A Godlye and holesome preseruatyue against desperatiõ at all times necessarye for the soule but then chiefly to be bled and ministred when the deuill doth assault us moost fiercely, and deth approcheth niest.

A preseruatiue

FOrsomuche as the diseases of the body and corporall deathe , dothe so trouble mannes mynde , that we commonly trimble and quake at the onely mencion of them : How much ought we to feare the sicknes of the soule and death of the same , then whiche , there can no greater , nor more fearefull calamytye chaunce vnto man .

And seinge that euery man doth auoyde ( so muche as in him lyethe ) the payne , myseryes , diseases , and deathe of the bodye : howe much more ought we to decline and eschewe , the causes of these euilles , which be sinnes and offences , and feare the ire of god , which we so ( by oure enormities ) do prouoke . Yf we be neuer so lytle sick in our body , by and by we sende for the phisicion , we spare no cost , we seke for medicines and remedye , though they be neuer so chargable , & al to patch and clout vp this earthen vessell of our bodye , whiche do we neuer so muche can not laste longe . And whye vse we not lyke dylygence in desiring , & seking remedies against the diseases of the soule ? whiche like as they be more greuous : euen so they bring with them ( without comparison ) infinitely more daunger . For what can it profitte a man thoughe he haue all the riches in the world , though he liue a thousande yere , and that in such helthe & pleasure , that he is not once touched with sickenes or greife : his soule in the meane time being poisoned with sinne , being captiue to satan , hauyng God displeased with him , and dampnacion readye for him after this lyfe . For truelye this lyfe muste once haue an ende nether know we whan , where , after what maner , or how soone . Therfore saith Christe watch for ye nether know the day nor hour when the sonne of man wyl come . Mat. xxv . And lest we this short time of our abode ( omittinge thinges moost waightye and profitable ) shulde folow trifulles , & thinges of smal price : he hath vouchesaue to prescribe vs an order and as it were a breue , certaine and sure way : to come vnto true felicite saienge . Seke first for the kingdom of god and righteousnes therof : Math. vi . and all thinges shal be added vnto you . Care for lyuynge , care for riches , care for worldly dignitie , worldlye fauoure , worldlye estimacion and such lyke transitory thinges ( which in dede doth litle profitte but many times be cause bothe of filthie vices and also of greuous calamities ) doth besy , doth vexe , doth trouble , doth euen defatigate vs both daye and night , but in sekynge for and procuring of godly & heuenly thinges : we be most negligent , most slack , moste dull , most forgetfull . And I pray you , what can be a greater blindnes or a more dangerouse madnes ? whiles we be lustie , whiles we be in helthe , whiles we be in prosperity we scasely thynke vpon any lyfe to come , we remember not once that we shal dye . But when we be in perell , and daunger by sickenes , and deathe beginnethe to knocke at oure doore . Euen at that same houre when we should playe the menne and fyght against oure enimy ( beinge sufficiently armed & weponed afore ) then begin we first to thinke vpon oure armoure to thinke vpon our weapon , to think vpon mending of our lyfe . These thinges declare vs to be smallye exercised soudiers to be men of preposterouse iudgement , and verye weaklinges in faith . God be mercyfull vnto vs . Amen .

But yet though a man be neuer so old , though the day be neuer so far past , so he amend whiles he is here : eare it be night , his repentance cometh not out of season . Neuertheles it were to be wisshed , that no man shuld differ his repentance to his last & most dangerous conflict For euen thei shal haue much a do to stande & to defend them selues from the assaultes , the guiles , & inuasions of the enemy : which in the time of their helth prepared & armed them selues , what then shall come of them whiche not fearing god neither minding once repentaunce hathled a dissolute filthie and naughtye life ? how shal thei fighte ? howe shall they be able to withstand the force of satan ?

¶ Seinge therefore the multitude of people is great , and the ministers of the gospel very few , nether able to be euery where to do their office to euery man : I hauing a will to help al men : haue gathered to gether , & writen oute of scripture , a certaine brief forme how to admonishe , instructe , and comfort such as be sick , that they either reding these thinges , or hearing them red by others : may conceiue certaine hope & perfit consolacion , lest in this most daungerous conflict they faint , geue ouer like cowardes , & so be ouercomed & perish : For this is certain , when soeuer a man is taken with extreme sicknes & is in daunger of deth , he is assawted with diuers many , & greuous tentacions . First it is a greuous and vehemente tentacion , when he seeth the most terrible image of deathe afore his eyes , when he seeth , he muste leue thys light , leue this life , leaue frendes leaue landes , goodes , kinsfolke , father , mother , wife , childern , all thinges , wherin he had here ether pleasure or comforte . Then suche synnes as he against the will and pleasure of god hathe committed shall shewe and present them selues , and shal appeare more in numbre , and more greuous then euer they semed afore , and so shall wonderousely vex and torment the conscience . Then dethe , iudgemente , hell , dampnacion , as it were in a plumpe , shall assaut and lay sege with diuers daungerous engins against the olde man of ours .

In these Agonies , except a man be armed with a sure and constant faith : it is to be feared , leste he be weried , tired , and at last ouercommed . For these tentacions which chaunce vnto men lyeng in extremes : appere most houge , feareful and daungerouse , and that for by cause our faith is verye sclender , and waueringe : neither yet able to see , perceaue or apprehend , the incomprehensible and inestimable riches of the childern of god , whiche be remission of synnes through christe , resurrection of the flesh , communion of saintes , euerlastinge life , and all these geuen vnto vs in Christ and for Christ .

In these articles of our faithe we must dailye exercise oure selues . These we must diligently reuolue and earnestly expende in our mindes . For thoughe all the articles of our faith are diligentlye to be remembred and without al waueringe beleued : yet in the Agonye and pointe of deathe , these foure ( that is ) the communion of sainctes , remission of sinne , by the blood of Christe , the resurrection of the fleshe , and euerlasting lyfe : are chiefely to be mynded expended , and inculcated .

For like as deth is the paine & stipend of sinne : Roma. 6. euen so for synne God dothe commenly punysh vs with diuers diseases and plages , As it is to be sene in diuers places of scriptur . Io. 5. Ps. 88. Deute. 28. 2. Reg. 24.

Neuertheles afflictions be many tymes laid vpon vs , that our faith may be tried : For than is it easy to be perceauyd howe much we loue GOD , what faithe we haue in him , howe we trust him , when we be pressed & greuyd with aduersitie . In this case therfore we must bewaile & acknowlege our synnes , for the which we haue iustlie incurred goddes displeasure , and deseruid most greuous paine . We must turne to God with true repentaunce in all our hart & mynde , without all faynynge and conterfaitinge , we must haue recourse vnto the Gospel where we shall fynd most bountifull consolacion .i. absolucion or remission of our synnes which christ hath instituted in the churche Io. 20. Receaue ( saithe Christe ) the hollie ghoste whose siftes ye forgeue thei are for geauen . This inestimable treasure is daily openyd & offred vnto vs .

When remission of sinne is thus desired , & optained : vndoutedly then the paine of sinne which is the disease or afflyccion shal sone ceasse and leaue vs , or elles accordinge to the most beneficiall will of our heuenly father : shall tourne to the profit and soule helth of him that is diseased or afflicted , For this maye we be sure of , that the paine and affliction of the body in this worlde ( seme it neuer so greuous a bourden or heuie yoke to the flesshe ) is comenly nothinge elles but a fatherlie rod , Psal. 88. wherwith god dothe drawe vs his childern from synne , and call vs home to him . Truly our heuinly father dothe loue vs moste feruentlie , he bearithe vs good mynde , and dothe all thinges for our amendemente and profitte , Heb. xii . for whome God louithe , him he chastisethe , and correctith vs temporally here : that we should not be punished in hell euerlastinglie . 1. Cor. xi . Thoughe he semith angrie : he louithe singulerlye . Nether is his Ire the Ire of a tyraunt or tormentour desyringe our perdycion : but of a father sekinge our amendment and sauftie . First therfore we must crye God mercy desire pardon & forgeuenes of our synnes ( but by christ , but with a hart trulie penitent ) that we may be at one with God , and haue him mercyful vnto vs . This done we maye then desire GOD to deliuer vs from the Imminent and present affliction and disease . For so teacheth ecclesiast. Ecclesi . 3 Sonne in thy infirmity neglect not thy self , but pray to the Lord : and he shall deliuer the. Also in the Ps. Psal. 70. remember not o lord god our old iniquities but let thy mercie spedely preuent vs : for we be verie miserable , helpe vs God our sauiour . Lord God of power turne vs howe longe wilt thou be angrie ? shewe thy face and we shal be saued . Here we be taught firste to desire remission of sinne , that we may so be at one with god : and after that to haue his wrathe , and the tokens of the same , taken away . But when soeuer we desire to be deliueryd or to be eased of the crosse that presseth vs , we must alwaye annexe this addicion . Mar. vi . Thy wil ( o heuenly father ) be fulfilled .

Neither knowe we so well what is profitable vnto vs . Nether can we so well prouide for our selues as our most louing heuenly father . Which is both of infinite powre : and also of incomprehensible wisdom which neuer tournethe his eys from vs , which caryth continually for vs , which knowith the number of our heres , which doth quicken norish , fede , kepe , defend prouide for al his creatures much better than thei can wish or desire . But to drawe to the more perticuler temptacions , & to shewe what thinges do most fiersly & daungerously at the time of death assault vs . And how we shall withstand them .

¶ There be thre thinges , which at the houre of death doth wonderously vex , trouble , & feare our myndes ( that is to saye ) synne , death , hel or dampnacion .

Synne .

WHerein we haue vngodlye mispent our life , wherby we haue greuously offended god and our neighbour : This comming to our remembraunce when we lie vpon our death bed , doth driue vs to a wonderous feare , Roma . ii . pensiuenes , and anxiety . As sainct Paule saithe , wrathe indignacion trouble and anguishe against euerye soule of man that doth euill .

A medicine against synne vexinge and troubelinge . our conscience .

LEt vs cal earnestly to remembrance that the sonne of God came downe from heuen , became man , toke vp on his backe the synnes of the worlde , died for them vpon the crosse , there makinge satisfaction for vs and paing our dettes . This most precious blod of christ was shed also for vs , and of this deth we be also partakers so we rightlie beleue in Christe , Nether nede we to doubt but Christ died aswell for vs , as for Peter and Paule : Rom. 6. For we be baptized also ( as sainct Paule saith ) in the deth of Christ . This ought to comfort vs , this ought to erect and stay our myndes . For seinge we be baptized in the dethe of Christe . Christes dethe bringeth also vnto vs helth and saluacion . By Christes deth we be also dead to synne : by Christes deathe we haue also certaine and sure remission of our synnes , by Christes dethe we be raised also to a newe and euerlastinge life . For baptime is a couenand betwixt God and vs . And a signe of his grace and fauour towarde vs wherin we be reconciled and made at one with god againe , so that we may nowe haue a ioyfull and quiet conscience , for somoche as our synnes be forgeuen vs , through the resurrection of Iesus christ . Yea christ also in the institucion of the most blessed sacrament of his last supper speaketh also to vs saing , that his blood is shed for the remission of synne . Nowe although we haue not liued alwaie innocentlie nether led suche a lyfe as we ought to haue done : Yet we maye not dispayre , but without delaye resort vnto god , by true repentaunce , cal faithfullye vpon his name , and we shal be saued . Rom. x. Ye let euery one of vs with a meke harte burst out in to these , or like wordes and say O moste mercifull God , father of al mercy , father of oure LORD Iesu Christe , be mercyfull vnto me a wretched synner , make spede to deliuer me , for the most bitter ( but moost precious ) death , and passion of Iesu Christe thy onlie begotten sonne , oure redemer , and only sauioure : Amen . Enter not ( o lord ) in to iudgement with thy feruaunte , handle me not accordinge to my deseruinge , nether do vnto me after my iniquities : but accordinge to thy infinite and botomles goodnes & mercy take me vnto the. I a miserable and wretched creature am in thy hand , I am in thy debt & daunger , thou mayst do with me what it please the. O mooste mercifull father forsake me not , nether cast me of . I am thine all that I am . There can no man comfort , no man help no man deliuer me , but thou alone . Thou art the true comfort , the most present helpe , the surest bulwarke in all necessitie . Thou god art my refuge , my strength , my helpe in al trouble . Thou art my Lord in thy handes resteth al my chaunce and affaires . Shewe thy louing and mercyfull face vpon thy seruaunt , saue me in thy mercy O lord : but in any ways in our extreme sicknes and affliction , let vs beware we loke not to earnestly neither to longe vpon our synnes . But rather let vs haue the image of Christes moste helthfull and precious deth before our eys . Let vs fix that in our mynd and be fully persuaded that Christ is now bourdened with our synnes , that he hathe nowe taken theim vpon his owne shoulders and so hathe satisfied for theim and washed them away , that he wil neuer charge vs with them , but frelie forgeaue vs theim as we professe in our Crede . when we say Credimus remissionem peccatorum . we beleue the remyssion of synnes .

Here it shal be mete that in our sicknes we call to remebraunce such places of holie scripture as testifieth of remission of synne purchased by Christe of the which some be here subscribed .

Io. i. BEhold the lambe of god which takith away the synne of the world .

We are bought with no golde , i. Pet. i. nor siluer , nether any corruptible price , but with the precious blood of the vnspotted and vndefyled lambe Iesus Christe .

So god hath loued the world that he gaue his onlie begotten sonne to th ende that we so beleuinge in him should not perishe but haue lyfe euerlastinge . Io. iii.

I come not to call the righteous but the synners to repentaunce . Mar. ix . Come vnto me al ye that laboure and are laden and I shall refreish you . Lo he calleth al , he refuseth , Math. xi . he excludeth none , we must includ also our selues within this worde ( All ) we must resorte to him , and he will receaue and refresh vs .

God setteth forth his loue toward vs . For Christ died for vs , Rom. 5. when we were yet sinners , muche more now therfore we being iustified by his blood shal be sauffe from wrath by him .

i. cor. i. Christ Iesus is becommed vnto vs wisdome , rightousnes , holines & redempcion . Here let vs confort our selues that though we haue be neuer so great sinners , let vs confesse and knowledge our sinne , let vs call for mercy and pardon , let vs vnfainedly beleue Christ to be our only helth Iustice , and redemption : and straight waye he is so , he will by and by couer and put away our synnes in such sort that we shal nede fere no peril nor daunger

ii . co . v. Him that knew no sinne , hath god made sinne .i. a paymente of sinne for vs , that we shulde become the righteousnes of god by him .

Gala. i. Christ gaue him selfe for oure sinnes that he might deliuer vs from this present wicked world according to the wil , of god our father .

In Christ we haue redempcion thorough his bloude , Ephesi . i. euen the remission of sinnes according to the riches of his grace .

Christ Iesus is come into this worlde to saue synners . i. Ti. i.

Christ Iesus hath geuin him self a redemption for al men . i. Ti. ii This let vs constantly beleue & vndoubted we be of the number of those that shal be saued . For when he is come a redemption for all , these thinges that he hath suffered pertaineth no lesse to the & me , & euery one of vs ( so we beleue ) than to Peter or Paule . i. Pe. ii . Christ hath borne our sinnes in his body vpon the crosse .

Christ died once for our sinnes the righteous for the vnrighteous . i. petr. iii

The bloud of Iesus christ clenseth vs from al sinne . i. Io. i.

Yf any man doth sinne we haue a aduocate with the father euen Iesus i. Ioan. ii Christ the righteouse and he is the attonemente for our synnes : Not for ours onely : but for the sinnes of the whole worlde .

By these places and suche like we maye se howe god the father ( which wil not the death of a sinner , but that we shulde turne and liue ) for that most feruent & burning loue that he beareth toward vs , hath eased vs of the burden of our sin , & hath laide it vpon the back of his most dere beloued sonne . which his sonne hath so taken , borne and suffered for them : that they can neuer condemne vs . For god taketh and reputeth the death of his sonne for a full satisfaction & paiment for al our sinnes , so that we truly beleue in him : For seing that our sinnes thus laide vpon Christe could not ouercome him , detain him in deth , nor damn him ( for why he rose againe ) vndoubtedly a full satisfaccion is alredy made for them , the iustice of god is fully answered , and they be vtterly hid and forgeuen . Let vs beleue this and we shall not perishe euerlastignly . For Christ is now become ours , with al that he hath with his death , with his resurrection , with his assencion into heauen , with his life , Qui proprio filio suo non pepercit . his merits his glorie . As saint Paule witnesse . Rom. viii . wherfore Satan hath nowe no title to vs , he can not medle with vs , he hath no power to hurt vs . Forsomuch as we be iustified by christ , purged from our sinnes , and made the children of god by Christ who hath reconciled vs & wrought our peace , we must therfore be of good conforte . For seinge we be in the handes of god , that is omnipotent , who is now our best most louing , & trusty father we be in a sure porte , we be with our daunger , there can no incommodity nor aduersitie hurt vs , for we be inuironed with the custody of god , & the gard of angels , oute of the handes of this heuenly father can no creature by force pluck vs When we be at an ende by death of this crosse and corporal affliction then haue we ended our iourney , then haue we finished oure warre : Christe hathe borne the same crosse , Christe hathe passed the same waye , he hathe suffered like deathe , he is oure heade we muste be like to him , we must suffer with him , if we intend to raigne with him , we must leue this corporall lyfe , ere that we can inioye lyfe euerlastinge . Lette not oure synnes trouble vs , lette them not tormente oure conscience , as though they coulde not be forgeuen . They are alredy forgeuen , yf we repent and beleue : Christ is al ours as muche as he is . He by his innocency hath couered and taken awaye oure synnes . As Christe can not be dampned , euen so we can not be dampned , yf with a ryghte faithe , we cleaue vnto hym . As synne , deathe , and hell , hadde no power against Chryste so haue they no power against vs so we be in Christe , and Chryste in vs . Yf the matter hadde be left and committed to vs to haue borne our owne synnes , and to haue satisfied for them , they wolde haue be to heuie for vs , we had not be able to stande vnder theym they wolde haue pressed and sunke vs downe to hell . But christe bothe god and man hath ( of his owne free will ) offered him selfe for vs . he hath taken our turne , he hathe plaide our part , and paide for vs all that we ought . As it is in the Psalme spoken in the person of christe , I paid that I ought not . We had trespased , we were the detters , so farre behind hand , that all that was in vs , was not able to paie the lest some we ought . Christe became our suertie , paid for vs , acquited vs , and set vs at libertie . yea , made vs coheires with him of euerlastinge glorye .

Yf it were possible for one man to commit the sinnes of the whole worlde , so he truely repente and cleaue by true faith to Christe , he can not be dampned , his synnes be sufficiently and abundantly by Christe satisfied for . For Christe ( as towchinge his godhed one in substance with the heuinlie father As towchinge his manhede our very fleshe and blood ) hath purchased , and trulie bought grace and pardon for vs . For Christ became man for vs , was borne for vs , died vpon the crosse for vs , rose from dethe for vs , ascended into heuin for vs , and hath accomplished and performed all thinges mete for our saluacion , for vs . Yf therfore we beleue in christ we are become partakers of gods fauor we are eased of the packe & bourden of synne , we are made the heires of god and coheires with Christe for euer , and that by Christ and for Christ . For without Christ there is no consolacion , no helth no hope , no helpe . In Christe alone is all comforte , all helth , all hope , all succour , all refuge , all grace and mercy more habundant more plenteous , more excellent than any man is able either to comprehend or to wishe . God graunte vs therfore a true and a constant faith . In this forme or in like sort we must comfort our selues in our sickenes or calamitie , and our brother beinge visited . But in any wais and with al dilygence it is to be foreseene , that we withdrawe oure mynde from the fearefull and terrible contemplacion of synne , death , and damnacion . And that we fixe these of our mynd and whole thoughte vpon Christ only , that we cleue vnto him , that we cal vpon him , that we commit our self wholy to him . For in Christe we shal espie nothing but innocencie , iustice , life , saluacion , which al be deriued from Christe into vs , so that we will acknowledge him , & receaue him for the author of our saluacion and only redemer . yf we haue christ crucified afore our eys : yf we imprinte him in our hart , yf we flee to him with our faith : if we wholy cleue to him . Then shal hel gates nothing preuaile against vs , then shall we be able to withstand al the forcible assaultes of Satan , though they be neuer so sore , neuer so fierce , neuer so terrible .

Let vs cal to remembraunce with what lenitie , what gentilnes , what humanitie , what clemency Christe ( as it is in the euangelical history ) hath called vnto him and receued al suche sinners as hath repented them , and desired his helpe . We shall finde Mary Magdalen , the synner that honge vpon the right hand of christ crucified , the publicane , zache , with other mo whom Christe most louingly receiuinge pronounced clere from sin , ( though they had synned greatlye ) and the childern of saluacion , Christe is very grace , mercy , helpe , comfort , life , ioye , and saluacion to al those which loke for these thinges at his handes : and put their trust in him . And all these thinges hathe God ( who is truethe it self & can not lie nor will not deceyue ) promysed vnto vs for christes sake .

Fynallie when deth approcheth we must do as Christe dyd vpon the crosse , we must praie for our enemyes and forgeaue them with our harte . Yf we haue offended any man we must be hartelie sorye for it , we must desire forgeuenes . yf we haue iniured any man , we must make him amendes , or take suche order that amendes maie be made vnto him . yf it passithe our power to make restitucion and amendes : it shal be ynoughe that we desire forgeauenes . And with our hartes forgeaue others which hath hurt vs either in name , bodie substance or estimacion . For yf we trulie forgiue : god hathe promised we shal be forgiuen as it is in the syxt of Mathew .

It is verie necessarie also and profitable for the confirmacion and strenghteninge of our faithe to receaue the moste blessed sacrament of the bodie and blood of our sauiour christ which we ar commaunded to receaue in remembraunce of his benefites , that hereby , we maie be trulie certified in our conscience his body to be geuen for vs , and his blood to be shed for remission of our synnes .

Dethe

OF our flesshe & fraill nature is so feared & abhorred that when he approcheth , mans hart is filled and laden with suche sorowes , panges , and anxieties as tonge is not able to expresse .

A medicine against the feare of death .

WE muste call to our remembraunce dethe to be ouercomed and abolished by Christe . So that nowe the soules of so many as trust in Christ , can not die nor perishe : but departinge frome the body goeth straight to christe . For thus was it saide to the thefe at his houre of death . This daie shalt thou be with me in paradise . The bodye thoughe it reste and pause for a while yet we be in certaine hope that at the laste daye it shal be raised againe to immortall and euerlasting lyfe . And therfore scripture calleth the deathe of the body but a slepe , for that this same fraile , weke , vyle , mortal and corruptible bodye , which we carie about , which lieth sicke & sore diseased , which shortly shal be put into the earth , burnt to asshes , deuoured with bestes or foules , drowned in water , the same self body ( I say ) shal be raised again incorruptible , glorious , bewtifull , stronge , i. cor. xv . pure immortall to possesse a newe and euerlastinge lyfe : where there shal neither be hunger , thirst , heat , cold , synne , deth nor any kynde of calamitie , but iustice , innocencye , lyfe , ioye , blesse , world withoute ende . For as the body of Christe laid in the graue rose againe the thirde day neuer more to die . Euen so shal the bodies of al that beleue in christ at the later day be resuscitate to a lyfe , after whiche shall folowe no death . God who is of infinite power and infallible truth hath promised these thynges , they muste therfore nedes be so . And here it shal be profitable to call to remembraunce suche places of scripture as treatith of the resurrection of the flesh , which be the wordes not of man but of god . who is able & will certainly fulfill what soeuer he hathe spoken . No man can chaunge his wil , no man can alter his purpose . No creature can frustrate , let , or tarie his sentence . He is omnipotent , he is true , he is faithfull , his goodnes and mercie is inexplicable . Let no man therfore doubt of the treuthe of his wordes let no man doubt of the performaunce of his promise .

Herafter folowithe certayne places of scripture witnessinge the resurrection of the dead according to this article of our faith wherin we saie we beleue that this flesh shall rise againe . Iohn . vi .

THis is the will of my Father which sente me , that whosoeuer seith the sonne & beleuithe in him shall haue life euerlastinge and I will raist him vp againe in the last daye .

The houre comithe wherin all they that be in the grauys shal here the voice of the sonne of God and shall go forthe thei that haue done good vnto the resurrection of life . Iohan. v

For if so be that the spirit of him which raysed vp Iesus from the dead dwell in you : Rom. viii euin he that raised vp Iesus Christe from the dead shall also quicken your mortall bodyes because of his sprite that dwelleth in you .

God hathe bothe raised vp oure Lorde Iesus Christ and shal also raise vs vp by his power . i. Cor. vi .

Christe saithe Lazarus was but a slepe where in verie dede he was dead and buried . Iohan. xi But Christ is the resurrection and life ( as it is in the same place ) so that he that beleuethe on him thoughe he were dead he shall lyue , In verefienge whereof he raised straighte waye Lazarus being foure dayes dead and stynkynge . And because we be naturallye in the agonye of deathe verye fearefull , weake and faintherted : to th ende that we might be the easelier perswaded in the article of resurrection : Scripture maketh mencion of manye whiche in the time of the prophetes , Christe , and th appostles were called from deathe to lyfe ,

Luc. 7. Christ raysed the widowes sonne .

Luc. 8. He raised the ruler of the sinagoge his daughter .

Ioa. xi . He raised Lazarus .

Act. ix . Peter restored to life Tabitha .

Act. xx . Paule raised again Eutichus .

iiii . Re. 4. Elizeus the prophet called againe to lyfe his hostes sonne .

iii. re. xvii Helias raised the babe of the woman of Sareptanie .

God toke also vnto him out of this frail and transitory lyfe , Gen. 5. 4. Reg. ii . these two excellent and holy men Enoch and Helias quicke bothe bodye & soule , to giue vs ( as it were ) a tast and representacion of the true lyfe to come , lest after the opinion of the ethnickes and epicures we shulde thinke there were no worlde , nor beinge after this wretched & miserable life . Let vs not forget what christ Iesus lord of life , & deth , saith in the .viii. of Luke , wepe not , the maid is not dead but a slepe . Reason not comprehending the misteries of god , nether perceiuing his power doth laugh this saing to scorne , but christ prouethe his saing true , he raiseth by & by the dead maid to life .

The .xv. chapter of the first epistle to the Corin. is replenished with moste godly pleasaunt and pithie consolacions . Trulye it is more precious than anye golde . For in that Chapit . saincte Paule dothe so annexe and couple our resurrection to the resurcection of christ as though thei coulde in no wise be seperate or diuided after this forme . Christ is risen from death ( which thing is certain ) ergowe al so shal vndoutedly rise . For christ is our head and we his membres : This head is neither without nether will forsake his membres . Then it foloweth that where christ is , there shall we be . For why , we are the membres of his bodie and euin of his flesshe and bone , Ephesi . 5. what tonge , what penne , what witte is able to set forthe ( as it is worthy ) this ineffable , & inestimable glory of the mercy and grace of god , that God hathe vouchsafe so lowe to humble him self as to become mortall man that this feble and fraile nature of man vnited and knit to the diuine nature by the power & efficacie of the godhead , might be inhaunced & promoted to immortalitie . For trulie the nature of all faithfull men which ether were before christ , hathe be sens , ar now or shal be to the worldes ende : vndoubtedlie in christ verie god and man hathe optained imortality . The consolacion therfore that riseth of christes resurrection is of great efficacitie , As when sainct Paule saithe to the Corinthians : Christ , i. Cor. xv , is risen againe from deade , and is the first fruictes of theim that slepe for by one man truli came death & by one man cometh the resurrection of the dead . And as al die in Adame : euin so shall all be made aliue in christ , but euerie one in his order . The first is christ . Then they which are christes which hathe beleued in his comming . And saincte Paul dothe adde a similitude taken of naturall thinges wher by he doth set forthe and declare the resurrection of bodies . The similitude is taken of sede which cast into the earthe by the husbandman dieth as it were and rotteth . Neuer the lesse it is not vtterlie lost but at lenght springeth & cometh forthe of the earth , goodlie , beautifull & pleasaunte . So our bodyes shall rise againe not feble , vyle , corruptible , mortall : but stronge glorious incorruptible , immortal neuer to die again but euer to liue

The way in to true and euerlastinge lyfe to our longe home ( as they call it ) and contrey is by corporall death . Fleshe and blood beinge corruptible and mortal can not inherit the kyngdom of god wher nothing is but life . Therfore this corruptible body must put on īcorrupcion , & thys mortal must put on immortality . Ore . xiiii . Esa. xxv . Than shal the saing that is written be fulfilled . Death is swalowed vp in victory . They that beleue in Christ hath nowe ouercomed synne , deathe , and hel . Therfore not fearinge deathe but stronge , bold , and wel harted in Christe : they may saye deathe where is thy sting ? death where is thy victorie ? The stinge of deathe is synne , and the power of synne is the lawe . But thankes be vnto god which hathe geauen vs the victorie through our lorde Iesus Christe .

Let vs heare also more sentences full of godly and mightie consolacion .

He that hathe raised vp Iesus shall raise vs vp also with Iesus . ii . Cor. iiii

Phili. iii. Our conuersacion is in heuin from whence we do loke for the sauiour our lorde Iesus christ which shal chaunge our vile body that it may be like fashioned vnto his glorious bodie according to the workinge of his power , by the which also he is able to subdue all thinges vnto him self .

Col. iii. Ye are dead and your life is hid with christ in god , but when christ your life shall appere then shal ye also appere in glorie with him .

i. Tesso . 4. We woulde not ( brethern ) that ye shuld be ignorant concerninge them that sleepe , that ye sorowe not also as other do whiche haue no hope . For yf we beleue that Iesus christ died and rose againe : euin them also which are a slepe , through Iesus shal God bringe with him .

ii . Tim. ii Sainct Paule also doth comforte Timothe with the article of resurrection saing . Remembre the the lord Iesus Christ beinge the seed of Dauid rose again from the dead accordinge to my gospell . And if we be dead with him we shall also liue with him . Yf we suffer paciently we shal also raign with him .

It is writen also to the Hebreus that Christe tasted deathe for all men , Hebre. ii . and that he was partaker of flesche and bloode .i. became verie man that he might destroy him which had the rule of death ( that is ) the deuil , and that he might deliuer theim which were in bondage all their life tyme , by the reason of the feare of death .

God hathe deliueryd vs , ii . Tim. i. and called vs with an holie calling , not accordinge to our workes but accordinge to his purpose & grace whiche is geauen vs in Christe Iesu before the tyme of the world but is nowe made manifest by the apperinge of oure sauioure Iesu Christ which trulie hath destroied death and hathe brought life and immortalitie to lighte by the gospell .

i. Io. iii. We knowe that we are translated frome life to death because we loue the brethern .

i. Io. 4. In this hathe the loue of god apperid in vs , because God sent his onlie begotten sonne into the world that we might liue through him .

Iob. xix . I knowe that my redemer dothe liue , and in the last daie I shall rise againe , and againe be wrapped in my owne skine . And in my owne flesshe shall see God , whome I my self shall see & these my eyes shall beholde and none other :

These places of hollie scripture and suche like , if we diligentlie remember & faithfullie imbrace : we shall perceaue great consolacion and conforte , Phi. iii. And euin with saincte Paule reioyse , that we knowe christe and the power of his resurrection , wherby deth is ouercomed . Nether is there nowe ( to these that beleue in Christ ) any thinge in deathe terrible or to be feared , sauinge onlye the Image and outwarde forme , hurt it can not . Like as a dede serpent keapith stil his old fearful shape and forme : but to stinge or do harme he hathe no power at al. And like as by the brasin serpente whiche Moses by goddes commaundemente sette vp in deserte when it was loked vpon through the power of goddes woord men were deliuerid frome daunger of the liuelie and venyme serpentes so our deathe is made harmles and we deliuered frome the fear and daunger of it , so oft as with the eys of our faithe we do beholde the helthefull and medicinable dethe of Christe . In conclusion deathe is nowe become but a Image and shadowe of deathe , yea the entraunce and gate to life . For Christ who is trueth it self saithe . Yf any man kepe my worde , Io. viii he shall neuer see deathe , For a man trustinge to the mercy of God , through faithe , which he conceauith by heringe of Christes gospell : is so vnite and knitt to christ his lorde and maister , that he can not be plucked nor seperate from him .

The body in dede for a tyme is seperate from the soule but in certaine hope of risinge againe to euerlastinge life . And so he that beleuithe in Christe dothe not see nor fele the euerlastinge dethe of body and soule , which is euerlastinge dampnacion , For the deathe of good men is nothinge els but a departure from this transitory and mortal life : to immortality to christ , to his angelles and sainctes .

Hell and dampnacion

DOth offer it self at the hour of death , so that manye tymes man doth greatly feare lest he be abiect from the fauour of god and appoynted to euerlastyng payne : The deuyll ( which seketh by all meanes howe to deuoure vs ) steringe vp in oure myndes manye daungerous and troubellous thoughtes , concerninge our eleccion and predestinacion .

A medicine against the feare of hel and dampnacion .

WHen the deuil goeth about to cause vs to dyspaire or to doubt of our election : whether we be of the numbre of theim that are appointed to euerlastinge life or no , In any wais let vs not be to boulde in copinge with him , let vs not enter disputacion against him ( for he is to subtile and expert for vs ) but say shortly vnto him Away Satan with sorrowe , it is writen , thou shalt not tempt the lord thy God , For seing that god as a most louinge father hathe not only geauen vs life . fedde and preseruid vs , to this houre : but also hathe indued and euen loden vs from tyme to time with his singuler benefites . what madnes were it contrary to our former experience , nowe to dout of his mercy ? He hathe receauyd vs in to his flocke by baptime .

He hathe sente vs the gospell of his grace , wherein he hathe promised to become oure father . we haue be fedde with the flesshe and bloode of his sonne oure sauioure CHRISTE in remembraunce that oure debtes be paide and we acquited , whye shoulde we nowe then doubte of the good will of GOD towarde vs ? lette vs not therefore admitte the doutfull and daungerous Imaginacions of oure predestinacion which the deuill like a craftie and malicyous marchaunt doth labor to iustill . But let vs thinke vpon suche sentences as God would haue our myndes occupied withall , whiche Chryst him selfe hath prescribed , as Iohn .iii. where he sayethe . GOD hathe so loued the worlde , that he hathe geuyn his onelye begotten sonne , that whosoeuer beleuythe in him shall not perishe , but haue life euerlastynge . Loo here we see that he whiche beleuithe in Christ , which faythfullye acknowlegeth christ , to be his sanctifycacyon , iustyce , redemption and satisfaccion : can not be dampned , but is assured of euerlastynge lyfe . So manye as conceaue faithe by hearynge of Goddes worde : and so trust stedfastelye vpon the mercy of christ : Vndoubtedlye they be of the number of those which be chosen to euerlastyng blysse , knowen before in CHRIST predestinate , and wrytten long sith , in the boke of lyfe . These thynges be mooste certaine , and moost true , God can neither deceaue nor be deceaued . Rom. viii Such is his good wyll , so hathe he purposed and decreed afore the worlde beganne , what thynges soeuer therefore oure ennemye the deuyll ( spytynge our saluacion , and sekynge our destructyon ) shall put in our mynde contrarye to this doctryne . Let them not moue vs , lette them not make vs afrayde , but lette vs trust truly in chryste : and so shall he become oures , and we become his , who beyng our good LORD , we can not perysshe nor be dampned . Io. x. For he wyl lose none of those that his father hathe geuen him . we muste fyxe oure eyes vppon Chryste , we muste flee to hym , we muste cleaue to hym . He is oure onelye and true sauyoure , who muste be apprehended and imbraced by faythe , yf we loke to be saued . For they that beleue ryghtelye in Christ , they are predestinate to euerlastynge lyfe . Here we muste diligentlye remember and earnestelye expende the godly exhortacion of saynt Paul which he writeth in the .xii. to the Hebrewes , whose words be these , Lette vs runne by pacyence vnto the battell that is sette afore vs , He. xii . lokynge vnto Iesus , the auctore and finisher of faithe , whiche when the ioye was set afore hym , suffered the crosse , and dyspysed the shame , and sitteth at the right hand of the seate of GOD :

Furthermore all the greuous tentacions and afflictions that CHRISTE suffered , he sufferyd them for oure sakes . As saincte Paule saithe also in the iiii . to the hebrues . He. iiii . We haue not a highe priest that is not able to haue compassion on our weakenes : but suche one as was prouyd in all pointes without synne , let vs therfore with bouldnes go vnto the seate of his grace , that we may obtaine mercy and fynde grace to help in tyme of nede : Let vs in any ways consider , and deplie imprinte in our harts , christ to be geuin vnto vs , not only to th end that we might be redemid , reconciled & made partakers of euerlastinge saluacion : but also that in him we might haue an example , bothe howe to liue , and also how to end oure life . Nether can any man liue , suffer or dye well : vnles he loke vpon and folowe the life , sufferinge and dethe of Christ . yf therfore we desire to end this life well and godlie : let vs consider and remembre howe Christe behaued him self in that bitter and smart agonie , when hanginge vpon the crosse , he was assaulted with diuers fyersse and most greuous temtacions , and pray that we may haue grace to folowe his example .

First he was temptyd with syn , whan beinge hanged betwixt two theues as a notable & haynous synner : it was said vnto him yf thowe beist the sonne of God , mat . xxvii come downe from the crosse . By this contumelious voice what do they signifie elles , but that they iudged him a noughtie and vngodly person , such one as by craft subtiltye , falsheade , sossery , and other vnlawfull meanes had deceaued the people , hadde blinded the worlde , and to be nothinge lesse then the sonne of GOD . Euen in lyke maner at the houre of deathe doth the deuyll tempte man , what soeuer man hath committed againste god , al the sinnes that euer he dyd , he sheweth vnto hym , he doth exaggerate them to the vttermoste , to th ende that the multitude and hainousnes of them considered and perceauid , manne shulde doubte of the mercye and fauoure of god , and so fall into desperacion . Here we had nede to stande sure . And euery one of vs had nede to aunswer our enemye , thus temptinge vs after this maner I knowlege my selfe to haue synnes aboue all numbre , and measure but Christe , who neuer synned , in whose mouth was found no guile . who is that verye innocent lambe , hathe suffered deathe for my synnes , he hathe wasshed them awaye , he hathe satysfied aboundantlye for them , Esa. liii . howe many and howe greate so euer they were . Christes deathe partaineth also to me , he was wounded also for my iniquities , he was brused for my vngraciousenes , by his strypes I am also healed . All my synnes hath CHRISTE taken to hym selfe , so that nowe I haue none ( thankes be to CHRISTE ) who hathe satysfyed for theym in hys owne bodye .

CHRISTE was tempted also with death , when it was sayde vnto hym : he hathe saued other , Mat. xx7 but he canne not saue hym selfe . ( As though it shoulde been saide ) he is nowe at appointe , he muste dye , there is no remedye , he can not escape . Thus dothe oure olde and irreconciliable enemy labour to feare vs with death but let vs holde out the buckeler of faythe in Christ againste hym . Lette vs remember that Christe our Lorde , kynge of glorye , and prynce of lyfe , coulde not be ouercommed nor holden of death , but thoughe he once tasted of death : he nowe lyueth and raigneth for euer . Thys LORDE of ours wyll not leaue vs , nor suffer deathe to execute anye tyrannye agaynste vs , that after he hathe suffered vs to be tempted a while he wyll also that we dye corporally : al that is wholy for our welth . Neyther coulde we other wayes come to euerlasting life but by temporall deathe . We must therfore leaue this present life , ere we can inherite the eternal life . Also this corporall deathe bringethe this comoditie that by tastinge the bitternes and sowernes of it : we haue experience and knowe the excedinge loue that Christe bare toward vs , and the inestimable benefitt the he did for vs , in clensinge our synnes , in abolisshynge of death , in breaking vp of hel gates , and al by his death . Other ways we could neuer haue knowen the power of christ in abolishinge of death , we could neuer haue iustly estemed the excellency of this benefit , we could neuer haue sene how iust cause we haue to giue thankes , to christ our lord and redemer . Christe liuinge truly , we shall also liue . and this corporall deth to vs shal be nothinge elles but a swete and holsome slepe , an intraunce and gate in to the true & blessed lyfe . For after this transitory lyfe then beginne we first truly to lyue .

THirdly Christ was tempted with hel , or euerlastynge damnation , whan it was said vnto him , he hath trusted in GOD let him now delyuer him yf he wyll . As thoughe they should say . Nowe it appearethe that he hathe hoped in god in vain . For god wyl none of hym , he hathe forsaken hym , he likethe hym not , he dothe abhorre hym , he will caste hym downe to hell & perpetualy condempne him . When therfore the temptor shal lasche at vs which lyke temptacions , we maye not shrinke , we may not be afraid , we may not be discoraged but commend our self , wholy to CHRISTE , hange vpon him , who is wholy oures , who hath geuin him self wholy to vs , so that synne , dethe , nor hel , hath nothing to do with vs . CHRIST with a inestimable price , his owne blood hathe deliueryd vs from the tyranny of the deuil , and euer lastinge dampnacion , he is become our innocency , our life , and our iustice . Let vs take hede in any ways that we turne not our hartes from CHRISTE crucifyed , Yf we cleue to him , we are set vpon a sure and inexpugnable rocke , againste the whiche all the power of hell is able to do nothinge . So that we may boldly exclame , and euery one say with CHRISTE I prouided the Lorde afore my eys all way , Psal. xvi for he is at my righte elbowe , that I shulde not be mouyd , therefore my harte hathe be gladde and my tonge hath reioysed , moreouer my flesshe shall reste in hope . By faithe in CHRISTE we become the sonnes of GOD , the bretherne and coheires of Christ , and partakers of euerlastinge life , by this faith departing hence , we shall go to the kingdome preparyd for the electe , afore the beginnynge of the world . And if in the feruentnes of these temptacions our faithe begin to wauer , yf we do not bere pacientlye the will of oure heuinlye Father , if oure loue towarde god waxe faint and cold , yf oure hope beginne to be feble & weake : and therfore we begin to feare , lest god and we be not all at a full point , but that he is yet displeasyd with vs : which tentacion ( surely ) is very greuous , painful , daungerous , and hard to ouercome : we must call to remembrance Christ to haue sufferyd for vs so intollerable and inuincible tentacions : that there apperyd no help , no comfort , no refuge , wherin GOD and the whole world : semyd to haue forsaken him , and to be against him : In somouche that he exclamyd , O my god , o my GOD why haste thou forsaken me . Oh here was a greuous tentacion , A sharpe and a bitter death that CHRISTE sufferid for vs , and all to make the way of the crosse and deathe easy vnto vs . Therfore seing that , CHRISTE of his owne free wyll , caste him selfe into the felinge of so intollerable paine , calamity , and anxiety ( GOD our most louinge Father beinge therwith contente ) vndoubtydlye he knowith and consyderyth our infirmite , vndoubtydly he will not deale with vs accordinge to the rigour of the law , but will bere muche with vs and pardon many thinges , to our infirmity . Doth not CHRIST speake to al men ? dothe he not call men , when he saith : Come vnto me all you that do labour and are laden and I shal refresh you ? howe can ther be any greater consolacion ? howe could CHRISTE speake more mercyfully to vs . There be many thinges that pinche , vex , and trouble man greuously : but what thinge is it that can trouble the conscience of a synner , more than whan he doubteth of the mercy of god , then whan he fearethe leaste GOD will cast him of , then whan he can not persuade him self to conceaue any trust of gods mercy , but Imagine that as a witheryd member he shal be cut of and cast away . Here we had nede of christes present helpe , here we had nede of spedy conforte , lest this violent tempest ouerwhelme and drowne vs . But let vs not feare , CHRISTE is no dissembler , he wyll stande by his worde , he wyll perfourme hys promyse , He wyll helpe and refresshe . Therefore when we begynne to trymble and feare in oure conscyence , when we begin to doubte of goddes mercy , when we perceaue our faithe to be feable . Lette vs forthwith call vpon GOD , and that feruently , and that indesinantly , leuen from the bottome of oure hart , that he tourne not his face from vs .

Lette vs power before hym all that dothe trouble vs . Let vs disclose , to hym oure myserye , oure imbecillitie , oure incredulity . Let vs crye with the disciples , lorde increase oure faith . Luc. xvii . And with the Father of the Lunaticke . Lorde we beleue , helpe our incredulity . And with the prophet . Marci . ix Lorde make hast to helpe vs . For thy mercy is aboue all thy workes . O moste louing , O moste mercyful father , lord god of our healthe , Ps. lxix our only help and refuge . Enter not into iudgemente with thy seruauntes . Christe is our iustice , our redemption , and innocency , he for vs hathe sufferyd most bitter & cruel death .

Let these thynges moue the o father of mercy . For thys thy son our sauior Christes sake haue mercy vpon vs , confirme and strength our harte in faith , comfort vs with the consolacions of thy holy sprit , that we may finally optayne Ioy euerlastyng , through Iesus christ Amen .

After this sort if we ( laborynge , wresting , and striuinge with our imbecillity , accusing afore god , & lamentinge our pusilianimity and incredulity ) do catch hold of christ and cleue fast to hym , earnestlye and feruently desirynge hys help , that he wyl vouchsafe to take our place & to supply that is lackinge in vs . These thinges if we do surely all thinges shal be well , we shal auoyde and escape easly all daunger & peryl , we shal be safe enogh . For these two , to beleue in Christ and with hart to desire faith , doth not much differ the one from the other . For though we fele yet great weaknes and imperfection in our self , yet this ought to comfort vs , that god wylleth & commandeth that he shoulde be called vpon , that he hath promised to here and help these , that call ryghtly vpon him . Now as nothing is more iustly or necessarily desired than true faith , euen so god hearith no praier soner or more gladly then whan man findyng no goodnes in hym selfe , doth acknowlege his owne infirmity , his owne mysery , his owne beggerlines , dothe accuse and lament his owne incredulity , & with depe sighes , & harty desires calleth for faith . These sighes , these desires , these prayers , this litle sparke of faithe is the very sede of GOD , wrought in vs by him , which saith of Christe by the Prophet Esay , that he shall not quenche the smokinge flaxe , nor breake the brusyd rede . Therfore let vs stedfastly beleue , or at the leaste earnestelye and hartely pray that we may beleue , bewaylyng afore god our lacke of faithe , whiche thinges if we do , we nede not doubt but we be acceptid of god , we be taken for his children . For it is not for noughte , nor in vaine that he hathe layde our imbecillitie and synnes vpon his only begoten sonnes backe .

In Mathew Math. v. it is said blessed be those that mourne , for thei shal be conforted , blessyd be those that honger after righteousnes , for they shal be satisfied . These words are spoken al so to vs , they may iustly be applyed to vs , we mourne & are sory in our hartes that we haue mispendyd our life paste . We wishe and desyre , yea we euen honger & thriste after righteousnes . Lette vs be of good chere , we shall optayne oure desire , we shal be comfortyd , we shall be counted iuste afore GOD , for CHRISTE oure sauior his sake . Fynally let vs after the example of Christ and sainte Steuin commend our soules into the handes of GOD our heuenly father , sainge euery one after this maner .

O Most mercyfull father I commend into thy holly handes my spirit , yea thy spirite , for thou hast create it , thou haste commytted it for a tyme to the body , thou haste geuen it thy owne Image and similitude . Thou haste sent for the redemption of it , thi owne most derely belouyd sonne to shed his blood . This the spirite , I resigne into thi handes , O GOD of all mercy , I am thyne all that I am , I beseche the refuse not thy owne but receaue , kepe and place me in euerlasting glory for the sake of Iesus Christ , thy only begoten sonne Amen .