaks pwr heart to think of It/ Should it be laid of ftichthrals. that ever we ftould be free men againe. Oh / the feet of them that bring this Gofpell of gladnelTe, arcpreciouSjand beautiful!. Now wee have an inckling of hope, loc, our old chaines and dungeon wherein wee ftuck faft are vvearifome. Who ftiall deliver us ? fet openprilbn dooreSjthat wee might efcape. Oh, let us never come there againe (as leremy (aid) to dye therie. If being offered free- Icr.|7,io, dome, wee iliould chufe flavery ftill, pity we fliould live. And Co ^^^ ^^^^^ laftly by faith they cleave to the promift, that feeing the Lord ^" will indeed have it fo, they embrace and chufc it, and belceve that if the Sonne free them, tliey are ficed indeed , and who ftiall bee able to embondage them any more ? Try thy (elfe by tlie(e and the like marks that Chrift hath delivered thee ; and having once tailed it, ftand faft in it ; let not thy conlcience any more be en- tangled with any bale ypfce, cither of thy luiis, or the bale ordi- nances of the Ceremoniall Law. Remember that Sabn'will ftrive to recover thee againe if poffible, and make thee a flave to luft, to men^ to feares, to unbeliefe ; hut beg of him ftrengih fo ftand faft, who-firft redeemed thee, for why ? Is there not caufc ? is not the price of it full ? Or lookeft thou ever to get by thy lufts under Chrifts yoke, whea they were liich bondage to thee be- Rem.tf.zi. fore? Fourthly, this fhould exhort all that arc redeemed thus to ^ true liberty, to underftand wherein it confifts, and apply them- '^fi 4» (elves duly thereto. True it is, that wee are adopted fons to the freedome of children : biit wee are redeemed alfo to the libetty of lervicc. We are not made free from the Law in point of obe- dience, as our late Antinomian libertines pretend (whofe (pirit growes rife in theleloole times> even to pretend Chrift for their hifts • j but to lefveip holintfle and feare,.Co delight in the law in the inner man. The Lord Jefus takes ofFonechainetoputon another. Tal^ ^yj^ki ^^^^J^f^-i f'^'f- 't ij ^^f^j ^ndmy hardeft^for # LI 3 it .1,^4. Redemption ahenefithyChrift. Part. 2. ii is light : cafie, yet a yoak ; light, yet a bu den. When as the An- gel! had left Peter, L^J^s 12. behold hee iben confidered why God had (mitten the foure quaternions of fbuldicrs with flcepe, broken open the prifon dodrcs and gates : fiirely that hee (till might ply his work. So (ay thou : Lord its that thy Comman- dements whieh have beene irkefomCj might now become fivcct • yea perfeft freedome : Cruell and unreafbnablc Lords have ruled over mec, but I am now reftorcd to the liberty of a Tonne, not for my will and to pamper my flefh, but to fervc thee O Lord : I will returnc to thee,for thou art the Lord my God : Gods (poufe, childe, and fcrvant arc all one. If Lord thou didii redeeme mee by thy bloodj to be a fonne : yet thou didft alfo redeeme mee by thy obedience, to make me a fervant ; let me not (ever the things vrhich thou haft put together .Let me not (like an hypocrite)reek thy redemption for my owne ends ; but to bee at thy command who baft redeemed my tongue, my thoughts, my will, affeftions, confcience, and members to be thine. When I was under my (la- very, I was his whom I ferved , and all my members were wea- pons of unrighteoufnclTe, yea f my (elfe was (bid under iinne, a bored flave : now therefore oh Lord, being dead to my old Ma- iler , let new Lords let up new lawes , let mee now give up my whole man and all my weapons to be fervants of righteoufnelTe. Thus much for the firft branch of the priviledge of redemption. Q. D oth this benefit containe any more i/i it ? 2. e^. Yea, for it reaches to freedome and liberty in point of Part of it thofe penalties and colTes which either are incident to mortality, temporal!. or fuch asthe Saiuts fuffer for Gods caule ; yea more, even fuch asthey differ, through their own fin and de(erving. Concerning which lorts of cro(res the reader may turne to that which I (peak in the 3 Part and 2 Article of this Book, in the point of faith in Afflidions. Here I ;vill only (hew in what points this Redemp- tion ftands, and with a briefe touch of them and their u(e, I (hall conclude this priviledge. Qj^ D eefo : wherein pands this Cecond fart of Redemption ? A. In theie three. Either in Gods faving his from afflifti- ons : Or his fufteyning them in and under them : Or his deli- aCor^i.30* veringthomouEofthem, and that either in part, oriinally.AIl tjiree are included in Chrift eur redemption: but they are all threeexpre(redinthe63 6i Efay.,-verfeft byname. The firft, The Angell 9f his frefence^ Chrift (as ver(e I.) /^W^^fWf, md^ ^ hare Article. RedempUon a benefit hfChrift^ 1^5 b^re them on his wings centinnaliy : The lecond> In all theiraf" jiiBions he was affiifi^f ( that is , foccoured and upheld thcm^; The third, in his fitty and mercy he tedeemeAthem , ( that is, dc-i li verM them :'} for this third elpecially ckymcth the n&ine ofre- demption. Q/fhreefweete branches : TVhat it thefirfi ? . «' : A, It is ufually called the proteflaoh of God over* his o^' in Chrift their buckler and ftiierd : In which fence ic is (ayd, the beloved of the Xord ffiall dwell under hfs protedtion all the Dcut. jf . daylong. The PialmiftT/^/.^i. exprefleth it by the falling of thoufands aC righE,and ren thoiifandsat left haiid,and their Safe- ty in the middeft. Sure it is, Gods people (capeall fiich ci-6fles as b^all the wicked 5 as wickid : They know not what a- rot- ten body by drunkennefle , or a worne body by uncleanncflcj or a poore body by prodigality mcanes. But befides,the Lord doth by his Angels keepe them , that they dafti not their footea- g^infia, ftane. : So that , till thdir day and houre be cqrtie, na Cfie«ittire;Cafn doc thfcnt hatrme : The fire ftiall not rburne them, nor ithe.iw^ter drown them : till God doe diflTolvc the league all fti^ll be at peace, x Per.i .3. Tilt it bemeetethtyChallnot be troubled : the floods of great waters, (hall not come nccre t^em, J'yV.^a.d. He is the Saviour of all men , but efpecialiy of his own that believe. Briefly we may utter ifcthusjthe Sal- vation pi Gods Providence in th,is kind is, a Q Nemofcit ] aft' unknown thing. If men doe ^ach other a pleafure , all mutt know it. But the Lord riddes us from infinite Troubles, dee- ping and waking, which we know not of What day paflcth o* '■ ver us wfcerein the Tiles of our houfe, the. horfe we ride on, : a twigge lafhing our eye in the high way , might not wound, raaime > deface us ? and how fhould our little onssxhAt arg fhift- lefle efpape (b many cafualties of fire and water , and we dayly be free from (b many crofles, as range in the World. and meete • with others , if their and our A'ftgels beheldftot the face ofouir : Redeemer for us ? What one vexation of a thihfand, an- ill wifci < childejenemyj might have been our end, had not God-Gomebc- tweene ? Oh .' Hoyy patient fhould v;e be in fuch crofTes. as befalt ' Vfe i" us in^llkindsj ifwecon'idcrcd, that the greatelt part cU-^ them' ■ which light upon us > is nc^t the lealt of them that pafle by US ? ■ ' LI 3 What l66 W.etk«^h»fy Chrijt, Part-a^ *• What a rpeecH was that of {^harUs the fifth, who being war- ned of his bold attejnpts in batcell 3 anfwered. Never was true Empecor QjGt through with a Canon. Gods people have a kind of right to be feot-ff ee,.for they arc ar.noy nted Princes and Kings toGod. 3. The truth is ( pardon my uncouth phrafe) Gods Saints ought to give thaiiksJoK. they know not what, how man.^ ^ how great (brrowcs '?;•:;?; li.iif'f ^er j ^iiiO ;i A Let all wicked RcbelleSjWhom God raines fnares anid firetrpon, cither fet. their teeth on edge with this priviledge, or fret inivainc, againtt them who enjoy the fame by believing, . ^Jt is that a6: of Ghrift , in all their tTOubJes he is trouMel'y firft whereby he .fiiccoureth and fupporteth all his infFociblei For his Cyjtij^thy and eoropaffion is not vcrball as theirs in Saint lames ^ who bid, Be wafme and kA^ but neither give thetn c-loathesnor tneate, (. of w4iorn we have too many ,. tas one no^; long fince igave a' broken Jhalfe braife %rthing at the SacraFflfettt^' mpft profanely ) but reail and cordiall indeed. And this ftah-' detb intheGommimionof the fuiferings of C h r. i s t and his Aft* I. grace, i. JHis fweet peace which he gives us : My peace J lohn ig. ^^j,, y^ ^ ^^ ftacej ieatie: you\. ^ great Icgaay .' Peaceof foulfe' Phili 4. heares all trouble 5. and this Spirit (tjjfteynesaill infirmity, fe rules the heart and $pay es it well , fayingi Seeing tknow I fhali' notperifliinHell, I will beare my CroUe quietly:'" Lord I will* bow, and thou (halt beate : For I (hall never feelehell-heate as the Martyr fang in the flatnes. The fire and fting beiiig gone. The Second, the wound foone healed. Secondly, his rr.eekeand patient felfe- deniall. So that the Saints doe as Chriftj who was dumbc be- fore the (bearer: being reviled, anfwered not againe, a&Pt^^r faith. What mortall creature could indure thofs tortures, paines difeaies, fcomes which they endure, if they borrowed not thcic patience of this La#be ? El fe tKcy would fret at the inftrument, kindjineafurejduratiln, circumftances of a Crofle, Any ftvc this Icouldbcare^^ButtheyknoWj whether their yoake be of wood or of yron, mercy made and put it on j and therefore meekenefl^ thall waite and endure^ till it remoove, or moderate it. As the greateftCrofTe of Ghrift had his moderation in iecret^ fb (hall The Third, theirs^ Thirdly jthe courage of Chrift is imparted by Faith onto them, to beare and to endure : The blood of ths^Lyon of the Tribe Article 5* RcJt^tipU^nhy Chr^^ 1^7 Trib« biJuda , and his marrow runnes in their botics t his fteul- ders are theirs , at leaftasadvvarlcJsfomcwhatuponaGiantS ftioiilderSj'fo are they mighty, being ict upon their Redeemer* They ate bred afwcll of Ghrift a Lyon, as Ghriil a tambe. Their courage is invincible. •:/'," ^ 'V Fourthly , they have his innocency j and his. good ctirfe to The Fouttk: defend thcpi. Looke what fpirit ofrighteournes,or ofthe truth, upheld him in hi? infirmitiesjor perlccutions, the (ame uphc^ds thetii. Their innocency is their buckler and brafen wall :the eaafe of Ghrift (ettles a Spirit of glory upon them, glorious Faith,felfe*dcniall, hope ot glory jwifedome to maintaine God$ ' P^'**- quarrell ; fometime alfo glorious i0ue with the triall , conqueft over thciFenemies, and pleadmg oftheirca^, that d\cy may Mica. 7.9. get out with honour ^ s Itfefh and Pml^ See AMs 1 6,^^ . Thus a good confcience and a good caufc are a double contihuingfeaft to them. Fifthly jthey have from their head thelpirit of Prayer, Th^iFifth* . cryes and gronesto him that can eafe them, and they arcfieard in Heb,y. that which they feare , whether it be fpiritualldefcrtionj bon- dage, or bufFetting by Satan , or whether outward oppreffion : In him and his Prayer they find accefle , and the greater the afilidi- on iSjcfpecially if it be for his Name, he heareth, pittieth and re- ^^ lieveththem, both for the meafure, continuance and unwel- v^fll^, comeneflc oiitJn4he World ( faith Chrift lehfi 1 6, fi/t JjeeJ^ja/t^^ ' have Jtrditninffs , ^«f ^e of goed cottrttge , 1 have overcome the World. And, Whatfoever y^e Aske ofthe Father in my name , hejhall give it yen. He ftiall uifteineboth their infirmity in praying Rom-J, by his fpirit of Prayer , and (hall fuftcine you in the infirmity • whidh ye pray againft. Hence are thofe Phrafes "of drawing neere to fuchas call upon him in trouble : of delivering them 5 ojf ftandingby them,and at thefr.right hand^ of being their fiipport, A ds a. their rock 3 defence, of being in themidftofthem,allto fhew that whalfocver ^ounfelL wilcdomc , ay de and redreflc he hath in himlelfe, its theirs : yea affliftion isfb farre from dividing the Lord from his,that if it be their feafon to pray, lamef 5 • 1 3. it is his chiefe feafon Co aflift : as the day of affliftioh is the fealon to try a true friend. Such a one is the Lord efpecially , then, whep all men are lyars , and as a broken toothy See f^abac,i^»i%. An^ ' Mlca.y.^^y: Alfo lohn 9.38:3^. and weigh them diligently ;and this is indeed to beaffli^ed in ourafiflifltions j and to pitty Us be-? ing tempted jas He^.t, iZ. LI 4 Sixthly, l68 Reden^ption a benefit by Chrifi. Parr4. IHc ffxtb. Sixthlyjhe conveyes to his believing ones, his purging power hyaffliai^ns, that as they prepared our head to glory, Heh,%. iO' phi/. 2.^ p. So they niigl^t make his members conformed to himftlb in the fcllowfeippe thereof, more denfedj-more.p^- Heb.ra.. tjent , more partakers of his righteoufnefie , mOre precious . than gold. That the more coft they haye beene at with him., the deerer they might be to him, and he tothem. That his graces might {hine in them , others might be fettled by their expcri- I9b.42.5- ence : their originall corruption might be wafted^ 5i|ld.tbofe , e^vils which Satan waites to betray them by, might b&preven.-» Tbcfeventh. ted., Seventhly heaffords them the likeiflrtieof the CroflTe, with Hcb. 1 1, himielfc J even the quiet fruit of righteoufnefle : That although For the prefent their troubles were grievous ; yet after^ they ^;|ght be joyQUS. That they .might be the better fitted by dpc for anotiiery by the former and lefle for the latter and greater. Ro»>-^' : That they might feel e all turne to the beft : and might fay , It is Thceigfctlrr- good for mejP/^iip.yi.thatl wasafBiaed. Eightly, he vouch- fafes them part in his viftory before hand, even whUethey are under the CioiTe. Mica. 7. 8, They lee their rifing in their fall : and in darken cfle they havelight j inthemeanetimeare iCor.y, upholdcn with confolation : fo that they rejoyce thereby in • the Hope of God , enjoy complacency of heart (more or lefle) J — ^, . ;i>and counttheircrofles exceeding joy as X^hriftdid, in thisre- j J gardjHf/'.i?. 2. This is a great benefit, to triurpph over trouble. Tbeasmh. Ror/t.S. ult. For it is a great thing even to beare them. Ninth- fy , to waite till the honre of darkenefle bee over, and till light come, and that quietly. Afir^. 7. 9. I will beare the in- dignation otthcLord^ \ytzz.\.\{t i have finned vtill he plead my clau'le. : He will bring me forth in his liglitjand I (hall behold his righteoufneflfe. . Thefe may fqrye for a view of this fuftaining grace. . ■ ; ■' V>. '.. , _,jo v ■- Vfe^ Which point fhould exhoit us to apply our fclves to this pri* viledgCj in each croiTe that befals us ; Is it not a mercy to be thus cared for an d pittycd as children ,. jvben. the Lord puts the wicked to their fliiftf^.and regard? vU^t: what betidei them : . ^W falling upon his Sword defperately , v/^/V»f/^4:' thruft through-, ^f^/^o;)/?^/ and /Wrf/ hangings themftlves ? And ,■ if . it.be fiich, an honourjis jt h^t worth thie improovemei^, ^ ( Not t6 fpeake of mirf(^lps , theji;>ree children walking in flames , the Martyrs in the fiie feeling the burning reeds ^s beds of Roies : );. 1$ Artick.5. . Redemption a benefit hyChrifi, i6^< Is it not worth the while to fee a beheving foule at his death ly- ing as a Lambe^as a Preacher, as one burning but not con fumed, \ . above feares^above loves, hopes, wife, children, World, fejfe ? able to doe any thing through Chrift that ftrengtheneth and f^., rufteineth ? Oh then .' Why doe raoft ChtiftiansdejVft them- felvcs in tijeir fufiferings t Where is T^^tils fpeech , We ave niior^ than conquerers through him that loved us ? Rt>m. S.Who (lial| ieparate us ? is any thing ftronger than his love ?\Thar^eiS b^ toGod thuugh Jeflis Chrift ! If it were not for him , what were we in a CrolTe 1 And ftiall we tare in our ficknefl^, in croffes by our children, loires, enmity of men, as if there were no Chrift ? Had we not need he (hbuld rouie us' iip as hinij 7(7^/7 9.3-9. Doft thou believs in the Sonne of'God/ Oh! thcfe do^rines arc out of the World^whereas yet, croflcs were never fb (harpe 5 Let us be ware leaft we be not found naked ; Davids com- fort in his'God is fomcwhat worth in a ftrcight.And who knows when his day may come ^ It will not hurt us to belong to this priviledge,whether come or no : But if we want this when no- thing el(c willhelpe usj and leokeupon the wals when we fhould fcethe Lord in themountof his promile 5 what (hall bec6me of us ? Ofi 5 by Faith take we our part in this while we may haveitj ere mifery comewppo us as the nec«ffity of an armied .man , ari^ none can helpe !, ;::L i>!h ifJi'rn ^rs; \\\n ^t J^/^i \m -n''^ ..ji.Qi JJ(t4 ,1 Cmchide mibvihe'third^ tvhat is 'ttiat ? - . ■ . ' ■ \^' '>:■■■.'■■' ' ^. Redemption or deliverance from cro(tes/ither particu- lar ones, or all. For there is a d^y of Gods Redeemed ones in Efay *hi* this, life. The Lprd hath his healing in his wings even heeref for his people, Sometirnes I grant there is a righteous Ahel^ who p ^^J^* • perifhet h in his righteoufncffe. But ordinarily when Gods " • ^' Maftick patch hath dryed up th»Rheume, it fals ofFof it felfe. DavUy Mopes , had an end of their Crofifes , and as James fMth, Yec have heard of the affliftioils of j^^p and what end the Lord made. There is a night and a morning for them : Light is fowne for the righteous ; feedes are long a cdititoin^ upj ' but they appeare at laft. Long ficknefle, • long poverty , long' perfe- cutions, have h^d their end. Thelot. ofthej^igltteotiisfhatlnot alway lie under the' rod- of the wicked.' Blood-thirfty '^W/i^r' at laft had his belly fall, and being laid in' Gods barrel!', was fogorged, that he dyed druiike of his cruelty, asjoyleffc and weary , J 7© M^ik^^ti^nbf thrift. . iPai^tla. weary of it» There is a day for us if we can waire. How many weake CDPjplexions ill youthliaye enjoyed healthy age ? How many prifoners haye bjeene loofed > How many poore ones beene enriched r How many mens latter daies have prooved better than their firft ? Better imrriage, better Children, • better People ( when they haveleft the Minificry of a bad ^ and what |iiDC bettpr i So thait God hath: :made fome (ay it by experience, God ^athrid them oot of thrall after iongxinlikelihood. As our Lord Jelos having once iuffcredg {iifFei'ednooiore, ibthatnb ¥iiatei^htda5,fhnrifee, or enemy could come nccre him : So hfha4atimeoffrecdomeinthislife, hcknewno Ague, Goute BcJftilenccPropfy ; went through enemies without feare Where- of althoiigh there was fome other caule, bccaufc bei was a nature of man , but no perfon, yet this freedome is verified even here of fome of hismcmbers 5 /itch I meane as take thought how to "be- lieve and purge their finSglet them waite^and leave to him the diG pcnfing of the lea^n. Finatt and full But , becaufe it may be cbjefted (and it is true^ that all Re- redcmption is demption goes not before hand , fome muft follow 5 for ma- beft and furcft. ^y of Gods Saints are quaflit under fome crofles in this Ijfe ( in refpc(5t of any ontward freedome ) aiid that perhaps for want of Faith. ) Therefore there is another redewiption , farre more fore 3 and that is full and finall at their death and Refurreftion Then the conqueftofChrift begins to be theirs. - The truth is' Put cafe that in this life the lord fiiould quit any of his in all Trouble : Yet while he is a militant member he cannot be quite' redeemed : becaufe ftill he fellowfeeles the affliftions of o- thcrsas if himftlfe werein chcynes ( if he be as he ftiould be) /tV^. 13.2. But there is afuU redemption, Ephef. 4. 30. Where- in all teares fhall be wiped a wa3r; firft, and (e cond death both re- Biooved, a better day than tiat which the Martyr told his fal- low of , and a b^jter Chirurgion tO'heale : Bouer^ (faith he) will healcthce afid toe , , of ounblindfiefle , and lamenefjcj to day. - '.1 . ■■■>i Vfe u - Oh I Thi«rifi that which fliould make all affli(^ions feeme light iRComparifon, Rom. 8; and caufeusto^embraceitby hope X Co».i J.t^. %ing A If QW hope were only heere , of all othcrsj we were moft miierdble. For what although heere- bee fome patience' given us to beare ? yet our (ucceffive troubles , (as we fay of the tenth wave ) would at laft devoure us : therefore our greatcft comfort €on>fojce i$ in our hope of knocking off from aJI^an^i bcrag pail gun- (hot. This is beft of aH, Ani by this hope we tmytven hteit s^t Aa..». *«* lift up our head, becaufe our Redemption drawes necre ; erying^ How long lord, Jioly and true > IfoTWxaHi thou erwbre thy caiife, thine honour /thy ftlfc to faffct fo fwre in thynaciubers h^a^- wenged quickly^deliver fjraei from all his troubles, and thy dar- Luke 18, ' lings frem the Lyons.GomeLord JeRiv^OBK-gDiGkly^Andbriftg Rev. iz. beaiingin thy wings. ruh^flj^Ai^li: :>i-.. • ■ . SeCoadly , jet not thine heart mattef acthefrequencyief-tfry ^^ ^^ erofles, by diveiJ, by men, orfromtheLordizbucbleflehimfor fuch p^rtiall deliverances as he vouchfafeth tface in thy trials, and that thou art kept from utter ftreighcs under fometolera- blcneffejand when the Lord fees flcfti would faile , he will haften full redemption. So that thou flialt not neede to be weary , oj* , put forth thy hand to evil! ahdibreake his Covenant; but rather' lanftifie the Lord in thy lweart,and let him.be thy fearejWho wilt not faile thee in one kind or other. What a fhame Were it for thee to runne from hinj to an ill conlcience ^ apd £» diflionour hisre- d€n^ption^»^v{a:v^^:,i .jfmi.a-/Joti2iit'>ifi^.'\ Thirdly jleaitnc hence really'to pick out tk^ (^ppefbiFt'hat triifK ^ff 3» of "Tatil, Phi/, 2. to deliire to be diflblved and-to be with Cliirilf, which isbeft of all Is our full redemption befV , 'and yet doe we ftiuifi It for the fake of deatk,without wihich we cannot have it ? That is to give God the lyei! Shall we chuie life withall for- rowesj ratherthan death withoutthem^^Sball We: fhunto'beUn-* doathed , when as till then, we are ftill in the flcfh and (h-angerS- from God ? No fiirely , as loath as we are to dye, yet, the Lord hereby delivering us from all at once and making us happy, let it cauft death to be welcome. Oh / how long it is , ere we digeft this ; Redemption is fweet,biat we would fMllhdnker below, ; ^s if death didnurre-it. ;; - ':;:? Laftly 5. begge of God two things, i. To giveu^hJS Sphit o^^JCe 4. Redemption to fratneus.forthiiverythlrtg, ( as F<«*/ 2f Ci'>';5v *4«) to prize oiw full Redemption upon any temies. Seeontffyj that he would ieale us up thereby taan holy (ecuntfyjas t he'ihree' Children, />^». 3.18* its hispromirejJ5;>i(?' the fonle. For'having in Juftification ap- plyed the condemning power of his death, and* thereby takcrt* away the guilt and accu&tion of fin : now it addeth the fecond, which is the ditablingpQwef thereof 5 and the vanquiftiirtg thqi^.9f:b<>thi;h^^aretheefFcftsofhisGroflc, upon which her IjQ^lfl topke awj^y.the guiiti,' a nd dominion of fin* We know that if the Law have once pafled fentenccupon a malcfaftor, it will eafilyfen^ him to execution. This killing power therefore is not only a turning of the heart from {in, but a making fiire'work with it, that it returne no more, than he whofe head is cut off can do any more hurt, Thelatter^ iscaWcdVivificatiofj^ or that • I power Article. 5. SdnBification a benefit by Chru 175 power ofCIirift that quickning fpirltj 1 C(?r. 15.45. whereby the holy Ghofl: applyes thepoweroftheRedirreftiontothcfonIc: not only giving it a bare life of grace, but a lively life thereof, quickning up the edge , the fpirit of the inner man to the power of godlinefle, and to the life of Godjin all the powers of the foule, Rom^.r; indncerity, according to her raeafurc. See Texts fort hele. For Gal.M4' the former^ fee Rom.6y^^. gaL').2^. Gai.6.1^. ^«//. 3.5-. Forthe ^f^^^^ # htter^ R0W.6, 63'/. S'phefl2.i , 1 C^r^^^Sjj. Of both thefereadat Ephcf'».*r. large.. Part. 3. Article the i. i Gor.5.6. Q^ fVhat is the lafi benefit ? A. Glorification of the whole man after the Refiirrefticn, in The9#an4^ Heaven. Which is that overplus of Ch rifts purchale, and ex- l»ft benefit ceeds Adams hapj)inefl[e , confifting in the partaking of that fttr- |{,?"^*f "°"* chafed po^effi on of glory and immortality, not of Paradife upon EpheVi 14. earth, but in the prefence of God. This is chat benefit which anfwers the pcrfeftion of Adam^ though farre above it ; for it ftiall be a filling up ofthefoule with the pcrfeft Image of God In light and holinefle : and that by fight of the glorified fenfe , be- hold ing God as he is, and wholly m'«»jf^r»?/?(!/^jjr/^^f^irr<7r Qj_ How nfeth the holy Ghofi to defcribe the eft Ate ofthe^lori' • fied ? . • : y/. By prefenting to U'S a perfeftion of all foule-content- raents tor ever. So that looke what poorewanzing and fading ^owthc ^ content?, the carnall mindeor fenfe of Unfiil I man would weak- jtoTen!^* ***' ly pleafe it (eKe in here, (as wee fee Heathens and Tiirks, plro- iTii(e carnall delights of pleaiant fields, goodly gardens , rich apparell, royallfare, cxquiute b€autie.| and the like) thole the Lord . 174 Ghrification a benefit hyChrifi. Pait.2. Lord prelents us withall in Heaven, fully, pcrfc^ly, eternally, forraeafore, kinde and continuance. Loveft thoaeafc? here is a Sabbath of ^irituall,perfeft eafe for ever. Loveft thoamarriage 1 Here is a Spoufe trimmed for her Bridegroomcj and decked with all coftly furniture , to be knit to him without divorce andenjoy him for ever. Commonly looke what men come fliorteft of in their defireSjthey fancy the enjoying of it to be their Sappinefle: and hence came thofe raanyfold felicities which we rcade fcverall men to have framed to themselves. Poorc men would have rich- ' €S 5 rich men love pleafures, Epicures feek honours and dignities; honourable ones iceke tranfcendency and affeft Crownes, victo- ries, and grope after that which is not; for death comes and equals them with the bafeft J and moftabjeft and unhappy. But Heaven affords wealth and a Treafure, which no Theefc can dig through or fteale ; Pleafiires at the right hand of God for evermore : a Throne , and Majefly to fie and judge the world : Crownes of gold , viftory and triumph, even laureil which will not wither, nor fade away : Heaven hath all thc(e for ever ; there is no (ad thought of death , to make them weary- lorae. An3pli£carion E)oe men fet up their delight in this world and the things of it. which it affordetii ? Sunne and Moone , and Srarres, and influ* ence of Heaven, brave Cities, and dwellings, Mufique, Feafting, yea the Ordinances of God, companions ofchoile parts, coftly apparell, learning and knowledge, or to ftand before Princes, or long life, or perreft ftrength and vigor of body, or fweet friends, inheritance, or liberty, or peace, or whatfoever ? Loe, Heaven hath not one of thefe to fil her inhabitants with,but all in onc/or each tbule to enjoy. This other world hath the eternall Sonne of God to be the light thereof : every little Starre is as the Moone, the Moone as the Sunne, the Sunne fe^ven times greater : the Heaven ofthis third Heaven is made ofCriftall for purity : The ' influence thereof is the prefence of God ; There is a perpetuall Spring time. Summer, aad the Autumne of delight and fruit farrc exceeding the happy Hands : The City thereof is Jerufalem above, built of all precious ftones, pearls, and gold, both houies, walle5, gateSj.and pavement : Their mdique is the Song of Mc- y^/ and the Lambe, iuch as Conquerors fing : Their feaft is the eating and drinking of a Pafleover in the Kingdome : Thtir Or- dinaaces, are the perpetuall (acrifiec of Prayers and Thanklgi- ving Article 5 . GlorificAtion a benefit by Chriji. 1 75 ving, Joy, and HalleUija's ; from Sabbath to Sabbath uncefl^ant- ly : the company there, is innamcrable Angels, the (bules of juft and perfeft men, the gcnerall aflcmbly and Church of the hr(V borne, the God and judge of all, with Jcf us the Mediator of the Covenant. Their apparell is white pure linnen without (pot, rich robes of Kings and Qneenes : their knowledge (hall be as the Angels of God , they ftand before the face of God , their life is immortality world without end: their bodies, (enfes, members, in the vigor of age (as fbme thinke like Chrlfts middle age be- twecnc thirty and forty} glorified and enabled to be incorrupti- ble, and to fee and enjoy God. Their friends, God, the Lambe, Angels and Saints : their inheritance both Manfion hou(c and Territories not made with hands, butimmortalLundcfiledjCter- nall in the Heavens : thdibertydf it is full redemption : the peace of it is tlie perfection of this peace here, which yet pa(^ Phil.4.1 feth underftanding : and the ioy of it, is exultationj fo great that it ftiall bee a perpetuall extafie in rcfpeft of this, and yetabletocontaine it (elfe. And yet which is more, that whidi eye bath not (eene, or eare heard, nor hath it entred into the heart of man to conceive, hath God there prepared for tho(e that love him. As the ufuall expreffion is, there is fatiety without fulfbme- neffcjpleaiure without wearinefle, eternity without interniption, quantity without dinienfion, quality without defect, and what not? Even above all'^hat the moft curious or craving man can ask or think. And to pafTc by fuch defcriptions as are infinite, the holy It ftandsin Ghoft teacheth us to confine this boundleffe glory in thefc two * things termcs : either a negative or a pofitive happinefle. The former .' whereof {lands in the abfcnce and voidncffeofall which comes ^^6'"^^' fhort of this, or oppofeth it. A piece of this happinefle (lands in this. That Paradift upon earth is gone, a created thing is turned to an uncreated • that here the mi(ery of mortality is (wallowed np and abolilhcd : Sorrowes, poverty, licknefle, (bame, bondage, infirmity, death, wrath, enmity, cur (e are removed, and all teares wiped aw.iy : yea the graces of faith, hope, patience (here our excellency) having brought us to the door (hall take leave.* word. Prayer, Sacraments, Ordinances, (betokening Weakne(lt:) fhall ceafe, as needlefle things : much more corruption, and impcr- fcAion of grace. Even as it was an addition of rcgrett to T^hex^ that bee being afarre cfF, (aw La<^rm in Abrahums bofomc ; (b (hall 176 Glerif cation a benefit by Chrift, Part. 2. fliall it bee a piece of the Saints heaven , that they have paffed the iecond death, and vengeance of the wicked j as it was N