Three homilies upon these three sentences folowing Psal. 55.22. Cast thy burthen vpon the Lord. Iohn 14.27. My peace I giue vnto you. Luk.10.42. One thing is necessarie. Composed by Philip Mornay, lord of Plessis-Marly.

THREE HOMILIES Vpon these three sentences following .

PSAL. 55.22 .

Cast thy burthen vpon the LORD .

Iohn 14.27 .

My peace I giue vnto you .

LVK. 10.42 .

One thing is necessarie .

Composed by Philip Mornay , Lord of Plessis Marly .

LONDON Printed by I. D. for Nathanael Newbery , and are to be sold in Popes-head alley at the signe of the Starre . 1626.

To the Worshipfull and his very loving Sisters , Mris Dorothie Gerrard , Mris Elizabeth Harvie , & Mris Anne Moulson ; All increase of true happinesse .

DEare and loving Sisters , seing it hath pleased God to vnite vs together by most neere and strict bands of amity , as namely , those of nature and grace , I haue often beene proiecting with my selfe which way I might ( before my departure out of this world ) leaue with each of you some expressions of that loue , which in regard of both these bands , I finde my selfe obliged vnto you in . Wherevpon it being my hap during this late and great Visitation ( never to be forgotten ) to light vpon a subiect , well suiting to these troublous times , viz. these 3. Treatises ensuing , written by a Noble and Iudicious personage , in his owne natiue Language : I resolved out of that little insight I had thereinto ; by reason of my trauels in my yonger yeares , to set vpon the translation thereof ; time and leisure serving me so fitly therevnto . And the rather , least with the vnprofitable servant , I might iustly be taxed in mine own conscience , either of laying vp in a Napkin , Luk. 19.20 Mat. 25.25 . or burying in the earth , even this one talent committed vnto my trust . Now howsoever some may here not vntruely obiect , that moe Tracts in this kinde haue already bin brought to light , then are either carefully read , or of the Readers kindly respected , yet wel weighing the worth of the points herein contained , it seemed to mee , that I could not without some wrong done to my selfe & others , withhold them any longer from the publicke view . For what burdened soule , would not gladly accept of case ? What trembling heart would not reioyce to find peace ? And who is he or shee , whose heart & head being distracted & cumbred about many carking cares , would not willingly light vpon that one thing , which being obtained , would breed in them a world of contentment ? So that vpon the point , these 3. Treatises carefully read , digested , and well practised , may in some cases proue more beneficiall ; then to be left by the gift of friends , thousands of gold & silver . Now as I am bold to publish them ( my good sisters ) to the world , vnder each of your names & patronage , so is it my meaning also to bequeath the same vnto you , not as a worldly , but as a spiritual legacy , the fruit wherof my hope is shall abide with you forever . Let me intreate you all then , my deare sisters , with good Mary to chuse the better part , which as Christ sayth , shall never be taken from you , lest being overmuch busied about the things of this life , you should seeme to come short of the heavenly : as it is to be feared too many haue already done , doe , & will doe , till they repent the same at leisure . For what will it profit vs , to gain the whole world , and to lose our owne soules ; or what can wee giue in exchange for our soules ? Mat. 16.26 . But beloved Sisters , I am perswaded better things of you , & such as accompany salvation , though I thus speake . Wherefore accept in loue , what is here presented vnto you , from a loving heart : and cease not I pray you , to pray for him , who desires from the heart , ever to rest ,

Your very loving Brother , A. R. Ianuary 5. 1625.

To the Reader .

CHristian Reader , thou hast heere by the good providence of God , and not without the faithfull endevours of a very good friend , a faire opportunitie offred thee to read and read again , if thou be pleased , these three Homilies of the thrice renowned Philip Mornay , Lord of Plessis : who in commenting vpon the holy Scriptures , Act. 8. seemeth rather to resemble Philip the divine Evangelist , then a peere of that Land where he did reside . His labours herein though short , yet shalt thou finde them pious , pithy , learned , and sweete . For here 1. thou maist learne on whom to cast the burden of thy ordinary and extraordinary tryals . 2. In all outward and inward perturbations , where to finde true peace . 3. In all thy worldly encumbrances , how to pitch vpon that one thing , which in truth is better then all things whatsoever besides . So as had not my friend and my selfe by often viewing and reviewing them over ( in these late dolorous dayes ) esteemed , that thy gaine inreading of them would plentifully haue answered the paine , thou hadst not I dare assure thee in so great plentie and varietie of good Bookes at this time , had so free an vse of this ; being penned as it was in another Language . Accept it then Good Reader , as a pledge of our Loues to thee ; as also of our earnest wishes , that thou maist daily profit in the knowledge of these and the like sacred and divine truthes , to the glory of God , and thine owne eternall good , Amen .

Thine in Christ , C. C.

A HOMELIE Vpon these words of DAVID ;

Cast thy Burthen vpon the LORD , and he will nourish thee ,

Psal. 55.22 .

DAVID much experienced in bearing Afflictions , powreth out his soule in a most bitter Complaint before God . sal. 55. I grieue , saith he , and am much perplexed , because of the voice of the enemie . But what voice ? They cast iniquitie vpon mee ; vpon mee poore Innocent , all iniquitie , all manner of Crimes ; And for the furious hatred which they beare mee . And what Enemie was it ? He with whom I was so familiar , that we communicated our secrets tegether , wee went together into the house of God . And in this case what could be more sayd ? When , from whence confort should come , thence ariseth griefe : Neither dissembles he the depth of his anguish : My heart is sore pained within me . And I sayd who shall giue mee the wings of a Doue that I may flie away ? As if he should say , now ready to leaue all ; This affliction aboue any other , being beyond the patience and consolation of man . But as soone as he was come againe vnto himselfe , nay rather going out of himselfe , he redoubles his courage ; I will cry vnto God , and the Lord will deliver me ; if at the first he vnderstand me not , nor answere me , I will not recoyle . Psal. 55.17 . Evening and morning , and at noone day will I cry aloud , and he will he are my voice . I will knocke , and that so often , and hard at his gate , that he will open vnto mee . Such importunitie is pleasing vnto him . Then he giues vs a lesson ; In like care ; from whom can we better take it ? or vp on better proofe ? Vers. 22. Cast thy burthen , saith he , vpon the Lord , and he will nourish thee . Art thou a Christian , and overwhelmed with adversitie , or toyled vnder thy Calling , powre out thy heart vnto the Lord ; roule thy selfe even vpon him , take him for thy pledge , & doubt not , but as he is naturally good and faithfull in his promises ; so he will take thy burthen vpon himselfe , and comfort thee ; In the same sence as he saith else where . Psal. 37. vers. 5. & 6. Stay thy selfe vpon the Lord , commit thy way vnto him , and he shall bring it to passe ; quiet the disquiemes of thy soule ; and commit thy selfe to his direction ; the which S. Peter also teacheth vs , together with him . 1 Pet. 5.6 . & 7. verses . Humble your selues vnder the mightie hand of God , that he may exalt you in due time , casting all your care vpon him , for he careth for you . And seeing it pleaseth him to take the care vpon him , who hath all times in his hands , let vs not feare , that he will let the time slip . Should I cast my burthen vpon the Lord , may some say ; Is it not over much boldnesse , were it vpon a brother ? Shall the servant presume to lay his burthen vpon his Lord , the Creature vpon his Creator ? A creature ? nay which is worse ; burthened with vnthankefulnesse , with rebellion , and hatefull sinnes , can this be done without presumption ? or rather without pride ? And what doth God more abhorre ? But I will helpe thee in this doubt . It were pride indeed , if thou tookest this boldnes from thy selfe ; But he hath given it thee , he hath ordained it for thee ; Call vpon me , and I will heare thee . Call vnto me , and I will runne to helpe thee ; He is thy shepheard , and vouchsafeth to call vs his sheepe , and the shepheard carrieth the bruised vpon his shoulders burthening himself with them ; so farre is he from casting them off . Of a Iudge , of a Lord , of a Creator , he is become thy Father , and Brother ; From whence , even David comforts himselfe . Psal. 27. vers. 10. Though my father and mother should forsake me , yet the Lord will gather me vp ; yea the Lord himselfe saith , Isa. 49.15 . Though a mother should forget her sucking childe ; the sonne of her wombe , and take no pittie of it , yet will not I forget thee . That is to say , not my Church , nor any member thereof ; More tender therfore is he towards vs , then any parents towards their Children , or towards those that hang vpon the breast of the tenderest mothers , who in the meane time , run as it were vndone at their cry , opposing and exposing themselues against the cruellest beasts , to defend them , they forget themselues , goe out of themselues , to put themselues in their place . What then shall wee not expect from the bountie of the Lord towards his children , from his Bowels ever yearning ? From this Father , who spared not his owne sonne , his onely sonne , one with himselfe , to giue him for vs ▪ Rom. 8. & 32. Of that Sonne who being in the forme of God , equall vnto God , emptied himselfe ; tooke the forme of a servant , and humbled himselfe vnto the death , even the shamefull and cursed death of the Crosse ; and all this , for servants ; nay rather for slaues , malefactors , and accursed sinners .

Well then , Cast thy burthen vpon the Lord . No other will take it vpon him , vpon no other canst thou lay it . But what burthen ? He saith thy burthen , not every burthen ; but thy burthen . Thine owne burthen ; not that which thou impofest vpon thy selfe , at thine owne will , or doest rashly thrust thy selfe into . Know therefore , if thou be a childe of his family , that thou art in a house of order ; That is the burthen which he hath layd vpon thee , who by his Ordinance hath made it thine ; But take thou heede also , that it be from him ; that hath a soveraigne priviledge . By him who doth nothing , but by waight , number , and measure ; it cannot be but well proportioned and rightly added , if according to the proportion of thy strength , of the strength which he hath given thee , that thou shouldest beare it chearfully , that thou shouldest goe on still in thy Calling with all thy power : if aboue thy power , it is to make thee feele thine owne infirmitie ; and to call for his helpe : let thy weaknes humble thee before him , and strengthen thy selfe with his grace . For how ever it be , thou canst not lye long vnder the burthen , for as much as his grace is made perfect in thine infirmitie ; thy burden is made his ; his strength consequently aboundeth towards thee , even then when thine sayleth . Contrariwise , Impofest thou vpon thy selfe , any crosse or affliction ; thou art in danger least it be said vnto thee ; who hath required these things at thy handes ? Also , if thou vndertakest a charge according to thine owne will , and afterwardes fallest vnder it , take heed it be not obiected vnto thee , thou rannest and I sent thee not . Ierem. 23. & 21. thou spakest , and I put not those wordes into thy mouth . Whereas those , vnto whom God hath given their charge , he bindeth himselfe to be their Gardian ; Saying , I will be with thee , and where he is , what can be wanting ? He is faithfull , saith the Apostle , and will not suffer his to be tempted aboue their strength ; and giueth an issue with the temptation : with his calling , the efficacie . Onely let vs be assured , that wee beare the burthen ; that we performe our ( or rather indeed his ) charge , and let vs not be afraid to say with the same Apostle , Phil. 4. & 13. I am able to doe all things , through Christ , who strengtheneth me . Now this burthen is vsually of two sorts ; either a crosse , or some tribulation laid vpon vs by God , or else a Calling , wherein he hath set vs . And that properly is meant here , but in the highest degree , and highest termes . For , The burden of trials and temptations . as for afflictions , it is certain , that there is nothing that listeth vp our hearts more vnto God , which draweth them from the earth , they are the bellowes , that kindle prayer in vs , raising it , as it were , out of the ashes , But whilest they containe themselues within some measure , so as they seeme fitted to our strength , abiding within the termes of hope , namely , disgraces , loss of goods , sicknesses , griefes , banishments , and such like . But when disgrace passeth vnto persecutions without cause , the losse of goods , vnto slander against our honour , sicknesse into agony , griefe into heart-breaking , banishment into proscription , then the accents of our Complaints change their tune , the complaints themselues are dried vp ; and so much the more , if these evills be procured by those who shuld wish vs well , yea , if when thou art most wronged , whilst thou takest most paynes to doe well ; And so much the more , as it concerneth thy person , thy family , the house of God , his Church , ( the apple of his eye ) Because certainely it seemes vnto vs ; that God hath lost his rule , that he remembers not any more what flesh and bloud is ; but rather hath an eye to the minde of man , winding it vp vnto the highest pitch ; Because it seemes , he doth not equally poyse the ballance of his justice , nor to haue left him any thing but the string to hold them , when often the wicked prospereth at the costs of the godly ; the slaues , at the perill of the children ; the Philistime , vnto the shame of the Israelite , reprobate Saul , vnto the confusion of faithfull David ; He delivers them into their hands , he forsakes them . And therefore we are not to thinke it strange , if the request of David passeth from a prayer vnto a cry , from a cry vnto a hideous noyse , from a hideous noyse vnto a tempest . Psal. 55. & 2. And yet though he casts not off his burthen : may he not be sayd to shake it off ? Hee shakes it off , who to deliver himselfe from affliction , makes a Covenant with death , and hell ; takes counsell of flesh & bloud , trades with the world , though it be with losse of the glory of God , redeemes himselfe ( he cares not how ) from them who persecute him . David doth not so , for saith he , death as a tyrant shall sease vpon them . Psal. 55.15 . But as for me , I will call vpon the Lord , and he will saue mee , Vers. 16. Why so ? Verily because hee knoweth that the Church is Gods building , that the faithfull are his true children , and are the only living stones therof , that amongst these stones some are hewen , some polished for the corner-stone , for the maister-piece , for Corinth , &c. All that come vnder his hand , must endure the mallet , the chislell ; and so much the rather by how much they are destinated to a higher place , to wit , to stand in the forefront of the building . Seest thou any exempted from the hammer , then say boldly , they are not fit for his building . Vpon our corner stone , he layeth no other , but chosen & precious . 1. Pet. 2.5 . yea , himselfe , to be layd as the head stone of the Corner , by what hammers , chislells , &c. hath he not passed ? Namely , calumnies , false witnesses of Pharisies , of Priests , the cruelties of the Romanes , of the Iewes themselues , his brethren according to the flesh ? Vpon this stone , thinkest thou , vnskilfull builder , that there may be set any ruffe ones ? And thou vntamed member , dost thou thinke it strange , that to make thee capable thereof , he make thee passe vnder the playne , makes thee smooth through hacking and hewing ? Therefore David who had passed through such trials , who knew what and how many hewings are needfull for the faithfull , to make them fit for this building , what were the vses , and benefits of affliction , which God sends vs , is not ashamed to say . Psal. 119. vers. 67. that before he was afflicted he went astray , but now it had brought him backe to his Law ; He casts not off his burden through despaire , but cryes vnto the Lord , and waiteth for his answere ; because he assures himselfe , that that spirit which cryeth in him Abba Father , the same eternall spirit doubtlesse will giue him this answer ; behold I am with thee , neerer vnto thee then thy selfe ; He knowes that the Lord doth willingly draw neere vnto the broken hearted & contrite spirits . Psal. 34. & 18. He delights rather to be in the prison of sorrow , then in the wedding chamber ; in a soule withered with bitternesse , then spread out in deliciousnesse . And in deede seldome you see such a one powre out his soule before God , but presently shee gathereth vp againe her selfe in faith and confidence , and her cry is turned into thanksgiving , this swounding into a sacrifice of praise . Hath David said . Psal. the 6. vers. 3.4.5 . & 9. My bones are vexed , and my soule is astonished ? By and by also followes , Depart from mee yee workers of iniquitie , the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping . And vpon the calumnies of Cusse the Beniamite , prayeth he . Psal. the 7. vers. 1.2.11.13 15. & 17. Lord I draw neere vnto thee , defend mee , that he teare mee not in peeces like a Lyon ; He resolues with himselfe , verses 10.11.12 . The Lord is my Buckler , if he turne not , he will whet his sword . There he finds both his weapons offensiue and defensiue , hee shall travayle to bring forth wickednesse , but shall bring forth a lye , his travayle shall fall vpon his owne head . I said , saith he elswhere , when I began to slide , when I began to be swallowed vp with feare , I am cut off in thy sight . Psal. 31. vers. 22.23.24 . But thou hast heard the voice of my supplication , when I did cry vnto thee : glorying therevpon by way of triumph , saying , Loue the Lord all yee his Saints , for he keepeth his faithfull ones ; be of good courage , and he will strengthen your heart . And so in this place , having felt himselfe discharged of the burthen of his griefes , he encourages others ; saying , Cast thy burthen vpon the Lord , &c. Psal. 55. Is he hid in the Desert of Ziph , flying from the fury of Saul his King , being ready to be delivered vp into his handes by those of that place ? He hath no sooner sayd , Psal. 54.13 . O cruell people ; a people that haue not set God before their eyes , do even seeke my life ; But he presently resolues , God is my helpe : Vers. 4. He even burnes with zeale to offer him sacrifice ; I will , sayth he , Vers. 6. sacrifice vnto thee with a free heart , for thou hast delivered me . Even thou hast delivered me ; He holds his deliverance for accomplished he sees it with his faith , with the eyes of his soule ; though a farre off , yet most certaine . For the holy History tells vs , that as Saul and his people went pursuing him , a messenger met Saul , saying . 1 Sam. 23.27 . Make hast for the Philistimes are come into thy Dominions ; Saul presently breakes off his Chase , and behold David in an instant beyond all expectation delivered , by meanes of the Philistimes . And hereunto belongs that of the Psal. 57.4 . 1 Sam. 24. ver. 1. at what time he hid himselfe in the caue of Hengedi . When Saul also sent to kill him in his house , we see him troubled . 1 Sam. 19.9.11 . He obserues their practises , their plottes , their watches ; he opposeth his integritie and his innocency ; but with what peace vnto his soule ? Psal. 59. ver. 9.12.16 . Lord God , thou wilt laugh at them , and yet Lord slay them not , least my people forget it ; He is now more carefull of their life then of his owne . Lord I will sing of thy mercy in the morning ; I will not loose one houre of my ordinary exercises . The like examples wee haue also in the Psalmes 64.69.140 . and many the like , against those who eyed him , watched him in his wayes , in his words , & ( if they could ) even to his very thoughts ; But even in the greatest perill , he concludes all in certaine hope of Deliverance ; saying , The iust shall reioyce in the Lord , and shall draw neere vnto him , and all that are true of heart shall be glad and reioyce ; as touching his Iustice , which he will manifest to the one , and will doe to the other ; The flouds are risen vp even vnto my soule , I am afflicted and in griefe , but thy deliverance shall lift mee vp on high , so high , that no waters , no , not a deluge shall attaine thereto ; I know that the Lord will execute Iustice for the afflicted , and howsoever it be , the vpright shall dwell before his face . But some prophane person may here say , is David thus confident , the burthen notwithstanding lieth still vpon his neeke , he is slandered , abused , watched , pursued by Saul , by his most familiar friends , yea by his owne sonne ; but he is lightened of this his burthen , comforted in soule , because of his liuely faith , which represented vnto him the helpe of his God , both certaine and present , because his loue by his holy Spirit was powred into his soule , because a divine light shining vpon it , scattered the darknesse thereof . And thou Christian , whosoever thou art , if ever thou hast called vpon the Lord in the like anguish , how often before thy burthen ( the cause of thine anguish , of thy griefe ) was eased ; hast thou notwithstanding felt thy spirit eased by thy prayer ? God without doubt holding his hand invisibly and insensibly vnder thy burthen , as it were hidden from thee . The burthen continuing , and yet the paine diminished ; because we haue now two to beare it , because it pleaseth God to beare one part of the burthen , and that the greatest part also , suffering vs to redouble our strength , that he might lend vs his owne .

For example , Ioseph being cast into the pit by his brethren . Gen. 37. ver. 27. it was some reliefe to be solde vnto the Madianites , and then vnto Potipher , Captaine of the Guard Gen. 39.1 . his burthen encreaseth , when the slander of his mistris caused him to be cast into the dungeon ; but Moses addes presently , that the Lord was with Ioseph . ver. 20. he shewed his mercie vpon him ; in giving him favour in the sight of the Maister of the Prison . Such favour as made him way to Pharaoh , even to the supplying of the necessities of Iacob his Father , and all his house ; yea even to be ruler over Egypt . Who now in the meane while would haue beleeved that GOD was with him in prison ? In like manner he saith to Iacob ; that is , to his Church , & to all the members thereof . Esa. 43.2 . When thou passest through the waters , I will be with thee , they shall not drowne thee , and when thou goest through the fire , it shall not burne thee ; because I will be with thee . Even I , who commandes the elements , who rules over the waters of the Floud . Psal. 29.10 . who makes my Ministers a flame of fire . Psal. 104.4 . I am with thee , because I haue redeemed thee . Esa. 43.1 . I haue called thee by name , thou art mine , and by consequent I haue Interesse in thy ruine , in thy losse . Is God with vs in the fire , and in the water . Isa. 43.2 . if he said it not himselfe , who durst beleeue it ? And indeed we see it in the waters of the red Sea , which gaue place vnto the Children of Israell , Exod. 14. when in the meane while they overwhelmed Pharaoh and his hoste . Also in the three Children in the Furnace , Dan. 3. being heated more then ordinary , it consumed them , who cast them in . Dan. 3.27 . but of those that were cast in , it singed not a haire ; an Angell ioyning himselfe vnto them , in the middest of the fire , who kept them ; One ( sayth the Prophet ) like to the Sonne of God . These things you see being performed , both really and visiblie in them : whence wee may learne , that God who was with his in the middest of dangers , out of the which there appeared no issue , is invisibly , and no lesse really with all those , who call vpon him in true faith , he compasseth them about with his mercy , and assisteth them with the presence of his Angels , yea , of his owne presence also . Whence it is that David , hiding himselfe from the wrath of Saul in the Caue , makes his prayer vnto God . Psal. 57.4 . saying , My soule is amongst Lyons , I lye amongst these that are set on fire , amongst men whose teeth are speares and arrowes ; he assures himselfe notwithstanding , that God will send from heaven , and deliver him ; yea out of this danger ; and in this faith he wakens his tongue , and all his musicall instruments , to giue him praise . This deliverance being vnto him no lesse reall , nor lesse miraculous , Dan. 6.22 . then that of Daniell in the denne of Lyons , in which denne the Angell of the Lord did shut their mouths ; but what if not so visibly ; because such miracles , are wrought visiblie but once , or very rarely ; to try our weaknes , as also to show that God can doe it , ceasing not in the meane while invisibly to continue according to his word & promise , which assures vs that he will do it . And herein the faithfull consider , that so often as they finde themselues , amongst such Lyons , thirsting for their bloud , and hungering for their life , yet can they doe them no hurt ? And in such appetite and such fury , seing themselues a prey , can they doubt of him who restraines them , who mussels them thus invisiblie ? Therefore tell me not here , that wee now see no more miracles . We see them not indeede , because wee want eyes ; for what doe we see in effect but miracles ? Thou Christian , if the creation of the world , if the vniversall change of the course of the world , by the power of Christ , if the death of so many Martyrs beleeving the Resurrection of a God crucified , so many ages past ; tell me if so sweete a harmony of all and every particular thereof , be not a sufficient myracle ? In vaine will it be for thee , to see the lame to goe , the dumbe to speake , the dead to rise ; Thou shalt alwaies find in thy discourse matter of doubt ; they will be vnto thee illusions , slights and trickes of Sathan ; well then , let vs cast our burthen vpon the Lord , and let vs the rather consider of his grace and of his helpe in vs and towards vs . And after we haue seriously called vpon him , feeling our selues in effect either discharged of this burden , of this crosse , which crushed vs , or incouraged to beare it more ioyfully , let vs then boldly say ; The Lord hath here put to his hand ; for from no other but him , could come ease of paine , or increase of strength . Therefore let vs freely acknowledge , in the healing of our stroake ; and of this issue of bloud , that vertue is gone out from Christ , yea , albeit we haue but touched the hemme of his garment ; this touching , this hemme , which is as it were but to giue a body vnto their invisible and spirituall vertue , thereby to make it vnto vs ( flesh and bloud as we are ) not more efficacious , but more sensible .

Well then , if the Lord as in some temptations seemes to thee that himselfe takes part against thee , and by consequent thou thinkest , that he himselfe is become the burthen , so farre off is it , that thou canst hope , he should beare thy burthen ; vnto whom then shouldest thou haue recourse ? And here lyeth the highest point of the triall . Take an example in Abraham , when God commanded him to offer vp his sonne , whom he had long time waited for , his Isaac , his onely sonne ; by that so expresse a commandement , vpon so solemne a promise . Gen. 22. In Isaac shall thy seede be called . What was here to be done ? Certainely both these two , being equally obiects of our faith , and of our obedience ; the one and the other , being the word of God , but wee will hold vs to the commandement which bindeth vs , Note . leaving vnto him the fit time to fulfill his promise ; And let vs say with faithfull Abraham ; The Lord will provide , who holds the issues of death in his power . Psal. 68.20 . Who can raise mee children even out of stones , and can restore me this sonne againe , if need be , even the same and none other out of the graue ; And yet on this childe depended the promised Christ , the blessed seede , the salvation of the church ? So ought the Christian to be resolved to follow the voyce of God , with his eyes shut , against all imaginations , equivocations , & humaine glosses ; whereof in all perplexities , the chiefest wisedome is to be silent , Note . both in God , and to God . Psal. 62.1 . How ever it be saith the Psalmist , my soule is silent in God : an higher prayse we cannot giue vnto him ; To be silent , that is to say , he murmures not in himselfe , replies not againe , but yeelds to his will , and waiteth with patience the issue thereof , and submits his whole wisedome to his providence ; This being certainely the highest point of faith , to which it is not alwayes given vs to attaine vnto . But if it happen vnto vs , as it did vnto Iacob vpon his wading through the foord Iabok , vpon the point of his meeting with Esau , to wrastle with God , with our weaknesse , against his promises , let vs not trust so much vpon that , that he suffers himselfe to be overcome by vs , vouchsafing to condescend vnto our weaknesses , as to the perpetuall marke he left vnto Iacob in his thigh , when he leaues vnto vs the marke , as of his power , so of our infirmitie . Of this power ( sayth the Apostle ) which is perfected in our infirmitie . A healthfull infirmitie , which God delights to leaue in those that are his , to keepe them in dutie . As in Iacob , Note . though he blessed him , yet he humbled him , that he should not be proud of that blessed wrastling ; In like manner in S. Paul , notwithstanding his prayer many times reitterated ; least the excellencie of things revealed vnto him , should lift him vp aboue measure . 2 Cor. 12. That we should alwayes be forced vnder the heavie burthen of our adversities , and in our weaknesse , to call to him for strength .

Strength , which shall never fayle , seeing it is he that promiseth it , offers it vnto vs , so as he even taketh pleasure to be called our strength , although somedmes he lets vs suffer , and groane , being ready to sinke ; but he knowes at what instant to helpe vs ; Note . at the halfe blow , as of Isaac vpon the blocke ; the more to manifest his deliverance ; if also he lets vs alone in danger , in necessitie ; it is alwayes one and the same providence , from the same art of the Phisitian proceedeth the incision of the Patient , and his dyet ; both the one and the other , being in his choice , and not in that of the patient . 1 King . 17. That the Prophet Elias should be fed by the Ravens , which day by day brought him bread & flesh , evening and morning , his daily bread ; it was the more to make him feele God his fatherly care , and the rather to bring him to commit himselfe vnto his bountie , then if he should haue set before him a ful store house of victualls . Vnto the widdow of Sarepta also , to draw our of her barrell of meale , & her cruse of oyle , to multiplie it from day to day , even to abundance ; it made her the more to feele her want , and in her necessitie , the power and bountie of God , and by the one & the other , to keepe her devout , to augment her faith , to heate her zeale ; then if at the instant , he had given it her in a full barne , & wine-celler . Because the blessings we receiue of God in the whole heape , Note . and on a suddain , vanish away into some light thankesgiving ; they are at the first but coldly acknowledged to God ; and a little while after , they are attributed vnto a friend , and to our good fortune , and to our owne industrie ; but when they come flowly , and by degrees , so as we are constrained to waite for them , then they giue vs time to desire them , to sigh for them , to taste them , to relish them , to fill our sences , our imagination & memory ; And to say with David . Psal . 63. I seeke thee at the dawning of the day , my soule thirsteth for thee , my flesh lusteth after thee , in a barren and drie Land , where no water is . Graunt , that he rayne Quailes downe vpon vs , the flesh being yet between our teeth , wee will be readie to murmure . And therefore the better to flie , to flie I say vnto God , we haue need to be kept low ; to returne vnto him , to know his luer , and not to feed vs to our fill , least otherwise wee take the wing , and follow after vanitie , with the first winde that bloweth .

God then being called vpon by vs , when wee are vnder crosses and afflictions , which hee layes vpon vs , he strengthens vs with his grace , according as he sees it needfull for our salvation . Loe the very end of these crosses , even of the crosses , which in the doubtfull wayes of this world , better then any other guide , or marke , doe correct and reforme vs . The burden of bearing the Crosse of Christ . But vnder the crosse principally of his Christ , vnder the true crosse when it is layd vpon our shoulders , then we feele the helpe of his strength ; when we are called to suffer for his Name , for his Truth and for his Word ; and indeede divers are the natures of thes crosses , every maner of way . By these he hath ordained to humble vs , to beare witnesse vnto the true faith , wherein consequently , God interposeth himselfe , yea he even participates with vs , he suffers , and suffers with vs himselfe . And therefore in this crosse , the faithfull seek for comfort from God by their prayer ; in this affliction , their prayer begins with giving of thankes , he praiseth God for doing him the honour to suffer for his Name ; to choose him as it were for a Champion of his quarrell , he reioyceth , he glories , he boasteth in his sufferings , and in his disgraces . Rom. 5.3 . The Apostles of our Saviour even reioyced after they were scourged by the Magistrates . Act. 5.41 . S. Paul so farre boasted , as to triumph in his tribulations ; Because these afflictions were not so much his , as Christs . Because he fulfilled the rest of the afflictions of Christ in his flesh , for his body sake , that is , the Church . Col. 1.24 . Because the Christian is assured in suffering for Christ , that Christ suffers with him , takes part of his sorrowes , burthens himselfe , and disburthens him . And from hence did the glorious Martyrs , triumph in their Martyrdom . When thou seest them then halfe burned , their bowells issuing forth , and yet lifted vp their eyes to Christ by prayer , nay rather by singing , brake through the noyse of the flames . Therefore O flesh and bloud tell me here ; if Christ were not there , if he assisted them not effectually , or clothed them not really with his power against the violence of that Element , and against the crueltie of those who sharpens it against them ; thinkest thou that there could be any one found , that could stand ? And from whence then came so many millions ? Yea where could there haue beene found any one , that should resolue with himselfe , to die for one dead , to suffer himselfe to be tortured , for one Crucified ; and from whence then could this come , if it were not in that Christ liveth in them ; and in them , & with them , is crucified ? Verily in them who cast their burden vpon the Lord ; the Sonne coeternall with the Father , not to shake off their burthen , but the more couragiously to beare it , being incouraged by his presence , strengthened by his hand . And therefore in other crosses , the wonder consisteth herein , that the Lord being called vpon in faith , doth graciously deliver thee ; But loe here the myracle is , in that the faithfull , against sence , reason , and nature , offer themselues vp in sacrifice vnto God ; their flesh and bloud , their humaine reason , altogether flesh and bloud , renouncing themselues , to confesse Christ . And seeing it is impossible of themselues , whence is it then , for the honor of God , but by God .

The burden of our Calling . And so much for the burthen of the Crosse and affliction , when it overchargeth vs . Now followes that crosse , which concernes our calling , and function , vnto which God calleth vs . A true burthen also , for there is none so small in regard of the weaknesse of our nature , vnder the which our shoulders doe not bow , yet be it never so great , in his power , who calls vs thereunto ; wee need not feare to passe ; provided alwayes , it be a true calling , by which he makes it his owne . And therefore the Apostle exhorts every one , Ephes. 4.1 . to walke worthy his calling , according to that grace which is given vs , according to the measure of the gift of Christ . To walke , is not simplie to goe , but to hold a certaine way , and to ayme at the true end thereof ; and besides , in a mans Calling , to looke he haue it from God ; who is a God of order , who ordaines , and who imployes all his Creatures ; every one to some certaine thing ; every stone to haue a certaine place in his building . He that walkes in his Calling , sets all his paths vnto profit , walkes alwayes well , though he halt in it ; he that strayeth from thence , what speed soever he makes , goeth the further out of his way , and for the most part goes backward . Well then , every calling hath his labour , or rather his crosse , yet not without some inward comforts , and helpe from aboue , even from him who hath created all things . He I say , with the same power , bountie , and wisedome , preserveth them , and directs all things . For let vs not thinke , that he hath lesse care , or takes more pleasure to comfort an Artificer in his shopp , then he doth a Prince in his Throne : a family , as well as a Common wealth ; for every where where his name is called vpon , he hearkens , he heares , he puts to his helping hand without exception , without acception of persons ; vnto him who hath equally made them , the brasse is as deare as the gold , the hempe as the flax , the course cloth as the scarlet ▪ But in the callings of those , whom hee calleth to the conducting of his people , of his Church , this bountifull providence doth more appeare ; because shee is set as it were vpon a hill , because they are , or ought to be , the light of the world , as also because the Lord in his holy Scriptures hath left them for our examples .

Art thou then in a publicke Calling , 1. In the Magistracy . be it either polliticke , or ecclesiasticke ; and dost thou meete with a stiffenecked people , being ready every houre to murmure ; with gyants , advancing their heads against heaven , against whom thou art every houre to pronounce , and lay open Gods judgements ? A hard Commission , troublesome , rough , & hard to vndergoe , if thou onely looke into thy selfe , but looke vnto God , who hath imposed this Calling vpon thee ; doe not thou therefore shake off thy burthen , as another Ionas . Who fled vnto Tarsis , from the presence of the Lord , and shipt himselfe at Ioppa , who meets with him amongst the waues ; Whether shall I goe from thy spirit , sayth the Prophet . Psal. 39.7 . or whether shall I flie from thy presence . Therefore rather humble thy selfe before his face , acknowledg thy imbecillitie , seeke thy strength from him , take thy warrant from his Commission . What , oh Lord , is dust and ashes , that thou shouldest expect such strength , such service , if thou put not to thy helping hand , if thou worke not in it ? There needs no greater matter then lyce to confound the wise ; the ruine of the pride of Egypt . Well then , Lord , worke thou ; Who am I Lord ( saith David , 2 Sam. 7.18 19.22.23.24 . ) and what is my house , that thou hast brought me hitherto ? is this the manner of men , is there any thing here whereof man can presume , or promise ought vnto himselfe ? But he takes him at his word , wherein his glory is interressed . And sayth , for thy promise sake , and according to thy heart , thou hast done all this greatnesse , &c. to get thee a name , and a people for evermore . And where his calling meets , there his promise secretly comes betweene . Who am I also saith his Son Salomon . 1 Kings 3. to iudge this so great a people , &c. Alas , I am but a childe , who knowes not how to goe in and out before them . And further , the Lord , from whom every good gift comes , giues him , to him I say ( who acknowledging his owne incapacitie ; seekes the supply thereof in his grace ) a wise and an vnderstanding heart , a habit very necessary for a King ; he giues him more then he requireth , riches and honour , things very seemely . Also , who am I , saith Moses , Exod. 3.11 . that I should goe vnto Pharaoh , and that I should bring the Children of Israel out of Egypt , &c. Exod. 4.10 . Alas Lord , saith he , neither yesterday nor before yesterday , am I a man of cloquent speech , but on the contrary , of a slow mouth and tongue . Now the businesse was to speake vnto a great Prince , to perswade him of strange offensiue things ; but I , sayth the Lord , will be with thee ; and beholde the signes : Who made the mouth of man , who made the dumbe , &c. Exod. 4.12 . I will be with thy mouth , and will teach thee what thou shalt say , or rather by thy hand I will doe that which thou shalt haue to say ; that we might know the great priviledge those haue , whom God sets on worke in respect of all others . Those whom the Princes of the earth imploy in their services , if they be not adorned with exquisite qualities , shall but shame both themselues and their Maisters : but on the contrary , those who are assured of their calling ; nay of his calling , who workes all in all , and in all things , it cannot be but they should be able to discharge it . But yet in humility feeling their owne imbecillity , and for the most part , aboue that they imagined they could haue done . Because they worke by him , and he in them , by whose power the qualities of things worke the contrary effect to their nature , as namely , heate to refresh , fury to cherrish , weaknesse to cause it selfe to be feared , the stammering tong , to be able to perswade , a childe to pronounce judgement , yea bondage it selfe , to rule .

Now this is also in respect of this confidence , which they beleeue they haue a right vnto , and so they haue indeed , to cast themselues vpon the Lord , when evill oppresseth them . Iehosaphat being affrighted with the Moabites ; he proclaimes a fast , craues helpe from God . But how ? they come , saith he , 2 Chron. 20.12 . to dispossesse vs of thine inheritance , which thou gavest vs to possesse . O our God , wilt not thou iudge them , and the rather because the case goeth thus ill with vs , there being us strength in vs , to stand before so great a multitude : But sayth he , our eyes are towards thee ; even towards the Lord , who forthwith puts his hand to the burthen , and answeres him by his Prophet ; feare not , you shall not neede to fight , but God ; beholde he commeth to their reseue , and he alone will doe all for you ; stand still , sayth he , and see the salvation of the Lord ; take you no other care but to prayse mee . So important and behoouefull it is vnto every servant of God in such occasions , to engage the Lord in his cause , and to haue no interest therein but his justice , his sanctuary , his glory .

Rabshakeh comes vnto King Ezekias . 2 Kings 18. and 19. Let not thy God , saith he , in whom thou trustest deceiue thee ; thou seest what the King of the Assyrians hath done vnto all other Countries ; haue their Gods delivered them , that thou shouldest hope better of thine ? But what doth Ezekias in this anguish , Lord , sayth he , thou art the onely , or alone God of Kingdomes , belongs it not then properly vnto thee ; and this argument which he makes ; comparing the Idolls of the Nations with thee , shall he be left vnpunished of thee ; of thee , I say , the Creator of heaven and earth ? Encline thine eare then Lord , and hearken vnto the words of this Champion , whom Senacherib hath sent to blaspheme the living God ; Deliver vs therfore , O Lord , out of his hand , that all people may know , that thou Lord art the onely God . Then comes the Prophet Esay vnto him , and allures him in the name of the Lord , that his prayer was heard , and that the Lord tooke knowledge thereof , making the cause his owne ; who in the same night smot Senacherib and his Armie , by the hand of his Angell . And Moses speakes to this purpose in more expresse termes ; and for the ground of this Confidence , this holy boldnesse to cast his burden vpon the Lord , he takes his measure from faith , faith grounded on knowledge . For is it not sayd , that God spake vnto him face to face ? The people of Israell being nourished and fed by myracles so many yeares in the desert , being enemy to their owne good , would not goe into the land of Canaan , but murmured thereupon , against God , and rebelled so farre against Moses . Numb. 14. that they were ready to stone him . The Lord being wrath at this their infidelitie , he tells Moses , that he is weary of them , and that he will destroy them . O but Lord , saith Moses , what then will the Nations say ; for the Cananites cannot be ignorant , that thou Lord art seene of this people face to face ; that thy Cloud , thy protection standeth over them , and that thou hast expressely vndertaken the safe conduct of this people ; and now they will say , that thou hast killed them , because thou wast not able to bring them into the Land , which thou hadst sworne vnto their Fathers to giue them : vrging God vpon the point of his owne honour , jealous in regard of man ; no lesse jealous in respect of God , who giveth himselfe the title of iealous ; thereby inducing him ( as a meanes ) to restraine his anger , and pardon his people . As I liue , sayth the Lord vnto him , the whole earth shall be filled with my glory ; with my glory in a double respect ; first , because these murmurers shall not see the promised Land ; yet notwithstanding , those who continued faithfull , shall possesse the Land for inheritance ; thereby being equally magnified , both in my mercy , and in my justice . Let all this be granted , may some one reply , but this was in the time of myracles . True ; but myracles were heretofore done from time to time , to none other end , but to make it appeare to thee , as a glimpse of that infinite power , which worketh , and disposeth , all these myracles of the whole world , which being perpetuall , are to thee no longer myracles . The Prophet sayth , Isa. 59.1 . The Lords hand is not shortened , that it cannot helpe , nor his eare heavy that he cannot heare . Whereas the globe of the earth , since so many ages past , continueth hanging in the ayre , holding by nothing , but by the onely powerfull will of the Creator ; is it not myraculous even at this day ? It may be , more myraculous then the first day that he framed it ; whereas the Church also continueth , being but a point as it were in the middest of this Chaos of vnbeliefe , yet swimmes aloft , alwayes shewing the head aboue water , amiddest so many waues , is also no lesse a myracle , yea and it may be also more , in the middest of so many disordered Nations , and of so many flouds ; then when shee floated in the Arke , or passed through the red Sea . The workes therefore of the Lord , though lesse visible to our eyes , are not therefore lesse reall in themselues , nor lesse considerable in the minds of the faithfull . The Prophet saith Isa. 59.2 . that our iniquities haue made a seperation betweene vs and him , causeth him to hide his face from vs . But let vs onely turne our eyes towards him , and he will returne againe wholly towards vs . In like proportion towards an estate , nation , Cittie , family , or particular person , which shall call vpon him ; where his Church , where his service , where his feare , hath taken vp their dwelling . My soule which art often perplexed in thy selfe , in anguish for his Church , amongst so many waues which tosseth her , and thee in her , tempted to cast off thy burthen , hast thou cast it vpon the Lord , and hath he eased thee ? How oft dispayring of all humaine helpes , hast thou sayd vnto him ; how long ; and did the Lord ever fayle to answer thee ; yea to answer thee by visible effects , more intelligible then his wordes ?

2. In the Ministry . The like may be sayd of them who are called of God vnto an ecclesiasticall function ; As heretofore of the Prophets denouncing the judgements of God against Kings , and against Nations ; after them the Apostles sent to Preach the onely word of salvation vnto the ends of the world , to the ruine of false gods , and of their Idolls , the pretended protectors of States and of Common-weales . Those Prophets and Apostles being consequently bound to defend their cause against the persecution of those who disgraced them . And so in like manner those , who in the Church , as they are dispensers of the Gospell , hold their place at this day . For with what confidence , and with what wisedome , did Elias and Elizeus with their cloakes stand against Kings , Princes , and the Priests of Israel ; Iohn Baptist with his garment of Cammels haire , withstood King Herod . The Apostles being poorefishermen , and vnlearned , vndertooke the ruine of Sathans kingdome , the Conquest of the world , vnder the Crosse of Christ ? Therefore let those who succeede them in this office , accept of this Commission in all humilitie , and say , Lord , who am I , that thou hast called mee therevnto ; And what man is he , though never so great , that is sufficient for it ? But yet as vncapable as I am , even the least in my selfe ; yet being assisted by thee , who art the greatest , what am I not able to doe ? For so Esay sayth ; Isa. 6. Woe is me for I am vndone , because I am a man of polluted lips ; no sooner had God touched his lips with a liue coale from the Altar , but he changeth his speech ; Who shall I send , sayth the Lord , he answeres chearefully , behold I am here , send mee . But with what Commission ? Say vnto this people , in hearing you shall heare , and not vnderstand &c. Make fatte the heart of this people , &c. Let a man haue ten times as many naturall gifts , as Esay had ; could he without this assistance from the Lord , haue vndergone this Charge ? In like manner , the Prophet Ieremy ; I haue set thee this day , sayth the Lord , over Nations , and over Kingdomes , that thou shouldest plucke vp , and pull downe , that thou shouldest build and plant . A pooresilly Priest of Anothoth . Iere. 1.1 . Therefore he that will wonder , let him yet wonder at it ? Ah Lord God , beholde I cannot speake , saith he , for I am but a childe . And behold ! he had no sooner touched his mouth , but presently he girdeth vp his reynes , and is resolved , that whereas be-before he acknowledged himselfe to be but a childe , now he begins to be a man ; and the terror of men . So likewise Christ tells the Apostles , Math. 10.19 . Yee shall be brought before Kings ; and you shall beare witnesse of mee even to the ends of the earth ; being but men of meane condition , to stand astonished at the onely looke of a man of authoritie , the boldest amongst them , at the word of a poore silly mayd . But take no care , sayth the Lord , I will put that into your mouth at the very instant , which you shall say . Feare not , saith he also vnto S. Paul , hold not thy peace , Act. 18.10 . for I am with thee . And what he sayd to them , let vs take as spoken vnto all ; vnto all who are Ministers of the same word , being never destitute of his spirit , nor of his strength , to the pulling downe , sayth the Apostle , of strong holds , 2 Cor. 10. casting downe all counsells , and every high thing which exalts it selfe against the knowledge of God ▪ bringing every thought into captivity , to the obedience of Christ having vengeance ready prepared against all d sobedience . What can be said more ? And be not dismayd at this that the liue coale hath not touched thy lippes , nor the breath of Christ , breathed vpon thee ; the signes of his word and spirit ; provided that thou hast his Commission with thee , and his word in thy mouth . Those signes had their place once for all ; Timothy had not received them , whom notwithstanding the Apostle summons before God , and before the Lord Iesus , vnto whom he shall giue an account . 2 Tim. 4.1 . & 2. Where he sayth , Preach the word ; But how , in season , and out of season , reproue , rebuke , exhort , doe the worke of an Evangelist . It may be , thou shalt be hated of those which are without , and despised sometimes of those within ; wilt thou haue it bteter cheape then the Mr of the Vineyard ? Which of the Prophets , or which of the Apostles , were not abused , stoned , and vexed ? Say with David . Psal. the 31. I haue beene a reproach vnto my adversaries , vnto my neighbours much more , and those of my acquaintance seeing mee , fled from me . But Lord , I haue sayd , thou art my God , I trust in thee . Learne thou also with the same great Apostle . 2 Cor. 6.7.8 . to goe through honour and dishonor , through good report and evill report , by the word of truth , by the power of God , by the armor of righteousnesse , on the right hand and on the left . Be not discouraged also , if thou fallest vpon a barren ground , as it were sowed with salt ; vpon a brutish and stiffe-necked people . Who hath beleeved , sayth Esay , our report ? And after him , our Saviour himselfe . Ioh. 12.36 . And of sixe hundred thousand which went on t of Aegypt with Moses ready armed , how few of them entred into the Land of promise ? Of so many people whom our Lord had healed , had preached vnto , even the eternall word ; how few of them did beleeue , and continued following him ? How many thinkest thou were there of them , who helpt to blaspheme him at his death ? And notwithstanding , did God therefore cease to devide Canaan by lyne vnto his people ? The word of the Crosse , did that cease to subdue the world , yea to triumph in the world , and over the world ? Heare our Saviour Christ himselfe in Esay the 49.4 . complaining , and in his consolation , receiue thou thine ; I sayd I haue laboured in vaine , and spent my strength for nothing , notwithstanding my reward is with the Lord , and my worke with my God . The Lord who answeres him afterwards , I haue heard thee ( hold it as if it were already done ) in an acceptable time , in the day of salvation haue I succoured thee . It must be a long time after , least thou shouldst waxe weary , yet in his time , in an acceptable time , in a time by him eternally pre-ordained . And thus of this word which thou publishest , to the clearing of his truth , to the convincing of errors , to the advancement of the kingdom of his Christ , to the dissolution of the tyranny of Antichrist , waite for the fruit , and expect the effect in his time ; but in the meane time , be not thou carelesse , but vse all the means to manure the ground , which he hath committed vnto thee . And say vnto him , Lord , this ground will be but Iron , if the heaven be of Brasse . From thy onely blessing , I waite for the fruit of my labour ; by thy Commandement I plant , and in this hope I water . And thus beholde , how in the difficulties of our Callings , we are to comfort our selues in the Lord .

Is there no other burden which we are to cast vpon the Lord ? Yes verily , the weightiest doth yet remaine , the burden of sinne . Sinne , The burden of sinne . as light as it seemes vnto vs , which by no meanes can stand in the ballance of so just a God , must needs be very heavie , & most waightie , because it provokes his anger , & presseth vs downe to hell , by an offence against an infinite Maiestie , against an infinite anger . Sinne which lyeth vpon the conscience , being the liueliest , the most sensible , and tenderest part of the soule , doth vexe and disquiet it . Whereas the griefe of afflictions , lyeth properly vpon the senses : perplexities in our Callings , lyes vpon our spirits . But sinne was the cause , that made our first father after the commission thereof , to hide himselfe from the Lord ; and to tremble at the very shaking of the leaues . As also that Caine having perceived his offence , was smitten with a deiected & pale countenance ; and the sentence being pronounced , was as a burthen and punishment vnto himselfe ; My iniquitie , sayth he , is greater then I am able to beare , Gen. 4. though he had all the world at command , yet he findes himselfe in a straight in his soule . Even so the best men , though more tender in Conscience , couragious and patient in all sorts of afflictions , yet are here impatient , & stooping vnder this burthen , lie distressed in , and by themselues . David who so often repeateth in the Psalme 56. I trust in God , and will not feare what the arme of flesh can doe vnto me , yet findes himselfe pressed downe vnder the burthen of his olde man : My finne , O Lord , Psal. 51. saith he , is continually before mee ; I see nothing else , I haue sinned against thee ; O turne thy face from mine iniquities . Not content with this , as else-where to say vnto God , haue pittie on me ; but here , he calls to his succour , the greatnesse of his compassions , the full depth of his mercies ; to purge , wash , and wash againe , to blot out his sinnes ; to create in him a cleane heart , to renue in him a right spirit , feeling nothing in himselfe , which might abide the light of his countenance , which turned not vnto him in steade of a pleasing light , a countenance iustly inflamed with wrath . And thus that great Apostle also , who was joyous and triumphing over all sorts of afflictions , shrunke at this ; those others being pledges of helpe from God , but this a kindler of his wrath ; those calling vnto him as it were from heaven , and causing him to hasten his pace towards vs , as at the cry of his Children : But this which turneth away his eye , and sequesters his presence from vs , makes him forget , yea and to renounce his Creature . I repont that I haue made man ; Gen. 6. my spirit shall not alwayes striue with him ; it makes him to consent , or rather resolue to blot out his Image with a curse , and to determine in himselfe , to destroy even all flesh from the earth with a Deluge . And therefore let vs not thinke it strange , that he changeth here both tune and voice ; that he who said Phil. 4.12.13 . I know and am instructed , how to be full , and how to be hungry , as well to abound , as to want ; I am able to doe all things in Christ who strengthens me . But now with a languishing speech , changing his tune ; sayth , Sinne dwelleth in me ; and in mee there dwelleth no good thing ; I haue not the power to performe that which is good ; I finde this Law in me , that when I would doe good , evill is present with mee . How far off was he here from doing all things ? But on the contrary addeth ; Rom. 7. There is a law in my members which leades me captiue to the Law of sinne , delivers me bound hand & foote , my feete fettered with sinne ; and consequently to death , & hell , the rewards of sinne . What burthen thinke we then he felt , who before was so valiant vnder all other burdens , when he cryes out in the end , Vers. 24. wretched man that I am , who shall deliver me from the body of this death ? Well then , seeing sinne in it selfe is so heavie , in regard of God who is puritie and justice it selfe ; yea to hideous and so odious ; who shall be so bold then as to cast this burden vpon the Lord ? Shall we say vnto him as Adam did after his fall . Gen. 3.12 . The woman whom thou gavest me , gaue me of the tree to eate ? Or as the prophane ones mentioned by the Apostle , Rom. 9 19. Why hast thou not made vs better ? Whereof complainest thou ? for who can resist thy will ? Thus covering their sinne with blasphemie ; a sort of creatures , who Contest against the Creator , whose judgement sleepeth not . What then , is there no remedy to ease this burden ? Is it exempted from the lesson which here the Prophet giveth vs ? And if wee must lye downe vnder this burthen , what will it profit vs to be relieved vnder any other burden ? yea rather here principally hath it place , here it is wherein God meaneth properly to shew that his mercy is aboue all his workes ; to powre out his mercy , and to open his bowels of compassion , that by executing justice , he may make his chiefe worke to appeare . To vs ( sayth the Prophet ) a childe is borne : Isai. 9.5 . to vs a sonne is given , and his government is layd vpon his shoulder ; His government , that is , his power , to saue his people from their sinnes ; vpon his shoulder , for as much as he hath layd the Crosse vpon himselfe , and vnto the Crosse hath nayled our sinnes . And therefore the same Prophet sayth , Esay 53.5.6.7 . He hath borne our griefes , and taken on him our sorrowes , he was bruised for our iniquities . The Lord hath made to come vpon him the iniquities of vs all , the chastisement of our peace was vpon him . Vpon him , even vpon his shoulder ; therefore is it also added , that his name shall be cased Wonderfull , Counseller , the mightie and strong God , the everlasting Father , the Prince of peace . No other but he , could be capable of such a burthen , our Emanuell , God with vs . The Lambe of God , Ioh. 1.29 . sayth S. Iohn Baptist , that taketh away the sinne of the world ; hath borne them , sayth S. Peter . 1 Pet. 2.24 . in his bodie vpon the tree ; being made sinne , sayth S. Paul , 2 Cor. 5.21 . that we might be made the righteousnesse of God in him ; and made a curse for vs , vpon the crosse . Gal. 3.13 . that the blessing of Abraham might come vpon vs by him . But thinke not here that thou who delightest thy selfe in thy sinnes , and flatterest thy selfe therein , who makest triumphs , who art iolly and merry vnder this burden , that thou hast any part in these benefits , or that Christ should burden himselfe with thy sins , wherewith thou feelest not thy selfe burdened , thou must first feele them . Vnto whom shall I haue respect , sayth the Lord , Esay 66.2 . vnto him that is afflicted , and hath a bruised spirit , and trembleth at my word ; to such a one is it sayd , Rom. 5.20 that where sinne aboundeth , grace doth more abound . On the contrary he sayth , away from mee , yee workers of iniquitie , who make a trade thereof , who make you pillowes thereof to sleepe vpon . Should we sinne , Rom 6.1.15 sayth the Apostle , that grace might abound ? God forbid . Know ye not that vnto whom soever yee yeeld your selues servants to obey , his servants yee are vnto whom yee obey , be it of sinne vnto death , or of obedience vnto righteousnesse . Yee then , that are servants of sinne , who suffer it to raigne quietly in you , what can you expect but death , even eternall death .

But wouldest thou haue part in this promise , to be eased of this burthen of sin ? Then confesse thy sinne freely vnto the Lord with sighes and teares . So long as I held my peace , sayth David , my bones waxed olde , thy hand was heavie vpon me , my strength was changed into the drought of Sommer . Psal. 32.3.4.5 . See him here as it were overwhelmed vnder his burthen ; I acknowledge my sinne vnto thee : I sayd , I will confesse my transgressions vnto the Lord , and thou forgavest the punishment of my sinne . See how he is eased both of his sinne and punishment . Say vnto him then with the Prophet Daniell ; I haue sinned , Dan. 9. I haue done wickedly ; vnto thee belongeth righteousnesse , but vnto mee confusion of face ; but Lord doe thou forgiue : And doubt not but Christ will say vnto thy soule , if thy soule speake truely ; Thy sinnes are forgiven thee , goe in peace ; thy peace is made with GOD , be at peace in thy Conscience , for he also it is , in whom this promise is yea , and Amen ; In him who calleth vs , Math. the 11.28 . saying ; Come vnto mee all yee that travayle , and are heavie laden , if with afflictions , I will refresh you . Heb. 2.18 . For as I haue suffered and was tempted , so am I of power to succour those who are tempted . If with perplexities ; alas ! are not your Callings properly my yoke ? My yoke is easie , and my burden is light , seeing I haue layd it vpon you ; yea , if of sinne ; 1 Ioh. 3.8 . am I not come to destroy the workes of the Devill , to vnloose sinne , and to saue sinners ? Come then , and you shall finde rest vnto you soules . To him therefore with the Father and the holy Spirit , for the riches of his grace , be given from our soules , all honour and glory for ever and ever , AMEN .

AN HOMILIE VPON THESE WORDS ;

My peace I leaue with you , my peace I giue vnto you ; not as the world giueth it ,

&c. Ioh. 14.27 .

OVR LORD IESVS approaching neere vnto his Passion , making as it were his last will and testament among his Apostles , he leaues and giues vnto them his peace , it behooveth vs to knowe wherein this Legacie and gift consisteth ; seeing it extends it selfe vnto all who haue need thereof , Ioh. 17. who by their Word haue beleeved in his Name ; and so much the more , because that in the words of our Saviour there is alwayes a mystery , a heavenly treasure hidden vnder the earthly sound of his words , which we must search and looke into by examining of them , proportioning the sence according to the worth and excellencie of his person who vttereth them . For example , When he speaketh of washing vs , of nourishing vs , and of healing vs , wee must vnderstand himselfe to be our washing , our nourishment , our healing , wee beeing taught thereby to raise the signification of these words vnto the pitch of his meaning who speaketh ; and thereby to apprehend both the effects of his holy spirit in vs , but chiefely in our soules , being naturally spirituall . If thou didst content thy selfe with a lesse gift , Alexander would answere thee , that if it suffice thy base minde , yet it is not worthy of his magnanimitie . And our Saviour Christ would answere thee , who wouldest content thy selfe with temporall blessings , that he came not into the world , nor suffered so many things to pamper thy belly , or thee , to giue to thy bodie all contentments . And therfore the question is here of a blessing and comfort truly spirituall . For his spirit whom he ordaineth the true Executor of this his Testament , will sufficiently witnesse vnto vs the nature of this Legacie ; The Comforter , sayth he , who is the holy Ghost , whom the Father will send in my name . A spirituall Executor , as well both of a spirituall disposition , as of a spirituall donation ; of the donation which hee hath granted vnto vs , even of all that which he hath gotten , and purchased for vs by his life , and the price of his life ; I say , of his life , from the very first entrance whereinto even the heavenly Hosts haue sung ; Luk. 2.14 Glory be to God on high , and peace on earth , good will towards men . Even his Passion , whereof in so many preceding ages , the Prophets did foretell vnto vs , Esa. 53.5 . The chastisement of our peace was vpon him . Both procuring peace betweene heaven and earth ; the onely reconciliation of the world .

I leaue vnto you , sayth he , my peace . But what peace ? Truely vnder this word peace , many blessings are comprehended , and likewise many evills excluded . And the strictest way wee take it , it stretcheth it selfe very farre , namely , vnto the good of civill societie ; The which cannot be better comprehended then by the representation of the contrary . For example , domesticall quarrels being the ruine of families ; publicke warre , the combustion of States ; an abridgement of all calamities , that either the malice of men , or the mischiefe of ages can bring forth . Here then he leaveth vnto vs a peace , which preserveth vs therein , such a peace as a Father may leaue vnto his Children by his Will and Testament , setting bounds touching their portions , curbing in their strifes and contentions . Or like to those of a good Prince , who in good pollicie , passeth them over to his Subiects after his death ; vnder which peace , every one sitteth quietly vnder his owne vine and figge tree . Well then , shall this peace be worthy to be vttered by the mouth of our Saviour , of him who is King of Kings , the Father of Spirits ; of the Prince of peace , even of peace it selfe , of our Saviour , God and man ; God borne amongst vs , God who dyed for vs ? Let vs looke for no greater nor more excellent thing . Let it be graunted that hee leaue vnto vs the peace which Augustus himselfe had ; what will it profit thee if the fire consume thy harvest ? If the worme gnaw thy conscience ? If thy conscience torment thee ? Let vs graunt , that thy fieldes bring forth plentifully , that thy trade prospers , that thy familie flourisheth , that thy person triumpheth , What will all that benefit thee , if thy taste be gone , thy spirit feaverish , thy soule vpon the racke , eternall death in thy bosome , a hell in thy Conscience , even then when thou thinkest most of all to haue made a covenant with death , an agreement with hell , to haue confirmed thy peace with every Creature ; & yet art thou odious even vnto thy Creator ? Oft times there is an externall peace , which causeth civill warres ; a bodily well fare , which kindles in vs spirituall discases , temporal good things which preiudice the eternall ? Nay , let vs yet goe further ; even he who tells vs plainely , that he came not to set peace in the world , but warre ; who forewarneth his Apostles , that for his sake , housholds shall be devided , Kingdomes troubled , his Disciples persecuted from place to place ; That even then , they should esteeme themselues happie , when they shall be persecuted for his name . He hath not promised vs a deceitfull and fraudulent peace , which flatters many times the bodie , to the hurt of the soule , and makes vs forsake our inheritance , for a pease , and for very huskes ; and therefore he addes further ; I giue vnto you my peace , not the worlds peace , but contrariwise make your account to haue the world for your enemy . What else doe wee see in all the liues of the Apostles , for the space of so many ages ? in the death of so many Martyrs ? Not the peace of this world ; how long shall we be children , and how long vnder the tutorship of the Law , onely to taste and desire milke and hony ? Not peace with men ; seeing for this cause it behooved that God should become man , and that heaven should come downe vpon earth ? Could not some Salomon haue given vs that peace ? But my peace , peace with God , peace in our selues , with our selues , which the onely Prince of peace , the father of eternitie , can giue vnto vs . Even he as the Prophet tells vs , Mich. 5.3.5 . whose goings forth haue beene from everlasting , of whom it is written , this man shall be the peace ; being able both to accomplish it , and to giue it , and is that very peace himselfe . The governor of Israell , of whose comming , Haggai the Prophet sayth , Hag. 2.6 . I will set peace in this place , to wit , in my Temple , in my Church , sayth the Lord of Hostes . A peace , notwithstanding far different from that which carnall people , which flesh and bloud comprehends ; Seeing that the government of this Prince of peace , is vpon his shoulder . A proofe , that he should haue much to suffer himselfe ; even this governour , whole kingdome is wholly disdained , throwne downe , and crushed , and yet therein properly cosisteth the peace which he bringeth vs , that in his wounding , we might and healing ; for what temporall peace can wee expect from him , and by him , whose life in this world was a continuall warrefare ? He will say vnto vs , Shall the servant thinke to be better intreated , then the Sonne , then the heire , then the Father of the Familie ?

Well then , sayth he , I giue you my peace ; mine ; such a peace , as no other but I could make ; I. peace with God , whom no other but Man God could vndertake . Your iniquities had made a separation betweene you , Isai. 59.2 . and your God , and hath made him to hide his face from you , nor would he vouchsafe to looke vpon you , neither could he , but in his anger , and to your ruine , and eternall damnation . And therefore behold now , how that by my mediation you haue peace with him ; and that in my bloud which I am ready to shed for you , is made the propitiation for your sinnes ; a mystery heretofore hidden from other ages , but now a myracle ; which will fill all the world with astonishment , & confound all humane wisdome in their discourses ; whence it is that the Prophet long agoe being ravished in himselfe , cryeth out and sayth , Esa. 52.7 . Oh how beautifull are the feete of him vpon the mountaines , who bringeth glad tydings , who proclaime peace and salvation vnto Israell . And you haue this priviledge to be of them , not onely to partake of this salvation , but also to be the heraulds & dispensers therof , to proclaime the benefit of my death , & the forgiuenesse of sins vnto the world , to manifest vnto Sion this good tydings . Thy God reigneth , Isa. 52.7 . and yet not with an iron rod ; for who then could beare it ? But with meekenesse and with mercie , Zech. 9.9 . Whereof you inioy the priviledges of his kingdome , that is , righteousnesse , peace , and ioy in the holy Ghost . Rom. 14.17 . And therefore wee reade so often in the Writings of the Apostles ; Grace be with you and peace from Iesus Christ . Peace through grace , for without the grace of God , there is no peace . And therefore so often it is sayd , Mercy and peace are mett together , Gal. 6.16 . one proceeding from the other . Iude the 2. verse , and both of them in Christ alone . Thence it is , that the Lord himselfe tells vs . Esay . 48.22 . & 57.21 . that there is no peace for the wicked , because there can bee no peace where there is no grace ; What soever peace they seeme to haue in outward appearance , yet alwaies ( sayth the Prophet ) they are like a troubled Sea . And there can be no grace but onely in Christ . In Christ , in whose name God sends to proclaime peace every where . Act. 10.36 . In Christ , Ephe. 2.14 . Rom. 1.5 . who himselfe is our peace ; In whom being iustified by faith , wee haue peace with God , peace with all men . Truly that peace , which we seeke , and which wee finde in him . But here it is time now to examine what is the efficacie thereof .

Certainely it is such , that in this peace alone we finde whatsoever is in all others ; and yet in all others put together , we finde nothing of that which is found in this peace perfect in it selfe , and makes a supply to all others . Now three kindes of peace are vsually recommended vnto vs . And first , peace with all men ; as the Apostle saith Rom. 12.18 . if it be possible as much as lyeth in you , haue peace with all men . But hath a man it , when he will ; or did even the Apostle himselfe obtaine it ? And seeing such manner of speeches are doubtfull , is it not rather to be desired , then hoped ? True Christians especially being the obiects of the hatred and fury of the world ; secondly , peace amongst our selues . As when our Saviour sayth vnto his Disciples , Mark . 9.51 . haue salt in your selues , and be at peace one with another . But amongst such varietie of humaine passions , and so many civill broyles , what salt , what wisedome will suffice to season it , if the bond of the spirit and true Christianitie come not betweene ? for even amongst the Apostles themselues at the evening of the Passion , and in the presence of their maister , yea even of such a maister , who saw the very depth of their soules , what disputes had they ? And now last of all , peace amongst our selues . To which purpose the Apostle exhorteth vs . 1 Thess. 5.13 . Be at peace among your selues , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 that is to say , possesse your soules in patience . But againe , how can this be , where the outward man striveth against the inward , the flesh lusteth against the spirit , the spirit of flesh , against the spirit of God , the law of our members , against the law of our minde , tameth it , leadeth it captiue , is sold vnder sinne ? But in that peace which we haue with God by Christ alone , wee recover all this , even peace with all men , will they , nill they . Because he who hath peace with the Creator , hath it with the Creature , with the whole order of nature , with his armies celestiall & terrestiall , seeing all depend vpon his pay , taketh the watch word from him , who guideth their blowes , and directs them , as it pleaseth him , even those which would seeme vnto thee mortall , to be for thy health , and for thy salvation . Peace with the Elements ; for he bridleth the Sea , moderateth the fire , so as he who lodgeth vnder the shaddow of the Almightie , Psal. 91.1 . needes not feare any thing which terrifieth by night , or flyeth in the day , which destroyeth at noone tyde . Peace with the beasts of the field ; for he muzzells the mouth of the hungrie Lyon ; Out of the eater he giues meate , and out of the strong he bringeth forth sweetnesse . Iudg. 14.14 . Peace with men , though worse one to another then Lyons , for sayth the Prophet . Ps. 56. God is on my side , what then can man or flesh doe vnto mee ? Peace with death . Psal. the 3. so that although thousands should set themselues in battayle array against mee , I should not sleepe a whit the worse , because he is on my side . Peace with the graue , and with hell ; for is it not he , that bringeth to the graue , and rayseth vs vp againe ? and what can death bring vnto mee but life ? Death which is but for a moment ; life eternall . 1 Cor. 15. the 54.55 . Death is swallowed vp into victory . Our Lord Iesus , hath not he triumphed for vs ? O death , where is thy victory ? Henceforth where are thy triumphs ? Hell , where is thy sting ? The power of sinne being now abolished by grace ? And therefore wee haue peace with all , seing al their might and weapons turne to our peace , all their curses into blessings , all their gashes , how terrible soever they may be , are turned into balme , their tempests into safe havens . All these things I say , and all others whatsoever , worke together , as sayth the Apostle , vnto our good , and that because of the loue of God , which is purchased for vs by Iesus Christ ; for in steade of a judge , he is now become a father , and of a iust revenger , a gracious protector , disposing all against the haire to our victory , to our peace , to our glory and salvation .

Peace also amongst our selues ; with our brethren , though some be hardly and not easily to be reconciled , yet when we come to consider , what and how many offences God hath forgiven vs , and doth also daily forgiue vs ; even that God , who is judge & soveraigne Lord of all the world , not sparing his owne Sonne , for the ransome of our sins ; what offence then ought there to be so grievous vnto vs , that should make vs to beare malice in our hearts against our brother ? or what pardon should seeme hard or difficult vnto vs , be it to require , be it to graunt , to keepe backe , or recover friendship with them ? But there is yet more , for will they , nill they , thou hast peace with them , though it be wanting on their part whilst thou giuest not place to wrath , whilst thou renouncest revenge , in doing good for evill . Rom. 12.20 . When thou holdest thy selfe for revenged , by doing them good . A glorious revenge , and of a high straine , farre more glorious then any other ; for ther by though they make not vse of it , thou heapest coales of fire vpon their heads . And such was that peace which David ; that valourous Prince had , who overcame a Lyon with his strength , a Goliah by his prowesse , who had both given , and also wonne so many battayles , who fasted and put on sackcloth for his enemies , who in the middest of the ruine which they plotted against him , begged of God their life , & having them in his full power , was contented with the skirt of his garment . Lord , sayth he , if I haue not kept him who wrongfully oppressed mee , let the Enemie pursue mee , and take me , let him treade my life vpon the ground , and lay my honor in the dust . Psal. 7. A true figure of him , who here leaues vnto vs his peace , and yet more liuely in his owne example , who prayed for those that crucified him , and was crucified for them that offended him . This Philosophy , nay rather Chivalry , how farre remote is it from that of the world ? Moreover , he tells vs hereafter , that hee leaveth it not vnto vs , as the world doth .

Now peace in our selues ; behold the principal peace ; for in vaine will it be for vs , to haue peace without vs , if wee haue warre within vs , health in the Cittie , if the Plague be in our bosome , if our conscience accuse vs , if our sinnes warre against vs ? But is it possible to smoother sin in our selues ? Let vs if we can . But who can doe it , and who is it that doth not every houre kiddle it ? Yea rather giue fire as it were vnto it ? We would faine still the sting of Conscience ? Alas ! the remedie is worse then the disease ; What will it be but a gangrene in stead of an vlcer ? Let vs then imbrace that grace , which God offereth vnto vs in Iesus Christ by a liuely faith . Let vs awaken our Conscience to find out her sinnes , to search her wounds to the bottome , being assured , that in confessing them , it shall besayd vnto vs , goe in peace , and in laying them open , it shall become our healing ; And which is more , wee shall be strengthened in spirit to wrestle against flesh and bloud , against all spirituall powers and wickednesses ; so that the flesh striving within vs against the spirit , wee may notwithstanding say with the Apostle . Gal. 2.20 . In that I liue now in the flesh , I liue yet by the faith of the Sonne of God , who hath loved me , and given himselfe for mee . Though I fight , and the Combat be sharpe , yet the quarrell is just , and the issue certaine . I haue kept the faith , sayth S. Paul , therefore the Crowne of righteousnesse is layd vp for me . 2 Tim. 4.8 . These things haue I sayd vnto you , sayth our Lord vnto his Apostles , that you might haue peace in mee , in the world you shall haue affliction ; yea he foretold them of all sorts of afflictions . Whence then is this peace ? He addeth , but be of good courage , I haue overcome the world ; and am now about to giue it the last deadly blow ; for you principally ; as for my selfe , it is alreadie overcome ; the victory is yours , which obtaines for you perfect peace , that is , your reconciliation with God , and the consequent thereof , a freedome from all perills and feare ; For if whilst we were enemies ( there being nothing in vs , nor ought that could proceede from vs , which did not provoke his anger ) wee were reconciled to God by the death of his Sonne ; Rom. 5.10 . being now reconciled , his good favour being restored againe vnto vs , shall wee not then much more be saved by his life ? He living in vs , raigning for vs , who vouchsafed to dye for vs ? Is not the Kingdome of God within vs ? to wit , righteousnesse , as the Apostle sayth , peace and ioy . Rom. 14.17 .

Hence it is that the Apostle amongst the fruits of the spirit of Christ dwelling in vs , sets downe first . Gal. the 5.21 . Ioy , peace , meckenesse . Being now prisoner at Rome ; where they are wont to be impatient ; or where commonly they find neither ioy , nor peace ; yet he tells vs that his bonds in Christ , did confirme his brethren Phil. 1.14 . that he reioyceth to be offered vpon the service of the faith of the Philippians ; & prayeth them to reioyce with him ; But how ? even by the vertue of this peace of God , Phil. 4.7 . which passeth all vndo standing , and keepeth our beaies and mindes in Christ Iesus , which consequently ought to hold the chiefe place in our hearts , to subdue all other affections , with all other passions . Collo. 3.15 . Such peace as proceedeth from the loue of God , shed abroad in our soules , such a loue which hath his roote in that reconciliation , made onely by the death and Passion of Christ ; wherein being guiltie , wee are absolved ; of sinners , made righteous ; of enemies , familiar friends ; of servants , children , redeemed by the death of that well beloved Sonne , by whose spirit wee cry , Abba Father . And here ô Christian remember , each one in his Calling , how many Combats , how many perplexities thou meetest with ? Publicke , private , without , within , corporall , and spirituall ; and in the middest of the strongest of them , yet holding tranquilitie ; possessing the peace of thy soule . From whence hadst thou this , but from this onely peace of God , which alone can pacific the torments of the soule ? On the contrary , O thou prophane wretch , how many times even in the height of thy prosperities , and in thy safest and surest haven , hast thou found rest to thy soul ? And why ? onely because the Lord sayth by his Prophet Esay 57.19.20 . that vnto them which mourne , I giue consolations , peace , yea , even peace vnto him that is neere , and to him that is farre off . I willingly draw neere vnto them , though they seeme never so farre off . But the wicked , sayth he , are like vnto a troubled Sea , which cannot be appeased , her waues cast vp myre and durt . The Sea , which when all winds be still , yet is mooved by his owne proper motion . So the wicked hath his owne heart vexing him , and in the height of his prosperitie , susters him not to bee quiet .

Also , he by and by addes , I giue not vnto you my peace as the world giveth it ; The world giveth that which is outward , but I my selfe , that which is inward ; The world giueth it you , in your fields , in your vineyards , and in your gardens ; but I giue it you in your soules . Now that peace which the world giues , it giues it by with-holding ; now to giue , and yet to keepe backe , is vsually of no esteeme . But I giue it you without sorrow , without grudging absolutely ; absolute , even for ever and ever . But peace commonly amongst men is onely held by some reciprocall interest , or vnder a mutuall feare ; where somewhat is wanting on either side ; and therefore soone disquicted . But that peace which I giue you , is not subiect to such accidents ; yee haue it altogether from me , altogether freely ; what can all of you giue vnto mee ? poore silly Creatures ; Am not I the living God , what can I looke for from you ? Where of should I be afraid ? This then is the peace , which our Lord Iesus leaveth here vnto his Apostles , vnto his Disciples ; and vnto all those which haue beleeved their word . Peace with God ; peace in their Consciences ; for as much as the good pleasure of the father was to reconcile vs vnto himselfe , and to make this peace by the bloud of the Crosse of his Sonne . Truely his good pleasure , Coloss. 1.10 . for , whence else could it be expected ? Peace , which dischargeth vs of our sinnes , in as much as hee beareth them , and clotheth vs with his righteousnesse . 2 Cor. 5.21 . for as much as wee are made the righteousnesse of God in him . Peace , which delivers vs from the evill of the fault , in as much as it is forgiven vs ; from the evill of punishment , because they turne to our good ; pacifying our Consciences against his anger ; In as much as of enemies we are received into his favour , our soules partakers of his glory , in as much as wee are incorporated not onely into his alliance , but also into his familie ; In him , I say , who of God , is made vnto vs , wisedome , righteousnesse , sanctification , and redemption . To whom with the Father & the holy Spirit , be glory for ever and ever .

AMEN .

AN HOMILIE VPON THESE WORDS ;

One thing is needfull .

Luke . 10.41 .

TWo Sisters receiue our LORD into their house ; to wit , Martha and Mary ; And Martha makes her Complaint vnto him , that whilst shee was busie to giue him good entertainment , Mary her sister sits downe at his feete to heare his Preaching , not caring to put to her helping hand : whereunto our Lord answeres , Martha , Martha , ( which name twice repeated , advertiseth her to take the greater heede to that he had to say vnto her ) thou art troubled about many things , but one thing is necessary ; not reproving her for the offices of loue shee went about , being such as were both seemely and commendable , and where I pray you could they be better bestowed , then vpon our Lord ? But our Saviour recalleth her vnto a more principall , necessary , and onely necessary worke ; being a thing vsuall with the sonne of God ( who descended from heaven , to lift vs vp thither ) alwayes to weane vs from too much minding our belly ; our worke ; and to draw vs from this earthly life , vnto the heavenly ; from these inferior and humane offices , vnto those benefits , which bring vs vnto the everlasting Mansions .

One thing then sayth he , even one thing is necessary ; To the meaner sort , how many things seeme necessary ? To those of higher ranke , many things are wanting ; vnto the wise , many things passe from pleasant , vnto things profitable , from profitable to things necessary , and even amongst these necessary things , how many of them are chosen , or refused ? and yet Lord thou sayst , that one thing onely is necessary ; thou who being man , conversest amongst men , couldest not be ignorant , that in a house , where there are a number of imployments , if but one thing be wanting , we think we are halfe , if not wholly maymed ; In like manner , in a store-house , after wee haue imagined , whatsoever can be devised , yet many things are still wanting . Thou , O God and man in one person ; who didst giue thine assistance at the Creation of things ; thou hast made an infinite number of things , as the Elements , Mineralls , Plants , living Creatures , Planets , Starres , and all for the vse and necessities of men ; nay rather of one man . And yet thou here tellest vs , That One thing is necessary ; what then ? are all other things therefore superfluous ! Hath nature made ought in vaine ? or thou LORD so many things in vaine ? As though thou wert lesse then thy Creature . What then would become of that manifolde wisedome ; 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . that wisedome of thine , who tookest pleasure to create varietie of things ? Varietie then , not vanitie , seeing it came from , and also depends on thy wisedome . And therefore let vs waigh this saying of our Lord , who contradicts not himselfe , either in words , or actions , and let vs seeke with reverence among so many things , what then may be this One thing necessary . The which certainely ought to glad vs , and to giue worth to all other things , though otherwise superfluous .

One thing then sayth he , is necessary ; necessary for thee Martha , and vnto every beleever : Now we properly account that necessary , with which wee can , and without the which wee cannot liue , much lesse liue well ; wee I say , who are composed of body & soule , one part mortall , the other immortall . It should then follow , that this one thing must haue reference vnto both , otherwise , one thing would not suffice both , but one of them rather then the other , rather the soule then the bodie , according to the vsuall manner of Christes words , which alwayes respect the soule more then the bodie , not as having an eye vnto the bodie ; but for the good of the soule .

Therefore let vs stand no longer Cheapening about riches , favours , greatnesse , health , or knowledg ; things which are not heere to be sought for , nor in this one thing to be found ; things which all men haue not ; for if all were rich , mightie , learned , then there should be no difference at all . Men being respected more or lesse , according as they want these things , or as they haue them in greater abundance then others . Our Lord then , to giue it vs in one word , sayth , that Mary hath chosen the better part , which shall not be taken from her ; For , for the most part , those things formerly mentioned , are subiect to perish , and totally to be lost . Therfore this one thing must needes be Godlinesse , that is , mans dutie towardes God , and his well-being with God , subsisting in it selfe , without the ayde or helpe of any other , having the promises both of things present and to come , which onely giveth the forme vnto all those other thinges : Without this , being but a confused lumpe , whether mixed therewith , or else being absent , making them either good or evill , as the salt to season them , which otherwise would putrefie and corrupt : or as the soule ; giving them their life , feeling , and motion , which otherwise would turne and passe into rottennesse , into wormes , and into serpents ; which being ingendered therein , eate out the bowells . And therefore Salomon concludes with vs , who had tasted of them , even to distaste , and possessed them to his fill ; Vanitie , sayth he , Eccl. the 1. and all is vanitie . Feare God , then sayth he , and keepe his Comandements ; for this is the whole dutie of man . Eccl. 12. This our Lord ( a greater then Salomon ) tells vs , is that One 〈◊〉 necessary . For doe we not see that our first Father in his integritie , the Monarch of all the world , not keeping himselfe vnto this one thing , but suffering himselfe to be deprived of his favour , which preserved him , and made him better then all things ; thereby lost the government , and almost the vse and knowledge of them ; so as notwithstanding the whole world was created for him , yet hee revolting , all became accursed and damnable vnto him , from the greatest of the creatures even to the least . The elements turned into corruption , the beasts of the earth into rebellion , the creeping things vnto persecution , the hearbs into poyson , the corne into thornes . A curse which cannot be repayred , but by returning vnto this onely pietie , which by the perswasion of Sathan , hee lost for all his posteritie , but is now found againe for those who cleaue vnto God , in our second Adam , to wit , in our Lord Iesus Christ , God and man , who sets vs againe in our way towards God , making peace betweene him and vs ; And therefore he prayseth Mary , who keepes neere vnto him , sitting at his feete , who setting aside all other businesse in the house , le ts not goe her hold , because in him shee finds all things , or rather forgets all other things , who indeed sucked the doctrine of life from that mouth , and from that sacred spring ; and on the contrary , hee reformeth Martha , and cals her away , from her houshold affaires , and civill complements to a dutie of an higher nature , wherein are to be found and recovered all other things , that is vnto the studie of pietie , and vnto this onely necessary thing , Iacobs portion , Maries lot , even that pearle for the attaining whereof , all must be sould , Mat. 13.45 . which thing being once got , can never be taken away .

O Christian , art thou rich , glory not therein ; but be thou poore , and be thou humble in spirit , thinke that these riches are given vnto thee , to make tryall of thy liberalitie towardes the Saints , and of thy charitie towardes thy neighbours ; and so they turne as a blessing vnto thee , which otherwise are to thee a snare , the cause of a heavie reckoning , reserving to him a great remaynder to be payd downe presently , or else to prison , or rather to the rack . But art thou poore , & wast thou so borne ; thinke thou then , that God in his justice , hath neede of sergeants and officers , to Cite and Summon the rich . Or art thou decayd by theeues , fire , or by some banckrupt ; thinke then , that thereby God hath discharged thee of this great account , and therewithall hath lightened thine expences from superfluities , vnto which these riches might seeme to bind thee ; and so to bring thee to that estate , he hath ordained for thee . But is it grievous vnto thee , to haue lost that which once thou hadst , yea more grievous , then if thou hadst never had it ; thinke that in stead of being able to relieue others , God calls thee to faith ; thinke also , Note . that GOD hath his Champions , his Actors , and so will haue thee to be one of them , and that hee vnclothes when and whom it pleaseth him , to set them ( as it were ) vpon the stage naked as my nayle , even to the wast ; having neither raiment nor weapons to desend themselues withall against the iniury of the weather , nor against the gripes of the world , but onely his * * Alluding to that oyle with wrastlers vsed to annoint themselues with , being naked from the girdle vpward . Oyle . But if they were clothed like others , be it as rich as might be , yet were they not acknowledged for Champions , but if they come vpon the stage naked ; the beholders are attentiue ; they looke , they admire their armes , their sinewes , their ligaments , their musckles , the stedfastnesse of their standing , the force of their gripes : their faith , their constancie , their vertue , or rather the strength of this holy oyle of the spirit of God , which is in them . And being ready to depart thence , they are proclaimed by the Herauld , they carrie away the prize , the crowne which withereth not . Seest thou not then , how pietie seasoneth the evill of thy povertie , or wouldst thou now rather haue had the fairest garment of the rich ?

Art thou in credit or reputation ? thinke it is but a smoake of the Court ; and beware least it turne to oppression . Art thou as a Ioseph in Aegypt , pray for thy Lord and Maister ; Be a Father vnto his people , forget not thy thy kindred , nor familie ; whether within or without ; in the Church , or in the Common-weale , but according to thy power , as a feeling member thereof , make them sensible of thy fidelity . But art thou none of these , but one of the common sort , it may be , not because thou deservest not better , then thinke with thy selfe ; that he who disposeth all thinges with waight , number , and measure , who discerneth within thee , that thou seest not thy selfe ; knowes best what is fittest for thee ; handles thee according to thy disposition , hee takes that wine from thee , which heated thy liver , and therefore brought thee to this dyet . And therefore bridle thine appetite , and looke vpon his favours bestowed vpon others , without repining , liue without envie . But hast thou beene in credite and reputation , and art thou reiected , be it by alteration of thine estate , or by the Prince , not of thy selfe , be not discouraged , thy fall is not great , and seeing thou canst be no more reverenced vpon thy Chariot as a Ioseph ; let them reverence thee as a Iob , although vpon a dunghill , even by those holy consolations , which thou hast learned hereby thy selfe , and which thou shalt also leaue vnto others . Beleeue mee , that all those applaudings , those flatteries , those adorations which were given vnto Ioseph , are now vanished in the ayre , who nourished so many bodies , and saved them from famine ; whereas on the contrary , the holy speeches of Iob , are consecrated vnto all eternitie for instruction , and are so many perpetuall consolations , reviveth and comforteth the soules of the Saints vnto this day ; and then , this danghill being ordered by pietie , wouldst thou change it for the smokes of a Court , or for all the glory and treasures of Aegypt ?

Art thou a Magistrate , A Magistrate . thinke then with thy selfe , that he who judgeth here below , shall be thy Iudge from aboue , and remember also that thou executest Gods judgement , and not thine . And therefore execute judgement and justice ; justice in helping the poore out of oppression , judgement in chastizing the oppressor , without exception , without acception of person . And hold godlinesse alwayes as thy sword in thy right hand , poyse thy ballance straight , not to make a false draught , but to carry it even .

But art thou a private person , A private person thinke then how much GOD hath spared thee , who hast not to giue account of the goods of another , nor of the bloud of thy brethren . Arme thy selfe to suffer iniuries , and ponder in thy minde , in thine owne conscience , the difference between such an high estate , and thy meane condition , whether in suffering or doing .

Hast thou beene a publicke person , Of a publicke person becomming a private . and art thou now deprived ; deprived , not having deserved it , deprived peradventure having deserved better , and more then deserved it also ; disrobed notwithstanding of scarlet , & brought to weare freese ; then thinke with thy selfe , how often thou hast willingly vnclothed thee , to go to bed , and didst thou sleepe the worse , to take thine ease ? thinke then with thy selfe , that this costly attyre , is such where the Mothe most breeds , the Mothe of the Court ; as jealousie , slander , envie . But rather remember how many Kings and Emperours , being weary of wearing their Crownes , impatient of sustaining and vndergoing the same , haue cast them off , detested them , to finde rest vnto their minde , and that by laying them aside . Many also to seek the health of their soules , which they thought could not stand therewith , namely , true pie tie , this One thing necessary ; and yet pietie , which abhorres neither Scepters nor Crownes , but on the contrary , makes them flourish , when they beleeue it . But to a very few hath the Lord vsually given , especially , to these great powers , a capacitie to holde them vpon such dependences . And from thence comes so many miseries in the world .

But besides , be it thou be disrobed , and further vexed in thy estate ; they grate thee , they hewe thee ; know how that God hath his dimonds amongst men ; and we are beautifull , if we be such . Rough as they be , he puties them vnder the Wheele of steele ; he polisheth them , he smoothes them , he cuts them in Taples , in pomted ones , &c. Otherwise , it could not be done ; and then they shew their hardnesse , their water , their fire ; their faith ; their sinceritie , their zeale . And therefore feare not that he who is so good a leweller , should marre thee ; for in cutting away some of thy rubbish , Note . he giues thee thy forme ; by diminishing of thy waight , he augments thy price . Pretie teacheth it thee , it telles thee , that all things ( nothing excepted ) worke together for good , Rom 8.28 helping forward the salvation of them that loue it ; but to speake it more warily , to those that it loues .

Of an helth full constitution of body . Art thou healthfull , art thou strong , it is a gift of God ; giue him thankes for it , but abuse it not vnto disorder , and violence , possesse these , as things that are but frayle .

Of a sickly constitution . But art thou sickly , and afflicted with infirmities , and hath Sathan touched thy flesh ? afflict not thy selfe aboue measure ; thinke that these grieses , are as so many summons , and goads , to vrge thee to pray vnto God , to call for his grace ; nay rather , prayse him . Note . How often are the sicknesses of the body sent , for the health of the soule , and haue kept vs from sinnes and other follies ? For sicknesses , and adversities ; haue their songs of prayse , no lesse then prosperities , yea even as well as the greatest joyes ; in their divers accents , and tunes of sweetnesse , most harmonious , we haue an example in David , who sung more in affliction , then when he was jocund ; yea even in adversitie , hee seemes to redouble his melodie ; because our nature being little or nothing sensible of the graces of God , is not touched vnto the quicke ; hath quickly enough , or lightly passeth it over , and according as his hand is light or heavie , it leapeth , it cryeth , and will haue no nay , vntill she be heard . Note . But know be sides , O Christian , that forrow hath her part to pl y , as well as joyes ; that as fulnesse hath emptinesse succeeding it in order , so sorrow hath her sweete relish , which stirres thee vp to call vpon thy Creator in thy misery , and hearest him answering thee by his holy spirit in his mercy , who feelest him in thy soule from his sweete hand , bringing a slumber vpon thy sorrowes ; binding vp thy soares ; who teaching thee , causeth thee to see that they are but incissions of the surgeon , and not the wounds of an enemy , being guided by the judgement of loue , and not by a fury of hatred . Whence the Apostle willeth vs . Phil. 4.4 . To reioyce alwayes in the Lord , and againe to reioyce , being in a season , when the Apostle was full of combatts of persecutions , and of Bondes , himselfe being bound for the Gospell ; But obserue , that he sayth , in the Lord ; for as much as pietie makes vs receiue it all from God , and as from a father , makes vs to take sicknesses , afflictions of the body as a purgation for the health of the soule ; for as much as but one dramme of the loue of God manifested vnto vs by his spirit , is of power to dissolue a sea of griefes ; there needing but one sparke of the spirit of God , to consume all .

Of such as are learned . In a word , art thou learned , I will further instruct thee , for know thou , that whatsoever thou knowest , is not the thousand part , of that whereof thou artignorant ; for he who was most expert in the knowledge of the matters of this life , acknowledged , that all his knowledge was but vanitie ; yea vanity more apt to puffe vp , then to fill ; to make thee proud , rather then truely glorious .

A learned ignorance . There is also a certaine learned ignorance , that one who is truly learned , would preferre before all thy learning ; And therefore in praysing God for his graces , referring them to their right end , namely , vnto pietie , to the service of God , without the which they are nothing : be not then I pray thee , too wise in thy selfe . But art thou ignorant , Of such as are ignorant . or esteemest thou thy selfe to be so ; who darest not speake before others , and art ashamed of thy selfe . Be not therefore troubled ; I am about to teach thee how to be both better learned , and wise ; if thou wilt beleeue me , nay , if thou wilt but beleeue even that great learned Apostle , who 1 Cor. 2.2 . determined among his Corinthians , to know nothing , but Iesus Christ , and him Crucified , was notwithstanding rapt vp into the third heaven , into Paradice , where he both heard and sawe , things not to be vttered , and yet of all that , he makes no reckoning , in respect of this onely knowledge , the knowledg of this one thing , which is onely necessary , on which they are all either grounded , or confounded .

Let vs see then how pietie suffers not riches to make vs proud ; nor to turne favour into oppression , greatnesse into violence , health into disorder , knowledge into vanitie , but extracting these from it , as it were poyson from Vipers ; to make thereof good Treacle , turning it into the medicine of humaine societie , being without this , both dangerous and deadly to meddle withall . It supplies also all our wants , poverties , infirmities , afflictions , and necessities , as onely necessarie , like vnto that hearbe Tobacco , so much extolled in the New-found-Landes , which alone is sufficient for meate and drinke , for Clothes , and for Physicke . Wee say , like to that Manna , in the Wildernesse ( according to the Iewish Rabbines ) which fitted every mans taste , whatsoever he desired , else were there never so little of this drugge , it would convert to it selfe , and into it selfe , every other thing .

See another Example in Saint Paul . Phil. 4. ver. 11. I haue learned , sayth he , to be content with that I haue , I know how to want , and how to abound , every where , and in all things , I am taught , as well to be satisfied , as to hunger , as well to abound , as to want . But heare how ? I am able to performe all things in Christ , who giues me strength , Phil. 4.13 . in and by this his onely grace . This onely grace of Christ doth furnish all , being apt onely of it selfe , both to pare away our excesses , and to supply our wantes , to make vs finde contentment in povertie , and glory in shame . And therefore sayth he elswhere ; God forbid that I should glory in any thing , but in the Crosse of Iesus Christ . A poore glory , wilt thou say , in one Crucified ; He is dead indeede , but is risen againe , ascended into heaven , and raigneth there . Of which glory , of which kingdome , hee that is a member of Christ , feeles himselfe alreadie partaker of . Who thinketh it strange , that the head being in heaven , the feete should not haue a feeling therewith , should not glory therewith , though creeping here belowe on the earth . And from this glory it commeth , that the Apostle stiles himselfe , putting it in the front of one of his Epistles . Philem. 1. Paul a prisoner of Iesus Christ , in bondes for his Name . Might hee not rather ( wilt thou say ) haue stiled himselfe with a more honourable title , namely , Rapt vp into Paradise , as if he had beene equall to the Angells . Note . But his pietie , this faith in Christ , honours him , and sanctifies his bondes ; so that to suffer in Earth for Christ , is more vnto him , then to be taken vp into heaven , this ravishment being of short continuance , but his sufferings which assure him of his promise , to haue there an everlasting being , and to raigne there for ever with him .

What is meant by this one thing . But heere O Christian , it may be thou desirest to knowe , wherein this one thing , properly consistes , which hath so many vertues , and onely can doe all things , but thinkest , and fearest , that this knowledge is too laborious , who seest so many bookes of so long studies written , so many degrees to passe through , to attaine to so high a knowledge . And verily , the mystery of godlinesse is great , as Saint Paul telleth vs . 1 Tim. 3.16 . That God was manifested in the flesh , iustified in spirit , seene of Angels , preached vnto the Gentiles , beleeved on in the world , and received vp into glory . For of every one of these Articles , there might Volumes be made . The Angels themselues , sayth Saint Peter , desire to prie thereinto . 1 Pet. 1.12 . But for all this be not dismayd . For God the Creator of man in his mercies , would that this mystery should of right belong as well vnto the ignorant , as vnto the learned ; by very Idiottes he hath converted Orators ; in the netts of poore Fishermen , he hath taken Philosophers ; In one and the same Sea , both great and small fish liue and swimme ; depths for the one , and shallownesse for the other ; thou hast thy part in this mystery , or rather thy priviledge , though thou couldest not reade . Vnder the Law it was sayd , doe this , fulfill the Commaundements of God , and thou shalt liue ; A lesson proportioned according to that integritie , wherein our first parents were created . After so great a fall , which displaced , which bruised all his faculties , and ours in him ; as over-matched . For where is the man that ever did , or could performe it ? But Christ our Lord by his perfect obedience , not content onely to satisfie for vs , but therewithall giues vs a lesson , both shorter and easier , that is , this mystery of faith ; If thou confesse , sayth the Apostle , the Lord Iesus with thy mouth , and beleevest in thy heart , that GOD hath raysed him from the dead , thou shalt be saved . Rom. 10.9 . Wilt thou haue it in other words ; These things are written , sayth S. Iohn ; these Gospels . Ioh. the 20. and last verse , that thou mightst beleeue , that Iesus is the Christ , the sonne of God , and that in beleeving , you might haue life in his Name . And wilt thou make it thine , and appropriate it vnto thy selfe , say then , with S. Paul , 1 Tim. 1.15 . It is a true saying , and worthie of all acceptation , therefore waver not , neither dispute , but with him confesse , that Iesus Christ came into the world to saue sinners , of whom say thou , I am chiefe . Here thou hast thy part , take it home vnto thee , it is Maries part , which cannot be taken from her . Cleaue therefore vnto Christ , and cast downe at his feete ( by her example ) the pride of thy flesh , the opinion of thy owne righteousnesse , make thee a seat at his feete , by humilitie , in seeking his favour , which is thy reconciliation with the Father ; And then say thou , but not as David , thy Law O Lord ; Psa. 119.98 but rather thy Gospell , which is the end of the Law ; Faith in thy Christ , Rom 10.4 . hath made mee more learned and wiser , then all the learned men in the world .

Faith , if of the right stamp , is operatiue . But learne also , that this faith is not an emptie , imaginary , or idle opinion , but an inward and found perswasion , which hath a substance , which manifests it selfe by workes , makes a deepe Impression in thy soule , engraues Christ in thy heart , in thy spirit ; begetting in thine vnderstanding , a feeling of the loue of God towards thee , in thy will a holy fire of loue towardes God , nourished by the same his loue , which quencheth in thee all other loues , Note . that dependeth not thereon ; but aboue all , the loue of thy selfe . And therefore even as when thou hast grafted a grift vpon a wilde stocke , and a while after commest to see , if it hath taken ; findest the barke greene , some budds ; and a little after , both leaues and fruit , thou reioycest and holdest it as y●●nne ; so in like manner wilt thou see , if the saith of Christ be rooted in thee ; and that vnto salvation , review thy selfe from time to time , if it hath imprinted in thee a hunger after the knowledge of God , an ardent desire to please him , a feare to offend him , to order thy sences , thy moovings , thy actions , thy passions , to governe the faculties both of body and soule , as instruments of puritie , of integritie , of charitie , of justice , to renew thee from day to day , in thy inward and outward man , casting forth a good savour in thy life , and conversation , then say boldly , that faith hath taken roote in thee , and the gift is past the worst : but aboue all , if shee renounce her first sape , to receiue it from Christ ; this grafting being of another nature then ours are , because these turne the wilde sape into them , contrarily , this conveyeth vs to Christ , converts vs into Christ , whence wee may then say with S. Paul , Galat. 2. and 20. I liue , yet not I , but Christ liues in mee , and whilst I liue now in the flesh , I liue in the faith of the Sonne of God , who hath loved mee , and given himselfe for mee . Being readie to cast away whatsoever is in vs , and of vs , whatsoever seemes to be most precious in our eye ; to keepe , and to preserue this onely ; even this one onely necessary thing , which is worth them all ; being then every way fit to say vnto Christ , with all confidence and boldnesse ; I haue sinned , but I know that thou art my JESVS , the Sonne of God my redeemer , this onely word sufficeth ; let vs therefore keepe it pure , and without mixture , with this Word let vs passe the night of this world , let vs passe over his Barricadoes , and Watches ; if we meete with some rubbes , though it be with some danger , yet let vs goe forward till breake of day , even of our day , of our rest , there wee shall see our IESVS raigning in heaven , to liue with him , where wee shall raigne gloriously , glorifying him for ever ; to whom with the Father , and the holy Spirit be glory for ever , AMEN .

FINIS .

ERRATA .

PAge 112. line 21. and 113. l. 2. for amongst , read in . P. 136. l. 5. for conversest , read conversedst .