The Preface .

AS the yong man in the Gospell , that was desirous to obtaine euerlasting life , yet being inioyned by our blessed Saniour , to sell what he had and giue to the poore , departed sorrowfull that Heauen should bee held at so high a rate . Mat. 19.21 . So ( beloued ) are there many in these our daies , that very willingly would bee registred among the number of the saithfull , righteous , and mercifull men , whose charitable deuotions can abide no beggers . For who amongst vs is there almost , that doth any good , or what man is he amongst a thousand , who hauing a fellow feeling of the miseries of his bretheren , remembreth the afflictions of Ioseph . Yet our Sauiour Christ exhorteth all those that wil be his Disciples to the practise of mercy , after the example of our heauenly Father . Luk. 6.36 . Ye shall therefore bee mercifull , as your Father which is in Heauen , is mercifull

There are two principall points to bee considered in this text : First , a precept , Ye shall therefore be mercifull , Secondly , the president ; As your heauenly Father is mercifull , of these in order .

Mercifull men may bee taken two waies , Passiuely , and Actiuely : Passiuely , for such as God hath receiued to mercy , Tim. 1.13 . as he did the Apostle Paul ; because hee sinned ignorantly , through vnbeleife : and in this respect , Rom. 9.23 . they are tearmed Vessels of mercy , prepared to glory ; of this number are onely those which repent and amend . Pro. 28.13 As Salomon saith , Hee that hideth his sinnes shall not prosper , but hee that confesseth , and forsaketh them , shall haue mercy .

But in this place it is meant Actiuely namely , for such as shew mercy vnto others : Now that we may the better know our duties in this point , let vs more especially consider what the workes of mercy are . Thomas Aquinas very learnedly setteth them forth , to bee in number , 13.6 . belonging to the soule , & 7. to the body , comprehended in two verses .

Consule , Castiga , Solare , Remitte for Ora ;

Vifito , Poto , Cibo , Redimo , Tego , Coligo , Condo .

Instruct the Ignorant , Correct the sinfull , Comfort the sorrowfull , Forgiue the offenders , Beare with the weak , and Pray for all men . These are workes of mercy to the soule , Visit the sicke , Giue drinke to the thirsty , bread to the hungry , helpe the opressed , cloath the naked , Lodge the harbourles , and bury the dead : These to the body , of them particularly , more at large .

Consule .

The first worke of mercy to the soule , is to instruct the Ignorant , this duty is both Ecclesiasticall , and Domisticall ; Ecclesiasticall discipline , chiefly concerneth those whom God hath placed ouer vs in the Church , as Bishops , Ministers , &c. Domestical discipline belongeth to Fathers , & Masters of families . That part of instruction which appertaineth to the Ministers & Pastors of the Church , is twofold , Catechumenicall , and Propheticall .

Catechumonicall document , Heb. 6.1 . Is the Doctrines of the beginning of Christ , wherby Gods children are led forwards to wards perfection , which we vsually cal catechising . Prophetical instruction , is the exposition of the holy Scriptures , with Doctrines , & applications drawn from thence , for our further growth in Christ Iesus , Domesticall or Paternall discipline is commanded of God . De. 11.19 . You shall teach them your children , speaeking of them , when thou sittest in thy house , and when thou walkest in the way , and when thou lyest downe , and when thou risest vp . Saint Paul likewise willeth the Ephesians to bring vp their children instructed in the feare of the Lord ; Eph. 6.4 . this duty is to be performed three manner of waies , by example , by precepts of discipline , and by correction .

By example , our Lord & Saulour Iesus Christ taught vs when hee said , Mat. 7.5 . First cast out the beame , that is in thine owne eye , and then shalt thou see more clearely , the more that is in thy brothers eye : And the Apostle Paul willeth the Colossians To walke wisely , Col. 4.5 . towards them , that are without . For youth is generally more corrupted by the ill exampels of Parents , Maisters , Magistrates , or Ministers , then for the most part any good example , exhortation , or Instruction from others , can well amend them , they being naturally proane to follow the worst presidents : & herein may they iustly be tearmed Rehoboams schollers ; who whereas he might haue learned much wisdom out of his Father Salomons sentences , and actions , yet could hee gather nothing worthy of imitation from them , 2 Chr. 10.12 . but Where as his Father taxed his subiects ouer greeuously , he would therein goe beyond him .

So are there many Rehoboams amongst vs , in these our dayes , who can find nothing worthy their imitation out of the good examples , vertuous precepts , and diuine exhortations of their Parents , Masters and Magistrates , or Ministers , but if they haue any vice , blemish , imperfection , or corruption therein they will be sure to follow , and exceede their President . For such is the corruption of the time● and age wherein we liue , that in any good thing wee come short of our president , but in euill things wee exceede our patterne ; yet ought we not so to doe , but rather in all examples , to behaue our selues according to the counsell of the Apostle Paul . Tit. 2.8 . That hee which withstandeth , may bee ashamed , hauing nothing concerning vs , to speake euill of .

Secondly , youth are also to be instructed in precepts of discipline , which Salamon auoucheth , saying , Pro. 22.6 . Teach a child in the trade of his way , and when he is old , hee shall not depart from it : In their prime and tender age , they ought ( as Samuels ) to be dedicated to the Lord , to sound forth the most glorious name of the most high , and then as the Poet saith : Quo semel est imbuta recens , seruabit odorem , testa diu , they being at the first well instructed , will continue the better .

But herein many are greatly to be reproued , that whereas they ought especially to haue a care , that their Children should ( as soone as they can speake with the least vse of vnderstanding ) be seasoned with the liquor of grace , and good nurture . They with the Scribes and Pharises teach traditions , Mark 7.13 which they themselues haue ordained , and make the Word of God of none authority . They will teach them to lie , to sweare , to speake filthy speeches , and to sing songs of ribaldry , but the duties of obedience , the practise of pietie , the Catechumenicall Documents of faith , and fundamentall points of saluation , they account not worthy the learning , as vnfit for their tender yeares and capacity ; yet this affection was not in Abraham , of whom the Lord saith , I know that he will command his sonnes , Gen. 18.19 and his houshold after him , to doe righteousnesse and iudgement , and to keepe the way of the Lord , that the Lord may bring vpon Abraham all that hee hath spoken vnto him . Iosua was also resolued , Ios. 24 . 1● . that whatsoeuer others did , yet hee , and his houshold would serue the Lord . And surely in this case , it behooueth great men especially to be good men , as being vnprinted statutes , and speaking lawes vnto the rest . Let vs therfore be mercifull , as our heauenly Father is mercifull . And thus much touching the first duty of mercy to the soule .

Castiga .

THE second worke of mercy to the soule , consisteth in correcting the sinfull : This duty is Ecclesiasticall , Domesticall , and Iudicial . Ecclesiasticall correction is , when the Bishops & Ministres of the Church , according to their seuerall functions , rebuke , or correct vice in any of the flocke of Christ committed to their charge . For saith Saint Paul , 2 Tim. 3.16 , 17. the whole Scripture is giuen by inspiration from God , and is profitable to teach , to conuince , to instruct , and correct in rightcousnesse , that the man of God may be absolute , being made perfect vnto all good workes . So likewise Saul deserued commendations , 1 Sam. 15.24 because he humbled himselfe at the rebuke of the Prophet Samuel . Dauid suffered gently reproofe of the Prophet Nathan ; 2 Sam. 12.7 . neither did Ahab disdaine to heare his faults told him from the mouth of Eliah . 1 Kings 21.20 . And thus wee see how patiently in times past , euen the greatest would heare of their faults ; albeit in these dayes such wickednesse now reigneth , that scarse the meanest will put vp checke , or controule , being like them of whom the Prophet Hosea speaketh ; Hose. 4.4 . that they reproue the Priests , telling them that they haue nothing to doe with them , they shall not answere for their faults , they know what they haue to doe as well as any hee , whosoeuer shall reproue them . These , or the like words , will euery rude ruffin returne to vs , whensoeuer hee shall bee taxed for any misdemeanor : Yet saith Almighty God , Leuit. 19.17 . Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thy heart , but thou shalt plainely rebuke thy neighbour , and suffer him not to sinne . As if hee should haue said ; Hee that suffereth his friend to goe on in his wickednesse , vnreproued , sheweth therein rather hatred , then any true loue vnto him . Very well therefore saith Seneca ; Qui non vetat peccare , cum possit , Iubet . Hee that suffereth sinne vncontrouled , doth as it were command it .

But rightly to reprehend , is one of the greatest difficulties incident to humane discretion .

And yet it is easier known then done , partly by reason of the way wardnesse of the delinquents disposition , that may not suffer reproofe , partly by reason of the diuers affections of the reprouers themselues , whom either ignorance disables , fauour withdrawes , feare deterres , or fury transports beyond the bounds of reason .

First , such ( I say ) is the waywardnes of mans crooked nature , that ( for the most part ) they may not heare of their offences , according to the example of Herod , who heard Iohn Baptist willingly , Mar. 6.20 . and did many things after him , but when hee told him that it was not lawfull for him to take Herodias h● brother Philips wife , hee laide holde on him , and cast him in prison .

Ieroboam also stretched out his hand from the Altar , 1 Kin. 13.4 & 22.27 . saying , lay hold on him , so soone as hee was reproued ; and Michaiah must bee fed with bread and water of affliction till Ahab returne in peace .

Wee can euery one of vs cry out against the sinnes of the time and age wherein we liue , saying ; Hos 4.1 . There is no truth , nor mercy , nor knowledge of God in the Land . But what man is hee among a thousand , that in the true humiliation of his owne soule , will stand out with Dauid , and say ; Behold , I haue sinned , yea , I haue done wickedly , 2 Sam. 14.17 . 〈◊〉 these sheepe what haue they done ? For albeit in generall we all confesse our selues to be sinners , yet so great is the selfe-loue that euery man by nature carrieth in his owne bosome , that when it commeth to the particulars , he coueteth to lay the burthen vpon another mans shoulders , and not to say with Iudah , that he , or shee , Gen. 38.16 . is more righteous then I.

A first part of Ecclesiasticall Corrigidors there are , whom ignorance disables , these poast vpon Gods message , before they haue learned their errand , being more greedy of the gaine , then gainefull in the grace of their calling , hauing not as yet receiued any warning from the mouth of the Lord to giue to his people ; and therefore no way fit to execute the charge whereinto they haue thrust themselues .

There are a second sort , whom either fauour withdrawes , or feare deterres from reprouing sinne . 1 Iohn 1.15 . Such , who louing the world , loue net the Father ; that is to say , when Michael your Minister , or Peter Please-man his Curate , will not tell Ahab of his cruelty , Nabal of his churlishnesse , Iezebel of her painting , Gehazi of bribery , &c: lest they thereat offended , should withdraw their affection from him , & pleasure another . And thus whilest hee preferreth gold before God , honour before honesty , and money more then the good of any : hee is ready euen with the false Prophets , 1 Kin. 22.15 . to bid Ahab goe vp and prosper . In stead of correcting vices , he is ready to flatter and sooth men vp in their conceited vertues , couering a rusty blade with a veluet scabbard , and crying peace , peace , when warre is approaching ; whereas Almighty God commandeth , Esai . 58.1 . Crie aloud , spare not , lift vp thy voice like a Trumpet , tell ludah his sinnes , & Israel their transgressions .

Shall God bid cry aloud , and shall we be silent ?

A third sort of corrigidors there are , whom fury transports beyond the bounds of reason those men can winke 〈◊〉 all things , till they themselues be first offended , and then passing the bounds of charity , they lay all things open , yea , peraduenture more then all , stuffing their Pulpits with inuectiues , and declamations , so farre are they transported with the fury of their affections . And yet for all this , sinne must bee checkt , errour must bee restrained , and vices must be spoken against , lest vnder pretence of supposed defects , in our selues , or respects to others they gather head , and like the vnruly Sea , break down the bankes , & ouerwhelme the Land with Atheisme , and superstitious impiety . Thus much touching Ecclesiasticall correction .

Domesticall correction is twofold , reproofe , and punishment ; this duty is to be performed by Parents , towards their children , and by Masters towards their seruants Salomon is very copious in this matter , Pro 23.13 . Withhold not correction from thy child , thou shalt smite him with the rod ; and shalt deliuer his soule from hell . Correct thy sonne , and he will giue thee rest , Pro. 29.17 and he will giue pleasures to thy soule . Againe , Pro. 13.24 He that spareth the rod , hateth his sonne : but he that loueth him , correcteth him betimes . All which testimonies tendes to this , that if we desire our owne peace , and not to be molested , nor vexed , but much comforted by them , if we would testifie our faithfull loue to them , if wee would purge their hearts from folly and sinne , and preserue their soules from euerlasting perdition , then let vs bee carefull to giue them due correction , which is Gods blessed ordinance , to reforme and saue their soules .

Let all cockering Parents harken what the Lord saith to the Prophet Samuel touching Eli for not correcting his children : 1 Sam. 3.12 , 13. In that day will I raise vp against Ely all things that . I haue spoken concerning his house , when I begin , I will also make an end : and I haue tolde him that I will iudge his house for euer , for the iniquity which hee knoweth , because his sonnes ranne on in a slander , and hee stayed them not . So that you may see , how that the irrespectiue conniuency of Parents vpon their Childrens faults , bringeth often times Gods iudgements vpon the whole family , and not without great cause .

Nam tenera est dum virga , recensque flectitur , huc , illuc vt vis ; at post vbi creuit , non , rob usta arbos : while the twig is tender and greene , it is bent hither & thither as you wil ; but after it is growne , you cannot , it will bee a strong tree . And as Gods iudgement fell vpon Ely and his Family for this sinne : 1 Sam. 4.17 , 18. for Hophni and Phinehas died in the battell , and Ely at the newes thereof fell from his seat backward , and brake his necke : so in these dayes many adiudged to execution for murther , Fellony , or the like , haue cryed out vpon their tender hearted Parents for bearing with them too much in their child-hood .

But whilest I insist vpon this point , I beseech you mistake me not ; for my meaning is , that we should haue an eye to the counsel of our Sauiour in this Text : so to shew mercy to others as we would expect the mercy of God towards our selues .

Si quoties peccant homines , sua fulmina mittat

Iupiter : exiguo tempore inermis erit .

For if that Ioue should strike

So oft as Men offend , The Poets say his Thunderbolts Would soone be at an end .

Thus much touching domesticall correction .

Iudiciall correction is to bee performed by Magistrates towards the Subiects : therefore thus speaketh the Lord of Hosts , saying , Execute true iudgement , Zach. 7.9.10 . and shew mercy and compassion euery man to his brother ; and oppresse not the widow , nor the fatherlesse , the stranger , nor the poore , and let none of you imagine euill against his brother in his heart . Saint Paul also saith ; Rom. 13.4 The Magistrate also beareth not the Sword in vaine : for he is the Minister of God , to take vengeance on him that doth euill . That Magistrate therefore that will be said rightly to beare the sword , must vnsheath it so against sinne , and sinners , that piety and good men may flourish the better , & and prosper . And herein the pious care of good Iehoshaphat , is to bee highly extolled : 2 Chro. 19.5.6 . For he set Iudges in the Land of Iudah throughout all the stronge Citties thereof , City by Ci●ty : And said vnto them , take heede what yee doe , for you execute not the iudgement of man , but of the Lord , and he will bee with you in the cause , and iudgement .

Magistrates in these times , are culpable in two points : first , that they doe not consider they execute the Lords iudgements , or if they did , how then could your cursed swearer , your prophaner of Gods Sabbaths , & beastly drunkards goe so vnpunished , as for the most part they doe ; yet herein they shew themselus like the Scribes and Pharises , Mark . 7.13 Who preferred their owne traditions , before Gods lawes .

Secondly , your inferiour Magistrates are greatly to be blamed , in that they being either too milde , or else too too negligent , in punishing small offences and petty fellonies , in their seuerall iurisdictions , doe often cause the offender to a greater Iudgement : so that whereas in pardoning small faults , they would be esteemed most mercifull , it often times falleth out far otherwise . You are therefore so to temper you iudgments , that in them you may remember mercy . To that end saith the Prophet Dauid , Psa. 88.10 . Mercy and truth shall mcete together , righteousnesse and peace , shall kisse one another . And as it was in Queen Elizabeths Poesy .

Sit piger adpaenas princeps , adpraemia velox .

Cuique dolet : quoties cogitur esse ferox .

I see and hold my peace , A Princely Poesy right ; For euery fault should not prouoke , A Prince or man of might . Then happy we that haue , A King so well inclin'd ; That when as Iustice drawes his sword , Hath mercy in his minde .

Solare .

THe third worke of mercy appertaining to the soule , consisteth in comforting the sorrowfull . This duty is Ecclesiasticall , and Generall ; Ecclesiastical consolation , chiefly consisteth in pronouncing the glad tydings of the Gospell , to those whose consciences by the law , are throughly wounded , for their sinnes .

And surely they that thus sow in teares , Psa 126.5 shall reape in ioy . For godly forrow causeth repentance , 2 Cor. 7.10 not to be repented of And as this duty is to be inioyned to all Ministers at all times , so more especially , are they to labour to bring al those , on whom God hath laide his heauy rod of sicknesse .

First , to a true sight and feeling of their sins , which is by the rule of Gods law ; Secondly , to a feare of Gods anger for , them that they may lament them , and earnestly repenting , call to God for mercy : Thirdly , let vs bring them to the true Samaritan , our Lord and Sauiour Christ Iesus , Who when the Priest and Leuite left vs wounded ; Luk. 10.33 24. that is to say , the Ceremoniall and Iudiciall Law passed by vs ; He bound vp our wounds , and paid for our curing , that wee might be recouered to euerlasting happinesse . Fourthly , we are so to arme them against the concupisence of the flesh , 1 Ioh. 2.16 the lust of the eyes , and pride of life , with the comfort of the Spirit , the society of Angels , & crownes of eternall glory ; that they thus prepared to passe the waues of their trouble some sicknesse , might safely ariue at the port of their eternall blessednesse .

Generall consolation is to be performed amongst all Christians mutually one towards another , which thing Saint Paul teacheth , saying : 1 Thes. 5 14. Comfort the feeble minded . In the performance of this duty , let vs especially haue an eye to the cause of the party greeued ; for none can truely comfort an other , who hath not a fellow feeling , of the miserie , of his brother . Saint Paul therefore willeth vs , Ro. 12.16 . to Reioyce with them that reioyce , and to weepe with them that weepe , and to be of like affection one towards another . All sorrow is for the most part drawne from one of these foure heads : Greefe of conscience , Feare of death , Losse of friends , And losse of wealth .

Greefe of conscience ariseth from the knowledge of some hainous sinne committed , for which the offender feareth Gods anger and iudgement , towards him .

And surely vntill ( like wandring sheepe , that haue gon astray ) we acknowledg our selues , as lost & wounded , through our dayly transgressions , we haue no hope in the true Lambe of God , to be purged from them ; I say , hee that sometimes lamenteth not the absence of Gods graces from him , shal neuer finde assured peace to his conscience , by the presence of Gods holy Spirit . And this doth our blessed Sauiour himselfe testifie , whereas he saith : Mat 11.28 Come vnto me , all yee that are weary , and heauy laden , and I will ease you : As if he should say , all you that seeke ease in mee , must first be weary with the burthen of your sinnes , as desirous to leaue them ; then you must also come laden with teares of hearty contrition , before you can find rest vnto your soules , whervpon followeth that comfort of Almighty God , denounced by the Prophet Ezekiell ; Exc. 18.21 . At what time soeuer a sinner doth repent him of his sinnes , from the bottome of his heart , I will put all his wickednesse out of my remembrance .

But many Libertines abuse this place of Scripture , thinking that they may repent , when they list ; albeit the Lord saith , At what time soeuer , Exec. 18.21 . yet hast thou no warrant from thence , to thinke that thou shalt haue free power to repent whensoeuer thou wilt . Poenitentia sera rarovera . Late Repentance , is seldom true repentance ; wee reade of one that repented at the last houre , because no man should dispaire , and but of one , lest any man should presume : we see many thousands of those who haue deferred their repentance , haue beene taken away in their sinnes , and died impenitent . Luk. 18.13 Put not off therefore from day to day , but turue to the Lord your God , because he is mercifull , & gracious , & such a one , as is sorry for your affictions . Say not with your selues as Came & Iudas , that your sinnes cannot be pardoned . For saith S. Austine Mentiris Caine , maior est dei Miserecordia , quam omnis humana miseria . Thou speak est false Caine , men cannot bee so sinfull , as God is mercifull , if with penitent hearts they could call vpon him . A proofe of this may bee seene in the poore Publican , Who standeth a farre off , and would not come neere , nor yet lift vp his eyes to heauen , Eccles. 9 but smote his breast saying : God be mercifull to me a sinner . Hee would not come neere vnto God , therefore God in mercy commeth neere vnto him : for the text saith , Hee went away rather Iustified . Oh happy therefore , and thrice blessed are they , who groning vnder the burthen of their sinnes , seeke quietues of minde in Christ alone . Thus much touching greefe of Conscience .

The next speciall duty of consolation is to bee performed toward those , who stand in feare of death , wherein you are to require the aide of your Minister , & with him , to ioyne in prayer to our heauenly Father , for the sicke Patient , that if it so stand with his great goodnesse , he may restored to his former health ; if not , yet to forgiue him his sinnes , and so to arme him with patience , that he may the better bee prepared to enter into glory : And of this , sufficient hath beene spoken , in the place of Ecclesiasticall consolation .

In the third place , wee are to speake of the comforting of those , who suffer immoderate greefe for the death of their friends , as wiues doe for the deaths of their husbands , children for their Parents , and one friend for the losse of another .

To whom I say , that although it bee commendable , to powre forth teares ouer the dead , for so did Iacob for Ioseph , supposing him to bee dead . Ge. 37.35 . Surely , I will goe downe into the graue , to my Sonne mourning . And likewise great was the lamentation , that Dauid made when newes was brought him , of the death of Absolon . Oh Absolon my Sonne , 2 Sam. 18.35 . my Sonne Absolon , would God I haddied for thee : Oh Absolon my Sonne , my Sonne Nay , Christ himselfe ( saith Saint Ierome ) went not to his Sepulcher without weeping eyes , yet saith the Apostle Paul , 1 Thes. 4.13 . I would not haue you ignorant , concerning them which are asleepe , that ye sorrow not , euen as others that haue no hope . And therefore saith Saint Barnard , Non culpamus affectum , sed excessum . Wee blame not the affection , but the want of moderation . Hee that said , Eccle. 38.17 . my Sonne power forth thy teares , ouer the dead ; said also , comfort thy selfe . Amongst other meane comforts ( saith Tertulllian ) Resurrectio mortuorum , fiducia Christianorum ; Christians , who beleeue a Resurrection to a better life , should raise vp themselues by faith from such too dolefull passions ; for as in all other things , so in this , a moderation should bee had . Hast thou lost a good Father , Friend , Husband , Wife , or Child , say with the holy man Iob , Iob. 1.21 . The Lord hath giuen , and the Lord hath taken away , blessed be the name of the Lord . They are not cleane taken from vs , but gon a little before on the way , wherin we must al follow ; we shall all one day meete againe by the grace of God ; at what time there will be no meane ioy , when friends shall for euer liue , reioyce , and sing , an Halleluiah , to our heauenly King . And surely saith the prophet Esay , Esa. 57 , 1. They are taken away from the euil to come . And our Sauiour Christ Iesus a little before his passion , seeing his Disciples sorrowfull for his departure , which was so shortly to ensue ; said vnto them , Ioh. 14.29 . If you loued mee , you would reioyce because I said I goe to my Father . So if wee loued our friends , wee cannot but reioyce , because they are gone to Christ Iesus , their Redeemer . For they are taken from misery to happinesse , from vanity , to glory , and from fading pleasures , to euerlasting ioyes .

Let vs therefore rather praise God for their so happy deliuerance , then any way seeme discontented thereat . Thus much touching the death of our Friends . In the last place we are to comfort such as haue sustained losse of worldly wealth ; which hapeneth either by casualty of fire , inundations of water , shipwracke , Pirates , or theeues : To al which kind of worldly losses , these fiue principles following , are to bee propounded .

First consider what our blessed Sauiour taught vs , when he willed vs to pray , That Gods will might be done in vs : what reason then hath any man , to withstand the performance of that , for which hee dayly prayeth . And our Sauiour praying , a little before his passion , said , Mat. 26.39 Neuerthelesse not as I wil , but as thou wilt . Oh excellent Patterne for obedient children , patiently to content themselues with what cross soeuer it shal please our heauenly Father to lay vpon them .

Secondly , Psal. 24.1 . consider the Earth is the Lords , and all that therein is , the round world , and they that dwell therein . If then all the riches of this world , belong to the Lord , who in mercy hath but lent them vs and made vs to be Stewards ouer them . Luk. 16.1 . As by the Parable of the vniust Steward , may appeare : Saint Paul also auoucheth it , when he saith , Wee brought nothing into this World , 1 Tim. 6.7 . and it is certe●● , wee can carry nothing out : Why then should men bee too much deiected , seeing the Lord hath but taken his own , we count him a very vnthankful debter , that is not as willing to pay , as to borrow . Man is the debter , God is the lender , let vs not herein deale with our heauenly Father , more vniustly then we would haue our Brother deale with vs . Let vs say with the holy man Iob , Iob. 1.21 . The Lord , giueth , the Lord taketh away ; blessed be the name of the Lord . When I had them , I was not the better , I trusted not to them , they therefore being gone , doe nothing dismay mee .

Thirdly , consider the Lord hath done this for the tryall of our Faith , Patience , and perseuerance , as he dealt with his seruant Iob who said , Iob. 13.15 . Though hee slay mee , yet I will trust in his mercy ,

For when the Lord shall perceiue that our confidence is not built vpon fading ioyes and transitory pleasures , but firmely cast vpon him , he then will drawe neere vnto vs , and vnto al that truly feare him , & trust in his mercy , as he did to his seruant Iob , To whom God gaue twice so much riches , as hee had taken from him .

Fourthly , call to minde the prouidence of God , towards all Creatures .

Behold ( saith our Sauiour ) the fowles of heauen , Mat. 6.26 . for they sowe not , neither reape , nor carry into barnes , yet your heauenly Father feedeth them are you not much better then they ? The Phylosopher Bias cast his goods into the Sea , & being demanded why , he answered , Omnia mea mecum porto , My goods and I , are neuer parted . It were to be wished in like manner , that Christians would cast away the leauen of too too worldly carefulnesse , into the sea of eternall forgetfulnesse to that end especially , that Christ , and they might neuer be parted .

The fift and last principle , and not the least , which wee are to performe to our poore brethren in this behalfe , is , to yeeld them our charitable releefe ; for saith Saint Iohn , Who soeuer hath the worlds goods , 1 Ioh. 3.17 . and seeth his brother haue neede , and shutteth vp his compassion from him , how dwelleth the loue of God in him : or how can he be said to loue God whom hee seeth not , when he loueth not his brother whom he daily seeth ? Let vs therefore be mercifull , as our heauenly father is mercifull . Thus far of the third worke of mercy to the soule expressed in comforting the sorrowfull mentioned in this word Solare .

Remitte .

THe fourth worke of mercy towards the soule , consisteth in pardoning and forgiuing , offenders . This duty , and the rest that follow , are all generall ; euery man must forgiue all men , as our Sauiour Christ Iesus plainely shewed when he taught his Disciples to pray , Luk. 11.4 . Forgiue vs our sinnes , for euen we forgiue euery man that is indebted to vs , as if he should say , expect no forgiuenesse at the hand of Almightie God , vnlesse ye likewise freely from the bottome of your hearts forgiue one another : yet now a daies , among your swaggering and roaring gallants , there is but a word and a wound , and among your ciuill & lawlesse Lawyers , but a word and a writ , Ephes. 4.32 . Neuerthelesse S. Paul willeth vs to be Courteous one towards an other , and tender hearted , freely forgiuing one another , euen as God for Christs sake , freely forgaue vs . Wherein the Apostle meeteth with an obiection that might be made I am as gentle , quiet , affable curteous , and patient , as any man can be , so long as you doe not wrong me , iniure , disgrace me , or take away my good name ; but indeede if you abuse me , or crosse me of my will in any thing . Oh then you must pardon me , I am somewhat passionate , I may not endure , or put vp such abuses , at any hand : No , may you not endure them ? What then may you endure ? Surely no more then a beare , a dog , a horse , or a hog may . But it is the propertie of all those that will be the Disciples of our Lord and Sauiour Christ Iesus , to forgiue , and forget with meekenesse , all iniuries and wrongs ; they will not only be kinde to the kinde , and shew curtesie for curtesie , for this the veriest reprobate , and deepest dissembler in the world may doe , but they will ouercome euill with goodnesse , they wil shew mercy to the mercilesse , by putting vp many wronges and offences . And as they looke for pardon from God , for far greater offences ; so will they not stick easily to giue pardon for these lesser offences . An excellent example may be seene herein in Ioseph , whose brethren after the decease of Iacob their father , fearing his displeasure , and submitting them selues to him , he said , Gen. 50.19 . Feare not , for I also am vnder God . As if he should say , If I should be so hastie in reuenging my selfe vpon the wronges , which you haue offred me , may not God pay the same fourefold into mine owne bosome ? Plainly teaching euery true Christian , so to behaue himselfe towards offendors here in this life ; as they would haue God to reward them hereafter .

If then you would haue forgiuenesse at the hand of Almighty God , freely from your hearts , forgiue you your bretheren , remembring that you your selues are likewise vnder the same condemnation .

Now to forgiue , it is not enough to moderate the tongue , which is loues broker and interpreter , in not iudging euill of our neighbour ; but also the simpathy and affection , of the heart is required ( which is the treasure of loue ) in forgiuing , to which Christ himselfe annexeth a most confortable promise ; and it shall be for giuen you , because we approue & shew our selues thereby , to be the true children of God . Great is the equity of this precept , that we should forgiue one another because we are brethren ; But vnspeakable is the mercy of God in promising vs forgiuenes . In forgiuing our brother , wee do no more then equity it selfe requireth . Tu quidem eum habes inimicum , quiteeum creatus est ( saith S. Augustine ) . Deus vero eum quem creauit ; thou hast him to thine enemie , which was created with thee , but God hath him to his enemie , whom he created : thou forgiuest , when thou thy selfe needest forgiuenesse ; for who is he , that sinneth not ; but God who wanteth nothing , and cannot sinne , forgiueth thee .

And that euery good Christian should doe this , it is not onely meete , but for many reasons necessary .

The first is the commandement of God , which should be the rule and direction , for euery Christian mans life . Mat. 5.45 . But I say vnto you , loue your enemies , saith Christ .

If thy friend should haue a seruant that should greatly abuse and offend thee , and thou in thine anger shouldest rise vp to strike him , yet remembring that he is the seruant of thy deere friend thou wouldest bridle thy wrath , and forbeare for thy friends sake , to strike him , least thou shouldest offend , or loose thy good friend .

This mildenesse and modestie God requireth at thine handes , that for his sake , thou shouldest forgiue and spare thine enemie , his seruant , his creature , least thou loose his fauour , and friendship .

Somtimes we see a brother to spare a brother ; lest they should displease their earthly father , Esau a reprobate & malicious man who bare a deadly hatred to his brother Iacob could say , Gen. 27. The daies of mourning for my father will come shortly , then will I stay my brother Iacob . He would not lay handes vpon his brother , while his father lest hee should greeue and offend him ; and should not we much more refraine from hurting and seeking reuenge vpon our enemie , for the loue and reuerence we owe to our heauenly father , to whom wee are so many waies indebted , especially Christ saying vnto vs , So shall my heauenly father doe vnto you , Mat. 18. that is , deliuer you to the laylors , vntill you pay all that is due ? Except yee forgiue from your hearts , each one to his brother their trespasses . Ad tam magnum tonitru , quinon expergiscitur , non dormit , sed mortuus est ; He that is not awaked at this so great thunder , is not a sleepe , but is a dead man , saith S. Augustine .

If this can little moue thy flinty heart , yet let these examples of heathen men preuaile something with thee , of whom to be excelled and to come be-bind them in the practise of vertues , is not only a shame vnto Christians , but shall also condemne them at the day of Iudgement .

Phillip king of Macedon , being counselled to punish one Archadius , which continually railed vpon him when hee met ; him , spake kindly vnto him , and sent gifts vnto him , and afterwards willed his friends to enquire what he said of him among the Greekes : And when they answered , hee was become a great prayser of the King ; I am then ( said hee ) a better Phisitian then any of you are .

Hippocinus a noble man , conceiuing deepe displeasure against Alcibiades , by reason of some iniury done vnto his son . The next day early in the morning , Alcibiades came vnto his house , and being no sooner within his dore , cast off his garment and offered his naked body , willing him to whip him at his pleasure , as hee had worthily deserued ; At the sight whereof Hippocinus by and by forgat the iniury , pardoned Alcibiades , and gaue him his daughter in mariage . If now these Ethnicks either through the moderation of their mindes , or humane wisdom could willingly offer reconciliation , consesse the iniury done , and forgiue receiued wronges ; shall not they rise vp in Iudgement , and condemne vs , which are so deadly in our malice , so obdurate in reuenge , so refractary , and stubborne in forgiuing wronges , that many thinke it vnpossible to frame their stony harts to be reconciled to their enemies .

First the duty we owe to our Christian brother ( if we be Christians indeede ) should worke this effect in vs , that by our lenty and patience , we may reforme and amend our neighbour .

Hereof the Apostle , Rom. 12. Pro. 15. Ouercome euillwith goodnes , And Solomon A soft unswer putteth away wrath , but grieuous words stirre vp anger . For euen as fire ( the fuell being taken away ) goeth out ; so wrath and displeasure is mitigated by mildnesse ; and as smoake so annoyeth the sight , that a man cannot see what lieth , before him ; so enuie and malice casteth such a cloud before reason ; that one cannot easily iudge , or censure , rightly of the actions of his brethren , nor wherein wee our selues are delinquent .

Secondly , because we are bound by charity , not to hurt our neighbour , for by reuenge and retorting euill for euill , we doe not onely proue our selues to be euill , but also minister occasion of further fury , and perturbation to our brother : What is this else , but Oleum Camino addere ? according to the prouerbe , to cast oylein to the fire .

Demosthenes being prouoked by many taunts and reproaches of an enemy , answered ; I will not contend with thee in this kind of combate . In quo qui vincitur ipso victore melior est , in which hee that is vanqished , is the better man .

Thirdly , wee should forgiue and patientiy suffer wrong , for the edification of our neighbour , that wee may giue him an example of godlinesse .

For as euery example of vertue , so especially of forgiuing iniuries , doth edifie our neighbour , and enforce him to admire and loue vs , yea , though he be most vile , and wicked .

If the commandement of God as obedient children , cannot pierce our Adamantine hearts ; neither the loue , we owe vnto our brethren , as fellow members of one body ; yet let the vtility and profit , which commeth to our selues thereby , as meere naturall men , preuaile somewhat with vs , in this precept of forgiuing .

First , least thou hurt thy selfe , because thou canst not wreake thy reuenge vpon thine enemy , but thou must doe thy selfe a sarre greater hurt . For if a man , for the disliking that hee hath of a garment , which he weareth , that he might cut and teare it , should thrust the knife into his owne bowells , were he not worthy to be condemned of extreame madnesse ? So thou canstnot stirike thy neighbour , but thou must giue thy selfe a more greenous wound ; thou offendest God , piercest thine owne soule , through thine impatiency , and pleafest thine aduersary . Knowest thou not what the Apostle saith , Whosoeuer hateth his Brother , Iohn 3. is a manslayer , and yee know , that no manslayer hath eternal life abiding in him .

Passus es Malum ? saith S. Augustine , hast thou suffered wrong ? Ignosce , ne duo mali sitis . Forgiue , that yee be not both wicked , If thou hatest thy brother , thou hurtest thine owne soule ; If thou forgiuest him , thou dost good to thy selfe , and thine enemy remaineth in his owne sinne . What greater madnes can there be , then to persecute thine ene - with deadly hatred , seeing it cannot be without offering great iniury to thine owne soule ?

Is there any man so sottish , that if in eating , hee biteth his tongue with his teeth he will therefore pull out his teeth ? Or if in cleauing a blocke , hee hurteth his foote , will hee to be reuenged , cut off his arme ? wouldest thou not iudge such a one , to be out of his wits ? Know then , that thy neighbour is neerer vnto thee , then thy teeth in thy head , or thine arme on thy body . Is it then the part of a wise man , to take reuenge on his neighbour for a little iniury and reproch done vnto him , and so cut off and destroy the fellow member of the same body ?

Surely , if there were no other reason , but this , to moue vs to condonation , and loue of our enemies , lest wee most of all hurt our selues , seeing nature her selfe hath ingrafted in euery mans hart , to wish well vnto himselfe , this should be a sufficient motiue vnto vs , to draw loue and kindnes towards our enemies . Patience knoweth how to conuert iniuries and reproches into gould , siluer , and pertious stones , euen as the Salamander is nourished in the fire of tribulation , and as the fea fish is sed with salt and bitter waters .

Socrates , when going in the streete , one malepertly kicked him with his heele , and many maruelling that he so patiently put it vp , what should I doe , ( quoth he to them that perswaded him to take the law vpon him , ) Si quis asinus me calce percussit , diceretus mihi voca eum in jus ? If any Asse should strike me with his heele , would you wish me to goe to law with him ?

Secondly , wee should loue and forgiue an enemy , for the great profit , and good an enemy causeth vnto vs , And by experience we see , the very brute , and sauage beasts , to be louing to their benefactours . If then reason it selfe enforceth from vs loue to a benefactour , by the same law of reason wee are bound to loue our enemies , which often times are more beneficiall and profitable to vs then a friend . Our friends many times doe winke at our infirmities , sooth vs vp in our follies , suffer vs to runne on in our wickednes ; but our enemy , which is sharpe sighted to prie into our life , maketh vs to walke warily and to be circumspect in our sayings and doings , that wee giue him no occasion to backbite , and discredit vs .

It was a wise saying of Socrates , that euery man needeth a true friend , or a watchfull enemy . For a friend ( if hee be indeed a true friend ) will euer tell vs the trueth and counsell vs for our good .

But because often times we will not hearken vnto a friend , God sendeth vs enemies to counsell and reforme vs in that , which our friends either will not , or dare not . And therefore one calleth an enemie , Optimum vita nostrae Padagogum , the best Schoolemaster of our life : Et medicum gratuitum ae salutarem ; and a healthfull Phisitian , which giueth his phisicke freely , which if he doe but touch our vlcers , and offences , causeth vs to amend them .

Philip king of Macedon , was wont to say , that hee was much behoulding vnto them of Athens , for that they spake euill of him ; because ( saith he ) I am made the better man whiles I endeuour et verbis , et factis , ●es mendaciss conuincere , both by words , and deeds , to proue them lyers . Euen as those that suspect a disease , are carefully carefull , that they hurt not their crazed bodies by euill diet ; so enemies , are an occasion vnto vs , of circumspection in our liues and conuersations . Rom. 8.28 For we know ( saith the Apostle ) that all things worke together for the best , vnto them that loue God : So that a good man receiueth not a wound by the dart of his enemy , but an wholesome plaister , to cure the ruptures of his soule , and to the furtherance of a godly life .

Thirdly , wee should bee prone and ready to for giue , because we can not possibly haue peace with God , as long as we be at iarre with our Neighbours ; and therefore the necessity of it , should moue vs to forgiue and loue our enemy . If yee bite and denoure one another , Gal. 5.15 . take heede yee be not consumed one of another , saith the Apostle .

We see in an army , that the enemy hath neuer so great aduantage , as when the Captaine and Souldiers are at discord and strife among themselues ; but the whole life of a Christian , what is it but a warfare vpon earth ? And if then wee retaine peace with God , and our Neighbours , wee need not feare our enemies . But therefore wee are vanquished of them , because we haue little care of this peace amongst our selues . This inestimable treasure Christ left with his true members , Ioh. 14.27 . My peace I giue vnto you , my peace I leaue with you , not as the world giueth , giue I vnto you .

This peace of the world , is the consent of wicked men amongst themselues , against God , and good men , rather to be called a conspiration , then a pacification ; as Herod against Pilate , Pilate against Herod yet both agreed to put Christ to death . All the Sonnes of Iacob conspiring against Ioseph , were friends in wickednesse , and held such firme concord together , that for many yeers , though they dissented among themselues , ( as it commeth often to passe ) yet they neuer bewrayed to their Father , the selling of their Innocent Brother . But this is not the peace of Christ , which so maketh both one , that wee cannot haue peace with God , vnlesse we hold peace with our brethren ; neither can bee at peace with our brethren , except wee bee at peace with God first .

We are all conioyued in God , the beginning and author of all things , we all receiued our beginning of him , and therefore wee are bretheren and neighbours . And for this cause ( as saith Saint Augustine ) He created man but one and single , De ciuit . Dei . that by this meanes , hee might commend vnto vs the vnity of society , and bond of concord . If men not only be knit together among themselues , by the similitude of nature , but also by the affection of cognation ; so that no man may fall away from the loue of God , but hee looseth the loue of his Neighbor also , or can put off the loue of his Neighbour , but with all he looseth the loue of God , and so it followeth , that if we bee not at peace among our selues , wee haue no peace with God : & if we haue no peace with God , we can neither pray , nor per form any duty of godlines : therefore saith our Sauiour , Mat. 5.23 . If thou bring thy gift to the Altar & there remembrest that thy brother hath ought against thee , leaue there thine offering before the Altar , and goe thy way : First be reconciled to thy brother , and then come and offer thy guift . And againe , when hee taught them to pray , he added , Mat. 6.14 . For if yee forgiue men their trespasses , your heauenly Father will also forgiue you ; But if yee doe not forgiue men their trespasses , no more will your Father forgiue you your trespasses .

God will not accept any seruice at our hands , except we be first reconciled to our brethren , because there is no peace betweene vs and him , as long as there is no Christian amity betweene vs and our Neighbours .

With what face can wee say the Lords Prayer ; with what conscience can wee craue forgiuenesse of our heauenly Father , of our ten Thousand Talents , Mat. 18. of our infinite sinnes against his diuine Maiesty , when wee will not forgiue our Brother an hundred pence : That is , a trespasse of no moment , in comparison of our greeuous sinnes dayly against God . Is not this the Condition which wee make with God , As wee forgiue them which trespasse against vs . O foole saith Saint Augusttine , thou prayest against thy selfe , is it not as if thou hadst said . Lord forgiue mee not , seale fast my sinnes , forgiue me , as I forgiue others : but thou knowest , that I will not forgiue them that trespasse against me , therefore , O Lord , forgiue mee not ? And thus through thy hard heartednes , thou praiest not for thy selfe , but bringest a curse vpon thy selfe .

Fourthly , another motiue which should mooue vs to forgiue , is because our enemy is worthy rather of commiseration , then retaliation and reuenge .

But to meete now with the vsuall obiection of carnall men ; How can I ( they will say ) refraine from seeking reuenge against him , who with his virulent tongue , hath impaired my good name , who wrongfullie calleth me into the Law , which ledeth mee with many contumelies , and neuer ceaseth to reproach me ?

I am not so estranged from the common sence of men , but I thinke this to bee a grieuous disease among many . Let vs learne now how to cure this festered wound ; weigh first the losse on either side , whether I pray thee doth thine enemy hurt most himselfe or thee ? He looseth Gods fauour and friendship , in vsing thee so iniuriously ; in reproaching thee , he reproacheth God himselfe , and in sinning he betrayeth his soule vnto eternall torments , and looseth ( without repentance ) those eternall ioyes , Which the eie hath not seene , 1 Cor. 2 , 9. the eare hath not heard ; neither hath entred into the heart of man , which God hath prepared for them that loue him . Hee hath obscured thy good name , but he hath betrayed his owne soule ; he hath but rent thy garment , but hee hath wounded his owne heart ; he hath taken scarce a haire from thee , but hee hath bereft himselfe of an eie : This being so , if there bee in thee the bowels of charity , shouldest thou not rather take pitty vpon thine enemy , which hath so harmed himselfe , then greately to bee mooued , in that hee hath done thee a little iniury ? This the Holy Prophet signifieth when Bee saith , Ps. 113 11. They came about me like bees , but they were quenched euen as a fire among thornes . The Bee stingeth thy finger , but pulleth out his owne bowels , Animasque in vulnere ponunt ; They kill themselues with their stinging , and thou enioyest the hony : If therefore thou wouldest enioy the hony of heauenly glory , it is needfull that thou suffer persecution of these waspish enemies , where as the reuengerneuer wanteth a re-action on himselfe , whilest he seeks vengeance on man , findes vengeance of God , whilest he shooteth the sting of reuenge , he emptieth himselfe of the bowels of mercy , Col. 3 . 1● . kindnesse humility , &c.

Phocion and Aristides two Noble men of Athens , the one being condemned to exile , the other to death vnworthily : Aristides going in to exile , prayed that all things might succeede so happy and prosperous with the Athenians , that they might neuer hereafter haue neede to remember Aristides .

Phocion being about to drinke the poysoned Potion , Plutarch . wherewith hee should die , charged his sonne that hee should neuer reuenge his vniust death vpon the Athenians .

Thrasibulus that Noble Citizen of Athens , Val max. who expelled the thirty Spartan Tyrants , & by this meanes , restored the former freedome to his Country , hee caused the law of perpetual obliuion of former iniuries to bee enacted , which they called ( Legem obliuionis ) the law of forgetfulnesse .

Let Christians then be ashamed , not to aspire vnto that perfection heerein , which many wise Heathens haue attained vnto . How far this brotherly forgiuenesse is to be extended , our Sauiour himselfe sheweth in the parable of the Vnmercifull Seruant , Mat. 18.35 which owed ten thousand Talents , concluding in these words : So likewise shall my heauenly Father doe vnto you , except you forgiue from your hearts , each one to his brother their trespasses .

In these words , first wee are taught to whom this precept of forgiuing of iniuries pertaineth . None are exempted which professe to be Christs Disciples : for he saith ; Except yee forgiue each one , that is , of what degree , state or condition soeuer he be of , rich or poore , Noble or Ignoble ; King , or beggar ; we are all sinners , and doe pray daily : Forgiue vs our debts , as wee forgiue our debtors . Let the proud obserue this , which being puffed vp with the confidence of their birth or dignities , thinke that they may lawfully despise , wrong , and tread vnder foot , the simple obscure , and poore man .

Secondly , hee sheweth whom hee should forgiue , His brother : He might haue said , his follow seruant : but hee would haue vs to lift vp our eyes higher , and to consider , that all men are not onely of the same condition as seruants ; but also of the same nature and dignities as the Sonnes of God ; who was so farre from contemning the base and obscure , that hee would haue his onely begotten Sonne to bee contemptible and poore , that he might make vs rich .

Thirdly , hee teacheth what wee should forgiue , Their trespasses . He speaketh indefinitely , that hee might comprehende all things wherewith our neighbour hath offended vs : for how great soeuer is the iniury done vnto vs , it may in no sort be compared vnto that wherein wee haue offended God .

Fourthly , hee expresseth the measure and manner of forgiuing , saying ; From your hearts : that is , not in naked words , with an hypocritical and dissembling heart , but truly and seriously , that not so much as a sparkle of enuie , hatred , or rank or remaine behind in our hearts : which particle , reproueth their contumacy , Which say , they will forgiue , but withall protest , they cannot forget the iniury , neither can they endure the sight of such as haue offended them .

These forgiue not from their hearts , but in words onely ; nay , not so much as in words , seeing they foster in their hearts the memory thereof , and doe not conceale it .

Wee should in forgiuing of iniuries , imitate the example of our heauenly Father , who so forgiueth our iniquities , that hee remembreth them no more : for if our sinnes were still in remembrance with God , how could the hope of our saluation be firme and certain vnto vs ? And therefore the Princely Prophet prayeth , That God would not remember the sinnes of his youth . Psal. 25.7 . And that which necessity constraineth vs to craue at the hands of God , is it not meet that wee should shew the same to our brethren ? Wee would not that God should remember our sinnes , and shall wee keepe in memory old grudges and offences of our brethren and neighbours ? Surely such make themselues vnworthy of the mercies of God ; Being destitute of faith , working by loue . Gal. 5.6 .

Most memorable , and neuer to be forgotten , was the dealing of the holy Patriarch Abraham , with his nephew Lot , when Sathan assaied to kindle contention betweene them , by reason of their quarrelling seruants ; Abraham being euerie way the better man , being his Vncle , and his elder , Who already had seene the day of Christ ; Iohn 8.56 . had also learned the lesson of humility of Christ ; hee stood not vpon his Summum Ius , his right & reputation , but came first to Lot , and was the profferer of peace , saying ; Gen. 13.8 . I pray thee let there bee no strife betweene me and thee , and betweene my heardmen and thine , and why ? for wee are brethren : Hee sought peace Concedendo de suo Iure , By yeelding of his right . Now there are Christians to bee found ( saith Musculus ) which will not yeeld one foote of their right for brotherly vnities sake : this proffer of Abraham is counted but folly now yea of those which yet would be esteemed his children .

Lastly , this benefit also we make through patience towards an enemy , ( which is not the least ) that being accustomed to deale iustly and friendly with an enemie , wee shall the better frame our selues to liue sociably and kindly with our familiar friends , and to doe nothing fraudulently , and deceitfully in friendship . Let vs therefore I beseech you , cast out of our minds the remembrance of iniuties , which is the very wood and fuell to nourish reuenge , and which exasperateth our harts against our brethren . Col. 3.12 . Let vs , as the Elect of God , put vpon vs tender mercy , kindnesse , long suffering , forbearing one another , and forgiuing one another , as Christ for gaue you , euen so doe ye . Let this sweet promise of our Sauiour : And ye shall be forgiuen ; quench in vs all rancor and malice , and ouersway in our thoughts all reasons of flesh & bloud , which seeke to moue vs to reuenge : consider that in no other Petition in the Lords Prayer we so pray , as to indent with God , but in this onely : Forgiue vs , as wee forgiue others . In which couenant with God , if wee bee found liars , we pray in vaine , our prayers are against our selues ; seeing our sinnes are not forgiuen , because wee are not truly inserted in the body of Iesus Christ , vnlesse we forgiue one anther ; except wee manifest our faith , in loue towards our neighbor : Forgiue ( saith Saint Augustine ) lest whiles thou denie mercy to thy brother , thou shut the mercy of thy Heauenly Father from thy selfe . Iam. 2.13 . For there shall bee iudgement mercilesse , to him that sheweth no mercy .

But if all this cannot suppresse the rage of thy wreakefull humour , but thou must needes seeke reuenge : I will permit thee to be carried with the current of thy passions , vpon condition that thou wilt bee angry with him that indeede hath done thee that iniury : And who is hee ? verily ( as Basil saith ) euen hee which ruleth in thine enemies heart , the Diuell I meane , which inflameth him with the firebrands of wrath and armeth him with his spirit against thee ; it is hee that vseth thine enemies hand as a Sword , to strike thee , and his tongue as an arrow to shoote at thee . If an horseman should strike thee with his speare , wouldest thou bee angry with his horse ? So , if thou bee hurt by thine enemy , seek e●euenge against the Diuell , which is his rider ; hee is the author of the wrong the wretched man is but the diuels instrument , wherewith he striketh thee : why then doest thou boile in hatred against the man , letting the Diuell alone , who indeede is the Author of the wrong ? what is this else , but to imitate the dog , which snarleth and biteth at the staffe or stone wherewith hee is struken , and leaueth the man which cast them . Let vs therefore leaue off to pursue our brother with hatred and reuenge , and bend our force against the Diuell , the true Author of all euill , and hold perpetuall warre with him .

If this reason doe little moue thee , lift vp thine eies vnto God , who permitteth this iniury to bee done to thee for the good of thy soule . So when Dauid fled from the wrath of Absolon , and was thus despightfully cursed , & railed on by wicked Shimei ; and when one of his men of warre asked leaue of the King , To take the head from this raylers shoulders ; this holy man was so farre from reuenge , that he answered : 2 Sam. 16.16 . Let him alone , for the Lord hath bidden him to curse Dauid , who dare then say , wherefore hast thou done so ? And afterward , Suffer him , for the Lord hath bidden him to curse : It may bee the Lord will looke vpon mine affliction and doe mee good for his curse this day . Here ye see this good King ascribed this reproach , not so much vnto his enemy that did it , as vnto God that permitted it : which holy Iob also perceiued , imputing the losse of his goods not vnto Sathan , which was but the instrument thereof , but vnto God , saying ; Iob 1.21 . The Lord giueth , and the Lord taketh away .

But thou wilt say againe ; Obiection My enemy hath not taken from me my riches , but my honour , good name , and honest reputation , the which ( as saith Seneca ) is dearer to euery good man then any riches .

I answere , Solution . thou art deceiued man , thou art deceiued ; not hee that receiueth the iniury , but he that doth the imury , looseth his honour : For euen as the man that is bountifull , and charitable to his neighbour doth not so much increase his neighbours praise , as his owne . So he that doth iniury vnto another man , not so much diminisheth his credit , whom he reproacheth , as he impayreth his owne honour , in shewing himselfe a malicious railer , or backbiter .

Cyprian affirmed that man to be like vnto Christ the sonne of God , which patiently suffereth iniury ; and him to be like Iudas the traitour , that doth the iniury . See , see , how farre different the iudgement of this holy man is , from the common opinion of the world now a daies . Seeing therefore , as good Children , it is our especiall glory , to resemble our father , let vs also in pardoning iniuries be mercifull , as our heaue●y father is mercifull . Thus much touching the fourth work of mercy concerning the soule , mertioned in this word Remitte .