The spirituall armour With which being furnished, a Christian may be able to stand fast in the euill day, and time of tryall; and to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Written by that godly and learned man, Paul Baine; sometime Preacher of Gods word at S. Andrewes in Cambridge. Baynes, Paul, d. 1617. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A06063 of text S116770 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 1647). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 227 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 160 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A06063 STC 1647 ESTC S116770 99851986 99851986 17283 2240878691

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 Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A06063) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 17283) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1126:17) The spirituall armour With which being furnished, a Christian may be able to stand fast in the euill day, and time of tryall; and to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Written by that godly and learned man, Paul Baine; sometime Preacher of Gods word at S. Andrewes in Cambridge. Baynes, Paul, d. 1617. [6], 313, [1] p. Printed by H. L[ownes] for R. Milbourn, London : 1620. Printer's name from STC. Reproduction of the original in the British Library. eng Spiritual life -- Early works to 1800. eebo The spirituall armour. With which being furnished, a Christian may be able to stand fast in the euill day, and time of tryall; and to quench all the f Baynes, Paul, 1620 320 42570 100 0 0 0 0 0 23.49 C The rate of 23.49 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the C category of texts with between 10 and 35 defects per 10,000 words. 2012-11 Assigned for keying and markup 2012-11 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2013-01 Sampled and proofread 2013-01 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2013-02 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

THE SPIRITVALL ARMOVR .

With which being furnished , a Christian may be able to stand fast in the euill day , and time of tryall ; and to quench all the fiery Darts of the wicked .

Written by that godly and learned man , PAVL BAINE ; sometime Preacher of Gods word at S. Andrewes in Cambridge .

LONDON , Printed by H. L. for R. Milbourn. 1620.

To the godly Reader .

THe Author of this Treatise ( Christian Reader ) hath left this world , and is gone to the place of the blessed , resting himselfe in the bosom of blessed Abraham . Hee was a godly and faithfull man whilest hee liued , as his life shewed ; so also his labours and workes which hee hath left behinde him doe testifie . Pittie it is his dayes were no longer , that hee might haue finished many things himselfe which hee had begun ; some of which are perfected by others , and some likely neuer to come forth . Howsoeuer it fare with other of his Works , it seemeth that this was perfected in his life-time , by his owne hands ; which I wish may not onely come to the hands of Gods children , but into their hearts chiefly . And though he haue finished his course & is gone the way of all flesh ; yet think that hee speaketh to thee by this Book , & bids thee to put on this spirituall Armour , which is indeede the whole Armor of God . For this Armour being put on will defend thy soule against not some , but all the fiery darts of the wicked . Happy & thrice happy is that soule that is thus defended : for it shall go well with it heere in this world ; but a thousand times better with it in the world to come . Reade it : remember it : practise it : and the Lord giue thee vnderstanding in all things : and blesse it vnto thee .

THE SPIRITVALL Armour . EPHES. 6.10 .

Finally , my brethren , be strong in the Lord , and in the power of his might .

NOw followes the conclusion of the Epistle : in which are three things ; first , an exhortation , to the 21. verse . Secondly , a narration of dispatching Tychicus , vers. 21.22 . Thirdly , a farewel , verse 23.24 .

The summe of the Exhortation is , that wee would fortifie our selues , to the end wee may goe through with these things which oppose vs in our Christian warfare .

Now the manner is two-folde : First , by looking at the strength we haue out of our selues in God , Secondly , by harnessing our selues with a spirituall strength inherent in vs . For these do not one explane the other , because 1. Pet. 1.5 , Gods strength and faith are distinguished , as the matter apprehended , and the hand apprehending ; and it is more sutable to this Allegory : For the strength of the common souldiers is as much , yea farre more in the wisedome & power of their Leader , then in their owne valour and furniture . But one may say , Why doth hee say in the power of his might , and not in the Lord onely . Answer : The first is a more generall obiect of our faith [ in the Lord ] in his wisdom , mercy , faithfulnesse , ( for all these doe strengthen vs ) . The other is that immediat thing in which is all our helpe , as keeping vs to saluation . Now that the Apostle hauing exhorted to beleefe , and godly life , doth strike vp a Drum , and sound an alarm ; it doth giue vs to vnderstand , that the practice of good duties hath no small enmity against them . The Diuel wil soon ( if we set our selues this waies ) cry for clubs , & reach vs some knocks . Wee shall know that these things shall cost vs the setting on . Thus in Christ when he set vpon the worke of our redemption , Satan did tempt him , as Matth. 4. and Rom. 7.21 . when he would doe good , euill would stirre in him : and when Paul 1. Thes. 2.18 . did purpose to come & visit them for the strengthning of their faith , Satan did hinder him : and Mat. 12.46 . when Christ was fruitfully teaching , there we see his acquaintance at the doore to speake with him , calling him from the worke in hand , Matth. 16.22.23 . when hee tolde them of his suffering , Satan by Peter sought to turn him from it ( Saue thy self ) . O such is the force of Satans opposition , that a man when once hee setteth him selfe to this or that good thing earnestly , he is beaten from it farther then before : euen as the people were who are types to vs ; when they turned themselues to forsake Egypt , their seruitude was redoubled . Exod. 5. They therefore must teach vs not to count it strange when we find such difficulties in the wayes which are good : for when a man doth looke to righteousnesse , he doth then leaue the kingdome of darknesse , and the tyrant cannot endure this with patience . As at other tryals so at this we must not wonder . 1. Pet. 4.12 . Dearly beloued thinke it not strange concerning the fiery triall , Why should we think that so strange which is so frequent , as our meat is not more vsual ? When we wold buckle to some more spirituall duties , then such an ill disposition commeth vpon vs : euill is present , the Diuell doth make vs to be annoyed with swarms of idle thoughts : then what neede wee vse such strictnesse ? bee good to your selfe , then this friend wold speak with vs , this businesse is vndone , this matter lieth in despaire , thy mother is at the doore , then we are moyled & deeper often in the sin wee fled from , then before . While I was musing , the fire brake forth , then spake I with my tongue , Psalm . 39.3 . Wee must not think this strange ; but though we be beaten on our knees , yet goe still from Egypt the kingdom of darknesse to the glorious inheritance of the Saints in light .

2. This doth shew such whose course is cleare and euen , goe smoothly away with all their enterprises , that they are taken of the Diuell to doe his will : for it they did not please him , then hee would haue a saying to them . Now particularly in this vers . two things must be opened . 1. That Christians must haue a resolution in their courses . Secondly , who it is or vpon what strength it is wee must be courageous . For the first , the Apostle teacheth so much , 1. Cor. 16.13 . Watch yee , stand fast , quite your selues like men : hee doth call vpon vs to bee valorous , like as Ioab exhorted his souldiers fighting for their countrey , 2. Sam. 10.12 . And of the Christians , it is saide , they did with full purpose of heart cleaue vnto the Lord : and the selfe same spirituall fortitude is necessary in the things wee vndertake or suffer , if wee meane to goe through with them . 1. Chron. 28.10 . Take heed therefore : for the Lord hath chosen thee to build the house of his Sanctuary , be strong therefore & do it . Luk 9.51 . It is sayde of our Sauiour Christ when his time was come to suffer , hee set him selfe fully to goe to Ierusalem . Now this spirituall courage doth shew it selfe in three things .

First , it doth expell the fears of cowardise , when we see great enemies against vs . Deut. 20.23 . Let not your hearts feare nor be afraide of them : for though a man see a hideous masse of corruption , yet shall it not affright him . 2. It makes vs not to be dismaide at the difficulties that meete with vs : though a man come by knocks , yet hee maketh not dainties of them . For Paul though hee was driuen vpon that he would not , yet he was not dismaid , but gaue God thankes that the best part of him did looke another way , & that Christ was his righteousnes . 3. It doth shew it selfe in this , that after we are foyled , it maketh vs renew our battell , and valiantly charge our enemies with fresh assaults . Iud. 20.22 . The men of Israel plucked vp their hearts ( there is courage ) and renewed the battell ; so Paul , though the Diuell did buffet him againe and againe , yet being courageous , hee did renew his strength against it by often prayer . This then doth rebuke the timorousnesse in vs , that when wee see the manifolde enemies , which we haue , our hearts melt , & if we be foyled , are ready to cast away our weapons ; which cowardise doth encourage the aduersary , as courage doth daunt him . The Diuell is like a serpentine Crocodile : the property of which is , if one followeth , it flieth away ; if one fly , it pursueth him : resist him , he shall fly ; be afraid , he wil follow . Men are , as Ieremy complaineth , courageous to doe euill , but they haue no courage to doe good . If a Bear or Lion be in the way , they will encounter the greatest difficulties : if one course proue not , they will turne euery stone ; which should make vs much more double our courage in that which is good .

2. Wee see hence , how that Gods almighty strength is it , on which our courage must be builded . Esay 30.15 Thus saith the Lord God , in quietness and rest shall ye be saued , in quietnesse and confidence shall bee your strength , Phil. 4.14 . I can do al things through Christ that strengtheneth mee . 1. Pet. 1.5 . We are kept by the power of God vnto saluation : for no strength but his can preuaile against the strong one in the world : he bruseth the Serpents head , he dissolueth the workes of Satan , Genes. 3. Ios. 3.8 . The Israelites could not haue come out of Egypt , nor entred the Land of Canaean , if the Lord had not subdued their enemies , neither might they bee confident in sword or bowe , but in the name of the Lord only , in their strong God : much more must our courage be builded on God , seeing their enemies are flesh , ours are spirits of great power . Look as it is in souldiers , their chiefest strength lieth in their Captain : so is it true heer , that al our strength lieth in Christ , the Captaine that leadeth vs to saluation , his power doth all our workes for vs : & that which is to be in vs , doth but fit vs to stand stil and look to this almighty power of God , which subdueth all things for vs . It must teach vs therfore to disclaime our owne strength : he rhat will be wise must become a fool ; he that wil be strong , must learn to see himself to be weaknes it selfe . Wee our selues before our conuersion are of no strength . Rom. 5.6 . After , of no strength : Not that we are sufficient to thinke a good thought . 2. Cor. 3.5 . None can name the Lord Iesus , but by the holy Ghost . 1 Cor. 12.3 . Hee is happy that is grown vp to be emptie of himselfe : we are as full of selfe-confidence as of self-loue , though we cannot discerne it . This is the reason wee are so often foyled , that wee might see wee are of no strength , that all our victories must com from G d. Iud. 20. The Lord let the Isralites fal in a most iust quarrell against their brethren , that hee might strip them of that self confident presumption they had in themselues . And Paul , so holy an Apostle , was brought to the gates of death that he might learne this lesson . 2. Cor. 1.9 . What maketh vs after diuers fals , to bee no more afraid of the enemies that buffet vs ? what maketh vs that we can no more feelingly run vnder the wings of Christ ? whence is it that we haue no more pouerty of spirit in the evperience of our frailties , but that secret selfe-confidence is mighty in vs ? Seeing that all our courage must be in this , that God is with vs ; let vs bee nothing in our selues . The blessed soules can say with Paul , Phil. 3.3 . We are those whose harts being circumcised , reioyce in the Lord Iesus , and haue no confidence in the flesh .

Secondly , let vs learne to build our selues on this Rock , on our strong God Christ Iesus . As those vncircumcised Philistims did place all their hopes of the battell in their Goliah : so must wee place all our hope in Christ Iesus : this is our strength , Exod. 14.13 . Sta●d still , fear not , behold the saluation of the Lord which he will shew to you this day . This is a most blessed estate , to leane on the Lord , and on the power of his might : many are the benefits of it . It will feare no opposition . For what cannot Gods almighty power subdue ? Psalm . 27.1 . 2. It will not be dismaid when all meanes in ordinary consideration faile vs : hee saueth by few , yea without any , as well as many . Rom. 4. Abraham cared not for the deadnesse of his body . 3. Hee that hath no trust in himselfe , but leaneth on the power of God , will , though he fall often , stil haue hope : for hee that knowes he hath no strength , cannot wonder if when God leaueth him hee doe fall : and hee that maketh Gods strength his stay , though he be neuer so far from a thing , yet will not cast away hope in time to obtaine . Finally , hee will desire to grieue silently for his weaknesse , h● will so learne to see there is no ability in him , that hee will further leane his faith on the power of God . Psal. 60.11 . Giue vs help against trouble , for vaine is the help of man . Psal. 69.29 . When I am poor and in heauiness , thy helpe O Lord . shall still exalt me . What vse the Psalmist maketh of this , that the Israelites had fought vnsuccesfully as left of God ? Lastly , this is all our security , that it is not the strength in vs , but the power of Gods might that must helpe vs to saluation . If wee had the strength of our first parents , and were left to our selues , wee should come short of happinesse : but this being it that doth keepe vs ( Gods strength being trusted to by faith ) the selfe same strong God being the author and finisher of our faith . Heb. 13. this puts all out of doubt . 3. We must glorifie the power of God in all things ; it is he that strengtheneth vs . Esay 25.10 . He worketh all our works for vs . Psal. 108.13 . Throgh him we shal do valiantly , hee is our shield , tower , rock , strength , and glory .

Now followeth the second part of fortifying , concerning the furniture we are to haue ; laid downe in generall to the 14. verse , in particular to the 21. First , he layeth downe the dutie . Secondly , he doth , as a faithfull Herald , againe repeate his proclamation , because we cannot heare on this side easily , but would saue our selues peaceably , without looking after warfare . In laying downe the dutie , he deliuereth in the beginning of this verse , the thing to bee done : Put on the whole armour of God . 2. The end , that you may be able to resist . 3. The reason , which hath reference to the dutie , and end ; in the 12. verse . Now in the thing to bee done , three things are to be marked . 1. That Christians must haue armour that is compleate armour , to couer them from top to toe . 2. That they must not haue it lying by them , but must put it on . 3. That the Christian armour is for matter and making , of God , that is , divine and spirituall . For the first , there is great reason to proue that a Christian must haue armour . For he hath enemies that would wound him deadly otherwise : It is with vs as with the Israelites in Exodus : so soone as hee tooke them out of Egypt , hee led them thence armed ; because that Pharaoh hee knew would followe them , and puissant Kings encounter them as they marched to their inheritance . Againe , a Christian is borne with his armor on his back , so that he can as wel cease to be a Christian as cease to be armed . That which is fabulously spoken of the race of Gyants , is truely spoken of vs ; we are no sooner born then wee haue our swords girded to vs , our shields on our arms , &c. For the word doth beget vs , Faith is the first thing formed in vs . Now that wee must haue compleate armour , it is hence manifest : because it were in vaine to haue some parts couered , and to lie open to mortall wounds in other some . The Diuell is like those Champions , who if they cannot wound the head nor the heart , they will prick any part rather then faile . Christians then must haue their compleat harnesse couering them from top to toe , which doth shew vs how vnchristian many are , who know not if they should speak truth that that there is any such armour . Like Israel when there was not a Smith , nor a weapon in it : so is the face of our Israelites , they look not ( though they haue bound themselues by the Sacrament to be warriours ) after armour . If thou hast not this armour , knowe the Diuell hath surprised thee , and holdeth thee as a slaue to him . Againe , many forget that they must haue compleate armour , such as must couer them all ouer : and therefore though in some things they seeme couered , yet in others they are without defence .

Secondly , we must mark that he doth not say , we must have armour , or prepare it , but we must put it on : observe thence , that It is not enough to knowe there is such armour , but we must haue it buckled alwaies vpon vs , in readiness by vs : we must not doe as many , who haue wardrobes of apparell , but they weare them not ; as good haue none , as vse it not . But you will ask me , How may we put it on ? Ans. If we do vncase vs of that which will not let it bee drawne vpon vs : for as he which would put on a new suit , must first put off his olde ; so we . Secondly , we must in conscience of our infirmity pray to God to fit this furniture about vs : for , looke as little children , although they have apparell , they cannot put it on further then the nurse or mother doth make them ready : so it is with vs . Thirdly , wee must put on these things by exciting and augmenting them : as for example ; Wouldest thou put on the shield of faith ? doo it thus ; I am a poore captive : well , Christ hath bid mee hold him , and he will make me free . I am troubled with lawes of evill : well , Christ is a sanctifier : every time we renew faith , we put on this shield . Fourthly , the vse of this armour doth put it on : for besides as in apparell by stretching our selves wee make it fall to our bodies , these graces have this ; being exercised , they increase the more .

This doth rebuke many , yea many that have armour . Look , as evidences , till som flaw be found , are not perused : so our weapons , till God muster vs with some calamities , are not vsed . When I see these rusty halberds , calivers , muskets , hanging vp in the time of peace , I may see how it is with our soules . The graces of God are not kept shining , wee do not gird them daily to vs as we ought : therefore when we should vse them wee shall finde them out of kilture at the least . Againe , many slothfull souldiers for ease put-on some , and leave off othersom : though they look to the maine , yet they care not for the lighter wounds ; their eies , tongues , eares are shot through , as David in Vriahs matter had not his eies fenced .

Againe , it lets vs see how wel a multitude of the faithfull , a virgin betrothed to Christ , may be compared to an army ( for terrour ) with banners . Is it not a fearefull thing for an enemy to see an army all clad with glistring armour from the crown of the head to the feet ? so is it for these spirits to see their soul●s so armed . The last thing to bee marked in the duty , is the kinde of armour [ of God ] which word noteth both the maker and metall of it ; teaching vs , that the weapons wherewith wee resist the divell must be spirituall . Our weapons ( saith the Apostle ) are not carnall , but spirituall , 2. Cor. 10.5 . There is no armour of proofe able to resist him , which God himself doth not forge , and is not spiritual : for the strength of brasse and stone is nothing to him ; that of the Leviathan may be applied to him , Iob. 41.

Secondly , such must the armour be to resist , as the assault is which is made against a thing : now the divell doth not come against vs with swords , but with spirituall suggestions to withdraw vs ; labouring to withdraw vs from righteousnes and fellowship with God , to vnrighteousnes and the creature , leaving the creator . Wherefore wee must not fence our selues against the assaults of Satan by any human means , by any thing which the wisdome of man can suggest : but as David , encountring with Goliah , laid aside Saul's weapons & furniture , and went against him in the Name of the Lord : so wee must say , Not armed with our own wisdom , strength , or helps of the creature , do we seek to put to flight the power of darknes , but in Gods armor we make resistance . Secondly , it doth convince many of notable folly , who will march against the divel with armour fleshly and divelish ; as the Papists , who in procession haue banners vpon poles , who on Palme-Sunday cary palm-boughs , who put trust on crosses , crucifixes , holy water , &c: for , not knowing the power of godliness , they think with fleshly ceremonies to chase away the spiritual powers of darknes . Againe , many troubled with tentations of blasphemy , or self-murder , they wil to physick ; as if by letting of blood or vomit , they could purge out the divell : others , when the evill spirit doth annoy them , they make resistance but as Saul , call for musick , this or that company , and employ themselues more busily , that one naile may driue out another ; in a word , so resisting that evill one , troubling themselves , that they make themselues twofolde more the children of the Diuell . 4. There are some who when they are so troubled , will not sticke to goe to wisards : when the Diuell doth wound them , they will seeke to him for a plaister : that cure will bee well done , when the murdering spirit must play the Surgeon . Now followeth the end , that yee may bee able to stand . Two things must bee vnfolded . 1. What this meanes ( to stand ) ? Ans. A souldier standing orderly to his fight , doth neither run forth to his perill , nor retyre through cowardise ; neither is beaten downe through violence . So that standing , is holding their course without hurt receiued .

Assaults of the Diuell are of two sorts : forcible or politike . Now this Text speaks of those subtle stratagems , the worde signifying one principall kinde ( to witte ) ambushment , that put for the other : the sense then of the words is , that you may bee preserued harmelesse , notwithstanding the Diuell do practice all his stratagems against you . Thus you see what is the benefite of our Christian furniture : it doth put vs out of danger ; this is tryed proofe , we neede not feare any shot if it bee well buckled vnto vs : thus Christ being with this harnessed , the Diuell could not fasten any thing on him : for euen some peeces , are of no lesse force , much more the whole . 2. Pet. 1. He thay ioyneth faith , vertue , knowledge ( which all is but the brestplate of righteousnes ) shall not fall : Iohn saith , faith ( which is but our shield ) is our victory . Now if one peece bee of such vse , how beneficiall is the whole ? Againe , in the falls of the Saints it may be seene how they caught their wipes , for lacke of their armor . Which must teach vs first , to prise and get vs this furniture . We see how going to warres we esteeme more then life such an armour as can secure vs , that wee need not take care for gunshot : how much more should wee count of this , which keepeth the life of God from being wounded in the soule . Which if we were fully clad with , we might fight at the Cannons mouth secure from danger . 2. It doth let vs see what we must blame when wee are wounded ; our want to our selues in not putting on this armour : for hence it was caused .

2. Wee see that the Diuell doth vse policie in assaying vs , Thus from the beginning he shewed more of the Serpent then of the Lion . 2. Cor. 11.3 . He did through deceit beguile Euah . 2. Thes. 2.8 . His working is not in all power onely , but in all deceluablenes of vnrighteousnesse : he is the father of common Machiauelisme : hee knoweth the Lions skin wil not come where the Foxes may enter ; and if hee were strength without subtilty , he were the lesse to be feared . For what is the Poets Poliphemus when his eyes are wanting ? what is strength if wisedome and policie bee wanting or absent . But for our further instruction , wee must search out what these subtill strat●gems are , wherwith hee doth circumuent vs : not that wee can finde them all out , but that wee may point at the fountaines of further meditation .

These may be considered generally , or more particularly . Generally , his policy in fight is , that he obserueth all circumstances for his aduantage : as person , place , time ; and as hee set vpon Christ in the Desart when hee was now hungry : the condition of the party , whether in prosperity or in aduersity , religious , or otherw●se : his weapon in choosing and vsing of which hee ha●h great s●ill : and two things are here remarkable and most eminent . First , that hee will then redouble his forces , when after God is ready to remooue him : as men that besiege a Citie , if they haue intelligēe of any power comming to remoue their siege , they will put forth all their courage : trying if they may make breach or scale the walls and enter . Reuel. 12.12 . Hee can so watch opportunity , that he can be ready to hurt vs with our owne weapons . As 2. Cor. 27. hee would haue swallowed vp the Corinthian in his repentant sorrowe .

The more particular conflicts and assaults , some are lesse seene , some are more openly hostile . The lesse manifest assayling of vs is , when hee dissembleth his person , or his strength : For Satan often commeth in the person of a friend , sometimes in an Angels of light , sometimes in the persons of Saints departed ; and hee is like that policy of the Gibeonites , Ios. 9 9. Like the King of Israel who fought with Aram in other apparell : 1 King . 22.30 . or like as if a Man of warre meeting an enemy should hang out the same colours with them , and set men speaking the selfe same language , and of the selfe same habite with their enemies , and so should board them and sinke them at vnawares ; these therfore must a little bee opened . First , hee commeth and closeth as a friend , insinuating , as if hee bare vs more good will then God . Genes. 3. God knoweth if your eies should be opened , &c. so to Christ , Master spare thy selfe : but mark what Christ replyeth , Goe behinde me Satan . So hee commeth to another ▪ What ? he hath abused thee ; doe not let him doe thee that wrong , others will bee heartened to doe thee the like . So when he perswades couetousnes , You must haue some thing more then this : You haue , and may haue a great charge : so to him that would double his diligence , What neede you so disease your selfe ? God forbid none but such great paines takers should com to heauen . Thus hee would with a friendly parlie , with a Ioabs kisse vtterly betray vs . Secondly , he hath sometimes taken on him the person of an Angel of light , in wordes which hee can speake good . Marke 1.24 . and 5.7 , Thou art the Son of God . The maid with the spirit of diuination saith , You are the seruants of the most high God : Acts 16.16 . but he profaneth the words , and vseth them vnto euill ends , to win himselfe credit in his lying , or weaken the truth of them by his confessing : so in nomine domini beginneth much wickednesse . Secondly , hee will set vs vnseasonably and busie vs about good works , and thus hee did Martha , Luke 10.40 . making her so busie in the entertainement , that shee had no leasure for the better worke , that which Mary chose . This is his wickednesse , and he alwaies doth it either to iustle out a better work , or to draw-in with that good som greater euill . So in the Church , many reade often and are thinking of good things , but the Diuell doth draw them to this , that they might not attend the worke in hand . Thirdly , hee will perswade to euill vnder the shew of good : thus hee will make vs vnder the pretence of discretion and moderation , be like those who were neither hotte nor colde , fit for nothing but to be spued out of Gods mouth : He will with a shew of zeale fetch vs off to murther . Luk. 9.54 . Hee did the disciples , and thus hee beguileth such who will reform without authority , and the Brownists who beguiled with a false spirit of zeale , make separation : so by perswading prouidence , hee doth fill the heart with couetousnesse : so by perswading perfection , hee foileth in will-worship : so these doctrins of Diuels forbidding meates , mariage , religiously , are broached vnder pretence of chastity , abstinence ; invocation of Angels and doubting , vnder pretence of humility . Col. 2. and vnwritten truths with curious questions , vnder pretence of profound learning : such like doctrine . Reuel. 2.24 so stiled , is called therefore the depth of Satan . 4. By disswading that which is truely good , as if it were a vice : thus repenting , and leading new liues , and taking vp the orders of God , this is new-fanglenes , and leuity : thus doing any dutie that is not so generally receiued , it is disswaded as singularity and pride ; thus zeale is madnesse , as in Christs practice censured . Mar. 3.21 . And Paul was thought to be mad through much learning : thus the lawfull remedy is calumniated as vncleannesse ; depending on Gods providence is counted tempting him : as in that example of Ahaz , Esay 7.12 . Particular faith is pride , &c. And thus he doth sette fine colours on foule cloathes , and like an Angel of light doth beguile vs . 3. Hee taketh on him the person of Saints departed : as apparitions for the confirmation of erronious doctrines , do fully assure vs .

The second lesse apparant action is , his d●ssembling of his strength ; somtime eleuating , lessening his power : as when our Lord hath foyled him in vs , hee will make vs if he were easily withstood that wee might after a sort command him , that then wee might wex secure , and bee betrayed , 2. By dissembled flight , like the stratagem vsed , Ios. 7. Iud. 20. Hee will seeme as fled , but then hee playeth the Parthian , hee fighteth most dangerously : Thus many that haue beene prodigall , giuen to women , are grown better husbands , and become new men ; the Diuell seemeth to bee fled : but if they be not new creatures indeede , having new hearts , hungring after righteousnesse , and the knowledge of God , in Christ , the Diuell hath them farre surer then before .

So in Saul , when the evil spirit came vpon him ; when Dauid played , the Diuell seemed to be gone , but alas nothing lesse . So some haue bin troubled in conscience , and they haue skinned all ouer in their manner , all is quiet now : but let them beware , for if they haue not met with the right cure , the Diuell by lying still , and dissembling flight , will make them secure to their destruction .

Now , wee cannot finde them out better , then by considering of warlike stratagems , to one whereof the holy Ghost here hath reference . Now these are diuided into three bands : for they are either in prying out , or in concealement , or in matter of attempt . For the first , the diuell doth pry into vs , and knoweth vs but too well , hee is named from knowledge , yea he hath his intelligences from every look , gesture , affection , &c. that we may say as Aram did , We can doo nothing in our bed-chamber , but he vnderstandeth it , 2. Kings 2.11.12 .

Secondly , for concealement , he is as subtill to finde vs out as to hide himselfe ; and therefore carrieth his matters so , that the most are murderd by him before they wist who hurt them ; being like the Fox , who entereth fetching leaps into her hole , that one may not bee able to trace her to her den she lieth in : which will appear more in his more apparent practices . His more apparent practices are these ; First , his ambushment : and this word doth note a stratagem vsed by the Israelites against Ai : this is the noted course of the divell , that hee shall bite at the heele , and come vpon vs behinde our backe as it were . Thus somtime he tempteth vs to grosse neglect of our duty or the contrary , but he commeth vpon vs stealing , with indevotion , or eying man in the performance of duty , seeking to corrupt the manner or intention : but these things not taking place , hee hath lying in ambush , pride and security ; with which , after performing any good duty , we are ready to be overtaken .

A second stratagem , to restraine course of victuall from the besieged , or to take away weapons from the enemy ; the one practiced against Samaria , the other by the Pstilistims against Israel , 1. Sam. 13.19 . Now this is the attempt of Satan against vs , to famish vs if it were possible : for now at a sermon , the milk , bread , and meat of our soules , is dealt forth by Gods Steward ; but how many doth the divell keep from tasting one mouth ful ? som vanish in wandring thoughts : some sit like pillars : some if they bee held too long , or haue it not trimly dished forth , fall out with their meat , and will none : so many worthy communicants hee maketh afraid to touch the sacrament ; vncomfortable performance , indispositions so trouble them . So he doth labour nothing more , then to wring our weapons out of our hands ; as praier , what a deal of discomfort doe wee knowe in it ? such swarms of thoughts impertinent , such mists , such losse of all comfortable sense ? But the divell knoweth , that a praier preferred in the obedience of faith , though out of the deeps of death and spirituall thraldome , is twice acceptable : but his drift is to make vs lay aside praier . So faith : what is the matter that renewing our faith wee haue some trial presently that shaketh vs more then euer ? The matter the divell aimeth at is , to make vs by such continuall foiles , after renuing our faith ▪ bee weary of this , and so cast our shield from vs .

A third stratagem in enemies is , to get the contrary forces out of their hould , or to disorder their march and battell array , Ios. 7. Iud. 20.

Now this is the diuels politicke practice : for our wal & mount is first our belief in the word of promise , and threatning of God if we sin ; 2. Our constant course in good exercises . Now the divel wil draw vs from these , as those in Mal. 3.14 . who were brought to say , It is in vain to serue the Lord : as Evah , the divell brought her to make a peraduenture of death that was so peremtorily threatned , & then stabbed her deadly . So Dauid was wont to pray thrice a day , and take times for such devotions : but the diuel ( as it is probable in 2. Sam. 11.2 . ) had caused him to com from his trench , and then did presently wound him .

The fourth stratagem is , Spreading of false terrors . Iud. 7. Gedcon with a frightfull showe did so astonish the enemy , that they turned one against the other : thus the diuell doth often marshal many causelesse terrors , as he makes others presume when they should tremble . Hence it commeth , that hee maketh Gods dear christian children be sometime troubled with fear whether they are in the fauour of GOD , whether they euer had true grace whether they haue not sinned against the holy Ghost . So in particular actions if one will make a conscience of vnlawfull gain , he will feare them with poverty , They shall not be able to liue : so , if they bee liberall , he wil cast in this fear , They may want themselues : so , if they defend an innocent helplesse person , he will bid them looke what they doo , they may draw an old house on their heads : and he doth fill the eyes of the spirit with such disguised bug-beares .

The fift stratagem is , to send-in som small forces , or suborn som treacherous instruments which may betray all : thus the divell will often fasten small sinnes on vs , to bring vs on to greater ; suborne false brethren .

Now what is the vse of all this , but to stirre vs vp to looke about vs ? seeing wee haue so secret and so subtill an adversary instructed with a thousand arts to circumvent vs , what need haue we to be innocent as Doues , but wise as Serpents ? Now , if you will ask , How wee may bee k●pt safe . ? Learn to feare and suspect the euill one : this is the Sentinell of the soule , which maketh discouery of the aduersary . Bee watchfull , &c. Credulity is full of perill , but wise suspicion secureth from danger . Secondly , let vs keep within our houlds ; keepe the threatning word within thy hart , & the daily course of christian duty , and they shall not bee able to hurt : but aboue all things , hould Christ and his wisdome by faith : for ( Pro. 8.12 . ) hee dwelleth with prudence , he findeth out counsels , the spirit of wisdome is in him . If we had to deale with some crafty B●oaker , wee would ioine the wisest head wee could meet with against him : but get Christ the wisdome of the father , and no wisedome shall bee able to hurt thee .

Fourthly , pray with Dauid . Achitophels stratagems , in the time of peace , were like the Oracles of God ; but what said Dauid , Lord confound the wisedome of Achitophel . 2. This should teach vs thankfulnes to God , who in his word doth make discouerie of such like stratagems . If one discouer to vs any wily device of an enemy , we are glad , nothing doth come to vs more welcome : so nothing should more reioyce vs , who are in our warfnre , then to know what plots our enemies haue contriued against vs . Forewarned , forearmed .

The reason followeth . For we wrestle not against flesh and blood , &c.

In which , three things are to be considered . 1. Who are the wrestlers . 2. The wrestling it selfe . 3. The Antagonists that wrestle with vs . But the wordes are difficult : therefore it may bee asked , What it this wrestling ? Ans. 1. A speech borrowed from an earthly exercise , to shadowe a spirituall course . For wrestling against one , is the putting of a bodily force forth , that I may cast down from his standing , and lay along him against whom I wrestle : so the life of a Christian , is the receiuing of a spirituall impression from the powers of darkenesse , which they make to this end , that they may cast vs downe from the state of faith , righteousnesse , & blessednesse ; to an vnbeleeuing , vnrighteous , & cursed condition .

Secondly , it may be asked , how it is said wee fight not against flesh and blood , seeing the Apostle saith , Hee fought with beasts at Ephesus , &c. that is , sauage men , of beastly quality ; seeing againe that men make vs no small exercise ? Answ. The meaning is not simply to exclude them ; but after a sort : in this manner , wee haue not onely , or principally flesh and blood . The like speech is to bee found elsewhere . God saith by Samuel , they haue not cast thee off , but me : that is , not thee only or principally . 1. Samuel , 8.7 .

Thirdly , it may be asked , how the Apostle can say , that these do thus molest vs , the powers of darknesse ; when Colos. 1.13 . wee are said to bee deliuered from them . Iohn 16.11 . The Prince of this world is sayd to bee cast forth , and iudged ?

Ans. We are deliuered from the raging power of them , not power of tempting for exercise sake . 2. Wee haue deliuerance , and Satan is subdued in part : for the Scripture speaketh of things begun , and in dooing ; as done : in some measure wee haue deliuerance , but not perfect . Wee see not all things subiect to Christ . Heb. 2.8 . and Rom. 16.20 . Satan is not , but shortly shall be troden down vnder our feet ; This serues in generall . But the last part of the verse is difficult , & therfore requireth more particular examination . For the summe therefore of it , here is a description of the Diuell & his Angels , which are the assaylants of vs in the way of saluation . Now they are described three waies . 1. From the respect of power they haue in regard of this world , and that particularly called principalities , and powers ; generally , call'd worldly gouernours ; which is expounded by way of correction , gouernours of the darknesse of this world . 2. They are described from their nature . 1. Their essence , spirits . 2. Their quality , wicked . 3. From the place of them , in high places , or heauenly places ;

The aire called by the name of heauen , as the fowles of the ayre are called the fowles of heauen . Now for the meaning , wee must open the words . 1. What is the difference betwixt these three words . Ans. They do lay downe a difference of degrees in evill Angels , which is plainely taught in Scripture . 2. The exact difference , is not comprehended by vs , though the Lord hath reuealed it . We say it is taught in the Scriptures , that if any thing bee found out pertinent and sound , it may be knowne to haue been reuealed by God . 2. We say , that these things , though in Scripture not fully conceiued , we may teach modesty , and conscience of our infirmity , when we come to the Scripture ; that so wee may seeke to haue our vnderstanding vnlocked . 2. That we may banish the pride of being wise aboue that which is written , when we cannot conceiue all things written . 3. That we may teach , that the perspicuous knowledge of this doctrine of Angels , is kept till we shall be 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . But yet with reuerence so farre as the word of God doth holde forth light , wee may impart that wee conceiue .

First , therefore you must knowe that there are two spirituall kingdomes in the world . The one of light , God , Christ . The other of Satan , called also the power of darknesse . Col. 1.13 . Who hath deliuered vs from the power of darknesse . Act. 26. Now as the kingdome of God is not in word , but in power , in righteousnesse , peace , and ioy : So the kingdom of Satan is in power ; which especially stands in foure things . In sinne , which as a spiritual iudgement he doth execute : In the curse . Heb. 2.14 That hee might destroy through death , him that had the power of death : in inflicting euils apparantly , euill in bodie , soule , goods : and in giuing things good in themselues ; yet bestowed in Gods fierce wrath . And thus hee bestoweth through Gods iust iudgement , the glory and riches of this world . For when God wil let a man thriue in sinne , the Diuell will serue him in prosperous successe , aboue that his heart can desire . This is his proper power in regarde of the wicked . Now in respect of the godly , he hath a power to exercise them with sundry tentations .

Secondly , you must sette downe , that in this kingdome of euill Angels , there are some in order before others ; that is granted of all . More particularly , there is one vniuersall commander of the rest , and Prince as it were of the whole world : therefore the Scripture speaketh singularly of him , calling him the Diuell , with an eminency aboue his Angels : Satan , the Prince of this world , as our Sauiour doth often call him , in Iohn 2. There are Princes , or principall spirits in Nations and Countries vnder him . Thus the Scripture teacheth , Dan. 10.13 . The Prince of Persia , where he speaketh of an Angel hauing power in that countrey ; hauing power to worke so in the sonnes of disobedience , that the matter of the Church was hindered . And these are principally vnder the Prince of the whole world .

Thirdly , it may bee probably conceiued , that in Countries there are of inferiour authority vnder them , and they are powers . For in earthly kingdomes ( when these two words are ioyned ) the one doth signifie principall gouernours , the other second ones , or subdelegate vnder them : So that , the first word may note the Prince of the whole world , and such as are principall ouer nations vnder him . The second , such as are in authority vnder them , to execute Gods spiritual iudgement of sinne and curse , and haue power of tempting the Saints . Now the third word doth comprehend both the former , as the generall doth the kindes vnder it : For both the Princes of this world , Princes nationall , and powers inferior to them , all are worldly gouernours .

Now hee openeth the foundation of this their power ; lest they should bee thought gouernours , such as are the sons of the most high , and haue receiued magistracie for the good of men ; hee saith , they be rulers in the world , by reason of the darknesse in it : or by the world , I mean the darknesse of sinne , all kinde of curses , and spirituall temptations . The second thing they are described from , is their nature . First , they are spirituall : that is , intelligences that cannot be seene with eye ; subtle and powerfull . 2. For their qualitie , wicked ; such as haue at least eminently in them al wickednes . The third thing is the place ; the doctrine of which , you may remember in these three conclusions .

First , they are cast out of heauen ; which was their first habitation , Iude 6. Secondly , the place appointed to them all ( and where som are reserued to the last day ) is hell , or the deep . 2. Pet. 2.4 . For if God spared not the Angels , &c. Luke 8.31 . And they besought him that hee would not commaund them to goe out into the deepe , that is into hell . For these guilty persons are imprisoned before execution .

Thirdly , that Gods iust disposition is such , that for executing his spiritual iudgments & curses on the wicked , & trying with temptations his owne children , some of them are in the earth . Apoca. 12.12 . For the Diuell is come downe in great rage . Iob 1. The Diuel compasseth the earth . Some are in the ayre , as in this place to hinder the sauing hearing of Gods word ; and in the story of Iob , they stirred vp tempests ,

Now then the summe of these wordes , may more largely in this maner be vnfolded . You haue good reason to put on the armour of God : for all of vs who haue receiued to beleeue , & haue through faith our hearts purified to obedience ; what is our life , but a continuall conflict ( wrestle ) and who are those that encounter vs ? Not flesh & blood , for then wee needed not armour of such high proofe , forged by God himselfe . But those that striue with vs , are such , as if you looke at their authority , they haue a kingdome amongst men , the Prince of the whole world ; vnder him national Princes ; these haue principalities , and secondarie powers vnder them . These principalities and powers , these all of them are great gouernours in the world , doe all of them resist vs , yet I wold not haue you take them such as haue a magistracy ouer the outward man , for the good of them , as worldly Princes ; who are therefore called gods . But the regency they haue amongst men , is by reason of darkenesse . Gods spirituall iudgements , curses which God will haue executed , and temptations wherwith God will haue his children exercised ; gouernours of the darkenes of this world . Againe , for their nature , they are not weake flesh , but spirit : and therefore subtle , & mighty to spread their wickednesse , wherewith they are replenished .

Finally , they are such to whom ( cast out of heauen ) though the deepe hell belongeth ; yet the Lord by his iust dispensation ( that his iudgements may bee executed on the wicked , and his children tryed ) doth let them bee in the earth , and houer ouer our heads in the ayre , in great abundance , prying into vs , and so hauing the vantage of the place against vs .

First , then wee see heere , that no man , whatsoeuer his worthinesse is , or graces , but is encountred by Satan . Our parents were set-on in state of innocency : Christ ; He desired to winnow the Apostles : for of all other he is the most opposite to such , as who will still be busiest where he hath least to doo . And no marvell : for , the Saints haue received Gods presse-mony , and bound themselves by sacrament to fight against him . Againe , the Saints are passed ( by the power of God ) out of his kingdome , and therefore hee doth spite them , as not of his family : as dogs vse to bark , and bite not those of the house they are in , but strangers : and the Saints finally haue the goulden graces of God , which are the treasure hee would robbe from them . Theeues break not into poore cottages , but houses which are fullest of treasure : so Satan wil offer to break into those hearts which God hath silld with his spirituall treasure ; there is booty for his malice to prey vpon .

This therefore must bee laid down , that All the faithfull finde spirituall enmity agai●st them : for though somtime hee goe away for a season , Luke 4.13 ; though there be olde men aswell as yong : yet this hindreth not , but that it may bee affirmed of all , that they haue their enemies still begirting them , and assailing them , when they hope for advantage by it . Which doth refute the vaine iudgement of the world , which savoureth not the things of God : for wheras this is the estate of all Saints , they count them either foolish , or humorous , troubled with they knowe not what , or think that they are some notorious sinners , if they bee in their mindes molested . Secondly , it must teach all of vs who are weak in grace , of small growth , not to wonder if we be troubled : for if the green wood escape not , what shall wee , dry in comparison , bee exempted ?

Thirdly , we must bee admonished ( though of never such proceeding ) not to lay aside our armour , seeing that wee are still subiect to be assaulted : Nunquam bella bonis , nunquam , certamina desunt .

Secondly , wee must see what is the course of a christian life : it is a conflicting course , or wrastling continually ; power of darknesse seeking to throwe him from faith , holinesse , blessednes , to sinne and a cursed estate : our life is a warfare . The life of all men generally is full of commotion , Iob. 14.1 ; much more of them , who for opposition in this world , are of all men the most miserable .

Paul saith , his life & course was a warfare ; I haue fought a good fight , &c. 2. Tim. 4 7. Iacob , Gen. 32.28 , beeing a patterne of all true-hearted Israelites , whose lives are a wrastling by teares and praiers , against all spirituall wickednes . Sometimes it is not manifest to the eye of the world , that the matter is so with them as it is , they are thought to haue faire lives ; but many a man , merry in company , hath a shrewe at home : so the Saints , though they may seeme to bee pleasant , haue that in secret which doth fill their hearts with sighes , and their eyes with teares , something outward , or inward , or both , wherwith they alwaies wrastle . It must bee thus : for the fire of grace is like the heat of the body in this , if the heat of the stomach had nothing to wrastle with , it would bring all the body , & so it selfe , into an vtter consumption : if Gods grace had not something without or within , exercising of it , with which it might wrastle , it could not , in this estate we are in , be preserved .

Againe , these wrastlings in temptation doo bring vs to knowe the power , wisdome , and faithfulnesse of God , to knowe our selues and others .

Thirdly , without striving , wee must not be crowned , 2. Tim. 2.5 . and if any man striue for a mastery , &c: for though this is not the cause , t is the way to our glory .

The which doth , first , let such knowe who lead pleasant lives , and are at ease in Sion , who are not poured from vessell to vessell , but walke on , as if their league and covenant were stricken with hell , that their course is not the life of Christians ( this is a wrastling and conflicting estate ) and it is a signe that the strong man possesseth the house , that all is so quiet .

Secondly , this must make vs , though wee finde much strife in the way , that wee must not faint , nay we must take heart : for this , that we finde such a conflict , is a token that wee are the Lords , and that he hath cast out the strong one of the world . But you will say : May every one that findeth a strife be sure of this ? Naturall men haue a fight often in themselues , condemning that they doo , approuing the contrary ; Video meliora , proboque . Ans. There is a fight betweene the naturall light of conscience , and the sensuall courses . But by these three rules we may discerne the fight of the spirit and flesh from it : First , our strife is caused not from enormous swarving , but from the corrupt quality which infecteth vs throughout , our birth , sin , the law of evill which dwelleth in the members . Now this is a thing which the light of nature doth not descry .

Secondly , the light of nature causeth a strife , when we doo some grosse things , or in grosse neglect : but the strife of the spirit is in good things , against the not perfect performance of them : thus Pauls fight was , that he could not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , accomplish the things hee would , in the manner hee desired . Third●y , this naturall accusing was in vs alwaies : but this strife of the spirit wee finde by experience , we never knew what it meant , till , giving our names to Christ , we did endevour in all things to serue him . Hence it is , that they who now most complaine , will say , they once thought themselues well enough , & euery little thing too much forwardnes , before GOD touched them more neerly .

Now followeth the third thing , who it is that doth in all things striue against vs ? The Diuell and his Angels . This the Scripture hath of olde taught , God putting enmity between the serpent and the seed of the woman , and therefore the Diuell by eminency is cald the Tempter . 1. Thes. 3.5 . And his hatred is so great , that there is nothing from which he will not take occasion to be dealing with vs . For as God doth worke the perfecting of his by the buffeting of the Diuell : so Satan doth turne the best graces of God to matter of temptation . But for the clearing of this , wee must knowe that the Diuell doth sometimes tempt vs immediately : as Ananias , Acts 5.3 . Iudas , Luke 22.2 . Secondly , thus : in temptation of blasphemy , selfe murther , in the iudgement which hee bringeth , and in this maner Christ was tempted , in two temptations ; & Iobs body and goods were touched by him .

Now bee is plainely wrestling in this kinde , but in those things wherein hee is not the next moouer , yet is the first and more remote agent ; and therefore they may be saide in some things to wrestle against vs : As when the things of this world arme themselues , or the persons in the world doe make vs matter ; Satan is a principall worker in them all . The last branch is to bee shewed in the next doctrine : the things of the world , as glory , riches , pleasure , must not be considered as naked things , but as instruments by his vse lifted vp , the force they haue of bewitching and inueigling our hearts from God . Thus hee vsed the glory of the world to Christ as a bait to take him with . Thus , 1. Timothie 6.9 . riches are his snare ; thus the apple delighting the eie and taste , was an argument hee preferred to our first parents : and that life in these things , which so worketh on the naturall man , commeth partly from Satan , which is also crucified by the same crosse of Christ , by which he was subdued . 2. Saint Iames Iam 1.14 . saith , that our concupiscence withdrawing vs , wee are tempted of it : but though it be so fruitfull a parent that it can without mid-wifery bring forth alone : yet wee must conceiue it so , that for the most part , our lust is moued and excited by these euil spirits , they blowe the coals vp , and are the fires of the sinne whereof our concupiscence is the mother : be not angry , giue not place to the Diuell , the Diuell therefore stirreth vp anger , Ephe. 4.26.27 . Dauids heart did swell , but the Diuell perswaded & mooued it , 1. Chron. 21.1 . The widowes following lust , goe after the Diuell , 1. Tim. 5.15 . And as it is alwaies true that when wee doe any good thing , wee doe it from the principles of grace in vs , yet the spirit giueth vs the will and the deede : so when wee doe euill withdrawn by our concupiscence , the Diuell for the most part doth kindle , and excite the sin which dwels in vs , that we may say it is true , The Diuel is , by himselfe , and by the things of this world , & by concupiscence , the principall tempter .

Now more particularly , that he saith we wrestle not against flesh and blood , it doth teach vs , that in those things men doe or speake offensiuely to vs , our principall enemie is not man . Paul had much opposition by men , yet hee saith we wrestle not against men : he saw worse enemies in them then themselues : men did persecute the Saints , but Reuel. 2.10 . the holy Ghost saith , the Diuell doth cast them into prison : the false teachers did seduce the Corinthians , but 2. Cor. 4.11 . the holy Ghost saith , Satan did beguile them : the Damosell and men that chased Peter to the denyall of his Master , were not his chiefe enemies , but the Diuell that desired to winnow him , Luke 22.21 . So the Caldeans and Sabeans , that spoyled Iobs goods , were not the chiefe against him , but Satan by them . The Diuell doth like fowlers who go with their stalking horse twixt them and the fowle , that they may shoote more securely : so hee doth put men , sometime our friends , somtime good men , of whom we are nothing afraid , between vs and him , that hee may work his mischiefe vndiscerned . Wherfore seeing it is thus , when any person doth offend vs , or prouoke our spirit , let vs not so much looke at them , as at the enmitie the Diuell doth shew in them , who doth labour to winow vs , weaken our faith , break our patience by those things ; and this wold make vs not take to heart , so much persons that offend vs , but bend our forces most against those principal enemies , whose trunks & instruments the other are . Saul left hunting Dauid when he heard the Philistims were vpon him . 2. Seeing the Diuel doth euen make men instruments of his wickednes , let vs by the way take good heed , that hee doe not circumuent vs : the rather , because hee will winde in him selfe , when wee haue no ill purpose in it ; as Peter praying Christ to spare himselfe . The Corinthians being seuere to the incestuous person , the Diuell would haue vsed this their course to the ouerwhelming of him with sorrowe .

Secondly , the Diuell , with his Angels are called powers and principalities . Wee see the euill Angels haue a great stroke in the frame of this present euill world , in ordering ( or rather disordering ) of states and kingdomes : these are not emptie titles , , but giuen them from a powerfull action they haue in the hearts of men , by Gods permission : And the same must be gathered when hee is called the Prince of this world , yea , 2. Cor. 4.4 . the god of this world ; his vsurpation , and the spirits of euill men yeelding him no lesse . Great is their power in keeping out good , keeping in euill , procuring iudgement : and hee doth scoure thorough Court and Countrey , for this purpose . Thus he prouoked Dauid by sinne to lay the people naked to Gods iudgement , 1. Chro. 21.1 . And Satan stood vp against Israell . Thus hee laboured to cutte off the hopes of the Church , by stirring vp euill Princes , to entrap Daniel in the matter of his religion . Dan. 6.5 . Thus hee stood at the right hand of Iehosuah to resist him . Zach. 3.2 . Prince , Priest , and People , hee worketh in them all to holde vp his owne kingdome , and stablisheth all things that serue for it ; as on the contrary to keepe out light & truth , and all means which shold befriend these . Hence it was , that the best Kings of Iudah neuer made a thorough reformation : hence , that in some Countries receiuing the Gospell , as in Germany , there haue beene such bones of dissension , as subscription to their bookes of concord , the apple of discord . For Mat. 13.24.25 . the Diuell soweth tares , when good seede is sowen by the Lord .

Wherefore seeing that these spirits haue such a power in this world , we must not wonder at such speeches , Which of the great ones beleeue on him ? Ioh. 7.48 . You see your calling , not many wise men after the flesh , not many mighty , not many noble are called , 1. Cor. 1.26 . For then the Diuell could not haue so great a sway in the kingdome of this world , if he should not holde great personages ( for the most part ) sure to him . Againe , it letteth vs see , that the succesfull proceeding of the Church and Common-wealth , will not come off easily ; for these powers doe oppose against it . And such as are light of beleefe in this point , it proceedeth from ignorance : They doe not knowe the power , and latitude of the Diuels kingdom . But the third and principall vse is , to stirre vs vp to pray that God would make these powers fall down like lightning from heauen : that God would binde vp these powers of darknesse , and send forth his good Angels to watch for the good of Church and Countrey . If the Diuell be so busie to hinder the personall progresse of a private man , what will he do to withstand the happy estate of a whole nation , if God should not rebuke him ?

The third thing to bee marked hence , is , that hee saith they be gouernours of the darknesse of this world : Obserue hence , that whosoeuer doe liue in the state of darknesse , they are vnder the Diuels power . These are ioyned , the one as the foundation of the other : and before wee haue deliuerance from the one , we cannot be freed from the other . Act. 26.18 , To open their eyes , that they may turn from darknes to light , and from the power of Satan to God , &c. And therefore the Scripture affirmeth of one , who heareth the word , and commeth not to the affectiue knowledge of it ( so to learne Christ , as the truth is in Christ ) that hee is in the hands of the God of this world . 2. Cor. 4.4 . In whom the God of this world hath blinded their mindes , that is , of the Infidels : that the light of the glorious Gospell of Christ , which is the image of God , should not shine vnto them ; for ignorance is the very foundation of the Diuels kingdome . Againe , whoso liueth in the darknesse of sinne , is of the Diuell . Ioh. 3.8 , He that commiteth sinne is of the Diuell : and whoso is subiect to Gods curse ( as euery one not truely beleeuing is ) is as yet vnder the power of Satan : for hee is Gods executioner ; euen as we may say , if a man bee led pinioned vp the ladder , and haue a handkerchiefe knit before his eyes , that hee is in the hands of the hangman . If one be in the dungeon at the Castle , with boults on him , we may say he is vnder the power of the Iayler : so if this vaile be knit before the eyes of the mind and so the face couered : If one do liue in vnrighteousnes & vnholinesse , bound with the bands of many trespasses ( whose sins you shall loose ) If one lie in the little ease of an euill conscience , whether he be in a drunken sleep and feele nothing , or if hee be waking : such a party is in the power of Satan ; for the Diuell is but the Iayler and hangman to the Iustice of God .

Wherfore let vs examine our selues , and consider how it is with vs : for wee would blesse our selues , wee would be loth to haue one neer vs , come into such condition for the outward man , so shamefull , so miserable : but let vs look our soules be not in worse hands . It is so with vs , that the eye sees not , the heart dreads not , yea wee count our chaines and imprisonment the onely liberty ; and to knowe nothing , nor to care for any thing in matters of religion , the pleasant life . Men loue darknes better then light ; & because they haue euer beene in this hell , they thinke there is no other heauen : but if you be thus imprisoned in darknes of vnderstanding , in vnrighteousnes vnder Gods displeasure ; knowe this , there will come a day of execution too soon vpon you .

Secondly , wee must stirre vp our selues to thankfulnes , who are now made light in the Lord : for if the divell 's territories reach no further then darknes , we are delivered from his kingdom , who haue received the light of vnderstanding and holiness in any measure . This made the Apostle , Col. 1.12 , break out into thanksgiving . Is it not a merry time when the gaole-delivery comes , when their fees are payed , when their Irons are took off , and themselues discharged , that they now may walk at liberty ? it is merry with them , though they hault a little after : so with vs , though wee limp by reason of the chains wee carried so long , wee should tell this treasure often .

The fourth thing to bee marked from hence is , that the divels are called spiritual wickednes , or spirits of wickednes , that As wee will haue nothing to doe with the diu●ll , so must we flee from his wickednes : if we l●t-in his wickednesse , we cannot but giue him entertainment : for , the diuell cometh vnto vs in suggestions of vnrighteousnes ; if wee consent to them , wee entertaine the divell . Ananias and Iudas , when they consented to the wicked motions the divell inspired into them ; the divell is said to fill the heart of the one , and to enter into the other , Luke 22.3 . Acts 5.3 . and not onely of these enormous sinners , but of all that walke in euill : and for the diuell he hath a dwelling in them ; The strong man armed keepeth the house , Mat. 12. yea , the godly if they listen to wickednes , they giue place to the diuell , Eph. 4 : for looke , as when God knocketh at our harts by a holy motion , if wee open in obeying , the Lord doth come , and further dwell in vs , Apo. 3.21 . So when these wicked spirits doo reach out their wickednes vnto vs , if wee consent to it , they come to possesse vs after a sort , and haue a dwelling in vs . But , you will say then , Who hath not the divell dwelling with him ? for , who doth not often yeeld to evil ? Ans. None but doo somtime giue place to him , yet he dwelleth not alike in all . Those that with full consent of heart receiue his suggestions , he hath full hould in them : but the godly when they giue place to him , they let him come into the suburbs and out-parts : but because Christ dwelleth in their hearts by faith ; the tower being kept , hee is , by the renewing of their faith and repentance , forced to retire . This therefore is to bee marked , that seeing the diuell is nothing but a spirit of wickednes , that by consenting to wickednes , wee let-in the divell vnto vs . Now then take heed : men will spet at his name , and blesse themselves from having to doe with him : but if you giue place to wrath , stomachfulnes , contention , pride , good fellowship , and the suggestions of this kinde , you receiue him into your bosome , and are notably foolish ; like as men should be afraid at the name of fire , but care not to bee burned with the heat of it . You must not conceiue of the diuell as of som hideous shape , as if hee should come like as you dresse him in May-games and Pageants , with hornes , in an ox-hide , and cloven feet , squirting fire ; no saith hee , I will goe to such a one , I will bee a spirit of vntruth , I will be a spirit of error , 1. Reg. vlt. 22. a spirit of couetousnes , of pride , of malice ; I will suggest these things : Consent to these wickednesses , and you receiue the spirit which prompteth you with them , to your vnderstanding . And the Lord teach vs to hate wickednes , even as the divell that is a spirit of it , full of it , and labouring to fill vs with it .

Lastly , that they are in high places , are aboue vs , Hence learne circumspection : for , seeing we ly naked to the view of them , wee must bee carefull , that they spy nothing in vs to their advantage : againe , what are they ? not only lion-like enemies , but malitious Promoters .

Now if a Promoter , that should bear vs no good wil , should stand ouer our heads , would we not be watchful ; knowing , that every fault would be informed against vs ? so the divell is no other then a malitious accuser of vs ; and these spirituall wickednesses hang hovering over our heads : wherefore we had need be circumspect . [ ver. 13. and for this cause . ] Now followeth the sounding of the alarum a second time by the Apostle to vs , the vse of all this great description of the power of darknes : which though for substance it is all one with verse 11 , yet the considerations in it are divers : for the holy Ghost doth in repetitions inforce circumstances different ; both for our further delight and instruction , as the same meat maketh divers dishes if diversly cooked . The words are plaine , the parts are the exhortation to our duty ( grounded on the words before ) and the ends of our duty : he exhorteth to the one , leading to the other . First , resistance amplified from the circumstance of time , in the evill day ; that is , in the houres of temptation , of afflictions , of the power of darknes .

Secondly , perseuerance , set down by the antecedent , That hauing finished all things ( that is , hauing out-wrestled all the euills which meete you in these hard times ) you may bee able to holde your owne ; yea to go on more and more strenghened and fuller of resolution then before . Wee see then what is the end of all that is reuealed of euill Angels , their subtiltie and power ; That we pull vp good hearts to resist them . It is not to feed curiosity , but to make vs more vigilant . 1. Pet. 5.8 . Be sober & watch , for your aduersary the Diuel goes about as a roaring Lion , &c. Much lesse is it the purpose of Paul to disharten vs , as those naughty Spies , Num. 13. who tolde of the Gyants of Canaan , so as to quaile the courage of the Israelites : but this faithfull seruant doth so tell them , that hee may whet vp our spirits to the resistance of them . 1. Pet. 5.9 . Whom resist stedfast in the faith . This then must be our care , when we know how powerfull , subtill aduersaries wee haue , To buckle our selues to battell , and gird vp our loynes to martial resistance . Now , that we may bee encouraged to wage this warre , who are so weake , First , we must consider the spirit in vs , is stronger then the spirite in the world . 1. Iohn 4.4 . The spirit which doth beare at one end of the staffe in euery godly fight , is stronger then all the Diuels in hell . Secondly , all the Diuels power is limited , and that short , that he is not able to wound vs mortally . Gen. 3 15. Hee shall bruse thy heele : he cannot wound vs in the head , or hurt vs , as Christ doth him ( yea and maketh vs likewis● ) when he doth tread him vnder our feete . Rom. 16 20. The God of peace shall shortly tread down Satan , &c. All his power is deriued and lymited : hee can not touch a cattell that belongeth to vs , nor a hogge , if Christ doe not make him his warrant .

This we may see by experience , what is the cause , when wee are in the best liking , the Diuell doth bring vs downe and moyle vs in sinne ; and yet , when by sin wee lie vnder him , hee can do nothing till we are risen by dayly repentance : hee is at his chaines end , and can goe no further : if we were in the mouth of this roring Lion , hee could not couch his fangs without Gods permission . Thirdly , notwithstanding all his power , hee can doe nothing with vs but by our owne leaue , hee hee must knock and ask our leaue before he enter . Now a tyrant that raignes by entreatie , is not much feared : and an enemy Qui non potest vincere , nisi volentem , is not much dreadfull . Fourthly , Christ hath vnarmed , and bound him . Colos. 2.15 . and hath spoyled the principalities and powers .

His Panoplia is gone . Now for a man in compleat harnesse to feare a naked bound Gyant , were too much dastardise . Fiftly , We haue the good Angels with vs , fighting against them . Psa. 91.11 . For he shall giue his Angels charge ouer thee , &c. Heb. 1.14 . Are they not all ministring spirits sent forth to minister for their sakes , which shall be heires of saluation ? So that if our eyes were opened , we might see ( as Elisha saide ) there are more with vs , then against vs . Lastly , our Captaine , the Lord Iesus , the Lord of Hostes , the First & the Last , is with vs for our encouragement . If one Iosuah could stand against one and thirtie Kings , of Canaan , what principalities , powers , vertues , shall be able to stand before our Iehoshuah , the Lord of Hoasts ? Wherefore though they be mighty , yet we may say as he , Num. 14.9 . They are as bread for vs , & let vs take heed how we let our hearts be daunted , & speake of our sinnes , and other such infirmities , as if we neuer shold out-grow them , and wish our selues dead , rather then so yoaked . For if God would take vs at our wordes , it were enough to keepe vs out of that glorious rest of his . Num. 14.28 . As I liue saith the Lord , I will doe vnto you euen as yee haue spoken in mine eares . But we serue a gracious Lord .

The second thing to bee marked , is , We must prepare our selues before the day of temptation commeth . Take vp , that when it commeth you may resist . It is good for vs to be appointed aforehand , when we know that we shal be set vpon with euills . Iob. 3.25 . Hee when it was faire weather looked for a season of temptations . Paul , Acts 20.24 . hee cared for nothing but this , that he might finish his course with ioy , shoot the vp-shot well , and in the euill time surrender a comfortable spirit to his Creator . And this duty is enioyned , when wee are bid be sober and watchfull . For first , in preparing to warre , is the continuance of peace . If a nation grow secure , and let fall the care of all warlike munitions , it is a whistle that calleth , vpon them , som forrain enemy : when men goe naked it maketh knaues set vpon them , that would not stirre were they weaponed . Againe , wee cannot dispatch smal things to com off happily , without prouidence before they come : If one put off things to the point of time in which they are to bee vsed , how many difficulties doe they meete with , which with forecast are happily contriued ? As it fared with those Virgins Mat. 25. who brought not oyle , till their Lord was come : they then came too late , the day after the Fair : so a thousand to one , that who neglecteth the present time , and prouideth not , shall neuer in the euill day bee able to compasse it .

This then rebuketh the way of many , who take no care for the time to come , let to morrw care for it selfe ; who may be sent to School to the Ant , Pro. 6.6.8 . shee doth in summer store vp for winter ; who may bee checked by their owne courses in things earthly . If they haue a iourney to make of pleasure , they will be weeks aforehand prouiding for it : if they feare hard times , they will lay vp something against the dear year . Which wisedome in earthly things may euince their folly , who wil not get a stock of grace , on which to spend in hard times , when it is no easie gathering . Secondly , it must teach vs to haue our eyes in our head : and foreseeing , euill times are to come , let vs hide our selues vnder the wings of the Almighty . Let this this be one of our petitions , That we may finde grace from the throne of grace , in the times of need . In Anno 88. when we had intelligence of the the ships comming against vs , the Drum was stricken vp in our streets , presse money walking , mustering euery where , all kinde of prouision , that wee might be able to meet them victoriously : so it becometh , that hauing certain intelligence , that these times will come , though it is vncertaine when , wee should put our selues alwayes in a readinesse .

Thirdly , it is to bee marked , That when hee biddeth all the faithfull prouide against the euill day , hee taketh this for granted , tho whosoeuer are the Lords , in this course of their liues shall know some hard seasons . Hee doth not shoot off false fires , making them afraid of moon-shine in water , but forewarneth them of that which should befall them . Neither doth hee tell them of euill times , on this particular ground , that persecutions were hard at hand only , which are not alwaies ; but on this ground , that the powers of darknesse doe fights against vs , which is common to all ages . Wherfore the doctrine is plaine , that the Lords shall knowe in the course of their liues , som times full of difficulty . We must not think that hony moones will last all the year . True it is , there is great diuersitie : yet this also is true , that in all liues they haue their euill dayes in them . Some are very dripping euer and anon showrs , like Iacobs : some faire in the fore-part , and ending , but hauing a sound shower at noon-time , like Iob : som in the ending clowdy and stormy , as Iohn 20.18 . It is said of Peter , that when he was young , hee went whither hee would , &c. when these days shal com it is hid . Iob 24.1 , How should not the times bee hidden from the Almighty , seeing who know him , see not his daies . But that such doe abide vs is reuealed . Euery one that will liue godly , must suffer persecution . Wee must thorogh many afflictions , Acts 14.22 . If wee haue not our chastising wee are bastards , Heb. 12. This then doth check the security of many , who because it is , and hath been well , they thinke the hand of the Almighty will neuer alter : think they shall die on their nests . Iob 29.18 . Then I sayd , I shall die in my nest , I shall multiplie my dayes as the sand ; thinke they shall neuer bee moued , neuer see euill , Psal. 10.6 . That their mount shall not be shaken . They might as well say , the sunne shines , they shall neuer see raine againe .

Secondly , we must learne to walke in fear . The more prosperous our estate is , the more we must feare . We are sure to knowe euill times , sooner or later : suppose thou shouldest escape till death , it wil be an euill hower . For looke as enemies besieging a place , if some come to remooue them , they will desperately make on-set , as knowing , that if they win it not presently , they shall never prevaile : so Satan in death , then or never must he get the day of thee . Thinke therefore how furiously hee will assault : feare therefore those times ; and the rather , because if you fear , and your hearts melt ; God wil be mercifull . As Iosias when his heart melted at Gods threatnings , God tould him , they should not come to passe in his daies . If a rod shaken be enough , a parent will not strike with it .

Fourthly , that hee saith , having finished all things , that is , outwrastled all the evils wherwith in those hard times you shall be exercised ; obserue hence , that when times of temptation come , wee must look for many things wherin wee are to bee tryed . Having finished all things , wee must not looke to haue done : when some one trouble is outwrastled , one woe past , two follow , aswell in personall as publike visitations , Apoc. 9.12 . Iob when GOD brought the euill dayes on him , how many things , one in the neck of another , did exercise him ? changes , armies of sorrow did beset him , Iob 10.17 . Wherefore broughtest thou mee out of the wombe ? oh that I had perished , and no eie had seen me . So Christ : the divell came to him with a threefould temptation , and then gaue back but for a season . The particular evill day is described thus , Ecclesiastes , 12.2 . that after raine commeth clouds : that is , it is like this April-weather , as one shower is vnburdened , another is brewed : euen as in the euill day , when GOD doth muster his iudgements against the wicked , to consume them , God hath a pit , snare , feare ; as Esay 24.17 .

Or as Amos 5.19 . as if a man did flee from a Lyon , and a Beare meet him ; or went into the house , and leaned his hand on the wall , and a serpent bit him ; that is , hee hath one euill in the necke of another to destroy them : so in the day of temptation hee hath many exercises , that his children may bee throughly tryed , as gold in the furnace . Therefore men must not thinke , when one euill is past , all their bitternesse is ouer ; as children , if they haue had their payment , thinke all sure for a time after : neither yet must wee bee so short of spirit , as to wexe weary when God dealeth with vs , though wee like weather-beaten birds would sun our wings quickly : for , wee are all like Ephraim , Hos. 10.11 . wee loue to thresh , but endure not the yoak easily . Again , there being many trials in our euill dayes which abide vs , wee haue need to begge at Gods hand , that hee would teach vs to deny our selves , that he would strengthen vs in the inner man , to all long-sufferance with ioyfulnes . Thirdly , wee must learne to reckon on the worst : the best will saue it selfe . It is good to thinke ; I see where the hand of God hath begunne with mee , I knowe not where it will end with me . Cast the worst ; Short shooting heere may lose all . That is a worthy resolution of Iob in his day , 13.15 . If thou wilt kill me , yet will I trust in thee . Hee that beleeueth , maketh not haste .

Lastly wee see , that Wee must not onely haue care to out-wrastle euils for the present , but to perseuere after ; that is , hold our owne in grace , yea haue grace increased ; shewing it self in a holy defiance of all enmity , if the houre of death be at hand : or in further resolution to encounter new enmities , if life continue . Wee faint not , saith the Apostle , nay wee are more then conquerers , Rom. 8.37 . Heereto must bee recalled the glorious exulting , Rom. 8.38 . I am perswaded , that neither life , nor death , &c. I haue fought a fight , what is laid vp for me but a crowne of righteousnesse ? And while life continueth , wee must bee strengthened for further resistance . 1. Pet. 5.10 , And the God of all grace , which hath called vs to his eternall glory by Iesus Christ , after that yee haue suffred a little , make you perfect , confirme , strengthen , and stablish you ; Where , he maketh our confirming and strengthening of vs , a fruit following our subduing of temptations : as trees shaken , root more firmly ; and cities besieged , when the enemie prevaileth not , they growe euer after more invincible .

This then must teach vs , who haue endured many things , wee must haue care still to perseuere . What would be more pitiful then to see a ship , having passed all the billowes of the sea , runne vpon rockes in the mouth of the hauen ? so when wee haue passed many surges in this world , and now should come into the hauen ; then , not to go on , and cast our anchor in a safe road , were too too pittifull . Againe , marke what minde wee should haue to persevere , that haue suffered ; seeing , when we giue ouer to endure , all our former suffering is in vaine . Now if a man had laid much money forth on a thing , would hee lose his former charge for a trifle ? no ; he would rather double the cost hee had been at : for , we must carry minds rather to double all our sufferings , then to giue ouer before our end . Againe , the more we haue gon through , the more the Lord giueth vs these mindes ; the more wee shou●d be fleshed against further assaults . Many faile in this : the standing after many trials haue beene well endured , as Dauid fought all the Lords battels , and passed away his daies happily , yet afterward fell most grievously .

Now follow the severall peeces of armour , of which in generall two things must be marked ; First , that we must not so precisely difference these things , as to think that one may not serue for the vse of another , as that the shield may not doo in some sort what the breast-plate doth : for ; 1. Thes. 5.8 . Paul calleth faith a breast-plate . Secondly , for the distinction of defensiue and offensiue armor , the truth is , that though som part may with more property and eminency be tearmed offensiue : yet they are al such weapons as doo strike down aduersary power , aswell as ward the blowes which the diuell reacheth vs . Faith therefore is called our victory , 1. Iohn 5.4 . This is the victory that ouercometh the world , euen our faith . Now then to consider of the seuerall parts as they be in order , First he saith , Stand , beeing girded about with the girdle of truth . For the maner of proceeding , before we proceed to the doctrines and word of exhortation , we will seek out foure things : first , what is meant by euery one : secondly , what is the vse of it : thirdly , how the diuell doth labour to disarme vs of it : fourthly , how we may hold our owne against him . The girdle of truth then cometh first : Now truth somtime signifieth the doctrine of truth , Iohn 17.17 . But that it cannot heere signifie ; the sword of the spirit , beeing thus to bee considered . Truth therefore heere , is soundnesse : which is alwaies accompanied with constancie , For which cause the Hebrewes doe in one word signifie both .

For the second , this girdle hath three vses . First , it doth adorn vs : for this was the vse of the Studded belt , which the souldiers did weare , to hide the gaping ioynts of their armour , which would haue been vnseemely : and nothing doth adorne a soule more , then vprightnesse : as our Sauiour commending Nathanael , gaue out this speech of him ; Beholde a true Israelite in whom there is no guile , Iohn 1.47 .

Secondly , a girdle doth tie other cloathes about vs , close to vs , which otherwise the winde would blowe about , and would hang but loose vpon vs : so this girdle of truth doth containe and holde together all other graces , wherewith the soule is arrayed ; and without truth to keepe them together , in time all of them are borne away with winds of temptation . Mat. 13.20.21 . That grace that was not knit together with honesty of heart , came to nothing in the end : as appears in the Parable .

Thirdly , a girdle trussing vp the loynes of a man moderately , doth strengthen a man ; whence is the exhortation so often vsed of girding vp the loynes : so this grace addeth great strength to the inner man , as wee may see in Iob ; who when God seemed , and men did fight against him , when heauen & earth seemed to conspire against him , yet this did stick by him , Chap. 27.5 , Vntill I die , I will neuer take away mine innocency from my selfe . Now the works of it are exercised in our daily course , or in the evill times of greater exercise then ordinary . Dayly it doth make vs strike at the roots of hypocrisie , we discerne in vs , and resist the temptations of the Diuell , which tend to make vs corrupt our actions in their end , or manner of pe●formance : but especially it doth strengthen vs in the euil time , when the Diuell shall bee ready to bear vs down , that we haue been but hypocrites . Now for the third thing , The Didoth by foure meanes especially seeks to wipe vs of this girdle . He will from the example of others , Ob. reason thus : Such , & such as Iudas , haue had greater things then you , and gone further then you , yet they were but hypocrites , How canst thou tell ? is it otherwise with thee ? Many first are last , &c. Answ. Wee must auoide this obiection , by learning to distinguish true constant grace , from fained and and temporary : which is fitly done by these two differences . First , the wicked haue streames of graces often , but they haue no communion with Christ as the godly haue ; and therefore their graces wither when heate commeth . Ephes. 3.17 . It is a true liuing faith that maketh Christ to dwell in the heart , and this is the cause why our grace lasteth : as wee finde by dayly experience ebbes . And this water runneth exceedng lowe : yet hauing the well-head in vs , and renewing our faith on him the quickning Spirit , riuers doe afresh runne out of our bellies , and the current of grace as high as before . The temporiser , though he haue a streame of grace , yet wanting the fountain to feed it , it must needs dry away ; as those streames , or ponds which haue no spring , nor head of water to maintaine them , cannot continue . Secondly , these hypocrites receiue the grace they haue , retayning some notorious sinne , or course in lesser euils , wherein they hate reformation : as Herod , Mat. 8. Now this maketh grace it cannot be held with them . For as a stomack ill affected thorough choler , though neuer so wholesom meats bee receiued into it , yet it cannot holde them , but is prouoked to cast : so where there is this obstruction of the soule , the wilfull loue of any sinfull course , whatsoeuer grace is receiued into the heart , it will not let it rest , but maketh the soule cast it vp vpon all occasions .

Secondly , the Diuell will from our vnsound performance of duties thus reason against vs : Thou knowest thou hast often looked more at man then God , and hast propounded indirect means when thou shouldest haue eyed his glory onely : therefore thou hast not this truth . Answ. We must distinguish of hypocrisie , as of other sinnes : for as sinne is raigning , or not ; so is hypocrisie . Now there may be this , not raigning hypocrisie in the hearts and consciences of Gods people . Dauid , Psal. 31. when hee said , Blessed is hee , in whose spirit there is no guile , did take him selfe tardy in this evill : and Bradford , with other of those most holy Martyrs , doe much seeke pardon of hypocrisie and carnall gospelling : but no sinne that raigneth not , must discourage vs . How may we know it raigneth not ? Answ. If we haue purpose against it . Secondly , if we haue griefe for it . Thirdly , if we seeke for strength against it .

Ob. Thirdly , the Diuell will through crosses wee beare , and from the preiudicate opinion of other men beare vs downe that wee are not sound hearted . Answ. The book of Iob is but a canuase about this ; where it is determined , that no calamities can proue a man an hypocrite , nor no opinion of men , though wise and holy : The selfe same thing befalleth him that sweareth , and him that feareth an oath . Eccl s. 9 1 2.

La●tly , the Diuell will labour to foist in this leauen of hypocrisie in our dayly course , that thus by little & little , hee may picke this good se●d of righteousnesse out of our hearts . Here our resistance is to holde vs to our owne , and pray to God to rebuke him . And this way is made for the fourth question , How we may keepe this truth .

First , by considering the woefull curse that belongeth to the contrary : For God detesteth nothing so , as hypocrisie : and abhorreth those duties that are not done to him in soundnesse . 2. The blessednesse of it . Blessed is hee whose heart is vpright , Psal. 119. it is the delight of God ; and hither belong all the vses aboue named . 3. In our common daily duties to labour this : 1. To performe them with our heart . 2. As in the sight of God . 3. To his glorie , for this will make the grace of truth to be deepely rooted in vs .

Now then for the Doctrin , and Vse ; this is it that wee are taught : That we must get vprightnesse of heart for the strengthning of vs . Luke 12.35 , Let your loynes also be girded about . 1. Pet. 1.13 , Gird vp the loynes of your minde . Now this is the chief girdle that adorneth vs , keepes all our cloathes together , strengthens the loins of vs : thus Dauid girded him selfe , I will walke in the vprightnesse of my heart , in the midst of my house . Psal. 101. 2. King . 20.3 . Hezekiah . 2. Cor. 1.12 , For our reioycing is this , the testimony of our conscience , that in simplicitie and godly purenesse , & not in fleshly wisedome , but by the grace of God : we haue had our conuersation in the world , and most of all to you wards : and it must not bee a naturall truth which may cause men to hate halting with their own knowledge , but hath a fruit of the spirit : such as must make vs not only look to the outward dutie , but to the inward performance of it ; such as must make vs seeke to glorifie God . Therefore , such as walke onely , giving their outward man in an outward conformity to God , they bee counterfeits , and slippes in religion : such as , whose righteousnesse commeth like a tertian Ague , & is as a morning deaw ; these are without this girdle : and a man may bee bolde to say here , as to children ; Not girt , not blessed : but many that haue girdles , yet keep them sluttishly : who are here likewise to bee reprooued ; and fewe of vs can wash our hands , we being all hollow peeces , if due examination be taken . Consider but these foure things , and you shall bee better able to ferret out the guile of your spirits . First , how carelesse we are of the spirituall action , in those things we perform : as in praier . To the spiritual doing of this dutie , is required , first , preparation , or keeping the heart fit for it . 2. A deuout inward desire , groaning to God . 3. An awayting , after we haue done , to see how God answereth vs . But who doth not lightly passe ouer these duties ? which is no better then a wiping the out side of the dish , not looking to that within . 2. Mark , that in resistance of sin , we more are sorry , & deale against this or that branch of corruption , which shooteth out to our disgrace , them against the root it selfe . Now Rom. 7. in Paul we see , the law of euil , which did dwell within him , was his principall matter of conflict . 3. Marke the course of our affections , and wee shall see how vnsound wee are towards God . If a thing touch our selues , our blood will quickly be in our nails : if a man doe knowe this or that by vs amisse , it is grieuous , the shame of it much vpbraids vs : but things that offend God , and which we knowe hee seeth amisse in vs , we can let these passe nothing affected ; a signe , our loue to him is not so sound ; our feare of him , and desire of praise with him , not so vnfained .

Lastly , let vs obserue how frequently our actions are corrupted . As , sometime wee vndertake to deale for some that speaketh to vs , but doo it without any hearty well-wishing to him ; sometime not sticking to say to our friend , I must speake to you for fashion , but doo as you please : wee visit sicke ones , but not stirring vp our bowels of mercy , wee speake a great many phrases of course , our conscience telling vs it is otherwise . So is our behaviour : wee make a semblance of reverence , but how far it is from the heart , this may testifie ; that we can ( absent from the parties ) vse their names proverbially , we shal not haue such a one breake into sinister suspicions , as if the fift & sixt commandements were blankes with vs . So in fruits of loue : wee can do this party good sometime , but it is to keepe another vnder , who would else sprout forth so far , that his shade would dimme our lights : as , I will doo for such a one , they knowe good behauiours , they will do their homage , such a one will thanke mee for it , I am sure it will not bee giuen cleane away . In leaving sin , many leaue it not because they hate it as sin , but it hath often broken out to their reproach ; which is more , confesse their owne sinnes , not desiring to giue glory to God , and gaine a testimony of a sound heart ; but because worldly wisdome doth tell them , It is the best for them to tell their owne tale , or it were double folly to make dainty of that all the world knoweth . Thus in taking vp good duties as orders in our family , many often look not so much at the conscience of Gods commandement as at this ; The eyes of men are vpon vs , all the world will cry shame , if such things bee neglected altogether . But you that wil keep truth , take heed of this haulting : for though there may bee some reliques of hypocrisie in a good man , yet the nature of haulting is , it will goe quite out of the way if it bee not heald . Heb. 12.13 , And make straight steps vnto your feet , lest that which is haulting be turned out of the way . And hee that limpeth thus still , may haue a lame leg by it to his graue . Secondly , wee must stirre vp our selues to keepe this girdle close to vs , which is of such excellent vse : this is wouen in heauen , no shop can serue you with this , but that onely . Wee buy vs girdles for the body ; and if costly ones , wee keep them carefully , O bee wise for your soules .

Now followeth the second part of our furniture ; Hauing put on the breast-plate of righteousnes . To follow the self same order : first , for that which is meant heere , there is a threefould righteousnes . One imputed by faith , but this can not bee meant , for this is the shield of faith . Another righteousnes inherent in vs , which is part of the divine quality begun in vs , Eph. 4.24 . The third , a righteousnes of course , or conversation , or worke : thus the thing don is called righteousnes . 1. Iohn 3.7 , He that doth righteousnes , is righteous . Psal. 112.3 . Riches and plentiousnes shall be in his house , and his righteousnes endureth for euer . Now the second is not so fitly meant heere , because the Apostle bringeth in the new creature armed : therefore it is s●t to distinguish him from his armour . Neither is truth properly the new creature , but the quality of him : neither is faith and loue , properly taken in their differences , the new creature : for they shall cease . Though therefore I will not striue against it , yet I take the righteousnes of the course and conversation , heere principally to bee intended . Now into this part of our furniture , three pares are enfoulded : for this righteousnes hath these three branches : First , for the time past , a testimony excusing vs , which is the testimony of a good conscience , 2. Cor. 1.12 , For our reioycing is this , the testimony of our conscience , &c. Secondly , for the time to come , a purpose to auoid all euil , and to do that is good . Thus Paul and Barnabas exhorted the Antiochians with purpose of heart to cleaue vnto the Lord . Thirdly , in respect of our daily weaknes , which doth dint and bruise this breast plate , there must bee sorrow and humble confession of sinne , with seeking pardon : this doth beat it forth ag●ine , & vnderline it ▪ that it is as seruiceable to vs as euer . Forgiue vs ( wee say ) daily our trespasses : for , our righteousnes is rather in purpose then performance , rather in confession of imperfection , then in any perfection wee can attaine . Secondly , for the vse of this : it is daily , or more extraordinary : the daily vse is this , that when the diuell doth tempt vs to sin , if the breast be couered with this purpose not to offend , then his suggestions will fall downe like paper-shot , and shall not pearce vs . How can I doo this great wickednesse , and so sinne against God ? The more extraordinary , when men shal load vs with preiudicate opinions , condemning vs : this will beare it off ; I know nothing by my selfe , I care not for mans iudgement , 1. Cor. 4.3 . As touching mee , I passe very little to bee iudged by you . When the divell telleth vs , Thou art not elected , thou hast no faith , thou art not sanctified , all doth come before the tribunall of righteousnes ; this confirmeth to vs our election . 2. Pet. 1.10 , Wherefore brethren , giue rather diligence to make your calling and election sure . This assureth vs that wee are iust , our sinnes forgiuen , and wee sanctified . Iohn 3.7 , He that doth righteousnes , is righteous .

The more beneficiall it is , the more studious Satan is to disarme vs of it . First therefore , the Diuell will keep vs from getting this , in this manner : What doe you betake you to such care of your life ? God is mercifull , Christ hath dyed to redeem you , hee will not lose what hee hath bought so deare . Answ. God is mercifull to them that feare him , Christ redeemeth those whom hee sanctifieth , to be a peculiar people vnto him , zealous of good workes . Titus 2.14 , Who gaue himselfe for vs , that hee might redeeme vs from all iniquity , and purge vs to be a peculiar people to himselfe , zealous of good workes . If wee will haue some kinde of righteousnes , hee will perswade vs to such a kinde of breast-plate , as is not of a right metall : that is , a generall profession , and an honest carriage , in this manner ; Though it were requisite you should haue all righteousnesse : yet what nedeth all this , adoe ? God spareth you as a father spareth his children . All the people of God are holy , it is not for righteousnesse you shall be saued . Answ. Wee must haue sound righteousnesse , and endeuour of perfection . If your righteousnesse exceed not the righteousnesse of the Scribes and Pharisees , yee shall not enter into the kingdome of heauen , Mat. 5.20 . Though Israel bee as the sand of the Sea , yet a remnant only shall be saued . Not all that say Lord , Lord , shall enter into the kingdom of heauen . Rom. 11. Mat. 7. Bee yee perfect , as your Father in heauen is perfect . Mat. 6.2 . Desire and endeauour to follow after it . 3. If wee will enter it , hee will breake vs off by difficulties , discomforts , distractions , and make vs yeeld our weapon , as wearie . But heere the power of Christ , the authour and finisher of faith , the beginner & perfecter of his owne good work , doth carry vs on : and the seed of God is of such force , that it will not let vs fall to sinning . Secondly , the conscience of Gods commandement on one hand , and the comfort of his acceptance on the other side , do encourage vs : so that this assault is frustrate . 4. He sheweth himselfe a Diuell indeed ; and by aggrauating our imperfections , will offer to wrest from vs the testimonie of a good conscience , in this wise . Gods eye is too pure to beholde any euill , thou shouldest loue the Lord thy God with all thy heart , &c. But thy best deeds haue be●n sprinkled with filthinesse , thy owne conscience hath condemned thee in them ; God is greater then thy conscience . The answer is , by getting a sound knowledge how farre wee are to stand vpon the righteousnesse of our courses ; of which mark these things . First , wee doe not account of it as able to abide the tryall of iustice , or to stand for our full righteousnesse before God . This wee account is drosse and dung ; these things may dismay a Papist , they cannot ●ismay vs . 2. We place the strength of our righteousnesse in two things . 1. That it doth testifie of our true faith : for a worke good in a●y measure , doth argue a heart good in som measure ; for you cannot haue a figge of a thistle : now a heart in any measure good , doth argue a true faith , for that only can purifie the heart . 2. In this that wee know they are pleasing vnto our God : not that they can endure the tryall of his iustice in themselues , but because fa●th on Christ doth couer their imperfections : and therefore are iustly accepted thorough grace , when the defect is couered ; they being not so much ours , as the worke of the spirit ( Colos. 1.11 . strengthened with all might through his power vnto all patience , &c. ) the wants set aside .

Now wee shall strongly holde this part of our armour , if we exercise these things . 1. Labor to giue obedience of faith , in the least things : for there must be precisenesse in keeping Gods commandements , & we must count nothing little that he commandeth . Salomon will haue vs keepe his precepts as the sight of our eye . Pro. 7.2 .

And little sinnes liued in will make way to greater . Men growe from stealing pinnes , to points , from points to pounds . 2. Wee must renew dayly a sorrow for our ordinary and smaller offences : for though it bee the weakenesse of the stomack , that is able to beare with nothing that is a little offensiue to it ; yet it is a blessed frame of the soule , when it cannot digest the least sinne , but is ready to turne at it . 3. Wee must think what secure and comfortable courses wee haue , while we keep this purpose , and practice of a good conscience : and what a bitternesse it is , when wee haue our consciences accusing for any more grieuous sweruing , the best is when it commeth home by weeping crosse : but how wofull is the state of the soule , till repentance be giuen ? For as a stomack surcharged , which hath neither vent vpward nor downward , so is a soule clogged with guilt , but wanting repentance . Now then to speake to the doctrine : we that are Christians , must all labour to strengthen our selues with the testimony of a good conscience , and a righteous conuersation . Thus Hezechiah walked , dooing that which was good in the sight of God , neither turning on right hand , nor left , from all that God had commanded . Thus Zacharie and Elizabeth walked , Lu. 1.6 . But we haue Paul by precept and practice , teaching the point . Phil. 4.8 , Furthermore brethren , what soeuer things are honest , whatsoeuer things are iust , whatsoeuer things are pure , &c. thinke on these things . And we may see , first , how his conscience did not accuse him for time present . 1. Cor. 4.3 , As touching me I passe little to bee iudged of you . How he endeauoured for the time to come to keep it so . Acts 24.16 , and herein I endeauour alwaies , to haue a cleere conscience toward God , and towards man . 3. That hee was not without his exercise of repentance . Oh miserable man that I am , Rom. 7. This will keep vs in our daily course , and in the euill houre ; wheras if these bee not renewed , wee shall come by scare : as Iudah going foorth without harnessing himselfe , by renewing this purpose , we see how soon he was wounded with euill . This then being the dutie of Christians , doth rebuke such , who either content themselues with a false armour , or haue none at all . Some there are , that are good Church men , honest , righteous , iust dealing men ; but because they lay not a good foundation of faith in Iesus Christ , and of repentance from dead works , because they care not for the spirit and power of godlinesse : therfore , brown paper shall as well keepe out Musket shotte , as this will helpe them , when the Diuel shall let fly his murdring bullets . Many haue none at all , but naked breasts shot through already , their conscience being able to accuse them , that they haue liued in profanenes , contempt of Gods ordinances , in pride , wrath , couetousnesse , pleasures : their purposes haue beene to walke after their owne hearts lusts , dooing that which is good in their owne eyes . In steed of sorrowe neuer to be repented of , they can tell you , they were at such a place , where they were frolick , had entertainment with sports , &c. Poore thralls of the Diuell that haue no armor of God vpon them . 2. Wee must learne our dutie , not to run on at aduenture , but looke to these rules : wee are all Priests of God , we must not goe without this brest-plate enameled with Vrim and Thummin . Wherefore looke that our consciences speake with vs , God is greater then they , renew your purposes euery day , strike sure couenants with God : take vp the blessed exercise of broken hearts , bewaile your dayly wants : for wee should not let a thought which is awry , no not a dream , which sauoureth corruption , passe without a censure . Iob rather sanctified his houshold on suspicion , and iealousie , then neglected matters already apparantly euill .

Now followeth the third , which answereth to the greaues , or legge-harnesse , [ and your feet shod ] 1. For the meaning : Some doe construe the preaching of the Gospell of peace , the readinesse to confession ; but this is rather a fruit of our being shod , then the shooing it self . And this is a more particular thing , as which agreeth with times of persecutions , and persons called to make confession . But all the parts of this armour agree to all times , and to all persons . The sense is ; being shod with such furniture , as the Gospell of peace doth help vs to .

Now the gospell of peace doth tell vs two things , that make vs fully appointed for all aduersities ; that God is through Christ a mercifull Father : for , all enmity is killed in his Crosse . Secondly , it doth assure vs , that every thing that can befall is made for vs 1. Cor. 3.22.23 , Whether they be things present , or things to come , all are yours , and ye Christs , & Christ Gods . Not life onely , but death is ours ; that is , is made to serue for our good . So the soule , knowing these things , is harnessed to goe in the waies of tribulation . Secondly for the vse : it serueth in vndergoing our d●ily afflictions : for , euery da● hath his misery . Secondly , in passing these extraordinary euils which shall betide vs : through many afflictions wee must looke to enter into the kingdome of God , Acts 14.22 : as the vse of boots and greaues is against all roughnesse of the way , that wee may tread on flinty paths , or thornes , and that without taking hurt . Now the diuell will first labour to keepe vs from seeking after this peace , by lulling vs asleepe with a false peace , as this ; If God did not loue thee , thou shouldest not thus prosper , thou hast no troubles , nothing but peace shall follow thee . But wee must learne to distinguish betweene a true and false peace . First , this is grounded on no outward thing , but on forgiuenesse of sinne . Rom. 5.1 , Then beeing iustified by faith , wee haue peace towards God through Iesus Christ : this is brought to vs , and applied by the gospell , by praier , the gospell of peace , Phil. 4.6 , Be nothing carefull , but in all things let your requests be shewed to God , in praier and supplication . Now , the worldlings peace is so much the greater , the lesse the gospell is preached to him : for , this light will not let him sleepe ; and for wading to it by prayer , by beleeving the mercy of God , and promise that all things shall worke for hi● good , he knoweth not wha● these things meane . Secondly , the divell will tell vs that haue our part in this peace , There is no peace to the wicked , Esay 48. vlt. Thou hast much wickednes which God cannot but hate . Ans. The wicked , who is not iustified through faith , canne haue no peace : but Christ hath covered mine imperfections . Thirdly , thou never knewest what trouble meant , till thou camest to this gospel : Since , thy own heart , men , spirituall wickednesses , thine own friends haue hated thee . Ans. Iohn 16.2 . They shal excommunicate you , &c. this peace standeth with all kinde of disturbance . As the weather friesing neuer so aegrely , a man well booted and appointed in that kinde , may ride as warme as wooll : so a man shod with this , may be quiet in the midst of disquietnes : for , this is his peace ; in hauing our mindes prepared with knowledge of our peace which the gospell revealeth : not that he shal not haue euill many waies , but that Gods mercy shall not be taken from him , and that all of them shall work together to his good . Fourthly , Satan will say ; God is angry with you , which the effects doo testifie . Ans. By distinguishing anger as thus , anger and loue stand together in parents , the more they loue , the more they are moved at the dangerous courses of their children : Therfore it followeth not , God is angry , therfore he loueth thee not , therefore this or that shall hurt thee . Now for the fourth thing , How wee may preserue our peace . Ans. First , if euer wee knew it , this will help vs , to assure vs we haue it stil , To remember the couenant of peace with vs , is an eternall couenant ; not for a day , but for euer . Psal. 54 10 , For , the mountaines shall moue , &c. but my mercy shal not depart from thee , neither shall my couenant of peace fall away , saith the Lord . I haue compassion on thee ; the whole chapter to this purpose : and Christ saieth , the world cannot take away this peace from vs : if therefore it seem otherwise , it is but hid in a cloud for a season . Secondly , if we will keep this peace , we must not iudge according to sense , but righteous iudgement , wee must controule our sense by sanctified reason ; which assureth , that all things are for good to vs . When heer below there are pitchy clouds , stormes , and such like impressions of the air , the starry firmament hath no change , the sun hath the same brightnes when it is hidden from vs , that it hath when it shineth most gloriously : so when wee alter , and there is nothing but thunder , lightning , and storme in our sky , God is the same , the faithful mercies of the couenant are not changed . Thirdly , wee must , if our soules bee out a little , schoole them , as Dauid doth , Psal. 42. Why art thou cast downe my soule ? and why art thou so disquieted within me ? There is an art of rocking the soule , and stilling it if out of quiet : the Lord teach it vs .

Now for the doctrine : we see how wee are to strengthen our selues with learning the doctrin of our peace through Christ : Paul was thus shod . Rom. 8.38.39 , I am perswaded , nothing shall separate mee from the loue of God . All things , I knowe , worke together for the good of them that are beloued of God , Rom. 8.28 . And this furniture made him goe such hard waye cheerfully ; in which , showrs of afflictions did fal as thick as hailstones . The Church in the Canticles 7.1 . is commended , that her steps in these shooes are comely . This doth make Gods children , though not in the letter , yet in som sort , tread vpon the Adder , Basilisk , shake off Vipers , and receiue no hurt ; whereas if the feet be bared a little with the absence of this ( in sense or faith ) any thing smarteth sore on vs . Iob 13.14 , Wherfore doo I take my flesh in my teeth ? And 6.3 , Therefore now my words are swallowed vp . Ezechias , seeing God like a Lion , his peace somewhat clouded , chattred like a Crane . Where fore wee beeing to gette our selues thus fenced against the craggednes of the way , how are they to bee blamed , that neuer labour to haue part in this peace which the gospel bringeth ? They would be loth not to provide their bodies against weather & difficulties of the way they go , but their soules they care not for . But look , as it is pitifull with one that goeth vpon sharp flints , barefoot , &c. or amongst the thorns and bushes , so as the blood trickleth downe at euery step : so pitifull shall thy naked soule bee , when adversitie shall ●eet thee ▪ if thou be not fenced with this knowledge of peace , through Iesus Christ .

Secondly , wee must labour to see this our peace . Oh that wee knewe these things concerning our peace ! What could hurt ? If the sting be pulled forth of an Adder , wee may play with it in our bosome : If we know euery thing is for our good , as Iob saith , wee may laugh when destruction comes . Aboue all things haue a care , that it be a sound peace ; for there is in nature , and bodies , a double sleepe ; one sicke , another sound : now it is seene in the wakening . For sick sleep maketh vs when we awake so much the more sicke , the other strengtheneth vs : so peace is the soules sleepe . Now if thy peace bee not sound ; when God shall waken thy conscience , the more thou hast slept , the more shall thy griefes be increased , nay nothing shall sting thee more then thy peace ; woe to thee that art at peace : but if thou art at quiet , by knowing the doctrine of peace , by the Gospell , then it shall refresh and strengthen thee .

Now followes the fourth thing , the shield of faith . First , wee handle it generally , in order as before . Secondly , particularly from the circumstances . First , the manner of exhorting : aboue all things . Secondly , the commendation of it ; that it can quench all the fierie darts , &c. First , the thing here meant is , a true liuely faith , laying holde on Christ for iustification ; and in the rest of Gods word and speci●ll promises , for the pass●●g o● this present life : for not onely faith on Christ , but on the speciall promises of God , is necessary for vs : not that these are two seuerall kindes of faith , but one imployed diuersly : as the soule in man working in the seuerall faculties of nature , is not three soules , but one , exercising three diuers functions . Secondly , for the vse of faith , it serveth not onely to iustifie vs , but to make vs endure in all afflictions , without making haste . The iust liueth in time of his afflictions , by faith . Hee that beleeueth maketh not haste . 2. It doth worke in vs , and guide the course of our obedience . Rom. 1 5. To the obedience of faith , not onely in beleeving the Gospell , but the other word of command and promise . 3. It doth preuail against all enemies . This is the victory that ouercometh the world , euen our faith , 1. Iohn . 5.4 . The Vse shall be more particularly branched out heereafter . Thirdly , we must mark how the Diuell doth practice against vs in this point . 1. Hee will labour to put vpon vs , and serue vs with a counterfait faith . You beleeue that God is mercifull , and sent his Sonne , to be the Sauiour of mankinde : you meane well , and haue good hope to God-ward , that is enough ; Hee that beleeueth shall be saued , Marke 16.16 . And all that can be said for the Popish faith may bee brought hither . Ans. That faith that saueth vs , must worke by loue , Galat. 5.6 . It must purge our hearts , Acts 15.9 , And hee put no difference betweene vs and them , after that by faith he had purified their hearts . It must make vs to knowe , Christ hath giuen himselfe for vs . Galat. 2.20 , Thus I liue , yet not I now , but Christ liveth in mee : and in that I now liue , I liue by the faith in the sonne of God , who hath loved me , and giuen himselfe for mee . And bring Christ into our harts . Ephes. 3.17 , That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith ; that yee being rooted and grounded in loue , &c.

Now , to haue a faith without good workes , a knowledge onely of a Saviour giuen to man-kinde : this will profit nothing . Iames 2.14 , What availeth it my brethren , though a man say he hath faith , when he hath no workes ? can the faith saue him , &c. Secondly , He will labour to wrest our faith from vs , more violently or craftily : the first , in this wise ; Simon Magus beleeved , Acts 8.11 . Herod , &c. Faith in temporisers doth not availe them : that faith is no better , for they haue done many things , had ioy , kept the Apostles company , and gone as farre as thou . Answ. Wee must beare off this blowe , by learning to distinguish true faith from false faith , by foure things . 1. For the nature of it ; True faith doth apply Christ in particular , & saith , with Paul and Thomas , My Lord , and my God . Who hath loued mee , and giuen himselfe for me . Secondly , it doth increase in the ministry of the word and prayer , which did as Gods instruments , beget it . Now false presumptions are carelesse of these helpes . Thirdly , It is perfected & groweth vp , through temptations , wrastling with doubting feares . For if our faith bee a true fruit of the spirit ; our lust will fight against it , though we out-growe these things , in processe of time . And therefore it is to be marked , that all other faiths , the Diuell neuer sifteth them : for either they are such as will not perfect the parties ; as lusts , temptations , &c. or else such as are his owne coyne , bearing his inscription : as for example , carnal presumption . And therfore hee letteth them passe for currant . Lastly , a true faith is seene by this effect , It purgeth the heart , so that i● doth not retaine the loue of any sinne wherein it hateth to be reformed : the others come short ; as Herods did reach to many things , but not to leaue his H●rodias .

Secondly , the Diuell will thus shake our faith ; True faith is with many fruits , Iam. 2. Is accompanied with ioy . 1. Pet. 1.8 , Beleeuing wee reioyce , with ioy vnspeakeable and glorious . Without doubting . Abraham doubted not , Rom. 4.20 . neither did hee doubt of the promise , &c. Now thou hast no fruits , thou art without feeling , comfort , full of doubting . Ans. We must examine , whether wee haue any fruits of faith vppon vs , or none appearing : if wee haue few fruits , it argueth a weak faith ; not that there is no faith , dead trees haue not any fruit at all vpon them . If we haue none , it must bee considered , whether it was so alwaies with vs , or by occasion of some fall ; hauing before beene otherwise . Now , if in the first kinde , it is plaine , we never had a true faith ; if in the later , it argueth faith is in a swoone , or as a tree in the nipping frost of winter . 2. For sense of ioy wee must knowe , that it is a a fruit may be seuered from faith : as in Christ , whose beliefe was firme , yet all comfort eclipsed : as in that speech , My God , my God , why hast thou forsaken me ? And the reioycing of faith , is chiefly dispensed in three seasons : Either in the first breeding of a Christian , that the ioynts of him may bee knit , the stronger : or after great temptations out-wrestled , that the broken bones may bee comforted : or in times of persecution & martyrdome , that wee may bee heartened in it , to constant suffering . Witnesse our reioycing in Christ Iesus dayly . 4. The Diuell will say , true faith groweth from faith to faith , Rom. 1.17 . Grace is like a graine of mustard seed . Now thy faith hath no growth , nay thou art now more doubting then thou hast beene . Ans. True faith groweth : it is true with these limitations . First , that it is not felt in him alwaies , in whom it groweth . 2. It doth not growe in all times , it may decrease in some degree : the meaning thereof is , that the grace which is in the end , shall be more then at the beginning , shall haue his growth . Now , if the Diuell saith to any beleeuer , thy faith never had , nor shall haue any growth ; The conscience may easily answer it , Faith hath two seasons : One of peace and building it healthfully , the other of temptations . In the first it groweth , and often is discerned by him , in whom it is . 2. It is in temptations . Now these are of two sorts . First , such in which faith is exercised , and maketh resistance : as in outward crosses . Secondly , feares , doubting of his pardon , gripes of conscience . Thirdly , lawes of evill , that play the Lord of mis rule in our members . Now these ( faith causing vs flie to prayer ) seeke the word of promise , renew repentance : these , I say , faith doth thriue by : as there are some growing sicknesses , in which the body shooteth out , and when men haue beene awhile exercised they perceiue it : there are other temptations of spirituall slumber , whether the heart be halfe waking , or by some grieuous sinne fallen into a dead sleepe . In these , faith may bee diminished : as the holy Ghost saith of their loue , they had lost some degrees . 5. The Diuell will tell vs , where there it true faith , there the word is powerfull and profitable . Thes. 2.13 , The word is effectual in you that beleeue . Heb. 4.3 , The word did not profit where there is no faith to mingle it with . But thou seest not the words power , & dost not profit by it . Ans. The inefficiency of the word is two-folde . Simple , when it hath no saving worke : or preparatiue ; when it is said to worke nothing as it should , as we desire , as wee sometime haue felt it .

Now the first standeth not with faith , the later doth : as for example , put Aquavitae into a dead mans mouth , and all the restoratiues that may be , they doe nothing with him : but giue food , or restoratiues to a man in a dropsie , or consumption , though hee still walke weakely , and haue no appetite before , and hath flashing after , and qualms riding ouer the stomacke , yet hee is preserued by them : now we say , things doe no good , when they do not so healthsomly nourish , as they vse in sound bodies . Now this later is the state of a Christian soule , not the former : hee may answere therefore by denying the second part of the reason ; It is effectual , though it do work nothing with him , as he hath knowen it . 6. The Diuell will thus suggest to thy conscience : If euer thou didst truly beleeue , God would heare thy prayers : but thou askest , and receiuest not . Ans. The forme of the reason is naught , as which runneth from hearing to receiuing . The answer is , we must distinguish betwixt hearing , and signifying , that we are hard-by the effect . The first ( in lawfull things asked , in the name of Iesus , 16. Ioh. 23. ) is alwaies : the second not-alwaies . For God when he heareth , often maketh as if he heard not , nay as if he were contrarily minded . Lam. 3.44 , Thou hast couered thy self as with a cloud , that our prayer should not passe thorough , that is , thou seemest so in effect . Dauid . How long wilt thou smoake against prayer , &c. open thy eares .

Daniel 10. God made him see , hee heard him a good space after : yet he did heare him from the first request . This then is the state of gods people . But God when hee heares doth make as though hee did not heare , yea were turned from them and their praiers in displeasure .

Seauenthly , true faith faileth not : thine doth often faile , and thou art so weak , thou seest thou canst not hould out . And the truth is , the best faith tried long , will limp a little . Psal. 116.10.11 , I said in my feare , All men are liers , &c. 1. Sam. 27.1 , And Dauid said in his heart , I shall one day perish by the hand of Saul , &c. Is it not better for me that I saue my selfe in the land of the Philistines , & c ? And wee by experience finde , that often through vnbeleefe and impatiency , we yeeld the buckler , and leaue awhile clasping that promise which onely can releeue vs . But the answer is , by learning what it is to haue true faith faile : there is a double failing ; one of the grace , another of the worke : now this later , the worke , may cease while faith doth not faile : as Luke 22.32 , But I haue praied for thee , that thy faith faile not . Yet compared with the end , Peters confession , which was the worke of faith , failed in his mouth , and yet the grace was safe in his heart : for Christ was heard in that hee praied for . So that if the reason he thus framed , That faith which faileth in the worke is a false faith , this is a false sentence . If hee say to mee , Thine faileth in the grace , it is falsly spoken to a true beleeuer , to make his grace extinct when the work faileth : for we might aswell say a man is dead when hee sleepeth . And for his threatning that it shall faile , wee must remember , that hell gates shall not preuaile . Hee hath praied , &c.

Eightly , the diuell he will from sense and reason weaken our beleefe : Thus hee kept Sarah in vnbeleef . Gen. 18.12 , She laughed , because the thing spoken was against reason . For answer whereof , wee must knowe , They are blessed that beleeue and see not , Iohn 20.29 . that we walk by faith , not by sight . Againe , Heb. 11.1 , Faith is the euidence of things not seene : wee must therefore shake hands with this following sense and reason , if wee will make way to beleefe .

Lastly , the divel will muster many troubles against vs , and thus labour to shake our faith . Luke 22.31 , Hee winnowed Peters faith , by bringing him into ieopardy of his life . So when many beleeue , he stirs the tongues of naughty ones to whippe them ; if God giue leaue , he crosseth them in their substance , and otherwise : not that he plaieth so smal games as to blot their name , or careth for their money ; but he shooteth at this , to vnsettle them in the way of faith , which they haue entred . But we must resist thus , by getting knowledge , that Christ will not let our smoking week be put out ; that these things shall worke to our good , Rom. 8.28 . I but we feele the contrarie , they worke so vpon vs . Ans. He that beateth a torch , seemeth to put out the light for a season , yet it maketh it burne more cleerly : the shaking of trees maketh them root deeper . Secondly , by learning the means of holding our faith : which follow . These are his more violent practises ; wresting of our faith from vs : now his more subtill sleights are , his making vs to presume on outward helps , & withdrawing our hearts by them . Thus , 2. Chron. 16.7 . he did preuail against Asa : for when hee seeth vs hould the rocke where we are safe from him , hee will set before vs other things , sutable to our corrupt natures ; knowing , that so much as we come to leane on these , so much we come to leaue our GOD. Thus hee houldeth out our Lady , Saint Peter , and Paul , in the Romish Church ; and by the creature , withdraweth the hearts of the people from their Creator . In which and other like practices , the divell is like a Fowler that hath calls so like the natural notes , that birds come vnto them : so these speake our mother tongue , and haue a note so liking to the reason and sense of vs , that we cannot heare it , but wee are ready to flee vnto it . But wee must preuent this mischiefe by christian caution : the diuells exchange will proue robbery , wee shall change a rocke for a splitted reed , which wil hurt vs in the end . Hee that leaveth his God , forsaketh his mercy . Ionah 2.8 , They that wait vpon lying vanities , forsake their owne mercy . Againe , Ier. 17.5 , Cursed is hee that maketh flesh his arme , trusting in any outward thing . Secondly , we must know , that these things cannot do ought for vs , further then the Lord of Hosts shall command them : he vseth them at pleasure . The horse and chariot is prepared , but victory is from the God of battell : many seeke the face of the Iudge , but iudgement is from the Lord : men rise vp early , but GOD builds the city : we may vse meat and medicine , but God is our life , and length of our daies : and it is seen , the swift hath not the race , the wise wanteth bread .

Secondly , the diuell will labour to supplant our faith by indirect wayes leading to a release , and seeming to put an end to our euils : for , seeing that wee are weary in enduring , and would fain see rest from troubles , he then will open postern doors , indirect waies of deliuerance ; like Fowlers , when all is hard frost and snowe , they shew meat , that birds sharply set , may flee on murder . Thus Sarah , Gen. 16.2 , And Sarah sayd , Behold now the Lord hath restrained mee from childe-bearing , I pray thee go-in vnto my maid , it may be that I shall receiue a child by her . Dauid , 1. Sam. 27.1 , Is it not better for me that I saue my selfe in the land of the Philistines , & c ? Christ , Mat. 4 , Command these stones to bee made bread by miracle , now thou art hungry . We must therefore take heed , that wee often thinke on that in Esay , Hee that beleeueth , maketh not haste : and consider againe , that the ease of such meanes , is like to a draught of drinke to a hot ague , it maketh the fire burne worse after : your issue in this kinde , is but breaking the iaile which maketh vs subiect to double punishment .

Now followeth the fourth consideration , how we may keep our faith against all assaults , & encrease it . First , by expelling self-confidence , and vnbeleefe : Secondly , by considerations that lead directly to the strengthening of our faith : Thirdly , rules of either . First , he that will beleeue , must deny all trust in his owne wisdome : for , selfe-confidence is a choak-weed of beleefe . Pro. 3.5 , Trust in the Lord with all thy heart , and leane not to thy owne wisedome . We are the circumcision , who haue no confidence in the flesh , but reioyce in Christ Iesus . And as we can growe downe , denying our wisedome and all strength wee can make : so shall faith on our great God growe vp . 2. Wee must strike at vnbeleef , with the sword of the spirit , taking vp our selues for halting , with such like places as these . Heb. 10 , Now the iust shall liue by faith : but if any withdrawe himselfe , my soule shall haue no pleasure in him . As the murmuring and vnbeleeuing Israelites , who would not beleeue the Lords oath giuen them , that he would make them dwell in the temporall Land Canaan , were accordingly shut out of it : so faithlesse ones , who beleeue not Gods promises , concerning the true Land of Canaan , the heauenly kingdome , shall be barred from entring that holy place . See Numb. 14.29.30.31.32 . Chewing on such words , will tame the fiercenesse of vnbeliefe .

Thirdly , wee must consider the iniurious effects which this sinne doth to God , and vs . For vnbeliefe giveth God the lie . 1. Ioh. 5.10 . Hee that beleeveth not in God , maketh him a lyer : then which , what can bee more reproachfull ? and it doth vs all the harme : for nothing could hurt vs , if this were not . Heb. 4 vlt. They could not enter for vnbeleefe , they were a churlish lewd people , besides other distempers : but this did them the mischiefe , for it reiecteth the medicines , that would cure vs , taken ; and pulleth off Gods plaisters , which lying on would salue our miseries , : thus purging out this malignant humour , we shall strengthen faith the more commodiously . First , by looking vp to Christ , when we feel our faith weake , calling him the beginner , the finisher of faith in vs : praying him to encrease our faith , and to helpe our vnbeliefe ; thou must giue it , and worke it in me , or I cannot haue it . A fainting bodie will taste something that is cordiall , and restoratiue : and a fainting soule must baite it selfe , with looking to Iesus , who is our cordiall , and restoratiue , and every thing . Againe , wee must consider whom we trust , for this will strenghten beleefe : it is not with God as with man , who is better knowen often , then trusted . The mother of our vnbeleefe is , the ignorance of the affectionate knowledge of God . Psal. 9. Those that knowe thee , will trust in thee : this confirmed Paul in faith , because hee knew him , hee trusted to . 2. Tim. 1.12 , For I know whom I haue beleeued , &c. and I knowe that hee is able to keepe that I haue committed vnto him , vntill that day . Now concerning God , two things must be known . First , his power . Secondly , his truth . Rom. 4.21 , Being fully assured , that hee which had promised , was able also to doe it . Abraham was thus strengthened . Heb. 11.11 . Sarah beleeved , for hee was faithfull that had promised : and for example , I by faith beleeue my spirituall liberty in Christ , sanctifification , my life , ioy , &c. How should I support my selfe , when I see nothing but thraldome , and sinne raigning in mee , nothing in me but deadnesse of heart ? Answ. Thus : hee that hath spoken this to mee , Holde me , I will set thee free , I wil circumcise thy heart , wash it , purge it , heale it of all rebellions : hee that hath spoken it , is God Almighty , that giueth Beeing to all creatures wee see , and that inuisible world of spirits ; that calleth the things that are not , as if they were : that if there were no print of these things in mee , can increase them gloriously : and as hee is able , so he is true & faithfull to keep touch , his word being purer then siluer seauen times refyned . Thirdly , wee must labour to see the preciousnesse of our faith : and this seene , will make vs holde hard , ere wee part with it . 2. Pet. 1.3 , To you which haue obtained like precious faith with vs . A man that hath great charge , his whole state about him , will as soone lose his life as part with his treasure . Now , in marking what it dooth , wee shall see how precious it is . For what a grace is that , which when we are buffetted with Satan , doth make vs to stand ? when our weapons are beaten on our heads , our prayers lesse comfortable , when we are laid along , doth raise vs ? when ouer charged with affliction● , doth still lift our head to Christ our Lord ? and maketh vs say , hee is ours , wee a●e his , fire and water must not diuorce vs . And this for the generall handling of the verse .

Now for the particular . First , from the manner . 1. Aboue all . 2. The fruite or vse of faith : with which you may be able to quench all the fiery darts of the Diuell . First , then wee heare , that aboue all things wee must labour after faith , our care must bee chiefly about this . 1. Iohn 3.23 , This then is his commandement , that wee beleeue in the name of his Sonne Iesus Christ . This is Gods commandement wherewith wee are charged . For nothing is so glorious to God . Iohn 3.33 , It doth giue God a testimoniall , as it were , of his truth , and sealeth that he is true : and for our selues , the holy Ghost maketh all our riches to come in of it . Iam. 2.5 , The poore God hath chosen to bee rich in faith ; not onely that faith it selfe is a precious pearle , but because that by faith wee haue all those vnsearchable riches of Chr. our Lord : and the manner of our deliuerie doth shew vs plainely , what care wee must haue of it . For if wee bidde a seruant buy many things , but aboue all such a thing ; hee would gather what hee should bee most carefull in : So heere get other things , but aboue all , faith . Thus Paul , Gal. 2.20 , Thus now I liue by the faith , &c. and Heb. 11 , All those Saints pleasing God , had this beleefe towardes him . Now then to the dooing of this , wee must labour to ferret out our vnbeleefe . Secondly , to enkindle and renew our dying faith , & encrease it : the first wee shall finde these waies . First , marke how we are aff●cted to the worde of threatning ; whether it breed in vs feare , and carefull declining of sinne . If we ye liue after the flesh ye shal d●e . If this were beeleeved , we durst as well take a Bear by the tooth , as give the raines to our corruptions . Who is so hardy as to thrust his finger into the fire ? but we often though we know nothing , let our selues bee carried with lusts through vnbelief● . Secondly , let vs marke how we are aff●cted to the promise . We see , because by a civill faith we beleeue man , therefore , if wee haue a mans word , for this that was desperate , wee are glad , wee seeke to get securitie . If we haue bonds we box them vp ; we knowe , when they expire , what to chalenge by vertue of them . Now for the promise of God , which secureth vs of all good temporall , and eternall , who enquireth after it , who seeketh it in his hart , who reioyceth in it , who saith , I look for such a thing , by vertue of such a word , my God hath spoken ? which argueth wee are full of vnbeleefe . Thirdly , our resting in mean●s , and leaning to them . For , so much as ●he heart doth rest o● t●e 〈…〉 is by sin withdrawen from the Creator . But how may wee finde this ? By marking how it is with vs three waies . First , if wee vsed meanes , as not vsing them , what means soever we had , our fear and trust to God would bee the same as if we wanted them : For we would knowe , that further then God did send forth his word , they could doe nothing . Secondly , if wee did our duties , and meanes were wanting , wee would bee confident ; still remembring that of Ionathan , It is all one with God , to saue with many , or with few ; with small means , as great . Thirdly , when we haue things wee would thinke little of any meanes ; but ascribe all to Gods blessing . Now we do the contrarie to these : For if wee haue meanes , vpon them we are secure ; as a man is friended , hee hopes to haue his cause ended , though iudgement is to come from the Lord : if the Iudge him selfe were made for vs , and if all meanes be at hand , wee can rest ; wee are so fledge that till something crosse vs , the Lord is not cloven to , and sought to by vs . Againe , if this or that ( requisite in our Iudgements ) cannot be obtained ; though we were neuer so diligent , wee distrust , and suspect the successe , saying , that it cannot proue well . And againe , in the third place , when wee haue things , our affections doe more liuely worke on this or that , which fell out ( as men speake ) more luckily , then on Gods blessing , which is all in all . Which sheweth our secret resting in the creature . Fourthly , our tottering when w● are tryed ; If we did walk , trusting on God , we should be like mount Sion , foure square ; men , howsoeuer throwen downe , standing firmely , wheras the least thing doth vnsettle vs . Shall God offer to passe his word , yea giue his Indenture to me , for all good things , shal I not look after it ? the points of our hearts still turned to the power , goodnesse , faithfulnesse of our God , which was and is the matter of our confidence ? If weather faile awhile , men are , as if God would quite forget them : if doings doe decay , such a world for taking they haue not known the like : if crosses ouertake vs , wee are at our wits ends . He that hath crutches , if hee learne not on them walking , take away his crutches , hee walketh still : but take away a cripples crutches , that goeth on them , and hee commeth to the ground presently . So if wee did not like to cripples lea●e on these things , we should not be so easily throwen downe in their remoueall : so the impatient breaking off in holding the promise , the double diligence and excessiue care . Mat. 6.3 , Shall hee not do much more for you , O yee of little faith ? The shifts and sinfull courses which men admit to thriue by , all proue , that there is not right faith in vs towards God .

Now the cure of this is , by being displeased with our selues , taking vp our soules in this manner ; If the King or a great man should threaten mee , would I not bee afraid , and carefull to decline their wrath ? Shall my God threaten me , and I be secure and careless ? If I haue a mans word or bond that is of worth I write vpon the matter , as if I had it : Shall I not ioyfully rest in the word , seale and oath of my God ? If a man of worth should be asked a pawne , and not credited on his word , he would take it in euill part : What a shame is it , that I will not beleeue GOD , further then I haue his caution ? If I would not trust a man for a few pence , would I trust him for pounds ? Cannot I trust God for the things of this life , and do I say truely , that I trust him for life euerlasting ? With such reasoning , a man must make that sinne lothsome to his soule ; and then seeing himselfe a masse of vnbeleefe , must look vnto Christ , and call to him , as the authour and finisher of faith , must cry Lord helpe my vnbeleefe , must set the promises before him , and chaine himselfe fast to the meditation of them . Seeing then we should giue such diligence this way , how are they then to be blamed , that seeke not after it , lying in vnbeleefe ? How are others to bee taxed , who , though they haue faith , never awake themselues to lay hould of God ? Which the Prophet bewaileth , Esay 64 7 , There is none that stirreth vp h●mselfe , &c. And it doth teach vs our duty , euen to liue the life of faith in al things , euen in regard of naturall actions and ciuil , to see Christ moue vs in them . In feeding 〈◊〉 abour to hold Chr. by faith , that his spirit may ●●ach vs to eat & drink to his glory , that is , with fear , thankfulnes , sobriety ▪ remembring of our duty , which wee are after to performe . If wee goe hither or thither , wee must doo it by faith , seeing wee mooue in God , and he is the keeper of our out-goings and incommings . If wee sleep , we must not onely consider f●mes ascending which cause ; but the promise of God that giueth sleepe to his beloued : yea , wee must apprehend God as our life , and length of our daies , not resting in temperan●●s & constitutions

The second thing to bee marked , is , the commendations of faith , teaching vs , what fi●rce is in faith to keep vs against all assaults of the diuell . Wee are kept by the power of GOD through faith to salvation , 1. Pet. 1.5 . This one is as all the rest , and therefore is called our victory , which ouer commeth the world , 1. Iohn 5.4 . And it is so mighty , that the powers of hell cannot preuaile against it . Now for the fuller vnderstanding , you must knowe what is meant by fiery darts ; secondly , how faith doth extinguish them . It is a borrowed speech from poisoned darts , which venime and cause fiery heat in the person they enter 〈◊〉 so all those courses whereby Satan sendeth scorching heat into the soule , are noted by them : these are either terrors apprehending a wrath which is a fire that drinketh the spirit , as Iob speaketh . And Paul , 2. Cor. 7.5 , Fightings without , terrors within , we had no rest ; or sinful lusts which hee doth wreath against vs , which are as fire . Iames 3 , fire of hell . Iob 31 , Adultery a fire burning to destruction ; or outward calamities and persecutions , which are called heats and fiery trials . Now faith doth quench these after a double manner , sometime not letting them enter , but doth latch them , that they do fall off without pearcing vs . This Paul , Rom. 7 , when the law came , saw his cursednes . 2. Cor. 7.2 . had inward terrours , the diuell likewise did buffet him with sinfull suggestions , 2. Cor. 12. Hee had troubles as thick as hailstones , following him , yet this preuail'd not against him , because hee kept the faith . Peter , Luke 22 , had the dart stuck in him awhile : but faith did renew repentance , and healed him , making the poison of sin a treacle . Heb. 11.34 , By faith the Saints endured all affliction , yea quenched the fire , yea chose them before release . And wee see by experience , that when the diuell doth lighten about vs with the wilde fire of lusts , tempting vs to them , that when wee looke to Christ , as who hath dissolued the power of Satan , who hath crucified the power of them , & said , they shall not raigne ouer vs ; this doth slake the fire . Againe , when fears assault vs , coming to peace in Christ , wee are saued : when troubles come , faith maketh vs liue like the bush in the fire , without burning .

Whrefore this must 1. teach vs how wretched their estate is , who beleeue not , who haue not their mindes and hearts so wrought towards Christ , that his spirit hath made them new creatures : they that haue not this faith , ly open to all the assaults of the diuell . He that beleeueth not , Gods wrath is on him , the fiery darts sticke in him .

Secondly , it must teach vs to seek after this : for God thus highly praiseth it , that knowing the worth of it , wee may labour after it . If enemies did besiege vs , were it not well with him that were locked vp in a tower invincible ? so when death and enmity cometh against vs , this faith doth lock vs in Gods faithfulnesse , mercie and power , that nothing can hurt vs .

That faith hath this effect , is a notable disswasiue from euer embracing this popish faith , the which is seuered from all affiance , and which a man may haue ( by their owne confession ) and bee wounded with despair , and bee full of all deadly sinne : their faith therfore is a wicked shield ; it is so far from defending vs from all the fiery darts of the diuell , that a man may haue it , and bee an incarnate diuell .

Now followeth hope : for saluation is here put for hope of it ; the thing hoped for , for the hope it selfe . For thus it is construed , 1. Thes. 5.8 . First , therefore it may bee asked , What hope this is ? Answ. Not only hope of saluation , which shall bee in the last day , but of all temporall deliuerance from euill . And it may bee described , A certaine expecting to attaine every thing faith beleeueth , grounded onely on Gods grace .

The proper work of hope is , to make vs expect : which is to be marked . For , measuring the word by our common acception , and distinguishing it from the expectance in heauen ; it is one ground ( amongst others ) of the Papists errours , whereas expectation in the life to come differeth not from hope , in that it is certaine expectation ( Rom. 8.15 . Phil. 1.20 , I certainely look for & hope ) but in this ; First , that our expectation heere is grounded in faith , that in sight ; this accompani'd with grief , that without any difficulty . Secondly , it is a certaine expecting not in it selfe , but neuer fayling the party which hopeth 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . Which must be vnderstood not as if it were certaine in his sense , but in the euent : the reason is because hope hangeth on faith , which in that it beleeueth is certaine : if the pin be sure , that which hangeth on it cannot fall . Thirdly , the obiect is not strictly eternall life , but all the good things temporall and eternall , which faith beleeueth . Lastly , the means on which hope leaneth , is here set downe , Gods grace . Trust perfectly ( the word is hope ) on the grace of God in Christ , 1. Pet. 1.13 . Not parting stakes , halfe on grace , halfe on workes . Againe , hope expecteth so to obtaine as faith beleeueth ; but faith beleeueth through the word of promise , not through working , Gal. ● . 3 . A person so soone as hee is a t●ue conuert , hath hope as well as loue , though hee hath no workes as yet : neither can a house be built and a foundation bee layd afterward . Besides , if he should die on his conuersion , and being receiued though hee had done no good workes , hee should bee saued according to hope . And this error hath three things which occasion it . They conceiue that workes are partiall causes of our saluation , with mercy ; because the Scriptures vse such conditionall speeches , If you mortfie the deedes of the flesh , yee shall liue , &c. But these conditions are spoken to parties already now beleeuing , & are conditions that follow , not causes going before an heire of saluation . If wee say to our children , Be good children , ply your bookes , you shall be my heire ; who wold gather , that going to school is the cause of inheritance . Secondly , they distinguish not betwixt that which helpeth hope , and that which erecteth it to hope , from that on which it dependeth in hoping : but these are farre different . If the stomack be well , that neither fumes nor distillations trouble , the eye seeth cleerly : yet the eye doth not depend on the stomack , as the means of seeing : so if the conscience be not surcharged ( fume not vp accusations , feares , &c. ) the eye of the soule seeth cleerely : which wee may tearme hope ; Yet it doth not depend on the goodnes of the conscience , as the cause why it hopeth . And hence it is , that they abuse Scripture , which shew the cheery hoping of a good conscience , as if they prooued , that our hope expecteth as well by workes as mercy to attaine that wee look for . Thirdly , they consider not , that these are such Theologicall vertues , as are appropriated to God , and are no way communicable with the creature . Why you will say , loue is so too , yet wee may loue the creature : t●ankfulnesse , yet wee may thank the creature . Ans. It may be sayd we loue not absolutely , but in & for God , and after a sort loue God in the creature , as hee loving vs ( so farre as his work ) loueth himselfe in vs , but the reason is not alike of these : For , therefore wee loue the creature , and giue thankes , because there is in them matters of loue , and thanksgiving ; but there is no matter to ground hope on , in the creature . Psal. 108 , Giue vs helpe against trouble , for vaine is the helpe of man . Psal. 127 , It is in vaine to rise early , &c. Psal. 146.3 , There is no help in Princes . Why , may one say ; Hath not God put vertue in creatures to doe thus , and thus ; as in a horse to carry one , in a medicine to heale one ? Answ. Hee hath , but yet the exercise of this power , hee keepeth in dependance on himselfe ; and cannot be further , then hee pleaseth to put it forth . For till he who is the Lord of Hoastes becken , send foorth his word , as Psal. 107 , and giue them their moouing , they can do nothing . As , I haue power to goe to such a place : yet God maketh me in it to depend on his pleasure . Iam. 4 , I will doe this , &c. if God will .

Now the vse of this helmet is , first , to strengthen faith ; which is the principal , & first thing in the new creature , as the helmet couereth the head of the bodie : but faith , you will say , breedeth hope ; yet hope is such a daughter , as is a staffe to her aged mother . Secondly , it doth repell the battery of our daily distrestes , and impressions of despaire . I had fainted , had I not looked to see the goodnes of the Lord in the Land of the living . For hope that God will send strength , and giue issue , doe so holde vp the chinne that we sinke not in deep waters . For the third thing , the Diuell doth seeke many waies to disfurnish vs of this munition . First , by putting vs off with hope that will not serue , false , vaine hopes , wicked hopes ; such as are the presumptions of many , who by their honest liues , who with saying Lord have mercy on vs , though they lie in ignorance , and the lust of ignorance ; yet say , they haue good hopes . These are wicked hopes , and to hope vppon vaine grounds : as on this , that God hath blessed vs , with outward things ; that therefore wee are in his fauour : but all our hope must bee brought to this touch stone , 1. Iohn 3 , Hee that hath this hope purgeth himselfe , even as he is pure . Hee that hath true hope towards God , will bee carefull to cleanse out all corruption of flesh and spirit , which are displeasing to God . If wee hope to haue any good from man , we will be carefull not to incurre his displeasure , doe that which he desireth . Whosoeuer nourisheth hopes from God , wil not liue in sinne which God hateth . Secondly , if wee haue hope , the Divell will labour many waies to break it off , by pleading against vs our vnworthinesse . If thy consciende did not tel thee , thou art thus , then mightest thou haue hope , and that by cutting the cable which will make vs loose our anchor . Answ. There is double vnworthinesse ; one of an euill conscience that lieth in some sinne , of which it will not bee reformed : another vnworthinesse of a good conscience , which desireth and endeauoureth to be disburthened of sinne , but cannot ; and therefore daily reneweth repentance . Now this vnworthiness doth not take away hope : for God doth make good his promises , not for our sakes , the house of Israell , but for his Names sake . Ezek. 36.32 , Bee it knowen vnto you , I doe it not for your sake ; the zeale of the Lord of Hostes which hee beareth vs doth it : he leapeth over the mountaines of Bether , to come to vs ; or if hee stayed on our sufficient dispositions , wee might all bid our hope farewell . Fourthly , From delay the Diuell will shake hope . Pro. 13.20 , Hope delayed maketh a sicke soule . But we must knowe , that Gods forbearance is no quittance . And when these vsurers care not how much their money runs in a rich mans hands ; why should we think much to trust our treasure with God ? who will pay vse for time hee delayeth . Againe , he doth not foreslack any fit season , but onely waiteth the opportunity : and examples of delayed hopes , yet certainely accomplished at length , may comfort vs . Seauenty yeares , the returning of Gods people from the Babylonish captiuity was reiourned , yet it was fulfilled in the season of it . Fiftly , from the greatnesse of our miserie . Lam. 3.18 , And I sayd , my strength , & my hope is perished from the Lord ; remembring mine affliction , my worm-wood , and my gall . Answ. Not to bee mooued at present miseries , wee must first learn wisedome , not to revolue them so much , as to be dismaied by them . He that will drinke a potion , will not roule euery drop about his mouth ; and hee that will goe thorough afflictions , must not demurre too deeply vpon them . Thus Paul looked not at things seene , but vnseene . The end of the crosse must bee eyed , or the crosse will not bee endured . Yet wee must not , contrarily , run vpon foolish lightnesse , that will not let the heart goe into any mourning : this is as dangerous a worke , as despaire it selfe . 2. We must remember that hope shewes it selfe , when things are hopelesse . Abraham hoped against hope . Iob 13.13 , If hee kill mee , yet will I trust in him . Thirdly , when things presse vs most , wee are neerest our deliuerance : Quum duplicantur lateres , venit Moses .

Sixtly , hopes haue miscaried , and therefore are not to be trusted to . Phil. 1.25 . And these all through faith obtained a good report , and receiued not the promise , Heb. 11. To the first , first we may thus answer : reiecting the Papists opinion , that it was humane credulity , not christian hope , we may say , that in some sort it was fulfilled , though he neuer was freed : for , God did in his first audience giue him deliuerance from Nero for a season , wherein hee might haue beene beneficiall to the Philippians .

Secondly , hope is twofould : of things heauenly , or things earthly ; now the later may misse of vs , and yet hope remaineth certaine , because hope so looketh for them , as faith laieth hold of them : now faith doth not apprehend them absolutely , but so far forth as they shall bee good for vs . For , that place in the Hebrews proueth , that all things beleeued and hoped for , are not presently receiued vpon death . It followeth not therefore , that they are frustrate : we dying shall not presently haue the things promised concerning the resurrection of the body , yet our faith & hope cannot mis-carry in it . Now fourthly the meanes , whereby wee may strengthen our hope . First , to consider the nature of it , and the promise annexed to it ; It maketh not ashamed , it shall bee reioycing . Pro. 12.18 , The hope of the righteous shall bee gladnes . Secondly , the work of it for the present : it doth refresh vs , and renew our strength . Esay 40. vlt. But they that wait on the Lord , shall renew their strength , they shall lift vp their wings as the Eagle , they shall run and not bee weary , they shall walke and not faint : if this spirit of hope bee in vs , wee like a blowen bladder sinke not in our distresses ; if this bee downe , wee hang the wing : and daily vse of it should make vs studiously maintain and increase it . Thirdly , to thinke how we do in earthly things : wee will wait vpon things vncertaine , dead mens shooes , attend persons early & late for a good issue in some suit , buy reuersions , and respect them , though neuer like to fal in our time . Who is great like our God ? Shall wee not attend his leasure ? What is precious like grace ? Shall wee not wait on it ? Thus Iames , 5.7 , from that the husbandman doth in earthly things , doth teach vs our duty of patient expecting things heauenvly . Fourthly , it will confirme vs to remember experiences forepassed , the presidents of good hope , how God hath made those partakers of their hopes , whom hee seemed to haue put out of his sight ; Dauid : his people in Babylon , &c. So to thinke how sweet they shall bee to vs when they come . Hope when it cometh is a tree of life , Pro. 13.12 .

Now then the doctrine of this is , that Christians , by the grace of hope , must strengthen themselues in their conflicting daies . If wee want good things spirituall , wee must walk by hope ; looking to him , who hath said , we shall want nothing that is good . If in aduersity , we must hope to haue a good issue out of it , our liues must bee passed in looking for our full deliuerance which shall bee reuealed in the last time . Thus , Psal. 123 , our eies are to thee as the eies of a hand-maid to her mistresse , till thou shew mercy on vs . Luke 2.25 . Simeon was a iust man , looking for the consolation of Israel . Thus Paul in his crosses had this hope . Phil. 3.20 , But our conuersation is in heauen , whence wee looke for the Sauiour , &c. he conuersed , looking for his euerlasting glory . This is our anchor : without it our liues would bee tossed with the billowes and surges of our manifould temptations ; especially we must remember to waigh this anchor in a safe road : for the Papists cast it on the sands , euen on their owne worthinesse , which maketh their head peece as strong as a helmet of brown paper . But ( alas ) wee are naked christians : when we are in trouble , wee are ready to wish our selues dead , hopelesse voices passe from vs , wee neuer look to see it otherwise , and our corne ( as wee say ) is shaken with euery winde for want of this supporter . Wee must be exhorted on the contrary to wait on God : if in troubles , for the issue ; if in want , for supply ; if he be absent , when hee shall returne . This hope is a Dormant with vs , we do not looke vp the practice of it : if wee send a Letter , wee looke till wee receiue an answer : wee can say , I should heare from such a place , &c. Who looketh till God returneth an answer of his mind which he hath often sent to him by praier ? If one saith , I will bee with you to help you , or doo this or that for you , wee looke hee should keepe touch accordingly : if one send vs word hee will bee with vs , wee looke and prepare till he commeth : but if GOD speake , who doth wait ? though he forewarne vs of his coming , who doth attend ? Wee would be loth to tell an vntruth , &c. but these great things , of neglecting faith and hope , wee make no conscience of : when Mint and Cummin must bee giuen , the great things of the law must not be forgotten .

Now follows the sword of the spirit ; so cald because it is put in our hands , and made mighty through the worke of this spirit . First , that which is heere vnderstood by the word of God , is , whatsoeuer out of the written word we haue by reading and hearing , or what God doth teach vs by experience , agreeable with that which is in the word written . Secondly , for the vse , it is either defensiue , warding the blowes which Satan doth reach vs ( as Christ vsed , Mat 4. ) or offensiue , it doth strike down the darknes & power of sinne vs . Thirdly , the diuell doth keep men from this sword by excuses , they are not book-learned , haue not leasure as others , to looke into such matters , why may not men bee saued without knowing the word ? Ans. Search the Scriptures : for in them yee think to haue eternall life , Iohn 5.39 . Againe , first seek Gods kingdome , & the righteousnes thereof , &c. Mat. 6. No seed sowen , there can be no harvest ; no word , which is the immortall seed , there can be no begetting to God . If we haue the word with vs , first hee will impugne it by suggestions , thus ; Ob. How canst thou tell this is the word of God : it is not his word . Ans. We must remooue these things which are sparkes of Atheisme in vs ; First , by taking to heart the grosse Atheisme and vnbeleefe of our hearts , and seeking to be purged of it . Secondly , by crying for the eye salue of the spirit of illumination . Thirdly , by obeying that wee knowe , which doth open the door of the heart wide , for the holy Ghost to enter , which doth ascertain euery thing . Secondly , from want of effect in vs . Hee wil make light of it . Obiect . Men say , Men say , this is so effectuall , so comfortable : but what sweetnes , what power , what terrour doest thou finde , in the promises or threatnings of it ? And who are worse then they that liue vnder it ?

Ans. We must distinguish , from that the word doth of it owne nature , and that which the corruption of men workes , taking occasion by the word . Againe , the Physitions intemperancy will not make the prescript of dyet lesse regarded . But for our owne want of feeling ; wee must know when we are so , it is not for any lack in the word , but thorough our owne default : when the tongue is in losse of taste through choler , giue it neuer so good meate and drinkes , all is bitter ; yet it is not in the meates , but in the taste . Thirdly , the Diuell doth by multiplicities of interpretation make som call the word in question . Answ. Diuersity of glosse doth not take away the vniforme meaning of the Text , and certainty of knowledge in it . If twenty foure Lawyers should demurre vpon some case ; though they had twelue diuers interpretations , it doth not take away certainty in the Lawe . Againe , this is a rotten bleat , not of Christs sheep , How should we knowe the meaning of the Scriptures ? Ioh. 10. His sheepe heare his voyce . God hath promised we shal be all taught of him , Fourthly , the Diuell will steale away the word from vs , for hee is light fingred . Mat. 13.19 , Then commeth the euill one & catcheth &c. There is an example in the Apostles , out of whose hearts hee did steale the word of Christs resurrection , so plainely foretolde them . And wee see in Sermons , some remember not two sentences , at the end of the week , not one : cares , businesses , pleasures , &c. against which we must be armd , with remembring of Christs admonition , Luk. 8 18 Take heede how yee heare . It is dangerous meddling with edge-tools : Blessed are those that heare the word of God and keepe it . Heb. 15 , To day if yee wil heare his voyce , &c. The danger of not keeping the word and bringing forth fruit , is set forth , by the ground drinking in the showers ; & fruitlesse , which is neare vnto cursing . Heb. 6.8 . And to this purpose marke the fourth thing : How wee may doe that the word may be held of vs . Wee must aboue all things keepe our hearts : for they are the vessels in which the word must be stored ; if the vessell leak , or be not sweet , the liquor runneth out , or smelleth of the caske : If the heart bee vnbeleeuing , giuen to lust , couetousnesse , voluptuousnesse , the word will runne out , or be smothred , or peruerted . Therefore Dauid prayeth , Encline my heart to thy testimonies , and not to couetousnesse : these two cannot stand together . Secondly , wee must labour to see how precious the word is . Psal. 119 103. Dauid found it more sweet than the hony combe , more precious then golde or siluer : therefore hee held it so constantly . I am like a bottle in the smoake ; yet I forget not thy commandements .

Thirdly , wee must cry to God , to giue vs that faithfull remembrancer : the which may call things wee knowe to our minde , in the time of our need . Ioh. 14.26 It is sayd when the Apostles receiued the Spirit , then they remembred &c. Without the helpe of Gods spirit wee should bee like Agar , ready to die for thirst , though the fountaine were by vs . Fourthly , we must lay vpper the word safe ; as we coffer iewels : to which three things are necessarie . First , musing & considering within our selues of it . Luke 2.19 , Mary kept all these sayings , and pondred them in her heart . Secondly , speaking of it , Deuter. 6.7 , And thou shalt reherse them continually vnto thy children ; not that we must talk lightly , with hearts vntuned , but either with hearts prepared , or else with a holy purpose , to provoke our dull hearts by the words of our mouths : for though words com from the heart , yet they helpe the grace in the heart : as apparel is first warmed by the body , afterwards giueth and fostereth heat in the body : such holy communication will make vs ready in the knowledge of it . Thirdly , one that will haue it sure , must not only knowe it , and haue it in his memory , for if hee goe no further it will putrefie & com to nothing ; but must affect it , that wee may say so loue I thy statutes . 2. Thess. Because they receiued not the truth in loue , therefore they did not hould to it . Psal. 119.122 , I reioiced at thy testimonies as if I had found great spoils .

Now the things to bee marked are two : First , that all of vs must strengthen our selues , by getting the knowledge of Gods word . The sword is not more necessary for the souldier , Examples . then this for vs . Thus Christ Christ . plaied his prises with it in the temptation , Mat. 4. Iob Iob. 23.12 , Neither haue I departed from the commandements of his lips , and I haue esteemed the words of his mouth , more then mine appointed food . Psal. 119.11 , Dauid . I haue hid thy promise in my heart , that I might not offend against thee . Such as haue enemies , doe not walk but hauing their swordes girt to them : wee cannot repell wicked suggestions , strike downe our own corruptions , without the help of the sword , and knowledge of Gods pure word .

Which doth first let vs see the leudnes of the Papists : for first as they giue vs a wicker shield , and paper helmet , so they giue vs a leaden sword , an vnwritten word ▪ the word of men , as well as of God , the mixture doth marre the metall : but aboue al , heerin they sin , that they let not Christians indifferently haue the word of God in their mother-tongue ; vsing against Christians the like hostility that the Philistims vsed against Israel , they tooke away the smiths and weapons of Israel . And mark it : for , this taking the word from Gods people , is an antichristian practice . If a man should transport our armour , and so dis-furnish the Realme , it would not serue the subiects in time of need , wee would count him no friend to the State .

Secondly , it doth conuince Christians that are carelesse of the word of GOD : or if they haue the knowledge of it , they vse it as our gentility wear their weapons , to shew the gilded pummels and veluet scabberds , rather then otherwise : so the word which is a spirituall sword , many do discourse of it for ostentation , rather then to ward off wick●d suggestions , or hew downe their owne corruptions with it .

Lastly , wee must bee exhorted to get the knowledge of the word , and hould it fast . Pro. 2.1 , My sonne , if thou wilt receiue my words , and hide my commandements within thee , verse 5 , then shalt thou vnderstand the feare of the Lord , & find the knowledge of God . Let the word of God dwell in you richly in all wisdome , teaching & admonishing one another , Col. 3.16 . Wee should euer haue this word in our harts and mouthes : it is no small disadvantage for a man to be without a weapon in the midst of his enemies .

Secondly , this doth teach vs , what word it is which the spirit of God doth accompany , and make mighty in the conscience : it is the word of God , Esay 49. vlt. 2. Cor. 3.8 , How shall not the ministration of the spirit be much more glorious ? Ier. 23.22 . & 29 , But if they had stood in my counsell , and declared my words to my people , then they should haue turned them from their euill way . And in regard that it is thus accompanied , it is heer and in Esay 48.2 . Heb. 4.12 , called a two edged sword , of so great efficacy , that wee may see the Apostles , who beeing but fishermen , yet hauing this word in their mouthes , did cast downe all the wisdome of the world that resisted them . And wee see in that Nicene Councel , Euseb. lib. 10. cap. 3. when all the Doctours could not silence an acute Heretick , a simple man vnlearned in comparison , bringing out the simple testimony of this word , did subdue him , and convince him , so that hee had not ought to answer .

Which should teach vs , as wee would haue the spirit effectuall with vs , to keepe to the pure word , these cleer fountaines of Israel ; not to affect the depths of humane curiosity : for , the spirit blowes not in these voices . Euery sound is not musick ; nor euery such sermon preaching .

And it sheweth people what they should desire : to heare the word of God , by which the spirit doth work in them ; not to applaud strange fire : which men do through ignorance , which is the mother of admiration ; and through indiscretion , which maketh them they cannot discerne betweene Aarons bells , betweene the siluer Trumpet of the Sanctuary , and such tinkling Cymbals .

Fourthly , from translations , obiections are made : First , your Bibles are not such as haue infallible truth , but are the labour of men , and erre heer and there : that which is the work of man , and subiect to error , is not Gods word .

Ans. 1. Our Bibles are not so infallible as the first copies were ( for in them not onely the matter , but manner of writing , the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 was 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ; both infallible ) and are such as ( for matter ) into which may creep some errour ; and for phrase of speech , some dissenting from the truth of the originall . Ans. 2. The word translated , though subiect to error , is Gods word , and begetteth , and encreaseth faith , not so farre forth as man through frailty erreth ; but as he is assisted through speaking and translating , to write the truth .

The Papists say , there must bee infallibility in God reuealing , and the Church propounding , to begette faith : but this is false ; for faith commeth by the hearing of the word of God , from the mouth of a particular Minister , who by all confession is subiect to error . Obiect . But if we erre in some things , how can wee beleeue any thing ? they may as wel erre in all ? Ans It cannot be : because as God doth immediately and infallibly assist them , that they cannot erre at all ; so wee knowe hee is in some measure with them , that they cannot altogether erre . These grounds laide , it is easie to answere . Secondly , If it be obiected , the word you preach and heare , translated and read , is subiect to error . Gods word is not subiect to error , ergo , the word yee heare and reade is not Gods word . Answ. The proposition if generall , it is false : but it is particular , & so concludes particularly ; else it is false , and the conclusion false , Obiect . A word that may erre cannot beget faith : your word may . Ans. The first is false , vnlesse conceiued with limitation , thus : A word that erreth cannot beget faith , so farre forth as it erreth . I thought good not to propound this obiection , because I would not teach men to finde a hole in their Bibles , lest their corruption should take further holde by it , then their grace would ouer come . Yet the frequent audacious practice of Ministers , in correcting the translations which walke in our Lands , doth make it necessarie , that the truth of this point should for the diligent reader bee vnfolded ; who will not take offence at the weakenesse of man , but extoll the power of God ; which doth put forth it selfe in the midst of humane fraylties .

Now followeth the second thing , in which the particular strengthning of our selues doth stand : and that is a matter of fact . The exercise of prayer . The former things doo present before vs , men clad in glistering furniture , from top to toe : And this doth shewe vnto vs the muster of such glorious spirituall forces .

In this eighteenth verse , and the two following , are set downe three things concerning prayer . First , the dutie it selfe ; Pray alwaies , with all manner of prayer , &c. Secondly , the manner , partly from a vertue that must accompanie it : and partly from a property of perseuerance . Thirdly , the obiect or parties set downe generally in this verse ; particularly in the verse following . This is the summe of the verse .

The dutie hath his amplification from the generality of it [ with all prayer ] which is all the kindes of prayer , which are opened , 1. Tim. 2.1 , I exhort therefore , &c. First , deprecatiue , or prayers , that aske remooueall of euils . 2. Petitions , or wishes , of good things . 3. Interc●ssion , for others . 4. Thankesgiuing . Secondly , the dutie is set downe for circumstance of time [ alwaies ] which doth not note that wee should bee daily , or vncessantly occupied in praier ; but that ever and anon , in fit opportunities , we should betake our selues to prayer . Wee haue else-where the same manner of phrase . 1. Thes. 5.16 , Reioyce alwaies , not that wee should bee like Democritus alwaies laughing ; but when occasion is offered , shewe that reioycing ; as otherwhiles , wee must weepe with them that weepe . The like phrase , 2. Samu●l . 9.7 . Mephibosheth did alwaies eate bread at D●uids table : that is , dayly at the houres of eating , hee did remaine at the Kings board . Thirdly , in the spirit : signifying the fountain , whence it must spring ; from our spirits , mooued by the spirit of God , which is the inditer of prayer . These are opened , as having in them some difficulty . Now to returne : First , to the generall handling of this 18. verse . Secondly , to the particular . Prayer is an opening of the heart to God , in making requests and offering thankes thorough Christ . For the nature of it is nothing but a motion of the soule in desire and thankesgiuing : called the lifting vp of , or the rearing vp of the soule .

The vse of it is not to satisfie , or merit . Beggers pay no debts , but confesse insufficiency . Dan. 9.5 , It pleadeth all guilty , and vnworthiness : and how can hee demerit with prayer , that cannot requite ought hee hath receiued ? Wee are lesse then the least of his mercies : as Dauid , Psalm . 116.12 , What shall I giue the Lord for all his benefits vnto mee ? The vse of it may bee branched out . In regarde of God : It doth glorifie him , by acknowledging him the father of lights , the fountaine of all good wee haue and would haue . In regarde of men , the helping of them thorough loue , by being suters at the throne of grace for them through Christ .

Secondly , in regard of our selues , the vse is manifold : but heere those vses of prayer are most pertinent , which doe respect the warfare wee haue in hand . First , it doth make vs winne the day without striking a stroake : For it keepeth the Diuell out , that hee cannot haue leaue to throwe a dart against vs . Matth. 26.41 , Pray that yee enter not into temptation . Luke 21.36 , Pray that you may escape these things , that shall come to passe , and that you may stand before the Sonne of man . Secondly , it doth get vs supply of strength , if wee come to the encounter . For , Exod. 17.11 . Moses prayer was stronger then Iehosuahs sword . Pray , and the peace of God shall like a watch-tower k●epe your hearts . Looke how Captaines fighting abroad for their Countrey , send their Letters , and so haue men , munition , victuals , mony , &c. So prayer is the messenger of a faithfull soule , and fetcheth euery thing from God .

Thirdly , Prayer doth strengthen vs in faith and hope . For , look as if we commune often , and familiarly with a man , wee haue more confidence towardes him : so If wee by often prayer , speak with our God , it doth imbolden vs , and breed more liberty and confidence towards him , then if we were estranged . 4. Prayer getteth all our other armour fitted about vs ; we being not able to buckle it on , further than our heauenly father doth helpe vs on with it .

Now for the third thing , How the Diuell doth labour to weaken vs in the performance of this dutie . First , from this , that prayers doe not alwaies speed , and therefore are in vaine . 2. Cor. 12.8 , For this I besought the Lord thrice ; yet hee missed of that hee sought : much more , we in temporal things . Ans. That is not in vaine , which doth n●t alwaies get the thing wee would haue : about which wee must learne three things . First , that prayer often doth obtaine what wee would : as Moses , for victory , and had it : Hanna for a sonne , and had him . Secondly , when it doth not obtaine the things themselues , it gets somthing that may be worth our seeking : as , though it doth not quite remooue evils , yet it preuaileth so farre , as to haue mercy mingled with iudgement ; our evills asswaged . Though wee get not the things wee wish , it getteth some grace proportionable : as in Paul , 2. Cor. 12. My grace is sufficient for thee . Thirdly , though it get not deliuerance , ad voluntatem , yet it alwaies procures issue ad salutem .

Secondly , from this that praiers are needlesse . Esay 65.24 , Yea , before they call I will answer , and whilest ●hey speak I will heare . And Iohn 16.24 . Henceforth you shall ask mee nothing . Ans. The later is but a doubt from the phrase of speech : for , asking there is questioning , as they had done before ; which they should not need to doo when they had the spirit to lead them into all truth : for the other it followeth not , God is ready to forgiue vs , therfore we need not aske : for although it is not needful to stirre vp mercy in him who is the bowels of mercy , or to informe him who is the searcher of hearts , yet they are necessary as meanes which God will haue vsed , that wee may receiue the things which hee of free mercy giueth . Gen. 25 21 , Isaac knew he should haue seed before , yet he prayed . Elias knew , and had told Ahab , God would certainly giue raine : yet both prayed , and they are meanes to prepare vs holily to enioy the things receiued . The creature is sanctified by prayer : for things receiued by prayer encrease our loue to God , our thankefulnes . Psal. 116 , What shal I render vnto the Lord , for all his benefites : maketh vs ready to part with them for Gods glory .

Thirdly , from our vnworthinesse . God heareth not sinners . Iohn 9.31 . And also if I regard wickednesse , the Lord will not heare mee . Answ. There are repenting and vnrepenting sinners : the later kinde of sinners , nay , their very prayers are an abhomination , when they loue to liue in some sin , and hate to bee reformed . The other God heareth .

Fourthly , God heareth not such as doubt of his mercy . Iam. 1.5 . Ans. There is a raigning vnbeleefe ; and there is a doubting , and vnbeliefe which is a weaknesse left in the Saints , for their exercise . The first is in heathens and vnbeleeuers : the later , which is a doubting which is in a soule that would be rid of it , and prayer by faith fights against it , doth not hinder vs from being heard . Marke 9.22 , But if thou canst doe any thing help vs . Mat. 14.31 , Oh thou of little faith , wherefore didst thou doubt ?

Fiftly , From our long asking and not receiuing . It is in vaine for him to pray that asketh and receiueth not . Ans. First , we must examine whether our continuing in som lust , doe not hinder the effect of our prayer . Iames 4.3 , Yee aske and haue not , because ye aske amisse . Wee must knowe that God doth deferre vs , to try how we will perseuere in prayer ; as a friend when hee meaneth to doe this or that , doth detract it at the first , to see if the other will importune him . Thirdly , that we may knowe the worth of things , and haue our ioy doubled in receiuing them . Fourthly , It is a token God will giue vs more aboundantly , the longer hee doth holde vs in request : the wider one openeth any thing , it is a token wee meane to put the more in . It is not in vaine therefore to aske , though wee be not presently answered ; seeing God doth on so good occasions , delay vs in our suits . And let vs be sure of this , that he that bottleth vp our teares , files vp our prayers , putting them on record before him . Mal. 3.16 , Then spake they that feared the Lord , euery one to his neighbour , & the Lord harkened and heard it , and a booke of remembrance was written before him , for them that feared the Lord , and that thought vpon his name . Sixtly , the Diuell by tempting vs to sinne , and distempering of vs in the course of prayer . 1. Pet. 3.7 , Likewise , yee husbands dwell with your wiues , as men of knowledge , giving honour vnto the woman , as vnto the weaker vessell , euen as they which are heirs together of the grace of life , that your prayers be not interrupted . For , when the conscience is defiled , wee are so pricked in the foote , that we cannot goe to God in prayer ; and are not able comfortably to discharge it : wee either neglect them , or profane Gods name , in rushing vpon them : we must therefore take heede of sin , as wee would with comfort return to prayers . But here is a question . I haue beene ouertaken with infirmitie , the time of prayer draweth on , what shall I doe ? Answ. First , thou must not neglect it , for this is to heap one sinne vpon another . Mat. 5.24 , Leaue there thine offering before the Altar , and goe thy way , first be reconciled to thy brother , and then come and offer thy gift . Secondly , thou must not when thou hast offended God rush boldly on him . Exod. 33.10 , They worshipped euery man a farre off , in the door of his tent : but Num. 12.14 . There is a worthy example , If a mans parent should be so offended , as to spet on him ; durst hee appeare before him for seauen dayes ? And shall wee bee so bolde , hauing offended the father of spirits , presently to come into his sight ? In the third place , a man must gather himselfe together , & let his heart smite him in that hee hath done , the rather to think what streights hee hath brought himselfe vnto , either in neglecting his dutie , or profaning the name of his God . If the partie bee at hand ( as the man and wife ) let there bee mutuall confession ; if otherwise , let there be a purpose of it : and hauing this purpose , and being in any measure touched , though nothing so well as wee wish , and were meet ; wee may come to God , and he will accept vs , and heale vs . 2. Chron. 33.19 , And his prayer , and how God was intreated of him , &c. Seauenthly , The Diuell will labour to preuent vs , and breake vs off in this dutie , by distractions ; this thing , and that , calling vs away , by difficulties in the while of prayer : such mists of darknesse , such swarmes of wandering idle thoghts , comming before our mindes , that wee are much discomforted . Answ. Wee must be resolute against distractions . First seeeke the kingdom of God , &c. Mat. 6.33 . If wee promise at this or that houre , to meet a man when the Clock smiteth , whosoeuer wee are with , wee craue pardon ; wee are to goe . Make not more bolde with God then you would with man . For the second we must enquire whether letting loose our hearts all day , doe not cause this vnfitness at night : and if it be so , we must help the matter with watchfulnesse . Secondly , wee must knowe that the Saints haue felt both these things , darknesse , and wandrings . For there is a double wandering of the minde : one is of carelesnesse and contempt , such as is in many in the Church , that pray , and their mindes are a woolgathering ; they say Amen , but know not to what . There is another wandering of the minde , which is through infirmity : it being felt , is grieuous to vs , though we cannot ouercome it . Thirdly , this is a rule , We must not cease to doe any commandment because of our imperfection in dooing it . And to strengthen vs euery way , Let vs come to the fourth consideration , how to strengthen our selues , that we may constantly cary forth this duty : First , to consider that this is a commandement , and that necessity doth lie vpon vs . Secondly , to consider the promise of God , Ask and yee shall haue , seek , &c. Thirdly , to muse often on the stile of God . Psal. 65.2 , Hee is a God that heareth praier : looke the whole Psalme . If Princes will not lose any part of their Royall Title , God will maintaine his .

Fourthly , to consider , it is our selues that gaine by praier : and if we lay it down , wee shall haue the losse of it . Iob 35.7 , If thou be righteous , what giuest thou vnto him , & c ? Yea , we must be so far from beeing offended at Gods not answering at our want of comfort and liberty , that wee must hould euen this , such a prerogatiue as wee are vnworthy of . 1. Chron. 22.14 , What am I or my people that we should offer thus ? what are we that wee should speake to God , or haue accesse to the highest Maiesty ?

Fiftly , to consider against all wants , that wee are accepted , according to that wee haue when there is a ready minde , 2. Cor. 8.12 . Hee spares vs as a father doth his children , Mal. 3.17 . They will heare with delight the lisping and stammering voice of their children : yea , because the soule is sicke , the seruice is twice welcome . If a sicke childe reach vs vp a thing , wee count it more then to send another of laborious arrands .

Lastly , from all wants and discouragements , labour to see that thou canst not pray , if God by his spirit help thee not : the more thou comest to bee poore in spirit , the more freedom and strength thou shalt haue in performing thy duty .

Now thus we see in generall , that Christians must by this exercise of prayer strengthen themselues . Euery where wee haue precepts , Call on mee in the time of trouble , &c. Psal. 50.15 . And precedents : Dauid , Asa , Iehosaphat , Hezechiah , when the armies of the Heathen did assaile them , by prayer preuailed against them . This is the refuge of the Saints in all troubles . The Name of the Lord is a tower of defence , Psal. 18.10 . This is that iust mans practice , Psal. 32. the whole Psalme .

Which doth rebuke such Christians as vse not themselues to prayer . It is with vs as in the time of Esay . 60.7 , And there is none that calleth vpon thy name , neither that stirreth vp himselfe to take hould on thee . And as with the Disciples , Iohn 16.24 , Hitherto haue yee asked nothing in my Name . We haue all things so cast vpon vs , that wee vse not prayer : but take heed ; for the Lord will draw back his hand , and rather strip you that are his owne of all , then leese his honour . Hos. 5 , I will go and returne to my place , till they acknowledge their fault , and seeke mee : in their affliction they will seeke mee diligently . If wee will not seek him , hee will make vs cry after him : therfore do not ( whatsoeuer condition you are of ) shift it off . Wiues thinke the husband must doo it : but his neglect will not discharge thy duty . Seruants thinke if their masters vse none , they are bound to none . Why should we need motiues to this ? If we might bee familiarly admitted to the Kings presence , wee would easily accept it : in faithfull praier thou maist commune with God . Again , how worthy are we to misse good things , that will not open our mouths for them ? Spare to speak● ( wee say ) and spare to speed . When GOD biddeth vs aske and haue , how vnthankfull and vnworthy wretches are wee , that neglect such kindnesse , and will not prooue him that is so gracious ? Againe , there is no duty so acceptable to God : for that prayer is to grace , as powning is to sweete spices ; it maketh grace , as faith , reuerence , pouerty of spirit , thankfulnes , &c. cast a fragrant smell , as which ( indeed ) is nothing but the chafing of them .

Secondly , wee see , that day by day , when it shall bee most fitting our condition and occasion , wee must returne to this duty , Pray alwaies . That wee are said to doo continually , which wee are said to doo at fit times daily , as Numb. 28 , That was a continuall sacrifice which was daily offred , morning and euening only . And that we are daily to take vp this exercise , it appeareth by Dauid , Ps. 55. 17 , Euening and morning and noone , will I pray and make a noise , and hee shall heare my voice . Dan. 6.10 , He kneeled vpon his knees three times a day , and praid and praised his God , as hee had done aforetimes . Secondly , by Christs instruction , who would haue vs begge euery day the things that belong to this temporall life : much more to the spirituall . And by many reasons , as first our decay of grace when it is not renewed , or sundry wants and new appearances of euil which daily shew themselues , before not discouered , which must bee supplied by praier ; as the decay daily of bodily strength by sustentation . Secondly , the daily malice of Satan against vs . Thirdly , the benefit of daily prayer , it is as a hedge to vs . When we haue brought our selues to this custome ( it beeing with the soule as with the body ) it will not goe quietly without that to which it is accustomed .

First therefore from the right vnderstanding this phrase , we see it doth not enioyne vs those canonicall howers : for besides that their institution was not knowen in the Apostles time , this precept tieth all Christians ; whereas their howers of praier bind their clergie onely , who of office are to pray , and there discourse that way , would haue these things marked ; that wee doe not deny that the Church hath liberty to appoin● houres , with caution of edification . But the first erre in this , that they make lawes for all times , of some example , which particular men did freely vpon some occasion extraordinay . 2. That they multiply their foria's , and houres abundantly , aboue that the Church of God can attend vnto , yea contrary to Gods institution ; who hath , that we might keepe his worshippe on the Sabbath , giuen vs six dayes . 3. That they make them publike prayers of the Chur. which are performed by the Clergie ; wheras the Clergie are not the Church , but the ministers with the people to whom it is ministred .

Secondly , this doth conuince many , who think that time lost that is deuoted to prayer , who thinke it is enough to pray at Church ; as if Gods publike seruice did iustle forth the priuate . Many , who by fittes sometime will pray , leauing off another while . Many , who though they pray in euening with their houses , yet in the morning euery man must bee for him selfe , and God for them all : but wee must pray alwaies , euening and morning , day by day ; it is most requisite that wee Christians may offer vp a continuall spirituall sacrifice to our God , though every one cannot in the like measure performe these duties : for the circumstances of callings , and conditions of liues , do make them differ .

3. In the spirit . Which doth teach vs , that the inward man of our hearts , must chiefly be occupied in prayer . In all our seruice , wee should say , as Ro. 1.9 . That we serue God in our spirites , but especiallie in prayer ; it being not the warbling of words , but the yearning , and panting of the heart after God , and the things of our peace . Such was Christs prayer , Heb. 5.7 , which in the dayes of his flesh did offer vp praiers , and strong cries vnto him , &c. From his soule they came : for they were offred vp with lowd cries , and many tears . And the ardent desire , is the thing which God heareth , though there be no voyce annexed ; as appeareth in Moses , Exod. 14 : 15 , Why cryest thou vnto me ? 2. The prayer outward of the lippes , without the request of the heart , is abhominable in his sight . Ma●. 15.8 , Cursed is hee that draweth neere with his lips , but his heart is farre from mee . The spirit is the rise of true prayer : if it proceed not thence , it is an empty ring which God regardeth not . And this maketh prayer laborious , because the spirit is to trauaile in it : and the Saints in this regarde , can endure better to heare an houre , then pray a quarter ; whereas the world , they think the out warde repeating of words with a generall intention , to suffice . This Popery is naturall , they cry for praying , rather then preaching . It doth serue to conuince such prayers as are nothing but vain babbling , & wordes without spirit : as with many , the minde is running on twenty things , while the bodie boweth to prayer . Yea , it doth check the indeuotion , and want of spirit , that doth creep vpon vs , that are the Lords . And let vs take heed : for a powerlesse prayer , if it come not from meer feebleness , which is accompanied with an abiectnesse of heart , but as it doth the most times from a spirit of sloath ioyned with presumption ; If we from these grounds shuffle vp our prayers without pow●r & life , God wil certainely punish our profaning his name , with letting vs fall into some sinne , which shall awaken vs with smart enough .

Secondly , this doth teach vs that we must stirre vp our spirits in the action of praier , vse contention , & shake off such chilnesse , as wil run through vs , crying to him that is the quickning spirit , not being quiet till wee get some warmth into our spirites : and these bee the winged prayers , that flie beyond all the visible heauens ; these bee the prayers of smoake , in which the Church ascendeth to God , out of this world , a barren wildernesse .

Fourthly , watching therunto . Whence marke , that as wee must pray , so wee must vse watchfulnesse for furtherance of prayer : Not that wee should sit vp late , as in Nocturnes ; or wake before day , as in morning Mattens : But wee must all day long haue a wakening soule , that carrieth the dutie of prayer in remembrance . Watch & pray , Mat. 26.41 . Col. 4.2 , Continue in praier , and watch in the same with thankesgiuing . 1. Pet. 4.7 , The end of all things is at hand , be yee therefore sober and watching in prayer . Where we may see , it is the mindes waking , which is principally meant , though this wil keep the bodie from drowsinesse , in performing the exercise . The primitiue Christians , this is recorded of them ; that they did eate their meate , as remembring they were to call on God , by the night season . More particularly , there must be watchfulnesse brfore prayer . 2. In it . 3. After it . Now our watchfulnesse before , stands in preuenting the impediments , in marking that in the course of the day , which may fit vs for prayer . First , this watchfulnes will make a man so cast , and make such riddance of businesse , that he may not haue hinderances when he shall goe to his dutie . God prefixeth a Memento before the Sabbath ; teaching that if one doe not lift vp his minde to it , and in the six dayes dispatch his businesse , hee cannot keepe it when it commeth : so there is a mindfulnesse to be had of him that will not this way be encombred with distractions . Secondly , Wee must watchfully keepe our selues from sinne : Let him that calleth on the name of Lord , depart from iniquitie . For if we be in the day time indulgent to our lusts , it will be a dampe to our prayers : and when wee yeeld to sinne , it is a token our Watch is downe ; we think not of prayer . For if wee meant to make suite to a man at night , wee would be watchfull in the day , not to lose his fauour , by giuing him offence , lest hee should refuse vs in our request . 2. We must obserue our wants in the day time ; as , how prone we are to runne into worldly mindednesse , in wrath , in voluptuousnes , in foolish and vnfruitfull speaking , and therefore , what need wee haue to cry , Lord , keepe thou the door of our lips . Again , we must labour , as to haue a sense of wants , so to haue a feeling of the good things God giueth , of the euils hee keepeth from vs : for without the one wee cannot bee poore in spirit , nor beg vnfainedly ; without the other wee cannot be truely thankfull , and offer vp our praise hartily .

Now we must watch in praier against indeuotion and wandrings , &c. So Esay complaineth 64.7 , And there is none that calleth on thy Name , neither that stirreth vp himselfe to take hould on thee . After praier wee must marke , how God hath answered vs in this or that wee haue entreated . Psal. 5.3 , Early in the morning will direct my praier vnto thee , and will wait , stand as in a watch-tower , and see how the Lord will deale with mee , and remember mee in my requests . Psal. 130.5 , I haue waited on the Lord , my soule hath waited , and I haue trusted in his word , ver. 6.7 .

This doctrine checketh many ; such , as when their Watch hath beene downe , rush vpon praier , euen from pots to praier : when they haue supped & giuen thanks , though they haue let their hearts loose , eat , drunke without fear , sobriety , profaned their mouthes with light vnfruitfull speech , yet then before parting of friends , call for a praier . But though they may after a feast go to praier , who eat and drinke before the Lord , as Hannah , 1 ▪ Sam. 1. after shee had exceeded with a double portion , went and praied deuoutly ; yet you that haue let fal your Watch in feasting , you profane Gods Name when you call for a praier : and many are so farre from remembring themselues all day , that they cannot keep their eyes open while they are a-praying ; they are so affected , as if it would cast them into an ague to bee kept awhile in praier . This want of watchfulnes is a common euill , and doth vs great hurt . This maketh vs such poore Orators , that when we come to God , wee are barren of praise and request , because we doe not obserue in the day matter for this purpose : this , though we knowe it not , doth make vs complaine of such mists , rouing thoughts , indisposition , because wee walke all day long forgetfull . If one should eat codlings , gooseberries , pease , would you wonder if at night hee were wrung in his belly ? would you not bid him mend his diet if hee meant to see it otherwise ? so , when wee let our hearts loose all day , feed vpon earthly vanity , how should they bee heauenly-minded on a sudden , when bed-time calleth on vs to praier ?

Let vs stir vp our selues to keepe this watch , that wee may see , and walke in the strength of our praiers . If one be to make an oration in the schooles , hee will not venture ex tempore : how much more should wee meditate on the orations wee are to make before the Lord ? So if we should deuise any thing by way of petition , would wee not wait how it is receiued ? what is said to it ? would we giue vp our petition , and carelesly depart , never thinking on it ? how much more should we wait to see what will becom of our requests to GOD ?

With perseuerance . Whence marke , that wee must hold out in our daily course of praier . What if God delay , we must not giue in , but like Iacob , not let God goe till hee giueth vs the blessing ; and like those remembrancers of Sion in Esay , giue him no rest till hee accomplish our desire . This , our Sauiour by two parables calleth vs vnto ; one , of a friend importuning his friend in the night , Luke 11.5.6.7.8 . another , of a widow dealing with the vnrighteous Iudge Luke 18.2.3.4.5 . This perseuerance is a thing so louely , that therefore God doth delay , to see how we will be instant , and importunate with him . For he doth not seeme to reiect prayers that hee doth not heare , & grant them , : nay , as seed which is the longest couered riseth the first with most increase : so doe those prayers which God seemeth to bury in forgetfulnes a long time , if we perseuere , they shall spring out with the greatest blessing . Wherefore wee must stirre vp our selues , strengthning our feeble knees , erecting our fainting hearts , we must not let delay beate vs out . Shall we stint God , presently to heare vs ? Let hypocrites say , Esay 58 , Wee haue fasted , and thou regardest not . Are we better then Paul who praied thrice , yet was glad to rest in this , that Gods grace was sufficient ? better then those that haue said , How long ? Haue not we , when God hath called and knocked , often neglected to answer ? Let vs consider these things : and though God seem to turne a deafe eare towards vs , let vs continue our praiers with patience .

Finis .