The sinners sanctuary. By Thomas Packer, his Majesties servant

THE SINNERS Conversion .

O Israel , Hos. 14.1 . returne unto the Lord thy God ; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity .

Returne unto mee , Malac. 3.7 and I will returne unto you , saith the Lord of Hosts .

Our conversion will alwaies finde him prepared . August .

Humble your selves therefore under the mighty hand of God , Iam. 4.10 . that hee may exalt you in due time .

Lyra in Eph. Humility is the foundation of the spirituall building .

Iam. 4.8 . Draw nigh to God , and he will draw nigh to you .

Greg. Naz. O the readinesse of Gods gratious love ! O the easinesse of his exorable reconcilement !

Perkins . A man beginning to bee converted , is at that instant the childe of God .

Idem . Inward motions , and inclinations of Gods Spirit , are the materiall beginning of a Sinners conversion .

Phil. 3.13 . For it is God that worketh in you , both to will , and to doe , of his good pleasure .

Luke 15. The prodigall son , when he came to himselfe , said : I will arise , and goe to my father , and will say unto him ; Father , I have sinned against Heaven , and before thee ;

And am no more worthy to be called thy sonne , Ibidem . make me as one of thy hired servants .

And he arose , Ibidem . and came to his father . But when he was yet a great way off , his father saw him , and had compassion , and ran , and fell on his neck , and kissed him .

Though a man come to the height of vice , Chrysost. and yet be willing to returne into the way of vertue , God receiveth , and embraceth him willingly .

None ought therefore to despaire of pardon , Greg. if about the end of their life they turne to repentance .

And although our conversion be good in our last sicknesse ; yet is that better , Idem . which is performed long before our death ; that wee may with more security passe out of this world .

Hieron . God grant the sinner may be as soone turned to repentance , as the Lord is ready to change his determined judgement .

Ezech. 33. Turne yee , turne ye from your evill waies ; for why will ye dye , O house of Israel ?

Lam. 15. Turne thou us unto thee , O Lord , and wee shall bee turned .

His godly desire .

Psal. 42. AS the Hart panteth after the water brookes , so panteth my soule after thee , O God .

84. My soule longeth ; yea , even fainteth for the Courts of the Lord : My heart , and my flesh crieth out for the living God .

The more earnestly God is desired of us , Gregor. the more sweetly is hee delighted in us .

Our desires doe sound more powerfully in the secretest eares of God , Idem . than our words .

Hee that searcheth the heart , Rom. 8. knoweth what is the mind of the spirit ; because he maketh intercession for the Saints , according to the will of God .

God hath annexed a promise of blessednesse , Perkins . and life everlasting to the desire of grace .

Blessed are they which doe hunger , Mat 5. and thirst after righteousnesse ; for they shall be filled .

August . The whole life of a good Christian is an holy will and desire .

Bradford . God hath given thee a penitent , and beleeving heart , that is , an heart which desireth to repent , and beleeve ; for such an one is taken of him for a penitent and beleeving heart , he accepting the will for the deed .

2 Cor. 8. For if there bee first a willing mind , it is accepted according to that a man hath , and not according to that a man hath not .

K●mnit . When I have a good desire ( though it doth scarcely shew it self in some little , & slender sigh ) I must be assured that the Spirit of God is present , and worketh his good worke .

He will fulfill the desire of them that feare him , Psal. 145. he will also heare their cry , and save them .

His comming unto God .

HEe that commeth unto God , Hebr. 11. must beleeve that he is , and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seeke him .

Let us draw neere with a true heart , 10. in full assurance of faith .

In Christ we have boldnes , Ephes. 3. and accesse , with confidence by the faith of him .

The first comming to God , Hom. de fi● is through faith , whereby we be justified before him .

For the faith of the Catholike Religion , Chrysost. is the light of the soule ; the doore of life ; the foundation of eternall salvation .

Aug. Without it , no man can come neere the number of the sons of God ; without it , all the endevour of man is void .

Gal. 3. For ye are all the children of God by Faith in Christ Jesus .

Beda . It commeth not from the wisdome of eloquent words ; but from the gift of the heavenly calling .

Phil. 1. For unto you it is given , in the behalfe of CHRIST , not onely to beleeve on him ; but also to suffer for his sake .

Mark . 1● . When the Scribe said , that to love GOD with all the heart , and with all the understanding , and with all the soule , and with all the strength ; And to love his neighbour as himselfe , is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices :

Jesus said unto him , Ibid. thou art not farre from the Kingdome of heaven .

If thy heart can onely sobbe unto GOD , despaire not , Knox. thou art not destitute of Faith ; for that onely sobbe is an acceptable Sacrifice unto GOD.

The Faith which the Scripture commendss is nothing else , but , Ferus . To trust in the free mercy of GOD.

Come unto mee all yee that labour , Mat. 11. and are heavie laden ; and I will give you rest .

Incline your eare , Isa. 55. and come unto mee ; heare , and your soule shall live : and I will make an everlasting covenant with you , even the sure mercies of David .

His Repentance .

2 Pet. 3. THe Lord is long suffering to us ward , not willing that any should perish ; but that all should come to repentance .

Act. 3. Repent ye therfore , and be converted , that your sinnes may be blotted out .

Glos . ord. Repentance is a bewayling of our former sins , and a care not to commit the like againe .

Chrysost. God never despiseth repentance , if it bee offered unto him intirely and simply .

Hieron . For the Lord respecteth not the length of time ; but considereth the upright affection of him that repenteth .

When we feele the burthen of our sins , Vdall . and be grieved in heart for them , it is the worke of the holy Ghost , and in time will bring forth fruit worthy of repentance .

There are foure parts of true repentance . Hom. de poenit .

Contrition , which is an unfained sorrow conceived in the heart for our sinnes committed .

Confession , which is an humble and unfained acknowledging of our sins unto God .

Faith whereby we stedfastly beleeve , that God , for his Sonne Christ Jesus sake , will forgive us all our iniquities .

Amendment of life , which is , to become new creatures , and to bring forth fruits worthy of repentance .

Aug. Neither is it sufficient to repentance , to change our manners into better , and to depart from our evill waies ; unlesse GOD be satisfied for our sins past , by the sorrow of repentance , by the groane of humility , by the sacrifice of a contrite heart , Almes deeds accompanying .

Chrysost. Not to bee grieved for thy sins , doth more displease God , and provoke his anger , than the sinne which before thou diddest commit .

Ioel 2. Therfore now also saith the Lord ; Turne ye even to me , with all your heart , and with fasting , and with weeping , and with mourning .

Ibidem . And rent your heart , and not your garments , and turne unto the LORD your GOD ; for he is gratious , and mercifull , slow to anger , and of great kindnesse .

When thou so repentest , Aug. that thy soule hath a bitter taste of that , which before was pleasant in thy life ; and what before was delightfull to the body , the same tormenteth thee in thine heart , even now dost thou lament , and mourne before GOD.

If a man be never so great a sinner , Latimer . yet if he have true repentance , with faith , and hope in GODS mercy , he shall be forgiven .

GODS mercy hath no limits at all ; Chrysost. if any doe call for helpe , there is one that will heare readily ; If any doe repent , there is one that will shew mercy .

Lyra moral . As the Palme tree , which is rugged in the stocke ; and hath pleasant fruit in the top ; even so a righteous man beginneth in the roughnesse of repentance , and endeth in the sweetnesse of heavenly comfort .

Hom de poenit . Let us therefore repent for straying from so good a Lord ; let us confesse our unworthinesse before him ; but yet let us trust in Gods free mercy , for Christ Jesus sake , for the pardon of our sins .

Gregor. For Gods mercy doth helpe those who repent in this world ; but in that which is to come , we doe not repent , but give account of our works .

Rom. 2. Despisest thou the riches of his goodnesse , and forbearance , and long suffering , not knowing that the goodnesse of God leadeth thee to repentance ?

His Confession .

HE that covereth his sins , Prov. 28. shall not prosper , but who so confesseth , and forsaketh them shall have mercie .

Confesse thy sinnes before God , Chrysost. and declare thine offences with prayer to the true Judge ; not with thy tongue , but with remembrance of thy conscience .

That confession delivereth from death , Ambr. which is made by repentance .

David said unto the Lord , 2 Sam. 24. I have sinned greatly in that I have done : And now I beseech thee , O Lord , take away the iniquity of thy servant , for I have done foolishly .

Basil . I doe not confesse with my lips , that I may manifest my selfe to many ; but inwardly in my very heart , shutting mine eyes , to thee alone , that seest the things that are in secret , do I shew my groanes , roaring within my selfe : for the groanes of mine heart , and the lamentations sent to thee , my God , from the depth of my soule , suffice for a confession .

Hom. de poenit . This is the chiefest , and most principall Confession , that in the Scriptures , and Word of God , wee are bidden to make ; and without the which , we shall never obtaine pardon , and forgivenesse of our sins .

Bernard . Without this Confession , the righteous man is judged unthankfull , and the sinner reputed a dead man Ther●f●re Conf ssion is the way of the sinner , and neverthelesse becommeth the righteous .

Lord be mercifull unto me , Psal. 41. heale my soule , for I have sinned against thee .

If any say , I have sinned , Iob 33. and perverted that which was right , and it profited mee not ;

He will deliver his soule from going into the pit , Ibidem . and his life shall see the light .

If we will with a sorrowfull , Hom. de poenit . and contrite heart , make an unfeined confession of our sins unto God , he will freely forgive them , and put all our wickednesse out of his remembrance .

Ibid. I doe not say , but that if any do finde themselves troubled in conscience , they may repaire to their learned Curat , or Pastor , or to some other godly learned man , and shew the trouble , & doubt of their conscience to him , that they may receive at his hand the comfortable salve of Gods word .

Hom. de poenit . But it is against the true Christian liberty , that any man should be bound to the numbering of his sinnes , as hath beene used heretofore , in the time of blindnesse , and ignorance .

Bellar. Calvin admitteth of private confession unto the Pastor , when any is afflicted in his conscience , and shall need anothers helpe : Yet with this moderation , that this confession bee free , and not exacted ; and not injoyning a rehearsall of all particular sins .

Let us with a true and contrite heart , Hom de ●oenit . use that kind of confession , which God hath commanded in his word .

If we confesse our sins , 1 Ioh. 1. he is faithfull , and just , to forgive us our sins ; and to cleanse us from all unrighteousnesse .

His Absolution .

WHo can forgive sins , Mark . 2.7 . but God onely ?

The Son of Man hath power upon earth to forgive sins . 10.

He will purge your conscience from dead workes , Heb. 9.14 . to serve the living God .

For this is not an humane Ambros . worke , neither is the holy Ghost given by man ; but be●ng called upon by the Priest , is bestowed by God ; wherin the gift is Gods , the ministery is the Priests .

Pet. Lumb . God onely doth remit , and reteine sins ; and yet he hath given unto the Church power of binding , and loosing . But God bindeth , and looseth otherwise than the Church doth : for he by himselfe only remitteth sins , because hee purgeth the soule inwardly from the spot of sin , & freeth it from the depth of eternall death ; which the Church cannot do , but hath power of binding , and loosing , that is , of declaring what sinners are either loosed , or bound .

Chemnit . In absolution God himself , by the ministery of the Gospell , doth remit sins unto all beleevers .

The vertue and effect of remission is not in the Disciples , Cajetan . but in God , who pardoneth .

We account of them , Ambros . as the Ministers of Christ , & Stewards of the Mysteries .

Sins are not loosed or reteined at the pleasure of men ; Aug. but according to the will of God , & praiers of the Church .

To the Lord our God belong mercies , Daniel 9.9 and forgivenesses , though we have rebelled against him .

Delivering from sin , Chrysost. he ingrafteth righteousnes ; yea he extinguisheth sin , and suffereth it not to be .

O Lord God Almighty , Ordo Rom. antiq. de Offic divin . pag. 18. edi . Rom. 1591. be mercifull to me a sinner , that I may worthily give thankes unto thee , who hast made me an unworthy one , for thy mercies sake , a Minister of the Priestly Office ; and hast appointed mee a poore , and humble Mediatour , to pray , and make intercession unto our Lord Jesus Christ for sinners , that returne unto repentance : And therefore , O Lord , the Ruler , who wouldest have all men to bee saved , and to come to the knowledge of the truth ; who dost not desire the death of a sinner , but that he may bee reconciled , and live ; Receive my prayer , which I powre forth before the face of thy mercy , for thy servants , and handmaids , who have fled to repentance , and thy mercie .

Nehemiah 9.17 . Thou art a God , ready to pardon , gracious , and mercifull , slow to anger , and of great kindnesse .

Behold , Ambros . that by the holy Ghost sins are forgiven ; but men , to the remission of sins , bring their Ministery : They exercise not the authority of any power .

Therefore in all the servants , there is no dominion , Optat. but a Ministery .

Almighty God give unto thee absolution , Tho. Aquin. and remission .

His amendment of life .

YOu were sometimes darknesse : Ephes. 5. but now are yee light in the Lord ; walke as children of light .

Set your affection on Colos. 3. things above ; not on things on the earth .

Ephes. 4. Put ye off concerning the former conversation , the old man , which is corrupt after the deceitfull lusts .

Ibidem . And put yee on the new man , which after GOD , is created in righteousnesse , and true holinesse .

Playfer . That which is borne of the old man , which is the flesh , must dayly decrease in us , and grow downwards .

Idem . But that which is borne of the new man , which is the Spirit , must daily increase in us , and grow upward .

Latymer . Repentance and amendment of life , are a sure remedy , that our sins shall not bee our shame and confusion .

Vdall . Bee carefull to live in godlinesse , reforming your affection inwardly ; and your conversation outwardly , according to the prescript rule of God word .

They that from the bottome of their heart doe acknowledge their sins , Hom. de ●oenit . and are unfeinedly sory for their offences , will cast off all hypocrisie , and put on true humilitie , and lowlinesse of heart .

And as they did before give themselves to uncleannes of life , Ibidem . so will they henceforth with all diligence , give themselves to innocency , purenesse of life , and true godlinesse .

The graces of God , Oecumen . as the flowers of a garden , must not only be kept , but also dressed ; that they may have not only a being , but also an abounding .

Coloss. 3. Put yee on therefore , as the elect of GOD ( holy and beloved ) bowels of mercies , kindnesse , humblenesse of minde , meeknesse , long suffering .

Forbearing one another , and forgiving one another , 4 if any have a quarrell against any ; even as Christ forgave you , so also doe ye .

Ibidem . And above all things put on Charity , which is the bond of perfectnesse .

Raban . Mercy consisteth in giving almes cheerfully , in suffering wrong patiently , in reforming the rude lovingly .

Chrysost. It is the safety of salvation , the ornam●nt of faith , and propitiation for sins .

Lyra. Let Christs humility also bee inwardly in your hearts , and not outwardly , as it is with hypocrites .

For unlesse wee bee beaten downe in humility , ●●all . we are no vessels for Christ to dwell in .

Humilitie is a signe of worth ; but pride , Bernard . of emptinesse , and vanity .

If the minde be constantly directed to GOD , Greg moral . whatsoever in this life is bitter unto us , through patience , wee account it pleasant .

Let a man looke into his heart , Aug. and see if he have Charity ; and then let him say , I am borne of GOD.

Charity is a desire of the minde to love GOD for himselfe ; Idem . and to love our neighbour for GOD.

It is the stay of wisdome , Idem . the fruit of Faith , the riches of the poore , and the life of them that are dying .

Luther . A Christian life consisteth in this ; that we deale with faith , and with the heart in things apperteyning to GOD ; but use our life , and works towards our neighbour .

Ephes. 2. For wee are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works ; which God hath before ordeined , that we should walke in them .

Hom. de fid. & oper. There is one work , in which be all good works , that is ; faith which worketh by charity . If thou have it , thou hast the ground of all good works .

Luther . GOD will have works done freely , not that wee may merit any thing therby ; but that we may doe them to the profit of our neighbours , and witnes our sincere faith by them .

Aug. No man doth good works to receive grace by them ; but because he hath first received grace , therefore consequently he doth good works .

Behold , Iohn 5. thou art made whole ; sin no more , lest a worse thing happen unto thee .

Which penance wee shall never be able to fulfill , Hom. de poenit . without the speciall grace of him , that saith , Ioh. 15.5 . without me ye can doe nothing .

It is therfore our parts , Hom de poenit . if at least wee bee desirous of the health and salvation of our own soules , most earnestly to pray to our heavenly father , to assist us with his holy spirit , that we may bee able to hearken to the voice of the true Shepheard , and with due obedience to follow the same .

Let us heare the conclusion of the whole matter , Eccl. 12. feare God , and keepe his commandements ; for this is the whole duety of man .

His assurance of Salvation .

Iohn 3. HE that beleeveth on the Sonne hath everlasting life .

1 Pet. 1. Whom having not seene , ye love ; in whom , though now yee see him not , yet beleeving ye rejoyce with joy unspeakable , and full of glory .

Ibidem . Receiving the end of your Faith , even the salvation of your soules .

Bish. Fisher . If wee will enter into heaven , we must not come with a double heart , or wavering faith ; but with that which is altogether without doubting , and most certain .

Hillar . The LORD will have us hope for the Kingdome of Heaven without any doubting , for otherwise there is no justification of faith , if faith be uncertaine .

The just living by faith , Fulgent . saith confidently , I beleeve to see the goodnesse of the LORD in the land of the living .

We have hope , Heb. 6. as an Anchor of the soule , both sure , and stedfast , and which entreth into that which is within the Vaile .

Because ye are sons , Gal. 4. GOD hath sent forth the spirit of his son into your hearts , crying Abba father .

Wherefore thou art no more a servant , but a son , Ibidem . and if a son , then an heire of God through Christ .

Wee leave not a sinner in Stapleton . the middest of wavering doubtfulnesse , but we place him in good , and firme hope ; when once his conscience witnesseth with him , that he hath truely repented .

Aug. There is a kind of glorying in thy conscience , when thou knowest thy faith is sincere , thy hope certain , thy love without dissembling .

Altisiodor . Wee may discerne we are in grace , by our good desire , comfort of minde , and good works .

Bernard . The spirit by faith revealeth to a man the eternall purpose of God , concerning his future salvation ; which revelation is nothing else , but the infusion of spirituall grace , whereby the deeds of the flesh are mortified , and the man prepared to the kingdome of heaven .

Gods truth , and his power , Vdall . is the cause of our assurance of salvation ; his truth , because we doe not doubt but he will keepe his promise ; his power because all things are possible to him .

Herein we looke not upon our own worthines , Idem . ( for then we must needs doubt ) but upon him that promised , who will faithfully performe .

God hath promised to thee , Aug. O man that thou shalt live for ever ; dost thou not beleeve it ? Beleeve it , beleeve it ; for that which he hath already done for thee , is a greater matter than that which he hath promised .

These things have I writ●en unto you that beleeve on the name of the Sonne of God , 1 Ioh. 5. that yee may know that yee have eternall life ; and that ye may beleeve on the name of the Son of GOD.

Rom. 15 Now the GOD of hope fill you with all joy , and hope in beleeving , that yee may abound in hope , through the power of the holy Ghost .

Gods mercy .

Lam. 3. IT is the LORDS mercy that we are not consumed , because his compassions faile not .

Psal. 103. Hee hath not dealt with us after our sinnes , nor rewarded us according to our iniquities .

Lam. 3. But though hee send affliction , yet will he have compassion , according to the multitude of his mercies .

Psal. 103. For as the heaven is high above the earth , so great is his mercy towards them that feare him .

This is the glory of man , Hieron . that hee may know , and understand , that GOD is the LORD , who giveth mercie , and justice upon the earth .

The omnipotency of God excelleth two waies ; Hieron . in granting mercy to the penitent , and punishing such as continue in sin , according to their desert .

Hee rejoyceth not of his owne gaine , Chrysost. but of our salvation ; hee is not grieved for his owne displeasure , but for our destruction .

When hee punisheth , Idem . and taketh vengeance ; he doth it not with passionate anger but with all unspeakable clemency ; with the affection of an healer , not of a destroyer .

How rich art thou , O Lord GOD , in mercy ? how great in justice ? how bountifull in grace ?

Bernard . Thou beholdest the humbie with favour ; the Innocent thou judgest righteously ; & savest sinners mercifully .

Kempis dial . inter Deum & peccator . de imitat . Christi , si. 4. cap. 18. Although a sinner do abide still in the flesh ; yet doe I receive him into my favour , so that he is not to feare the utter confusion for his sins committed ; but rather to thanke & praise God , that old things bee passed away , and that all things are become new .

Ibid. So gracious and mercifull am I , that alwaies I am more ready to forgive , than thou art to begge forgivenesse at my hands ; more ready to give , than thou art to aske .

To hope well of my goodnesse , Ibidem . is a very token of true humilitie , and of great faith .

What ? Ibid. looke you to bee all worthy , before you make accesse unto mee ? And of your selfe , when will you bee so ?

If onely such as are good , Ibid. and worthy , and great , and perfect , should approach unto mee , to whom should sinners and publicans approach ?

So then , Luke 15. what saith the Gospell ? Then drew neere unto him all the publicans and sinners for to heare him .

Therfore let the unworthy approach , Kempis . that they may become worthy ; let the wicked approach , that they may bee made good ; let the weake , and unperfect approach , that they may prove strong , and perfect ; yea let all , and every one approach , that they may receive from the abundant streames of the well of life .

Iohn . 7. Hee which is a thirst , let him come to me and drinke . Isay 55. And he which hath nothing , let him come and buy without silver , and without money .

Mat 9. Hee that is sicke , let him come to be healed .

Mark . 9. Hee that is neither hot , nor cold , let him come to be inflamed .

Kempis . Hee that is fearfull , let him come to bee encouraged .

Hee that is sorrowfull let him come to bee comforted . Idem .

Hee that is wearied with cares , Idem . let him come to be refreshed with joy .

Loe , my delight is , Idem . to bee with the children of men .

And therefore bee ever mindfull both of your fraile condition , Idem . and of my glorious Majestie , and so with humble reverence approach boldly into my presence .

For I am hee that putteth away thine iniquities , Isa. 43. and will not remember thy sins :

It is I that justifie the ungodly ; Rom. 4. and this I doe for my holy Name sake : yea , and I am still ready to minister greater gifts of mercy unto thee .

Because I doe ever chuse Kempis . to shew favour , rather than displeasure , as one who had rather spare , than punish .

2 Cor. 1. Blessed bee God , even the Father of our LORD JESUS CHRIST , the Father of mercies , and GOD of all comfort .

Death .

Heb. 13.14 . HEre have wee no continuing City ; but wee seeke one to come .

Luk. 12.4 . Be yee prepared ; for the Sonne of man will come at an houre that yee thinke not .

Aug. All men know that the day of death will come ; yet all , or almost all doe notwithstanding labour to put it off ; yea even those , who beleeve , that after death , they shall live more blessedly : So great power hath the sweet fellowship of the flesh , and soule .

Take heed , watch , and pray ; Mar. 13 33. for yee know not when the time is .

The last day of our life is unknowne , August . that all daies may be observed ; the remedies are too late provided , when the dangers of death approach .

Plato his opinion is , Hieron . that the whole life of wise men is the meditation of death . Wee ought therefore to premeditate what we shall be hereafter ; and that whether we will , or not , death cannot be longer from us .

Hee which is assured hee shall dye , Gregor. opposeth himselfe against all the desires of this life . For the perfect life is a meditation of death ; which while just men doe performe , they escape the snares of sin .

Aug. That death is not accounted evill , which a good life hath gone before .

Colos. 3.2 . Set your affection on things above ; not on things of the earth .

Gregor. If wee consider what , and how great things are promised to us in heaven ; all things in earth will be vile , and base in our estimation : For earthly substance compared to the heavenly felicity , is but an heavy burthen , not an helpe and succour . This temporall life compared to the eternall , is rather to bee accounted a death than a life .

Eccl. 12.7 . Then shall the dust returne to the earth as it was ; and the spirit shall returne unto God , who gave it .

They which desire to bee dissolved , Aug. and to bee with Christ , doe live patiently , and die cheerfully .

They are not lost , Ambros . but sent before , whom eternity hath received .

All the daies of my appointed time , will I wait , Iob 14.14 . till my change come .

For to me , to live , is Christ ; Phil. 1.21 . and to die , is gaine .

When Christ , Colos. 3.3 . who is our life , shall appeare ; then shall ye also appeare with him in glory .

The last Iudgement .

Heb. 9. IT is appointed unto men once to dye ; but after this , the Judgement .

Rom. 14. Wee shall all stand before the Judgement Seat of Christ .

Eccles. 12. For GOD shall bring every worke to judgement , with every secret thing , whether it be good , or whether it bee evill .

Hieron . It is not in us to know the day of Judgement ; but being alwayes uncertaine of the comming of the Judge , let us so live , as if we were , to bee judged the next day .

Idem . If there bee any joy in this present life ; let it be so used , that the bitternesse of the Judgement to come do not at any time depart out of our memory .

Nothing doth more set forward an honest life , Ambros . than to beleeve he shall be judged ; whom hidden things doe not deceive : evill things doe offend ; and good things doe delight .

That judge is not prevented by favour , Aug. nor led now by mercy , nor corrupted with money , nor appeased by satisfaction , or repentance ; let the soule while it hath time here , labour for it selfe by repentance , so long , as here is place for mercy ; because there is the place of Justice .

God doth so behold our waies , and number our steps , Greg. moral that , even our smalest thoughts , and least words remaine not unexamined in his Judgement .

Psal. 37. The Lord knoweth the daies of the upright , and their inheritance shall be for ever .

Ibid. But the wicked shall perish , and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of Lambs ; they shall consume , into smoke shall they consume away .

Chrysost. In that day wee have nothing to answer for our selves , where Heaven , and Earth , the Aire , and Water , and the whole world shall witnesse our sinnes against us . And if all else doe hold their peace , our thoughts themselves , and our works especially shall stand before our eies , accusing us before God .

Bernard . That day will come , in which upright hearts shall more prevaile , than eloquent words ; a good Conscience more , than a full purse ; because that Judge will not bee deceived by words , nor turned by gifts .

On the right hand , Anselm . will bee our sinnes accusing us ; on the left hand , innumerable Divels ; underneath us , the terrible deepnesse and darknesse of Hell ; above , the Judge offended ; without , the world burning ; within , the conscience tormenting : there shall the just scarce be saved . Alas miserable sinner , being thus taken unawares , whither wilt thou fly ? for to hide thy selfe , is impossible , and to appeare , is intolerable .

The rich man also died , Luk. 16.22 and was buried ;

And in hell hee lift up his 23. eyes , being in torments ; and seeth Abraham a farre off , and Lazarus in his bosome .

24. And he cryed , and said ; Father Abraham , have mercy on me , and send Lazarus , that he may dip the tip of his finger in water , & coole my tongue ; for I am tormented in this flame .

25. But Abraham said ; Sonne , remember that thou in thy life time receivedst thy good things ; and likewise Lazarus evill things , but now hee is comforted , and thou art tormented .

Gregor. At the recompence of the last Judgement , the wicked doe see the upright in peace , that perceiving them in joy , they may not onely bee tormented with their owne punishment , but also with the others prosperity . But the righteous doe alwaies see the wicked in torments , that from hence their joy may increase ; because they see the paine , which , by GODS mercie , they have escaped ; and doe give the greater thanks unto their Maker , when they behold that in others , which they might have suffered , had they beene forsaken .

When the Sonne of Man shall come in his glory , Mat. 25. and all the holy Angels with him ; then shall hee sit upon the throne of his glory ;

And before him shall bee gathered all Nations , Ibid. and he shall separate them one from another , as a shepherd divideth his Sheepe from the Goats .

And he shall set the sheepe Mat. 25. on his right hand ; but the Goats on the left .

Ibidem . Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand ; Come ye blessed of my father , inherit the Kingdome prepared for you , from the foundation of the world .

Ibid. Then shall he say unto them on the left hand , Depart from me , yee cursed , into everlasting fire , prepared for the Devill , and his Angels .

Iude 24. Now , unto him that is able to keep you from falling , & to present you faultlesse , before the presence of his glorie , with exceeding joy ;

25. To the onely wise GOD , our Saviour , bee Glory , and Majesty , Dominion , and power , now , and ever , Amen .

FOURE HELPS to the amendment of Life . 1. Prayer . 2. Reading the holy Scriptures . 3. Hearing Gods Word preached . 4. Worthy receiving the Sacrament of the Body and Bloud of our Lord .

1 Prayer .

O LORD , I know , Ier. 10.23 . that the way of man is not in himselfe : it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps .

It is written in the Prophets ; Ioh. 6.45 . And they shall be all taught of GOD ; Every man therefore that hath heard , and hath learned of the father , commeth unto me .

Iohn 15.5 . I am the vine , yee are the branches ; he that abideth in me , and I in him , the same bringeth forth much fruit : For without me , yee can doe nothing .

1 Tim. 2.8 . I will therefore , that men pray every where , lifting up holy hands , without wrath , or doubting .

Iude 20. Building up your selves on your most holy faith , praying in the holy Ghost .

Mat 6.7 . But when ye pray , use not vaine repetitions , as the Heathen doe , for they thinke , that they shall be heard , for their much speaking .

8. Be not ye therefore like unto them ; for your heavenly father knoweth , what things yee have need of , before yee aske him .

What things soever ye desire , when ye pray , Mar. 11.24 . beleeve that ye receive them , and ye shall have them .

Let us lift up our heart , Lam 3.41 . with our hands , unto God in the heavens .

It is not in man to direct his owne waies ; Vdall . and therfore we must pray to God continually , to guide us for his glory , and our soules comfort .

Praier is a thing most necessary for all men , at all times , Hom. de orat . and in all places .

It is the first thing wherwith a righteous life beginneth , Hooker . & the last with which it doth end .

It is the turning of a godly & humble minde to God , Hugo . supported by Faith , Hope , and Charity .

Isidor . Neither is it a worke of the lips , but of the heart . GOD intendeth not the words , but beholdeth the heart of him that prayeth . It is better to pray with the heart , in silence , without the sound of the voyce , than in words alone , without the affection of the minde .

Iust. Mart. We sacrifice unto GOD , without ceasing , the sacrifice of praise , sincere prayer , and the sweet savour of good works .

Perkins . Our prayers are our sacrifices , and Christ alone is the Altar , whereon wee must offer them to GOD the Father .

Aug. Faith is the fountaine of prayer , neither can the stream run , if the head of the Spring bee dryed up .

When prayer is faithfull , Bernard . humble , and fervent , doubtlesse it entreth into Heaven ; from whence it cannot returne empty .

2. Reading the Scrip●●●●● .

EZra the Priest read in the Booke of the Law , Nehemiah 8.3 . from the morning , untill the mid day , before the men , and the women , & those that could understand ; and the eares of all the people were attentive unto the Book of the Law .

The children of Israel read in the Booke of the Law , 9.3 . of the LORD their GOD , one fourth part of the day ; and another fourth part they confessed , and worshipped the Lord their God .

Acts 13.15 . After the reading of the Law , and the Prophets , the Rulers of the Synagogue sent to Paul , and Barnabas , saying ; Ye men , and brethren , if yee have any word of exhortation for the people ; say on .

Chrysost. The reading of the Scriptures is a great defence against sinne .

Hom. de legen . Scrip. Whosoever is diligent to read this word , & in his heart to print that he readeth , shall finde his affection diminished towards this world ; and his desire of heavenly things increased .

Ibidem . There is nothing that so much strengtheneth our faith ; that so much keepeth up the innocency , & purenesse of heart , and of outward godlinesse , and conversation , as continuall reading , and recording of Gods word .

Many times , Kempis through our owne curiosity , we profit little in reading , while we stand to discusse things , which ought simply to be beleeved .

If thou desirest to reap commodity , Idem . reade with all humility , simplicity , & zeale ; and never covet to bee accounted learned .

Read it therefore with an humble , and lowly heart , Hom. de legen . Scrip to the end you may glorifie GOD , and not your selfe , with the knowledge of it . Pray daily to GOD , that hee would direct your reading to good effect .

Hom. exhort . to reade and know Script . Unto a Christian man nothing can be more necessary , or profitable , than the knowledge of holy Scripture : In which is conteyned GODS true Word , setting forth his glory and mans duty .

Socrat. It was the custome of Theodosius the Emperour , that together with his houshold , he spent much time in reading the Scriptures , and singing of Psalmes .

Hom. de leg . Scriptur . Wherefore as you have any zeale to the pure honouring of GOD , and regard to your owne soules , and the life that is to come ; apply your selves , chiefly above all things , to read , and heare GODS Word ; Marke diligently therein , what his will is you shall doe , and withall endevour , apply your selves to follow the same .

Blessed is he that readeth , Revel. 1.3 . and they that heare the words of this Prophecie , and keepe those things which are written therein .

3. Hearing the Word preached .

EArly in the morning Jesus came into the Temple , Ioh. 8.2 . and all the people came unto him , and he sate downe , and taught them .

In the day time Jesus was teaching in the Temple , Luk. 21.37 and at night he went out , and aboad in the Mount , that is called the Mount of Olives .

38. And all the people came early in the morning to him in the Temple , to heare him .

Acts 13.44 The next Sabbath day came almost the whole City of Antiochia together , to heare the word of God preached by Paul and B●rnabas .

Acts 8.5 . Then came Philip into the City of Samaria , & preached Christ unto them .

6. And the people gave heed unto those things , which Philip spake , with one accord .

Acts 17.11 . The Jewes of Berea were more noble than those in Thessalonica , in that they received the Word with all readinesse of minde ; and searched the Scriptures daily , whether those things were so .

Wickliff . That the hearing of the Word , and Law of GOD , is commmanded to the people , it is evident , both by the old , and new Law .

Take opportunity to heare preaching ; and to prove , Grashop . by the Scriptures , that which is taught .

The first , Bayne . and principall meanes to uphold a Christian life in godlinesse , is , the Word of GOD , read , preached , and heard , as the Lord prescribeth .

Where there is a good order of teaching , Idem . with diligence , skill , love , and plainnesse , we must be attentive , and reverent in hearing .

As drinke is pleasant to them that be dry , Hom. de leg . Scriptur . and meat to them that be hungry ; so is the reading , hearing searching , and studying of the holy Scriptures , to them that bee desirous to know God , or themselves , and to doe his will .

Bayne . The ordinarie preaching of the Word , is a singular meanes provided for the perfecting of GODS elect , and for their growing in a Christian life .

4. Sacraments .

Eccles. Ang. CHrist hath ordained in his Church two Sacraments onely , as generally necessary to Salvation ; that is to say , Baptisme , and the Supper of the Lord .

Cosler . A Sacrament is an outward , and visible signe , of a divine , invisible grace , instituted by Christ , by vertue whereof , the receiver obtaineth grace and sanctification .

In Sacraments , Bellar. both the matter , and words must bee instituted by GOD ; and are not alterable by man , either by addition , or diminution .

They are therefore called Sacraments , August . because one thing is seene in them , and another thing understood . That which is seene , hath a bodily kinde , forme , and shew ; but that which is understood , hath spirituall fruit .

Wee must not consider , Idem . what they be , but what they signifie .

It is a dangerous matter , Idem . to take the signe in stead of the thing that is signified .

The holy Eucharist , or Sacrament of the Body and Bloud of our Lord .

Mat. 26. AS they were eating , Jesus tooke bread , and blessed it , and brake it , and gave it to his disciples , and said ; Take , eat , this is my body .

Ibidem . And he tooke the cup , and gave thankes , and gave it to them , saying ; Drinke yee all of it .

Ibid. For this is my Blood of the new Testament , which is shed for many , for the remission of sins .

In stead of the Flesh , Beda . and Blood of the Lambe , Christ hath ordained the Sacrament of his Body and Bloud , in the figure of bread and wine .

Neither doe wee receive them , as common bread , Iust. Mart. nor as common drinke .

The bread which is of the earth , Iren. receiving the invocation of God , is not now common bread , but the Eucharist , consisting of two things ; earthly , and heavenly .

Christ taking bread , Tertul. and distributing it to his disciples , made it his body , saying , this is my Body , that is to say , this is a figure of my body .

It is evident , Bertram . that the bread and wine , are figuratively the body and bloud of Christ .

By the commandement and Isidor . authority of Christ , we call it the Body and Bloud of Christ ; because that , though it bee made of the fruits of the earth , it is yet notwithstanding sanctified , and so become a Sacrament , GODS Spirit working invisibly therein .

Bertram . That body wherein Christ suffered , was his proper , and true body ; having no mysticall , or figurative matter in it . But this latter , is a mysticall body ; shewing one thing outwardly in figure , and inwardly representing another thing , through the understanding , and apprehension of faith .

Eccle. Angl. The body of Christ is given , taken , and eaten in the Supper onely , after an heavenly manner . And the meane , whereby the body of Christ is received in the Supper , is Faith .

To beleeve in Christ , Aug. is the eating of the Bread of Life ; prepare not your mouths ; prepare your hearts .

This is to eat that living bread , to beleeve in Christ ; Clem. Alex. that is to say , with love to cleave fast unto him .

This is to drinke the bloud of Jesus ; Idem . to be made partaker of his immortality .

This is therefore , Aug. to eat that meat , and drinke that drinke ; To dwell in Christ , and to have Christ dwelling in us .

A remembrance of the death , and passion of our Saviour Christ .

1 Cor. 11. THe LORD JESUS , the same night , in which he was betrayed , tooke bread ;

Ibid. And when hee had given thanks , he brake it , and said ; Take , eat , this is my body , which is broken for you ; this doe in remembrance of me .

Ibid. After the same manner also hee tooke the cup , when hee had supped , saying ; This cup is the new Testament in my bloud ; this doe , as oft as yee drinke it , in remembrance of me .

1 Cor. 11. For as often as yee eat this bread , and drink this cup , yee doe shew the Lords death till he come .

The Sacrament of the Lords Supper was ordained for the continuall remembrance of the sacrifice of the death of Christ , Eccles. Ang. and the benefits which we receive thereby .

This bread , and this cup , Bertram . which is called the body , and blood of CHRIST , doe lively represent , or set out the remembrance of the Lords passion , or d●ath ; even as himselfe hath said in the Gospell ; Luke 22. Do this in remembrance of me : which the Apostle Paul expoundeth , saying , 1 Cor. 11. As often as ye eat this bread , and drink this cup ye shew the Lords death till hee come .

Our Lord gave unto his disciples , Walfrid . Strab. the Sacrament of his body and Bloud , in the substance of bread , and wine ; and therin taught them , to celebrate the memory of his most blessed Passion .

Ammon . Having taken the bread , then afterwards the cup of wine , and testified it , to bee his Body and Bloud ; he commanded them , to eat , and drinke thereof ; forasmuch as it was the memoriall of his future passion and death .

Worthy Receivers .

1 Cor. 11. BUt let a man examine himselfe , and so let him eat of that Bread , and drinke of that Cup.

Ibid. For he that eateth , and drinketh unworthily , eateth , and drinketh damnation to himselfe ; not discerning the LORDS body .

They which are of a cleane conscience , upright in heart , Chrysost. moral . and of an unreprovable life , may alwaies come to this Table ; but they , which are not so , may not once approach unto it .

S. Augustine thus speaketh ; Alcinnus . I like well of your humility , that you presume not to approach to the Body , and Bloud of Christ ; But it were better you would depart from your iniquities ; and being made cleane by repentance , would take the Body , and Bloud of Christ .

Hee is a worthy receiver , Cyprian . that , remembring the benefit of Christ his passion , lifteth up his heart unto the living God with his heart unto the living God with comfort , abhorreth all bitter drinks of sinne , and all savour of carnall pleasures is to him , as sharp , and soure vineger . And the sinner being converted , receiving the holy mysteries of the Lords Supper , giveth thankes unto GOD , and boweth down his head , knowing that his sinnes be forgiven , and that he is made cleane , and perfect ; and his soule ( which GOD hath sanctified ) he rendreth to God againe , as a faithfull pledge ; and glorieth with S. Paul , saying ; Now is it not I , that live ; but it is Christ , that liveth in me .

Cyprian . The worthy eating , is our dwelling in him , and our drinking is , as it were , our incorporating in him ; being subject to him , in obedience ; joyned to him , in our wils ; and united , in our affections .

Foure things most requisite , Eccle. Angl. to make us meet partakers of the holy mysteries .

To repent us truly for our sinnes past .

To have a lively , and stedfast faith in Christ , our Saviour .

To amend our lives , and be in charity with all men .

To give most humble , and hearty thankes to GOD , the Father , the Sonne , and the holy Ghost , for the redemption of the world , by the death , and passion of our Saviour Christ .

Vnworthy Receivers .

Eccl. Ang. THe wicked , and such as be void of a lively faith , although they doe carnally , and visibly presse with their teeth ( as S. Augustine saith ) the Sacrament of the body , and bloud of Christ ; yet , in no wise , are they partakers of Christ , but rather , to their condemnation , doe eat , and drink the signe , or Sacrament of so great a thing .

Aug. Outwardly , they have the Sacrament of Christs body ; but the thing it selfe , inwardly in their hearts , they have not ; And therefore they eat , and drink their owne judgement .

Idem . Neither Heretike , nor such as professe a true faith in their mouths , and in their living shew the contrary , are to bee accompted among the members of Christ . Therefore it may not be said , that any of them , doe eat the body of Christ .

As corporall meat , Chrysost. finding the belly possessed with evill humours , doth more offend , and hurt , and helpe nothing at all : So also this spirituall food , finding a man polluted with sinne , will rather destroy him ; not by its owne nature ; but by the Receivers corruption .

For he that hath yet a will to sinne , August . I account him rather more burthened , by receiving the Eucharist , than cleansed : Therefore , albeit a man doe moderate sinne , purposing not to sinne hereafter , yet let him make satisfaction by teares , and prayers , when hee intendeth to communicate , trusting in the mercy of God ; who upon godly confession of his iniquity , useth to pardon : Then let him approach unto the Eucharist safely and without feare .

Transubstantiation .

Eccl. Ang. TRansubstantiation , or the change of the substance of bread , and wine , in the Supper of the Lord , cannot be proved by holy writ : but it is repugnant to the plaine words of Scripture , overthroweth the nature of a Sacrament , and hath given occasion to many superstitions .

The mysticall signes , Theodoret. after consecration , depart not from their owne nature ; for they abide still in their former substance , figure , and forme ; and may bee seene , and touched , as before .

Touching the substance of the creatures , Bertram . they abide the same , after consecration , as they were before .

Before the bread be sanctified , wee call it bread ; Chrysost. but when GODS grace hath sanctified it , by meanes of the Priest , it is delivered from the name of bread , and is reputed worthy the name of the LORDS body , although the nature of bread remaine still .

Hee honoured the visible Theodoret. signes with the name of his body and bloud ; not changing the nature ; but adding grace , to nature .

Idem . For he would have the partakers of the divine mysteries , not to respect the nature of those things , which are seene ; but to beleeve the change which is done by grace .

Scot. We cannot be brought to determine transubstantiation , either by any plaine place of Scripture , or sentence of Ancient father .

Cyril . For like as when hee was conversant here in earth , as man ; yet then he filled heaven , and did not leave the company of Angels : Even so being now in heaven with his flesh ; yet he filleth the earth , and is in them that love him , by the power of his divinity .

Although Christ be corporally in heaven ; Gre. Valen. Ies . yet he is received of the faithfull communicants , in this Sacrament , truly ; both spiritually , by the mouth of the mind ; through a most neere conjunction of Christ , with the soule of the Receiver , by faith : And also sacramentally , with the bodily mouth ; receiving not Christ ( according to his locall presence ) but bread , and wine , as seales , and signes of the promise of redemption in his body and blood .

According to his body , Greg. Naz. hee is within the limitation of place ; according to his Spirit , and Godhead , he is without the limitation of any place .

To be received in both kinds .

Eccl. Ang. THe cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the lay people ; for both the parts of the Lords Sacrament , by Christs ordinance , and commandement , ought to be administred to all Christian men alike .

Vasques Ies . Each kind in this Sacrament , ( as it is a part of the Sacrament ) hath a divers signification by it selfe : And each kind in this Sacrament , doth worke its owne effect , by it selfe .

Durand . The bread signifieth the body , and not the bloud ; and the wine signifieth the bloud , and not the body .

Alex. Hales . Whole Christ is not contained under each kind , by way of Sacrament ; but the flesh onely , under the forme of bread ; and the bloud , under the forme of wine .

In the Primitive Church , Durand . all present at the Communion , did participate of the cup ; because all the Apostles did so , our Lord saying unto them ; Drink ye all of this .

Wee have understood , Gelas . Pap. that some , having onely received a portion of Christs body , doe abstaine from the cup of his sacred bloud ; But sith they are moved , by a fond superstition ( which I know not ) thus to abstaine ; either let them receive the whole Sacrament , or bee put from all together ; for there can bee no division of this Sacrament , and high mystery , without great sacriledge .

Ignat. I exhort you to imbrace one faith , one manner of preaching , and use of the Sacrament , of the LORDS Supper ; for the flesh of the LORD JESUS , is one , and his bloud , one , that was shed for us : There is one bread also , broken for all ; and one cup , distributed unto all .

The Prayer before receiving the Communion .

ALmighty GOD , Eccle. Angl. Father of our Lord Jesus Christ , Maker of of all things , Judge of all men , we acknowledge , and bewaile our manifold sinnes and wickednesse , which wee , from time to time , most grievously have committed , by thought , word , and deed , against thy divine Majesty ; provoking , most justly , thy wrath , and indignation against us ; We doe earnestly repent , and be hartily sory , for these our misdoings ; the remembrance of them , is grievous unto us , the burthen of them is intolerable ; Have mercy upon us , have mercy upon us , most mercifull Father , for thy Sonne , our Lord Jesus Christs sake , forgive us all that is past : And grant , that we may ever hereafter serve , and please thee , in newnesse of life , to the honour and glory of thy holy name , through Jesus Christ our Lord ; Amen .

The Prayer after receiving the Communion .

O Lord , Eccl. Angl. our heavenly father , wee , thy humble servants , intirely desire thy fatherly goodnesse , mercifully to accept this our sacrifice , of praise , and thanksgiving , most humbly beseeching thee , to grant , that by the merits , and death of thy Son Jesus Christ , and through faith in his bloud , wee , and all thy whole Church , may obtaine remission of our sinnes , and all other benefits of his passion . And here we offer , and present unto thee , O Lord , our selves , our soules , and bodies , to be a reasonable , holy , and lively sacrifice , unto thee ; Humbly beseeching thee , that all we , which bee partakers of this holy Communion , may bee fulfilled with thy grace , and heavenly benediction . And although wee bee unworthy through our manifold sins , to offer unto thee , any sacrifice ; yet we beseech thee , to accept this , our bounden duty , and service ; not weighing our merits , but pardoning our offences , through Jesus Christ , our Lord ; by whom , and with whom , in the unity of the holy Ghost , all honor , and glory be unto thee , O father Almighty , world without end . Amen .

A Prayer before reading the holy Scriptures .

O Gracious GOD , Grashop . and most mercifull father , which hast vouchsafed us , the rich and pretious jewell , of thy holy word : Assist us , with thy spirit , that it may be written in our hearts , to our everlasting comfort ; to reforme us , to renew us , according to thine owne image , to build us up , and edifie us , into the perfect building , of thy sonne Christ Jesus ; sanctifying , and increasing in us , all heavenly vertues . Grant this , O heavenly Father , for Jesus Christ his sake . Amen .

A Prayer for faith .

MOst mercifull , and loving Father , I beseech thee , for Christ Jesus sake , to strengthen , and increase my faith , that I may goe forward in all godlinesse . And grant , O Lord , that my faith may bee builded upon the rock , Christ Jesus ; that I be not carried away with every blast of vain doctrine , but , through faith in thee , I may be , as an invincible fortresse , to my enemy , the Devill , so that he may never prevaile against me . Also Lord , I pray thee , let not my faith bee an idle faith , but a working faith ; that daily proceedeth , from one good work , to another , and in the end , to life everlasting , there to reigne with thee , world without end . Amen .

For Repentance .

MAke cleane my heart , O most gracious God , with the water of thy heavenly grace , from all the staines , and corruptions of sin ; wherby it appeareth most vile and loathsome in thy sight . Sprinkle it with the hysop of unfained repentance , and compunction ; that being washed in the most cleare fountaine of thy grace , I may become whiter than snow ; and evermore serve thee , in holinesse , and purenesse of life , through Jesus Christ our Lord . Amen .

A short and effectuall Prayer .

I Most humbly beseech thee , O most gracious God , and loving Father ; to take from me , the sway of mine owne affections : Incline mine heart wholly , to the obedience of thy heavenly will : Suppresse , and quench in me , all desires whatsoever , that may alienate , and withdraw me to wander , from the way of thy testimonies : Grant unto mee evermore , the assistance of thy holy Spirit , to conduct , and bring me , to the inheritance of thy everlasting kingdome ; for the love of thy onely Son , our Saviour Jesus CHRIST , Amen .

The generall Confession .

ALmighty , Eccl. Angl. in liturg . and most mercifull Father , I have erred , and strayed from thy waies , like a lost sheep ; I have followed too much , the devices , and desires of my owne heart ; I have offended against thy holy Lawes ; I have left undone , those things , which I ought to have done ; and have done , those things , which I ought not to have done : And there is no health in me ; but thou , O LORD , have mercie upon me , miserable offender ; Spare thou mee , O GOD , which confesse my faults ; restore thou mee , that am penitent , according to thy promises , declared unto man-kind , in Christ Jesu our Lord ; And grant , O most mercifull father , for his sake , that I may hereafter live a godly , righteous , and a sober life , to the glory of thy holy name . Amen .

A Prayer for the Morning .

O Lord , Eccles. Ang. in Liturg. our heavenly father , Almighty , and everlasting GOD ; I most humbly thanke thee , for thy great mercy , and goodnesse , in keeping , and preserving me from all perils , and dangers this night past , and bringing me safely to the beginning of this day : Defend me , O Lord , in the same , with thy mighty power ; And grant , that this day I fall into no sinne , neither run into any kind of danger , but that all my doings , may bee ordered by thy governance ; to doe alwaies that , which is righteous in thy sight , through Jesus Christ , our Lord . Amen .

Our father which art in heaven , hallowed , &c.

A Prayer for all times .

O Almightie Lord , Eccles. Ang. Ibid. and everliving God , vouchsafe , I beseech thee , to direct , sanctifie , and governe , both my heart , and body , in the waies of thy Laws , and in the works of thy commandements ; That through thy most mighty protection , both here and ever , I may be preserved , in body , and soule , through our LORD , and Saviour Jesus Christ . Amen .

A Prayer before going to bed .

O Eternall , and ever-living GOD , I render unto thy divine Majestie , most humble , and hearty thankes , for thy mercifull preservation of mee this day , from the hands of mine enemies ; Beseeching thee , of thy fatherly goodnesse , and mercy , to remit and pardon all mine offences , which in thought , word , and deed , I have committed against thy holy Laws and Commandements : Furthermore , I humbly beseech thee , that , by thy most gracious protection , I may bee defended , and preserved this night , from all perils , and dangers , both of body , and soule ; that mine eyes may sleep quietly , my body rest securely , and my soule ever watch unto thee constantly ; so that I never consent to the temptations , and allurements of Satan ; but by the continuall direction , and assistance of thy heavenly grace , I may come to thine eternall glory , through Jesus Christ , our Lord . Amen .

Our Father which art in heaven , hallowed , &c.

A Psalme of contrition , and confession .

Psal. 38. O Lord , rebuke me not in thy wrath : neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure .

Ibidem . I am troubled , I am bowed downe greatly ; I goe mourning all the day long .

22. I am powred out like water , and all my bones are out of joint , my heart is like wax , it is melted in the middest of my bowels .

31. I am forgotten , as a dead man out of minde ; I am like a broken vessell .

41. Lord be mercifull unto me ; heale my soule , for I have sinned against thee .

38. All my desire is before thee ; and my groaning is not hid from thee .

For I will declare mine iniquity ; Ibid. I will be sorry for my sinne .

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit ; a broken , 51. and a contrite heart , O Lord , thou wilt not despise .

O GOD , 69. thou knowest my foolishnesse ; and my sinnes are not hid from thee .

I have gone astray , 119. like a lost sheep ; seeke thy servant , for I doe not forget thy commandements .

I acknowledge my transgressions ; 51. and my sin is ever before me .

Against thee , Ibidem . thee onely have I sinned ; and done this evill in thy sight .

There is no soundnesse in my flesh , 38. because of thine anger , neither is there any rest in my bones , because of my sin .

Ibidem . For mine iniquities are gone over my head ; as an heavy burthen , they are too heavy for me .

Ibidem . My wounds stinke , and are corrupt , because of my foolishnesse .

40. Innumerable evils have compassed me about , mine iniquities have taken hold upon me , so that I am not able to looke up ; they are moe than the haires of mine head , therfore may heart faileth me .

A Psalme for remission .

Psal. 51. HAve mercy upon me , O God , according to thy loving kindnesse ; according to the multitude of thy tender mercies , blot out my transgressions .

Wash mee thorowly from mine iniquity ; Ibid. and cleanse me from my sinne .

Purge me with hysop , Ibid. and I shall be cleane ; wash me , & I shall be whiter than snow .

For thy name sake , O Lord , 25. pardon mine iniquity ; for it is great .

Remember not the sins of my youth , Ibid. nor my transgressions ; according to thy mercy remember thou mee , for thy goodnesse sake , O Lord .

Turne thee unto me , Ibid. and have mercy upon me ; for I am desolate , and afflicted .

Looke upon mine affliction , and my paine ; Ibid. and forgive all my sins .

O keepe my soule , Ibidem . and deliver me ; let me not be ashamed , for I put my trust in thee .

39. Deliver mee from all my transgressions ; make me not the reproach of the foolish .

31. Make thy face to shine upon thy servant ; save me , for thy mercy sake .

51. Hide thy face from my sins ; & blot out all mine iniquities .

Ibid. Create in me a cleane heart , and renew a right spirit within me .

Ibid. Cast mee not away from thy presence ; and take not thy holy spirit from me .

141. Mine eyes are unto thee , O Lord God , in thee is my trust ; leave not my soule destitute .

A Psalme for mercy , and direction .

Psal. 69. HEare mee , O Lord , for thy loving kindnesse is good ; turne unto me , according to the multitude of thy tender mercies .

Remember , O Lord , 25. thy tender mercies , and thy loving kindnesse ; for they have beene ever of old .

Be mercifull unto mee , 86. O Lord ; for I cry unto thee daily .

Shew mee thy waies , 25. O Lord ; teach me thy paths .

Lead me in thy truth , Ibid. and teach me , for thou art the God of my salvation ; on thee doe I wait all the day .

O send out thy light , 43. & thy truth , let them leade me ; let them bring me to thy holy hill , and to thy tabernacles .

Cause me to heare thy loving kindnesse in the morning ; 143. for in thee doe I trust ; cause me to know the way wherin I should walke ; for I lift up my soule unto thee .

Ibid. Teach me to doe thy will , for thou art my God , thy spirit is good ; lead me into the land of uprightnesse .

40. With-hold not thou thy tender mercies from me , O Lord ; let thy loving kindnesse , and thy truth , continually preserve me .

119. Order my steps in thy word , and let not any iniquity have dominion over me .

86. Teach me thy way , O Lord , I will walk in thy truth ; unite my heart to feare thy name .

39. Lord , make mee to know mine end , and the measure of my daies , what it is ; that I may know how fraile I am .

A Psalme of confidence in Gods mercie .

Psal. 23. THe Lord is my shepherd ; I shall not want .

He maketh me to lie down in greene pastures ; Ibidem . he leadeth me beside the still waters .

He restoreth my soule ; Ibidem . he leadeth mee in the paths of righteousnesse , for his Names sake .

Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death , I will feare none evill ; Ibidem . for thou art with me , thy rod , & thy staffe , they comfort me .

I will abide in thy Tabernacle for ever , 61. I will trust in the covert of thy wings .

Because thou hast been my helpe ; 63. therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoyce .

For thou hast beene a shelter for me ; 61. and a strong tower from mine enemies .

I will come into thy house , 5. in the multitude of thy mercy : & in thy feare , will I worship towards thine holy Temple .

62. My soule , wait thou onely upon God ; for my expectation is from him .

Ibid. He only is my rock , and my salvation ; he is my defence , I shall not be moved .

40. Blessed is that man , that maketh the Lord his trust .

A Psalme of praise .

Psal. 104. I Will sing unto the Lord , as long as I live ; I will sing praise unto my God , whiles I have my being .

7. I will praise the Lord , according to his righteousnesse , I will sing praise unto the name of the Lord , most high .

8. O Lord , our God , how excellent is thy name in all the earth ; who hast set thy glorie above the Heavens .

I will give thee thankes in the congregation : 35. I will prais thee , among much people .

I will worship towards thy holy Temple , 138. and praise thy name , for thy loving kindnesse , and for thy truth : for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name .

I will extoll thee , my God , 145. O King , and I will blesse thy name , for ever and ever .

Every day will I blesse thee ; Ibid. and I will praise thy name , for ever and ever .

My mouth shall speake the praise of the Lord ; Ibid. and let all flesh blesse his holy name , for ever and ever .

The Lord liveth , 18. and blessed be my rock ; and let the God of my salvation be exalted .

28. Blessed be the Lord , because hee hath heard the voyce of my supplications .

41. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel , from everlasting to everlasting : Amen , Amen .

ECCLES. 12.12 .

OF making many books there is no end , and much study is a wearinesse of the flesh .

13. Let us heare the conclusion of the whole matter : feare GOD , and keepe his Commandements , for this is the whole duty of man .

Collectanea T. P. FINIS .