A sermon, preached before the two high borne and illustrious princes, Fredericke the 5. Prince Elector Palatine, Duke of Bauaria, &c. and the Princesse Lady Elizabeth, &c. Preached in the castle-chappell at Heidelberg the 8. of Iune 1613. being the next day after her Highnesse happy arriuall there: by that reuerend and iudicious diuine, Mr. Abraham Scultetus, his Highnesse chaplaine. Together with a short narration of the Prince Electors greatnes, his country, his receiuing of her Highnesse, accompanied with twe u [sic] other princes, thirty earles, besides an exceeding great number of barons and gentlemen, and eight daies ent rtainement [sic]. Translated out of High Dutch by Ia Meddus D. and one of his Maiesties chaplaines.

A SERMOM Preached at Heidelberg , the S. of Iune 1613. before the high and mightie Prince FREDERICK the 5. Earle Palatine , Prince Elector , &c. and the right high and illustrious Lady and Princesse , the Lady ELIZABETH , his espoused wife , vpon the occasion of their happy arriuall there .

The Entrance .

BVt from whence and whereat beloued Christians , shall I begin this Sermon of thanksgiuing ?

Praise yee the Lord , because hee is exceeding good , and his mercie endureth for euer .

Let Heidelberg now say ; his mercy endureth for euer . Let the Electorall PALATINATE now say ; his mercie endureth for euer . Let them say now , that feare the Lord ; his mercy endureth for euer . The Lord is God who defendeth vs , and his mercie endureth for euer . The Lord is God who reioiceth vs , and his mercie endureth for euer .

I know not how to doe better , then that we beginne there where wee will end , namely ; of commending , lauding , and praising the most Highest , who crowneth vs with mercy and louing kindnesse , and bindeth the people that lie farre asunder one from another , firmely together in the vnitie of faith , loue , and assured hope of the blessed saluation to come .

Now to the end that our hearts may be the better and liuelier rowsed vp vnto this laud and praise , we will reade vnto you an excellent Psalme of Thankesgiuing : but will first for the more fruitfull hearing of the same , call vpon the Lord God for the gracious assistance of his holy spirit , in that forme of praier , which our LORD and SAVIOVR CHRIST himselfe hath taught vs .

Our Father , &c.

Psalme 147.

1 Praise yee the Lord , for it is good to sing vnto our God : for it is a pleasant thing , and praise is comely .

2 The Lord doth build vp Ierusalem , and gather together the dispersed of Israell .

3 He healeth those that are broken in heart , and bindeth vp their sores .

4 Hee counteth the number of the starres , and calleth them all by their names .

5 Great is our Lord , and great is his power , his wisdome is infinite .

6 The Lord relieueth the needie , and abaseth the wicked to the ground .

7 Sing vnto the Lord with praise : sing vpon the harpe vnto our God

8 Which couereth the heauen with cloudes , and prepareth raine for the earth , and maketh the grasse to grow vpon the mountaines .

9 Which giueth to beasts their food , and to the yong rauens that call vpon him .

10 Hee hath not pleasure in the strength of an horse neither delighteth in any mans legges .

11 But the Lord delighteth in them that feare him , and hope vpon his mercies .

12 Praise the Lord , O Ierusalem : praise thy God , O Zion .

13 For hee hath made the barres of thy gates strong , and hath blessed thy children within thee .

14 Hee setteth peace in thy borders , and satisfieth thee with the flower of wheat .

15 He sendeth forth his commandement vpon earth , and his word runneth very swiftly .

16 He giueth snow like wooll , and scattereth the hoare frost like ashes .

17 He casteth forth his yee like morsels : who can abide the cold thereof ?

18 Hee sendeth his word and melteth them : he causeth his wind to blow , and the waters flow .

19 He sheweth his word vnto Iacob , his statutes and his iudgements vnto Israel .

20 Hee hath not dealt so with euery nation , neither haue they known his iudgements . Praise yee the Lord .

The Jnterpretation .

LIke as the weather vnder the heauens altereth , so that wee now feele a faire warme sunshine , anon lightning and thunder , and also presently after , raine : euen so doe the thoughts of man change and alter . For sometime the godlie mans heart is so merie and iokand , that it is as a meere sunshine , that is , there is nothing but ioy and comfort perceiued in him , namely , when God the Lord fatherly remembreth vs with a cheerfull conscience , with a healthfull body , as also with bodily ioy , and a good outward estate .

But otherwhiles againe , when troubles and miseries approach , it seemeth as if our harts were ouershadowed with thicke blacke cloudes , when as wee heare and feele nothing else in manifold tentations , then the haile , thunder , and lightning of Gods law . Now then , the greatest wisdome of a Christian standeth therein , that he assuredly know , whether it be cleere or darke in his heart , how he shall so dispose of his businesse , that he may euer and at all times bee well pleasing and acceptable vnto God in heauen .

The Apostle Iames prescribeth vnto vs a notable rule in this case , when as hee saith ; Is any among you afflicted ? Iames 5.13 . let him pray : Is any merrie ? let him sing Psalmes . By which words he would haue vs vnderstand thus much , that we euer ought to pray vnto our Lord God in time of neede : and after obtained deliuerance , praise him for it . According to which will of God , all the holy men of the old , and new Testament liued .

If now therfore at this present , our affaires bee likewise so changed , as that wee behold with ioy , our right gratious Lord & Prince , FREDERICK Count Palatine , and Prince Elector : and also the right high , and illustrious Princesse Elizabeth , his highnesse most honoured , and best beloued spouse , to be safely come hither in health vnder the safe conuoy of the most highest , vnto the place , where wee haue earnestly long desired , and praied they might be : then should we be surely most vnthankful people , if wee should not admonish , prouoke , and say one vnto another ; O ye faithfully beloued : Ier. 33.11 . Praise the Lord of Hostes , because the Lord is good , & his mercie endureth for euer . And it is true , that for the very performance of this holy worke , is this illustrious company now assembled here : which that it may bee done with the more fruit and profit , wee will briefely expound the Psalme now reade vnto you . And first , consider of the Prophets hearty admonition , wherewith hee stirreth vs vp vnto the laud & praise of God .

And then secondly , we will obserue what those benefits be , for which we ought to laud & praise God : wherein it will euidently appeare , that we haue at this day , euen as great & weighty cause to praise him , as euer the people of Israell had in the old Testament .

Of the first .

As concerning the first point , the Prophet exhorteth vs vnto thankesgiuing , not once nor twice , but thrice when as he saith : Praise yeethe Lord . Psal. 147. verse 1.7.12 . Sing vnto the Lord with praise : sing vppon the harpe vnto our God . Praise the Lord O Ierusalem : praise thy God O Zion .

And hee concealeth not the reason , for he saith , It is good and a pleasant thing , to sing praises vnto our God . Whereunto agreeth that of the Prophet Dauid Psalme 92 saying , Psal. 92. It is a good thing to praise the Lord , and to sing vnto thy name , O thou most highest .

The children of the world thinke it is a good thing to liue euery day riotously , to sing , to play , to skip , to daunce , to laugh and shout , or else to rise vp early in the morning , to drunkenesse , and surfeting , and to run vp & downe vntill the euening , to scrach , and scrape something vnto themselues . These are the vnwise men that know not , Psal. 6. and the fooles that vnderstand not Gods workes , as Dauid there speaketh . But the holy Ghost saith by the Prophet , in the same place , that this is a good thing , to declare Gods louing kindnesses in the morning , and his truth in the euening .

For what is a better thing then to praise God , who onely is worthy of all praise , whom also all the vnreasonable creatures , euery one according to his kind , doe laud and praise ? What is a better thing then to praise the Lord , from whom all good gifts come and descend ? What is a better thing then for euery one to exercise and acquaint himselfe daily in the seruice , wherein all elect Angels and men , will exercise themselues in that blessed life of glory ?

Such men as thus exercise themselues , haue already begunne and entered into that euerlasting life : and seeing they lead a well sauoured and praise-worthy life , so doth God also vouchsafe vnto them at the last , a praise-worthy death : according as the example of King Dauid sheweth , who for that he alwaies had this saying in his mouth ; I will praise the Lord so long as I haue any being : hee also at the last yeelded vp his soule with a praise-singing mouth , as is to be seene both in 1. Chron. 30. and 1. King . 1.

Such praise is pleasant , and comely , as the Psalme further saith . For as nothing is more foule & loth some then vnthankfull ingratitude , so there is not any thing more pleasant then a thankful soule , which knoweth what benefits shee hath receaued of her God , and doth yeeld to him again that which is due to him , namely obliged thankfulnes . Herehence it is , Deut. 32.19 . that our Lord God termeth vnthankfull people , not children , but shamespots . And the Prophet Ieremie teacheth , that man hath an vnfaithfull and rebellious heart , which saith not once , I will now feare the Lord God , Ier. 5.23 , 24. that giueth raine both early and late in due season , and safely preserueth the haruest at the appointed time .

Yet neuerthelesse , it is not here to be omitted , that God will nor be praised of euery one . For as any great Lord or Prince cannot at al endure to haue his worthy and valiant acts to be written by a lewd varlot : so will not the Lord God by any meanes , endure at all to bee praised of wicked persons ; whence our Psalme saith , Praise the Lord , O Ierusalem . Psal. ●3 . 1 . Praise thy God , O Zion ; that is , as is elsewhere expounded , Reioice in the Lord , O yee righteous : for it becometh vpright men to be thankefull .

Now the reasons are knowne , why God will not be praised of wicked people . For such people will not Vnderstand the Lords benefits , but as the Prophet saith , Though mercie be shewed to the wicked , yet he will not learne righteousnesse : Esa. 26.10 . in the land of vprightnesse will he doe wickedly , and will not at all consider the maiestie of the Lord . Besides , the offering cannot be acceptable vnto God , which is offered vnto him of an impenitent soule , but the sacrifice which a wicked man ( who hath chosen his owne waies , Esa. 66.3 . and his soule delighteth in his abhominations , ) offereth , it is euen as much as if hee slew a man , as if he cut off a doggs neck , and as if hee offered swines blood . The cause hereof is , beecause wicked men are of an impenitent heart , and therefore will only praise God with their mouth , whom they shame and dishonor in their heart , yea throughout all their whole life and conuersation .

Of the second .

But sufficient of the first . 2. Point . Now let vs consider of the second point ; wherefore it is that the Prophet will haue vs sing praises vnto God . The Prophet commendeth here three especiall benefits of God : as first , that he buildeth Ierusalem . Secondly that hee vseth his wisedome and power for the benefit of all his creatures , but most especially for mans good . And then thirdly , that he cleerely reuealed his word ; his statutes , and his commaundements vnto the Iewish people .

Hee saith , The Lord buildeth vp Ierusalem , Verse 2. and gathereth together the dispersed of Israel . Here is to bee obserued , that this Psalme was written , after that the people of the Iewes were brought againe to Ierusalem , & other places in Iudea , from the Babylonian captiuity . Now when the Prophet sawe , that Ierusalem was againe by little and little repaired , the Citizens come againe together , that were here & there before dispersed abroad , and the true seruice of God established anew , he hartily reioyced ; yet not so much for the faire and goodly buildings , as for that they were come thither againe , euen vnto the place , whereunto God had bound himselfe in the old Testament , and couenanted with them ; and that the people did iointly againe with one consent serue God , Rom. 9.4 . Vnto whom appertaineth the addoption , and the glory , and the couenants , and the giuing of the Lawe , and the seruice of God , and the promises . And in such ioy of his heart he beginneth , & admonisheth all beleeuing Israelites , to sing laud vnto the Lord one with an other , and to praise our God vppon the harpe .

If now the godly forefathers did so heartily reioyce before Christs birth , & earnestly exhorted vnto the praising of God , after they were deliuered but from their seauenty yeres Babilonian captiuity , and were again returned into their beloued Countrey : how much more then ought wee , whose forefathers were pulled out of popish Babilon , not after seuenty , but after seuen hundred yeers of captiuity , and brought againe together into their old country , sing laud , praise and thankes vnto almighty God for it ? The vulgar man considereth not , what a glorious benefit this is . To compare them a little together . Was not that a miserie vpon misery , when the parents were dispersed from their children , the brethren from their sisters , the husbands from their wiues , here and there throughout all the Babylonian gouernment , and must undure to bee laughed at , scorned and derided of euery man ? The people of God themselues giue witnesse hereunto , when they say ; Psal. 137.1 . By the riuers of Babel we sate , and there wee wept , when we remembred Zion .

But farre greater miserie did our forefathers endure in poperie , when many honest and wel-affected hearts were forced to bee kept & pressed downe vnder the Popes tyrannie , and to behold ( against their wils ) shamefull and horrible idolatrie . But yet God did after seuen hundred yeeres space , looke againe fauourably vpon his distressed seruant the Christian Church , caused the Gospell to be cleerly expounded , which was before obscured , Antichrist that child of perdition to bee reuealed , and our beloued fathers to be set againe into the libertie of conscience , and which wee euer since enioy , blessed bee his name for it . Wherefore prayse the Lord , O Ierusalem , Prayse thy God , O Zion .

It is true , that Ierusalem is often grieuously afflicted , and as it were euen rent asunder , either by the assaults and inrodes of enemies souldiers , or by the death of high and chiefe Gouernours , who were the Churches Patrons , and nureing fathers and mothers , as this Jerusalem of our Palatinate hath sufficiently felt about three yeares since , when Fredericke the fourth of blessed memorie departed this life . But , praysed be God , who euer buildeth Ierusalem againe . And this hee doth , when as hee blesseth a countrey with Princely branches , who wax and grow vp vnto his honour , and their natiue countries benefit . And this he doth also effect , when hee leadeth ( as with the hand ) vnto young Princes godly and religious spouses , with whom they may comfortably liue together in vnitie of faith , and shine before their subiects in all good example of religious holinesse . And therefore prayse thou the Lord , O Heidelberg , Prayse thy God , O Palatinate .

But there might some man perhaps demaund , Whether it be so much to be respected , and bee so great a benefit , to haue the walls of Ierusalem rightly builded in a countrey ? Whereunto I answer , That euerie way it is much to bee regarded , and is Gods exceeding great benefit , when Ierusalem is well and rightly builded : For in Ierusalem alone , that is , in the little flocke wherein God is truely serued , is that done which is written in the next verse following , He healeth those that are broken in heart , verse 3. and bindeth vp their sores .

We poore miserable creatures were fallen indeede amongst theeues & murtherers , & grieuously wounded of them , who were set against vs by Sathan . Should the Angles cure & heale vs ? they could not . Should other creatures helpe and releeue vs ? they could not . Then God sent Christ vnto vs , who commeth in the Gospell , and where the same is preached , there he powreth out the supling and healing oyle of grace into euerie repentant sinners heart , and bindeth vp all their wounds , that is , he taketh away all the great anguish and trouble of conscience , which ariseth out of the sence and feeling of Gods wrath against sin , and feare of euerlasting damnation .

And here I know , that many men esteeme not so highly of this benefit , and I meane them , who vnderstand not what sinne is , what Gods wrath is against sinne , and what euerlasting damnation is . But I know this also , that they who are assaulted with the fiercenesse of Gods wrath , and haue daily combate with their owne weakenesse and infirmities , esteem nothing so highly in this world , as that Christ healeth their broken hearts , through the gracious forgiuenesse of their sinnes , and bindeth vp the pinching griefe of their consciences , in so much , that they may boast with the Apostle Saint Paul , Rom. 8. there is no condemnation vnto them , whose hearts are healed , whose wounds of conscience are bound vp and plastered : Hereupon they liue ; hereupon they die ; that for Christ his sake , God is become their mercifull father , and they his deare and louing children . Therefore sing vnto the Lord one with another with thankes , and praise our God vpon the harpe , euen yee that doe feele and acknowledge this benefit of God vnto your soules .

But the Lord God will not suffer it to rest there , that he buildeth the wals of Ierusalem , but , though he be the wholly wise and almightie Lord , yet he abuseth not the same vnto tyranny , and suppressing of the godly honest , but he vseth his wisdome and omnipotencie , first , and chiefly for the good of man , and then next for the benefit of all other creatures . For , Verse 4 , 5. He counteth the number of the starres , and calleth them all by their names . Great is our Lord , and great is his power , his wisdome is infinite : or , his gouernement is not to bee vnderstood and comprehended .

He surely must needes be a wise and omnipotent Lord . The star-gasers labor also and weary themselues very much , that they might tell the number of the starres . But yet themselues confesse , that they onely know the chiefest , the greatest , and the brightest : the tale of the rest they must leaue ( will they nill they ) vnto God , who both numbreth all the starres , and calleth them by their seuerall names , and carrieth a goodly gouernement ouer them , where the Sun , like a King , swaieth in his glorious Lordship ; but other starres as seruants , and attendants on him , must at seuerall times , some at his rising , and others at his setting , performe their seruice vnto him . Now as he doth wisely gouerne the starres , so doth he also powerfully vphold them , insomuch that the Prophet saith not without cause : Great is our Lord , and great is his power , which is the more comfortable for vs to vnderstand , and lay hold on , seeing the text further teacheth , that God vseth his wisdome and omnipotencie , for the good of man , and all creatures .

The Lord , saith the Prophet , relieueth the needie , and abaseth , or rather throweth downe the wicked to the ground . Which is as much to lay : God so vseth his might and wisedome , that hee aduanceth the humble , and punisheth the proud . And this is , and euer hath bin Gods custome . Go and search throughout all the histories of the old Testament ; go and search throughout all the histories of the newe Trestament , and it will appeare , that humility was neuer left vncrowned ; pride neuer left vnpunished . Pharaoh was proud and high minded , he must needes perish in the water : Moses was humble hee must needs be aduanced : Saul was high minded , hee was brought downe lowe : Dauid was humble hee was aduaunced : Sebna was high minded , the keies of the house of Dauid were taken from him : Eliakim is humble , the ●eies were giuen vnto him . Humble Hezekim had his life preferued : whereas proud Senacherib was robbed of his life , and had it at ken from him .

Hither unto appertaine . Gods other benefits , which are here recited , as namely , that he giueth peace vnto his people , that hee blesseth them will children , and satisfieth them with the flower of wheate and not that only , but that he also vseth his omnipotency ingenerall for the good of all creatures . For it is he Which couereth the heauen with clouds , Verse 8. & prepareth rain for the earth , and maketh the grasse to grow vpon the mountaines . Which giueth to beasts their food , Verse 9. and to the yong rauens that call vppon him .

We must needs wonder concerning the cloudes ; and we must needs wonder concerning the rain : but yet we must needs much more admire and wonder , that God createth such things , not , that he boasteth of his omnipotencie , but of his goodnesse therein , which also euidently appeareth in the very preseruation of bruit beasts . For why doth the Lord couer the heauens with cloudes ? That he may prepare raine for the earth . Wherefore doth hee prepare raie ffor the earth ? That grasse may grow vpon the mountaines . Wherefore doth hee let grasse grow ? That beasts may haue their foode , and the yong rauens that call vpon him .

So then we heare it well , that God careth also for the bruite beasts , as likewise for the yong rauens , which call vpon him ; that is , they which crie for hunger , and must needs perish , if God did not nourish them . The heathen Phylosopher Aristotle taught , that God onely cared for the more excellent creatures , and regarded not the meaner .

But Gods word teacheth , that God also preserueth the young rauens when they call vppon him , and soe maketh no difference in his care for this or that beast ; as also in like manner concerning man , He is no accepter of persons : but in euery nation , Act. 10.34.35 . he that feareth him , and worketh righteousnesse , is accepted with him . For as our Psalme saith , he hath not pleasure in the strength of an horse , verse 10. neither delighteth in any mans legges ; that is , he careth not at all whether any bee proud and potent in the world ; but , he delighteth in them that feare him , and hope vppon his mercies , whether they be highly or basely esteemed of amongst men in the world .

And it is not hard or heauie vnto God the Lord , to nourish , preserue , and support both man , and beast . For , verse 15. He only sendeth forth his commandements vppon earth : that is , he only commandeth it , and his word runneth very swiftly , that is , and it is done . Will he haue snowe ? then hee giueth it : will hee haue hoare frost ? then hee scattereth it like ashes : will he haue yce ? then hee casteth it like morsels : will hee haue frost ? then can no man endure the cold thereof . He sendeth his word and it melteth them ; verse 18. hee causeth his winde to blowe , and the yee thaweth , so that the waters flowe .

Now that which Gods people did here praise aforetime , that are we worthily bound to extoll and praise at this day . God hath mercifully of late turned his wisdome and almighty power ouer the Electorall Palatinate for good . He hath mightily three quarters of a yeere agoe , led our Prince Elector out of the Palatinate into England : he hath wisely and richly blessed his highnesse designe and purpose , and mightely hath very latelie safely conuayed and returned his Princely Electorall Highnesse , and also yesterday the Princesse Electoresse , his highnesse spouse , safely vnto this place . Wherefore sing yee one with another with thankesgiuing vnto the Lord , and praise our God vpon the harpe : Praise the Lord O Heydelberg , praise thy God , O Palatinate .

Howsoeuer we haue now with the old Church , in regard of Gods now recited benefits , sufficient cause of praise and thankesgiuing : yet doth the Spirit of God further lead vs , vnto the consideration of the most high and best good , that God can giue vnto any man , in a whole Countrey or Kingdome . verse 19. Hee sheweth his word vnto Iacob , his statutes and his iudgements vnto Israel .

O gracious Lord God , verse 13. what were it , though the Barres of our gates were made fast within vs , and all outward peace procured vnto our borders , if in the meanetime the borders of our consciences should be depriued of heauenly comfort ? What were it , though our children were blessed within our gates , if we were not thereof assured , that we our selues also be Gods children ? What were it , though our bodies were satisfied with the finest flower ; if our soules should in the meanetime euer hunger and thirst with the want of Gods worde and grace ? Therefore the Prophet reioyceth and triumpheth withall , for this benefit , that God offereth vnto the Iewish people , his euerlasting grace and mercy in the word preached : and for that the true Religion was at that time altogether shut vp within the cabinet of the Land of Iudah , hee proceedeth herehence with admiration , and saith ; Hee hath not dealt so with euery nation , neither letteth them know his iudgements . Praise ye the Lord . That is , praise and thankes be giuen vnto God , who amongst vs gathereth a handfull vnto him ▪ who know him , honour him , and feare him , whereas notwithstanding so many people liue altogether without God , and are depriued , and euen robbed of all true comfort both in life and death .

We , beloued in the Lord , can now at this day reioyce of that , in the Protestant Churches of Germanie , whereof the people of the Iewes reioyced aforetime , as namely , that God hath shewed vnto vs his holy word , and hath let vs know his statutes , and his iudgements . Hee sheweth his word vnto vs , that is , he cleerely reuealeth himselfe vnto vs in the Gospell .

This wee know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

God is the fountaine of all goodnesse , and all the euill that is in the world , proceedeth at no hand from him , but from Satan , and mans free will . This wee know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

Christ Iesus is the almighty Sonne of God , the brightnesse of his glory , and the ingraued forme of his person , who in the fulnesse of time tooke vpon him our flesh and blood , and hath purchased for vs through his death eternall redemption . This we know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

The holy Ghost is the third person of the Deitie , the comforter of all the afflicted , and the earnest of our saluation to come . This wee know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

The Lord God hath so neere a care of his faithfull children , that not so much as a haire of their head is bowed , or any little bone broken in their body , without his will . This wee know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

When God calleth for vs before his strict iudgement , be it as well in health as in sicknesse , and denieth vnto our owne conscience all comfort , so that wee cannot withstand the iust wrath of God at all : but yet the alone precious suffering and bitter death of our deere Lord and Sauiour Iesus Christ , ( whose suffering and death being laid hold on with true faith , ) euen then stilleth the spirituall heart-beating , and quieteth the disturbed conscience . This we know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

When God sendeth vs sorrow and affliction , it is so farre from hurting of vs , that it also turneth vnto our good , and our selues may therefore praise affliction : for it is true , that vnto the faithfull , tribulation bringeth patience , patience experience , experience hope , and hope maketh not ashamed . This wee know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

When faith is weake , patience cold , hope in a swounde , then is there no better meanes to helpe and relieue the poore soule , then that shee frequent the holy Supper of the Lord , where we doe not onely see before our eyes , what and how much Christ hath suffered for our sakes , but wee also feele , that our hungry and thirstie soules are fed with his crucified body , and are quenched with his bloodshed , which is done , when wee ingraue and firmely presse into our hearts by true faith , that Christ is giuen vnto death for our sinnes , and his blood is shed for our transgressions , whereby faith will be stronger , patience warmer , hope more liuely , the whole man will bee in God more ioyful , & wil go home vnto his house with a ioyful hart , & praise-singing mouth singing , Psal. 23. The Lord is my good shepheard , I shal heceforth neuer want any thing ; he feedeth me on the greene pastures of his word , hee giueth me to drinke of the fresh watersprings of his spirit , his goodnesse and mercie will follow me , all the dayes of my life This lastly we know and acknowledge with all Protestant Churches .

That eternall saluation is prepared for vs after this life . That is said , the Lord sheweth his word vnto Iacob , and reuealeth his grace and mercie only to Protestant Churches .

But hee sheweth vs not only the word of grace and mercie , but he sheweth vs also his statutes and his iudgements . Now these are Gods statutes and iudgements .

Thou shalt loue the Lord thy God , Math. 22. with all thy heart , with all thy soule , with all thy strength , and thy neighbour as thy selfe . These be Gods statutes , and his iudgments .

Let your light so shine before men , Math 6. that they may see your good workes , Luke 6. and glorifie your Father which is in heauen . These be Gods statutes and his iudgments .

Loue your enemies , doe good vnto them that hate you , blesse them that curse you , pray for them that hurt you . These bee Gods statutes & iudgments .

Take heede that your hearts be not oppressed with surfeting & drunckennesse , Luke 21. and with the cares of this life . These are Gods statutes and his iudgments .

To doe well and to distribute forget not . Heb. 13. These bee Gods statutes and his iudgments .

Follow peace with all men , Heb. 12. and holines , without the which no man shall see the Lord .

But so , O God , doe few people at this day ; therefore , Praise the Lord , O Ierusalem , praise thy God , O Zion . For ( as wee haue vnderstood out of this sermon ) there is nothing more precious then to praise our God : such praise is pleasant & comely : such praise is fitting to meete God the Lord with ; as hee that buildeth the wales of Ierusalem , as hee that vseth his wisedome and power , vnto the defence & comfort of his Christendome , as he that yet sheweth vnto vs in Germany his sauing word , and his holy statutes .

Who so acknowledgeth this , who so laudeth and and praiseth this , hee shall finde , that vppon his praise singing life , a praise singing death shall follow ; and hee shall by death bee ioyfully carried into that blessed life , wherein all the faithfull meete together , and shall sing : Great is our Lord , and great is his power : hee maketh them that were low on earth , to bee high in heauen , them that on earth were proud , and wicked , hee abaseth , and throweth downe vnto hell . For if the honest subiects of the Electorall Palatinate did heartely so much reioyce yesterday , when they saw that our right gracious , and illustrious Princesse Electoresse , was well and safely arriued here in good health , and receaued with ioy of our right gracious Lord ; what thinke you will bee then there , when wee , and all other the faithfull , who are Christs Bride , that shall haue sailed ouer the deepe , hideous , terrible , and tempestious Sea of this world , yea the temporary death , and shall haue arriued at the holy hill , He alludeth to a hilat Heidelberg called the Holy hill . not at Heydelberg , but in heauenly Ierusalem , where Christ will receaue vs , euen the good Bridegrome , who hath vndergone so far a iorney for our sakes , as from heauen vnto the earth , and hath giuen out his life a ransome for vs ? ioy fully will all sing there , that can sing ; and all cheerefully giue piaise that can praise . The Angels themselues , will then assemble in troupes , reioyce & sing , Halleluia ; praise ye the Lord ; the lambes wedding is come let vs sing & reioyce . Reu. 19 That which the Bride desired on earth , that shee hath , that she heareth , that she seeeth , that she feeleth now in heauen . She hath the bridegrome : she heareth Angels musick : shee seeth the Father in the Sonne , the Sonne in the Father , and the holy Ghost in the Father and the Sonne . God doth not so vnto any wicked , nor letteth them see his glory , nor suffereth them to feele his ioy . Therefore , praise here the Lord , ye that would praise him there : sing here vnto the Lord , yee that would sing vnto him there . Here must the beginning be made , the full accomplishment and fruition of all will be found there .

Thankes be vnto the Father , that so cleerly reuealeth his mercy vnto vs . Thankes be vnto the Sonne , who hath purchased for vs peace , ioy , and life . Thankes be vnto the holy Ghost , that bindeth vs poore miserable wormes on earth , in a permanent euerlasting loue with God in heauen . Let all the people say Amen : yea Lord Iesus Amen .

The Praier .

IT is a pleasant thing indeede to praise our God , and to shew forth his mercie in the morning , and his truth in the euening . Therefore we returne our hearts and tongues vnto thee , most mercifull God and Father , and praise thy marueilous goodnesse , which thou hast so plentifully and richly shewed vnto vs euer vntill this present .

It was thy goodnesse , that our Lord and Prince Electors Highnesse went well and sound from hence into England three quarters of a yeare agoe .

It was thy goodnesse , that his Highnesse purpose and designe came there vnto a happie end .

It was thy goodnesse , that his Highnesse arriued here so well againe , after the performance of that businesse .

And it is thy goodnesse , that his Highnesse best beloued spouse arriued here safely yesterday , to the great reioycing of all the people .

Blessed and praysed be thy high and great name for this thy maruellous goodnesse , from this time forth and for euer .

We beseech thee gracious God and Father , finish that work which thou hast begun , and renew thy ancient mercie and louing kindnesse from day to day vpon this Princely new maried couple ; powre downe vpon them from heauen aboue thy heauenly goodnesse and blessing , accomplish all their Highnesse designes , heare them when they call vpon thee , deliuer them when they bee in danger , reioyce them when they be in sorrow , blesse them as thou didst blesse thy best friends , Abraham , Isaac , and Iacob , that so their whole countrey may bee glad of them ; and that in time , vnder their gouernment , iudgement and righteousnesse may meet together in all parts of the Palatinate , and loue , kindnesse , and faithfulnesse , may kisse one each other in all houses .

Receiue likewise into thy protection and defence the Romane Emperours Maiestie , the King and Queenes Maiesties of Great Britaine , as also the Prince their Son , all other Christian Potentates , Princes Electors , and other Princes of the Empire , especially in our right gracious ioynt gouernment , together with their beloued Ladies , & all that belong vnto them , and so likewise all the whole Electorall and Princely family of the Count Palatines by Rheine : blesse them all in bodie , in soule , in honour , in goods .

Looke downe from heauen vpon the fruits of the earth , and speake and spread out thy blessing ouer them , that we may also therby acknowledge thee , the Father and fountaine of all mercie and goodnesse . Haue mercie vpon all persecuted , afflicted , and sorrowfull Christians ; cure that which sicke is , binde vp that which is wounded , strengthen that which is weake . Lastly , receiue vs , and giue vs vnto thee , so shall we be a blessed people here temporally , and there eternally .

Amen .

TO THE INDIFFERENT Reader .

Considering , indifferent Reader , how sinisterly some of ignorance , and others of malice , conceaue of the state & dignity of the High and Mightie Prince Elector Palatine , Duke of Bauaria &c. of his Country , of his receauing his most honored Ladie the Princesse Elizabeth , and entertainement of my Lords the Commissioners , and accordingly make report thereof ; as also how desirous others are to be rightly informed of the truth : I could not , in my dutie , knowing the place , and hauing certaine aduertisements thence from honorable personages , and others of great worth & credit , but add this short & plaine yet true narration thereof , as well for the easier stopping of intemperate mouthes , as for the better satisfying of all honest mindes that bee desirous of the truth .

First , therefore concerning the Prince Elector Palatines originall and state , though those many pedegrees published here already of his Highnesse discent , sufficiently shew his ancient and high blood , rising from many great Emperors and Kings , yet giue mee leaue to fetch it from the very beginning .

The Palatinate and Bauaria , were once a kingdome , yet subiect ( as other States ) vnto alteration and change . Chron Charian . lib. 4. Chronolog. Func . The Kingdome continued from Adelgerius the first King , vntill Tassilo the last , all in lineall discent 332. yeeres , from the yeere of Christ his incarnation 556. vntill the yeere 788. This Tassilo the last King , for that he would neither be subiect , nor friend vnto Charlemaine , was at length after much warre subdued by him , taken prisoner , and both he and his sonne Dedon depriued of their Kingdome , and kept prisoners in the Monasterie of Lanceack neere vnto Heidelberg , where they both ended their daies in miserie .

After this , the posterity of Charles the great held those Countries , vntill the seuenteenth yeere full , or meane , as is by some supposed . It is in length about 200. english miles the lower and vpper Countrey . In the lower the Prince hath 26. walled Townes , besides an infinite number of good and faire Villages , 22. houses ; and the land is very fruitfull of wine , corne , and other comfortable fruites for mans vse , hauing the Rheine & Neckar running throgh it . The vpper Countrey hath not so many walled townes and princely houses , but those that are , be generally fairer then in the lower , especially Amberg and New-market .

For her Highnesse receauing : After that she had passed the low Countries , the Dukedomes of Gulick , Cleue , and Mont , the Bishoprickes of Collen , and Trier , with a part of the Landgraue of Hessens countrey ; in all which places she had so great welcome , entertainement , and honorable presents , as truely expressed the loue and applause of the people , the affection of friends , and greatnes of those Princes through whose territories shee passed . Shee came at last happily to Cowlsome , where the Prince Elector Palatine met her highnesse post , with a few horse , and went together to Gauelshemi , another very smale village of his , the 1. of Iune 1613. inconuenient for the prouiding for , and lodging and prouisions for such a traine , which was occasioned by reason Coub , Bachrahe , and all other good townes of his thereabouts were infected .

Here the Prince Elector and Princesse earnestly inuited my Lords the commissioners , and others his Maiesties officers , who had attended in the voiage to goe along with them vnto Heidelberg , whereby they might not only haue a better view of some part of the countrey , but also finde entertainement to their more content . The commissioners condiscended vnto so gracious a ioint request , and the rather to see her highnesse well arriue at her owne home : But the other officers could not by any intreaty be perswaded to goe further , desirous ( perhaps ) to make speedy report vnto their Maiesties and the state , of her Highnesses safe arriuall in the Palatinate , and soe re●●ued the next day for England . And this is the cause they saw not any memorable thing worthy of praise in the Palatinate , as my Lordes the commissioners did , and will not forbeare to speake honorably thereof , thogh some haue done otherwise ; for answering of whom and satisfying of others , I haue thought good to touch this much by the way , and noe more I am informed of .

Thence they rid the next day the 2. of Iune vnto the City of Mentz , whither the Archbishoppe , and Prince Elector thereof , Chancelor of Germany had inuited their highnesses , where they stayed two nights , and were of him roially entertained , with great and bounteous feasting , & sundry excellent Fireworkes , the better to expresse their welcome , and passe out the time in princely manner .

The 4. of Iune they rodd to Oppenheim an ancient City with a Castle therein of the Prince Electors , and there lodged all night .

which the Troianes drew into the Citie : in the night the Alarum was giuen , Troy fired , and the Greekes in triumph , marched away Conquerours .

The next day the 7. of Iune the Princesse remoued towardes Heidelberg , after shee had Passed the walled town of Ladeberg , was met 3. miles from Heidelberg , with the Prince Elector , accompanied with 12. other Princes , the rich coach , 30. Earles , one thousand gentlemen , of the countrey richly attired , and brauely set out with gallant horse , armour , and other habiliaments of war . The horsemen attending the Princes , were besides these two thousand more . So that all the horse were three thousand , and all great horse . The Princes alighted , and welcomed her Highnesse , who ascended into her rich coach . After a while shee was again encountered in three seuerall places , with three regiments of foot , 2000. in regiment , who first welcomed their Princesse with vollies of smal shot , & had after the thunder seconded with 20 peeces of great ordnance . Then they marched altogether orderly in good aray , conducting her to Heidelberg , where the Citizens wanted no expressions of ioy , loue , and duty in hearty welcoming of her , & praying for her ; all windows being replenished with people of all ages and degrees , and the streetes thronged with multitudes of people , drawne thither from all parts , not so much to see the Pageants that were erected to further this honorable entertainement , as to haue their eies filled in beholding of her Highnesse , whom all honoured and admired . And thus hauing passed in magnificent great state through the Citie , shee was in like pompe conueied into the Castle , where the Prince Electors mother , with many other great Princesses , Ladies , & Gentle women receiued her with all fitting honor , due to so great a Princesse .

The morning of the day following , being the 8. of Iune , was dedicated vnto God , with singing of Psalmes , prayer , thankesgiuing , and this annexed Sermon , as was meere for so great mercies receiued from God . The next daies , the 9. 10. and 11. were appointed for Tilting , Tourney , and running at the Ring ; the nights for fire-workes and dancings ; two nights , after the Germane manner , the other times according to the English and French custome . Where let mee not omit to shew , that my Lords the Commissioners , and all the Princes were lodged within the Castle , in lodgings well accommodated , and richly furnished with bedding , hangings , and all other necessaries .

The Princesse and other great Ladies , with the Commissioners , being fitly placed at the Tilt-yard in the Princes garden : The first that entered the Tilt-yard the , 9. day , was the Prince Elector himselfe , accompanied with other Princes of the Empyre , gallently mounted , but were interrupted for that time from their matiall sports by night : But the next day being the 10. recompenced the same , for there came before the Prince Elector in a very stately manner , this shew , which gaue exceeding content vnto her Highnesse , and all other great personages the beholders .

Iupiter came first , sitting in a very rich Chariot , drawne by two Griffins , guarded by Mercury , who was coachman Iuno followed next in another Chariot , drawne by Peacockes , and driuen by Iris. The God of Husbandry followed close with 3. Ploughes . And after him Neptune the God of the sea entred ; in a Chariot wel-befitting such a Marine God , drawne by 3. Sea-horses . Neptune had to attend him a Merman , who sate behind him on a rocke with a looking glasse in his hand , and 3. Mermaides on an other Rocke , singing and playing on musicall Instruments .

The next presentation that entered , was a Centaure , ( halfe a man , halfe a horse ) holding a Booke in the one hand , and a Mace in the other ; Arion followed him riding on a Sea-Vnicorne , and playing on a Lute . After whome followed the seauen deadly sinnes , all chained , and driuen forward by a Dragon , which did euer spit fire . Immediatly followed the Prince Elector , with two others in a ship : himselfe resembling Iason ; attended on by six Squires , bearing shields and launces . The golden Fleece which Iason brought from Greece , was to be seene in the Ship : at the sterne whereof was Enuy dragged , eating her owne heart .

Mars followed in a chariot garnished with all warlike Ensignes , hauing three Knights & six Squires for his attendants , bearing launces . Then came Venus and Cupid , drawne by Swannes in a chariot , six virgines going before , Hercules following after , and three Knights following him , the Sunne artificially gazing on the chariot .

Next hereunto was Victorie mounted on high in an Imperiall Chariot ( signifying Soueraigntie ) on whose top aboue there stood a displayed Eagle : on which likewise attended three Knights , and six Squires .

In the last Chariot of Forrest-worke , garnished with liuing birds and beasts , was Diana , attended by six Satyres , playing wildly on musicke : six other Satyres leaping and dauncing Antick-like : twelue Satyres more leading Dogges and Deere : the Wood-men followed : then came the Nymphes with bowes and arrowes : and last , the chariot of other Nymphes playing & singing , whom three Knights followed . These were the shewes , and then began the Til●ing .

Thus this dayes sports , and the night , being passed with much delight , and they come the next day againe ( une the eleuenth ) into the Ti●●-yard , the Prince Elector , with those other two that sate with him before in the Ship ( himselfe still representing Iason ) attended vpon by six Squires , eight Trumpeters , seuen footmen , and seuen horses of State , lead single : Two others followed him , resembling Apollo and Bacchus , who were accompanied with three Wild-men , playing on strange musicke ; Satyres rustically dancing , three Nymphs on horsebacke , crowned with garlands . Next came Musoeus , Orheus , and Eumolpus , with musicke , on horsebacke : Mydas followed with Asses eares , riding on an Asse , for compating Pan to Apollo ; and after him miserable Marsyas , and a Satyre fleaing off his skinne , for daring to contest with skilfull Apollo in musicke . A prettie space after followed the nine Muses , seated seuerally vpon Parnassus hill , and playing sweetly vpon diuers instruments of Musicke : then came the three Graces with Hercules and Mercury accompanying them : and Silenus , Bacchus his steward , with a too and a glasse , which as fast as hee could fill with wine , hee presently dranke off : which representation was finished with Bacchus himselfe , drawne by Dogges in a Chariot , and waited on by Iunius , Pamona , Hymenaeus , Zephinus , Flora , and Vertumnus .

The last representation was a man wearing an Imperiall Crown , foure prisoners bounde with Skarfes going before him , three following him with drawne Swordes , and foure Squiers with Lances . Next came three clothed like Turkes , attended vpon by sixe Squiers carrying Lances . And last of alone cameriding in , armed at all points , followed with three persons , leading barbed horses single , which sights being passed they tilted . And so the 11. dayes Glory and Triumph ended with exceeding great State , and Honour , and noble performance of all Courtly Ceremonies , and feats . of Armes .

The next day after , being the 12. of Iune , the better to recreate their mindes with taking of the aire abroade , and vsing other sports , the Princesse Electoresse , greatly attended , rid on hunting : informe the Reader of one thing not mentioned and which setteth out the Princes Electors greatnesse not a little . That besides this 6000. trained footemen , who staied there all the solemnitie , and were fed by the Prance , abroade in the fields : there were euery mea●e ( during the abode of the Commissioners and the German Princes there ) aboue ●500 . Tables furnished , and about 6000. persons , guests , and seruants , fed at them . Wherefore let enuy , malice , and ignorance , cease euer thence forth to carp at that they cannot paralel , now they may know it : and all honest mindes rest satisfied herewith .

Thus hauing briefly related , indifferent Reader , that I promised , concerning the Prince Electon Palatines ancient State , his Countrey , the receauing of his most honored Princesse , & roial entertainment which all degrees found at his Highnesse Court , to their full content , during the whole time of these solemnities , I betake their Highnesses , and our selues , and all the Israell of God euery where , vnto the Almighties euer safe protection ; who preserue his , and conuert or confound all his aduersaries than wish euill vnto Zion .

FINIS .