The harmonie of Holie Scriptures vvith the seuerall sentences of sundry learned and vvorthy vvriters : collected for the comfort of all such as are desirous to seeke after theyr soules health / by I.B.

❧ The Harmonie of holie Scriptures .

¶ Of God : that hee is great in power : rich in mercy : ●●ow to anger : iust in iudgement : righteous in all his waies : and wonderfull in all his workes . VISDOM 15. verse . 3. For to know GOD , is perfect righteousnesse , and to knowe his power is the roote of immortalitie .

Of God . &c.

§. 1.

MOyses , the seruaunt of the liuing GOD , ( after hee had seene many miracles , and wrought diuers wonders , through Diuine assistance , before the face of Pharao , King of Egipt , and the children of Israel in the wildernes ) talking on a time familiarly with his Maker , ( amongst many other petitions , ) humbly Exo , 33. 18 , besought the Lord to ●hew him his glorie : Wherevnto , the Almightie returned this 〈…〉 swere , saying ; Thou canst not see my Exo , 33 , 20. 〈…〉 or there shall no man see mee & liue .

No man ( saith S. Iohn ) hath seene God Iohn , 1 , 18 , at any time : the onely begotten Son which is in the bosome of the Father , he hath declared him .

No man knoweth the Son , ( saith Christ ) Math , 11 , 27 but the Father , neither knoweth anie man the Father , but the Sonne , and he to whom the Sonne will reueale him .

§. 2.

What man hath seene GOD , th●t the Ecclus , 43 , 31 might tell vs ? ( saith the Wiseman , ) o● who can magnifie him as hee is ? Who shall declare * vnto vs the power of his greatnes ? Ecclus , 18 , 4 or who will take vpon him to tell ou● his mercie ?

Canst thou , ( saith Zophar vnto Iob ) by Iob , 11 , 7 , 8 , 9 , searching finde out God ? Canst t●ou find out the Almightie to his perfection ? The Heauens are hie , ( saith he ) what canst thou doe ? It is deeper than Hell , how canst thou knowe it ? The measure thereof is longer then the Earth , and it is broader then the Sea .

By which kinde of questioning , the holie man seemeth to tell vs , that if we be not able to comprehend the height of heauen , the depth of hell , the length of the ea 〈…〉 or the bredth of the sea , which are but 〈…〉 tures , it wil be much more vnpossible for vs , to vnderstand the perfection of the Creator , which is God himselfe . For hee , ( as Sirach rightly saith ) is * aboue all his workes . Ecclus , 43 , 28

§. 3.

Salomon , as we reade of him , was the richest man in wisedome that euer liued , and one that gaue his minde to knowe as much as man might know , yet could he not by all his diligence , come neere the perfection of the Almightie , but plainely ( euen in his Booke of Wisdome ) confesseth both his owne , and all other mens imperfections in that poynt , where he sayth ; Hardly can we discerne the things that are vpon the earth , Wisd , 9 , 16. & with great labour find we out the things which are before vs , who can then seeke out ( saith he ) the things that are in heauen ?

For like as the grounde is appointed to beare the wood , and the Sea to carrie his 2 , Esdr , 4 , 21 floods , so they that dwell vppon the earth , can vnderstand nothing , but that which is vpon the earth , and they that are in the heauens , the things which are aboue the height of the heauens .

§. 4.

Wisedome willeth vs therefore , ( as Fulgosius Fulgosius . sayth ) not to bee ouer-quisitiue in searching out , either the secretes of Gods hidden counsell , or the greatnesse of his incomparable maiestie , for feare wee be suddainly smitten , with the thunderstroake of his glorie .

But let it rather suffise vs in knowledge , ( touching the proportion of his person ) to say as Plato that diuine Phylosopher saide : Plato . God is without any body , invisible , and also immortall ; whose forme cannot be deprehended with the eyes of mortall men , nor yet described by any sensible knowledge .

Or , to say , as learned Hermes Trismegistus Hermes . sayd ; That is God , which lacketh beginning and ending : which God , beeing made of none , hath by his own power created all things .

Or els , to say as much as a more worthie man then any of them both , namelie , holie Iob sayd ; Behold , God is excellent , & wee Iob , 36 , 26 , know him not , neither may the number of his yeeres be searched out .

He only hath immortalitie , & dwelleth in 1 , Tim , 6 , 16 the light that none can attaine vnto , whom neuer man saw , neither can see .

He is Alpha , and Omega , the beginning Reue , 22 , 13 and 1 , 8. and the end , the first and the last , which is , and which was , and which is to come , euen the Almightie .

§. 5.

Before me , saith the Almightie , there was Esay , 43 , 10 , 11 , 13. no God formed , neither shall there be after me ; I , euen I , am the Lord , and beside me there is no Sauiour . Yea , before the daie was , ( saith he ) I am : and there is none that can deliuer out of mine hand .

I am the first , and I am the last , ( saith the Esay , 44 , 6 , Eternall , ) & without [ or besides me ] there is no other God .

I am the Lord that made all thinges , that Esay , 44 , 24 , spred out the heauens alone , and stretched out the earth by my selfe .

Yea , ] I , ( saith the euer-liuing God ) haue Esay , 45 , 12. made the earth , and created man vpon it .

Surely , my hand hath layde the foundations Esay , 48 , 13 , of the earth , and my right hand hath spanned the heauens ; when I call them ( saith he ) they stand vp together .

§. 6.

Vnderstand therfore this day , & consider Deut , 4 , 39 , ( as Moses saith ) in thy hart , that the Lord our God , he is God in heauen aboue , & vpon the earth beneath , there is none other .

Hee is God of Gods , & Lord of Lords , Deut , 10 , 17 a great GOD , mightie and terrible , which accepteth no persons , nor taketh rewarde : who doth right vnto the fatherlesse & widdow , and loueth the stranger , giuing him foode and rayment .

Yea , the Lord our God , as the same Moses Deut , 6 , 4 , saith vnto Israell , is Lord onely .

And there is , ( as the Apostle truelie affirmeth ) 1 , Cor , 8 , 4 , none other God but one .

Though there bee that are called Gods , 1 , Cor , 8 , 5 , 6 whether in heauen or in earth , as there be many Gods , and many Lords , yet vnto vs there is but one God , which is the Father , of whom are all things , and we in him : and one Lord Iesus Christ , by whom are all things , and we by him .

¶ Of the mightie power of God .

§. 1.

THE Lord raigneth , ( saith Dauid ) Psal , 93 , 11 , & is clothed with maiestie , the Lord our God , is clothed and girded with power .

Who is like , saith he , [ or may be compared ] Psal , 113 , 5 , vnto the Lord our God , which hath his dwelling on high ?

Which couereth himselfe with light , as Psal , 104 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5. with a garment , and spreadeth out the heauens like a Curtaine ; Which layeth the beames of his Chambers in the waters , and maketh the clowdes his Chariot , and walketh vpon the winges of the wind . Which maketh his spirits his messengers , and a flaming fire his ministers .

Which giueth the Sunne for a light to Iere , 31. 35 , the day , and the courses of the Moone , and of the starres for a light to the night . Which breaketh the Sea when the waues thereof do roare . His Name , ( as saith the Prophet ) is the Lord of Hostes .

Hee , ( as the Psalmist saith ) is high aboue Psal , 113 , 4 , all Nations , and his glory aboue the heauens .

Hee hath prepared his throne in heauen , Psal , 103 , 19 and his kingdome ruleth ouer all .

Hee , by his power , hath placed the earth Lactantius . vpon her firme foundations .

And he hath set bounds about the waters , Iob , 26 , 10 , vntill the day & night come to an end .

§. 2.

There is a GOD , ( saith Cicero ) which Cicero . doth rule and gouerne all thinges , which maintaineth the course of the Starres , the changes of times , the alteration & order of all things , beholding both Sea and Land : Who also plainely seeth , both the liues and doings of all men that dwel vpon the earth , and whatsoeuer else hath any being in the world .

The same God , is our God , ( as Baruch Baruch , 3 , 35 the Scribe saith , ) and there shal none other be compared vnto him .

For hee it is which hath prepared the Baruch , 3 , 32 earth for euermore , & hath filled the same with foure-footed beastes .

Hee it is , which by his owne almighty Mar. Bucer . power hath created all kinde of creatures , and by his wonderful prouidence they liue and are preserued .

Yea , hee , ( as Daniell saith ) is the liuing Dan , 6 , 26 , God , & remaineth for euer : his kingdome shall neuer perrish , and his dominion shall be euerlasting .

Hee [ also ] it is which rescueth & deliuereth : verse , 27 , and he worketh signes and wonders in heauen and in earth .

When hee sendeth out the light , it goeth , Baruch , 3 , 33 and when hee calleth it againe it obeyeth him with feare .

The starres also shine in their watch , and verse , 34. reioyce ; and when hee calleth them , they say , Heere wee be ; and so with cheerefulnesse they shewe light vnto him that made them .

§. 3.

He that formeth the Mountaines , ( sayth Amos , 4 , 13 . Amos ) and createth the winde , and declareth vnto man what is his thought ; which maketh the morning darknesse , and walketh vpon the hie places of the earth , the Lord God of Hostes is his Name . Nahum , 1 , 3

He hath his way in the whirle-wind and in the storme , and the Clowdes are the dust of his feete . Psal , 104 , 32

He looketh on the earth , & it trembleth , hee toucheth the Mountaines , and they smoake . Esay , 40 , 22 ,

Yea , hee sitteth ( as Esay sayth ) vpon the circle of the earth , & the inhabitants of the whole world , ( in comparison of him ) are as it were a companie of Grashoppers . Hee stretcheth out the heauens as a Curtaine , & spreadeth them out as a Tent to dwell in . verse , 23 , 24.

Hee , bringeth the Princes to nothing , & maketh the Iudges of the earth as vanitie . As though they were not planted as thogh they were not sowen , as though their stock tooke no roote in the earth : For as soone as he bloweth vpon them , they wither , and fade away , as the stubble doth in a whirlewind .

Hee [ also , ] is wise in heart , and mightie Iob ▪ 9 , 4 , in strength . For who ( as Iob saith ) hath been fierce against him , & hath prospered ? Hee remooueth the Mountaines , and they verse , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8. feele not when hee ouerthroweth them in his wrath : he remooueth the earth out of her place , that the pillars thereof doe shake . He commaundeth the Sunne , and it riseth not : he closeth vp the starres as vnder a signet . Hee , himselfe alone , spreadeth out the heauens , and walketh vppon the height of the Sea . &c.

He doth great things , and vnsearchable , Iob , 9 , 10. 11 , 12 , yea , meruailous thinges without number . Loe , when he goeth by mee , I see him not , and when hee passeth by , I perceiue him not . Behold , when hee taketh a pray , who can make him to restore it ? [ Or ] who shal say vnto him , What doost thou ?

For , ] all Nations before him , are as nothing : Esay , 40 , 17 and they are counted to him , lesse then nothing , and vanitie .

§. 4.

Againe ; The Lord our GOD , ( as Dauid Psalm , 95 , 3 , 4 , 5 , saith ) is a great God , and a great King aboue all Gods : in his hands are all the corners of the Earth , and the heights of the Mountaines are his . To him the Sea belongeth , for hee made it , and his hands formed the dry Land .

Knowest thou not , or hast thou not Esay , 40 , 28 , 29 , heard , saith Esay , that the euerlasting God the Lorde , hath created the endes of the earth ? hee neyther fainteth nor is wearie , there is no searching of his vnderstanding : but he giueth strength vnto him that fainteth , and vnto him that hath no strength he increaseth power .

Hee , ( as Nehemiah saith ) is Lord alone : Nehe , 9 , 6 , he hath made heauen , and the heauen of all heauens , with all their host , and the earth , and all that therein is , the seas also , and all that are in them : and hee preserueth them all , and the host of the heauen worshippeth him .

Yea , all thinges ( as himselfe saith ) were 2 , Esdr. 6 , 6. made by him alone , and by none other : by him also they shall be ended , & by none other .

§. 5.

The world ( saith the Almighty ) is mine , Psal , 50 , 12. and all that therein is .

I haue made the earth , the man and the Ierem , 27 , 5 , beast that are vppon the grounde , by my great power , and by mine out-stretched arme ; and I haue giuen the same , sayth he , vnto whom it pleaseth mee .

And that wee may the better be perswaded to beleeue his speeches , and some-what the more willingly mooued , heerein to admire his wonderfull great might , hee presently confirmeth his saying with the example of Nabuchadnezzer , King of Babel : Into whose handes , for a time , ( as Ieremie Iere , 27 , 6 , 7. writeth ) God gaue all Lands , and beastes of the fielde , & all Nations ; for to serue him , and his sonne , and his sonnes sonne .

And for the maiestie that GOD gaue Dan , 5 , 19. him , all people , Nations , and Languages trembled and feared before him . He put to death whom hee would ; hee smote whom he would ; whom he would , he set vp ; and whom he would , hee put downe .

But , when his hart was puft vp , and his verse , 20 , 21 , minde hardned in pride , hee was deposed from his kinglie throne , and they tooke his honour from him . And he was driuen from the sonnes of men , and his hart was made like the beastes , and his dwelling was with the wilde Asses ; they fedde him with grasse like Oxen , and his body was wette with the dew of heauen ; till he knew ( saith Daniell ) that the most high GOD bare rule ouer the kingdome of men , and that he appointeth ouer the same whom soeuer hee pleaseth .

Vnto Saule , likewise , God gaue a great and mighty Kingdome , selecting him for 1 , Sam , 9 , 21 Prince and Ruler ouer his owne chosen & beloued people , the Children of Israell : he being before , ( by his owne confession , ) but of a small Trybe , and very poore familie : yea , such a fellowe , that ( as the Text sayth ) he went wandring about the Countrey , to enquire and seeke after his Fathers Asses that were lost . A man trulie in humaine iudgement , ( by reason of his basenes ) verie vnlikelie to prooue a King : Notwithstanding , God which can doe whatsoeuer pleaseth him , bestowed the cheefest kingdome vnder the Sun vpon him . And afterward , when ( through his disobedience ) he fell from the fauour of God , the Almighty , as wel to make manifest his power in displacing him , as for other causes best knowne to his secrete wisedom , rent the fore-said kingdom from him , and gaue it vnto his neighbour 1 , Sam , 15 , 28. ( saith the holie Ghost ) that * was better then hee .

Well may we therefore confesse , and say Psal , 145 , 3. and 147 , 5 , with the Psalmist , Great is the Lord our God , and most worthy to be praised : great is his power , his wisedome is infinite , and his greatnesse is incomprehensible .

His Name , ( as Daniell saith ) be praysed for euer and euer : for wisedom & strength Dan , 2 , 20 , 21 , 22. are his . He changeth the times & seasons , hee taketh away Kinges , and hee setteh vp Kings : hee giueth wisedome vnto the wise , & vnderstanding to those that vnderstand : hee discouereth the deepe & secret things : hee knoweth what is in the darknesse , and the light dwelleth with him .

§. 6.

Who is GOD , besides the Lord ? 2 , Sam , 22 , 32. saith Dauid , Or , who is mightie , saue our God ?

With him is wisedome and strength , hee Iob , 12 , 13 , 14. hath counsell and vnderstanding . Behold , he will breake downe , & it cannot be built , hee shutteth a man vp , and hee cannot be loosed .

Behold , he with-holdeth the waters , and verse , 15. they dry vp , but when hee sendeth them forth , they destroy the earth .

With him is strength and wisedome , hee verse , 16 , that is deceiued , & that deceiueth , are his .

Hee causeth the Counsellors to goe as verse , 17 , 18 , 19. spoyled , and maketh the Iudges fooles : hee looseth the collar of Kings , & girdeth theyr loynes with a girdle : hee leadeth away the Princes as a pray , and ouerthroweth the mightie : hee taketh away the speech from verse , 20 , 21 , the faithfull Counsellors , and taketh awaie the iudgement of the auncient : hee powreth contempt vpon Princes , and maketh the strength of the mightie weake .

Hee discouereth the deepe places from verse . 22 , 23 theyr darknesse , and bringeth foorth the shadowe of death to light : hee increaseth the people , and destroyeth them : hee enlargeth the Nations , and bringeth them in againe .

Hee taketh away the harts of them that verse , 24 , are the cheefe ouer the people of the earth , and maketh them to wander in the Wildernesse , out of the way . &c.

Hee [ also ] giueth raine vpon the earth , Iob , 5 , 10 , 11 , & powreth downe water vpon the streets : hee setteth vp , on hie , them that be of lowe degree , and exalteth the sorrowfull to saluation .

Hee scattereth the deuises of the craftie , verse , 12 , so that theyr hands cannot accomplish that which they doe enterprise .

Yea , he taketh the wise in their craftines , verse , 13 , 14 and ouerthroweth the counsell of the wicked . Insomuch , that they meete with darknesse in the day time , and grope at noone day , as in the night .

Hee [ also ] putteth his hand vppon the Rocks , and ouerthroweth the Mountaines Iob , 28 , 9 , 10 , 11 , by the rootes : hee breaketh Riuers in the Rockes , and his eye seeth euerie precious thing : hee bindeth the floods that they doe not ouer-flowe , and the thing that is hid , bringeth he to light .

Hee it is that maketh poore , and hee it is 1 , Sam. 2 , 7. that maketh rich : hee bringeth lowe , and hee exalteth .

Yea , hee ( as Hannah sayth ) raiseth vp verse , 8. the poore out of the dust , and lifteth the begger from the dunghill , to place them among Princes , and to make them inherite the seate of glorie . For the pillers of the earth ( saith shee ) are his , and hee hath sette the round world vpon them .

§. 7.

Behold now , saith the Almightie , for I , Deut. 32 , 39 I am the Lord , and there is no Gods with mee , I kill , and giue life ▪ I wound & make whole : and there is none that can deliuer out of mine hand .

I destroy the tokens of the Soothsayers , Esay . 44. 25 , and make them that coniecture , fooles : I turne the Wisemen backward , and make theyr knowledge foolishnes .

I forme the light , and create darknesse : Esay , 45 , 7. I make peace , and create euill : I the Lord , ( saith hee ) doe all these things .

§. 8.

Our God is in heauen , faith Dauid , and Psal. 115. 3 , he doth whatsoeuer pleaseth him .

The heauen is his seate , and the earth is Esay , 66. 1. his footestoole .

Hee remaineth for euer , his throne is Lam. 5 , 19. from generation to generation . * And there 1. Sam. 2 , 2. is no God like our God .

For hee ▪ ( as Salomon saith , ) hath the Wisd , 16. 13 power of life , and death ; he leadeth down , euen to the gates of hell , and bringeth vp againe .

§. 9.

God that made the world , and all things Acts , 17 , 24 , 25. that are therein , ( saith the Apostle ) seeing that he is Lord of heauen and earth , dwelleth not in Temples made with hands , neither is he worshipped with mens hands , as though he needed any thing , seeing he giueth to all , life and breath , and all things .

For in him we liue , and mooue , and haue verse , 28. our beeing .

Yea , hee , ( as Plato saith ) by his almighty Plato . power is in all things , and in euery part of the world , & by his prouidence , all things are preserued , gouerned , and moued : and hee himselfe , is of none other , either mooued or gouerned , but is the first incomprehensible mouer .

The eyes of all things , waite vpon him , Psalm , 145. 15 , 16. and he giueth them theyr foode in due season : hee openeth his hand , and filleth with his blessing euery liuing thing .

But if he hide his face , they are troubled : Psalm. 104 , 29. if hee take away their breath , they die , and returne to their dust .

For in his hand , is the soule of euerie lyuing Iob , 12. 10. thing , and the breath of all mankind .

§. 10.

The earth , is the Lords , saith Dauid , and Psal. 24. 1 , all that therein is , the world is his , and so are all they that dwell therein .

Prosperitie and aduersitie , life and death , Ecclus , 11 , 14 , 15. pouertie and riches , come of the Lorde : Wisedome , and knowledge , and vnderstanding of the Lawe , are all of the Lord : loue and good workes come of him .

For hee only is the Authour of all goodnesse , Hermes . and the giuer of all good gifts .

Yea , euery good and perfect gift , as Saint Iames. 1. 17. Iames saith , is from aboue , and commeth downe from the Father of lights , with whom is no variablenesse , neyther shadowe by turning .

For the diuine nature and substance of Aristotle . God , suffereth neither change nor end , because , as Aristotle truly sayth , it is both immutable and infinite .

§. 11.

To come to preferment also , is neyther Psalm , 75. 6 , 7. from the East , nor from the West , nor yet from the South : but the Lorde ( as Dauid saith ) is the Iudge , hee putteth downe whom he will , and hee setteth vp whom hee pleaseth .

It is the Lorde that giueth , and it is the Iob , 1 , 21 , Lord that taketh away : euen as it pleaseth the Lord , so commeth things to passe .

§. 12.

We read in the second booke of chronicles that when Asa , King of Iudah , was 2. Chron. 14 9 , 10 , 11. vrged to giue battaile against an Armie of tenne hundred thousand Ethiopians , first , before he beganne the fight , hee made his humble supplication to the Almighty ; and in his prayer , ( to shewe that the conquest consisted not in the great companie of his enemies souldiers , but only in the might & power of him that made both heauen and earth , ) he said : Help vs , ô Lord our God : It is nothing with thee , to saue with manie or with no power ; helpe vs , ô Lorde our God , for we rest on thee , and in thy Name , ( saith hee ) are wee come against this multitude .

Ionathan likewise , venturing by stealth 1. Sam. 14 , 6 to set vppon the Philistians garison at vnawares , and beeing accompanied with none but onely his Armor bearer , for his better encouragement he told him , that it was not hard with the Lord , to saue with many , or with few .

For the victorie of the battell , dependeth 1. Mac. 3. 19. not on the many thousands that are in the host , but the strength commeth from heauen .

And is onely at his pleasure to be disposed , whose power , as * Iudith saith , standeth Iudith . 9 , 11. not in the multitude of Souldiers , nor his might in strong men .

As may more at large be perceiued , by reading the happy successe , which folowed the enterprises , of the aforesaide King Asa , and Ionathan the Sonne of Saule , against theyr enemies .

§. 13.

Another example also , concerning the power of Almightie God in this poynt , is set downe in the booke of Iudges ; where Iudges . 7 , 12 Gedion beeing appointed by the Lord , to goe & fight against the Midianites , ( which were so mightie an host , that as the Text sayth , they lay in the valley like a company of Grashoppers , and theyr Cammels were without number , as is the sand by the Sea-side for multitude , ) mustred vp an Armie Iuges . 7. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. of thirty two thousand men . And when he had done thus , the Lord God called vnto him , and said ; Gedion , the people that are with thee , are too many for me to giue the Midianites into theyr handes , least Israell make their vaunt against me , & say , Mine hand hath saued me . Now therefore , ( saith the most Mightie ) proclaime in the audience of the people , and say ; Whosoeuer he be that is timerous , or fearefull , let him returne , and depart . Then saith the Text , there departed of the people twentie two thousand , and ten thousand remained .

And the Lord called againe vnto Gedion , and sayd ; The people are yet too manie , bring them therefore downe vnto the water , & I will try them for thee there : and of whom I say vnto thee , this man shal goe with thee , the same shall goe with thee , and of whomsoeuer I say vnto thee , this man shall not goe with thee , the same shall not goe . So Gedion , according as he was commaunded , brought downe the people to the water , and the Lord said vnto him : As many as thou shalt see to lap the water with theyr tongues , as a dogge lappeth , put them by themselues , and euery one that shal bow downe on his knees to drinke , put them likewise apart .

Now , among those tenne thousand that came to the water to drink , there was found but onely three hundred which lapped the water , by putting their handes to theyr mouthes ; by which 300. men , God most miraculously saued Israel , & deliuered the Midianites into their hands .

So that both by this example , & the former , that sentence of our Sauiour is verified , where hee sayth : * The things which Luke . 18 , 27 are vnpossible with men , are possible with GOD .

And surelie , ( as Plato sayth ) hee alone is Plato . most worthy to be taken for a God , which is not onely a Creator , but also a Preseruer , a Sauiour , a Comforter , and a Deliuerer in time of neede .

§. 14.

I knowe , ( saith Dauid ) that the Lord is Psal. 135. ● . 6. great , and that our God is aboue all Gods : Whatsoeuer pleased him , that did hee , in heauen , and in earth , in the Sea , and in all the deepes .

He hath made the earth by his power , & Ierem. 10. 12 , 13. established the world by his wisedom , and hath stretched out the heauens by his discretion : he giueth by his voyce , the multitude of waters in the heauen , & he causeth ▪ the clowdes to ascend from the ends of the earth : hee turneth lightnings to raine , and bringeth forth the windes out of his treasures .

Hee giueth peace and prosperitie vnto Aeneus Siluius . such as serue him , and sendeth trouble and aduersitie , to them that disobey him : hee lifteth to honour whom hee liketh , & bringeth to base estate whom hee pleaseth : he maketh manifest his might on whom he will , by what meanes hee will , and at what time hee will , no man beeing able to withstand his power .

For when hee giueth quietnes , who can Iob , 34 , 29 . make trouble ? Or , when he hideth his face , who can behold him ? whether it be vpon whole Nations , or vpon one man onelie ?

§. 15.

With the Lorde our God also , and in Pet. M●r. ● his only power , ( as Peter Martir affirmeth ) it resteth to pardon our offences , and forgiue vs our sinnes .

For who is hee , ( as the Scribes said vnto Mark , 2 , 7. Christ ) that can forgiue sinnes , but GOD onely .

No man , as Saint Ambrose saith , can be Ambrose . partner with God , in forgiuing of sinnes : for it is Christes onely office ▪ that hath taken away the sinnes of the whole world .

Yea , it appertaineth onely vnto GOD , ( faith he ) to forgiue sinnes , and to giue the holy Ghost : hee alone forgiueth sinnes , which alone died for our sinnes .

Also ; that the Lorde might euidentlie Augustine . shewe , ( saith S. Augustine ) that sinnes be forgiuen by the holy Ghost , ( whom he hath giuen vnto his faithfull , & not by the merrites of men ; ) hee sayth in a certaine place , Take * yee the holy Ghost : and straightway Iohn , 20 , 22 , 23. after these words vttered ▪ hee said this saying ; If yee forgiue any man his sinnes , they are forgiuen . That is , the holy Ghost forgiueth , and not you .

§. 16.

Besides , this poynt may be further prooued , by the speech of Almighty God himselfe , where speaking by the mouth of his Prophet vnto Israell , he saith ; I , euen I am Esay , 43 , 25 , he , ô Israel , that putteth away thine iniquities for mine owne sake , and will not remember thy sinnes any more .

Againe ; I haue put away thy transgressions Esay , 44. 22. ( ô Israel ) like a clowde , and thy sinnes as a mist , ( saith the most mercifull , ) turne vnto me , for I haue redeemed thee .

Againe ; I am the Lorde thy God ( ô Israel ) Hosea , 13. 4. from the Land of Egipt , & thou shalt knowe no God but me : for there is no Sauiour besides me .

Also ; sundry times may be found in the booke of Psalmes , with what thankfulnes the Prophet Dauid confesseth the pardon of all his sinnes to proceede onely from the mercy of his Maker : As namely amongst the rest , in the 103. psalme , where he saith : Psalm , 103. 2. 3. 4. Praise the Lord , ô my soule , and forget not all his benefites , which forgiueth all thy sin , and healeth all thine infirmities , which redeemeth thy life from destruction , and crowneth thee with mercy & louing kindnesse .

§. 17.

Moreouer ; there is , as the Apostle affirmeth , Iames. 412 , one Law-giuer , which is able to saue , and to destroy .

And that Law-giuer is God , vnto whom , as Iob saith , it * certainly appertaineth , to Iob , 3431. say , I haue pardoned , I will not destroy .

Blessed therefore , and most happy is hee , Psalm , 32 , 1 , whose wickednesse is forgiuen , and whose sinne is couered .

Yea , blessed is the man , ( as the Psalmist verse , 2. saith ) vnto whom the Lord [ our GOD ] imputeth not iniquitie .

§. 18.

The Lord our God , is terrible , and verie Ecclus. 43 , 29 great , saith Sirach , and meruailous is his almightie power .

He is to be feared aboue all Gods ; for all Psal , ●6 . 4 , 5 , the Gods of the Heathen are Idols and vanitie ; but the Lord [ our God ] made the heauens .

Hee is the liuing God , & an euerlasting Iere. 10. 10. King . At his anger the earth shall tremble , and the Nations cannot abide his wrath .

For , who can stand ( as Nahum saith ) Nahum . 1 , 6. before the wrath of the Lord ? or who can abide in the fiercenesse of his wrath ? His wrath is powred out like fire , and the rocks are broken by him ?

Yea , the pillers of heauen , tremble and quake at his reproofe : the sea also is made Iob 26. 11. 12. calme by his power , and by his vnderstanding he smiteth the pride thereof .

§. 19

Behold , as Sirach saith , the heauen ; yea , Ecclus. 16 , 18 the heauen of all heauens , which are for God , the deepe , the earth , & all that therein is , shall be moued when he shall visite .

All the world , which is created & made verse , 19 by his will , the mountaines also , & the foundations of the earth , shall shake for feare , ( saith hee ) when the Lord looketh vppon them .

And , this whole speech of Sirach , ( in effect , ) is likewise further witnessed , by the wordes of God himselfe , in the prophecie of Esay , where speaking in prayse of his owne power , hee saith : Behold , at my rebuke Esay , 50 , 2 , 3 I dry vp the Sea , I make the floods desert , their fish rotteth for water , & dieth for thirst ▪ I clothe ( saith hee ) the heauens with darknesse , and make a sacke theyr couering .

And for some proofe of his power , according to the tenure of this speech , wee finde , that his might was sufficientlie made manifest by example , when hee sent such a * palpable darknesse ouer all the Land of Exod , 10 , 22 23 , Egypt , ( the place where the children of Israell dwelt onely excepted , ) that for the space of three dayes , no man could see another , neither could any one rise vp , from the place where he was .

He also by his power , after this , parted in sunder the Red-sea , and made the waters Exod , 14. 16. &c. thereof to stande like two walls , and a path of dry ground to appeare in the middest , whiles all his people had safe passage , from the furie of Pharao and his mightie host , which speedily pursued after them , to their owne destruction .

§. 20.

Moreouer , the Lord our God , in the last booke of Moises , both to terrifie the rage of Tyrants , & comfort in calamities as many as put their confidence in him , vttereth this fearefull menace following , against all the wilful contemners of his power & glorie , saying : * If I whet my glittering sword , Deu. 32 , 41. 42. and my hand take holde on iudgement , I will execute vengeance on mine aduersaries , and will reward them that hate me : I will make my arrowes drunke with blood , and my sword shall eate flesh , for the blood of the slaine , and of the captiues , when I begin to take vengeance on the enemy .

And , to make yet a little more manifest the might of our God , and his preuailing power against the disturbers of his peoples peace , the Prophet Dauid , ( after his victories obtained , in foure great battailes which 2 , Sam , 2● . hee had with the Philistians ) declareth the same most pithilie in the second booke of Samuell , by the description of a tempest , saying ; In my * trouble did I cal vpon the 2. Sam. 22. 7. Lord , and cry to my God , and hee heard my voyce out of his Temple , and my cry did enter into his eares .

Then the earth trembled & quaked , the verse , 8 , 9. 10 , 11. &c. foundations of the heauens mooued and shooke , because hee was angry : Smoake went out of his nostrils , & consuming fire out of his mouth , coales were kindled therat . He bowed the heauens also , & came downe , and darknesse was vnder his feete : He rode vpon the Cherub and did flie , and he was seene vppon the wings of the wind . He made darknes a Tabernacle rounde about him , with waters gathered together in thicke clowdes .

At the brightnesse of his presence , the coales of fire were kindled : the Lord thundred from heauen , & the most High gaue his voyce : hee shot arrowes and scattered them , to wit , he sent lightning & destroyed them . The chanels also of the Sea appeared , and the foundations of the world were discouered , by reason of the rebuking of the Lord , & thorow the blast of the breath of his nostrils . &c.

§. 21.

By the which speech of the Prophet , & sundry other like precedent places to this purpose , euery Christian Reader may indifferently perceiue the power of his Preseruer : and by often contemplating the same , be the better encouraged , ( according to the example of holy Ieremie ) boldlie to confesse his Makers almightines , saying : There * is none like vnto thee , ô Lord our Ierem , 10 , 6 , God , thou onely art great , and thy Name is great in power .

Who woulde not feare thee , ô King of verse . 7 , 8. Nations ? For vnto thee appertaineth the dominion . Among all the Wisemen of the Gentiles , and in all theyr Kingdoms there is none like thee , but altogether they doate and are foolish . For the stock is a doctrine of vanitie .

But thou ( ô Lorde ) hast euer had great strength & might , and who can withstand Wisd. 11. 18 , 19. the power of thine arme ? For as the small thing that the ballance wayeth , so is the world before thee ; and as a droppe of the morning dewe , that falleth downe vppon the ground .

Thine ô Lord , is greatnes , & power , and 1. Chro. 29 , 11. glory , and victory , and prayse : for all that is in heauen and in earth is thine .

Both riches & honour come of thee , and 1. Chro. 29 , 12. thou raignest ouer all : In thine hande also is power and might , and in thine hand it is to make great , & to giue strength vnto all .

¶ Of the Wisedome of God .

§. 1.

WHere , ( saith Iob ) is Wisedome Iob , 28 , 12 , 13 , 14. to be founde ? Or , where is the place of Vnderstandings habitation ? Surely , no man can tell , ( saith he ) how worthy a thing Wisedome is , neither is shee to be founde in the Land of them that liue . The deepe saith , shee is not with me : the Sea saith , shee is not with mee .

Shee cannot bee gotten for the purest verse , 15. 16 , gold , neither may the price of her be valued with any siluer . She shall not be bought with the wedge of the gold of Ophir , no● with the precious Onix , nor the Saphir .

No Golde nor Christall may be compared verse , 17 , 18 vnto her : neither shal her exchange be for plate of the finest Golde . For perfect Wisedome is more worth then any Golde or Pearles . &c.

From whence then commeth Wisedome ? Iob , 28 , 20. 21. and where is the place of Vnderstanding ? Seeing shee is hid from the eyes of all men liuing , and from the foules of the ayre ?

Destruction and Death say , Wee haue verse , 22 , 23 ▪ 24 , &c. heard the fame of her with our eares , but it is GOD that vnderstandeth her way , & he knoweth her place . For , hee beholdeth the ends of the world , and looketh vpon all that is vnder heauen .

When he wayed the windes , and measured verse , 25 , 26 , 27. &c. the waters , when he set the rayne in order , and gaue the mighty floods a lawe , then did hee see her , then declared hee her , prepared her , and knew her .

And vnto man he sayd ; Behold , to feare the Lord , is Wisedome : and to depart from euill , is Vnderstanding .

§. 2.

There is one wise , ( saith Sirach ) euen the Ecclus , 1 , 8 , 9 , most high God ; the Creator of all things ; the Almightie ; the King of power , glorie , and maiestie ; ( of whom men ought to stand greatly in awe , ) which sitteth vppon his throne . Hee is the Lord that hath created Wisedome through the holy Ghost : Hee hath seene her , numbred her , and measured her .

He also hath powred her out vppon all verse , 10 , flesh , according to his gift : and hee giueth her aboundantly vnto them that loue him .

It is likewise the lord our God alone , that by wisedome , ( as Salomon saith ) hath layd Prou , 3 , 19 , 20. the foundation of the earth , and stablished the heauens through vnderstanding . By his knowledge the deepes are broken vp , and the clowdes drop downe the dew .

Hee onely , ( as S. Augustine saith ) is the Augustine . Author of all perfect wisedome & knowledge ; and he of his goodnes , giueth wisedome & vnderstanding vnto whom it pleaseth him .

Science , ( as Aristotle saith ) may be had Aristotle . by diligence , but wisedome and discretion commeth from God .

For , hee giueth wisedome : out of his Prou , 2 , 6 , mouth commeth knowledge and vnderstanding .

Yea ; all wisedome commeth from God , Ecclus , 1 , 1 , and hath beene euer with him , and is with him for euer .

§. 3.

Wisedom , ( as Sirach saith ) hath been created Ecclus , 1 , 4 , from the beginning , and the vnderstanding of Prudence from euerlasting .

Shee is the mother of beautifull loue , of Ecclus , 24 , 20 , 21 , feare , of knowledge , and of holy hope . In her , is all grace , life , and truth : and in her , is all hope of life and vertue .

For shee , ( as Salomon saith ) is the breath Wisd , 7 , 25 , of the power of God : & a pure influence that floweth from the Almightie : therfore can no defiled thing come vnto her .

Yea ; Shee is the brightnes of the euerlasting verse , 26 , light : the vndefiled mirrour of the maiestie of God , & the Image of his goodnesse .

Shee , beeing one , can doe all things : and verse , 27 , beeing stedfast herselfe , shee reneweth all : and according to the ages , she entereth into the holie soules ; and maketh them the freendes of God , and Prophets .

For GOD loueth no man , but him in verse , 28 , whom Wisedome dwelleth .

Wherefore , if any man lacke Wisedom , Iames , 1 , 5 , let him ( as the Apostle counselleth ) aske it of God , which giueth to all men liberallie , and reprocheth no man ; and it shall bee giuen him .

For it is he that leadeth vnto Wisedome , Wisd , 7 , 15 , 16. and teacheth howe to vse the same aright . In his hand are both wee and our wordes : yea , all our wisedome , our vnderstanding , and the knowledge of all our workes .

§. 4.

If riches ( saith the Wiseman ) bee a possession Wisd. 8 , 5 , 6 to be desired in this life , what is richer then Wisedome , that worketh all thinges ? For if Wisedom worketh , what is it among all things that worketh better then shee ?

If a man loue righteousnesse , her labours verse , 7 , are full of vertue : for shee teacheth sobernesse , prudencie , righteousnes , & strength , which are the most profitable thinges that men can haue in this lyfe .

If a man desire great experience , she can verse , 8. tell the things that are past , and discerne the things that are to come : shee knoweth the subtilties of words , and the solution of dark sentences : she foreseeth the signes & wonders or euer they come to passe , & the successe or end of all times , & ages to ensue .

Who so awaketh vnto her betimes , shall Wisd , 6 , 14. haue no great trauaile in seeking her , for he shall finde her sitting at his doores .

To think vpon her , is perfect vnderstanding , verse , 15 , and who so watcheth for her , shall be soone without care .

For , shee walketh about , seeking such as verse , 16 , bee meete for her , and sheweth herselfe cheerefully vnto them in theyr wayes , and meeteth them in euery thought .

Shee is an infinite treasure vnto men , Wisd , 7 , 14 , which who so vse , become pertakers of the loue and freendship of Almighty God : & are accepted for the gifts of knowledge , & vnderstanding .

All Gold is but grauell , in respect of her , Wisd , 7 , 9 , and Siluer shall be counted but clay before her .

She is more worth then precious stones , Prou , 8 , 11. yea , all things that thou canst desire , are not to be compared vnto her .

She hath her dwelling with knowledge , verse , 12 , and prudent counsell is her owne .

By her , Kings doe raigne , and Counsellers Prou , 8 , 15 , 16 , make iust lawes : through her , doe Princes beare rule , and all the Iudges of the earth execute iudgement .

By her also , wee may be preserued from Solon . the many perrils of this world , and through her , wee may attaine vnto a happy end .

§. 5.

To conclude ; Of all the giftes that euer Plato . God gaue vnto man , saith Plato , Wisedom is the most excellent : For , shee is the defence of the soule , and the mirrour of reason : she is the ground & roote of all good endeuours : she ordereth the mind of man , and instructeth his vnderstanding : she directeth his life , and ruleth the works thereof : shee teacheth what ought to be doone , and what to be left vndone : and without her , ( saith he ) no man liuing can be safe .

Also , this likewise knew Salomon ( a far better Diuine then Plato , ) to be most true , as appeareth in his prayer which he so earnestly made vnto the Lord for wisedome : and where , withall , in the same place hee plainely confesseth , that * although a man Wisd , 9 , 6 , be neuer so perfect among the chyldren of men , yet if the wisedome of GOD be not with him , he shall be nothing regarded .

For , the wisedome of this world , is foolishnes 1 , Cor , 3 , 19 , with God .

Because ( as the Apostle saith ) it is earthlie , Iames , 3 , 15 sensuall , and deuilish .

But the wisedome that is from aboue , verse , 17. is first pure , then peaceable , gentle , easie to be intreated , full of mercie , & good fruites , without iudging , and without hipocrisie .

¶ Of the knowledge of Almightie God .

§. 1.

THe Lord looketh downe from heauen , saith Dauid , and beholdeth all Psalm , 33 , 13 , 14. the children of men : From the habitation of his dwelling , hee beholdeth all them that dwell vpon the earth .

Hee facioneth the harts of euery one of verse , 15. them , & he vnderstandeth all their works .

For , hee is , ( as Hannah saith ) a God of 1 , Sam , 2 , 3 , knowledge , & by him enterprises are established .

Yea ; from the beginning of the world , Acts , 15 , 18 , saith S. Iames , the Lorde our God knoweth all his workes .

He also , vnderstandeth and seeth , both Pet. Lomb. the deedes , and the thoughts , of all men liuing in the world : and from his knowledge no secrete can be hid .

For , his eyes , as Sirach saith , are ten thousand Ecclus. 39. 19 times brighter than the Sun , beholding all the waies of men , and the ground of the deepe , & considereth the most secret parts . * Hee knewe all things or euer they were verse , 20. made , & after they be brought to passe also , hee looketh vpon them all .

The works of all flesh are before him , & Ecclus , 39 , 19 20. nothing can be hid from his sight . Hee seeth from euerlasting to euerlasting , and there is nothing wondeful [ or hard ] vnto him .

For , his wisedome is great : he is mightie Ecclus , 15 , 18 in power : and he beholdeth all things continually .

So that nothing can be doone in heauen , Caluine . earth , or hell without his prouidence .

Neither is there any creature which is not Heb , 4 , 13 , manifest in his sight , but all thinges are naked , and open , to the eyes of him , concerning whom we speake .

For , his eyes are vpon the wayes of man , Iob , 34 , 21. & he seeth all his goings . * His eyes , in euery Prou , 15 , 3 , place behold the euill & the good .

And hee onely knoweth the harts of all 1 , Reg , 8 , 39 the chyldren of men .

§. 2.

Behold , saith Esdras , the Lord [ our God ] 2 , Esdr , 16 , 46. knoweth all the workes of men : their imaginations , their thoughts , & their harts .

Yea ; hee knoweth our inuentions , and verse , 55. what we think or imagine in our hart , when we sinne , and would hide our selues .

No thought may escape him , neyther Ecclus , 42 , 20 may any word be hid from him .

For , he * vnderstandeth euery hart . Ecclus , 16 , 20

Hell , with her paine , ( saith Salomon , ) is Prou , 15 , 11 knowne vnto the Lord , howe much more the harts of all the sonnes of men ?

The graue [ likewise , ] is naked before Iob , 26 , 6 , him ; and destruction cannot bee couered from him .

The wayes of all men in the worlde , are Bernard . knowne to him : the words of all mouthes in the world , are heard of him : and the thoughts of all harts in the world , are plainly perceiued of him .

There is nothing so secrete , but he seeth P. Melanct. the same , nor any purpose so priuilie practised , but it is openly knowne vnto him .

The righteous , and the vnrighteous , are Bullenger . both in their doings of him regarded : and hee discerneth the counterfeite Christian from the faithfull professor .

§. 4.

Saint Paule the Apostle , writing vnto his Scholler Timothie , in his second Epistle and second chapter , ( both for his confirmation & comfort against the doctrine of false Teachers . ) telleth him , That * the 2 , Tim , 2 , 19 foundation of God remaineth sure , and hath this seale ; The Lord knoweth who are his .

And , the Almightie himselfe , talking with his seruant Moises , saith ; * Thou hast Exod. 33. 17 found fauour in my sight : & I know thee by name .

Likewise , vnto the Prophet Ieremie , in the very beginning of his booke , hee vseth these words ; * Before I formed thee in thy Ierem , 1 , 5. mothers wombe , I knew thee ; and before thou cammest out of the wombe , I sanctified thee & ordained thee to be a Prophet vnto the Nations .

§. 5.

Now , as by these few former places , wee finde it most apparantly prooued , that the freends and seruaunts of Almightie God , are alwayes knowne vnto him ; so may we likewise by this ensuing example & speech of the Prophet to Senacharib , certainly assure our selues , that the Lord God knoweth who are his enemies also .

For , when that proude-daring King of 2 , Reg , 18 , 28. 29 , 30. ● the Assvrians , sent Rabsaketh his foule-mouthed messenger , to blaspheme the Holie one of Israell , the Almightie returned him this aunswere by the mouth of Esay , saying : * I knowe thy dwelling ; yea , thy 2. Reg. 19 , 27 , 28. going out , and thy comming in , & thy furie against mee : And because thou ragest against mee , and thy tumult is come vp to mine eares , I will put my hooke in thy nostrils , and my bridle in thy lippes , and will bring thee backe againe the same way thou cammest .

Moreouer ; the Lord [ our God , ] as Esdras affirmeth , knoweth all them that sinne 2 , Esd. 15. 26 against him : and therefore deliuereth hee them vnto death and destruction .

For , there is ( as Iob sayth ) no darknesse , Iob , 34 , 22 , nor shadow of death , that can hide the wicked dooers from his sight .

Hee declareth the things past , and the Ecclus. 42 , 19 things that are to come : he also discloseth the path of those things that are secrete .

Hee searcheth the ground of the deepe , 2. Esd. 16. 49 and the treasures thereof : hee hath measured the Sea , and [ knoweth ] what it containeth .

§. 6.

Let all men therefore , ( as Cicero well sayth ) in this be truly perswaded , that God ● Cite●s . is the onely moderator & gouernour of all things : and that all things also be done by his power and appoyntment . And that he it is , which most cleerely beholdeth euery man , both what hee doth , what he admitteth in himselfe , with what minde and godlines he doth loue & fauour Religion : and that hee hath also a respect to the proceedings , both of all godly and wicked men .

Yea , the Lord our God onely , ( as Siluius Siluius . saith ) by his eternall wisedom hath made all : by his euerlasting prouidence hee preserueth all : and by his most absolute vnderstanding he knoweth all .

For , of him , and through him , and for Rom , 11 , 36 him , ( as the Apostle saith ) are all thinges : to him be glory for euer .

Amen .

¶ Of the great mercie and louing kindnesse of God .

§. 1.

THE Lord our God , ( according to Nehe. 9. 17 , the confession of the Leuites , in the ninth of Nehemiah , ) is a GOD of mercies ; gracious , and pittifull : of long suffering , and of great mercie .

Hee is ( as Dauid saith ) good to all : and Psal , 145 , 9 , his mercies are ouer [ or aboue ] all the rest of his workes .

Yea ; hee is full of compassion & mercy , Psal , 103 , 8 , 9. slow to anger , and of great kindnesse . Hee will not alway chide , neither will he keepe his anger for euer .

Hee hath not dealt with vs after our sins , nor rewarded vs according to our iniquities . verse , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , For , as high as the heauen is aboue the earth , so great is his mercie toward them that feare him : and as far as the East is from the West , so farre hath he remoued our sinnes from vs . * As a Father hath compassion on verse , 14. 15. his children , so hath the Lord compassion on them that feare him : For , hee knoweth whereof we be made , hee remembreth that wee are but dust .

§. 2.

Where , ( saith Micah ) is there anie God Micah , 7 , 18 like vnto the Lord our God , that taketh away iniquitie , and passeth by , [ or winketh at ] the transgressions of the remnant of his heritage ? He retaineth not his wrath for euer , because mercy pleaseth him .

Hee is , ( as Salomon saith ) gracious and Wisd , 15 , 1 , true , long suffering , & gouerneth al things by mercy .

Hee is , ( as Sirach saith ) kinde & pittiful : Ecclus , 2 , 12 hee pardoneth and forgiueth sinnes : hee saueth in the time of trouble : hee is a defender of all them that seeke him in the truth . And , * as his greatnes is , so is his mercy . Ecc●us , 2 , 21 Cyrill .

For , he can no more cease to be mercifull , then he can cease to be God .

The mercie that a man hath , ( saith Sirach ) Ecclus , 18 , 12 reacheth vnto his neighbour , but the mercy of the Lord is vpon all flesh .

He is the Father of mercies , & the God 2 , Cor , 1 , 3 , of all comfort .

His mercie reacheth vnto the heauens , & Psalm , 36 , 5 , his faithfulnesse vnto the clowdes .

His mercie is euerlasting : and his truth Psal. 100. 5. endureth from generation to generation .

§. 3.

Oh how excellent , ( as Dauid saith ) is the Psalm , 36 , 7 , mercy of the Lord our God! therefore the chyldren of men ( saith he ) put theyr trust vnder the shadow of his winges .

The very remembrance of Gods mercie , Bernard . ( saith Bernard ) maketh glad the harts of all the godly : and the hope of heauens helpe is comfortable to euerie penitent person .

The tongues of all men liuing , ( saith Marlorate . Marlorate ) cannot tell out Gods mercie : nor the pennes of all the Writers in the world , sufficiently expresse the same .

His wrath , ( as Erasmus saith ) is alwaies Erasmus . giuen by weight ; but is mercie is infinite , without either end or measure .

Besides ; if wee aske yet further , after the Augustine . seuerall workes of Gods mercy , wee shall finde , ( as S. Augustine saith ) that they passe all number , as there can be no number made of our miseries , and daily necessities .

For , what man liuing , ( saith Becon ) can Becon . tell how often through frailtie he hath offended , or truely reckon , how many waies he hath been preserued from perrill , through the onely mercy of the Almightie extended towards him ?

Also ; If the sinnes of all the world , were ( as S. Chrisostome saith ) in one man , yet Chrisostome . would they be nothing to the mercy of the Almightie : but the burthen of them , in comparison of his mercie , woulde seeme like the Spyders webbe , before the boysterous winde .

Yea ; the multitude of all mens offences , ● Fulgentius . in respect of Gods mercie , is like a small drop of raine to the greatest Sea .

§. 4.

Furthermore ; the mercy of the Lorde Chrisostome our God , is ( as S. Chrisostome saith ) both generall , and speciall . It is generall , in supplying the present wants , both of the iust and vniust . It is speciall , in succouring the iust onely .

It is likewise temporary , ( saith he ) in sparing the wicked for a time : and it is euerlasting , concerning the euerlasting saluation of the godly ; not only in choosing , but also in regenerating , in iustifying , and in glorifying them .

Also ; King Salomon , as we reade in his booke of Wisedome , after some mention made of Gods almighty power , vttereth these speeches following in praise of his loue and mercie , saying ; Thou ( ô Lord ) Wisd. 11. 20 21 , 22 , 23. hast mercy vppon all , for thou hast power ouer all , and makest as though thou sawest not the sinnes of men , because they should amend . For , thou louest all the things that are , and hatest none of them whom thou hast made : For , thou wouldest haue created nothing that thou hadst hated . And , how might any thing endure , vnlesse it were thy will ? or , howe coulde any thing be preserued , except it were called of thee ? But thou sparest all , for they are thine , ô Lord , which art the louer of soules . And * for that thou Wisd , 12 , 16 art Lorde of all thinges , it causeth thee to spare all things .

And , not much vnlike to this saying of Salomon , is the confession of Esdras vnto the Angell , which was sent to instruct him , where hee saith ; I knowe ( Lord ) that the 2 , Esdr. 7. 62 63 , 64. &c. most High is called mercifull , in that hee hath mercy vppon them which are not yet come into the world . And , that he hath pittie on those that walke in his Lawe . And , that hee is patient : for hee long suffereth those that haue sinned , as his creatures .

And , that hee is liberall , for hee will giue as much as needeth . And , that he is of great mercy ; for hee ouercommeth in mercy , those that are present , those that are past , & them that are to come . For , if hee were not aboundant in his mercies , the world coulde not continue ▪ nor they that haue the possession thereof .

He pardoneth also ; for if he gaue not of his goodnesse , that they which haue doone 2 , Esdras , 7. 68 , 69 , 70. euill , might be releeued from their wickednesse , the ten thousand part of men should not remaine aliue .

And , if hee beeing Iudge , forgaue not those that be healed with his word , & tooke away the multitude of their sinnes , there should be very fewe people left , among an innumerable multitude .

§. 5.

Moreouer ; the Lorde our God is so full of pitty and compassion , that ( as Gueuara Anth. Gueuara . saith ) hee neuer sendeth downe his wrath vpon any people , as a punishment for their offences , but hee first seeketh , rather by admonishment , to bring them to his mercy and fauour , through their true humilitie , and vnfained repentance .

And , many also are the testimonies which we finde in holie Scripture , concerning the great kindnesse and compassion of Almighty God to the penitent : but among sundry other , I suppose ( for breuities sake ) that this one example following may sufficiently serue to instruct vs .

Ionas beeing sent of God to preach and Ionas . 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , &c. denounce his iudgements against Niniuie , the cheefest Citty of the Assyrians , entred into the same a dayes iourney , ( saith the Text ) and he cryed , and sayd ; Yet fortie dayes , and Niniuie shall be ouerthrowne .

Whereupon , the King beleeuing the speech of the Prophet ▪ descended from his princely throne , and speedily caused thys Proclamation to be made , that neither man nor beast should taste any foode , nor drink any water , but let man & beast ( quoth he ) put on sackcloth , and cry mightilie vnto God : yea , let euery man turne from his euill wayes , and from the wickednesse that is in their hands . And , * when the Almightie verse , 10. saw theyr workes , that they repented , & turned from theyr euill waies , hee repented himselfe of the euill that hee had saide hee would doe vnto them , and he did it not .

Which thing , ( as the Text saith ) displeased Ionas exceedingly , and hee was angry . Notwithstanding , he prayed vnto the lord , and said : I pray thee , ô Lord , was not this my saying , when I was yet in my countrey ? Therefore I preuented it , and fledde vnto Tarshish , for I knew , sayth hee , that thou art a gracious God , and mercifull , slowe to anger , and of great kindnesse : repenting thee of the euill . &c.

After this , Ionas went out of the Cittie , Ionas , 4 , 1 , 2. and sate him downe vnder the East side thereof , expecting what should bee doone vnto the same . And the Lord in one night , caused a Gourde to spring vp ouer Ionas , that it might be a shadow ouer his head , & a defence for him against the heate of the Sunne : but the next morning , hee prepared a Worme also , which smote the Gourd and it withered .

Then Ionas perceiuing himselfe bereft Ionas , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , &c. of this succour , and wexing faint through the extreame heate of the Sunne , wished in his hart to die , and sayd ; It is better for me to die , then to liue .

But the Lord God called vnto him , and said : Ionas , doost thou well to be angrie ? Thou hast pitty on the Gourde , for which thou hast not laboured , neither madest it to grow , which came vp in a night and perished in a night : and should not I , ( sayth the most merciful ) spare Niniuie that great Cittie , wherein are six-score thousand persons , that cannot discerne betweene theyr right hand and their left , and also much cattle ?

By the which speech of the Almightie , and example of his clemencie , most plainlie it is approued , that the Lord our God , as S. Iames saith , * is very pittifull & mercifull . Iames , 5 , 11 ,

And that ( as Ieremie saith , ) * hee dooth Lam , 3 , 33. not punish willingly .

Nay more ; so prone is the Almighty to pardon , and so much inclined to mercie , that although ( through mans vnrighteousnesse ) he be highly prouoked to anger , and euen ready ( as it were ) to execute his fierce wrath vpon the vngodly : yet notwithstanding , it sometimes pleaseth him to spare a great company of wicked offenders , by reason that some fewe righteous persons haue theyr habitation among them .

As may for example be seene in the eighteene of Genesis , where we finde , that ( according to the sixe seuerall peticions of the Patriarch Abraham ) hee was content to graunt , first , that if fiftie ; secondly , that if fortie-fiue ; thirdly , that if fortie ; fourthly , Gene. 18. that if thirtie ; fiftly , that if twentie ; lastlie , that if but tenne righteous men coulde bee founde in all Sodome , the whole Cittie shoulde bee spared for those tenne mens sake .

§. 6.

Thus proue we our God to be , as Dauid saith , a pittifull God , and mercifull : slowe Psal , 86 , 15 to anger , and great in kindnes and truth .

Yea , such a God , whose compassion also is of no short continuaunce , but as the Psalmist saith , * endureth for euer & euer , vppon Psal , 103 , 17 them that feare him : and his righteousnesse vppon theyr childrens children .

Shewing mercy vnto thousands of them Deut. 5. 10. that loue him , and keepe his commaundements .

All yee [ therefore ] that worshippe the Dan , 3 , 90. Lord , blesse the God of Gods : praise him , and acknowledge him ; for his mercy endureth world without end .

And onely by the reason thereof , all men liuing are preserued : according to that speech of Ieremie in his Lamentations , where hee sayth : * It is the Lords mercies Lam , 3. 22. that we are not consumed : because his compassions faile not .

For , hee hath mercy , on whom hee will Exod , 33 , 19 haue mercie , and hee hath compassion , on whom he will haue compassion .

¶ Of the iustice of Almightie God .

§. 1.

AS it is a matter most needfull , for euerie Christian beleeuer to knowe , that God his Creator , is very kinde and mercifull ; so is it likewise greatly necessary for him to remember , that the Lord of euerlasting glorie , is also iust and true . For , he that dooth continue in his sin , running the race of his life in all kind of wilful negligence ▪ and buildeth the whole burden of his iniquities , vpon the perswasion of his Makers mercie , without any reckoning or regard of his iustice ; such a man for certaintie , liues in a most lothsome state , and is ready , at euery step which hee treadeth , to set his foote with Pharao , in the perrilous path of presumption .

Contrariwise , he that doth acknowledge God to be iust , seuere , and true , & by too much hammering the same in his braine , looseth , or letteth slippe , the sweete taste , & feeling comfort of his vnspeakeable loue and mercie , entertaineth by this meanes , a seruaunt more then he needeth , who wayting continually at his elbowe , neuer ceaseth to prompt and perfect his maister in * Caines part , vntill the disquiet of his Gene , 4 , 13 , minde , driue him to the soule-destroying sinne of desperation .

Wherefore , sith we haue already found , ( in our short discourse of Gods mercy ) the precious potion , which presently cureth the dangerous disease , of all such troublesome and distempering thoughts : Let vs now likewise , by expressing some few speeches of Gods iustice . seeke out such simpl●s ▪ as may dreadfully keepe vs , from the offence of too much boldnes , in ouer-prouing the great patience , of our most mightie Preseruer .

§. 2.

Vnderstand therfore , that when the Altie discended from heauen in a clowde , & proclaimed his Name vnto his seruaunt Moises in Mount Sinai , ( because he would haue him know , that hee was the God of iustice , as well as the Lord of mercie , ) hee vttered these speeches as he passed by him , saying ; * The Lorde , the Lorde , strong , Exod , 34 , 5 , 6 , 7 , mercifull , and gracious ; slow to anger , & aboundant in goodnesse and truth : reseruing mercie for thousands , forgiuing iniquitie , and transgression , and sinne .

Then followeth ; ] And , not making the wicked innocent ; visiting the iniquitie of the Fathers vpon the chyldren , & vpon childrens children , vnto the third & fourth generation .

The same Moises likewise , that he might cause the people to consider Gods iustice , as wel as make them mindful of his mercy , forgetteth not in his repetition of the Law to tell them ; That the Lord theyr God , is a Deut , 5 , 9 , 10. iealous God , visiting the iniquitie of the Fathers vpon the chyldren , euen vnto the third and fourth generation of them that hate him : and shewing mercy vnto thousands , of them that loue him , and keep his commaundements .

And , to the intent also that Gods iustice might be as well remembred as his mercie , the Prophet Ieremie , in his prayer which hee made vnto the Lord in prison , spareth not to speake of them both together , saying : * O Lord our GOD , it is thou that Ierem , 32 , 17 , 18. hast made heauen and earth by thy great power , and by thine out-stretched arme , and there is nothing hid from thee ; Thou shewest mercy vnto thousands , and recompencest the iniquity of the Fathers , into the bosome of theyr children after them .

Besides , the Prophet Dauid in the ninth Psalme , plainely affirmeth , that * the Lord Psalm , 9 , 16 our God is knowne by executing iudgement .

§. 3.

Saint Chrisostome ( as we read ) speaking generally of the iustice of Almighty God , maketh breefely this definition therof , saying ; The iustice of God is that , wherby all Chrisostome . those good things be performed , which do belong vnto a true God , and can be doone by none but by him alone : As namely , his creating and making of those things which be not ; and his breeding , increasing , gouerning , & continuall preseruing of those things which be .

But Saint Ambrose , speaking more particulerly of Gods iustice , deuideth the same into three parts , saying ; The first is , that as Ambrose . hee is God , so hee is the onely Creator and conseruer of all things ; which is nothing else , but the goodnes of his own nature .

The second is , that as he is Lord & maister , so he gouerneth all things by iust authoritie , according to the pleasure of his owne will .

The third is , that as hee is Iudge , so hee will deale rightly in iudgement with all men , and rewarde euery one at his death , according to the workes which hee hath doone in this life .

And , like as S. Ambrose maketh mention of three sorts of iustice to bee in God , so S. Augustine speaketh of three speciall Augustine . causes , which daily mooue men to sinne against their Maker .

The first is , saith he , when we foolishlie flatter our selues in our iniquities , & thinke that the Almighty seeth not our sinnes .

The second is , when wee perswade with our selues , that GOD careth not for our sinnes .

The third is , because we weigh not Gods iustice , but supposing him to be onely mercifull , we will therefore of purpose , wexe more and more sinful .

But let not ( my brother ) saith S. Bernard , Bernard . the subtilties of sathan so seduce thee , that by too much buzzing in thy braine the greatnes of Gods mercy , he thereby cause thee cleane to extinguish , the remembrance thou should'st haue of thy Creators iustice .

Neither bee thou drawne at any time , through his inducements , to tempt and abuse Ambrose . the patience of the most Mighty : for it is the next way to shutte thee out of the grace of saluation , & vtterly to disappoint thy selfe , of all the mercy and fauour which the Almighty was minded to haue vsed towards thee .

§. 4.

We read in the fift of S. Iohn , that our Sauiour Christ , hauing by the onely power of his worde , miraculously made whole a man which had beene diseased eyght and thirty yeeres , chaunced afterward to finde the same fellow in the Temple , and before they parted , hee gaue him this kinde and freendly admonishment to forewarne him , saying ; * Beholde , thou art made whole , Iohn , 5 , 8 , 14 , sinne no more , least a worse thing come vnto thee .

The like counsaile also in effect , giueth Sirach vnto all men , in the fift of his booke , where he saith : Because thy sinne is forgiuen Ecclus , 5 , 5 , 6. thee [ my sonne ] be not without feare , to heape sinne vpon sinne : neyther say vnto thy selfe , The mercy of God is great , he will forgiue my manifold sinnes : for , mercie and wrath come from him , and his indignation commeth downe vpon sinners .

And , * as his mercy is great , so is his punishment Ecclus , 16 , 12 also : for , hee iudgeth a man according to his workes .

§. 5.

Perfect , ( as Moises saith ) is the worke of Deut , 32 , 4. the mightie GOD : For , all his waies are iudgement . God is true , ( saith he ) & without wickednes : iust and righteous is he .

If thou sinne against him , and prooue Osorius . truly penitent , hee will be found readie to graunt thee forgiuenesse : but , if thou persist in euill , and presume vpon his mercie , the path thou walkest in is very perrillous , and thou daily standest in danger of his heauie wrath and iudgement .

For , although it sometimes please God , Mar. Aur. ( as Marcus Aurelius affirmeth ) to forbeare the sinnes and transgressions of diuers persons , that persist in theyr euill liuing a great while , yet notwithstanding , wee ●ften see by example , that hee dooth not s●are at length , suddainly and vnawares , to chastise such offenders , with so much the greater chastisement , according to the measure of theyr many iniquities .

For , God is in his corrections ( saith he ) like vnto a man that giueth a blowe to another body , the higher that hee lyfteth vp his hande , with the greater force falleth downe the stroake : semblably , the more yeeres that the Almightie forbeareth our sinnes , the more will he afterward afflict vs with punishment for them , vnlesse we repent .

§. 6.

It is not ( as Melancthon saith ) the great Phil. Mel. wealth of worldly rich men , that can cause theyr Creator to with-hold his wrath from the wicked : neyther is it the magnificence of mighty men , that can procure him to proue partiall in iudgement .

For , there is no iniquitie with the Lorde 2 , Chro. 19 7. our God , saith Iehosaphat , neyther respect of persons , nor receiuing of reward .

Hee , being Lord ouer all , will spare no Wisd. 6. 7 , person , neyther shall he feare any greatnes : For , he hath made the small and great , and careth for all alike .

Hee , hath no respect vnto the persons of Iob , 34 , 19 Princes , neither regardeth he the rich more then the poore : for they be all the worke of his hands .

Hee , ( as Tobie saith ) is iust , and all his Tob , 3 , 2 , workes , and all his wayes are mercie and truth : and he iudgeth truly and iustlie for euer .

For his eyes , are vpon all the wayes of the Iere , 32 , 19 , sonnes of men , to giue to euery one according to his wayes , and according to the fruite of his workes .

Whosoeuer he be therefore , ( as Vincentius Vincentius . saith ) that walketh in the way of the wicked , and yet notwithstanding looketh for the reward of the righteous , foolishlie flatters himselfe with a false hope : and hath more neede of good counsaile to reclaime him from error , then hee hath of badde encouragement , to cause him continue his course .

§. 7.

Beholde , saith the Almightie , all soules Ezech , 18 , 4 , 20. are mine : both the soule of the Father , and also the soule of the sonne are mine . The same soule that sinneth , it shall die : the sonne shall not beare the iniquitie of the Father , neyther shall the Father beare the iniquity of the sonne : but the righteousnes of the righteous shall be vpon him , and the wickednes of the wicked shall bee vppon himselfe .

For , euery man shall beare his own burden . Gala , 6 , 5 ,

And , as his workes are founde , so shall Luther . his reward be giuen .

Also ; It is most certaine , ( saith Iob ) that Iob , 34 , 12 , the Lord our God will not doe wickedlie , neither will the Almightie peruert iudgement .

Hee will not cast away an vpright man , Iob , 8 , 20. neither wil he take the wicked by the hand .

For , as he is called the * God of iudgement . Esay , 30. 18 ,

So hee is termed the rightfull * Iudge of Gene , 18 , 25 all the world .

And therefore , hee will vndoubtedly , as Dauid sayth , * iudge the worlde in righteousnesse , Psalm , 9 , 8. and the people with equitie .

§. 8.

Diuers examples also may bee collected from the Scripture , concerning the iustice of almighty God , and the expressing of his punishments vpon offenders : but these few folowing shew proofe enough to perswade vs . As namely : how he punished * Achan Iosua , 7. the sonne of Carmi , for his theft .

Nadab and Abihu , for presuming to offer Leuit , 10 , 1 , * strange fire before him .

The two sonnes of Eli , * for abusing the 1 , Sam , 4 , Priestes office .

King Saule * for his disobedience , in sparing 1 , Sam , 15 , Agag .

Gehazi , the seruaunt of Eliah , * for his 2 , Reg , 5 , couetousnesse .

Ananiah and his wife Saphira , for * lying Acts ▪ 5 , vnto the holy Ghost .

By which examples and the like , we may coniecture , that as the mercy of the Lorde is meruailous great , to those that feare and loue him , so is his punishment also , vppon such as walke in wickednesse , and wilfully presume to offend him .

For , as the Angell said vnto Esdras , there 2. Esdr , 7 , 19 is no Iudge more iust then God , nor anie more wise then the most High .

¶ Of the wayes of Almighty God .

§. 1.

THE * way of the Lorde or God , 2 , Sa. 22. 31 , ( as Dauid sayth ) is vncorrupt .

And * all his pathes are mercie Psal. 25. 10. and truth .

Vnto such as * keepe his couenaunt , & Psal , 103. 18 thinke vpon his commaundements to doe them .

§. 2.

God hath not ( as Caluine saith ) made Caluine . manifest vnto man one way onely , but he hath shewed vnto vs all his wayes : that is , all that is needful to make vs walke aright : so that wee can neuer goe amisse , if we followe the direction which hee in his holie Word hath set downe before vs .

§. 3.

The wayes of the Lorde our God , ( as S. Augustine . Augustine saith , ) are to bee taken for all manner of his dooings : and how soeuer it pleaseth him at any time to remoue things , first to one side , then to another , yet his wayes therein are alwaies righteous , and he best knoweth wherefore he doth so .

Besides , It is not to be doubted ( saith he ) that God doth well : yea , when soeuer hee suffereth to be done , whatsoeuer things are euill done ; for , hee doth not suffer this , otherwise then by iust iudgement : and surelie , all that is iust is good . Although therefore those things that be euill , inasmuch as they bee euill , be not good , yet it is good , that there should be things not onelie that are good , but also that are euill . For , except it were good , that there should bee thinges that are euill , the Almightie goodnesse woulde by no meanes suffer them to bee . For , it is ( no doubt ) as easie a thing to him , not to suffer that thing to be , which hee woulde shoulde not be , as it is to doe that , which he is willing to doe .

Therefore , whatsoeuer happeneth heere at any time against our wills , wee ought to vnderstande , that it hapneth not but by the will of God , by his prouidence , by his decree , by his commaundement , and by his Law . And , although wee know not , why and wherfore it is done ; yet we must consider , it is done according to his wisedome that gouerneth all things , and that it is not done without some speciall cause .

For , the Lord our God , is righteous ( as Psal , 145. 17 the Psalmist saith ) in all his wayes , and holie in all his workes .

Yea ; his wayes are righteous ; & the iust Hose , 14 , 10 shal walke in them , but the wicked shall fall therein .

For , as his wayes are plaine and right vnto Ecclus , 39 , 24 the iust so are they stumbling blocks vnto the wicked .

§. 4.

But , to the end wee should not imagine the wayes of Almightie God to be like our wayes , nor his secrete intents , to resemble , our deuises , it hath pleased the Lord himselfe ( in the prophecie of Esay ) fully to assure vs of the contrarie by his owne speech , where he saith ; * My thoughts ô house of Esay , 55 , 8 , 9 Israell , are not your thoughts , neyther are your wayes , my waies : For , as the heauens are higher then the earth , so are my wayes higher then your wayes ; and my thoughts aboue your thoughts .

And , an example partly to approue this speech of God , may be founde in the first Booke of Samuell : where wee reade that when the Prophet ( according as hee was appointed ) went about to annoynt a nowe King in steed of Saule , ouer Israell , he first , after he came to Bethlehem , called for Elihab , 1 , Sam , 16 , the eldest sonne of Ishai , a goodlie tall fellowe ; and presently supposed him , because he was of an high stature and comlie countenaunce , to bee the man whom God had chosen .

But , when the Lorde refused him , ●ee called for the second sonne , and after that , the third , & so in order , vntill he had seene seauen of Ishais sonnes ; & at the last , when there remained onely but one more , named Dauid , the most vnlikely amongst all the rest , to be elected King , the Lord ( far contrary both to the expectation of his Father and the Prophet , ) as soone as the lad came into their presence , called vnto Samuell , saying : Arise , and annoynt him , for this is hee .

Giuing vs hereby to vnderstand , that he respecteth not ( as wee doe , ) the outwarde appearance , & comly proportion , of euerie beautifull person , but rather the godlie inclination of mans minde , and the feruent affection of his hidden hart .

§. 5.

Now , although indeede we are not able , ( as S. Ierome saith ) by reason of our manie Ierome . ● infirmities to conceaue Gods wonderfull counsels , or attaine to the knowledge of his hidden purposes , for that his secrete determinations seeme like a deepe Gulfe vnto vs ; yet must we alwayes in duetie acknowledge him , ( in whatsoeuer hee doth ) to be iust and true in all his wayes ; and humblie confesse , that he keepeth an vpright and euen hand , in the performing of all his promises whatsoeuer .

And , far more fitly also wil it become vs , reuerently to admire the meruailous workings of the Almightie , then ouer busily to beate our braines , about matters that are beyond our capacity : saying in all humility of spirit , as the Apostle in his Epistle to the Romaines saith ; * O the deepenesse of Rom , 11 , 33 the riches , both of the wisedome & knowledge of God! howe vnsearchable are his iudgements , & his wayes past finding out ?

¶ Of the Word of God .

§. 1.

THE Worde of the Lord our God , Heb , 4 , 12. ( as saith the Apostle ) is liuely , and mightie in operation , and sharper then anie two edged sword .

It entereth through , euen vnto the deuiding in sunder of the soule and the spirit , and of the ioynts and the marrow , and is a discerner of the thoughts , and the intents of the hart .

§. 2.

The Word of God , ( as Saint Ambrose Ambrose . saith ) is the pleasant Garden of Paradice , where , the Tree of knowledge is appoynted by God vnto all the elect : In the midst whereof , standeth the Tree of Life , which is Christ our Sauiour . No Cherubin with a fierie sword ( saith hee ) keepeth the enterance , but it is opened by the instinct of the holy Ghost , and the light of the Gospel to all that are hungry .

In it , are the Riuers of liuely water , by which , the Church of all the faythfull is ouerflowne and cherrished , and the mindes of the godly inriched with the treasures of heauenly graces .

Therein also , are Trees of all sorts , verie faire and fruitfull ; that is , the Patriarchs , Prophets , and Apostles , planted by Gods owne hand : and the voyce of God continually walking , earnestly seeking the saluation of mankinde , and leading them vnto the way of life .

§. 3.

The Word of God , ( as Saint Augustine Augustine . sayth ) is the wombe of God , wherein all his Children are conceaued , carried , borne , and nourished .

It is the Lanthorne , whereby our feete Fulgentius . may bee directed : and the true Light , by which our pathes may bee guided vnto Christ .

It is , as it were the Lydian Touchstone , Ambrose . which rightly tryeth all the opinions and teachings of men , whether they be true , or counterfeit .

It is ( as the Apostle saith ) the * sword of Ephe , 6 , 17 the Spirit ; And the * power of God vnto Rom , 1 , 16 , saluation , to euery one that beleeueth .

It is the mistery or secrete of the will of Rom. 16. 25 GOD .

And his Letters , or freendly Epistles , sent Augustine . vnto vs from our heauenly Countrey , to instruct vs in fayth , and godlines of life .

It is the liuelie meate or foode of mans Ambrose . soule , with the which it is nourished , fedde , and daily gouerned .

It is the wholsome doctrine of the holie Ierome . Ghost , wherein is contained , whatsoeuer is needful to be knowne of vs in this life , concerning our future felicitie in the world to come .

§. 4.

The very authoritie of Gods Worde alone , is ( as S. Augustine saith ) more than all Augustine . the sharpnesse of mans imagination or inuention : for it hath one constant , plaine , simple , & holy meaning , wherein the truth consisteth ; by which onely wee fight and ouercome .

And , whatsoeuer in argument ( saith S. Gregorie ) hath not authoritie from the Gregory . Word of GOD , it may well be auoyded , with the same ease with which it is affirmed .

For , as whatsoeuer gold is without the Origen . Temple , is not sanctified : so what-soeuer sence is without the holy Scriptures , although vnto some it seeme wonderfull , yet it is not holy , because it is not contayned in the sence of the Scriptures .

§. 5.

The entrance , as Dauid saith , into the Psalm 119. 130. Word of the Lord , sheweth light : and giueth vnderstanding vnto the simple .

For , it is * prooued to bee most pure . It Ps. 119 , 140. Ecclus. 1. 5 , Ps. 119 , 160 Psalm . 119 , 72 , 104 , is * the wel-spring of wisedome . And the * beginning of it is truth .

The Lawe of thy mouth , ô Lord , sayth hee , is better vnto mee then thousandes of golde and siluer . By thy precepts haue I gotten vnderstanding .

And , by thy commaundements , thou hast Psa. 119 , 98 made me wiser then mine enemies .

Therefore loue I thy commaundements Psalm , 119 127 , aboue gold : yea , aboue most fine gold .

I reioyce [ also ] at thy Word , as one that Psalm , 119. 162. findeth a great spoyle .

And , my soule ( ô Lorde ) hath kept thy Psalm , 119. 167. testimonies ; for , I loue them exceedingly .

§. 6.

Againe ; The Lawe of the Lorde [ our Psalm , 19 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10. God ] as the Psalmist saith , is perfect , conuerting the soule : the testimonie of the Lord is sure , and giueth wisedom vnto the simple : the statutes of the Lorde are right , and reioyce the hart : the commandement of the Lord is pure , and giueth light vnto the eyes . The feare of the Lorde is cleane , and endureth for euer : the iudgements of the Lord are truth , they are righteous altogether ; and more are they to be desired than gold : yea , then much fine golde , they are sweeter also then Honey , and the Honey combe .

By them , ô Lord , ( saith he ) is thy seruant Psal , 19 , 11 made circumspect , & in keeping of them , there is great reward .

§. 7.

What-soeuer thinges are written afore Rom , 15 , 4 , time , are written ( as the Apostle sayth ) for our learning : that wee through patience , and comfort of the Scriptures , might haue hope .

For , the whole Scripture , ( saith hee ) is 2 , Tim , 3. 16 17. giuen by inspiration of God : and is profitable to teach , to conuince , to correct , and to instruct in righteousnes , that the man of God may be absolute , beeing made perfect vnto all good workes .

Yea ; what-soeuer is required for our saluation , Chrisostome . is already contained ( as S. Chrisostome saith ) in the holy Scripture . He that is ignorant , shall finde there what hee may learne : hee that is stubborne and a sinner , may find there scourges of the iudgements to come , the which he may feare : and hee that is troubled , may finde there the ioyful promises of euerlasting life ; through the beholding of the which , hee may be stirred vp to doe good workes .

Finally , the Scripture of God , ( as S. Basill Basill . saith ) is like vnto an Apothicaries shop , full stored with medicines of sundry sorts : so that euery man may there choose , a conuenient remedy for his disease .

And surely , ( as Beda saith ) without the Beda . vnderstanding of the will of God , by the sacred Scriptures , our sight is but blindnes , our knowledge , ignorance ; our wisedom , foolishnes ; and our deuotion , deuilishnes .

§. 8.

Nowe , although indeede , ( as Granado Granado . saith ) wee must confesse with Saint Peter , that there are some places in the Booke of God , * hard to be vnderstood : yet may we 2. Pet. 3 , 16. likewise ( saith hee ) say with the same Apostle , that those places are hard , to such as are vnlearned and vnstable , which peruert and wrest them to theyr owne destruction .

For , euerie worde of God , ( as Salomon Prou , 30. 5. saith ) is pure .

And , the precepts of the Lord are plaine , Prou , 8 , 9. to him that will vnderstande : and easie vnto all them that desire to finde knowledge .

Nay more ; It cannot be possible , ( saith Vincentius ) that , that man , which with earnest studie , and feruent desire , often readeth Vincentius . the holy Scriptures , should euermore be forsaken , ( or , left without vnderstanding of Gods holy will : ) For , although he want the instruction of learned men , yet God himselfe from aboue , entering into his heart , by his holy Spirit lightneth his minde , poureth his beames of grace into his wits , openeth those things that before were hidden , and becommeth vnto such a man a Schoolemaister of that he knew not , only if he wil do so much as lieth in him .

Besides ; the holy Ghost , as S. Augustine Augustine . saith ) hath by his wisedome , so notably and wholsomely tempered the Word , that hee might with the easie places thereof , satis-fie the greedy hunger of men , and with the darkest places of it , take away our lothsomnesse . For , there is no point almost founde of the darkest meaning in one place , but it is plainly spoken of , and easie to be vnderstood in another .

So that if the Gospell of Christ bee yet hid , it is hid , as the Apostle saith , * to them 2 , Cor , 4 , 3 , 4. that perrish : whose mindes , sathan , the god of this world , hath blinded , to the end , the light of the glorious Gospell of Christ , which is the Image of GOD , should not shine vnto them .

The certaine truth of which Gospell , is so highlie to be esteemed , and reuerentlie regarded , that if an Angell from heauen , Gala , 1 , 8 , should come and preach vnto vs any other doctrine , then what we finde therein alreadie contayned , we ought for his tydings to count him accursed .

¶ Of the workes of God .

§. 1.

THE workes of Almightie God , although Chrisostome . of themselues ( as S. Chrisostome saith ) they are infinite in number , yet may they all be reduced into these fiue heads following : namely , his worke of Creation : his worke of Conseruation : his worke of Redemption : his worke of Iustification : and his worke of Predestination .

§. 2.

By the word of the Lord , saith Dauid , Psal. 33 , 6 , 9 , were the Heauens made , and all the host of them , by the breath of his mouth : For , hee spake , and it was done ; he commaunded , and it stoode .

As soone as hee saide , Let the Earth be 2 , Esdr. 16 , 47 , made , it was made : Let the Heauen bee created , and it was created .

By his worde [ also , ] were the Starres verse , 48 , established , & he knoweth the number of them .

Yea ; hee * counteth the number of the Psal , 147 , 4. starres , and calleth them all by their names .

At his commaundement [ likewise ] the Ecclus , 39 , 17 water stoode as an heape : and at the word of his mouth , the waters gathered themselues .

He also , hath shut the sea , in the midst of 2. Esdras , 16 50. the waters : and with the worde of his mouth , hath hee hanged the earth vppon the waters .

§. 3.

Thy worde , ô Lord , saith Dauid , endureth Psalm , 119. 89 , 90 , 91 , for euer in heauen : thy truth also remaineth from one generation to another : thou hast layd the foundation of the earth , and it abideth . They continue euen to this day by thine ordinaunces , for all thinges serue thee .

The Heauens are thine ; the earth also is Psal , 89. 11 thine ; thou hast layd the foundation of the World , and all that therein is .

Thou spakest expresly in the first creation , 2 , Esdras , 6 , 38. ( euen the first day ) and commaundedst that the Heauen & Earth should be made , and the worke followed thy word . &c.

Vpon the second day , thou createdst the 2 , Esdr. 6 , 41. heauenly ayre , and commaundedst it , that , going betweene , it should make a deuision betweene the waters ; that the one part might remaine aboue , and the other beneath .

Vpon the third day ; thou commaundedst , that the waters should bee gathered together 2. Esd. 6 , 42. in the seauenth part of the earth : sixe parts hast thou dryed vp , and kept them , to the intent that men might sowe , and occupie husband●y therein .

Vpon the fourth day , thou createdst the 2 , Esdr. 6. 45. 46. light of the Sunne , and of the Moone , and the order of the S●arres : and gauest them a charge , that they should doe seruice , euen vnto Man that was for to be created .

Vpon the fifth day , thou sayd'st vnto 2 , Esdr. 6. 47. 48. the seauenth part , where the waters were gathered , that it should bring forth beasts , as foules and fishes ; and it was so . For , the dumme waters , and without life , brought foorth lyuing thinges , at the commaundement of GOD , that the Nations might prayse thy wonderous works .

Vpon the sixth day , thou gauest commaundement 2. Esdr. 6. 53 vnto the Earth , that before thee it should bring forth beasts , cattell , & creeping things .

And besides this , Adam also , whom verse , 54 , thou madest Lorde ouer all the workes which thou hast created . Of him come wee all , and the people also whom thou hast chosen .

§. 4.

Hee that liueth for euer , made al thinges Ecclus. 18. 1 , 2. together , ( saith Sirach ) the Lord , who onlie is iust : and there is none other but hee , and hee remaineth a victorious King for euer . He ordereth the world with the power of his hande , and all thinges obey his will : for , hee gouerneth all things by his power , and deuideth the holie thinges from the prophane .

O howe delectable ( saith he ) are all the Ecclus , 42 , 22 , 23 , workes of God , and to be considered euen to the sparkes of fire : they liue all , and endure for euer : and when soeuer neede is , they are all obedient .

They are all double one against another , verse , 24 , 25 he hath made nothing that hath any fault : the one commendeth the goodnesse of the other , and who can bee satis-fied with beholding Gods glory ?

For , all the workes of the Lord our God Ecclus , 39 , 33 , 34 , are good , and hee giueth euery one in due season , and when neede is : So that a man neede not say this is worse then that , for in due season ; they are all worthie praise .

§. 5.

The heauens declare the glory of God , Psal , 19 , 1 , 2 , ( saith Dauid ) and the firmament sheweth his handie worke : Day vnto day , vttereth the same , and night vnto night , teacheth knowledge .

The Sunne also , a meruailous instrument , Ecclus , 43 , 2 , 3 , 4 , when it appeareth , declareth at his going out , the worke of the most mightie God . At noone , it burneth the earth , and who may abide the heate thereof ? It burneth the mountaines three times more then hee that keepeth a fornace with continuall heate . It [ likewise ] casteth forth fierie vapours , and with shining beames it blindeth the eyes .

Great is the Lord our God that made it , Ecclus. 43 , 5 , and by his commaundement hee causeth it to runne hastily .

For , it turneth round about heauen , in 1 , Esdr. 4. 34 one day , and runneth againe into his owne place .

The Moone also , hath hee made to appeare , Ecclus , 43 , 6. 7 according to her season : that shee shoulde be a declaration of the time , and a signe for the world .

The remembrance of solemne feasts are verse , 8. appoynted by her : she is a light that diminisheth , and increaseth againe . The month is called after the name thereof : and shee groweth wonderously in her changing .

The Armie of Heauen also , is in the Ecclus. 43. 9 height in the firmament of heauen : it giueth a cleere and glorious shine . This is the cleerenes of the starres , the beautifull apparrell of heauen ; and the ornament that shineth in the high places of the Lord .

By the commaundement of the Holie verse , 10 , one , they continue in their order , and not one of them faileth in his watch .

Looke vpon the Raine-bow , and prayse Ecclus , 43. 11 him that made it , very beautifull is it in the brightnesse thereof .

It compasseth the heauen about with a verse , 12 , glorious circle , and the handes of the most High haue bended it .

Through his commaundement also , hee Ecclus. 43 , 13 maketh the snowe to fall , and the thunder of his iudgement to smite speedily .

At the worde of his mouth , the treasures verse , 14 , are opened , and the clowdes flee foorth as the fowles .

For , in his power hath hee strengthened Ecclus , 43 , 15 the clowdes ; and by his might hath he broken the haylestones .

The Mountaines melt at the sight of verse , 16 , him ; and the South-winde bloweth according to his will .

The sounde of his thunder beateth the Ecclus , 43 , 17 earth , & so doth the storme of the North : The whirle-winde also , as byrds that flie , scattereth the snow ; and the falling downe thereof , is as the Grashoppers that light vpon the ground .

The eye meruaileth at the beautie of the verse , 18 , whitenes thereof , and the heart [ of man ] is astonished at the raine of it .

Hee also , poureth out the frost vpon the Ecclus , 43 , 19 earth like salt , and when it is frosen , it sticketh on the toppes of pales .

When the colde North-winde bloweth , verse , 20. an Ice is frosen of the water , and it abideth vpon all the gatherings together therof : & couereth them ouer , as it were with a breast-plate .

It [ likewise ] deuoureth the mountaines , Ecclus. 43. 21 and burneth the Wildernesse , and destroyeth that , that is greene , like fire .

But , the remedy of all these , ( saith Sirach ) verse , 22 , is when a clowde commeth hastily : and when a dew commeth vppon the heate , it refresheth it .

§. 6.

With all manner of liuing beastes , ( as the wiseman saith ) hath the Lord our God Ecclus , 16 , 30 couered the face of the earth ; and they shal all be turned into it againe .

In the desert [ likewise ] hath hee made 2 , Esdras , 16 , 52 , 53 , springes of water , and Pooles vppon the toppes of Mountaines , to poure out floods from the high Rocks , to water the ground .

Yea , he hath made Man also , and put his hart in the midst of his body ; and giuen him breath , life , and vnderstanding .

So that among all the workes of God , Augustine . his creation of Man ( as S. Augustine saith ) is the cheefest , and hath the most principall , or first place .

For , in creating all other creatures but Ambrose . Man , hee saide , FIAT : Let this be , and that be ; but , in creating Man , hee spake in the person of the Trinitie , saying ; FACIAMVS , Let * vs make Man , according to our similitude . &c.

( But , heere by the way , wee ought thus much to vnderstand ; that Man , as Beza Beza . ● saith , is the Image of God , neyther as touching his body , neyther yet as touching his soule ; but as touching the principalitie and dominion , that God hath giuen him .

For , GOD calleth the principality and Chrisostoms . lordship that he gaue to Adam , his Image and likenes ; because hee made him Emperour & Ruler , ouer all things vpon earth .

Besides , the Image of Almighty God , in Man , is referred , as S. Augustine saith , vnto Augustine . the workes of righteousnesse , and true sanctification of our liues . As the speech of God himselfe importeth in the Law , where he sayth : Be * ye holy ; because I the Lord Leuit , 19. 2. your God am holy .

And , the very wordes likewise of the Apostle , testifie asmuch vnto vs , where hee saith : * Put yee on the new man , which Ephe , 4 , 24 after God is created vnto righteousnes , and true holines . )

Moreouer ; God hath created Man , as S. Bernard saith , foure seuerall waies . The Bernard . first , without Man and Woman , as Adam out of the earth . The second , of man without woman , as Eue of Adams ribbe . The third , of man & woman , as we are all now borne into the world . The fourth and last , of a virgine without man , as Christ our Sauiour , of the blessed virgine Mary .

And , of all the creatures of GOD vnder the Sunne , ( saith Lyra ) there is none Lyra. more noble and greater then Man : for , all things in the World are ●ut vnder his power .

§. 7.

O Lord , how manifold are thy workes ! Psalme , 104. 24 , 25 , ( saith Dauid ) in wisedome hast thou made them all ; the earth is full of thy riches : so is the sea , great & wide ; for , therin are things creeping innumerable , both small beastes and great .

There goe the shippes , and the Leuiathan verse , 26. also , whom thou hast made to play therein .

They that saile ouer the Sea , tell of the Ecclus , 43 , 24 , 25 , perrils thereof , and when we heare it with our eares , we meruaile thereat : For , there be strange and wonderous workes ; diuers manner of beastes ; and t●e creation of Whales .

Yea ; such men see the workes of the Psalm , 107 , 24 , 25. 26 , 27 , &c. Lord , & behold his wonders in the deepe . For , hee commaundeth and rayseth the stormie winde , and it lifteth vp the waues therof . They mount vp to the heauen , and descend downe to the deepe , so that theyr soule melteth for trouble . They are tossed to and fro , and stagger like a drunken man , and all their cunning is gone .

Then they cry vnto the Lorde in theyr verse , 28 , 29 trouble , and he bringeth them out of theyr distresse . He turneth the storme to calme , so that the wau● 〈…〉 ereof are still .

When they are quieted , they are gladde ; verse , 30. and he bringeth them to the Hauen where they would be .

Let them therefore confesse before the verse , 31 , Lord , his louing kindnesse , and his wonderfull workes before the sonnes of men .

And let them exalt him in the congregation verse , 32 , of the people , and prayse him in the assembly of the Elders .

For , by his word , hee stilleth the winde : Ecclus , 43 , 23 and by his counsel he appeaseth the deepe , and planteth Ilands therein .

§. 8.

Beholde , ( saith Salomon , ) the worke of Ecclesi. 7. 15 GOD : for , who can make straight , that which he hath made crooked ?

I know , saith hee , that whatsoeuer God Ecclesi. 3. 14 shall doe , it shall be for euer ; to it can no man adde , and from it can none diminish : for , God hath doone it , that they shoulde feare before him .

§. 9.

Among the Gods , saith Dauid , there is Psalm , 86 , 8 , none like vnto thee , ô Lorde : neyther is there any that can doe like thy workes .

Thou hast made thy wonderfull workes Psalm , 40 5. so many , that none can count in order to thee , thy thoughts towards vs : I woulde declare and speake of them , ( saith hee ) but they are moe then I am able to expresse .

§. 10.

Who can , ( as the Psalmist saith ) declare Psal , 106 , 2 , the noble actes of the Lorde [ our God ? ] or shew forth all his prayse ?

Which made heauen ; & earth ; the sea ; Psa● , 146 , 6 , and all that therein is . [ And , ] which keepeth his fidelitie for euer . Which [ also ] verse , 7 , executeth iustice for the oppressed : and giueth bread vnto the hungry . Psalme , 147 8 , 9 ,

Which couereth the heauen with clowdes , and prepareth raine for the earth , and maketh the grasse to growe vpon the Mountaines . Which giueth to beasts their foode , and feedeth the young Rauens that cry vnto him .

Prayse him , & magnifie him as much as Ecclus , 43 , 30 ye can yet doth hee far exceede : exalt him with all your power , and be not weary , yet can ye not attaine vnto it .

Neither may the number of his workes be counted . For , * his works , are wonderfull : Ecclus , 11 , 4 , his works are glorious : secrete & vnknowne are his workes among men .

And * wee haue seene but a few thereof . Ecclus , 43 , 32 Ecclus , 16 , 21 For , the most * part of them are hid .

§. 11.

To finish therfore this first poynt ; I will say , as Iesus the sonne of Sirach saith : As for the wondrous works of the Lord , there Ecclus , 18 , 5 , 6. may nothing be taken from them ; neither can any thing be put vnto them ; neyther may the ground of them be found out . But when a man hath done his best , hee must beginne againe : and when hee thinketh to come to an end , he must returne againe to his labour . Also ; * when we haue spoken Ecclus , 43 , 27 much , wee cannot attaine vnto them : But this is the summe of all , that GOD is all .

Hee [ onely , ] hath set his works in good Ecclus , 16 , 26 order from the beginning ; and part of them hath he sundred from the other when hee first made them .

Hee hath garnished them for euer , and verse , 27 , 28 theyr beginnings so long as they shall endure : they are not hungry , nor wearied in theyr labours , neither cease from their offices . None of them hindereth another ; neither was any of them disobedient vnto his words .

For , all his workes are exceeding good , Ecclus , 39 , 16 and all his commaundements are doone in due season .

A man neede not to say ; What is this ? Ecclus. 39 , 21 Wherefore is that ? For , hee hath made all things for their owne vse .

Yea ; hee [ alone , ] hath garnished the excellent Ecclus. 42 , 21 works of his wisedome . And , he is from euerlasting to euerlasting , & for euer : vnto him may nothing be added ; neyther can hee be diminished : hee hath no neede of anie Counseller .

¶ What Man is by nature : how short and vncertaine the dayes of his life are : And howe sure it is , that after this life ended , we must all appeare before the Iudgement seate of God , to receiue , euery man his wages or reward , according to the works which he hath doone in this life . WISDOM . 2. verse , 23. 24. God created Man without corruption , and made him after the Image of his owne likenes ; Neuerthelesse , through the enuy of the deuill , Death came into the world .

¶ Of Man : and of his naturall inclination .

§. 1.

WE reade in the third of Genesis , that when Almightie GOD pronounced the heauie sentence of his great displeasure , conceiued against our first Father Adam , for tasting the fruite of the forbidden Tree , hee closed vp the end of his speech with this Period ; telling Adam , that ( as concerning his body ) hee was created of no better thing then the very dust of the earth : and Gene. 3. 19. that into dust he should be turned againe .

Wee reade also , that the Prophet Dauid , in the 144. psalme , demaunded of God this question , saying ; Lord , what is Man , Psal. 144. 3. that thou regardest him ? or the sonne of Man , that thou thinkest vpon him ?

And , being sufficiently instructed by the holy Ghost , hee presently giueth aunswere in the same place to his owne question , saying : * Man is like to vanitie ; his dayes are verse , 4. like a shadow that vanisheth .

§. 2.

What is Man ? saith Sirach , Whereto Ecclus. 18. 7 serueth hee ? What good or euill can hee doe ?

Surely , all Men are vaine by nature : and Wisd. 13. 1. are ignorant of God .

Euery Man is a beast by his own knowledge . Iere , 10 , 14.

And in his best estate , hee is altogether Psalm , 39 , 5 , vanitie .

§. 3.

By one Man , namely , by Adam , ( sayth Rom , 5 , 12. the Apostle ) sinne entred into the world .

And , by nature , wee are all the chyldren Ephe , 2 , 3 , of wrath .

For euerie man from his youth is giuen Ecclus. 17 , 14 to euill : and theyr stonie hearts cannot become flesh .

§. 4.

I know , ô Lord , ( saith Ieremie ) that the Iere , 10. 23 , way of Man is not in himselfe , neyther is it in Man , to walke and to direct his steps .

The heart of Man purposeth his way ; Prou. 16 , 9. but the Lord doth direct his steppes .

For , the steppes of man , are ruled by the Prou. 20 , 24 Lord : howe can a man then vnderstand his owne wayes ?

Yea ; the Kings hart [ also , ] is in the hand Prou. 21. 1. of the Lord : and as the Riuers of waters , he turneth it wheresoeuer it pleaseth him .

§. 5.

A mortall man , ( saith Sirach ) hath but a Ecclus , 18 , 29 dead heart .

And his naturall inclination leadeth him Rom , 7 , 23. captiue vnto the law of sinne .

The imagination of mans heart [ also ] is Gene , 8 , 21. euill , euen from his youth .

Yea ; al the imaginations of the thoughts Gene , 6 , 5 , of mans hart , are onely euill continually .

And , like as when one sifteth any thing , Ecclus. 27 , 4. the filthines of that which he sifteth , remaineth in the bottome of the Siue : so the vncleannesse of man , continueth still in his thought .

For , the very hart of man , is defiled and Arnobius . vncleane : and all manner of sinnes committed by man , proceede from thence ; as from a Fountaine full of all euill and mischiefe . For , euery sinne committed , is conceiued first in the heart , and afterward finished in the word or fact .

Yea ; from thence , euen out of the heart Marke , 7 , 21 22 , 23. of man , proceede euill thoughts ; adulteries ; fornications ; murthers ; thefts ; couetousnes ; wickednes ; deceit ; vncleannesse ; a wicked eye ; backbyting ; pride ; foolishnesse . All these things , come from within , and defile a man .

§. 6.

Man is borne in iniquitie , ( saith Dauid ) Psalm , 51 , 5 , and conceiued in sinne .

For , the Corne of euill ●eede , hath beene 2 , Esdr. 4 ▪ 30 sowne in the heart of Adam , from the beginning .

And , in many things we sinne all . Iames. 3 , 2.

§. 7.

Certainly , saith Salomon , there is no man Ecclesi. 7. 22 iust in the earth ; that dooth good , and sinneth not .

For , wee haue already prooued , that all , Rom , 3 , 9. 10. both Iewes and Gentiles , are vnder sinne . As it is written ; There is none righteous : no , not one .

If we say , we haue no sinne ; we deceaue our selues , and the truth is not in vs . [ Nay 1. Ioh. 8. 10 , more , ] If we say , we haue not sinned , we make God a lyer : and his word , [ or doctrine ] is not in vs .

For , who can say , I haue made my hart Prou , 20 , 9 , cleane : I am innocent from my sinne ?

Seeing ] all men are gone out of the way : Psalm , 14 , 3 , they are all corrupt ; there is none that doth good ; no , not one .

§ 8.

What is man , ( saith Iob ) that hee should Iob , 15 , 14 , be cleane ? and hee that is borne of a Woman , that he should be iust .

Behold , God founde no stedfastnesse in verse , 15 , 16 , his Saints ; yea , the heauens are vncleane in his sight : howe much more then , is man abhominable & filthy , which drinketh iniquitie like water .

Behold , God founde no stedfastnesse in Iob , 4 , 18 , 19 , his seruaunts , and layd folly vpon his Angels ; how much more , in them that dwell in houses of Clay , whose foundation is in the dust , which shall be destroyed before the Moth ?

The Moone also , and the starres , are vncleane Iob , 25 , 5 , 6. in the sight of GOD , howe much more , man , a worme ? euen the sonne of man , which is but a worme ?

§. 9.

Verilie , ( saith Esdras ) there is no man among 2 , Esdr. 8 , 35. them that be borne , but hee hath doone wickedly : nor any among the faithfull , which hath not done amisse .

For , there is no man that sinneth not . 2 , Chr. 6. 36.

But as in euery Pomegranate , there is some Plato . graine rotten : so is there no man , but hath some euill condition .

Yea ; what soule so-euer is borne in the Origen . flesh , it is vndoubtedly defiled , with the filth of wickednesse and sinne .

And , mans hart also , is so sette vpon euil , Ierome . euen from his child-hoode , that the nature of man , is not one day from his birth , free without sinne .

§. 10.

Wee haue all , ( as Esay saith ) been as an Esay , 64 , 6 , vncleane thing : and all our righteousnesse , is as filthy and polluted clowtes .

Yea , such is the corruption of our wicked nature , ( by reason of originall sinne receiued by discent from our first Father Adam ) that * we are not able of our selues , to 2 , Cor , 3 , 5 , thinke any [ good ] thing , as of our selues : but our sufficiencie , is of God .

And , it is he that worketh in vs , both the Philip , 2 , 13 , * will & the deede ; euen of his good pleasure .

For , wee , of our selues , haue neyther libertie Augustine . nor abilitie to doe the will of God : but are subiect to sinne , and shutte vp vnder the burden thereof .

And , euer since that free will hath beene Gregory . corrupt in our first father Adam , wee are not able to wil any good thing ; except we be holpen by the grace of God .

All manner of euill , we are indeede most Musculus . prone to practise , and ready to runne into by nature : but it is God onely , that directeth our minde to goodnesse ; and giueth vs the grace to doe well .

Yea ; all the knowledge that wee haue of Caluine . Gods holy will , and our obedience therevnto , commeth onely by the grace and fauour of God towards vs : who teacheth vs by his Word ; giueth vnderstanding by his Spirit ; and frameth our harts , through his gracious assistance , to obey him .

Wee ought therefore , to boast of nothing ; Cyprian . because wee haue nothing of our owne that is good .

For , the first man Adam , hauing a wicked 2 , Esdr. 3 , 21 hart , transgressed , and was ouer-come : and so are all they that are borne of him .

Vpon which consideration also , of mans infirmitie , through Adams fall , wee finde that the holy man Esdras , in the 7. chapter of his second Booke , ( euen as it were in the anguish of his hart ) vehemently cryeth out , saying ; O Adam , what hast thou doone ? 2 , Esdr. 7 , 48. For , in that , that thou hast sinned , thou art not fallen alone ; but the fall also redoundeth to vs that come of thee .

And ; by reason that Adam hath sinned , Augustine . through his owne free will , ( saith S. Augustine , ) hee hath thereby cast both himselfe , and all that come of his stocke into necessitie .

So that [ now againe ] if wee liue well , or Augustine . that wee vnderstand aright , wee haue it of God : of our selues wee haue nothing but onely sinne ; that is within vs .

And surely , deserued paine , [ through Adams Augustine . fault , ] would bring al men into euerlasting death : vnlesse the vndeserued grace of God , [ through fayth in Christ ] deliuered some from it .

§. 11.

All men , in the first man , namely Adam , were created of God , ( saith S. Ambrose ) Ambrose . without vice , or fault ; & all our nature was sound , and in health : but by the sin of the same man , we haue lost it .

Also ; We say truly , in affirming , that the Augustine . first man onely could fulfill that he would , when as yet his free-will of choyse was sound , and whole , before the fault .

But man misvsing his free-will , lost both Augustine . himselfe , and his will .

The first man , was created in nature , Augustine . without blame in nature : without fault , he was created vpright : he did not make him selfe vpright : It is knowne what hee made himselfe ; falling out of the hande of the Potter , he was broken . For , hee that made him , did gouerne him , but hee was willing to forsake him that made him , and God suffered him so to doe , as it were , saying thus : Let him forsake me , that he may find himselfe ; and that he may by his misery proue , that without mee , he can doe nothing . By this meane therefore , would God shew vnto man , what free-will is able to doe without God .

Free-will before the fall of Adam , was Augustine . an vpright free-will : before which , fire and water was layde of God , and the first man did reach his hand vnto which hee would : hee did choose fire , & forsooke water . See therefore the righteous Iudge ; the same which man beeing free , did choose , he did receiue ; hee would haue euill , & the same did follow him .

We had free-will before sinne , to worke Chrisostome . well , but after sinne we had none ; because we were not able by our owne power and strength , after sinne , to escape from the power of the deuill . But as a ship when the sterne is broken , is driuen hether and thether where the tempest will : so by the deuill wee are driuen from one sinne to another ; neither hetherto can wee doe any thing , but euen as the deuill will . And except GOD doe deliuer vs with the strong hand of his mercie , we shall remaine in the bonds & chaines of sinnes vnto death . For , by our owne willes and negligence wee are bound ; but it is onely by the mercies of almighty God , that wee are loosed , and set at libertie .

§. 12.

No man can beleeue , hope , or loue ; vnlesse Augustine . he will ; ( saith S. Augustine ) yet euen the selfe same will , to beleeue , hope , and loue , commeth not of our selues , but from God .

Wee ( indeed ) thinking , beleeue ; thinking , we speake ; thinking , we doe whatsoeuer Augustine . we doe : But , as touching that , that appertaineth vnto the way of godlinesse , and true worship of God , wee are not able to thinke any thing , as of our selues ; but our ablenesse commeth of God . For , our own harts , and our owne thoughts , are not in our owne powers .

Also ; that we should beleeue in GOD , & liue godly ; it lyeth not in the wil or running Augustine . of man , but in the grace and mercy of God : Not , that we ought not , both to wil , and to runne ; but , because that God himselfe , ( by his holy Spirit ) doth worke in vs , both to will , and also to runne .

§. 13.

Mans naturall free will then , we doe verily Maxentius . beleeue ( saith Maxentius ) is of no more value , but onely for carnall or worldly desires : or such deseruings , which possiblie may seeme glorious among men , but not with God . For , those things which belong vnto euerlasting life , we can neither thinke , neither will , neither desire , neither performe ; except it be by the infusion and operation of the holie Ghost .

Besides ; our prayers are alwayes made Ambrose . in vaine ; if it be in our owne free-wil , to do what we will .

Let no man ( therefore ) flatter himselfe ; Augustine . for , of his owne , hee is a very sathan : hee hath that of GOD onely , whereby hee is blessed .

§. 14.

There is a sentence in Salomons Prouerbs , where the Wiseman thus speaketh , saying ; * The preparations of the hart , are Prou , 16 , 1 , in man : but the aunswere of the tongue , is of the Lord .

Vpon which wordes , S. Augustine thus Augustine . writeth . Some , not vnderstanding thys place wel , are deceiued , insomuch that they beleeue , that to prepare the hart , that is , to beginne goodnesse , without the helpe of the grace of God , pertaineth vnto man .

But God forbid , ( saith he ) that the chyldren of promise should so vnderstand it , as though thereby they woulde confute the Lord , whereas they haue heard him , saying ; * Without mee , yee can doe nothing . And Iohn , 15 , 5 , say , Behold , we are able of our selues to prepare our hart , & by that to think som goodnes . God forbid that any man should vnderstand it so ; saue the proude defenders of their will . For , therefore it is written : It is the mans part to prepare the hart , & the aunswere of the tongue is of the Lord ; because the man prepareth the hart : yet for all that , man cannot prepare his hart , without the helpe of God . For , God dooth so worke in the harts of men , and in their free will it selfe , that euery good thought , good counsaile , and all good motions of the will or minde , is of God .

Hee doth first preuent vs with his grace , Gregory . that wee may be willing , ( to leaue euill , and doe good , ) and afterward , with his helping hand also he doth folow vs , least we should will in vaine .

Yea ; It is God that worketh in vs , both Augustine . to will , & also to worke . We will then , but it is God that worketh in vs , euen to will . We work then , but it is God also that doth worke in vs , the worke ; euen freelie , of his own good will . It is expedient for vs , both to beleeue this , and also to confesse this . This is godly ; this is true , that our confession may be humble , and lowly : and that all goodnes may be ascribed vnto GOD alone .

No man can come vnto me , saith Christ , Iohn , 6 , 44 , except the Father which hath sent mee , draw him .

Neither can any man say , that Iesus is the 1 , Cor , 12 , 3 Lord , but by the holy Ghost .

For , to beleeue , is the gift of God . As Mat , 16 , 17 , Christes owne wordes testifie vnto Peter , where he sayth ; * Blessed art thou Simon , the sonne of Ionas : For , flesh and bloode hath not reuealed this vnto thee , but my Father , which is in heauen .

Also , It is written in the Prophets : And Iohn , 6 , 45. they shall be all taught of GOD . Euery man therefore , that hath heard , and hath learned of the Father , commeth vnto me .

Yea ; ] All that the Father giueth mee ▪ Iohn , 6 , 37 , ● shall come to mee : and him that commeth vnto mee , I cast not away .

§. 16.

Moreouer ; ] Except a man be borne againe , Iohn , 3 , 3. saith Christ , hee cannot see the kingdome of God .

That is , as our Sauiour himselfe expoundeth it : Except that a man bee borne of Water , and of the Spirit , hee cannot enter into the kingdome of God .

That which is borne of the flesh , is flesh : Iohn , 3 , 6 , and that , that is borne of the Spirit , is Spirite .

A man can receiue nothing , except it be Iohn , 3 , 27. giuen him from heauen .

§. 17.

Why doe men [ then ] presume so much Augustine . of the possibilitie of nature ? ( saith S. Augustine ) seeing it is wounded ; it is ●●angled ; it is troubled ; it is lost . It behoueth vs rather , truly to confesse it , then falsely to defend it .

For ▪ in our flesh the euill lurketh ; and Bullenger . out of vs iniquitie ariseth . Whereupon , the Apostle in his Epistle to the Romaines , saith ; * I know , that in mee , that is , in my Rom , 7 , 18 , 19. flesh , dwelleth no good thing . For , to wil , is present with mee : but I finde no meanes to performe that which is good . For , I do not the good thing , which I would , but the euill ▪ which I would not , that doe I.

Also , it furthermore seemeth , that the verie consideration of this our weake & sinfull nature , where-vnto we are yoked , was the only cause , which enforced the same Apostle , within 5. verses following , vehemently to breake forth into these speeches , saying : O wretched man that I am ; who shall deliuer Rom , 7 , 24. mee from the body of this death ?

But comforting & recouering himselfe , through faith in his Redeemer , he presently maketh this reply in the next verse after , saying : * I giue thanks vnto God , through Rom. 7 , 25. Iesus Christ our Lord .

For , hee deliuereth vs from the wrath of 1 , The. 1. 10 God to come .

And GOD hath giuen vs the victorie 1 , Cor. 15 , 57. through him .

Yea ; the victory is wholely gotten in his Augustine . Name , that hath taken man vpon him , and hath liued without sinne : that in him , and through him , being both the Priest & the Sacrifice , remission & forgiuenes of sinnes should be obtained and giuen . That is to say , by the Mediatour of GOD and Man , that man Iesus Christ , by whom the purging of our sinnes beeing made , wee are reconciled vnto God . For , men bee not seperated from God , but by sinnes ; whereof the purging is not made , or which are not purged in this life , by our owne vertue and strength , but by the mercie of God : by his pardon & clemencie , and not by our own power . For , the same small vertue and strength , that is called ours , is graunted and giuen vnto vs , by the mercifull goodnesse of Almightie GOD .

Thus much , onely to shewe what Man is of himselfe by nature .

¶ Of the shortnesse and vncertaintie of Mans life .

§. 1.

IT followeth next to be considered what the life of Man is ; and so consequently , how short and vncertaine the same . To beginne therefore first with Mans life , we finde in the fourth of S. Iames , that the Apostle doth not there compare , or liken it to smoake ; but plainly saith , * It is euen Iames , 4 , 14. a vapour [ or smoake ▪ ] that appeareth for a little time , and afterward vanisheth awav .

We read also in the second Booke of Samuell , that the subtile woman of Tekoah , pleading with King Dauid for the reconcilement 2. Sam. 14. 4 of his sonne , compareth the life of Man to no better thing then water spilt vppon the ground : which being once down , can neuer be gathered vp againe .

Besides ; the Prophet Esay , with the afore-said S. Iames , & S. Peter , doe all three agree in one sentence about the life of man , Esay ▪ 40 , 6. Iames , 1. 10. 1. Pet. 1 , 24 , saying ; * All flesh is grasse ; and the glorie of man , is as the flower of grasse .

Euen as a flower of the fielde , so florisheth Psalm , 103 , 15 , 16. Man ; for , the winde goeth ouer it , and it is gone : and the place thereof shall know it no more .

§. 2.

Man , that is borne of a woman , saith Iob , Iob. 14 , 1 , 2. is of short continuaunce , and full of trouble : hee shooteth forth like a flower , and is cut downe ; he vanisheth also as a shadow , and continueth not .

The daies of his life are determined ; & the Iob , 14 , 5. number of his monthes are known to thee , ô Lorde : thou hast appointed him his boundes , beyonde the which hee cannot passe .

§. 3.

The time of Mans life , ( saith the Psalmist ) Psal , 90 , 10 , is threescore yeeres and tenne : and if they be of strength , foure-score yeeres : yet their strength is but labour & sorrow : for , it is cutte off quickly , and we flee away .

If the number of a Mans dayes doe amount Ecclus. 18. 8 , to an hundred yeres , it is very much . And , no man liuing , hath any certaine knowledge of his death .

But , euen as fishes , when they think themselues Ecclesi. 9. 12 in most safetie , are taken with the hooke : and as birdes are caught in a snare , when they thinke nothing lesse : so death suddainly smiteth men in an euill season , when * * Granado . they are least mindfull of any such matter .

§. 4.

Now , if we consider , by the authoritie of these few former places onely , what , and howe short the life of Man is ; seeing the longest terme thereof , ( according to the saying of the Psalmist ) passeth not threescore and tenne , or foure-score yeeres : ( for , all the rest , if any mans life be drawne a little longer , is but labour and sorrow : ) and Granado . abate out of this , ( saith Granado , ) the time of our infancie , which is rather a lyfe of beasts then men ; and withall , the time that we spend in sleep , at which instant we haue not the vse of our sences and reason : wee shall finde , that this life of ours is a great deale shorter then it seemeth vnto vs .

For , wee cannot well reckon the time of our infancie for any part of our life ; because the life of infancie , when we are not yet come to the vse of reason , ( which only sheweth vs to be men ) is as it were the lyfe of a young Goate , that goeth wantonly about , leaping and skipping , in diuers places at pleasure . And especially , because we plainly perceiue , that in all that age , there is nothing either learned or doone , that may well beseeme the dignitie of a man .

And , as for the time we spend in sleepe , that may much lesse , bee counted any part of our life ; seeing it is the common custome of men , to sleepe the third part of the day and night , which is eyght whole howres . Where-vppon it followeth , by thys account , that the third part of our life is consumed in sleepe ; and so consequently , that during that time , we doe not liue .

Besides all this , if wee doe compare thys life of ours , with the eternitie of the life to come , ( which endureth euerlastingly , ) we shall finde , that it will scarcely seeme so much as a minute .

Very well therefore , and aduisedlie , did that Philosopher write , who likened the life of man to lightning ; which continueth Crates . but a flash : and the largest date of his daies , to no longer abiding then a bauens blaze .

And , with good consideration also , dyd that Wiseman silently make aunswere , who beeing demaunded what he thought of the life of man ? Suddainly turned himselfe about , before them that asked the question , Solon . and presently departed out of their sight . Giuing them thereby to vnderstand , that our life is no more but onely a turne about , and of short continuance .

§. 5.

Short is Mans life ; ( saith Aurelius , ) and Mar. Aur. vpon very short and suddaine warning , we are commaunded to leaue the Worlde , to close our eyes , and to follow the common course of death .

Yea ; assoone as thou art borne to possesse the earth , incontinent Death issueth Basill . out of his Sepulcher to finde thee : and , although thou art vncertaine , and knowest neyther when nor where he will meet thee , yet must thou remember , that alwayes , and in euery place he seeketh for thee .

And , when thy last howre is come , necessitie Polion . carrieth thee hence ; though thou bee neuer so much vnwilling to depart .

For , Death is a thing that cannot bee Pythagoras . eschewed ; and therfore it ought of all men the lesse to be feared .

§. 6.

What man liuing in this world , ( saith Thales . Thales ) can eyther by his power or policie preuent the suddaine stroake of death ? or who can assure himselfe of so much certaintie , as to performe tomorrow , what he left vndone to day ? For , man hath no assurance of his owne life ; but liues vncertaine of his last howre , finding nothing in this world that he may boldly leane or trust vnto .

Hee wanders alwayes vp and downe Socrates . among most vncertaine and doubtfull chaunces , onely comforting his mind with hope ; but neuer knowing certainlie what shall befall him , or howe , when , or where , he shall leaue his carkasse .

When hee goeth out of his house , hee is Seneca . not sure to returne into the same againe : and when he entereth into his house , hee is asmuch vncertaine to goe foorth againe . Likewise , when he sitteth downe to meate , he knoweth not that he shal rise vp againe , and lying down in his bed at night , he cannot promise to come safe from thence the next morning .

But this thing onely , of all other in the Demonax . world , is most certaine to man , that death is common to all ; though to some one way , and to some another .

§. 7.

Lastly ; if we well weigh with our selues , how fraile , short , and vncertaine the life of man is , we shall finde small cause to blame Zerxes that great King of Persia for weeping ; when from the toppe of an high Hill hee behelde his whole Army , and fell into this remembrance with himselfe , that within fewe yeeres following , there should not one man among so many thousands in that huge company , be left aliue .

With as little reason also , may wee reproue Thales the Philosopher , for saying : The life of man , is no more but euen as it were the shooting of a starre , that passeth at a trice , and is quickly gone out of sight : and , within a little while after , the verie signe thereof which was left behind , vanisheth out of sight also . So fareth it with man ; For , within few daies after he is dead , the very remembrance of him dyeth with his life , though the party ( in this worlde ) were neuer so great and honourable .

Besides ; this is very certaine , that there is Salust . nothing in this tottering world among men , perpetuall ; nor any thing firme & stable : but all thinges passe & repasse continually , like vnto the ebbing & flowing of the Sea .

And , all things at the last , haue an end by Mar. Aur. Death ; saue onely Death himselfe : whose end is vnknowne .

For , black vglie Death , maketh al things Augustine . subiect to the rigour of his Law .

And , as there is nothing among men , ●laeto . more certaine then death ; so is there nothing more vncertaine to man , then the howre of his death .

¶ Of the many miseries happening to Man in this life .

§. 1.

GReat trauaile , saith Sirach , is created Ecclus , 40 , 1 , 2 , 3 , 4. for all men , and an heauy yoake vppon the sonnes of Adam , from the day that they goe out of theyr Mothers wombe , till the day that they be buried in the earth , the common Mother of all things .

Namely , theyr thoughts , and theyr feare of hart ; theyr imagination of the thinges they waite for ; and the day of theyr death . Euen from him that sitteth vpon the glorious throne , vnto him that is lowest , & the most simple vpon earth . From him that is gorgiously arrayed and weareth a Crowne , Ecclus , 40. 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , &c. euen vnto him that is but homly , & porelie clothed : there is nothing but wrath , enuie , trouble , vnquietnesse , and feare of death ; with rigorous anger and strife .

Also , in the time of night , when Man should take his rest vpon his bed , the sleep changeth his vnderstanding and knowledge : so that little or nothing is mans rest in his sleepe , as well as in the day of his labour . For , hee feareth , and is disquieted in the vision of his hart ; like vnto one that runneth out of a battaile .

And , when all is past , he awaketh out of his sleepe , and meruaileth that the feare was nothing . Such things as these , happen vnto all flesh , both man and beast : but seuen times more vnto the vngodly .

And this also , is the state or condition of Mans life , sette downe by the holy Ghost himselfe in the booke of Iob ; That while Iob. 14 , 22. man liueth , he shall be sorrowfull : and , so long as his soule is in him , it shal mourne .

Onely the Sunne , the Moone , the starres , Marlorate . the Sea , & the Land , are pleasant ; because they are by nature beautifull : but all other thinges are doubtfull , and greeuous . And , Man aboue them all ; for , if any good thing happen vnto him , hee feeleth ( vndoubtedly ) there-withall , som● inward sorrowe and discontentment .

Yea ; the whole life of man , is of it selfe a Menander . most greeuous thing : ful fraught with miserie ; and continually accompanied with innumerable cares and griefes .

So that it is counted no better thing , but Plato . euen a miserable fetter , which chayneth the pure and euerlasting soule , to the vile , sinfull , and corruptible body .

§. 2.

Certainly , ( saith Hermes ) God hath so Hermes . ordained for man-kinde , that wee should liue in care : For , wee see by often experience , that among all things liuing & moouing vpon earth none is more miserable or wretched , then Man .

All manner of beastes , are ( during thys Menander . life ) farre more happy & wiser then man : For , behold the Asse of beasts , no doubt a most simple and miserable creature ; yet hath hee no harme through his owne default , saue what doth hap to him by nature . But wee , besides our naturall euils , dailie procure vnto our selues many other : For , wee are angry for euery little misfortune ; displeased at euery euill worde ; amazed at euery strange chaunce ; and afraid of euerie shadowe .

Yet is there none either so great an Oratour , Plato . or so mightie an Enchaunter as the life of Man is ; for , it subtilly perswadeth vs the contrary of that which wee often both see in others , and feele in our selues : For , notwithstanding that we knowe our owne frailetie , and that wee must die ; yet what wrongs , what hatreds , what labours of the body , and molestations of our minde , doe we greedily deuise , and daily begin afresh ? euen as it were in hope , or rather full assuraunce of so much time of life , as shall be sufficient to finish our determinations , and suffer vs to enioy the desired fruite of our enterprises .

Rightly therefore saith the Phylosopher , Socrates . that the cheefe cause of all euils that happen to man , is man him-selfe : for hee , through his greedy lusts , and couetous desires , is both troublesome to himselfe , and offensiue to all other creatures .

What a shame and folly is it then , for Theophr . men to complaine of God , for the shortnesse and many miseries of their life , when as they themselues , through riot , malice , contention , murder , and warres , make it much more shorter , and fuller of troubles then otherwise it would be , both in themselues , and sundry other men .

§. 3.

If man would consider well his life , saith Marcus Aurelius . Aurelius , hee should surely finde that there is nothing in it , but trouble of hart , vexation of minde , combersome businesse , and carefull thoughts .

One while , prouiding things necessary to defend the body from cold ; another while seeking meanes needfull , to protect it from too much heat . To day diligent , in casting plots which way hee may best augment his wealth ; to morrow circumspect ▪ howe hee may safely keepe , the goods which he hath alreadie gotten . Sometime , very prouident for the foode of his belly ; next , altogether mindfull , for clothes to his backe . In the day time , molested with a thousand cogitations ; in the night time , disquieted with fantasies and visions .

So that hee is neuer apt of himselfe , to Bias. keepe any meane or measure in his actions , concerning either gladnesse or sorow : but is continually driuen and carried away by the violence of affection ; sometime with compassion ; and sometime with rage and furie ; euen as his desire present doth ouerrule and gouerne him .

Whereby it is manifest , that miseries in Herodotu● . this world haue power ouer man : not man ouer miseries .

And sooner shall wee want teares to lament , Senec● . then cause of sorrowe to complaine , during this life .

Wherefore ; if we reckon our life by the Melancthon . yeeres of nature , howe long wee may liue ; wee shall finde the time very short : but if we count it according to the continuall cares and troubles therein , we shall thinke it too too long .

And surely , were it not for the hope wee Bernard . may haue heere , to attaine at last to the kingdom of heauen , this life of ours would seeme little better then the life of hell it selfe .

§. 4.

O life , ( saith Pythagoras ) how , or which Pythagoras . way may a man gette from thee , without deaths helpe ? Thy euils are infinite ; and no man is perfectly able , either to auoyde or to abide them .

For , there is no kinde of life in this world , Menander . but it may be exceedingly discommended , as hauing in it no notable , woorthy , or honorable thing : but all mingled with frailty , weakenes , and many molestations . What life then should a man leade ? Abroad , that is to say in offices , he is oftentimes combered with strifes , and many troublesome actions : at home , he is vexed with greefes : in the fielde , wearied with labours : on the sea , molested with feare : in wandering or ●ournying , if it be voyde of perrill , yet shall hee finde it painfull and tedious .

Art thou a maried man ? then canst thou not liue without cares . Art thou vnmaried , then is thy life vaine & solitary . Hast thou chyldren ? they bring with them many sorrowes . Hast thou none ? the want of them makes thy life seeme vnpleasant . Art thou a young man ? youth is wanton , wilde , and foolish . Art thou an olde man ? age is froward , weake , and feeble .

§. 5.

Alas , alas , ( saith the weeping Phylosopher ) Heraclitu● . how many are the miseries . & strange the calamities , that diuers wayes happen to men in this life ? One , beeing in the morning in wealthy estate , is by some suddaine accident , ere night , made miserably poore and need●e ; wofully bewayling the losse of his children , wife , and goods . Another , lamenteth the lacke of his health , libertie , or necessary liuing . A third , labouring for his liuing , mayneth himselfe by mischaunce with his owne working-toole , whilst hee is earnestly plying his busines .

The idle person , is pined with famine , bitten with dogs , imprisoned and whipped in euery good Towne . The gamster , breaketh his leg in dauncing , his stones in vaulting , his lunges in running ; his arme , his shoulder , or his necke in wrestling .

The adulterer consumeth himselfe with botches and filthy lepry . The dicer , is suddainly stabbed in with a dagger . The studient , is continually troubled with the rewme , or the gowte . What man is free from the strokes of theeues and murtherers ? or from the woundes , slaughters , and violence of souldiers ?

Besides all these , wee often see iust & innocent men wrongfully punished ; imprisoned ; banished ; and some-time put to a shamefull kinde of death . Chyldren are smothered in the cradle , fall into the fire , are drowned in the water , ouer-run with beastes , poysoned with Spyders , murthered , plagued , or infected with the corruption of the ayre . And besides these also , we are subiect to diuers sicknesses , and casuall mishaps ; as falling of houses , dearth , famine , thunderbolts , lightning , floods , and many moe troublesome chaunces , which suddainly light vpon all mankind indifferentlie .

The consideration whereof , caused Aristotle Aristotle . to say ; That Man is the patterne of frailety ; the spoyle of time ; the play of fortune ; the image of inconstancie ; the tryall of enuie and misery ; and all the rest of him fleame and choller .

¶ Of the causes why God suffereth man to be so much subiect to misery .

§. 1.

THE many miseries happening to Granado . man in this life , are ordained of God , ( saith Granado ) as a punishment for our sinnes , and a meanes to withdraw our harts from the inordinate loue of this present world . Yea , the very cause ( saith he ) why God would haue vs to be so often molested and vexed in this life , is , that wee might the more willingly forsake it ; and sigh continuallie for the true life , which is only to be enioyed in the world to come .

For , little reckoning would we make , & H●rmes . small regard would we haue , of the blessed life of the soule , which it entereth into after it is parted from the body , if this life had any certaine pleasure in it .

Wherefore , hee that thinketh to liue in Plato . this world without labour and sorrowe , is a foole : for , GOD hath so appointed our state , that we , by vertue of our soule , should suffer , & subdue all kinde of aduersities .

Yea ; God hath purposely ordained , the Euagoras . greefes , miseries , & sorrowes of this life , to be so many and so great ; and the pleasures thereof so small and fewe : to make vs the more desirous of the heauenly life , which is nothing els but ioy and pleasure .

And surely , it seemeth by the speech of the Apostle , that he knew well which was the better choyse of the twaine ; when hee said : * I desire to be dissolued , [ or loosed Philip. 1 , 23 , from this flesh , ] and to be with Christ : which is best of all .

For , we know ( saith he ) that if our earthly house of this tabernacle be destroied , we 2 , Cor , 5 , 1 , 2 haue a building giuen of God : that is , an house not made with hands , but eternall in the heauens . And therefore doe wee sigh , desiring to be clothed with our house which is from heauen .

§. 2.

These things being thus , ô howe happie Rauisius . were it nowe ( saith Rauisius ) for vnhappie man , if forgetfulnesse deceiued him not , to remember the sickle estate of his life : both how short it is , and also how full of miserie , vanitie , and woe : an approued exile , and hath nothing in it permanent .

But is euen a continuall conflict , strife , & Mar. Aur●l , warre ; a wandering wildernesse , and a vale of wretchednesse ; wherin we are continually compassed , with most terrible , fierce , and feareful enemies : to the deadly wounding , sleying , and ouer-throwing , both of body and soule into hell .

All these miseries considered , why should man then haue any desire to liue in this wretched world , & to abide in such a lothsome and laborious life ? Were not death much rather to be desired ? Were not the howre of death much better then the continuaunce of such a life ? For , to the godly , death is no death , but rather the most happie messenger , and quick dispatcher of all such displeasures : the end of al trouble and sorrow : the bedde of all rest : the doore of good desires : the gate of gladnesse : the port of Paradice : the hauen of heauen : the entrance to felicity : the manumission from all griefe and misery : and the beginning of euerlasting ioy and blessednes .

Death therefore , ought rather to be desired H●rmes . then despised : for , it changeth vs from this world of vncleanenes & shame , to the pure world of worship and worth : From this transitory life , to life euerlasting : from a worlde of folly and vanities , to a worlde of wisedome , reason , and truth : and from a world of trouble , trauaile , and paine , to a world of rest , comfort , and consolation .

Let each man therfore wisely consider of Pacuuius . his own estate : let him also feare to offend the maiestie of Almightie God : and not feare the day nor howre of death : but alwayes abide with patience his appoynted time : and when hee perceiueth that his turne is come , let him giue thanks vnto his Maker for his change .

¶ Of the parting of the soule from the bodie : and of the immortalitie thereof .

§. 1.

TO all thinges ( saith Salomon ) there Eccles. 3 , 1. 2 is an appointed time ; and a time to euery purpose vnder the heauen : a time to be borne , & a time to die ; a time to plant , and a time to pluck vp that which is planted .

For , here haue we no continuing Citty : Heb. 13 , 14 , but we seeke one to come .

All flesh waxeth old as doth a garment ; Ecclus. 14. 17 and this is the condition of all times : Thou shalt die the death .

For , ] what man is he that liueth , & shal Psal , 89 , 48. not see death ?

Sith that law is generall , which commaundeth Salust . to be borne and to die .

§. 2.

All things that are of the earth , ( saith Sirach ) Ecclus , 40 , 11 shall turne to earth againe : and they that are of the waters , shall returne into the Sea .

But the soule or spirit of man [ being immortal ] Eccles. 12. 7 shal returne vnto God that gaue it .

For , as the beginning of our creation commeth Aristotle . from GOD , so it is meete , that after death , our soule returne vnto him againe .

§. 3.

GOD hath created ( saith Beda ) three Beda . kindes of liuing Spirits ; the first incorporeall , proper to Angels onely : the second , couered ouer with flesh , but not mortall , or dying there-with ; that is , the soule or Spirite of man , dwelling in his body : the third , carnall , and dying with the flesh ; namelie , the spirite or life of beastes .

The soule of man ( also ) beeing once Augustine . made , shall surely endure for euer , eyther in the body , or out of the body : For , it should neuer beare the name , to bee made according to the Image of Gods own likenesse , if it might possibly be enclosed in the bonds of death .

§. 4.

The most precious & excellent creature Hermes . that God hath created here on earth , ( saith Hermes ) is man ; & the most worthy thing in him , is his soule or spirit : which endeuouring in this life to follow goodnes , shall after death be rewarded with eternal glory .

For , this is to be beleeued , that the soules Socrates . of good men , so soone as they are foorth of the bodie , they passe speedily into a better life ; but the soules of the wicked , goe from this world to a worse .

If death were the dissoluing both of bodie Plato . and soule , then happy were the wicked , which beeing once ridde of theyr bodie , should also for euer after be ridde of theyr soule and wickednes : but forasmuch as it is euident , that the soule is immortall , there is no comfort left for the vngodly to trust in . For , the immortalitie of the soule , excludeth all hope from the wicked , and establisheth the good in theyr goodnes .

§. 5.

By the iustice of God , ( saith Plato ) the Plato . soule must needes be immortall : and therfore no man ought to liue carelesse or negligent thereof .

For , though the body die , yet the soule Solon . dieth not ; but by the stroke of death , it passeth foorth of the body , into another world , more swiftly than any bird that flieth .

Yea ; the soules of all men ( doubtlesse ) Socrates . are immortall : but the soules of the godlie , are both immortall and diuine .

Wherefore , if thy soule be good , the Basill . stroke of death cannot hurt thee : for thy spirit shall thereby liue blessedly in heauen .

§. 6.

But for better proofe of this matter , then the speech of any Philosopher in the world can affoord , we finde it plainly affirmed in the Gospell of S. Luke , by the testimonie Luke , 16 , 22 , 23. &c. of Truth it selfe , that the soule of Lazarus , was no sooner out of his body ▪ but it was immediatly carried vp by the Angels into Abrahams bosome . Contrariwise , the soule of Diues ▪ after his death was speedily borne to hell torments . The first , to ioy & pleasure : the last , to paine & greefe . Betweene which two places also , there is such a great gulfe or swallowing pit sette , that there cannot possibly be any passage from one of them to the other .

Saint Iohn likewise witnesseth in the Reuelation , that when the 5. seale of the booke Reue. 6. 9. of God was opened , he saw vnder the Alter in heauen , the soules of them that were killed heere on earth , for the word of God , and for the testimonie of his truth .

And , to shew that they liue there , he further addeth in the next ve●se folowing , that they cryed vnto God , with a loude voyce , verse , 10 , saying : Howe long Lorde , holy and true , tariest thou to iudge & auenge our blood , &c.

King Salomon also , in his booke of wisdome affirmeth , that the soules of the righteous Wised. 3. 1. 2 , 3 , 4. are in the hande of God , and no torment shall touch them . Though in the sight of the vnwise ( saith hee ) they appeared to die , and their end was thought greeuous , and their departing from vs destruction ; yet they rest in peace : and though they suffer paine before men , yet is theyr hope full of immortality .

§. 7.

Besides these former places of holy scripture , wee finde also diuers other proofes in the booke of God , concerning this poynt : as namely , the hopefull speech of Dauid ; who when newes was brought him , that his base-borne child ( for whom hee fasted , prayed , and wept ) was dead , hee lamented no longer , but presently washed his handes and called for meate . And being demaunded 2 , Sam , 12. 23. the reason thereof by his seruants : hee aunswered ; I shall goe to him , but he shall not returne to mee .

Also ; when old Tobias was derided of his kinsfolkes and acquaintance , and scoffingly Tobie , 2. demaunded by them , where his hope was , for the which he had doone almes and buried the dead , ( considering he was now , euen after the finishing of a good worke , suddainly smitten blinde ? ) hee , nothing there-with dismayed , confidently rebuked them , saying ; Say not so ; for , wee are the children of holy men ; and looke for the life , which God shall giue vnto them that neuer turne their beleefe from him .

The same Tobias also at another time , to witnesse vnto the worlde what confident hope hee alwaies had of the soules immortalitie , earnestly requested of the Almightie , Tobie , 3 , 6 , that his spirit might be taken from him , and that his body might be dissolued and become earth .

The like may be read in the prayer of Elias , when he desired to die , saying : ô Lord , 1 , Reg , 19 , 4 I pray thee take my soule , for I am no better then my Fathers . &c.

§. 8.

And to shew yet a little further , that it resteth in the power of God to take the soule from the body , and to giue it againe at his pleasure ; wee finde in the first Booke of Kings , that the fore-said Elias , found such 1 , Reg , 17 , 22 , 23. fauour in the sight of God , that when the sonne of his hostesse was dead , he through his earnest prayer obtained that the childes soule was restored to him againe .

So did Elisha , in the same manner , obtaine 2 , Reg , 4 , 32 , 33. his peticion of the Lord , and reuiued the dead body of the Shunamites sonne .

We reade also in the Gospell written by S. Mathew , that after our Sauiour had giuen vp the Ghost , the Scpulchers of dead Math , 27 , 52 , 53. men , ( through the miraculous working of the Almightie ) opened themselues ; and many bodies of the Saints which slept , arose , and came foorth of the graues after his resurrection ; and went into the holie Citty , and appeared vnto many .

So that by these sayings and examples , Gene , 5 , 24. 2 , Reg , 2 , 1● Num , 16 , 32 , 33 , ( with the taking vp of Henoch and Elias both body and soule into heauen , the swallowing downe of Corath , Dathan , and Abiram , quicke into hell , ) and sundry other proofes in the Booke of God to this purpose , we may sufficiently assure our selues , that the soule of Man is immortall : & that there is not onely a place of rest ordayned of God for the godly ; but also , a lothsome pitte , or place of punishment , appointed by him for the wicked , after this life .

The veritie whereof , is likewise further witnessed vnto vs by the wordes of S. Augustine , Augustine . where he sayth ; The soules of the godly , beeing separated from their bodies , are in rest : and the soules of the vngodlie doe suffer punishment ; vntill such time as the bodies of the righteous doe rise againe vnto life euerlasting ; and the bodies of the vnrighteous vnto eternall death : which is also called the second death .

¶ Of the first Iudgement after death , called by Diuines particuler Iudgement : when the soule of euery man ( after it is parted foorth of his body ) shall presently receiue sentence from God , eyther of eternall ioy , or euerlasting payne .

§. 1.

IT is appointed vnto men , ( saith the Apostle ) Heb , 9 , 27 , that they shal once die ; and after that commeth the iudgement .

For , wee must all appeare before the Iudgement-seate of Christ , that euery man 2 , Cor , 5 , 10 may receiue the workes which are done in his body ; according to that he hath done : whether it be good or bad .

Also , at the very houre of death , the soule Cyprian . must render vp a particuler account vnto God , concerning all her doings in this life : and then shall it be iudged , & knowe assuredly , what shall become of it for euer .

If it finde fauour in the sight of God , it Basill . shal presently enter into the rest and ioy of the righteous : if otherwise , it shall be condemned by the Iudge to perpetual torments .

Yea ; ] Of euery idle worde , that men Math. 12. 36 shall speake in this life , they shal giue an account at the day of iudgement .

For , GOD will bring euery worke into Eccles. 12. 14. iudgement ; with euery secret thing , whether it be good or euill .

Hee will render vnto man according to Iob , 34 , 11. his worke : and cause euery one to finde according to his way .

That is , to them which by continuaunce Rom , 2 , 7 , 8 , in well dooing , seeke glorie , and honor , & immortalitie , shall be eternall life : but vnto them that are contentious and disobey the truth , and obey vnrighteousnesse , shall be indignation and wrath .

Tribulation and anguish [ also ] shall be Rom , 2 , 9 , 10 , vpon the soule of euery man that doth euil , of the Iewe first , and also of the Grecian ▪ But to euery man that doth good , shall be glory , and honour , and peace . &c.

§. 2.

Againe , so soone as the soule of man , saith Augustine . S. Augustine , is parted from the body , it passeth presently to the tribunall seate of God , vnder the custodie both of good and euill Angels : and after it hath there abidden the triall of a straite examination , it shall forthwith receiue the sentence , either of eternall blessednes , or els , of endlesse woe and miserie .

Yea ; euery one of vs shall giue accounts Rom , 14 , 12 , of himselfe to God .

And , euery man shall receiue his wages 1 , Cor , 3 , 8. [ or reward ] according to his worke .

But in most happy state , shall the soules Beda . of all the godly bee , after theyr departure hence ; who ( through grace giuen them from GOD ) haue earnestly in this life resisted euill , and followed goodnes : for , they shall then enter into that place of perpetuall happines , which Christ their Captaine hath prepared for all the companie of the faithfull , in the kingdome of his Father .

And , thus much likewise witnesseth the words of S. Iohn in the Reuelation , where hee sayth ; * Blessed and holy is hee , that Reue. 20 , 6● hath part in the first resurrection : for , on such the second death hath no power .

Blessed [ also ] are the dead , which hereafter Reu● , 14 , 13 die in the Lord : euen so saith the Spirite ; for , they rest from theyr labours , and theyr workes follow them .

¶ Of the last Iudgement after death : commonly called the general iudgement , or Doomes day : When the body and soule of euerie Man departed out of this life , beeing ( by the power of God ) ioyned againe together , shall ( with the rest of all mankind then liuing ) receiue the finall sentence , either of eternall pleasure or paine .

§. 1.

AFter death ( saith Esdras ) shall the 2 , Esdras , 14. 35. day of Iudgement come , when we shall liue againe ; and then shall the names of the righteous be made manifest , and the workes of the vngodly shall be declared .

And , many of them that sleepe in the Dan , 12 , 2. dust of the earth , shall awake ; Some , to euerlasting life : and som● , to shame and perpetuall contempt .

§. 2.

But , before the comming of this day , ( saith Christ ) there shall be great warres & Luke , 21 , 10 , 11. troubles in the worlde : For , Nation shall rise against Nation , and Realme against Realme . There shall also be great Earthquakes in diuers places , and pestilence , and hunger , and fearefull things appearing from heauen ; and many other great signes and wonders .

There shall be signes in the Sunne , and Luke , 21. 25 , 26 , in the Moone , and in the starres : and vpon the earth trouble among the Nations with perplexitie . The Sea and the waters shall roare , and mens harts shall fayle them for feare , and for looking after those thinges which shall come on the World . For , the powers of heauen shall be shaken .

§. 3.

After this , shall appeare the signe of the Math. 24 , 30. sonne of man in heauen : and then shall all the kindreds of the earth mourne .

Then [ also ] shal the wicked goe into the Esay , 2 , 19 , holes of the Rockes , and into the Caues of the earth , from before the feare of the Lord , and from the glory of his Maiestie , when he shall rise to destroy the earth .

Then shall they beginne to say to the Luke , 23 , 30 Mountaines , fall on vs ; and to the Hils , couer vs , & hide vs , from the presence of him that sitteth vpon the throne ; and from the Reue , 6 , 16 , 17 , wrath of the Lambe : for , the great day of his wrath is come , and who can stand ?

In those dayes , men shall seeke death , and Reue , 9 , 6. shall not finde it ; and shall desire to die , & death shall flee from them .

And they shall see the Sonne of man Math. 24. 30 come in the clowdes of heauen , with power and great glory . Who ( beeing ordained of Acts. 10 , 42 , * God to be the Iudge both of the quicke and deade , ) shall sende his Angels with a Mat. 24 , 31. great sound of a trumpet , and they shal gather together his Elect , from the 4. windes , and from the one end of heauen vnto the other .

§. 4.

Then shall Christ sitte vpon the throne Math , 25 , 31 32 , 33. of his glory : and before him shall be gathered all Nations ; and he shall seperate them one from another , as a sheepheard seperateth the sheepe from the goates . And hee shall set the sheepe on his right hand , and the goates on the left .

The shall the earth restore those that 2 , Esdr. 7 , 3● . haue slept in her , and so shall the dust , those that dwell therein in silence : and the secret places shall deliuer the soules that were committed vnto them .

And they shall come foorth that haue Iohn , 5 , 29. doone good , vnto the resurrection of life ; but they that haue done euill , vnto the resurrection of condemnation .

For , Christ our righteous Iudge , will Math. 16. 27 then giue to euerie man according to his deedes . And reward euery one , according Reue , 22 , 12 as his worke shall be .

Hee will then say to the righteous whom Math , 25. 34 , 35 , &c. hee hath placed on his right hand ; Come yee blessed of my Father , inherite yee the kingdom prepared for you from the foundations of the world . For , I was hungry , & ye gaue mee meate ; I was thirstie , and yee gaue me drinke ; I was a stranger , and yee lodged mee ; I was naked , and yee clothed mee ; I was sick , and yee visited me ; I was in prison , and yee came vnto mee .

Then shall the iust say , Lord , when haue we doone these things vnto thee ? And the King shall answere ; Verily , when you did them to the least of my bretheren , you did them to mee .

Then will he say to the wicked , standing Math. 25 , 41 , 42 , &c. on his left hand : Depart from me yee cursed , into euerlasting fire , which is prepared for the deuill and his Angels . For , I was hungry , and ye fed mee not ; I was thirstie , and ye gaue mee no drinke ; I was a stranger , and ye lodged mee not ; I was naked , and you clothed me not ; I was sicke , & in prison , and ye visited me not .

Then shall they also aunswere , saying ; When , ô Lord , haue wee seene thee hungry , or thirstie , or a stranger , or naked , or sicke , or in prison , and haue not ministred vnto thee ? And he shall aunswere ; Truly , I tell you , inasmuch as yee haue not doone it to one of the least of these my bretheren , yee did it not to mee .

And these men shall goe into euerlasting paine ; and the righteous into life eternall .

§. 5.

Miseries ( saith Esdras ) shal then vanish away ; 2 , Esdr , 7 ▪ 33 34. and long suffering shall haue an end . Iustice onely shall continue : the Truth shal remaine ; and Faith shall be strong .

The worke shall follow , and the rewarde verse , 35 , shall be shewed : the good deedes shall be of force ; and vnrighteousnes shal beare no more rule .

For , the day of Iudgement , shall be the 2 , Esdr. 7 , 43. end of this world , and the beginning of the immortalitie to come ; wherein all corruption shall cease .

Then shall no man bee able to saue him 2 , Esdr. 7. 45 , that is destroyed : nor oppresse him that hath gotten the victory .

§. 6.

We finde in the New Testament , that Saint Paule the Apostle , writing to the Corinthians , to prooue the resurrection of the dead , and the second comming of Christ , vseth many arguments to expresse the same : and neere vnto the end of his chapter he thus concludeth . * Behold , I shewe 1 , Cor , 15 , 51 , 52 , 53 , you a secret thing ; we shall not all sleepe , [ or die , ] but wee shall all be changed , in a moment , in the twinckling of an eye at the last trumpet : for , the trumpet shall sound , and the dead shall be raised vp incorruptible , and we shall be changed . For this corruptible , must put on incorruption : And this mortall , must put on immortality . &c.

According also to the former part of the Apostles speech in the afore-saide chapter , ( concerning the comming of Christ to iudgement ; with the resurrection of mens bodies , and the immortality of the soule , ) speaketh holy Iob , in the 19. of his booke , with a confident and perfect hope thereof , saying : * I am sure that my Redeemer liueth , Iob , 19 , 25 , 26 , 27 , and that he shall stand the last on the earth . And though after my skin , wormes destroy this bodie , yet shall I see GOD in my flesh : whom I my selfe shall see , and mine eyes shall behold , and none other for me ; though my raines are consumed within mee .

The aforesaide S. Paule likewise , comforting the Thessalonians , with the remembrance of the resurrection of the body , and last Iudgement , saith thus ; * I would not 1. Thes. 4 , 13. 14. 15. 16 , &c. Bretheren , haue you ignorant , concerning them that are a sleepe ; that ye sorrow not , euen as other which haue no hope . For , if we beleeue that Iesus is deade , and is risen ; euen so them which sleepe in Iesus , will God bring with him . For , this say we vnto you by the worde of the Lorde , that wee which liue and are remaining at the comming of the Lorde , shall not preuent them which sleepe . For , the Lord himselfe shall descend from heauen with a showte , and with the voyce of the Archangell : & with the trumpet of GOD : and the dead in Christ shall rise first . Then shall we which liue & remaine , be caught vp with them also in the Clowdes , to meet the Lord in the ayre : and so shall wee euer be with the Lord .

By the testimony of which places , it plainely appeareth , that at the last iudgement , there shall not onely bee a generall raysing vp of all mens bodies , ( which from the beginning of the world haue already departed out of this life , ) but also , a suddain changing of all mens bodies then liuing on the earth : which change , shal be vnto them in sted of death . And then shal the saints of God , presently after the finall sentence from Christ our Iudge pronounced , enter both body & soule into endlesse pleasure , & the wicked both body and soule into eternall paine .

¶ of the vncertaine time of the last Indgement .

§. 1.

NOw , for that the time of this day is vncertaine , & the houre of Christes comming vnknowne ; our Sauiour himselfe , & his beloued Apostles , haue therefore vouchsafed to leaue behind them many forewarning speeches , as a very necessary meanes to make vs more wary & watchfull of the same . Affirming that suddainly , * and in an houre that we think not , Math , 24. 44 will the sonne of man come .

But of that day and howre , saith Christ , Math , 24 , 36 knoweth no man : no , not the Angels of heauen , but my Father onelie .

But as the dayes of Noe were , so likewise Math. 24 , 37 , 38 , 39 , shal the comming of the Sonne of man be . For , as in the dayes before the floode , they did eate & drinke , marry , and giue in marriage , vntill the day that Noe entred into the Arke , and knewe nothing , vntill the flood came , and tooke them all away ; so shal also the comming of the sonne of man be .

Likewise also , as it was in the dayes of Luke , 17 , 28 , 29 , 30 , Lot , they eate , they dranke , they bought , they solde , they planted , they built ; but in the day that Lot went out of Sodome , it rained fire & brimstone from heauen , and destroyed them all . After these ensamples shal it be in the day when the sonne of man is reuealed .

At that day , he that is vpon the house , & Luke , 17 , 31 his stuffe in the house , let him not come downe to take it out : and hee that is in the fielde likewise , let him not turne backe to that he left behind .

Then two shall be in the fieldes , the one Math. 24 , 40 , 41 , 42. shall be receiued , the other refused : two women shall be grinding at the Mill , the one shall be receiued , and the other shal be refused . Watch therfore , for yee know not what houre your Maister will come .

Whether at euen , or at midnight : at the Mar , 13 , 35 , Cock-crowing , or in the dawning .

Of this be sure , ( saith Christ ) that if the Math , 24. 43 , 44. good-man of the house knew at what time the thiefe would come ▪ hee woulde surelie watch ▪ & not suffer his house to be digged through . Therfore be ye also readie : for in the houre that ye thinke not , will the sonne of man come .

If thou wilt not watch ( saith hee ) I will Reue , 3 , 3 , come on thee as a theefe , & thou shalt not know what houre I will come vpon thee .

§. 2.

These , and sundry other such like speeches , are set down in the New-Testament , as admonishments to forewarne vs ; & caueats , to make vs careful how we spend our time , least at that houre wee be found with the fiue foolish Virgins vnprouided . For , * the day of the Lord will come as a theefe 2 , Pet , 3 , 10. in the night ; in the which , the heauens shal passe away with a noyse , and the elements shal melt with heate & the earth , with the works that are therein , shal be burnt vp .

Seeing then that all these thinges must be 2 , Pet. 3. 11. 21 , 13 , 14. dissolued , what manner of persons ought we to be in holy conuersation & godlines : looking for , and hasting to the comming of the day of God ; by which the heauens beeing on fire , shall be dissolued , and the elements shall melt with heate ? But wee looke for newe heauens , and a new earth ; according to his promise , wherein dwelleth righteousnesse . Wherfore , beloued , seeing that yee looke for such things , be diligent , that yee may bee founde of him in peace , without spot , and blamelesse . &c.

And take heede to your selues ; least at Luke , 21 , 34 any time your harts be oppressed with surfetting and drunkennesse , and cares of this life , and least that day come on you at vnwares .

For , as a snare shall it come on all them verse , 35 , 36 that dwell on the face of the whole earth . Watch therefore , and pray continually ; that ye may be counted woorthy to escape all those thinges that shall come to passe : and that ye may stand before the Sonne of Man .

And those things that I say vnto you , I Mar , 13 , 37 , say vnto all men : watch .

For , ] blessed is that seruaunt , whom his Math , 24 , 46 Maister when he commeth , shall finde so dooing .

¶ Of Christ : Why hee came into the world : and of the profit wee haue by his Death , Resurrection , and Ascention . IOHN . 17. verse , 3. To know GOD , and Iesus Christ whom he hath sent , is life euerlasting .

¶ Of Christ . &c.

§. 1.

AT sundry times , and in diuers manners , Heb , 1 , 1 , 2 , ( saith the Apostle ) God spake in the old time to our Fathers by the Prophets : in these last dayes , hee hath spoken vnto vs by his Sonne , whom he hath made heire of all things , by whom also he made the worlds .

Who beeing the brightnesse of the glorie , verse , 3 , 4. and the ingraued forme of his person , and bearing vp all thinges by his mightie word , hath by himselfe purged our sinnes ; and sitteth at the right hande of the Maiestie in the highest places : and is made so much more excellent then the Angels , in asmuch as hee hath obtained a more excellent name then they .

For , vnto which of the Angels said he at Heb , 1 , 5 , any time : Thou art my sonne , this day begate I thee ? And againe : I will be his Father , and he shall be my sonne .

Or , ] vnto which also of the Angels said Heb , 1 , 13. he at any time ; Sit at my right hande , till I make thine enemies thy foote-stoole ?

§. 2.

By this man , ( namely Christ , ) were all Colos. 1. 16 , 17. things created , which are in heauen , and which are in earth : things visible , and invisible : whether they be Thrones or Dominions , or Principalities , or Powers : All things were created by him , and for him : and hee is before all things , and in him all things consist .

Hee is the heade of the bodie of the verse , 18 , 19 , 20. Church ; hee is the beginning and the first begotten of the dead ; that in all things hee might haue the preheminence .

For , it pleased the Father , that in him should all fulnes dwell : and by him , to reconcile all things vnto himselfe ; and to set at peace through the blood of his Crosse , both the things in earth , and the thinges in heauen .

Wherefore , God hath also highly exalted Philip. 2 , 9. 10 , 11. him , & giuen him a Name aboue euery name , that at the Name of Iesus euery knee should bow , both of things in heauen , and things in earth ; and things vnder the earth . And , that euery tongue shoulde confesse , that Iesus Christ is the Lord , vnto the glorie of God the Father .

For , in him , dwelleth all the fulnesse of Colos. 2 , 9. the God-head bodily .

And in him are hidde all the treasures of Colos. 2. 3. wisedome and knowledge .

Vnto him is all power giuen , both heauen and in earth . Math. 28. 18

For , the Father loueth the Sonne , and Iohn , 3 , 35 , hath giuen all things into his hand .

The Father iudgeth no man , but hath Ioh , 5 , 22 , 23 committed all iudgement vnto the Sonne , because that all men shoulde honour the Sonne , as they honour the Father .

In his hand also , are the keyes both of hell Reu , 1 , 18. and of death .

And , hee [ likewise ] hath the key of Dauid , Reue. 3. 7. which openeth , and no man shutteth : and shutteth , and no man openeth .

§. 3.

Wherefore , if any man be willing to Iohn , 14 , 6. come vnto God , our Sauiour Christ declareth himselfe to be the Way , the Truth , and the Light : and , that no man commeth vnto the Father , but by him .

Hee is the doore ; by him if any man enter Iohn , 10 , 9 , in , he shall be saued : and shall goe in , & goe out , and finde pasture .

He is the true light , which lighteth euery Iohn , 1 , 9 , man that commeth into the world .

He is that preuailing seed of the woman , Gene , 3 , 15. which was promised in Paradise by God the Father vnto Adam , that hee shoulde breake the head of the deuill .

He is that spirituall Rock , of whom all our 1 , Cor. 10. 3. Fathers did eate and drinke .

He is acknowledged and openly confessed Mark , 5 , 7. by his greatest enemy , to be the Sonne of the most high God .

Yea ; hee is confirmed by a voyce from Math , 3 , 17 heauen , to be that beloued sonne , in whom God the Father is well pleased .

Hee is that sonne whom Dauid willeth Psalm. 2 , 12 , vs to kisse and embrace ; least he be angry , and we perrish from the right way .

Hee is the Lord of Lordes , and King of Reue , 17 , 14 Kings : and they that are on his side , are called , and chosen , and faithfull .

Hee is the Lambe of God , which taketh Iohn , 1 , 29. away the sinnes of the world .

Hee is that kinde & louing Samaritane , Luke . 10 , 34 which healed the wounded man , that was found in the high-way halfe dead .

He is that gentle and compassionate Soueraigne , Math , 28 , 27 which freely forgaue his seruant the tenne thousand talents that hee owed vnto him .

He is that cheefe corner stone , which Acts , 4 , 11 , the Iewes ( counting themselues builders ) refused .

He is the Mediatour of the Newe-Testament . Heb , 12. 24.

He is the end of the Lawe for righteousnesse , Rom. 10. 4. vnto euery one that beleeueth .

Hee is the onely Mediatour betweene 1. Tim , 2. 5. God and man .

He is [ both ] the power of God , and the 1 , Cor. 1. 24. wisedome of God .

He is our wisdome , and righteousnesse , 1 , Cor. 1. 30 sanctification , and redemption .

He is that Lord of life , whom God hath Acts , 3. 15. raised from the dead .

Hee * is our peace . And the * Prince of Ephe. 2. 14. Heb , 2. 10. our saluation .

He is the Sheepheard and Bishop of our 1 , Pet. 2. 25. soules .

He is the Vine , & we are the branches . Iohn , 15 , 5 , Heb , 6 , 20.

He is our high-priest for euer , after the order of Melchisedecke .

Hee is our Aduocate vnto God the Father . 1. Ioh , 2 , 1 ,

Hee is the reconciliation for our sinnes : 1 , Iohn , 2 , 2 , & not for ours onely , but also for the sinnes of the whole world .

Finally ; hee is the Authour and finisher Heb , 12 , 2. of our fayth .

For , without him , we can do nothing . Iohn . 15. 5.

§. 4.

If any man thirst , ( saith Christ ) let him Iohn , 17 , 37 , come vnto mee and drinke .

Hee that beleeueth in mee , as sayth the verse , 38 , Scripture , out of his belly shall flowe riuers of water of life .

I am the light of the world ; hee that followeth Iohn , 8 , 12 mee , shall not walke in darknesse , but shall haue the light of life .

I am the bread of life ; hee that commeth Iohn . 6. 35 , to me , shall not hunger : and he that beleeueth in me , shall neuer thirst .

I am that liuing bread which came down Iohn , 6 , 51 , from heauen ; of whom whosoeuer eateth , hee shall liue for euer .

I am the resurrection & the life ; hee that Iohn , 11 , 25 , 26. beleeueth in me , though he were dead , yet shall hee liue : and whosoeuer liueth & beleeueth in mee , shall neuer die .

¶ Of Christes comming into the worlde : and the seuerall causes thereof .

§. 1.

WEe , when wee were children , saith the Apostle ) were in bondage Gala. ▪ 4 , 3 , 4 , 5. vnder the ordinaunces of the world . But when the fulnes of time was come , GOD sent foorth his Sonne , made of a woman , & made bond vnto the law , to redeeme them which were bond vnto the law : that we [ through election ] might receiue the inheritance that belongeth vnto the naturall sonnes .

§. 2.

Man liued in the worlde for a time ( saith S. Augustine ) without the Lawe written ; Augustine . to teach him , that he was not a law to himselfe : and a certaine time vnder the Law , to make him finde by proofe , that he was not able to performe it . But afterwards , GOD ( through his great loue and mercy ) sent his onely Sonne Christ into the world , both to fulfill the Lawe , and also , to offer grace vnto man ; which remained as it were vppon a scaffold , where hee saw nothing but death , ready to deuoure him .

Christ came also at such time , as learning did most florish , & when the greatest Empire Augustine . was in the cheefest pride : to the ende , that all worldly wisedome , should acknowledge it selfe to be foolishnes , & all power weakenesse , before him .

Yet came he not to bee serued , but to Mar. 10 , 45 serue : & to giue his owne life for the raunsome of many .

Hee came [ likewise , ] not to destroy the Math , 5 , 17 Law or the Prophets ; but to fulfil them .

Neither came hee to destroy mens liues , Luke , 9 , 5. but to saue them .

For , God sent not his Son into the world , Iohn , 3 , 17 , that he should condemne the worlde ; but that the world throgh him , might be saued .

And this is a true saying , & by al meanes 1 , Tim , 1 , 15 woorthy to be receiued , that Christ Iesus came into the world to saue sinners .

§. 3.

It was a matter greatly standing with the Ierome . iustice of God , ( saith S. Ierome ) that Christ should come into the world , and become man for vs ; because , that in the same nature whereby GOD was offended , in the same nature likewise shoulde satis-faction bee made : sinne was committed in mans nature , and therefore it was necessarie that Christ should come in mans nature , to appease the wrath of God for sinne .

And forasmuch also , as by the right of Chrisostome . creation , euery man is bound in conscience to fulfill euen the very rigour and extremitie of the mortall Law , but man beeing fallen from his first estate , was no way able to obserue it : therefore , it was requisite that Christ should come , & become man , that in mans nature hee might fulfill all righteousnes which the Law doth exact .

§. 4.

Christ came into the world ( saith Becon ) Becon . both true God , & true man ; God , of God his Father , from before the beginning of all time ; and man of vs : borne of the kindred of Abraham & Dauid , according to Gods promise . Yea , true and naturall man , made of our fleshe , and of our blood ; this alone excepted , that we receiued our nature with sinne , and in sin , & by naturall coniunction , but Christ receiued his humanitie , of his Mother Mary , the blessed Virgine , without sinne , & without the company of any man ; onely by the operation of the holie Ghost .

For , by the salutation of an Angell , the Gregory . Worde , entred the wombe ; and straight the Worde in the wombe became flesh .

And , the same Worde beeing made flesh , Iohn , 1 , 14 , dwelt among vs ; and wee sawe the glorie thereof , as the glory of the onely begotten Sonne of the Father , full of grace and truth .

§. 5.

Furthermore , it greatly behooued ( saith Caluine . Caluine ) that the sonne of God , should become for vs Emanuell : that is , God with vs : & that in this sort ; that by naturall ioyning , his God-head and nature of man , might grow into one together ; otherwise , neither could the neerenesse be neere enough , nor alliance strong enough for vs to hope by , that God dwelleth with vs : So great was the disagreement betweene our filthines , & the most pure cleanenes of God . And , although man had stoode vndefiled without any spotte , yet was his estate too base , to attaine vnto GOD , without a Mediatour .

Besides ; it was no meane thing that the Caluine . Mediatour had to doe : for , it was so to restore vs into the fauour of God , as to make vs , of the children of men , the chyldren of God : of the heires of hell , the heires of the kingdome of heauen . And who could do this , vnlesse the sonne of God , were made also the sonne of man : & so take ours vppon him , to conceiue his into vs ; and to make that ours by grace , which was his by nature ?

Therefore it was for the same cause verie Caluine . profitable , that hee which shoulde be our Mediatour and Redeemer , should be both very God , and very man . It was his office to swallow vp death ; who could doe that , but Life it selfe ? It was his office to ouercome sinne ; who could do that , but Righteousnes it selfe ? It was his office to vanquish the powers of the worlde and of the ayre : who could doe that , but a Power aboue both world and ayre ?

Now , in whose possession is life , or righteousnes , or the Empire and power of heauen , Caluine . but in Gods alone ? Therfore the most mercifull God , in the person of his onelie begotten sonne , made himselfe our Mediatour and Redeemer , when his will was to haue redeemed . And forasmuch therfore , as neither being onely God , he could feele death , nor being onely man , he could ouercome death ; hee coupled the nature of man , with the nature of GOD ; that hee might yeelde the one subiect to death , to satisfie for sinnes : and by the power of the other , hee might wrastle with Death , and get the victory for vs .

§ 6.

Christ came from heauen ( saith Gregorie ) Gregory . into a womans wombe ; from a womans wombe into a Cratch or Manger ; from the manger , to the Crosse ; from the Crosse , to the graue ; & from the graue he went to heauen againe .

Yea ; hee by his incarnation came downe Ambrose . from heauen to vs : that wee , beeing made partakers of his grace , might ascend vp into heauen by him .

And , for this purpose appeared the Son 1 , Iohn , 3 , 8. of GOD , that he might loose the works of the deuill .

Which are , * * Fulgentius . sinne ; death ; and hell .

He came [ also , ] that we might haue life ; Iohn , 10 , 10 and that we might haue it in aboundance .

Finally ; ] hee came into the worlde , to Luke , 19 , 10 seeke and saue that which was lost .

And , not to call the righteous , but sinners Math , 9 , 13. to repentance .

§. 7.

Moreouer , ] wee knowe , ( saith S. Iohn ) 1 , Iohn , 5 , 20 that the sonne of God is come ; & hath giuen vs a mind to know him , which is true : and wee are in him that is true ; that is , in his Sonne Iesus Christ : this same is verie God , and euerlasting life .

Yea ; hee is come a light into the world ; Iohn , 12 , 46 that who soeuer beleeueth in him , shoulde not abide in darknesse .

Hee hath [ also ] appeared , that he might 1 , Iohn , 3 , 5. take away our sinnes : and in him is no sinne .

Euery spirite [ therefore ] which confesseth 1 , Ioh , 4 , 2 , 3 that Iesus Christ is come in the flesh , is of God . And , euery spirit that confesseth not , that Iesus Christ is come in the flesh , is not of God .

¶ Of the Passion : Death : Buriall : Resurrection : and Ascention of our Sauiour Christ .

§. 1.

AFter that S. Peter had fully aunswered the demaund of his Maister ; by Math , 16 , 16 20. confessing him to be Christ , the sonne of the liuing God : our Sauiour presently charged him , and the rest of the disciples , that they shoulde [ as then ] tell no man that he was Iesus the Christ .

And , from that time forth , hee began to verse , 20. shewe and fore-tell them of his Passion ; Death ; and Resurrection ; saying : * The Mark , 8 , 30 , 31 , sonne of man must goe vnto Ierusalem , & suffer many things of the Elders , and of the High-priests , and Scribes , & be slaine , and rise againe the third day .

Also , in the 20. of Mathew , the ninth of Luke , 9 , 44. Marke , and the eyghteene of Saint Luke , besides sundry other places , he ceaseth not to instruct and perfect them in this poynt : bidding them * marke his words diligentlie . For , it shall come to passe , saith he , that the Sonne of man shall be deliuered into the hands of men . &c.

Likewise , being in the way going toward Mat , 20 , 17 , 18 , 19. Ierusalem , hee tooke the twelue Disciples apart , and began againe to tell them , what things should come vnto him : saying ; Behold , Marke , 10 , 32 , 33 , 34 , we goe vp to Ierusalem , & the sonne of man shall be deliuered vnto the High-priests , Luke , 18 , 31 , 32 , 33 , and to the Scribes ; and they shall condemne him to death ; and shall deliuer him vnto the Gentiles . And they shall mocke him , and scourge him , and spet vpon him , and kill him : but the third day he shall rise againe . * For , as Ionas was three Mat. 12. 40. dayes and three nights in the Whales belly , so shall the sonne of man be three dayes & three nights in the hart of the earth .

And , as Moises lift vp the Serpent in the Ioh , 3 , 14 , 15 wildernesse , so must the Sonne of man bee lift vp : that who-soeuer beleeueth in him , shoulde not perrish , but haue euerlasting life .

§. 2.

After all these seuerall fore-tellings of his Passion , Iesus entered into Ierusalem , and Marke , 11 , 11 , 15. went into the Temple , and began to cast out them that sold and bought therein , and ouerthrewe the tables of the money-changers , and the seates of them that solde Doues .

Saying vnto them : Take these thinges Iohn , 2 , 16 , hence : make not my fathers house , a house of merchandise .

For , it is written ; My house shall be called , Mat. 21. 13. the house of Prayer ; but ye haue made it a denne of theeues .

Also , hee taught daily in the Temple . Luke , 19. 47 , And the High-priestes , & the Scribes , and the cheefe of the people , sought to destroy him .

But they coulde not finde what they verse , 48 , might doe vnto him : for all the people hanged vpon him when they heard him .

§. 3.

Then one of the twelue , named Iudas Math , 26 , 14 , 15 , Iscariot , went vnto the cheefe Priestes , and said ; What will ye giue mee , and I will deliuer him vnto you ?

And , when they heard it , they were glad , Mar , 14 , 11 , and promised that they woulde giue him Math , 26 , 15 , 16. money : namely , thirtie peeces of Siluer . And from that time he sought opportunitie to betray him .

§. 4.

Now , hee that betrayed Iesus , had giuen Math. 26 , 47. 48. them a token , saying : Whom-so-euer I shall kisse , that is hee , lay hold on him .

And , forth-with hee came to Iesus , and said ; GOD saue thee Maister , and kissed him .

Then the Bande , and the Captaine , and Iohn . 18. 12. 13 , 14. the officers of the Iewes , tooke Iesus , and bounde him , & ledde him away , to Annas first ; for he was father in lawe to Caiphas , which was the high Priest that same yeere . And Caiphas was he that gaue counsell to the Iewes , that it was expedient that one man should die for the people .

§. 5.

The cheefe Priestes [ therefore ] and the Mat. 26. 59. 60. 61. Elders , and all the whole Counsell , sought false witnesse against Iesus , to put him to death : but found none . And though many false witnesses came , yet founde they none whose witnes agreed together . But at the last , came two false witnesses , saying : Mark , 14 , 56 57 , 58 , 59 , Wee heard this man say ; I will destroy this Temple of God made with hands , and within three dayes I will builde another , made without hands . But theyr witnes yet agreed not together .

Then the high Priest stood vp amongst Math , 26 , 63 64 , 65 , 66. them , and sayde vnto Iesus ; I charge thee by the liuing God , that thou tell vs , if thou be Christ the Sonne of God .

And , when Iesus had told him the truth of that which he asked , hee beleeued him not , but presently rent his clothes , saying ; Hee hath blasphemed , what haue wee any more neede of witnesses ? Behold , now ye Mark . 14 , 61 62. 63 , 64. haue heard his blasphemy . What think ye ? And they all condemned him to be worthie of death .

§. 6.

Then spate they in his face , and buffetted Math. 26. 67 Luke 22 , 63 64 , 65 , him . And * the men that helde Jesus , mocked him , and strooke him . And when they had blindfolded him , they smote him on the face , saying ; Prophecie vnto vs , ( ô Christ ) who is hee that smote thee . And many other thinges blasphemously spake they against him .

Besides ; when the morning was come , Mat , 27 , 1 , all the cheefe Priestes & Elders of the people , tooke counsel against Iesus , to put him to death .

And they led him away bounde , and deliuered verse , 2. him vnto Pontius Pilate the Gouernour .

And , they began to accuse him , saying : Luke , 23 , 2 , Wee haue founde this man peruerting the people , and forbidding to pay tribute to Caesar , saying ; That hee is Christ , a King . &c.

§. 7.

Pilate , after hee had examined Iesus , and Luke , 23 , 4 , 7. 11. 15. coulde finde no fault in him , sent him to Herod . Herod , with his men of warre despised and mocked him : and arrayed him in white , and sent him backe againe to Pilate .

Pilate , seeing nothing woorthy of death was done vnto Iesus by Herod , assembled together the Iewes , & demaunded of them , Math , 27 , 22 , 23 , what * hee should doe with Iesus , which was called Christ ? Then aunswered they all at once , saying : Let him bee crucified . And , when he asked them , saying : What euill hath hee doone ? they cryed the more vehemently : Let him be crucified .

So Pilate willing to content the Iewes , Mark , 15 , 15 loosed vnto them Barrabas , a malefactour , whom they desired ; and after hee had scourged Iesus , deliuered him vnto the Souldiours , that he might be crucified .

§. 8.

The souldiours of the Gouernour , ( hauing Math , 27 , 27 28 , 29 , Christ in theyr custody ) led him into the Common-hall , and presently gathered about him the whole Bande ; and they strypped him , and put vppon him a Scarlet robe . Then platted they a Crowne of thornes , and put it vppon his heade , and a Reede in his right hande , and bowed theyr knees before him , & mocked him , saying : God saue thee , King of the Iewes .

They also spate vpon him , & smote him verse , 30 , 31 , on the heade with the Reede . And , after they had mocked him , they tooke the robe from him , and put his owne rayment on him , and led him away to crucifie him .

And , as they came out , they found a man of Cyrene , named Simon ; him they compelled verse , 32 , to beare his Crosse .

And , they brought him to a place named Mar , 15 , 22. Golgotha : which is by interpretation , the place of Dead-mens skuls . * There they Iohn , 19 , 18. crucified him , and two other with him , on either side one , and Iesus in the midst .

This was done about the sixt howre , and Luke , 23 , 44 there was darknes ouer all the Lande vntill the ninth houre .

The Sunne was darkned , and the vaile verse , 45 , 46 of the Temple rent through the midst . And Iesus cryed with a loude voyce , and sayd ; Father , into thine hands I commend my spirit . And when he thus had sayd , hee gaue vp the Ghost .

§. 9.

Thus suffered our Sauiour ( according to his owne fore-telling ) many wrongs , iniuries , & reproches of his enemies , for our sakes . And , in the end , after all his whyppings , buffettings , mockings , and reuilings , hee was * deliuered to death [ vpon Rom , 4. 25. the Crosse ] for our sinnes .

Yea ; hee was deliuered to death , by the Acts , 2 , 23 , determinate counsell , and foreknowledge of God .

Otherwise , it had not been in the power of his enemies to depriue him of life . For , no man could take his life from him : but he layd it downe of himselfe . For he , [ being Iohn , 10 , 18. both God and man , ] had power to lay downe his life ; & power to take it again .

Yet , forasmuch as he came downe from heauen , not to doe his owne will , but the * will of God which sent him ; hee ( therefore ) Ioh , 6 , 38 , willinglie gaue * himselfe for our sinnes : that hee might deliuer vs from this Gala , 1 , 4. present euill world , according to the will of God , euen our Father .

And that , by his suffering ; hee might Ierome . make an excellent and merritorious satisfaction vnto his Father , for mans iniquity .

For , to this end especially was the passion Chrisostome . of our Sauiour Christ ; that GOD might thereby bring to passe a worke , in which he might more fully manifest both his iustice and mercy , then hee did in the Creation : namely , the reconciliation betweene himselfe and man ; through the suffering of his onely sonne for sinne .

So that the Passion of Christ , being considered Augustine . as a bare passion , ministers no comfort vnto vs : but all our ioy standeth in this , that by fayth we apprehend it , as a full satis-faction , meanes , or agreement , made vnto God , for our iniquities .

And confesse withall , that as the principall Augustine . cause thereof , was the price of mans Redemption ; so it was done by the decree and prouidence of God .

§. 10.

After our Sauiour had thus fully suffered for our offences ; there came a rich man of Math , 27 , 57 58 , 59 , 60. Arimathea , named Ioseph , who had also himselfe beene Iesus disciple : hee went to Pilate , and requested the body of Iesus . And Pilate , ( * after hee vnderstoode that Mar. 15 , 45. Iesus was dead , ) commaunded the body to be giuen him . So Ioseph tooke it , & wrapped it in a cleane linnen cloth , and put it in his new Tombe , which he had hewne out in a Rocke , wherin ( before that time ) was Ioh , 19 , 41 , 42 * neuer any man layd . There then did he , and Nicodemus helping him , lay the bodie of Iesus . And when they had doone , Math. 27. 60 they rolled a great stone to the doore of the Sepulcher , and departed .

At this time also , there were certaine women , Math , 27 , 55 , 56 , which had followed Iesus from Galile , ministring vnto him , among whom was Mary Magdalen , and Mary the mother of Iames and Ioses , and the mother of Zebedeus sonnes . These beheld the Sepulcher , Luke , 23. 55 , 56. and sawe howe the body of Iesus was layd . And they returned , and prepared odours and sweet oyntments , but rested the Saboth day , according to the commaundement .

§. 11.

On the morrow after the Saboth , beeing Luke , 24 , 1 , 2 , 3 , the first day of the weeke , these foresaid women came early in the morning vnto the Sepulcher , bringing with them the odours which they had prepared . And perceiuing the stone to bee rolled away from the doore thereof , they went in , but found not the body of the Lord Iesus .

And it came to passe , that whilst they verse , 4. 5. 6 , 7 , 8. were amazed thereat , two men suddainlie stoode by them in shining vestures . And as they trembled and durst not looke vp , the men said vnto them : Why seek ye him that liueth , among the deade ? Hee is not heere , but is risen . Remember howe hee spake vnto you while hee was yet in Galilee , saying ; The sonne of man must be deliuered into the hands of sinfull men , & be crucified ; & the third day rise againe .

And they remembred the wordes of verse , 9 , 10. Christ , and returned from the Sepulcher ; and tolde all these thinges vnto the eleuen , and to all the remnant . &c.

The same day [ also , ] Iesus himselfe , Mark , 16 , 9 , 10. 11 , 12 , ( that hee might make manifest his Resurrection to such as loued him ) appeared first to Mary Magdalen , out of whom hee had cast seauen deuils . And , at another time , after that , he appeared vnto two of his disciples , as they went into the Country . And they went and tolde these thinges vnto the Apostles , and the rest of his disciples : but they beleeued it not .

After this , hee appeared also vnto the Mark . 16. 14 eleuen , as they sate together ; and reproued them for their vnbeleefe , and hardnesse of hart : because they beleeued not them which had seene him , being risen vp againe .

And further , to confirme them in an vndoubted beleefe of his most certaine Resurrection , and to assure them by plaine proofes , that he was truly their Lorde and maister Christ which appeared vnto them , and no deceitfull or deluding Spirit , ( as Luke , 24 , 37 38 , 39. 40. they at the first sight supposed him to be , ) he first shewed vnto them his hands & his feete , and then commaunded them to handle and feele his body , and to beholde his flesh and bones . * Afterwardes , he asked verse , 41. 42 , 43 , &c. them for meat , & did eate the same in their presence . Hee also opened their vnderstanding , and expounded the Scriptures vnto them , saying : Thus it is written : and thus it behoued Christ to suffer , and to rise againe from the dead the third day : and that repentance & remission of sinnes , should be preached in his Name among all Nations ; beginning at Ierusalem . &c. Afterward , he led them * forth into Bethania , & Luke , 24 , 50 lift vp his hands & blessed them .

And when hee had sundry times presented himselfe aliue vnto them , ( after that he had suffered , ) and sufficiently prooued his resurrection * by many infallible tokens ; Acts , 1 , 3 , 4. 5. ( beeing seene of them by the space of fortie dayes , & speaking of those things which appertaine to the kingdome of God , ) hee then gathered them together , and commaunded them , that they shoulde not depart from Ierusalem ; but waite for the promise of the Father : which ( said he ) ye haue hearde of mee . Namely , the comming of * the holy Ghost . &c. Iohn , 14 , 26

§. 12.

And when Iesus had spoken these things vnto his Apostles , ( to the intent they might as well be eye-witnesses of his Ascention , as records to the worlde of his Resurrection , ) while * they beheld , he was taken vp : Acts. 1. 9. for a clowde tooke him out of their sight .

And for further suretie hereof , then the bare sight of their eyes onely , ( though that alone , were of it selfe , aboue all other most sufficient , ) they heard with theyr eares , the very same thing which they saw with theyr eyes , further affirmed vnto them by two heauenly witnesses : for , while they looked stedfastly after him , towards heauen as hee went , * behold , two men stoode by them in Acts , 1 , 10. 11. white apparrell , which also said ; Yee men of Galilee , why stand yee gazing into heauen ? This Iesus , which is taken vp from you into heauen , shall so come , as yee haue seene him goe into heauen .

Thus much , onely to prooue , according to the Scriptures , the Passion , Death , Buriall , Resurrection , and Ascention of our Sauiour Christ . Whom * the Heauen Acts , 3 , 21. must containe , vntil the time that all things be restored , which GOD hath spoken by the mouth of all his holie Prophets , since the world began .

¶ Of the seuerall benefites which wee haue , by the Death , Resurrection , and Ascention of our Sauiour Christ .

§. 1.

AS by diuers places in the Booke of GOD , we finde it manifestly affirmed , that there is only but one God , which alone , by his owne almightie power , hath made Heauen , and Earth , the Sea , & all that in them is : So from the selfe same sacred Scriptures it may plainlie bee proued , by the speech of the Apostle , that there is [ onely ] but one Mediatour betweene God , and man ; namely , the man 1 , Tim. 2. 5. 6. * Christ Iesus : who gaue himselfe a raunsome for all men , to be a testimonie in due time .

Hee [ alone ] died for our sinnes , according 1 , Cor. 15 , 3 , 4. to the Scriptures ; and he was buried , and rose againe the third day , according to the Scriptures .

Yea ; hee died for all : that they which 2 , Cor , 5 , 15 , liue , should not henceforth liue vnto themselues ; but vnto him which died for them , and rose againe .

§. 2.

Christ , that he might kill death , ( saith S. Augustine . Augustine , ) was clothed with death : for , death coulde not die , but in life : euen as that which is sower & bitter , dieth not , but in that which is pleasant and sweet .

And , as Elizeus made the yron to swim , Cyrill . which naturally sinketh : so Christ by his death , brought vs backe from the gates of hell , which deseruedly we should haue entered .

Hee also , by his owne death , hath destroyed Heb. 2 , 14 , 15. him that had the power of death : that is to say , the deuil : and hath deliuered all them , which for feare of death , remained all their life time subdued vnto bondage .

Yea , he by his comming , hath abolished 2 , Tim , 1 , 10 or put away death : and brought life and immortalitie vnto light , through the Gospell .

§. 3.

O Death , where is thy sting ? ( saith the 1 , Cor , 15 , 55 , 56 , 57 , Apostle , ) ô graue , where is thy victorie ? the sting of Death , is sinne ; & the strength of sinne is the Lawe : but thankes be vnto God , which hath giuen vs victory through our Lord Iesus Christ .

For , hee [ onely ] deliuereth vs from the 1 , Thes. 1 , 10. wrath of God to come .

And to him also giue all the Prophets Acts , 10 , 43. witnesse ; that through his Name , all that beleeue in him , should receiue the forgiuenesse of theyr sinnes .

§. 4.

Wee were not redeemed ( as S. Peter 1 , Pet , 1 , 18 , 19 , 20. affirmeth ) with corruptible things , as Siluer and Gold , from our vaine conuersation , which we receiued by the traditions of the Fathers : but with the precious bloode of Christ , as a Lambe vndefiled and without spot ; which was ordained before the foundation of the world , but was declared in the last times . &c.

Who his owne selfe , bare our sinnes in 1 , Pet , 2 , 24 , his bodie on the tree : that we being deliuered from sinne , shoulde liue in righteousnesse : by whose stripes we were healed .

For , hee hath taken on him our infirmities , Esay , 53 , 4. and borne our paines .

He was wounded for our transgressions , Esay , 53 , 5 , hee was broken for our iniquities . The chastisement of our peace was vpon him ; and with his stripes we are made whole .

All wee like sheepe , haue gone astray : verse , 6 , we haue turned euery one to his own way , and the Lord hath layde vpon him , the iniquitie of vs all .

Yea ; God hath made him which knewe 2. Cor. 5 , 21. no sinne , to be sinne for vs : that we should be made the righteousnesse of GOD in him .

And , those things which GOD before Acts , 3 , 18 , had shewed by the mouth of all his Prophets , that Christ shoulde suffer , the same hath hee fulfilled .

Yet was his death voluntary , and not of Augustine . constraint .

§. 5.

Mankind laboureth in this world , ( saith Bernard . S. Bernard ) of a three-folde disease : his birth ; his life ; his death . The first , vncleane ; the second , sinfull ; the third , dangerous : but Christ by his comming , brought vnto vs three remedies : Hee was borne ; hee liued ; he died . His birth , refined ours , his life , instructed ours ; his death , ouercame ours .

And , as a strong corrasiue layd to a sore , Ierome . eateth away all the rotten and dead fleshe : so Christes death , beeing applyed to the hart of a penitent sinner by fayth , weakens & consumes that corruption of sin , which cleaueth so fast vnto our natures ; & dwelleth within vs .

§. 6.

It was very needfull ( saith S. Augustine ) Augustine . that Christ the sonne of God , should both become man , & die for vs ; for two causes . First , to satisfie Gods iustice . Secondly , that hee might fulfill the truth of Gods Word , which had saide ; That man eating the forbidden fruite , shoulde die the death .

For surely , if the sonne of God , had not Beza . come into the worlde in our nature , ( sinne onely excepted ) and died vpon the Crosse , to appease the wrath of God for mans offences ; wee should yet remaine subiect to eternall death and damnation .

But he hath loued vs ; & hath giuen himselfe Ephe , 5. 2 , for vs : to be an offering , & a sacrifice , of a sweet smelling sauour vnto God .

Yea ; hee hath loued vs , and washed vs Reue. 1 , 5. from our sinnes in his owne blood .

Hee [ also ] hath redeemed vs from the Gala , 3 , 13. curse of the Law , when he was made a curse for vs .

And , hee [ likewise ] beeing rich ; for our 2. Cor , 8. 9. sakes became poore : that wee through his pouertie , might be made rich .

§. 7.

Christ , ( saith S. Peter ) hath once suffered 1 , Pet , 3 , 18. for sinnes ; the iust for the vniust ; that he might bring vs to God : and was put to death , concerning the flesh ; but was quickned in the Spirit .

Yea , euen when Christ suffered death Epiphanius . in his flesh vpon the Crosse , the God-head and manhood were [ still ] together ; but his Godhead did not suffer : that we might be iustified not onely in his flesh , but also in his Diuinitie : and that we might be saued , both in his God-heade and manhood together .

For , we could neuer haue beene deliuered Augustine . by that one onely Mediatour between God , and men , the man Christ Iesus , vnlesse he had beene also God .

The benefites which we d●ily receiue by Ambrose . his death , are foure . The first is , the change of our naturall death . The second is , in that he hath quite taken away the second death from those that are in him . The third is , that his death is a meanes to satisfie his last will and Testament . The fourth is , that it doth serue to abolish the originall corruption of our sinfull harts .

The meanes also of our saluation by him , Augustine . are two : his Merrite ; & his Efficacie . The first is , in that by his obedience to the Law , and by his death , he made full satis-faction vnto his Father for all our sinnes ; freed vs from death ; and reconciled vs vnto God . The second is , in that he gaue his Spirit to mortifie the corruption of our natures ; that we thereby may daily die vnto sin , and liue vnto righteousnes : & haue true comfort in terrors of conscience , and in the pangs of death .

Beleeuing assuredly , that what-so-euer Caluine . Christ hath suffered , hee hath suffered for vs ; and that all his righteousnes , through fayth is made our righteousnesse . For , hee himselfe alone , hath fully discharged by his death , the debt which all wee owed : and hath made vs by his obedience , the sonnes of God , & fellow heires with him , of euerlasting glory .

For , hee hath put out the hand-writing Colos. 2 , 14 , 15. that was against vs , contained in the Lawe written , which was contrary to vs ; he euen tooke it out of the way , & fastned it vpon the crosse : & hath spoiled the Principalities & Powers ; & hath made a shew of them openly , triumphing ouer them in the same crosse .

§. 8.

The Lawe , ( saith S. Iohn ) was giuen by Iohn , 1. 17. Moises ; but Grace and Truth came by Iesus Christ .

For , God sending his owne sonne , in the Rom , 8 , 3 , similitude of sinful flesh , and for sin ; condemned sinne in the flesh ; that the righteousnesse of the Lawe , might be fulfilled in vs , which walke not after the flesh , but after the spirit .

And wee , through the spirit , waite for Gala , 5 , 5 , the hope of righteousnes through faith .

Be it knowne vnto you therefore , men Acts , 13 , 38 , 39 , & brethren , that through this man ( Christ ) is preached vnto vs , the forgiuenesse of sinnes : & from all things , from which we could not be iustified by the Law of Moises ; by him , euery one that beleeueth , is iustified .

For , the Lawe made nothing perfit : but Heb , 7 , 19. the bringing in of a better hope made perfect , whereby we draw neere vnto God .

And , albeit that we in time past , ( beeing Ephe. 2. 11. 12. 13. Gentiles , and vncircumcised people in the flesh , ) were indeede without Christ ; and were aliants from the common-wealth of Israell ; and strangers from the couenaunts of promise ; and had no hope , and were without God in the world : yet nowe , by the meanes of Christ Iesus , we which once were farre off , are made neere by the blood of Christ .

For hee , being our peace , hath made of Ephe , 2. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. both one ; and hath broken down the stop of the particion Wall , [ that was betweene the Iewes and vs , ] in abrogating through his flesh , the hatred ; namely , the Lawe of Commaundements , which standeth in ordinances : for , to make of twaine one new man in himselfe , so making peace : And that he might reconcile both vnto God in one body , thorow his Crosse , and sley hatred thereby , he came & preached peace ; both to vs which were a farre off , and to them also that were neere . For , through him , wee both haue an entrance vnto the Father by one spirit .

And GOD , which is rich in mercie , through his great loue wherewith he loued Ephe ▪ 2 , ● , 5 , 6 , 7. vs , euen when we were dead by sinnes , hath quickned vs , [ both Iewes and Gentiles ] together in Christ ; by whose grace we are saued : and hath raised vs vp together , and made vs sitte together in the heauenly places in Christ Iesus . That he might shew in the ages to come , the exceeding riches of his grace , through his kindnes towards vs in Christ Iesus .

Not by the workes of righteousnesse Titus , 3 , 5 , 6 , 7. which we had doone , but according to his mercie hee saued vs , by the washing of the newe birth , and the renewing of the holie Ghost ; which he shed on vs aboundantlie through Iesus Christ our Sauiour that we beeing iustified by his grace , shoulde bee made heires , according to the hope of eternall life .

For , God so loued the worlde , that hee Ioh , 3 , 16. hath giuen his onely begotten Sonne , that whosoeuer beleeueth in him , shoulde not perrish , but haue euerlasting life .

And , heerein was the loue of God made 1. Ioh , 4 , 9. manifest amongst vs ; in that hee sent his onely begotten sonne into the world , that we might liue through him .

Yea ; heerein is loue ; not that wee loued 1 , Ioh. 4. 10. GOD , but that he loued vs ; and sent his Son to be a reconcil●ation for our sinnes .

For Christ , when we were yet of no Rom 5 , 6 , strength , at his time died for the vngodly .

And hee , beeing very God , equall with Philip. 2. 6 , 7 , 8. the Father in power and glory , made himselfe ( notwithstanding ) of no reputation ; taking on him the forme of a seruaunt , and was made like vnto men ; and was found in shape as a man . Hee humbled himselfe , & became obedient vnto the death , euen the death of the Crosse .

That hee might he●eby deliuer vs , from the wrath of God , and from the danger of Becon . eternall damnation ; whereunto ( through our Father Adams transgression ) wee all remained subiect .

Likewise then , as by the sinne of one , Rom , 5 , 18. ( namely Adam ) there sprang vp euill on all men to condemnation : euen so , by the righteousnesse of one , ( namely Christ ) ●pringeth good vpon all men , to the righteousnes of life .

For , as by one mans disobedience , many verse , 19 , were made sinners ; so by the obedience of one , shall many also be made righteous .

§. 1.

CHrist , ( saith the Apostle ) is risen from 1 , Cor. 15. 20. the dead ; & was made the first fruites of them that slept ▪

For , since by man came death ▪ by man verse . 21 , 22 , came also the resurrection of the dead ▪ and ●● in Adam , all die ; euen so in Christ , shall 〈◊〉 be made aliue .

Yea ; Christ himselfe , and no other for him , did by his owne power , raise himselfe Augustine . to life . Which proueth , that hee was not onely man , but also true God .

Wherefore , if he were able to giue lyfe Ierome . vnto himselfe , beeing deade , and buried ; then much more now , beeing aliue , and in heauen glorified , hee is able by his owne power to raise vp all those that be his members from death .

For , his Resurrection ▪ euen vnto the dead Bernard . is life ; to the Saints glory ; and to sinners mercie .

And , like as when a man is cast into the Chrisostome . Sea , hauing all his body vnder the water , and that there is nothing to be looked for but present death ; yet if hee carry his head aboue the water , the●e is good hope of his recouerie : so Christ himselfe , though hee were dead and buried in the graue ; is risen againe ; as a sure pledge , that all the iust shal likewise rise againe . For , hee is the head● vnto his Church ; and therefore all his members must needes follow him in they● time .

§. 2.

The resurrection of our Sauiour Christ ▪ Augustine . ( saith S. Augustine ) w●s long since pre●●gured in our first Father Ada● : For , as he rising from his sleepe , did know Eue to ●e flesh of his flesh ; so Christ , rising from ●is death ; by the wound of his side , acknowledged his Church .

And , his resurrection is sufficiently ●uailable Augustine . for all them that beleeue in him : for , by the same power , whereby he raised himselfe , he raiseth all his members : and therefore he is called a quickning Spirit .

Besides , it was most needfull that Christ Ambrose . our Sauiour shoulde rise againe after his death , for these three causes following .

First , that he might thereby shewe to all the people of God , that he had fully ouercome death .

Secondly , Christ which died was the sonne of GOD , therefore the Authour of life it selfe : and for this cause , it was neyther meete nor possible , for him to be holden of death , but needes he must rise from death .

Thirdly , Christ his Priest-hood consisteth of two parts : one , to make satis●faction for sinne , which he per●●●ted by his one onely sacrifice vpon the Crosse ; the other , to apply [ through the secrete working of his holy Spirite ] the vertue of this sacrifice , to euery one that beleeueth in him : which could not be , vnlesse hee had risen againe from the dead .

§. 1.

CHrist our Sauiour , hauing once offered himselfe a sufficient sacrifice vnto his Father for our sinnes , sitteth , ( as the Apostle saith ) for * euer at the right hand of Heb , 10 , 12 , 13. God ; and from hence-forth tarrieth , vntill his enemies be made his footestoole .

For , with one offering , hath hee made verse , 14 , perfit for euer , them that are sanctified .

Yea , be is now at the right hand of God ; 1 , Pet , 3 , 22 , gone into heauen ; and to him , the Angels , powers , and might are subdued .

Also ; when hee ascended vp on hi● , hee Ephe , 4 , 8 , ledde captiuitie captiue : & gaue gifts vnto men .

Hee gaue some to be Apostles ; some to Ephe , 4 , 11 , 12 , 13. be Prophets ; some to be E●angelists ; and some to be Pastours , and Teachers ; for the gathering together of the Saints ; for the worke of the Ministerie ; and for the edification of the body of Christ : till wee all meete together in the vnitie of fayth , and knowledge of the sonne of GOD , vnto a perfit man .

§. 2.

Christ , ( saith S. Ierome ) is ascended into Ierome . heauen , and sitteth at the right hand of the Father ; the same nature of flesh , wherein he was borne , & suffered , and rose againe , remaining still . For , the substance of his humaine nature , was not done away , but glorified .

Wherefore , wee must beleeue , that although Cyrill . Christ be absent from vs as concerning his body ; yet by his diuine power he gouerneth vs and all things ; and is euermore present with all the faithfull , ( according as himselfe hath promised ) euen * vntill Math. 28. 20 the end of the world .

For , like as when he was conuersant here Cyrill . on earth , as man , yet then he filled heauen ; and did not leaue the company of Angels ; euen so , beeing nowe in heauen with his flesh , yet he filleth the earth , and dwelleth in all them that loue him .

So that he is with vs , & not with vs ; for Virgilius . those whom he left , and went from , as concerning his humanitie , those he left not , nor forsooke them not ▪ as touching his diuinitie . For , as touching the forme of a seruaunt , ( which hee tooke away from vs into heauen ) he is absent from vs : but by the forme of God , ( which goeth not from vs ) he is alwayes present with vs in earth . And neuerthelesse , both present , and absent , he is all one Christ .

§. 3.

Christ , by his ascention , ( saith S. Augustine ) Augustine . hath , like a noble Captaine , taken sinne and ●athan prisoners , and hath pinioned them fast ; so that all the power which they heeretofore had , is nowe in Christes hand .

And this benefite likewise comes vnto Augustine . vs by his ascention ; that he is ascended not onely to rest personally in heauen himselfe , but also to prepare a place of endlesse felicitie , for as many as shall beleeue in him .

And , that hee might the better by his ascention , Ambrose . take away al excuses from them that will not seeke his king dome , hee hath se●●e markes and boundes in the way , and hath placed guides in it : namely , his Ministers ; to shew all passengers , a straight and ready course vnto the kingdome of God .

Nay more ; euen with his owne bloode Ierome . hee hath vouchsafed to trayne the way for vs to the kingdome of heauen ; and hath there made a perpetuall purchase for vs : requiring nothing of vs , but that we would come to possesse the place , which he hath already payd for .

§. 4.

Wee reade , ( saith S. Bernard ) that no Bernard . man ascendeth vp to heauen , but hee that came downe from heauen . What shall we doe then ? shall we despaire ? Nay rather by this , saith hee , our hope is made stronger : for although Christ onely ascend , yet rest we fully assured , that euery part of him goeth with him ; for , a bone of him shall not be broken ; and the heade in Gods kingdom , is not found without the members .

Thou therefore which fearest death , remember Ierome . that Christ is gone into heauen , to prepare a place for thy bodie● where it must be glorified , and liue for euer , with the blessed ▪ Trinitie , & all the holy Saints , and beautifull Angels : though for a while it lie dead , & ●ot in the earth .

For , as sure as Christ our Captaine is ascended Beza . into heauen in mans nature ; so certainly shall all we that are his members , by his almightie power , be likewise receiued into heauen , in the same nature wherein he is ascended .

§. 5.

What shall wee then say to these things ? Rom. 8 , 31 , 32. If GOD be on our side , who can be against vs ? Who spared not his own sonne , but gaue him for vs all to death , how shall he not with him , giue vs all things also ?

Who shall lay any thing to the charge of verse , 33. 34 , Gods chosen ? It is GOD that iustifieth , who shall condemne ? It is Christ which is dead ; yea , or rather which is risen againe : who is also at the right hand of God , and maketh request for vs .

Sathan and his Angels are fallen , and Augustine . haue no Sauiour ; but Man , falling , had ( through the great mercy of God ) a Mediatour and Sauiour to restore him ; namely ; Iesus Christ .

Who , as he stoode in our roome vpon Ambrose . the Crosse , and made satisfaction vnto his Father for our sinnes ; so nowe in heauen , hee appeares as a publique person in our stead , representing all the Elect that beleeue in him .

Yea ; the selfe same Christ , which dyed Augustine . for vs heere vpon the earth ; maketh intercession vnto his Father for vs , now in heauen .

And , whatsoeuer his request was in our Ambrose . behalfe heere on earth , the same for substance it continues still in heauen .

§. 6.

Before the fall of Adam , saith S. Ierome , Ier●me . man could speak to God , face to face : but now Christ is his Intercessour . And thys worke of intercession , is the sole worke of Christ , God and man : not belonging to any other creature besides , either in heauen or earth .

The worke of Christes Passion , serueth Chrisostome . as a satisfaction vnto Gods iustice for our offences ; and is as it were the tempering of the plaister , by which wee may be healed : but Intercession goeth further ; for it applieth the same satis-faction of Christ to vs , and layeth the very salue to the sore of euerie penitent sinner .

Besides ; the worke of Christes Intercession Chrisostome . or Mediation , serueth not onely to preserue all repentant sinners in the estate of grace , ( that beeing once sanctified and iustified , they may so continue to the end , ) but it also maketh our workes acceptable in the sight of GOD ; and causeth him to account them righteous , through our faith in Christ .

§. 7.

Christ our Sauiour , ( beeing both our Heb , 9 , 24 , high Priest and Mediatour , as the Apostle in his Epistle to the Hebrewes calleth him ) is not entred into the holy places that are made with hands ; which are similitudes of the true Sanctuary : but is entred into heauen it selfe , to appeare nowe in the sight of GOD for vs .

Not that hee should offer himselfe often , verse , 25 , 26. as the High-priest ( among the Iewes ) entred into the Holy place euery yeere with other blood , ( for then must he haue often suffered since the foundation of the world ) but nowe , in the end of the world , hath he appeared once , to put away sinne , by the sacrifice of himselfe .

And , as it is appointed vnto men , that verse , 27 , 28. they shall once die , and after that commeth the iudgement ; so Christ was once offered , to take away the sinnes of many : and vnto them that looke for him , shall hee appeare the second time without sinne vnto saluation .

Againe ; among the Iewes many were Hebr. 7 , 23. made Priestes , because they were not suffered to endure by reason of death ; but this man [ Christ , ] because hee endureth euer , hath an euerlasting priest-hood . Wherefore , verse , 24. 25 , he is able also , perfectly to saue them that come vnto God by him , seeing he euer liueth to make intercession for them .

For , such an High-priest it became vs to verse , 26. 27. haue , which is holie , harmelesse , vndefiled , separate from sinners , and made higher then the heauens : which needed not daily , as those High-priestes , to offer vp sacrifice , first for his owne sinnes , and then for the peoples ; for that did he once , when he offered vp himselfe .

§. 8.

The same Christ [ likewise , ] being come Hebr , 9 , 11. 12. an High-priest of good things to come , by a greater and a more perfit Tabernacle , not made with hands : that is to say , not of this building ; neyther by the blood of Goates and Calues , but by his owne blood , entred he in once into the holy place , & obtained eternall redemption for vs .

For , if the blood of Bulles & of Goates , verse . 13. 14. and the Ashes of an Heifer , sprinckling them that are vncleane , sanctifieth as touching the purifying of the flesh ; howe much more shal the blood of Christ , which through the eternall Spirit offered himselfe without spot to God , purge our conscience from dead works to serue the liuing God ?

And for this cause is he the Mediatou● of verse , 15. the newe Testament , that thorowe death , which was for the redemption of the transgressions that were in the former Testament , they which were called , might receiue the promise of eternall inheritance .

For , where as is a Testament , there must verse , 16 , 17 , also be the death of him that made the Testament . For , the Testament is confirmed when men are dead ; and is yet of no force , so long as he that made the same remaineth aliue . &c.

§. 9.

Doubtlesse , ( saith S. Paule ) one wil scarse Rom , 5 , 7 , die for a righteous man ; but yet for a good man , it may be that one dare die .

But God setteth out his loue towards vs , verse , 8 , 9 , seeing that while wee were yet sinners , Christ d●ed for vs . Much more then beeing now iustified by his blood , we shall be saued from wrath through him .

For , if when we were enemies , wee were verse , 10 , reconciled to God by the death of his Son , much more beeing reconciled , we shall be saued by his life .

And , not onely so , but wee also reioyce verse , 11. in GOD , through our Lord Iesus Christ , by whom wee haue nowe receiued the attonement .

For , God hath not appoynted vs vnto 1 , Thes. 5 , 9 , 10. wrath , but to obtaine saluation by the meanes of our Lorde Iesus Christ , which died for vs ; that whether wee wake or sleepe , we should liue together with him .

Wherefore , ] if any man sinne , wee haue 1 , Ioh. 2 , 1 , 2. an Aduocate with the Father , Iesus Christ the iust : hee is the reconciliation for our sinnes : and not for ours onely , but also for the sinnes of the whole world .

By him , wee haue redemption through Ephe , 1 , 7 , 8 , his blood , euen the forgiuenesse of sinnes , according to his rich grace : whereby hee hath beene abundant toward vs in all wisedome and vnderstanding .

By him , we are made the sonnes of God , Iohn , 1 , 12. if wee beleeue in his Name .

And of his fulnes haue all wee receiued : verse , 16 , euen grace for grace .

By his blood [ also ] wee may be bold to Heb , 10. 19 , 20. enter into the Holy place , by the newe and liuing way which he hath prepared for vs , through the vaile ; that is , his flesh .

For , we are made partakers of Christ , if Heb , 3 , 14 , we keepe sure vnto the end , the beginning where-with we are vpholden .

And , we are iustified freely , by the grace Rom. 3 , 24. 25. of God , through the redemption that is in Christ Iesus ; whom God hath set forth to be a reconciliation through faith in his blood .

For , the blood of Iesus Christ the sonne 1. Iohn , 1. 7. of God , clenseth vs from all sinne .

And , without sheading of blood , is no Heb , 9 , 22. remission .

§. 10.

Seeing then that we haue a great High-priest , Heb , 4 , 14 , which is entred into Heauen , euen Iesus the Sonne of GOD , let vs hold fast our profession .

For , wee haue not an High-priest which verse , 15. cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities ; but was in all thinges tempted , like as we are : yet without sinne .

Which in the dayes of his flesh , did offer Heb , 5 , 7 , vp prayers and supplications , with strong crying & teares , vnto him that was able to saue him from death : and was also heard in that which he feared .

And though he were the Sonne , yet learned verse , 8. 9. hee obedience by the things which he suffered . And being consecrate , [ or perfectly holy , ] was made the Authour of eternall saluation to all them that obey him .

And is called of GOD an High-priest Heb , 5 , 10 , [ * * Heb , 7 , 21 for euer , ] after the order of Melchisedeck .

For , it became him , for whom are all Hebr , 2 , 10. things , and by whom are all things , seeing that he brought many children vnto glory , that he should consecrate the Prince of theyr saluation through afflictions .

Yea ; in all things it behooued him , to be Heb , 2 , 17. made like vnto his brethren , that he might be mercifull : and a faithfull High-priest in things concerning God , that hee might make reconciliation for the sinnes of the people . For , in that he suffered , and was verse , 18. tempted ; hee is able also to succour them that are tempted .

§. 11.

These things are written , that yee might Iohn , 20 , 31 beleeue , that Iesus is the Christ , the sonne of God ; and that in beleeuing , yee might haue life through his Name .

For , other foundation can no man la● , 1 , Cor , 3 , 11 , then that which is layde , which is ; Iesus Christ . The * * Mark . 5. 7. Son of the most high God .

Who gaue himselfe for vs ; that ●e might Titus , 2 , 14 , redeeme vs from all iniquitie ; and purge vs to be a peculier people vnto him-selfe : zealous of good workes .

Neither is there saluation in any other : Acts , 4 , 12. for , among men , there is giuen none other Name vnder heauen , whereby we must be saued .

Let vs therefore by him , offer the sacrifice Heb. 13 , 15 , of prayse alwayes vnto GOD ; that is to say ; the fruite of those lippes which confesse his Name .

For , he [ onely ] is our mouth , whereby Ambrose . we speake vnto the Father : he is our eyes , whereby we see the Father : he is our right hand , whereby we offer our selues vnto the Father . And , without his intercession , neyther wee , nor any of the Saints , haue ought to doe with GOD .

But hee , euermore prayeth for vs ; prayeth Beda . in vs ; & is prayed of vs . Hee prayeth for vs , as our Aduocate and euerlasting Priest : Hee prayeth in vs , as our head : and hee is prayed of vs , as our God .

For , he is the Mediator between God & Cyrill . man , not onely because he hath reconciled man vnto God ; but also , because hee is naturally and substantially , both God & man in one person .

Yet doth it not folow , that he maketh intercession Theod. Beza . to himselfe ; seeing that the Father is one , & the Son is another , in seuerall persons throughly distinct , albeit , that the Father & the son be both one thing , & one God , if the essence of them be considered without their persons . For , like as in Christ incarnate , there be seuerall things , & not seuerall persons ; so in the God-head , there be seueral persons , but not seuerall things .

§. 12.

In him likewise , and through him , wee Ambrose . haue all things . For , if wee desire to be cured of our wounds , hee is our Phisition : If we be greeued with our sinnes , hee is our righteousnes : If we lacke helpe , hee is our strength : If we feare death , he is our life : If we be in darknes , he is our light : If we will goe to heauen , he is our way .

Yea , the whole sum of our saluation , & all C●luine . the parts therof , are comprehended in Christ . If we seeke for saluation , wee are taught by the very Name of Iesus , that it is in him ; If we seek for any other gifts of the Spirit , they are to be found in his annoynting ; If we seeke for strength , it is in his dominion ; If we seek for cleanenes , it is in his conception ; If we seeke for tender kindnesse , it sheweth it selfe in his birth , whereby he was made in all thinges like vnto vs , that hee might learne to sorow with vs ; If we seeke for redemption , it is in his passion ; If wee seek for absolution , it is in his condemnation ; If we seek for release of the curse , it is in his crosse ; If we seek for satisfaction , it is in his sacrifice ; If we seek for clensing , it is in his blood ; If we seek for reconciliation , it is in his going downe into hell ; If we seeke for mortification of the flesh , it is in his buriall ; If we seeke for newnes of life , it is in his resurrection ; If we seeke for immortality , it is in the same ; If we seek for the inheritance of the kingdome of heauen , it is in his entrance into heauen ; If we seek for defence , for assurednes , or , for plenty & store of all good things , it is in his kingdom .

Finally ; sith the treasures of all sorts of Caluine . good things are onely in him ; let vs drawe thence , & from no where els , euen till we be full withall . For , they which beeing not content with him alone , are carried hether & thether , into diuers hopes ; although they haue principall regard vnto him , yet euen in this they are out of the right way , that they turne any part of theyr knowledge ; [ or comfort , ] to any other-where .

¶ Of Fayth : Feare : and Loue : beeing three speciall Vertues , necessarily belonging to euery true Christian. HEBREWES . 11. verse . 6. Without Fayth , it is vnpossible to please GOD ; for he that is in comming towards God , must beleeue that there is a God : and that he is a rewarder of them that seeke him .

¶ Of Fayth .

§. 1.

FAyth , ( as S. Paule the Apostle affirmeth ) Hebr. 11. 1. is the ground of things which are hoped for ; and the euidence of things which are not seene .

It is also a confident perswasion , of almighty Vrsinus . Gods euerlasting loue and mercie towards vs ; in , and by the meanes of Christ Iesus : grounded wholely on the promises of our heauenly Father in his holy Word ; wrought in our harts by hearing the Gospell preached ; and witnessed in vs by the testimony of the holy Ghost . By which , we certainly assure our selues in soule and conscience , that all our sinnes , are as freelie forgiuen vs for Christes sake , as if we neuer had committed any ; and all his righteousnesse and obedience , as perfectly imputed vnto vs , as if wee had performed the same in our owne persons .

This fayth , is the gift of God ; and breathed Augustine . onely by his Spirit , into the harts of all those that be his chyldren .

§. 2.

Through fayth , we vnderstand that the Hebr. 11. 3. World was ordained by the word of God ; so that the things which wee see , are not made of things which did appeare .

For , God in the beginning , by the onely Lactantius . power of his Word , made all things of nothing : and he likewise , by the power of his Worde alone , is able to destroy all thinges againe , when it pleaseth him .

§. 3.

From fayth , if it be perfect and liuelie , Euagoras . we come to feare ; from feare , to flying of sinne ; and by flying of sinne , wee attaine vnto a patient minde to suffer tribulation : by the which we obtaine sure hope & trust in GOD ; through the which hope , our soules sitte safe in a sure chayre of a certaine expectation of that glory , which is layd vp in store for vs in the kingdom of heauen . For , * * 2 , Cor , 5 , 7 we walke by fayth , and not by sight .

And , by it , our fore-fathers were well reported Heb. 11. 2 , of .

§. 4.

By fayth , Abraham when he was called , Heb , 11 , 8. obeyed God , to goe out into a place , which hee should afterward receiue for inheritance ; and he went out of his owne countrey , not knowing whether he went .

Through fayth also , Sara the wife of Abraham , Heb , 11 , 11. receiued strength to conceiue seede , and was deliuered of a childe when she was past age : because shee iudged him faithfull which had promised .

By fayth , Moises when hee was come to Heb. 11 , 24. 25. age , refused to be called the sonne of Pharaos Daughter ; and chose rather to suffer aduersitie with the people of God , then to enioy the pleasures of sinnes for a season .

Esteeming the rebuke of Christ greater verse , 26. riches then the treasures of Egipt : for hee had respect vnto the recompence of the reward .

By fayth , the woman of Cananee , ( after Math. 15 ▪ 22 23. 24. &c. three repulses giuen her , from our Sauiour Christ himselfe , ) receiued helpe for her daughter , which was misterably vexed with an vncleane spirit .

By fayth , Saint Peter confessed his Lord Math , 16 ▪ 16 and Maister Iesus , to be Christ , the sonne of the liuing God .

And , who-soeuer else , ( hauing in him Math , 16 , 18 the Spirit of God ) shall confidently make such like confession of his fayth when he is demaunded , as S. Peter made , our Sauiour giueth him this assurance , that the gates of hell shall not be able to preuaile against it .

Wherfore , if thou shalt confesse with thy Rom , 10 , 9 , mouth the Lord Iesus , and shalt beleeue in thy hart , that God raised him vp from the dead , thou shalt be saued .

For , with the hart , man beleeueth vnto verse , 10. righteousnes ; and with the mouth , man confesseth vnto saluation .

§. 5.

Who is it that ouercommeth the world , 1 , Iohn , 5 , 5 ( saith S. Iohn ) but he which beleeueth that Iesus is the sonne of God ?

For , whosoeuer confesseth , that Iesus is 1 , Ioh , 4 , 15 , the sonne of GOD , he dwelleth in God , and God in him .

Yea ; who-soeuer beleeueth that Iesus is 1 , Ioh , 5 , 1 , the Christ , is borne of God .

And , all that is borne of God , ouercommeth 1 , Iohn , 5 , 4 , the world : & the victory that ouercommeth the world , is our fayth .

And , * the ende of our fayth , is the saluation 1. P●t , 1 ▪ 9 , of our soules .

§. 6.

Verily , verily , ( saith Christ ) he that beleeueth Iohn , 6 , 46 in mee , hath euerlasting life .

And , this is the will of him that sent Iohn , 6. 42 , mee ; that euery man which seeth the Son , and beleeueth in him , should haue euerlasting life : and I will raise him vp at the last day .

Nowe , although euery man cannot with Iohn , 20 , 29 his bodily eyes , ( as S. Thomas did ) first see Christ , and afterward beleeue : yet are all men , ( euen by the mouth of Truth ) pronounced blessed , which haue not so seene him , and yet haue beleeued .

§. 7.

Wee read in S. Iohn , that when Martha Iohn , 11 , 39 , 40. seemed doubtful , that Christ could not call againe her brother Lazarus to life , because he had beene foure dayes dead , and buried in his graue : our sauiour thus gently reproued her , saying ; Saide I not vnto thee , that if thou diddest beleeue , thou shouldest see the glorie of God ?

Also ; when certaine friendes of Iairus came vnto him , willing him to forbeare to Mark , 5 , 35 , 36 , trouble Christ any further for the health of his daughter , seeing shee was already dead ▪ Our Sauiour ( notwithstanding ) thus comforted the discomforted father , saying : Be not afrayd ; onely beleeue .

For , if thou canst beleeue , all things are Mark , 9 , 23. possible to him that beleeueth .

Expressing vnto vs by these speeches , both the great power of God , & wonderfull force of fayth .

§. 8.

Wee reade furthermore , in the Acts of the Apostles , that when Paule and Silas Acts , 16 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , were whypped & imprisoned at Philippi , ( a cheefe Citty in Macidonia , ) for theyr testimony of Iesus ; at midnight they prayed , and sung Psalmes vnto God : and suddainely , there was a great Earth-quake , so that the whole foundation of the prison was shaken ; and by and by all the doores opened , and euery mans bands were loosed .

Then the Keeper of the prison waked verse , 27 , 28. out of his sleepe ; and when he saw the prison ▪ doores open , hee drewe out his sword , and would haue killed himselfe ; supposing that the prisoners had beene fled . But Paule cryed out with a loude voyce vnto him , saying ; Doe thy selfe no harme : for wee are all heere .

Then called he for a light , & leaped in , verse , 29 , 30. and came trembling , & fell downe before Paule & Silas , and brought them out , and said : Sirs ; what must I do to be saued ?

To which demaunde of his , they made verse , 31 , no other aunswere but onely this : Beleeue in the Lord Iesus Christ ; and thou shalt be saued , and thine houshold .

Our Sauiour Christ , beeing likewise demaunded by certaine Iewes which heard him teach , what they might doe to worke Iohn , 6 , 28 29. the workes of God ? [ or , the works which might be acceptable vnto God ? ] This is the worke of God , ( quoth he ) that yee beleeue in him whom hee hath sent .

For , except yee beleeue that I am hee ▪ Iohn , 8 , 24 , [ namely , the Christ , the Sonne of GOD , which according to the saying of the scripture , shoulde come into the world to redeeme both you , and all man-kinde from death and hell , ] you shall die in your sinnes .

Search [ therefore ] the Scriptures ; for in Iohn , 5 , 39 , them yee thinke to haue euerlasting life : and they are they which testifie of mee .

Also ; while ye haue light , beleeue in the Iohn , 12 , 36 light ; that yee may bee the children of the light .

§. 9.

The Father loueth the Son , saith Christ , Iohn , 3 , 35 , 36. & hath giuen all things into his hand . Hee that beleeueth in the Sonne , hath euerlasting life : & hee that obeyeth not the Son , shall not see life ; but the wrath of God abideth on him .

Hee that beleeueth in the Sonne , shall Iohn , 3 , 18. not be condemned ; but hee that beleeueth not , is condemned already ; because he beleeueth not in the Name of the onelie begotten Sonne of God .

§. 10.

He that beleeueth in the Sonne of God , 1 , Iohn . 5. 10 hath the witnes [ of God ] in himselfe : hee that beleeueth not God , hath made him a lyer ; because hee beleeued not the record , that God witnessed of his Sonne .

And , this is the record ; that God hath verse , 11 , 12 giuen vnto vs euerlasting life : and this life is in his Sonne . Hee that hath the Sonne , hath life : and hee that hath not the Sonne of God , hath not life .

These thinges haue I written vnto you , 1 , Iohn , 5. 1● that beleeue in the Name of the Sonne of GOD ; that yee may know that yee haue euerlasting life : and that ye may beleeue in the Name of the Sonne of God .

For , hee that shall beleeue , and be baptized , Mar. 16. 16. shall be saued : but he that will not beleeue , shall be damned .

§. 11.

S. Paule , going about in his Epistle to the Galathians , to prooue our iustification to come onely by the grace and mercie of God , through fayth in Iesus Christ , & not by the works of the Law ; beginneth thus . Wee * which are Iewes by nature , and Gala. 2. 15. 16. not sinners of the Gentiles , knowe , that a man is not iustified ▪ by the workes of the Law , but by the faith of Iesus Christ . Euen wee , I say , haue beleeued in Iesus Christ , that wee might be iustified by the fayth of Christ , and not by the works of the Lawe ; because that by the works of the Lawe , no flesh shall be iustified .

But , wee beleeue to be saued ▪ through Acts , 15. 11. the grace of our Lord Iesus Christ .

For , as many as are of the workes of the Gala. 3. 10. Law ▪ are vnder the curse . For , it is written : Cu●sed is euery man that continueth not in all things , which are written in the booke of the Law , to doe them .

And , that no man is iustified by the lawe Gala , 3 , 11. in the sight of God , it is euident : for the iust shall liue by fayth .

I , through the Law ( saith he ) am dead to Gala , 2 , 19. 20. the Law : and that I might liue vnto God , I am crucified with Christ . Neuerthelesse , I liue ; yet not I now , but Christ liueth in mee : and in that , that I nowe liue in the flesh , I liue by the faith in the Son of God ; who hath loued mee , and giuen himselfe for mee .

I do not abrogate the grace of God ; for verse , 21. if righteousnes be by the lawe , then Christ died without a cause .

But nowe is the righteousnes of GOD Rom , 3 , 21 , 22 , made manifest without the Lawe , hauing witnes of the Law , & of the Prophets . To wit , the righteousnes of God , by the fayth of Iesus Christ , vnto all , and vpon all that beleeue .

For , by grace we are saued through faith , Ephe , 2 , 8 , 9 , and that not of our selues ; it is the gift of God . Not of works , least any man should boast himselfe .

§. 12.

If Abraham ( saith the same Apostle ) Rom , 4 , 2 , 3. were iustified by works , he hath wherin to reioyce , but not with God . For , what saith the Scripture ? Abraham beleeued God , & it was counted to him for righteoushes .

Now , to him that worketh , the wages is verse , 4 , 5 , not counted by fauour , but by debt : but to him that worketh not , but beleeueth in him that iustifieth the vngodly , his fayth is counted for righteousnes .

( For , * * Gregory . onely beleeuing , is righteousnes . )

Besides ; it is not written for Abraham Rom , 4 , 23 , 24 , 25. onely , that it was imputed to him for righteousnes , but also for vs , to whom it shall be imputed for righteousnesse ; which beleeue in him that raised vp Iesus our Lord from the dead : who was deliuered to death for our sinnes ; and is risen againe for our iustification .

Knowe yee therefore , that they which Gala , 3 , 7 , are of fayth , the same are the chyldren of Abraham .

For ▪ the Scripture fore-seeing , that God verse , 8 , 9. would iustifie the Gentiles through fayth , preached before the Gospell vnto Abraham ; saying : In thee shall all the Gentiles be blessed . So then they which be of faith , are blessed with faithfull Abraham .

For ▪ the promise that hee should be the Rom , 4 , 13 . heire of the world , was not giuen to Abraham , or to his seede , through the Law , but through the righteousnes of fayth ▪ For , if verse , 14 , they which are of the Law be heires , faith is made voyde ; and the promise is made of none effect .

For , the Law causeth wrath ; but where verse , 15. no Law is , there is no transgression .

( By the lawe [ also ] commeth the knowledge Rom , 3 , 20. of sinne .

Nay , I knew not sinne , but by the lawe ; Rom. 7 , 7. for , I had not knowne lust , except the law had said ; Thou shalt not lust . )

Therefore is the promise by faith , that it Rom. 4 , 16. might come by grace , and the promise might bee sure vnto all the seede : not to that onely which is of the lawe ; but also to that which is of the faith of Abraham : who is the father of vs all .

§. 13.

Doe wee then make the lawe of none effect Rom , 3 , 31 through fayth ? God forbid : yea , wee rather establish the law .

For , the doctrine of faith , is the ornament Caluine . of the lawe ; and by it wee embrace Christ : who , by his death hath fully satisfied the lawe . So that the law , which could not bring vs to saluation , by reason of our owne corruption ; is nowe made effectuall to vs , by the meanes of Christ Iesus .

I● the lawe then against the promise of Gala , 3 , 21 , 22. God ? God forbid . For , if there had been a lawe giuen ▪ which coulde haue giuen life : surely righteousnes shoulde haue beene by the law . But the Scripture hath concluded all vnder sin , that the promise by the faith of Iesus Christ , shoulde be giuen to them that beleeue .

But before faith came , we were kept vnder verse ▪ 23. the law , & shut vp vnto the faith , which should afterward be reuealed .

Wherefore , the lawe was our Schoolemaister verse , 24 , to bring vs to Christ , that wee might be made righteous by fayth . But after that fayth is come , we are no longer vnder a Schoole-maister : for , wee are all the sonnes of God , by faith in Iesus Christ .

Not that the doctrine , or any commaundement Caluine . of God in the law concerning vertuous life is abolished : but that all Iewish Ceremonies are nowe ceast : and the curse or condemnation of the lawe ▪ which was due vnto vs for our sinnes ; is cleane taken away ▪ through fayth in our Redeemer ▪ Christ Iesus .

Who came into the world , ( as hath already Math , 5 , 17. been shewed ) not to destroy the law , or the prophets , but that he might fulfil them .

Wee conclude therefore , that a man is ▪ Rom , 3. 28. i●stis●●d by faith , without the workes of the Lawe .

And ▪ beeing iustifie●d by faith , wee haue Rom , 5 , 1 , 2 , peace with God , through our Lord Iesus Christ by whom also ● wee haue ac●esse through fayth vnto this grace ; wherei● we stan●● , and reioyce vnder the hope of the ▪ glory of God .

Neythe● doe we●so● onely ; but also wee Rom , 5 , 3 , ● 4. 5. reioyce in tribulations ; knowing tha● tribulatio● bringeth forth patience ; and patience experience ; and experience hope ; and hope maketh not ashamed : because the loue of GOD 〈◊〉 abroade in our harts by the holy Ghost , which is giuen ●nto vs .

Thus much for fi●●th onely .

§. 14.

NOwe ; as we finde true fayth in Iesus Christ , to be the chiefe & onely means of our iustification ; so may wee likewise certainly assure our selues ▪ that it is also the very well-spring or Fountaine ▪ 〈◊〉 whence al●●e all good works ●oe flow . For surely , it is as much impossible for true ●ayth to be without good workes , as it is for a man to speake , without a to●●g●e ; to see , wanting eyes ; or to liue , lacking a hart .

A● example further to confirme vs in the vndoubt●d truth ●eereof , may be read in the story of Zacche●s ; who had no sooner ●●c●iued Christ●into his house , ( and much m●re into his ●art by fayth ▪ ) but presently hee brake forth into these sp●●ches ; saying ● Behold ▪ Lord , the halfe of ●●y Luke , 19 , 8 , good●● giue vnto the p●ore : and if I haue taken from any man , by false or vnlawfull meanes , ● restore him foure fold .

Againe ; what 〈◊〉 it my Br●●heren , Iam , 2 , 14. 15 , 16 , 17 , ( saith ● Iames ) though 〈◊〉 say ●ee hath fayth ▪ when ●ee hath no works ▪ Ca● that fayth saue him ? For , if a brother or a sister be naked ▪ and d●stitu●● of daily f●●de , and one of you say vnto them ; Depart in peace ; God send you warmnes and foode : Notwithstanding , you giue them not those things which are needfull to the body ▪ what helpe●h 〈◊〉 ▪ Euen so the ●ayth , if it haue no work●● i● dead in itselfe .

But some man might say ; Thou hast the Iames , 2 , 18 ●aith , and I haue workes : Shewe mee thy faith out of thy workes , and I will shewe thee my faith by my workes .

Thou beleeuest that there is one God ; verse , 19. thou doost well ; the deuils also beleeue it , and tremble .

But wilt thou vnderstand ( ô thou vayne verse , 20 , 21 22 , man ) that faith without workes is dead ? Was not Abraham our Father iustified through workes , when he offered Isaac his sonne vpon the Altar ? Seest thou not , that the fayth wrought with his workes ? and through the works was the faith made perfect .

And ▪ the Scripture was fulfilled , which verse , 23 , saith : Abraham beleeued God , and it was imputed vnto him for righteousnes : & he was called the friend of God .

Yee see then , how that of workes a man verse , 24 , is iustified ; and not of faith onely .

For , as the body without the Spirit is verse , 26. dead ; euen so the fayth without workes is dead .

§. 15.

Wee must not yet heere thinke , that the Augustine . sayings of the two Apostles , S. Paule and S. Iames , are contrary one to the other ; where as Paule saith ; A man is iustified without workes . And Iames saith ; Fayth without workes is vai●e . For , Paule speaketh of the workes that goe before fayth , and Iames speaketh of the workes which followe after fayth .

Our Religion likewise , doth not discerne Augustine . the righteous from the vnrighteous , by the lawe of workes , but by the lawe of faith ; without the which , euen those works that seeme good , are turned into sinnes .

For , whatsoeuer is not of fayth , is sinne . Rom , 14 , 23

And , where faith is not , good workes is Augustine . not . The intent [ indeede ] maketh a good worke ; but fayth directeth that intent .

Besides ; good workes make no man to be accounted iust , or righteous in the sight of God : but a man being once iustified by faith ; doth good workes through loue .

Also , ] in Iesus Christ , neither Circumcision Gala , 5 , 6. auaileth any thing ; neither vncircumcision : but fayth , which worketh by loue .

For , like as the goodnesse of a Tree , is Luther . alwayes knowne by the good fruite which it bringeth foorth : euen so the fayth of a godly man , is euermore declared vnto the world ; by his religious obedience towards the law of GOD ; and his workes of charitie towards his neighbour .

Wee are iustified [ therfore ] by that Beza . liuely fayth , which doth apprehend all the mercifull promises of God ▪ made towards vs in Iesus Christ .

Which fayth , neyther sleepeth nor is Beza . idle ; but alwayes awaketh : and is continually busied , about the performing of some good worke .

Resting fully perswaded , that good Bernard . workes are the way to the kingdome of heauen ; though they be not the cause of raigning there .

¶ Of Feare .

§. 1.

FEare , ( as Pacuuius saith , ) is a diuine Pacuuius , affection or passion of the minde ▪ by a feeling regard conducting vertue to all the actions of the soule . It groweth from an vndoubted beleefe in GOD , and maketh a man carefull to lead his lyfe pleasing , in the sight of his Creator .

But before I enter any further into the discourse of this Vertue , I am to enforme the Reader , that there are two sorts of Feare : The one , Se●uile , or slauish : the other , F●liall , or chyld-like .

The Seruile , or slauish feare ; is that which euery bond-man beareth to his bodilie Maister ; or wicked offenders , to wise Iudges . This feare , is also a defect of the minde , and a harmefull hinderance to all vertuous resolutions : killing courage by cowardise , and pietie through distrustment . It many times causeth the tongue to controle the hart , and maketh the mouth to marre the meaning of the minde . It teacheth men to talke according to the time ; and enforceth faint-harted subiects , to sooth the sinnes of their Soueraigne .

Like vnto those people of whom Plutarch Plutarch . speaketh : Whose hearts , ( saith hee ) harbour hatred , against an vngodly Tyrant , for his bad gouernement , & yet notwithstanding , with the labour of their lyps , they neuer cease , fearefully to flatter him in his folly ; to the end hee should not hurt them .

But the Filiall , or Chyld-like Feare , ( whereof I onely meane in this place to speak ) is a diuine chastiser of euill in it selfe , hauing in it such force , that it causeth concupiscence to flie ; and maketh a man to abstaine from all sinne and wickednes . It dependeth not on hate , but on loue ; not resembling the feare of seruaunts , but the feare of sonnes : not like the trembling and despayring feare of * Saule , when sathan in 1 , Sam , 28 , 19 , 20 the forme of Samuell , fore-told him how little awhile he had to liue . But rather , like the reuerent and religious feare of Dauid , * when hee kept Abisha● his Captaine from 1 , Sam , 26. 9 killing the Lords annoynted .

This 〈◊〉 feare ; as wee finde in diuers places of the holy Scripture ; hath alwaies been a guide vnto the godly to direct their dooings : and a Tutor to teach them , the perfect pathway to eternall felicitie .

§. 2.

Plato the Prince of Phylosophers , affirmeth ; Plato . that this excellent feare , was so excellently excelling in the harts of the Heathen , that in Sparta , they built a Temple to true Feare : in which , they daily vsed to burne thev● first sacrifice . And , so much likewise affirmeth Socrates ▪ who was Platos Socrates . Schoole-maister .

But King Salomon the sonne of Dauid , beeing farre wiser in knowledge then eyther Socrates or Plato ; giueth in his Prouerbs many prayses of this vertue : Telling vs plainly ; that , * the feare of the Lord , Prou , 9. 10 , ( which is a dutifull reuerence and awe of the Almighty , firmely fixed in the harts of all the godly , ) is , Initium sapie●●e : the very beginning of wisedome .

That , in it is an assured strength . Prou. 14. 26 Prou , 10 , 27 Prou , 14 , 27 ,

That , it increaseth our dayes .

That , it is as a Well-spring of wisedome , to auoyde the snares of death .

That , it leadeth to life ; and that hee that Prou. 19. 23 is filled there-with , shall prosper , and shall not be visited with euill .

§. 3.

Iesus likewise , the sonne of Sirach , who well deserueth the name of a second Salomon for his great wisedome ; telleth vs , in the beginning of his Booke : That , the feare of the Lord , is worship ; & tryumph ; Ecclus , 1 , 11. gladnesse ; and a ioyfull crow 〈…〉

That , it is an holy knowledge . Ecclus. 1. 16.

That , it is both wisedome & discipline . Ecclus. 1 , 32. Ecclus , 25 , 13

That , it is the beginning of the loue of GOD .

That , it passeth all things in clearenes . Ecclus. 25 , 11

That , it maketh a merry hart , & giueth Ecclus , 1 , 12. gladnesse , ioy , and long life .

That , it expelleth , sinne , and driueth away Ecclus , 1 , 26. anger .

That , it is the Crowne of wisedome ; & Ecclus , 1. 22 giueth pleace and perfect health .

That , it is the roote of wisedome ; and Ecclus. 1. 24. the branches thereof are long life .

That , it is a pleasant garden of blessing : Ecclus. 40. 27 & that there is nothing so beautifull as it is .

Neither is there any thing sweeter then Basill . the same .

§. 4.

Besides ; Sirach doth not onely giue commendations of this vertue it selfe , but also vttereth sundry speeches in prayse of the man that is enriched there-with : and consequently declareth , how much mindfull it maketh them that haue it , prouident to please God in all theyr proceedings ; saying : Ecclus. 10. 25 The great man ; the Iudge ; and the man of authoritie ; are all of them honourable : yet is there none of them greater then he that feareth the Lord .

Hee that hath small vnderstanding , and Ecclus. 19. 23 feareth God , is better then hee that hath much wisedome , and transgresseth the law of his Maker .

Oh howe great is the man that findeth Ecclus. 25. 10 wisedome & knowledge : yet is there none aboue him that feareth the Lord .

§. 5.

They that feare the Lord , ( saith he ) will Ecclus. 2. 18 , prepare their harts , & humble their soules in his sight .

They will [ also ] seeke out the thinges Ecclus. 2. 1● . that are pleasant vnto him .

They will keepe his commaundements . Ecclus. 2. 19. Ecclus. 32. 15 And receiue his doctrine .

They will honour theyr Parents , & doe Ecclus. 3. 8 , seruice vnto them ▪

Yea ; they that feare the Lord ▪ will be diligent Ecclus. 15. 1. Ecclus. 2. 16 to do good ; and will not disobey his Worde . And , such as feruently loue the Lord , wil euer be careful to keep his wayes .

For , as by the feare of God , our harts are Vincentius . first framed to the obedience of his holy will : so through the loue of God ▪ wee are afterwards enforced to goe forward , daily more and more , with ioy and delight in his seruice . Yet , * * Augustine . ●ee that loueth GOD best , alwayes feareth him most .

§. 6.

With this holy , religious , and louing Gene , 39 , 10 11. 12. feare of the Lorde , was the hart of Ioseph the sonne of Iacob fully stored when beeing seruaunt with Potipha● in Egipt , hee fledde from the company and vnlawfull liking of his maisters w●fe .

This true and reuerent feare also of the Almightie , kept the three young men Dan. 3. 18. mentioned in Daniell ; from falling downe before the false God , which Nabuchadnezzar the great King of Babell had sette vp .

It likewise caused Daniell himselfe to do Dan , 6 , 10. contrary to the Decree of Darius . And made the * faire and constant wife of Ioakim , Dan , 13. to withstand the wit-wanting Rethorick of the two Isralite Rulers .

Also ; whosoeuer else he be , that truelie Gueuara . feareth God as he ought , shall vndoubtedlie finde the same such a stay vnto him in the time of temptation , that he shall thereby be kept safe from falling in those dangers which lead men into destruction .

For , the feare of God , doth not onelie Boetius . withdraw the hand , the eye , & other members of the body , from committing euill : but it also helpeth to clense the minde , and to keep the consent thereof from yeelding to euill .

Very well therefore saith Saint Bernard ; Bernard . That there is nothing of greater force and efficacie , to keepe vs in the grace ▪ & fauour of God ▪ then to liue continually in his feare : and to eschew by all meanes that may bee , the performance of our proude and presumptious thoughts .

But if the feare of GOD be once gone Bernarde . from a man , then there remaineth in him , nothing else but lewdnes of life , extreame rashnes , forgetfulnes of vertue , & a harmfull running head-long into all kindes of sinne and wickednes .

§. 7.

It is written of Iob , that hee was an vpright and iust man ; one that feared God , Iob , 1 , 1 , and ●s●hewed euill . Whereby I vnderstand , that the true feare of God , kept him vpright in life : and his abstaining from euill , caused him to be counted iust .

And , to shew further , that Iob ledde his whole life in the feare of God , it is as a speciall testimony , plainly expressed vnto vs by his owne speech , where ( in effect ) hee thus speaketh , saying : * I am afrayd of all Iob , 9 , 28 , my dooings ( ô Lorde ) knowing that thou wilt not iudge mee innocent ; or , without sinne in thy sight .

The Prophet Dauid likewise , although himselfe be many times praysed in the sacred Scriptures , for his religious holinesse , and vprightnes of life : yet to make known vnto all men , how much he was acquainted with the true feare of GOD , hee spareth not to reueale the same in the hundred and nineteene Psalme ; where hee saith : * My Psalm , 119 120. flesh trembleth for feare of thee ( ô Lord , ) and I am afrayd of thy iudgements .

Wee finde furthermore , that S. Paule the Apostle , was commended by the Lord himselfe , to be an elect and chosen vessell Acts , 9 , 15 , vnto him , to beare his Name before the Gentiles , and Kings of the Earth .

Yet notwithstanding , in his first Epistle to the Corinthians , by his owne words it is witnessed , how greatly hee feared God in all his actions ; as namely , in the 9. chapter , where hee saith : * I doe beate downe my 1 , Cor. 9. 27 bodie , and bring it into subiection : least by any meanes it should come to passe , that after I haue preached to others , I my selfe should be reproued .

§. 8.

Thus see wee , both by seuerall sentences and examples , that the Saints of God ; yea , such men as were most high in Gods fauour , haue alwaies beene carefull to serue their Creator with feare and reuerence .

And , without true feare and reuerence , Augustine . no man liuing can be righteous in the sight of God .

Boldly hereby , may we then with Sirach , Ecclus , 18 , 26 count him a wise man , that feareth God in all his actions .

And rightly with Salomon , pronounce Prou. 28. 14 him blessed , that standeth alwaies in dread to doe that which may offend his Maker . But hee that hardneth his owne hart , shall fall into euill .

Happy [ therefore ] is the man , vnto whom Ecclus. 25. 12. it is graunted to haue the feare of God .

And , blessed is the soule of him that feareth Ecclus. 34. 15 the Lord .

Yea ; ] blessed is euery one that feareth Psal. 128. 1. the Lord , and walketh in his wayes .

It shal goe wel with such men at the last , Ecclus. 1 , 13. and they shall finde fauour in the day of their death .

For , who so feareth the Lord , hee shall Ecclus , 1 , 18 , prosper ; and at the end of his life hee shall be blessed .

Yea ; the spirits [ or soules ] of such men , Ecclus. 34 , 13 shall surely liue : for , their hope is in the Lord their God , that can helpe them .

¶ Of Loue .

§. 1.

LOue , ( as Plotinus saith ) is a diuine Plotinus . passion of the soule or Spirit : inspiring it with a celestiall desire of heauenly things ; and inflaming the har● to God-ward , through the hope which i● conceiueth of euerlasting felicitie .

But like as I haue saide before of Feare that there are two sorts thereof : so doe I heere certifie vnto euery one that readeth ▪ that diuers worldly men , haue out of this holie roote of Loue , deriued two seuerall Trees . Namely , this diuine Loue , wholelie dedicated to Pietie : and an immodest affection , extending it selfe to base Concupiscence ; which they entitle by the name of Loue also .

This vile Loue , or rather Concupiscence , is , ( as Aristotle saith ) the worst Aristotle . worke of a mans Malus Genius . It disturbeth the passions of the hart , and maketh the sences mad . It is the roote of violence ; furie ; murders ; and execrations : and the sole confounder of all the holy actions of the soule .

Full fraught with this filthy lust-loue , was the heart of wicked Amnon ; when 2. Sam. 13. through his deceitfull policie , he obtained meanes to abuse by violence , the body of his sister Thamar .

But the other Loue , sirnamed Charitie ; which is true ; perfect ; diuine ; and onelie sacred : * is the very originall , and cheefe Gregory . ground of all godly actions .

It is the way of man to God , & the way Augustine . of God to man .

It is heauens Embassadour to the soule ; Rauisius . and the whole scope or fulfilling , of all Gods commaundements .

§. 2.

This Loue , ( as the Apostle saith ) suffereth 1 , Cor , 13 , 4. 5 , 6 , 7. long : It is bountifull : It enuieth not : It doth not boast it selfe : It is not puffed vp : It disdaineth not : It seeketh not that which is her owne : It is not prouoked to anger : It thinketh not euill : It reioyceth not in iniquitie , but reioyceth in the truth : It suffereth all thinges : It beleeueth all things : It hopeth all things : It endureth all things .

This loue , teacheth vs true wisedome ; Plato . namely , to loue the soule more then the body , & not the body ●etter then the soule .

This loue , beeing both diuine and charitable ; mooueth a man ( according to the Deut , 6 , 5 , commaundement of God in the Law , ) to loue his Maker aboue all things : and his Leuit , 19. 18 neighbour as deerely as hee loueth himselfe .

This loue , beeing a good and gracious Plotinus . affect of the soule ; so worketh in the harts of the godly , that they haue no fancie to esteeme , value , or ponder any thing in the wide world , beside , or before the care and studie , how to please God .

For , the greatest argument of godly loue , Pacuuius . is to loue that which God willeth : and to forbeare to doe that which he hath forbidden .

§. 3.

This loue , resembleth fire ; which naturally Erasmus . inflameth all things that it toucheth .

This loue , teacheth vs , ( according to the commaundement of our Sauiour Christ , ) Math , 5 , 44. to loue our enemies ; to blesse them that curse vs ; to do good to them that hate vs ; and to pray for them that hurt vs , and persecute vs .

Yea ; this loue , couereth all trespasses . Prou , 10 , 12

It is strong as death . Much water cannot Cant , 8 , 6. 7 , quench it : neither can the floods drown it .

This loue , maketh men to forsake sinne , Chrisostome . and embrace vertue .

This loue , increaseth fayth ; begetteth Augustine . hope ; and maketh vs at peace with God .

This loue , in aduersity is patient ; in prosperitie Bernard . temperate ; in passions strong ; in good workes quicke ; in temptations confident ; in hospitality bountifull .

This loue , is neuer idle ; but alwayes labouring Ambrose . to serue him whom it loueth .

§. 4.

This loue , ( as Pacuuius saith ) cannot Pacuuius . stand with any worldly care or studie , for the things of this life ; neither abideth it the coupling with any other loue . It beareth no partiall affection to kindred . It knoweth no difference betweene poore & rich . It knoweth not what meaneth mine and thine : Neither can it deuide a foe from a friende . For , hee that truely and perfectlie loueth GOD , loueth him alone ; nothing besides him , nor with him ; but all thinges indifferently , in him , and for him .

By which speech it appeareth , that the * right measure where-with wee ought to Bernard . loue God ; is to loue him entirelie , without either end or measure .

Not in part ; but in whole : ( as hee himselfe in his holy Worde hath willed vs , ) Leuit , 6. 5. Luke , 10 , 27 namely ; with all our heart ; with all our soule ; with all our minde ; & with all our strength .

Which speech of GOD , beeing by Maister Becon in a certaine Sermon of his Becon . expounded , hee enterpreteth the same in this manner ; saying : To loue God with all our hart ; is to preferre the loue of him , both aboue , & before all things else whatsoeuer . To loue God with all our soule ; is to loue him discreetly . To loue God with all our minde ; is continually to meditate vpon his commaundements . And , to loue him with all our strength ; is manfullie to suffer all kinds of aduersities , with willingnesse & patience , for the testimonie of his truth .

§. 5.

With this sacred and religious loue of man to his Maker , was the hart of holie Dauid greatly enflamed , as may for example be seen in sundry places of his psalmes ; where , in zealous affection to the Lorde and his Law , he first of all saith : * One Psalm , 27. 4 , thing haue I desired of the Lorde , the which I will still require ; euen that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the daies of my life ; to beholde the beauty of the Lord , and to visite his holy Temple .

I haue loued , ô Lord , ( saith hee ) the habitation Psalm , 26. 8 , of thine house ; & the place where thine honour dwelleth .

The zeale of thine house ( ô Lord ) hath Psalm , 69 , 6. eaten mee vp .

One day in thy Courts , is better then a Psal , 84 , 10. thousand other-where . I had rather be a Doore-keeper in the house of my GOD , then to dwell in the Tents of the vngodly .

As the Hart brayeth for the Riuers of Psal , 42 , 1 , 2 , water , so panteth my soule after thee ( ô Lord. ) My soule thirsteth for God , euen for the liuing God . When shall I come & appeare before the presence of God ?

I will loue thee deerely ( ô Lorde ) my Psal , 18. 1. strength .

Whom haue I ( ô Lord ) in heauen but Psal , 73 , 25. thee ? and there is none vpon earth , that I desire , in comparison of thee .

I haue longed ( ô Lord ) for thy saluation : Ps. 119. 174. and thy law is my delight .

Oh how I loue thy law ! It is my meditation Psal , 119. 97 continually .

Oh teach mee thy statutes ( ô Lorde , ) Psalm , 119. 26 , 27. make mee to vnderstand the way of thy commaundements ; and I will meditate in thy wondrous workes .

Teach mee ( ô Lord ) the way of thy statutes ; Psal , 119 , 33 34 , & I will keepe it vnto the end . Giue mee vnderstanding , and I will keepe thy Law : yea , I will keepe it with my whole hart .

Direct me in the path of thy commaundements ; verse , 35 , for therein is my delight .

Behold , I desire thy commaundements ; verse , 40 , quicken me in thy righteousnes .

And , ] incline my hart vnto thy testimonies . verse , 36 ,

Deale with thy seruaunt ( ô Lord ) according Ps , 119 , 124. 125. to thy mercie , and teach mee thy statutes . I , ô Lord , am thy seruaunt , graunt mee therefore vnderstanding , that I may know thy testimonies .

Looke vpon mee , and be mercifull vnto Psalm , 119 , 132. mee , as thou vsest to doe vnto those that loue thy Name .

Direct my steps in thy Worde , and let verse , 133. none iniquitie haue dominion ouer me .

Teach mee to doe thy will ; for thou art Psal , 143. 10 my God . Let thy good Spirit lead me vnto the Land of righteousnesse .

By these , and manie moe such like sayings in the Booke of Psalmes , dooth thys princely Prophet make manifest , ( as I said before ) with what earnest zeale & feruent affection , hee alwayes loued the Lord and his Law .

The true and perfect loue also of man to his Maker , was ( as it seemeth ) deeply rooted in the hart of old Eleazer , when he refused all the friendship & worldly fauours , 2 , Mac , 6 , 28 that were offered vnto him by the seruants of Antiochus ; and chose rather to suffer death by torments , then to saue his life by breaking the rules of his Religion .

With the like loue and constancie , did the seauen brethren and their mother , endure 2 , Mac. 7. death by tortures , vnder that wicked Tyrant Antiochus ; and left behinde them a woorthy remembrance of their feruent affection to the Lawe of the Lorde their God .

We reade also in the Newe-testament , that Saint Stephen the first Martir after Acts , 7 , 59. Christ , through his religious loue to his Lord and Maister , willingly suffered himselfe to be stoned to death : commending his spirit into the hands of his Creator .

And such like diuine and holy loue to Christ our Captaine , ought euery Christian professor to harbour in his heart , else may it greatly be doubted , that hee shall shoote short of life euerlasting .

§. 6.

But , as I said in the beginning , this loue is both diuine and charitable . First , mouing man to loue the Lord and his lawe , for the sundry blessings and benefits , which God both already hath , and daily doth bestowe vppon him through Christ . Secondlie , to loue his neighbour , or brother , as himselfe ; because GOD in his holy Worde hath so commaunded him : and for that hee is the very forme of his own Image or likenes .

With which kinde of charitable loue of man to man , or man to his neighbour , was the heart of the Samaritane softned : who Luke , 10. 33 34 , 35. finding a stranger in the high-way halfe dead , first bound vp the wounds of his body , & then setting him vpon his own beast , brought him to an Inne , and made prouision for him ; commaunding the Host of the house to take care of him : and looke ( quoth he ) what-soeuer the charges of this man commeth vnto , more then the two pence which I now giue thee ; at my next comming hether , I will pay thee all .

But , with more then charitable loue of man to his neighbour , was the hart of holy Moises moued , when through his great affection hee prayed vnto the Lord , to pardon the foolish and Idolatrous sinne of his people . Yea , such was his feruent affection & more than charitable loue towards them , that he desired of GOD in his prayer , to Exod , 32 , 32 graunt , that theyr foule offence might be forgiuen ; or else his owne name to be rased out of the Booke of life .

And , with more also then charitable loue of man to his neighbour , was the Apostle Saint Paule acquainted , when verie zeale for Gods glory , and loue to his owne Nation , enforced him to say : * I would Rom , 9 , 3. wish my selfe to be separated from Christ , [ or to loose mine owne saluation ] for my Bretheren ; that are my kinsmen according to the flesh .

I terme these two last ensamples more then charitable loue , because it made these men ready to refuse their owne soules health , rather then their Brethren should be vnpardoned ; and cast from their Creator for their offences .

§. 7.

By which few examples onely , wee may sufficiently perceiue the forcible effect of true and perfect loue ; and iustly may wee confesse with the afore-named Apostle , That * although we speak with the tungs 1 , Cor , 13 , 1 , 2 , 3. of men and Angels , and haue not loue , we are but as sounding Brasse , or a tinckling Cymball . And though wee had the gift of prophecie , and knewe all secrets , and all knowledge : yea , if we had all fayth , so that we could remoue mountaines , and had not loue , we were nothing . And though wee feede the poore with all our goods , & giue our bodies to be burned , & haue not loue , it profiteth vs nothing .

For , God hath chosen vs in Christ Iesus , Ephe , 1 , 4 , before the foundation of the World , that we should be holy , and without blame before him in loue .

And this commaundement haue we of 1 , Ioh , 4 , 21. him ; that he which loueth GOD , should loue his brother also .

For , as a King is honoured in his Image , Bernard . so God in man , is either loued or hated : hee cannot hate man , who loueth GOD , neither can hee loue GOD , who hateth man .

Also ; like as the body without the soule Fulgoti●● . enioyeth no life ; so all other vertues without godlie loue , are but colde and fruitlesse .

§. 8.

If wee loue one another , ( saith S. Iohn , ) 1 , Ioh , 4 , 12 , God dwelleth in vs , and his loue is perfect in vs .

Also , ] hee that loueth his Brother , abideth 1 , Ioh , 2 , 10 , in the light , & there is none occasion of euill in him .

But he that hateth his brother , is in darknesse , verse , 11. and walketh in darknesse ; & knoweth not whether hee goeth ; because that darknesse hath blinded his eyes .

§. 9.

Loue , ( saith the Apostle ) doth no euill Rom , 13 , 10 to his neighbour : therefore is loue the fulfilling of the lawe .

For , all the law is fulfilled in one word , Gala. 5 , 14. which is this : Thou shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe .

Wherefore , ] If any man say , I loue 1 , Ioh , 4 , 20. God , and hate his brother , he is a lyer ; for howe can hee that loueth not his brother whom he hath seene , loue God , whom he neuer saw ?

Moreouer ; Whosoeuer he be , that hath this worlds good , & seeth his brother haue 1 , Iohn . 3 , 17 neede , and shutteth vp his compassion from him : howe dwelleth the loue of God in him ?

For , by the true and perfect loue which Erasmus . we beare vnto God , we rightly vnderstand what our dutie is towards our neighbour .

And , this is the commaundement of God , 1 , Ioh , 3 , 11. which we haue heard from the beginning : That we should loue one another . * Euen Ephe , 5 , 2. as Christ himselfe hath loued vs .

§. 10.

Beloued , let vs [ therefore ] loue one another : 1. Ioh , 4 , 7 , 8 , for , loue commeth of God , & euerie one that loueth , is borne of God , and knoweth God . He that loueth not , knoweth not God ; for God is loue .

Let vs not loue in worde ; neither in 1. Ioh. 3. 18. tongue onely ; but in deede and in truth .

That we may walke worthy of the vocation Ephe , 1 , 1 , 2. 3. where-vnto wee are called : with all humblenes of minde , & meekenesse : with long suffering , supporting one another through loue ; endeuouring to keepe the vnitie of the Spirit , in the bond of peace .

¶ What the will and desire of Almighty God is concerning men : and how louingly he admonisheth euery one to come to repentance : promising mercy & forgiuenes to all those that amend . 2. ESDRAS . 7. verse . 20. 21. Many perrish in this life , because they despise the Law of God that is appointed . For , God hath diligently admonished such as came , so oft as they came , what they should doe to haue life ; and what they should obserue to auoyd punishment .

¶ What the will of God is . &c.

§. 1.

THis is the will of God , ( as saith the Apostle ) euen our sanctification : 1. Thes. 4. 3. 4. 5. 6. that we should abstaine from fornication : that euery one of vs should knowe howe to possesse his vessell in holinesse and honour : and not in the lust of concupiscence , as doe the Heathen which know not God : that no man oppresse or defraude his brother , in any matter ; for the Lord is the auenger of all such things .

He therefore that despiseth these things , 1 , Thes , 4 , 8. despiseth not man but God , who hath giuen vnto vs his holy Spirit .

And , whose will is , that all men should 1 , Tim , 2 , 4 , be saued , and come vnto the knowledge of the truth .

For , it is not the will of God that one of Math , 18 , 14 the least should be lost .

§. 2.

Deerely beloued , ( saith S. Peter ) be not 2 , Pet , 3 , 8 , 9 , ignorant of this one thing ; that one day is with the Lord , as a thousand yeeres , and a thousand yeeres as one day . The Lord is not slack concerning the promise [ of his comming , ] ( as some men count slacknes , ) but is patient toward vs ; & would haue no man to perrish ; but would haue all men to come to repentance .

For , GOD would not that man should 2 , Esdr. 8 , 59 , perrish .

But , vnto them that will repent , hee giueth Ecclus , 17 , 22 them grace to returne ; and exhorteth such as faile with patience : and sendeth them the portion of the veritie .

Amend your liues therefore , and turne , Acts , 3 , 19. that your sinnes may be put away , when the time of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord .

And , as it came into your minde , to goe Baruc , 4 , 28. astray from your God , so endeuour your selues tenne times more , to turne againe , & to seeke him .

For , he that is Lord ouer all , is rich vnto Rom. 10 , 12 all that call vpon him .

§. 3.

Make no tarrying to turne vnto the Ecclus , 5. 7. Lord : neither put it off from day to day : for , suddainly shall the wrath of the Lord breake forth , and in thy securitie thou shalt be destroyed : & thou shalt perrish in time of vengeance .

Wherefore , as the holy Ghost sayth : Hebr , 3 , 7 , 8 , To day , if yee shall heare his voyce , harden not your harts .

Yea ; ] this day , if yee heare his voyce , Heb , 4 , 7 , harden not your harts .

For , it is a fearefull thing , to fall into the Heb , 10 , 31 , hands of the liuing God .

§. 4.

Wee finde in the eyghteene of Ezechiell , and the 23. verse , that the Almightie , by the mouth of the same Prophet , exhorting the Children of Israell to repentance , first maketh this demaund of them ; Ezec , 18 , 23 saying : * Haue I any desire that the wicked should die ? or shall hee not liue if hee returne from his wayes ?

Then followeth in the 27. and 28. verses , Ezec , 18 , 27 28 , 31 , 32 , sundry promises of Gods loue & mercie , vnto him that truly repenteth , and forsaketh his sinnes .

And , in the 31. & 32. verses of the same chapter , he thus concludeth all his former speech held with them to that purpose , saying : Cast away from you all your transgressions , whereby you haue transgressed : and make you a newe heart , and a newe Spirite ; for why will yee die , ô house of Israell ?

For , I desire not the death of him that dieth : cause therefore one another to returne , and liue .

§. 5.

We finde likewise in the prophecie of Esay , that the Lord , beeing there desirous to withdraw that wicked & obstinate people of Israell , from their greeuous offences , ( in which too long they had wilfully continued ; ) beginneth also first with a gentle admonishment , saying : * Washe you : Esay , 1 , 16 , 17 , make you cleane ; take away the euill of your workes from before mine eyes : cease to do euill ; learne to doe well ; seeke iudgement ; relieue the oppressed ; iudge the fatherlesse ; and defend the widdow .

And , hauing thus fore-told them what they ought to doe , hee then presently addeth : * Come nowe , and let vs reason together ; Esay , 1 , 18 , though your sinnes were as Crimson , they shall be made white as snowe : though they were redde , like Skarlet , they shall be as wooll .

Declaring heereby vnto vs , howe readie he is to receiue them that truly repent ; and how prone to put all their former offences , cleane out of his remembrance .

As may further appeare againe , euen by the witnesse of his owne wordes in the 18. chapter of the afore-named Ezechiell ; where hee saith : * If the wicked will returne Ezec , 18 , 21. from all his sinnes that he hath committed , & keepe all my statutes , & do that which is lawfull and right ; hee shall surely liue , and shall not die .

All his transgressions that he hath committed , verse , 22. they shall not be mentioned vnto him : but in his righteousnes that hee hath done , he shall liue .

Moreouer ; When the wicked ( saith Ezec , 18. 27 hee ) turneth away from his wickednes that he hath committed , and doth that which is lawfull and right , hee shall saue his soule aliue .

Because hee considereth , and turneth away verse , 28 , from all his transgressions that he hath committed , hee shall surely liue , and shall not die .

Againe ; when I , saith the most Mercifull , Ezech. 33 , 14 , 15 , shall say vnto the wicked , Thou shalt surely die : if hee turne from his sinnes , and doe that which is lawfull and right ; to wit : If hee restore the pledge , and giue againe that hee had taken away by robberie , and walke in the statutes of life , without committing iniquitie , then shall hee surely liue , and not die .

None of the sinnes that hee hath committed , verse , 16 , shall be mentioned vnto him , [ or any more thought vpon , ] for , insomuch as he doth nowe the thing that is lawfull and right , hee shall surely liue .

§. 6.

These places of Scripture onely , if no moe such could be found , might serue sufficiently to proue ▪ that God delights not in a sinners death . Yet notwithstanding , for our greater comfort , and as it were more certaine assurance , the Lord , besides his promise , hath vouchsafed to giue his oath to this effect . And because he knewe none , eyther in heauen or earth , greater to sweare by , hee hath therefore sworne vnto vs by himselfe , saying : * As truly as I liue , I haue Ezec. 33 , 11. no pleasure in the death of the wicked : but rather , that the wicked shoulde turne from his euill way and liue .

And , to make yet a little more manifest how greatly he desireth our good ; he spareth not by sundry other speeches , both in the old and New-Testament , to expresse his kindnes and compassion towards vs , in this poynt . As namely , in the fift Booke of Moises , where hee saith : * Oh that there Deut , 5 , 29. were such a hart in my people , as to feare mee , and to keepe all my commaundements alway : that it might goe well with them , and with their children for euer .

Behold , ( saith he ) I stand at the doore & Reue , 3 , 20 , knock : if any man heare my voyce , and open the doore , I will come in vnto him , and will sup with him , and he with me .

Also ; by the voyce of his Gospell , hee daily more nowe then euer heretofore , manifesteth his euerlasting loue towardes vs : in that he therby vouchsafeth continually to call vs ; saying : * Come vnto mee , all yet Math. 11. 28 that are weary & laden , and I wil ease ●ou ▪

Take my yoake on you , & learne of me , verse , 29 , 30 that am meeke and lowly in hart ; and yee shall finde rest vnto your soules . For , my yoake is easie , and my burden light .

§ 7.

Clense [ therefore ] your hands , yee sinners ; Iames. 4. 8 , and purge your harts yee wauering minded .

Circumcise the fore-skin of your hearts , Deut. 10 , 16 and harden your necks no more .

Returne vnto the ●ord ; and he will returne Mala , 3 , 7 , vnto you .

Cease from your sinnes , and forget your 2 , Esdr. 16. 59 , iniquities , and medle no more from henceforth with them : so shall God leade you foorth , and deliuer you from all troubles .

Yea , let the wicked forsake his wayes , & Esay , 55 , 7 , the vnrighteous his owne imaginations ; and returne vnto the Lord , and hee will haue mercy vpon him : and to our GOD , for , hee is very ready to forgiue .

§. 8.

Returne then vnto the Lord , and forsake Ecclus , 17 , 23 thy sinnes : make thy prayer before his face , and take away the offence .

Turne againe vnto the most High : for verse , 24 , hee will bring thee from darknes to wholsome light : forsake thine vnrighteousnes , and hate greatly all abhomination .

Learne to know the righteousnesse and verse , 25 , iudgements of God ; stand in the portion that is sette forth for thee , and in the prayer of the most high GOD : and goe in the portion of the holie world , with such as be liuing and confesse God .

Also ; if thou be withered and worne away Chrisostome . of sin , renew thy selfe againe , through hartie sorrow , and true repentance .

For godly sorrowe , causeth repentance 2 , Cor , 7 , 10 , vnto saluation ; not to be repented of : but worldly sorrow causeth death .

And , the best remedy if thou hast offended , Hermes . is true repentance , and amendement of life .

§. 9.

But to the ende we may some-what the better vnderstand what true repentance is , I will heere rehearse some fewe places collected from diuers of the diuine Doctors of the Church : and first of all , from S. Augustine , where , speaking to this purpose , hee saith : * True repentance , is greatly to Augustine . deplore sinnes past , and fully to resolue in minde & hart , neuer to commit any heereafter .

It consisteth of three parts : namelie , Contrition of hart ; Confession of mouth ; and Satisfaction of deede . For , wee haue ( saith hee ) offended God three manner of wayes ; by the delight of thought : by the lapse of tongue : & by the pride of works : And these three are to be cured by three contrary remedies . Delight of thought , by the inward sorrow & contrition of the hart . The lapse of tongue , by the confession of the mouth . And the pride of works , by our vpright liuing , and vncorrupted satis-faction .

Contrition , is a hartie sorrowe & inward Bernarde . greefe , taken for the sinnes which we haue already committed : with a full inten : and purpose of confession and satisfaction ; & heereafter not to commit any more .

For otherwise , thy repentance is no true Augustine . repentance , but rather seemeth to be fained ; if thou pollute thy selfe againe with thy former offences : & thy penitent teares are to small purpose , if thou multiply thine iniquities . For , true repentance is to cease from sinne .

Wee ought also , in the true contrition of Cassianus . hart , to be sorowfull for these three things ; First , for the sinnes wee haue committed : Secondly , for the good wee haue omitted : Thirdly , for the time we haue lost .

And this kinde of contrition , is more auailable Augustine . in the sight of God , then to goe on pilgrimage throughout the world .

§. 10.

Confession , which hath the second place Augustine . in true repentance , is the health of the soule ; an expeller of vices ; a restorer of vertue ; an impugner of wicked spirits : & an impediment of the deuill .

By it , the lurking disease of the soule is Isidore . opened , to the praise of God : & through it , we obtaine hope of pardon for all our offences past .

Besides ; when the confession of the Ambrose . hart , proceedeth forth of the mouth , then the vengeance of GOD ceaseth to pursue the penitent person .

And , hee likewise that accuseth himselfe Augustine . of his sinnes , preuenteth thereby the deuill of his purpose ; so that hee cannot accuse him at the day of iudgement : if in confessing his sinnes vnto God , he blot those offences out by repentance , which hee hath committed : and cease to renew those sinnes againe , which he now is sorry for .

For , those sinnes shall neuer be condemned Leo. in iudgement , which were purged before , with confession & true repentance .

Neither is Iesus Christ any longer theyr Cassiodoru● . Iudge , but their Aduocate , who accuse themselues by their owne confession .

So that confession , ioyned with true contrition , Augustine . openeth the gates of heauen , and stoppeth the mouth of hell .

§. 11.

Satisfaction , beeing the third & last part Augustine . of repentance , is ; cheefely to cutte off the causes of such sinnes , as in former time we haue loued ; & not to cherrish henceforth by suggestions , any entrance into them .

For , wee doe not truly satis-fie , although Gregory . wee cease from iniquitie ; vnlesse wee persecute by opposite bewailings , the euils which heere-to-fore wee haue most affected ; & endeuour with all our might , daily to with-stand all such kind of pleasures , as prouoke men to sin and wickednes .

Wee ought also to vnderstand , that in Phil. Mel. the worke of true repentance , satis-faction is to be made three seuerall waies . First , vnto God : to wit , when through faith and confidence , wee humbly present our selues in prayer before him , and earnestly intreate his maiestie , that he will vouchsafe , to accept the passion and death of his Sonne Christ , as a perfect , full , and sufficient satisfaction , for all the sinnes which we haue committed .

Secondly , satis-faction is to be made vnto the Church , after Excommunication , for such offences as we haue done : testifying thereby , both in the sight of God and man , our humble submission and vnfained repentance .

Thirdly , satisfaction ought to be made vnto our neighbour or brother , if we haue any way wronged him , either in word or deede : namely thus ; hee must be recompensed by confessing the fault vnto him : and restitution must likewise be made , according to the damage we haue done him : otherwise , our repentance is greatly to bee suspected of hipocrisie , if ( beeing able ) we make not recompence by restitution .

Againe ; in making satis-faction , the reconciliation , Chrisostome . ought to be equall to the precedent offence ; and thou oughtest to bee as ready to lament , as thou wast to offend . And , as thine intent was before to offend , such also ought now thy deuotion to be in repenting : For , according to the greatnes of thy sinnes , ought the greatnesse of thy greefe & sorrowe to be : and as thy delight and loue was before , to those things which were euill ; so ought now thy hatred & lothing to be against those things which are euill .

§. 12.

Vnderstanding nowe by these fewe former speeches what true repentance is ; * Let vs , ( according to the counsell which Lament. 3. 40 , 41. the Prophet Ieremie giueth , ) search & try our wayes , and turne againe vnto the Lord . Let vs lift vp our harts with our hands vnto God in the heauens .

Yea , let vs , ( as Erasmus willeth , ) returne Erasmus . againe vnto the Lord our God , with hartie sorrow , and true repentance ; humbly confessing before him , the faultes which wee haue committed ; and earnestly desiring of him , that hee will alwaies heereafter , so strengthen vs with his grace , that wee may daily more & more , dutifully becom obedient to his holy will , & euer study to please him , our whole life time following .

For , if we acknowledge our sinnes , God 1 , Ioh , 1 , 9. is faithfull and iust , to forgiue vs our sinnes , and to clense vs from all vnrighteousnes .

Hee that hideth his sinnes , shall not prosper ; Prou , 28. 13 but hee that confesseth , & forsaketh them , shall haue mercie .

Wherfore , if the testimony of thine own Pacuuius . conscience , doe at any time accuse , vexe , or trouble thee , for any euill conceiued or done ; confesse thy fault speedily , deferre not the time ; dally not with God ; but bee earnestly repentant ; trust in his mercy , and seeke not to hide thine iniquity from him : so will he haue compassion on thee , & not impute sinne vnto thee .

Besides ; when thou truly repentest , and askest pardon of God for thine offences : Bo●tius . then cannot thy sinnes disquiet thee , nor haue any power to hurt thee . But when thou art vnrepentant , and cea●est to call for mercie , then thy sinnes rage ouer thee , and cry dailie vnto God for vengeance against thee .

Also ; the sinne that is not foorth-with Gregory . clensed , and purged by repentance , doth speedily draw on another with his weight .

Sleepe not therefore without repentance Plato . for thy sinnes done and past .

§. 13.

It behooueth a man so to liue ( saith Basill , ) Basill . that hee looke for death euery howre : and to be alwaies in a readines for the comming of death .

For , as God findeth thee to bee when he Gueuara . calleth thee , so will he iudge thee .

And , as the tree falleth , so shall it be taken Eccles , 11 , 3. vp .

Trouble not thy selfe then with taking S●crates . thought how thou maist liue long , but rather be careful to liue well : and forasmuch as thou ar● vncertaine in what place Death abideth fo● thee ▪ be thou ready prepared in eac● plac● to m●●te him .

Let not thy ●ea● be layde downe to rest , Isidore . before thou hast considered how thou hast bestowed the day past : If thou hast well done , giue thanks to God ; if otherwise , repent , and aske him forgiuenesse .

Also ; if thou intend to doe well , deferre Plato . it not till to morow ; for thou knowest not what may chaunce vnto thee this night .

Neuer trust too much to time ; for it suddainlie Hermes . deceiueth them that trust thereto .

Thinke not , that another time will be Rauisius . soone enough for thee to repent , if thou now feele thy conscience touched with the remembrance of thy sinne .

For although we finde , that God in many Gregory . places of his holy Word , hath promised pardon to the penitent ; yet we no where read , that euer hee promised to morrowe vnto a sinner .

§. 14.

Certainly , ( saith Aurelius , ) those men Mar. Aurel. doe liue very euill , that are alwaies beginning to liue well : forasmuch as theyr often beginnings , doe make theyr liues still more and more vnperfect .

Well therefore saith Zenophon , that to Zenophon . see , is a small matter ; but to fore-see , is a token of good wit .

And the difference betweene a wise man Di●genes . and a foole is this : the one is prouident to preuent an euill before it come ; the other wisheth for remedy , when it is too late .

As may for example more plainelie be perceiued , by reading the different doings of these two men following . Baltazar the king of Babel , ( as Daniell affirmeth , ) euen in the time of his banquetting amongst his Dan. 5. 5. 6. thousand Princes , perfectly discerned the hande of a man , writing vppon the plaister of his wall , and was greatly ( for the time ) terrified thereby ; insomuch , that the verie ioynts of his loynes were loosed , his countenaunce changed , his thoughts troubled , and his knees smote one against the other for feare of Gods iudgements . Yea , by Daniels diuine interpretation , hee also vnderstood verse , 25. the misticall meaning of those words which were written ; the summe whereof , contained no lesse ( for his offences ) then the speedy subuersion of his whole kingdom , and his owne vtter ouerthrowe for euer . Yet seeing , and knowing all this , but wanting grace to fore-see , & preuent the danger by true repentance , hee perrished the verse , 30. same night , according to the saying of the Prophet .

Contrariwise ; by Samuell it is affirmed : that king Dauid did not only see the foulenesse of his offence , wherein too long hee had ( in a manner ) sencelesly liued , so soone as the shril-sounding voyce of Nathan , had once ( by denouncing Gods anger ) thorowly 2 , Sam. 12. chap. awaked him out of his deadly slumber : but also presently fore-saw , by beleeuing the speech of the Prophet , & speedilie preuented , by his vnfained repentance and amendement , the heauy wrath of the Almighty ; which otherwise was likely for his iniquitie , to fall vpon him .

Marke therefore , what counsell Sirach giueth to this purpose , and endeuour diligently to follow the same , where he sayth : My * sonne , hast thou sinned ? doe so no Ecclus. 21. 1. 2 more ; but pray for thy former sinnes that they may be forgiuen thee . Flee from sin , as from a Serpent ; for if thou commest too neere it , it will bite thee : the teeth thereof , are as the teeth of a Lyon , to sley the soules of men .

Make much [ also ] of time ; and eschew Ecclus , 4 , 20 the thing that is euill .

Remember that death tarrieth not , and Ecclus , 14 , 12 that the couenaunt of the graue is not shewed vnto thee .

Defraude not thy selfe of the good day ; Ecclus , 14 , 14 neither let the portion of good desires ouer-passe thee .

Giue and take , and sanctifie thy soule : verse , 16. work thou righteousnes before thy death , for in the hell there is no meate to finde .

Neither is there any more place or time Cyprian . of repentance left for any man , after hee is once departed out of this worlde : life is heere either lost or wonne : euerlasting saluation is onely heere prouided for , by the due worshipping of God , and the fruites of fayth .

And no man is letted , eyther by sinnes Cyprian . or by yeeres , to come to the obtaining of saluation : for , as long as the soule is yet abyding in the body , no repentance is in vaine . And , what-soeuer is truly doone , is neuer too late done .

Yet thus much alwaies vnderstand , that Osorius . thy repentance is then most acceptable to God , when thou doost offer the same in the prime of thy youth , and in the time of thy perfect health : For , such as neuer cease to sin , till sin ( through age & feeblenes ) begin to forsake them ; it may greatly be feared , that they in the meane while , daily drinke vp the dreggs of Gods wrath .

§. 15.

Furthermore ; although there be indeed , Augustine . * many in the world , which are not ashamed to sinne , but are ashamed to repent ; yet if thou looke for fauour in Heauen , thou must both confesse and forsake thy sinnes heere on earth .

For , hee that heere in this life , receiueth Ambrose . not remission of his sinnes : shall haue no part with the godly , in the felicity to come .

Followe therefore , for thine owne good , the example of King Dauid ; and with the like humility of heart , be ready to say vnto God , as he said : * Lord haue mercy vpon Psalm , 41 , 4 , me ; and heale my soule , for I haue sinned against thee .

Or , as Manasses King of Iuda , in his penitent 2 , Chro , 36. prayer , said : * I haue sinned , ô Lord , I haue sinned , aboue the number of the sand of the Sea . My transgressions are multiplied , my offences : are exceeding manie : and I am not woorthy to behold and see the height of the heauens , by reason of the multitude of mine iniquities . For , I haue prouoked thy wrath , and done euill before thee . I did not thy will , neyther kept I thy commaundements .

Nowe therefore I bowe the knee of my hart , beseeching thee of grace . I haue sinned , ( ô Lord ) I haue sinned : & I acknowledge my transgressions : but I humbly beseech thee to forgiue mee . O Lord forgiue mee , and destroy mee not with my transgressions . Be not angry with mee for euer , by reseruing euill for mee : neither condemne me into the lower parts of the earth .

For , thou art the God , euen the God of them that repent : and in mee thou wilt shew all thy goodnes : for , thou ( ô Lord ) wilt saue mee , that am vnwoorthy ; according to thy great mercie : therefore I will praise thee for euer , all the dayes of my life . &c.

Or , as the prodigall sonne spoken of by Christ , in the gospell did : remember thine owne estate in time : liue no longer like a slaue to sinne , and a stranger from the fellowship of the faithfull ; but rather returne home , & say vnto God thy Father , as hee said to his : * I haue sinned , ô Father , against heauen , and before thee ; and am no Luke , 15 , 16 more worthy to be called thy sonne : make me as one of thy hired seruaunts .

And thou shalt surely finde , if thou make an vnfained conuersion , that the Lord thy God will be ready to receiue thee . For , there * is more ioy among the Angels in Luke , 15 , 7. Heauen , for one sinner that conuerteth ; then for ninetie and nine iust men , which neede none amendement of life .

Yea ; at the true repentance and conuersion Bernard . of sinners , the Father reioyceth ; the Sonne reioyceth ; and the holy Ghost reioyceth . The first , figured in the prodigall Sonne . The second , in the lost sheep . The third , because they are the temple & chosen vessels of the holy Ghost , euen all the Angels in heauen doe reioyce .

§. 16.

O how good a thing is it then , ( as Sirach Ecclus. 20. 4. saith , ) so soone as thou art reprooued , to manifest thy repentance ! for thereby shalt thou escape wilfull sinne .

Who so hateth to be reformed , is in the Ecclus , 21 , 6. way of sinners : but hee that feareth the Lord , conuerteth in h●rt .

Seeke the Lord [ therefore ] while hee Esay , 55 , 6 , may be founde : call vpon him while he is neere .

For , hee will be founde of them that Wisd. 1. 2. tempt him not ; and appeareth vnto such as proue not vnfaithfull vnto him .

Get thee righteousnes before thou come Ecclus. 18. 18 to iudgement . Learne before thou speake , and vse phisicke or euer thou be sicke .

Examine thy selfe , before thou bee iudged ; verse , 19. and in the day of the visitation thou shalt finde mercy .

Humble thy selfe , before thou be sicke : verse . 20. and whilst thou maist yet sinne , shewe thy conuersion .

Let nothing let thee to pray alwayes vnto verse , 21. God : and deferre not vnto death to be reformed : for the reward of GOD endureth for euer .

And , in what place or state soeuer a man Gregory . shall be founde , when he departeth out of this life , in the same state and degree , the last day of the worlde shall finde him .

For , such as euery man shall be in the day Augustine . of his death ; [ concerning eyther his vertue or vice , ] euen such shall hee appeare againe before God , in the day of generall iudgement .

And , except wee be conuerted , & become Math , 18 , 3 , as little children , wee shall not enter into the kingdome of heauen .

Not chyldren in vnderstanding , but as 1. Cor. 14 , 15. concerning maliciousnesse , [ or any other euill , ] we must be children : and , in vnderstanding of a ripe ag● .

¶ What manner of seruice is required of vs during this life : both towards God and our neighbour . ECCLVS . 15. verse , 17. Before man is life and death ; good and euill ; what him liketh , shall be giuen him .

¶ What seruice God requireth . &c.

§. 1.

WHen Christ our Sauiour was demaunded by a certaine Ruler Math , 19 , 16 , 17 , Luke , 18 , 18 this question ; Good Maister , what good thing shall I doe ▪ that I may haue eternall life ? He presently returned him this aunswer ; saying : Why callest thou mee good ? there is none good , but one ; euen God : but if thou wilt enter into life , keepe the commaundedements .

And , beeing likewise asked at an other time by a tempting Pharisee , which was the greatest , or cheefest commaundement Math. 22 , 36 37 , &c. in the lawe of God ? Hee forth-with made this reply vnto the partie ; saying : Thou shalt loue the Lord thy God , with all thine hart ; with all thy soule ; and with all thy minde . This is the first , and the greatest commaundement . And the second is like vnto this : Thou shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe . On these two commaundements , hangeth the whole Lawe and the Prophets .

Also ; being in talke with his owne Disciples , a little before the time of his suffering ; amongst many other things which he then taught , hee gaue this short lesson following , as a speciall rule for them to direct their life by , saying : * If yee loue me , keep Iohn , 14 , 15 my commaundements .

And , as in the 15. of S. Iohns Gospell , Iohn , 15 , 14 our Sauiour Christ counteth all those men to be his friendes , which doe whatsoeuer hee hath commaunded them .

So in the second of S. Iohns Epistle , the 1 , Ioh , 2 , 4. holy Ghost reckoneth euery one to bee a lyer , which saith , hee knoweth God , and keepeth not his commaundements .

Take heede therefore , that ye doe as the Deut , 5 , 32. Lord your God hath commaunded you : turne not aside to the right hande , nor to the left .

But walke in all the wayes which the verse . 33. Lord your God hath commaunded you : that yee may liue , and 〈◊〉 that it may goe well with you ; and that your dayes may be prolonged in the Land which ye possesse .

§. 2.

Let not the Booke of the Law , ( as saith Iosua , 1 , 8 , the Lord vnto Iosua ) depart out of thy mouth , but meditate therein day & night : that thou maist obserue & doe , according to all that is written therein ; for , then shalt thou make thy way prosperous ; and then shalt thou haue good successe .

Yea ; let thy minde , be vppon the ordinaunces Ecclus. 6 , 38 of the Almighty , & be thou continually occupied in his commaundements : so shall he stablish thy heart , and giue thee wisedome at thine owne desire .

For , the knowledge of the commaundements Ecclus , 19 , 19 of God , is the doctrine of life : and they that obey him , shall receiue the fruite of immortalitie .

§. 3.

Delight thy selfe [ then ] in the Lord [ thy Psalm , 37 , 4 , God , ] & the shall giue thee thy harts desire .

Commit thy workes vnto him , and thy Prou , 16 , 3 , thoughts shall be directed .

Loue the Lord all thy life long , and call Ecclus , 13 , 15 vpon him for thy saluation .

Beleeue in him , and hee will helpe thee ; Ecclus , 2 , 6 , order thy way 〈◊〉 , & trust in him : hold fast his feare ; and growe old therein .

Trust in him with all thine hart , & leane Prou. 3. 5 , 6 , 7. not vnto thine owne wisedome . In all thy wayes acknowledge him , and hee shall direct thy steps . Be not wise in thine owne eyes , but feare the Lord , and depart from euill ▪

So health shall be vnto thy nauell , and verse , 8 , marrow vnto thy bones .

§. 4.

The Lorde ( saith Ms●ah ) hath showed Mica . 6 , 8 , thee , ô man , what is good ; and what hee requireth of thee : namely , to doe iustice ; to loue mercy ; and to humble thy selfe to walke with thy God .

And now , ô Israell , ( saith Moises ) what Deut , 10 , 12 is it that the Lord thy GOD requireth of thee ; but to feare the Lord thy God ; to walke in all his waies ; and to loue him , and serue him , with all thine hart , and with all thy soule .

For , this commaundement which I commaund Deut , 30 , 11 thee this day , is not hid from thee ; neither is it farre off .

It is not in heauen , that thou shouldest verse , 12 , 13 , say ; Who shall goe vp for vs to heauen , & bring it vs , and cause vs to heare it that wee may doe it ? Neither is it beyond the Sea ; that thou shouldest say ; Who shall goe ouer the Sea for vs , and bring it vs , & cause vs to heare it , that we may doe it ?

But the Word is very neere vnto thee : verse , 14 , euen in thy mouth , and in thy hart , for to doe it .

And this ( saith the Apostle ) is the word Rom , 10 , 8 , of faith which wee preach .

§. 5.

If any man ( saith Saint Peter ) long after 1 , Pet , 3. 10. 11. life , and to see good daies ; let him refraine his tongue from euill , and his lips that they speake not guile . Let him eschew euill , and doe good : let him seeke peace , and follow after it .

Let euery man be swift to heare ; slowe Iam , 1 , 19 , to speake ; and slow to wrath .

( For , he that hath knowledge , spareth Prou. 17 , 27 his speech .

And , hee that sinneth not in word , is a Iames. 3 , 2. perfect man ; and able to bridle his whole bodie . )

Bee swift to heare good things ; and let Ecclus , 5 , 12 thy life be pure ; and giue a patient aunswere .

If thou hast vnderstanding , aunswer thy verse , 13. neighbour : if not , lay thy hand vppon thy mouth ; least thou be trapped in an vndiscreet word , and so be blamed .

Apply thine heart to instruction : and Prou , 23 , 12. thine eares vnto the words of knowledge .

Be humble to heare the word of God , Ecclus , 5 , 11 that thou maist vnderstand it : and make a true aunswere with wisedome .

For ; to lacke knowledge , is a very euill Orosius . thing : to thinke scorne to learne , is worse : but , to with-stand and repugne the truth , against men of knowledge teaching the same , is the worst thing that may be , and furthest from all grace .

Wherefore ; if thou desire to be good , Pet. Lomb. endeuour thy selfe to learne to know , and to follow the truth : for he that is ignorant therein , and will not learne , can neuer be good .

Endeuour thy selfe diligently , euen in Siluius . thy youth , to learne wisedome and knowledge , though for the time present it seeme painfull vnto thee : for , it is lesse paine for a man to learne in youth , then in age to be vnskilfull .

§. 6.

Sanctifie the Lorde God in your harts , 1 , Pet , 3 , 15. 16. ( saith the Apostle , ) and be ready alwayes to giue an aunswere to euery man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you : and that with meekenes & reuerence , hauing a good conscience ; that when they speake euill of you , as of euill dooers , they may be ashamed , which blame your good conuersation in Christ .

Yea , ] let the word of Christ dwell in Colos , 3. 16. you plenteously , in all wisedome ; teaching and admonishing your owne selues , in Psalmes , and Hymnes , & spirituall songs : singing with a grace in your harts vnto the Lord .

And , whatsoeuer yee shall doe in word , verse , 17. or in deed , do all in the Name of the Lord Iesus ; giuing thanks to God , euen the Father , by him .

For , God is a Spirit , and they that worship Iohn , 4. 24 , him , must worship him in spirit and truth .

He is likewise , a God of wonderfull great Tertullian . power , might , and majestie : and therefore we ought , alwaies to serue him truely , with feare and reuerence .

§. 7.

I beseech you brethren , by the mercies Rom , 12. 1. 2. of God , ( saith S. Paule ) that yee giue vp your bodies a liuing sacrifice , holy , acceptable to GOD ; which is your reasonable seruing of God . And fashion not your selues like vnto this world ; but be ye changed by the renewing of your minde , that yee may proue what is the good will of God , and acceptable , and perfect .

Lay apart all filthines , and superfluitie Iames , 1 , 21. 22. of maliciousnes , and receiue with meekenesse the worde which is grafted in you , which is able to saue your soules . And bee yee dooers of the word , and not hearers onely , deceiuing your selues .

For , if any man heare the word , & doe verse , 23 , 24 , it not , he is like vnto a man that beholdeth his naturall face in a glasse . For , when hee hath considered himselfe , he goeth his way , and forgetteth immediatly what manner of one hee was .

But who so looketh in the perfect Lawe verse , 2● . of libertie , and continueth therein : he not beeing a forgetfull hearer , but a dooer of the worke , shall be blessed in his deede .

For , the hearers of the Law , are not righteous Rom , 2. 13 , before God : but the dooers of the lawe shall be iustified .

And , not euery one that saith vnto Christ , Math , 7 , 21. Lord , Lord , shall enter into the kingdome of heauen : but hee that doth the will of God , which is in heauen .

Take heede therefore , that yee walke Ephe , 5. 15. 16 , circumspectly ; not as fooles , but as wise , redeeming the time , for the dayes are euill .

That is , that ye cast off , concerning the Ephe , 4 , 22 , 23 , 24 , conuersation in time past , the olde man , which is corrupt through deceiueable lusts , and be renewed in the spirit of your mind . And put on the newe man , which after God is created , in righteousnes & true holinesse .

For , the grace of GOD , that bringeth Titus , 2. 11. 12. saluation to all men , hath appeared : and teacheth vs , that we should denie vngodlines , and worldly lusts ; and that we should liue soberly , righteously , and godly in this present world .

Looking for the blessed hope , and appearing of the glory of the mightie God , verse . 13. 14. and of our sauiour Iesus Christ : who gaue himselfe for vs , that hee might redeeme vs from all iniquitie , and purge vs to be a peculier people vnto himselfe , zealous of good workes .

§. 8.

Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered ● , Pet. 4 , 1. for vs in the flesh , arme your selues likewise with the same minde ; which is , that hee which hath suffered in the fleshe , hath ceased from sinne : that hee hence-foorth should liue , ( as much time as remaineth in verse , 2. 3 , the flesh ) not after the lusts of men ; but after the will of God . For , it is sufficient for vs , that wee haue spent the time past of the life , after the lust of the Gentiles , walking in wantonnes , & lusts , in excesse of wines , in excesse of eatings , in excesse of drinkings : and in abhominable Idolatries .

Therefore , if any man be in Christ , let 2. Cor. 5. 17. him be a newe creature .

For , they that are Christes , haue crucified Gala , 5 , 24 , the flesh , with the affections & the lusts .

§. 9.

The night ( saith the Apostle ) is past , & Rom , 13 , 12 13. 14 , the day is at hand : let vs therefore cast away the works of darknes , & let vs put on the Armour of light : so that we walke honestly , as in the day ; not in gluttony , and drunkennes , neither in chambering and wantonnesse , nor in strife & enuying . But put yee on the Lord Iesus Christ , & take no thought for the flesh , to fulfill the lusts thereof . * For , if yee liue after the flesh , ye Rom , 8 , 13 , shal die , but if yee mortifie the deedes of the body by the Spirit , ye shall liue .

Walke then I say in the Spirit , and yee Gala. 5. 16 , 17 , shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh : for , the flesh lusteth against the Spirit , and the Spirit against the flesh : and these are contrary one to another , so that ye cannot doe the same things that ye would .

Striue therefore to enter into heauen at Luke , 13 , 24 the straite gate : for many will seeke to enter in , and shall not be able .

§. 10.

If yee be risen with Christ , seeke those Colo , 3 , 1 , 2 , things which are aboue ; where Christ sitteth at the right hande of God . Set your affections on thinges which are in heauen , and not on things which are on the earth .

Gird vp the loynes of your minde , be sober , and trust perfectly on the grace that is 1 , Pet , 1 , 13. 14 , 15 , 16. brought vnto you by the reuelation of Iesus Christ , as obedient children : not fashioning your selues vnto the former lusts of your ignoraunce : but as hee which hath called you is holy ; so be ye holy in all manner of conuersation : because it is written ; Be yee holy , for I am holy .

Let no corrupt communication proceed Ephe. 4. 29. out of your mouthes , but that which is good , to the vse of edifying , that it may minister grace vnto the hearers .

For , euill speakings corrupt good manners . 1 , Cor , 15 , 33.

And those thinges are alwaies vnhonest Iraeneus . to be spoken of , which are filthy to bee done .

Onely let your conuersation be as it becommeth Philip. 1. 27 , the Gospell of Christ .

That ye may walke worthy of the Lord , Colos. 1 , 10 , and please him in all things : beeing fruitefull in all good works , and increasing in the knowledge of God ;

Who hath saued vs , and called vs with 2. Tim , 1 , 9. 10 , an holy calling ; not according to our workes , but according to his owne purpose and grace , which was giuen to vs through Christ Iesus before the worlde was ; but is now made manifest , by the appearing of our Sauiour Iesus Christ : who hath [ as I haue already declared , ] abolished death , and hath brought life and immortalitie vnto light , through the Gospell ▪

§. 11.

Deerely beloued , ( saith S. Peter ) I beseech 1 , Pet , 2 , 11 , you , as strangers and pilgrimes , abstaine from fleshly lusts , which fight against the soule .

And haue your conuersation honest among verse , 12. the Gentiles , that they which speake euill of you , as of euill dooers , may by your good workes which they shall see , glorifie God in the day of visitation .

Yea ; let your light so shine before men , Math. 5 , 16. that they may see your good workes , and glorifie your Father which is in heauen .

§. 12.

Be sober [ also ] and watch : for your aduersary 1 , Pet. 5 , 8 , 9. the deuill walketh about like a roaring Lyon , seeking whom hee may deuoure : whom resist stedfast in the faith .

Ioyne moreouer vertue with your faith ; 2 , Pet , 1 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , and with vertue , knowledge ; and with knowledge , temperance ; and with temperance , patience ; and with patience , godlinesse ; and with godlines , brotherly kindnes ; & with brotherly kindnes , loue . For , if these things be among you , and abound , they will make you that yee neither shall be idle , nor vnfruitfull in the knowledge of our Lord Iesus Christ .

§. 13.

Be yee therefore followers of God , as Ephe. 5 , 1. 2. deere children , and walke in loue , euen as Christ hath loued vs , and hath giuen himselfe for vs , to be an offering and a sacrifice of a sweete smelling sauour vnto God .

But fornication , and all vncleanenes , or verse , 3 , 4 , couetousnes , let it not bee once named ●mong you , as it becommeth Saints ; neyther filthines , neither foolish talking , neyther iesting , which are things not comelie ; but rather giuing of thanks .

For , this yee know ; that no whoremonger , verse , 5. neither vncleane person , nor couetous person , which is an Idolater , hath any inheritance in the kingdome of Christ , and of God .

Wherefore , be yee not vnwise ; but vnderstand Ephe , 5 , 17 , what the will of the Lord is .

And be not drunke with wine , wherein Ephe. 5 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , is excesse , but be fulfilled with the Spirit : Speaking vnto your selues in Psalmes , and hymnes , and spirituall songs ; singing and making melodie to the Lord in your harts . Giuing thanks alwayes for all things vnto God euen the Father , in the Name of our Lord Iesus Christ : and submitting your selues one to another in the feare of God .

§. 14.

Flee fornication : euery sinne that a man 1 , Cor , 6 , 18. doth , is without the body ; but he that committeth fornication , sinneth against his own bodie .

And , who will count him iust , that sinn●th Ecclus. 10 , 30 , against himselfe ; or honour him , that dishonoureth his owne soule ?

Know ye not , that your body is the temple 1 , Cor , 19. 20 , of the holy Ghost , which is in you , whom yee haue of God ? & ye are not your own ; for ye are bought for a price : glorifie God therefore in your body , and in your spirit : for they are Gods .

Know yee not [ likewise ] that to whomsoeuer Rom , 6 , 16 , you giue your selues as seruaunts to obey , his seruaunts yee are to whom yee obey : whether it be of sinne vnto death , or of obedience vnto righteousnes ?

Know you not [ also ] that all wee which Rom. 6. , 4. haue been baptized into Iesus Christ , haue been baptized into his death ? We are buried then with him by Baptizme into his death , that like as Christ was raised vp from the dead , by the glory of the Father , so we also should walke in newnes of life .

( For , all that are baptized into Christ , Gala , 3 , 27. haue put on Christ . )

And if we be grafted with him , to the similitude Rom. 6. 5. 6 , 7 , of his death , euen so shall we be to the similitude of his resurrection : knowing this , that our old man is crucified with him , that the body of sinne might be destroyed , and hence-foorth wee should not serue sinne . For , hee that is dead , is freed from sinne .

Wherefore , if wee be dead with Christ , Rom , 6 , 8 , 9. 10. 11. wee beleeue that wee shall liue also with him : for in that hee died , hee died once to sinne : but in that hee liueth , hee liueth to God . Likewise thinke yee also , that ye are dead to sinne , but are aliue to God , in Iesus Christ our Lord .

Let not sinne raigne therefore in your verse , 12 , 13 , mortall body , that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof : Neither giue yee your members as weapons of vnrighteousnesse vnto sinne ; but giue your selues vnto God , as they that are aliue from the dead : & giue your members as weapons of righteousnes vnto him .

For the wages [ or reward ] of sinne , is Rom , 6. 23. death : but the gift of God is eternall life , through Iesus Christ our Lord .

Mortifie therefore your members which Colo , 3 , 5 , 6 , are on the earth : [ namely , ] fornication ; vncleanenes ; the inordinate affection ; euil concupiscence ; and couetousnes , which is idolatry . For the which thinges sake , the wrath of God commeth on the chyldren of disobedience .

§. 15.

Furthermore ; ] These are the thinges Zach , 8 , 16 , 17. that yee shall doe . Speake yee euery man the truth vnto his Neighbour ; execute iudgement truly , and vprightly in your gates ; and let none of you imagine euill in his heart against his Neighbour ; Neither loue any false oath : for , all these are the thinges that I hate , saith the Lord .

See that none recompence euill for euill 1 , Thes , 5 , 15 vnto any man : but euer follow that which is good , both toward your selues , and toward all men .

If it be possible , as much as in you is , Rom , 12 , 18 haue peace with all men .

And , let loue be without dissimulation . Rom , 12 , 9 Abhorring that which is euill : and cleauing vnto that which is good .

Also ; ] seeing your soules are purified in obeying the truth through the Spirit , to 1. Pet , 1 , 22. 23. loue brotherly without faining , loue one another with a pure hart feruently : beeing borne a newe , not of mortall seede , but of immortall , by the word of God , who liueth and endureth for euer .

Let all bitternes , and anger , and wrath , crying , & euill speaking be put away from Ephe , 4 , 31 , 32 , you , with all maliciousnesse . And be yee curteous one to another , and tender harted , freely forgiuing one another , euen as God for Christes sake freely forgaue you .

Be all of one minde ; one suffer with another ; 1. Pet. 3 , 8 , 9 loue as brethren ; bee pittifull ; bee curteous ; not rendering euill for euill , neither rebuke for rebuke : but contrariwise blesse , knowing that yee are there-vnto called , that yee should be heyres of blessing .

Blesse them which persecute you : blesse Rom , 12. 14 15. 16. I say , & curse not : reioyce with them that reioyce , and weepe with them that weepe : Be of like affection one towards another : be not hie minded , but make your selues equall to them of the lower sort : Be not wise in your owne eyes .

But rather pray vnto the most High , that Ecclus. 37 , 15 hee will direct thy way in truth .

§. 16.

Yee haue heard , that it hath been said : Math , 5 , 43 , 44 , 45 , Thou shalt loue thy neighbour , and hate thine enemie . But I ( saith Christ ) say vnto you , loue your enemies ; blesse them that curse you ; do good to them that hate you ; and pray for them that hurt you ; and persecute you : that yee may be the chyldren of your Father which is in heauen : For , he maketh his sunne to arise on the euill , and on the good : and sendeth downe raine on the iust and vniust .

For , if yee loue them which loue you , verse , 46. 47 , what reward shall yee haue ? doe not the vngodly euen the same ? And , if you be Luke , 6 , 32 , friendly to your Brethren onely , what singuler thing doe yee ? Doe not euen the vngodly likewise ?

Yee shall therefore be perfect , as your Math. 5. 48 , Father which is in heauen is perfect .

§. 17.

Auenge not your selues , but giue place Rom , 12. 19 vnto wrath : for , it is written ; Vengeance is mine ; I will repay saith the Lord .

Therefore , if thine enemie hunger , feede verse , 20 , him : if he thirst , giue him drink : for , in so doing , thou shalt heape coales of fire vppon his head .

Contrariwise , ] hee that seeketh vengeance , Ecclus. 28. 1 , shall finde vengeance of the Lord : and he will surely keepe his sinnes .

Should a man beare hatred against man , Ecclus , 28. 3 , and yet desire forgiuenes of the Lord ?

Hee will shew no mercy to a man that is verse , 4. like himselfe ; and will hee aske forgiuenes of his owne sinnes ?

If he which is but flesh , nourish hatred , and aske pardon of God , who will intreat Ecclus , 28 , 5. for hys sinnes ?

Remember [ therefore ] the end , and let verse , 6 , enmitie passe : imagine not death and destruction to another through anger , but perseuer in the commaundements .

And forgiue thy neighbour the hurt that Ecclus. 28. 2 , hee hath done thee ; so shall thy sinnes be forgiuen thee also , when thou prayest .

§. 18.

If thy Brother trespasse against thee , rebuke Luk , 17 , 3 , 4 him ; and if hee repent , forgiue him . And though hee sinne against thee seauen times in a day , and seauen times in a day turne againe vnto thee , saying ; It repenteth mee , thou shalt forgiue him .

For , if you doe forgiue men their trespasses , Math , 6 , 14 , 15 , your heauenly Father will also forgiue you your trespasses : but if you do not forgiue others , God will not forgiue you .

Be alwaies therefore , as ready to forgiue Iunius . thy brother when hee repenteth ; as thou thy selfe art willing to be pardoned of God when thou prayest .

And be not ouercome of euill , but ouercome Rom , 12 , 21 euill with goodnes .

§. 19.

Nowe the end of all things ( saith the Apostle ) 1. Pet , 4 , 7 , 8 , is at hand ; be yee therefore sober , and watching in prayer . But aboue all things haue feruent loue among you ; for loue couereth the multitude of sinnes .

Be yee [ likewise ] harberous one to another verse , 9 , 10 , without grudging . And let euery man , as hee hath receiued the gift , minister the same one to another , as good disposers of the manifold grace of God .

If any man speake , let him talke as the wordes of God . If any man minister , let 1 , Pet , 4 , 11 , him do it as of the abilitie which God ministreth ; that GOD in all thinges may be glorified through Iesus Christ .

§. 20.

Cast away prophane and olde wiues fables , 1. Tim , 4 , 7 , 8. and exercise thy selfe vnto godlines : For , bodilie exercise profiteth little : but godlines is profitable vnto all things , which hath the promise of the life present , and of that , that is to come .

Flee also from the lusts of youth : & follow 2. Tim , 2. 22 after righteousnesse , faith , loue , and peace ; with them that call on the Lord with a pure hart .

For , the end of the commaundement , is loue out of a pure hart ; and of a good conscience ; 1. Tim , 1. 5. and of faith vnfained .

§. 21.

Be nothing carefull , but in all things let Phil. 4. 6. 7 , your requests be shewed vnto GOD in prayer and supplication , with giuing of thanks . And the peace of God which passeth all vnderstanding , shall preserue your harts and mindes in Christ Iesus .

Bee [ also ] at peace among your selues ; 1. Thes , 5 , 13. 14 , admonish them that are vnrulie ; comfort the feeble minded ; beare with the meeke ; be patient toward all men .

Reioyce euermore ; pray continually ; in 1. Thes , 5. 16 , 17 , 18. all things giue thanks : for this is the will of God in Christ Iesus toward you .

Quench not the Spirit ; despise not prophesying : 1. The. 5. 19 20 , 21 , 22 , try all thinges , and keepe that which is good . Abstaine from all appearance of euil .

Let your conuersation be without couetousnes , Hebr , 13 , 5 , and be content with those things that ye haue .

Remember them that are in bonds , as Heb. 13 , 3. though yee were bounde with them : and them that are in affliction , as if yee were also afflicted in the body .

Bee [ alwaies ] affectioned to loue one Rom , 12 , 10 another with brotherlie loue .

Reioyce in hope : be patient in trouble : Rom , 12. 12 , 13. and continue in prayer . Distributing vnto the necessitie of the Saints , and giuing your selues to hospitalitie .

Also ; ] whatsoeuer thinges are true , Philip , 4 , 8 , whatsoeuer things are honest , what soeuer things are iust , whatsoeuer things are pure , whatsoeuer things pertaine to loue , whatsoeuer thinges are of good report ; if there be any vertue , or if there be any praise , thinke on these things , which ye haue both learned , and receiued , and heard .

Those things [ also ] doe , & the God of verse . 9. peace shall be with you .

§. 22.

Finally , my bretheren , be strong in the Ephe. 6. 10. 11 , 12. Lord , and in the power of his might . Put on the whole Armour of God , that ye may be able to stand against the assaults of the deuill . For , wee wrestle not against fleshe and blood ; but against principalities ; against powers ; against worldly gouernours ; the princes of the darknesse of this world ; and against spirituall wickednesses , which are in the hie places .

For this cause take vnto you the whole Ephe. 6 , 13. Armour of God , that yee may be able to resist in the euill day : and hauing finished all things , stand fast .

Stande therefore , and your loynes girded Ephe , 6 , 14 , 15. about with the truth , & hauing on the brest-plate of righteousnes , and your feete shod with the preparation of the Gospell of peace .

Aboue all , take the shielde of faith , verse . 16. 17 , where-with yee may quench all the fierie darts of the wicked : and take the helmet of saluation and the sworde of the Spirit , which is the word of God .

And pray alwaies , with all manner of verse , 18. prayer and supplication in the Spirit : and watch there-vnto , with all perseuerance , and supplication for all Saints .

Let euery one also that calleth on the 2 , Tim , 2 , 19 Name of Christ , depart from iniquitie .

And what-soeuer yee would that men Math , 7 , 12 , should do vnto you , euen so doe yee vnto them : for this is the Law & the Prophets .

¶ Of Prayer and thankesgiuing .

§. 1.

ASke , ( saith Christ ) and it shall be giuen Math , 7 , 7 , you ; seeke , and ye shall finde ; knock , and it shall be opened vnto you .

For , whosoeuer asketh , receiueth : and verse , 8 , hee that seeketh , findeth : & vnto him that knocketh , it shall be opened .

But let him that asketh , aske in fayth , and Iames , 1 , 6 , 7 wauer not ; for hee that wauereth , is like a waue of the Sea , tost of the winde , & carried away : neither let that man thinke that hee shall receiue any thing of the Lord .

Therefore , I say vnto you , whatsoeuer Mark , 11 , 24 yee desire when yee pray , beleeue that yee shall haue it , and it shall be doone vnto you .

Prouided alwaies , that thou neuer aske Beza . in prayer , any such thing as seemeth good onely in thine owne conceite or fantasie : but that thy peticion be euermore aunswerable to the word of God ; & wholie limitted within the pleasure of his holy will .

For , this is the assurance that we haue in 1. Iohn , 5 , 14 , 15 , God , that if wee aske any thing according to his will , hee heareth vs : and if we know that hee heareth vs , what-soeuer wee aske , wee know that wee haue the peticions that we haue desired of him .

§. 2.

Before thou prayest ( saith Sirach ) prepare Ecclus. 18. 22 thy selfe therevnto ; least thou bee as one that tempteth the Lord .

For , prayer is like a shippe in the Sea , Plotinus . which if it be good , saueth all that is therein ; but if it be naught , it suffereth them to perrish .

First therefore , ere thou beginnest to Plotinus . pray vnto GOD , examine thy selfe what thou intendest to aske ; & cast away from thee ( with a repentant hart ) all thy former iniquities : then call vpon him with a lowly and humble spirit ; and hee will assuredlie heare thee ; releeue thy necessity ; quiet thy conscience ; and most ioyfully comfort thee .

§. 3.

And , when thou prayest , be not as the Math , 6 , 5. hypocrites ; for they loue to stand & pray in the Sinagogues , & in the corners of the streetes , because they woulde be seene of men . Verily , I say vnto you , they haue theyr reward .

But when thou prayest , enter into thy Math , 6 , 6 , chamber , and when thou hast shutte thy doore , pray vnto thy Father which is in secret , and thy Father which is in secret , shall reward thee openly .

Also , when yee pray , vse no vaine repetitions verse , 7. 8 , like the Heathen ; for they think to be heard for their much babling . Be ye not like them therefore : for your father knoweth whereof ye haue need before you aske him .

§. 4.

Furthermore , when thou enterest in to pray , let thy prayer be to this end especially , Pacuuius . that God , as he is mercifull , so he will for his promise sake , grant vnto thee those things which thou desirest , if it stand with his blessed will : otherwise , so farre foorth onely to graunt thy peticion , as it may tend to his glory , & thine owne good .

Desire him likewise , that as hee is good to all that call vpon him , so he will be mercifull B●con . vnto thee , in forgiuing all thy offences past : & daily more & more purifie thy hart , through the powerfull working of his holie Spirit , that thereby thou mayst be made both apt and able to vnderstand his truth ; & dutifully to appeare obedient in the performing of his heauenly will , by expressing the fruites of faith in thy life and conuersation .

Yea ; forget not to pray often vnto God Eugenius . for the clensing of the impuritie of thine heart , and carefully endeuour to restraine , that the corruption thereof breake not out , either to the hurt of thy selfe , or to the harme of any other .

Moreouer ; thou oughtest in thy prayer , Hemingius . not onelie to make peticion vnto God for thy selfe ; but also for the happy estate and prosperitie of thy Prince ; and for all others that by him are placed in authoritie : for , of them dependeth the peace and tranquilitie of the weale publique .

And of this matter dooth the Apostle S. Paule himselfe admonish vs , where hee saith : * I exhort therefore , that first of all , 1 , Tim , 2 , 1 , 2. supplications , prayers , intercessions , and giuing of thanks be made for all men : for Kings , & for all that are in authoritie ; that wee [ vnder them ] may leade a quiet and a peaceable life , in all godlines & honestie .

§. 5.

Acknowledge your faultes one to another , Iames. 5. 16 , and pray one for another , ( saith Saint Iames ) that yee may be healed : For , the prayer of a righteous man auaileth much , if it be feruent .

Elias was a man subiect to the like passions Iames , 5 , 17 , as we are , and he prayed earnestly that it might not raine , and it rained not on the earth for three yeeres & sixe months .

Afterward , hee prayed againe ; and the Iames , 5 , 18 , heauen gaue raine , and the earth brought forth her fruite .

The prayer also of Moises , so mightilie preuailed in the presence of his Maker , that it seemed ( as it were ) to stay the very power of God , from powring downe his wrath vpon the people : and caused him to say : * Let mee alone Moises , that my wrath Exod , 32 , 10 may waxe hote against this Nation to destroy them .

As if hee should haue said to Moises , as he said to Lot ; * Get thee hence , for I can Gen , 19 , 22 , doe nothing till thou be gone .

Wee reade likewise , that after Hezekiah had receiued a speciall commaundement Esay , 38 , 1 , 2 , 3 , &c. from God , to set the affaires of his house in good order , & to prepare himselfe to die : hee ( beeing vnwilling so soone to forsake his life , ) feruently prayed to the Giuer of time , & obtained so much fauour through his earnest petition , that his raigne was afterward more enlarged , by the length of fifteene yeeres .

§. 6.

Let no man ( saith Saint Bernard ) be vnmindful Bernarde . to pray often vnto God , for prayer is a vertue that greatly preuaileth against temptation ; against all assaults of infernall spirits ; against the false delights of this lingering life ; and against the motions of our owne flesh .

And , like as by reuerent fasting and Erasmus . abstinence , the bodily passions of man are to be cured : so by feruent prayer and supplication vnto God , the pestilent infections of the minde are to be healed .

Pray therefore , as the Apostle counselleth , 1 , Thes. 5. 17 continually .

And watch in the same , with thankesgiuing . Colos. 4 , 2 ,

Yea ; watch and pray , that yee enter not Mark . 14. 38 into temptation .

And , what-soeuer yee aske in prayer , if Math , 21. 22 yee beleeue , yee shall receiue it .

§. 7.

Whether yee eate or drinke , or whatsoeuer 1 , Cor , 10 ▪ 31 , yee doe , saith the Apostle , let all be done to the glory of God .

Giuing thankes alwaies vnto him that Ecclus. 32 , 14 hath made thee , and replenished thee with his goods .

For , wee ought euermore to be as forward Pet. Mart. in giuing thankes to God , for the seuerall blessings which wee haue already receiued ; as wee are willing when wee pray , to obtaine from him those graces which are most needfull for vs .

Yea ; wee ought to preuent the Sunne-rising Wisd. 16. 28 to giue thankes vnto God : & to salute him [ with prayses ] before the day spring .

At thy downe lying therefore , and at thy vprising ; at thy sporting , eating , and banquetting , Tertullian . be mindfull of thy Maker : be thankfull vnto him for his benefits , and remember his manifold mercies ▪

Be thankefull vnto him for thy creation , Becon . redemption , vocation , and sanctification .

Be likewise thankfull vnto him for the Euagoras . sundrie helpes and succours , which many times he hath graciously extended towards thee : and also for the daily sustenaunce , which he prouidently prouideth for thee .

For , the hope of the vnthankfull , shall Wisd. 16. 29 melt as the winter yee ; and flowe away as the vnprofitable waters .

But he that offereth praise , shall glorifie Psalm , 50. 23 mee , saith the Lorde ; and to him that disposeth his way aright , will I shewe the saluation of God .

¶ Of Fasting and Almes-deedes .

§. 1.

THat which goeth into the mouth , ( saith Math , 15 , 11 Christ ) defileth not the man , but that which commeth out of the mouth , that defileth the man .

Perceiue yee not , that what-soeuer entereth Math. 15. 17 into the mouth , goeth into the bellie , and is afterward cast out into the draught ? But those thinges which proceede out of verse , 18 , the mouth , come from the hart , and they defile the man .

For , out of the hart , come euil thoughts , verse , 19. murders , adulteries , fornications , theftes , false testimonies , slaunders .

These are the thinges , which defile a verse . 20. man : but to eate with vnwashen handes ▪ defileth not a man .

§. 2.

Wherefore , if at any time thou feele thy Luther . conscience inwardly greeued with the remembrance of thy sinnes past , and art truly willing in hart to fast for thy former offences ; endeuour then diligently to purge thy soule from filth , by abstaining from euill , for , God is better pleased there-with , then by thy abstaining from meates .

If thou wilt fast , fast after the commaundement Origen . of Christ in the Gospell , and keep in thy fasting the rules of the Gospell . Fast from all sinne , abstaine from the meate of hatred and malice ; take no delight in vaine pleasures ; be not enflamed with the wine of excesse : fast from euill actions ; for beare euill thoughts ; touch not the stolne bread of wrong and peruerse doctrine ; lust not after the deceitfull foode of Philosophy , which may leade thee away from the truth of Gods word . This kind of fasting pleaseth God : and this kinde of fasting is allowed of him .

§. 3.

The honour of fasting , is not the abstinence Chrisostome . from meates , but the flying from sinne .

For , what auaileth it , if wee abstaine from B●con . the lawfull vse of meates needfull , and by backe-byting and slaundering , eate & deuoure our brothers flesh ?

The most healthfull kinde of fasting , is Ambrose . to keepe our bodies from excesse & surfetting ; and our soules from sinne & vice .

And , then are our fastings acceptable to Augustine . God , when they that fast through neede and necessity , are charitably refreshed of vs .

For , it is not such a kinde of fasting as hypocrites vse , which pleaseth the Lorde ; Esay , 58 , 5 , 6. namely , that a man should afflict his soule for a day , and bowe downe his head like a Bulrush , and lie vpon the ground in sackcloth and ashes : but rather this is the fasting which pleaseth the Lord ; to wit , that thou loose him out of bondage that is in thy danger : that thou breake the oath of wicked bargaines : that thou let the oppressed goe free , and take from them all manner of burdens .

To deale thy bread to the hungry , and verse . 7. to bring the poore that wander home to thy house : when thou seest the naked , that thou couer him , & hide not thy selfe from thine owne flesh .

Then shall thy light breake forth as the verse , 8. morning , and thy health shall grow speedily : thy righteousnesse shall goe before thee , and the glory of the Lord shall embrace thee .

Then shalt thou call , and the Lord shall aunswer : thou shalt cry , and hee shall say ; verse , 9 , Heere I am : If thou take away from the mids of thee the yoake : the putting foorth of the finger , & wicked speaking .

If thou powre out thy soule to the hungry , verse , 10 , 11 , and refresh the troubled soule : then shall thy light spring out in the darknesse , and thy darknes shall be as the noone day . And the Lord shall guide thee continually , and satisfie thy soule in drought , and make fatte thy bones : & thou shalt be like a watred garden , and like a spring of water , whose waters faile not .

§. 4.

Seeke therefore , to restraine and bridle Fulgentius . thine owne flesh , by moderate fasting and abstinence ; endeuour diligently to doe good , by exercising the workes of mercy towards the poore : and pray alwaies earnestly vnto God for his grace , that thou maist be made willing to doe his will .

Likewise , know this ; that wee ought a Bernard . great deale rather to fast from sinnes & vices , then from meates . Let therfore thine eyes fast : let thine eares fast : let thy t●nge fast : let thy handes fast : and let also thy soule fast .

Let thine eyes fast , from all vaine and wanton lookes ; let thine eares fast , from Bernard . filthy and naughtie tales and rumours ; let thy tongue fast , from backbyting , slaundering , & murmuring , and from vnprofitable , vaine , & filthy words ; let thy hands fast , from vaine signes , and from workes what-soeuer are not ▪ commaunded : but much more warily let thy soule and minde fast , from fond imaginations , and from thine owne vngodly desires . For , ●urelie , without wee fast after this manner , our fasting is no true fast .

Also ; when yee fast , looke not sowre , as Math. 6. 16. hypocrites doe ; for they disfigure theyr faces , that they might seem vnto men to fast . Verily I say vnto you that they haue theyr reward .

But when thou fastest , annoynt thine verse . 17 , 18. head , and wash thy face ; that thou seeme not vnto men to fast , but vnto thy Father which is in secret : and thy Father which seeth in secret , will reward thee openly .

§. 5.

To doe good , and to distribute , ( saith Hebr. 13 , 16 the Apostle ) forget not : for , with such sacrifices God is pleased ▪

While we haue therefore time , let vs doe Gala , 6 , 10. good vnto all men● : but specially vnto them that are of the houshold of fayth .

Doe good vnto the righteous , and thou Ecclus , 12 , 2 , shalt finde great reward : though not of him , yet of the most High .

Helpe thy neighbour according to thy Ecclus , 29. 22 power ; and beware that thou thy selfe fall not .

Giue almes according to thy substance ; Tob , 4. 8. and though thou haue but a little , be not afraide to giue a little almes .

For , if there be first a willing minde , it is 2. Cor. 8 , 12 , accepted according to that a man hath , & not according to that he hath not .

This yet remember ; that he which soweth 2 , Cor. 9. 6 , 7 sparingly , shall ●eape also sparingly : & hee that soweth liberally , shall reape also liberally . As euery man wisheth in his hart , so let him giue , not grudgingly , or of necessitie : for , God loueth a cheerfull giuer .

§. 6.

Because ( saith the Lord ) there shall bee Deut , 15 , 11 euer some poore in the Land , therefore , I commaund thee , saying : Thou shalt open thy hand vnto thy brother ; vnto thy needie ; and vnto thy poore in the land .

Bestow thy treasure [ then ] according to Ecclus. 29. 11 , 12. the commaundement of th● most High , and it shall bring thee more profite then golde . Lay vp thine almes in thy secret chambers , & it shall keepe thee from all afflictions .

Lay not vp treasures for your selues vpon Math , 6 , 19 , 20 , 21 , earth , where the moth and canker corrupt , and where theeues digge through & steale : but lay vp treasures for your selues in heauen : where neither the moth nor canker corrupteth ; & where theeues neyther digge through , nor steale . For , where your treasure is , there wil your harts be also .

§. 7.

If thou wilt be a good Merchant , or a Augustine . gainefull Vsurer , giue that which thou canst not keepe , that thou maist receiue that which thou canst not loose . Giue a little , that thou maist receiue a hundred fold : giue a temporall & fading possession , that thou maist receiue an euerlasting inheritance .

And what-soeuer thou giuest , giue it Augustine . freelie , for hee neuer giues in vaine , that giues in zeale .

Neither doe I remember , that euer I Ierome . read of any one that dyed an euill death , who willingly exercised the workes of mercie . For , they haue the prayers of manie ; and it is vn●ossible but that their prayers should be heard .

§. 8.

Giue vnto the most High , according as Ecclus. 35 , 10 hee hath enriched thee : & looke what thy hand is able , giue with a cheerefull eye .

For , the Lord recompenseth , & wil giue verse , 11. thee seuen times as much .

Stretch out thine hande vnto the poore Ecclus , 7 , 32 and needy , that thy blessing and reconciliation may be accomplished .

Be as a father vnto the fatherlesse , and as Ecclus , 4 , 10 an husbande vnto their mother : so shalt thou be as the sonne of the most High , and hee shall loue thee more then thy mother dooth .

§. 9.

Charge them that are rich in the world , ( saith Paule vnto Timothie , ) that they bee 1. Tim. 6. 17 18. 19. not high minded , and that they trust not in vncertaine riches ; but in the liuing God , which giueth vs aboundantly all things to enioy . That they doe good , and be rich in good workes , and be ready to distribute & communicate : laying vp in store for themselues a good foundation against the time to come , that they may obtaine eternall life .

For , hee that giueth almes , layeth vp for Tob , 4. 9. himselfe a good store against the day of necessity .

Because the almes of a man , is as a thing Ecclus , 17 , 20 sealed vp before God , and he keepeth the good deedes of men , as the apple of the eye ; and giueth repentance to their sonnes and daughters .

At the last [ also ] shall he arise & reward verse , 21. them , and shall repay theyr rewards vpon theyr heads .

Giue almes therefore , of those thinges Luke , 11 , 41 which thou hast .

Giue of thy bread to the hungry ; giue Tob , 4 , 16. of thy garments to the needy and naked ; and of all thine abundance giue almes : and let not thine eye be enuious when thou giuest thine almes .

For , nothing doth so much commend a Ambrose . Christian , as commiseration and charitie .

§. 10.

Let it not at any time grieue thee to doe Plotinus . good vnto the poore and needy ; but rather couet to be liberall in thy gifts , to such as want , and are distressed : for , the almesdeedes of the liberall , doe more profit the giuer , then benefite the receiuer .

Haue alwaies compassion on the poore , Caluine . the blinde , & the lame : and endeuour by good counsell to comfort him that is afflicted in conscience .

Forget not often to visite the sicke ; to Gueuara . relieue them that are in bonds ; to succour poore Orphanes ; and to defend the cause of the widdow and oppressed .

For , pure Religion and vndefiled before Iames , 1 , 17. God , euen the Father , is this ; to visite the fatherlesse and widdowes in their aduersitie , & to keepe our selues vnspotted of the world .

Also ; like as all things else that are bred vpon the earth , are all created and ordained Cicero . for the vse & commoditie of man : so man for the benefit of man , is begotten & borne into the world , to the end they should continually doe good , by helping one another .

And , they which exercise almes & righteousnesse , Tob , 12 , 9 , shall be filled with life .

But euery one that sinneth , is an enemie Tob , 12 , 10 to his owne soule .

§. 11.

Almes , ( saith Tobie , ) is a good gift before Tob , 4 , 11 , the most High , to all them which vse it .

And , it is better to giue Almes , then to Tob. 12. 8. lay vp gold .

Say not vnto thy neighbour , Goe and Prou , 3 , 28 , come againe , and to morrow I will giue thee , if thou now haue it .

For , he that giueth vnto the poore , shall Prou. 28. 27. not lack : but hee that hideth his eyes , shall haue many curses .

Giue almes therefore , of thy substance : Tob , 4 , 7 , and when thou giuest thine almes , let not thine eye bee enuious , neither turne thy face from any poore body , least that God turne his face from thee .

Giue part of that which thou possessest , Iraeneus . though thy gift amount to no more in value then the poore widdowes two mites .

Giue also at the first asking : for the gift Socrates . is not worth thankes , which is often craued .

Besides ; the gift which is grudginglie Plato . giuen , may well be called a stonie loafe : which although it be hard , yet it is needfull to be receiued of him that is hungry .

§. 12.

Hee that hath mercie vpon the poore , Prou , 19 , 17. lendeth vnto the Lorde ; and the Lorde will recompence him that which hee hath giuen .

For , GOD so greatly loueth the poore , Ierome . that what-soeuer good deede is done vnto any of them for the loue of him ; he taketh it as it were doone vnto himselfe .

And , hee shall vndoubtedly finde many Leo. great blessings at Gods hand , who letteth not the poore and needy depart from him , without comfort .

§. 13.

But ; when thou mindest to distribute , or giue any thing vnto the poore ; thou Rom , 12 , 8 , must euer-more obserue this rule therein : namelie , to doe the same , ( as the Apostle counselleth ) with simplicitie .

Not causing a trumpet to be blowne before Math , 6 , 2 , 3 , 4. thee when thou giuest thine almes , as the hypocrites doe in the Sinagogues , and in the streets , to the end they may be seene and praysed of men . For , verily I say vnto you , that they haue their reward .

Wherefore , when thou giuest thine almes , let not thy left hand know what thy right hande doth : that thine almes may be in secret , & thy Father which seeth in secret , will reward thee openly .

§. 14.

Likewise , regard well , that the Almes Isidorus . which thou art willing to bestowe on the poore , be taken from some part or portion of thine owne true-gotten goods : for , other-wise in giuing , thou shalt highly prouoke GOD to anger ; and sooner bring downe a curse , then a blessing vpon thee .

For , the offering of the righteous , maketh Ecclus , 35 , 6 , the Altar fat , and the smell thereof is sweete before the Lord .

But he that giueth an offering of vnrighteous Ecclus , 34 , 18 goods , offereth a mocking sacrifice , and the gifts of the vngodly please not God .

The sacrifice of the righteous , is acceptable ; Ecclus , 35 , 7. and the remembrance thereof shall neuer be forgotten .

But the most High doth not allowe the Ecclus , 34 , 20 offerings of the wicked , neither is hee pacified for sinne through the multitude of their sacrifice .

For , the sacrifice of the wicked , is an abhomination Prou , 15 , 8 , vnto the Lord .

And , he that bringeth an offering of the Ecclus. 34. 21 goods of the poore , doth as one that sacrificeth the sonne before the fathers eyes .

Which , as in reason euery man may well perswade himselfe , that the father of such a child , would neuer willingly be content , eyther to see or suffer : so by the testimony of these few former places , may wee certainely assure our selues , that God will much more vnlikely be pleased , with the gifts of ill-gotten goods .

¶ Of Humilitie and Obedience .

§. 1.

THe greater thou art ( saith Sirach , ) the Ecclus. 3 , 19. more humble thy selfe in all things ; so shalt thou find fauour before the Lord .

For , thus saith hee that is hie and excellent ; he that inhabiteth the eternitie , whose Esay , 57 , 15. Name is the Holie one ; I dwell in the hie and holie place ; with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit : to reuiue the spirit of the humble , & to giue life to them that are of a contrite hart .

§. 2.

There be ( as Orosius saith ) three degrees Orosius . of humilitie ; the first is of repentance ; the the second is , in hungering & thirsting after righteousnesse ; the third , consisteth in extending the workes of mercie , to such as haue neede of comfort .

And , the chiefest poynt of all mans true Iust. Mar. humilitie , consisteth in this , to subiect and frame his will , according to the will of God , in all things what-soeuer .

For , them that be meeke , wil God guide Psalm , 25 , 9. in iudgement ; and teach the humble his way .

§. 3.

It is nothing prayse-worthy for a man to Clem. Alex. be humble in aduersitie , because necessitie then compelleth him : but in the midst of prosperitie to beare an humble minde , deserueth great commendation .

Wherefore , if thou desire to ascende Bernard . where God the Father sitteth , thou must put on the true humilitie , which Christ his Sonne teacheth .

For , euery one that exalteth himselfe , Luke , 18 , 14 shall be brought lowe ; but hee that humbleth himselfe , shall be exalted .

§. 4.

Pride and humilitie be two contraries : Cicero . the one is both of GOD and man greatly disliked ; the other is of God and man very much beloued .

And , as the one directeth the way to hell , Mar. Bucer . so the other teacheth the way to heauen .

If thou arrogantly lift vp thy selfe vnto Augustine . God , hee will flee further off from thee ; but if thou humble thy selfe vnfainedly before him , he will then draw neere , & come downe vnto thee .

§. 5.

Let nothing ( saith the Apostle ) be done Philip , 2 , 3. through contention , or vaine glory , but in meekenesse of minde , let euery man esteeme other better then himselfe .

For , like as lowlines of hart , and meekenes Epiphani●● . of minde , maketh a man highly in fauour with God ; so strife , vaine-glory , and contention , procureth hatred and disdaine amongst men .

And , like as pride sleyeth loue , prouoketh disdaine , kindleth malice , confoundeth Pacuuius . iustice , and subuer●eth Weales publique ; euen so meekenes , gentlenes , or humilitie , doe stirre vp affection , augment beneuolence , intend charitie , support good equitie , and preserue in peace & concorde , both Countries and Common-weales .

§. 6.

It is better ( saith Salomon , ) to bee of an Prou , 16. 19 humble minde with the lowlie , then to deuide the spoyles with the proude .

Now therefore , as the elect of God , holie , Colos. 3. 12. 13. & beloued , put on tender mercy , kindnesse , humblenes of minde , meekenesse , long suffering ; forbearing one another , & forgiuing one another , if any man haue a quarrell to another , euen as Christ forgaue you , euen so doe yee .

And , aboue all these things put on loue , Colos , 3 , 14. which is the bond of perfectnes .

And , let the peace of God rule in your verse , 15. harts , to the which ye are called in one bodie ; and be yee thankfull .

Likewise ye yonger , submit your selues 1 , Pet , 5 , 5. vnto the elders , & submit your selues euery man one to another ; decke your selues inwardly in lowlines of minde : for GOD resisteth the proude , and giueth grace to the humble .

Humble your selues therefore , vnder the 1 , Pet , 5 , 6 , mightie hand of God , that hee may exalt you in due time .

Cast down your selues before the Lord , Iames , 4 , 10 , and hee will lift you vp .

§. 7.

Submit your selues ( saith S. Peter ) vnto 1 , Pet. 3 , 13 14. all maner ordinaunce of man for the Lords sake : whether it be vnto the King , as vnto the Superiour , or vnto Gouernours , as vnto them that are sent of him , for the punishment of euill dooers , and for the praise of them that doe well .

Yea ; Let euery soule be subiect vnto the Rom , 13 , 1 , 2. higher Powers ; for there is no power but of God , and the powers that be , are ordained of God . Whosoeuer therefore resisteth the power , resisteth the ordinance of God : and they that resist , shall receiue to themselues condemnation .

Be subiect [ then ] to the principalities & Titus , 3 , 1 , powers : be obedient ; and ready to euerie good worke .

For , obedience is better then sacrifice ; 1 , Sam , 15 , 22 , 23. and to harken , is better then the fatte of Rammes . But rebellion is as the sinne of witchcraft ; & transgression is wickednes , and idolatry .

§. 8.

Obedience , ( saith Plotinus ) is an incomparable Plotinus . vertue , and due both to God and man : that is to say , first and cheefely vnto God ; secondly , vnto the Prince ; and so consequently , vnto all other Magistrates that by him are placed in authoritie .

For , as the Prince , beeing placed onely Virgilius . by the prouidence of God in the highest seate of honour , oweth equall iustice and meeke conuersation to all his subiects : so ought the people to owe dutifull obedience to their Prince , in reuerencing his person , and fulfilling his commaundements .

And , hee that rightly obeyeth his superiour , Cyrill . by his good ensample instructeth his inferiour .

Also ; hee that honoureth and obeyeth Tertullian . his Prince , honoureth and obeyeth God : for the Prince is Gods Vizegerent here on earth , and representeth amongst men , ( vsing his authoritie as hee ought ) the glorious state and high Maiestie of GOD in heauen .

§. 9.

Obey them , ( saith the Apostle ) that haue Heb , 13 , 17 , the ouer-sight of you , and submit your selues : for , they watch for your soules , as they that must giue accounts , that they may doe it with ioy , & not with griefe : for that is vnprofitable for you .

The Elders that rule well , ( saith hee ) are 1 , Tim , 5 , 17. 18 , woorthy of double honour ; specially they that labour in the Word & doctrine . For , the Scripture saith ; Thou shalt not mousell the mouth of the Oxe that treadeth out the corne : and , The labourer is worthy of his wages .

Nowe [ therefore ▪ ] we beseech you brethren , 1 , Thes. 5 , 12 , 13 , that yee knowe them which labour among you , and are ouer you in the Lord , and admonish you ; that yee haue them in singuler loue for their workes sake . * And Philip. 2. 29. make much of such .

§. 10.

Honour all men : loue brotherly fellowship : 1 , Pet , 2 , 17. feare God : honour the King .

For , the Kings wrath , is like the roaring Prou , 19 , 12 of a Lyon ; but his fauour is like the dewe vpon the grasse .

And as Princes are men before God ; so Lactantius . are they Gods before men .

This alwaies yet remember ; That wee Acts. 5 , 29. ought rather to obey God than man .

¶ A further declaration , of diuers other speciall commaundements which we finde contained in the Booke of GOD : concerning our dutie towards him , and our loue towards our neighbour . With many profitable sayings tending to the same effect and purpose , collected foorth of the workes of sundry learned and worthy Writers .

¶ Against the worshipping of Images and false Gods .

§. 1.

THus spake the Almightie vnto Israell Exod. 20 ▪ 1 , 2 , 3. in the twenty chapter of Exodus , saying ; I am the Lorde thy GOD , which haue brought thee out of the Lande of Egypt , out of the house of bondage . Thou shalt haue none other Gods but mee .

Thou shalt make thee no grauen Image , verse . 4. neyther any similitude of things that are in heauen aboue , neither that are in the earth beneath , nor that are in the waters vnder the earth .

Thou shalt not bowe downe to them , Exod , 20 , 5 , nor serue them : for , I am the Lorde thy God , a ielous God , visiting the iniquitie of the fathers vppon the children , vnto the third and fourth generation of them that hate mee .

And shewing mercy vnto thousands in verse , 6. them that loue mee , and keepe my commaundements .

§. 2.

To whom ( saith Esay , ) will yee liken Esay , 40 , 18. GOD ? or what similitude will yee set vp vnto him ?

Hee is a King euerlasting , immortall , 1 , Tim , 1 , 17 and invisible . * And , there is none like vnto Deu● . 33. 26 to him .

Take therefore good heede vnto your Deut , 4 , 15 16. selues : for ye saw no image in the day that the Lord spake vnto you in Horeb , out of the middes of the fire : that yee corrupt not your selues , & make you a grauen image , or representation of any figure , whether it be the likenes of male or female .

The likenes of any beast that is on the verse , 17 , 18 , earth , or the likenes of any fethered foule that flieth in the ayre . The likenesse of any thing that creepeth on the earth ; or the likenes of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth . &c.

For , the Lord thy GOD , is a consuming Deut , 4 , 24 , fire , and a ielous God .

§. 3.

Confounded be all they ( saith Dauid , ) Psalm , 97 , 7 , that serue grauen Images : and that glorie in their Idols .

Miserable are they , and among the dead Wisd , 13 , 10 is their hope , that call them Gods , which are the workes of mens hands .

For , the worshipping of Idols , which Wisd , 14 , 26 ought not to be named , is the beginning , the cause , and the end of all euill .

The inuenting of them , was the beginning Wisd , 14 , 11 of whoredome ; and the finding of them , is the corruption of life .

For , they were not from the beginning ; verse , 12. 13 , neyther shall they continue for euer . The vaine-glory of men , brought them into the world ; therefore shal they come shortly to an end .

They haue mouthes and speake not : Psalm ▪ 115 , 5. 6. 7. they haue eyes and see not : they haue eares and heare not : they haue noses and smell not : they haue hands and touch not : they haue feete & walk not : neither make they any sound with theyr throate .

They that make them , are like vnto them : and so are all they that put theyr trust in Psal , 115 , 8 , them .

But ] cursed be the Image , & the image-maker : Wisd. 14 , 8 , hee , because hee made it ; and it , because that beeing a corruptible thing , it was called God .

§. 4.

Who-soeuer ( saith S. Augustine ) adoreth or maketh his prayer , beholding an Image ; Augustine . hee is so moued thereby in his owne minde , that he thinketh the Image heareth him : and also hopeth that it will performe his peticion .

An vnhappy memory ( therfore ) is that , which to remember Christ , who neuer Carolus magnus . ought to depart out of the hart of the iust man , standeth in neede of a sightfull conceite ; nor otherwise can haue the presence of Christ within him , vnlesse hee haue his Image painted on a wall , or expressed in some other matter : for such a memory , as is nourished and kept by Images , proceedeth not of harty loue , but necessitie of eye-sight .

And , out of all doubt there is no true religion Lactantius . to be looked for , wheresoeuer an Image hath any abyding .

¶ Against swearing .

§. 1.

THou shalt not take the Name of the Exod , 20 , 7 , Lord thy God in vaine : for the Lorde will not holde him guiltlesse that taketh his Name in vaine .

Yee haue heard that it was saide to them Math , 5 , 33 , of old time ; Thou shalt not forsweare thy selfe , but shalt performe thine oath vnto the Lord .

But I say vnto you , sweare not at all : neither verse , 34 , 35 by heauen , for it is the throne of God , nor yet by the earth , for it is his footestoole , neyther by Ierusalem , for it is the Cittie of the great King .

Neyther shalt thou swear by thine head , verse , 36. because thou canst not make one hayre white or blacke .

But let your communication bee , Yea , verse , 37 , yea ; Nay , nay : for what-soeuer is more then these , commeth of euill .

§. 2.

Aboue all thinges my brethren sweare Iames , 5 , 12. not ; neither by heauen , nor by earth , nor by any other oath : but let your yea , be yea , and your nay , nay , least yee fall into condemnation .

Accustome not thy mouth to swearing , Ecclus , 23 , 9 , for in it there are many falles : neyther take vp for an ordinary vse the naming of the Holy one : for thou shalt not escape vnpunished for such things .

For , as a seruaunt that is often beaten , verse , 10. cannot be without some skarre , so hee that sweareth , and nameth GOD continually , shall not be faultlesse .

But as hee blasphemeth the Name of Sigismund . GOD , by his often swearing : so he dailie procureth vnto himselfe , many plague for his punishment .

Yea ; the man that vseth much swearing ; Ecclus , 23 , 11 shall be filled with wickednes : & the plague shall neuer goe from his house : when he shall offend , his fault shall be vppon him : and if hee acknowledge not his sinne , hee maketh a double offence : & if hee sweare in vaine , he shall not be innocent , but his house shall be full of plagues .

Vse not thy mouth [ therefore ] to ignoraunt Ecclus , 23 , 13 rashnesse : for therein is the occasion of sinne .

¶ Of sanctifying the Sabaoth-day .

§. 1.

REmember thou keep holy the Sabaoth Exod 20. 8. day . Sixe dayes shalt thou labour , and doe all that thou hast to doe .

But the seuenth day is the Sabaoth of the verse . 9. Lord thy God : in it thou-shalt do no manner of worke ; neither thou , nor thy sonne , nor thy daughter , nor thy man seruaunt , nor thy mayd seruaunt , nor thy cattell , nor the stranger that is within thy gates .

For , in sixe dayes , the Lord made heauen , verse , 10. and earth , the Sea , and all that in them is , and rested the seuenth day : wherefore , the Lord blessed the seuenth day , and hallowed it .

§. 2.

If , ( saith the Almighty , ) thou turne away Esay . 58. 13. thy foote from the Sabaoth , from doing thy will on mine holy day , and call the Sabaoth a delight , to consecrate it , as glorious vnto the Lord , & shalt honour him , not dooing thine owne wayes , nor seeking thine owne will , nor speaking a vaine word ;

Then shalt thou delight in the Lorde : verse , 14. and I will cause thee to mount vpon the hie places of the earth ; & feede thee with the heritage of Iacob thy Father : for , the the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it .

But , ] take heede to thy foote when thou Ecclesi. 4 , ●7 entrest into the House of GOD , and be more neere [ or ready ] to heare , then to giue the sacrifice of fooles : for , they know not that they doe euill .

¶ Of honouring our Parents .

§. 1.

HOnour thy father & thy mother , that Exod , 20 , 12 thy dayes may be prolonged in the Land which the Lord thy GOD giueth thee .

Honour thy father from thy whole hart , Ecclus , 7 , 27 28. & forget not the sorrowes of thy mother . Remember that thou wast borne of them , and how canst thou recompence them the things that they haue done for thee ?

Obey thy father [ therfore ] that hath begotten Prou , 23 , 22. thee ; and despise not thy mother when shee is old .

For ▪ the Lord will haue the father honored Ecclus , 3 , 3 , of the children : and hath confirmed the authoritie of the mother ouer them .

§. 2.

It is the first lawe , euen of nature , ( saith Val. Max. Valerius ) that we should in all kindnes and affection , deerelie loue our parents .

And , the honour which wee owe vnto Chilo . them , is no otherwise to be vnderstood , but to iudge discreetly , reuerently , and honourably of them ; & to esteeme wel of all their dooings : not onely because they are our elders , but chiefely because they are our parents ; whom it pleased God to vse as instruments , to the intent , that by them wee might haue our first beginning , and naturall entrance into this world : & by whom also , after our birth , wee be most tenderlie brought vp , carefully attended on , naturallie beloued , and most daintily fedde and nourished , both in sicknes & in health .

Also ; in dutifully honouring of our parents , Chilo . wee doe not onely honour the great vertue and power of God , but also the excellencie of his goodnesse , whereby we are made men , and borne into the world , euen of the blood of man .

§. 3.

Honour thy father & thy mother , ( saith Ecclus , 3 , 9 , 10. Sirach ) in deede and in word , and in all patience , that thou mayst haue Gods blessing , and that his blessing may abide with thee in the end . For , the blessing of the father , establisheth the houses of the chyldren ; and the mothers curse rooteth out the foundations .

Helpe thy father in his age , and grieue Ecclus , 3 , 13 him not as long as he liueth .

And , if his vnderstanding faile , haue patience verse , 14. with him , and despise him not when thou art in thy full strength .

For , the good intreatie of thy father shall verse , 15 , not be forgotten , but it shall be a fortresse for thee against sinnes .

And , in the day of trouble thou shalt be verse , 16. remembred : thyne iniquities also shal melt away as the y●e in the faire weather .

§. 4.

Who so honoureth his father , his sinnes Ecclus , 3 , 4 , 5 , shall be forgiuen him ; and he shal abstaine from them , and shall haue his daily desires . And , he that honoureth his mother , is like one that gathereth treasure .

Who so honoureth his father , shall verse , 6 , haue ioy of his owne chyldren : and when hee maketh his prayer , he shal be ●eard .

Who so honoreth his father , shall haue a verse , 7 , long life ; and hee that is obedient vnto the Lord , shall comfort his mother .

But , ] hee that forsaketh his father , shall Ecclus , 3 , 17 come to shame ; and hee that despiseth his mother , is cursed of God .

Hee [ also ] that curseth his father , or his Exod , 21 , 17 mother , shall die the death .

And , that childs light , shall be put out Prou , 20 , 20. in obscure darknes .

¶ Against Pride .

§. 1.

THere are sixe things ( as Salomon saith ) Prou , 6 , 16. 17 , 18 , 19. which the Lord hateth , yea , his soule abhorreth seauen : [ namely these ; ] hautie [ or proude ] lookes ; a lying tongue ; the hands that shedde innocent blood ; a heart that imagineth wicked enterprises ; feete that be swift in running to mischiefe ; a false witnes that speaketh lyes ; and him that raiseth vp contentions among bretheren .

§. 2.

Pride , ( as Pacuuius saith ) is a subtile Serpent , Pa●uuius . which slilie insinuateth her selfe into the mindes of men ; and the very cheefe cause of all superstition and enuie .

It is an vgly and lothsome monster both Plato . in the sight of God & man , & continually accompanied with these foure bad companions : Folly ; Rashnes ; Audacitie ; and Impudencie .

The beginning of mans pride , is to fall Ecclus , 10 , 13 away from God , & to turne away his hart from his Maker .

For , pride is the originall of sinne , & he verse . 14. that hath it , shall powre out abhomination , till at last himselfe be ouerthrowne .

But ] the rewarde of humilitie and the Prou , 22 , 4 , feare of God , is riches , honour , & health .

§. 3.

Pride , enuie , and impatiencie , are the Augustine . three capitall enemies of mans constancie .

And , it commonly falleth out , that hee Arnobius . which is proud himselfe , thinketh it a matter vnpossible , for any man to be humble .

Pride is also such a turbulent euill to him Ambrose . that is possessed there-with , that it maketh his maister like a shyp without a Pilot , tost vp and downe vppon the waues , by the windes & tempests .

For , by reason of his vnquiet thoughts , Pyndarus . and aspiring spirit , hee can neuer content himselfe in any meane vocation .

But still striueth higher and higher to be Hemingius . exalted , till the burden of his sin bruse both his life and soule with the weight .

§. 4.

My sonne , ( saith Sirach ) be not proude Ecclus , 6. 2. 3 , in the deuise of thine owne minde , least thy soule rent thee as a Bull ; and eate vp thy leaues , and destroy thy fruite : and leaue thee like a dry tree in the wildernes .

For , a wicked soule destroyeth him that Ecclus. 6. 4. hath it , and maketh him to be laughed to scorne of his enemies ; and bringeth him to the portion of the vngodly .

Wherefore , if thou wilt be beloued both Plotinus . of God and good men , endeuour diligently to abstaine from pride ; and be not of an hautie , stoute , and stately spirit : neyther arrogantly boast thy selfe at any time of the good gifts of God ; whether of wisedom , beautie , policie , strength , authority , or riches . For , it is one God that is onelie wise , amiable , puissant , wealthy , and full of all felicitie . Which God , ought of euery man to bee worshipped with humblenesse of hart .

For , who separateth thee ? [ ô man , from other men and preferreth thee ? ] or what 1 , Cor , 4 , 7 , hast thou , that thou hast not receiued ? if thou hast receiued it , why reioycest thou , as though thou haddest not receiued it ?

§. 5.

And , although it please God to bestow Mar. Bucer . some kinde of gift on some men , in more plentifull manner then on others ; and to place one man in authoritie aboue another heere on earth ; yet ought not hee that is so enriched , or raised , to swell in pride against his inferiour therefore .

For , God by creation hath made all men Hermes . alike : and how-soeuer wee deceiue our selues , as deere vnto him is the poorest begger , as the most pompous Prince in the world .

Also ; thus fore-warneth vs the Lorde himselfe , saying : Let not the wise-man glorie in his wisedom ; nor the strong man Ierem , 9 , 23 , 24 , glory in his strength ; nor the rich man glory in his riches : but let him that glorieth , glory in this , that hee vnderstandeth & knoweth me . For , I am the Lord which shew mercie , iudgement , & righteousnes in the earth . &c.

§. 6.

Why is earth and ashes proude , seeing Ecclus , 10 , 12 that when a man dyeth , hee is the heyre of Serpents , beasts , and wormes ▪

And , hee that thinks himselfe as rich as Plato . the richest during his life , shall bee made as poore as the poorest , soone after his death .

For , all men haue one entrance vnto life , Wisd , 7 , 6 , and a like going out .

Be not proude then of clothing and rayment ; Ecclus. 11. 4 , neyther exalt thy selfe in the day of honour .

For , pride goeth before destruction , and Prou , 16. 18 , an high minde before the fall .

As may for example be seene in the storie Acts. 12. 21. 22. 23. of Herod : who beeing in the midst of his pride and royaltie , was suddainly smytten by the Angell of God , and forced speedily to forgoe his life , riches , and glory .

The like example also , as a speciall forewarning , 2. Mac. 9. is left vnto vs in the story of Antiochus ; whose wicked life , and miserable death , is sette downe at large in the second Booke of the Maccabees .

Let men therefore feare the Almightie : Iob , 37 , 24. for hee will not regard any that are wise in theyr owne conceite .

¶ Against enuie , hatred , malice , anger , wrath , & murder .

§. 1.

THou shalt not ( saith the Lord ) hate thy Leuit , 19 , 17 neighbour [ or brother ] in thine heart , but thou shalt plainely rebuke thy neighbour , and suffer him not to sinne .

Thou shalt not auenge , nor be mindfull Leuit , 19 , 18 of wrong against the chyldren of thy people , but shalt loue thy neighbour as thy selfe .

Say not thou , I will recompence euill : Prou , 20 , 22. & 24 , 29 or , I will doe to him , as hee hath doone to mee : but waite vpon the Lord , & he shall saue thee .

For , where enuying and strife is , there is Iames , 3 , 16 sedition , and all manner of euill workes .

§. 2.

Enuie , ( saith Plato ) is the daughter of Plato . Pride , the authour of murther & reuenge , the beginner of all secret sedition , and the perpetuall enemie to vertue .

So that there is not a more wicked thing , than for a man to hate , or be enuious : by the Mar. Aur. which effect , the deuils be most miserable .

And , the onely difference betweene enuie Aristotle . and hatred is this : the first , worketh euill secretly : the second , pursueth after reuenge publiquely .

§. 3.

As of all vices Pride is the greatest , so of Socrates . all euils , Enuie is the most auncient , and Gluttony the foulest .

Enuie neuer walkes abroad , without his Pythag. companion Slaunder in his company : for they are as it were two brothers , linked together to worke wickednesse .

And , as enuie intends euill against his Phocilides . neighbour secretly in his thought , so slaunder endeuoureth priuily to defame him with his tongue .

§. 4.

The malicious man , doth alwayes drink Seneca . the most part of his owne poyson . And , like as yron is consumed with rust , so the harts of the enuious , are daily eaten & consumed by enuie .

The man also that is enuious , becommeth Boetius . euer-more a troublesome tormentor to himselfe during his life ; and neuer hurteth any man else by his hatred whilst hee liueth , so much as hee harmeth himselfe at the time of his death .

An example heereof may be seene in the 2. Sam , 17. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4. &c. actions of Ahitophell ; who hauing greatly abused his wit , by beating his braine to giue wicked counsel to king Dauids sonne against his Father ; & seeing afterward his purpose preuented , and his counsell contemned , he was presently so molested with inward malice , and ouer-come of secret enuie , that more Asse-like then the Asse which hee rode on , he made hast home to hang himselfe .

§. 5.

Be not thou ( saith Salomon ) of an hasty Eccles , 7 , 11. spirit to be angry ; for anger resteth in the bosome of fooles .

And , as the vapour and smoake of the Ecclus. 22. 24 chimney goeth before the fire , so euill words , rebukes , and threatnings , goe before blood-shedding .

§. 6.

If thy anger be but a small time deferred , Dion . thou shalt plainly perceiue that it will therby be greatly abated ; but if thou nourish and suffer the same to continue , it will neuer cease , vntill by reuenge it bring thee to ruine .

He therefore may well be said to be conquerour Chilo . ouer a stoute enemy , that can by his wisedome and patience , ouercome his owne anger .

For , hee that delights in peace and quietnesse , Perdicas . sleepeth secure : but he that loueth strife and anger , is continually subiect to wrath and danger .

§. 7.

Yee haue heard ( saith Christ ) that it was Math , 5 , 21 , said vnto them of the old time ; Thou shalt not kill : for , who-soeuer killeth , shall be culpable of iudgement .

But I say vnto you , whosoeuer is angry verse , 22. with his brother vnaduisedly , shall be culpable of iudgement .

If any man kill with a sword , he must be Reue , 13 , 10 killed by a sword .

And who so sheddeth mans bloode , by Gene , 9 , 6 , man shall his blood be shed : for in the Image of GOD hath the Almightie made man .

§. 8.

Cease from anger , and leaue off wrath : Psalm , 37. 8. 9. fret not thy selfe also to doe euill : for euill dooers shall be cut off ; and they that waite vpon the Lorde , they shall enherite the Land .

Be angry , but sin not ; let not the Sunne Ephe , 4 , 26 , 27. goe downe vpon thy wrath : neyther giue place to the deuill .

If thou haue not so much power ouer Hermes . thy selfe , as presently to refraine thine anger ; yet striue to dissemble it , and so by little and little forget it .

For , hee that is slowe to anger , is better Prou , 16 , 32 then the mighty man : and hee that ruleth his owne minde , is better then he that winneth a Cittie .

§. 9.

Beware of strife , and thou shalt make Ecclus , 28 , 8 , thy sinnes fewer : for an angry man kindleth strife .

The more wood there is , the more vehement Ecclus , 28 , 10. is the fire , and the mightier that a man is , the greater is his wrath : & the longer the strife endureth , the more wrath is enflamed .

An hastie brauling kindleth a fire : and verse . 11. an hastie fighting sheddeth blood .

Meddle therefore as little as thou mayst , Thales . with the man that is not able to rule his owne anger : for , eyther by his company keeping , thou shalt be made like him : or else on the suddaine , thou shalt receiue some vnloo-ked-for-euill by him .

§. 10.

Striue not with a mighty man , least thou Ecclus , 8 , 1. 2 , 3 , happen to fall into his hands : neither make any variance with a rich man , least hee on the other side wey downe thy weight : for , gold and siluer hath destroyed many , and hath subuerted the harts of Kinges . Striue not with a man that is full of words ; neyther lay thou any sticks vpon his fire .

Trauaile not by the way with him that is Ecclus , 8 , 15 , rash , least hee doe thee iniurie : for such a man will follow his owne wilfulnes ; and so shalt thou perrish through his folly .

As innocent Abel perrished by the Gene , 4 , 8 , hands of his elder brother Caine , in his vnaduised rage and furie .

§. 11.

If thine enemie haue threatned thee , be Plutarch . not too hastie to giue credite to his flattering speeches : for Serpents neuer sting so deadly , as when they bite without any hyssing .

Hee that hateth , will counterfet with his Prou , 26 , 24 lippes ; but in his hart hee hourdeth vp deceit .

Wherefore , ] if hee speake thee fayre , verse , 25 , beleeue him not ; for there are many abhominations in his hart .

Blood is as nothing in such a mans sight , Hermes . and when thou least thinkest harme , hee wil then be most ready to hurt thee .

As may for example be perceiued , by the trecherous dealing of Ioab , with Abner & 2 , Sam. 3. 27 and 20. 10. Amafa ; whose blood hee spilt Iudas-like ; saluting them with outward signes of peace , and inward intent of murder .

¶ Against Sloth , and Idlenes .

§. 1.

LOue not sleepe , ( saith Salomon ) least Prou , 20 , 13 thou come to pouerty : but open thine eyes , that thou mayst bee satisfied with bread .

Let not laborious worke seeme tedious Ecclus , 7 , 15. vnto thee : neyther the husbandry which the most High hath created .

Seeke not excuses when thou shouldest Ecclus , 10 , 27 doe thy work : neyther be ashamed thereof through pride in the time of aduersity .

For , slothfulnesse causeth a man to fall a Prou , 19 , 15 sleepe : and a deceitfull soule shall suffer hunger .

§. 2.

Idlenes , ( saith Cicero ) is the onely nurse Cicero . and nourisher of all sin , and the sole maintainer of fleshlie affections .

It is an enemie to all vertuous endeuours , Plotinus . and the very traine or high-way to want & ruine .

It is a vice that greatly dulleth a mans vnderstanding ; Gallen . breedeth melancholie ; increaseth many bad humours in the bodie ; choketh the braine ; hindereth thrift ; and prouoketh the anger of God .

§. 3.

God , ( as the holy scripture testifieth ) hath generally commaunded , that man should labour all the dayes of his life , saying first vnto Adam after hee was cast out of Paradice ; * In the sweat of thy face shalt Gene , 3 , 19. thou eate bread , till thou returne vnto the earth from whence thou camst .

Wherefore , if there be any that refuseth 2. Thes. 3 , 10. to labour , let him not eate .

For , idle people in a Common-wealth , Thales . are as hurtfull to be suffered , as Drones among the Bees .

§. 4.

By slothfulnes ( saith Salomon ) the roofe Eccle , 10 , 18 of the house goeth to decay ; and by the idlenes of the hands , the house droppeth through .

As a doore ( saith hee ) goeth too and fro Prou , 26 , 14 vppon his hinges , so turneth the slothfull man vppon his bed .

Hee hideth his hand in his bosome , and Prou , 26 , 15 it greeueth him to put it againe to his mouth .

Hee is wiser in his owne conceite , then verse , 16. seauen men that can render a reason .

Hee sayth , a Lyon is without , I shall be Prou , 22 , 13 slaine in the streete .

Hee will not goe to plowe , because it is Prou , 20 , 4 , Winter ; therefore shall hee begge in the Sommer , but haue nothing .

§ 5.

Suffer not thy selfe ( saith Aurelius ) to be Mar. Aurel. subiect to sloth and idlenes : for if thou vse thy selfe thereto , thou shalt not bee able to endure labour in time of neede .

Though thou maist liue at ease , because Tertullian . thou hast store of riches , yet forget not to labour sometimes of thine owne accord : for , if it chaunce thee afterward to be compelled thereto , thou shalt away with it the better .

§. 6.

Employ thy selfe alwayes about some Mar. Aurel. laudable exercise , and let not idlenes haue any rule ouer thee . For , idlenes may well be counted the graue of liuing men . It is an euill wherein life dyeth , and the soule of man is thereby twice buried in him : once in his body ; next , in his sloth .

This odious sinne also of idlenes , is the Mar. Aurel● very sinke that receiueth in to it selfe , all the filthy channels of vice whatsoeuer : which beeing once brimme full , suddainly runneth ouer , thorowe the whole Citty or Country : and with his pestiferous ayre , infecteth and poysoneth a great multitude of people , before it can be remedied .

Yea ; neyther the filth of secrete chambers ; Alex. Seue . the stinch of pumps in ships , nor the ordures of whole Citties , do so much corrupt the ayre , as idle persons do infect the people .

Hee therefore that passeth his life in a Plato . Common-wealth without profit , ought ( as one vnworthy to liue , ) to haue the rest of his life taken from him .

For , there is nothing more reprochful & Macrobius . cruell in any Kingdome , then are a multitude of vagabonds and idle people : who by theyr sloth and negligence , do not onelie liue wickedly themselues , but also daily induce others to doe like them , by theyr bad ensample , & want of punishment .

¶ Against Couetousnes .

§. 1.

TAke heede , and beware ( saith Christ ) Luke , 12 , 15 of couetousnesse ; for , though a man haue abundance , yet his life standeth not in his riches .

Godlines is great gaine , if a man be content 1. Tim. 6. 6. 7. with that he hath : for we brought nothing into the world , and it is certaine that we shall carry nothing out .

Therefore , when we haue foode & rayment , let vs ther-with be content . For , they verse , 8 , 9. that will be rich , fall into tentation and snares , and into many foolish & noysome lusts , which drowne men in perdition and destruction .

For , the desire of money , is the roote of verse , 10. all euill ; which while some lusted after , they erred from the fayth , & perced themselues thorow with many sorrowes .

§. 2.

There is not a more wicked thing ( saith Ecclus , 10. 9. Sirach ) then for a man to be couetous , and a louer of money : for , such an one will euen sell his soule .

And , where a greedie desire of gaine Iraeneus . resteth , there raigneth all manner of sinne and wicked workes .

Besides , a couetous mans eye , hath neuer Ecclus , 14 , 9 , enough of a portion : and his wicked malice withereth his owne soule .

While such a man liueth , the poore people Macrobius . daily curse him : and after hee is dead , his owne kindred fall at strife and contention about his goods .

§. 3.

Couetousnes is such a poysoned euill , & Erasmus . of such force where it is rooted in the heart of man , that it worketh in him , not onely a carelesnes of Gods holy will , but an vtter contempt also of God himselfe . For , whosoeuer with that infection is sick , & intangled , endeuoureth with all his might to follow the loue of filthy lucre , and the lyfe of Gods holy word is lothsome vnto him .

Hee maketh none account eyther of his Cleobulus . good name , or office in which he is placed to doe iustice ; but flieth as greedilie after gaine , as hungry Rauens doe after stinking carrion . And , the better to attaine his purpose , hee will vndermine all men , & proue trustie to no man ; but craftily lie in waite for euery ones goods : neuer making any conscience , whom , or by what meanes hee doth deceiue , so hee may get golde by the bargaine .

For , as the Gluttons cheefest desire is to Bernard . fill his belly , and the Lechers to satisfie his lust ; so the couetous mans minde , is wholly imployed to get abundance of gold .

Hee so well loueth lucre , that he maketh Boetius . gold his God : and his chiefest confidence , is lockt vp close in his coffers .

He miserably spareth both from his own Anachar . belly and backe ; and liues like a begger all his life , coueting onely to be found rich in money at his death .

But , ] hee that loueth gold , shall not be Ecclus , 31 , 5. iustified ; and hee that followeth corruption , shall haue enough thereof .

§. 4.

The minde of a couetous rich man , saith Pacuuius . Pacuuius , can neuer be thorowly satisfied or contented so long as hee liueth , though hee possesse plenty of all things ; for , the more he hath , the more hee still desireth .

And , like as a greedy curre speedily deuoureth Hermes . whatsoeuer hee can catch , & presently gapeth for more : so when it hapneth the couetous man to obtaine any thing that hee desireth , hee seemeth notwithstanding to set little by it , & saith , Alas , it is nothing ; but wisheth euer to haue it doubled . The onely reason is , because his couetousnesse increaseth , as fast as his substance is augmented .

§. 5.

It is no maruaile ( saith Aurelius ) though Aurelius . hee bee good , which is not couetous , but it were a wonder to see a couetous man good .

For , great abundance of gold and siluer , Ierome . cannot of any man , be both gathered and kept without sinne .

To delight in riches , is a foule and dangerous Socrates . vice , but to be a bond-slaue to couetousnes , is the confusion of a mans own soule .

§. 6.

O thou horrible hunger of gold and siluer , Tully . what is it not that thou doost compell , the harts of men to buy and to sell ?

Who hath beene tryed thereby , and Ecclus , 31 , 10 found perfect ? Let him be an example of glory . Who might offend , and hath not offended ? or doe euill thereby , and hath not done it ?

Many are destroyed by reason of gold ; Ecclus , 31 , 6 , and diuers haue founde theyr destruction before them .

It is as a stumbling blocke to them that verse , 7. sacrifice vnto it , and euery foole is taken there-with .

§. 7.

There is ( saith Salomon ) an euill sicknes Eccles , 5 , 12 , 13 , which I haue seene vnder the Sunne : to wit , riches reserued to the owners thereof for theyr euill .

Now surely , none can be more wretched Fulgosius . by the riches which he possesseth , then the hungry-harted money-monger ; whose desire is neuer satisfied , though he haue sufficient ; but is euer complaining of want , when hee is most stored with wealth .

For ; his very trauaile after riches , pineth Eccles , 31 , 1 , away his body ; and the care thereof , driueth away his sleepe .

Many wayes dooth hee daily molest his Clem. Alex. minde , first to get gaine ; & when through much troublesome busines he hath obtayned abundance , hee is then no lesse combred with care , howe to keepe safely that which hee hath gotten : but aboue all ; his greatest dolour is at the day of death ; to think with himselfe , that he must then perforce depart from whatsoeuer he hath , and leaue all behind him .

Where-vpon Sirach very well sayth : Ecclus , 41 , 1 , O Death , how bitter is the remembrance of thee , to a man that liueth at rest in his possessions : yea , to the man that hath nothing to vexe him , and that hath prosperitie in all things !

For doubtlesse , to him that maketh Euagoras . wealth his onely happines in this world , Death at his comming , is a most vnwelcome guest .

Thus is it with the man that gathereth riches Luke , 12 , 21 to himselfe , and is not rich in God .

§. 8.

Trust not [ therefore , ] in oppression , Psal , 62 , 10. nor in robberie : be not vaine ; if riches increase , set not your hart thereon .

Put no confidence in thy riches : neither Ecclus , 5 , 1 , 8 , say vnto thy selfe ; I haue enough for my life : for riches shall not helpe thee in the time of vengeance and indignation .

Let not thy soule be subiect to the sinne Mar. Bucer . of couetousnes ; but liue content with that which thou hast , though it be but little , neuer seeking to increase thy substance by deceit : for , goods gotten by honest labour , bring with them ioy of hart , and peace of conscience : but the wealth that is wonne by any wicked meanes , cannot long be possessed , without some inward griefe & vexation .

§. 9.

If thou wilt liue according to nature , Seneca . thou shalt neuer be poore : but if thou wilt liue after thine owne greedy desire , thou shalt neuer be rich .

If thou couet to bee rich in worldly Hermes . wealth , thou shalt receiue there-with , sorrow , care , trouble of minde , & many other greeuances : but if thou seeke to be godly , thou shalt thereby finde comfort , quiet , & euerlasting felicitie .

Prepare thy selfe therfore of such riches , Plotinus . as when the shyp is broken , may swimme , and scape to land with theyr maister .

For , no man is more wealthy , then hee Augustine . that is rich in good workes .

¶ Against Vsury .

§. 1.

IF thou lend money to my people , ( sayth Exod , 22 , 25 the Lord ) that is , to the poore with thee , thou shalt not be as an Vsurer vnto him : yee shall not oppresse him with vsury .

If thy brother bee impouerished , and Leuit , 25 , 35 fallen in decay ▪ with thee , thou shalt relieue him ; and as a stranger and soiourner , so shall hee liue with thee .

Thou shalt take no vsury of him , nor aduantage ; Leuit , 25 , 36 but thou shalt feare thy GOD , that thy brother may liue by thee .

Thou shalt neither giue him thy money verse , 37 , to vsury , nor lend him thy victuals for increase .

Moreouer ; ] if thou take thy neighbours Exod , 22 , 26 raiment to pledge , thou shalt restore it vnto him before the Sunne goe downe .

For , that is his couering onely , and this verse , 27. is his garment for his skinne : wherein shall he sleepe ? Therefore , when he cryeth vnto mee , I will heare him : for , I am mercifull .

§. 2.

Some men , ( saith S. Ierome ) thinke vsurie Ierome . to be onely in money ; which thing the Scripture fore-seeing , doth name the ouerplusse in all things .

For , vsurie is , where more is required Bernard . then was deliuered , whether in money , or in meates , or in any other thing . As if thou deliuer tenne shillings , & lookest for more at the returne thereof : or deliuerest a bushell of Corne , and requirest aboue that . So , after the like sort in any thing els , whatsoeuer is receiued more then the principall , it is vsury .

Yea , whatsoeuer name thou giuest it , the Ambrose . ouer-plus in all things receiued , more then was deliuered , is vsurie .

§. 3.

Vsury , ( saith Constantius ) is the daughter Constantius . of Auarice , the nurse of Idlenes , & the cause of ciuill discord among brethren .

It is also a secret euill , which daily deuoureth Cassianus . the wealth of our neighbour ; & may wel be likened to a greedy whirle-poole , which speedily swalloweth what-soeuer it catcheth .

Of all euill members therfore in a Common-wealth , Perdicas . none is more perrillous then the greedy-minded Vsurer : for , he priuily deceiueth euery man with whom he medleth , and neuer doth good to any , so long as he liueth .

Hee is worse then a theefe ; for , a theefe Agesilaus . robbeth onely by night , but the Vsurer robbeth both by day and night .

And , like as a Hare deliuereth , nourisheth , Pet. Lomb. and is with young all at once ; so the fraudulent Vsurer , before hee hath fully finished his deceite against one man , casteth in his mind , how he may best beguile another , through some subtile bargaine .

§. 4.

But , ] hee that increaseth his riched by vsurie Prou ▪ 28 , 8 , and interest ; gathereth them for him which will be mercifull vnto the poore .

And , as a Partrich gathereth together Iere , 17 , 11 , the young which shee hath not brought forth ; [ who afterward forsake her , when they perceiue that she is not their damme , ] so he that getteth riches , and not by right , shall leaue them in the middes of his dayes , and at his end , shal be a foole .

For , ] the gathering of treasures by a deceitfull Prou , 21 , 6 , tongue is vanity tossed to and fro , of them that seeke death .

And , hee that through vsury oppresseth Basill . the poore , robbeth both his conscience of comfort , and his soule of saluation .

¶ Against Gluttony and drunkennesse .

§. 1.

BE not greedy ( saith Sirach , ) in all delights ; neyther be thou too hastie vpon all meates . For , excesse of meates bringeth sicknes , & gluttony turneth into cholerick diseases . By surfet many haue perrished ; but hee that d●eteth himselfe , prolongeth his life .

Oh how little is sufficient for a man well Ecclus , 31 , 19 taught ? For , thereby hee belcheth not in his chamber , nor feeleth any paine .

A sweet & wholsome sleepe [ also ] commeth verse , 20. of a temperate feeding : such a man feeleth no inward paine ; hee riseth vp betimes in the morning , and is well at ease in himselfe . But an vnsatiable eater sleepeth vnquietly ; and is troubled with panges of the belly , and many other hurtfull diseases .

§. 2.

Gluttony , is a filthy , vile , and vgly vice , Gueuara . consisting onely in a greedie desire after daintie fare .

It is the sworne enemie to temperance ; Hipocrates . a mortall or deadly foe to health ; and a most lothsome blemish to humanitie .

Oh what a monstrous sight is it to behold Protogenes . the full furnished table of some vnsatiable and rich glutton ; & how with sundry sorts of the most rarest meates & costliest delicates it is thorowly beset and couered , from end to end . And as the maister of the feast is himselfe there-vnto strangely affected , such guests for his companions will he commonly be sure to haue about him , who ( like flattering Parasites , ) weighing his inclination , will for theyr owne profit sake , highly extoll him in his grosse worke of wickednesse ; and feede his humour , not onely with vaine talke and foolish iesting , but nowe and then also with some shew of scurility , to make his meate haue the better digestion .

But , they that are so greatly addicted to Crates . belly-cheere , and regard more the pampering of theyr panch , then the wisedome of the minde ; may well be likened to fooles , who giue more credite to theyr owne conceit , then to any other mans grounded reason .

And , the man that refraineth not his apperite , Prou , 25 , 28 is like a Citty broken downe , and without walles .

§. 3.

It is not the needfull vse of meate , that Augustine . any man ought to forbeare ; but it is the inordinate desire thereof , which ought to be blamed .

And , he is not to be counted a glutton , Aristotle . which feedeth onely sufficiently for the nourishment of his owne nature : but hee that gurmundizeth much more in quantitie then sundry other men ; & hee that dailie delighteth to fare deliciously ; satisfying the pleasure of his sensual appetite through excesse , and making his belly his God .

For , meate and drinke are the good gifts Gueuara . of God , and ought of all men thankfullie to be receiued ; and moderately taken at times conuenient for our naturall vse and sustenaunce : but hee that greedily consumeth more then hee needeth , abuseth both his body through his misdiet , & the good gifts of God ; by turning them from the right vse for which they were ordained .

§. 4.

Of all the parts of mans body , ( sayth Tully . Tully ) the bolly is the most vnthankfull ; for it neuer requiteth any pleasure doone vnto it , but continually craueth , more then is needfull for it .

And when it is full fraught with daintie Gregory . fare , then are the prickings and prouocations to lust , most forward to stirre vp the flesh to filthy sinne .

Wherefore , if thou sitte at a costly table , Ecclus , 31 , 12 13. open not thy mouth wide vpon it , & say not , Behold much meate . Remember that an euill eye is a shrew : and what thing created is worse then a wicked eye ? for , it weepeth for euery cause .

Stretch not thine hand where-soeuer it Ecclus. 31 , 14. looketh , neyther thrust it with thine eye into the dish .

Ponder with thy selfe what thy neghbour verse , 15 , would faine haue that sitteth by thee : and be discreet in euery poynt .

Eate modestly that which is sette before verse . 16. thee , and deuoure not , least thou be hated of them that behold thee .

Leaue thou off first for nurtures sake : & verse , 17. be not insatiable , least thou offend .

§. 5.

My sonne ( saith Tobie ) drinke not wine Tob , 4 , 15 , to make thee drunken ; neyther let drunkennesse goe with thee in thy iourney .

For , drunkennes increaseth the courage Ecclus , 31 , 30 of a foole till hee offend ▪ it diminisheth his strength , and maketh woundes .

Shewe not thy valiantnes at any time in Ecclus , 31 , 25 wine ; for wine hath beene the destruction of many .

And , as the fierie fornace prooueth the verse , 36 , yron in the tempering ; so doth wine proue the harts of the proude by drunkennes .

§. 6.

Drunkennesse , ( saith Macrobius ) is a Macrobius . deformed monster with many heads : as filthy talke ; fornication ; wrath ; murther ; swearing ; cursing ; and diuers other dishonest actions .

It disturbeth mans reason ; robbeth him Boetius . of his sences ; enfeebleth his remembrance ; sendeth in forgetfulnes ; powreth in errors , induceth to sluggishnes : & in the end , vtterly vndooeth him that delighteth therein .

§. 7.

Wine was made from the beginning to Ecclus , 31 , 27 , 28 , make men glad , and not for drunkennes . Wine measurably drunken , and in time , is profitable for the life of man : & bringeth gladnesse of heart , and cheerefulnesse of minde .

But wine drunken with excesse , maketh verse , 29. bitternesse of minde , with sundry brablings , and much strife .

Also ; of two much drinking , proceede Gallen . dropsies , where-with the body , and oftentimes the visage , is swolne and defaced : bedlam furie , where-with the mind is molested and perrished : but of all other euils most odious , swinish beastlines , wher-with both the body and soule is defiled : and the figure of man , is as it were by enchauntment , transformed into the likenes of some mishapen creature .

§. 8.

Men ouer-come with wine , are far worse Diogenes . then beastes : for beasts will not enforced to drink any more then may well content them : but such men as take pleasure in excesse of drinking , voluntarily swallow down more then is sufficient for them , and beeing oftentimes not able when they haue it , to carry it clenly away , they are thereby constrained to shewe foorth theyr owne shame , euen in the viewe of euery present beholder .

And , like as when the Wine purgeth , it Plutarch . commonly breaketh the vessels , and that which before lay in the bottom , commeth nowe vp to the brim : euen so the tongue of a drunkard , in the mids of his vncomly mirth , sticketh not to reueale to euery new acquaintance in his company , the secrete thoughts of his hidden hart .

§. 9.

Wine , is a mocker , and strong drinke Prou , 20 , 1 , is raging : & whosoeuer is deceiued thereby , is not wise .

For , ] to whom is woe ? to whom is sorrow ? Prou , 23 , 29. to whom is strife ? to whom is murmuring ? to whom are woundes without cause ? and to whom is the rednesse of the eyes ?

Euen to them ( saith Salomon ) that tarry verse , 30. long at the wine : to them that goe & seeke mixt wine .

Woe [ therefore ] to all such as rise vp Esay , 5 , 11 , early to followe drunkennes : and to them that continue vntill night , till the wine doe inflame them .

Woe vnto them that are mightie to verse , 22 , drinke wine , and to them that are strong to powre in strong drinke .

For , it is a propertie meeter for a spunge Demosth. then for a man , to drinke much .

§. 10.

Looke not thou vpon the wine when it Prou , 23 , 31 is redde ▪ ( saith the wiseman ) and when it sheweth his colour in the euppe ; or goeth downe pleasantly .

For , ] in the end it will bite like a serpent , verse , 32 , and hurt like a Cockatrise .

Thine eyes shall looke vpon strange women , verse , 33 , 34 , and thine heart shall speake lewde things : and thou shalt be as one that sleepeth in the middes of the Sea ; and as hee that sleepeth in the top of the mast .

Yea ; in such danger shalt thou be by reason Iraeneus . of thy drunkennes , that thou shalt verie hardly be able to withstand the sundry prouokements of thine owne flesh , which as then will be most prone and readie , to pricke thee forward to euill .

For , it is one of the first euils that springeth Ambrose . from drunkennes , to make shipwracke of chastitie .

As may for an example appeare , by the ardent desire of Olophernes toward Iudeth Iudith , 13. in the time of his banketting . Who notwithstanding , cleane contrary to his expectation , after hee had fully tippled som-what more then enough , lost his head for his labour , by the handes of the selfe same woman , whilst hee lay in his bedde soundly sleeping .

¶ Against adultery and fornication .

§. 1.

THou shalt not ( saith the Almightie , ) Exod , 20 , 14 commit adulterie .

Thou shalt not giue thy selfe vnto thy Leuit. 18. 20 neighbours wife , by carnall copulation to be defiled with her .

§. 2.

He that committeth adultery with a woman , Prou , 6 , 32 , ( sayth Salomon ) is destitute of vnderstanding : hee that doth it , destroyeth his owne soule .

And , all the chyldren that are borne of Wisd , 4 , 6 , the wicked bed , shall be witnes of the wickednesse against theyr Parents when they be asked .

§. 3.

Yee haue heard , ( saith Christ ) that it was Math. 5. 27 28. sayd to them of olde time ; Thou shalt not commit adultery . But I say vnto you , that whosoeuer looketh on a woman to lust after her , hath committed adultery with her already in his hart .

Wherefore , if thy right eye cause thee to offend , plucke it out , and cast it from thee . Math , 5 , 29. For , better it is for thee , that one of thy members perrish , then that thy whole bodie should be cast into hell .

§. 4.

To plucke out the eye that offendeth , is not meant by the wordes of Christ , that thou shouldest disfigure thy face ; but rather , as Sirach saith , to turne away thine Ecclus , 9 , 8. eye from beholding a beautifull woman : and not to looke vpon others beauty . For , many haue perrished by the beautie of women ; and through the beholding thereof , loue is kindled as a fire .

King Dauid , by ouer-much looking 2 , Sam , 11 , 2 , 3 , &c. at the bayte of beautie , forgot himselfe , & so fell in loue with another mans wife : from loue , hee fell to vnlawfull lust ; from lust , to dissembling , and counterfet shewe of kindnes towards her innocent husband . And , in the end , when he could deuise no other shift to couer his owne shame , hee caused Vriah himselfe , to carry a letter to Ioab his cheefe Captaine ; wherin was politiquely plotted , the death of him that brought it .

Moreouer ; a rash and wicked eye , that Plat● . delighteth to behold vanitie , may well be called the windowe of death : for it is the deadly minister of the harts concupiscence , and the fore-runner of filthy facts , thefts , robberies , extortions , & sundry other iniquities .

§. 5.

All men are ( indeede ) by nature naturallie Aeneas Siluius . giuen , to feele in themselues , the boyling and raging lusts of the fraile and vnconstant flesh ▪ Notwithstanding , hee that suffereth himselfe to be led captiue in the filthy sinne of whoredome and adulterie , falleth thereby into innumerable inconueniences . For first of all , this wicked euill cleane taketh away from a man his good name and credite . It also consumeth his substance , and bringeth him in the end to plaine beggery . It killeth at once , both the strength and beautie of the body . It decayeth and greatly hurteth health . It ingendereth many bad diseases . It disfigureth the flower of youth long before the time . It hasteth or draweth on riueled & ill-fauoured age . It diminisheth the strength and quicknes of the wit : It dulleth the sight of the minde . It draweth from him all honest studies , & maketh him delight in nothing but that which is vile and vnhonest . It taketh away the vse of reason , which is the natiue propertie of man . It maketh a young man peeuish , melancholy , & slaunderous . It maketh an olde man odious , wretched , & filthy . * * Demonax , Finally , it is a pleasure bought with paine ; a delight hatcht with disquiet ; a content passed with feare ; and a sinne finished with sorrowe .

§. 6.

Can a man ( saith Salomon ) carry coales Prou , 6 , 27 , 28 , 29. in his bosome , & his clothes not be burnt ? or , can a man goe vpon coales , & his feete not be hurt ? So , hee that goeth in to his neighbours wife & toucheth her , shall not be guiltlesse .

Flie therfore , the filthy lusts of the flesh : Hermes . and as thou wouldest willingly for thy bodily healths sake , abstaine from hurtfull meate ; so oughtest thou to abstaine from sinne , for the saluation of thy soule .

For , when lust hath conceiued , it bringeth Iames , 1 , 15 , forth sinne ; and sinne when it is finished , bringeth forth death .

§. 7.

Know yee not , that your bodies are the 1 , Cor , 6 , 15 , 16 , 17. members of Christ ? shall I then take the members of Christ , and make them the members of an harlot ? God forbid : Doe yee not knowe , that hee which coupleth himselfe with an harlot , is one body ? For , two , saith hee , shall be one flesh . But hee that is ioyned vnto the Lord , is one spirit .

Know yee not [ also , ] that the vnrighteous 1 , Cor , 6 , 9. 10 , shal not inherite the kingdom of God ? Be not deceiued ; neither fornicatours , nor idolaters , nor adulterers , nor wantons , nor buggerers , nor theeues , nor couetous , nor drunkards , nor raylers , nor extortioners , shall inherite the kingdome of God .

§. 8.

Woe then be vnto that man , which contemning Socrates . the excellencie of his own nature , and the diuine part that is in him , serueth onely his bodily lusts ; defiling his owne soule , through his lasciuious desires , and beastly delights .

For , hee ceaseth to be a man ; and is indeed Plato . no better then a brute beast , that leaueth the rules of reason , & giueth his mind solely to the fulfilling of his fleshlie inclinations .

Besides ; if they bee counted miserable , Aristotle . which haue cruell Maisters , although they may be released from them : howe much more are they miserable , which serue theyr bodily lusts as theyr maisters , from which they cannot flie ?

For , hee that hath enthraled himselfe to Hermes . the fulfilling of his fleshly motions , is therby more bound , then any bond-man else what-soeuer .

Yea , such a man , neuer ceaseth to waste & Pa●●uius . consume the strength of his owne bodie ; hee daily spotteth and polluteth the beauty of his soule ; hee continually draweth vnto himselfe diuers diseases ; & walketh hourely in danger of eternall damnation .

§. 9.

Enforce thy selfe therefore with all the Erasmus . might thou maist , to abstaine from vngodly lusts : and the better to bridle the vnrulie passions of thine owne affections , endeuour diligently to study and followe vertue : for , the desires that are good , will euermore mortifie and destroy , the desires that are euill .

But if so be that thou canst not abstaine , 1. Cor , 7 , 9. thou maist then vse the lawful remedy that God hath appoynted : namely , marriage . For , it is better to marry , then to burne .

Also ; ] to auoyde fornication , let euerie 1 , Cor , 7 , 2 , man haue his wife , and let euery woman haue her owne husband .

For , ] marriage is honourable among all Hebr , 13 , 4 , men , and the bedde vndefiled : but whoremongers and adulterers , God will iudge .

¶ Against stealing , lying , slaundering , falsewitnes-bearing , and coueting of our neighbours wealth .

§. 1.

YEe shall not steale ; ( saith the Lord our Leuit , 19 , 11 God , ) neyther deale falsely ; nor lie one to another .

Let him that stole , steale no more : but Ephe , 4 , 28 , let him rather labour and worke with his handes the thing that is good : that he may haue to giue vnto him that needeth .

§. 2.

My sonne , ( saith Sirach ) sow not a lye against Ecclus , 7 , 12 , 13. thy brother , neyther doe the same against thy friende . Vse not to make any manner of lye ; for the custome thereof is is not good .

Aristotle , beeing demaunded what vantage Aristotle . a man might gette by lying ? aunswered : To be vnbeleeued when hee telleth the truth .

§. 3.

Doubtlesse ; ] a lie is a wicked shame in Ecclus , 20. 23 a man , yet is it often in the mouth of the vnwise .

A thiefe is better then a man that is accustomed verse , 24. to lie : but they both shall haue destruction euerlastingly .

For , by lying , the truth is broken , God Hermes . himselfe greeuously offended , & the state of our neighbour & our selues greatly impaired .

§. 4.

The conditions of lyers are alwayes vnhonest : Ecclus. 20 , 25 & their shame is euer with them .

He that is knowne to be a lyer , shal commonly Thales . be helde in contempt amongst all men ; & such onely as before thought well of his company , will afterward care verie little for his acquaintance .

Besides ; hee that is accustomed to lying , Becon . looseth not onely his credite & good name amongst men , but also shutteth himselfe out from the grace and fauour of GOD , and most horribly ioyneth himselfe to the deuill , who hath no truth in him .

But is a lyer from the beginning ; & the Iohn , 8 , 44 , father of lyes .

Wherefore , cast off lying ; and speake Ephe , 4 , 25 , euery man the truth vnto his neighbour : for , we are members one of another .

§. 5.

Thou shalt not ( saith the Lord ) walke Leuit. 19. 16 about with tales among thy people .

If thou hast heard a worde against thy Ecclus , 19 , 10 neighbour , let it die with thee : and be sure it will not burst thee .

Declare not other mens manners neyther Ecclus , 19. 8 , to friend nor foe : and if the sin appertaine not vnto thee , reueale it not .

For , he shall harken vnto thee , & marke verse . 9. thee : and when hee findeth opportunitie , hee will hate thee .

§. 6.

Men ought alwayes to heare , twise so Thales . much as they speake : for , to that end ( saith Thales , ) Nature hath giuen vs two eares , and but one tongue .

A wise man will therefore , well consider Crates . of a matter when he hath heard it , & ponder thereof aduisedly with himselfe , before he speake of it againe .

But a foole trauaileth when he hath heard Ecclus , 19 , 11 a thing , like vnto a woman that is about to bring forth a child .

And , as an arrow that sticketh in a mans verse , 12. thigh , so is newes in a fooles hart .

§. 7.

The words of a tale-bearer , ( saith Salomon ) Prou , 18 , 8 , are as flat●erings ; & they goe downe into the bowels of the belly .

They sinck deepely into the memory of Gueuara . him that willingly giueth eare there-vnto : but he that resisteth a tale-bringer , putteth thereby a perrillous enemy to silence .

For , ] without woode , the fire is quenched , Prou , 26 , 20 and without a tale-bearer , strife ceaseth .

But ] as the coale maketh burning coales , verse , 21. and wood a fire , so the contentious man is apt to kindle strife .

Be not [ then ] counted a tale-bearer , Ecclus , 5 , 15 neither lie thou in waite with thy tongue : for shame & repentance follow the thiefe , and an euill condemnation is ouer his head that is double tunged ; but he that is a backbiter , shal be hated , enuied , & confounded .

§. 8.

Slaunder no man ; whether hee be thy Boetius . friend or thy foe ; neither speake any euill of thy neighbour behind his back . For hee that defameth another with his tongue , woundeth his owne soule by his words .

And , a common slaunderer , striuing to Polion . bring other men forth of fauour , through his detracting speeches , becommeth thereby odious himselfe .

§. 9.

Thou shalt not ( saith the Lord ) beare Exod , 20 , 16 false witnesse against thy neighbour .

Thou shalt not receiue [ or , report ] a Exod , 23 , 1 , false tale ; neyther shalt thou put thy hand with the wicked , to be a false witnesse .

Thou shalt not couet thy neighbours Deut , 5 , 21 , wife , neither shalt thou desire thy neyghbours house , nor his land , nor his man seruaunt , nor his maide seruaunt , nor his oxe , nor his asse , nor any thing that thy neighbour hath .

§. 10.

Let no man with coyne corrupt thee , Hemingius . to beare false witnes at any time against the vnguiltie person : neither suffer thy tunge to testifie an vntruth , through the vaine hope of worldly preferment .

But be well aduised what thou vndertakest Tully . before thou speakest ; and consider rightly of the cause , before thou giue record thereof in the presence of any Ruler .

For , ] a false witnesse shall not scape vnpunished : Prou , 19 , 9 , and he that speaketh lyes , shall perrish .

¶ Against iniustice , wrongfull dealing , and oppressing the poore .

§. 1.

YE shall not ( saith the Lord ) doe vniustly Leuit , 19 , 15 in iudgement .

Yee shall haue no respect of person in D 〈…〉 , 1 , 17 , iudging ; but shall heare the small as well as the great : yee shall not feare the face of man : For , the iudgement is Gods .

§. 2.

Thou shalt not fauour the person of the Leuit. 19. 15 poore , nor honor the person of the mighty : but thou shalt iudge thy neighbour iustly .

Thou shalt keepe thee farre from a false Exod , 23 , 7 , matter ; and shalt not sley the innocent and the righteous : for , I will not iustifie a wicked man .

§. 3.

Wrest not the law , ( saith Moises , ) nor Deut , 16 , 19 respect any person ; neither take reward : for the rewarde blindeth the eyes of the wise , & peruerteth the words of the iust .

And maketh Magistrates dumbe , that Ecclus , 20 , 28 they cannot reproue faults .

That which is iust and right , shalt thou Deut , 16 , 20 follow ; that thou maist l●●e & possesse the land which the Lorde thy GOD giueth thee .

But to haue respect of any person in Prou , 24 , 23 iudgement , is not good .

For , if yee regard the persons , yee commit Iames , 2 , 9 . sinne , and are rebuked of the Lawe as transgressours .

§. 4.

Hee that is placed to be a Iudge , ( saith Tertullian . Tertullian , ) ought alwayes to be true in his worde ; honest in his thought ; and vertuous in his deede : without feare of any but GOD ; and without hate of any but the wicked .

For , equitie or iustice , is a measure ordained Lactantius . of GOD amongst men vppon earth ; to defend the feeble from the mighty ; the truth from falshood ; and to roote out the euill from among the good .

Notwithstanding ; wee oftentimes perceiue Aristotle . it to fall out , that eyther through affection to theyr friendes ; hatred to theyr aduersaries ; or corruption by gifts ; the Iudges doe forget the truth : and so leaue vndone the iust execution of theyr dutie and straight charge .

Also ; as the Iudge of the people himselfe Ecclus. 10 , 2. is , so are his officers vnder him ; and what manner of man the Ruler of the Citty is , such are all they that dwell therein .

But , as the Lord loueth righteousnesse , Becon . and hateth iniquitie ; so he will reward the iust man for his iustice , and punish the vngodly person for his sinne .

§. 5.

Yee shall not , ( saith the Almightie ) doe Leuit , 19 , 35 36 , vniustly in iudgement , in line , in weight , or in measure . Thou shalt haue iust ballances , true weights , a true Ephah , and a true Hin .

Thou shalt not haue in thy bagge two Deut. 25 , 13 14. manner of weights , a great , and a small : neyther shalt thou haue in thy house diuers measures , a great and a small .

But thou shalt haue a right and iust Deut , 25 , 15 weight ; and a perfect & iust measure shalt thou haue : that thy dayes may be lengthened in the Land which the Lord thy God giueth thee .

For , all that doe such things , and all that Deut , 25 , 16 doe vnrighteously ; are ●bhomination vnto the Lord thy GOD . * But a perfect Prou , 11 , 1 , weight pleaseth him .

§. 6.

Thou shalt not peruert the right of the Deut , 24 , 17 stranger , nor of the fatherlesse ; Neyther shalt thou take a Widdowes rayment to pledge .

Yee shall not trouble any widdow , nor Exod , 22 , 22 , 23 , fatherlesse childe . If thou vexe or trouble such , and so he call and cry vnto me , I will surely heare his cry .

Then shall my wrath be kindled , and I verse , 24. wil kill you with the sword : & your wiues shall be widdowes ; and your children fatherlesse .

§. 7.

Complaints and teares , ( saith Gueuara , ) are the cheefest reuenge of the fatherlesse , Gueuara . and oppressed . For , hee that is rich , commonly seeketh to reuenge himselfe eyther by lawe or armes : but the poore mans remedy , is wholy procured from God , by his pittifull lamentations & mournings .

Doth not the teares runne downe the Ecclus , 35 , 15 widdowes cheekes ? and her cry is against him that caused them : for , from her cheekes doe they goe vp vnto heauen : & the Lord which heareth them , doth accept them .

For , ] hee despiseth not the desire of the Ecclus , 35 , 14 fatherlesse , nor the widdowe , when shee powreth out her prayer before him .

But heareth the peticion of the partie Ecclus , 35 , 13 oppressed .

§. 8.

Thou shalt not ( saith the Lord ) doe thy Leuit. 19. 13 neighbour wrong ; neither rob him . The worke-mans hire shall not abide with thee vntill the morning .

Thou shalt not oppresse an hired seruaunt Deut , 24 , 14 that is needy and poore ; neyther of thy brethren , nor of the stranger that is in the Land within thy gates .

But ] thou shalt giue him his hire for the day , and shalt not let the sunne goe downe verse , 15. vpon it : for , hee is poore , & there-withall sustaineth his life : least hee cry against thee vnto the Lord , & it be sinne vnto thee .

§. 9.

Rob not the poore , because he is poore : Prou , 22 , 22 23. neither oppresse the afflicted in iudgement : for , the Lorde will defende theyr cause , and spoyle the soule of those that spoyle them .

With-hold not the good from the owners Prou , 3 , 23 , thereof , though there be power in thy hand to doe it .

Neyther let the wages of any man that Tob , 4 , 24 , hath wrought for thee , tarry with thee , but giue it him out of hand .

The bread of the needfull , is the life of Ecclus , 34 , 22 the poore , & he that defraudeth him thereof , is a murtherer .

Hee that taketh away his neighbours liuing , verse , 23 , sleyeth him : & he that with-holdeth the labourers hire from him , is a blood-shedder .

And , this yee know ; that no man-sleyer 1. Ioh , 3 , 15 , hath eternall life abyding in him .

§. 10.

Vse therefore mercie , gentlenes , pittie , ●ulgosius . and compassion towards the poore : and suffer not him that hath done thy will , to make sute vnto thee for , his recompence .

Defraude not the poore of his liuing ; Ecc●us , 4 , 1. neither make the needy eyes to waite long . Make not an hungry soule sorrowful , neyther vexe a man in his necessity . Trouble verse , 2 , 3 , not the heart that is greeued , neyther defer thou the gift of the needy .

Refuse not the prayer of him that is in trouble , neyther turne away thy face from verse , 4 , 5. 6 , the poore . Turne not thine eyes aside in anger from the poore , neither giue him any occasion to speake euill of thee . For , if hee curse thee in the bitternes of his soule , his prayer shall be heard of him that made him .

For , ] the prayer of the poore , going out Ecclus , 21 , 5. of the mouth , commeth vnto the eares of the Lord ; and iustice is doone him incontinently .

Yea , the prayer of him that humbleth himselfe , [ is of such force ] that it pierceth Ecclus , 35 , 17 thorow the clowdes , and ceaseth not till it come neere , & will not depart till the most High haue respect there-vnto , to iudge righteously , and to execute iudgement .

And , the Almighty wil not be slack , nor Ecclus , 35 , 18 tarry long from them ; till hee hath smitten in sunder the loynes of the vnmercifull , & auenged himselfe of the heathen ; [ or vngodly ones , ] till hee hath taken away the multitude of the cruell , and broken the scepter of the vnrighteous ; till he giue euerie man after his works , and reward them after theyr deuises ; till he haue iudged the cause of his people , and comforted them with his mercie .

§. 11.

Let it not [ then ] grieue thee to bowe Ecclus , 4 , 8 , downe thyne eare vnto the poore : but pay thy debt , and giue him a friendlie aunswere .

For , if thou shewe compassion v●●o the Isidorus . poore that can doe but little ; thou shalt be highly fauoured of GOD , that can doe much .

But who soeuer stoppeth his eare at the Prou , 21 , 13 crying of the poore ; he shall also cry himselfe , and not be heard .

¶ Against ouer-hastie and rash iudgement .

§. 1.

IVdge not , ( saith Christ ) and ye shall not Luke , 6 , 37 , be iudged : condemne not , and yee shall not be condemned .

For , with what iudgement yee iudge , ye Math , 7 , 2 , shall be iudged ; and with what measure ye mete , it shall be measured vnto you againe .

§. 2.

Thou art inexcusable , ô man , ( saith the Rom , 2 , 1. Apostle , ) whosoeuer thou art that iudgest . For , in that , that thou iudgest another , thou condemnest thy selfe : for thou that iudgest , doost the same things .

Why seest thou the mote that is in thy Math , 7 , 3 , 4 , brothers eye , & perceiuest not the beame that is in thine owne eye ? Or , howe sayest thou to thy brother : Suffer me to cast out the ●●te out of thine eye , and beholde a beame is in thine owne eye ?

Hypocrite , first cast out the beame that verse , 5 , is in thine owne eye , & then shalt thou see cleerly to cast out the mote out of thy brothers eye .

Besides , ] who art thou that iudgest or Rom , 14 , 4 , Iames. 4. 12 , condemnest another mans seruaunt ? hee standeth or falleth to his owne maister .

Iudge nothing therfore before the time , 1 , Cor , 4. 5. vntill the Lord come ; who will lighten the the things that are hid in darknes , & make the counsels of each hart manifest : & then shall euery man haue prayse of God .

§. 3.

Iudge not according to the appearance , Iohn . 7. 24. ( saith Christ , ) but iudge righteous iudgement .

For , Eli the priest , being some-what too forward to iudge by coniecture , rashlie reprooued 1. Sam. 1. 14. Hannah of the sinne of drunkennesse , when shee was zealously busied at her prayers .

And , the barbarous people of Malta , Acts. 28. 3. 4 , 5 , 6. seeing a viper fastned to the hand of Paule , presently at the first sight thereof , condemned him for a murtherer . But when they saw him shake off the worme into the fire , & feele no harme thereby ; then , ( shewing themselues as farre from reason , as they were before from wisedome ) they imagined him to be a God .

§. 4.

Commend no man for his beautie ( sayth Ecclus , 11 , 2. Sirach , ) neyther despise a man in his vtter appearance .

For , ] the Bee is but small among the verse , 3 , foules ; yet dooth the fruite of her labour passe in sweetnesse .

Blame no man , before thou hast enquired Ecclus , 11 , 7 , the matter ; vnderstand first , and then reforme righteously .

Giue no sentence , before thou hast heard Ecclus. 11. 8. the cause ; neyther interrupt any man in the midst of his tale .

For , hee that giueth sentence before the Thales . matter be throughly heard , shewes himselfe eyther partiall in affection , or culpable in dooing wrong , for some priuate aduauntage .

And , hee that taketh a tale out of his Pl●tarch . neighbours mouth , is like him which seeing another about to be kissed , will needes thrust forth his head , to take away the curtesie from him .

¶ Against iustifying our selues , foolish boasting , and regarding of other mens faultes .

§. 1.

IVstifie not thy selfe before the Lorde , Ecclus , 7 , 5 , ( saith Sirach ) for he knoweth thy hart .

Neyther boast thy selfe at any time of thy Pet. Lomb. good deedes , least thy euill be also layde to thy charge .

For , hee that prayseth himselfe , is not allowed ; 2 , Cor. 10 , 18. but he whom the Lord prayseth .

Besides , he that supposeth himselfe to be Fulgosius . righteous , falleth thereby vnaduisedly from his hope in God ; & by trusting too much to his owne merrites , looseth the confidence he should haue in his Creators mercy .

Resembling the folly of the foolish-bragging Luke , 18 , 11 Pharisee , which entred into the temple with the Publican to pray .

But S. Paule teacheth vs better wisedom by his owne example , where he saith : * I 1 , Cor , 4 , 4 , know nothing by my selfe , yet am I not thereby iustified : but he that iudgeth mee , is the Lord .

§. 2.

How , ( saith Iob ) should man compared Iob , 9 , 2 , 3 , vnto God , be iustified ? If God would dispute with him , man could not aunswere him one thing of a thousand .

If I woulde iustifie my selfe , ( saith hee ) Iob , 9 , 20 , mine owne mouth shall condemne mee : and if I would be perfit , he shall iudge me wicked .

For , hee is not a man , as I am , that I Iob , 9 , 32 , should aunswere him , if wee come together to iudgement .

Well therefore saith the Psalmist : * Enter Psal. 143 , 2 , not ( ô Lord ) into iudgement with thy seruaunt : for , in thy sight shall no man lyuing be iustified .

§. 3.

Let no man glory in his works , ( saith S. Ambrose . Ambrose , ) because no man is iustified by his workes : but hee that is iust , hath it freely by gift .

For , if God would deale with vs according Augustine . to that we haue deserued ; he should find nothing but that he might condemne .

And , woe would be to all our righteousnesse , Augustine . if it be iudged : mercie beeing taken away , or set aside .

§. 4.

If any man , ( saith the Apostle ) seeme to Gala , 6 , 3 . himselfe that hee is some-what , when he is nothing ; he deceiueth himselfe in his imagination .

Let him therefore that thinketh he standeth , 1. Cor. 12. 10. take heede least hee fall .

And , let not the sinner say , that hee hath 2 , Esdr , 16 , 45. not sinned : for , coales of fire shall burne vppon his head , which sayth : I haue not sinned before the Lord God & his glory .

§. 5.

This ( saith S. Bernard ) is our righteousnesse ; Bernarde . to lay sure holde on the worthines of Christ by faith , and humbly to confesse before God , that we of our selues , are altogether vnrighteous .

And , then are wee said to be righteous , Ierome . when as we doe acknowledge our selues to be wicked sinners .

But if wee behold our owne merrits , wee Ierome . shall thereby be driuen to desperation .

For , wee are counted but vnprofitable Luke , 17 , 10 seruaunts , when we haue done all that wee can do ; seeing we haue done no more then was our dutie to doe .

And , in dooing no more but what wee Chrisostome . ought , we deserue no greater reward , then that we beare about vs .

§. 6.

If our dooings were good indeed , ( saith Origen . Origen ) then were wee not vnprofitable seruaunts : but any good deede of ours , is called good , not rightly , nor duly , but by abuse of speech .

For , holy men do know , that euer since the Gregory . fall of the first father Adam , they be borne of a corruptible stocke ; and that they bee not by any vertue of theyr owne , but onely by the heauenly grace that doth preuent them , turned into good desires or workes : and what euill soeuer they knowe to bee in themselues , they confesse that it is deserued , and come of theyr mortall kinde ; but what good soeuer they see to be in themselues , they acknowledge it to be the gift of the immortall God . And , for this gift which they haue receiued , they count themselues debters vnto him , which by preuenting them , did giue vnto them grace , that they should will that good thing which they would not ; and by following , did graunt , that they should be able to doe , that good thing which they would .

§. 7.

Be not vain-glorious at any time of thine Iunius . owne dooings , ( saith Iunius , ) neyther vse to speak many words in thine own praise .

For , it is farre better to bee silent , then Alex ▪ Se●e . to bragge or boast vaine-gloriously anie thing in our owne commendation .

Let another man praise thee , and not Prou , 27 , 2 , thine owne mouth ; a stranger , and not thine owne lips .

For , nothing dispraiseth a man so much Arn●bius . as his owne praysing ; especially , when he maketh repeticion of his charitable deeds .

§. 8.

It is a token of an impudent creature , Plato . ( saith Plato ) to seeke to gette credite with others , by commending himselfe .

And , such kinde of people as praise themselues , Pl●tarch . may fitly be compared to famished persons : for , like as the famished , for lacke of other meate , are faine some-times to eate theyr owne flesh ; so many that are vaine ▪ glorious , are forced to prayse themselues , because no man else will giue them any commendation .

§. 9.

Despise not the man ( saith Sirach , ) that Ecclus , 8 , 9 , turneth himselfe away from sinne , neyther cast him in the teeth with his former fault : but remember that wee are all woorthy blame .

Be ▪ not glad when thine enemy falleth , Prou , 24 , 17 18. neyther let thy hart reioyce when he stumbleth : least the Lord see it , and it displease him , and he turne his wrath from him .

Laugh no man to scorne in the heauines Ecclus , 7 , 11 , of his soule : for , GOD which seeth all things , is hee that can bring downe , and set vp againe .

§. 10.

To reioyce at the harme which another Socrates . man receiueth , is a signe of an euill nature in thy selfe .

And busily to vpbrayd a penitent person Crates . with his passed offences , is the next way to depriue thy selfe of all mens compassion , when thou standest in neede .

Flie therefore and eschew thine owne vices , Socrates . and be not curious in serching after other mens sinnes .

For , it is the propertie of a foole , to looke Tully . narrowly into other mens faultes , & to forget his owne .

But it is a signe of great wisedome , warilie Thales . to auoyde those euils our selues , which wee thinke worthy to be blamed in other men .

¶ Against the following of falsete●●hers .

§. 1.

BE not carried about ( saith the Apostle ) Hebr. 13. 9. with diuers and strange doctrines .

For , he that is hastie to giue credit , is light Ecclus , 19. 4 , minded ; & he that erreth , sinneth against his owne soule .

Let no man deceiue you with vaine Ephe. 5. 6. wordes .

But ] beware of false Prophets , which Math , 7 , 15 , 16. come to you in sheepes clothing , but inwardly they are rauening Wolues . Ye shall know them by theyr fruites .

Beleeue not euery spirit ; but try the spirits , 1 , I●h , 4. 1 , whether they are of God , [ or no● ] for many false Prophets are gone out into the worlde .

Yea , ] many deceiuers are entred into the world , which confesse no● that Iesus Christ 2 , Ioh , 1 , 7 , is come in the flesh . Hee that is such a one , is a deceiuer , and ●n Antichrist .

§. 2.

I beseech you Brethren ▪ ( saith S. Paule , ) Rom , 16 , 17 18 , marke them diligently ▪ which cause diuision and offences ▪ contrary to the doctrine which yee haue learned ▪ and a●oyde them . For , they that are such s●rue not the Lorde Iesus Christ , but they● owne 〈◊〉 : and with faire speeches and flattering ▪ de●e●ue the harts of the simple .

Yee are deerely bought ; be not the seruaunts 1. Cor , 7 , 23 , of men .

But ] stand fast , and keepe the instructions 2. Thes. 2. 15 which you haue beene taught , eyther by word , or by our Epistle .

If any man teach otherwise , and consenteth 1 , Tim , 6 , 3 , 4 , 5. not to the wholesome wordes of our lord Iesus Christ , & to the doctrine which is according to godlines , he is puf● vp , and knoweth nothing : but doateth about questions , and strife of words : whereof commeth enuie , strife ▪ raylings , euill surmisings , vaine disputations of men of corrupt minds , and destitute of the truth , which thinke that gaine is godlinesse . From such separate thy selfe .

§. 3.

Brethren ; ( saith the same Apostle , ) be Phil. 3 , 17 , followers of me , & looke on them which walke so , as yee haue vs for an ensample .

For , many walke , of whom I haue tolde verse , 18 , 19 , you often , and now tell you weeping , that they are the enemies of the Crosse of Christ : whose ende is damnation , whose God is theyr belly , and whose glorie is to their shame , which mind earthly things .

But our conuersation is in heauen , from verse , 20 , whence also we looke for the Sauiour euen the Lord Iesus Christ .

Who shall change our vile body , that it verse , 21. may be facioned like vnto his glorious bodie , according to the working , whereby hee is able euen to subdue all thinges vnto himselfe .

§. 4.

Let vs henceforth be no more chyldren , Ephe , 4 , 14 , 15. wauering , and carried about with euerie winde of doctrine , by the deceit of men & with craft●nes ; wherby they lay in waite to deceiue . But let vs follow the truth in loue , and in all things grow vp vnto him , which is the head ; euen Christ .

And ] beware least any man spoyle you Colos , 2 , 8. thorow Philosophy , and vaine deceite , after the traditions of men , and according to the ordinaunces of the world , and not after Christ .

For , ] whosoeuer transgresseth , and abydeth 2 , Ioh. 9. 10 , not in the doctrine of Christ , he hath not God . He that endureth in the doctrine of Christ , he hath both the Father and the Sonne .

If there come any vnto you , and bring verse . 11. not this doctrine , receiue him not to house , neither bid him , God speede . For hee that biddeth him God speede , is partaker of his euill deedes .

¶ Against the choyse of meates , and difference of dayes .

§. 1.

LEt no man ( saith the Apostle ) trouble Colos. 2 , 16 , 17. your conscience about meate & drink , or , in respect of an holy-day , or of the new Moone , or of the Sabboth dayes : which are but shadowes of thinges to come : but the body is in Christ .

It is a good thing that the hart be stablished Heb , 13 , 9 , with grace , & not with meates , which haue not profited them that haue been occupied therein .

For , the kingdome of God , is not meate Rom , 14 , 17 nor drinke ; but righteousnesse , and peace , and ioy in the holy Ghost .

For , whosoeuer in these thinges serueth verse , 18. Christ , is acceptable vnto God , & is commended of men .

§. 2.

One beleeueth that he may eate al things , Rom , 14 , 2 , and another that is weake , eateth hearbs .

This man esteemeth one day aboue another Rom. 14 , 5 , day , and another man counteth euerie day alike .

Let not him that eateth , despise him that Rom , 14 , 3 , eateth not : and let not him which eateth not , iudge him that eateth : for , God hath receiued him .

Let euery man [ also ] be fully perswaded Rom. 14 , 5. 6. in his minde , that hee which obserueth the day , obserueth it to the Lord : and hee that obserueth not the day , obserueth it not to the Lord . He that eateth , eateth to the lord , for he giueth God thanks : and he that eateth not , eateth not to the lord , and giueth God thanks .

Meate maketh not vs acceptable to God . 1 , Cor , 8 , 8 , For , neither if we eate , are wee the better ; neither if we eate not , are we the worse .

What-soeuer is solde in the Shambles , 1 , Cor , 10 , 25 , 26 , eate ye , & aske no question for conscience sake . For , the earth is the Lords , and all that therein is .

§. 3.

And , seeing that GOD hath created all Erasmus . things for the vse of man , & requireth nothing of vs but holinesse , what forceth hee whether wee eate flesh of foure-footed beastes , or of fishes , or of Birds that flie ? There is none of all these that eyther maketh or marreth holinesse : neither putteth any thing to it , or taketh any thing from it .

The choyse of these things , and the putting Erasmus . of difference betweene one and another , may make a man superstitious , & to haue vaine religion in himselfe , but it cannot make him holie . Christ taught no difference heerein : therefore it may bee counted great rashnes , if a wretched man , should goe about to burthen & charge any man with such ordinances . Let euery man eate what hee liketh , as his body requireth , so it be doone soberlie , & measurably ; and for all thinges , let him giue thankes vnto God .

For , to beleeue that meates are euill , or Augustine . causeth euill , or sinne to them that receiue them ; it is the propertie , not of Christian men , but peculiarly of the Hierarchies , & Maniches , which were heretiques .

§. 4.

Wherefore , if yee be dead with Christ Colos. 2. 20. 21. 22 , from the ordinaunces of the world , why , as though yee liued in the world , are yee burdened with traditions ? As , Touch not , Taste not , Handle not . Which all perrish with the vsing , & are after the commaundements and doctrines of men .

Which things haue indeed a shewe of Colos. 2. 23 , wisedome , in voluntarie religion & humblenesse of minde , and in not sparing the body : neither haue they it in any estimation to satisfie the flesh .

But ] I know , & am perswaded through Rom. 14 , 14 the Lord Iesus , that there is nothing vncleane of it selfe : but vnto him that iudgeth any thing to be vncleane , to him it is vncleane .

Vnto the pure , all things are pure : but Titus . 1. 15. to them that are defiled and vnbeleeuing , is nothing pure : but euen theyr mindes and consciences are defiled .

§. 5.

Nowe the Spirit speaketh euidently , that 1 , Tim , 4 , 1 , 2. 3. in the latter times some shall depart from the fayth , and shall giue heede vnto spirits of errour , and doctrines of deuils : which speake lyes through hypocrisie , and haue theyr consciences burned with an hote yron ; forbidding to marry , and commaunding to abstaine from meates , which God hath created to be receiued with giuing thanks , of them which beleeue and knowe the truth .

For , euery creature of God is good , and verse , 4 , 5 , nothing ought to be refused , if it be receiued with thanksgiuing . For , it is sanctified by the word of God , and prayer .

Yee therefore beloued , seeing yee know 2. Pet. 3. 17 , these things before , beware ; least ye be also plucked away with the errour of the wicked , and fall from your owne stedfastnesse .

For , of this sort are they which creepe 2. Tim. 3. 6. 7. into houses , and leade captiue simple women laden with sinnes , and led with diuers lusts . Which women are euer learning , and are neuer able to come to the knowledge of the truth .

¶ Against ouer-curious searching : and adding of any thing to the word of God .

§. 1.

SEeke not out ( saith Sirach ) the thinges Ecclus , 3 , 22. that are too hard for thee : neither search the things rashly which are too mightie for thee .

But what God hath commaunded thee , verse , 23. thinke vpon that with reuerence , and bee not curious in many of his workes : for it is not needfull for thee , to see with thine eyes the things that are secrete .

Be not curious in superfluous matters , for verse , 24 , 25 , many things are shewed vnto thee aboue the capacitie of men . The medling with such , hath beguiled many ; & an euill opinion hath deceiued their iudgement .

Thou canst not see without eyes : professe verse , 26. not the knowledge therefore which thou hast not .

§. 2.

I , through the grace that is giuen vnto Rom , 12 , 3 , mee , ( saith the Apostle , ) say to euery one that is among you , that no man presume to vnderstand , aboue that which is meet to vnderstand : but that he vnderstand according to sobrietie ; as GOD hath dealt to euery man the measure of fayth .

For , hee is sufficiently rich in vnderstanding , Hermes . that knoweth how to doe well : and hee hath power enough , that can refraine from dooing euill .

§. 3.

Ye shal put nothing vnto the word which Deut , 4 , 2 , I commaund you , saith Moises : neyther shall yee take ought there-from : that yee may keepe the commaundements of the Lord your GOD , which I commaund you .

Therefore , what soeuer I commaunde Deut. 12. 32. you , take heede you doe it .

Thou shalt not turne away from it to the Iosua , 1 , 7. right hand , nor to the left : that thou maist prosper whether soeuer thou goest .

§. 4.

Put nothing vnto the word of God , saith Prou. 30. 6. Salomon , least hee reproue thee , and thou be founde a lyer .

For , I protest ( saith the holy Ghost ) vnto Reue. 22. 18 euery man that heareth the wordes of the prophecie of this booke ; If any man shall adde vnto these things , God shall adde vnto him the plagues , that are written in thys Booke .

And , if any man shall diminish of the Reue. 22 , 19 words of the booke of this prophesie God shall take away his part out of the booke of life ; and out of the holy Citty , and from those thinges which are written in this booke .

¶ Against foolish securitie .

§. 1.

SAy not thou , I will hide my selfe from Ecclus. 16 , 17 the Lord : for , who will think vpon me from aboue ? I shall not be knowne in so great an heape of people : for , what is my soule , among such an infinite number of creatures ?

But rather remember what our Sauiour Christ saith in Saint Mathewes Gospell : namely , that one sparrow falleth not to the ground , without the will of God our heauenly Math. 10. 29. 30. Father : and , that all the haires of our head are numbred by him . Howe much more then may wee vndoubtedly beleeue , that wee our selues are knowne and numbred of him ? For , hee onely is the Creator and Preseruer of men : and without his permission ▪ wee are not able to drawe our breath a minutes while .

§. 2.

Besides , thus speaketh the Lord himselfe Iere , 23 , 23 , 24. interrogatiuelie , by the mouth of Ieremy , saying : Am I a GOD at hand , and not a GOD farre off ? Can any hide himselfe in secrete places , that I shall not see him , saith the Lord ? Doe not I fill heauen and earth , saith the Lord ?

And , to this effect likewise , tendeth the speech of the Prophet Dauid in the 139. psalme , where he saith : O Lord , thou hast Psalme , 139. 1. 2 , 3 , &c. tryed mee , & knowne mee : thou knowest my sitting , & my rising , thou vnderstandest my thought a farre off : thou compassest my pathes , and my lying downe , and art accustomed to all my wayes .

For , there is not a word in my tongue , but loe , thou knowest it wholie , ô lord . Thou holdest mee straite behinde and before ▪ and layest thy hand vpon mee . Thy knowledge is too wonderfull for mee : it is so high that I cannot attaine vnto it .

Whether shall I goe from thy Spirit ? or whether shall I flee from thy presence ? If I ascend into heauen , thou art there : If I lie downe in hell , thou art there .

Let mee take the wings of the morning , and dwell in the vttermost parts of the sea , yet thither shall thy hand leade mee , & thy right hand hold mee . If I say , yet the darknesse shall hide me , euen the night shall be light about mee . Yea , the darknes hideth not from thee : but the night shineth as the day ; and the darknes and the light are both alike . For , thou hast possessed my reines : thou hast couered mee in my mothers wombe .

¶ Against the loue of the world .

§. 1.

LOue not the world , ( saith Saint Iohn , ) 1 , Ioh , 12 , 15. neither the things that are in the world . If any man loue the world , the loue of the Father is not in him .

For , all that is in the worlde , ( as the lust verse , 16 , 17 of the flesh , the lust of the eyes , & the pride of life , ) is not of the Father , but is of the World . And , the world passeth away , & the lust thereof , but hee that fulfilleth the will of God , abideth euer .

Yee adulterers , and adultresses , know ye Iames , 4 , 4 , not , that the amitie of the world , is the enimitie of God ? Whosoeuer therefore will be a friende of the world , maketh himselfe the enemie of God .

And , they that waite vpon lying vanities , Ionas . 2. 8. forsake theyr owne mercie .

§. 2.

What is there in the World , ( saith Seneca , ) Seneca . wherefore it should be loued ? The flowers of this life , to wit , the lusts & pleasures thereof , are all of them false shewes , shadowes , and vanities : the fruites of it , are labour , care , sicknes , and tediousnesse : the tree it selfe , is corruption & frailety .

And , hee that is enamored of the world , Seneca . may well be likened to the man which voluntarily runneth into the Sea : who if hee chaunce to scape the dangers thereof , men will say , hee is greatly fortunate ; but if hee perrish , they will say , he was wilfully deceiued .

§. 3.

The world , ( saith Socrates ) hath so manie Socrates . sundry changes in the vanitie thereof , that it leadeth all men wandering in vnstedfastnesse .

It is a speciall enemy to those whom it Crates . hath raised to honour .

It neuer paieth vnto any man , that which Euripides . it promiseth .

It endeuoureth daily , to drawe the soule Aristotle . from God , through fained delights .

And , whosoeuer busily seeketh after the Hermes . pleasures thereof , followeth a shaddowe ; which when hee thinketh he is surest of , it speedily vanisheth away , & turneth to nothing .

Besides , if any man desire to reade more largely of the delights of the world , & the seuerall falshoods of them ; let him looke into the Booke of Ecclesiastes , & there he Ecclesi . cap. 1. 2 , 3. &c. shall finde what the Preacher ( through his owne experience ) speaketh of them . And how withall , after a long repetition of the tryall of all the pleasures vnder the sunne , hee at last , giueth forth these words in their discommendation ; saying : * Vanitie of Eccle , 12 , 8 , vanities ; all is vanitie .

Put no confidence ( therfore ) in the mutable vanities of this euer-changing world : Plotinus . neither suffer thy selfe to be seduced by the deceits thereof : for , the pleasures of the world , leade diuers men to perdition ; and whosoeuer trusteth vnto them , shall most certainly be deceiued .

§. 4.

A man may vse this world indeede , ( as Plato . Plato saith , ) for necessities sake ; but hee that abuseth it : that is , hee that wholy delighteth therein , looseth thereby his loue to God , & depriueth himselfe of eternall saluation .

To preuent which danger , * Let him 1 , Cor , 7 , 31 , that vseth this world , be as though hee vsed it not .

For , the too much loue of this Worlde , was the onely cause why the Noble men of Iurie coulde not resolue themselues to followe Christ . For , * they loued the prayse Iohn , 12 , 43 of men , more then the prayse of God .

And , deceiued themselues as vnaduisedly 2 , Tim , 4 , 10 in theyr choyse , as euer Demas did , when he forsooke S. Paule , to embrace vanitie .

¶ Against euill company-keeping .

§. 1.

MY sonne , ( saith Salomon ) if sinners Prou. 1 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , doe entise thee , consent thou not . If they say , Come with vs , we will lay waite for blood , and he priuily for the innocent without a cause : wee will swallowe them vp aliue like a graue ; euen whole , as those that goe downe into the pit : we shall find all precious riches , and fill our houses with spoyle : cast in thy lot among vs , wee will all haue one purse .

My sonne , walke not thou in the way with them ; refraine thy foote from theyr Prou , 1 , 15. 16. path . For , theyr feete runne to euill , and make hast to shedde blood .

They cannot sleepe except they haue Prou , 4 , 16 , 17. done euill ; and their sleepe departeth , except they cause some to fall . For , they eate the bread of wickednes , & drinke the wine of violence .

Hee that toucheth pitch , shall be defiled Ecclus , 13 , 1 , with it ; and hee that is familiar with the proude , shall become like vnto him .

For , it is a corrupting of the godly , to Gregory . keepe company with the wicked .

§. 2.

Sh●nne the company of a lyer as much Hermes . as thou mayst : and beware least any one through flattery , perswade thee to thinke otherwise of thy selfe , then thou art indeed .

But , if thou must needs keepe company Thales . with the man that vseth to lye , in anie wise beleeue him not : for , if thou credite him to day , which telleth thee a lie of another body , hee will not sticke to morrowe , to tell an vntruth of thee to another man .

§. 3.

Moreouer ; a man were better ( saith Plutarch . Plutarch ) to fall amongst a sort of Rauens , then to giue entertainement to flattering companions : for , Rauens neuer seeke to eate a man till hee be dead ; but flatterers will not spare to feede vpon him while hee is aliue .

And like as a Camelion can change himselfe Hermes . into al colours saue white , so can a flatterer frame his tongue to any talke whatsoeuer , saue honestie .

§. 4.

Take not thy pleasure in great voluptuousnes , Ecclus , 18 , 32 neither intangle thy selfe with such company .

Become not a begger by making bankets verse , 33 , of that which thou hast borrowed ; & so leaue nothing in thy purse .

Keepe not company with drunkards nor Prou , 23 , 20 with gluttons .

For , the drunkard and the glutton shall verse , 21. be poore : and the sleeper shall be clothed with ragges .

§. 5.

Vse not the company of a woman that Ecclus , 9. 4 , is a singer & a dauncer ; neyther heare her , least thou be taken by her craftines .

Cast not thy minde vpon harlots in anie Ecclus , 9 , 6 , manner of thing , least thou destroy both thy selfe and thine heritage .

Meete not an harlot , least thou fall into Ecclus , 9 , 3 , her snares .

Desire not her beauty in thy heart , neyther Prou , 6 , 25. let her take thee with her eye-lids .

For , the whoredome of a woman may be Ecclus. 26. 9 , knowne by the pride of her lookes .

And , an harlot will make a man to beg Prou. 6. 26 , his bread .

§. 6.

I haue compassed about , saith Salomon , Eccles , 7 , 27. 28. both I , and mine hart , to know , and to enquire , and to search wisedome , and reason , and to know the wickednes of folly , & the foolishnes of madnes : and I finde , more bitter then death , the woman whose hart is as nets and snares , and her hands as bands : hee that is good before God , shall be deliuered from her , but the sinner shall be taken by her .

The lippes of a strange woman , ( saith Prou , 5 , 3 , 4 , 5 , hee ) droppe as an honny-combe , and her mouth is more soft then oyle : but the end of her is bitter as worme-wood , and sharp as a two edged sword . Her feete goe down to death , and her steps take hold on hell .

Shee weigheth not the way of life : her verse , 6. paths are moueable , thou canst not know them .

Beeing foule by nature , shee notwithstanding deceiueth the simple with her Hermes . painted face ; and vnder faire white , & ruddie colours , shee hideth her filthy and ill-fauoured visage .

Shee lyeth also in waite , as for a pray , & Prou , 23 , 28 shee increaseth the transgressours among men .

§. 7.

Keepe thy way farre from her , and come Prou , 5 , 8 , not neere the doore of her house .

For , a whore is as a deepe ditch : and a Prou , 23 , 27 strange woman is as a narrow pit .

Let not thy heart decline to her wayes : Prou , 7 , 25 , 26 , neither wander thou in her pathes : for she hath caused many to fall downe wounded : and the strong men are all slaine by her .

Her house is the way vnto the graue , verse , 27. which goeth downe vnto the chambers of death :

Her mouth [ likewise ] is as a deepe pit : Prou , 22 , 14 and he with whom the Lord is angry , shall fall therein .

Surely , her house tendeth to death , and Prou , 2 , 18 , 19 , 20. her pathes vnto the dead . All they that goe vnto her , returne not againe ; neyther take they holde of the wayes of life . Therefore walke thou in the way of good men , and keepe the wayes of the righteous .

For , the iust shall dwell in the Land , and Prou , 2 , 21 , 22 , the vpright men shal remaine in it . But the wicked shall be cut off from the earth : and the transgressours shall be rooted out of it .

¶ A breefe collection , of certaine other godlie preceps and counsels .

§. 1.

THou shalt not ( saith the Lord ) raile vpon Exod , 22 , 28 the Iudges : neither speake euill of the Ruler of thy people .

Curse not the King , no not in thy thought : neither curse the rich in thy bed-chamber . Eccle. 10. 20 For , the foule of the heauen shal carry the voyce , & that which hath winges shall declare the matter .

Beware therefore of murmuring , which Wisd , 1. 11. profiteth nothing ; & refraine your tunge from slaunder : for , there is no word so secrete , that shall goe for nought , and the mouth that speaketh lyes , slayeth the soule .

§. 2.

Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do Exod , 23 , 2 , euill ; neither agree in a controuersie to decline after many , & ouerthrow the truth .

Be not carried about with euery winde , Ecclus , 5 , 9 , and goe not into euery way : for so dooth the sinner that hath a double tongue .

Stand fast in thy sure vnderstanding , & verse , 10. in the way and knowledge of the Lord : & haue but one manner of word , and follow the word of peace and righteousnes .

In no wise speake against the worde of Ecclus , 4 , 25 , truth ; but be ashamed of the lyes of thine owne ignoraunce .

Be not disobedient to the feare of the Ecclus , 1 , 33 Lord , and come not vnto him with a double hart .

Be not an hypocrite , that men shoulde verse , 34. speake of thee , but take heede what thou speakest .

Exalt not thy selfe , least thou fall , and Ecclus , 1 , 35 bring thy soule to dishonour , and so God discouer thy secrets , and cast thee downe in the middes of the congregation : because thou wouldest not receiue the true feare of God : and because thine heart is full of deceite .

§. 3.

My Son ( saith Salomon ) feare the Lord , Prou , 24 , 21 22 , and the King , and meddle not with them that are sedicious : for , theyr destruction shall come suddainly .

Goe not forth hastilie to strife , least thou know not what to doe in the end thereof , Prou , 25 , 8 , when thy neighbour hath put thee to shame .

Striue not for a matter that thou hast not to doe with : and sitte not downe in the Ecclus. 11 , 9 , iudgement of sinners .

For , ] hee that passeth by , and medleth with the strife that belongeth not vnto Prou , 26 , 17 him , is as one that taketh a dogge by the eares .

§. 4.

Grieue not ( saith the Apostle ) the holie Ephe , 4 , 30 , Spirit of God , by whom yee are sealed vnto the day of redemption .

But stand alwayes in dread to doe any thing , whereby thy conscience may bee Theophil . wounded : for , the conscience is soone wounded ; yea , sooner then thou art aware of .

§. 5.

Let none ( saith Moises , ) be founde among Deut , 18 , 10 11. you that maketh his sonne or his daughter to goe thorowe the fire ; or that vseth witch-craft ; or a regarder of times ; or a marker of the flying of foules ; or a Sorcerer ; or a Charmer ; or that counselleth with spirits ; or a Sooth-sayer ; or that asketh counsell at the dead .

For , all that doe such things , are abhomination Deut , 18 , 12 vnto the Lord .

§. 6.

Giue not that which is holy vnto dogs , Math , 7 , 6 , ( saith Christ , ) neither cast yee your pearles before swine ; least they treade them vnder theyr feete ; and turning againe , all to rent you .

Seeke not to reforme him that will heare Hermes . no reason ; neither contend much with a foole , about matters of wisedome .

For , hee that is obstinate in euill , will Socrates . scorne to be reclaimed by any counsell .

And , doctrine vnto a foole , is as fetters Ecclus , 21 , 19 vpon his feete , and manicles vpon his right hand .

But ] hee that despiseth the worde [ of Prou , 13 , 13 God , ] hee shall be destroyed .

And , ] hee that turneth away his eare Prou , 28 , 9 from hearing the law , euen his prayer shall be abhominable .

§. 7.

Let no man say when hee is tempted , I Iames , 1 , 13 , am tempted of God : for , God cannot bee tempted with euill , neyther tempteth hee any man .

But euery man is tempted , when hee is Iames , 1. 14 , drawne away by his owne concupiscence , and is intised .

Say not thou it is through the Lord that Ecclus , 15. 11 I turne back : for , thou oughtest not to do the things which hee hateth .

Doe not say the Lord hath caused me to verse , 12 , erre : for hee hath no neede of the sinfull man .

Besides , ] the Lord hateth all abhomination verse , 13 , of errour : and they that feare GOD , loue it not .

Hee made man from the beginning , & Ecclus , 15 , 14 15 , 16 , left him in the hand of his counsell , & gaue him his commaundements & precepts . If thou wilt , thou shalt obserue the commaundements , & testifie thy good will . He hath set water and fire before thee : stretch out thine hand vnto which thou wilt .

Hee hath commaunded no man to doe Ecclus , 15. 20 vngodlie , neyther hath hee giuen any man licence to sin : for , hee desireth not a multitude of infidels , and vnprofitable chyldren .

§. 8.

Thinke not thy selfe to bee that which Seneca . thou art not ; neyther desire to seeme in shew , more rich then thou art in substance .

Burthen not thy selfe aboue thy power whilst thou liuest : neither keepe company Ecclus , 13 , 2 , with one that is mightier & richer then thy selfe : for , howe agree the Kettle and the earthen pot●e together ? for if the one bee smitten against the other , it shall be broken .

Say not , I haue enough , & possesse many Ecclus , 11 , 24 things , & what euill can come vnto me heereafter ?

In thy good state remember aduersitie , Ecclus , 11 , 25 and in aduersitie , forget not prosperitie .

When thou hast enough , remember the Ecclus , 18 , 24. 25. time of hunger ; and when thou art rich , thinke vpon pouertie and neede : from the morning vntill the euening , the time is changed ; & all such things are soone done before the Lord .

§. 9.

If thou hast riches , spend them not too Plato . prodigally , nor too sparingly : so shalt thou neither be needy , nor in bondage to thine owne wealth .

If thou seeme to be rich , when thou art Diogenes . poore , it betokeneth that thy minde is proude , though thy wealth be weake : but if thou seeme to be poore , when thou art rich ; it argueth a couetous desire with a full coffer .

§. 10.

Be not careful for your life , ( saith Christ ) Math , 6 , 25 , 26 , 27 , &c. what yee shall eate , or what ye shal drinke , nor yet for your body , what yee shall put on .

Is not the life more woorth then meate ? and the body then rayment ? Behold the foules of the heauen , for they sow not , neyther reape , nor carry into the Barnes : yet your heauenly father feedeth them : Are yee not much better then they ?

Which of you by taking care , is able to adde one cubite vnto his stature ? And why care yee for raiment ? Learne , how the Lillies of the fielde do grow : they labour not , neither spinne : Yet I say vnto you , that euen Salomon in all his glory , was not arayed like one of these .

Wherefore , if God so clothe the grasse of the fielde , which is to day , and to morrow is cast into the ouen , shall hee not doe much more vnto you , ô ye of little faith ?

Take no thought therfore , saying : what shall we eate ? or what shall we drinke ? or where-with shall we be clothed ? ( For after all these things seek the Gentiles , ) for your heauenly Father knoweth that yee haue neede of all these things . But seeke ye first the kingdome of God , and the righteousnesse thereof , and all these thinges shall be ministred vnto you .

§. 11.

My sonne , saith Sirach , leade not a beggers Ecclus , 40 , 28 , life , for better it were to die , then to begge .

The life of him that dependeth on another verse , 29 , mans table , is not to be counted for a life : for he tormenteth himselfe after other mens meate . But a wise man and wel nurtured , will beware thereof .

It is not freedome to liue licentiously : Alex. Seue . neyther is it libertie to liue without labour .

To liue idely , is to liue wickedly : & to Crates . depend vpon other mens liberalitie , is the ready way to bring thee to misery .

But to labour , and to be content with Ecclus , 40 , 18 that a man hath , is a sweete life .

§. 12.

Beware least thou say in thine hart : My Deut. 8. 17 , 18 , power , and the strength of mine owne hand , hath prepared me this aboundance . But remember the Lord thy God , for it is hee which giueth thee power to gette substance .

And , it is an easie thing with him , suddainly Ecclus , 11 , 21 to make a poore man rich .

§. 13.

Say not thou , Why is it that the former Eccles. 7. 12 , dayes were better then these ? for thou doost not enquire wisely of this thing .

Say not , The time that our fore-fathers Ierome . liued in , was better then this present age : for vertue and good life , make good daies ; but aboundance of vice corrupteth the time .

§. 14.

Many miseries and calamities , ( saith Esdras ) 2 , Esdr. 8. 50 remaine for them that shall liue in the latter time : because they shall walke in great pride .

And , the weaker that the worlde is by 2. Esdr. 14. 16. reason of age , the more shal the euils be increased vpon them that dwell therein .

This knowe also , that in the last dayes , 2. Tim , 3 , 1 , shall come perrillous times .

For , men shall be louers of their owne verse , 2 , selues ; couetous , boasters , proude , cursed speakers , disobedient to parents , vnthankfull , vnholy .

Without naturall affection , truce-breakers , verse , 3 , 4 , false accusers , intemperate , fierce , despisers of them that are good , traitours , headie , high minded , louers of pleasures more then louers of GOD ; hauing a shewe of verse , 5 , godlines , but haue denied the power therof : turne away therefore from such .

§. 15.

Aske no counsell for religion , ( saith Sirach , ) Ecclus , 37 , 11 of him that is without religion : nor of iustice , of him that hath no iustice : nor of a woman , touching her of whom shee is iealous : nor of a coward , in matters of warre : nor of a Merchant , concerning exchange : nor of a buyer , for the sale : nor of an enuious man , touching thankfulnesse : nor of the vnmercifull , touching kindnes : nor of an vnhonest man , of honestie : nor of the slothfull for any labour : nor of an hireling for the finishing of a work : nor of an idle seruaunt for much busines : harken not vnto these in any matter of counsell .

But be continually with a godly man , Ecclus , 37 , 12 , 13. whom thou knowest to keep the commaundements of the Lorde : whose minde is according to thy minde , and is sorry for thee when thou stumblest . And , hold thy counsell fast in thine heart : for , there is no man more faithfull to keepe it , then thou thy selfe .

§. 16.

Despise not the exhortations of those Ecclus , 8 , 8 , Elders that be wise , but acquaint thy selfe with theyr sentences : for , of them thou shalt learne wisedome , and the doctrine of vnderstanding : and howe to serue great men without complaint .

Stand with the multitude of the Elders that are wise , & ioyne thy selfe to him that Ecclus. 6 , 35. 36 , hath wisedome . Desire to heare all godly talke , and let not the graue sentences of knowledge escape thee .

And , if thou seest a man of vnderstanding , verse , 37. get thee soone vnto him , and let thy foote weare the steppes of his doores .

If thou doubt in any thing , aske counsel Socrates . of such men as haue knowledge ; and bee not angry if they chaunce to reproue thee .

For , if when thou art reproued , thou depart Mar. Aurel. immediatly hating thy counseller , thou shalt be like vnto the sicke man , which so soone as his Surgion hath cut his vlcer , goeth his way ; not tarrying till his wound be dressed , & his griefe asswaged .

§. 17.

Lende not vnto the man that is mightier Ecclus , 8 , 12. [ or richer ] then thy selfe : for , if thou lendest to such an one , count it but lost .

Lende to thy neighbour in time of his Ecclus , 29 , 2 , 3. neede , and pay thou thy neighbour againe in due season . Keepe thy worde , and deale faithfully with him ; and thou shalt alway finde the thing that is necessary for thee .

Many after a thing is once lent them , reckon verse , 4 , it to be founde , & thereby grieue him that hath helped them .

Till they receiue , they kisse his hands , & verse , 5 , for theyr neighbours good they humble theyr voyce : but when they should pay againe , they prolong the terme , and giue a carelesse aunswer , & make excuses by reason of the time .

And though hee be able , yet giueth hee verse , 6 , scarce the halfe againe , and reckoneth the other as a thing found : else , hee deceiueth him of his money , and maketh him an enemie without a cause : hee payeth him with cursing and rebuke , and giueth him euill words for his good deede .

There be many which refuse to lend because Ecclus , 29 , 7 , of this inconuenience , fearing to be defrauded without cause .

Yet haue thou patience with him that verse , 8 , 9 , humbleth himselfe , and deferre not mercy from him . Helpe the poore for the commaundements sake , & turne him not away because of his pouertie . Loose thy money Ecclus , 29 , 10 for thy brothers and neighbours sake , and let it not rust vnder a stone to thy destruction .

§. 18.

Be not suretie aboue thy power , ( saith Ecclus , 8 , 13 Sirach ) for if thou be suretie , thinke to pay it .

A man destitute of vnderstanding , toucheth Prou , 17. 18 the hand , and becommeth surety for his neighbour .

And , is thereby snared and taken , euen Prou , 6 , 1 , 2 , with the words of his owne mouth .

Beware therefore howe thou passe thy Euripides . word for another man ; least he scape free , and thou fall into danger .

For , suretiship hath destroyed manie a Ecclus. 29. 20 rich man , and remoued them as the waues of the sea : mighty men hath it driuen away from theyr houses , & caused them to wander among strange Nations .

§. 19.

My sonne ( saith Tobie ) sette our Lorde Tob. 4. 6 , God alwayes before thine eyes , and let not thy will be set to sinne ▪ or to transgresse the commaundements of the Almighty : Doe vprightly all thy life long , and follow not the wayes of vnrighteousnes : for if thou deale truly , thy dooings will prosperously succeed to thee , and to all them which liue iustly .

Doe no euill , so shall no harme come vnto Ecclus , 7 , 12. thee : depart from the thing that is wicked , and sin shall turne away from thee .

Resist the deuill , and hee will flee from Iames , 4 , 7 , thee .

But if thou yeelde vnto his desire in one Bullenger . sinne , he will presently seeke to drawe thee to another .

Sowe not therefore vppon the furrowes Ecclus , 7 , 3 , of iniq●itie , least thou reape them seauen-folde .

§. 20.

Be not deceiued ; God is not mocked , Gala , 6 , 7 , 8 , for whatsoeuer a man soweth , that shall he also reape . He that soweth to his flesh , shal of the flesh reape corruption : but hee that soweth to the spirit , shall of the spirit reape life euerlasting .

Now , ] the workes of the flesh are manifest ; Gala , 5 , 19 , 20 , 21. which are adultery , fornication , vncleanenesse , wantonnesse , idolatry , witchcraft , hatred , debate , emulation , wrath , contentions , seditions , heresies , enuy , murders , drunkennes , gluttony , and such like : wherof I tell you before , as I also haue told you in time past , that they which doe such things , shall not inherite the kingdome of GOD .

But the fruite of the Spirit , is loue , ioy , Gala , 5 , 22 , 23. peace , long suffering , gentlenes , goodnes , faith , meekenes , [ & ] temperancie : against such , there is no lawe .

§. 21.

Looke well to thy selfe , least the reyne Mar. Aurel. of thy youth , and the libertie of thine own estate , cause thee to commit that which is euill .

Follow not thy lusts , but turne thee from Ecclus , 8 , 30 , 31 , thine own appetites : for if thou giuest thy soule her desires , it shall make thine enemies that enuy thee , to laugh thee to scorne .

Doe not what thou wouldest , but what Hermes . thou shouldest : and the better to abstaine from euill , keepe thy selfe from the company of those that are wicked .

§. 22.

Suffer not thy hands to work , thy tunge Socrates . to speak , or thine eares to heare , that which is euill , or wicked .

But beware of sinne , as the serpent of the Plato . soule , which spoyleth men of all theyr ornaments and seemely apparrell in the sight of God .

Binde not two sinnes together : for in Ecclus , 7 , 8 , one sinne shalt thou not be vnpunished .

§. 23.

Be not secure , least want of care , procure Thales . thy calamity , neither be thou too carefull , least pensiue thoughts oppresse thee with misery .

Be not too rash in wordes , nor too forward Crates . and hastie in thy deedes .

But what-soeuer thou takest in hand , remember Ecclus , 7 , 36 the end , and thou shalt neuer doe amisse .

For , good respect , & due consideration Plato . to the end of things , preserueth both body and soule .

§. 24.

Take good aduisement with thy selfe , Alex. Seue . before thou beginne any thing : but when thou hast begunne , dispatch it speedily .

Attempt not two things at once , for the Crates . one of them will hinder the other .

Begin nothing before thou first call for Hermes . the helpe of God : for God , whose power is in all things , giueth most prosperous furtherance and happy successe , vnto all such good works as we doe begin in his name .

§. 25.

Be not faint-hearted when thou makest Ecclus , 7 , 10 , thy prayer neither slack or negligent in giuing of almes .

Let not thy hand be stretched out to receiue , Ecclus , 4. 31 , & shut when thou shouldest giue .

For it is a more blessed thing to giue , than Acts , 20 , 35 , to receiue .

§. 26.

Be not hasty in thy tongue , neither slack Ecclus , 4 , 29 , and negligent in thy works .

Desire not to be wise in wordes , but in Hermes . workes : for wisdome of speech wasteth with the world ; but workes wrought by wisedom , increase into the world to come .

Powre not out words , where there is no Ecclus , 32 , 4 , audience , and shew not forth wisedom out of time .

For , ] a wise man wil hold his tongue till Ecclus , 20 , 7 , he see opportunitie : but a trifler & a foole , will regard no time .

Reproue not another man , for such euils Socrates . as are founde in thy selfe vnreformed : but first learne to liue wel , then teach others by thyne owne example .

For , hee that teacheth good , and dooth Plutarch . euill , is like him which lighteth vp a candle to other men , and goeth darkling himselfe .

§. 27.

Comber not thy minde with worldlie Seneca . carefulnes , neither let the vaine delights of this life , draw thy thoughts from vertue , to followe the falshoods of them .

But seeke to inrich thy selfe with store of Zenoph●n . wisedome and vnderstanding : that thou maist rather profit thy Country by thy good instructions , then proue preiudiciall to the people by thy bad example .

Let iust men eate and drinke with thee ; Ecclus , 9 , 18 and let thy reioycing be in the feare of the Lord .

Be not proude in prosperitie , neither despaire Tully , in aduersitie .

Wish not for those thinges that thou Crates . maist not obtaine : neither praise any vnworthy person because thou knowest him wealthy .

Take not thy enemie for thy friend , nor Quintil. thy friend for thyne enemie .

Be not too hastie to meddle with matters Dion . that are doubtfull , neyther let thy tongue runne beyond thy wit .

§. 28.

If thou talkest with any man , haue respect Aristotle . to keepe a measure in thy communication : for , if thou be too breefe , thou shalt not well be vnderstood : and if thou be too long , thou shalt not well be borne in minde of him that heareth thee .

Be not too hastie to giue credite to another Demonax . mans wordes , neither laugh his speeches to scorne that talketh with thee : for , the one is the propertie of a foole ; the other , the conditions of a mad man .

Affirme nothing before thou knowe the Demosth. truth : neither let thine owne beautie , thy youth , or thy riches deceiue thee .

Doe good to other men , but harme not Sigismund . thy selfe ; be bountifull , but not prodigall : be readie to relieue him that is in necessitie , but let not thy gifts be aboue thine ability .

§. 29.

Bee not vnthankfull to him that hath Protogenes . done thee good .

Seeke not to rule others before thou thy Pythagoras . selfe hast first learned to obey .

Speake no vntruth of any man liuing , Plutarch . neither suffer thy tongue to slaunder them that be dead .

Be alwayes one to thy friende , aswell in Mar. Aur. aduersitie as in prosperitie ; and keepe thy promise as truly as thou wouldest pay thy debt .

Vse in all things , and towards all men , a Socrates . simple veritie ; without fraude , deceit , or guile , eyther in word or deed .

And be not ashamed to doe iustice to euery Boetius . man , for , what-soeuer is doone without iustice , is tyrannie .

§. 30.

Doe no secrete thing before a stranger , Ecclus , 8 , 18 , for thou canst not tell what hee goeth about .

Neither tell the thoughts of thy heart Ecclus , 8 , 19 , vnto euery man , least he be vnthankfull to thee , and put thee to reproofe .

Dishonour no man in his olde age : for , Ecclus , 8. 6 , they were as wee which are not old .

Sit not at all with another mans wife , neither Ecclus , 9 , 11 , lie with her vpon the bed , nor banket with her , least thine hart incline vnto her : and so through thy desire thou fall into destruction .

Be not glad of the death of thine enemy : Ecclus. 8 , 7 , but remember that wee must die all , and so enter into ioy .

Be gentle and curteous to euery one , but Theophras . flatter no man , neyther suffer thy selfe to be flattered of any .

Be familiar with fewe men , and beware Macrobius . whom thou trustest .

Be patient & constant in the time of aduersitie ; Arnobius . and , in thy prosperitie be of an humble spirit .

§. 31.

If thy parents wexe poore , supply theyr Socrates . want with thy wealth : if froward with age , beare patiently with their imperfections .

And striue not with thy father & mother Anacharsis . in words , although thou tell the truth .

If thou haue sonnes , bring them vp in Ecclus , 7 , 23 , nurture and learning , & hold them in awe euen from their youth .

Chasten thy childe while there is hope , Prou. 19 , 18 and let not thy soule spare for his murmuring .

For , it is better that thou should'st make Antisth . thy sonne weepe in his youth , then hee should make thee mourne when thou art old .

If thou haue daughters , keepe theyr bodie , Ecclus , 7 , 24 , and shewe not thy face cheerefull towards them .

Suffer not thy daughter to walke abroad Anaxag . after her owne will , for it is the ready way to bring her to wickednesse .

If thy daughter be not shamefast , holde Ecclus , 26 , 10 her straitly , least she abuse herselfe through ouermuch libertie .

Take heed of her that hath an vnshamefast Ecclus , 26 , 11 looke : & meruaile not if she trespasse against thee .

For. ] as one that goeth by the way , and Ecclus , 26 , 12 is thirstie , so shall shee open her mouth & drink of euery next water : by euery hedge shall she sitte downe , and open her quiuer against euery arrow .

§. 32.

Let no couetous man haue any rule ouer Aristotle . thee , neither yeeld thy selfe subiect vnto couetousnesse : for the couetous man wil deceiue thee of thy goods , and couetousnesse will defraude thee of thy life .

If thou intendest any thing whereof may Xenocrates . grow any goodnes , deuise to proceed with all diligence ; but if by thy workes may chaunce that which is euill , then be as forward to conquer thy will .

Sowe good works , and thou shalt reape Socrates . the flowers of ioy and gladnesse .

When thou risest in the morning , determine Pythagoras . so to spend the day following , as though at night a graue should be thy bed .

Endeuour thy selfe at all times to doe so Plato . well , that the wicked may rather enuie thee for thy vertuous life , then good men pitty thee for thy euill liuing .

So liue , and so hope , as though thou Thales . shouldest die immediatly .

Order thy selfe so , that thy soule may alwayes Pythago . be in good estate , what-soeuer become of thy body .

§. 33.

Be not as a Lyon in thine owne house , Ecclus , 4 , 30 neyther beate thy seruaunts for thy fantasie ; nor oppresse them that are vnder thee .

Doe nothing without aduisement , so Ecclus , 32 , 20 shall it not repent thee after the deede .

Be not excessiue toward any , & without Ecclus , 33 , 28 discretion doe nothing .

Let reason goe before euery enterprise , Ecclus , 37 , 16 and counsell before euery action .

Thinke first , then speake , and last of all Isocrates . fulfill .

Liue alwayes with thine vnderlings , as Mar. Aurel. thou wouldest thy betters should liue with thee , & do to all men , as thou wouldest be done by .

§. 34.

Be not ashamed to heare the truth , of Socrates . whomsoeuer it be : for truth is so noble of it selfe , that it maketh them honorable that pronounce it .

Be sober and chast among young folkes , Plato . that they may learne of thee , and among old , that thou mayst learne of them .

Learne those thinges whilst thou art a Anaxag . chylde , as may afterward profite thee by practise when thou art a man .

And let it not grieue thee in youth to Socrates . follow vertue ; for if thou deferre it off till age , it will seeme like a heauie burden vnpleasant to be borne .

§. 35.

Holde friendship with many men : neuerthelesse , Ecclus , 6 , 6 , haue but one counsellour of a thousand .

If thou get a friende , proue him first , & verse , 7 , 8 , be not hastie to credite him . For , some man is a friende for is owne occasion , and will not abide in the day of thy trouble .

Againe , some friende is but a companion verse , 10. at thy table , and in the day of thine affliction he continueth not .

But in thy prosperitie , he will be as thou verse . 11. thy selfe , and will vse libertie ouer thy seruaunts .

If thou be brought low , he wil be against verse , 12 , thee , and will hide himselfe from thy face .

Contrariwise , ] a faithfull freende is a verse , 14. strong defence , & hee that findeth such an one , findeth a treasure .

§. 36.

Abide not thou in the errour of the vngodly , Ecclus , 17 , 27 but prayse the Lord before death .

For , ] thankfulnes perrisheth from the verse , 28. dead , as though hee were not : but the liuing , and he that is sound of hart , praiseth the Lord , and reioyceth in his mercy .

Number not thy selfe in the multitude Ecclus , 7 , 16 17 , of the wicked , but remember that vengeance will not be long in tarrying : and that the rewarde of the vngodly is fire and wormes .

Seeke not death in the error of your life : Wisd , 1 , 12 , 13. destroy not your selues , thorow the works of your owne hands : for , GOD hath not made death ; neither hath hee pleasure in the destruction of the liuing .

Righteousnes is euerlasting and immortall , Wisd. 1. 15 , but vnrighteousnes bringeth death .

To depart from euill , is a thankful thing Ecclus , 35 , 3. to the Lord ; and to forsake vnrighteousnesse , is a reconciling vnto him .

¶ Of trouble and affliction : whereby GOD tryeth the harts of all such as faithfully loue him . PROVERBS . 17. verse . 3. As is the sining pot for siluer , and the fornace for gold , so the Lord tryeth the harts .

¶ Of trouble and affliction .

§. 1.

MY sonne , ( saith Sirach , ) if thou wilt Ecclus. 2. 1. 2 come into the seruice of GOD , stand fast in righteousnes & feare , and prepare thy soule to tentation . Settle thine hart & be patient , bow downe thine eare , and receiue the words of vnderstanding : & shrinke not away when thou art assayled , but waite vpon GOD patiently .

Ioyne thy selfe vnto him , and depart not verse , 3 , 4 , 5 , away , that thou maist be increased at thy last end . Whatsoeuer commeth vnto thee , receiue it patiently , and be patient in the change of thine affliction . For , as gold & siluer are tryed in the fire , euen so are men acceptable in the fornace of aduersitie .

And , as the fornace proueth the Potters Ecclus , 27 , 5 , vessell , so dooth tentation try the thoughts of men .

§. 2.

The Lord will try the righteous , ( sayth Psalm. 11. 5 , Dauid ) but the wicked , and him that loueth iniquitie , doth his soule hate .

Hee ledde the chyldren of Israel ( whom Deut. 8. 2. he deerely loued , ) fortie yeeres together in the Wildernesse , before hee brought them to the Land of Promise ; onely to humble them , and to proue and know what was in theyr harts , whether they would keepe his commaundements , or no.

§. 3.

Hee commaunded the Patriarch Abraham Gene. 22 , 1 , 2. ( as we reade ) to kill and offer vp vnto him , his true-borne & best-beloued sonne Isaac ; whom ( not many yeeres before ) hee had giuen him for the comfort of his age ; promising withall , that in that child , and in his seed , all the Nations of the earth should be blessed : yet on the suddaine , when Abraham least thought of any such matter , he willed him to the performance heereof , and told him also in what place hee would haue it done . All this it pleased him to do , not for any desire hee had to receiue at his seruaunts hand any such kinde of offering , or bloodie sacrifice ; but onely to prooue what faithfull loue was harboured in the hart of Abraham towards him .

For , when hee perceiued the Patriarchs Gene. 22 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , readie obedience here-vnto , hee speedilie sent his Angell , and caused him to forbeare to doe it : saying and swearing vnto Abraham by himselfe , that because he had been found faithfull in his triall , and had not refused at his commaundement , to offer vp his onely sonne ; his seede should surely be multiplied as the starres of heauen , and the sand vpon the Sea-shoare ; and all Nations should be blessed in him , according to his former promise .

§. 4.

He proued likewise the loue & patience Tobie , 2 , of old Tobias , by suffering him in his sleep to be depriued of his eye-sight : and after his triall , restored his sight againe , with greater cause of comfort & reioycing then he had before .

Howe many troubles also the Prophet Dauid sustained , ( as seuerall proofes and tryalls of his vertue & patience ) before hee coulde peaceably possesse the kingdome which God had promised vnto him , may be seene at large , in the sundry conflicts 1 , Sam. chap. 16. 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , &c. which he had with his hate-bearing enemie King Saule .

§. 5.

But , among diuers other examples in the Booke of God concerning this matter , we finde , that it pleased the Lord to proceede very farre in prouing the constant loue & patience of holy Iob ; when he gaue sathan leaue to try him by sixe seuerall temptations , as namely thus . First , hee maliciously brought the Shabeans vpon his Heardsmen Iob. 1. 14. 15. and other seruaunts , as they were busie at theyr labour ; who violently slew the keepers of his cattell , and carried his Oxen and Asses away .

Secondly , he caused fire to fall from heauen Iob. 1. 16. vpon his sheepe & their sheepheards , which speedily burnt and consumed them , leauing but one amongst many to bring him the bad newes .

Thirdly , he procured the Chaldeans to sette out three bands of men , who likewise Iob. 1. 17 , by violence ouercame his seruaunts , & carried his Camels away .

Fourthly , hee caused a furious and tempestious Iob , 1 , 18 , 19 , winde to ouer-turne the house wherein all his children were banquetting ; and suddainly , in the midst of theyr mirth , depriued them of theyr liues .

Not content with all this , ( because Iob still continued constant ) he obtained leaue of God , to proceede with his fift plague : which was , the afflicting of Iobs own bodie Iob , 2 , 6 , 7 , with greeuous botches and boyles : not in one place or two , but all ouer , euen from the sole of his foote , to the crowne of his head .

These fiue plagues beeing fully practised to proue him , and sathan notwithstanding still preuented of his purpose : determined once more to try him by a more terrible temptation then all the rest , namely , with the temper of his wiues tunge , which last plague , onely of it selfe exceeded all the former , as far as they in theyr degrees surpassed one another .

As for the first affliction , ( Iob beeing a man of such wonderfull wealth as the beginning of his booke reporteth him to be , ) Iob , 1 , 3. it could surely of him be counted no more harme , but euen as it were the sting of a nettle , or a flea-byting . The second , was a shrewd pinch . The third , was a sore bruze . The fourth , more greeuous to be borne then all the former . The fift , exceeded them all ; and went so neere his hart , that it caused him more to complaine then any of the rest . But the sixt and last , went manie degrees beyond the whole number of the other , in that it leueld at his vtter ouerthrowe and finall destruction , both of body and soule .

For , after hee had lost all his substance , and his children , and was brought to such a miserable estate , ( through the sundry sores vpon his body , ) that he knew not where to rest himselfe , or by what meanes to finde any ease ; but was constrained to forsake all company , & sitting vpon a heape of ashes , or dunghill , to scrape away the filthy matter Iob , 2 , 7 , 8 , that issued from his fleshe with a potshard : now , euen nowe , in the midst of all his anguish and sorrowe ; his wife , ( which in all humaine reason should haue been his most kinde comforter ) forgetting both her owne present state , & her husbands future felicitie , came vppon him in rayling manner , with an open mouth , saying : * Doost Iob , 2 , 9 , thou continue yet in thine vprightnesse ? Curse God , and die .

But holy Iob , ( more regarding his soules good , then the pacifying of his bodies paine , & also to make manifest to all men , howe much in hart he honoured his Maker , ) presently rebuked her for her follie , saying ; Thou speakest like a foolish woman : Iob , 2 , 10 , What ? shall we receiue good at the hand of God , and not receiue euill ?

Also , in the thirteenth chapter of his Booke , and , as it seemeth , euen in the extreamest time of his fierie tryall , hee vehemently brake forth into this confident and prayse-worthy resolution , saying : * Loe , Iob , 13 , 15 , though GOD kill mee , yet will I trust in him .

And , after all his troubles were ended , and his vertuous patience thorowly prooued , Iob , 42 , 12 , 13 , 14. &c. we find in the latter end of his booke , that it pleased God to blesse him , not onely with twise so much riches as he lost , but also with as many sonnes & daughters ; & the length of an hundred and fortie yeeres life . So that before hee died , hee sawe his sonnes , and his sonnes sonnes , euen foure generations .

§. 6.

Thus God , ( as Salomon saith ) prooueth Wisd , 3 , 5 , 6. the righteous , and findeth them meete for himselfe . Hee tryeth them as the golde in the fornace ; and receiueth them as a perfect fruite offering .

Hee also , chasteneth them measurablie Wisd , 12 , 2. that goe wrong ; and warneth them , by putting them in remembrance of the things wherein they haue offended , that leauing theyr wickednesse , they may beleeue in him .

Yea ; ] whom-soeuer the Lorde loueth , Heb , 12 , 6 , him he chasteneth ; and he scourgeth euery sonne that he receiueth .

If ye endure chastening , God offereth verse , 7 , himselfe vnto you , as vnto Sons : for what sonne is it whom the Father chasteneth not ?

But if yee be without correction , whereof Hebr , 12 , 8 , all are partakers , then are ye bastards , & not sonnes .

§. 7.

My sonne , ( saith the wise-man , ) refuse Prou , 3 , 11 , 12. not the chastening of the Almightie , neyther be thou greeued with his correction : for the Lord correcteth him whom hee loueth , euen as the father doth the childe in whom he delighteth .

And , as a Father nurtureth his sonne , so Deut , 8 , 5 , the Lord thy God nurtureth thee .

His rodde or scourge of affliction , is no Fulgosius . signe of his disfauour to those that beare it with patience ; but rather a most necessarie meane to put a man in remembrance of his former iniquities ; and to cause him to liue more godly euer after , for feare of some further chastisement .

It is a heauenly Herrald sent from God , Hermes . to forewarne men to leaue the loue of transitory pleasures ; and to seeke after such things as cause comfort in death .

It is a speciall benefite vnto all the chyldren Iust. Mar , of GOD ; in that it reformeth them from vnrighteousnesse , and maketh them meete to receiue wisedome and vnderstanding .

§. 8.

Thus much in effect confesseth Dauid , in the 119. psalme , where hee saith : * It is Psal , 119 , 71 good for mee ( ô Lord ) that I haue beene afflicted , that I may learne thy statutes .

Before I was afflicted , I went astray , but Psal. 119 , 67 now ( ô Lord ) I keepe thy word .

Also , in the 94. psalme , hee plainly pronounceth those men to be blessed whom it pleaseth the Lorde to correct : saying ; Blessed is the man whom thou chastisest , ô Psalm , 94 , 12 , 13. Lord , and teachest him in thy Lawe , that thou maist giue him rest from the dayes of euill , whiles the pitte is digged for the vngodly .

And , blessed likewise doth holy Iob account Iob , 5 , 17 , the man whom GOD correcteth : therefore refuse not thou , the chastising of the Almightie .

For , hee maketh the wound , & bindeth verse , 18 , 19 , it vp : hee smiteth , and his handes make whole . Hee shall deliuer thee in sixe troubles , and in the seauenth the euill shall not touch thee .

He will not forsake for euer . But though Lam. 3 , 31 , 32 , hee send affliction , yet will hee haue compassion according to the multitude of his mercies .

For , hee will not lay on man so much , Iob , 34 , 23 , that hee should enter into iudgement with God .

§. 9.

Wee haue had ( saith the Apostle ) the Heb , 12 , 9 , fathers of our bodies , which corrected vs , and we gaue them reuerence : should wee not much rather , be in subiection vnto the Father of spirits , that we might liue ?

For , they verily for a few daies chastened verse , 10 , vs after theyr owne pleasure : but hee chasteneth vs for our profit , that we might be partakers of his holines .

If we would iudge our selues , we should 1. Cor , 11 , 31 , not be iudged .

But when we are iudged , we are chastened of the Lord ; to the end we should not 1 , Cor , 11 , 32 , be condemned with the world .

§. 10.

Let not [ then ] the force of anie affliction Ignatius . ouer-throw the vertue of thy patience .

( For , patience and perseuerance in weldooing , Tertullian . are two speciall notes , whereby the children of God are truly discerned , from hypocrites , counterfets , & dissemblers . )

But rather follow the counsell which S. Iames giueth ; saying : * If any man be afflicted , Iames. 5 , 13 , let him pray .

For , the Lorde is neere vnto them that Psal , 34 , 18 , are of a contrite hart , and will saue such as be afflicted in spirit .

Yea ; the Lorde [ our God ] is good , and Nahum , 1 , 7 as a strong hold in the day of trouble : and hee knoweth them that trust in him .

Hee is neere vnto all that call vpon him . Psal , 145 , 18 Yea , to all that call vpon him in truth .

Hee will fulfill the desire of them that verse , 19 , feare him ; hee also will heare theyr cry , and will saue them : * Because they trust in Psal , 37. 40 , him .

For , he knoweth how to deliuer the godly 2 , Pet , 2 , 9 , out of tentation , & to reserue the vniust vnto the day of iudgment to be punished .

§. 11.

My brethren , ( saith the Apostle ) count Iames , 1 , 2 , 3 it exceeding ioy when yee fall into diuers tentations , knowing that the trying of your fayth bringeth forth patience ; and let patience haue her perfect worke , that yee may bee perfect and entire , lacking nothing .

For this know , that trouble & affliction Eugeniu● . is sent of God vnto good men , not vniustly , or cruelly ; but for a good consideration , and most louing intent : like vnto the dooings of a kinde and discreete Father ; who greatly desiring to bring his son whom he loueth , to perpetuall honour & dignity , by such manner of exercise , most aptly trieth his vertue , and proueth his patience .

It is [ also ] very necessary , that the chyldren Gueuara . of God should be often tryed in thys life by trouble and affliction ; that thereby they may the better be brought to knowe theyr owne weakenes ; & thorowly taught in all theyr conflicts , to lift vp theyr eyes vnto heauen for helpe & succour .

Besides ; as yron except it bee sundry Pet. Lomb. times scoured , will speedily corrupt , and wexe rustie ; so , the vncleane hart & flesh of man , except it be often scoured with the whetstone of aduersitie , it will quickly forget God , and soone be ouer-growne with the rust of all filthines and sinne .

§. 12.

Indeed , it cannot be , but that the mindes Cicer● . of men , are oftentimes through trouble & affliction , moued with vexations & griefes , but yet a meane must be kept in all calamities what-soeuer : beyond the which , no man that is wise ought of right to passe .

For , although no chastising for the present Heb , 12 , 11 , time that it lasteth , seemeth to be ioyous , but greeuous : yet afterward , it bringeth the quiet fruite of righteousnesse , vnto them which are thereby exercised .

And euery man ought for his better confort in this case , to lay sure holde on the words of the Apostle , vsed vnto the Corinthians , where he saith : * There hath no 1 , Cor , 10 , 13. tentation taken you , but such as appertaineth to man : & God is faithfull , which wil not suffer you to be tempted aboue your strength ; but will euen giue the issue with the tentation , that yee may be able to beare the same .

His grace alone is sufficient for as many 2 , Cor , 12 , 9 , as shall vnfainedly put theyr confidence in him : and , his power is made perfect through our weakenes .

§. 13.

And although , ( as Dauid affirmeth ) the Psal , 34 , 19 , troubles of the righteous are great , yet this comfort , euen by the selfe same mans saying , presently followeth ; that the Lorde deliuereth him out of them all .

Hee also , maketh the afflictions of the Tertullian . godly , serue as fit occasions to drawe theyr mindes wholy vnto him : and in the end , turneth all the sufferings of his Saints , to theyr names eternall prayse , & their soules greater glory .

So that it is a surer signe of Gods loue Gregory . and fauour towards vs , when hee giueth vs force and strength to beare troubles , then it is when hee taketh the same temptations away from vs .

And , no man deserueth to be counted Bernard . constant in his tryall , except he arme himselfe with patience , and be renewed with fresh courage , euen in the midst of his afflictions .

Remembring , that all the miseries in mans life , can neuer be so sharp and bitter , Erasmus . as euerlasting felicitie will proue vnto the godly sweet and pleasant .

§. 14.

Hold fast therfore the vertue of patience Mar. Aurel. in all thine aduersitie .

Sorrow truly for thy former sinnes , and Eug●nius . practise to please GOD by thy vertuous amendement .

Let hope encourage thee to be constant , Euagoras . though thy miseries be daily augmented .

And put alwaies such faithful trust in the Rauisius . promises of Gods mercy , as may keep thee from despaire , & make lesse thy calamity .

§. 15.

Behold , wee count them blessed which Iames. 5 , 11 . endure . Yee haue heard of the patience of Iob , & haue knowne what end the Lord made . For , the Lord , [ as hath already been said , ] is very pittifull and mercifull .

Who-soeuer shall call vpon his Name , Rom , 10 , 13 shall be saued .

And hee that trusteth in the Almightie , Ecclus , 32 , 24 shall take no hurt .

§. 16.

Consider , ( saith Sirach ) the old generations Ecclus , 2 , 11 of men , & marke them well , was there euer any one confounded that put his trust in the Lord ? or who hath continued in his feare , and was forsaken ? or whom did hee euer despise , that called vpon him ?

I haue been young , and nowe am olde , Psal , 37 , 25 , ( saith the Psalmist , ) yet neuer sawe I the righteous forsaken ; nor his seede begging bread .

Wherefore ; though the Lord seeme for Ambrose . a time to be angry with thee , and to turne away his face from beholding thine affliction , yet be not thou any whit thereby discouraged ; but rather endeuour to be the more patient ; & thou shalt assuredly find , that hee will not forget thee .

For , hee endureth but a while in his anger , Psalm , 30 , 5. but in his fauour is life : weeping may abide in the euening , but ioy commeth in the morning .

Hee himselfe hath commaunded vs to call vpon him in the time of our trouble : Psal , 50 , 15 , and with more then promise to heare , hee hath plainly said , that he will deliuer vs , & we shall glorifie him .

Doubtlesse , hee is now no lesse powerfull then heere-to-fore hee hath been ; for , hee is still * God all-sufficient . Gene , 17 , 1 ,

His hand is not shortned , that it cannot Esay , 59 , 1 , saue ; neyther is his eare heauie , that it cannot heare .

But hee delighteth in them that feare Psal , 147 , 11 him , and attend vpon his mercie .

And , is theyrs onelie , that patientlie abide Ecclus , 34 , 19 him in the way of truth and righteousnesse .

¶ Of trouble and persecution for the Gospells sake : where-vnto euery faithfull Christian is continually subiect , during this life .

§. 1.

IF any man will follow me , ( saith Christ ) Math , 16 , 24 let him forsake himselfe , and take vp his crosse , and follow mee .

Yea , ] if any man will come after me , Luke , 9 , 23 , let him denie himselfe , & take vp his crosse daily , and follow mee .

For , ] whosoeuer beareth not his crosse , Luke , 14 , 27 and commeth after mee , cannot be my disciple .

§. 2.

Thinke not , ( saith hee ) that I am come Math , 10. 34 to sende peace into the earth : I came not to sende peace , but the sword .

For , from hence-foorth , there shall be Luke , 12 , 52 , 53. fiue in one house deuided , three against two , and two against three . The Father shall be deuided against the sonne , and the sonne against the father : The mother against the daughter , and the daughter against the mother : the mother in lawe , against the daughter in law , and the daughter in law , against her mother in law .

And , who-soeuer will seeke to saue his Mark , 8 , 35 Luk , 17 , 3● , life , hee shall lose it ; but who-soeuer shall lose his life for my sake , & the Gospels , he shall saue it .

§. 3.

Hee that loueth father or mother more Math , 10 , 37 then mee , is not worthy of mee . And hee that loueth sonne or daughter more then mee , is not worthy of mee .

If any man come to me , and hate not his Luk , 14. 26 , father and mother , and wife and chyldren , and brethren and sisters ; yea , & his owne life also , hee cannot be my disciple .

The disciple is not aboue his maister , nor Math , 10 , 24 , 25 , the seruaunt aboue his Lord . It is enough for the disciple to be as his Maister is , and the seruaunt as his Lord .

And , who-soeuer will be a perfect disciple , Luke , 6 , 40 , shall be as his Maister is .

§. 4.

Behold , ( saith our Sauiour vnto his followers . ) Math , 10 , 16 17 , 18. I send you foorth , as sheepe in the mids of wolues , be ye therefore wise as Serpents , and innocent as Doues . But beware of men , for they will deliuer you vp to the Counsels , and will scourge you in theyr Sinagogues ; and ye shal be brought to the Gouernours & Kings for my sake , in witnes to them , and to the Gentiles .

Yea ; the brother shall deliuer the brother Marke , 13 , 12 , to death , and the father the sonne , and the chyldren shall rise against their parents , and shall cause them to die .

And yee shal be hated of all men for my verse , 13 , Names sake : but who-soeuer shall endure vnto the end , he shall be saued .

If the world hate you , yee knowe that it Iohn , 15 , 18 , 19 , hated mee before you . If yee were of the world , the world would loue his own : but because ye are not of the world , but I haue chosen you out of the world , therefore the world hateth you .

Remember that I saide vnto you ; The verse , 20. seruaunt is not greater then his maister . If they haue persecuted mee , they will persecute you also .

If they haue called the Maister of the Math , 10 , 25 house Beelzebub , howe much more them of his houshold ?

But all these thinges will they doe vnto Iohn , 15 , 21 , you for my Names sake ; because they haue not knowne him that sent mee .

Yea , the time shall come , that whosoeuer Iohn . 16. 2. killeth you , will thinke that he dooth God seruice .

Notwithstanding , blessed are ye , if you 1. Pet. 3. 14. suffer for righteousnes sake .

For , vnto such appertaineth the kingdome Math , 5 , 10 , of heauen .

Yea , ] blessed are yee , when men reuile Math. 5 , 11 , 12. you , and persecute you , and say all manner of euill against you for my sake , falselie ; reioyce and be glad , for great is your reward in heauen : for , so persecuted they the Prophets which were before you .

§. 5.

Let not ( saith he ) your harts be troubled , Iohn , 14. 1. yee beleeue in God , beleeue also in me .

In the world ye shall haue affliction ; but Iohn , 16 , 33 be of good comfort : I haue ouer-com the world .

And , feare not them which kill the bodie , Math. 10. 28 Luk. 12 , 4. 5 , and after that are not able to doe any more : but rather feare him which is able to destroy both body & soule in hell : yea , I say vnto you , feare him .

For , what shall it profit a man , though Math , 16. 26 hee should winne the whole world , if hee lose his owne soule ? or what shall a man giue for recompence of his soule ?

Who-soeuer therefore shall confesse Math , 10 , 32 mee before men , him will I confesse also before my Father , which is in heauen .

But who-soeuer shall denie mee before verse , 33 , men , him will I also denie before my Father which is in heauen .

Who-soeuer [ likewise ] shal be ashamed Luke . 9. 26 of mee , and of my words , of him shall the sonne of man be ashamed , when hee shall come in his glory ▪ and in the glory of the Father , and of the holy Angels .

§. 6.

Deerely beloued , ( saith S. Peter ) thinke 1. Pet. 4 , 12. it not strange concerning the fierie tryall which is among you , to prooue you , as though some strange thing were come vnto you .

But reioyce , in as much as yee are partakers verse , 13. of Christes sufferings : that when his glorie shall appeare , yee may be glad and reioyce .

For , wee must through many afflictions Acts , 14 , 22 . enter into the kingdome of God .

And , all that will liue godly in Christ Iesus , 2. Tim. 3. 12 shall suffer persecution .

§. 7.

If yee be railed vppon for the Name of 1. Pet , 4 , 14. Christ , blessed are you ; for , the Spirit of glory , & of God resteth vpon you : which on their part is euill spoken of , but on your part , is glorified .

But , let none of you suffer as a murtherer , 1. Pet , 4 , 15. or as a theefe , or as an euill dooer , or as a busie-body in other mens matters .

But , if any man suffer as a Christian , let verse , 16. him not be ashamed : but let him glorifie God in that behalfe .

For , it is better ( if the will of God be so ) 1 , Pet , 3 , 17. that yee should suffer for well-doing , then for euill doing .

And , the lesse iustice that a godly man Tremelius . findeth at the handes of the vngodly , the more comfort shall he receiue in conscience , at the mercifull hand of God .

§. 8.

My sonne , ( saith Sirach ) submit not thy Ecclus , 4 , 27 , 28. selfe vnto a foolish man , neyther accept thou the person of the mightie . But striue for the truth vnto death : and defende iustice euen to the losse of thyne owne life : and the Lord thy God shall fight for thee against thine enemies .

Be fauourable to all men ; be likewise in Socrates . subiection to al lawes : but aboue al things , fulfill the will of God , rather then the will of man .

For , ] a righteous and godly man , hauing Pet. Ramus . in him the spirit of zeale and constancie , neuer feareth in his afflictions the crueltie of any man : but will boldlie to the death , stand vnto the truth .

And , forasmuch as hee knoweth that Rauisius . almightie God is the truth , and that truth is GOD ; hee likewise wisely considereth , that he which departeth from the one , departeth from the other .

But , hee that eyther for feare of punishment , Hemingius . or else in hope of a Tyrants fauour , forsaketh the truth before men vpon earth , leaueth the most certaine promise of perpetuall felicitie , for an vncertaine assurance of short-lasting vanitie : and by seeking to deliuer his body from danger , cloggeth his conscience with griefe , and his soule with sorrow .

§. 9.

If then thou be desirous to liue euerlastingly , Gueuara . faint not at any time vnder the burden of thine afflictions ; neither be thou mooued from thy hope of heauens helpe , through the multitude of thy miseries : but patiently put thy trust in the promises of Gods mercie , and pray often for such perseuerance , as may bring thee to eternall blessednes .

In all thy troubles stand vnto the truth ; Plotinus . and commit thy selfe in thy greatest necessitie , wholy & altogether to the most high and mighty GOD ; neyther fearing them that threaten , nor beleeuing them that speak thee faire : but trust in him alone , that is most kinde and compassionate , true of his promise , and able to make both his word and worke good .

For , more wisedome is it , that a man for Hermes . his soules sake shoulde suffer death , then lose his soules happines for the loue of this life .

Blessed [ therfore ] is the man that endureth Iames , 1 , 12 , tentation : for when hee is tryed , hee shall receiue the crowne of life , which the Lorde hath promised to them that loue him .

§. 10.

The peaceable and blessed life of the Bernard . godly , ( saith S. Bernard ) is in heauen : and is onely to be attained vnto by faith , patience , and perseuerance .

For , as without fayth , it is vnpossible to Hillarius . please God ; so without patience and perseuerance , no man shall see God .

And although indeede , the death of the Basill . bodie , by diuers meanes , & for diuers causes , be vnto many men very tedious and bitter : yet the death therof for the testimonie of Gods truth , is vnto the godly man most easie , most ioyfull , most sweete , and most delectable : because he seeth ( through the eye of fayth ) the present performance of all Gods heauenly promises , made vnto him in his holy word ; if he zealously continue constant in the veritie of his Christian profession .

§. 11.

Thou therefore my sonne , ( saith Paule vnto Timothie , ) suffer affliction as a good 2. Tim. 2. 3. 4. souldiour of Iesus Christ . No man that warreth , entangleth himselfe with the affayres of this life , because hee would please him that hath chosen him to be a Souldiour .

And , Christ beeing our Captaine , hath Rauisius . called vs by the voyce of his Gospell , to a spirituall warfare . The foes against whom wee must continually fight , are fleshlie assaultes , worldly wickednes , and the deceits of the deuill . Our warre-weapons and armour , is the shielde of fayth , the sworde of the Spirit , the brest-plate of righteousnesse , and the helmet of saluation .

The reward of conquest , is a crowne of Rauisius . life to him that ouer-commeth : which God himselfe hath promised , to euery man that perseuereth in well-dooing to the end . But hee that coward-like leaueth the battaile and forsaketh the fielde ; shall be pursued , spoyled , and made a pray to his infernall enemy .

For , no man that striueth for a maisterie , 2 , Tim , 2. 5 , shall be crowned , except hee striue as hee ought to doe .

Neyther is hee that putteth his hande to Luke . 9 , 62. the plowe , and afterward looketh backe , any meete member for the kingdome of God .

§. 12.

If we suffer with Christ , wee shall also 2. Tim. 2. 12 raigne with him : [ but ] if wee denie him , hee also will denie vs .

And , looke with what courage a Christian , Pet. Mar. in the time of his triall shall confesse the truth , and acknowledge Christ to be his Captaine : with as great consolation & inward ioy , shal his conscience be comforted , at the houre of death , when his soule is forsaking the prison of his bodie .

For , this is thanke-worthy , if a man for 1. Pet , 2 , 19. conscience toward God , endure greefe , & suffer wrong vndeserued .

§. 13.

Take , my brethren , the Prophets ( saith Iames , 5 , 10. Saint Iames ) for an ensample of suffering aduersitie , & of long patience , which haue spoken in the Name of the Lord .

And , let likewise that generall testimonie , which the Writer to the Hebrues giueth , in commendation of all the Saints of the olde Testament , sufficiently moue vs , to be perfectly patient in all our tribulations , according to their example : where he saith : Some of them were tryed by mockings Hebr , 11 , 36 37 , 38 , and scourging ; some by bondes and imprisonment ; some were stoned ; some were hewen in sunder ; some were tempted ; some were slaine with the sword ; som went vp and downe in Sheepes skinnes & Goates-skinnes , in great neede , afflicted & tormented : wandering in Wildernesses , in Mountaines , in Dennes , and in hollowe Caues of the earth : the World not beeing worthy of them .

Others , also were racked , & woulde not Hebr. 11 , 35 be deliuered : that they might receiue a better resurrection .

§. 14.

Besides these ; we finde also , that the Apostle S. Paule himselfe , & his fellow seruaunts vnder Christ , in the Newe-testament , are most worthy examples to be remembred . For , in diuers places of his Epistles , hee spareth not to speake both of his owne , and the rest of the disciples sufferings : but for himselfe onely , in his Epistle to the Corinthians he saith : I take pleasure 2. Cor. 12. 10. in infirmities , in reproches , in necessities , in persecutions , and in anguish for Christes sake : for , when I am weake , then am I strong :

Likewise in the Acts we read , that when he was fore-told by a certaine Prophet named Acts , 21 , 11 , 12. Agabus , what trouble shoulde befall him at Ierusalem : he desisted not from his iourney thether , but rather reproued them that sought ( with teares ) to perswade him to the contrarie , saying : * What doe you verse , 13 , weeping and breaking mine hart ? For , I am ready , not to be bound onely , but also to die at Ierusalem for the Name of the Lord Iesus .

For , Christ is to mee , both in life and in Philip , 1 , 21 , death , aduantage .

And , I count all things to be losse , and Phil. 3 , 8 , 9. iudge them to be dunge , that I may winne Christ , and be found in him .

§. 15.

Also ; in the afore-named Epistle to the Corinthians , ( both in the behalfe of himselfe , and the rest of his fellow helpers , ) he saith : Brethren , wee would not haue you 2. Cor. 1. 8. 9 ignorant of our affliction , which came vnto vs in Asia , how we were pressed out of measure , passing strength , so that we altogether doubted , euen of life . Yea , wee receiued the sentence of death in our selues , because wee should not trust in our selues , but in God , which raiseth the dead .

Againe , in the 4. chapter of the same 2 , Cor , 4 , 8 , 9 Epistle , he saith : Wee are afflicted on euerie side , yet are we not in distresse : we are in doubt , but yet we despaire not : wee are persecuted , but not forsaken : cast downe , but we perrish not .

Euery where wee beare about in our bodie verse , 10 , 11 , the dying of the Lord Iesus , that the life of Iesus might also be made manifest in our bodies : for , wee which liue , are alwaies deliuered vnto death for Iesus sake ; that the life also of Iesus might be made manifest in our mortall flesh .

As it is written ; For thy sake ( ô Lorde ) Rom , 8 , 36. are we killed all the day long , we are counted as sheepe appoynted to be slaine .

Neuerthelesse , in all these things wee are verse , 37 , more then conquerours , through him that loued vs .

§. 16.

Wherefore , let vs also , seeing that wee Heb , 12 , 1 , 2 are compassed with so great a clowde of witnesses , cast away euery thing that presseth downe , and the sinne that hangeth so fast on : Let vs run with patience the race that is set before vs ; looking vnto Iesus , the authour and finisher of our fayth , who for the ioy that was sette before him , endured the crosse , and despised the shame , and is set at the right hand of the throne of God .

Consider therfore him that endured such verse , 3 , speaking against of sinners ; least ye should be wearied , and faint in your mindes .

Cast not away your confidence , which Heb , 10 , 35. 36 , 37. hath great recompence of reward : for wee haue neede of patience , that after yee haue done the will of God , ye might receiue the promise . For yet a very little while , & hee that shall come , wil come , & will not tarry .

Be patient therefore brethren , vnto the comming of the Lord . Behold , the husbandman Iames , 5 , 7 , 8 waiteth for the precious fruite of the earth , and hath long patience for it , vntill he receiue both the former & the latter raine . Be yee also patient therefore , & settle your harts ; for the comming of the Lord draweth neere .

And the GOD of all grace , which hath 1 , Pet , 5 , 10 , called vs vnto his eternall glory by Christ Iesus , after that yee haue suffered a little , make you perfect , confirme , strengthen , and stablish you .

For , if wee liue , wee liue vnto the Lord , Rom , 14 , 8 , & if we die , we die vnto the Lord ; so that whether we liue or die , we are the Lords .

And , none neede to feare death , saue Socrates , those which haue committed so much wickednes , as after death deserueth damnation .

§. 17.

Wherfore , let them that suffer , according 1 , Pet , 4 , 19 , to the will of God , commit their soules vnto him in wel doing , as vnto a faithful Creator .

And , let all the troubles that can come Pet. Lomb. vppon thee for thy good conuersation in Christ , be borne with boldnes ; comforted with confidence ; & vnder-propped with patience .

For , the necessary patience of him that Ecclus , 20 , 31 followeth the Lord , is better then hee that gouerneth his life without the Lord .

And , our light affliction , which is but for 2. Cor. 4. 17. a moment , causeth vnto vs a far more excellent and eternall waight of glory ; while we looke not on the thinges that are seene , but the things which are not seene .

For , the things that are seene , are temporall ; verse , 18 , but the things which are not seene , are eternall .

For , wee are saued by hope : but hope Rom. 8. 24. 25. that is seene , is no hope : for howe can a man hope for that which he seeth ? But if wee hope for that we see not , we doe with patience abide for it .

Likewise , the Spirit [ of God ] also helpeth Rom , 8 , 26. our infirmities : for , we know not what to pray as we ought : but the Spirit it selfe maketh request for vs with sighes , which cannot be expressed .

But he that searcheth the harts , knoweth verse . 27. what is the meaning of the Spirit : for hee maketh request for the Saints , according to the will of God .

Also wee knowe , that all things worke verse , 28. together for the best vnto them that loue GOD .

And I count , ( saith the Apostle ) that the Rom , 8 , 18 , afflictions of this present time , are not worthie of the glory , which shall be shewed vnto vs .

Neyther may the many yeeres of thys World , be any way comparable vnto the length of dayes in the life to come . * For , Eccl●s . 18 , 9. as drops of raine are vnto the Sea , and as a grauell stone is in comparison of the Sand , so are a thousand yeeres to the dayes euerlasting .

Of the manifold blessings and fauours of Almightie God , extended vnto the godly heere in this life : with the promises of theyr euerlasting felicitie in the World to come . PROVERBS . 21. verse . 21. Hee that followeth after righteousnes & mercy , shall finde life , righteousnes , and glory .

§. 1.

BLessed is the man , ( saith Dauid ) that Psal. 1. 1. 2. doth not walke in the counsell of the wicked , nor stand in the way of sinners ; nor sit in the seate of the scornefull : But hath his delight in the lawe of the Lord , and in that lawe doth exercise himselfe both day and night .

For , he shall be like a tree planted by the verse , 3 , waters side , which will bring foorth her fruite in due season ; whose leafe shall not wither , or fade away : and looke what-soeuer hee doth , it shall prosper .

Blessed , ( saith Ieremy , ) is the man that trusteth in the Lord , and whose hope is the Iere. 17. 7. Lord himselfe . For , hee shall be as a tree planted by the water , which spreadeth out her rootes by the riuer , and shall not feele verse , 8 , when the heate commeth ; but her leafe shall be greene , & shall not care for the yeere of drought ; neither shall cease from yeelding fruite .

Yea , ] blessed is the man , ( saith Sirach , ) Ecclus , 14 , 21 that doth meditate honest things by wisedome , and exerciseth himselfe in iustice , & reasoneth of holy things by his vnderstanding :

Which considereth in his hart the wayes verse , 22. 23. of Wisedome , and vnderstandeth her secrets ; and goeth after her , and continueth in her wayes .

For , ] he shall looke in at her windowes , Ecclus. 14. 24 25 , and harken at her doores ; hee shall abide beside her house , and shall fasten a stake in her walles .

Hee shall pitche his tent nie vnto her verse , 26. 27. hand ; and in his lodging shall good things rest for euermore . Hee shall sette his children vnder her couering , & he shall dwell vnder her branches . By her hee shal be defended from the heate ; and in her glory shall hee rest .

For , life is in the way of righteousnesse , Prou , 12 , 28 and in that path-way there is no death .

§. 2.

Blessed [ therefore ] is the man , that feareth Psal. 112. 1. the Lord , and delighteth greatly in his commaundements .

Yea , ] blessed is he that maketh the Lord Psalm , 40 , 4 , his trust : and regardeth not the proude , nor such as turne aside to lies .

For , ] his seed shal be mighty vpon earth , Psa. 112. 2 , 3 and his generation shall be blessed . Riches and treasures shall be in his house : and his righteousnes shall endure for euer .

Though he fall , hee shall not be cast off , Psal. 37. 24 , for the Lord putteth vnder his hand .

Surely , hee shall neuer be mooued , but Psal. 112. 6. shall be had in euerlasting remembrance .

For , the Lord loueth iudgement , & forsaketh Psal. 37. 28. not his Saints : they shall be preserued for euer-more .

§. 3.

If , ( saith the Almightie vnto Israel ) yee Leuit. 26. 3. 4. 5. walke in mine ordinaunces , and keepe my commaundements , and doe them ; I will then send you raine in due season , and the Land shall yeeld her increase ; and the trees of the fielde shall giue their fruite : & your threshing shall reach vnto the vintage , and the vintage shall reach vnto the sowing time : and you shall eate your breade in plenteousnes , & dwell in your land safely .

For , I will haue respect vnto you , and Leuit , 26 , 9 , make you increase , and multiply you , and establish my couenaunt [ or promise ] with you .

Also , I will walke among you : & I will Leuit. 26. 12 be your God , and yee shal be my people .

§. 4.

Yea , ] all these [ following ] blessings , ( ô Deut. 28. 2. Israel , saith Moises , ) shall come vpon thee , and ouer-take thee , if thou shalt obey the voyce of the Lord thy God .

Blessed shalt thou be in the Cittie , and verse , 3 , 4 , blessed also in the fielde . Blessed shall be the fruite of thy body , and the fruite of thy ground , and the fruite of thy Cattell , the increase of thy Kine , and the flocks of thy sheepe .

Blessed shal be thy basket & thy dough . verse 5 , 6 , Blessed shalt thou be , when thou commest in , and blessed also when thou goest out .

§. 5.

The Lorde [ likewise , ] shall cause thine Deu. 28. 7. enemies that rise against thee , to fall before thy face : they shall come out against thee one way , and shall flee before thee seauen wayes .

The Lord shall commaunde the blessing to be with thee in thy store-houses , and in Deut , 28 , 8. all that thou settest thine hand vnto , & will blesse thee in the Land which hee giueth thee .

The Lord shall make thee an holie people verse , 9 , vnto himselfe , as hee hath sworne vnto thee ; if thou shalt keepe the commaundements of the Lord thy God , and walke in his wayes .

Then all people of the earth shal see that verse , 10 , the Name of the Lord is called vpon ouer thee ; and they shall be afraid of thee .

And the Lord shall make thee plenteous Deut , 28 , 11 in goods , in the fruite of thy body , and in the fruite of thy cattell , and in the fruite of thy ground ; in the land which the Lorde sware vnto thy fathers to giue thee .

The Lord shall open vnto thee his good verse , 12. treasure , euen the heauen to giue raine to thy land in due season , and to blesse all the worke of thine hands : and thou shalt lend vnto many Nations , but shalt not borrow thy selfe .

§. 6.

With all these heere rehearsed ; and sundry other benefites , both corporall and spirituall , did the Lord God ( as we read , ) promise to blesse his then peculiar people , the children of Israel , if they woulde faithfully beleeue in him , and diligentlie endeuour to liue vprightly in all theyr dooings , according to the meaning of his commaundements .

By which protestation made vnto them , we may verie well be drawne vndoubtedly to beleeue , that hee ( whose power in time past ; was sufficiently able , to performe so many fauours , to one speciall Nation that serued him , ) is now , as well able as euer he was , not onely to extend the like mercy to one Nation alone , ( because hee is for euer the selfe same God , ) but also to euery Nation vnder the sun , where soeuer his Name is called vpon : and , to euery priuate man , ( in what Prouince soeuer ) that truly trusteth in him ; and vnfainedly frameth all his actions & will , according to his holy word .

For , what necessary benefite is it , ( saith Vincentius . Vincentius , ) that the Lord our God will deny to grant , vnto any one of vs when we pray , if we religiously liue after the rule of his law , & sincerely seeke to serue him , in the way of truth and righteousnes ?

Or , who is he that will harme you , ( saith 1. Pet , 3 , 13. S. Peter , ) if yee follow that which is good ?

§. 7.

Blessed [ therfore ] is the man that findeth Prou , 3 , 13 , 14. wisedome , and the man that getteth vnderstanding : for , the merchandise thereof , is better then the merchandise of siluer , and the gaine thereof , is better then gold .

It is more precious then pearles , and all verse , 15 , things that thou canst desire , are not to be compared vnto her .

Length of dayes is in her right hand , & Prou. 3 , 16. in her left riches and glory .

Her wayes are wayes of pleasure , and all verse , 17 , 18 , her pathes prosperitie . Shee is a tree of life to them that lay holde on her ; and blessed is the man that retaineth her .

§. 8.

The word of GOD most high , is the Ecclus , 1 , 5 , fountaine of Wisedome , & the euerlasting commaundements are the entrance vnto her .

Wherefore , ] if thou desire Wisedome , Ecclus , 1 , 31 , keepe the commaundements , & the Lord God shall giue her vnto thee .

And shee shall instruct and teach thee in Hermes . the true path of his precepts , and lead thee the right way to life euerlasting .

By her , thou shalt possesse a peaceable Constantius . and pleasant life : and through her , thou shalt attaine vnto a happy end .

For , hee that findeth her , findeth life , & Prou , 28 , 34 , 35 , shall obtaine fauour of the Lord : but hee that sinneth against her , hurteth his owne soule : and all that hate her , loue death .

§. 9.

If thou followe after righteousnes , ( saith Ecclus , 27 , 8 , Sirach , ) thou shalt get her , and put her on as a faire garment , & shalt dwell with her , and shee shall defende thee for euer : and in the day of knowledge , thou shalt finde stedfastnes .

Yea , ] if thou callest after knowledge , & Prou , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , cryest for vnderstanding : if thou seekest her as siluer , & searchest for her as for treasures , then shalt thou vnderstand the feare of the Lorde , and finde the knowledge of God .

Then shalt thou vnderstand righteousnesse , Prou , 2 , 9 , and iudgement , and equitie , & euerie good path .

§. 10.

When wisedom ( ●aith Salomon ) entereth Prou , 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , into thy hart , & knowledge delighteth thy soule , then shall counsell preserue thee , & vnderstanding shall keepe thee ; and deliuer thee from the euill way , and from the man that speaketh froward thinges : and from them that leaue the wayes of righteousnes , to walke in the waies of darknes .

It shall [ likewise ] deliuer thee from the Prou. 2 , 16 , 17 , strange woman , euen from the stranger that flattereth with her words . Which forsaketh the guide of her youth , and forgetteth the couenaunt of her God .

Thou shalt [ also ] walke safely by thy Prou , 3 , 23 , way , and thy foote shall not stumble .

If thou sleepest , thou shalt not be afraid , verse , 24 , and when-soeuer thou sleepest , thy sleepe shall be sweete .

Thou shalt not feare for any suddaine Prou , 3 , 25. feare : neyther for the destruction of the wicked , when it commeth .

For , the Lord shal be for thine assurance , verse , 26 , and hee shall preserue thy foote from taking .

§. 11.

Surely , hee will deliuer thee from the snare Psalm , 91 , 3 , of the hunter , & from the noysome pestilence .

Hee will couer thee vnder his wings , and verse , 4. thou shalt be safe vnder his feathers : his truth shall be thy shielde and buckler .

Thou shalt not be afraide of the feare of verse , 5 , 6 , the night , nor of the arrowe that flyeth by day : Nor of the pessilence that walketh in the darknesse : nor of the plague that destroyeth at noone day .

A thousand shall fall at thy side , & tenne Psalm , 91 , 7 , thousand at thy right hand , but it shall not come neere thee .

In famine , hee shall deliuer thee from Iob , 5 , 20 , 21. death , and in battell , from the power of the sword . Thou shalt be hid from the scourge of the tongue , and thou shalt not be afraid of destruction when it commeth .

But thou shalt laugh at destruction and Iob , 5 , 22 , 23 , dearth , and shalt not be afraid of the beasts of the earth . For , the stones of the fielde shall be in league with thee , and the beasts of the fielde shall be at peace with thee .

And thou shalt knowe , that peace shall Iob , 5 , 24 , be in thy Tabernacle , and thou shalt visite thine habitation , and shalt not sinne .

There shall none euill come neere thee , Psal , 91 , 10 , neither shall any plague come nie vnto thy dwelling .

For , the Lord shal giue his Angels charge verse , 11 , ouer thee , to keepe thee in all thy wayes .

And they shall beare thee in theyr hands , verse , 12 , that thou hurte not thy foote against a stone .

Thou shalt walke vpon the Lyon & the Psal , 91 , 13. Aspe : & the young Lyon & the Dragon shalt thou treade vnder thy feete .

Also ; ] when thou eatest the labours of Psal. 128. 2. thine hands thou shalt be blessed , & it shall be well with thee .

Thy wife shall be as the fruitefull Vine verse , 3 , on the sides of thy house ; and thy chyldren like the Oliue plants round about thy table .

Thou shalt perceiue also , that thy seede Iob , 5 , 25 , shall be great , & thy posteritie as the grasse of the earth .

And , thou shalt goe to thy graue in a full verse , 26. age ; as a rick of corne which commeth into the barne in due season .

Loe , thus haue wee enquired of it , and Iob. 5 , 27. so it is .

Surely , thus shall the man be blessed that Psal , 128 , 4 , feareth the Lord .

For , the Lord will blesse the righteous ; Psalm. 5. 12. and with fauour will compasse him , as with a shielde .

The wicked shall see the same & be angry : Psal , 112. 10 hee shall gnash with his teeth , and consume away .

§. 12.

Feare the Lorde [ therefore ] yee that be Psalm. 34 , 9. his Saints : for nothing wanteth to them that feare him .

The Lyons doe lacke and suffer hunger , Psal , 34 , 10. but they that seeke the Lord , shall want no manner of thing that is good .

Neither shall any euill happen vnto the Ecclus. 33. 1. man that feareth him : but when hee is in tentation , the Lord will deliuer him , and keepe him from harme .

For , his eyes are ouer the righteous , and 1 , Pet , 3 , 12 , his eares are open vnto theyr prayers .

Hee knoweth the dayes of vpright men , Psal , 37 , 18 , & theyr inheritance shall be perpetuall .

§. 13.

Hee [ also , ] preserueth the state of the Prou , 2 , 7 , righteous , & is a shield to them that walke vprightly .

They shall not be confounded in the Psal , 37 , 19 , perrillous time : and in the dayes of famine they shall haue enough .

For , his eye is vpon them that feare him , Psalm , 33 , 18 , 19 , and vpon them that trust in his mercy : to deliuer theyr soules from death , & to preserue them in the time of dearth .

Yea , ] his eyes haue respect vnto them Ecclus. 34 , 16 that loue him : hee is theyr mightie protection , and strong ground , a defence from the heate , and a shadow for the noone day , a succour from stumbling , and a helpe from falling .

§. 14.

They that put theyr trust in him , shall Psal. 125. 1. be euen as the mount Sion , which cannot be remoued ; but remaineth stedfast for euer .

They shall florish like a Palme tree , and Psal. 92. 12. shall spread abroade like a Cedar in Lebanon .

They shall inherite the land , and dwell Psal , 37 , 29 , therein for euer .

They shall still bring forth fruite in their Psal , 92. 14. age ; and shall be fat and florishing .

§. 15.

The man that serueth him , shall be accepted Ecclus , 35 , 16 with fauour , and his prayer shall reach vnto the clowdes .

His prayer shall pierce thorowe the Mart. Bucer . clowdes ; and preuaile mightily in the presence of his Maker .

That which a wicked man feareth , shall Prou , 10 , 24 come vpon him , but GOD will grant the desire of the godly .

For , ] a good man getteth fauour of the Prou , 12 , 2 , Lord , but a man of wicked imaginations will the Almightie condemne .

He respecteth not the speech of vngodly Iohn , 9. 31 , persons , when they pray vnto him : but if any man be a worshipper of him , and obedient vnto his will , him he will heare .

For , as hee himselfe is all goodnes , so loueth Plato . hee all those that loue goodnes : and as hee can haue no euill in himselfe , so can he not away with the workers of iniquitie .

§. 16.

They that trust in the Lord , shall vnderstand Wisd. 3. 9. the truth , and the faithfull shall remaine with him in loue ; for grace & mercie is among his Saints , and hee regardeth his elect .

His secrete is reuealed to them that feare Psal. 25. 14 , him , and his couenaunt to giue them vnderstanding .

Hee is euer-more mindfull of those men , Theophilact , that make his Word the guide vnto theyr waies ; and neuer ceaseth to succour his seruants which ( through faith & confidence ) continually cleaue vnto him .

For , he alwaies loueth them that loue his Lyra. law , and bestoweth many benefites on the man that maketh his commaundements his daily meditation .

§. 17.

Hee highly regardeth euery one that beleeueth Origen . in him ; and will in time performe what-soeuer hee hath promised vnto the faithfull .

Hee will most certainly graunt vnto the Euagoras . godly , all things that are needfull for theyr life present .

And , at his pleasure , hee will make the Virgilius . penitent to reioyce greatly in his loue and mercie .

He will [ also ] be fauourable to the righteous , Eugenius . in the time of theyr affliction .

And be ready to heare the cry of the confident Hillarius . when-soeuer they call vpon him .

Yea ; before they call , hee will aunswere ; Esay . 65. 24. and whiles they speake , [ or whiles they are thinking what to speake ] hee will heare them .

By all which former speeches , most plainly ( according to the saying of the Psalmist ) it appeareth , That * they which Psalm , 119. 165. loue the lawe of the Lord , shall haue great prosperitie ; and shall haue no hurt .

That they which obey and serue him , Iob. 36. 11. shall end theyr dayes in prosperitie , and theyr yeeres in pleasures .

And , that the man that is faithfull , shall Prou. 28. 20 abound in blessings .

§. 18.

Taste yee [ then ] and see , how gracious Psal. 34 , 8. the Lord is : blessed is the man that trusteth in him .

Yea , ] blessed is the man , whose strength Psal. 84. 5 , is in the Lord , and in whose hart are the wayes of God .

Blessed is euery one that feareth the Psal , 128 , 1. Lord , and walketh in his wayes .

For , to them that thinke on good things , Prou. 14. 22. shall be mercie and truth .

And , as many as in this world , endeuour Phil. Mel. to liue vprightly , shall after death , be receiued of God into euerlasting glory .

§. 19.

A booke of remembrance , ( saith Malachie , ) Mala. 3. 16. is written before the Lord , for all them that feare him , and that thinke vpon his Name .

Many sorrowes shall come vnto the vngodly ; Psal , 32 , 10 , but hee that trusteth in the Lord , shall be compassed with mercie .

He will honour them that honour him : 1. Sam , 2 , 30 but whosoeuer despiseth him , shall of him be despised .

Hee hath alwayes a speciall respect vnto Pet. Lomb. the godlie : and will neuer suffer any that serue him , to want theyr reward .

For , the righteous Lord , loueth righteousnes , Psalm , 11 , 7 , his countenaunce doth behold the iust .

When ] they cry , hee heareth them ; & Psal , 34 , 17 , deliuereth them out of all theyr troubles .

So that theyr hope shall neuer come to Gregory . confusion ; but prosper , euen in the time of perrill ; and lay sure hold on heauen , as the cheefest harbour of theyr perfect happinesse .

§. 20.

Hee that walketh in iustice , ( saith Esay , ) Esay , 33 , 15 , and speaketh righteous thinges , refusing gaine of oppression , shaking his handes from taking of gifts , stopping his eares from hearing of blood , and shutting his eyes from seeing euill :

Hee shall dwell on hie : his defence shall verse , 16. be the munitions of Rocks ; breade shall be giuen him ; and his waters shall be sure .

Hee shall receiue a blessing from the Lord , Psalm , 24 , 5 , and righteousnesse from the God of his saluation .

For , the Lorde preserueth all them that Psal , 145. 20 loue him .

Hee delighteth in them that feare him . Psal. 147. 11

Hee careth for all those that haue confidence 1. Pet. 5. 7 , in him .

And no good thing will hee with-hold Psal , 84 , 11 from them that walke vprightly .

§. 21.

Hee that walketh in his integritie , is iust , Prou , 20. 7 , ( saith Salomon , ) and blessed shall his children be after him .

The path of the righteous , is to decline Prou , 16 , 17 from euill ; and hee keepeth his soule that keepeth his way .

The way of the wicked is abhomination Prou. 15. 9 , vnto the Lord : but he loueth him that followeth righteousnes .

And , better is the poore that walketh in Prou. 28 , 6. his vprightnes , then he that peruerteth his wayes , though hee be rich .

For , there can be no greater gaine , then Bullenger . the good that commeth by godlinesse ; nor any sweeter comfort , then the inward solace of an vnpolluted soule .

§. 22.

The way of the righteous shineth as the Prou. 4. 18 , light : which shineth more and more , vnto the perfect day .

And , vnto them ariseth light in darknes . Psal. 112 , 4 ,

Through his religious knowledge and Pacuuius . vnderstanding , the godly man shal diuers wayes be helpfull to others : & by his own vertues , hee shall be able to withstand many vices .

For , the righteousnes of an vpright man , Prou , 11 , 5 , ordereth his way .

It preserueth him in his life . * And causeth Prou. 13. 6 Prou , 14 , 32 him to haue hope in his death .

It [ also ] deliuereth from death . Prou , 11 , 4 ,

And defendeth the faithfull from eternall Pet. Mar. destruction .

For , hee that walketh [ or continueth to Prou , 28 , 18 the end ] in his vprightnes , shall be saued .

And there is no confusion vnto them Dan , 3 , 40 , that put theyr trust in God .

§. 23.

Doubtlesse , ( saith Marlorate , ) diuers are Marlorate . the fauours , and many the mercies , which almightie GOD sheweth vnto the godly heere in this life : but most vnspeakeable are the sundry consolations , which through fayth they feele in conscience , at the verie houre of theyr death .

Marke ( as Dauid saith ) the vpright man , Psal. 37 , 37 & behold the iust : for the end of that man is peace .

And the last houre of his life , is the first Cyrill . houre of his soules entrance into endlesse felicitie .

§. 24.

Thus much ( in effect , ) Balaam the lucrelouing Prophet , could confesse to be true ( vnto the comfort of other men , though hee himselfe walked in the way of wickednes ; ) when hee saide : * Oh that my soule Num , 23 , 10 might die the death of the righteous : and that my last end might be like his .

For , as many as in this life , beleeue in Christ , and keepe his doctrine , * they shall Iohn , 8 , 51. neuer see death .

Nor come into condemnation : but haue Iohn , 5 , 24 , [ euen as it were alreadie ] passed from death vnto life .

They finde by experience , that the true seruice of GOD , giueth inward testimonie Mar. Bucer . of eternall saluation vnto theyr soules : where-vnto all worldly wealth is not worthy to be compared : and that the peace of conscience , excelleth al earthly possessions .

Death vnto them , is no death ; but rather Erasmus . a long-desired releasement from their many molestations in this life : & a most pleasant passage into the Paradise of GOD . Where , with a number , more then may bee numbred , of Patriarchs , Prophets , Apostles , Saints , and holy Martyrs , they shall be made partakers of euer-during happinesse : and continue alwayes in the company of Christ Iesus , theyr most mercifull Protector .

Wherfore , if thou desire to prosper in Origen . thy life , and to speede well at thy death , bestow thy studie in the lawe of the Lord , & practise to please him according to his precepts .

For , it is a pleasure full of profit , & a solace Plotinus . voyde of all sorrow , for a man to giue his minde to godly meditation .

§. 25.

Light , ( saith the Psalmist ) is sowen for Psal. 97 , 11 the righteous ; and ioy for the vpright in hart .

To euery man that doth good , shall be Rom. 2. 10. glory , and honour , and peace .

And to the righteous , God will recompence Prou. 13 , 21 good .

For , GOD greatly esteemeth vertuous Socrates . people , though in this worlde they be little set by .

For them , are good things created from Ecclus , 39 , 25 the beginning ; and euill thinges for the wicked .

For them , is euerlasting rest and glorie 2. Esdr , 8 , 59 made ready : but thirst and paine is [ long since ] prepared of God for the vngodly .

Yea , the Lord himselfe hath promised , 2. Esdr. 8. 39. that he wil reioyce in the wayes of the righteous ; and that hee will remember the pilgrimage , the saluation , and the reward that they shall haue .

( For , glorious is the fruite of good labours ; Wisd. 3 , 15 , and the roote of wisedome shal neuer fade away . )

§. 26.

Theyr first felicitie after this life , is the Iust. Mar. sweete rest & quiet peace that their soules possesse in Christ . But the second , shall be the immortalitie and glory , both of theyr body and soule together , at the day of generall iudgement : when , with triumphant ioy , they shall ( in the sight of all their enemies ) receiue openly theyr portion , in the kingdome of perpetuall blessednes .

For , they shall liue for euer : their reward Wisd. 5. 15. also is with the Lord , and the most High hath care of them .

Therefore shall they receiue a glorious verse , 16. kingdome , and a beautifull crowne at the Lords hand : for with his right hand shall he couer them , and with his arme shall hee defend them .

Their recompence or reward , consisteth Constantiu● . not onely in Gods grace and fauour towards them during this life ; but also in his most mercifull receiuing them into eternall felicitie : and safe preseruing them , from the danger of damnation , which is the second death of the vngodly .

So that , heauen is not onely the seate of Erasmus . Gods glory , and the habitation of his holie Angels ; but it is also the resting place of the faithfull , and the inheritance of all his Saints .

§. 27.

The certaine truth whereof , is further witnessed vnto vs , by the words of Christ himselfe : where , among many other petitions made vnto his Father , both for himselfe and the faithfull ; in the end , hee concludeth his speech with this saying : * Father , Iohn , 17 , 24 I will that they which thou hast giuen mee , be with mee , euen where I am : that they may beholde my glory which thou hast giuen mee .

Also , in another place he sayth : * If any Iohn , 12 , 26 , man serue mee , let him followe mee : for , where I am , there shall also my seruant be : and who-soeuer serueth mee , him will my Father honour .

And , what honour receiued from anie Tertullian . Prince in this world , be it neuer so great ; is worthy any way to be compared , vnto the least honour , which the seruaunts of GOD shall receiue from theyr Creator in the kingdome of Heauen ?

Where life shall not be limitted vnto Beda . them by number of monthes or yeeres : nor theyr pleasures appointed at certaine times and seasons : but as God himselfe is without any ending , so shall theyr life be euerlasting : And , as his power endureth perpetually ; so shall their pleasures last continually .

§. 28.

For , it is a thing agreeable to reason , that Mar. Aurel. those men which be good , among so many euils in this life , should be greatly honoured with God , after theyr death .

And , assuredly it is to be beleeued , that Plato . all they which in this worlde follow vertue , and liue more godly then other men , shall ( after their soule is by the stroke of death departed from theyr body ) ascend vp into a purer life ; and dwell for euer in the presence of God .

Happy therefore are the righteous : yea , Gueuara . double happy are the righteous . First , for that they shal in this life , be blessed in their labours from GOD , with aboundance of all things necessary for them . Secondly , for that they shall be made partakers of Gods endlesse glory , in the world to come .

§. 29.

Where , among many other fauours and inestimable delights , from the Maker Hemingius . of all things granted vnto them ; they shall be permitted , daily to behold , the beautie of all beauties most to bee reioyced in : namely , the vnmeasurable maiestie & amiable countenaunce of Almightie GOD , theyr Creator , Father , and Preseruer .

According to that sentence of our Sauiour in the Gospell , where he saith : * Blessed Math. 5. 8. are the pure [ or vpright ] in hart ; for they shall see GOD .

Not as wee see nowe ; for nowe wee see 1. Cor. 12. 13. through a glasse darkly : but then shall we see face to face . Nowe wee knowe in part , but then shall we knowe , euen as wee are knowne .

§. 30.

Then [ also ] shall the iust men shine as Math. 13. 43 the Sunne in the kingdome of theyr Father .

And they that [ in this world ] turne many Dan , 12 , 3 , to righteousnes , shall shine as the starres for euer and euer .

They shall sit also with Christ himselfe Math. 19. 28 in his kingdome , vpon twelue thrones , & iudge the twelue Tribes of Israell .

Yea , ] they shall iudge the Nations , and Wisd. 3 , 8 , haue dominion ouer the people : & theyr Lord shall raigne for euer-more .

§. 31.

Then shall the righteous stand in great Wisd. 5. 1. boldnesse , before the face of such as haue dealt extreamely with them , and taken away theyr labours .

And when the vngodly see them , they verse , 2 , shall be vexed with horrible feare , & shall stand amazed at theyr wonderfull deliuerance .

And , changing then theyr mindes , and verse , 3 , sighing through inward greefe , they shall say within themselues : These are they whom wee some-time had in derision and iested vpon .

Wee fooles , thought theyr life to be Wisd , 5 , 4 , madnesse , and theyr end to be without honour .

But loe , howe they are counted among verse , 5 , the chyldren of God , and theyr portion is among the Saints !

§. 32.

Then , ( as Anselmus saith , ) shall all the Anselmus . whole company or number of the righteous , receiue fully theyr rewarde together from GOD ; and they shall euery one of them be blessed of him , with sundry blessings both in bodie and soule .

They shall first and formost , be blessed The seuerall blessings that the bodies of the faithfull shall receiue in the kingdome of heauen . According to the saying of Anselmus . in body , with such wonderfull beauty , that they shall euery way be equall to the Sunne in brightnes and glory .

Secondly , they shal be endued with such agilitie or quicknes , that they shall be like vnto the Angels of GOD , in theyr speedie moouing .

Thirdly , theyr fortitude shall be so sufficient , that no creature what-soeuer , shall be able to withstand theyr strength .

Fourthly , theyr libertie shall be so free & secure ; that nothing shall haue any power eyther to hinder or resist them .

Fiftly , they shall possesse perfect health , without any manner of greefe , or infirmitie .

Sixtly , they shal be throughly filled with an ineffable delight : and wholy replenished , with an vnspeakeable aboundance of inestimable ioy . Yea , euery part and member of them , shall be filled with such wonderful sence and feeling of incomparable pleasure and delight , that the whole man shall quaffe of the riuer of Gods pleasure , and be made drunke with the plentie of ioy which hee shall haue in the House of the Lord .

Seauenthly , they shall be blessed with such length and perpetuity of life , as shall neuer receiue any end : but continue alwaies in eternall ioy and pleasure : and endure therein euen with GOD himselfe , so long as his life and power lasteth ; which can neuer come to conclusion , nor at any time be diminished .

§. 33.

And , as concerning the soules of the The seuerall beatitudes of glorified soules in the kingdom of God . According to the saving of Anselmus . righteous , they shal then also , be enriched with as many fauours from GOD as each glorified body hath . The first beatitude which shal be giuen them , is perfect wisedome : for , there the soule of euery simple Swaine , shall possesse more knowledge & vnderstanding , then euer did all the Phylosophers or greatest Clarkes in this life .

The second beatitude or blessednesse of the soule , shal be the true amitie , & vnfayned friendship of one righteous person to another , as members all of one body , whose head is Christ Iesus the Lord . And in that blessed societie , shal neuer be any enuy , hatred , or discorde : but euen as long and as well , as any man in that kingdome dooth loue himselfe , so long , and so well , shall he loue euery one else , that resteth in the same fellowship with him .

Theyr third beatitude , shall be the concord or agreement which then shal rest betweene the body and the soule of euery Saint that disagreed in this life ; for they shal then be at peace and vnitie : the body shall will as the soule willeth , and the soule shall desire as the body desireth : so that in all poynts there shall be perfect agreement betweene them . Besides , this concord shal not onely rest betweene the body & soule of euery particuler Saint , but also between the whole congregation of the godly ; for they shal will no contrarieties , but all shall will as one willeth , and one shall will as all willeth .

Their fourth beatitude , shal be honour : for , almightie GOD shal then fully deliuer all his Saints from the filthy vlcers of sinne , many miseries , and infinite infirmities & passions , where-vnto the corruption of the flesh made them in this worlde daily subiect . Hee shall heale them , & restore them to perfect health ; & most mercifully adorne them , with the ornament of absolute righteousnes and immortality . He shall adopt them for his sonnes and chyldren , and shall make them inheritours of his heauenly kingdome , and coheires with his best beloued and onely begotten sonne Christ Iesus .

Theyr fift beatitude , shall be power : for the righteous shal then be able to doe what they wil : because they shal haue the Creator of heauen and earth , agreeable in all things to what-soeuer they desire .

Theyr sixt beatitude , shall be securitie : that is , they shal not onely haue power to doe what they wil , and to enioy what pleasure soeuer theyr hart desireth ; but they shall also be without any feare or doubt of euer losing the same : seeing God which is the giuer thereof , wil neuer alter his mind , nor change his first determination .

Theyr seauenth and last beatitude , shall be absolute or perfect ioy : such as no pen can expresse , nor any mortall hart be able to comprehend . For , there shall be thousands of thousands , and more then tenne thousand hundred of thousandes of the righteous , whom no tongue can number , which shall all enioy this heauenly happinesse ; and ioy altogether in the same blessednes . And euery one of this blessed companie , shall as much reioyce & giue thanks vnto GOD for the felicitie of others , as for himselfe .

They shall also aboue all this , [ as hath partly before by another Authour beene expressed , ] reioyce with an admirable ioy at the onely sight of almightie GOD , in whose presence they shall continually abide , and whose glory they shall alwaies behold . They shall delight in him , more then in themselues : and they shall for euer be beloued of him , more then they can loue themselues . They shall abound in all ioy , and be filled there-with both within and without : they shall haue ioy aboue them , and ioy beneath them , and ioy on euerie side , and round about them : so that theyr reioycing shal be incomparable , and theyr felicitie without measure or end .

For , as there is no end of Gods greatnes , Augustine . nor number of his wisedome , nor measure of his benignitie : so is there neither end , number , nor measure of his rewards , towards them that loue him , and continue constant in his truth vnto the death .

§. 34.

Now then , there is no condemnation to Rom , 8 , 1. them that are in Christ Iesus , which walke not after the flesh , but after the Spirit .

For , as many as are led by the Spirit of Rom , 8 , 14. God , they are the sonnes of God .

And if wee be sonnes , then are we also Rom , 8 , 17 , heires ; euen the heires of God ; & heyres annexed with Christ .

And shall , with all the righteous and elect of the Lord , ( at the day of our Sauiours comming to iudgement , ) be called to the possession of that kingdome , which Math , 25 , 34 was prepared of God for the godly , from the beginning of the world .

Or , as Saint Paule saith ; * Before the Ephe , 1 , 4 , foundations of the world were layd .

Where , the beloued & chosen of God , Eugenius . shall neuer be crost with any moe calamities , nor combred with any more care or greefe : but dwell in euerlasting delight , without dread of danger ; & raigne in perpetuall pleasures , without feare of paine .

Where also , they shall hunger no more , Reue. 7. 16. 17. neyther thirst any more : neyther shall the Sunne light on them ; neyther any heate . For the Lambe [ of GOD , Iesus Christ , theyr Mediatour and Redeemer , which sitteth in his kingdome of glory in the mids of his throne , ] shal gouerne them , & shall leade them vnto the liuely Fountaines of waters ; and GOD shall wipe away all teares from theyr eyes .

And they shall see his face ; & his Name Reue. 22. 4 , shal be in their fore-heads .

And there shall be no more death , neyther Reue. 21. 4 , sorrow , neither crying ; neyther shall there bee any more paine : for , the first things are passed away .

§. 35.

Be glad [ therefore , ] ô yee righteous , & Psal , 32 , 11 reioyce in the Lord : and be ioyfull all yee that are vpright in hart .

For , the things which eye hath not seene , 1. Cor , 2 , 9. neyther eare hath heard , neither haue entred into the hart of man to conceiue , are , which GOD hath prepared for them that loue him .

Hee that is righteous , let him be righteous Reue , 22 , 11 still : and hee that is holy , let him be holy still .

And beholde , ( saith Christ , ) I come verse , 12 , shortly , and my reward is with me , to giue euery man according as his worke shall be .

¶ Of the heauie wrath of GOD against the vngodly , here in this life : with his threatnings , of theyr eternall torments in the world to come . PROVERBS . 11. verse . 19. As righteousnesse leadeth vnto life , so hee that followeth euill , seeketh his owne death .

§. 1.

FRet not thy selfe , ( saith Dauid , ) because Psalm , 37 , 1 , of the wicked , [ or vngodlie , ] neither be thou enuious against the euill dooers .

For , they shall soone be cut downe like verse , 2 , the grasse , and shal wither away , as dooth the greene hearbe .

They are exalted for a little ; but shortly Iob , 24 , 24 , are they gone , and are brought lowe as all others : they are destroyed & cut off , euen as the top of an eare of corne .

Though they florish in the world for a Cyprian . season , yet is their safety in the same , alwaies most vncertaine : and , when they perswade themselues to be farthest from perrill , then commeth theyr confusion speedily vppon them .

They haue ( as the Prophet affirmeth , ) Psal. 17 , 14 , theyr portion in this life .

They liue for a time in most prosperous Basill . estate ; they enioy wealth according to their wish , and haue chyldren at theyr desire : they spend whole months in mirth & banquetting , and fill themselues with all varietie of delights : but at vnawares , they end theyr dayes in sorrow ; and die without any hope of the felicitie to come .

Therefore shal not the wicked be able Psal , 1 , 5 , 6 , to stand in iudgement , nor sinners in the assemblie of the righteous : for the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous : and the way of the wicked shal perrish .

His owne iniquities shal take the wicked Prou , 5 , 22 , 23. himselfe , and hee shal be holden with the cordes of his owne sinne . Hee shal die for faute of instruction , & goe astray through his great folly .

Lewde things are in his hart : hee imagineth Prou , 6 , 14 , 15 , euil at al times , and raiseth vp contentions . Therefore shal his destruction come hastilie vpon him : & he shal be destroyed suddainly , without recouery .

§. 2.

As for my selfe , ( saith Dauid , ) my feete Psalm , 73. 2 , were almost gone , my steps had wel-neere slipt . For , I fretted at the foolish , when I Psal , 73 , 3 , saw the prosperitie of the wicked .

For , there are no bandes in theyr death , verse , 4 , 5 , but they are lustie and strong . They come into no misfortune like other folke , neyther are they plagued like other men .

Therefore , pride is as a chayne vnto them , verse , 6 , 7 , and crueltie couereth them as a garment . Theyr eyes stand out for fatnes : and they haue more then hart can wish .

They trust in their goods , and boast Psal , 49 , 6 , themselues in the multitude of their riches .

They see that wise men die , and also that Psalm , 49 , 10 , 11 , the ignorant and foolish perrish , and leaue theyr riches for others : Yet they thinke , theyr houses & theyr habitations shall continue for euer : euen from generation to generation , and call theyr landes by theyr names .

Theyr seede [ also , ] is established in their Iob , 21 , 8 , sight with them , and theyr generation before theyr eyes .

Theyr houses are peaceable without verse , 9. feare , and the rodde of God is not vppon them .

Theyr Bullocke gendereth , and fayleth verse , 10 , not : theyr Cowe calueth , and casteth not her calfe .

They sende foorth theyr chyldren by Iob , 21 , 11 , 12 , 13 , flocks , and theyr sonnes leade the daunce . They beare with them Tabrets & Harps , and haue instruments of musicke at theyr pleasure . They spende their dayes in welthines , and suddainely they goe downe to the graue .

They say also vnto God , Depart from Iob , 21 , 14 , 15 , vs : for we desire not the knowledge of thy wayes . Who is the Almighty , that wee should serue him ? and , what profit should we haue , if we should pray vnto him ?

They are licentious , and presumptious Psal , 73 , 8 , 9 , boasters . They sette theyr mouth against heauen : & theyr tongue walketh through the earth .

Loe , these are the wicked : yet prosper Psal , 73 , 12 , they in the world , and haue riches plentifully in possession .

§. 3.

Then thought I , ( saith the Psalmist ) to Psalm , 73 , 16 , 17 , know this ; [ or to vnderstand the reason of thys matter , ] but it was to hard for me ▪ vntill I went into the Sanctuary of God : then vnderstood I the end of these men .

Namely , how the Lord hath sette them verse , 18 , in slipperie places , & casteth them downe into desolation .

Oh howe suddainly doe they consume , Psal , 37 , 19 , perrish , and come to a fearefull end !

Euen as a dreame when one awaketh , so verse , 20. shall God make theyr image to vanish out of the Cittie .

§. 4.

I my selfe ( saith hee ) haue seene the vngodly Psalm. 37. 35 , 36 , in great power , and spreading himselfe like a greene Bay-tree . Yet he passed away , and lo , hee was gone ; and I sought him , but hee could not be found .

Therefore yet a little while , and the wicked Psal. 37. 10. shall not appeare : & thou shalt looke after his place , and he shall not be found .

Doubtlesse , with thine eyes , shalt thou Psal. 91. 8. behold and see the reward of the wicked .

For , the Lord hateth all them that work Psalm. 5. 5. iniquitie .

And his face is against them that doe euil , Psal , 34 , 16 , to cut off their remembrance from the earth .

§. 5.

The wicked ( saith Dauid ) practiseth against Psal. 37. 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , the iust ; & gnasheth vpon him with his teeth : but the Lord shall laugh him to scorne ; for hee seeth that his day is comming . Though he haue drawn his sword , and haue bent his bow , to cast downe , the poore and needy , and to slay such as be of vpright conuersation ; yet shall his sworde goe thorow his owne hart , & his bow shal be broken .

§. 6.

My hart ( saith the Prophet ) sheweth Psal , 36 , 1. mee the wickednes of the vngodly : that there is no feare of GOD before his eyes .

For , hee flattereth himselfe in his owne verse , 3 , 4 , eyes , till his abhominable iniquity be found out . The words of his mouth are vnrighteous , and full of deceit : he hath left off to vnderstand and to doe good .

Hee imagineth mischiefe vpon his bed : Psal , 36 , 5 , hee setteth himselfe vpon a way , that is not good , and doth not abhor to doe euill .

He is so proude that hee seeketh not for Psal , 10 , 4 , 5 , GOD : hee thinketh alwayes , There is no God . His wayes alway prosper ; and the iudgements of the Lord are hie aboue his sight : therefore defieth he all his enemies .

He saith in his hart , I shall neuer be moued , Psal , 10 , 6 , 7 , nor be in any danger . His mouth is ful of cursing , deceit , and fraude : vnder his tongue is misciefe and iniquity .

Hee sitteth lurking in the theeuish corners Psal , 10 , 8 , 9 , of the streets ; and in the secrete places doth he priuily murther the innocent . His eyes are bent against the poore . Hee lyeth in waite secretly : euen as a Lyon , so lurketh hee in his denne , that hee may spoyle the poore .

And heapes of them doe fall by his might . Psal , 10 , 10 , 11. Hee hath [ also , ] saide in his hart , Tush , God hath forgotten : hee hideth away his face , and will neuer see this .

Notwithstanding : God hath seene al his Psal , 10 , 14 , dooings . For hee [ from whose eyes no secrete can be hid , ] beholdeth mischiefe and wrong : that hee may take the matter into his hands .

And , when hee maketh inquisition for Psal , 9 , 12 , blood , hee remembreth it ; and forgetteth not the complaint of the poore .

But will recompence the vngodly , according Psal , 94 , 23 , to theyr vngodlines ; and destroy them in theyr owne malice . Yea , the Lord our God shall destroy them .

For it is a righteous thing with him , to 2 , Thes. 1 , 6 , recompence tribulation to them that trouble his seruaunts .

§. 7.

And though ( as Salomon saith , ) hand Prou , 11 , 21 ioyne in hand , yet shall not the vngodly escape vnpunished .

But ] his mischiefe shall returne vpon his Psal , 7 , 16 , owne head ; and his crueltie shall fall vpon his owne pate .

For the right hand of the Lord , shall not 2. Esd. 15. 22 spare the wicked , neither shall the sworde cease from them , that shed innocent blood vpon the earth .

§. 8.

Knowest thou not this of old ? and since Iob , 20 , 4 , 5. GOD placed man vpon the earth , ( saith Iob , ) that the reioycing of the wicked is short , and that the ioy of hypocrites is but a moment ?

Though the excellencie of the vngodly Iob , 20 , 6 , 7 , man mount vp to the heauen , & his head reach vnto the clowdes , yet shall he perrish for euer , like his dung : & they which haue seene him , shall say , Where is hee ?

Hee shall flee away as a dreame , & they verse , 8 , shall not finde him : and shall passe away as a vision of the night .

So that the eye which sawe before , shall Iob , 20 , 9 , haue no more sight of him : neither shall his place know him any more .

His children shall be faine to agree with verse , 10. 11. the poore : and his hands shall restore his substance . His bones are full of the sinne of his youth , & it shal lie downe with him in the dust .

§. 9.

The riches that hee hath deuoured , hee Iob , 20. 15 , 16 , 17. shal pa●brake againe : for God shall drawe them out of his belly . He shal suck the gall of Aspes , and the Vipers tongue shall sley him : So that he shall no more see the riuers and brookes of hony and butter .

The things that other men haue laboured verse , 18 , 19 , for , he shal restore againe : & shall not eate them vp . Great trauaile shall he make for riches , but he shal not enioy them . And why ? hee hath oppressed the poore , and not helped them : houses hath hee spoyled , and not builded them .

Surely , hee shal feele no quietnes in his Iob , 20 , 20 , 21. 22 , body : neyther shall hee reserue of that which hee desired . There shal none of his meate [ or substance ] be left : therfore none shal hope for his goods . When he shall be filled with his abundance , hee shall be in paine ; and the hand of all the wicked shall assaile him .

( According to that sentence of Erasmus , Erasmus . where hee sayth : It pleaseth GOD many times , to make one wicked man his instrument , to plague another for his iniquitie . )

Hee shall be about to fill his belly , but God shal send vpon him his fierce wrath : Iob. 20 , 23 , 24 , & shal cause his indignation to raigne ouer him : so that if he flee from the yron weapons , he shal be shot with the steele bow .

§. 10.

Affliction and anguish shall make him Iob , 15 , 24 , afraide : they shal preuaile against him as a King ready to the battaile .

Fearefulnes shal make him afraid on euerie Iob. 18. 11 , side , and shal driue him to his feete .

Though hee dwell in desolate Citties , & Iob. 15 , 28 , 29 , in the houses which no man inhabiteth , but are become heapes of stones , yet shall hee not be rich , neither shall his substance continue , or increase vpon the earth .

All darknes , [ or , all feare and sorrowe , ] Iob , 20 , 26 , shall be hidde in his secrete places : the fire that is not blowne shal deuoure him , and that which remaineth in his Tabernacle , shal be destroyed .

Hee shal neuer come out of darknesse : Iob. 15 , 30 , the flame [ of Gods anger ] shall dry vp his branches : and with the blast of Gods mouth hee shall be taken away .

The heauen shal declare his wickednes , Iob. 20 , 27 28. & the earth shall rise vp against him . The increase [ also ] of his house shal passe away : it shall euen perrish & be consumed in the day of the Lords wrath .

§. 11.

Hee beleeueth not that hee erreth in vanitie , Iob. 15 , 31 , 32 , therefore vanitie shall be his recompence . Hee shall perrish before his time be worne out ; and his branch shall not be greene .

God shall destroy him , as the Vine doth verse , 33 , her sower grape : and shal cast him off , as the Oliue doth her flower .

His light shal be quenched , & the spark Iob , 18 , 5 , 6. of his fire shal not burne . The light shal be darke in his dwelling , and his candle shall be put out with him .

The steps of his strength shall be restrained , verse . 7. and his owne counsell shall cast him downe .

For , his feete are taken as it were in a Iob. 18. 8. 9. Net , and hee walketh vppon dangerous snares . The grenne as he goeth , shall catch him by the heele : and ere hee is aware , the theefe shall come vppon him .

§. 12.

Hunger shal be his strength , & destruction Iob , 18 , 12 , 13. shall be ready at his side . It shall deuoure the inner parts of his skin , & the first borne of death shall consume his strength .

His hope shal be rooted out of his dwelling ; Iob. 18. 14. and shal cause him to go to the King of feare .

Feare shal dwell in his house because it is verse , 15. 16. not his : and brimstone shall be scattered vppon his habitation . His rootes shall be dried vp beneath , and aboue , all his branches shal be cut downe .

His remembrance shall perrish from the Iob. 18. 17 , 18 , earth , and hee shall haue no name in the streete . They shall driue him out of the light vnto darknes , and chase him cleane out of the world .

Hee shal neyther haue sonne nor Nephew verse . 19. among his people , nor any posteritie left in his dwellings .

§. 13.

If his chyldren be in great number , the Iob. 27. 14 , 15 , sword shall destroy them : and his posteritie shall not be satisfied with breade . His remnant shal be buried in death , and his widowes shal not weepe .

Though hee should heape vp siluer as verse , 16. 17. the dust , and prepare rayment as the clay ; hee may prepare it , but the iust shall put it on , and the innocent shal deuide the siluer .

His confidence also shall be cut off , and Iob. 8 , 14. his trust shal be as the house of a Spyder .

He shall leane vpon his house , but it shal Iob , 8 , 15 , not stand : hee shal hold fast by it , yet shall it not endure .

Hee shall see with his eyes , his owne destruction Iob , 21 , 20 , and misery approching : and hee shall bee made to drinke of the fearefull wrath of the Almightie .

Destruction shall take hold vpon him , as Iob , 27 , 20 , 21 , 22 , a fierce water flood ; & a tempest shall take him away by night . A vehement East-winde shall carry him hence : and a mightie storme shal pluck him out of his place . It shall rush vpon him , and not spare him , though he would faine flee from the force thereof .

This is the portion that the wicked man Iob. 27 , 13 , shall haue from God , and the heritage that tyrants shall receiue of the Almighty .

For , the most High hateth the wicked , Ecclus , 12 , 6. and will repay vengeance vnto the vngodly : hee also keepeth them , against the day of horrible vengeance .

§. 14.

In the hand of the Lord , ( saith Dauid , ) Psal , 75. 8. there is a cup , and the wine therein is red ; it is full mixt , and hee powreth out of the same : Surely , all the wicked of the earth , shall wring out and drinke the dregges thereof .

God shall raine vppon them snares , fire , Psalm , 11 , 6 , and brimstone , and stormie tempest : thys shal be the portion of their cup to drink .

God shal bring them downe , into the pit Psal. 55. 23 , of corruption : the blood-thirsty & deceitfull men , shall not liue halfe their dayes .

They shall be euen as stubble before the Iob , 21. 18. winde : and as the chaffe that the storme carrieth away .

They shall be as the grasse growing vppon Psal , 129 , 6 , the house toppes , which withereth afore it commeth forth .

And , as the whirle-winde that speedilie Prou. 10 , 25. passeth , so shall the vngodly be no more .

For , God will take vengeance on his aduersaries : Nahum . 1 , 2 , and hee reserueth wrath for his enemies .

Hee will surely wounde the head of his Psal. 68 , 21 , enemies : and the hearie pate of him that walketh in his sinnes .

So that the vngodly , shal haue the yeeres Prou. 10. 27 of theyr life diminished .

And all the workers of iniquitie shall be Psalm 92. 9. destroyed .

They shall be destroyed ( as the Psalmist Psal. 92 , 7 , saith ) for euer .

And there shall be no end of plagues to the euill man .

§. 15.

Woe vnto them [ therfore ] that sinne , 2 , Esdr. 15 , 24 , 25 , and keepe not the commaundements of GOD : for , the Lord himselfe hath promised , that he will not spare them .

Woe vnto them that imagine iniquitie , Micah , 2 , 1. and deuise wickednesse vppon theyr beddes : thinking to performe the same when it is day-light , because their hands haue power .

Woe vnto them that ioyne house to Esay , 5 , 8 , house ; and lay fielde to fielde ; till there be no place left by them , for the poore to dwell in .

Woe vnto them that drawe iniquitie Esay , 5 , 18 , with cordes of vanitie : and sinne as with cart ropes .

Woe vnto them that are wise in theyr Esay . 5 , 21 , owne eyes , & prudent in their own sight .

Woe vnto them that are bounde with 2. Esd. 16 , 68 , theyr sinnes , and couered with theyr iniquities , as a fielde is hedged in with bushes , and the path thereof couered with thornes , whereby no man may trauaile .

Woe vnto them that speake good of Esay , 5 , 20 , euill , and euill of good : which put darkenesse for light , and light for darkenes : that put bitter for sweet , and sweet for sower .

Woe vnto them that excell in gluttony Esay , 5 , 22 , 23 , and drunkennes : which iustifie the wicked for a reward , and take away the righteousnes of the righteous from them .

For , as the flame of fire deuoureth the Esay . 5. 24. stubble , & as the chaffe is consumed of the flame , so shal theyr roote be as rottennesse , and theyr blossome shall vanish away like dust : because they haue cast off the Lawe of the Lord of hostes , and contemned the word of the holie one of Israell .

§. 16.

There is a way ( saith Salomon , ) which Prou. 14. 12 13. seemeth right to a man : but the issues therof are the wayes of death : Euen in laughing the hart is sorrowfull , and the ende of that mirth is heauinesse .

Doubtlesse , the Wiseman in this speech of his , meaneth the way of worldly pleasures . Where-into * * Euagoras . the wicked beeing once entred , they are daily so ledde away with the vaine delights thereof : that they neuer regard godlines , till the deceits of iniquitie bring them to destruction .

For , the end of all worldly pleasure , is Theophilact . sorrow and paine .

And , the stipend or reward of sinne , Rom , 6. 23 , is death .

Not the death of the body onely , for that Rauisius . ( as all men knowes ) is naturall and ordinarie ; but the death , both of body and soule , which is endlesse and eternall .

§. 17.

Through the sundry subtilties of sinne , Origen . and the contempt of Gods law , ( saith Origen , ) many thousands in this world , passe after death to perpetuall perdition .

And , who-soeuer refuseth to followe Virgilius . righteousnesse , shall for his recompence , dwell with confusion .

For , destruction shall be to the workers Prou. 21. 15 of iniquitie .

And the man that wandereth out of the Prou , 21 , 16 way of wisedome , shall remaine in the congregation of the dead .

§. 18.

The hart that is obstinate , shall be laden Ecclus , 3. 29. with sorrowes : and the wicked man shall heape sinne vpon sinne .

Because he hath refused knowledge , hee Hosea . 4. 6. shall be refused of the Lord .

And , for that he hath left the way of vnderstanding Gueuara . and life : he shal fal into diuers dangers , by the deceits of false doctrine .

For , errour and darknesse are appoynted Ecclus. 11 , 16 for sinners .

And they that worke wickednes , shal be Ecclus , 27. 27 wrapped in euils .

§. 19.

Inquisition , ( saith the Wiseman ) shall be Wisd , 1 , 9 , made for the thoughts of the vngodly , & the sounde of his wordes shall come vnto God for the correction of his iniquities .

The wicked deedes which he hath done , Bernard . shall stand vp to declare against him : and the reward of his vnrighteousnes , shall be powred vppon him .

His vnquiet conscience shal be his chiefest Pet. Lomb. accuser : and the sinne of his owne impietie , shall bee most forward to conuict him .

§. 20.

The vngodly shall be punished according Wisd. 3. 10. to theyr imaginations for they haue despised the righteous , and forsaken the Lord .

They haue thought euill in theyr harts Wisd , 2 , 21. 22. against the godly , and haue gone astray through theyr owne folly : for theyr owne wickednesse hath blinded them : and they doe not vnderstand the misteries of God , neither hope they for the reward of righteousnes : nor can discerne the honour of the soules that are faultlesse .

The way that they walke , is as the darknes : Prou. 4. 19 , they know not wherein they shal fall .

They meete with darknes , euen in the Iob. 5. 14. day time : and grope at noone day , as in the night .

The hope that they haue , is indignation . Prou. 11 , 23 Prou , 13. 21 Psal. 112. 10 * Affliction dooth followe them . * And theyr desire shall perrish .

Theyr hope is a false hope . Like vnto the hope of * Siseras mother : who pleasantly Iudges . 5. 28 29. 30. perswaded herselfe , that her Sonne was gorgiously attyred in roabes of needle worke ; and very busie ( after the battell ) in deuiding the spoyles of Israel ; when hee lay sencelesly sleeping in * Iaels tent , with Iudges . 4. 21 a nayle driuen through his forehead .

Or , like the hope of Haman : * Who Ester ▪ 6 , 6 , 7. 8. 9. &c. proudly thought in his hart , that King Ahashuerosh would doe honour to no man , more then to him : when contrariwise , all the glory which he wisht vnto himselfe , he was commaunded to shew vnto Mordeca● ; ( the man , whom aboue all men els he most hated , ) and * the euill death , which hee Ester . 7 , 10. prepared for the same man , was his owne latter ending .

§. 21.

All iniquitie , ( saith Sirach ) is as a double Ecclus. 21. 3. edged sword , the wounds whereof cannot be healed .

Dishonour , shame , euill death , & damnation , Pa●●●ius . waite vpon pride , enuie , murther , and such other like vices .

And , the match that kindleth against Cicero . vngodly people the fierce wrath of God , is their owne wilful persisting in sinne and iniquitie .

For , as theyr harts wexe harder and harder , Arnobius . through theyr custome in sinning , & daily more and more impenitent , so they hourely heape vp displeasure vnto themselues , against the day of Gods wrath , and the terrible appearing of his iust iudgement .

§. 22.

Oh howe vnhappy then are the liues of Constantius . all those men , that leaue vertue to followe vice ; and forsake wisedome , to embrace wickednesse !

For they thereby make theyr mindes vnapt Plotinu● . to receiue any goodnes , and clog theyr consciences with many molestations .

They liue alwaies doubtfull of their own Pet. Lomb. safetie in the day time : and theyr sleepe is vnquiet , and full of feares in the night .

The morning is euen to them , as the Iob. 24. 17. shadow of death .

And they buy hell , dearer then good Gregory . men buy heauen .

§. 23.

They are ready to flee , when none pursueth Prou. 28 , 1. them .

And are very often dreading , that some P●t . Mart. deserued danger will suddainely fall vpon them .

The reason is , for that all wickednes in it Orosius . selfe is full of feare .

And the conscience that is touched , doth Wisd. 17 , 10 alwayes fore-cast cruell things .

For , there can be no greater trouble to Tremelius . the vngodly in this lyfe , then the inward vexations of their own guiltie conscience .

The testimony whereof , is as a thousand Marlorate . witnesses against them : and the doome of it , is euerlasting damnation .

Insomuch , that the consciences of the Mart. Bucer . wicked , which are wounded & ouer-burdened with the weight of sinne , doe most certainly feele , euen in thys world , part of hell torments .

And , many times the sting or gnawing Erasmus . worme thereof , enforceth the miserable offender , cleane to remooue all his confidence from the comfort of Gods mercie , and wretchedly to end his dayes in anguish and desperation .

For , saluation is farre from the vngodlie , Psalm. 119. 155 , because they seeke not the statutes of the Almightie .

But ceaselesse sorrowes , and perpetuall Cyprian . paines continually doe attende them : as a iust reward ordained of GOD for theyr loue of vnrighteousnes , & carelesse neglecting the knowledge of his waies .

For , they that plow iniquitie , and sowe Iob. 4. 8. wickednes , shall reape the same .

And such as forsake the Lord , shall bee Esay . 1. 28. consumed .

§. 24.

These few , & many moe such like speeches ( to expresse the wrath of God against the wicked ) are set downe , not onely in the sacred Scriptures , but also in the works of diuers worthy Writers : which being rightly considered , wee may well be mooued at the remembrance thereof , to say with Origen : * Farre better were it for the vngodly , Origen . that they had neuer beene at all , then to be borne into the world , and not liue as they should doe .

For , besides all the former places to this purpose already recited , wee finde it further ( to the terrour of the vnrighteous ) by seueral sentences affirmed : * That the vngodly Wisd. 14. 9. man , and his vngodlines , are both alike hated of God .

And that a wicked mans life is his soules Chrisostome . death .

That , hee that committeth sinne , is of 1. Ioh. 3. 8. the deuill .

And the vengeance belonging to the Ecclus. 7. 17. vnrighteous , is fire and wormes .

That , hee which worketh wickednesse , Ecclus. 27. 27 shal be wrapped in euills , & shal not know from whence they come vnto him .

That , malice shall sley the vngodly man , Psal. 34. 21. and they that hate the righteous , shall perrish .

That , the congregation of the wicked , Ecclus. 21. 9. is like towe wrapped together , and theyr end is a flame of sire to destroy them .

That , the transgression of a wicked man , Prou. 29. 6. is his snare .

And he that soweth iniquitie , shall reape Prou. 22. 8. affliction .

That , hee which diggeth a pit , shall fall Ecclus. 27. 26 therein : and he that layeth a snare for another , shal be taken in it himselfe .

That , the way of the vngodly , is made Ecclus. 21 , 10 plaine with stones : but at the end thereof , is hell , darknes , and paines .

That , as the dry ground and heate consume Iob. 24. 19 , the snow waters , so shal the graue the sinners .

That , when the vngodly man dyeth his Prou. 11. 7. hope perrisheth , & the confidence of the wicked shal come to nought .

That , although men mourne for theyr Eccus . 41. 11. body , yet shall the wicked name of the vngodly be put out .

That , their portion shall be cursed in the Iob. 24. 18. earth .

Theyr name shall rotte . Prou. 10 , 7. Iob. 8. 22. Prou. 24. 22 Prou. 14 , 11 Iob , 24. 20.

Theyr dwelling places shal not remaine .

Theyr destruction shal come suddenly .

Theyr houses shal be destroyed .

And they themselues shall be no more remembred .

That , hee that is wicked , shall fall in his Prou. 11. 5. owne wickednes .

And hee that transgresseth , shall be taken Prou. 11 , 6. in the sinne of his transgression .

That , the curse of God , is in the habitation Prou , 3 , 33. of the vngodly .

And the vnrighteous mans substance Ecclus , 40 , 13 shall be dryed vp like a riuer .

That , wicked men , wanting the feare of Boetius . GOD , are hunted of euill , to theyr owne ouerthrow and destruction .

That , as vnto the good , theyr goodnesse Hermes . is a reward , so vnto the wicked theyr owne euill is a punishment .

That , the eyes of the wicked shall fayle , Iob , 11 , 20 , theyr refuge shall perrish , and theyr hope shal be sorrow of minde .

That , such as seeke to get wealth by any Plato . wicked meanes , shall possesse there-with more vnquietnes then profit : and the substance that by sinne is attained , shall by some misfortune be consumed .

That , the robbery of the vnrighteous Prou. 21 , 7 , shall destroy them .

And the riches of the vngodly , are layde Prou , 13 , 22 , vp for th 〈…〉 st.

That , ●●e Lord will be a swift witnesse Mala , 3 , 5 , against the Southsayers , and against the adulterers , and against false swearers , and against those that wrongfully keepe backe the hyrelings wages , and vexe the widow , and the fatherlesse , and oppresse the stranger , and feare not to offend him .

That , the vngodly are kept vnto the day Iob , 20 , 30 , of destruction , and shall be brought forth to the day of wrath .

That , for vnrighteousnes , & other mischieuous Socrates . deedes , the soules of the vngodly shall ( after this life ) be greeuously tormented in hell .

That , when the vngodly shall say , Peace , 1 , Thes , 5 , 3 , and safetie : then shall come vppon them suddaine destruction ; as the trauaile vpon a woman with childe , and they shall not escape .

That , the wicked haue no gaine by the Cyprian . death of Christ , but all the benefites ( comming to mankinde by his Passion , ) which they haue despised : doe most iustly condemne them .

That , outwardly they receiue the Sacrament Augustine . of Christes body and blood , but the thing it selfe , inwardly in theyr harts , they haue not : and therefore they eate & drink thevr owne iudgement .

That , the wicked , [ by reason of their vnquiet Esay , 57 , 20 , conscience which alwaies tormenteth them , ] are like the raging Sea , that cannot rest : whose waters cast vp mire and dyrt .

And the Lord himselfe hath said it , that Esay . 48 , 22 , there is no peace to the vngodly person .

That , the Lord hath made all things for Prou , 16 , 4 , his owne sake : yea , euen the wicked for the day of euill .

And as ] all that is of the earth , shal turne Ecclus , 41 , 10 to earth againe : so the vngodly goe from the curse to destruction .

That , as GOD greatly delighteth in the Hillarius . louers of his Law ; so hee highly contemneth the peticions of the disobedient .

That , the chyldren of the vngodly , are Ecclus , 41 , 5 , abhominable chyldren .

And the of-spring of the vnrighteous , Ecclus. 40. 15 shall not obtaine many branches .

That , God will lay vp the sorrow of the Iob , 21 , 19 , [ wicked ] father for his children .

And the posteritie of the vngodly generation Ecclus. 41 , 6. shall haue a perpetuall shame .

That , if the vnrighteous , happen to liue Pet. Ramus . long , theyr sorrowes at theyr death shall be the greater .

And according to the number of theyr Mar. Bu●er . sinnes here on earth , such shal be the quantitie of theyr punishments in hell .

That , as GOD vnto the godly is most Plotinus . sweet , gentle , and louing : so vnto the wicked , proude , and disobedient ; hee is verie seuere , sharpe , and rough : specially appearing and felt for euer vpon them , in the terrible day of damnation and vengeance .

That , as euerlasting felicitie doth quickly Lactantius . follow the godly , after the short race of theyr ●orldly miserie : so euerlasting wretchednes , speedily followeth the vngodly , after the short race of their earthly felicitie .

That , all such as for the multitude of theyr sinnes and wickednes are hopelesse , Vincentius . and such as haue committed thefts , murders , adulteries ; or any other the like offences : the iustice of GOD , and theyr owne deserts , damne them after thys lyfe ended , vnto euerlasting destruction ; from the which they shall neuer be deliuered .

§. 25.

Woe [ therefore ] be vnto you , ô yee Ecclus , 41 , 8. 9. vngodly , which haue forsaken the Law of the most high God ; for , though you increase , yet shall you perrish . If ye be borne , ye shall be borne to cursing : if ye die , the curse shal be your portion .

For , the fearefull and vnbeleeuing , the abhominable and murtherers , the whoremongers , Reue , 21 , 8 , and sorcerers , the idolaters & all lyers ; shall haue theyr part in the Lake which burneth with fire and brimstone , which is the second death .

Where , there shall be weeping & gna●ning Math , 25 , 30 of teeth .

Where , theyr worme dyeth not , and Mark , 9 , 44 , the fire neuer goeth out .

For , the breath of the Lord , like a Riuer Esay , 30 , 33 , of brimstone doth kindle it .

And the smoake of their torment , shall Reue , 14 , 11 ascend euermore : and they shall haue no rest , day nor night .

§. 26.

Good men , ( saith Lactantius , ) haue Lactantius . theyr hell in thys World , that they may knowe there is a heauen after death to reward the vertuous : but wicked men escape torments in this life , because they shal find there is a iudgement to come , wherein all vnrighteous people sha● be punished , according to the measure of their iniquities .

For , eternall death is the reward of all Gregory . wickednes ; & hell is the place of punishment , which God hath appointed for reprobates after this life .

So that , when the godly shall haue their Pa●●●iu● . full entrance and beginning to euerlasting blessednes , and make theyr happy change from mortalitie to immortalitie ; and leaue the corruptible drosse of this life , for treasures incorruptible : for golde , glory ; for siluer , solace without end ; for vaine apparrell , roabes royall ; for earthly houses , eternal pallaces ; with mirth immeasurable , pleasure without paine , and felicitie endlesse : then also shall the estate of the wicked be most lamentable ; then shall hastilie come vpon them theyr iust reward of vengeance ; then shall they , with the end of this worlds vaine felicitie , enter into eternall damnation and miserie ; then shal they cry , woe , woe , woe , vnto themselues , with endlesse sorrow , for theyr carelesse life , & worldly securitie .

§. 27.

Then , ( saith the Lorde , ) shall they haue 2 , Esdr , 9 , 9 , pitty of themselues which now haue abused my waies : and they that haue cast them out despightfully , shall dwell in paines .

For , such as in theyr life haue receiued benefites and haue not knowne mee , but 2 , Esd , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , haue abhorred my lawes , while they were yet in libertie , and when they had yet leysure of amendement , and would not vnderstand but despised it ; they must be taught it after death by payne .

§. 28.

Then shal the wicked , [ seeing the righteous , whom in this life they contemned , receiued into Gods kingdome , and themselues kept out , ] be enforced through inward anguish , to breake foorth into this following complaint , saying : * Wee haue Wisd , 5. 6 , erred from the way of truth , the light of righteousnes hath not shined vnto vs , and the sunne of vnderstanding rose not vpon vs . We haue wearied our selues in the way Wisd. 5. 7. of wickednes & destruction , and we haue gone through dangerous waies : but as for the way of the Lord , we haue not knowne it .

What good hath our pride done vnto Wisd , 5 , 8 , 9 vs ? or what profit hath the pompe of riches brought vs ? All those things are passed away like a shadowe , and as a messenger that rideth post .

As a ship that passeth ouer the waues of verse , 10. the water , which when it is gone by , the trace thereof cannot be found , neyther the path of it in the floods .

Or as a byrd that flieth thorow the ayre , verse , 11 , and no man can see any token of her passage , but onely heare the noyse of her winges , beating the light winde , parting the ayre through the vehemencie of her going , and fleeth on shaking her winges , whereas afterward no token of her way can be found .

Or as when an arrowe is shot at a mark , verse , 12 , it parteth the ayre , which immediatly commeth together againe , so that a man cannot knowe where it went thorowe .

Euen so wee , as soone as we were borne , verse , 13 , wee began to draw to our end , and haue shewed no token of vertue , but are consumed in our owne wickednes . Such words , ( saith Salomon ) shal they that haue sinned , speake in hell .

Where , theyr complaints shall be bootelesse , Pet. Mar. and theyr repentance vnprofitable .

For , theyr punishment shal be endlesse , Phil. Mel. and theyr paynes vnceaseable .

§. 29.

And , to the end ( saith S. Gregory , ) that Gregory . the damned wretches in hell , may be the more seuerely punished , for their obstinacy and wicked deeds done in this world , there shall all the miseries and torments that possibly may be deuised , be heaped together vpon them .

There shal be fire vnquenchable , colde Gregory . intollerable , the worme of conscience that cannot die , and a most horrible stench that cannot be abidden . There shal be palpable darknes , whyps of tormentors , visions of foule fiendes and vglie deuils , confusion of sinnes , and desperation of all goodnes .

There , they shal haue teares in their eyes , Fulgentius . gnashing in theyr teeth , stinch in theyr nostrils , howling in their mouthes , mourning in theyr throats , terror in their eares , bonds and manicles vpon theyr hands and feete : and eternall fire burning all theyr parts and members .

Yea , such a fire , so stored with cruelty & torment , ( through the wonderfull heate & vehement strength therof , ) that , as S. Augustine Augustine . saith , there is as much difference betweene naturall fire , and the fire of hell , as there is betweene painted fire on a wall , and the ordinary fire which we daily vse .

§. 30.

Besides ; the rigour of their paine in that Bullenger . tormenting fire , shall be so great , that despising life , which all so deerely loue , they shall earnestly desire death , which all men hate , but it shal not come at them , nor neere them .

For , all helpe shal be wanting : the gate Cassianus . of Gods mercy shall be shut against them : and the righteous , which then shall behold them in their restlesse torments , shall neuer be mooued thereat to any pitty or compassion ; but rather reioyce the more at theyr destruction , and greatly giue thankes vnto God , for his vpright iustice shewed vpon them .

Also ; that they may bee the more certainly Granado . assured , that this horrible fire in hell , shall neuer be quenched , the deuils haue alwayes in charge to blow the same , and to keepe it continually burning : who , as they be immortall , so shall they neuer cease , or be wearie of blowing therein .

And though they should be weary , yet is Granado . there the blast of the Almightie and euerliuing GOD to maintaine it , which shal neuer be wearie .

§. 31.

Rightly therefore is hell termed the hold ●rasmus . of horrour , distresse , and misery : and the Cell of torment , griefe , and vexation .

Wherein , nothing els is to be heard , but Cassi●dorus . onely the furious raging of hellish tormentors , and the ruthfull lamentations of damned persons .

Where , all hope of ease and comfort , for Gregory . euer is exempted ; & no redemption from thence may be expected .

For , after the whole company of most Anselmus . miserable damned wretches , haue there suffered torments both in soule and bodie for their sinnes , as many thousand yeres , as there haue been dayes since the beginning of the world , or as there be drops of water in the deepest Sea , yet shall they then ( notwithstanding ) haue as farre to the ende of theyr punishment , as they had the first day of theyr entrance into those greeuous calamities . And , as long as Almighty God shall be GOD , which is for euer and euer , world without end , so long shall the wicked burne in the tormenting lake of fire & brimstone , without mittigation of theyr miseries , hope of heauenly fauour , or likelihood of any releasement .

From the which pit of endlesse perdition , and stinking dungion of eternall darknesse , hee that is the Father of mercies , and God of euerlasting glory , deliuer all those that belong vnto him , for his beloued Sonne Iesus Christ his sake , our only Lord and Sauiour . Amen .

FINIS . ¶ Behold howe I haue not laboured for my selfe onely , but for all them that seeke wisedome . Ecclus. 24. 39.

Vnto God alone , be giuen all praise , honour , & glory .