A case of conscience the greatest taht [sic] euer was, how a man may know, whether he be the son of God or no. Resolued by the vvord of God. Whereunto is added a briefe discourse, taken out of Hier. Zanchius.

A CASE OF Conscience THE GREATEST TAHT EVER WAS.

How a man may know , whether he be the childe of God or no. Resolued by the word of God .

Whereunto is added a briefe Discourse , taken out of HIER. ZANCHIVS .

2. PET. 1.10 .

Giue all diligence to make your election sure , for if ye doe these things , ye shal neuer fall .

EDINBVRGH , Printed by Robert Walde-graue , Printer to the K. Majestie . 1592.

To the godlie Reader .

IN Gods Church commonlie they , who are touched by the Spirit , and begin to come on in religion , are much troubled with feare , that they are not Gods children , and none so much as they . Therefore , they often thinke on this point , and are not quiet till they find some resolution .

The Spirit of God [ as best knowing the estate of Gods children ] hath penned two parcels of holie Scripture , for the full resoluing of this case : namelie , the 15. Psalme , and the first Epistle of S. Iohn .

And for the helping of the simple and vnlearned , who desire to be informed , concerning their estate , I haue propounded these two partes of Scripture , in forme of a Dialogue : and haue joyned thereunto , a litle discourse , concerning the same matter : penned in Latine , by H. ZANCHIVS , a learned Diuine , and now englished .

Vse this labour of mine for thy benefit and comfort : and the Lord increase the number of them which may rejoice , that their names are written in heauen .

W. PERKINS .

THE FIRST EPISTLE OF Iohn , in forme of a Dialogue The Speakers , Iohn . Church .

CHAP. 1. CHVR .

MAnie among vs denie the God-head , & many the Manhood of Christ .

IOH.

1. That which was from the beginning ( and therefore true God , ) which wee haue hearde ( namelie , speaking , ) which wee haue seen with these our eies , which we haue looked vpon , and these hands of ours , haue handled of that Word ( not the sounding , but the essentiall word of the Father , ) of life . ( liuing of himselfe , and giuing life to all other . )

CH.

Before you goe any further , this word of life is inuisible : how then could it be seene ?

IOH.

( Yes ) 2. For that life was made manifest , ( to wit , in the flesh , ) and we ( I with many others ) haue seen it , and beare witnesse , and publish vnto you , that eternall life , which was with the father ( eternallie before this manifestation ) and was made manifest vnto vs .

CH.

Menander , Ebion , and Cerinthus , hauing bin teachers among vs , confidently denie these thinges which you say : and they beare vs in hand , that they seek our good .

IOH.

3. That ( which I wil repeat again , for more certainties sake ) which wee haue seen and heard , declare we vnto you , that ye may haue fellowship with vs , and that our fellowship also may be with the father , and with his sonne Iesus Christ .

4. And these things write we vnto you , that your ioy might be ful . ( vz. might haue sound consolation in your consciences . )

CH.

Wel then , lay vs down som ground , wherby we may come to be assured , that we haue fellowship one with an other , and with Christ .

IO.

5. This then is the message which we haue heard of him , and declare vnto you , that God is light ( vz. purenes it selfe , and blessednesse ; whereas men and Angels are neither , but by participation ) and in him is no darknes .

CH.

Som that make profession among vs , continue stil in their olde course and conuersation ; and yet they say , they haue fellowship with God .

IOH.

Profession without practise , a note of an hypocrite . 6. If we say that we haue fellowship with him , and walk ( lead the course of our liues ) in darknes ( vz. ignorance , error , impietie , ) wee lie ( dissemble ) and do not trulie . ( deal not sincerely . )

CH.

What then is the true marke of one , which hath fellowship with God ?

IO.

7. If we walk in the light ( lead the cours of our liues in sinceritie of life & doctrin ) wee haue fellowship one with another . Sincerity of life and religion , a note of communion with God .

CH.

We are so defiled with sinne , that we often doubt , least wee haue no fellowship with God .

IOH.

The bloud of Iesus Christ his sonne , cleanseth vs from all sinne .

CH.

Some among vs are come to that passe , that they say , they haue no sinne : & that this estate is a signe of fellowshippe with God .

IOH.

8. If we say that we haue no sinne , To professe perfect sanctification in this life , a note of an hypocrite . we deceiue our selues , ( imagining that to bee true which is otherwise ) & truth is not in vs

CH.

How then may we know that our sinnes are washed away by Christ ?

IOH.

9. If we confesse our sinnes ( namely , humble confession of sin to God ▪ is a note of remission of sinne . with an humbled heart , desiring pardon ) he is faithfull & iust ( in keping his promise ) to forgiue vs our sinnes , and to clense vs from al vnrighteousnes .

10. If we say ( as they before named do ) we haue not sinned , we mak him a liar ( whose word speaks the contrarie , ) and his worde is not in vs . ( his doctrine hath noe place in our heartes .

CHAP. 2. CH.

IF this be true which hath bin saide , that the bloud of Christ doth clense from all sinne : and that if we do confesse them , they shal be pardoned ; our corruption tels vs , that we may sinne freely .

Ioh.

1. My litle children , these thinges I write vnto you , that yee sinne not .

CH.

Alas , we fall oft by infirmitie : what shall we then do ?

Ioh.

If any man sinne , we haue an aduocate ( who in his own name , and by his own merites , pleades our cause ) to the Father , Iesus Christ the iust ( and therefore fit to make intercession )

CH.

But howe may euery one of vs in particular , knowe that Christ is his aduocate ?

IOH.

2. He is the propitiation ( vz. a couering of sinne , or reconciliation , as the propitiatorie of the Arke couered the lawe ) and not for our sinnes onely , but also , for the sins of the whole world ( not onely Iewes , but also Gentiles of all sortes . )

CH.

Be it that I knowe him to be my aduocate : may I not be deceaued ? howe may I knowe , that this my knowledge is effectuall to saluation ?

IOH.

3. Hereby are we sure that we know him ( here , that knowledg is ment , An endeuo● to keep th● commandementes , a sign of faith . whereby a man applies Christ and all his benefites to his own soule ) If we keepe ( to keep is not to fulfill , but to haue a care and desire to do it ; for God of his mercie in his seruants , accepts the will for the deede . ) his commandements .

Ch.

Many among vs , professe that they know Christ ; but their liues be not according .

Ioh.

4. He that saith , I know him , & keeps not his commandements , is a lyer , Faith without obedience , a note of an Hypocrite . and the trueth is not in him .

CH.

How may it be prooued , that the endeuour to keep gods commandements is a mark of faith , & felloship with Christ ?

Ioh.

( He in whome the loue of God is perfecte , may hereby know , that hee is in Christ ) 5. But he that keepeth his word , in him is the loue of God : ( vz. not that loue wherewith God loueth him ; but that , whereby he loueth God ) is perfect indeede : ( vz. sincere and sounde perfection , being opposed , not to imperfection , but to hypocrisie : ) hereby ( therefore ) we know that we are in him . 6. He that saith he remaineth in him , ought to walke euen so , as hee hath walked : ( and therefore he must needes endeuour himselfe in the commandementes .

CH.

Declare vnto vs some of the principall of these commandements ?

IOH.

7. Brethren , I write no new commandement vnto you , but an olde commaundement which yee haue heard from the beginning : this old commandement is the word , which ye haue heard from the beginning . 8. Againe , a newe commandement I write vnto you , that which is true ( to wit , that the commandement is new which he wil now write ) in him ( who reneweth the commandement of old giuen to Moses ) & also in you , for the darknes is past . ( vz. the hardening of the minds of men , vnder the olde testament , whereby they did but in a small measure vnderstand the word ) and that true light ( a greater mesure of illumination ; as also the writing of Gods lawes , not in Tables of stone , but in the fleshie hearts , so as they be transformed into the obedience thereof ) now shineth .

CH.

Well : set downe this commandement which is so ancient , and is nowe renewed .

Ioh.

profession ioyned with hatred and malice , a note of an hypocrite 9. He that saith ( as many among you do ) that he is in the light ( that is , that hee is both plentifully inlightened and borne anew ) and hates his brother , is in darknes ( vnder the estate of damnation , not yet trulie regenerate ) vntill this time . 10. Hee that loueth his brother , Loue of our brother , a signe of regeneration . abideth in the light ( is trulie enlightened and regenerate . ) and there is no offence , ( vz. he wil giue no occasion of euill ) in him . 11. But ( on the contrary ) hee that hateth his brother , is in darknes , and walketh in darknesse , ( leadeth his life in ignorance and vngodlinesse ) and knoweth not whither he goeth ; because that darknesse hath blinded his eies .

Ch.

What moueth you to deliuer vnto vs , al these notes and signs of our new birth and communion with Christ .

Ioh.

12. Litle Children , I write vnto you , because your sinnes are forgiuen you ▪ for his name-sake ( vz. by Christ and his merites ; that yee may be certified to your comforte of this . )

( And that no kind of men among you might doubt of this ) 13. I write vnto you fathers , because ye ( delighting to tell & hear of olde and ancient matters ) haue knowne him ( that is , christ ) that is from the beginning . I write vnto you young men , because ye ( delighting to shewe your valour and strength ) haue ouercome the euil one . ( that is , Sathan . ) 14. I write vnto you litle children , ( who delight alwaies to bee vnder the Fathers wing , ) because yee haue knowen the Father . ( And againe , because wee are dull to marke and remember that which is good for vs . ) I haue written vnto you Fathers , because yee haue knowen him that is from the beginning : I haue written vnto you young men , because yee are strong , and the worde of God abideth in you : and yee haue ouercome that wicked one

CH.

If we be in the estate of grace vnder Gods fauour in Christ ; howe may wee abide in it ?

IOH.

15. Loue not this world ( the corrupt estate of mankinde out of Christ , ) neither the thinges that are in the worlde ( for first of all , to giue reasons , ) if any man loue this Worlde , the loue of the father ( wherewith hee loued the Father ) is not in him . ( Secondly , ) 16. For all that is in this worlde , as the lust of the flesh ( the corruption of nature , which chiefly breaketh out in euil concupiscence ) the lust of the eies ( the fruite of the former , stirred vp by outward prouocations , especially in the eie , as it is manifest in Adulterie & couetousnes ) and the pride of life ( vz. Arrogancie and Ambition , among men , in common conuersation of life , ) is not of the father , but of the worlde . 17. And ( Thirdly ) this world passeth away and the lust thereof : but he that fulfilleth the wil of God , abideth for euer .

Ch.

What other thinges are we to do , that we may continue ?

IOH.

18. Little Children , it is the last time : and as yee haue hearde , that Antichrist shall come , ( a speciall Antichrist , the chiefe of all other ; who is nowe manifest to be the Pope of Rome ) euen now , ar there many Antichristes , ( Heretickes , denying , either the natures of Christ , or his offices : or the vnion and distinction of his Natures : ) whereby wee knowe , that it is the last time :

CH.

Those whome you cal Antichrists , were of our companie ; and professed as we do .

Ioh.

19. They went out from vs , but they were not of vs : for if they had bene of vs , they should haue continued with vs . But ( this commeth to passe , that it might appear , that they are not al of vs .

CH.

How can we be assured of our continuance in grace ; for wee may fall as well as they do ?

IOH.

20. But yee haue an annointment , Gods spirite dwelling in the heart , a signe of perseuerance . ( the grace of Gods holy spirit , resembled by the annoynting in the old testament ) from that holy one ( Christ , Luke . 1.15 . ) and knowe all thinges .

CH.

If wee knowe all thinges , then you need not write vnto vs of these matters .

Ioh.

21 I haue not written vnto you , because ye know not the trueth , but because you know it , & that no lie is of the truth ( vz. ye can distinguish betweene the sound doctrine of the Gospel , and errors )

Ch.

What is this lie which you speak of ?

Ioh.

papists deny Iesus to bee Christ , for though in words they magnifie him , yet in their doctrin by necessary consequent , they denie him to be a king , a priest a prophet . 22. Who is a lier ( a deceauer , a seducer ) but hee that denieth that Iesus is Christ ? ( the Messias or Sauiour of mankind . ) The same is the Antichrist , that denieth the father and the sonne .

Ch.

These whom you meane ( say they ) defend the doctrine of God as well as we ; and they vse to call him their father .

Io.

23. Who so denieth the son , hath not the Father .

Ch.

What do you inferre vpon this ; if it be the last time , as you haue said ?

Io.

24. Let therfore abide in you , the same ( doctrine concerning Christ ) which ye haue hard from the beginning ( which the Apostles preached ; perseuerance in the knowledge and obedience of the Gospell , a sign of communion with Christ . and before them the Prophets , since the beginning of the world ) If that which ye haue heard from the beginning , remain ( ye beleeuing and obeying it ) in you , yee also shal continue in the sonne , and in the father . 25. And this , is the promise which hee hath promised vs , euen life eternall .

Ch.

Wee cannot perswade our selues of perseuerance , seeing men so commonly fall away from Christ among vs .

Ioh.

26. These thinges haue I written vnto you , concerning them that deceaue you ( not meaning them of you , as you seem to tak it ) 27. But the annointing ( the spirite which yee haue receaued of Christ , and which hath led you into all trueth ) which ye haue receiued of him , dwelleth in you , ( abideth in you , and will so continewe ) and yee neede not that any man teach you , ( any other doctrine beside this , which ye haue learned already : ) but as the same annointing , teacheth you all thinges , and it is true and not lying , and as it taught you , ye shall abide in him . 28. And now , litle Children , abide in him , that when he shall appeare , we ( being iustified in Christ , ) may haue boldnes , and not be ashamed : ( neither Sathan , nor our consciences accusing vs for sinne , ) before him at his comming .

Ch.

Wee are still in doubt to returne back to that which you say before , howe an endeuour to keepe the commaundementes , should be a signe of fellowshippe with Christ .

Ioh.

29. If ye know that he ( God ) is righteous , know ye , that he which worketh righteousnes , is borne of him . ( as a Child is knowen to haue such a man for his Father , becaus he resembleth him .

CHAP. 3. CH.

ARe we then borne of God ?

Io.

1. Behold , what loue the father hath giuen to vs , that wee should be called the sonnes of God .

Ch.

The World doth not report vs , as the sonnes and daughters of God , but for the reffuse and ofscouring of the worlde .

Ioh.

For this cause the world knoweth not you , because it knoweth not him .

Ch.

Can Gods Children be subiect to such infirmities and miseries as we are ?

Ioh.

2. Dearely beloued , now are wee the sonnes of God , but yet it is not made manifest what we shall be : and wee know , that when he shall be made manifest , we shall be like him ; ( hauing not equalitie , but likenes of holines and glorie : ) for we shall see him as he is , ( for now wee see him as it were , through spectacles , in the word and Sacraments . )

Ch.

Alas poore wretches , we are not like Gods children ; for we are euen sould vnder sinne , and daily carrie a masse of corruption about vs .

Io.

3. Euery one that hath this hope ( to see him as he is , A desire , & an indeuour to vse good means to cleanse our selues of our corruptions and priuie sins , is a mark of adoption . ) purifieth ( vz. thogh he be subiect to sinn , yet he desireth , and vseth the meanes to clense him selfe from sinne : ) euen as he is pure . ( setting before him Christ as a patterne to follow . )

Ch.

Howe prooue you , that an endeuour to purifie our selues , is a note of Adoption ?

Ioh.

( By the contrarie ) 4. Whosoeuer committeth sinne , ( practiseth sinne with full consent of wil ; not endeuouring himselfe in holines of life , ) transgresseth also the lawe ( and for that cause , being vnder the curse of the Lawe , cannot be Gods children ) for sinne is the transgression of the lawe . ( Vnderstand , by lawe , not morall lawe , but any commaundement of God , whether it be in the law or Gospell . 5. And ( againe , ) yee know , that hee was made manifest , ( took our nature on him ) that he might take away our sinnes , ( the guilt & punishment at once , and the corruption by litle and litle , ) and in him is no sinne .

( Thirdly , ) 6. Whosoeuer abideth in him , sinneth not : ( he doeth not giue himself to sin , so as it should raigne in him : ) Whosoeuer sinneth , hath not seene him , nor known him : ( to wit , effectuallie , so as he can apply Christ and his benefites to himselfe . )

CH.

But some teach , that faith is sufficient : and they emboulden vs to liue as we will .

Io.

7. Litle Children , let no man deceiue you ; he that worketh righteousnes , is righteous as he is righteous . 8. He that committeth sin ( thogh he say , he doeth beleeue , & therefore thinks himself justified before God ) is of the deuil , ( resembleth the deuil , as the child doth the father , and is gouerned by his spirite : ) for the deuil sinneth from the beginning : ( of the worlde : ) ( which appeareth , that ) for this purpose was made manifest the son of God , that he might dissolue the works ( for the beginning and continuance of all rebellion , and disobedience to God , ) of the Deuil . ( And further , to displaie these Seducers ) 9. Whosoeuer is born of God , sinneth not , ( vz. doth not keepe a course in sinne , howsoeuer hee fall by infirmitie ) for his seed ( vz. Gods word , cast into the hart , by the operation of the Spirite , making a man to spring vp into a new creature , ( remaineth in him : neither can he sin , because he is borne of God .

CH.

Brieflie , to come to the point , how may it be known , who is Gods childe , and who is to be reputed the child of the deuil

IOH.

10. In this are the children of God knowne , Loosnes of life , or the practise of sin , a note of the child of the deuill , for the present time . and the children of the deuill : whosoeuer worketh not righteousnes , is not of God , neither ( to giue you a plaine example ) hee that loueth not his brother . 11. For , this is the message , which ye haue heard from the beginning , that we should loue one another . 12. Not as Cain : he was of that euill one ( Sathan ) and slew his brother : and wherefore slew he him ? because his owne workes were euil , and his brothers good .

Ch.

Yet if we loue those which be our brethren , according to the fleshe neuer so much ; they cease not to hate and persecute vs .

Ioh.

13. Maruaile not my brethren , thogh this world hate you .

Ch.

If not to loue , be a note of the Childe of the Deuill , what is the note of Gods child ?

Ioh.

14. We know that wee are translated from death to life , because we loue the brethren , To loue a christian , because he is a christian , or godly man , is a note of Gods chiid . ( vz. such as be Christians , because they ar Christians : ) ( as on the contrary , ) hee that loueth not his brother , abideth in death : ( is vnder the estate of damnation . ) 15. Whosoeuer hateth his brother , is a manslayer : and yee knowe that no manslayer hath eternall life abiding in him .

CH.

You haue shewed vs fullie , that loue is a mark of adoption . Nowe shew vs how we may know whether wee loue our brethren or not ?

Ioh.

16. Hereby wee haue perceiued loue , that he layed downe his life for vs : therefore we ought ( carried with the like affection of loue ) to lay downe our liues for the brethren .

Ch.

Manie in speech do pretend loue , but we find not this willing affection and readines to shew loue .

Ioh.

17. Whosoeuer hath this worldes good , ( wherewith this life is sustained ) and seeth his brother haue neede , Compassion stirring in the heart , a note of loue and shutteth vp his bowels ( vz. hath no compassion , because it sheweth it selfe by the rowlling of the intrals ) from him , how dwelleth the loue of God in him ?

Ch.

What other note is there of true loue ?

Ioh.

18. My litle Children , let vs not loue in word , nor in tongue onely , but in deede and in trueth ( sincerely . ) 1.19 . For thereby we knowe that we are of the trueth ( sound professors of the Gospell of Christ , Workes of mercy , signs of loue . ) 2. and shall before him appease our hearts : sincere loue a note of sincere profession . ( in regard of any accusation that our conscience shal lay vnto vs , before Gods iudgment seate ) 20. If our heart condemne vs ( an euill conscience accuse vs , ) God is greater then our heart ( namely in iudging of vs , ) & knoweth all thinges .

Ch.

How may we know that our consciences will not condemne vs ?

IOH.

21. Beloued , if our heart condemne vs not , Boldnes in praier , a signe of a pacified conscience . then haue we boldnes towards God . ( vz. to to come vnto him by prayer . )

Ch.

What other fruite is there of true loue ?

Ioh.

22. Whatsoeuer we ask wee receiue of him : because we keepe his commandements , & do those thinges which are pleasant in his sight

Ch.

What are these commandements ?

Ioh.

23. This then is his commandement , that we beleue in the name of his sonne Iesus Christ and loue one another as hee gaue commaundement .

Ch.

Haue they , which keep these commaundementes , their prayers graunted ? prooue this .

Ioh.

( Yes ) 24. For he that keepeeh his commandements dwelleth in him , and he in him .

Ch.

Howe may wee know that God dwelleth in vs , and we in him ?

Ioh.

Hereby wee knowe , that hee abideth in vs by that spirit ( of sanctification , The operation of gods spirit in sanctifying vs , a sign of communion with God . whereby wee are renewed ) which hee hath giuen vs .

CHAP. 4. CH.

TO return again to that which was before mentioned : shall we beleeue all that say they haue the spirite ?

Ioh.

1. Dearely beloued , beleeue not euery spirit ( vz. doctrines , which men bragging of the spirit do teach ; ) but try the spirits whether they be of God , for many false prophets are gone out into the world .

Ch.

Howe may we discerne of spirits ?

Ioh.

2. Hereby shall we knowe the spirite of God , euery spirit ( doctrin ) which confesseth that Iesus Christ ( the Messias ) is come in the flesh ( is made true man ; this being the substance of the Gospell , ) is of God . 3. And euery spirit that confesseth not , that Iesus Christ is come in the flesh , is not of God : but this is the spirit of Antichrist , of whom ye haue hard , how that he shal come , & now alredy is in the world .

Ch.

We fear , because these fals spirits ar of gret power , to perswade & seduce many

Ioh.

4. Little Children , ye are of God , and haue ouercome them : for greater is he that is in you ( Gods spirit ) then he that is in the world . ( the spirit of Sathan . )

Ch.

But the doctrine of these men is of great account , and hath many followers in the world ; ours hath but few which imbrace it .

Ioh.

5. They are of this world , therefore speak they of this world , and this worlde ( vz. Ignorant and vngodly men ) heareth them . 6. We are of God ; hee which knoweth God , heareth vs : he which is not of God , heareth vs not . Hereby knowe we the spirit of truth , and the spirit of error ( namely , by the liking , and applause of the world . )

Ch.

Howe may we preserue our selues against these seducers ?

Ioh.

7. Beloued , let vs loue one another ▪ for loue commeth of God : & euery one that loueth , is born of God , and knoweth God : ( by a special knowledg , whereby they are assured that God , the father of Christ , is their father , Christ , their redemer , the holy ghost their sanctifier . ) 8. He that loueth not , knoweth not God , for God is loue ( vz. whollie bent to shew his loue and compassion to his people . ) ( For a proofe of this , ) 9. Herein was that loue of God made manifest among vs , because God sent that his only begotten son into the world , that we might liue through him . 10. Herein is that loue , not that we loued God ; but that he loued vs : & sent his sonne to be a reconciliation for our sinnes .

Ch.

What of all this ?

Ioh.

11. Beloued , if God so loued vs , we ought also one to loue another .

Ch.

How can God manifest his loue to vs , he being a spirite and inuisible ?

Io.

12. No man hath seene God at any time : ( neuerthelesse , ) if we loue one another ( this is a signe ) that God dwelleth in vs , and his loue is perfect in vs : ( vz. that loue wherewith he loueth , is throughlie made manifest towards vs by our loue : as the light of the Moone shining on vs , argueth the light of the sun shining vpon the moon , of whom ( as from a fountain ) the moone takes her light .

Ch.

How may we know , that God dwelleth in vs ?

Ioh.

13. Hereby do we know , that wee dwell in him , and he in vs ▪ because hee hath giuen vs of his spirite .

Ch.

What other signe haue you , of Gods dwelling in vs ?

Ioh.

14. Wee haue seene and do testifie , that the father sent that sonne to be the Sauiour of the world . A sincere confession of the Gospel , a note of communion with Christ . 15. Whosoeuer confesseth ( in faith and loue ) that Iesus is the sonne of God , in him dwelleth God , and he in God .

Ch.

The Diuell will confesse Christ .

Ioh.

16. And wee ( which is more ) haue known & beleued the loue which God hath in vs

Ch.

Declare how our loue should be a signe of God his dwelling in vs .

Ioh.

God is loue , & ( therfore ) he that dwelleth in loue , dwelleth in God , and God in him .

Ch.

God is loue we graunt , but howe may we knowe , that God is loue to vs .

Io.

To be like God in holines of life , a signe of his loue to vs particularlie . 17. Hereby is that loue perfect , ( vz. fully made manifest in vs , ) that wee may haue boldnes ( to stand before him without fear ) in the day of iudgement , for euen as he is , so are we in the world . ( not in equalitie , but in conformitie of holines . ) ( As may appeare by the contrary ) 18. there is no feare in loue ( vz. when a man is assured of Gods loue to him , hee doeth not distrust , nor seruile feare him , in respect of his sinnes , ) but perfect loue casteth out feare : for feare hath painfulnesse ( checkings and torments of conscience : ) and hee that feareth is not perfecte in loue .

Ch.

What other sign is there that God is loue to vs ?

Io.

19. We loue him , because he loued vs first , Our loue of God , a signe that he loueth vs particularlie . ( As when a man warmes him , the heate of his body is because the fire is first hote . )

Ch .

If this be so , then they which loue not their brethren , loued of God in Christ : seeing al generally say they loue God .

Ioh.

20 , If any man say , I loue God , and hate his brother , he is a lyer : for how can he that loueth not his brother whome he hath seene , loue God , whom he hath not seene . 21. And this commandement haue we of him , that hee that loueth , God should loue his brother also .

CHAP. 5.

1. WHosoeuer beleeueth that Iesus is that Christ ( true Messias ) is born of god , & euery one that loueth him which did beget ( vz. God the Father , ) loueth him also , which is begotten of him . ( the Child of God , a true Christian. )

Ch.

This being manifest , that they ar hypocrits which say they loue God , yet shew no loue to their brethren , teach vs howe wee may knowe that wee loue our brethren ?

Ioh.

2. In this we know that we loue the children of God , An indeuor to keep the commandements , a sign of loue of our brother . when wee loue God and keepe his commandements ( that is , indeuour to keep ; the beginning of the action , being put for the whole . ) 3. For this is the loue of God ( the duty of loue to God ) that we keepe his commandements .

Ch.

But no man can keepe the lawe ?

Ioh.

His commandements are not burdenous ( to them that are in Christ ; and are freed from the curse of the lawe , which makes the law grieuous , and are also guided by his holy spirit . ) ( And this is apparant ) 4. for al that is borne of God , ouercommeth the world ( Sathan with all corruptions and workes of darknes . )

Ch.

By what meanes ?

Ioh.

And this is the victorie which hath ouercome the world , euen our faith ( which is the instrument and hand , whereby we lay hold on him , that he in vs , and so wee by him , might ouercome the world . ) 5. Who is this that ouercommeth this worlde , but hee which beleeueth that Iesus is that Son of God ?

Ch.

How may we be resolued that Iesus of Nazaret , the sonne of Marie , was the sonne of God , and the Messias : hee came but basely into the world ?

Ioh.

Proofes invinsible , that Iesus of Nazaret , the son of Mary was the son of God , against the Iewes . 6. This is that Iesus Christ , which came by water ( sanctification signified by the legall washings ) and blood ( imputation of Christs righteousnes or the sprinkling of his blood : ) not by water only , but by water and blood : ( becaus Christ worketh both iustification , & sanctification together ) & it is that spirit ( a mans owne conscience inwardly purified ) that beareth witnes , for that spirit is trueth : ( that is , that the testimonie of the spirit of adoption , certifying vs , that we ar the sons of God is true . ) 7. For , ( that I may speak it more plainly , ) there ar three which beare record in heauen , the father , the word , ( the Son ) and the holy Ghost ; and these three are one , ( namly in testimonie . ) 8. And there are three which beare record in earth , the Spirit , and the water , and blood : and these three agree in one .

Ch.

How shew you that these witnesses be autenticall , and to be beleeued ?

Ioh.

9. If we receiue the witnes of men , the witnes of God is greater : for this is the witnes of God . ( vz. that was said to come from heuen , ) which he testified of his son . ( Again ) 10. he that beleeueth in that sonne of God , hath the witnes in himselfe ( the peace of conscience , which he may feel in himself : ) ( And further , ) he that beleueth not God , maketh him a lyer : because he beleeued not the recorde , that God witnessed of his sonne .

Ch.

What is the effecte of that , which these witnesses testifie ?

Ioh.

11. And this is that record , to wit , that God hath giuen vnto vs eternall life , & this life is in his son . 12. He which hath the son , hath life & he which hath not the son of god , hath not life . ( And to conclude , ) 13. These things haue I written vnto you that beleeue in the name of the son of God , that ye may know , that yee haue life eternal , & that ye may beleeue ( vz. increase in faith , ) in the name of that sonne of God .

Ch.

How can we haue life eternal now , that are so miserable , and so ful of wants ?

Ioh.

14. And this is that assurance that wee haue in him , that if we ask any thing according to his will , he heareth vs .

Ch.

How may we know that God granteth our praiers made acording to his wil ?

Ioh.

A signe of our praiers granted vs , if God do but heare them . 15. If we know that he heareth ( that is , ( as it were ) to giue an eare to our praiers , ) whatsoeuer we ask , we knowe that wee haue the petitions , which wee haue desired of him , ( though the things that we asked be not giuen vs in that measure , maner , and time , in which we asked them . )

Ch.

Let vs heare an example of those things which God wil grant , when we pray

Io.

16. If a man see his brother sin a sin , that is not vnto death ; ( that is , which may be pardoned , ) let him ask ( pardon in his behalfe ) and he shal giue him life for them that sinne not vnto death : there is a sinne vnto death , ( after which , necessarilie damnation followeth , as the sinne against the holy Ghost : I say not that thou shouldest pray for it .

Ch.

But is not euery sinne , a sinne to death ?

Ioh.

17. All vnrighteousnes is sinne , ( and therefore deserueth death : ) but there is a sinne not vnto death ; ( namely that which is pardoned in Christ )

Ch.

We feare least wee haue committed this sinne , which is vnto death .

Ioh.

18. Wee know that whosoeuer is borne of God sinneth not ; but he that is begotten of god , kepeth himselfe , and that wicked one ( Sathan ) toucheth him not . ( vz. doth him no violence , or he cannot giue him a deadly wound . ) 19. We know that we are of God , and this whol world lyeth in euill : ( that is in seruitude vnder Sathan and sinne . )

Ch.

How shew you , that we ar of God ?

Ioh.

20. Wee know that the Sonne of God is come , and hath giuen vs a minde to knowe him that is true : & we are in him that is true , that is , in his sonne Iesus Christ , this same is that very God and that eternall life .

Ch.

Howe may wee keepe our selfe in God , and neuer commit the sin to death ?

Ioh.

21. Litle Children keepe your selues from images ( whether they be of false Gods or of the true God . )

PSALME . 15. Iehoua . Dauid . DAVID .

1. O Iehoua , who shal dwell ( as Pilgrims dwel in tents ) in thy tabernacle , ( the Church millitant ? ) who shall rest in thy holy mountaine , ( the kingdome of heauen ? )

IEHO .

Sincerity of life , in righteousnes & holines , a note of Gods child . 2. He that walketh perfectly ( that is , he which leadeth the course of his life vprightly . )

DAV .

Who is the vpright man ?

IEHO .

He that worketh righteousnes ( according to the commandements of the second Table , ) and speaketh the truth in his heart ( as he thinketh , his hart & tongue agreeing . )

DAV .

By what notes may this vpright man be knowen , and who is he ?

IEHO .

Seuen notes of an vpright man . 3. I. Hee that slandreth not with his tongue : II. nor doth hurt to his neighbour : III. nor receiueth a fals report against his neighbor . IV. 4. In whose eies a vile person , ( an vngodly and vnrighteous man ; ) is contemned , but hee honoureth them that feare God : V. He that hauing sworne to his owne hinderance , changeth not . VI. 5. He that giueth not his money to Vsury . VII . neither taketh reward of the innocent .

DAV .

Are these notes vnfallible ?

IEHO .

6. He that doth these things , shal neuer be moued , ( shall abide in Gods fauour for euer ▪ )

A BRIEFE DISCOVRSE , TAKEN OVT OF THE WRItinges of Hier. Zanchius . WHEREIN THE FOREsaid case of Conscience is disputed and resolued .

ASSERTION . I. Onely the elect , and all of them : not onely trulie may bee , but also , are in that time which God hath appointed them in this life , indeede assured of their Election to eternall life in Christ : and this is done not one way , but many waies .

WEe say , that the elect alone may be , and indeed are made sure of their Election : that so we may exclude the reprobat hipocrites : for considering they are not elected , they canne neuer be truelie perswaded , that they are elected . I say truely : because it may come to passe , that many in their own thinking shall be predestinate : yet in trueth they are not perswaded so : for they are deceaued . Wee haue an example in temporarie Christians , who thinke of themselues , that they beleeue in Christ , but truelie do not beleeue : for their Faith is in hypocrisie : and for a time onely . Wherefore a true & certaine perswasion of Election , can neuer befall any of the reprobates : because the true perswasion of Heauenly matters , 1. Cor. 2.10 Math. 11.27 commeth of the holy Ghost ; which neuer perswadeth any false matter . Wherefore how can Reprobates bee perswaded that they are elected ? This considered , it is not amisse , that wee attribute this perswasion ( of which wee nowe speake ) to the elect alone . We ad further , that al the elect , not onely may be , but are indeed made sure of their Election : Which must be demonstratiuelie confirmed against schoole-men , & other our aduersaries . We say , this is done in the time appointed ; because the Elect , before they be called to Christ , are neuer sure of their election : nay , they neuer think of it , as appeareth in Paul before hee was called , and in others . Againe , in like maner after they haue bene called ; yet not presently are made sure of their election : but some sooner , some latter . Lastly , we ad , that this is done many waies , what they ar ( if not perfectly , yet in parte I will afterwarde shewe . ) Nowe let vs come to the matter .

The School-men demaunde , whether a man may be made sure of his Election ? And they determine that a man cannot , except it be by diuine reuelation : becaus Predestination is in God , and not in vs . And no man knoweth the thinges of God , but the spirit of God : 1. Cor. 2.16 . as no man knoweth the thinges of man , but the spirite of man , which is in him : Again , who knoweth the minde of the Lorde ? Rom. 12.34 . The elect by the testimonie of the holy Ghost , are made sure of their election . therefore ( say they ) some special reuelation is needeful : if any desire to be certified , either of his owne or of any other mans predestination , their sayings are not simply to be disliked : but in that meaning , in which they vnderstand them , they are no way to be approoued . For they take a speciall reuelation to be this , if God shall signifie and say expresly to any , either by some Angell outwardly , or by his spirite inwardly , that he is predestinate to life : after which sorte , they hold that Paul , and a fewe other Saintes , had their predestination reuealed to them , So they conclude , that , because euery man hath not his Election reuealed to him after this maner , that all men cannot be assured of their election . But they are deceued , for God , not onely by this one maner , which they spake off , doth reueale his will & his counsels , but by many : for God reuealeth thinges , either by the inwarde inspiration of his spirit , or outwardly by his word : or both inwardly and outwardly , by inward and outward effectes . By his spirite , hee did inspire his Prophetes , and open many thinges to come . And Christ said to his Apostles , as concerning the holy Ghost : he shall lead you into all trueth . By his word , he spake vnto the Prophets , and in like maner , ch. 19.13 by his word hee teacheth vs his wil. Also , by diuers effectes , hee declareth , either his mercie or his iustice : as it is known . The same must be thought of the reuealing of his election : to wit , that God reuealeth the same to the elect , by the holy Ghost , by the worde , and by the most certaine effectes of predestination .

The first testimonie , by which God assureth vs of our election , is the inward testimonie of the spirite , of which , the Apostle saith : the spirit ( of God ) testifieth vnto our spirits , that we are the children of God . Nowe what is it to be the sonne of God , but first of al , to be predestinated to be the childe of God by adoption : & then to be made actuallie the sonne of God by faith : and lastly , by the same spirit also , to be regenerate as Gods Children are , and to put on the nature of the sonne of God , or rather the sonne of God himselfe , as the Apostle speaketh . Therefore the holy Ghost , whilest he inwardly beareth recorde vnto our spirits , that is , to our minds , being enlightened by his light , that we are the sonnes of God : most plainly reuealeth that wee were predestinate from all aeternitie to adoption ; for men are not made the sonnes of God by faith , nor regenerate to be the sonnes of God , nor put on Christ : except they be first of all predestinated to adoption . And there can be nothing more certain , then this testimonie : for who better knoweth the things of God , his counsels and decrees , then the spirit of God , which searcheth all thinges , 1. Cor. 2.10 . yea the deep things of God : therefore hee can most truly reueale vnto euery one of vs , the certaintie of our election . And he cannot deceiue vs in reueiling it : for he is the spirit of truth which can neither deceiue nor be deceaued . Ioh. 16.13 . If an Angel from heauen shoulde be sent to thee , as he was sent to Marie , and as hee spake vnto the fathers , and should tell thee in the name of God , that thou wert elected to life euerlasting : wouldest not thou say , that thou couldest not then doubt any longer of thy election ? But so much the more certaine is the testimonie of the spirite , which beareth record vnto our spirit , that we are the sonnes of God : by how much the holy Ghost doth more knowe the thinges of God then any Angell : and can lesse deceiue then an Angel . And so much the more sure , is this testimonie , considering it is not keept in the bodily eares , where it might soone vanish away , but in our minde and spirit : becaus the spirit beareth record to our spirit . Ad further , that the holy Ghost neuer departeth from our spirit , but dwelleth in vs , abideth in vs , speaketh in vs , sheweth forth his power in vs , praieth in vs . Therefore the Apostle saith , that wee haue receiued the spirite of adoption , Rom. 8.15 Gal. 4.6 . by which we crie Abba Father : as thogh he should say , this testimonie of the spirite is altogether so sure , by which , he beareth vs record , that we are the sonnes of God , that presently without doubting , we can call vpon God , and cry Abba Father . And all the electe haue this testimonie , being made the sons of God by faith , and being renewed by the holy Ghost : and ingrafted into Christ ; For so the Apostle speaketh , Rom. 8 9 if any man haue not the spirit of Christ , he is not his : therefore , whosoeuer is Christs , and is ingrafted into Christ , it is necessarie hee should haue the spirit of God . And whosoeuer haue receiued , and doe enioy the spirite of Christe ; to their mindes the same spirit beareth record , that they are the sonnes of God , and maketh them to cry Abba , Father . And it is certaine , that noe man is renewed by the holy Ghost , which is not perswaded , that God is his most mercifull and most louing Father : & therefore , can call vpon him as a Father . Therefore , although al men , in that they are assured by the certaintie of faith , that God is their Father , and they are his sons , do not thereby argue and conclude , that they are elected to eternal life : yet al men indeed , haue thereby a sure testimonie of their election to glorie : because , if they be the sonnes of God , they are also heires of eternall life . This testimonie I will briefly comprise within this demonstration : whosoeuer call vpon God , and in their hearts cry , Abba Father , they are the sonnes of God , and it is certain , that they thus crye by the spirit of God . And they which are the sonnes of God , are also heires of eternall life , and they haue bene predestinate to adoption : therefore it must needes be , that all they which are perswaded , that they ar the sons of god by the holy Ghost ; are predestinate to eternall life , and must be perswaded of it . This is the first testimonie , and the first way , by which God reuealeth to euery elect man his predestination : namely , by the holy Ghost within our heartes , bearing record vnto vs , that we are the sonnes of God , in christ and by Christ . And let this be the first argument , also seruing to confirme our assertion .

Vers. 2. The elect out of the word of god , their conscience making the assumption , at length they may be certainly perswaded of their predestination . The second way , by which God reuealeth to euery man his predestination , is by his word . I mean not any particular word , by which hee doeth declare to any , outwardlie , in priuate and speciall maner , and that in expresse wordes , his election : but the general word of the Gospel , by which Christ calleth all them , which beleeue in him , elect , both by himselfe , and by his Apostles , as in the new Testament , euerie where is most manifest . For , although in particular propositions he say not to thee , or to him particularlie , thou art elect to eternall life : yet , by means of generall propositions , he doeth aswell conclude in the heart of euerie one that beleeueth , that he is elected ; as any man shall be able to conclude vnto particular men , that euery one of them is a liuing creature , indewed with reason , by this general proposition : Euerie man is a reasonable creature , indued with reason : the Assumption beeing suppressed . Therefore , after this maner dealeth God . He hath chosen all , and euerie seuerall man , whom he was to indew with Faith , to haue the euerlasting inheritance ▪

Furthermore , he publisheth it to al the Elect , by the Apostles , in this general proposition , that all the faithful are elect to eternall life : the That , wherby a man applies the general promise to himselfe . assumption is concealed in the word of God . But when he giueth vs faith , he maketh euerie one of vs , to make an assumption by himselfe in his minde : but I am of the faithfull : for I finde in my selfe , that I trulie beleeue in Christ . Therefore , who is it that maketh this conclusion for thee , that thou art predestinat to euerlasting life ? euen God himselfe : the proposition being taken forth of the gospell , & the assumption proceedeth of the gift of faith . But that indeed , by which we properlie attaine to the knowledge of the matter , conteined in the conclusion , is the midle tearme ; as they call it . Wherefore , it is manifest , that God , by the worde of his Gospel , wher he saith , that al the faithfull ar elect : doth reueale to euerie faithfull man , his owne predestination . Onelie this one thing is to be required , that the faithfull man , hearing the vniuersall propositions , in his mind should make an assumption ; But I am faithfull , by the gifte and grace of God . And is not God said to haue reuealed to euery man , his speciall malediction , in this generall proposition , Cursed is euerie one , that doth not continue in al things that are written in this book : Deut. 27.26 althogh he say to no man specially , thou art accursed : for euery one doth mak this assumption , that he is accursed : because he knoweth most certenly , that he doth not continue in al things that are written in the book of the Lawe . Therfore , the schoolmen ar deceiued , when they say , it maybe , that euery man may be sure of his election : namelie , if God , which is able , will reueale it to him : yet , that hee doth onlie reueale it to a very few , as the Apostles : for God ( as hath bene proued & declared ) euen by his worde , in generall propositions , doth reueale to euerie man his predestination : For , what can be more certaine , than this demonstration ? Whosoeuer doe truelie beleeue in Christ , they are elect to eternall life in Christ : but I truelie beleeue in Christ : therefore I am elected . But some make an exception , and say , that this were a demonstration , and that most certaine and euident , if a man might be able to knowe , that he were indewed with true faith in Christ : but here lieth all the difficultie . For many thinke that they trulie beleeue in Christ , whereas neuertheles , their faith is hypocritall and temporary , as appeareth by the Euangelists .

Answer . We graunt , that they which beleeue by such a faith , which is in hypocrisie ▪ and only lasteth for a time ▪ that they are deceiued , whilst they thinke , that they doe trulie beleeue , and yet do not indeed : They which do trulie beleeue , know that they beleeue . for they are like them , which dream that they are Kings , when as they are very beggers : but we say , that they which beleeue by a true faith , doe knowe , whether they trulie beleeue or no : and they are not deceiued , when they say , and think that they trulie beleeue . For , they are like vnto them , which handeling a pretious stone , by reason that they are indued with sense , know and say , that they handle it . And if no man might certainly know , whether he beleeued truly or not , why doeth the Apostle say , Trie your selues , 2. Cor. 13.65 whether you bee in the faith ? And if it be so , no man can euer certainlie know , whether he be justified , considering that they onlie , which trulie beleeue , can be justified . And if a man , giuing credit to another mans words , doth certainly knowe , that he beleeueth him , how much more doeth he know it , which being indued with true faith by the holy Ghost , beleeueth the Gospell ? In a word , godlie Writers haue prooued against School-men , that they , which are indued with true faith in Christ , cannot bee ignorant of it . But ( say they ) no man is certaine of his perseuerance in faith : And therefore , out of this vniuersall proposition , He which beleeueth , namelie , with a true and constant faith , is elected to life : no man can conclude that he is elected , by reason , that albeit hee may knowe , that hee is indued with true faith , yet he cannot tel , whether it shal be perpetuall . This collection is absurde : & the learned haue fully prooued , that true faith is perpetual . And therfore , they which certainly know , that they beleeue in a true faith , are also certaine , that the same their true faith , shall neuer perish in this world : partlie , for the promise of God , Ier. 32.40 . I will put my feare into their hearts , that they may neuer depart from me : and partlie for the prayer of Christ , I haue praied for thee , Peter , Luk. 22.33 that thy faith doe not faile . Seeing it is so , it is very certain , that God by his word , in which generallie he saith , that all the faithfull are elect , doeth reueale to euerie man his election : considering that the proposition taken out of the Gospell , is most certaine : and euerie faithfull man may assume to himselfe , that he is indewed with true faith in Christ .

Vers. 3. By the effects of predestination , a man may gather his predestination . The third way , by which God reueleth to euery one of vs his predestination , is by the effects of predestination , as wel inward in vs , as outward : by which , as by certaine markes imprinted in vs , he doeth seale vs to himselfe in Christ : and doth so seale vs , that if we shall giue diligent heed , we may thereby euidently perceaue , that we are set apart from the common sort of men , which is often called by the name of the world : that we are foreknowen for his sonnes , and loued in Christ , and predestinated to eternall life ; yea , and that we appertaine no longer to the world , but to that Citie which is aboue , that hath his foundation as the Apostle saith . Heb. 11.12 . And wee haue a two fold reason of this argument : one , because these effectes ( of which wee speake , and which we will afterward handle ) God worketh not in any , but his elect as also afterward wee will shewe . Therefore , by right a man may , by a true feeling and experience of these effects in himself , be assured of his particular election , and predestination , to haue fellowshippe with Christ in all his graces . For predestination ( as Augustine witnesseth ) is a preparation to the blessings of God , by which most certainly they are made free , The effectes of predestination which are in vs , are like seals imprinting the image of Gods electi - in vs . whosoeuer are made free : therefore whosoeuer feeleth himselfe freed through these graces of God , may be assured and certified of his predestination . The other reason is , that these effects are not onely the effects simplie of predestination , but also such effectes they are , that they may also may be seals of it : namlie , in printing in vs a liuely form and image of God , foreknowing vs , louing vs , electing vs . And therefore , albeit wee cannot see the purpose , the foreknowledg , the election and predestination of God , as concerning our selues , in God himselfe foreknowing , willing , and electing vs : yet wee may beholde in our selues , som sure representations of al these imprinted , and euen stamped in vs by the word : and so by the beholding of these formes and impressions in our selues , wee shall easily be brought to the knowledge of those patterns ( as it were ) which are in the Lord himselfe . The matter ( by reason it is very good and comfortable ) may be declared by a similitude : God is like vnto the Sunne in regard of vs : the sunne when it shineth vpon vs , and after a sort looketh vs in the face , it doth after such a sort imprinte an image of his light in our eies , that wee also in like manner beeing made partakers of his light , may looke againe vpon the sunne it selfe , and vpon his light ; for the light of the Sunne , and his beams being sent down vpon vs , are beaten back and reflected againe towardes the sunne . So in like maner , the forknowledg of god by which he hath and would acknowledg vs for his , from all eternitie ; it alwaies resteth in God , and cannot of it selfe bee perceaued of vs . But yet whilst God doth acknowledg vs for his , hee doth portrait in vs his elect , a certaine forme and image of his foreknowledge : by which , hee maketh vs , renouncing all other gods , to acknowledge him for our onely true God . Thus it commeth to passe , that through this true knowledge of God , which hee vouchsafeth vs , and by which wee doe acknowledg God , for our God and Father : we may after a sort , beholde in God himselfe his foreknowledg , by which he hath foreknowen vs for his sonnes . For first of all , God doth acknowledg vs for his , and then the electe being made partakers of this his light and knowledg , hee causeth vs in like maner to acknowledg him . To this purpose serueth that , which our Sauiour Christ saith : first , ( saith he ) I knowe my sheep , after he addeth , and again , Ioh. 10.14 I am knowen of mine . As though he should say , whiles I acknowledg them for my sheep , I make them , by meanes of this my light & knowledg , that they also can acknowledg me for their pastor . So the Apostle saith to the Galathians : When yee shall knowe God , or rather are known of him : he teacheth therefore , that God knewe the Galathians , because he had first acknowledged them for his , in his eternall Predestination : And by giuing vnto them this his wisdome , Col. 4.9 . he made them acknowledge the true God , for their God . The same may be said of the loue of God , by which hee loued vs in Christ to euerlasting life , before the foundation of the world ; God by louing vs doth print in our heartes the Image of his loue , by which wee may loue him again from our hearts : and as it wer , by the reflection of the sun-beames , sent downe into our heartes , wee may be prouoked to loue againe . For the loue of god to vs being eternall , and causing eternall life , begetteth in the time appointed , a certaine loue in vs , seruing for his eternal glory . And to this purpose is that of saint Iohn : 1 ▪ Ioh 4.10 . not that wee first loued God , but becaus he first loued vs . As though hee had saide , therefore wee loue God , because hee first , that is , before the foundation of the world louing vs in Christ , by the ingrauing of his loue in our hearts , causeth vs to loue him againe as a Father . So loue is saide , ( to wit , 1. Iohn . 4.7 . Rom. 5.5 . that loue , by which we loue God ) to be of God : that is to proceede of the loue of God towardes vs . And Paul writeth , that the loue of God , ( namely , that loue , by which hee loued vs ) to be shed in our heartes by the holy Ghost , which is giuen vs : And by this shedding of the loue of God in our harts , it commeth to passe , that loue is also wrought in our heartes towardes God . And therefore , by that sound loue by which wee feele our selues to loue God : we are made to knowe how great that loue of God is , by which he loued vs , from all aeternitie in Christ . And what is that loue els , but predestination ?

In like manner , election , by which hee singled vs from the rest of the worlde in Christ , that we might be holy before him ; begets in vs a certain image , euen of God himself , that is , another election , by which , wee renouncing all other gods which are worshipped in the world , make our choise of this our true God Iehouah , to bee our God , that hee may be alwaies before our eies , hee which sanctifieth vs , and the Authour of our whole saluation . Wherfore , through this constant election , which is in vs , we perceiue that that election which is in God as concerning vs , is firm and sure ; not onely as wee gather the cause by the effect , but also , as wee gather the pattern by the picture : like as by the similitude of the forme of a seale , fashioned in wax , we doe easilie vnderstande , what is the very forme and fashion of the seale . Therefore it is manifest , that it is the maner of God , by the effectes of his election and predestination imprinted in vs , to reueale to euerie one of vs , his own election and predestination : And that two waies , both because there are certaine effectes of predestination , and by the effects , the causes are knowen : and also because there are certaine liuely types of Gods fore-knowledg and election , by which we are sealed vppe vnto God .

Now by the imprinting of these forms and types in vs , as the seale is in wax : the verie first patterns themselues are known what they are .

Furthermore , that there is no man elected to eternal life , which shall not be sealed vp in the time appointed , with these marks of Gods election : It is manifest out of these places of Scripture , which treat of election and predestination . The Apostle teacheth , Ephes. 1.4 Rom. 8.30 . that wee were elected , that wee might be holie , and without blame . Also hee teacheth , that all they whome God hath predestinated , are likewise called , and justified , and , by consequent , indued with faith , and knowledge of God , by which they take him for their Father , with loue also , wherewith they loue him as a Father ; also , with a good will & constant purpose , by which they desire constantlie his glorie . Againe , he saith in another place , The foundation standeth sure , 2. Tim. 2.19 . hauing this seale ( in respect of God ) the Lord knoweth who are his . Now , in respect of vs , he putteth down another seale , saying : Let him depart from iniquitie , which calleth vpon the name of the Lord : For with this marke , all the elect are branded . They call vpon the name of the Lord , and depart from iniquitie : seeking after holinesse & a good conscience . And this is that sealing , which is so often mentioned in the Scriptures . As when in the Apocalypse it is said , Apoc. 2.3 that an innumerable multitude was sealed to the Lord . For , like as the Father sealed Iesus Christ , as he was man and Mediatour , so also , the rest of his children he hath sealed , and doth daylie seale , with sure notes and seales , Ioh. 6.27 . to distinguish them from other men , 2. Cor. 1.21 . and the children of this age . For , God is said to haue annointed vs , and sealed vs , and giuen vs the earnest of his Spirit in our hearts . And againe , to haue sealed vs with the holie Spirit of promise , Eph. 1.13 . & 4.30 . and that to the day of redemption . As it is easie to discerne a right seale from a counterfeit , so the true soules of God ( by the sealing of the Spirit ) are distinguished from Hypocrits , and lawfull children , from bastards .

It remaineth , that wee shoulde declare some effects of predestination : The chiefe effects of predestination , by which the elect ar discerned from the Reprobate . by which , as by marks and seales , the elect may bee discerned from Reprobats . The first effect of predestination , is Christ himselfe , as he is a Mediatour and a Sauiour , dwelling in our hearts by his holie Spirite . For , as we are elected in him , and by him redeemed , so by the sprinkling of his blood , wee are cleansed and sealed ; and by his dwelling in vs , quickned ( for he is our life , and that eternall ) and therfore , we are seuered from Reprobates , which alwaies remaine in death , as in the holie Scriptures we are taught . We say , that this is the first effect of Predestination , because we can enjoy none of the gifts of God , either of election , vocation ▪ or justification , except in Christ , and by Christ : For he hath powred out all the effectes of Predestination into vs . In that therefore , euery elect faithfull man feeleth Christ to dwell in him , and to quicken him ; he hath a seale in himselfe , by which he may knowe , that he was elected to euerlasting life in the same Christ : A part and beginning of which life , is this spirituall life , by which wee now liue to God . And as euerie man knoweth himself to be the sonne of God in Christ , because he calleth vpon God from his heart , as a Father : So he may conclude , that he is predestinated to be the sonne of God , for Christs cause : And that by this first note , the faithfull may know , that they are elect to eternall life ; the Apostle sheweth , know ye not ( saith he ) your selues , 2. Cor. 13.5 . that Iesus Christ is in you , except ye be Reprobates ? And no doubt a type of this kinde of sealing , was that sealng , whiche was done in Aegypt , by the blood of the Lambe : namely , when the houses of the Israelites were sprinkled with this blood , that they might be discerned from the houses of the Aegyptians , and so bee passed ouer vntouched of the Angell . And by Christe , as by the chiefe effect : yea , and the cause to of all the effectes which followe ; all other effects of predestination are put into vs , and we are sealed with them . The Apostle nameth three principals ; our calling ( to wit , Rom. 8.30 effectuall ) our justification , and glorification . This third effect , we shall obtaine in the life to come , the two first in this life . And to these two , may very well be referred all other , which we receiue in this life by Christ : with the effectuall calling , wee joyn a sound hearing of the word of God , and the vnderstanding of it , accompanied with great and constant delight and joy , faith also , and a true knowledge of the Deitie , humanitie , and office of Christ . Vnto iustification , wee refer a perswasion of the remission of our sins by Christ ( for by this we are iustified : ) and regeneration too , or sanctification , and renouation of life , a good conscience , loue not faigned , a pure hart and cleane , patience in aduersitie , and boasting in tribulation , all good workes and fruits of the spirit : ad hereunto the crosse it selfe , which wee beare for the trueth of the Gospel ; wherefore , whosoeuer feeleth that he is effectually called , that hee doth willingly heare the worde , that he doth beleeue the Gospell , that he is sure of the remission of his sinnes , that hee burneth with true loue to his neighbour ; that he is bent to euerie good work ; he cannot but must needes be perswaded of his election : for God onely doth communicate these vnto the Elect. Therefore it is plaine , that the elect are confirmed in the assurance of their election , by the effectes of predestination : and that there is a threefold way , by which God reuealeth to euery man his predestination .

But if any shal take an occasion the rather of doubting of his election , The weaknes of our faith , as touching our eternal election , by what staies it may be held vp . then of confirming himselfe in it , of that which hath bin spoken , as concerning the fruits of the Spirit , and the effects of predestination : and that peraduenture , because hee can feele in himselfe few and verie weake fruites of regeneration and election ; yet let him not bee discouraged , neither let him doubt of his election , but let him vnderset himselfe with these props . First of all , if euer he truelie felt in himselfe , that testimonie of the Spirite , ( which before I mentioned ) namelie , that he is the sonn of God : let him know vndoubtedlie , that he is such a one , and therfore elected to eternall life : For , the holie Ghost neuer beareth record , or perswadeth a man of that , which is false ; for he is the spirite of truth . And they are not the sonnes of God , except they haue bene predestinate ( as the Apostle saith ) to adoption by Christ : And none that is the sonne of God , and a man elected , can be made a reprobate , and the childe of the Deuill . Therefore , albeit he feele in himselfe both fewe and feeble effects of regeneration , yet let him not doubt of his election ▪ otherwise , he shall disgrace the testimonie , which he hath receiued of the holie Ghost ; yea , and that to , which as yet he enjoyeth ; although peraduenture , by reason that his mind is troubled by euill affections , that testimonie of the holie Spirite , can scarse be heard in him . For the true testimonie of our adoption by the holy Ghost , being once giuen vnto our spirit , lasteth for euer ; although it is other whiles heard more plainlie , and at other times is more slenderly and scarce perceiued . But how ( say you ) may I know , whether that testimonie doth proceed from the holie Ghost , How a man may knowe , whether the testimonie , which is giuen of the Spirit , be of of the spirit or not . and therfore , whether it be a true and certain testimonie . I answer , first , by the perswasion : secondly , by the maner of the perswasion : lastlie , by the effects of this testimonie and perswasion . For the first , the holy Ghost doeth not simplie say it , but doth perswade with vs , that we are the sonnes of God : and no flesh can doe this . Againe , he perswades vs by reasons , drawne , not from our works , or from anie worthines in vs , but from the alone goodnes of God the Father , and grace of christ . In this manner the Deuill will neuer perswade any . Lastlie , the perswasion of the holy ghost is ful of power ; for , they which are perswaded , that they are the sonnes of God , cannot , but needs must call him Abba , Father , and in regarde of loue to him , doe hate sin , and whatsoeuer is disagreeing to his will : and on the contrarie , they haue a sound and a hartie desire to do his will . If at anie time thou hast felt in thy selfe any such testimonie , perswade thy selfe , it was the testimonie of the holie Ghost : and that very true & certain to : & therfore , that thou art the child of God , & predestinate to eternal life . This is the first proppe , by which wee must vnderset that weake beleefe we haue , of our certain election to eternal life . Again , hold this without wauering , whosoeuer thou art , that art tempted to doubt of thy election : euen as nothing is required at our handes to worke our election , ( for God chose vs of his onlie meer goodnes ) so that we may trulie know , whether we bee elect or not ; this one thing shall be sufficient ; namelie , if we shal attain to the certain knowledge of this , that we are in Christ , and partakers of him : for , he that is nowe ingrafted into Christ , & is justified , it cannot be , but that he was elected in Christ , before the foundation of the worlde . And that wee may be in Christ , Faith is both required , and is sufficient ; not perfect faith , but true faith , though it be so litle , that it be like a graine of mustarde seed , and feeble , like a young borne babe , and that sore diseased to . Now , that faith , which is a liuelie and a true faith , lasteth alwaies , as hath bene before declared , neither can it at any time altogether faile . And so it commeth to passe , that they which once haue ben truly ingrafted into Christ , remaine alwaies & continue in him , according to that saying . All that my father giueth me , shall come to me : & he which commeth vnto me , I wil not cast forth . This is true , no doubt , that look how much the faith is more perfect , so much the greater power it hath , to knit vs more to Christ : and therefore , we must alwayes endeuour to increase in Faith . Yet for all that , this is most certaine ; one litle sparke of true faith , is sufficient to ingraft vs into Christ . And for that cause , we must in no wise doubt of our ingrafting into Christ , and of our election to ; by reason of the weaknesse of Faith , and of the small and slender fruits it bringeth out .

But how shal I certainly know ( say you ) whether my Faith be a true & liuely Faith or not ? Whereby a man may knowe whether his faith be a true faith or not . Out of the same groundes , from whence the testimonie of our adoption is perceiued . First of all , if you shall trulie feele , that you are perswaded of the truth of the Gospell ; yea , and that all your sins are pardoned you for Christ , and you receiued to fauour . Againe ; if you see that this perswasion is grounded , not vpon any merits of yours , but on the sole goodnesse of God , and grace of Christ .

Lastly , if you feele such a confidence to approch vnto , and call vpon the Father , & such a loue towards him , and his son Iesus Christ , that ye do hate and detest whatsoeuer is against his glorie , ( as all sinne ) and on the contrarie , bee caried away with a desire to doe those things , which serue for the aduancing of his glorie : and therfore , that you loue all those , which desire and seeke the same , as the brethren & friendes of Christ . For these be the effectes , which can neuer be seuered from true Faith . And this is the disposition of true faith : therefore , as long as thou feelest these effects in thy selfe , albeit , verie slender , and greatlie languishing : yet assure thy selfe , thou art indewed with true Faith , although it bee weake , and therefore thou art in Christ ; yea , and in Christ elected to . Wherefore , thou must not doubt of thy saluation and election , by reason of thy daylie slips , proceeding from thy weaknesse of Faith , no , not for haynous crimes ; like as neither Dauid , for his adulterie and murther , nor Peter for his threefold deniall , did dispair of their election : which appeareth , in that being plunged in the verie gulfes of their temptations , they held fast their Faith , as an anchor , and called vppon God , This is the second propp . Lastlie , in no wise wee must forget ; namelie , that our election is certaine , and immutable : and therefore , as it is done without respect of any works of ours , so in like sort , it can neuer be changed by any of our euill deserts . For as it is first proceded from the only free purpose of God , so it is grounded thereon . True it is , we prouoke Gods wrath against vs by our sins , and neither wil God let them escape vnpunished , but hee chastiseth vs by diuers , both inward & outward scourges ; as may appeare in Dauid aboue all other : Yet for al that , it is his good pleasure , that for his goodnes sake and trueth , for the obedience of Christ , that his purpose shuld remaine sure , and our election . So it commeth to passe , that he giueth vs repentance anew , to raise vs vp , & to receiue vs to fauour . Therfore , although for the present , thou feelest thy selfe to be of weake faith , and to haue fallen to diuers sinnes : Yet , whereas heretofore , thou hast had many and euident testimonies of thy election , as the testimony of the holie Ghost , and the testimonie taken from Faith , & the effects of Faith : at this present assuredlie thou canst not doubt of thy election , for thy sins committed , but thou shalt much derogate from this free election , and also from the testimonies of thy election heretofore injoyed ; yea , & those which yet thou enjoyest . For , if thy sinnes displease thee , & thou desirest to liue without blame , onely for that thy sins displease thee ; why , now thou hast a new testimonie of thy election : For , such repentance as this is , is onely proper vnto the elect . Therefore , by these three proppes we must vphold our faith , as touching euerie ones particular election . And thus much as concerning the certaintie , with the which euerie man must bee perswaded , that he is elected in Christ to eternal life , before the foundation of the world .

ASSERTION . II. Whosoeuer are predestinate to the end , they are also predestinate to the means , without which they cannot attaine to the end : and therefore , as the elect necessarilie at length doe come vnto the end , by reason of the certaintie of their election : so also , by reason of the same certainty , it is necessary , that they should bee traced through those means , which tend to the same end .

WEe must mark the end to which we are predestinate , The ende of our predestination . & to which we say , that one day wee shal be brought : for there is a double end of our election : the one concerneth the elect themselues , namely their glorification , or their eternall life and glorie in heauen . Of which is spoken Rom. 8. The other concerneth God himselfe , which chuseth , namly , the glory of God : that is , that the glory of his grace may be known and eternally made manifest , of which , is mention made . Ephes. 1. Both of them are so coupled together , that whosoeuer are praeelected to the first , are also predestinat to the latter , and the latter followeth of the former . For the more wee shall be made partakers of the grace of God , & the heauenly glory : so much also more and more shall the glory of God be made manifest in vs . But because the end , which concerneth God , is almost all one in the reprobation of the wicked , and in the predestination of the Saints : namely , that as by the saluation of these , which procedeth of his meere goodnes , the glory of his grace is made manifest : so also by the iust damnation of the other , the glory of his diuine iustice may be made knowen to al : Neuerthelesse , considering that the end , to which the elect shall attaine , is farre diuers from that ( for it is eternall life ) vnto which the reprobates are appointed ( for that is eternall death : ) therefore the end , of which we treate in this assertion , is our eternall glorification , and euerlasting life in Heauen .

Let vs nowe see in the second place , what are those meanes , The means to which we are predestinate how manie they bee . by which the elect are brought vnto this end : and therefore to which meanes we hold , that al are predestinate , whosoeuer are predestinate to the end ? And they are of two sortes , some of them are soe necessarie vnto all , that without them , no man simplie can attaine vnto eternall life and glorie : and they are Christs , as he is mediator and high Priest , and his obedience and iustice ( for without Christ no man can be saued : ) also our effectual calling to Christ , by the holy ghost ; and that which followeth this , is our iustification , yea , and our regeneration to . For these foure , predestination , vocation , iustification , and glorification , are so linked together , that it is not possible to seuer the one from the other . And therfore , no man can be glorified , which is not iustified ; and no man can be iustified , which is not effectually called ; as also , no man can be effectually called , which is not predestinate : therfore without these , not so much as children and infants , can bee brought to this end of eternal glorie . And therfore euen al the elect infants are inwardly , in a certain peculier maner , by the holy ghost , called , and iustified , and glorified . Nowe , there are some certaine meanes annexed vnto these , albeit they haue no place in infants , by reason of their age , yet they belong to all other elect , howsoeuer they are found in som more plenteous and liuely , and in other some more slender and weak . As namely , a liuely faith , the hearing of the word , a detestation of sinne , the loue of righteousnes , patience in aduersitie , a care to do good workes ( and such like ) all which , the Apostle comprehendeth vnder the name of good workes , when he saith , that we are created , that is , borne a new in Christ , vnto good works , which God hath prepared , Eph. 2.20 that we might walk in them , that is , that we might lead our liues in them , and so walking , at length might come to eternall life : for without them , we cannot come to eternall glory ; but by them God traileth vs thyther . Therefore we say , that all which are elect to that end , are also predestinate to the same meanes . For predestination is not onely of the end , but also of the means , which concern the end and all , as well the end as the meanes , are the effectes of predestination . And therefore , it is very true which Augustine saith , Predestination ( saith he ) is a preparation to the graces of God , by which they indeed ar freed , whosoeuer ar freed .

Therefore the first gift of God ( that we may briefly consider the effectes of predestination ) prepared for all the elect , The first benefit of god , predestnating vs , is Christ . without which , they can in no wise come to the end ▪ and therefore the first effect of predestination is our Lord Iesus , with his obedience , merites , death , resurrection , glorie : namely , in that respect he is made Mediator betweene God the father and vs , and the head of al the elect . And therfore , in as much as he is such a one , he is also the cause of all other graces and benefits , which come vnto vs by the free predestination of God . For , the effectes of predestination , are so ordered among themselues , that the first which go before , are the causes efficient , or ( if wee will so speake ) the materiall causes of the latter , and those that follow . Therefore , seeing Christ is the first effect of predestination , he is also the cause of all other effectes , by whome wee are made partakers of them . The Apostle therfore , doth very well to the Ephesians : In the first place , Eph. 1.4 . &c. ( saith he ) We are elected in Christ , namely , as in the head , to be his members . Secondly , he writeth , that we ar predestinat to adoption by Christ , namely to obtaine it , for wee are adopted into the sonnes of God in Christ , the first begotten sonne of God , and by making vs partakers of his Sonneship , we are really made the sonnes of God : yea , and we are also indewed with his spirit too , that wee might be borne anew . Thirdly , ( he saith ) wee are made acceptable and beloued vnto the Father , & his beloued sonne , namly , Christ . Fourrhly , that wee haue our redemption in the same Christ , by his bloud , and haue obtained remission of sinnes , and all wisdome and vnderstanding . Fiftly , that in the same Christ , all thinges are reconciled , as wel in Heauen , as in earth . In a worde , the Apostle sheweth there ( as also else were ) that whatsoeuer benefites we do , or shall hereafter obtaine , counting from our eternall election , euen vnto our glorification : all those we nowe do , and shall obtaine hereafter in Christ , and by Christ . Therefore , whosoeuer are elected to eternall life , besides this , that they are elected in Christ , they are also predestinate to Christ , that is , to haue fellowship with him , that they may by him enioy all other benefites . The second benefit of God , and effect of our predestination , is our effectual calling to Christ : and to his Gospell , 2. Tim. 1.5 Rom. 8.30 in which the elect are onelie called : Because it is by the purpose and grace of God , which is giuen vs in Christ : And an effectuall calling is knowen by the effects , two of which proceede directly from it : a harty kinde of hearing the word , and the conceauing of it with a very greate , constant and continuall delight , and a true , and sure beliefe of the worde of the Gospell . Iohn . 8.47 Thence it is that Christ saith , who is of God ( saith he ) namely , by election and effectuall calling , heareth the word of God , very willingly , and from his heart and that continually : but ye heare not , because yee are not of God . And this calling is wrought not onely by the preaching of the word , ( as it is in al that be of yeeres ) but also , ( and that chieflie ) with the inwarde inspiration of the holy Ghost , whiles that the Father draweth them by his spirit , whom he will haue to come to Christ : Which also was said to be done in infants . For this calling is the beginning of saluation , euen in this life : and therfore it is the Apostles manner , in the beginning of his Epistles , to make mention of this calling , naming all the faithful , The Saintes called : Rom. 1.7 . 1. Cor. 1.2 Therfore it must needes be , that all they which are elected in Christ , must also at length be effectually called , and drawen to Christ . After an effectuall calling , followeth Faith , the third effect of predestination , which is saide to be peculiar vnto the elect ; Tit. 1.1 Heb. 11.6 And without which ( as the Apostle saith ) it is not possible to please God . For by it wee are engrafted into Christ , and are made the members of Christ , & without faith no man can be saued .

And that this is an effect of predestination , the Apostle plainly sheweth , 1. Cor. 7.25 . when he saith , that he had obtained mercie ( namely , in Gods eternal predestination ) that he might beleeue . Wherefore , whosoeuer ar predestinate to obtaine eternall life , in Christ and by Christ , they are also elect to haue the very gift of Faith . Therefore , it must needes be , that at length they shall beleeue in Christ . The fourth benefite is iustification , that is , a free pardonning of our sinnes , and the imputation of the righteousnes of Christ , for it followeth Faith : because , whosoeuer ar indued with true faith in Christ , are also iustified . And that justification is an effect of predestination . The Apostle sheweth , when he putteth it after calling , before which he setteth predestination . And when hee saith , that we are elect in Christ , that wee might be holie , Rom. 8.30 Eph. 1.4 . & without spot or blame in the presence of God : and that this is not done , while wee are in this world , but by the pardoning of all our faults , and by the imputation of his perfect obedience . Wherefore , it must needs be , that al the elect shal be justified , and be taken for most pure , & without blame in Gods presence . With iustification , is ioyned regeneration , and sanctification by the holy Ghost : namelie , whiles we are made new creatures by him , & the sons of God to : not onelie by adoption , but also by regeneration . For , when Christ justifieth vs , hee doth not only forgiue vs our vnrighteousnes , and impute his righteousnesse to vs , but also he taketh from vs our stonie hart , and giueth vs a fleshie heart of his owne : and he strips vs of our olde man , and puts on his newe man . Lastly , he taketh away the corruption of our nature , and makes vs partakers of his diuine nature : and so indeed , of the sonnes of men , he makes vs the sonnes of God , and his brethren to . Therefore it is said , that we are predestinated to adoption , by Iesus Chrst , Eph. 1.4.5 Iohn . 3.6 and elect , that we may be holie , without blame , and that which is borne of the spirite , is called spirite . Therefore , the elected to eternall life , must needes bee begotten anew , to be the sonnes of God , and bee made partakers of the diuine nature , and be a newe creature in Christ , Hence issueth the sixt effect of predestination , which is heedfullie to be regarded : the loue of righteousnesse , & the detestation of sinne . For in regeneration , the affections are principallie changed . Namelie , the affections of the corrupt nature and flesh , into the affections of the diuine nature & spirite . Hence it is , that the Apostle saith , that they which are borne anew , Rom. 8.1 & 5. do walke according to the spirite , and not after the flesh : and not to sauour the thinges of the flesh , but the things of the spirite . And the chiefe affections of the flesh , are the loue of sinne : that is , the concupiscence of the flesh : and contrariwise , the hatred of righteousnes , and the lawe of God , which are not of the Father , but of the world . Therfore , the chiefe affections of regeneration and the spirit , are , the loue of righteousnes , and of the lawe of God , & the hatred of sin . Psal. 45 8. For that which is spoken chiefly of Christ : Thou hast loued righteousnes , and hated iniquitie : is to bee vnderstood of all the members of Christ , endued with his spirite , because it is trulie accomplished in them . Hence it is , that Dauid , who in himself did represent the disposition of all the regenerate , psa. 119.113 & 40.9 . & 101.3 & 26 5. said of himselfe , I haue loued thy law , thy law is in the midle of my hart I haue hated all the works of iniquitie , I will not sit with the wicked . Rom. 7.22 . Also Paule , I am delighted ( saith hee ) in the Lawe of God , according to the inner man : That is , in as much as I am borne anewe . And no man doubteth , but that both these affections , are the effects of predestination , except he be ignorant , that all these are the gifts of God : which as in time , he bestoweth on his , so also , he hath decreed to bestow them on them , before the foundation of the world . And from these two affections , being the first fruits of regeneration , ariseth a care & endeuour to doe good works : that is , to flie sin , & to fulfil the Lawe of God , which is the seuenth effect of predestination . For hee which hateth any thing from his heart , he taketh heed of it as much as he can , and he flieth from it , and escheweth it : and on the contrarie , he which loueth any thing from his heart , that also hee seeketh after , and endeuoureth himselfe to the compassing of it . Therfore , the Apostle Iohn maketh this a chiefe difference , 1. Ioh. 3 7. betweene the sonns of God , and the children of the deuill : that is , between them that are borne anew , and them that are not borne anew : that the children of God both loue , and doe righteousnesse , and the children of the deuill loue sinn , and doe it : as also , the deuil sinned from the beginning ; & Christ came to dissolue the workes of the Deuill ; namelie , in his elect ; for , in the reprobate he leaueth them vntouched , because they are not giuen him of the father to be purged , borne anew , and saued . Therefore , seeing Christ was before ordayned , and predestinate to the doing of all these workes , and that there is no good wrought in vs , which was not prouided for vs in Christ , from al eternitie : it is a cleare case , that the care also of doing good workes , is an effect of predestination . And the Apostle plainlie teacheth it , when he saith , Eph. 2.10 . that we were created in Christ to good works , which God hath prepared , that we might walk in them . To this purpose , serueth that which the Apostle deliuereth of loue , not vnfaigned , Eph. 1.4 . 1 , Tim. 1.19 . to which he sheweth , that wee were elect , and of a good conscience ▪ which he makes the inseperable companion of the faith of the elect . Lastlie , of a pure heart , which he ascribeth to the elect ; considering the vnfaithfull haue nothing cleane in them , T it 1.15 . and that their mind and conscience is defiled . Now , that this care to doe good works , is necessarie in all the elect , Peter sheweth it , 2. Pet. 1.10 when he bids vs endeuor to make our election and calling sure , by good workes , as some copies haue it . But to whom shall we make it sure ? not vnto God , ( for it was sure vnto him , before the foundation of the worlde ) but vnto our selues , and to our neighbours . And this is one of the chiefest vses of good woorkes , that by them , not as by causes , but as by effects of predestination and Faith , both we , and also our neighbours , are certified of our election , and of our saluation to . Furthermore , considering whiles we haue a care to glorifie God , to do good works , and wee will not bee conformable to the world in the wickednes of it , neither submit our selues to our flesh , & Sathan : the flesh , the world , and Sathan , do perpetuallie war against vs : & therwithal it commeth to passe , they being most valiant enemies , that eyther we are ouercome , or at the least , in fighting are foyled .

And therfore , we are constrained to flie vnto the Lord , and to craue his assistance : Therefore , the eight effect of our predestination , is the calling vpon God , that in this fight , he wold giue vs aide against the Deuil , the worlde , and the flesh . For this is the propertie of the Spirite , which the elect haue , to stir them vp to prayer : for the Spirit it selfe maketh request for vs , with groninges which cannot be vttered : that is to say , it mooueth vs to make request . And because we are sonnes , God hath sent the spirit of his sonne into our hearts , crying , Abba , Father . Rom. 8.29 Gal. 4.6 . Psal. 50.15 . And God biddeth vs call vpon him in the day of tribulation , promising to heare vs . From these proceedeth the ninth effect of predestination : namelie , a perpetuall repentance for our daylie slips , and a continuall desire to be bettered in godlines . So that also , for this cause chieflie , we hartily desire to be dissolued out of this world , and to be with Christ , for this end , that we might sin no more . For , this is a thing proper to the elect of God , euen now borne anew , as we may see in the Apostle , who speaketh thus , in the name of all the regenerate : O miserable man that I am , who shal deliuer me from the bodie of this death ? Rom. 7.27 phil. 1.23 . And againe , I desire to be dissolued , and to be with Christ .

From this ninth effect , proceedeth the tenth : namelie , a desire that Christ may come , & make an end of all our miseries and sinnes , & perfectly restore his own kingdome . That this is proper to the elect , 2. Tim. 4. 8 the Apostle sheweth , when he saith , that they loue the comming of the Lord : and Iohn bringeth in the Spouse of Christ , crying , Come Lord Iesu , come quicklie , Yea , Apoc. 22.17.20 and Christ himselfe hath taught vs to pray ; Mat. 6.10 Let thy Kingdome come : And because that they which pray on this wise , are also heard , according to Gods promise , In the day of tribulation call vppon mee , Psal. 50.15 and I will heare thee : Thence appeareth the eleueth effect of predestination , Rom. 5.3 ▪ & 8.28 true patience : that is , not onelie true comfort , but also a reioycing in aduersitie , as the Apostle describeth it . And therefore a certaine taking vp of courage , and recouerie of strength against his enemies : Whereby it commeth to passe , that al things turne to the saluation of the elect . For the elect , albeit they be often beaten downe in fight , yet , because Christ speedilie sendeth ayde from heauen vnto them , they rise vp couragiously , and begin againe the fight , against sinne and the Diuel , and al other the enemies of Christ : and they fight so long , til they be made conquerers , & are assured of the victorie , and of the crowne : which assurance also is an effect of predestination , giuen to all the Electe . For what ( saith the Apostle ) shall we say to these things ? If God be on our side , Rom. 8.31 Mat. 24.24 . who can be against vs ? Therefore our Lord Iesus techeth , that the elec●●annot be seduced , and so perish , no not by the comming of Antichrist , and his miracles . And lastly , hence appeareth that last effect of predestination , which we can obtaine in this life , the gift of perseuerance , vnto the end , in faith and a true confession of Christ , ioyned with a manifest care to liue a godly life , & a desire to glorifie him ; For this gift is bestowed vpon all the elect , as the Lorde promiseth by Ieremie : I will put my feare into their heartes , Ier. 32 . 4● that they may not departe from me . And when they shal come to the end of their liues , they shall bee receiued into the heauenly glorie , vntill such time , as their bodies also being raised vp , they may take full possession of eternall life . Thus we see , that it is very certaine , that those which are elected to eternall life , ar also predestinate to vse those meanes , by which , as by certaine steppes and stayres , they climbe into that heauenly dwelling place . And therefore , that we were predestinate to these meanes , namely , Faith , Iustification , and good workes , because wee were elected to eternall life , according to the purpose and grace of God .

Wherefore , by this means the doctrine also of the Pelagians is confuted , as touching predestination to life , The vse of this doctrin . by our faith and workes , which God foresaw we shuld do . Whereas on the contrary , therefore God did predestinat vs to faith , and good workes , because he did choose vs to eternal life . 1. Cor. 7.25 . For the Apostle saith not , I obtained mercie , because I was faithfull , or because I should be faithfull , but that I might be faithfull . Neither saith he , that we are elected in Christ , Eph. 1.4.2 because we should be holy and without blame , but that wee might be holy and without blame . Neither doth he say , that we were created in Christ , becaus wee did or should do good workes , but we were created to good workes : which God prepared , that wee might walk in them . Lastly , Tit ▪ 2.11 . he saith not , that the grace of christ appeared , becaus we were to liue soberly , iustly , and godly , but that it therefore appeared , that we denying all vngodlines , & the lusts of this worlde , might liue soberly , iustly , & godly in this present world . Wee see therfore , that by this doctrine , that wicked opinion is ouerthrowen , which teacheth , that we do preuent the grace of God by our merites which God foresaw . And on the contrary , here wee see , how fowlly the belli-gods of this world are deceiued , which reason thus : If wee be predestinate to eternall life , and our predestination be certaine and vnchangeable , what neede we endeuour our selues , beleeue , or doe good workes ? for howsoeuer it fall out , & howsoeuer the elect do liue , vndoubtedly they cannot perish , because they are predestinate to eternall life . Alas poore wretches , they see not , that they seuer those thinges that are to be conioyned : namely the end , and the meanes of the end : and that they breake the cheine , which in no wise , either can or must be loosed , whilst that they seuer their calling and iustification , yea , and Faith too , and good works , from predestination and glorification . As though God did glorifie them whome he did predestinate , before hee called and iustified them : yea , and before they can beleue , and shew their quick and liuely faith by workes . Contrariwise , let vs learn what our duetie is . If any be elect to eternal life , they also are predestinate to the meanes by which they come vnto it . And wee beleeue ( as we are bound to do ) that we are predestinate to eternal life : and therefore wee must also beleeue , that we haue bene elected to Faith and good workes , that by them , as by certaine steppes , we might be brought to eternall life . And therefore , so far must we be from neglecting faith , and the meanes of good workes , and of a holy life : that contrariwise , it is rather our dutie to keepe faith in a good conscience , & to be conuersant in good workes , which God hath prepared , that we might walke in them . And because wee can neither attaine to the ende , nor the meanes that bring vs thereunto of our selues . Therefore it is our parts , to craue them at Gods hands by prayer , that hee woulde giue vs Faith , and a care to do good workes , and encrease them in vs . Nether must we onely ask them ; but also certainly , trust that we shal obtaine them for Christ his cause . For , if for all them which are predestinated to eternall life , God hath prepared faith , by which they may beleeue , and good workes to walk in : therefore if wee beleeue ( as by Gods commandement wee are bound ) that wee are in Christ elected to eternall glory : we must also be perswaded , that before we depart hence , hee will giue vs true repentance , increase true faith , inflame vs with loue : lastly , that he wil minister vnto vs aboundantly , all thinges in Christ , to obtaine the end . Yea , this confidence also and prayer , it is one effecte of predestination , by which wee get the rest . Therefore this doctrin we must hold , that predestination to eternall life : doeth not take away the meanes of obtaining it , but rather establish them . And therefore , both these principles are true ; namely , that the elect to life cannot perish : and vnlesse a man beleeue in Christ , Ioh. 3.3 . and perseuer vnto the end , in this faith working by loue , hee shall perish . The reason is , because in predestination , the meanes and the end of it are so ioyned together , that the one cannot be seuered from the other . Wherfore whosoeuer holdeth not the meanes vnto the end ( amongst which faith is one ) it is manifest , that hee was neuer predestinate , and therefore mu●● needes perish : as on the contrary , he which holdeth faith , must needes be saued . So the truth of these propositions is euident : hee which beleeueth in the son , hath eternall life : contrariwise , he which beleeueth not in the Sonne , the anger of God remaineth vpon him , because , as a constant faith is a sign of election : so obstinat infidelity , is a token of reprobation .

FINIS .

Bradfords answere to Careles . Careles .

I Am troubled with feare , that my sinnes are not pardoned .

Brad.

They are for God hath giuen thee a penitent and beleeuing hearte : that is , an heart , which desireth to repent and beleeue . For such an one is taken of him ( hee accepting the will for the deed ) for a penitent and beleeuing heart indeed .

Trin. vni Deo gloria .

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