A verie godlie and necessary sermon preached before the yong countesse of Cumberland in the North, the 14 of Nouember, 1577. By Christopher Shutt. Shutte, Christopher, d. 1626. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A12165 of text S103003 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 22470). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 104 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 52 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A12165 STC 22470 ESTC S103003 99838762 99838762 3150 2248562652

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 Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A12165) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 3150) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1156:11) A verie godlie and necessary sermon preached before the yong countesse of Cumberland in the North, the 14 of Nouember, 1577. By Christopher Shutt. Shutte, Christopher, d. 1626. [104] p. By [H. Middleton? for] Christopher Barker, printer to the Queenes Maiestie, Imprinted at London : [1578] Signatures: A-F G⁴. Printer's name from STC; publication date from colophon. Running title reads: A godly sermon preached in the North. Printer's device (McKerrow 191) on recto of G4, final leaf. Reproduction of the original in the British Library. eng Sermons, English -- 16th century. eebo A verie godlie and necessary sermon, preached before the yong countesse of Cumberland in the North, the 14 of Nouember, 1577. By Christopher Shutt. Shutte, Christopher, 1578 104 19047 27 0 0 0 0 0 14.18 C The rate of 14.18 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the C category of texts with between 10 and 35 defects per 10,000 words. 2011-06 Assigned for keying and markup 2011-06 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2011-07 Sampled and proofread 2011-07 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2012-05 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

A verie godlie and necessary Sermon , preached before the yong Countesse of Comberland in the North , the 24. of Nouember , 1577.

By Christopher Shutt .

1. Pet. 4.7 .

The end of all things is at hand , be ye therfore sober and watch vnto prayer .

Eccles. 12.13 , 14.

Let vs heare the ende of all : feare God , and keepe his Commandements : for this is the whole duetie of man . For God wyll bryng euery woorke vnto iudgement , with euery secrete thing , whether it be good or euill .

Imprinted at London by Christopher Barker , Printer to the Queenes Maiestie .

To the ryght honourable and most vertuous Ladie , the Ladie Margaret , Countesse of Comberland , C. S. wisheth all happinesse and encrease of grace , from God the father , through our Lord Iesus Christ .

AS I descended ( right honorable and my good Ladie ) into a secret consideration of the age of this present worlde , and of the last ende thereof , I perceyued , that our sauiour Christ , in going about by sundry signes and tokens , to foreshew & premonish his elect , of the ruinous decaye and dreadfull downefall of this last generation , Mat. 24.37 Mar. 13.32 Luk. 17.28 1. Pet. 3.20 compared the dayes therof to the dayes of Noe before the floode , what time the wicked gaue ouer them selues to all vnrighteousnes , heaping one sinne vpon an other , vntil the water came and swept them all away : to the ende by due remembraunce of Gods fearefull plagues , most iustly powred vpon that sinnefull and carelesse generation , the godly myght in all reuerence and holy conuersation , watch and wayte within the arke of Christes Churche , for that long wished & most welcome time , of their translation to eternal happines . which thing , whilest the faithful haue reason to remember , it banisheth farre from them the vayne delights of earthly vanities , and prepareth them most readilie to the obedience of the worde of God , whereby they be forewarned with watchfull Noe , of many future woes & feareful daungers , and also enkindeled in true godlines and holines of lyfe , with feare & trembling to worke their saluation . Phil. 2.12 . For sith they knowe themselues on earth to be but straungers , Ebr. 11.13 . where al things must consume , and haue a sodaine and a certaine end , their chiefest purpose ought to be , ( as sayeth the Apostle ) to be sober , 1. Pet. 4.7 . 1. thes . 5.3 and to watche in all godly conuersation vnto prayer . For sodainly , no doubt , the ende shall come , as was the comming of the flood in Noe his time , yea euen in an hower , when man thinketh not , and then blessed shall he be , that is founde in Noe his arke , & watcheth , with his garments cleane , Apo. 16.15 Mat. 25.10 and his lampe of righteousnes burning , for he shall enter with the bridegrome into rest , and so be saued from destruction .

Neither doe I see what dayes may be so rightly compared with the dayes of Noe , as these wherein we lyue : wherein so fewe be righteous , & so many sleeping in securitie of sinne . Whereat I can not but tremble , to behold in the spirit , the great calamities & endles woes which may fal vpon this sinful generation , the wickednes wherof is written with a pen of yron , & with the piont of a diamond : Ier. 17.1 . which these eyes of ours are verie likelie to behold , 2 Re. 22.11 Isa. 49.8 . & 55.6 . except with good Iosias we be humbled in this acceptable time & day of grace , to seeke vnto the Lord , & in true repentance , to auoyde his heauie wrath . For , no doubt , since the first tyme that England euer had the knowledge of Gods Gospel ( I speake not of the times of ignoraunce , the mystie cloudes whereof are past ) was there in it , neuer more ripenes of all maner of sinne , and carnall securitie , then these present dayes in all estates expresse , and therefore the more we stand in daunger of destruction .

God hath called vs earely and late by the preaching of his worde , 2. Chro. 36 15. but we are nothing better : what remayneth then , but that we feele his scourges ? Gen. 19.2 . pet. 2.6 . When Sodome and Gomorrha woulde not be moued by the preaching of iust Lot , what remained but fire and brimstone from heauen to be their destruction ? When Pharao and the Egyptians refused the wordes of Moses , Exo. 14.28 the red sea was appointed to be their confusion . 2. King. 17.6 , 14. When Israel and Iuda would not be counselled by the voyce of the prophets of God , Ier. 4. & 7. & 19. the Assyrians and the Babylonians were raised vp to plague them & destroy them . When Ierusalem was nothing bettred by all the sermons & miracles of our sauiour Christ , Luk. 19.43 and would in no wise acknowledge the time of her visitation , the Romanes were appointed to bee her desolation . And euen so in this sermon ensuing , it may be gathered , that when the carelesse man refuseth to be warned by the word of god , the Lord hath many plagues prepared for his destruction . Can the Lords word them be of some so stubbernely among vs contenned , and hypocritically of other some receaued , & the fruits of holy life in few brought forth , and the land escape vnpunished ? It is to truely verified of vs , which in times past was witnessed of the dayes of Noe , wherin al flesh had corrupted it selfe , & filled the land with iniquitie , whilest only Noe and his familie being but a fewe in number , were occupied in making of the Arke for their deliuerance . Wherof ( Madame ) when I had preached before your honour , more compendiously perhaps , through shortnes of the time , then eyther your Honour could haue desired , or I my selfe haue wished , I was then of some so vehemently required , to impart in writing to their further consolation , what then in pulpit I had spoken , that notwithstanding I iudged my labours to simple to passe abroad , and my selfe farre vnmeete for such a purpose : yet durst I not deny to confort such , as thirsted after spiritual knowledge , & to warne such as would escape , of the vengeance to come , and so eftsoones resolued my self , as nere as god would giue me leaue to explane and augment , what my purpose was then in the pulpit to vtter . Neither had I far to seeke to whose patronage , I might commend what herein I went about , when as dayly your honours godlie zeale and vertuous life , called me to offer it vnto your wisdome : whose willing hart , not onely I haue had experience of , to accept my laboures in good part before this time , but also see your whole endeuour alwayes bent to further the proceedings of the Gospell , and to reclame this ignorant country from their wonted erroures , to the church & arke of Christ . A rare vertue in your sexe , and such as may condemne the slackenes of some other kinds , who care full litle howe it goeth with the Churche , so they them selues may liue at will and ease . Psal. 119.30 . But as your honour hath chosen the way of trueth to bee your treasure and delight , Psal. 119.30 . and eke your perfect wisedome and nobilitie , Deut. 4.6 . and also by your happy and welcome comming into these rude and desert partes , haue ministred great solace to the godlie : so do I wishe with all my heart , and dayly pray , that your honour may happily proceed , as you haue vertuously begun , to the great benefitte of Christes church , & to the comfort of your quiet conscience in the last day .

Your honours most humble in Christ , Christopher Shutt .
C B
A verie godlie and necessary Sermon preached before the young Countesse of Comberlande in the North , the 24. of Nouember . 1577. by M. Christopher Shutt . Ebr. 11.7 .

By faith Noe being warned of God , The Theame . of the things which were as yet not seene , moued with reuerence , prepared the arke , to the sauing of his housholde , through the which arke , he condemned the world , and was made heire of the righteousnes , which is by faith .

THe holy ghost ( right honourable and welbeloued ) layeth forth to our consideration , Ebr. 11. toto . in this chapter , a long rehearsal of the faithful men of God , in the former ages of the worlde , whose perfect faith and true religion is made manifest , to all posterities , in this place of scripture : who after that by faith they were iustified before God , Rom. 3.2 & 4.5 , 6. Isai. 6.3 . like trees of righteousnes , they brought forth the fruites of al obedience , in godly conuersation . Among whom the Apostle reckoneth vp the liuely faith and godly life of righteous Noe , in the latter end of the first age . Ge. 6. toto . Who beholding the great ripenes of sinne , and corruption of all flesh , 1. Pet. 3.20 & 2. pet. 2.5 . with ouerflowing waters to be punished , being warned of God , with all reuerence and feare , prepared the arke , for the safetie of him selfe and his houshold , and also to condemne the great securitie of that carelesse generation : Mat. 24.38 whereby hee obtained through the free mercy of God , to be called the heire of the righteousnes which is according vnto faith . The due remembrance whereof , may enkindle in vs , if we lothe not our saluation , the vigilant care wherewith we ought to be pressed , in this last age and winding vp of these our sorowful dayes , wherein such ripenes of al iniquities , so horrible contempt of Gods word , and so manifest vngodlines , foretel and prognosticate the small fall of this totering world , to be very neere an end , that when the same shal come , we might be saued within the arke of Christes Church with faithfull Noe , rather then by our carnall securitie , to hazard losse of bodie and soule for euer .

The wordes of the Apostle as they lye in order , containe especially , two things to be obserued . The one , whereupon it came , that Noe was moued to prepare the arke : The other , what effect that arke had , when it was made . The former is contayned in these words , By faith Noe being warned of God , of the things which were as yet not seene , moued with reuerence , prepared the arke . Wherein is perceiued , first an admonition to be giuen him : Secondly , a readines in him to beleue the same : and last of all the making of the arke , to declare the obedience of his faith . The other followeth in the text : He prepared it , to the sauing of his houshold , through which arke , he condemned the world , and was made heire of the righteousnes , which is by faith . Wherein is noted , what effect it had in Noe and his familie : next of al , what effect concerning the wicked : & lastly , howe this obedience of Noe , was accepted and rewarded of God .

Albeit ( right honourable and beloued ) the electe of God in this life , walke through the valleye of teares and shadows of death , Psal. 23.4 . yet the Lord continueth , their light & strength and rocke of sure defence , Psa. 27.1 , 5. who in the time of trouble , will hide them in his tabernacle , that not one heare of their head shal perishe : Luk. 21.18 but when the floodes of aduersities approch , he giueth them warning to escape , and so deliuereth them out of temptation , 2. Pet. 2.9 . and reserueth the vniust vnto the day of iudgement to bee punished . Which warning the Lorde gaue now to Noe , with whom he had , Genes. 6.8.14 . according to the riches of his grace , entred into a couenant , to the end he might prepare an arke for his deliueraunce , against the comming of the flood , wherewith the wicked shoulde bee drowned . In like maner when the sinnes of the Sodomites cryed for vengeance from heauen , Gen. 19.15 the Lorde premonished righteous Lot , being wearied with their vncleannes , to separate him selfe and his from them , least he shoulde haue perished in the flame of the citie , which was readie with fire and brimstone to be destroyed . Nom. 16. toto . When Corah , Dathan , and Abiron , with their companie , had repugned the ordinaunce of God , and contrary to his commandement , offred vp straunge incense , and so prouoked the wrath of the Lorde against them , the Lord commanded Moses & Aaron to exempt them selues & the rest of the congregation from their companie , lest they should haue bin swalowed vp together with them , quicke into hell . Such faythfull warning the spirite of God , giueth to the elected saintes in the reuelation , that they should come out of Babylon and touche no vncleane thing , Apoc. 18.4 least in being partakers of hir sinnes , they should haue bin partakers of hir plagues . wherein wee may learne the great care , Psal. 34.15 & 121.4 . which the Lorde hath for the saluation of his people , forewarning them alwayes of the dangers to come , to the ende they might safely rest vnder his protection . For surely he will do nothing , Amos. 3.7 but he first reuealeth his word vnto his Prophets , that they may warne his chosen earely and late , Iere. 7.13 . to saue them selues in time of trouble . The Lord foretolde the people of Israel & of Iuda , Isa. 10.5 . Iere. 25.9 . by the mouth of his Prophetes , their captiuitie in Assyria & Babylon , long time before they felt any sore , that the godly might seeke deliueraunce . Our Sauiour Christ premonished his elect of many daungers to come , Mat. 24.16 that those which were in Iurie , might flee vnto the mountaines and seeke to saue themselues , vnder the crosse . Act. 20.29 . 2. thes. 2.3 1. tim. 4.1 . 2. tim. 3.1 . The Apostles foreshewed the comming of false prophetes , and of Antichrist the man of sinne , and of his manifolde abominations , wherewith he should poyson the world , that the godly might bee the better furnished with the woorde of trueth , to preserue them selues against his wily traines , of mans decrees and vaine inuentions . We haue bene admonished these nineteene yeeres and more , and warned by the preaching of the Gospell , to forsake papistrie and superstition , to leaue our sinfull wayes , and to folowe the righteousnesse of life , that we might be saued from destruction . We haue bin at our wits ende , Luk. 21.25 . with signes and strange reports , and fearfull sights from heauen , calling vs to repentance . We haue felt of earthly consumptions , Deut. 28. Amos. 4. & diuers kindes of death , with losse of friends and other things , to humble vs to flie from the wrath to come . We haue bene astonied with the lamentable ruine of Monarchies & kingdomes rounde about vs , that we sleepe not in securitie . And dayly we doe see such troubles euerye where , as do forewarne our ouerthrowe , if in time we doe not repent . Wherfore as the Lord hath set watchmen ouer vs in bidding vs take heede to the sounde of the trumpet , Ezek. 3.17 & 33.4 . let vs beware with reuerence and feare : for if wee walke after the stubbernes of our stonie heartes , and saye with the wicked , wee will not take heede , Iere. 6.17 , 19. Iere. 5 25. then will hee bring vpon vs the fruites of our owne imaginations , and all the curses of the law , and so we shall lye downe in our owne confusion , and bee couered with our shame , because wee loathed instruction , Prou. 1.29 . and hated to bee reformed . For surely the ouerthrow of the wicked sleepeth not , though yet they liue in al prosperitie , Iob. 21.7 . psal. 37.35 . iere. 12.1 , ● and florish as a greene Bay tree . Let not vs then folowe their ●●usion of ryote , 1. Pet 4.4 but in time receiue the Lordes warning with Noe , Micah . 6.8 . to humble our selues to walke before our God . The Storcke in the ayre ( as sayth the Prophete ) knoweth her appointed times , Iere. 8.7 . the Turtle , the Crane , and the Swallowe , obserue their opportunitie of comming , and shall not we knowe the iudgements of our God ? Isai. 1.3 . Or can the Oxe know his masters stall , Isai. 1.3 . or the Asse his masters cribbe , and shall not Israel know his God ? Let vs be warned by the voyce of God , let vs receiue instruction and be wise betime . Prou. 8.33 . For blessed is the man , that heareth wisdome , watching dayly at hir gates , and giuing attendance at the postes of hir doores : For hee that findeth hir , findeth life , and shall obtaine the fauour of the Lord , and onely this is our wisdome and perfect vnderstanding , to receiue and obserue the admonitions of our God .

When Noe were thus admonished by the Lorde , he did not by and by forget his worde , or choke it with the cares of life , Luk. 8.14 . and voluptuousnesse of liuing , then preuailing : but as his fayth was wrought thereby , so was he now emboldned and his fayth encreased and preserued by these admonitions , Iohn . 1.12 . Rom. 10 , 17. 2. Thes. 3.3 concerning thinges to come . For as by meats & drinks the bodie is increased , and by the wholsome counsell of physitions , the sicknes to be feared , is preuented : so by the woorde of God , the fayth of Noe was increased , and by the admonitions thereof , the daungers to bee feared were auoyded , whilest he willingly gaue credit to that which was spoken . By this his readinesse to beleeue the worde , appeareth plainly ( beloued ) the faythfull heart , which the godly ought to haue towards the same , that in beleeuing the worde of trueth , Leui. 26.3 , 12. ier. 7.23 Nu. 10.29 the Lord may be their God , and they his people . This readinesse was in the Kenites , when they left their owne country , to go with the Israelites into the land of Canaan , that they might be further instructed in the law of God . 2. Kin. 22.21 , 13. This readines was in the good king Iosias , when his heart melted within him for feare of the plagues of God towardes the land , neither ceassed he , vntill he had enquired of the Lord what was to be done . Psal. 84 , 6. This readinesse was in all those which wente through the valley of teares , from strength to strength , to seeke the Lorde in Sion . This readinesse was in the Prophetes and Apostles , Mat. 19 , 27 whilest they left all thinges to obey the will of God . Act. 2.37 . This readines was in the Iewes when they were fired with the wordes of Peter , and with penitent hearts required what to do . And this ought to be our readines towards the word of our saluation , and towards the admonitions of the most highest , that whilest he speaketh , we giue eare , Pro. 1.24 . ier. 7.26 , 27 whilest he crieth , that wee make answere , and whilest it is said , to day , Psal. 95.7 , 8 that we beleue and heare his voyce . These should be the daies , wherein men shoulde follow no more the stubbornnesse of theyr wicked hearts , Iere. 3.17 . Mic. 4.1 , 2. psal. 122.1 . but rather should goe vp to the mountaine of the lord , to be instructed in his lawes with reuerence and feare . Esai . 2.18.20 . These should be the dayes , wherein the idoles shoulde be destroyed , and men shoulde forsake their molten gods . Psal. 110.3 These should be the sweete and ioyfull dayes of Ierusalem , wherein the people shoulde offer willing offrings of obedience and thankfulnesse . These shoulde be the Halcionios dies of the Church , when righteousnesse and peace , when mercie and trueth shoulde meete and kisse eche other . Psal. 85.10 . But in steade of readines to the worlde , the eares of many are vncircumcised , Iere. 6.10 . that they neither can , nor will heare the lawe of God . In stead of casting away the vanities of Idoles , Apo. 13.8 , 16. they are marked with the beastes marke , whome they worship . In stead of quietnes & loue , the heartes of many are set on mischiefe , whilest discorde , enuie and debate preuaile so much . Colo. 3.8 . I feare therefore , these dayes are more like the daies of Noe , wherin the contempt of trueth bare rule amongst so many . Gene. 6. They are the dayes of the prouocation in the wildernes , Nu. 11.4 , 5. psal. 95.9 . wherein the delights of Egyptiacal seruitude , is preferred before the sweete Manna of euerlasting happines . I wonder what euill spirite hath bewitched men , Galat. 3.1 . that they should not beleeue the truth . Why haue they put vpon them an whorish face , Iere. 3.3 . and a shameles looke , and made their hearts like an adamant , Zach. 7.12 . whilest they walke in the errour of theyr hearts , and in the vanitie of their own imaginations ? Euery man flattereth himselfe in his owne wayes , Esa. 65.5 . & thinketh him selfe more holy then his fellowe , but yet hee pluckes not the beame of pride out of his eie . Mat. 7.3 , 4.5 . Wee say with filthie Iuda , Iere. 2.23 . that we be not polluted , nor haue folowed after Baalim : and yet we are vncleane , by meanes of popishe superstition . Apoc. 17.4 Wee bragge and boast with the proud Pharisie , Luk. 18.11 . Psal. 38.4 . of our righteousnes : yet feele we not the burthen of our sinnes and faith in Christ , and therfore remaine vniustified . We say with the angell of Laodicea , Apoc. 3.17 18. that we be rich and much encreased with goodes , and haue neede of nothing : & yet we know not that we are wretched , miserable , poore and blind & naked . What remayneth then for vs , but to bye of the Lords fine gold , that we may be rich , & white rayment , that we may be clothed , that our filthie nakednes do not appeare , & that our eies may be anointed with the eie salue , that we may see , with al readines to obey the truth , & to be warned with Noe , to make preparation against the flouds of euil to come .

But especially ( welbeloued ) the faith of Noe appeared in this , that he saw the things to come , which presently could not by outwarde senses be discerned . For , seeing that the floud was not come , before an hundreth and twentie yeeres were ended , the tract of time might haue remoued and banished away the remembrance thereof . It might also haue seemed incredible to flesh and bloud , that such a water should come so quickly : besides all these , the wicked folowed their delights without respect : and to be short , these threatnings of such floods might haue bene iudged vaine : but Noe his faith did mount aloft , and reached aboue the capacitie of outwarde senses , and looked vp to things more excellent by much , than could by outward meanes be vnderstood : which things yet hid and not apparant , the holy ghost sealeth in our harts , for our more assurance . Ebr. 11.1 . According whereunto the Apostle calleth fayth the substance of things hoped for , & the sure demonstration of thinges which are not seene : thereby not onely lifting vp our fayth to things to come , but also fully assuring vs of the performance therof , for God is faithful which hath promised . Ebr. 10.23 . We are alreadie saued by hope , Ro. 8.24 , 25 but hope that is seene is no hope : for how can a man hope for that which he seeth ? but if we hope for that which wee see not , we doo with pacience abide for it . 2. Cor. 4.7 . And this treasure wee haue in our earthen vessels , that the excellencie of that power might be of God , & not of vs . And therefore our conuersation is in heauen , from whence we looke for the sauiour , Phil. 3.20 . euen Iesus Christ , with whom our life is hid in God , Col. 3.3 , 4. that when Christ , which is our life , shal appeare , them shal we also appeare with him in glorie : Such a sure perswasion of things to come had Noe , neither wauered he in fayth at all . This is that exceeding comfort , which maketh glad the hearts of the elect in the middest of the sorowes of this life , assuredly beholding with the eies of faith , such thinges as neither the eie of man hath seene , Esai . 64.4 . 1. cor. 2.9 . nor his eare hath heard , nor yet his heart perceyued or vnderstoode . Such an vndoubted hope and trust had the godly fathers vnder and before the lawe , Gene. 3.15 & 15.5 . & 22.17 , 18. Deu. 18.18 2. Sa. 7 , 16. when with the eyes of fayth they behelde the Messias & sauiour Christ to come , and so were iustified , as we beleue now , that he is come alreadie , and hath wrought our redemption . Such was the faith of Abraham , Isaac and Iacob , Ebr. 11.13 . concerning the promises of the land of Canaan , when as they were but strangers vpon the earth , & had not a foot bredth to possesse , beleeuing what the Lord had promised , should surely come to passe . Such an assurance of fayth had Moses , when he refused the delightes of Egypt , and the pleasures of Pharaos court , Ebr. 11.24 , 25 , 26. to suffer persecution with his brethren , looking to the promised rewarde . This assured fayth of thinges to come had good king Dauid , Psal. 89.28 , 29. when he trusted that his throne shoulde continue , and be established for euer . This assurance of things to come , our Sauiour Christ commended to his disciples , against the assaults of persecution , promising them , that they shuld sit vpon twelue thrones with him , Mat. 19.28 . luk. 22.30 . and iudge the twelue tribes of Israel . This assurance had the Apostle Paul , when he desired to attaine the righteousnes of fayth , Phil. 3.8 , 9 10. 2. Ti. 4.8 . and resurrection of the iust , that he might weare the crown which God had layde vp in store for him . And what els moued the saints of God , Apo. 12.11 to withstande the beast , and not to loue their liues to death , but that by fayth they sawe the newe Ierusalem ? And this is that golden saying of Ignatius going to be martyred , Euse . lib. 3. cap. 36. Nihil moror visibilium , nec inuisibilium , modo Iesum Christum acquiram . I neither ( sayeth he ) care for things nowe seene , nor thinges which are not seene , so that I may laye holde of Iesus Christ . This is our comfort ( dearely beloued ) in these daungerous dayes and byllowes of the world , that our faith is not fixed of things present , but of thinges to come . For though now we be the children of God ( as sayeth the Apostle ) yet doth it not appeare what we shal be . 1. Iohn . 3.2 . For we know , that when Christ shal appeare , wee shall bee like to him , for wee shall see him as he is . We see now in a glasse darkly , but then shal we see him face to face : 1. Cor. 13.12 . we know but nowe in part , but then shall wee knowe , euen as we are knowne . We are now corruptible , 1. Cor. 15.53 . but we shal be clothed with incorruption . We are now but mortal , but this mortall shall be swalowed vp of immortalitie . We are now afflicted & in distres , 2. Cor. 4.17 , 18. but the same is but for a moment , & yet causeth in vs , a most excellent , & eternal weight of glory , while we looke not on the things which are seen , but on the things which are not seene : for the things which are seen , are but temporal , but the things which are not seene , Rom. 7.23 , 24 , 25. are eternall . Though for a while we feele the reliques of sin in vs prouoking vs to euil , yet looke we dayly when that time shal come , that this body of sin may be don away We feele in our selues the sparks and seed of much vnrighteousnes , yet do we hope in stead therof , we shal be clothed with the fine reynes and righteousnes of Christ , Apo. 19.8 . 1. Cor. 1.30 2. cor. 5 , 21. Psal. 32.1 , 2 and all our transgressions to be pardoned . We feele for a litle , hunger & colde , yet do we hope for the abundance of all delightes & heauenly treasures . We daily sorowe and weepe , 2. Cor. 4.8 , 9 , 10. 2. pet. 2.7 . & are vexed with the vncleane conuersation of the wicked , yet trust we that our sorowe shal be turned into ioy , Ioh. 16.20 , 21. Apoc. 21.4 & all teares wyped from our eyes . We now abyde with patience the tauntes and checkes of Antichrist and his members , Apo. 14.9 . but yet we see by faith , that Babylon the mother of all abominations , Apoc. 17.4 shal sodainly fall and come to nought , for that her sinnes are in remembrance with God . Apoc. 18.5 We dayly feare the assaultes of sinne & death , yet do we knowe by faith that Christ hath conquered them for vs . 2. Cor. 5.21 colos . 2.14 . apo. 20.14 . We feele our frailtie in this lyfe , and thraldome to infirmities , 1. Cor. 15.31 , 32. yet do we hope for euerlasting rest in the resurrection of the iust . Such is the assurance of our faith , surmounting farre the reache of mannes capacitie : shee wauereth not , she sincketh not , shee doubteth not ( as saith the misbeleeuing papist , leaning to his ydle woorkes ) but she maketh the good conscience sure , Rom. 4.16.19 . & 8.16 , 38 , 39. Ebr. 10.22 and alwayes hath 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , whilest shee plainly beholdeth the things as yet not seene , but surelie for to come to passe .

Further , whereas this readines of Noe was ioyned with reuerence , it is ( dearely beloued ) to teache vs , that his faith was directed both to the promisse of the couenant , whereby he was receyued into fauour , & also to the threatnings of GOD , whereby the Lord menaced the destruction of the world , which he beleeued to come , and so did tremble . And as by the former , he was assured of gods fauour , so by the other , in respect of his own infirmitie , he feared least he should haue perished with the wicked . Wherein we must note two things , the one , what is the obiect of our faith : the other , how it trembleth in respect of our selues , at the plagues denounced , Psal. 42.5 , 11. Rom. 8.38 & yet for all that , is assured of Gods mercie .

Our faith is leueled & directed , especially at Christ the obiect therof . For like as the Israelites did with their bodily eyes behold the brasen serpent , & were cured : Num. 21.9 . Ioh. 3.14 . euen so doth fayth the eye of our soule , beholde the Sonne of God lift vp vpon the altar of the crosse for our redemption . And like as wholesome meates onely nourish the body , euen so nothing dooth feede our faith , but Christ crucified , the bread of lyfe : Ioh. 6.35.48.51 . at whose worke of redemption , our faith must alwaies looke , or els we must needes be pressed down , with the terrour of our owne conscience into hell . Mat. 11.28 Ioh. 3.16 . Col. 1.19 . and 2.3 . For seeing that the promises of the Gospell are a readie way to leade vs to the knowledge of Gods mercy reueyled in Christ , in whom it pleaseth the father that al fulnes should dwell , and in whom are all the treasures of wisedome & vnderstanding , to whom wee can not come , but being fully perswaded , that our saluation resteth in his free grace and mercy : the obiecte of our faith , which shee doth chiefly behold , must of necessitie be the promises of the Gospel , laying forth to vs Christe crucified for our sinnes , Ioh. 3. & 5. & 6. tot . Ro. 5.19 . by whose obedience our saluation is wrought , & in whom alone the Father is well pleased : Mat. 3.17 . for in him our faith beholdeth the law of God fulfilled for vs , who tooke the curse thereof vpon him self , Galat. 3.13 Ephe. 1.7 . & 2.13 . that he might make vs blessed . In his blood our faith beholdeth perfect redemption and remission of our sinnes : & we which were farre of , are now made neere , & reconciled to the father . 1. Pet. 2.24 By his stripes , we feele by faith , that we are made whole , & clothed with his righteousnes : 1 Cor. 1.30 by his onely sacrifice done once for euer , Ebre . 9.12 . & 10.10 , 18 our faith beholdeth eternall redemption purchased , and them consecrat for euer , that are sanctified : so that where forgiuenesse of sinnes is , there is no more oblation for sinne . In him , through him , Ro. 5.1 . & 8.34 . Ephe. 3.12 and for his sake , faith boldly approcheth to the throne of grace , to find mercy to helpe in time of need : Ebr. 4.16 . for he is our peace , our aduocate and the propitiation for our sinnes . 1. Iohn 2.2 Finally , by faith in him wee are assured of Gods fauour , Ioh. 3.16 . Ro. 8.1 , 34. and of eternal lyfe , so that there is nowe no damnation to such as bee graffed in Christe Iesu , which walke according to the spirit , & not according to that fleshe . For it is Christ that doth iustifie vs , and therefore none can condemne vs , none can lay any thing to our charge , neyther separate vs from the loue of God . And thus is Christ with his death and passion , the onely obiect of our faith . Also these two , Christ crucified , and our faith , alwayes must goe together . For , as the sunne shining in the firmament , auaileth him not , that hath none eyes to see the same , neyther him that wincketh with his eyes & will not see , but only him that doth behold the light thereof : So doeth the death of Christe profit him nothing , which lacketh true faith to lay holde vpon the same , Galat 2.20 Ioh. 3. & 6. tot . but onely such as by a liuely & fruitfull faith , applie the same vnto them selues .

Besides that Noe his faith was specially directed to the promise of the couenant , yet was he made more watchful a great deale , and kept in obedience , by the terrours of the flood , and so with feare and trembling wrought his saluation , Phil. 2.12 . not that he wauered in the faith , but that he feared in transgressing to be punished with the wicked . For this effect the plagues powred vpon the wicked , bring forth in the liues and conuersation of the godly , that these are made more circumspect by much to stande in feare , least they should fall . Deut. 29.2 & 18.12 . When Moses counselled the Israelites to the obseruance of the law , hee warned them to feare , by the plagues powred vpon the Egyptians , and vpon the Canaanites , thereby to keepe them in obedience . When Ieremie threatned captiuitie vnto the land of Iuda , hee vsed the captiuitie of the ten tribes then being in Assyria , Iere. 3.8 . to make them tremble & afrayed . When the Apostle vnderstood the hautines of the Romaines , Ro. 11.18 . he vsed the punishment of the Iewes , 1. Co. 10.5 in whose place they were graffed , to bridle them and keepe them in obedience . When the Corinthians waxed proude of the graces of God , the Apostle layed forth the plagues of God agaynst the Iewes in the wildernes , that who so stood , might take heede hee did not fal . And this is the cause why the holy Ghost calleth vs to feare , that we should not by our dissolute life shake of and lose our faith , and make the last end worse than the beginning . Luk. 11.26 Mala. 1.6 . The sonne honoureth his father , and a seruant his master . If then God be a father to vs , we must honour him , if he be a Lorde , wee must feare his stripes . O that we had the reuerent dread and feare which Noe had , it would make vs readie to know and doo the will of God , it would bring forth an vnfained loathing and hatred of sinne in vs , it would budde forth the studie of true godlines , it would set vs forwarde to the loue of God & profyt of our brethren . But though we feel the scourge of God so sore , that there is no whole part alreadie in the body , Isa. 1.6 . yet are we not humbled nor afraid : though we be striken , Iere. 5.3 . we do not sorowe : though we be consumed , we refuse to receyue correction . For why ? we haue made our faces harder then a stone , and will not returne though we be warned of the future woes . In steade of keeping the commandementes of GOD , Mat. 15.9 . we obserue the precepts of men , wherewith we worship God in vaine . In steade of feare & true obedience , Psal. 14.1 , 2 , 3. we loose the bridle to the effusion of al ryot . In steade of true religion , nothing is to be found but either meere Atheisme , Apo. 3.16 . or flat dissimulation . In steade of holines of life , we deck our selues with pride , and in steade of iudgement & righteousnes , Isa. 5.7 . Hos. 4.2 . we bring forth oppression and crying of the poore , and bloud toucheth bloud . Where is now the reuerence and feare , wherein wee liue , or howe are we restrained from offending , by the remembrance of the sea of euils to come ? No , no ( beloued ) we feare men more than god . And if in some things we submitte our obedience , to the hearing of the scriptures , and ordinarie administration of the Sacraments in Ecclesiasticall assemblies , yet is such duetie in many of vs but constrayned , and not of a good and zealous heart , delighting in the Gospell . But if we do neglect , we feare the magistrates sword . Wel , let vs not play to long with our fleeing shadowe , Isa. 8.13 . but sanctifie the Lorde , that he may be our feare , and betime beginne with Noe to feare the worst : for if the wrath of God be kindled but a litle , Psal. 2.12 . blessed are all they that put their trust in him . And thus ye see , that our faith is specially directed at the promises of God , and yet must we not be careles and voyde of feare , and so do what we list , but alwayes we must stand in awe , & be afrayde to offende , lest with the wicked we haue reward .

He prepared the Arke . When Noe was in sundrie wise thus mooued , he addressed himself without delay to the making of the Arke , thereby to witnes his obedience of fayth . For euen as water floweth from the fountaine , so doth this his obedience spring from faith , whereby he had apprehended the promise of saluation . His obedience appeareth the more , for that the making of this work was tedious , and often hindred with the furiousnes of the wicked : which vnneth hee could patiently haue abiden , if that hee had not safely rested in the promise of the couenant . But faith the mistres of obedience , brought forth such fruits as might expresse his willing mind , to obey the Lords commandement . This is that excellent branche of our religion , that our faith be not fruitles , as our aduersaries make report , Mat. 7.16 , 17. & 12.33 but like a good tree it must bring forth the fruites of integritie and righteousnes of life . For euen as fyre burneth & cannot be without heate , no more then the sunne without his light : Iam. 2.14 . Ro. 12.1 , 2. Ephe. 2.10 euen so is it impossible for a true faith , to be without good workes . which although they do not iustifie vs before God , yet are they to bee done , that our obedience of faith may thereby be discerned , Mat. 5.16 . Rom. 1.5 . which may bee seene , whilest wee walke in the lawe of God .

When Moses was ready to take his leaue of the Israelites , howe earnestly he required of them obedience to the law of god , Deut. 4.6 . & 28. toto . it is most manyfest throughout the whole booke of Deutero. When Samuel had appointed that Iewes a king , 1. Sam. 12.14 . how sweetely doth hee moue them to the obedience of the law ? When Dauid would publish and sing the praises of God , how vehementlye doth he counsel the Iewes to heare the voyce of God , Psal. 95.7 , 8. & 119. toto . and not to harden their hearts , as in the deserte ? When the Prophets would haue the people to turne to the Lorde , that his wrath might bee turned from them , their chief persuasion resteth herin , that they would testify their faith , not by the multitude of sacrifices , Ier. 7.22 , 23 Hos. 6.6 . Micah . 6.8 . but by obeying the worde of God . This obedience our Sauiour Christ requireth of his disciples , if they loue him , Ioh. 14.15 . to keepe his commandements : & this is the same which the Apostle Paul calleth the obedience of faith : Rom. 1.5 . to the end after we bee iustified , wee might expresse the same by our obedience to the law of God , Rom. 6. toto . & 8.1 . & 12.1 . Gal. 5.1 . Ephes. 4.1 . &c. and therefore in al his epistles , after the treatise of iustification , he commandeth the fruits of newnes of life . whereby ( dearly beloued ) wee are to learne , how fruitfull our obedience ought to be in good workes , Iam. 2.14 . 1. pet. 2.12 for so much as our faith is made manifest therby , god is glorified , Rom. 13.8 . T●●us 2.14 & 3.14 . and our brethren profited , hee hath made vs a peculiar people vnto him self , that we shuld be folowers of good workes , wee must therefore liue holily , soberly , & righteously in this present world . he hath redeemed vs from the hands of our enemies , Luk. 1.71 , 74. that we should serue him in holines & righteousnes for euer . He hath giuen vs heauenlye graces many , 1. Pet. 4.10 and endued vs with his holye spirit , therefore must the bodie dye to sinne , Eph. 1.13 . & 4.24 , 30. Rom. 8.10 . 1. Pet. 1.15 & the spirite liue for righteousnes sake . He is holye who hath called vs , therfore must we be holy in al our conuersation . Let vs therefore ( deare brethren ) shew forth our obedience in newnes of life , Rom. 6. tot 2. pet. 1.10 and make strong our election and calling by our good workes , 1. Cor. 15.58 . and our labour shal not be in vaine in the Lord.

Wee make great boastes and crakes , that wee be Christians , let the same be proued true or false by our liues : for not euery one , that sayth , Lord , Lorde , Mat 7.21 . & 12.50 . shall enter into the kingdom of heauen , but he that doth the will of God : neither is euery one brother or sister to Christ , but onely those which heare and keepe his word . & this is the fruite of our obedience and righteousnes towardes God .

If we couet to be blessed and haue good successe , Iosua . 1.8 . 1. king . 2.3 we must needs beginne at this obedience of our faith . Leuit. 26.3 12. Iere. 7.23 . Yf we will haue the Lord to be our God , and wee our selues to be his people , then must we humble our selues to obey his word . yf we wil be counted the friendes of Christ , Ioh. 15.14 . then must we do whatsoeuer he hath commanded vs . Yf we will bee purified by faith in heart , 1. Pet. 1.22 Acts 15.9 . we must begin to obey the trueth . Yf we wil be safely armed against spiritual wickednes , Eph. 6.17 . we must hold fast the word of God . finally if we couet to be saued , Rom. 1.16 . we may not bee ashamed of the Gospell , but in all meeknes receiue the same , Iam. 1.21 . for it is able to saue our soules . We say with the Israelites to Moses , Deut. 5.27 29. that wee will obserue the law . But , oh , that there were such an heart in vs , to feare the Lorde , and to keepe his commandementes alway , that it might go well with vs , and with our children for euer . Wherefore as obedience is better then sacrifice , 1. Sam. 15.22 . Deut. 4.6 . so let this be our wisdome , with Noe to declare and shew forth our faith by our obedience vnto the word of God .

Besides al this , the obedience of righteous Noe , more plainely did appeare in that he did not folowe his owne purpose and deuise , Gen. 6.15 , 16. but the appointment of God in this making of the arke . for he made it in length , in breadth , and height , & in all other partes accordinglye as he was commanded . This is the wisedome of God , who will not haue his Church builded according to mannes deuise , but by the direction of his worde . Exo. 25.40 Act. 7.44 . Ebr. 8.5 . When Moses was commanded to build the tabernacle , he was straightly charged to do it according to the paterne shewed vnto him in the mounte . When the Israelites were instructed how to serue God , Deut. 12.29 , 30 , 31 , 32. when they came into the land of promise , they were forbidden to serue him after the maner of the Canaanites , and onely to worship him according to his lawe , without either turning to the right hand or to the left . Ezra . 3.12 , 13. When the Iewes returned out of captiuitie , and repaired the ruines of the temple at Ierusalem , they reedified it according to the former building made by Salomon . When our sauiour Christ builded the spirituall arke & temple of his church , he layed no other foundation but him selfe , Ier. 3.11 . eph. 2.10 . mat. 16.18 . who was the rocke , against the which the gates of hel should not preuaile . For finishing wherof , in the gathering together of the saintes , Mat. 28.20 rom. 15.18 he charged the Apostles straitly , but to speake , what he had taught them . This ought to be our speciall care in building and reformation of religion , not to do what we thinke good , but as the Israelites before they tooke any thing in hand , Exo. 28.30 num. 27.21 judg . 1.1 . asked counsell of God : so must we in all our wayes be ruled by his word , which is the way for vs to walke in : Isa. 30.21 . which the holy ghost hath written , Ioh. 20.31 . that wee might beleue , & in beleeuing might haue life . Wherefore whosoeuer bringeth any other Gospel , though it were an angell from heauen , Gal. 1.8 . let him be accursed , neither let vs receiue him into our houses , 2. Ioh. 10. neither bid him , God speed . Now then , if this be the wisedom of God , which Noe folowed , when he would not build , but as he was appointed , which Moses , the Iewes , our sauiour Christ and the apostles haue obserued , what kinde of building may that be , which standeth onely vpon mens deuises & vaine imaginations , such as is the whole religion of Antichrist ? Surelye , it is like the religion of the false prophets which sewed pillowes vnder the elbowes of the Iewes , in flattring them in their sinnes , Ezek. 13.10 , 15. whilest they dawbed & walled their building with vntempered morter . Or it is like the house builded vpon the sand , Mat. 7.26 which because of the weake fundation can not well endure . Or it is like the straw and stubble , 1. Cor. 3.12 , 13. which is laid vpon the good fundation , which at the fierie triall of the spirit of God consumeth , and comes to nought : & like as a paper arke or ship of leaues had bene a vaine deuise against the water to saue Noe and his familie : so is the whole religion of Antichrist in vaine to saue our soules . What a foolish paradise delight they in , which make their arke or ship , of the rotten boardes of mannes traditions , Mat. 15.8 , 9. which can neuer hold together ? howe loathsome an ensigne hath that vessel , Apoc. 13.17 . which caryeth the marke and Image of the beast ? How lightlie , how perilously , Isai. 55.2 . & howe vainely is he fraughted , that makes the chaff of bulles and pardons , his surest traffique ? What loose anchre hold hath he , Isai. 64.6 . luk. 17.10 . trow ye , that rests & rides vpon his owne merits and sinfull workes ? Howe vncertaine is his course , Ioh. 14.6 . col. 2.18 . who directeth his race to saile to heauen by the mediation of saintes ? What a cowardly maryner is he , that alwayes is afraid at the paper rockes and painted fyers of purgatorie ? What vaine ordinance is holy bread , 2. The. 2.10 1 , tim. 4.1 . 2. tim. 4.3 . 2 pet. 2.1 , 2 apoc. 18.3 , 4. and holye water , to fight against the powers of hell ? What foode or nourishment can his beades , his palmes , his candles , his oyle , his ashes , and other reliques , minister vnto him ? What an vncertaine trumpet is sounded , 1. Cor. 14. where the vanitie of organes is good seruice ? finally , how can he euer saile in safety , who hath none sitting at the stearne , but only Antichrist , whose purpose is to ouerthrowe the ship ? In such a naughtie arke and ship they saile , that row on forward without let , in their owne inuentions and rotten ship of papisme and Idolatrie . but the arke & ship of God , is made of the pyne trees of his word , Ephe. 4.12 ioh. 10.27 . & 17.3 . Col. 1.14 . Ephe. 4.30 Apoc. 7.3 , 14. Mat. 11.28 Ebr. 4.14 , 16. Mat. 16.18 pitched within & without , with the assured grace of Christ , marked with the spirit of God and faith , fraughted with the weighty merits of Christs passion , casting sure anchor in his promises directed by his mediation to the father , emboldened with his blood against the rocks and gates of death , defended with the ordinance of Christian armour against the force of Sathan , Ephe. 6.11 1. thes. 5.8 . and nourished with the woorde and foode of life . Let vs no more then sayle with them , Apoc. 18.4 nor yet retaine any of their abominations . But let vs addresse and prepare our selues with Noe to bee warned , let vs with readinesse of fayth obey , and let our good life expresse the same , in furthering the buylding of the Church in our seuerall callings , in all thinges being gouerned by the woorde of God , and then with Noe we be wel admonished . And thus much of the former part , whence it came that Noe was mooued to make the Arke . 2 , Tim. 2.7 . The Lorde giue you vnderstanding in all things , and he that hath eares to heare , let him heare .

Hee prepared the Arke to the sauing of his housholde . The Lorde ( welbeloued ) hath diuers means to saue his people from destruction : and therefore the Arke is said first to haue had this effect , that Noe his family might bee saued thereby . For like as in the burning of Sodome , the litle towne Zoar was a refuge for the safetie of Lot , and his two daughters , Gen. 19.20 & Chaldea for Gods people , in the destruction of Iewrie , and Aegypt for Ioseph , Marie & the childe Iesus , Mat. 2.13 . against the furious assaultes of Herode : euen so the Arke was now the means which God would vse for Noe his refuge , to saue him & his from drowning . This is the louing care which God hath ouer his people , Psal. 34.15 & 95.1 . &c in defending them vnder the shadow of his wings , from falling with the wicked . Let vs then cast our care vpon him , 1. Pet. 5.7 . for he is carefull for vs : and then in the perishing of the wicked , wee shall be safe within the Arke .

Neyther must we thinke that the Arke was able to haue preserued Noe and his family from drowning : No no , it was the grace of God , Gen. 6.8 . who had receiued him into fauour , which grace hee did assure him of , by preseruing him aliue within the Arke . Which thing the Apostle Peter doth declare , 1. Pet. 3.21 where he compareth Baptisme and the Arke together , for like as in Baptisme , not the putting away of the filthines of the flesh saueth vs , but a good conscience , that maketh request to God , by the resurrection of Iesus Christ : euen so , not the outward making of the Arke , but fayth , beleeuing the promise of God vnto saluation , iustified & preserued Noe , whereof the Arke was a holy signe or sacrament , for the confirmation thereof : wherby we must obserue , not to giue that vnto the Sacramentes , which is proper to the grace signified therby . For Sacraments , 1. Sa. 4. tot . Ioh. 1.33 . 1. Cor. 10.5 neyther of them selues , nor in them selues , include the grace of God : for that belongeth to the Creator , and not vnto the creature . But they be as instruments , seales , Gen. 17.10 exo. 12.11 . mat. 26.26 . & 28.19 . pledges and confirmations of Gods promises , whereby he doth make more strong his graces in our hearts , the fruits whereof we do receiue by a liuely fayth . For the saluation of Gods chosen resteth not in sacramentall signes , Tit. 3.5 . but in the 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and good pleasure of God . Ephes. 1.9 . Abraham , to whom the promise was made , Gen. 15.6 . Rom. 4.3 , 4 was iustified in beleeuing the woorde of grace , long time before he receiued the signe or Sacrament of Circumcision , which afterward was added for the confirmation of the promise . Iacob was chosen , Gen. 25.23 Rom 9.11 , 12. Act. 10.44 , 47. when he was yet vnborne , & neuer had hearde of any Sacrament . Cornelius and his companie , beleeuing the words of Peter , were endued with the holy ghost , bef●●●●hey were baptized . Whereby wee learne that our saluation resteth not in the outward Elementes , but in the promise of Gods free mercie & grace in Christ , Eph. 1.4 , 5 who before the fundations of the worlde were layed , chose vs by him to bee adopted vnto saluation , which grace hee sealeth in our hearts by the Sacramentes , for our more behoofe , the vertue whereof we do receiue by fayth .

Neyther herein must wee ( beloued ) abbridge or extenuate the dignitie of the Sacraments , and thinke they be but onely signes of grace , ( as the papists falsely slander vs ) But as we saye not with the Iewes , nor with the papists , 1. Sa. 4. Conc. trident . ses . 6. cap. 8. that the Sacramentes doe giue grace , and so with them commit Idolatrie : so doe wee not saye that they are onely bare signes vnto the godlies fayth , but rightly hold the meane betweene them both , & belieue assuredly , with the sacramentall signe , Tit. 3.5 . Mat. 26.26 . that grace is present vndoubtedly to the faith of him , that doth receiue the same aright . And thus ye see , that not the Arke , but the grace of God preserued Noe and his familie , for whose saluation and deliuerance , the Arke was made an instrument and meanes .

It is not without good consideration , that the Arke was for the safetie of Noe his housholde : for it doth expresse the right gouernement of his well disposed family , wherein the feare of God did florish and continue . For like as when the head is wel & sound , and also the stomacke pure from hurtfull humours , the bodie is commonly well affected : euen so where the head or chief of any family is founde in fayth and feareth God , it commonly goeth wel with all the housholde . For this cause Moses gaue commaundement vnto the Iewes , Deu. 6.5 , 6 7. & 31.12 . that the law might be kept in their families , that they might prosper in all that they went about . 2. Sam. 6.11 . When Obed-edom had receiued the Arke of God into his house , which signified true religion , the Lorde blessed him and all his housholde . When the widowe of Zarephath in the dayes of Eliah , 1. King. 17.10 . &c. and the other widowe of Israel in the dayes of Elisha , 2 King. 4.1 &c. had receiued the Prophets of God into their houses , how mightily and mercifully the Lorde prouided for them , who is ignorant ? When our Sauiour Christ had restored the rulers sonne to his health , Ioh. 4.53 . the ruler beleeued and all his family . After Zacheus had receiued Christ into his house , Luk. 19.9 . and was conuerted , saluation came to the same houshold . To be short , Act. 10.44 . when Cornelius the Centurion embraced the Gospel , his family also beleeued and was baptized , and the holy Ghost fell vpon them all which heard the preaching . How well that house was ordered , where Timothie was broght vp , 2. Tim , 1.5 . & 3.25 . his knowledge in the scriptures from a childe can witnes . This is the care of religion , which ought to bee kept in our houses , and this is the good conuersation which the Lord looketh for at the handes of the housholders of al degrees , Ephes. 6.1 . &c. especially if they looke for the blessing of God to fall vpon them , & to be saued with Noe in the Arke of Christes Church . But looke rounde about vs , and what shall we finde in our families ? Is it not verified of vs , which the Prophet Ieremie spake so long agone vpon the Iewes : The children gather stickes , Iere. 7.18 . the fathers make the fire , & the women bake cakes for the queene of heauen ? So fowly are our families for the most part corrupted , with ignorance and superstition . In stead of the knowledge of God , and true religion , there is nothing to be found , but Atheisme & grosse idolatrie . In steade of the reuerence and feare of Gods maiestie , blaspheming of his name , Hos. 4.3 . and euerye other woorde most horribly powdered with an oth . In stead of honest and sober liuing , Ro. 13.13 . chambering and wantonnes , banqueting and minstrilsie , Isa. 22.13 . eating and drinking like Epicures , for to morowe wee shall dye , thus feeding our selues as an Oxe vnto the slaughter . In steade of godly meditations , abominable gaming , as carding , dycing , & consuming of the giftes of God , Luk. 16.1 . not lent to vs for such a purpose . In steade of reading and hearing of the word of God , Col. 3.16 . to comfort and exhort one another , the reading and good liking of prophane fables and fruitlesse bookes , more meete for Mearcers shoppes , to wrappe their spices in , then for a wel disposed family to be taught & nurtured by . O where shall we finde a good Noe , to order his housholde aright in feare and true obedience , and to forewarne them of the flood of euill to come ? If to gouerne a family aright , were to purchase land , or for a man to enriche him selfe , or leaue a welthie sonne , fewe were behinde with this endeuour . But O vaine man , hast thou more desire to leaue thy sonne a fayre buylding , and ful of lands , then for to instruct him in the way of godlinesse , and leaue him a vertuous conscience ? Hast thou rather a desire to hoorde vp treasure for him , Mat. 6.19 . with rust and mothe to be consumed , then for to teach him the knowledge of God , which will not canker but last for aye ? Deut. 6.5 . & 28.2 . If eyther thou or thine will prosper well , you must beginne in true religion to serue the Lorde , and then you shall bee blessed . Wilt thou than know how to order thy family ? Nourishe none , keepe none , I saye , make much of none , Psal. 15.4 . but such as feare the Lord . The godly king Dauid describing the gouernement of his wel disposed family , speaketh in this wise : Psal. 101. toto . I will ( saith he ) walke in the vprightnesse of my heart , in the middest of my house . I will set no wicked thing before mine eies : I hate the worke of them that fall away , it shall not cleaue vnto mee . A frowarde heart shall depart from me : I will knowe none euill . Him , that priuily slandereth his neighbour , wil I destroy . Him , that hath a proude looke and high heart , I cannot suffer . Mine eies shal be vnto the faythful of the lande , that they may dwell with me : he that walketh in a perfite way , he shall serue me . There shall no deceitful person dwel within my house . He that telleth lyes , shal not remaine in my sight . &c. Wherein we may plainly see , the right paterne of a well disposed familie . We read in the Ecclesiasticall stories of the primitiue church , Euseb. de vita Const. lib. 1. ca. 11. that when Constantius the Emperour woulde take a tryal of his houshould seruants , he commaunded them to shew forth of what religion they were . And when the time was appoynted vnto them , either to sacrifice vnto the Idols , and so to remaine his seruantes , or otherwise to confesse Christ , & so to depart away , ( for thus he thought to trie them ) when euery one had shewed what he was , all such as were Idolaters , & denied Christ , he banished from his Court , supposing them neuer to be faithfull towards him , who were vnfaithfull towardes God : and contrary to their expectation , he made much of them that feared the Lord , and did confesse his name . An apt way for our behoofe , to vanish sinne & superstition from our families , that when the ende shal come , we may be saued with Noe and his familie in the Arke .

And where as the holy Ghost sayeth , that the arke was for the sauegard of Noe and his familie , it is to admonish vs also , that there is no saluation without the church of Christ , prefigured by the arke . For as the branche can not beare fruite , Ioh. 15.4 . except it doo abide within the vine , for else it dieth and withereth : and as the hande cut from the body , can not liue , but wasteth and consumeth for lack of life : no more can we , except we do abyde in Christ : he is the vine , we are the branches . This made the prophete Dauid call vpon the Lord , to remember him with the fauor of his people , Psal. 106.4 . & to visite him with his saluation . When the prophets described the restauration of the Church in the later dayes , Isai. 37.32 . ioel . 2.32 . they did not teache that euery man should be saued by what religion so euer he reteined , but onely promised saluation to such as fled to mount Sion , and to Ierusalem , therby vnderstanding the church of Christ . Ezec. 13.9 . When Ezechiel denounced the wrath of God against the false prophets , he tolde them that they should not be in the assembly of the Lords people , neither shuld be written in the writing of the house of Israel , neither shuld enter into the lande of Israel , neyther shoulde knowe that he was the Lord God . Here then ( welbeloued ) it standeth vs vpon , to trie whether we be within the arke of the church of Christ or not , for els we perish . For as the light of the sunne auayleth not him that lyeth in a darke and close dungeon , where is alwayes night and neuer day : euen so the graces of god do nothing helpe those that lie in darkenes , and shadow of death , vntill they haue accesse into the Church of the faythfull . For so long as we be without the church and number of the faythfull , we are aliants , strangers , pilgrims , Eph. 2.19 . and men without God in this worlde : yea , Rom. 5.10 . wee bee enemies to God , vntil we be reconciled to the father by Christ . 1. Pet. 2.10 Ezec. 16.6 . We are without mercy , and polluted in our bloud , vntil by him we obtaine grace , & be washed from our sinnes . Apoc. 1.5 . Ephe. 2.1 , 2. &c. We are dead in trespasses and sinnes , till we be raised vp with the righteousnes of Christ . Apo. 14.8 . & 17.2 . & 18.3 . We be drunken with the poisoned dregges of superstition , vntil we haue the soueraigne triacle of Gods promises in the worde of the truth , for our preseruation . How then ought we , think you , to make haste into this arke ? your owne consciences herein shal be my iudges . Surely , we can not be partakers of the heauenly graces , Ioh. 15.1 . &c. except we be within the church of Christ : for onely vpon the same , they are bestowed . Where can our soules be fed with the worde of God , but among the faythfull , Ioh. 10.27 . who are the sheepe of Christ , & heare his voice ? Where shall we shew our thankfulnesse , and confirme our faith with the sacraments , Mat. 26.26 . & 28.19 . but in that Church , where thei be sincerely ministred ? Where can we haue forgiuenesse of our sinnes , Rom. 3.25 . Eph. 2 8. Gal. 4.6 . 1. Pet. 4.10 the grace of God , the holy ghost , the righteousnesse of Christ , and other his benefits , vnlesse we be within the Church , for whom he wrought the same ? If therefore we hope for happines , & looke assuredly for saluation , them must we keepe within the arke , & then we shall be safe and sounde . And that we be not deceyued with the title of the Church , Iere. 7.4 . & 18.18 . mat. 3.9 . which the aduersaries always haue in their mouthes , the Lord hath left vs his true and sincere worde , Ioh. 10.27 . Acts. 2.42 . ephe. 5.25 , 26 , 27. the right administration of his sacraments , and ecclesiasticall discipline , to be the perfect marks of this his spirituall arke , whereto whilest we do cleaue & stick , we cannot be deceyued , or perish with the wicked .

What then ( sayth the papist ) shall we thinke of all those , which liued in the time of ignorance , and were without the Church , which now we haue , which was so lately found ? shall we iudge them to be damned ? which thing we must needes do , except wee make the Church of Rome , the arke and Church of Christ . Concerning the Church of Rome , this is to be obserued : that this Church of Rome which nowe is , is not the same , but only in place , with that which was in the primitiue time . For then they followed the doctrine of the Apostles , nowe they haue reuolted from the same , and Antichrist sitteth in the Temple of God . 2. Thes. 2.4 apoc. 13.11 . &c. And though the auncient fathers speake much in the commendation of the Church of Rome , yet speake they only of the church before that superstition crept into the same .

And now before I answere to this question , I must propounde the like to them . Before the time of Boniface the third , then Pope of Rome , when superstition and corruption crept into the Church , and the light of the trueth began to be darkned , were all damned , which neuer before or after yeelded to the sea & religion of Rome ? Were all vndone which neuer beleeued transubstantiation , concluded by Innocentius the third ? or those which neuer worshipped their breaden god , which thing Honorius did decree ? What need I speake of other vanities ? Were all the Prophetes and holy men of God , was Christ and his Apostles , and the auncient fathers of the primitiue Church , beside the way , and out of the arke , which had the spirite of God , Isai. 59.21 . iohn 16.13 to lead them into all truth , who taught the sacred verities , and all things necessarie to saluation , and yet did neuer retaine such vanities , as these men holde ? Matth. 24.2 . thes. 2.4 . 1. tim 4.1 . 2. pet. 2.1 , 2 And if they did foretell any thing thereof , it was but to bid the Church beware of such vngodlinesse .

And as for the arke or Church wherein we bee , it was before theirs was euer deuised , not newly and of late yeeres , as many iudge , begunne , but renued and reformed of late , according to the worde of God , and is in substance and doctrine , all one with the Church of God , Gen. 3.15 . & 22.18 . deut. 18.18 ioh. 8.56 . hebr. 13.8 . from the beginning , directed by his spirit , and by the scepter of his worde . And albeit it was long hid through the tyrannie of the deuill , who draue the woman into the wildernes , Apoc. 13.8 yet ceased there not infinite numbers , to withstande and gainsay the pollutions of Idolatrie , whom God preserued by his grace , though they could not bee seene by the eyes of men . For like as faith is chiefly knowen to God , and cannot be discerned by outwarde senses , otherwise then by the declarations thereof : 2. Tim. 2.19 . so the Lorde knewe onely who were his , whose fayth was knowne by their resistance to the beast . When Iohn foretold the corruptions of the later times , and of the man of sinne , he shewed that there was of all tribes many sealed with the spirit of God , Apoc. 7.4 . and marked with the blood of the Lambe , receyued by fayth , who perished not in the lake of Antichristes pollutions . He tolde that the two witnesses of Christ ( whereby he meant the smal number of the true Church ) Apoc. 11.3 should be murthered by the beast : Apoc. 13.7 who should make warre with the saints of God , and torment them to death , Apoc. 17.6 who should be drunken with the blood of saints and holy martyrs , which could neuer haue beene , if there had bene none , to haue gainsaid his wicked ways . I neede not speake of the churches of Grecia , who still withstood the popish vanities : yea there neuer ceased some , to withstande hir erronious religion . Neither must we thinke that all was lost , that liued them . For why ? the Lord hath wayes & meanes vnknowen to man , to saue his people , as hee saued the thiefe , Luk. 23.42 euen in the last houre , Ephes. 1.4 . vpon the crosse . And as he hath chosen in his secret purpose , vnknowne to man , who shall bee saued : Ioh. 6.37 . & 10.28 . so will he not lose one of them , but call them in due time .

As for this argument , which they vse herein , Psal. 78.7 , 8. iere. 9.14 . ezek. 20 18. it hath bene a stumbling blocke to the wicked of all ages . The Iewes were mooued with nothing so much , to gainsay the doctrine of the Prophets , calling them from their Idolatrie , but that their fathers had liued , as they did at that present : and yet they ought not to haue folowed their fathers further , then their fathers folowed the worde of trueth . Iohn . 4.20 , 22. The woman of Samaria reasoned thus against our Sauiour Christ : Our fathers ( saith shee ) worshipped in this mountaine : but hee made hir an answere , that they worshipped they knewe not what , for saluation came of the Iewes .

But it is not the part of a good conscience , when the trueth is opened , to leape from the same , into the seat of iudgement , and define who were saued , who were not : but rather referring al to the mercy and good pleasure of God , both concerning our forefathers & all others , to labour our wittes to do his will . For now this thing is condemnation , Ioh. 3.19 . that light is come into the world , & men loue darknes more then light . And to saye the trueth , if some of our elders in the times of ignorance , had had the trueth as wee haue no we reueyled , they would long since haue repented in sackecloth & ashes . Mat. 11.21 But it is greatly to bee feared , which our sauiour Christ doth threaten to come to passe against the Iewes , to be layde against vs . For as the men of Niniue repented at the preaching of Ionas , Mat. 12.41 and not the Iewes at the preaching of Christ , who was greater than Ionas : euen so the good and faithfull dealing which they had in times past in ciuill causes , doth reprooue our iniquities , and tell what they would haue bin if they had had the light . And therefore a good father saieth full well : Beza epis. 1. Men had better consciences then , and lesse knowledge : now haue they more knowledge & worse consciences .

But if these men will bragge of auncientie , them must they looke vnto the olde wayes of the Prophets and Apostles , Iere. 6.16 . & to Christ the trueth it selfe , Col. 2.3 . in whom are all the treasures of wisedome and vnderstanding : for Antiquitie without veritie , is nothing worth . If they would boast of vnitie , the same must be reposed in true doctrine , Ephes. 4.3 . phil. 2.2 . and the holy ghost , & not in ydle ceremonies . If they will glory of succession , the same will helpe them nothing , except they follow the ancient fathers , Ephe. 5.1 . phil. 3.17 . in sinceritie of doctrine and godly conuersation : for they be not the true successours of holy men , which alwayes sit in their chayres , but they which folow their faith and godly workes . Dist. 40. And if they make theyr vaunt of multitude , the most parte are not alwayes best inclined . For why ? narowe is the way , that leadeth vnto lyfe , Mat. 7.13 , 14. and fewe there be that fynde it , but wyde is the way that leadeth to perdition . And though many be called , yet fewe be chosen . Mat. 22.14 Only Noe his familie which were but eight in all , were saued aliue , Gen. 7. when all the worlde besides was drowned . And though they bragge much of the title of the church , Iere. 7 4 , ●1 . the church , yet haue they made thereof a denne of theeues , Mat. 21.33 mar. 12.1 . & broken downe the vineyard of the Lorde , & erred from the way of trueth . Let vs therfore repaire not vnto them , but vnto the Arke of Christ , & so wee shall be sure and safe , from drowning & destruction .

Furthermore , it is to be noted , that notwithstanding Noe and his familie were safe within the Arke , and sure from drowning , yet were they tossed to & fro , with the feareful waues & sourging seas , & also dismaid with the cloudy & mistie ayre , not much vnlike vnto the disciples of our Sauiour Christ , Mat. 8.24 . mar. 4.35 . afraid vpon the seas at the dangerous tempestes , tossing the ship wherein they were . But as then our sauiour Christ most comfortably did awake , and commaunde both winds and seas to be still : so was the merciful God careful for Noe in these afflictions within the Arke , and after many wearisome dayes , did bring him safe to land . Thus is the Church of God alwayes in the raging tempestes and byllowes of this worlde afflicted with many tribulations , Ioh. 16.33 . act. 14.22 . 2. tim. 3.12 . before she can arriue to the hauen of heauenly happines . Albeit Abraham had the Lorde to bee his buckler and exceeding great rewarde , Gen. 12. & 20. vnder whose defence hee was safely garded , yet was hee tryed by famine and other daungers many , for the better exercise of his faith . Psal. 27.1 . & 66.12 . The Prophet Dauid was well assured of the Lordes fauour and mightie protection , that hee needed not to feare , yet was his fayth and patience proued by many afflictions , both of wicked Saul and others mo , and him selfe ordayned to go through fire and water , before he came to the place of sweet refreshing . Before our Sauiour and captaine Christ , Mat. 16.21 the head of the Church did with our fleshe ascende into heauen , hee passed through the grieuous torments of the crosse . Before the saintes and holy men of God attained euerlasting happinesse , their fayth & patience was tryed by the manifolde persecutions of Antichrist and his members . 1. Pet. 4.12 Apoc. 11.7 . & 12.11 . & 14.12 . And euen in these dayes , the beast and man of sinne , and sonne of perdition , together with many kings and nobles of the earth , Psal. 2.2 . Apoc. 17.12 , 13. doth breathe grieuous threates and wicked counsell against the Church and spouse of Christ , and stirre vp strife all the day long , wherein we must learne ( dearely beloued ) to arme our selues with fayth and patience against such persecutions . For although wee be within the Arke , yet will the waters of afflictions streame and striue against vs . Mat. 7.24 . Though our fayth bee buylded vpon the rocke and sure fundation Christ Iesus , yet will the boysterous blastes and windes of wickednes assault & shake vs , if it were possible to make vs fall . Wee must needs be like fashioned to our master and captaine Christ , Rom. 8.29 . 2. Tim. 2.11.12 . to suffer with him , that wee may raigne with him , to dye with him , that we may rise againe with him , 2. Cor. 1.5 , 7. to be partakers of his sorowes , that we may be fellowes at his ioyes . Wee must needes be tryed as fine golde from base mettall , 1. Pet. 1.7 . & 4.12 , 13 , 14. Ebr. 12.7 . &c. as the godly from the vngodly , and as children from bastardes in the fierie fornace of afflictions . Wee must needes haue the reliques of sinne punished in vs , and therfore wee are tossed within the Arke & chastised of the Lorde , 1. Cor. 11.32 . least with the wicked worlde we should be condemned . Hereby the Lord wil also haue vs to bee stirred vp , to seeke for succour from his throne of grace in calling vpon him in the day of trouble . Psal. 50.15 . Our fayth , our patience and other vertues moe , must needs be explored & known . 1. Pet. 1.7 . iam. 1.3 , 4 , 12. 2. Cor. 5.1 , 2. we must be inflamed with the desire of the life immortall , wherewith we shal be crowned , after we haue endured tentation . Neither must we in the middest of these afflictions be discomfited or faynt-hearted : for why ? wee abide nothing , but it is according to the will of God , 1. Pet. 3.17 Mat. 5.11 , 12.1 . pet. 2.21 . neyther happeneth any thing vnto vs , but the same hath happened to the godly of all ages . And although for a time we eate the breade of teares , and drinke the waters of aduersitie , yet afterwarde shall we be filled with the heauenly Manna , Apoc. 2.17 & 22.17 . Psal. 30.5 . & waters of euerlasting life . Heauines may well endure for a night , but ioye commeth in the morning . The Lorde hath promised to bee present with vs , by his grace , Mat. 28.10 1. pet. 4.14 & 2. pet. 2.9 and to comfort vs in distresse , and to deliuer vs out of tribulation . And though wee bee tossed in the Arke for a yere , perhappes for more , yet shall wee rest at length vpon Armenia , Gen. 8.4 , 5 and the floodes bee dryed vp : and then the Lorde shall take vengeance of them who here afflict and molest vs . Apoc. 18.20 . And in the meane time , he shall turne their hearts that they do vs no wrong , as hee turned the heart of Esau towardes Iacob . Gen. 33.4 . Hee shall call them backe from persecuting vs , as hee called Saul from folowing and pursuing after Dauid , 1. Sa. 23.27 yea hee shall put such a snaffle in their mouthes , then they shall doe no more then in his secrete prouidence he hath appoynted . Act. 2.23 . & 4.28 . Wherefore , Ephes. 6.12 . when we be impugned by sathan and the spirituall powers of wickednesse aboue our bodily reache , when wee walke through the middest of many false brethren , 2. Cor. 11.26 . and by these aduersaries of the trueth be reproched , slandered , reuiled and persecuted , & also weakened through our owne infirmities , let this bee our hope and comfort , that wee bee within the Arke , and once the ioyful day wil come , Isai. 25.8 . apoc. 7.17 when God shall wipe away all sorowes from our eyes , and crowne vs with glory and worship . And therefore , whilest we be within the Arke , let vs not despaire for trouble and aduersitie , for God is faythfull who hath promised . Ebr. 10.23 . And thus much of the first effect of the Arke .

The seconde effect it had , was touching the wicked , for the scripture saith , Whereby he condemned the worlde . Whilest Noe and his family ( dearely beloued ) were long exercised in the making of the Arke , and thereby obeyed the commandement of God , they did condemne the stubbernes of the wicked which refused to do the same , and to be warned , and so tooke away al excuses from them , so that as the Arke was for the safetie of Noe , so was it likewise a condemnation for the wicked . This is ( deare brethren ) the nature of the admonitions and warnings of God , which for the most part haue a double effect , for to the godly , which beleeue the same , they are the sauour of life , to life , 2. Cor. 2.16 but to the wicked which refuse the same , they are the taste of death vnto destruction . Exo. 14. For as the redde sea was a safe passage for the Israelites comming out of Egypt , and a drowning to the Egyptians : And as the fire of Babylon hurt not the three children cast into the Ouen , Dan. 3.21 , 25. but yet burnt the ministers which cast them in : And as the Lyons saued Daniel aliue , Dan. 6.22 , 24. but quickly did deuoure his accusers : euen so is the nature of the word of God . Wherefore it is compared to the fire , which melteth waxe , and hardeneth clay , and to the trumpe in battell , Iere. 6.17 . which encourageth some , & discourageth other some . And as the rayn comming down from heauen returneth not thither againe , Isai. 55.10 . but maketh the earth fruitfull : euen so shall the woorde of God accomplish euery where , whatsoeuer his will is . And therefore as it is a condemnation to the wicked , so is it the power of God vnto saluation , Rom. 1.16 . to all those which beleeue the same . Let vs therfore submit our selues & all our cogitations to the same , 2. Cor. 10.5 . least in refusing it , we be condemned thereby , and all excuse taken from vs .

But it fareth with this generation , whereof fewe embrace the trueth and liue therafter , as it did with the worlde in the dayes of Noe. For as then they were disobedient to Noe , Genes. 6. 1. pet. 3 20 & 2. pet. 2.5 and contemned the preaching of righteousnes : so nowe many good Noes preache the woorde sincerely , but alas , it falleth into the heartes of many , Mat. 13.3 , 4. but as good seed into euill ground , and therefore , eyther bringeth forth litle , or els no fruite at al : the contempt whereof was then , and so is nowe , the cause of manye plagues . Gen. 3. What banished Adam out of Paradise , & brought so many woes vpon him & all his posteritie , Rom. 5.19 . but the contempt of Gods worde ? what ouerthrewe the Israelites in the wildernesse , Psal. 95.9 . ebr. 3.12 . &c. Iude. 5. &c. & plagued their posteritie in the lande of Canaan so often , but the contempt hereof ? what lost Saul the fauour of God and the scepter of his kingdome , 1. Sa. 15. or what led Israel and Iuda into captiuitie , 2. Kin. 17.14 . iere. 9.12 , 13. luk. 14.18 . rom 11.21 . ebr. 4.1 . but the contempt of this ? what helde the Iewes from the heauenvly supper & graces of God ? what depriued them of the dignitie of the children , & benefite of the kingdome , but the contempt of this ? what should I speake of the manifolde plagues of God powred vpon this realme of England , & nations rounde about vs for the contempt of his worde ? And then how happeneth it , Nom. 11.5 , 6 , 7. that we still loath the same , as the Israelites did Manna in the wildernes ? or is it that we would be in the spiritual Egypt of filthie papistrie againe , and so depriue our selues of the land of rest ?

But as in Noe his time , Gen. 6.12 . all fleshe , euen all degrees were sore corrupted : so is it nowe , most lamentable to beholde , all fleshe is gone astray , and iniquitie ripe on euery side . Looke into the heads & high estates of al sorts , who shuld haue knowledge & bee lightes for others : & euen these ( as the Prophet saith ) haue broken the yoke & burst the bonds asunder . Iere. 5.5 . Where should be zeale and true religion ? Where shoulde be godlinesse and innocencie of life , but chiefly in these ? but doe we not see many of them , eyther professed papistes , or manifest dissemblers ? Where should the ministerie be relieued and vpholden , but by these ? and do not diuers o● them make spoyle & hauocke of the Church goodes , to cloath and feede them selues , and starue the poore ? Where shoulde the good and godly lawes of Englande be better executed , but by these ? They doe not make , they marre and breake the lawes . And if there bee some godly statutes made , Isocrates 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . it is to true in some , which the Oratour sayth , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . Manie lawes we make , but wee litle regard or keepe them . And as the Poet saith , Auro venalia iura . Why are the lawes like spyders webs , to let the waspe escape and to torment the flye ? If gentlemen offend , as their hands are ryfest in transgression , Ezra . 9.2 . they haue their purse , & courtly friendes , they shall escape vnpunished : But aye the poore goes by the walles . What els is this , but euen to make and sel the lawes ? I neede not speake of brybing and insatiable officers , who rather seeke for gaine , then for maintaining of the trueth , Psal. 14.4 . who make the poore their praye and spoyle . But this I saye , as sometimes an ancient king hath said : Saepè boni iudices habent malos vicarios , Foxus . to 1. pag. 111. quorum reatibus ipsi domini constringuntur , si non eos coërceant , & à rapacitate cohibeant . that is , Oftentimes good magistrates haue euill vicegerentes , or vnder officers , with whose offences the heades them selues are chayned , if they stay them not , and refraine them from greedines . And what may we rightly iudge to bee the cause of these offences , but euen the neglect of the woorde of God , which should teache vs to doe aright , and to flee from euill ?

And as the contempt in this degree is horrible , so woulde I wishe it spreade no further : then should our ministerie be the freer from offence , and our gospel haue the better speede . But it is herein , as Ieremie said , Iere. 2.8 . The priests say not , Where is the Lord ? and they that should minister the law , know not the Lorde : the pastours haue offended against him , & the Prophets prophesie in Baal , and goe after things which do not profit . Our ministerie is fowly ( to saye the trueth ) corrupted : for whilest ignorant ministers and dombe dogges , 1. Kin. 12.31 . 2. chro. 13.9 . isa. 56 10. more like to Ieroboams priests , and sacrificing massemongers , haue cure & charge of soule , while tagge & ragge may bee admitted to this function , whilest gentlemen may haue the profits of the flocke , and hire Sir Iohn Lackelatine to sing or say the seruice , howe shall the Gospell haue good successe ? whilest Church to Church is ioyned , Act. 20.28 . nehe. 6.3 . and non residencies borne withall and well liked , what can go forewarde in the building of the Lorde ? where preaching is but once a quarter ( I say not where it is seldome or neuer , which I might ) or once a moneth ( which some thinke more than needes , & if it be eche Saboth , it is counted a worke of supererogation ) how can the people be reclaimed from their vanities , or kept within the fold in dew obedience ? Go to , what springes of such contempt in these estates ? euen effusion of all ryot , and running into sinne , of the inferiour sort . For as the wall within and eke without , is made of squared stones , betweene the which the lesse stones are contained , to make the building vp : euen so the minister within the Churche , & the Magistrate in the common weale , should support and vpholde the meaner sort in dewe obedience . If then the squared stones within , or els with out fall downe , the lesse can neuer long endure , because they lacke their stay . And of contempt in these degrees , it comes to passe , that lacke of discipline & good liuing is the cause of many sinnes , Mat. 18.17 . both in the Church and common weale . Neither woulde I haue this forgotten , that whilest ecclesiasticall officers may for money dispense with offendours , 1. Sa. 15.8 . 1. kin. 20.42 . and also vayne pitie in the common weale maye shadowe iniquities , the Churche can not go well . Surely , Surely it is with Englande , as the Prophet Osee saide it was with Israel : Hos. 4.1 , 2 , 3. The Lord hath a controuersie with the people of the land , because there is no mercy , no truth , no knowledge of God in the land . But by swearing , lying , killing , stealing and whoring men break out , and blood toucheth blood : therfore shal the land mourne , &c. How ripe the sinnes of England be for the sickle of Gods vengeance , Apoc. 14.15 . euerye Christian eye can testifie . And yet for all this , we are fast a sleepe with the carelesse world , in the time of Noe. We eat & drinke , Mat. 24.37 luk. 17.28 . 1. pet. 3.20 we marie & giue to mariage , most like , vntill the flood shall take vs hence : Amos. 6.4 . wee lye vpon our soft couches , and put away the euill day farre from vs : we blesse our selues , Deut. 29.19 . when wee heare the threatnings of the Lord and curses of his law , and say , We shall feele none euill : we are drunken with foolish Nabal , 1. Sa. 25.36 vntill Abigail bring vs word that we must dye . We spoyle , and make our selues merie with the goods of other men , 1. Sa. 30.16 as the Amalekites did in Ziklag , vntill Dauid , Gods scourge come vpon vs to wounde vs to death and make a reskewe . Da. 5.3 , 30. We drinke with Balthasar in bowles , vntill the Medes take away our kingdome . we enriche our selues , Luk. 12.18 . & also enlarge our barnes , and laye vp treasure in store for many yeres , and yet this present night our soule must be taken away , Luk. 12.20 . and then who shal possesse our substance ? we waste and spoyle our masters goodes , Luk. 16.1 . & liue vnmindfull of our duetie , vntill we be called to render an accompt of our stewardshippe . we sleepe full harde with the foolish virgins , Mat. 25.5 . and our lampes quite put out , till that the bridegrome be gone in , and the doore fast locked that we can not enter . We sit like the proud strumpet Babylon , Apoc. 18.7 , 8. & feede our selues with folly , that we shall feele no sorowe nor widowhead , & yet al sorows shal sodainly come vpon vs . Finally we say , 1. The. 5.3 . Peace , peace , & all things quiet , euen when the end is at hand . Nay rather , Mat. 25.13 let vs watche & pray , and haue our lampes of righteousnes burning , that we may enter into rest with the bridegrome at his comming , & leaue betimes our great securitie , least we perish with the wicked .

It is reported of Tamberlane the king of the Parthians , who tearmed himselfe Iram dei & orbis vastitatem , to haue set vp three seueral dais three seueral kinds of tents , wherof the first was white , betokening mercie , if his enemies would that day yeeld : the second day , the tents were red , betokening the bloodshed of the rulers , the thirde was black , signifying the burning and destruction of the citie , neyther was there hope of mercie when the white tents were taken down , although they humbled themselues with lawrell . Let vs goe foorth with lawrell braunches in this our time and day of grace , for it is a fearefull thing to fall into the hands of the liuing God , who is a consuming fire : let vs be admonished by the woorde of trueth , or els the same will condemne vs with the wicked .

But the time is past , & I haue wearied you to much , I wil therfore note one worde or two , of the last wordes , and so make an ende .

He was made the heire of righteousnes , which is according to fayth . This is nowe the acceptation & reward of Noe his faith , who first was receiued into fauour by beleeuing the promise of God , and thereby had God a mercifull father . Of whom , this his obedience was accepted , not for anye the worthines of flesh & blood , which was none , Ro. 8.33 , 34. but by the free grace of God , accepting in good worth , what he did . For when faith beleueth the promises of God concerning saluation , Rom. 8.15 , 17. & apprehendeth the adoption of the children , then foloweth the inheritaunce of our righteousnesse , for that we being by fayth the children of God , are heires , euen felowe heires with Christ of his kingdome . For after we beleeue , we are sealed with the spirit of promise , which is the earnest of our inheritance , Ephe. 1.13 14. vntill the redemption of the possession , purchased vnto the praise of his glorie . This is that which the Apostle saith , Tit. 3.7 . that wee being iustified by the grace of God , should be made heires , according to the hope of euerlasting life . And for this cause is Christ the mediatour of the newe Testament , that through death , Ebr. 9.15 . which was for the redemption of the transgressions which were in the former Testament , they which were called , might receiue the promise of the eternal inheritance . Blessed be God therefore , ( let vs all say ) euen the father of our Lord Iesus Christ , 1. Pet. 1.3 . which according to his aboundant mercie , hath begotten vs againe , vnto a liuely hope , by the resurrection of Iesus Christ from the dead , to an inheritance immortal and vndefiled , reserued in heauen for vs .

This inheritance of righteousnes , Gen. 12.1 . ebr. 11.8 . Abraham behelde with the eyes of fayth , when he forsooke his owne countrey looking for a better , and euerlasting in heauen , reioycing in spirite to see the day of Christ the Messias . Ioh. 8.56 . This inheritance Dauid longed after , Psal. 42.1 . & 27 13. when like as the Harte desired the water brookes , euen so his soule longed after the Lorde , hoping to see the goodnesse of the Lorde in the lande of the liuing . This inheritance the Apostles beleeued to haue , Ioh. 6.68 . when they confessed Christ to bee the Sonne of God , and to haue the woordes of Eternall life . This inheritance the Saints in the reuelation cast their eyes vpon , Apoc. 12.11 . & 14 . 1● when with patience they endured the tormentes of death , because they woulde not yeelde to the pollutions of Antichrist . And this is that crowne of righteousnesse which wee desire , whilest wee dayly pray , Luk. 11.2 . Apoc. 22.20 . Thy kingdome come . Come Lorde Iesu , come quickly . Finally this is that inheritaunce of fayth , which our Sauiour Christ hath already taken possession of for vs , and which we shal feele , when he shal sweetly saye , Mat. 25.34 Come ye blessed of my father , possesse the kingdome prepared for you , from the beginning of the worlde . Apoc. 21.48 . Then shall all sorow and teares hee wiped from our eyes , then shal we see death , sinne , Sathan , Antichrist & his members trodden vnder foot , 1. Cor. 15.55 , 56 , 57. and swalowed vp in victorie , Apoc. 14.2 whilest we shall sing the songs of triumph before the throne of the lamb , & this shal be the reward of the obedience of our faith . Wherefore whilest we see the end to draw nere , 1. Pet. 4.7 . & 2. Pet. 3.11 . let vs prepare & addresse our selues , that we may be found in the Arke of Christs church , so shal we be sure from destruction , & assured of euerlasting happines , to be the reward & inheritance of our faith , giuen vs of God for the loue & worthines of his onely sonne Iesus Christ , Ro. 6.23 . our onely redeemer & Sauiour : to whome with the father and the holy Ghost three distinct persons , and one inuisible and euerlasting God , be al honour , glory , praise and dominion for euer . So be it .

FINIS . Blessed are they which heare the worde of God and keepe it . Luk. 11.28 .
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❧ Imprinted at London by Christopher Barker , Printer to the Queenes Maiestie .

ANNO. 1578.

printer's or publisher's device TIGRE : REO . ANIMALE DEL . ADAM . VECCHIO . FIGLI VOLO . MERCE . LEVANGELIO . FATTO . N'ESTAT . AGNELLO