An exposition of the Song of Solomon: called Canticles Together with profitable obseruations, collected out of the same. Perused and published by William Gouge, preacher of Gods Word in Black-Friers, London.

AN EXPOSITION OF THE Song of Solomon : called CANTICLES . Together with Profitable OBSERVATIONS , collected out of the same .

¶ Perused and published by WILLIAM GOVGE , Preacher of Gods Word in Black-Friers , London .

Acts 8. 13.

How should I vnderstand , except some man should guide mee ?

LONDON , Printed by IOHN BEALE dwelling in Aldersgate streete and are there to be solde . 1615.

TO THE AVTHOR OF THIS WORK The Publisher thereof wisheth Grace in this world , and Glory in the world to come . RIGHT WORSHIPFVLL ,

IT pleased you as a testimonie of your loue , to bestow these your labours on me written with your owne hand : they being mine by a free donation on your part , I think I haue power to doe with them what I will . Wherefore I haue been bold to publish them ; knowing that they are wel worth the publishing , and that thorough Gods blessing they may bring much spirituall comf●rt , and profit to Gods Church . Long continued custome requireth that they should haue a Patron . What better Patron can they haue then the true proper parent ? who for eminencie of place can adde great countenance vnto them , and for excellencie in learning can maintain them . For mine owne part I acknowledge my selfe many waies much indebted vnto your Worp In testimony of my duty and thankfulnesse , I returne that publikely vnto you , which priuatly you were pleased to bestow on mee .

Black-Friers London . 25. April 1615. Your Worps to be commanded in the Lord , WILLIAM GOVGE .

To the Christian Reader .

A Great priuiledge it is , that the Lord hath committed vnto vs his diuine Oracles : Rom. 3 : 1. ● but vnto those , to whom the tongue wherein they were written is strange and vnknowne , or the mysteries themselues obscure and hard to be vnderstood , what is the benefit of that fauour , if the language be not interpreted , and the mysteries opened ? shall not these Oracles be as the words of a sealed booke ? Read Isa. 29 : 11 , 12. It is needfull that as the letter of the Scripture bee interpreted , so the mystery thereof vnfolded . Euery booke of holie writ requireth a faithfull and learned interpreter : but some more then other : among and aboue those some , this Song of Solomon : and that in regard of the excellency , and of the difficultie thereof . Two things commend the excellency of it : First , the Author ; Secondly , the matter . The principall Author is the same that by inspiration gaue the whole Scripture : ● . Tim. 3. 16 the immediate Pen-man of it was a King , 1. King . 4. 29. 30 , &c. the most wise and learned King that euer was . The matter is concerning b b Reade this Exposition Chap. 1. Ver. 1. a blessed , & sweet coniunction between Christ & his Church , one of the most comfortable mysteries of our Christian faith . Two things also argue the difficultie of it . 1. The very phrase and stile , which being poeticall is the more obscure . 2. The manie Rhetoricall allegories , and hyperbolicall metaphors which are hard to be vnderstood and rightly applied . The c c A Song of Songs which is Solomons . title of this Booke pointeth out all these points . 1 Plainely it is sayd to be Solomons . 2 A Song is a kinde of Poesie , and Poesies are commonly adorned with allegories and figures . 3. For the d d Bern. pro sui excellentia hoc carmen merito Cantica canticorum appellatur sicut is quoque cui canitur Rex Regum . excellency of it , it is termed a Song of Songs . i. a Song that surpasseth all other songs . e e In Midr. Rom. 3. 2 The Iewes ( to whom the Oracles of God were first committed ) termed all the bookes of the Scripture holy : but this the holy of holies : whereby they intimated the excellencie of it . f f Hier. in proaem : in Ezech. nisi quis apud ●os aetatem sacerdotalis ministerij .i. trigefimum annum impleuerit , Canticum canticorum legere non permittitur . They permitted none to read it alone till he were thirty yeere olde : whereby they implied the difficultie of it . Is it so difficult ? surely it needeth a learned interpreter . Is it so excellent ? Surely it deserueth the best paines of a faithfull interpreter . Heerein therefore ( good Reader ) thou art much beholding to the learned Author of this booke , who hath taken so good pains in expounding this rare Song . Such is the Author , such the worke , that neither father nor child need to bee ashamed of one another . The Author is a man of great place and note in the Common-wealth ; his humility will not suffer him to haue his name made known . Though by profession he be not a Diuine ; yet in knowledge of those learned tongues wherein the Scriptures were written , and in vnderstanding of the mysteries contained in them , he is a very deep & profound Diuine . The many learned treatises which he hath made , some in Hebrew , other in English some heretofore published , other still lying by him , are euidences of more then I haue sayd . As for this present Treatise , I obserue sixe worthie points in it to commend it vnto thee . 1. A true interpretation of the Hebrew text . 2. A sound exposition of the sense and meaning of the words . 3. A fit application of the Metaphors , and allegories . 4. A fruitfull collection of doctrines , and obseruations . 5. Perspicuit●e . 6. Breuitie . These two last seldome meet together ; Hor. - breu●s esse laboro Obscurus fio . for some , labouring to be briefe , are obscure ; other , labouring to be perspicuous , are taedious : when they meete together they are admirable helpes to vnderstanding , memory , affection and all . Thus I haue shewed thee ( Christian Reader ) that this Song of Songs is worthie to bee expounded ; yea that necessarie it is , it should bee expounded : that the Author of this worke is well able to performe so weightie a worke ; and that he hath taken good paines in performing it . Do thou vse his paines for thine owne good . If thou aske me why I meddle so farre in it , as to publish it , I answere , For thy good ; had it not been for me , thou haddest not seene it : for it should seem that the Author long since wrot it , and let it lie in his studie , not minding to publish it , I being of late with him about other businesse , espied it : and reading it desired him to publish it : he vtterlie denied me . I then intreated him to bestowe it on me ; he gaue it me . Thus it was mine . But should I keepe such a pearle of so good vse to all that will vse it , close and secret to my selfe ? Then might I iustly be censured , as enuious of thy good . I enuie it not : I would I could doe thee more good ; thou shouldest be sure to pertake thereof . But that , while I seeke to auoide the blame of Enuie , I may not seeme ambitious , know that in this whole worke there is nothing of mine , but all is the Authors own . Hee hath also by him , a like Exposition of the Prophesie of Hosea ; and other treatises : I hope to preuaile with him for the publishing of them , when ●e shall see the fruit of these his labours . The recompence which I desire is , that thou helpe both the Author of this booke , and the Publisher thereof with thy prayers to God .

Thine in the Lord , WILLIAM GOVGE .

AN ADVERTISMENT to the Reader .

SOlomons Song is twice runne ouer in this booke : first , the sense is deliuered , then obseruations collected from thence .

In expounding the Text , the Author hath held himselfe close to the Hebrewe .

In diuiding the Chapters hee hath had more respect to the dependance of matter , then to common custome , for which he hath the example of learned men .

In the latter part of this booke hee hath not set downe the whole entire Text , but only so much as serued to shew whence the obseruations were gathered ; because they were at large set downe in the former part : If in reading the Obseruations thou be desirous to see the whole Text , turne to the same place in the Exposition .

Reade the seuerall sections both of the Exposition and of the Obseruations , so as if they were ioined together without any interruption of the Text : for sometimes the beginning of one Section dependeth vpon the latter end of another .

There is one generall point omitted thoroughout the whole booke viz. the setting downe of such words , as were needfull to be added in the Text for sense sake and propriety of our tongue , in a differing letter ; it cannot now be amended . I pray thee therefore more diligently marke them : blame not the Author ; who , I am sure , would haue seene this and other faults redressed , if he had reuised the sheetes before they had past the presse .

Such faults as may seeme to hinder the sense , are in the next following page set downe .

Errata .

PAge 5 line 2● read larges p. 7 l. 21 these paths , p. 9. l. 9. 10 friends p. 17 l. 18. thee could , p. 20 l. 1● he remoneth , p. 29 l. 2● 〈…〉 , p. 23. l. 15 is my , p. 39 l. 〈◊〉 owne hurt , p ▪ 4 l. 5 what should you ●ell him ? p. 55 l. 14 lonely , Chap. 18. verse 2. l. 1. bu●●● in it , p. 80 l. 29 is rapt .

AN EXPOSITION of the Song of Solomon , called CANTICLES .

CHAP. I. VERS. 1

A Song of songs , which is Solomons .

THe Bookes of Solomon the Iewes compare not vnfitly to the Temple which he built Whereof this song of songs , or most excellent song resembleth the holy of holies o● the most holy place : Being a declaration of the blessed and sweet coniunction betweene Christ and his Church , and of the contract , and espousels made betweene them , whilest the Church is now militant vpon earth . All which time is as it were a bidding of the banes vntill by his second comming from heauen our spirituall marriage with him shall be solemnized and made vp .

The Author Solomon , peaceable , for so his name doth signifie , a figure of Christ the Prince of peace , and the builder both of the earthly Sanct●arie , and of this heauenly frame , was , no doubt , whatsoeuer otherwise his fals might be , an elect vessell of God . 1. Because all the Prophets ( of which number he was one ) are in the kingdome of heauen Luke 13. 28. for howsoeuer it pleased God sometimes to speake by the wicked as hee did by Balaam , and to wring out of their mouthe contrary to their heart , that which might serue for the glory of his name : yet he neuer vsed the seruice of any but vessels of election , to be the penmen of his Spirit . So the Apostle 2. Pet. 1. 19. 20. teileth vs , that those which by diuine inspiration wrote the propheticall Scriptures , were all of them holy men of God . 2. The holy Ghost doth alwaies speake well of Solomon after his death , and maketh in all places an honourable mention of his name , which it neuer doth of the reprobate . 3. His waies are commended , and Rehoboam hath his worthy praise for walking in them 2. Chron. 11. 17. 4. God , whose counsels are constant , loued him and cleped his name Iedidah , beloued of the Lord . 2. Sam. 12. 24. 25. 5. He himselfe is said againe to haue loued God . 1. Kings 3. 3. Which being true and vnfeined ( otherwise the Holy Ghost would neuer haue spoken of it ) was impossible to be lost . And this very booke if it were written before his fall is an vndoubted argument how sincere , earnest , and vehement his loue was , and what a feeling hee had of the loue of Christ . If after his fall , it argueth then most certainly a sincere , and true repentance . 6. And lastly the booke of Ecclesiastes doth manifestly euince it , written when hee was olde , after hee had seene so much and had so long experience of his owne vanities and corruptions . The title whereof , A a a 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ko . heleth As if you would say 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 vnderstanding soule , or some such substantiue . soule ( an humble , and grieued soule ) reconciled to the Church , from whence hee was before cast out for his offences : or , A soule speaking , and making confession , in the Church , sheweth his repentance .

The manner of writing is that which we call actiue , or representatiue , that is wherein Persons onely are brought in speaking , the Author himselfe saying nothing : and the persons here are Christ , the Church , and sometimes , but very rarely , the friends of them both : In all which the Church , burning with a desire of Christ longeth , and is impatient till shee be ioined vnto him . For hether tend all her passions , exclamations , testifications of her loue , commendations of her spouse . Christ againe by kinde gentle and louing speeches comforteth and cheereth vp the Church with certaine hope of that happie and blessed time : for hether tend all his commendations of her present , and promise of future graces , the accepting of her vnfeined repentance , and the assurance of purging , pruining , and making her more holy and fit for him . Till shee be taken vp vnto him without spot or wrinckle .

The Booke hath two parts . Whereof the first comprehendeth all that time that Christ and shee are friends , before any falling out , in the foure first Chapters . The Churrh longing to bee ioined to Christ . Chapt. 1. Acknowledging the benefits and comforts of life , pleasure and all good things which he bestoweth vpon her . Chapt. 2. And lastly desiring to see Christ in his heauenly glory . Chapt. 3. Whom Christ most sweetly comforteth . Chapt. 4. The second part , in the foure last chapters , is a falling out of these two louers thorough the Churches fault and vnkindnesse to him . But this falling out is a renuing of their loue . In her by repentance Chapt. 5. in him by a gratious accepting of her into his fauour againe , as deere as euer shee was before . Chapt. 6. Whence ariseth all thankefulnesse from the Church and promise to amend Chapt. 7. vers 1. 2. 3. 4. with a noble demonstration of her zeale vnto him ; testified by her longing , first for his owne comming in the flesh . Chapt. 7. vers 5. to the end of the Chapter . Secondly for the drawing of others that as yet were strangers and aliens from the common wealth of Israell to the fellowship and participation of Christ , and for the whole Israell of God ( Iewes and Gentiles ) to be knit and ioined together in one holy society . Chapt. 8. And so this second part containeth three most excellent prophesies . One of the words incarnation , an other of the calling of the Gentiles , the third of the conuersion of the Iewes and their accesse in the last daies vnto the Church of Christ . But let vs now heare themselues speake , and with their owne words to vtter their owne affections .

CHVRCH . VERS. 2.

O let him kisse mee with the kisses of his mouth , for thy Loues are excellent better then wine .

The Church ( whose heart the Spirit of Christ had before knit vnto him ) beginneth to wooe her loue : and crying out in a passion , desireth his embracings : That he would be present with her , ioine himselfe vnto her , and remaine hers for euer . This vehement desire , this ardency of affection she sheweth to be most iust & reasonable , and fortifieth the equity , the honesty , the necessity , the fruite , and commodity thereof , diuersly and many waies . First the excellency of this loue is wonderfull , aboue all the pleasures and delights of the world : especially if it come not single but accompanied with a largenesse and a bounty from him , that it may be called Loues in the plurall . What wine so pleasant to the taste ?

VERR . 3.

Because of the smell of thy good ointmens thy name is as an ointment powred foorth . Therefore the Virgins loue thee .

What ointment so fragrant to the smell ? Was that which shead vpon Aarons head , trickled downe his beard , and wet the hemmes of his garment ? or the costly ointment , that Alablaster boxe of pure Nard , the Spickenard which shee powred vpon our Sauiour Christ , that filled all the house with the sweetnesse of the smell ? Take which you will , and the best ointments els , they are not worthy to be named , when thine ointments , the ioy of gladnesse wherewith God hath annointed thee aboue thy fellowes , and which thou powrest forth to the comfort of the world , & the refreshing of thy Saints that haue any sence , and spirituall smell , are talked of . I speake not of my loue as present with me when I enioy his sweet selfe , and haue him in mine armes . No. Eye hath neuer seen , eare hath neuer heard , heart cannot conceiue the sweetnes of those delights . But I speake of the verie remembrance of him , absent and away . Thwit me not here with any carnall loue , or loue to steale my heart from God ; farre be that from my thoughts : I meane nothing but that which is holy , chast , pure , maidenly , and virgin-like , free as well from bodily pollution and vncleannesse ; as from spirituall fornication against my spouse .

VERS , 4.

Draw me , after thee will we runne . Let the King bring mee into his priu●e chambers . We will reioice and be glad in thee . We will record thy loues better then wine . They shall record them who in all rightnes do loue thee

They that will follow vaine vanities and forsake their owne mercy , let them doe it . But I will eleaue to thee . This comming , and eleauing vnto Christ , is I confesse a diuine worke , the worke of God himself , & steps beyond the reach of man , which no humane foote can tread , no wit can climbe vnto or comprehend , vnlesse it be framed and fashioned from aboue . A worke which of all others wee are most vntoward to , of such difficulty that wee must be drawen , and haled , and violently pulled out of our selues , before wee can once settle about it , hauing neither power , nor so much as will vnto it ; for what finde I in my selfe to egge , and prouoke me thereunto ? Whatsoeuer I haue within me , or without me , from the top vnto the toe , from the head vnto the heeles , is an vtter enemy , and doth oppose and set it selfe against it ; yet I desire thorough the working of his holy spirit ( for euen the desire and first thought doth come from him , ) not onely to walke in the pathes , ( which notwithstanding O happy men that so doe , and how few there bee that find the same ) but to runne in them with all my might and maine , with faith , hope , patience , and obedience to follo● thee : O let my feete be shod and made nimble for to doe it . But who ( thinke you ? ) is the person whom thus I loue , and am so enamoured with ? Verely the King himselfe our Soueraigne Lord , CHRIST , the God of glory , worthy to be loued of all , able to draw a●l vnto his loue , and to make all the gates , and doores of our heart to be set open to him . What may be the place whether we runne so fast , and would so faine hie our selues vnto ? It is his owne priuie chambers , his Church , and house heere , and after this his heauenly tabernacles , where better it is to be one hower then in the Palaces of all other Kings a thousand yeeres beside . The fruites and effects that come from it , are admirable , and diuine : ioy in the holy Ghost , spirituall mirth and gladnesse . For the hauing whereof where , or who is he ( shew me the man , if he be a man and not a very beast ) that would not bid al the Iolity of the world adew . It is a ioy cannot well bee hidden : it will shew it selfe and fill our mouthes with the praises of his name , with Psalmes , hymnes , and spirituall songs , all too little , too too litttle for him . Neither will I ( my selfe alone ) take pleasure in this duty , I and mine , all my friends and followers , whosoeuer they be that loue thee , will vncessantly performe the same : you prophane get you farie away . The praises of God beseeme not your mouthes . These pretious Iewels , such pearles are not for swines s●outes . So holy a worke belongeth to holy men : It is for them whose hearts are cleane , pure , sanctified , which waike in all integrity and in the righteousnesse of their waies . These our God doth call ; their tongues he fines and fi●es , to be the trumpetters of his glory :

Thus , and by those arguments ( twelue in number ) the Church setteth forh , amplifieth , and enlargeth the summe of her most holy desires .

VERSE 5

I am black , but comly , O daughters of Ierusalem : Like to the Kedarenes that dwell in tents : but I am also like to those that dwell in the curtaines of Solomon .

Now because it is the property of true loue to be desirous that others also may haue a liking of the thing beloued , shee remoueth the lets and hindrances that may keepe her friend and fellows ( in Gods election members of the Church ) from comming vnto CHRIST , confessing there is nothing outwardly in her to bee seene that can giue concontent or make her bee liked , but inwardly , in the hidden man shee is amiable and full of beauty : for this daughter of the King is all glorious within , foule in her selfe and black , euen cole black , as black as any black-more , or if any thing bee more black then it , through sinne , both originall and actuall , that maketh her to com short of the glory of God , and to be subiect to death and condemnation : but through CHRIST , and the righteousnesse shee hath in him , she is goodly and glorious as Solomons courtly traine .

VERS. 6.

Looke not vpon mee because I am blackish , because the Sunne hath cast his beames vpon me , because the sonnes of my mother incensed against me , haue made mee a keeper of other vine-yards : mine owne vine-yard I haue not kept .

Three things indeed there bee which lay her open , though washed , though iustified , though sanctified through CHRIST , to ignomie and reproach . All which notwithstanding shee is not to be despised , since none of them , nor they all are able to obscure the brightnes of Gods glory in her ; first the remnants of sinne that still cleaue vnto her , and are so many foule spots in her faire face : making her blackish , though not cole black . Secondly afflictions , as it were the schorching of the Sun . Lastly her infirmitie , that thorough the peeuishnesse of some which beare the face of bretheren , not able to endure wholsome doctrine , and the sweete yoke of IESVS CHRISTS , but making stirres and discords in the Church , and teaching insteed of Christs lores their owne fantasies , and pleasures , shee hath in weaknesse been driuen to yeeld in many things contrary to the duty and place which God hath set her in .

VERS. 7.

Shewe mee O thou whom my soule loueth , where thou feedest , where thou makest flock to lie downe at noone : for why should I bee as one that pitcheth her tents by the flocks of thy companions .

Wherefore she saith she will goe to the Archbishoppe , and chiefe sheppard of her soule , of him to learne how to carry her selfe in the Church , which is the house of the liuing God , to be ordered by those Lawes onely that hee himselfe the most wise house-holder hath prescribed . Heereupon she turneth her speech to Christ , telling him , hee onely is her delght . All his ordinances she accounteth right in all things , and that shee hateth euerie lying path . And therefore prayeth him to teach her where hee feedeth with his Word and Sacraments , where at noone day hee maketh his sheepe to rest : for both feeding and resting , wholy and in all things her desire is to be at his direction . And euen then when others repast themselues and take their meales , shee can not be in quiet vnlesse shee bee with him . That so ranging her selfe among his other sheepe she may bee kept from hauing any thing to doe with strange shepheards , that in name participate with CHRIST , but in truth are none of his .

CHRIST . VERS. 8.

If thou know not O thou fairest among women , get thee out from going in the steppes of yonder flock , and feed thy kiddes aboue the tabernacles of those shepheards .

To this Christ maketh answere ; first satisfying her demaund in that wherein she was not fully before enformed . Bidding her by any meanes to take heed of the worldly prophane and hereticall teachers , and such as are corrupted by them , that shee tread not in their steps , but to fe●de her little ones , the faithful flocke , with the foode of heauenly doctrine in all sincerity and truth , lifting them vp , out , and from aboue the world .

VERS. 9.

Vnto the troope of horses in the chariots of Pharaoh doe I liken thee , my fellow friend .

By this occasion they fall to congratulate one vnto an other , the good things that are in them : CHRIST hee praiseth his owne gifts bestowed vpon the Church , in regard of the dignity of her person , by his word affirming , and by the power of his spirit making her like to the horse of Pharaohs Chariot , braue , stately , and couragious , excellent for all good seruices .

VERS. 10.

Thy cheekes are comlie , as with rewes of small stones : thy neck as with collars .

And in regard of the ornaments of the spirit , wherby her cheeks and neck , the principall seates of beauty , are set forth with rewes of precious stones , gemmes , collars , and gorgious things , as horses of those countries were wont to be .

VERS. 11.

Borders of Gold wee will make vnto thee , with specks of neate siluer .

And not content therewith promiseth that the Father Sonne and the holy Ghost , the blessed and glorious Trinity , will further bewtifie , and let her out with all rich graces and ornaments of the spirit , with a continuall grouth of sanctification , as it were pure gold , bewtified with the siluer specks of a new encrease of holinesse , being made more and more glorious by the reflection of his glory .

CHVRCH . VERS. 12.

Whilest the King is in his circute , my spicknard doth giue foorth his smell .

The Church , resoundeth the praises of her CHRIST , for the sweet and fragrant odours that from him come downe vpon her by his Word , and the power of his spirit , those holy things that make her so sweete her selfe , and to spreade her sweetnesse farre and neere to other : And that euen now whilest this Lord and King sitteth in the round globe of the highest and most glorious heauens , absent in the flesh ; how much more when CHRIST which is her life , shall appeare and reueale himselfe in glory ?

VERS. 13.

My beloued is as a bundle of mirrh vnto me that lodgeth betweene my brests .

The cause of all is , Christs dwelling in her heart by faith , which maketh her both gracious , and sweete as a nosegay of mirrh in a weomans bosome ,

VERS. 14.

My well-beloued is vnto mee as a cluster of Cypres in the vine-yards of Hengedie .

And as a cluster of Cypres full of berries within his white flower , when the same is planted in fruitfull gardens , such as Hengedie was .

CHRIST . VERS. 15.

Behold thou art faire my fellow friend , behold thou art faire , thine eies are doues eies .

This mutuall gratulation Christ shutteth vp with exclamations , setting forth her bewty , the bewty she hath in him without spot , and glorious , also her charity and doue-like simplicity , that will not cast one eie vpon any superstitions

CHVRCH VERS. 16.

Behold thou art faire my well-beloued : also delectable : also our bed is greene .

The Church shutteth vp with commendations of the bewty and amiablenesse of her loue , ● Brutes , as the Hebrew word is , which Plinie also doth retaine in the 12 booke of his naturall history Chap. 17 signifieth rare , plea●ant and speciall woods . and the fruitfulnesse of their bed , begetting many children vnto God .

CHRIST and CHVRCH both . VERS. 17.

The beames of our houses are of Cedars , our walkes of brute trees .

They both conclude with commendations of the preciousnesse of their houses , and of the walkes wherein they visite one onother that is of Christs habitation in her by the communion and fellowshippe of the spirit .

CHAP. II.

CHRIST . VERS. 1.

I am the rose of * * Shar●n was a place of l●w pasture groundes , between Bashan & mount Leb●non , as appeareth 1. Chron. 5. 16 & 27. 29. So that 〈◊〉 rose of Sharon , hee meaneth a ro●e growing in a fruitfull and sunnie place which is allwa●●s of swe●test sauour . Sharon , the Lillie of the valleys .

THe Church and her spouse not satisfied with their former praises , and the mutu●ll commending one of an other , fall afresh vnto it . Hee commendeth his owne sweete vertue , which hee hath not for himselfe alone , but by his spirit doth communicate to his Church .

VERS. 2.

As a Lillie among thornes , so is my fellowe friend among the daughters .

Whereby the same as farre excelleth all other companies and assemblies through the righteousnesse and glory she receiueth from him , as the Lillie doth the thornes : for all are no better then thornes take them as they are , but specially if they be compared with her .

CHVRCH . VERS. 3.

As an aple-tree among the trees of the forrest , so is my wel-beloued among the Sonnes : vnder his shadow I desire that I may sit : for sweet is his fruit vnto my pallat .

The Church againe praiseth him for his fruitfulnesse , and the sweetnesse both of his shade and fruits . Such and so great , as she desireth no onely to rest vnder the shadowe of his grace and righteousnes , thereby to be kept from the scorching heat of the wrath of God , the curse of the Lawe , death , and condemnation , being reconciled by him to his Father : but to taste of the dainty fruits , the fulnesse of ioyes that are at his right hand .

VERS. 4.

He brought me into the banqueting house , and his banner ouer me was ●oue .

Here is the great desire & longing expre'st , which she hath for Christ , enlarged narration-wise , by two most sweete and notable fruits that proceed from him vnto his Church . First life , safety and deliuerance from all euill : then pleasure , comfort , ioy , peace of conscience , and the fruition of all good . The former she setteth forth , first by the effici●nt cause , his onely loue shed in her heart by the holy Ghost : wherby he kept her as fast vnto himselfe , as Soldiers are kept about the colours of their Generall , that nothing could pul her from him . Secondly by the place wher this was done , the banqueting house of the congregation of his Saints , where all dainties and iunketing dishes , all pleasures and delights were to be found in him .

VERS. 5.

Stay mee with these flagons , hold me vp with these apples , for I am sick of loue .

Thirdly , by her fainting for the desire of Christ . So sick shee was with spirituall loue . Fourthly , by her great desire , expressed by turning her speech to his seruants that stood round about the Table , the ministers of the Word to stay and hold her vp , and to keep life within her , by an holy vse of the Word and Sacraments , which are as refreshing apples , and as bottles of wine , out of the which wee suck the swcete promises of the Gospell .

VERS. 6.

His left hand is vnder my head , and his right hand doth embrace mee .

Fifthly , by Christs doing a great deal more then we should require : Euen himselfe as a kinde husband will doe vnto his wife , taking her in both his armes , and so falling with her into a sweet rest and slumber from the cares of this present world .

VERS. 7.

I adiureye yee daughters of Ierusalem , tarrie without with the roes , or with the hindes of the field . Stirre not vp nor waken this loue vntill he please .

Sixthly , by adiuring all Christians to abide in their place and standing , that is to say in some honest and lawfull vocation , as Rachell that looked to her fathers heards , and not eyther thorough idlenesse , or disorderly walking and following after sinfull pleasures to grieue the spirit , and to giue Christ cause , when they may haue and hold him , to disioint himself from them . And so she liues and breaths in him thorough that sweet and happy coniunction shee hath with her head .

VERS. 8.

It is the voice of my well-beloued . Behold this same , hee commeth lepping vpon these mountaines , skipping vpon these hils .

But that is not all . She thus resting in quiet sleep , and hee going into the countrey to the pleasant fields to prepare and set things in a readines , returning againe heapeth vpon her fauours and pleasures that cannot be expressed , which shee with a ioyfull heart setleth her selfe to entertaine . First , hee speaketh vnto her , shee heareth his comfortable voice . Secondly he commeth , shee seeth him comming a farre of . Thirdly , hee is present and at hand , no hilles , nor hillocks , no offences , great or small , haynous sinnes or meaner imperfections are able to stay his comming .

VERS. 9.

My well-beloued is like a roe , or a young Hart. Behold this same , he standeth behind our wall , looking forth of the windows , shewing himselfe cheerefully thorough the grates .

Hereupon she crieth out for ioy , compareth him with the hindes & yong roes for his swiftnes , with goodly flourishing trees for his sweetnesse , and the pleasure of his countenance . Onely this is her griefe , that hee looketh but as it were through the grates , standeth behinde the walls , and doth not as she would , communicate his presence with her .

VERS. 10.

My well-beloued spake and saide vnto me , Arise my fellow friend , my faire one , and come thy way .

Then thus prepared to heare and to receiue him , he speaketh to her heart : and powring forth a golden shower of kinde and gracious words , with siluer streames of eloquence ( manifesting his affection ) inuiteth her to the fruition of those good and excellent things which by his Word and spirit hee is ready to bestow vpon her .

VERS. 11.

For behold the winter is past , the raine is ouer , it is gone .

Drawing arguments from her present state and condition compared with her former misery that was in the time of her ignorance , whilst she lay dead in sinne and trespasses , and was a stranger from the life of God : al which time was as the winter season , foule and tempestuous , full of stormes , of horror of minde , terror of conscience , feare of death and desperation .

VERS. 12.

The flowers appeare in the earth , the time of the chirping of birds is come , and the voice of the Turtle is heard in our land .

VERS. 13.

The Figge-tree hath put forth her greene figges and the vines with the tender grape giue forth a smell . Arise my fellow friend , my faire one , and come thy way .

But this now com in the place of it is as the pleasant spring , all greene , fresh , and flourishing . Such are the pleasures that the enioying of Christ doth bring . That done here moueth two maine obiections that euermore trouble the Saints of God , and hold them as it were amazed .

VERS. 14.

My done that dwellest in the clefts of the rocks , in the f●eety denne ; shewe mee thy countenance , make mee to heare thy voice : for thy voice is sweet , and thy countenance comly .

One , the conscience of their own infirmity and weakenesse , which maketh them like silly doues to hide themselues in corners , in the clifts of the rock , vnder the grices of the staires , in secret places , flying the fight of men , and not to dare to shew their faces . This hee remoueth with the consideration of Gods eternall election , and of his deepe and vnsearchable counsels , a rocke of strength to comfort her in her weakenesse : a sure hold and vnaccessable denne , whereunto no euill can approach , a fort impregnable , vnder the which she resteth , and shall rest safe for euer . And thereupon hee biddeth her to take heart of grace , to come vnto him , to walke before him , and to be vpright to talke with him , to make him heare her voice in Praiers and the praises of her God . For that in Christ be accepteth her and is well pleased with her , both her person , and those spirituall sacrifices and fruits of her faith .

VERS. 15.

Take vs the foxes , the little foxes which spoile the vineyards , and that whilest our vineyards are bringing foorth the tender grape .

The other thing that troubleth is the opposition of wicked and vngodly men , not the cruell tirants of the world onely , but false teachers which nippe the Church in the head , and are the instruments of Sathans malice when it first beginneth to peepe , for then Sathan is euer busiest to seduce vs in the first birth of Christ in our hearts , waiting to kill and to destroy vs . These also hee saith hee will take order for , by sending workemen into his vineyard that shall spare none , not the least euill but by drawing forth the sword of holy discipline shall cut off all euill , and all meanes and occasion of euill , which heere exhorting he promiseth , and in promising he exhorteth his seruants the ministers of the Church not to be slack to doe , that so shee may enioy perfect peace and pleasure , and all kinde of happinesse .

VERS. 16.

My welbeloued is mine , and I am his who feedeth among the Lillies .

Vpon all which shee concludeth : glorying first of her fellowship & communion with Christ ; who as a good shepheard feedeth his with satiety of pleasures and delights that are at his right hand for euermore .

VERS. 17.

Till that day breath and these shadowes flie away , returne , be like , my welbeloued , to the roe or to the yong hart vpon the * * By Seuered mountaines hee meaneth Mount Gilead , which was s●ue●ed by the riuer Iordan from the rest of Iudea , 2. Sam. 2. 29. and was the best place for course and for hunting . seuered mountaines .

And then wishing his gratious presence that he would come quickely to her , and not depart one heates bredth from her to the day of his last most bright appearance , when we shall perfectly be receiued vnto the communion of Christ , and of all good things in him : that so by his blessed presence and the assistance of his Spirit , shee may passe thorough and ouercome all the mists and shadowes of sinne , ignorance and affliction that come in her way whi●est shee is in this present world .

CHAP. III. VERS. 1.

In my bed anights I sought him whom my soule loueth : I sought him , but I found him not .

VERS. 2

Therefore I said , I will rise now and goe about the Citie by the streets , and by the high waies , I will seeke him whom my soule loueth . I sought him , but I found him not .

YEt once more the Church expresseth her affection and longing after Christ : the wonderfull desire shee hath to cling neerer and to cleaue faster to him : and that in a more passionate manner then euer she did before ; thinking shee had lost him , when most she did enioy him .

By night and by day , vpon her bed and when she was vp ; at home and abroad , within in the Citie by the streets , and by the lanes , without in the fields ; with her selfe alone in the secret meditation of her heart , and by conference with others . First , godly bretheren ( as she met them in euery corner ) her fellows and familiar friends exercised in the like temptations .

VERS. 3.

The watchmen which goe about the Citie found mee . to whom I said , did you see him whom my soule loueth .

Then the publique watchmen of the Citie , the Lords remembrancer , swhom he hath set ouer thy walles O Ierusalem , that all the day , and all the night they might not be silent of him : euery where and at all times , vsing all the meanes , from the lowest to the highest , she seeketh Christ , and can heare no tidings of him . That is shee cannot finde him present as she doth desire , and to her hearts liking in her owne sense and apprehension , though indeed hee be alwaies most present with her .

VERS. 4.

It was but a while ere I had past from them , ti when I found him whom my soule loueth . I tooke hold of him , not to let him goe , till I shall haue brought him into my mothers house , and into the chamber of her that conceiued me .

At the last when she least looketh for it , and hath passed all the meanes , that the excellency may bee from God and not from them , shee findeth her hearts ioy , him whom her soule loueth . Shee claspeth him , and layeth fast holde vpon him , with purpose not to let him goe till shee haue brought him into her mothers house ( like an honest and shamefast maiden that will doe nothing in such cases without her mothers priuitie ) that is , till the happy time that the whole Catholick Church shal grow vp in one body , to bee presented as a pure virgin , glorious vnto Christ .

VERR . 5.

I adiure you , ye daughters of Ierusalem , tarry without with the roes , or with the hindes of the field . Stirre not vp nor waken this loue vntill he please .

VERS. 6.

Who is shee that should come vp out of the wildernesse , as it were becensed with smoke that is raised vp ; becensed with mirrh and incense better then all Apothecaries poulder .

And now resting in his armes , shee desireth to remaine there so long as he shall please , that is to say for euer

But the vpon the view and muster of his graces , she corrects her dulnesse , and rapt with admiration , O , saith shee , what doe I meane ? Am I so foolish to tye Christ vnto my sleeue , to wish that he might abide here with me in the wildernes of this world , which is so crooked and empty of all goodnesse ? Should not I my selfe rather ( though I know the wicked world lookes after no such matter ) labour to be taken vp from hence by faith into his home and dwelling place , and vnto his spiritual marriage bed , the heauenly glorie of Gods Kingdome , and Ierusalem that is aboue . For the sweetnesse of it most fragrant and odoriferous , as all becensed with mirrh and incense of holinesse , glorie , immortallity , better then the best perfumes .

VERS. 7.

Behold his bed is better then Solomons , which threescore strong men stand about , of the valiant men of Israell .

VERS. 8.

All of them drawing sword , expert in warre , each hath his sword by his side for feare anightes .

For the safety , price , preciousnesse of matter , and worke that exceeds the matter , farre beyond Solomons wedding bed , though it were most curious : for there indeed stood a continuall gard of threescore valiant men , with their swords by their sides to keepe the chamber doore for feare of danger in the night ▪ But he hath a thousand thousand standing before him ; yea ten thousand thousand ministring vnto him ; Thrones , Dominions , principallities , powers , other manner of persons in strength and valure .

VERS. 9.

Better I say then the bed which King Solomon made him of the trees of Lebanon .

VERS. 10.

Whose pillars he made of siluer , the beddesteed therof of gold , the couerlet thereof of purple . The middest of it paued with loue , by the daughters of Ierusalem .

True it is , that bedde was made for a King , but this for the king of Kings , and Lord of Lords : the frame there was of Cedars of Lebanon . the pillars siluer , the bedsteed gold , the couerlets purple . But heer the very streets , the market place is all of pure & beaten gold , shining as cleer christall . Where of shall we thinke ( by that reckoning ) that the bedde and furniture thereof is made . There the middest was paued most louely with needle-worke , heere the ornaments and hangings are the shining glory of God and the Lambe , that the daughters of Ierusalem did work ; this the Father of heauen . Thus doth the place where wee shall enioy Christ excell ▪

VERS. 11.

Goe forth and looke ye daughters of Sion , vpon King Solomon , with the Crowne , wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals , and in the day of gladnesse of his heart .

But if you compare person with person , ones ioy with the others triumphes , your owne eies will tell you when Solomon was at the highest , how infinitely he did come short . Solomon indeed had a Crowne that royally set him forth ; but Christ hath many Crownes and diadems vpon his head ; Solomon in his excellency and the crowne of his glory was a spectacle worthy to bee looked vpon and admired , but Christ to be worshipped , honoured , and adored , not of the maidens of Ierusalem onely , but of the whole hoast of heauen ; Solomons heart leapt for ioy the day thht he was contracted , but Christ is anointed with the oyle of gladnesse aboue his fellows , with a heape and variety of gifts and graces , more then all men or Angels . So farre is he to be preferred .

CHAP. IIII.

CHRIST . VERS. 1.

Behold thou art faire my fellow friend , behold thou art faire : thine eies are doues eies from betweene thy locks : thy haire is like a flocke of Goates , which sheare vpon mount Gilead .

CHRIST here comforteth the Church against that anxiety of minde , which appeared in the former Chapt. shewing how gracious she is vnto him , how beautifull in his eies : not for any bodily , but for her spirituall bewty . Whether you consider her wholy and entirely , being all faire , or her members and lineaments one by one : eies , haire and locks , teeth , lippes , temples , her neck and both her breasts ; all in that comlinesse and proportion , as is fit both for the discharge of the great duty of the ministery , and the common duty of christianity . Her eies first , how chast they are ? how simple ? how douclike ? if you consider eyther the faithfull Minister , the eies and lights of the Church , whose care is to present vs chast and pure virgins vnto Christ , or the eie of iudgement in euery Christian , which maketh the whole body lightsome , and keepeth them single and sincere in all things . Againe how comely they are within her locks , seemelily turned vp : for such is both the Churches decency , reiecting all toyish ceremonies , and the graue and sober cariage of euery Christian . And this haire so goodly shining smooth , as of fat Goates that feede in fruitfull pastures ; these ceremonies , this carriage orderly , sober , decent , bring that reuerence to a Christian , that comlinesse to a Church , as make them both gracious .

VERS. 2.

Thy teeth are like a flock of euen shorn sheep , that come vp from the washing , which all of them doe bring forth twinnes , and there is not a miscarrying one among them .

VERS. 3.

The lips are like a threed of skarlet ▪ and thy talke is comely : thy temples within thy locks are as a peece of pomegranet .

VERS. 4.

Thy neck is as the towre of Dauid , built for armories : a thousand targets hang therein , all shields of mighty men .

VERS. 5

Thy two brests are as two young hindes , the twins of a roe which feede among lillies .

Goe vnto her teeth , they are equall , shining , dowblerewed , whereby she cheweth the meate of heauenly doctrine , both for her selfe and others . The Law of grace is in her skarlet lippes , speaking things comely and for edification . Temples like a rose to see to , & of the hew of a Pomegranet , bending beyond the haire . So naturall is her bewty , and her face her owne : for what needeth shee the dyings or colourings of worldly glory to set forth her spirituall bewty ? or of humane wisdome to adorne the simplicity of the Gospell ? Is her face onely and the parts thereof worthy to bee commended ? doe not the rest as well excell ? her neck of holy discipline , and gouerment to assist the ministery of the Word , and that compleat armour of proofe which euery christian fighteth with , holdeth her vp and keepeth her steddy , more strong then all the weapons of any tower or armourrie can doe . Lastly her pappes plumpe , round , faire , are ●full of all good nourishment of the sincere milke of the word of God , that flowes as from a streame out of both her brests of that olde and the new Testament .

VERS. 6.

Till that day breath , and these shadows flie away , I will get mee vnto the Mountaine of Mirrh , and to the hill of frankinsense .

This description done , and made an end of , now to satisfie her request he promiseth that notwithstanding till the mariage daie doe come , when the mistes of sinne , ignorance , and afliction that are cast in this world before the eies of the Church shall fleete away , he must keepe his residence and aboade in Ierusalem that is aboue , where are his friends , who performe vnto him duties sweeter then mirrh and frankinsence .

VERSE 7

Thou all faire my fellow friend , and not a spot in thee .

VERS. 8.

With me from Lebanon , my spouse with mee from Lebanon shalt thou come , thou shalt looke down from the top of Amana , from the top of Shenir , and Hermon , from the dennes of Lyons , from the mountaines of Leopards .

Yet he will euer be present with his Church by his Word and the power of his spirit , sanctifying and cleansing the same , vntill being all faire without any spot or wrinckle in her , and so fitted and made ready for the wedding day , he do receiue her as his spouse , ( that is to say a wife ioyned and married to her husband , for so he is bould now to call her , in regard of that prefixed time ) into euerlasting life , and crowne her with glory and immortality . At what time he saith he will redeeme her ( wholy and euery part , so as not one whom the Father hath giuen vnto Christ shall perish ) from the most remote places and borders of the Land , and out of the clawes of Lyons and Leopards , her most cruell , fierce , barbarous and sauage enemies .

VERS. 9.

Thou hast rauished my heart , my Sister Spouse . Thou hast rauished my heart , with one of thine eyes , with one chaine of thy necke .

The remembrance of this day , and of the perfection she now hath in his iudgement & estimation of her , and then shal actually haue by his benefit bestowed vpon her , maketh him to cry out in the passion and vehemency of his loue , calling her Sister , as being of one nature , also his married spouse , professing shee hath rauished his heart with the bewty of her lookes , with the ornaments of her graces , that are as chaines about her neck , yea with one looke of faith , with that one grace of his sanctifying spirit in her :

VERS. 10.

How faire are thy loues , my sister spouse ? how good are thy loues ? better then wine , and the smell of thine ointements better then all spices .

Amplifying with exclamations the excellency of her loue better then wine , and the sweete sauour of her ointements ( the annointing of his spirit , sealing her vp to the day of redemption ) better in sense and feeling , then all spices .

VERS. 11.

Thy lips , my spouse , drop the hony-combe , Hony and milke are vnder thy tongue , and the smell of thy garments is as the smell of Lebanon .

Thus hauing declared the feruency of his loue vnto her , hee doth by many figures and formes of speech , expresse the sweetenesse and the ornaments of her faith and of the fruits that proceed from it . Thy lippes ( saith hee ) both of them , that is , in the publique ministery , in priuate speech droppe the hony and the hony-combe , sweete and heauenly lessons and instructions , comforts and consolations . Out of thy tongue that milke of the Word is ready to come forth : thy smell is odoriferous , thine outward carriage and behauiour sweete amiable , and full of grace .

VERS. 12.

A gardaine enclosed my sister spouse , a spring shut , a fountaine sealed vp .

Thou keepest thy selfe most chast vnto me , ' and thy fruits sound and entire as a gardai●e closed , as a spring shut vp , as a fountaine sealed : for in thee is the cestern of that wholsom and fauing doctrine , whereby the parts of the field , or gardaine of my Church , the beddes and plantes . ( particular congregations ) are all watred , and which no stranger can haue accesse vnto : for none entreth thither but in and thorough me .

VERS. 13.

Thy plants are as of an orchard of pomegranets , with fruit of precious things : as Cypres with Spicknard .

VERS. 14.

Spicknard and Safron , sweete Canes and Cinamon , with all trees of Frankinsence , mirrh , and Santales , with all the chiefe spices ,

To conclude thy plants ( meaning the fruits of faith ) are most precious , as an orchard stored with all precious and delicate fruits .

CHVRCH . VERS. 15.

O fountaine of the gardains , O Well of liuing waters , and flowing more then the waters of Lebanon .

The Church ioying in her spouses thus gracious accepting of her , doth first modestly attribute all she hath to him . Doest thou call me a spring and fountaine ? giuest thou me the name of a gardaine ? Vouchsafest thou mee such honour that my fruits should bee esteemed , as sweete spices ? O but how soeuer I may in some sort disperse vnto mine the waters of life , yet thou in truth art the onely fountaine , from whose fulnesse we all receiue . I water , but from thee , thou art the onely well of liuing water , out of the which I doe drawe ; thou art the wind and comfortable ayre that purgest thy gardaine , makest seasonable times , raine and faire weather , as is most commodious and best for the manurance of it . I , whatsoeuer I haue , meate , drinke , or any thing else , it is all of the gift of thy hand ; my life and sauing health I haue , and hold from thee .

VERS. 16

Awake O North , and com O South , breath vpon my gardaine . Let those waters ouerflow the spices of it . Let my well-beloued come vnto his gardaine , and eate his dainty fruits .

Wherefore , saith she , deny not these two things vnto me , blesse me yet more with all spirituall blessings : Let thy windes blow vpon my gardaine , and those liuing waters ouer flow my beddes and spices . Secondly , come and dwell with me , feast and make merry in the middest of my soule and conscience : for euen heere also ( as well as in Heauen ) thou hast , as thou sayest , a gardaine ?

CHRIST . VERS. 17.

I am com into my gardain , my sister spouse , I gather my mirrh with my spice , I eate my hony-combe with my hony , I drinke 〈◊〉 wine with my milk . Eate fellow friends , drinke , and bee dronke O yee my well-beloued .

O no , saith hee , you know not what you aske ; that were nothing good for you , and hurtfull to many other : for yet til the marriage day doe com , my place is to be in heauen with the infinite thousands of holy Angels and spirits of the righteous that are deceased : where I in them , and they in me take incomparable pleasure & delight ; and where I welcome and entertaine most louingly with all dainties and delightfulnesse , the faithfull soules whom I dayly take out of this transitory world , into euerlasting glory ,

CHAP. V

CHVRCH . VERS. 1.

I being asleepe , but my heart awake , heard the voice of my wellbeloued , bounsin● , open to mee , my sister , my fellow friend , my doue , my vndefiled one , for my head is filled with de●●e , my locks with the droppes of the night .

WE come now to the second part of this booke , which is the falling out between Christ & his Church . The fault whereof is first of al laid where it was , in the Churches vnkindnes to him , which she her selfe stic●eth not to acknowledge that it grew from her owne drowsinesse and carnall security : Although thus farre to bee excused , that it was thorough weakenesse and humane frailety , against her owne heart and liking ; not with that full swing of sinne that the wicked giue themselues scope to runne into , nor with all her heart and soule . The spirit being alwaies ready to doe his part , though the fleshe were weake . Her faith was smothered , it was not put out : yet this one sinne ( as the nature of such things is ) went not alone , it was accompanied with a multitude of other sinnes : reiecting him so scornefully , who with his owne lacred v●ice spake vnto her to arise from the sleepe of sinne , and to awake vnto righteousnesse , and yet could not preuaile . What might be done that hee did not to reclaime , and bring her home ? For the manner of his comming , it was not only knocking , but bounsing at the dore of her heart by the ministery of his Word , vehemently , ernestly , & more then once . The thing he did desire small in it self , so easie for her to graunt , as nothing could bee more : onely to open and to let him in . He spake so kind●ly , so louingly , in such a gentle and so earnest a manner , as might haue moued a heart of flint ; gaue her such and so many , so sweete and so honourable titles all with one breath , my sister , my friend , my doue , mine vndefiled one , bestowed such care and diligence to compasse his desires , as if it were his own good that he sought , and not hers . Hee ( bearing all the infirmities of our nature , and the inconueniences of this life , compared to the night in regard of the life to come ) refused to vndergoe no perill , nor wearisomenesse , or incommodity of weather , no toile or trouble for her sake ; to goe by day or by night , early in the morning , or late in the euening , in faire of foule weather , in the dewe and in the raine , his head and his haire , his skull and his locks , all beesprinckled and wet ; that what heart ( not made of stone ) could be so vnkinde to let him stand without , in the raine and in the dangers , and hazards of the night ?

VERS. 2

To whom I answered , I haue put off my coate , how should I put it on ? I haue washed my feete , how should I foule them ?

Yet for all that , euery vaine pretence , euery fond and friuolous excuse , was enough to keep her from admitting Christ , and from opening the dore vnto him ; that dore of her heart whereby through a true and liuely faith , Christ doth make an entrance and is receiued , and more and more fruitfully applied vnto vs . A manifest argument what small account sh●e made of him , and how little shee set by the inestimable good that he came to bring vnto her : preferring a little ease and daintines , before the pleasures that are in him . Shee thought it ( for sooth ) a matter of no small adoe to put on her coate againe , and rise when once she was abed , for feare of catching cold : she was loath to touch the ground with her feet now they wer washt , lest she should beray them , that is to say , she was loath to giue eare to euery call of Christ , for feare of disquieting her selfe , of drawing vpon her dangers , troubles , feares and losses if shee should follow him in all things : as if these or ten thousand greater discommodities then these could any way counterpeize , or lie in the ballance with the infinite blessings we haue by Christ . O flesh and blood how wise art thou to finde out a reason vnto thine owne heart ? and to haue some blinde excuse or other for that thou wouldest faine doe ?

VERS. 3

My wellbeloued let downe his hand from the key-hole , when as my bowels earning within mee ,

VERS. 4

I rose to open to my well-beloued , and my hands dropped Mirrh , and my fingers soft Mirrh in the handles of the lock .

But the end and effect heereof was fearefull . Christ so repulsed went his wa●e : so shee lost her loue and could no more finde him : and then all too late her heart began to earne ; shee fell then to haue a compunction of soule , remorse of her offence : and then ( foole as shee was ) when hee was gone shee rose to open vnto him : Yet so at the last disposing and framing herselfe vnto his call , the very touch of the handle of the lock , where Christ departing , had left behinde him such fragrant steppes and impressions of his fauour by the blessing and sweet smelling sauour of his Gospell , brought her to a consideration of her most vnworthy fact .

VERS. 5.

I opened to my well beloued , but my well-beloued withdrewe himselfe , he passed away : I fell into a sound because of his speaking , I sought him , but I could not finde him , I cryed on him , but he answered me not .

And was enough now to make her to arise and open vnto him , ( departed and gone away ) whom present before and requesting it , shee had reiected . O then what would haue been the comfort if when he was at the doore hee had beene let in and entertained ? Well , shee openeth now , but her loue is gone . Then strook with a conscience of her sinne , shee falleth into a swowne to thinke of his kinde and louing words , which shee so scornefully set at naught : shee seckes him by meditation of the Word , by calling to minde the promises of the Gospell , and his former mercies , but shee cannot finde him she cryeth vpon him with praiers , teares , weepings , and lamentations , but hee will not answere .

VERS. 6.

The watchmen that goe about the Citie found me , they smote mee , they wounded mee ; the keepers of the walles tooke my vaile from mee .

Yet shee supported by his Spirit , not casting off her faith , continueth to seeke him still , and passeth petills past beleefe . The Min●sters themselues and watchmen of the Church of God , ● hose part it was to gard her , were the first that did her wrong , smote , and wounded her tender conscience : and in steed of speaking a word in due time to the wearied and distressed soule , did euen take her vaile from her , and beate her from holding fast her reuerend obedience and subiection vnto Christ .

VERSE 7

I adiure you , ye daughters of Ierusalem , if ye finde my wellbeloued , what you should tell him : that I am sick of loue .

Wherefore finding no comfort where in reason it was most to be expected , she getteth her to the maydens her friends and fellows , though not so well acquainted with Christ as shee . To them she is more bold to impart the ardency of her affection ; asketh them after Christ , adiureth them , both themselues to take knowledge of it , and to let her loue vnderstand how she doth affect him .

The Maydens the CHVRCHES friends . VERS. 8.

What is thy well-beloued aboue an other well-beloued , O thou fairest among weomen ? what is thy well-beloued aboue an other well-beloued , that thus thou doest adiure vs ?

CHVRCH . VERS. 9.

My well-beloued is white and ruddie , fitted for a standard-bearer aboue ten thousand .

They wondring at her passion , as vnacquainted with such moods enquire what is in her loue aboue other loues , that shee doth so long and thirst after him . Whereupon she taketh occasion to describe her loue ; First , by the bewty and excellency of his colour , ( signifying his holinesse and perfect happinesse ) white and red mixed together , with that temper that is in the best and strongest complexions , enabling him to doe any feate of actiuity aboue ten thousand other . For who but hee can sustaine the furie of the battailes of God , and yet goe away with the honor and glory of the field ? or of whom but of him alone can it bee said , that hee hath a crowne giuen vnto him , and goeth forth ouercomming , and must ouercome ?

VERS. 10.

His head excellent gold , fined ; his locks curled , black as a rauen .

Secondly , by the members and lineaments of his body , head , haire , cies , cheeks , lips , hands , breasts legges , looke , pallate , and to conclude his whole selfe . His head , ( wherein the grace of his humane nature standeth ) precious as the most excellent gold , pure , bright , shining , as gold fined seauen times : for euen in his humanity , hee is the engrauen forme of the person of his Father , and the resplendence of his glory . His haire , first black as a rauen , then coloured and crisped ; so faire hee is in the very least ornaments of nature , more then the sonnes of men .

VERS. 11.

His eies as doues eies by the streames of waters , washed with milke it selfe , set in cunningly .

His eies haue a threefold quality to commend them by : First amiable as the doues , as the neate and the dainty doues by the water side , in the gracious and comfortable looke which hee casteth on his Church . Secondly , white as milke , and shining with white , because hee is more pure of eies then that hee can behold iniquity . Thirdly , set in the hollow places as fit , and with as great art and cunning , as a stone by the artificers hand is set into a ring ; so guiding and directing his sight to looke perfectly into all things , yea into the depth of the secret of mens hearts .

VERS. 12.

His cheekes like a bedde of Spice , growne plants of perfume , his lips to Lillies , dropping soft mirrh .

His cheekes goodly and flourishing with a freshe and sweet beard , like a bedde of spices , like growne plants that serue for perfume : Such a grace and grauity doth hee carrie . His lips in themselues as lillies , redolent for the smell , comely in proportion : to vs full of heauenly grace & sweetnesse , of most comfortable doctrine which droppeth from him , as liquid or softmirrh .

VERS. 13.

Vpon his hands are rings of gold , set with Chrysolite , in his bowels is a shining , as of Iuory , ouerlaide with Saphires .

His hands are set forth with al ornaments precious & shining rings of gold set with the Crysolite , to note that not his person onelie but al his actions ( done by the instrument of the hand ) the whole gouernement and administration of his kingdom , is full of maiesty and glorie . His brest and all his bodie ( for that is to be vnderstood by the bowels that are within ) hath a shyning like Iuory , couered ouer with Saphires : for of a weake and corruptible bodie he hath made his owne , and will make ours in him glorious and incorruptible .

VERS. 14.

His legges are pillars of Marble , set vpon sockets of fined gold : his countenance as of Lebanon , choice as the Cedars .

His legs are pillars of marble , leaning vpon sockets of the choicest gold , to shew his power and maiesty , being able to tread all his enemies , and whatsoeuer setteth it selfe against him , in peeces vnder his feete , and to make the rage of men to turne vnto his glorie . The looke and shew of his person , goodly as Lebanon , choice as the Cedars .

VERS. 15

His pallate most sweete , and all of him most to be desired . This is my well-beloued , and this my friend , O dauhgters of Ierusalem .

His pallat ( that is his speech and the words that come from him ) ( for there , there lyeth his sweetnesse , from thence is all our comfort , and therefore this that so delighteth and refresheth all our senses , it doth her good once againe to speake of it ) is most sweet and pleasant . What should I say more ? he is wholy bewtifull , and all to be desired .

The maydens the Churches friends . VERS. 16

Whether is thy well-beloued gone , O fairest amongst weomen ? whether hath thy well-beloued turned his face ? that we may seeke him with thee .

This discription doth so affect them , that they long to know of her , where her loue is become , burning with a desire to seeke Christ as well as shee . That is the fruit of the conference of Gods children .

CHVRCH . VERS. 17.

My well-beloued is gone downe into his gardaine , to the beddes of spice , that hee may feede in the gardaines and gather Lillies .

VERS. 18.

I am my well-beloueds , and my well-beloued is mine , who feedeth among the Lillies .

To whom she answereth , that hee is gone to Ierusalem which is aboue , there to repast with his friends as himselfe had said ; and concludeth with an exclamation , that whatsoeuer calamity her own sinne had brought vpon her , yet the affection to her Ioue is firme and constant ; and so shee assureth her selfe his is to her , though absent in Heauen . And by this meanes shee nourisheth that holy desire of seeking Christ both in her selfe and others : and together with her temptation findeth , by the goodnesse of GOD , an issue and way to come out of it .

CHAP. VI.

CHRIST . VERS. 1.

Thou art faire my fellow friend , as Thirtza , comely as Ierusalem , terrible as an armie with banners .

CHRIST here comforteth his Church against all the feares and terrours which the conscience of her own sinne might iustly pull vpon her ; telling her that hauing by faith and the teares of true repentance washed away her former spots , she was now as faire in his eyes , and as amiable as euer she was before : all bewtifull and faire ( being iustified & sanctified thorough Christ ) as Thirtza , Ieroboams stately Cittie : seemely as Ierusalem the glory of all the Cities of the East , built as a Citie compact and knit together , wherein are all those worthies of the Lord of hoastes , Pastors , Teachers , &c. in a most comelie order and gouernment of the Church : terrible in the Church-ministery and discipline , which is a rod to keepe in subiection euery thought , and to reuenge all disobedience : yea , terrible against Sathan and all the powers of hell . And howsoeuer she had caught afore below , which might seeme to bee an argument of her cowardlinesse , yet in truth she was of an inuincible faith and courage , and fearfull to her foes .

VERS. 2.

O turne thine eies ouer against mee , that they may left mee vp . Thine haire is as of a flock of Goates that sheareth on Gilead .

VERS. 3.

Thy teeth like to a flock of sheepe which come vp from washing , which all of them doe bring forth twinnes , and there is not a miscarying one amongst them .

VERS. 4.

As a peece of pomegranet are thy temples from betweene thy locks .

And therefore ( saith hee ) be of good comfort , looke vpon mee , haue faith in the promises of the Gospell : That shall be my ioy , and the crowne of my glory , who haue alwaies a sense and a fellow-feeling of thy miserys , and am like affected to thee , mourne when thou mournest , and am glad when thou reioycest . If thou doubt whether thy bewty still continue , whether it remaine fresh and constant , I assure thee it doth ; and no fault or infirmitie of thine can make it for to fade : for it wholy resteth in my grace and goodnesse . Thy haire , thy teeth , thy temples , all thy parts and members are euery one as comlie , as faire , as well featured as before . Thy bewty doth excell .

VERS. 5.

Let there be threescore Queenes , and fourescore Concubines , and maidens without number .

Thinke not , because there bee so many that glitter and flourish in the world , liuing in all wealth and ●ollity , and at their hearts ease , when it is ill with thee , when thou art humbled and fightest with many difficulties , hast warres without , and terrours within , that their condition is better then thine owne : as if they onely were happy and to be admired , thou base and contemptible ▪ No , if they were euery one a Queene , or Concubines , and Ladies , neuer so many that attend vpon them , yet thou onely dost excell .

VERS. 6

That one , my doue , mine vndefiled one , that one with her mother , that pure one with her that bare her : assoone as the maidens see , they shall account her blessed ; the Queenes and Concubines shall praise her , saying ,

VERS. 7

Who is shee , goodly as the morning , faire as the Moone , cleere as the Sunne , terrible as an armie with banners .

For thou art mine owne , most deare vnto mee , ( with whose iudgement it is fit thou content thy selfe more then with all the glittering shew and pompe of the world ) elect and chosen out of all kinred , nations , and tongues to bee my peculiar inheritance : Innocent , simple , chaste , sincere , and vpright before me . Who though now thou haue thin aboad on earth in this sinfull and wretched world , yet doest cleaue so close to thy mother the heauenly Ierusalem , that the whole world hath thee in admiration . Such a starre of glorie and excellency shineth in thy forehead , for inward sanctity , and outward maiesty in the ministery and gouernment of the Church : Insomuch as there is none of all these braue and gallant Ladies , but though they thinke not as thou thinkest , nor walke as thou walkest , yet in their consciences they are all conuinced that the trueth is with thee alone . Thee they will admire , as soone as they doe behold thee ; to thee they will giue the prize , and count thee onely blessed ; attribute as much vnto thee , and say as much of thee as I haue said and attributed : for bewty , pruity , vertue , continually encreasing .

VERS. 8

To the pruined gardaines I went downe to see the geene plants of the valley : to see whether the vine flourished , the pomegranets budded .

And albeit I left thee for a while , yet with euerlasting mercies will I resort vnto thee : I did indeed withdraw my selfe , but it was not for any mislike or indignation conceiued against thee : The trueth is , I had a longing to see how neer the time approached of our ioyfull and happy marriage , and therefore betooke me to my place of glory .

VERS. 9.

When I discerned it not , my minde set mee vpon the chariots of my free-hearted people , to say ,

But perc●iuing that day was not yet at hand , I came back with speed vnto thee , together with all my people , and retinue : by the ministerie of those my free-willing seruants , with all speede and earnestnesse to giue thee comfort . And now mark and lay vp in thy heart what I shall say ,

VERS. 10.

Returne , returne O Shullamite : returne , returne that wee may behold thee . What , behold you in that Shullamite ? as the daunse of the Machanaijmites .

Thou hast indeed gone astray : that had almost marred thee : but in mee is thy health and safety . Returne , returne vnto me , that I and mine , all the Angels of God , may haue ioy in heauen to see the fruits of thy faith spring anew . For notwithstanding thy slippes and fales , I esteeme thee most perfect in mine eternall counsell and decree , and putting all the robes of mine innocencie & righteousnes vpon thee , doe now so make thee by the power of my Word and spirit , my friends here and fellows being iudges . Looke vpon her , tell me how you finde her : Is shee not most braue , glorious , and gallantly attended ? Verely when I doe behold her , and all her troupes comming forth to meete mee , me thinkes I am in the middest of the Tribes of Israel , and of all those worthies , that skipping and lepping with songs and daunses , and all kinde of holy meriments , came to receiue Dauid at Machanaim , when God brought him back into his kingdome .

VERS. 11

How bewtifull are thy feete with these shooes , O daughter of a Prince ? The compasse of thy thighs are like browches , the worke of the hand of a cunning workeman ▪

And yet the neerer I come vnto thee , the more I admire thy bewty from the toppe vnto the toe , from one end vnto an other . To beginne at the lowest , and so to ascend . Thy feete shod with the preparation of the Gospell of peace . Thou daughter of a Prince ! O thou of noble birth ! borne not according to the flesh , but by the faith of the promise . The girdle of pure truth aboue thy hippes , framed by the most cunning workeman , the Spirit of God himselfe .

VERS. 12.

Thy nauell like a round bowle . Let not the Liquor of it faile . But let thy belly bee as a heape of wheate , hedged about with Lillies .

Thy nauell round as a bowle , a token of thy fruitfulnesse . O let it neuer be drawne drie ; but as a full cuppe wanting not any liquor ; let thy wombe be alwaies fruitfull , and thy fruit precious and fragrant as a heape of wheate hedged about with Lillies : So great a desire I haue of thine increase .

VERS. 13.

Thy two breasts are like two young roes , the twinnes of a hinde .

VERS. 14.

Thy neck like to a tower of Iuorie : thine eies to the fish-pooles made with art at the populous gate : thy nose like to the tower of Lebanon , that looketh towarde Damascus .

Thy two brests as two hindes , fit to nourish and giue suck . Thy neck , the neck of discipline straight , and steddie , like vnto a tower to beare vp the ministerie as it were the face of the Church : and white and bewtifull as a tower of iuory for the order and grauity thereof . Thine eies bright and cleere , as the fish-pooles made with great art at Ierusalem in the broade gate of the flocks , ( for such is the ministery of the Church , placed where the godlie doe flock into the Lords assemblies ) which shine as the cleere waters in the pond , for iudgement and knowledge : for deliuery of doctrine are as the flowing of those waters : for wisdome in searching and waighing , preparing and fitting of it , may be compared vnto the workemen by whom those pondes were artificiallie made , and to their cunning workemanshippe . Thy nose straight and comely ; as quick a iudgement in discerning doctrines , as the nose hath in discerning smelles .

VERS. 15.

That which on thy head is put vpon thee , is like to crimson , and the fillet of thy head is like to purple , a King might bee tyed to these walkes .

The ceremonies , as it were the ornaments of thy head , both the haire-lace & the borders , & all thy whole attire are for comlines & good order of speciall account , and a great grace vnto thee : no lesse then skarlet and purple . There is no King in the world but might finde in his hart to be tied to these walkes , and to be held prisoner in the sight of thee , and of the bewty of thy assemblies . So great is thy glory in comparison of all the vaine pompe of this present world .

VERS. 16.

How faire thou art , and how delectable O Loue with these pleasures .

I cannot hold , but I must cry out with an admiraon of thy bewty , that thou art exceeding faire and amiable , not thy selfe onely , but all that is about thee : O loue onely to bee beloued .

VERS. 17.

This thy stature is like a palme tree , and thy brests like clusters of grapes .

Thy whole body straight , strong , and of a comely stature . Thy Teates as berries .

VERS. 18.

I say I will get vp vpon the palme-tree , I will take hold of her branches , and thy brests shall now be like the clusters of the vine , and the smell of thy nose like apples .

But I will not leaue thee so , I giue thee my word for it , ( and that I promise be sure I will performe ) I will prune and purge thee that thou shalt bee all fruitfull , redolent , and fragrant . Thy teates as the clusters of grapes , full of the sweete iuce of the milke of the Word of God . Thy nose shall both giue and receiue a smell of apples , that thou maist be as wel meate as drink vnto the soule .

VERS. 19.

And thy pallat as wine of the best smell , frisking , liuely , vpright , making the lips of those that are asleepe to speake .

Yea thy tongue ( the preaching of the Gospell ) shall bee as pure , strong and pleasant wine of the best smell and sauour , sprinckling , and leaping louely , frisking in the cuppe ; whereby euen those that sleepe , and are dead in their sinnes and trespasses shall be awakned , and with new lippes and words sound forth thy praise .

CHAP. VII .

CHVRCH . VERS. 1.

I am my well-beloueds , since his desire is towards me .

THis comfortable speech of Christ vnto his Church doth so refresh her , that first she breketh forth into thankfulnesse for his mercy : In regard whereof shee professeth shee is wholy his , whose affection she findeth to be so wonderfull towards her , that he loued her , when she cared not for him : followed her , when she refused him : called her back , when she ranne away from him : pardoned her , when she offended him : gaue himselfe anew vnto her , when she had forsaken him : seated her in Heauen , when shee was in the lowest hell .

VERS. 2

Goe to , my well-beloued , let vs goe forth into the Countrey , let vs lodge by the Cypres .

Then she rouseth vp her dul & h●auy spirits praying him , not alone , and by himselfe apart to spend his howers in obseruing of the time of their spirituall marriage , as hee said before he did : since shee also had a care and longing to haue the same consummate as well as he .

VERS. 3

Let vs get vp early to the vine-yards : let vs see if the vine budde , the first grape open , the pomgranets sprout , there will I giue my Loues to thee .

Promising withall not to be found henceforth vnready , not to be any more so drousie , so sluggish , so wretchlesse as shee was : but hereafter night and day to watch and attend that hower : and to enquire and learne after all the signes & tokens , when shee may come to be perfectly knit to Christ .

VERS. 4

These louely flowers that giue a smel , & about our gates all precious things , new , and also old , my well-beloued I keepe in store for thee .

In the third place shee consecrateth all shee hath vnto him , and vndertaketh in the meane time against the solemnization of that marriage , to prouide all manner of presents , flowers , garlands , and the like , which men at such times are wont to straw at the thresholds , and in the entries . That is , to furnish her selfe with spirituall graces , and to lay vp in store plenty and variety of heauenly treasure , things both new and old .

VERS. 5.

O that thou wert as a brother vnto me , sucking the brests of my mother : finding thee without I would kisse thee , also I should not be despised .

But because there rest two great workes to bee accomplished before that time can come , the manifesting of God in the flesh , and the calling of the Gentiles , in them both shee sheweth her ardent affection , and therein the aboundance of her loue and zeale to Christ .

Fourthly therefore you haue her desire , which was the desire of all the prophets and holy men , to see the day of Christ , the day of his comming in the flesh : that hee might be her brother and suck the brests of her mother ; naturally of the virgin , spiritually of the Church vniuersall , where Christ is borne in the hearts of the faithfull by his Word and Spirit : for so comming among his owne , she , his owne and his onely owne , would kisse him and receiue him , both by faith and sense when shee should see with her eies that Word of life , and behold him , and her hands should feele and handle him . So shold she be free from the scorns of wicked men , their contumelies and despites that reproach the steppes of Gods Messias , and vexe and molest the Church , whilest shee is in the expectation of that happie day .

VERS. 6.

I would leade thee , I would bring thee into the house of my mother which teacheth me : I would giue thee to drinke of spiced wine , of the iuice of the pomegranets .

Then ( saith shee ) there should be no delay : this , this should be the marriage day . I would euen now without more adoe bring you into my mothers house , which teacheth & instructeth me in all piety and good offices to you-wards , into the Catholick Church of God : that all growing vp into one bodie , whereof my spouse is the head , I might at the last be presented as a chaste and pure virgin , glorious to the Lord . Then would I giue him pleasures and delights for a King , and entertaine him with a most royall banquet of the graces of Gods spirit .

VERS. 7.

His left hand vnder my head , and his right hand embracing me ,

VERS. 8.

I adiure you , yee daughters of Ierusalem , why should you stirre vp , or why should you waken this loue vntill he please ?

I haue sweete fellowshippe and rest with him : neyther whilest thus I were in his armes , and vnder his embracings , should any the least offence be giuen to him , I would be carefull to shunne all occasions of any more displeasing my loue , or of causing him to retire from me .

VERS. 9.

Who is she that commeth vp out of the wildernesse , ready to ioyne her selfe to her welbelo●ed ? vnder the very Appletree I waken thee , where thy mother was in labour of thee , where she was in labour that bare thee .

Hauing thus set forth her desire of Christs incarnation , now shee bestoweth many sweete and gracious words to expresse and amplifie the vehemencie of this loue . First , by the duties shee will performe vnto him : great in themselues , but greater if you compare these duties of hers , with those that are to be looked for from other women . Was there euer ( saith shee ) any woman in the world , that would endure those labours , and take vpon her such perills as I doe to ioyne herselfe to her beloued ? But I by faith ouercome all difficulties to come to thee . It is a small thing in myne eies , which to others seemes so hard , to put off the old man , to renounce this present wicked world , wherin is no pleasure nor sound delight , but a very wildernesse and a desert , that I may finde thee out , and present my duties to thee : euen in that sweete and blessed place where thy mother ( after the manner of other women , sinne excepted ) fell in trauaile of thee . Let me for the certeinety and secret of this wonderful hidden mystery once againe speake it , where shee fell in trauaile that did beare thee . This labour , this toyle may bee an argument what and how great my loue is vnto thee .

VERS. 10.

O set me as a seale on thy heart , as a seale on thine arme : for loue is strong as death ; zeale , hard as the graue . The Coales thereof are Coales , nay a fire of the flame of Iah .

O doe thou loue me again , for this loue should be mutuall . Haue me in thy minde , with an earnest and continuall remembrance of me , set me before thine eies , imprint me vpon thine hand , as an inseperable ornament of thy glory , so as the wife is to her husband .

The second amplification of her loue , is by the properties adioyned to it , set forth by many elegant and apt similitudes . It is most vehement , most ardent , most constant , like to death which deuoureth all , or as the dominion of death which ouercommeth all . God himselfe ( the mighty IAH ) hath kindled it in our hearts by the powerfull light of his holy spirit neuer to goe out .

VERS. 11 .

Much waters cannot quench this loue , nor the flouds drown it . If a man would giue all the substance of his house for this loue , it should vtterly be contemned .

It is firme & inuincible , that neither force , ●raud , nor promises , troubles and persecutions , pleasures or commodities , no height or depth , things present or things to come are able to preuaile against it .

CHAP. VIII .

CHVRCH . VERSE 1

We haue a sister , a little one , and she hath no brests : what shall we doe for our sister in the day that she shall be talked of ?

FIfthly , the Church of Solomons time , as maimed and imperfect till the fulnesse of the Gentiles should com in , which then were a fewe , and rarely called , and without any ministery of their owne ( as it were ) brests to giue suck , consulteth with Christ what course to take when the mystery so long kept secret shall bee reucaled and made knowne for their conuersion . How she may behaue her selfe in helping and administring vnto them : what Christ will bee pleased to doe in giuing an encrease and blessing . And thus she doth further testifie her loue to Christ , by her loue vnto their common sister . Sister to her , by the seede of the same spirtit whereby they are both begotten vnto God : sister to Christ , by his assuming of the same nature to him .

CHRIST and his CHVRCH both . VERS. 2.

When a wall is to be built we will build it in a pallace of siluer . When as a gate is to bee fenced , wee will fence it about with boord of Cedre .

Christ and she make answere , telling what they meane to do : that since when that time shal be , it is not possible to containe the Church within the narrow boundes of Ierusalem , which of a particular Church of the Iewes shall then bee made the Catholicke Church of all the world ; a new manner of Citie must bee built : wherefore plucking downe the mid wall of partition , a new wall , and new gates shall bee made to enlarge the Cittie : a new gouernment and discipline , new officers , pastors teachers , &c. to administer it . New , not in substance , which hath alwaies been the same , euen among the Iewes , but newly stablished , be w●ified , and translated to the Gentiles . Neither shall this be any disgrace to the now Ierusalem , euery thing shall bee then so farre more glorious and more excellent . A house of saints shall bee erected by the preaching of the Gospell , to bee the Pallace of the great King : a stately and magnificent pallace , all of siluer , which is the precious graces of Gods spirit : the Gate , the euer lasting gate of this Pallace , where the King of glory doth come in , the gate of our heart , shall be seeled with faith more precious then Cedre , by which onely wee receiue him and make him ours .

CHVRCH . VERS. 3.

I being a wall , and my brests as towers , then shall I bee in his e●●es as one that findeth peace .

To this the Church ( in the sixt and last place ) replyeth that she is so far from enuving this great good vnto her sister , as contrariwise when she ( the Church of the Iewes ) shall herselfe become of the same society , and by the communion of the Spirit , grow vp with the Gentiles into one Citie embracing Christ , whom so long they shall haue reiected , and making one glorious part , both for gouernment and doctrine of the heauenly Tsion , Ierusalem which is aboue , shee shall then obtaine a great part of her desire , and bee in a manner perfected , not being far from that rest and happinesse which she longeth after , to bee receiued into the perfect communion of her spouse : For these are euery where called the last daies .

CHRIST . VERS. 4.

Solomon had a vine-yard in a fruit full place ; he let out the vine-yard to keepers . Euery one bringeth for the fruit of it a thousand pieces of siluer .

Christ againe sheweth how precious the Church is in his eies , and how much hee doth regard her , for this and all other her excellent parts : and that by a comparison in this wise ; There is no King ( saith hee ) and take Solomon the wisest , that if hee haue a vineyard in a fruitfull place , is able himselfe to dresse and to manure it , or to take all the fruit , but must be driuen to let it forth to others : And though his tenaunts and farmours pay him a rent for it , yet som part they look , and so reason would , they should keepe vnto themselues .

VERS. 5

My vineyard which I haue , is still before my face . I receiue both that thousand of thine , O Solomon , and also the two hundred peeces of those that keepe the fruit of it .

But I ( saith Christ ) neyther let out the Church , my vine-yard , nor suffer any part of the profits to goe from mee : for all grow vp into that bodie , whereof I am the head ▪ I purse vp all the rent , and that also that Solomons lessees were to haue : So iealous I am of mine inheritance , and haue mine eies alwaies vpon it , being euer present with it , and in the middest of it .

VERS. 6.

O thou , shee that settest in these gardaines , to the fellows which attend vnto thy voice , preach me .

Hereupon he concludeth leauing this commandement as his last farewel to al the Churches , which are his gardaines wherein hee walketh and maketh his plants to grow , that in season , and out of season they preach the gospell to all that haue a mind to attend vnto the wholsome doctrine .

CHVRCH ▪ VERS. 7.

Flie to vs my well-beloued , and hee thou like to the r●e or young hart , O thou that dwellest in the mountaines of spices .

She shutteth the booke vp , vndertaking to doe that which he enioyneth : but knowing her owne vnability prayeth him to bee present with her , to giue her strength to doe it from his throne of glory , which is in the highest heauens , and spedily to accomplish all his promises by his last and glorious comming .

Amen . Euen so come Lord I●svs .

OBSERVATIONS on the Song of Solomon for the comfort of euerie true Beli●●er .

CHAP. I. VERS. 1.

[ A song &c. ]

THis excellent Song concontaineth a description of the state of a Christian man after he is once vnited vnto Christ , during our whole life , whilest wee walke here by faith , and not by sight . This is the summe of the Booke . The parts are two , One the state of such a Christian when his faith and holinesse of life are at the highest , his signe in the Appogaeon or middest of Heauen , that it cannot alter any point but it must decline , when he saileth with winde and weather , and hath the Sunne-shine of Gods fauour to goe before him ; that is whilest he enioyeth peace of conscience , quietnesse and tranquility of minde , and is free from those great offences that make a kinde of separation between Christ and him , in the foure first Chapters . The other part setteth forth the state of a true Christian , comming to himselfe after that earthlinesse and worldly pleasures haue seized vpon him , when the cloudes and mistes of of his owne sinfulnesse , of drousinesse and carnall security , doe ouercast the face of the heauens , and darken and eclipse the brightnesse of his glorie , in the foure last Chapters . The state of a Christian liuing in peace and quietnesse of a good conscience , hath three excellent steppes . First his loue of Christ , in the first Chapter . Secondly the benefits here ceiu●th from him , in the Second Chapter . 3. A desire to be made perfect Chap. 3. Whereunto Christ giueth answere , in the fourth Chapter .

The loue of a Christian soule to Christ ( which is not possible to bee in any till Christ haue first loued him , and wrought in his heart a feeling of that loue ) the holy Ghost doth thus describe .

O ) First the vehemency of his affection , noting true z●ale . For this loue is all fierie , and kindleth and enflameth the very bowels of the heart .

Let him ●●sse , &c. Secondly a desire to bee knit vnto him as neere as is possible to enioy his sweete and blessed coniunction .

For thy loues are excellent , better then wine . ] Thirdly a preferring of the loue of Christ before all worldly things , and aboue all the pleasures and delights of this present life .

Because &c. ] Fourthly , a magnifying and extolling of Christ , whose very name and the only remembrance of him is most sweet & fragrant , which draweth the Christian heart vnto a loue , and in loue to an admiration of him .

The virgins . ] This loue if you consider the quality thereof , is chast , holy , pure , and they only loue Christ who keepe themselues vndefiled from worldly pollution and vncleanesse .

Draw mee ] The efficient cause is not in our selues , it commeth from Christ alone , who speaking to our heart by the ministery of the Word , and the sweet allurements of his spirit , pulleth vs out of this present euill world , and draweth vs after him .

Then will wee runne . ] Heereby strength is put into vs , which maketh our feete nimble , and shod with the preparation of the Gospell of peace to runne after Christ , and with might and maine to performe all holie duties to him ,

Let the King ] Whereunto wee are enabled by the corroborating spirit of Christ , into whose hands God the Father hath committed all things , and giuen him all power in Heauen and vpon the earth , making him both Lord and Christ the King and ruler of his Church .

Bring me into his primie chambers . ] Who in his fauour and princely bounty communicateth vnto vs more and more the rich graces and treasures of his Spirit , maketh vs more inward with him , and and leadeth vs as it were by the hand into his priuy chambers , those goodly roomes and parlours , where are all the Iewells and precious things laid vp for his people ,

Wee will reioyce , &c. ) This draweth from vs ioy in the holy Ghost , glorious and vnspeakeable .

Wee will record &c. ) It maketh vs neuer to satisfie our selues in setting forth and publishing vnto other the sweete comforts wee haue in him .

They shall &c. ) Whom also wee desire to bee made pertakers hereof , and to loue Christ as well as wee .

Who in all rightnesse doe loue thee . ) For such men onely , the holy and righteous are the siluer trumpets fit to sound forth Gods praises in his sanctuari● . O if we euer felt how sweet a thing it is to haue his praises in our mouth , let vs not commit by word and deed , that through our owne folly and loosenesse so great a comfort should be taken from vs .

I ] Lastly wee are carefully to remooue all lets and impediments that may hinder their approach to Christ .

〈◊〉 ) Conflicts we haue great and grieuous with our owne soules , many a pluck and wrestle ; but by faith wee ouercome them all .

black ) Wee confesse our owne wretchednesse of ourselues more black then any blackamore , and therefore vnworthy to be matched with so great a King : for wee are borne in sinne and conceiued in iniquity , and are by nature the children of wrath , euen wee that liue in the Church , and are borne within the outward couenaunt , aswell as other men . Eph. 2. Gal. 2.

but comlie . ) But being purged and washed by the lauer of the new birth , wee are gracious and pleasing vnto Christ , more amiable and bewtifull in his eies then Solomon with all his brauery could bee to the eie of any mortall creature .

Looke not vpon mee ) True it is , the world seeth not this honour which Gods children haue because it is spiritually discerned : it acknowledgeth not vs because it knoweth not him .

Yet the Christian man comfort●th himselfe himselfe in the testimony of his owne conscience , and and in Gods iudgement and estimation of him .

because I am blackish ) Though hee carrie about many remnants of sinne , the reliques of his old Adam , and is manifoldly assaulted with the pricks & temptations of the fle●● ▪ For sinne is in vs as the spots are in the Leopard , not by accident , but by nature , which no art can cure , no water wash off , because they are not in the skinne , but in the fleshe & bones , in the sinowes & in the most inner parts .

By this meanes it commeth to passe that euen a regenerate man falleth many times , and falleth grieuously and fearefully , lofeth of his hold , and of the bewty that God hath giuen him .

Howbeit the seede of God abiding in him maketh that he cannot sinne finally and totally : for the oyle of Gods spirit where with hee is annointed , setteth the colours , which are of his owne tempering , so sure on , and maketh them cleaue so fast together , that it is impossible hee should euer returne to his old hew , to be black , all black , coale-black as he was before .

The holinesse therefore of a Christian is alwaies mingled with sinne , his siluer with much drosse , not as chaffe is mingled with corne , but as wine is mingled with water , or as when two colours , black and white are mingled together , that there is no part white but it is blackish also .

Because the Sunne hath cast his beames vpon mee ) Hence it is that a Christian is subiect to much affliction , anguish and distresse , as it were to the scorching of the Sunne , which turne all his moisture into the drought of Somer .

Because the sonnes of my mother incensed against me ) Especially his sinnes and infirmities expose him to the taunts and reproaches of the wicked , open mens mouthes against him , and against the holy trueth of God for his sake , who vpon euery slip are ready to take aduantage to scandalize the Gospell .

Hereby a christian is exceedingly humbled , and cast downe , and driuen to renounce and for sake armes . Neyther can he euer , satisfie his own soule , but d●●reth alwaies to rest there , without any the least interruption .

It is the voice ) The cause of all comfort to the Church is the voice of Christ , speaking to her heart , and mouing and perswading her by his Spirit .

His dealings are by degrees , and he vseth not ( ordinaryly ) to vtter all his fauours at once .

of my well-beloued : ) First is his power supporting vs , that in our spirituall sicknesse the spirit bee not quenched .

Behold him , ) Then hee speaketh a farre of , whispering as it were in our heart .

hee commeth ) After hee commeth neeror , at the length hee is himselfe present .

Lepping , skipping ) When he commeth , his comming hath foure excellent properties . First it is hastely and with speede .

Vpon these hilles , vpon these hillocks , ) Secondly , no sinnes of ours , no vnworthinesse , can hinder his approach : all things , high or lowe , great or small offences , are too little for to stay him .

Standeth behind &c. ) Thirdly , he doth not com so to our senses as wee desire : hee communicateth not ▪ his whole presence with vs , but standeth as it were behind the wall : so as there is a space betweene him and vs to keepe him from vs : Hee looketh but out of a casement , or as it were thorough a Lattice : for now wee see but darkely , and in a riddle .

Shewing himselfe cheerefully . ] Yet neuer the le●●e ( which is the fourth thing ) this fight of his is most cheerefull , most sweet vnto the soule that loueth him : no p●ant , no tree , no flower , so delightfull to the outward senses , as Christ is to the true beleeuer .

My well-beloued spake ] But the dull heart of a Christian man had neede of the continuall voice of Christ , that hee should call and crie vnto vs , speake , and speake againe ,

arise , &c. ) ( And the same words againe elegantly repeated in the end of the thirteenth verse ) Yea v●e all art and eloquence that may be to stirre vs vp to seek him ,

my fellow friend , my faire one ) And speak with all kindnesse vnto vs , that we may the better be perswaded he doth it for our good .

And here is the honour a Christian man hath , that Christ calleth vs not any more seruants , but his friends , and fellowes .

It is Christ that speaketh in the ministery of the Word . And we must heare the messengers whom hee doth send , as if Christ by them besought vs : be reconciled vnto God . 1. Cor. 5.20 .

For behold , ) The cause why Christ withdraweth himselfe is our owne security and negligence in seeking to him , our slacknes in prayer and other holy exercises .

The winter &c. ] The time whilest wee lie in sinne is a heauy and discomfortable time ; there is no pleasure to be taken in the base seruice of such a master : for what fruit can we haue of those things whereof wee must be ashamed ? the whole life of a wicked man , what is it else but a sea of misery , full of feares & terrours , and expectation of the iudgement to come ? which should make vs hastely and with speed to labour to winde out of it .

The flowers appeare &c. ) Contrariwise a Christian mans life ( whatsoeuer the world deeme ) is the onely sweete and comfortable life , like to the pleasant spring that refresheth all the sences : as hauing all things fresh and greene , and flourishing to the eies : all dainty to be cut and pruined with the hands : all cheerefull to the eares in the melodious noise and singing of the birds : all fruitfull and sweete to the taste : all odoriferous and pleasing to the smell : For a Christian man hath peace of conscience that passeth vnderstanding , which the world hath not , nor knoweth what it meaneth : a Christian man is full of ioy wrought in him by the holy Ghost , whom the world cannot receiue : a christian man whatsoeuer his estate bee , good or bad , strengthneth himselfe in his God , as Dauid did when his Cittie was spoyled , 1. Sam. 30. 6. onely the bare walles left , both his wiues carried away captiues , and the people ready to stone him to death : for well he is assured that nothing falleth out but for his good , and in loue and mercy to him ; a Christian man hath accesse to God in all his troubles and aduersities , familiar conference and communication with him , & goeth boldly vnto the thron of grace : a christian man is endued with spirituall glorie and wisedome , which doubleth the beautie of his countenance , and maketh his face to shine : a Christian man hath the holy Angels of God , those glorious and most renowmed creatures , to be as it were his seruants , for they serue Christ , with whom he is one : Lastly , a Christian mans honour is not in regard of this life onely , but as a crowne of future excellencie , hee hath fastened in his heart the anchor of hope to stay and quiet his minde in all the stonnes and tempests here , till he arriue at the hauen of all his rest .

Arise ) ● Now the more these things excell , the more we must enforce our selues to follow after them : to pursue them speedily , to goe out of our selues and to come to Christ : by anie meanes taking heede that the pleasures of Sodome , the filthie pleasures of our former life , and of this wicked world , make vs not looke backe vnto them , but to cast them off with all our might , and to flie aware from them .

My fellow-friend , my faire one &c. ) There is not anie so effectuall an argument to prouoke men hereunto , and to stirre vs vp to godlinesse , as the consideration of Gods mercie , and of the dignity we haue by Christ .

My Doue that dwelleft in the cliftes , &c. ) But though the state of a Christian man be such and so excellent as before hath beene described , yet to humble him that hee be not proude , God leaueth , as it were , prickes and thomes in his side , as he did to the Israelites , manifold infirmities , which make him to blush for shame , and not to dare to shewe his face : thinking in very truth most basely of himselfe , and that hee is of all the world the meanest : not worthie to come almost in the sight and presse of men : how much lesse into the glorious sight and presence of God ?

Shew me thy face make me heare thy voice : ) Notwithstanding the testimonie of his conscience ; walking in simplicitie and sinceritie as before the Lord , maketh him ( emboldned by the word of God ) to lift vp his head to come before him , and to call vpon his name .

For thy voice is sweete , and thy face comelie . ) Which the Lord graciously accepteth , and is well pleased with : accounting his person holie , and his praiers , and other the fruites of his faith , sweet and acceptable through Christ .

Foxes , ) It is the perpetuall lot and condition of the Church to nourish in her bosome secret enemies , that closely vndermine the good of it : for all that are in Israell are not of Israel ; and manie are among vs that are not of vs : but God in his good time will discouer hypocrites ; how foxe-like soeuer they carrie themselues .

Take vs , &c. ) Some mens sinnes are manifest afor●hand , going before vnto iudgement , and some mens follow after ; but those that are of this sort cannot be hidden . The sword of discipline is to be drawen by the Ministers , and other into whose hand God hath put it , for the cutting off of knowen offendours , and remouing of all offenses .

The Foxes , ) Great ones are not to bee spared though they be as iolly foxes , as Herod was .

The little Foxes ; ] The small cubbes are not to bee neglected , though they can but nibble at the Vines .

Which destroie the Vines : ) All euill , and occasion , and shew of euill is to bee remoued : so much the more carefully , because from little beginnings growe great proceedings : and a small offence in the Church of God , manie times , turneth men awaie from the loue of the truth before they be setled in it .

Whilest our Vines are bringing forth the first grape . ) Sathan also is euer busiest to seduce and drawe vs from the faith , when Christ is first borne within vs : waiting to eate vp , and destroy the children of the Church as soone as she is deliuered .

Hereby the vse , the excellencie , the necessitie of discipline is seene : it restraineth offences that they breake not forth , it staieth them where a breach is begunne .

My Welbeloued , ) After manie conflicts with our owne soule , God maketh vs in the end of feele more liuely our fellowship with Christ .

Is mine , and I am his , ) The roote and fountaine of all our happinesse , is our coniunction , and communion with him .

Who feedeth in Lillies : ) The fruites comming from it , excellent : for CHRIST our Shepheard feedeth his flocke in most sweete and delicate pastures .

Till that daie breath ▪ ) The two principall things which a Christian is to wish for , and desire after , are perfection in heauen by the comming of Iesus Christ , and constancie and perseuerance vnto that day .

And these mistes flie awaie . ) In this life manie mistes and shadowes are cast before our eyes , much ignorance of God and of holy duties : which that bright and glorious comming of our Lord and Sauiour , ( as the rising of the Sunne , ) will scatter all awaie .

CHAP. III. VERS. 1. 2.

In my bed anightes , &c.

THe childe of God hath manie times great vnquietnesse of mind for lack of the feeling of Christ .

Being so affected as a man desolate and without comfort , he seekes after him in al places & at all times , in the night and by day , a bedde and when he is vp , at home and without doores ; in the Citie , by the streetes and the lanes , and abroad in the fields ; by prinate prayer and meditation with his owne soule : by vsing the helpe , counsell , and aduise of godly brethren ; by seeking for comfort at the hands of the Ministers of the word . Such is his desire and vnwear●ed trauaile for the finding of Christ .

Here is the vse wee should make of being priuate : and this is a holy spending of our time , when we employ it in stirring vp our soules to be assured of the mercies of God in Christ : not , ( as the world for the most part doth ) , in studying how to wreake our malice , or to compasse other wicked desires , neither yet in idle and fruitlesse pastimes .

himselfe , to goe out of himselfe , and to be no bodie in his owne e●es .

But yet hee looketh vnto Christ , whose garments of righteousnesse are broade , and large and wide enough to couer all imperfections : and who of his free grace is pleased to accept him , and to bestow vpon him the ornaments of his Spirit , whereby howsoeuer in much weakenesse and in the middest of manie fraileties , yet in the truth and soundnesse of his heart , being sincere and vpright before him , albeit the least of these things were enough to discourage him from euer comming vnto Christ , or hauing any more to doe with him , yet neither for other mens reproaches , nor for all the conscience of his owne infirmities hee leaueth to seeke vnto him , to call and crie vpon him , for whither else should he goe but to things that cannot profit ?

haue made me a keeper of other vines , &c. ) There commeth yet a further mischiefe ; home-enemies , borne and bredde in the bosome of the Church , which as vipers eat out the bowels of their mother , and make naturall rents , and breaches among their owne brethren .

For God euermore leaueth in his Church some vnquiet spirits to gall them , for the tryall of the faith of his children , that the approued among them may be knowne .

And let men pretend what they lift , set what face they will vpon it , it is the hatred of the truth , and of the professors of the truth , that maketh them so to stirre : because worldly minded men cannot abide the sincerity of the Gospell , that fighteth against their pompe , pride , and ambitious designes .

And howsoeuer they lay the fault from themselues , and cast it vpon Gods children , that stick close to the ordinances of God , as wayward and conceited persons : yet in truth they are the factious , and those that make dissention in the Church .

Howbeit the best men that are , the holiest Churches , and most reformed assemblies , are often times turned out of the right waie , partly mislead and seduced through a vaine al●urement of humane wisdome , partly carried away by the violence of the stormes and tempests that these men raise against them .

Yet we must not please our selues in the deformities of the Church : our care must bee to haue al according to the paterne that was shewed in the mount .

Shew me where thou feedest , &c. ) To this purpose we are wholy and throughout to submit our selues to be ordered by the chiefe shepheard and Bishop of our soules , for hee onely must direct all necessarie things in his Church by the wisedome of his Word : from him wee receiue the foode of sweete and heauenly doctrine : hee it is that orde●eth our labour and our rest , euen at noone day , the whole gouernment and guidance of his house .

O thou whom my soule loueth . ) The sins of Gods elect , through his wonderfull wisdome that bringeth light out of darkenesse , and good out of euill ; turne vnto their comfort , make them more to call and crie vpon Christ , to loue him more with all their soule , to desire more earnestly to bee ioyned vnto him , and to vse all holy meanes of attaining thereunto .

Atnoone ) And that with such affection , that when other are resting , or taking their repasts , the christian man can haue no comfort , nor eate his mea●e vnlesse he be with Christ .

Thou feedest , thou makest thy flocke to l●e , &c. ) This meanes of comming vnto Christ is the ministry of the word in the Church and Congregation of Saints , which are , as it were , one fould vnder one Shepheard , feeding with the food of life .

For why should I be as one that pitcheth her tents by the flocke of thy companions ) Herein great care and circumspection is to be had , that we ioine not our selues to false teachers which com vnder the name of Christs shepheards , but inwardly are rauening wolues .

If thou know not ) In which behalfe the faithfull man though he be in Christ , and shine in the graces of the Spirit , yet laboureth of much ignorance , and is many times ouertaken , and therefore had neede to be instructed and set into the way :

Get thee out , &c. ) Which is to trie the Spirits whe 〈◊〉 they be from God , for the touchstone of all doctrine is by the word , if it bee heauenly and celestiall , not sauoring of the world .

Vnto the troope , &c ) And being so , as many as walke according to this rule , the b●dge of the Israel of God , peace is vpon them and mercie , such a mans person is accepted to God , the graces and ornaments of the Spirit in him are sweet and pleasing .

Borders of gold we will make , Yea God , the Father , the Sonne , and the holy Ghost , the most blessed and glorious Trinity , will dock and set him forth more and more , and bestowe more good things vpon him ; and more enrich him with all heauenly blessings , transforming him from glory vnto glorie .

My Spicknard giueth forth his smell . ) These promises comfort the Christian soule , and bring a sweet refreshing to the senses .

My Welbe loued is as a bundle of myr●h , ) Acknowledging all to come from Christ , and from the vertue of his power .

Whose excellency we must consider not simply , as it resteth in himselfe , but as by the sweete influence of his graces , he maketh vs pertakers of it .

And since he vouc●a●eth to bestow these sweete things vpon vs ●u●n now whilest wee are strangers from him , and walke h●●●eby faith and not by sight , what and how great things must those needs be which then wee shall enioy when Christ , which is our life shall reneale himself● from hea●en ?

Behold th●● art faire & ● . ) In the ioyfull expectation of which happy and blessed time that wee faint not nor be discouraged , Christ doth still confirme his loue vnto vs : and by his Word and the comfort of his spirit assureth vs how pleasing wee are in his sight : both thorough our imputed righteousnesse , which maketh vs faire , all faire before him : and for the fruits of holinesse and sanctification in a doue-like chastity , and simplicity without any guile .

Behold thou art &c. ) Wee againe returne the praise of all this vnto him who is our only righteousnesse , and through whom alone it is that we bring forth fruit alwaies fresh and flourishing , and acceptable vnto God through the communion we haue with Christ , dwelling and walking in the middest of vs as in his house and temples .

The bewty of our houses &c. ) The excellency of Christs glory is to be seen in the publick assemblies : we must not look for it in ciuil Courts & meetings , at faires & at markets , in pastimes & sports ; in banqu●ting & feastings , though all these in their time and place be lawfull . But if we will see Christ in his bewty we must goe to the Church and congregation of his Saints , where the same shineth and shew●th it selfe in the ministery of the Word and Sacraments .

CHAP. II. VERS. 1.

I am the Rose &c. ]

Al the good wee haue commeth from Christ , who is most sweete himselfe , and the author of sweetnesse vnto others .

As a Lillie . ) The Christian thus formed and fashioned by the mighty operation of his spirit , excelleth all the world beside : for in them onely are all sound vertues to be found ; Piety , Iustice , chastity , temperance , prudence , fortitude , magnanimity , which eyther are not at all in the wicked , or at the least they haue but a shadowe of them : dead and drie stalkes onely , the flower and blossomes are in the godlie .

among th●rnes . ) All men beefore they bee in Christ are but thornes : not only vnprofitable and void of good , but noxious and hurtful , replenished with all euill .

As the Apletree &c. so is my well-beloued , ) The Christian man neuer satisfieth himselfe with the magnifying of Christ ,

vnder his shadow &c. ) The shade of whose bowghs doth so refresh his soule , that he delighteth to dwell and haue his aboade vnder it for euer : for hee onely it is that with his sweet shadow fenceth vs from the burning wrath of God .

For sweete is his fruit &c. ] Being renewed by the holy Ghost hee conceiueth an incomparable delight in those good things that are so wrought within him : In comparison whereof he despiseth all the gew-gawes , that the world so admireth and doateth after .

He brought me into his banqueting house , ) The author of our vocation , regeneration , iustification , sanctification , and saluation is Christ , whose owne most sacred hands leade vs to this sweete and delightfull feast .

ha●ing loue ) The cause hereof is not in vs , but from himselfe , first louing vs , and by his loue as by a banner set before vs , drawing vs to loue him againe , and to range our selues vnder his colours .

Yea , keeping vs so neere about him and so fast vnto him , by the power of his Spirit , that it is impossible any should pull vs out of his hands , or that so much as one of those should perish , whom God the Father hath giuen vnto Christ .

Stay me , hold me vp . ) The instrumentall cause he vseth is the preaching of the Word by his ministers and seruants .

with these flagons , with these apples : ) The Word I say of reconciliation , which is the ioyful and glad tidings of our peace made with God , sweeter then the hony and the hony combe , and therefore compared here to wine and apples : not the doctrine of the Lawe , which is the ministery of death and condemnation .

The assemblies of the Church where this heaue●ly Gospell soundeth , are excellent helpes to quicken our dulnesse , and to make vs feele a greater measure of the loue of Christ :

For I am sick of loue . ) For the heart of a faithfull man , euen when it is best affected , is subiect to many qualmes , to much vexation and disquietnesse of minde : to bee euen sick as it were , for the loue of Christ because he cannot enioy him as hee would . And then is the word preached most sweete vnto his soule .

His left &c ) The whole vertue and power of the ministery commeth from Christ : they water and plant , but he only giueth the encrease , they doe their worthy endeauour to stay and vnderprop our faith , but that notwithstanding , we shall shall soone fall to the ground , if Christ put not to his hand to keepe vs vp .

Left hand , right hand . ) Yea such is our vntow . ardnesse , the naturall corruption that is in vs , so great , the worke of our new birth so marueilous , so hard to bee brought about , and to goe through with , that wee had neede of both the hands of Christ to bee about vs , to claspe and hold vs fast , least we fall away .

I adiure &c. ) The beleeuer is wrapt with an exceeding ioy and comfort when once hee feeleth himselfe to haue Christ , and to lie as it were in his I sought : ) The conferences of Gods children , their confession of sinnes one vnto another , and mutuall praiers for each other , whet one an other , as iron whetteth iron : and it is a sweete thing to conuerse with such , by whom wee may this way receiue comfort .

The Wath-men &c. ) Especially the holy Ministerie shineth most , and is the sanctified meanes to bring vs to Christ .

Yet God delayeth his comforts manie times , euen to those that with vpright hearts and consciences from the bottome of their soule seeke after him :

That wee may learne nor to depend vpon the meanes , but vpon God , and to attribute all to his grace and vertue .

Christ therefore is not alwaies to bee found to our minde , nor in our sense and feeling , though we vse all good and holy meanes for it .

Howbeit , for all that , he is indeed alwaies present with his people .

did ye see him whom my soule loueth ? ) The loue of Christ cannot bee concealed : a man may sooner keepe in the winde with his fiste , or stay the oyntment of his right hand from bewraying it selfe ( as it is Prou. 27. 16 ) then not to vtter his loue to Christ , whomsoeuer he meet , fitly withall . I spake of thy Lawe before Princes ( sayth Dauid ) and was not ashamed .

I found him , &c. ) Christ being sought carefully and diligently , will at the length bee found according to his promise ; Seeke and ye shall 〈◊〉 , &c. he neuer returneth the desires of his seruants emptie .

When I had past but a little from them ) This he doth manie times when there is least hope , and when all meanes haue beene vsed and doe not preuaile : for euen the seed of the word bringeth not forth fruit by and by , but lurketh and is buried vnder the cloddes of the earth till the time appointed for it to shoote vp and to shew it selfe .

whom my soule loueth . ) He is then sweetest to vs when he hath seemed for a while to absent himself , and to haue no minde of vs . And that maketh him so oft to withdrawe the comfortable beames of his glorious presence , that so he might whet our affections , and set an edge vpon them .

I tooke hold on him , ) For thus when he sheweth himselfe againe vnto vs , wee beginne to haue our faith reuiued , wee lay faster holde vpon him , and with all the powers of our soule , cleaue as neere vnto him as euer we did before .

So we come to be possessed of spirituall ioy and gladnesse , then we are brought abedde ( as it were ) in a sweete sleepe of the peace of conscience , and then our heart is lifted vp to heauen with holie praiers and meditations .

not to let him goe till , &c. ) The faithfull man , with purpose of heart cleaueth to the Lord , ( as Barnabas did exhort , Act 11. 23. ) and hath a holy purpose , and Christian resolution neuer to part from him vnto the end .

I adiure you &c. ) When a Christian commeth to haue a feeling and apprehension of Christ , ( especially after hee hath once found what it is to lacke him ) he is carefull to auoide all occasions that may giue Christ cause to depart .

Come vp , ) The thing that aboue all other affecteth a Christian mans heart is the loue and meditation of the heauenly glorie ;

Out of the wildernesse , ) In comparison whereof he esteemeth this world as a wildernes in regard of fruitfull and pleasant fields . And longeth to come out of these rough and desert places into the Lords champions .

Who is she ) It is indeed a hard piece of worke to leaue the world , to denie vngodlinesse and worldly vanities , and to lift a mans heart and affection vp to heauen :

Becensed with Mirrh , &c. ) None can attaine vnto it , but those whose eies God shall cleer to see and behold the excellency of that place .

For the heauenly glorie dooth incomparably excell : there is all safety to the person :

All sweetnesse to the senses :

All pretious things and riches , all pleasures and delights .

The glorie of all the earth , Solomon himselfe in his greatest brauerie , is not to bee compared to it .

The glorie , the pleasures and delights , which God giueth heere to the sonnes of men , for their comfort and reioycing , must affect our hearts with a holie meditation to thinke how farre more excellent those things bee that are aboue : and make vs thereby the more earnestly to seeke after them . This is the holie vse wee are to make of the lawefull pleasures of this life .

Come forth and looke ye daughters of Tsijon , ) It is the duetie of a Christian man to stir vp other to this heauenly meditation , as Christ by his Spirit hath stirred him .

CHAP. IIII. VERS. 1.

Behold , thou art &c. ]

CHrist much delighteth to see a Christian so affected as is set forth in the former Chapter , and rendreth therefore due commendations : praysing him for the graces that himselfe hath bestowed vpon him , and so crowning his own gifts in him : with all , making him to see what is his blessed estate both in this life , and in the life to come .

Faire , ) The true belieuer thorough faith in Christ , is most perfectly holy and righteous , both wholly and in euerie part : as hauing in him obtained by imputation the whole righteousnesse of the lawe .

The vertues which a Christian is most to labour for , and which beseeme him best are ,

thine eyes are Doues eyes , ) First , Iudgement and singlenesse in all his actions , to haue his eyes in his head as Solomon speaketh ; Ecclesiast. 2. 14.

Thy heart is like &c. ) Secondly , sobrietie and a comely cariage .

Thy teeth , &c. ) Thirdly , holding fast the truth of God by meditation and chewing of it .

Thy lippes , &c. ) Fourthly , Gracious speech , that our words be powdred with falt , for the profit and edification of the hearers .

Thy temples . ) Fiftly , to affect more spirituall graces then worldly things .

Thy necke is as a Tower , &c. ) Sixtly , Constancie in the waics of godlinesse ,

A thousand Targets hang , &c. ] And to haue alwaies in a readinesse the compleat armour of Christian Souldiers .

Thy two breasts , &c. ) Seauently , To long after the sincere milke of the word of God that we may growe vp by it . 1. Pet. 2. 2.

I will get me &c. ) Christ is alwaies present and at hand to euery true beleeuer , euen now whilest hee is in the pilgrimage of this world to comfort him in all his necessities .

These shadowes ] The holinesse and sanctification which we haue wrought within vs in this life , is weake and imperfect , subiect to much ignorance , and manie shadowes , so as wee are neuer here to dreame of purity or perfection .

Flie awaie . ) But the time shall certainly come when we shall put off these r●gges and be cloathed with immortalitie .

Thou art all saire , &c. ) Our holinesse now imperfect and mingled with so much corruption shall be made perfect that no spot or wemme shall be left in vs .

With ●e shalt thou come ] None shall perish of those whom God hath giuen vnto Christ .

From Lebanon , from the top of Amana , from the top of Sheuir and Hermon , ) The furthest and most remote places cannot keepe them : the craggedest and roughest thickets cannot detaine them ; the height nor depth cannot conceale them :

From the dennes of Lions : From the mountaines of Leopards , ) The cruellest and most sauage enemies of the Church shall not be able to hurt them : nor hell gates to preuaile against them . Heere is the comfort of Gods people .

But this we must arme our selues for , that whilest we continue here , wee are to liue amongst Lions and Leopards , barbarous and fierce enemies , Tyrants and oppressours : we must looke for banishments and imprisonments , to wander in the mountaines , to be throwen in holes and dennes , to be afflicted , persecuted , diftressed ( as you haue examples of it , Heb. 11. ) This is the perpetuall condition of the Church of God .

By how much the more wee are to waite for that happy time , when as in the yeere of Iubile we shall all returne vnto our possessions againe : when wee shall heare no more the voice of the exactor , and when the seruant shall bee free from his Maister .

Thou shalt looke downe from , &c. ) This shall heape vp ioy vpon ioy to vs , that wee shall then looke ouer these men , that is , triumph ouer them , that now so dominier ouer vs : when not only out selues shall be in heauen in the place of all happinesse , but haue before vs and in our eies the sight of their misery .

Thou hast rauished &c. ) God is not onely delighted , but in a manner rauished with a loue of his graces in vs .

my sister ) For he doth behold vs as the bretheren of Christ : brethren both by vnity of the same nature , and communion with one heauenly Father .

Spouse ) Yea neerer then brethren , being euen heere espoused and betrothed to him .

How faire &c. ) And kept by the annointing of the spirit , that wee cannot fall away , but abide and continue his for euer ,

Which giueth vs more contentment and hearts-ease , then all pleasures that are earthly .

Thy lips drop the hony combe : &c ) The tongue of euery Christian ( not only of a minister in the pulpit , though that especially ) and the dropping of his lippes , euen in his priuate and familiar discourses , is sweeter then the hony or the hony-combe , as that which giueth grace to the hearers :

the sauour of thy garments , is as the sauour of Lebanon . ) Such an one is most pleasing to God , of as fragrant a smell as the smell of Libanus .

My sister spouse is ) The Church of God hath two singular prerogatiues aboue all other companies and societies of men .

as a gardaine &c. ) First it is the pillar and ground of truth : for there onely are the plants of the Lords owne setting there is the well head , and there onely flow the sweete streames of pure doctrine . It is vari●ty , errour , superstition and deceit whatsoeuer commeth not from hence .

shut , sealed vp , ) Secondly it is holy , no polluted or vncleane thing can enter or haue aboade in it .

spring , fountaine , ) The preaching of the Word is as a spring that warereth and maketh to encrease all the beds and plants of the Church of God .

A Christian man knowing his fruits to he most sweete vnto God ,

Is desirous to bring forth plenty , and acknowledging al to com from God , continually prayeth to be inspired and breathed vpon by his good spirit to performe it .

fountaine of the gardaines ) Christ is the onely fountain that watreth al the parts of the Church his gardaine : the ministers are onely his instruments , and can doe nothing but water and plant : all the encrease commeth from Christ .

O well of liuing waters , &c. ) The graces hee bestoweth vpon his Church are abundant and infinite , as liuing waters that continually spring and flow abroade .

O North , O South , &c. Let those waters ouerslow the spices of it . ) Hee neuer denyeth his spirit to those that aske it with a true faith , but is ready to graunt the desire of his seruants to make them fruitfull , and aboundant in euery good grace .

Let my wellbeloued come , &c. ) And the thing which a Christian man aboue all the world desires , is the presence of Christ .

I am come into my gardaine &c. ) Yet there being somewhat alwaies corrupt in our desires , it is many times good for Gods faithful children to goe without the things , euen the spirituall and heauenly things , which they most long after .

●●te my fellow friends &c. ) The Spirits of the righteous deceased , doe now enioy in heauen euerlasting happinesse .

This is our comfort against death ; that thereby we change the miseries of this life with vnspeakable and endlesse pleasures .

CHAP. V. VERS. 1.

I being asleepe , ]

A Christian man , euen the best , is many times ouertaken with earn all security , falleth into a traunce or slumber , forgetteth himselfe and his heauenly calling , and is lulled a sleepe with the pleasures and delights of this present wicked world : Not keeping that watch ouer his owne soule which hee ought : ( Mathew 25. They all slept : the wise virgins as well as the foolish )

but my heart awake . ) Yet his faith ( for all that ) gooth not quite out but lyeth hid and couered vnder the ashes , it is smothered , but not extinct ; as may bee seene in Peter , of whom our Sauiour beareth witnesse , I haue prayed for thee , that , in the middest of that most dangerous fal , thy faith should not faile .

Heere is one maine difference betweene the children of God and others : One sinne of infirmity , the other wilfully : all sleepe indeede , but the godly doe but slumber or winke , when the wicked sleepe soundly , sleepe heart and all , they sleepe that they snort againe , the wicked commit sinne with all their heart , from the very soule ( as the Prophet 〈…〉 children haue a resistance within , and striue and sight against it in som sort , euen then when they are most ouertaken with the 〈◊〉 of the flesh : their heart is sound with God : sinne dwelleth , but raigneth not in them : they groan● vnder the burden of it , mislike it as touching the inner man : there is a strife within them in their very bowells , as beetweene Rebeccaes twinnes ( a type of the Church , and of euery faithfull man . ) To conclude , in the godly there is a striffe betweene their heart and their heart , but in the wicked onely between their heart and their conscience .

I being ) The Christian delighteth to make consession of his sinnes , to acknowledge his owne wretchednesse and vnworthinesse , that God may haue the greater glory . Hee sticketh not himselfe to haue blushing checkes , so honour & praise may come to God and is not ashamed to be the trumpe●or of his owne reproach . This is true repentance .

asleepe &c. ) One marke there of is a holy anger and 〈…〉 against ourselues , amplifying and enlarging all the circumstances of our 〈◊〉 , to make it more odious , and to bring vs vnto a greater loathing of it .

but my heart awakel ) But the Christian though before God and men hee make confession of his ●ault , and it be the property of true repentance for a man to aggrauate , not to lessen his offence , as not satisfying his owne soule with a detestation of his wicked waies ; yet hee vseth also a holy excuse and defence , that Sathan by his ouercharging of himselfe ( to vse the Apostles phrase 2. Cor. 2. 5. ) take not aduantage to cast him downe further then is meete , and to driue him into despaire : Hee therefore wrestleth with his owne soule to gather all arguments that may bee to his conscience , that these his offences were done of frailety and through infirmity of the flesh , that his heart is sincere & vpright to God ; that his faith , though sore shaken was not quite battered and ouercome &c. This is the wisdome of a sound Christian : And heere is a noble example of that other marke of repentance which the Apostle ( 2. Cor. 7. 11. ) calleth an Apologie or cleering of ones selfe .

the voice of my well-beloued , ) True repentance commeth not from our selues , it commeth by the preuenting grace of Christ : not onely that repentance which is our first conuersion to God , but the raising of vs vp , when being conuerted wee fall into any sinne .

The principal cause of this our conuersion is the Spirit of Christ knocking at the doore of our heart .

The meanes is his voice speaking to our outward ears , specially by the ministery of the Word and sacraments , as principal : but further also in a secondarie degree , by chastisements and corrections .

Bounsing , ) Wee haue neede that God should call vpon vs earnestly , vehemently , and in most effectuall manner . So carnall are we of our selues , and so vntoward to hearken to him .

Yea , we had need againe and againe to be beaten vpon , and all little enough . So you haue the truth of that which Elehu telleth Ioh , God speaketh once and twice , and a man doth not discerne it . Iob. 33. 14.

Wee are speedily to turne to God , and not to put off our repentance : for So much also doth the word bounsing import : Signifying all three that is to say , earnest , and often knocking , and a desire speedily to be let in .

Open ] Of our selues and by nature we are held prisoners and captiues of Sathan , as it were vnder lock and key , till Christ open the dore and let vs loose by his word and the power of his Spirit .

God ceaseth not to vse all good meanes that possibly may be deuised to drawe vs home vnto him . What , how many , and how gracious arguments dooth hee bring in this place ? Taken first from the easinesse of the thing , it is but to open the doore .

Tome ) Secondly , from his owne person , open to me ; not your enemy , but your friend , your louer , one that seekes your good .

My sister &c. ) Thirdly , from our person that should not sticke to doe a greater matter then that .

My fellow-friend , my Doue , my vndefiled one , ) Fourthly , by the manner of his speaking with all the sweet and kinde words that can be imagined , speaking to our heart ( as he sayth hee will , Hos. 2. 14. ) and beseeching as it were when he may commaund . As if Christ besought you by vs ( sayth the Apostle ) 2. Cor. 5. 20.

For my head is filled with dewe : my lockes with the droppes of the night . ] Fiftly , by comparing his owne cares , labours and trauailes taken for vs , whom wee may be ashamed so vnthankfully to requite , that wee will doe nothing for him againe . Thus he leaueth no meanes vnattempted , no arguments , no perswasions to call vs backe when we goe astraie .

The loue of Christ wherewith hee hath loued vs ought to be a speciall motiue for vs to loue him againe . So Paul teacheth , 2. Cor. 5. 14. 15. For the loue of Christ constraineth vs , iudging this , that if one died for all , then were all dead . And he died for all , that they which liue , might no more liue vnto themselues , but vnto him which died for them &c.

To whom I answered , ) Sinne goeth not singly and alone , one and no more : but the nature of it is for one sinne to drawe manie other after it .

How should I &c. ) Sinne for the most part is ioined with hardnesse of heart ; and where sinne hath once seized , without a great mercie of God , it stoppeth all the passages from admitting of the voice of Christ .

I haue put off my coat● &c. I haue washed my feete &c. how should I &c. ) Where sin possesseth the soule , Sathan is strong and forcible , to cast mistes before vs , to make euery babble , not worth the naming , to seeme a great matter in our eyes , and sufficient to hold our Christ .

Put it on , foule them . ) A little case & carnal pleasure , with those that haue not their hearts effectually touched , preuaileth more then all the ioies and delights that are to be found in Christ .

My welbeloued let downe , &c Wee must receiue Christ when hee offereth himselfe vnto vs : for it we refuse him , hee will not alwaies continue knocking . Seeke the Lord whilest hee may be found . Esay 55. 6.

But the ease , pleasure , and commodities of this life , are great impediments to hold vs back , and to make vs seeke all manner of delaies .

The Word and all other outward meanes profit little , vnlesse it please God by his spirit to make the same effectuall . Therefore in Hoshea 2. 14. with the Word and with afflictions is ioyned his owne perswading of vs by the inward working of his Spirit , without which the other auaileth nothing .

The ministery of the Word bringeth not forth fruit alwaies at the instant : but many times the sweete impression that it leaueth behind , euen then when it seemeth to fall by the waie side , is at the length , in his time , effectuall to drawe men vnto God .

My bowels earning within mee ) God suffereth not his to lie still in security , as hee doth the wicked : ( which is an other difference between these two ) but one time or other awakneeth them out of the sleepe of sinne , how long soeuer they continue in it .

The two degrees of repentance are heere to bee obserued ; First , an earning of the heart , compunction of soule and spirit , comming from a sight of our sinnes , and preaching of the Lawe . So it is said , 1. Sam. 24. 8. Dauids heart smote him when hee cut off the lap of Sauls garment , to thinke hee had so dallied with that monster of sinne . And Ier. 31. 19. bringeth in Ephraim saying , After I shall be made to know my sinne I will clap on my thigh , in token of mourning . As contrariwise of the wicked the same Prophet saith , Ier. 8. 6. There is none that saith , What haue I don ?

I arose to open to my wel-beloued . ] The second is a conceiuing of comfort , a raising vp of our selues by the sweet promises of the Gospell . for both see Acts 2. 37 , 38 , 39.

My hands dropped mirrh , and my fingers soft mirrh in the handles of the lock . ) The very sweetnesse that Christ leaueth behinde him , when to our feeling hee departeth from vs , and as it were the shadow of his presence , doth marueilously rauish a Christian man : This appeareth by the ioy and comfort that the people of God tooke in the Arke , the Temple , and other symboles , which Phineas wife shewed when she so bewailed the taking of the Arke , that she called her sonnes name , I chabod , The glory is departed . 2. Sam. 4. 21.

How much more sweete then must it bee to receiue Christ himselfe , to enioy his owne presence , which bringeth all good things with it .

I arose to open &c. ] A third note of repentance which the Apostle speaketh of , ( 2. Cor. 7. 11. ) is heere also to be seene , studie , or care and diligence ; that is to say , a framing of our heart and disposition to awake from sleepe , and to seeke after Christ ,

I opened &c. ] And a putting of the same in execution .

my well-beloued withdrew himselfe , he passed awey , )

Christ for our incredulity and hardnes of heart , doth somtimes after a sort leaue vs for a while , withdrawing all comfortable sense and feeling of his grace . This is that spirituall desertion that Gods children may fall into , and is one of those heauy iudgements that God punisheth their sinne withall .

I fell into a swoune ) A fourth note of repentance is zeale , to faint for the absence of Christ , and to be sick of loue for him .

I sought him , I cryed on him ) A fift also , to seeke him , to call and crie vpon him , to wander vp and downe after him : finally to leaue nothing vndon till wee finde him , which the Apostle calleth a longing , or desire after him .

because of his speech : ) The meditation and calling to minde of the word of God , of that which wee haue heard in the publick congregations and assemblies , is very profitable for the quickning & raising vp of our soules .

but I could not finde him , but hee answered me not . ) Christ to trie the faith of his children seemeth many times to deale very hardly and vnkindely with them : the fountaine of mercy , to haue no drop of mercy in him . So hee dealt with the woman of Canaan , Mat. 15. 22. &c. First when shee cryed vpon him , hee made himselfe deafe , hee would not answere one word , but turned himselfe away , and when his disciples besought him to speake , how vntowardly and techely ( as a man with reuere●ce may say ) doth hee seeme to answere her ' I was not sent but to the lost sheepe of the house of Israell : Shee for all that humbling her selfe yet more , and falling at his feete , in what reproachfull manner doth hee vse her , calling her a dogge , or rather for more disgrace a whelpe . How must not this wound her very soule ? He that biddeth all men learne of him , because he is meeke and lowly in heart , to bee so rough to a poore sillie weoman so deiecting herselfe before him ? but wherefore did he so ? to discourage or driue her from him ? No ; but that her faith being tryed in the furnace , might come forth purer then the gold , and after many a pluck and wrestle , like a true Israelite supported by his Spirit , shee might preuaile with God : and so at the length he suffereth himselfe to be ouercom by the greatnesse of her faith .

The watchmen that goe about the Citie found mee . ) A Christian truely repenting will not thinke much to throw himselfe into neuer so great perills and hazards for the recouery of Christ . And so is expressed the sixt marke of repentance : consisting in a reuenge or taking the peny-worths of our selues for our former transgressions , not shrinking now for any danger , but running thorough thick and thinne ( as wee say ) in the night , among the watch , to come vnto him .

All this sheweth the feare that a Christian man hath , least hee should bee ouertaken with drowsinesse , as he was before , which is an other and the last of those seauen notes of true repentance , mencioned 2. Cor. 7. 11.

And so haue you in this Chapter , ( besides the falles and infirmities of Gods children , and how and wherein they differ from other men , ) a worthy example of the cause , the means , the parts , the steppes and degrees , and lastly of the notes and markes of their repentance .

they smote me , they wounded me , ) An other punishment of our sinnes is affliction , outward trouble and persecution , which God is wont to send vpon vs , to chastise and correct vs , and to make vs come to him .

the keepers of the walles tooke ] Those that should bee the greatest friends vnto vs for the truths sake , proue many times our greatest enemies , such as carrie the name of watchmen in Gods Church , whose office it is to encourage and protect vs in well doing , none more then they do oppose themselues and discourage vs in the waies of godlinesse .

my vaile from me . ) This is a great offence and stumbling block to Gods children : who by reason heereof lose their vaile , that is the hold of their purity and integrity , and begin a little to decline , and to waxe fainter in the seruing of God :

I adiure you ] Till by the company of Gods children in the communion of Saints , they begin to take heart againe , and to recouer their spirits , and so afresh follow after Christ .

ye daught●rs of Ierusalem ) The society of the godly is an excellent meanes to stirre men vp , and to kindle in them the holy fire of the loue of Christ : for with them wee may boldly conferre of such things as the world sauoureth not , nor hath any relish in .

if ye finde &c. ) Yea , though they be not come so far as we in comprehending the length , breadth , and depth of the excellency of the loue of Christ .

What is there in thy well-beloued ? &c. ] If to those that dwell in the Church it be strange to see the passions that many of the godly are exercised with in their longing & thirsting after Christ , what shall we thinke of other men ?

White & ruddie , fit to heare the banner aboue 10000 his head , &c. The things which wee are specially to consider in Christ , are , First his spirituall glory and power , shining euen in his humanity :

His eyes as doues eyes &c ) Secondly , The eies of his prouidence , or the perfection of the graces of the Spirit dwelling in him , whereby hee pearceth euery where and entreth into mens harts , seeing the things , that are most secret .

his lippes , his pallat , &c. ] Thirdly his doctorshippe , or Propheticall office .

Vpon his hands &c. his lagges are pillars of marble , &c. ) Fourthly his gouernment and administration of the world , in glory , maiestly and power , chrushing to peeces the wicked and vngodly , and whatsoeuer doth set and oppose it selfe against him .

in his bowels is a shining , as of iuory , couered with Suphires : his looke as of Lebanon &c. ) Fiftly The glorifying of his humane nature , which he hath purchased by his death and sufferings .

that me ●ay seeke him &c. ) The fruit of a Christian mans temptations is , that other by our vehemency are stirred vp to seeke Christ .

My well-beloued in gon downe &c. I am my well-beloueds &c. ) Christ in the end is found of those that seek him , though he absent himselfe for a time , as he was of the woman of Canaan , Mat. 15. 28.

And this is our comfort , that God is faithfull , who will not suffer vs to bee tempted aboue our strength , but in euery temptation , how great soeuer , will giue vs a meanes how to come out of it , 1 Cor. 10. 13.

By mutuall conference and communication of of our faith , we haue the same strengthened , and nourishe and kindle in our selues a holy longing after Christ .

CHAP. VI. VERS. 1.

Thou art faire &c. ]

TRue repentance washeth off all the spots and deformities that our sinnes bring vpon vs .

terrible as an armie with banners . )

The life of Christian is a warrefare vpon earth : For the enabling of him to fight the Lordes battailes , God infuseth into his heart an heroicall and noble courage : for though hee fall , yet he riseth vp againe : though hee bee ouertaken , yet hee getteth out and recouereth his , strength ,

Which maketh Sathan to feare the faith of a Christian , because hee knoweth it is built vpon that rocke which the gates of hell cannot preuaile against .

O turne thine eyes ouer-against me , ) Our slippes and falles must not discourage vs : but wee must looke vp to Christ with a liuely faith and bee of good comfort ,

that they may lift me vp . ) For Christ glorieth and taketh pleasure in the faith of his people : it reioyceth his heart , and he thinketh himselfe the better for it , being affected with their miseries , and is glad when they are comforted .

Thy haire is &c. ) The holinesse and righteousnesse of a Christian is not lost by the manifold infirmities hee falleth into . But it remaineth firme and constant in euery part ; because it wholly resteth in the power and grace of God .

Let there be 60. Queenes , &c. ) All the glory & excellency in the world , the courts of Princes , and their pompous traine are not to bee compared to the happinesse of a Christian .

That one &c. ) There is but one company & society in the world , wher saluation is to be had : that is the Church of God , which is one , because there is no more but she , one because she is only & entirely beloued of God .

my done , ] One because she is elect out of all the world .

mine vndefiled one , ) One because shee keepeth her selfe one and the same vnto her spouse , pure , chast , and vndefiled .

that one with her mother ) To this Church euery Christian man ioyneth himselfe , and professeth to be a member thereof , neuer making rent , schisme , nor diuision from it : those that goe out from it , it is a token they were , in truth , neuer of it .

assoone as they see &c. ) God in his Church vtereth all his glorie , Psal. 29. That is , hee graceth his people with such blessings of his spirit , as makes them an admiration to the world . This is the priuiledge of those that dwell in the Church of God .

the maydens shall account her blessed , the Queenes and Concubines shall praise her . ) The profane worldlings are forced to preferre the state of Gods children before their owne , and to wish they were like vnto them . As Saul , Pharaoh , Balaam and other did .

Goodly as the morning , faire as the moone , pure as the Sunne . ) The way of a righteous man is like the Sunne shining , that shineth still more and more vnto the steddie day , Prou. 4. 18. Or , as Paul saith , ( Rom. 1. 17. ) we goe from faith to faith , our faith continually growing as the morning doth , and from one degree of perfection to an other : from the beauty of the moone , to the cleerenesse of the Sunne .

To the pruined gardaines , ) The kingdome of God , the glorie of the heauenly Ierusalem is that which we ought alwaies to meditate of , and to haue the eyes of our soules fixed and bent vpon : beeing like the gardaines that are kept dressed , most pleasant and goodly to the eye , and that yeeld all sweet and delectable fruit .

I went downe , ) Christ himselfe by his example inuiteth vs to take pains to watch and obserue the time of his comming : whereunto he doth exhort . Math. 24. 42.

To see the greene plants of the valley : to see if the Vine flourished , if the Pomegranets budded . ) By earthly things wee must learne to meditate on heauenly : and if wee be able to discerne of the times and seasons of the yeere , that when wee see the trees to put forth leaues , wee know Summer is neere , is it not a shame to haue a lesse insight into those things that are the signes and forerunners of the comming of the Sonne of God to iudgement ? This wisedome our Sauiour teacheth vs . Matth. 24. 32. 33.

There be manie signes of this glorious comming of Iesus Christ : for which , see that whole chapter . Mathew 24.

When I discerned it not my minde set me ) Christ loueth not to be longer absent from vs then needs he must .

vpon my free hearted , ) Christian men are free-hearted people , and of a willing minde : seruing Christ cheerfully , ioifully , readily Psalm . 110. not of necessity or constraint .

peoples chariots . ) In such doth Christ delight to dwell , to be borne vp by them , & to haue them for his chariots . 2. Corinth . 9. 7. God loueth a cheerefull giuer .

Returne , ) The voice and calling of Christ is the meanes of our conuersion .

Returne ô Shull &c. returne , returne ) Who calleth vs earnestly & continually to come vnto him , and not to delay nor put it off : for that doth the doubling and trebling , and fowre times repeating of the word returne , import .

O Shulamite ] Yea , he vseth all manner of kind and louing speeches to perswade , as O my Shullamite , or my perfect one : for all which see before Chapter 5. 1.

A Christian man is perfect by the imputation of Christs righteousnesse : perfect also with an Euangelicall , not a legall perfection : ( that is to say , of a sound and vpright heart longing for perfection ) euen in regard of their renued holinesse or sanctification .

that we may behold thee ) Sinne obscureth Gods graces in vs , and maketh that Christ hath no delight to looke vpon vs : but faith and repentance restoreth vs to his fauour .

What behold you in that Shulamite ? as the daunse of the Machanaijmites ) Christ comforteth his soule by the beholding of our holinesse and righteousnesse .

How bewtifull &c. ) Yea he boasteth and reioyceth of it : so is there ioy in heauen for sinners that repent . Luke 15. 7.

O daughter of a Prince . ) The excellencie of a christian standeth in this , that hee is born again , and by faith become the sonne of the great king : that life of the spirit incompatably more excelling the life of a naturall man ( take the godliest and the gallantest ) then that excelleth the life of a bruite beast .

Let not &c. ) There is not anie thing more pleasing to him , then the spread of the Church of God , and a continuall encrease of the fruites of it , which are as glorious in his sight as a heape of wheate hedged about with I●illies .

Let not the liquor faile . But let thy belly be &c. The duties required of him are ,

First , Faith continually fructifying .

Thy two breasts &c. ) Secondly , A teachablenes to sucke the milke of the word of God .

Thy necke &c ) Thirdly , Constancie to hold vp the truth of God .

Thine eyes &c. thy nose &c. ) Fourthly , Iudgement to weigh and discerne of doctrines .

That on thy head is like skarlet , &c. ) Fiftly , Grauitie , and a wise cariage in all our actions ;

A King might be tyed , &c. ) Which good graces being in vs and abounding , not onely knit mens hearts vnto vs ,

How faire &c. ) But make God himselfe to loue , and to admire vs .

I say &c ) The word of Christ ought to be an assurance to vs , that wee shall be sanctified more and more : howsoeuer when we looke on the one side to the resistances that are against vs , and on the other side to our owne weaknes and corruptions , wee haue iust cause to despaire . But hee that sayd , the Word is able for to doe it , as casie it is for him to make vs all whole , as it was to say , take vp thy bedde and walke . Ioh. 5. 8.

I will get vp vpon the Palme-tree , take hold of her branches , &c. ) The best man that is hath need of much hand , to be continually pruined , and lopped , and to haue his superfluous branches shred from him to make him fruitfull .

I will &c. ) This must be the worke of Christ himselfe : Who , as else where he is compared to a Vine , so heere compareth himselfe to the Husbandman , that taketh vs in hand to trimme and looke vnto vs : Without him wee can doe nothing . Ioh. 15. 5.

Thy teates shall now be like the clusters of the Vine : and the sauour of thy nose like Apples . ) The fruite of Christs presence with vs , and of his taking vs in hand is excellent : it maketh vs sweete before him , fragrant , acceptable , and comfortable vnto other .

Thy pallat as wine making to speake the lippes of those which sleepe . ] The preaching of the Gospell , is that which raiseth men out of the sleepe of sinne , and maketh them to speake with newe tongues to the prayse of the glorie of God .

CHAP. VII . VERSE 1.

I am my Welbeloueds , since his desire is towards me .

THe mercies of God in pardoning and forgiuing our sinnes and taking vs to his fauour , are so farre from opening a window of libertie vnto vs , that contrariwise it ioyneth and knitteth our soules more neere vnto him , maketh vs more entirely to loue him , and rowzeth vs vp from drowsinesse and negligence to a greater watchfulnesse ouer our waies , and a care to please him .

That is true repentance which groweth from a consideration of Gods mercies and of his loue : not that so much , which the feare of wrath and of his iudgements doth wring from vs .

Let vs goe forth &c. ) True repentance is seene by walking in a quite contrarie course to that wee walked in before : therfore it is called a turning ; as if a man whose face is bent Westward , should wholly turne himselfe and set it vnto the East .

Let vs lodge by the Cypres : let vs rise in the morning , &c. ) It is the certaine note of the childe of God to waite with all watchfulnesse and obseruation for the glorious comming of Iesus Christ :

The day of whose comming is that happie time of our spirituall mariage , and most straight and neere coniunction with Christ : for then shall wee enioy him fully and perfectly , and see him as he is .

These louely flowers &c. ) To him we must consecrate our selues and all we haue ; for whatsoeuer he hath giuen vs , all the graces of his Spirit , all the good things we doe enioy , are not too good to be bestowed vpon him , to entertaine Christ the better ; that is the true vse of the blessings of God .

O that thou wert as a brother vnto mee &c. ) A Christian man is impatient for the desire of Christ , and longeth that euen this day before too-morrow were the time of our perfect enioying of him .

Finding thee without I would kisse thee ) Our loue to Christ where it is sincere and sound , will manifest it selfe to all , and by all meanes .

I should not bee despised . ) The perpetuall state of Gods children is to be vexed , scorned , and despised of the world .

But against this we must comfort our selues with the remembrance of that time , when all teares shall be wiped from our eyes .

I Would bring thee into the house of my Mother which teacheth mee , ) In the Church the word of God is to sound , and there it is that men are to bee taught and enformed in his waies .

I would giue thee to drinke of spiced wine &c. ) There is nothing we haue or can come by , that is too costly or sumptuous to bee bestowed vpon Christ . Wherefore the woman in the Gospell hath her iust commendation for powring the Alablaster boxe of Spicknard , most costly ointment vpon the head of our Sauiour Christ , though Iudas the traytour repined at it .

His left hand vnder &c. I adiure you , &c. Our former offenses and the fearefull effects comming from them , must teach vs when we haue Christ againe to make more of him , and to take heed that by our loosenesse and negligence he withdraw not the comfort of his presence .

Who is shee that commeth out of the wildernesse readie to ioyne her selfe to her welbeloued .

There is no sound pleasure to be found but in true pietie : all the delights of the world without that , are but as the wildernesse in comparison of pleasant and fertile soyle .

A Christian must denie himselfe and forsake this wicked world ; it is a hard peece of worke , and a matter of no small difficulty thus to doe , and such , as none hath any hart or stomack to perform , saue but those that are borne anew : yet euery one must enforce himselfe vnto it ; and so doing wee haue the same as a sure argument of hearty and sound repentance .

True valour in despising dangers is onely to be found in the childe of God ,

whose faith ouercommeth all difficulties , and the tediousnesse of this world .

vnder the very apple-tree I awaken thee ) For faith as it hath winges to flie vp to heauen , to the very seate of glory , and there to apprehend Christ , sitting at the right hand of his father : so in his humility here it beholdeth that excellency which the world is not able to conceiue .

Where thy mother was in labour of thee . ) Christ vouchsafeth to account himselfe as one of vs : a childe of our mother , that is to say , one of the Church , being the head of it and wee his members .

O set me ) The faith , zeale , and repentance of Gods children , though it merit nothing at the hands of God , yet giueth vs assurance of obtaining good things , and maketh vs with boldnesse to craue fauour , and a blessing againe . To loue vs as wee loue him . So our Sauiour hath taught vs to pray , Forgiue vs our trespasses as we forgiue &c.

True repentance maketh vs more zealous , and more to loue Christ then we did before .

A Christian aboue all things in the world desireth to be ioyned to Christ as neerely , and by as straight a bond and coniunction as may bee .

as a seale on thine heart , ) God hath vs alwaies as a seale vpon his heart , and in his minde ; how is it possible he should forget vs ?

as a seale on thine arme , ) Hee hath vs alwaies as a seale vpon his arme , Who can pull vs from him ?

Being vpon his arme wee are continually in his sight , his eies are vpon vs alwaies , and his prouidence watcheth ouer vs wheresoeuer wee ●oe become , what euill can betide vs ?

Loue , zeale &c. ) Zeale is the proper vertue of a Christian , wherein hee can neuer satisfie his owne soule .

strong as death &c. ) True zeale breaketh through all difficulties , as death , and as the graue that subdue all , and cannot themselues bee ouercome .

a fire of the flame of Iah . ) It is kindled in vs by the Spirit of God , and is the peculiar worke of his grace .

Much waters cannot quench &c. ) A Christian is endued of God with the gift of constancy and perseuerance .

Many temptations assault a christian man to shak his faith ; pleasures , afflictions , promises , hopes , rewards : but hee remaineth vnmoued in them all .

If a man would giue all the substance of his house , ) Wicked men spare no cost to drawe men from Christ : how much lesse should wee be sparing , or thinke any thing too deare , to stire vp men to loue him ?

Wee are to take most heede of those that come with fairest shewes and pretences to vs : for vnder the sweetest flowers lie commonly hidde the most venemous serpents .

it should vtterly bee contemned . ) A man must learn to despise the wicked , notwithstanding all their wealth . This among other is one note of him that here shall soiourne in Gods tabernacle , and hereafter dwell in his holy hill . Psal. 15.

CHAP. VIII . VERS. 1

We haue a sister , &c. and what shall wee doe to our sister &c. )

THe loue of God towards vs , his mercy in hiding and couering our offences , should make vs to loue not only him againe , but our bretheren for his sake : and by all meanes to seeke their good .

The Church of the Iewes so carefull for the calling of the Gentiles , teacheth how earnest wee should bee to commend their conuersion vnto God : whereof wee haue heere a promise , and all the Prophets & Apostles so gloriously doe speak ; Esay , Chap. 4. & 26. &c. Dan. 12. Ezech. 37. &c. Hosh . 3. & 13. Zach. 12. &c. Paul Rom. 11. and 2. Cor. 3. Iohn in the Reuelation Chap. 20 , &c. and our Sauiour , Mathew 24.

a little one , and she hath no brests , ) The Church of God before the comming of Christ , was shut vp within narrowe bounds , the Gentiles beeing then aliens and strangers from the couenant .

in the day , when ) God hath the moments of time & seasons numbred before him , & a certaine day prefixed when he wil accomplish his counsels .

she shall be talked of . ) Faith onely maketh men famous . The Gentiles before their calling were neuer talked of amongst Gods people : though for learning , arts , valour , they were the men of name in the world , and accounted the worthies of the earth : but it is indeed more honourable to be famous in Gods Church , then to haue al the fame and estimation in the world beside .

True fame is in piety , and the feare of God only .

Men must beate their heads and cast about how to performe the worke of God in the best manner .

Gods children must bend their speeches to extoll and set forth those that truely feare God , and to make them famous , to honour and prefer them before worldlings , howsoeuer they glitter and shine in the eies of men . So did Elisha set light by the King of Israell , notwithstanding all his greatnesse , in comparison of the good and godly King Iehoshaphat , 2. King . 3. What haue I to doe with thee ? Get thee to the Prophets of thy Father &c. Againe , As Iehoush of hoasts liueth , in whose sight I stand , if it were not that I regard the presence of the King of Iuda , I would not haue looked towards thee , nor haue seen thee .

When a wall is to be built , when a gate is to be fenced . ) Wisdome is required in the builders of Gods house , to frame euery thing for the greatest bewty and ornament vnto it .

of siluer , boord of Cedre . ) But all for any substance of religion , or necessarie part of Gods seruice , must be according to the rule of the Word , that it may be as siluer , and as the choice Cedre , precious in his sight : Exodus 25. 40. See thou make all things according to the paterne was shewed thee in the Mount .

A pallace , ) The Church of God is the Pallace of the great King , There he doth dwell , and hath his residence and aboade for euer . Psal. 132. 13 , 14

a wall , a gate . ) The discipline of the Church is as a wall and a gate , to keepe that no vncleane person or execrable , enter in , to hold in those that are entred , the free burgesses and Citise●s of that Citi● .

I being as a wall , and my brests as towers , ) There is in the Church a communion of Saints , whereby the graces of God bestowed vpon one member , turne to the generall good of the whole body .

then shall I be ) Thereof it is that a true Christian is so farre from enuying the blessings of God in other , that he reioyceth in them as in his owne happinesse and perfection .

as one that findeth peace . ) When the heart of the Iewes shall turne vnto the Lord , in the generall call of that whole nation , then come the daies of peace , ioy , happinesse , and comfort , as much as can be vpon earth , through the bright beames of the glorious Gospell , shining most cleere .

Solomon had a vine-yard , ) Christianity and prouidence in worldly matters stand well together .

in a fruitfull place , ) It is a good duty of a Christian to forecast to haue things most beneficiall and commodious for him . His vines in fruitful places &c.

he hired out his vineyards to keepers . ) And when hee is so fitted , well to occupie and manure them to his most aduantage : That which hee cannot keepe in his owne hands , yet to prouide it be so let out as may be for his profit .

euery one bringeth for the fruit of it a thousand peeces of siluer . ) It is not onely the rule of charity , but true christianity to consider in reasonable sort , of those that trauaile for vs , that they labour not , nor sweate for nothing : but taking part of that gaine which commeth by their seruice , it may giue them cause to blesse vs .

We may with good conscience obserue a due proportion , and are not to be bl●med though the best morsels fall into our owne mouth . Solomon may well purse a thousand shekels , and leaue two hundred only to come to his lessees share .

The Anabaptistical communion hereby falleth to the ground .

My vineyard is still before my face , ) God is iealous of his Church , and letteth it not forth to others , but himselfe taketh the care of it ; for though it be said in the parable , that a man planted a vineyard , and let it forth to husband men &c. that is an other kinde of letting , then that which Solomon heere speaketh of : For by it is meant the ministers whom God raiseth vp from time to time for the good of his people , & commendeth them to their care . Among whom hee himselfe is , not idle , but walking in the middest of those golden candlesticks , and euermore present by the assistance of his Spirit : so as all commeth from his vertue and power , and he doth not rule his Church by deputies or farmours .

I receiue both these 1000 of thine , O Solomon , and also the 200 pieces of those that keepe the fruite of it . ) Nothing for substance of religion must bee done in the house of God but by his owne expresse pleasure : all is his , not the least farthing or dodkin in this kinde is to goe an other way .

O thou shee ) Christ giueth to his Church Pastours and Teachers as it were Husband-men to dresse his Vine .

That settest ) Himselfe being the Arch-shepheard that taketh care of all the Vines : euery such Minister hath a chair which ought to be the chaire of truth : for so our Sauiour reasoneth , In the chaire of Moses sit the Scribes and Pharisees ; therefore whatsoeuer they teach , ( according to the law and doctrine of Moses , which onely is to sound in that chaire ) do &c.

To these God himselfe reacheth a cushion , and placeth them in the chaire of authoritie in his Church : as the Scribes and Pharises are sayd to sit in Moses chaire , and Paul that he sate at Corinth a yeere and sixe moneths and taught the word of God among them . Acts 18. 11. So Ministers haue their Seas by Gods owne appointment .

This ordinance of God is perpetuall to the worlds end ;

And they must sit , that is with all diligence and faithfulnesse attend vnto the flocke whereof the holy Ghost 〈◊〉 them ouer seers .

In these Gard●i●e● , ) Euery particular congregation is a seuerall gardaine of the Lords :

to the fellowes ) Wherein the Ministers are not to dominier ouer Gods heritage , but to liue as examples to the flocke , who are their brethren and fellowes .

Which ) Wee must not giue that which is holy to dogges , nor cast our pearles before swine . Matth. the seauenth , and the sixt . The pretious treasure of the Gospell is not to be communicated to all , but to those that haue eares boared through of God , and hearts to receiue it : as for other , wee are commaunded to shake off the dust of our feete against them .

Attend thy voice ) Wee must heare the Ministers of God , teaching vs in his waies : and not heare onely , but heare with diligence and continually attend vpon their doctrine .

And that is one of the markes of the childe of God so to attend on the word .

Preach ) Feeding of the flocke is a speciall argument of the loue that a Minister beareth to Christ : Joh. 21. 15. Peter louest thou me ? feede my Lambes ; it is the dutie that God calleth and crieth vnto vs for : an intollerable coldenesse and lacke of loue to Christ , to leaue them at sixe and seauen .

Preaching is the ordinarie meanes of bringing men to Christ ; Rom. 10. 17. faith commeth by hearing .

The thing preached must be Christ , the whole substance of the Gospell , and in whom all the the promises of God are Yea and Amen .

Flee to vs , &c. and bee like the Roe , &c. O thou that dwellest in the Mountaines of spices . ) The Minister that wil approue himselfe faithfull must neuer be wearie of feeding his flock to the comming of Iesus Christ .

And heerein it is his duetie carefully and diligently to impl●re Gods assistance , that he may goe through with it , and for a blessing vpon his labours .

This meditation both of Christs presence and assistance , of his bright and last appearance , and of the waight of glorie laide vp in heauen , where Christ now is , and where we shall be together with him , must bee alwayes before their eyes as effectuall arguments to stirre them vp vnto this duetie : which they are to oppose and set against all the tediousnesse and difficulties of their function on the one side , and all the glittering pompe of the world on the other .

It is a speciall note of the childe of God to desire still the comming of Christ .

And to meditate on the glory of Gods kingdome .

FINIS .

¶ Imprinted at London by John Beale , dwel●ing in Aldersgate streete 1615.

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