Diuine poemes In seuen seuerall classes. Written to his most excellent Maiestie Charles, by the grace of God King of Great Britaine, France, and Ireland, defender of the faith, &c. By Sr. Iohn Stradling Knight and Baronet.

DIVINE POEMS . The first Classis . THE ARGVMENT . MESSIAS Promised , Figured , Prophecied . The Theame propos'd , the heau'nly ayde implor'd : Mans fall . Messias of the Womans seede Promis't , by whom Mankinde should bee restor'd To Patriarks renewed oft , here reade . Types , Sacrifices , Figures shew the same , Prophets describe his Person , Birth , and Name . The subiect of this work ▪ A Mayden-Mother , and a King her sonne , Excite my Muse a taske to vnder-take : The like hath not beene since the world begunne . My spirits faile , my feeble hand doth shake , My heart , with highnesse of the theame doth tremble : The true-heart-searcher knowes I nought dissemble . 2. Inuocation for diuine ayde . , O thou the Source , and Subiect of my song , That caust make Babes thy prayses to rehearse : Illuminate my minde , vntie my tongue , That I may see aright , and sing in Verse , Thy high Discent , thy Birth , thy Generation , Life , Doctrine , Deeds , Death , strange Resussitation . 3. That seeing , singing , I may meditate On th' Worlds new-birth , lost-mans regeneration : That , what my Muse shall in rude Rimes relate , May sweetly worke in many , soule-saluation . ( For , who here reades , beleeues , and liues thereafter , Is Gods deare childe beloued , sonne or daughter . ) 4. Gen. 2. When God plac't Man i'th'Garden of delight , And made him Lord of all things vnder skie : He gaue him one precept to keepe aright , With threat , that for transgressing he should die . Adam his sinne and fail , Man sinning had his doome , depriu'd of blisse : A curse laid on the earth , himselfe , and his . 5. First , amplified by the excelency of his creation . Had he beene shap't after an vgly fashion , Or made a Mome of meane capacitie . Or shut vp in some simple habitation , Or fram'd the subiect of infirmitie : Or destin'd to some drudging occupation , So as he might haue loathed his creation : 6. Some colour had beene to excuse the crime , And mitigate the rigour of his doome : But he , of all earth-creatures had the prime , Sate Ruler of the rest , as in Gods roome : Endew'd with reason , speech , and comely feature , ●en. 1. ●… After Gods Image , a most noble Creature . 7. Eden his dwelling , daintie fruits his feeding , Health , beautie , strength , not subiect to decay : He needed not to toyle , nor sweat for 's breeding , But thinke vpon his God , thanke him , and pray . Old age , diseases , death could not haue harm'd him , Had he obey'd his Maker who fore-warn'd him . 8. Secondly , by the facilitie to haue obserued the Precept . Nor was the Precept so precise to hold , ( One Tree among some thousands to forbeare . ) But that the retchlesse creature was so bold , His wife to follow , more then God to feare . Sure , to the Deuill he would not haue yeilded , Gen. 3. 12. But by the Woman , simply was beguiled . 9. That knew the subtile Serpent , who began To tempt the weake , and likeliest to be wonne : He made no offer to seduce the Man , But gayning her , he thought the matter done . By Adams fall , each man is taught a Lecture : I say no more , but leaue it to coniecture . 10. Questions 〈◊〉 answered . How long he dwelt within this pleasant seate , Whether some yeeres , or moneths , or dayes , or leffe : Ere he of that forbidden fruit did eate , Presum'd his Makers precept to transgresse : Are questions I 'll not venter to decide . Long in the place it 's like he did not bide . 11. " For why ? The Deuill certes soone began " To play his prize ; he vseth not to sleepe , " But watcheth euer to beguile that man , " Whom God and his good Angels doth not keepe . " No sooner did this Fowler set his gin , " But Adam , like a silly fowle , flew in . 12. If he , a creature of such rare perfection , Such depth of reason , wisedome and foresight , Who had to good and ill like free election , Who knew precisely what was wrong , what right : If such a Man , so Angell-like as hee , At first assault could yeild , and conquer'd bee . 13. What may be hop't for in his wretched race , Infected with the venom of his sinne : Made foes to God , depriued of his grace , And much more apt to let temptation in ? How may we shun that subtill Serpents baites , Who to beguile vs , alloccasions waites ? 14. A Comparison . A subiect tainted with such shamefull treason , Against his souereigne Lord to him most kinde : To hope for pardon , certes hath small reason , To sue for it , how durst he cast in 's minde ? What he might blush to begge , God freely gaue : Enfranchis'd him , who made himselfe a slaue . 15. Gods infinite goodneste to Angels , and Men , In God , a mirror full of admiration , Neuer enough admired we behold : To Man and Angels in their first creation , Such boundlesse bountie as cannot be told : Diuinitie excepted , nothing wanted : In other Princely gifts they were not scanted . 16. These , wayting alwayes in his heauenly Palace , Blest with his presence : ( Blessing there 's no greater , ) That , in earths pleasant Garden taking solace , Sole Lord and King ouer each other creature . What would ? Nay more what could they haue expected ? Ingratefull , that so good a God neglected . 17. ● . Lastly , by ●…e obedience ●f inferior ●…eatures , mans ●…bellion is ●…grauated . All creatures else obseru'd their Makers Lawe , Aym'd at those ends , whereto he had assign'd them : To breake his Hests , it seemes they stood in awe Nature , not Reason , was the bond did binde them . " Angels and Man , that most should haue obay'd : " Were onely they , who from their dutie stray'd . 18. First Lucifer presumed to rebell , And drew with him whole millions to conspire : These hurled downe into the pit of hell , Enrag'd with enuie , malice , wrath and ire , Persisted and proceeded in their sinne , Striuing more rebels on their side to winne . 19. It grieu'd the wretch , to see Mans happy state . Tormented was he at his blest condition : This mou'd him more , both God and Man to hate , For holding that , whereof he lost fruition . Fayling 'gainst God , The Man he then assayl'd , Nor left him , till against him he preuayl'd . 20. A Simile . Oft haue I heard it by my Elders told , And noted for a thing most certaine true : That men , whom plague or pestilence doth hold , The stronger on them that infection grewe : The more they wish occasions to embrace , For drawing others to their desp'rate case . 21. So fares it with that wicked damned Fiend , Plagu'd with the rancour of his foule offence : He walkes , and hunts about eu'n to this end , By might , or craft , or any faire pretence , To leade mankinde into his curs't condition , And bring both soule and body to perdition . 22. The Deuill a most wilfull Rebel to God , vnpardonable . He wrought with Adam iust as he desir'd , Made him accurst , and cheated of Gods grace , Like to himselfe : ( for-cause he once aspir'd , Arch-traytor , to mount seated in Gods place . ) Man simply misse-lead , found fauour . Through willfull pride he fell , can rise no more : For Man misse-lead , God kept a boone in store . 23. A Comparison . So haue I often read , seene and obserued , Gods Vice-royes deale with Rebells of each kinde : Ring-leaders dragg'd to death , as they deserued , When simple soules seduced , fauour finde . " Mercy and Iustice ought be ioyn'd together , " Kings that haue one alone , as liefe th 'had neither . 24. ●ude 6. Gods Iustice seized on those sinning spirits , That left their first estate , to clamber higher : They were rewarded after their demerits , Doom'd to the vengeance of eternall fire . Hence comes that prouerbe , daily vs'd by all , ( Most certaine is it ) Pride will haue a fall . 25. Gen. 3. 12 , 13. Adam likewise and Eue ( poore soules ) were cited At Iustice-barre , to answere their offence : Each of them pleaded , how they were enticed , And so confest , vsing no more defence . Iudgment they had ( Gods Iustice could no lesse ) But Mercy found a meane for their redresse . 26. A worldly-wise Obiection , or Cauill . A wordly-minded-wizard here will looke , To know what motiue mou'd the King of heauen , That he lost-man into his fauour tooke , Who of his grace himselfe had cleane bereauen . Belike , God of his seruice should haue neede , Or Man might after stand his God in steede : 27. Or for some future good in him fore-seene , Or else for lacke of Seruitors beside : Or , 'cause his fault might a sleight error seeme , Not done of malice , stubbornnesse , or pride . Such poore excuses some perhaps might fayne , Meere phantasies bred in their idle brayne . 28. Answere . Psal. 16. 2. Fond Fooles , who harbour such a grosse conceit , That Man should render God due retribution : The matter ( doubtlesse ) is of greater weight , Our goodnesse all , to him is but pollution . The crime was treason gainst great heauens-King , The streames of mercy from himselfe must spring . 29. Degratia speciali , & mero metu : wordes ordinarie with Princes in Pardons , and Patents of grace Of speciall grace , and from Gods owne meere motion , The Pardon did proceede . So vse great Kings , When Pardons they bestowe . They 'll take no notion Of merit , gift , reward , or such like things . If earth-gods deale so with such as offends them , Much more the God of Gods , who that pow'r lends them . 30. Messias promised . It 's worth the noting to obserue the way , How that Great Iudge to sentence doth proceede : The Serpent sentenced without more stay , Gen. 3. 15. He made the promise to the Womans seede : And blest her in the very circumstance Of that , whereby he meant t' enioyne her penance . 31. Her punishment , first sorrowes in her childing : Then , to the Man obedience and subiection : Io. 16. 21. The blessing on her birth ( more comfort yeilding ) Might well weigh downe a greater malediction . Thus , of the first , God eas'd her : from the next , Most women free themselues . ( That 's not i'th'Text . ) 32. Now was the Man out of the Garden sent , To till the ground , and labour for his liuing : His time in idlenesse might not be spent , Bread had he none , but what he got by striuing In sweat and sorrow : Herbs the field gaue store , Such pittance was allow'd him , and no more . 33. Adam liu'd long , saw many Generations , By him his sonnes were taught their Maker knowe : They grew apace , began to furnish Nations , Yet most of them , to worship God were slowe . Of godly men there waxt so great a dearth , As onely one was found on the whole earth . 34. Noah . Noah , of righteousnesse a blessed Preacher , ● . Pet. 2. ●en. 6. 18. To him and his , Gods Couenant was made good : The Lord himselfe vouchsaf't to be his Teacher , And warning him aforehand of the Flood , He built the Arke , preseru'd his Familie , And stor'd the Earth with his posteritie . 35. Noahs Arke . That Arke betokened right our Christian Font , ● . Pet. 3. 21. Where faithfull soules neere readie to be drown'd , In sinnes-huge-swelling Sea of Negropont , Cleane washt from filth , are saued to be crown'd , With blessed Noah and his companie , To liue and reigne as Kings eternally . 36. ●en 1. 28. and 1. 2. To him the blessing which he first bestow'd , On Adam and his wife at their creation , God once againe renew'd : it further flow'd , More choise of foode was 'llow'd for sustentation . Now Fish , and Fowle , and beasts-flesh they might eate , Whereas before , greene herbes was all their meate . 37. Yet God , to shew how much he did detest , The cursed sinne of bloudie crueltie : ●…s . 4. Forbade to eate the bloud of any beast . So , to restraine them from all gluttonie , The fat ( no more then bloud ) might not be eaten , Both sorts with sharpe correction he doth threaten . 38. Noah dyed full of yeeres , left issue store , Few of them all ( it seemes ) were like their father : 〈◊〉 . 11. They snuft , and swore , We will be drown'd no more , Wee 'll build a Tower vp to Heauen rather . They set vpon the worke , yet in conclusion , ●…el . That building turned to their owne confusion . 39. Thus some went East , some West , some North and South , Searching new Countries yet to them vnknowne : A diff'rent tongue was neere in each mans mouth , Hardly they knew strange children from their owne . " Gainst God there 's no contending : The best way " Is first to know his will , and then obay . 40. I wonder often casting in my minde , Gods gifts and graces powred downe on men , His threats and plagues withall ! how they wax blinde , And ( pard'ned oft ) transgresse the more agen . " Him whom nor stripes , nor gifts , can fright or gaine , " All hope of such a gracelesse childe is vaine . 41. Among the sonnes of Noah , few were found , ( Much like blacke Swannes ) that walked in his way : They neither fear'd Gods iudgments when he frown'd , Nor for his gentle Promises car'd they : As if there had beene neither Hell , nor Heauen , Aduent'ring soule and all on sixe and seauen . 42. A Simile , . Like Birds for whom the Fowler spreads his net , And traynes them in with whistle , and a stale : Or fish , when bayted hookes old Anglers set , Which bitten , brings them soone vnto their bale . So that old-Angler-for-mens-soules , some wynnes With sweetned baytes , and some with subtle gynnes . 43. Shem , . Though Shem were most religious of the rest , And Gods true worship to his children left : Yet in few after-ages , eu'n the best Ios. 24. ●… . Fell backe , and of that blisse themselues bereft . Yea Terah , father of Gods faithfull friend , From the true God , to false his heart did lend . 44. The Promise of the Messiasrenewed to Abraham . Gen. 12. 3. ●nd 22. 17. To Abraham God shew'd himselfe more plaine , Reclaym'd him from the Land where long he dwelt : The Promise to him he renew'd againe , Such fauour none before him euer felt . Their foe-mens gate b'his seede should be possessed , And in his Seede , all Nations on earth blessed . 45. What of our Grandame Eue in Paradise , More darkely had beene spoken long before : The same to Abr'ham twice at least , or thrice Was said , and God himselfe vnto it swore . ●eb . 16. That such as of the Promise should be Heires , Might rest most sure , without feares or dispaires . 46. The promise thus to Abraham made good , His faith was strong , not spic't with vnbeliefe : All points ( perhaps ) not fully vnderstood , He was resolu'd , and setled in the chiefe . To God he moan'd , for wanting of a sonne , T' accomplish that which he knew would be done . 47. 〈◊〉 d●fence of ●brahams ●oubts , moued 〈◊〉 God touch●…g the pro●ise made to ●…s Seede . ●en. 15. 2. ●…m . 4. 19. 20. It seemes , he fear'd his Steward should succeede , Enioy both goods and lands which he possest : Such doubts by him obiected we doe reade , But , by a sound Interpreter exprest , We learne the question grew not of distrust : For why ? he knew God in his Word was iust . 48. Else Abrahams faith had not beene so commended , Nor he the Father of all faithfull nam'd : Rather his doubting had beene reprehended , Himselfe for such mistrusting rightly blam'd . His often prayses pleade his innocence , The question mou'd , admits a faire defence . 49. Belike he could not well discerne the way , Of working that which passed reasons reach , By quest'ning with his God he might assay , Whether his Lord , that lesson would him teach . Gen. 15. 4. Thus much God told him , he thy Heire shall bee , Who from thy bowells drawes his pedigree . 50. Sara ( good Ladie ) shee began deuise , To helpe the matter by her policie : Her daughters in this age are more precise , At least wise they like not such charitie . Thus the old man by Hagar had a boy , Gen. 17 11. For him he pray'd , in him he tooke much ioy . 51. This issue got , he dreamt not of another , Thought him the Lad should breede the world its blisse : Sara he knew too old to be a mother , Yet soone was taught , how he conceau'd amisse . From her ( said God ) Nations and Kings shall spring : Vers. 17. He worshipped , and smil'd to heare the thing . 52. Gen. 18. 12. . So did his wife , a graue , and modest Dame , When that strange newes first founded in her eare : Shee stept aside , and hid her selfe for shame , To thinke at ninetie shee a childe should beare . Luk. 1. 24. ( Elizabeth did likewise long time after , To shew her selfe that shee was Saraes daughter . ) 53. Resemblance in the birth of Isaak , and Christ . The liuely branch , sprung from this wither'd tree : Messias birth , by one a Virgin pure : These twaine may rightly paralelled bee , As was that first , so was this later sure . " The one made way , for credence to the other : " Both ioyntly serue , foule vnbeliefe to smother . 54. Gen. 18. 14. All men who credit giue to the Creation , And know , that no thing is for God too hard : Ought wonder lesse at this strange Generation , Nor should their faith be at such promise scar'd . Whether is easier , make a thing of nought ? Or out of old , cause that a new be wrought ? 55. Now 'mong Gods people grew this matter rife , Isa'k once borne , and Abrahams faith made strong : Gen. 18. 19. He taught his houshold all their true beliefe , To hide this point from them , had beene great wrong : " Faith in the promis'd Seede being th' onely way , " Which leades to Heauen , all that goe astray . 56. Gen. 21. 6. At Isa'ks birth his mother laught apace , Reioyc't to thinke her friends would be likewise : Gen. 18. 12. ( I read shee laught once in another place , But that was fayn'd , after a frowa●d guise . ) Well might shee laugh , and sing for such a boy , From whom was to proceede the worlds true ioy . 57. Gen. 21. Of Ismael yet Sara stood in doubt , Sith Abr'ham to that childe great fauour bare : Shee rested not , till shee had cast him out , Lest with her sonne , he should the blessing share . " The mothers Blessing , Heritage , and Lordship , " Long since ( as now ) could brooke no fellowship . 58. Soone was shee eased of her womans-feare , For , where before the promise ranne at large , To Abraham and his seede : henceforth each-where ●en. 21. 12. To Isa'k God assign'd that heritage . ●en. 24. 36. ●nd 25. 5. Some gifts he gaue , by hand , among the rest : Then left to Isa'k all , as to the blest . 59. The bond-borne-broode is styled Abrahams sonne , Though dis-esteem'd compared with the other : Gen. 22. 2. 12. 16. God named Isa'k ( thrice ) the onely sonne , When Ishmael liu'd , by birth the elder brother . He blest them much alike in temp'ralties , Reseru'd for one th' heauenly prerogatiues . 60. A Comparison . Looke how a Father nurt'reth vp his childe , Whom best he loues : to breede in him more grace , To make him humble , lowly , meeke , and milde , At all times shewes him not a cheerfull face : But sometimes checks him , sometimes giues a frowne , Thereby from hatefull pride to keepe him downe : 61. So God with blessed Abraham did deale , His best beloued sonne , and faithfull friend : He would not all his minde at first reueale , Nor straight-way bring his promise to an end : " Long looked for , more welcome when it came , " His faiths assurance still encreast his fame . 62. Abrahams faith and loue to God , proued . Gen. 22. Yet once againe heauens-King , and earths great Lord , Saith thus : My seruant Abrahams faith I 'll proue : He worships me , by him I am ador'd , I must trie-out th' assurance of his loue . Giue me ( saith God ) thy sonne in sacrifice , Isa'k that sonne so precious in thine eyes . 63. This was indeed a triall to the quick . A feat whereby sound friendship should be knowne : It would haue made the strongest heart halfe sick , To spill the bloud , much dearer then his owne . Excuses faire , and many might he fayne , If not t' auoid it quite , yet time to gayne . 64. Amplified by the readinesse of his obedience . My God , this is the childe by thee assign'd , To bring thy faithfull promise to effect : How can I be so rash , or so vnkind , By killing him , to see that promise checkt ? Giue me some time to pawse vpon the matter , There is no haste , it may be done hereafter . 65. If not by prayer , or by long perswasion , A pardon for his life may be obtayn'd : ( As once I got for Soda●… , wicked Nation , Had ten beene found from filthy lust vnstayn'd ) Be 't so , when I perceaue no remedie , Thy will shall be fulfill'd , the Lad shall die . 66. Matth. 16. 23. ( And did not once our Lords Apostle prime , Disswade his Master , neere in such a case ? 'T was kindnesse to his Lord that moued him , Yet Christ rebuk't him sharply to his face . " ( There 's no thing where with God is better payd , " Then when his will is readily obey'd . ) 67. Th' Arch-Patriarke vs'd no such glozing tricke , His heart vnto his God was firmely knit : Gen. 22. 3. Earely next mor'n he rose , bestirr'd him quicke , And for performance gets all that was fit . Fire , wood , and knife he tooke , with full intent To execute the deed , 'bout which he went . 68. Abrahams shrift o Isaak . See ●…s . de Antiq. ●…ud . lib. l. ●…p . 14. 'T were sinne to thinke , that good and holy man Ran rudely to the worke without some stay : We must conceaue , he told to Isaak than , What mou'd him so to doe ; taught him to pray , And yeild himselfe to Gods good will and pleasure . Some such short shrist he vs'd , as seru'd his leasure . 69. His sonne then bound , and on the Altar laid , Meeke as a Lambe , prepar'd himselfe to die : The knife tane vp in hand , he neuer staid Till God from heauen stopt him with a crie . God tooke that thing as done , which was intended , A Ramme did serue the turne , and so it ended . 70. He prouides for his sonnes marriage . Now this good Father saw his glasse neere runne , And taking care of his Posteritie : Bethought him of a marriage for his Sonne , Willing to see him setled ere he die : Gen. 24. 3● . A Cananitish woman he would none , But needes must haue some cousin of his owne . 71. This bus●nesse of much weight , he recommended To one , who seru'd him with sidelitie : The God of heauen so the man befriended , As he perform'd it with dexteritie . The storie merits often to be read , To marke how God that Messenger did lead . 72. These labours all , and trialls ouer-past , Ioh. 8. 50. Messias dayes he ioyfully did see : Then ripe in age , taking his leaue at last , Exchang'd this life for immortalitie . The best of all that euer liu'd before , And such like after him I finde no more . 73. " A godly Father ( commonly 't is seene ) " By nurture leaues a gracious sonne behinde : " Where men vnto their God haue faithfull beene , " Their children seldom-while goe out of kinde . As Isa'k stept into his fathers state , So in Gods fauour , like to him , he sare . 74. A Comparison . Kings that grant Charters to their Seruitors , Or to some Townes , of fauour or desart : Though they appoint the sonnes Inheritors , And name Successors therein to haue part : Yet often-times those Charters are renew'd , Some-whiles with wordes , of farther grace endew'd . 75. ●…at Magna ●harta of Gods ●romise , re●ewed to Isaak Gen. 26. 4 That Great-Free-Charter which the King of Kings , Bestow'd on Abr'ham , and his Heires for euer : Confirm'd to Isaak of new he brings , ( His mercy to his Chosen fayleth neuer . ) To proue , that in his promise he is iust , And free vs from all doubt , or sad distrust . 76. " Yet God , of whom all men should stand in awe , " Who owes to no man ought , but of meere grace : " Not bound to any rules of Common Lawe , " Nor ty'de to Person , Countrie , Time , or Place : 〈◊〉 . 18. and ●om. 9. 21. Hath pow'r on men , as Potters haue on clay , Doth leaue , and take whom likes him . So he may . 77. Gen. 25. Esau , first borne : he was a man of might , A cunning Hunter , vsed to the field , The chiefe and worthiest in his fathers sight , Knew well his bowe , and weapons how to weild : Nimrod . Gen. 10. 8. Like that great sonne of Cush , who first began With hunting Beast , then after hunted Man . 78. Gen. 25. 27. Iacob was plaine , and of demeanor milde , Not ranging much abroad , but kept his Tent : By nature meeke , and gentle as a childe , His time in frugall exercises spent . To him God did assigne prioritie , Eu'n in the wombe , before natiuitie . 79. As God decreed , all was by meanes effected , Gen. 25. 33. Heb. 12. 16. His birth-right Esau sleights , and sells for pottage : A man profane , not fit to be respected , That lou'd his belly more then 's heritage . 1. King . 21. What Naboths fathers left him by discent , To sell , or change , against his heart it went . 80. " And are not now some Esaues to be found , " Who to fill bellies , and bedeck their backs , " Sell ancient houses , implements , and ground " For belly-cheere , and idle apish knacks ? " Then Esau-like , turne home by Weeping-crosse , " And crie , Ill fortune caused all their losse . 81. When painefull Iacobs by their industrie , Reare vp a house , where they had none before : " God giues his blessing to frugalitie , " And brings a little , soone to ten times more . " It seldome failes but that a good mans paynes , " Is quit in th' end with credit , and with gaynes . 82. Gen. 25. 28. Iacob sate neerest in his mothers brest , Shee kept in minde what God to her fore-told : Assur'd shee was that Iacob should be blest , This made her on his part to be more bold . By her aduise , the blessing he did gayne , Heb. 12. 17. Which Esau weeping begg'd , but all in vayne . 83. Gen. 27. 6. When to her sonne , the matter first shee brake , Aduising him t'aduenture on the plot , Declares what Isa'k erst to Esau spake , Who with his bowe went forth to seeke a shot : He fear'd by such a trick to speede the worse , And draw vpon himselfe his fathers curse . 84. Be bold ( my sonne ) feare not at all , quoth shee , I 'll take thy curse , so thou my voyce obay : Goe quickly to the flock , bee rul'd by mee . He yeilds to her , and makes no longer stay , Two Kids he brought , where with shee made a messe , Which Isa'k eating , did the Bringer blesse . 85. Thus , in the person of his elder brother , ( The storie ought precisely to be noted . ) By listning to the counsaile of his mother , Like Esau , skinn'd : And with his garments , coated : This yonger sonne , obtayn'd the elders blessing . Wherein I plainely reade a double Lesson . 86. To Mother-Church , her Children should giue eare , In things which God instructs her must be done : Our elder brothers rayment we must weare , By no meanes else Gods blessing can be won . To Christ our Lord , this hath a full relation , Whose Iustice cloathing vs , we gayne saluation . 87. A Simile . A boy that once hath waded ouer shooes , And for his fault hath had a check , or threat : Runs further in , cares not how deepe he goes , Sith once for all , he knowes he shall be beat . Esau proceedeth hauing ill begonne , And shewes himselfe a more vnto ward sonne . 88. Gen. 26. 34. He weds with Gentiles 'gainst his parents will , It grieu'd them both vnto the very heart : Gen. 27 41. Then makes a vow , he would his brother kill , But wise Rebecca shunn'd it with her art . " It's good for sonnes , t' haue mothers on their side : " Few Families where that 's not verifi'de . 89. The Sacred Storie leades me next to sing , Of Iacobs iourney to a forrein Land : Gen. 27. 46. and 28. 1. His parents both were carefull of one thing , And strictly laid vpon him this command : Isaaks charge to his sonne Iacob . A Cananitish wife thou shalt not wed , Nor take a Heathen-fellow to thy bed . 90. Gen. 6. 2. ( Such matches long agone procur'd the Flood . ) Goe seeke a Mate among thy Mothers kin : God make thee fruitfull , blesse , and doe thee good . His iourney thereupon he did begin , Gen. 32. 10. Poore-pilgrim-like , with staffe and slender store : Himselfe auowes , he carried thence no more . 91. The promise of the Messias , renewed to Iacob . Gen. 28. God meetes him on his way , renewes againe That Great-free-Charter to his fathers giuen : Assures him that all feares and doubts were vaine , Shewes him a Ladder reaching vp to heauen , With Angels climbing vp , and downwards walking , Whil'st God to him , of blessed newes was talking . 92. Here th' holy Patriarke a vow did take , To worship God , and him for euer feare : This God , his sole Protector did he make , Begg'd of him bread to eate , and cloathes to weare . A simple almes , sought from the King of Kings : Court-beggers now , aske many richer things . 93. A Comparison . A Merchant bound vpon a great aduenter , For Countries farre remote , to him vnknowne , When as into the ship he first doth enter , In quest of forrein Lands , and leaues his owne : Sure of a skilfull Pilot at the Helme , Feares lesse , that Waues his Barke shall ouer-whelme . 94. So , Iacob guided by the worlds-wise-Maker , Wandring from Parents , and his natiue soyle : Is now become a ventrous vnder-taker , Walketh with courage bold , and feares no foyle : Lead on by him , who Abr'hams man did guide , A happy wise for Isa'k to prouide . 95. Gen. 24. & 29. Their meetings were much like , some ods in speeding , The seruant for his Lord , had quick dispatch : Poore Iacob bound apprentice to sheepe-feeding , And then by Laban cheated in his match . Yet God , to recompence that iniurie , By Leah most blest his posteritie . 96. Gen. 49. 8. Shee bare him Iudah , Lord of all the rest , Not so by birth-right , but by Benediction : From whom was to descend Messias blest , To consummate that oft-foretold prediction . The Scepter from that Tribe might not depart , Till Shiloh came , the Gentiles to conuert . 97. In God this holy Patriarke put his trust , Despaire did neuer harbour in his brest : Gen. 28. 14. God said , his seede numbred should passe earths dust , And that in it , all Nations should be blest . Yet was he not so mad , his God to tempt , As if from Natures lawes he were exempt . 98. Gen. 32. & 33. Reade ouer both these Chapters . His brother Esaus wrath he greatly fear'd , Strong were the motiues vrging him thereto : First , on his knees ( his hands to heau'n vp rear'd . ) He prayes : Then wisely plots what 's best to doe . His stratagems were full of policie , God wrought by them his free deliuerie . 99. A storie by way of comparison amplifying Iacobs pietie . I read of one who sayling in the Deepe , Tost with a tempest , readie to be drown'd : Vow'd to a Saint ( and there withall did weepe ) If he might shun Seas rage which on him frown'd ; To deck the shrine with costly ornaments , And doe deuotions with due complements . 100. The danger past , his foot once set on shore , Then laughs to heare himselfe the storie tell : He thinkes vpon the holy Saint no more , But sweares , on Seas hee 'll neuer after dwell . 〈◊〉 . 17. 12. 18. " In time of neede most men to God can crie , " Few yeild him thankes for their deliuerie . 101. This holy Father bore a better minde , No sooner from the danger was he free : Gen. 33. 20. But forth with he to worship God enclin'de , Erects an Altar to the Lord with glee . " Thankes for good-turnes receau'd , prepare a way , " For getting of the like another day . 102. Blessings pursue him still where he doth goe , Gen. 35. 10. The old confirm'd , with some encrease of newe : Iacob ( sayes God ) thou shalt be call'd no moe , Israel . Gen. 32. 28. But Prince of God , a Title to thee due . He sawe him face to face , stroue and preuayl'd , That style was to him and his seede entayl'd . 103. A Comparison . The Author of each good , and perfect gift , Though full of bountie and munificence : Like to a good housholder , learnes vs thrift , Directs how we our treasure should dispence . He giues not all to one , nor at one season , We must confesse he doth it with great reason . 104. " A filiall feare in faithfull men it breedes , Heb. 6. 19. " Sustayneth Hope , sure anchor of the soule : " Stirres vs to prayer in our greatest needes , " Repining and Impatience doth controule . " Man cloyd and glutted with prosperitie , " Declines to Pride , and grosse securitie . 105. From Paradise to Bethlem must I trace , The storie of the Womans Blessed Seede : Through Canaan my Muse hath run apace , And now makes-on for Egypt-Land with speede . There findes shee further proofe and euidence , Of Gods great goodnesse , and deepe prouidence . 106. Ioseph . Gen. 37. 3. Ioseph , his fathers best beloued sonne , ( For that selfe cause his brethren did him hate ) Is taught by dreames what after should be done , And sent before ( as Moses doth relate ) His Father and his Familie to cherish , Who else with famine had beene sure to perish . 107. Gen. 50. 20. " Men oft lay plots , and proiects doe propose " Of hatred , malice , pride , or auarice : " Yet God thereof doth otherwise dispose , " Proues them meere fooles , that thinke themselues most wise : " Exalteth him whom they seeke to throw downe , " And from the Dungeon lifts him to a Crowne . 108. Now Isr'el into Egypt comes in hast , There findes his once-lost-sonne in Princely grace : Gen. 45. 27. and 46. 30. His heart reuiues , to thinke of dangers past , Desires to die , when he had seene his face . Gen. 49. 8. Blessing his sonnes , he plainly prophecy'de From Iudahs line , Messias should proceede . 109. Good Ioseph likewise drawing neere his end , Instructed in the faith of his forefathers : Gen. 50. 24. To Iacobs God his soule doth recommend , From that Old-promise , strength of faith he gathers . Heb. 11 ●… . Which caus'd him of his bones to haue a care , And to that purpose made his brethren sweare . 110. Loe , many hundred yeeres were ouer-past , And sundrie changes 'mong the sonnes of Eue : Since shee of the forbidden fruit did tast , And that Soule-sauing-promise did receaue . In euery age some holy men were found , Whose faith stood fast , vpon that rockie ground . 111. Th' example of such men , ioyn'd with Gods Word , Messias figured . Might haue suffic'd for all posteritie : Yet God vouchsaft more motiues to afford , To strengthen Faith , quell Infidelitie . With types , and figures set before their eyes , He shadowed out his hidden mysteries . 112. To write of all the wonders wrought by God On Mizraims Race , and their hard-hearted King : The strange effects produc't by Arons rod , Ere they from thence the Israelites did bring , I leaue : and onely trace the storie on , As I at first propos'd to write vpon . 113. Moses a type of Christ . Their riddance from th' Egyptian slauish yoke , By Moses ( man of God ) a type of Chirst , Deut. 18. 15. Of whom prophetically he plainely spoke , Instructed by the Spirit of the High'st : Their plein-possession of the holy Land , Iosua . To them deliuer'd by Duke Iosuas hand . 114. Heb. 4. These taught them with the eyes of Faith to see , From spirituall Egypt their deliuerance , By him who should the Selfe-Messias bee , Inough to giue each good man full assurance , That th' onely Guide to the true Land of rest , Was Christ , in whom all Nations should be blest . 115. A two fold promise God did often make To Abraham : ( marke well the Historie . ) He ratify'de the same to Isaake , To Iacob eke , and his posteritie . First , that their seede should numberlesse encrease , And Canaans Land possesse in perfect peace . 116. Gen. 25. 20. It might haue seem'd a thing incredible , To aged men , whose wiues were barren both : This , once perform'd at full to Israel , Might easily confirme in them the troth Of that most Blessed-Seede ; which thing was next , As you may cleerely finde in th' holy Text. 117. The Passeouer . Exod. 12. The Passeouer , most plaine and liuely token , A perfect Lambe , a Male , vnblemished : It must be slaine , yet not a bone be broken : How fully was 't in Christ accomplished ? Vers. 13. That bloud kept them from Egypts plague , so this Saues vs from Hell , and gaynes vs Heauens blisse . 118. The Red Sea . ● . Cor. 10. 2. Their passage through the Sea , and in the Clowd , Our holy Sacrament doth shadow-out : It saued them , but soone the Waters flow'd , And choak't the proud vncircumcised rout . " What Moses did for them , Christ did the same , " For all that trust in him , and feare his Name . 119. A wonder most , among those wonders all , Past Reasons reach , and Natures lawes exceeding : Exod. 14. ●… Sea-waters to stand steadie like a wall , And leaue the Deepe as drie as grounds for feeding ▪ He onely that did Earth and Waters make , Could cause the Sea his dwelling to forsake . 120. From Egypt to the Desart we goe on . Of Pharaos Host the feare once ouer-past , The People fall away from God anon , Their confidence in him , declines in hast . His Promise old , they scarce beleeue for true , But that 't was oft confirm'd by tokens newe . 121. Long was it not , ere that stiffe-necked Nation , Forgat what wonders God for them had wrought : They murmured , and fell to alteration , Exod. 16. Grudging 'gainst Moses , bread and flesh they sought . In Egypts flesh-pots they tooke more content , Then in their freedome , and soules nourishment , 122. ( Liue there not now some murmurers , thinke yee , At Moses and at Aron close-repining : Who lightly touch't with sword , or penurie , Psal. 59. 14. Run vp and downe the streets like dogs a-whining , Not caring , so they haue their ease , and fill ; Let Church , and State and all goe which way 't will ! ) 123. God rayned Manna from his Throne aboue , Manna . Psal. 78. Exod. 26. 20. 17. He gaue them Bread , the blessed Angels food ▪ Yet they against his Ordinance still stroue , The vse of it , few rightly vnderstood . Ioh. 6. " A figure 't was of that true Bread indeed , " Whereon all faithfull soules deuoutly feed . 124. " To some , the more you giue , the more they 'll craue , So did this people in the Wildernesse : When they had Bread , then Water must they haue , Yet all would not content them nethelesse . The Rocke . There flowed store , forth gushing from the Rock , For them , their children , cattle , and their flock . 125. A type it was to strengthen their beliefe , Of that which often promis'd was before : Exod. 17. 7. 1. Cor. 10. 4. The place tooke name of chiding , and of strife , That Rocke , of Christ a true resemblance bore . From their distrust and infidelitie , God workes a meane for faith to fructifie . 126. Sinai . To Sinai holy Mauntayne are we come , A place of terror , dreadfull to behold : Who feares not , when he reades what there was done ? Or else by true relation heares it told ? Exod. 19. 12. and 20. 18. A man , or beast that toucht the Hill , must die : The people that beheld , began to flie . 127. " How dares a mortall then those Lawes neglect , " By God deliuer'd in that fearefull wise ? " Why are they not obseru'd with more respect ? " Is there no feare of God before mens eyes ? No hope of heauen , no regard of hell ? No diff'rence put'twixt doing ill , and well ? 128. " That sweet-soule-sauing-promise made long since , " Renewed oft , and often ratify'de : " Doth not with men by any meanes dispence , " But that to morall Lawes they still be ty'de . " What though we cannot all the Law fulfill ? " That Great-law-giuer doth accept good will . 129. Gel. 3. 24. Our weaknesse makes vs on the promise rest , And flie to him , who all the Law obay'd : Belecue , and fast , and pray , and doe thy best , Then need'st thou not be doubtfull or dismay'd . " Faiths obiect to th' old Iewes and vs , was one : " They hop't for him , whom we beleeue is come . 130. A Simile , or apt Comparison , of the Lawes Morall , and Ceremoniall . There was in elder times a mightie Prince , A sonne he had who 'gainst him did rebell : Him the old father , for that foule offence , From Court into a Desart did expell : Where long he liu'd in vncouth banishment , Vntill his fathers furie gan relent . 131. That King dwelt in a spacious goodly I le , A Countrey wondrous pleasant , rich and faire : Where Nature on her Creatures seemes to smile , The soile is fertile , healthfull is the aire . 'T is euer day there , all the monthes are Sommers , There 's roome enough , and spare too , for all commers . 132. All that liue there , are in degree of Kings , They feare no treason , nor conspiracie : Griefe , sorrow , sicknesse , death : why these are things Not knowne , nor spoken off in that Countrie . Purchas Pilgr●lib . 7. The famous Hill Amara , to this clime , Is but a muddie moore of dirt and slime . 133. The way was farre , the dangers manifold , With Rockes , and sandie shelues on euery shore : Yet he cheeres-vp his sonne , bids him be bold , When thou comm'st home , thou shalt goe thence no more . So ships him for his passage to this Land , Giues him a Chart , or Map in either hand . 134. The Morall Law . Sayes thus : My sonne , this Chart must be thy guide , And teach thee how thy course thou oughtest shape : Looke well vpon it , sayle on neither side , For if thou doe , be sure the Seas will gape , And sucke thee vp : therefore I say take heede , For iust as thou bee'st rul'd , so shalt thou speede . 135. The Ceremo●…ll Law . That Map , see in thy left hand still thou keepe , Though not of such esteeme as is the other : 'T is for thy vse , while thou sayl'st on the Deepe , Account of it as of a yonger brother . Marke well the sundrie figures there exprest , They 'll comfort thee , the greatest and the least . 136. These are true shadowes of reallities , Which in that happy place thou shalt enioy : When thou behold'st these pictures with thine eyes , Plucke vp thy heart , be of good cheere my boy : The substances thou shortly shalt attaine , Then vse this Map no more , 't will be in vaine . 137. So dealt great-heauens-King with Israel , Some Lawes he gaue them , neuer to be broken : Some seru'd for complement , to paralell True things , whereof those shadowes were a token : That when they had the things , the signes might cease , And freed from feare , possesse their soules in peace . 138. The Tabernacle . The Tabernacle , with its implements , And , that most holy place Sanctum Sanctorum , The vessells , tooles , and hallowed instruments , Exod. 26. Heb. ●… . 7 , 8 , 9 , and all that Epistle . Describ'd by Moses with diuine Decorum : Were types of better things thereby exprest , As we are taught by one who knew it best . 139. The holy Olle Exod. 30. & 40. What meant the holy Oile that Moses made , Wherewith Kings , Priests , and Prophets were anointed ? Of that Messias ointing 't was a shade , At those his threefold offices it pointed . Psal. 45. 8. and Heb. 1. 9. The Oile it selfe ( free grace of th' Holy Ghost ) Aboue the rest , was powred on him most . 140. Sacrifices . Heb. 10. 4. How could the bloud of Bulls , and Goates , and Calues , And such like outward rudiments as these , Be for sinne-wounded men , soule-curing salues , And serue the turne , Gods anger to appease ? " Soules stayn'd with sinne , such things could not cleanwipe , " But by assiance in the prototype . 141. Doubtlesse the Law of formall Iewish rites , To Christ , but chiefly to his Passion tended : Heb. 8. So true is 't ( as the great Apostle writes ) With him , and at his death they fully ended . Till then , they guided men him to expect , On whom all eyes of faith did still reflect . 142. One liuely type of Christ ( that blessed Seede , So often promised , and shadow'd-out , The mayne-source of my song . ) I plainely reade , And when I reade , am cleered of all doubt : As sure as I giue heede to th' holy Writ , So surely I beleeue the vse of it . 143. The brasen Scrpent . Numb . 21. ●… . The Brasen-Serpent , lifted vp on hie , Vpon a pole in all the peoples sight : It healed those that readie were to die , Whom fierie Serpents mortally did bite . Iob. 3. 14. The meaning of this place himselfe expounded , On whom that , and all th' other types were grounded . 144. Who feeles the sting of that slie Serpent old , Desires a salue that poyson to expell : This brasen Serpent with faiths eyes behold , Thou hast no neede to doubt of doing well . The type fail'd not the Isra'lites to cure , The thing it selfe , brings with it helpe more sure . 145. Ietusalem . Psal. 48. Iudg. 1. 8. 2. Sam. 5. Ierusalem , earths ioy , that peacefull seat , By Iudahs Tribe ( from whom Messias came ) First won : by Dauid next , who waxed great , Of Iewish worthies most in pow'r , and fame . Gal. 4 26. This Citie was the shadow of another , Of all Gods faithfull Children , the true Mother . 146. King Dauid . Psal. 22. 89. 110. 118 , &c. Matth. 1. and Luc. 3. Her King a Priest , a Prophet most diuine , True type of Christ ( his Psalmes so often sing ) Whose pedigree runs from that Royall line , By Law and Nature Israels rightfull King . What th' one did figure-out , th' other fulfill'd , So teach great Clerkes , in holy Writ best skill'd . 147. A man that had beene present in the place , What time our Lord his Passion did endure , And seene things acted iust before his face , Could not haue spoke more plainly , nor more sure : Psal. 22. & 69. That they should giue him vineger and gall , His garments part , take 's coate as lot did fall . 148. This Kingly-Priestly-Prophet once againe , 2. Sam. 8. Receau'd th' assurance of that promise old : Eccles. 47. 13. Though Solomon his honour soone did staine , With filthy Idols : yet one may be bold 2. Sam. 7. 14. To hope the best , that with milde chastisement , God wrought in him a full amendement . 149. Dauid , Manasses . Sain● Peter , Sa●nt Paul , &c. Matth. 26. 56. ( Haue not the best of men beene ouer-taken , With like offences to their great disgrace ? Th' Apostles all , was not their faith sore shaken , When they forsooke Christ in his hardest case ? It proues the Church hath need of Christ his ayde , Whil'st with mortalitie shee is array'de . ) 150. Solomon . This Solomon , the most magnificent , The richest of all Kings that reign'd before , 2. Sam. 12. 24. Beloued of the Lord Omnipotent : As did his Sire , himselfe like Image bore . Psal. 45. & 72. and Cant. throughout . By him and his great state , were plainely meant , Christ and his Church ; which they did represent . 151. Hiram . 1. King . 5. To him the Tirian Hiram , Gentile King , For building that faire Temple of the Lord ; Of Firre and Cedar●ees great store did bring , They made a friendly league with one accord . A signe , that Iewes and Gentiles both should meet , To build the Church with loue , and concord sweet . 152. 2. Sam. 7. 23. Was 't euer read , or heard that any Nation Were so instructed , guided , and directed By God himselfe ? Sure none since the Creation : Yet neuer men , so much his Lawes neglected . Wer 't not recorded in the holy Writ , ( So strange it is ) no man would credit it . 153. Exod. 32. 10. 13. Had it not beene of Gods aboundant grace , His Cou'nant and his Promise often made : He needes must haue consum'd that wicked Race , Who of transgressing , seem'd to make a Trade . Their Faith was faultie , and their Manners worse ; Dent. 28. Both which are threatned with a heauie curse . 154. What though they did possesse the promis'd Land ? Dwelt at Ierusalem , that holy Citie ? Had Gods faire sacred Temple neere at hand ? They fell from God , to Idolls : ( was 't not pitie ? ) Despis'd those Lawes diuine , most iust and right , Which Moses gane , and God himselfe did writ . 155. 〈◊〉 . ● . O Israelites , hard-hearted , Beetle-blinde , That cannot see , or seeing will not see ! O Nation of all Nations most vnkinde , A mirrour of grosse Infidelitie ! The things which for your good were first deuis'd , By you are most , of all men else , despis'd . 156. " Who now may stand vpon forefathers right ? " Or boast of their discent from holiest Saints ? " Or who may pleade prescription in Gods sight , " Whom foule defection in their faith once taints ? " I finde no warrant to oblige Gods grace , " To any Countrey , Person , Time , or Place . 157. That mightie Monarch , Earths and Heauens Lord , To whom all Monarkes else are Wormes , and Ants : Vouchsaf't himselfe to speake that gracious word , Not vsing Heraulds-helpe , nor Purseuants . He told those Kings , and those good Patriarks , What after wards was taught by Scribes and Clarks . 158. M●ssias prophecied . Heb. 1. By Messengers hence forth he tells his minde , Oft puts his people in remembrance : Who else were most forgetfull , and most blinde , Securely liu'd , setled with ignorance . 'Mongst all their Kings , searce one of ten is found , Whose life was godly , and his faith right sound . 159. They thought , sith they had Abr'ham to their father , It was enough to get his heritage : His Faith and Workes they should haue follow'd rather , Things sleighted then , as they are in this age . Such sonnes , that holy Father hath great plentie : True Abrahamites , as then , so now are daintie . 160. Now must we marke how in the times succeeding , God taught and school'd those people so vntoward : Their state declin'd , Religion lay a bleeding , The men were most stiffe-necked , stubborne , sroward . One meane would not suffice , all to amend : He vsed many , tending to one end . 161. A Comparison . Much like a great Commander in the warres , Who rules an Host compos'd of sundrie Nations : Some prone to mutines , quarrels , strise , and jarres , Some giu'n to sloth , and idle recreations : Some coward-cranes , when they should march to fight , Bethinke them of the readiest way for flight . 162. Some others , like good men at armes in deed , Performe all duties with their vtmost pow'rs : Still prest to helpe their Captayne at his need , Stand Centinels at pointed place , and how'rs : By wise forecast , and warlike policie , Deales not alike with all this companie . 163. One sort with gifts , and faire rewards he bindes , With martiall rigour others doth correct : By promises to some , he sounds their mindes , Some he casseers , and wholly doth reiect : And thus by skilfull warlike discipline , Effects with good successe his full designe . 164. So the grent Lord of Hosts with Israel deales , A people hard to rule , as euer any : His will to them , by Prophets he reueales , Some by sharpe stripes , by promises winnes many : By threatnings often he affrights the rest , With blessings manifold rewards the best . 165. The Prophets . Pervse the sacred Volumes of Records , Writ by those holy Pen-men , heauenly Scribes Aboundant proofe , each one of them affords , Of Gods proceeding with the Iewish Tribes . And all , to make them of that Promise , Heires ; Seal'd to the holy Patriarks , and theirs . 166. Ier. 25. & 15. & 50. &c. One Prophet daunts them with captiuitie , Heart-pining famine , sword and pestilence : Then comforts them with their deliuerie , Threats to their foes a heauie recompence . Thus with sharpe pills halfe dead , he them reuiues , Renewes their strength with sweet restoratiues . 167. Esay 47. Ez● . 30. Amo● 1. Another , to deterre them from their sinnes , And fright them by their neighbours punishment : With threats and plagues on Heathen folke beginnes , Thereby to cause the Isralites relent . The mildest way of fatherly correction , For drawing stubborne sonnes to due subiection . 168. A Simile . Thus deale fond mothers with their wanton boyes , Who in their hearts possesse the neerest place : Alluring them oft-times with pleasing toyes , Some whiles they 'll whip a slaue , or vassall base , For childrens faults : Or beat the clothes they weare , And by such fetches , keepe them in some feare . 169. God , euer mindfull of his Couenant , And that Good promise made , eft-soones renew'd To Abraham his friend , and faithfull seruant , And others in the ages that ensu'de : By Prophets still pursues his first intent , Assures them that Messias shall be sent . 170. Iob. 4. 25. All faithfull Men and Women 'mongst the Iewes , Held constantly that ground-worke of their Creede : The Fathers told their Children this good newes , Taught them the Promise of that Blessed Seede . Yet all points , in each age , not fully showne , Some mysteries were by degrees made knowne . 171. Great things and many are of him foretold , Some of his Birth , his Life , his Gouernment : His Passion and his Suffrings manifold , Yet all agree with vniforme consent . One vtters plainely what in darker speech , Another in selfe-sense doth elsewhere teach . 172. Messias birth prophesied . His Birth , a thing that farre exceedes beliefe , Were faith to Natures lawes , and reason bound : It was foretold in wordes most plaine and briefe , The speech by fact full true long after found : That of a Virgin pure immaculate , Es. 7. 14. He should be borne . ( Was neuer birth like that ! ) 173. His name Immanuel . His Name more wonderfull then was his Birth , A mysterie of mysteries contayn'd : Immanuel , as much as Heauen on Earth , Or God with vs : ( The sense neede not be strayn'd . ) Notes both his Natures , humane and diuine , Which one selfe Person strangely should combine . 174. Isaiah . Thou holy man of God , aboue all other , Who things to come , most plainly didst foresee : How could'st thou say , a Maide should be a Mother , And couple childe-birth with Virginitie ! Onely this childe of whom thou dost foretell , Instructed thee to speake the truth so well . 175. These secrets deepe , ere thou didst them reueale , ( For neuer doe I finde them told before ) It seemes were not yet know'n in Israel : Once publisht , were beleeued more and more . Though long vntill the thing was full effected , The prophecie no good man yet neglected . 176. And sith Messias was by birth a King , From Iudah rightly drawing his discent : Mal. 3. of Iohn Baptist , the Harbinger of Messias . Sith he to Israel great ioy should bring ; An Harbinger before him must be sent , ( As Princes vse ) his comming to declare , And for his Person , passage to prepare . 177. Es. 11. 6. and 65. 25. The manner how this Royall childe should come , Was fully seene by them who thereof write : The manner of his comming . Not Souldier-like , with Trumpet , Fife , and Drum , Or armed troupes , to skirmish for his right . Then 't was foreshow'n , that bloudie waues should cease , And Nations all securely liue in peace . 178. Not in a rich triumphall Charet set , Nor mounted on a stately barbed Steede : No Lordlings great , nor Captaynes with him met , To guard his person ( such he did not neede . ) Z●…h . 9. 9. 10. In lowely wise he on an Asse must ride ; Iusti●e and Peace way●ing on either side . 179. The Place Mic● . 〈◊〉 . The Place likewise in which he should be bore , ( A circumstance 'mongst others to be heeded . ) Precisely named by one Prophet more , Who told it as in after-times succeeded . " ( All true Relations soundly 'gree together , " Of falsities th' one jumps iust right with neither . ) 180. The Time . Dān. 7. & 9 and 12. A scantling of the Time by some is taken , Yet sealed vp , and hid from vulgar eyes : When Isr'els state lyes waste , and all-to-shaken , Depriued of the daily sacrifice : Ere long must come that Ancient of dayes , Messias hight ; who Dauids Throne shall rayse . 181. Ionah . Yet one , to shew what after should betyde , Is swallowed by a Fish within the Deepe : Three dayes shut vp in it he did abyde , So long our Lord , within his graue must sleepe . That , cast on Land , his errand did fulfill : This , rising vp , perform'd his Fathers will . 182. Es. 9. 〈◊〉 . O wondrous Childe , great God , the Prince of peace , Mayne subiect of all holy prophecies : Mi●… . 4. Who may relate thy Kingdomes great encrease , Thy Churches glorie 'mong posterities ! ●s . 54. All Gentiles with the Iewes shall thither flie , Both ioyne to make vp one fraternitie . 183. By thee , that glorious building must be rays'd , Es. 28. 16. Thou Master-builder , and chiefe corner stone : Thy Name among the Saints be euer prays'd , All laud and honor bee to thee alone . Es. 34. 23. Thou onely Shephard of thy chosen flock , And of that house , the sure-foundation-rock . 184. Num. 23. 10. Who may recount the dust of Iacobs seede , Or number-vp one quarter of that trayne , Whereof in sacred Historie we reade , Es. 60. 4. Psal. 72. 10. That shall resort , and thither flock amayne ! When Kings shall bring their treasure vnto thee , Es. 49. 23. And Queenes make sute , thy Nurses for to bee ▪ 185. Es. 55. 〈◊〉 . Come , come all people to this heauenly Court , Come rest your selues vpon this holy Mount : Come drinke sweet Waters and pay nothing for 't , Come take rich treasures , yeilding no account . Why come you not , when such a King doth call , Who hath enough to giue content to all ? 186. Psal. 45. 13. Here reignes a Queene all glorious within , With costly Robes , and Iewells richly drest : Her beautie each beholders heart doth win , Come wait on her , enioy sweet ease , and rest . Why will yee dwell in Dennes , and sluttish Caues ? You may be free , why will you then be slaues ? 187. Be thou into this seruice once retayn'd , Thy name within the houshold-booke enroll'd : When thou the badge and cognisance hast gayn'd ; Wisd. 5 Keepe th' orders of the Court : And then be bold , For , whom this King so specially selects , Those men he neuer afterward reiects . 188. Es. 49. 15. What mother can forget her o●…ely childe , The birth conceau'd , and bred vp in her wombe ? And though shee should 'gainst nature wax so wilde , As wish earths-bowells did her birth entombe : Yet heauens Father deales not so with those , Whom for adopted sonnes he once doth chose . 189. Ier. 31. 35. " First shall the Sunne forbeare to giue his light , " And Seas forsake the bounds to them assign'd : " The Moone and Starres shall shine no more by night , " All Creatures else , turne-head against their kind : " Ere he his chosen heritage forsake , " And breake the Cou'nant , which he once did make . 190. Who can instruct all this faire companie , Attendants on so great a King of state ? Teach them their points of true Nobilitie , And make them meete , on such a Prince to waite ? Ier. 31. 33. 34. No man shall neede aske questions of his brother , Nor one giue rules of Courtship to another . 191. The King himselfe shall shew to them his will , And print his Lawes so firmely in their heart ; The youngest there , may soone attayne the skill To doe his dutie , and performe his part : With due deuoire to serue his Soueraigne , And loue among his fellowes to maintaine . 192. A description of Enuie . " Enuie , that foule disease , that fretting canker , " That breakes the gall , and gnawes the very bones , " Makes fat-backs soone grow slender , leane and lanker , " Dwells mostly in the hearts of greatest Ones : Knowes not the way to come within this gate , Each one here , as himselfe , so loues his Mate . 193. Ambition , pride , selfe-loue , the common crimes , That in great Princes Courts too much abound : Smooth tongues , and hollow hearts , which in these times , In Countrey , Court , and Citie , rife are found ; Be farre exiled from this blessed place , Such persons here , are euer in disgrace . 194. The blessednes of the old I●wes . O happy people , seede of Israel , To you and yours the Promise first was giuen : You onely in this house of God might dwell , Act. 2. 39. You onely knew the way , that lead to Heauen . To you those liuely Oracles were sent , No Nation but your selues , knew what they meant . 195. Rom. 9. 5. Yours were the Fathers whence Messias came , A daughter of your owne , must be his mother : Yours were the Prophets that foretold the same , Matth. 12. 46. You had the priuiledge , to call him brother . By Sara you were Heires to Abraham , For you did Moses kill that Paschall Lambe . 196. The Morall and the Ceremoniall Lawe , For your instruction at the first were writ : The one to hold you in a filiall awe , Deut. 5. 33. Ezec. 20. 11. 21. & Deut. 27. 26. & 30. 18. Of him who with his finger penned it . " Who so fulfills the same , shall liue thereby : " Transgressors are accurs't , and doom'd to die . 197. Th' other by figures , types , and ceremonies , By sacrifices alwayes dip't in blood : Did represent Messias to your eyes , By those , his Passion might be vnderstood . Your Prophets all , on him did fixe their hope , To guide you vnto him , was all their scope . 198. Then , as you are the true Heires by discent , And haue the start by Primogeniture ; Aduize what was the purpose and intent Of Moses , and all other holy Scripture ; Be readie when he comes , him to receaue : With doting dreames , doe not your selues deceaue . 199. The tokens all , that should his Birth fore-goe , Those haue you seene , in order verifi'd : With inward ioy your hearts should ouer-flowe , Be not with wordly scandalls scarifi'd . He is your King ( that iustly is his Name ) Count not his Crosse , and Suffrings for your shame . 200. Frame not a King within your idle braine , Such one as Moses neuer told you off : Thinke not the holy prophecies were vaine , Of him whom they describe , make not a scoff . The time drawes neere , when he himselfe shall show , By that which hath beene said , you may him know . 201. Here leaue I now these Isra'lites awhile , And hasten forward towards Bethlehem : Poetick license , must your thoughts beguile : Conceaue we iourney from Ierusalem . To see that Virgin-Mother , blessed Dame , Es. 7. 14. Her sonne whom shee Immanuel should name . 202. Godfrey . Ann● 1099. hist. Tur● , A Comparison . An Armie marching vnder Christ his Banner , From Infidels to winne the holy Citie : At first sight of the Towne , in humble manner Fell prostrate on the ground , and morn'd for pitie , To thinke that place by Caytiffs should be kept , Partly for griefe , partly for ioy they wept . 203. What true Beleeuer can his passions hide ; With-hold his eyes from shedding teares of mirth , Luc. 2. 11. When he that Towne of Dauid shall haue spi'de , Thinke on that Blessed Childe his wondrous birth , Which had God for his Father , and none other : A Virgin pure and spotlesse to his Mother ? 204. My heart ( me thinkes ) within my body skips , With ioy my senses neere themselues haue lost : My tongue cannot be kept within the lips , My feet are swift , to beare me there in post . Heart , Senses , Tongue and Feet striue altogether , Which best shall doe their due , when they come thither . 205. A Simile . A Pilgrim iournying in a forrein Land , Vnexpert in the way where he must goe : Seekes out some Guide , to leade him by the hand , Least in the Wildes he wander to and fro . Thus safely comes he to his iourneyes end , Then thankes the Guide , esteemes him for his friend . 206. Loe I poore Pilgrim dull , ignorant , halfe-blinde , Deuoutly bent vpon this pilgrimage : Met many Guides all skilfull , faithfull , kinde , I put my selfe into their patronage : They set me neere the Subvrbs of the Towne , I humbly thanked them . Then kneeling downe , 207. The Authors prayer . Great God ( quoth I ) Protector of the Iust , The Guide of faithfull , meeke , and humble men : Who neuer faylest them that in thee trust , Who see'st the heart , the inward thoughts dost ken : Selfe-wise-conceited-Doctors dost besot , And cause them speake oft-times they know not what . 208. By Babes and Infants soundest out thy prayse , Enablest them to speake of mysteries : To sing such secrets with soule-soothing layes , As thou hast hid from worldly-wizards eyes . Thou know'st what mou'd me to this holy taske , Thou art not blear'd with vizard , or with maske . 209. First , pardon for my boldnesse I desire , Yeild humble thankes for ayde alreadie giuen : A further boone , lowe kneeling I require , Show me the path that leades direct and euen , To bring me safely to my iourneyes end , And gayne the Goale , whereto my Muse doth tend ▪ 210. So here I vow , in singlenesse of heart , ( Sith better gifts to offer I haue none ) Matth. 2. 1. and looke Class . 2. Stan. 77. With those three pious Kings to beare a part ; And , most vnworthy , yet I 'll make vp one . My selfe and all I haue , I dedicate To thee , whose sacred storie I relate . 211. Thy Blessed Mother with due reuerence , I 'll honour still : ( Shee doth expect no more . ) Thee , thee I make my Patron and defence , Thy Precepts all , because I cannot keepe , I 'll rest on Grace , and for my sinnes I 'll weepe . The end of the first Classis .

DIVINE POEMS . The second Classis . THE ARGVMENT . Messias Birth fore-showne first to his Mother , A Virgin pure both in , and after childing : To Ioseph afterwards , and to some other . Sheep-keeping prays'd , a life contentment yeilding . The worth and use of noble Heraldrie A short defence of Sacred Poesie . A Simile , se●ting out the obscuritie tha● was of Messia● comming , in the times next preceding his birth . OFt haue I trauail'd in a winters night , Wherein Dame Phoebe neuer shew'd her face : The lesser sparkling fiers gaue some light , By which ( with heed ) my iourney I might trace . I still expected when the day would peere , And faire Aurora shew her count'nance cleere . 2. As shee began to rayse her selfe from bed , The Vshers making way for her approach : Bright Phoebus haft'ning to thrust out his head , And day all prest , in sisters roome t' encroach : Beset me round , and dim'd mine eyes much more . 3. Till Titan rowsed with that bold affront , His Princely-palace-gates thrust ope in hast , Calls for his Charret , swiftly mounts vpon 't , His sight these gloomie shades full quickly chas't . By helpe of whose resplendent glorious rayes , All trauailers might well discerne their wayes . 4. Wisd. 5. 6. Reuel. 22. 16. & Num. 24. 17. So , neere before this Sunne of Righteousnesse , Bright-morning-starre rose vp , the worlds true light : Egyptian darknesse did mens hearts possesse , The prophecies lay hid , as with darke night . An argument , Messias birth drew neere , Whose comming should all doubtfull scruples cleere . 5. The Authors prayer to be enlightned by the true Light of Lights . Great Light of Lights , selfe-light , whose glorious beames , Lend lustre to all lesser lights besides , When on their Orbes his glitt'ring rayes he streames , Stella est densior p●rs sui Orbic . A glimpse whereof on their thick-stuffe abides : Whereby of borrowed light they get a share , Which in themselues obscure , and darksome are . 6. Refine the Orbe of my grosse muddie braine , So cleere it with thy all-enlightning splendor : That thereby some small insight I may gaine , Some sparke of heauenly Light it may ingender : Which set vpon a candle-stick , may shine , Guide many hearts to thee , as well as mine . 7. The Glorious Father , Lord , and King of Kings , Who Heauen and Earth , and all therein created : Ere he his sonne into this Mansion brings , Resolues , the matter should be first related , To persons , and by meanes , as he decreed : Of Counsellors therein he had no need . 8. The blessed Virgin . Luc. 1. 26. With her who was to be the blessed Mother , He first beginnes ( so goes the sacred Storie . ) Shee heard that happy newes before all other , Such was his will , to tender her that glorie . The Angelicall salutation . An Angell hayles her , Marie full of grace , Blessed art thou aboue all Womens race . 9. No maruaile , if at first shee stood amaz'd , And muzed what the Salutation meant : But when the Angell had his message blaz'd , And told the errand , whereon he was sent ; Shee shooke of feare , and doubt ; full satisfi'd By faith , in that which th' Angell propheci'd . 10. Her question proceed●th not ou● of distrust . Thinke not the blessed Virgin did distrust , In asking how that wonder might be done : To be resolu'd at full shee had a lust , How shee without mans helpe , should beare a sonne . The question issued not from vnbeliefe , Her absolute assent , was quicke and briefe . 11. A Comparison . A mother when shee heares a sure narration , Of some great honour hap'ned to her child : Tickled with ioy , shee prayes a fresh relation , And yet when shee within her selfe smil'd , As if shee had forgotten what was said , To heare the newes once more , shee 's well apaid . 12. Some , out of weake beliefe such questions make , As Moses when the people cry'd for meate : Num. 11. 21. Though God himselfe the taske did vndertake , To giue them flesh , thei● bellies full to eate : How may sixe hundred thousand men ( said hee ) Suffic'd with flesh , here in this Desert bee ? 13. Such was the fickle faith of Zacharie , Luc. 1. 18. Who to the Angels word gaue small beliefe Ioh. 3. 4. 9. And Nicodemus was as weake as hee , Albe it a Pharise among the chiefe . Through weaknesse these cast doubts , how that might bee , The meanes whereof , they did not plainly see . 14. Some others , of meere incredulitie , Much like brute beasts , leane wholly to their sense : They 'll credit nought , but what doth full agree With Natures lawes , fits their intelligence . 〈◊〉 King . 7. Such was that Prince to whom Elisha spake , Who of his wordes , a small account did make . 15. Some others all as bad , or rather worse , Aske questions in dirision , and scorne : Ioh. 18. 38. As Pilate , when with him Christ did discourse , Made manifest the cause why he was borne , Told him the Truth . What thing is Truth ( quoth hee ) As who should say , I know 't as well as thee . 16. Her diuine song Magnificat . Luc. 1. 46. The Virgin quickly fell to her deuotions , And fram'd a dittie hight Magnificat : Where shee expresseth sundrie heauenly motions , Neuer sang Maide so sweet a song as that . With heart and soule in God shee did reioyce , Who had vouchsaft , of her to make his choice . 17. To speake of euery point , would be too long , One clause that fits my Theame , I must obserue : How , to shut-vp her soule-delighting-song , From ancient Hebrewes vse , shee doth not swerue ; But sticks to Abr'ham , and that promise old , Her faith in that , caus'd her to be more bold . 18. Ioseph . Matth. 1. 19. From Iosephs eyes the thing awhile was hid , Espoused they had beene , not fully wedded : He muz'd how of his Mate he mought be rid , When bigge he found her , neuer by him bedded . Then in a dreame , God shewes him what was done , And that Worlds-Sauiour-Iesus was her sonne . 19. The man obedient to this heauenly vision , Ioyous ( no doubt ) and with the newes well pleas'd . Embrac't his wife , repented his misprision , In heart and soule much comforted and eas'd , He tooke her home , and knew her not before , Mat●… . 1. 25. Nor , Till , her first begotten sonne shee bore . 20. Questions about the blessed Vir●ins perpetuall Virginitie . Here busie heads some doubts and scruples raise , Mongst sober Christians well to be forborne : Yet sith they oft be argued in these daies , I 'll say my minde : ( whereto I durst be sworne ) As shee our Lord did beare , a Virgin pure ; So all her life ( say I ) shee did endure . 21. Obiections , or Cauills . Though Iesus styled be her first-borne sonne , It argues not that shee should beare another : Heb. 1. 6. For Christ is nam'd , Gods first begotten sonne , Yet , in that sense , he neuer had a brother . Ioh. 1. 14. We are Gods children by adoption , He onely is by birth , and by conception . 22. Vntill ( say some ) an after-time implyes , Plaine pointed at , when Ioseph should her knowe : That word ( with them ) their fancie verifyes , Then huddle-vp a few coniectures moe : Matth. 2. 14 & Luc. 2. 51. They dwelt together , iourney'd here and there , In all respects , as man and wife they were . 23. Answere to the Cauills . Coniectures bare , the question to decide ; This word Vntill , a diuerse sense admits : Most times in Scripture , makes on th' other side , Neuer at all , with that word often fits . When Samuel came no more to visit Saul , 1. S●m. 15. 35. Till death : it 's meant , he sawe him not at all . 24. Matth. 5. 18. 26. and oft elsewhere . Of such like phrases holy Writ hath store , Which rather cleere the case , then leaue a doubt : What though one Mansion held them ? At one doore Did enter in , and at one doore went out . These were no blots to her Virginitie , Whose soule was wedded to Diuinitie . 25. This may inferre , shee liu'd not in a Cell , A Recluse mew'd vp from societie : Her vertues rare , had not appear'd so well , Had shee refrayn'd her selfe from companie . Matth. 5. 16. " The liues of holy Christians ought to shine , " And giue a lustre in their Neighbours eyne . 26. How could it be , that one in such great grace Luc. 1. 28. 35. With God , o're-shadow'd by the holy Ghost , For any carnall thought should leaue a place , Within her brest ? Nay , he that lou'd her most , A man iust , holy , would not so abase her , As with a fleshly thought , once to embrace her . 27. Another Ob●…ction answered . They vrge , and aske : Why was shee then a wife ? ( On reasons Base , these Builders ground their creede . ) Loe , Reason shall yee haue to end the strife , Though for my part , I hold it more then neede . To honour Marriage , and Virginitie , Fit was it Shee both Wife , and Maide should bee . 28. Matth. 1. 19. To shun the scandall of the common Crue , Enclined to reprochfull obloquie , Before her spotlesse innocence prou'd true , Shee had stood subiect to their curtesie . God was not pleas'd , all men at first should know , What he to Ioseph in a dreame did show . 29. Reflect your eyes vpon our Grandame Eue , Bethinke you of her fault in Paradise : When her the subtill Serpent did deceaue , To eate the fruit forbidden , did entice . Ge● . 3. 15. No●e 〈◊〉 Marke punctually what in the Text yee reade , The Promise was , vnto the Womans Seede : 30. Not to the Man . Of him there is no speach : Now see how God , precisely kept his Word : We must beleeue , as holy Scriptures teach , Man had no part in getting Christ our Lord . The holy Ghost supply'de the Husbands steed : There 's no immediate mixture of mans seed . 31. Matth. 26. 69. When Peter once his Master had deny'd , Proceeding on , he made the matter worse : His errour with an oath he ratifi'd , And lastly he began to sweare , and curse . Iob. 21. 15. Thrice after , he confest , was lou'd the more . Settled in state of grace , iust as before . 32. In such like sort God with poore Eua deales , To comfort her , and keepe out sad despaire : The purpose of his grace he straight reueales , And made a promise of that Blessed Heire , Which he performed many Ages after , To this pure Virgin , Eua's blessed Daughter . 33. Elizabeth . The next ( I note ) to whom it was reueal'd , Who spake distinctly of that true Messias ; Luc. 1. 41. Elizabeth . Had shee the thing conceal'd , Yet in her wombe , there leapt a young Elias : He to his Mother gaue full euidence , Of that which soone prou'd true b'experience . 34. Shee prophecy'd as plaine as any other , Vers. 42. Possessed wholly by the holy Ghost : How is it that my blessed Sauiours Mother , Vochsafes to visit me in this hill coast ? Among our female Sexe , none blest like thee , Yet shall thy birth it selfe , more blessed bee . 35. Zacharie . Luc. 1. 67. But , holy man of God , good Zacharie , More fully shewes what shortly should be done Inspired with the Spirit of prophecie , ( As all old Prophets since the world begunne ) Lookes backe vnto that ancient Couenant , First made to Abraham Gods faithfull seruant 36. His song called Benedictus . Luc. 1. 68. He frames a most diuine Propheticke song , By name of Benedictus know'n to all : Aduize and marke it well ( it is not long ) Full fraught with passages Celestiall , Of Christ , that sonne of Dauid oft foretold , The source and subiect of all Prophets old 37. Wherein is described out . Sa●…cur Christ . Describes him to descend of Dauids line , A Prince to saue them from their Enemie , According to predictions diuine , Gods oath to Abraham , and his Progenie : To th' end they might liue holily and iust , Vpon this Sauiour , fixe their onely trust . 38. And Saint Iohn the Baptist . And thou my Childe that art so strangely bore , The Prophet of the Highest is thy Name : His Herault thou must be to runne before , Mens hearts vnto obedience to frame : To leade them out of darknesse into light , And guide them in the way of peace aright . 39. What wondrous heauenly passages are these ? Who euer read such strange euents before ? A feare on all the hearers hearts 'gan seaze : Yet listen a whiles , you shall heare more . We hasten to the birth of Israels Prince , The like was not before , nor euer since . 40. Against profane and superstidous casting of Natiuities . Note here , no tache of Heathenish superstition , No calculating of Natiuities : ( A crime too rife 'mongst men of high condition ) But free assent to sacred Prophecies , Fast-grounded faith on Gods old Word of grace , Which in all faithfull hearts still held a place . 41. Now seemes the season fit to sing of Feasts , Mark . 6. 21. ( At Princes births much vs'd ) and costly iunkets : Resort of Ladies , Lords , and princely ghests , To spend the time in sports , and sumptuous bankets : A chamber furnisht with rich chaires of state , And all things sitting such a royall Mate . 42. For Seruitors , a goodly spacious Hall , To hold the houshold folke , and common stranger . Loe , here the Childing chamber was a Stall , The Cradle for this Prince , was but a Manger . Humilitie attended at his birth , It neuer left him whilst he liu'd on earth . 43. Some Hagarens ( no doubt ) did laugh and scorne , And mocked at this King of Israel , Whom they perceau'd in such meane manner borne : As did that base-broode fleshly Ishmael , Gen. 21. 9. At Sarahs happy sonne : So th' ●shmalites Now scorne , hate , persecute true Abramites . 44. Herewith good Christians are not scandaliz'd It rather giues them cause of inward mirth : Es. 4● . Sith in the Sacred Writ 't is oft compris'd , That such should be the manner of his birth . Matth. 18. 1. " So , we by his example may be humbled , " And learne , that proud men shall to hell be tumbled . 45. Of this one Point a Volume might be writ , My Muse cannot endure prolixitie : Shee hastens to some other things more fit , Which sute with th' order of the Historie : Her Theame , a world of Matter doth afford , A Dittie might be fram'd on euery word . 46. Though outward pompe , and maiestie here wanted , Wherewith great earthly Princes Courts doe shine : In heauenly state this Lady was not scanted , Her ornaments , and Waiters were diuine . As was the King , such were his Courtiers all ; The eyes of Faith , see them maiesticall . 47. 2. King . 〈◊〉 . 16. So then , this Queene was neuer left alone , Elisha and his man were not so warded ; An Host of Angels round about her shone , With those her Sonne , her Selfe , her Court were guarded . No treason could be plotted or begun , But sooner 't was disclos'd , then thought vpon . 48. A Comparison . When Henries Mate , of Yorke the lawfull Heire , Her siluer-white Rose , with his red entwin'd , Of English King and Queene the blessed Paire , By whom two Royall houses were combin'd , And shee deliuer'd of a goodly Boy : Who could expresse the height of Englands ioy ? 49. The newes forthwith by Heraulds skill was blaz'd , The Trumpets shrill in euery street did sound : The vulgar sort with mirth were halfe amaz'd , The Court with wreaths of Oliue decked round : Faire Albions Ile was neuer so much blest , From ciuill broiles , endow'd with peace and rest . 50. By this my simple-sample ( 't is no more Compared with the birth of Israels King ) Note in what wretched state men stood before , Till he true peace into the world did bring . Vnion of Iewes and Gentiles by Christ . Ephes. 2. 14. Of Nations twaine , vnited he made one : Sole Monarch rules them both , himselfe alone . 51. This ioyfull newes 't was meet should be made knowne , Swift Messengers were soone dispatcht away , Luc. 2. 8. &c By them we read the tidings first was showne , Eu'n instantly before the breake of day , To Shepherds , who by night did watch and keepe , From rauening Woolues , their tender flocks of Sheepe . 52. Here 's due decorum kept . Poore silly Swaynes , First made pertakers of this happy newes : Vers. 13. An Angell wayted-on with heauenly Traynes , Tells this glad tidings , to some shepherd Iewes . Great Lordlings of the Land , as yet neglected : And simple Shepherds , they were first selected . 53. " Gods wisedome suites not with mans worldly wit , " Their counsails be but shallow , his are deepe : " What euer he decrees , he acteth it , " His eye of prouidence doth neuer sleepe . 1. Cor. 1. 27. " By things in nature simple , base , and weake , " The mightiest he throwes downe , their pow'r doth breake . 54. Thou tyrant Pharao , swell vntill thou burst , ● . King . 18. Senacherib , raile on the liuing Lord : Iudg. 13. 6. Proud Holofernes vaunt thee , doe thy worst , A woman pares thy head , with thy owne sword . The other twaine that trusted in their might , Without or speare , or sword , were put to flight . 55. Matth. 23. 12. " Be humble then before the King of heauen , " That 's th' onely way to sit sure , and mount higher : " Who takes the lesse on him , shall haue more giuen ; " But downe falls he , that proudly doth aspire . " Gods message to these men of lowe degree , " Directs the highest to humilitie . 56. A digression in commendation of the Shepherds life . Come gentle Shepherds helpe me pen a song , Wherein I may describe your happy life : I feare for lacke of skill to doe you wrong . Is not your trade free from debate , and strife ? From enuie , pride , excesse , and vaine ambition ? Are yee not sweetly pleas'd , with your condition ? 57. Whilst on the Hills your fleesie flocks doe feede , Your trustie Dogge , sure watch and ward doth keepe : You play and pipe vpon an oaten reede , Then sing a Caroll , till you fall asleepe . You feare no poyson mixt among your drinke , Of such infernall tricks , you neuer thinke . 58. Whilst little Lambkins friske about and skip , The gentle Dammes , goe nibbing on the grasse ; Somewhiles run to the Troughs , and fetch a sip , Then by your side , and round about you passe : Till at your whistles sound , both yound and old , Prepare themselues , and hasten to the fold . 59. Meanewhile ( O happy men ) you haue the leasure , To spend the time in holy Meditation : To sing a Psalme ( sweet-soule-delighting pleasure ) To note the greatest workes of the Creation : The Sunne , the Moone , the Planets and the Starres . Not sacrifi'd with broiles , or bloudy warres . 60. To marke the diff'rent seasons of the yeere , In each of them , the sundrie alterations : How swift-wing'd Boreas makes the Coast all cleere , How Phoebus drawes vp watrie exhalations : Whence dewes , and snowes , & haile , and raine proceed , Which makes the herbes to grow , the cattle breed . 61. How louingly the Ewes entreat their Lambes , Giue them the Teat , till they haue drunke their fill : Then graze along , fore-guided by the Rammes . ( Examples teaching men and women skill . ) A thousand obseruations more you finde , To please the eye , and to content the minde . 62. Nor are you bound alone to contemplation , Oft-times your calling keepeth you in action : When Beares , and Woolues , fierce rau'nous generation Assault your fouldes : By their vniust coaction , You play the men , and combat for your flocks , The beasts that offer wrong , you quit with knocks . 63. Like good Physicians , one while must you drench , One while like Surgeons , ope a vey ne for bleeding : Then stop againe , and make the issue stanch , Turne to the fould , then driue abroad to feeding . Thus soule and body both , are still imploy'd : By enterchange , there 's neither of them cloy'd . 64. No state on earth , like yours , so much is blest , So free from vice : That leades so sure a way To quietnesse on earth , and endlesse rest : That is so fit to mediatate and pray . To you was opened first Messias birth , The Lord and King of heauen , and of earth . 65. Examples . Abel . No maruaile then , if men of holiest life , Of greatest worth , with God in highest grace , Haue Shepherds beene . This calling was most rife Among Gods people , ancient Hebers Race . Gen. 4. and Heb. 11. 4. First Abel , he whose Offrings God respected , When Cain and his Oblation was reiected . 66. Iacob and Rachel . Iacob and Rachel his best-loued wife , Were both Sheep-keepers : ( note the storie well . ) Gen. 29. 9. Had it not beene a faire contented life , Would he , by God sirnamed * * A Prince of God . Israel , Betane himselfe to such a trade of liuing ? Gen. 30. God blessed him thereby , and made it thriuing . 67. Moses . Exod. 3. and Heb. 11. Moses that man of God , who did refuse To be entitled Pharaos daughters sonne : A solitarie shepherds life did choose , The pompe of Egypts Court thereby to shunne . By keeping sheepe , he learn'd to rule a Nation , The most vnruly since the worlds creation . 68. Gen. 46. 34. Egyptian Idolaters , they deem'd The shepherds , as a meere abomination : What then ? That should not make them dis-esteem'd , But to be held in higher estimation . " The thing which wicked worldlings doe despise , " Ought seeme more precious in a good mans eyes . 69. King Dauid . The worthiest of them all , the holiest , Dauid a King , a Prophet , and a Priest , 1. Sam. 16. 7. Of Iessees sonnes though youngest , and the least , Yet best and great'st , by iudgement of the High'st : Among all shepherds he may beare the bell , Great King of Iudah , and of Israel . 70. Vers. 18. A man in peace , wise ; valiant in the warre , Who slue a ramping Lion , and a Beare : Bold on his God aduentred on so farre , To charge Goliah arm'd with shield and speare : He , furnisht onely with a sling , and stone , And swordlesse , heads the Giant with his owne . 71. These rare examples 'mong Gods people deare , Would moue a man , that were not void of sense : Yet could I make the matter farre more cleare , But here my Muse entreats you to dispense : For long digressing , shee falls in your grace , Reserues the rest vnto another place . 72. Looke backe before at Sta● . 46. Luc. 2. 15. Those happy shepherds , hauing seene the vision , Consult together , what was best be done : Without delay , or carelesse intermission , They haste to see the Mother , and her Sonne : They found it iust eu'n as the Angell said . These wordes close in her heart , the Virgin laid . 73. How doe they then ? Conceale what they had seene ? Or adde new-coyn'd relations of their owne ? Not so : As it to them reueal'd had beene , So , all abroad that coast they made it knowne . While people wondred , they to God gaue prayse , Reioycing in their hearts , to see those dayes . 74. Next , Gentiles from a Countrey more remote , Are call'd to doe their homage to this King : Long had they beene neglected , and forgot , Ezech. 34. 23. 2. Esd. 2. 34. Yet all the Prophets did fore-tell the thing , That one great Shepherd should make vp one flock , And graffe both Iewes , and Gentiles on one stock . 75. They presse not to this Feast , like Ghests vnbidden , Nor by aduenture , stumble on the place : That Mysterie which had so long lyen hidden , God opened to them freely , of his grace : Sith they were strangers , and their Countrey farre , Matth. 2. 2. They were conducted by a speciall starre . 76. Not such , as fixt are in the firmament , No Comet , nor commixed Meteor : A starre of purpose made , of purpose sent , The like was neuer since , nor yet before . By it the Gentiles first to Christ were guided , As God in his deepe wisedome had prouided . 77. The Wise men or M●gi . Matth. 2. These Gentiles were not of a meane condition , Wise-men in th' holy storie they be nam'd : Some call them Kings . I like that exposition , See Clas. 1. Stan. 210. And say those Doctors ought not to be blam'd . For in those times , and in those Easterne parts , Kings were well learn'd , and skilfull in hid arts . 78. It 's likewise held , they were in number three , So is it by their three-fold gifts imply'de : But , by what meanes of Colein they should bee , Some men in no wise will be satisfy'de It is no point of Creede , from whence they came : Sure from the East , the Text affirmes the same . 79. ●…th . 2. 14. And thither they returned backe againe , Not by the way through which they past afore : The style of Colein-Kings they did attaine , By after-accident : I say no more . " In things indifferent where faith is free . " We should not striue against Antiquitie . 80. Entrie into a discourse of the Genealogie , or Pedigree of Christ . Th' Euangelists , who Christ his storie wrote , As they were plaine , and simple without glozing : So spake they nought at randon , or by rote , But all t' engender faith , their style composing . No where more care , nor more fidelitie They shew'd , then setting downe his pedigree . 81. The ground and Basis of true faith , was this , To put , in Gods old promise , sure beliefe : Who therein doubted ought , or thought amisse , Could haue no faith : ( first failing in the chiefe ) As is a house that wanteth it's foundation , So faith that takes not hence her deriuation . 82. Old Abraham receau'd that word of grace , His Sonne , and Grand-childe had the same renew'd : Dauid the King , descending of their race , With cleerer knowledge thereof , was endew'd . So Abraham and Dauid were the Tree , A Branch whereof Messias needes must bee . 83. To giue assurance to our faith herein , And make vs perfect in Christs pedigree : Matth. 1. 〈◊〉 . At Abraham and Dauid doth begin The first , that cites his Genealogie : Shewes vs how Ioseph * * And legally , from the Royall line . lineally descended , From those good men , with God so highly friended . 84. A question about Ioseph , Christs puta●iue father . What need he tell of Iosephs ancestrie ? ( Some man , perhaps , may aske for his instruction , So may some doe of incredulitie . ) I answere both , and with one plaine construction : The Hebrewes in their Genealogies , On womens persons , seldome cast their eyes . 85. Num. 27. & 36. Those people * * It was so generally ; though some particular exceptions may be shewed . vs'd to match within their Tribes , ( Iudah therein was more precise then others . ) So , while the Fathers linage he describes , It is implyed thereby he tells the Mothers . Ioseph by Law was Christs reputed Sire , To speake of him , the storie did require . 86. See yet , how in this point those Sacred Scribes , ( By God , and by his holy Spirit guided . ) Luc. 3. whereas hee nameth Ioseph , th● sonne of Helie : He was not so by Nature , but by Law , in that he was married to Mary , the naturall daughter of Heli. Preuent all cause of doubt . For one describes The Mothers side : ( Gods wisedome so prouided ! ) The Blessed Virgins linage he recounts , And from her Father , vp to Adam mounts . 87. Therein ( me thinks ) a mysterie I see , That writing of the Mothers parentage , He leades vs vp vnto the high'st degree , And stoppeth not at any middle Age : As * * Matth. 1. who there begins at Abraham , and no higher . Luke recording the Virgins line , ascendeth vp to Adam . he who did with Abraham begin , Making rehearsall of the Fathers kin . 88. The Promise first in Paradise was giuen , To our great-grandame Eue , who there transgrest : The Virgins pedigree so high-vp-driuen , ( Shee Mother of that Seede so highly blest ) Shewes this was he , blest sonne of Euahs daughter , So long foretold , though comming so long after . 89. From Patriarks for vertue most renown'd , With God in high esteeme , Christ did descend : So was his stemme from Kings , and Princes crown'd , Though it became farre meaner in the end . For , as the Hebrewes glorie did decline , So fell the Fathers of Messias line . 90. Some blemishes among his Ancestrie , The sacred stories plainly doe set forth : The Kings ( most of them ) wanted pietie , Ruth a Moabi●… . Some of them Gentiles were , some of small worth . " All Nations , and all men of each condition , " Haue partin Christ ; so large is his commission . 91. Who doth not yet admire and much commend , The care and wisedome of the Iewish Nation : That when their state did all to ruine bend , Kept th' ancient custome without alteration ? By diligent and heedfull Heraldrie , Noting the Linage of their Ancestrie . 92. Ioseph was poore , and of a simple Trade , His Wife , for wealth , no better stor'd then hee ; And yet ( it seemes ) a Catalogue was made Exact and certaine , of their Ancestrie . Saint Matthe● . and Luke . From whence those sacred Pen-men had the light , The linage of them both , to tell aright . 93. A digression in prayse of Heraldri● or Armo●ie . A noble Science not to be neglected , Of speciall vse in each well ordred State : To see all men in their degrees respected , ( A faire old custome , not deuiz'd of late : ) " To teach , that vertue , learning , noble deedes , " Nobilitie in their Possessors breedes . 94. Patrons of mad-brain'd popularitie , Who Order doe despise , and loue Confusion ; Whose ayme is all at bestiall communitie , ( So to bring in old Chaos in conclusion ) These onely loath degrees , and ciuill orders , Nor can endure this Art , within their borders . 95. " A spurre it is to euery high attempt , " To be ennobliz'd with the badge of Honour : " From which reward , no person is exempt , " Whom God will raise : ( for hee 's the chiefest Donour . ) " Where causes doe preceed , there will ensue " Th' effects : Sith God giues euery man his due . 96. 2. Sam. 17. When great Goliah Israels Host defi'd , Young Dauid vnder-tooke with him to fight : His zeale to God ( that may not be deni'd ) Before all worldly motiues , gaue him spright . Vers. 25. Yet Saul propos'd great honour for a pay , To him who could that proud Philistim stay . 97. 2. Sam. 23. The worthy men which vnder Dauid sway'd , Are not forgotten in the holy Booke : Their names in order , Herald-like are layd , There shall you finde them , if you list to looke : Their acts rehear'st , that their posteritie , Might follow them , and win like prayse thereby . 98. Ioah amongst them all I faile to find , Great Captaine of the Host , a man of name : He left no worthy memorie behind , By cowardise , his acts he did defame . 1. King . 2. 5. The bloud of warre , in peace he foully shead : Iust vengeance therefore , lighted on his head . 99. Two of his brothers in the list are nam'd , Farre lesse then he in ranke , and estimation : Yet sith he for his vices was defam'd , By law of Armes , he suffred degradation . His coat reuers't , and he in bloud bespotted , His Honour with his Corps together rotted . 100. 1. Chron. 〈◊〉 . 16. Though he were sisters sonne vnto the King , And held a place of Honour with the best : That could not safeguard to his Person bring , Nor cause him be recorded 'mong the rest . " Great men if they with vertues be not furnisht , " By Heralds art , their Armes should not be burnisht . 101. One speciall part of Heraldrie it is , 'Mong sundrie others not to be despiz'd : They teach great Titlers not to claime amisse , Each title at his worth by them is priz'd . " Where Order is obseru'd , Confusion hated , " There Heralds and their skill , are highly rated . 102. The antiquitie of A●morie , o● Heraldrie . Gen. 49. Most ancient is the vse of Armorie , I 'll looke no higher then the Patriarks : Good Iacob when he was at point to die , ( As well it is obseru'd by learned Clarkes ) Bequeathed Armes among his sonnes by will , Which to their Tribes are propriated still . 103. The Lion King of Beasts , was Iudahs badge , Consorting well with his Regalitie : He gaue the rest such as with them might fadge , Or best accord to their Posteritie . Numb . 2. Each man was bound , vnto his owne Tribes Stander , And might not thence , vnto another wander . 104. What more should kindle loue , and amitie , ( Which in this Iron age begins to freeze ) Then doth the bond of Consanguinitie , 'Mong branches sprowting from the selfe-same trees ? Or men that by affinitie are ti'de , Although their dwellings be remote , and wide ? 105. The times haue beene ( those times me thinkes are past , I doubt where erc they will returne againe . ) When linkes of bloud , and matches bound men fast : More hard to breake , then was a brasen chaine . Now trifles to the value of a Goose , Or breake the linke , or make it slip , and loose . 106. Our British Nation herein I commend , ( How euer some elude it with a scoff ) Their kin they are most forward to befriend , And knowledge them , though somewhat farther off . Their * * Bardi Brittani . i. Bardhs record the Genealogies , Aswell of those who fall , as them that rise . 107. Some people after two discents , or three , Haue no regard of kiffe , nor yet of kin : Farewell both kinred and affinitie , Vnlesse they hope somewhat thereby to win . If Cousins chance to rise , and grow in fauour , Then kinred with such men , begins to sauour . 108. " Th' abuse , vnto the Art brings no disgrace , " Else might we cauill at the best profession . One circumstance I 'll adde vnto this place , And so returne from this my long digression . The matter 's such , as need not breed offence , If with the Meeter , you vochsafe dispence . 109. This Art contaynes some hidden mysteries , ( Those Artists treat vpon them in their bookes ) Not subiect to the view of vulgar eyes , Shadow'd they are with vailes , and lie in nookes : Their language is by figures , signes , and markes , To Herehalts onely knowne , and to their Clarkes . 110. With metalls , colours , starres , and precious stones , In number nine , ingeniously dispos'd : All coates of Armes in their Escutchiones Are blazon'd : Sundrie shapes therein enclos'd , With differences whereby younger brothers , From elders are discern'd , and each from others . 111. Best coates are so deuiz'd by Heraulds lawes , As on the view , men cunning in that Art , Will yeild a reason , and disclose the cause Of each such coat ; and tell for what desart , The Ancestor those ensignes did attayne , Or others after , new atchieuements gayne . 112. A thousand rarities as well as these , To giue instruction , and to breed delight , Those Artists teach : Thence learne them , if you please , Or from the bookes which of this subiect write . Where Honour , still from Vertue is deriu'd , And Vice , of Armes and Honour both , depriu'd . 113. I feare a censure for my ouer-sight , That scarce a prentice in this mysterie , I durst a dittie thereof to indite , And wrong the Art : Peccaui doe I crie . The skill , I see good reason to approue ; The ciuill vse thereof , needes must I loue . 114. Looke backe to Stan. 92. Returne my Muse , vnto thy sacred Theame , Messias Birth and Pedigree o're-past : Rowze vp thy selfe , as rays'd out of a dreame ; Of that which yet remaynes , let 's haue a tast . Declare in order what succeeded next , As thou dost find it in the holy Text. 115. Herod . Then reigned Herod in Ierusalem , The Romanes set the crowne vpon his head : 'T was not his right , but that it pleased them , So Iudahs Race was dis-inherited . A certaine signe of Christs natiuitie , Gen. 49. 10. As Iacob long before did prophecie . 116. Herod from Iewes had learned by tradition , That out of Iudahs stock a King should rise : Whom they conceau'd must be of high condition , A mightie Prince , on earth to Manarchize : Which strooke into his heart a Panike feare , When first those wise-mens errand he did heare . 117. Matth. 2. 4. The Priests and Scribes together he assembles , To learne the certaine place of Christ his birth That fully knowne , he cunningly dissembles , Then makes a shew of ioy , and holy mirth : Pretends a pilgrimage , as of deuotion , His heart all bent vpon a wicked motion . 118. He boasts within himselfe for this deuise , Suppos'd he had the Bird fast in his net : It 's good ( thinkes he ) be merry , and yet wise , Now in my Throne I shall be surely set . Mark . 12. 7. I 'll kill this Heire , then is the Kingdome mine , When I haue cropt this branch of Iudahs Line . 119. Psal. 139. 1● But God , who sees the secrets of the heart , Who knowes the thoughts long ere they be conceau'd : Preuents the man , for all his cunning Art . The Magi came not back . Thus he deceau'd , With fierce reuenge was wholly set on fire , Nought else but bloud could qualifie his ire . 120. He vs'd those Wise-men onely for a stale , They mocked him , whom he thought to beguile : " So , men oft-times are brought vnto their bale , " By plots , which in proiecting make them smile . Fallere fallentem , non est fraus . " A false deceauer ( neuer aske him leaue ) " Make no great scruple , such one to deceaue . 121. A Simile . A Woolfe that wendeth to a flock of sheepe , Espyes one Lambe , much fairer then the rest : Drawes neere to it ( the Shepherd fast a-sleepe ) Prepares his panch for this expected feast : But in the nick , when he is readie bite , In runnes the Shepherd , soundly doth him smite . 122. Thus hauing lost his prey , halfe mad with rage , He falleth in vpon another flock : There , his enraged furie to asswage , Among them all , he fiercely makes a shock : He stares , and howles all one as he were wood , Then snatches , bites , and kills , and sucks the blood . 123. So , this fell Tyrant fayling in his plot , Much like a mad dogge , ouer-come with rage : In choller and reuenge he waxed hot , Matth. 〈◊〉 , 1● . Slue all the Children vnder two yeeres age At Bethlehem , and in the Coast thereby , Which caused many a wofull mothers cry . 124. ●… . 31. 15. Loe , here againe another old prediction , Which by one Prophet , long before was writ ▪ Curs't Infidels esteem'd it as a fiction , This Tyrant vnawares accomplish't it . Matth. 5. 18. " Of all that God fore-spoke , the smallest jot , " In time to be performed , fayleth not . 125. The meanes how Christ escaped Herodes hand , Was not at randon left to Iosephs choise : The Angell bids him fl●e to Egypt Land , He readily obey'd the heauenly voice . Himselfe , the Childe , and his espoused wife , Dwelt in that Countrey all the Tyrants life . 126. Wherein was hid a double my sterie , By God decreed in his deepe prouidence : 〈◊〉 11. 1. Th' accomplishment of an old prophecie , Which sayes , That God should call his sonne from thence . Each line , nay ( neere ) each word doth matter giue , To strengthen Faith , and vrge vs to beleeue . 127. It proues againe , though he a Iew were borne , Their rightfull King , to offer them saluation : Yet of the Gentile-people tooke no scorne , But came to call , and saue each heathen Nation . These entertayn'd him better farre , then those : These stood his friends , when th' other prou'd his foes . 128. 〈◊〉 m●…t ●…i e●able end . 〈◊〉 7. cap. 8. That wicked King , when he had tyranniz'd , And spilt the bloud of harmelesse Innocents : With a disease most loth some was surpriz'd , Part gnaw'd with wormes , part plagu'd with sundrie torments : A rare example , others to affright ; From shedding guiltlesse bloud , by fraud or might . 129. Soone after , Ioseph was recalled home , By him that erst aduised him to flee : But hearing Herods sonne reign'd in his roome , He turn'd aside , and dwelt in Galilee , 〈◊〉 19. At Nazareth : whereby it came to passe , That he a Nazarene surnamed was . 130. The storie noteth how that royall Childe , The Sonne of God , not subiect to the Lawes : In humane nature was so mecke and milde , As he obeyed it in euery Clause . Was circumciz'd , call'd by that glorious Name , Phil. 2. 10. All peoples knees should bow , who heare the same . 131. Why Christ was circumciled . Great reason was 't he should be circumciz'd , That Rite by no meanes , might haue beene neglected Else had the Iewes at first beene scandaliz'd , The Law of Moses seem'd t' haue beene reiected . Meet was it he should all the Law obay , Ere to the Gospell he could make cleere way . 132. It proues , his flesh was not phantasticall , As Manichaeus dotingly did dreame : But , as his Mothers true , substantiall , From which ( like other mens ) pure bloud did streame . This Act affirmed his Humanitie , As did his Actions , his Diuinitie . 133. Christ baptized . Long after this , it pleas'd him be baptiz'd , To giue allowance to that sacred Rite : Matth. 3. 14. He needed not ( Saint Iohn was well aduiz'd ) Sith free from sinne , he had no cleansing b' it . That precious badge of Christianttie , The more to pri'ze , he taught his Church thereby . 134. The holy Ghost on him descended . Luc. 3. 21. This holy Sacrament no sooner ended , A full assembly standing in the place : The Holy Spirit like a Doue desended , His Person and that Rite , the more to grace . A voice from heauen then gaue testimonie . And witnesse bore of his Diuinitie . 135. He is presented in the Temple . Before he ouer-past his Infancie , And from his Parents tutelage was freed : Vnto the Lord , presented must hee bee , Leu. 12. 6 , An offring for him made , as Law decreed . Whilst in the Temple this was to be done , Another thing worth noting , there begunne . 136. Simeon . Luc. 2. 25. Old Simeon , a iust man and deuout , Full with the holy Ghost replenished : Of that Messias comming made no doubt , Was by diuine instinct admonished , That death his aged limmes should not surprize ; Till first he should behold Christ with his eyes . 137. He comes into the Temple , not by hap , But guided by Gods prouidence diuine : The Childe within his armes he there doth wrap , Him steadily beholding with his eyne : First prayseth God , then chaunteth Nunc dimittis , The short'st , and sweet'st , among all sacred Ditties . 138. His sweet ●ong called Nu●… di●…nis . Now Lord giue leaue thy Seruant may depart , Sith that mine eyes Worlds-Sauiour doe behold : Whom thou hast sent , the Gentiles to conuert , Thy Isr'els ioy , as thou before had'st told . This said , the Parents , and the Childe doth blesse , Of things to come , fore-shewes them the successe . 139. Anna , her testi●monie of Christ . Luc 2. 36. The last that beareth witnesse 'mong the rest , Addes her faire Suffrage , with that holy Crue : A woman , for her prayses not the least , ( That giues assurance what shee spake was true ) Eu'n in that instant to the place shee came , And what shee knew of Christ , divulg'd the same . 140. Now Iewes , and Turkes , and vnbeleeuers all , And christ'ned Atheists , ( if some such there bee ) You neuer read , nor heard , nor neuer shall , The like sweet sympathizing harmonie , To proue a thing false , feyned and vntrue ; Beleeue on him then , bid the Deuill adue . 141. What Prophets old fore-saw , and did fore-tell , What Rites , and Types , and Figures did declare , And Sacrifices vs'd in Israel , With last-recited stories strange and rare : Can all these worke no sound beliefe in you , Nor credit gayne , to things so certaine true ? 142. Iam. 2. 19. The Deuills beleeue , and tremble . The Deuill doth beleeue the sacred Text , And knowes 't is true : it makes him more to tremble : With knowledge of that Truth , hee 's euer vext . To whom then may I Infidels resemble ? In vnbeliefe , their master they exceede : And hold some points , worse then the Deuils creede . 143. How could so many Witnesses conspire , And ioyne their heads , a storie to deuize ? Poore Shepherds counterfeit that heau'nly Quire , Gull all that Countrey , with a forg'd surmize ? The M●… . Or draw great Princes from a Countrey farre ? Or make an admirable walking Starre ? 144. Could poore old Ioseph with his tender wife , Haue scap't the bloudie tyrant Herods hand ? Had he the skill to saue the Infants life From slaughter , mongst those children of the land ? But that some higher Power did him guide , And warned him in time to slip aside . 145. These things were not in hidden corners done , Then set abroach in certaine Ages after : They were divulged iust as they begunne , With wonderment receau'd , not scorn'd with laughter . Great Heathen clerkes doe iustifie the storie , Though to impugne the Faith , they take a glorie . 146. We neede no credit begge from Heathen bookes , Not from the Eluish Sybills fopperies : Who on the sacred Text with iudgement lookes , Compares with heed , the holy Prophecies : Shall finde enough therein beliefe to gaine , And craue no helpe from sutt'lest worldly braine . 147. O silly fooles , what makes you shut your eyes , And scorne to heare that God who doth you call Surcease the Sacred Storie to despise , Lay hold ( at first ) on faith historicall : That had , you may proceed and grow in grace , Without the first , for th' other there 's no place . 148. A digression in defence of Poesie , in Diuinitie . Here leaue I vnbeleeuers for awhiles , And grant my Muse a little time to wander : To lighten and refresh her selfe with smiles , Halfe dull'd , and maz'd within this close meander . So , when her sprights fresh vigour shall regaine , Shee hopes to win your soules , and quit her paine . 149. A Simile . A man that sets himselfe vpon the Stage , Becomes the obiect of all peoples eyes : ( Especially in this fault-finding Age ) Or must the censures of the most despise : Or beare himselfe all steadily vpright , Else some will at him barke , and some will bite 150. I run the common hazard in this case , My Muse vpon a high Theater stands : Though shee behold none with a churlish face , Nor quarrelsome with any faction bands : Yet lookes shee not to 'scape without some touch , Shee armes her selfe , sith shee expects as much . 151. Obiections against the vse of Poesie , in Diuinitie . What meanes this man ( me thinkes I heare one aske ) These sacred Mysteries so much to wrong ? What moues him vndertake so rare a taske , To binde this heauenly subiect , to a song ? This Poetrie beseemes a meaner matter , It is no Theame , whereon a chough should chatter . 152. Let learned Doctors in the Tongues well-skill'd , In looser lines , not bound to feet and measure , Doe all they can : when they their bookes haue fill'd , With choisest portions of so rich a treasure : They faile oft-times to tell their mindes so cleare , But doubts , and scruples therein doe appeare . 153. Hence spring new questions in Diuinitie , Lesse reuerence giuen to the holy Word : When men , no Clerkes , but of the Laytie , Presume to take in band the sp'rituall Sword . Such matters must be left to reuerend Clarkes , To be discussed in their learned warkes . 154. At least , they 'll not endure a Poets quill , Should scribble on this Theame with Lyrike layes : This learning comes not from Parnassus Hill , Her Doctors temples weare no crownes of bayes Take Poets , obiects fit for poetrie : And Clericks , subiects of Theologie . 155. The Muses in dicted , and arraigned . Yee charming Sisters , who in Thessalie , Were wont , long since , to hold your residence Betweene huge Ossa and Olympus high , And take those shadie woods for your defence : To tread the flowrie bankes of Peneus side , Whose siluer streames by Helicon doe glide . 156. Where antique Altar of that Idoll Ioue , With lothsome heath'nish sumes too oft did smoake : When Paynims sacrific'd in euery Groue , Idolatrie did with deuotion cloake : You , with such treasons in old times acquainted , 'Gainst heauens King : and for that fact attainted . 157. What makes you on this Princes Court encroach , Whence many Ages since , yee were exil'd ? How durst you be so bold as to approach His sacred Cabinet , yee Traytors vild ? You stand indicted of this treason high , Now answere for your selues , Who shall you trie ? 158. The Obiections answered , & Indictment trauerst : with a digression in defence of Poesie . An innocent vnwares may be indicted , Yet to his trauerse being once admitted : His Allegations heard , he may be righted , And by a Iurie on their oathes , acquitted . My Muse vpon the Quest doth put her Cause , And prayes the Court , to iudge her by the Lawes . 159. From vulgars censures , first shee doth appeale ; Submits her selfe most gladly to the rest : Yet , 'mongst them all who in such pleas doe deale , Shee humbly prayes the iudgement of the best . Before his Throne shee kneeles , her doome to heare , Her conscience her assures , shee need not feare . 160. Reade to this purpose in the authors , Beatic Pacifici , Stan. 146. That old Indictment , long since was reuerst , A generall gracious pardon freely past : The Charter hath beene sundrie times rehearst , Beene oft allow'd , and euer is to last . Th' aduantage of that pardon I entreate , For faults that doe precede the same in date . 161. " Sonnes must not suffer , for their fathers crimes , " ( Nor daughters for th' offences of their mothers ) Convict me by the errours of my Rimes , And not for treasons done long since by others . If in themselues no wickednesse appeare , Giue sentence on my side , and set me cleare . 162. Tell me what tongue , or language vnder skie , 'Mongst men in life , and faith most reprobate : But may be well apply'de to pietie , And fit the mouthes of men regenerate ? " An earthen vessell may pure liquor hold , " Aswell as one of siluer , or of gold . 163. If then all tongues , may talke of things diuine , The myst'ries not disparaged thereby : Why should a strict-smooth footed Poets line , Doe worse , then wordes left loose atlibertie ? " The forme of speech , ought not chaste eares offend , " So as with zeale , to pietie it tend . 164. " A modest Poem beares with it a grace , " And slily steales into the hearers heart : " Among the grauest Clerkes deserues a place , " In passages diuine , may beare a part . " The sacred Text is not prophan'd by meeter , " By it , the matter rather seemes the sweeter . 165. The Muses are not fett'red to Peruassus , Nor sworne alone to drinke of Helicon : ( Like him who sits fast chain'd on Caucasus . ) They haue , and doe hold residence at Sion : And taste the streames of Sabrine , Thames , or Wie , Aswell as any Spring in Thessalie . 166. Iudg. 12. 6. Sith Shibboleth they can pronounce aright , Though Ephramites by birth , and parentage : Yee Gileadites doe not against them fight , Nor seeke to kill these sisters in your rage . They bring their offrings to Ierusalem , They are at peace with you , warre not with them . 167. Thou princely Iudge , before whose sacred Seate , Mine , and my sisters cause , I humbly pleade : Thy pardon and thy patience I entreate , To speake at large , as matter shall me leade . A pris'ner for his life hath libertie , ( With reuerence of the Court ) to argue free . 168. Of such as doe our innocence oppose , Some few ( perhaps ) by euill will are led : With silence onely will I answere those , That 's antidote for tongues enuenomed . Such accusations slender credit gaine , The Courts of Iustice , reck on them but vaine . 169. Scientia non habet inimicum , praeter . ignorantiam . It 's Ignorance , Arts greatest enemie , That sets it selfe , the Muses to out-face : They vnderstand not what is poesie , Who most oppugne , and striue it to disgrace . I 'll teach them if they haue a lust to learne , The Truth ( herein ) from errour to discerne . 170. So when they shall be able iudge aright , And cleerly see wherein before they err'd : In quarrell of the Muses they will fight , And ioy , to see their Schollers be preferr'd . They 'll giue them leaue , the grauest theames to handle , And on their knees , the gentle Sisters dandle . 171. A Poet by signification of the word , is a Maker : and Poesie , is making . A Poet is a Maker by his name , And Poesie , a making doth imply . The first of Writers that deserued same , ( Among Professors in humanitie ) Were Poets all ; who by their sweetned straines , First stamp't Arts image , in mens duller braines . 172. Was 't not by Poets learned skill and wit , That men in manners rude , much like to beasts : In concord and societie were knit , Did freely yeild themselues t' obey Lawes hests ? Antiquitie to them that honour left , To rob them of it , were a kinde of theft . 173. Such sight in things Diuine as Heathens had , Or sauour'd ought of thoughts celestiall : In Poets habits all were neatly clad , Set forth in shapes , and shewes poeticall . Sacri , Sancti , Diuini . Their styles were Sacred , Holy , and Diuine , The dearest Darlings of the Sisters nine , 174. Their skill may not be got by institution , Nemo sit , sed nascitur Poeta . Not Art , but Nature must a Poet frame : 'T was euer held , their cunning cameb' infusion , Vates . Whence Elders gaue to them , a Prophets name . Furor Poeticus . Instinct and Furie must possesse their braine , That shall the title of a Poet gaine . 175. Their pen to one sole subiect is not bound , What euer falls within the reach of wit , Conceit , or Reason : Shallow , or Profound , From Shepherds poore , to Kings that crowned sit : Things Sacred or Profane , or Lowe or Hie , Are subiects fit , for Poets ingenie . 176. " To euery person , and in euery thing , " It keepes decorum . Vertue best is graced " By poesie , when Poets thereof sing : " So , by their poems , Vice is most defaced . All Sciences within it are contayn'd : Why should this Art of Arts , be so disdayn'd ? 177. Of heauenly songs ( the branch of poesie Whereof I treat , and seeke to make defence ) Examples in the sacred Historie May be alleag'd , I hope without offence . Yet all herein that shall be spoke , or writ , To Churches censure , wholly I submit . 178. Sundrie sorts of songs in Scripture . First , for deliuerance from great dangers Moses . Exod. 15. A song of prayse for strange deliuerance , Moses and Isr'el to the Lord did sing : The Women musick made , and led a dance , With pious mirth , to honour heauens King . May not like cause now , worke the like effect ? Such , as say no , I 'll not be of their sect . 179. Psal. 18. & 105. Dauid . Many such songs vpon the like occasion , Did holy Dauid seriously endite : Needes must it be confest without euasion , He did it by th' instinct of th' holy Sprite . On sundrie instances I 'll not insist , More in his Psalmes you may reade , if you list . 180. ●idg . ● . Debora . That noble prophetesse good Debora , Who boldly put her person to the field : After the full defeate of Sisera , By singing , prayses to her God did yeild . The three children in the siery Ouen . The children saued from the sierie flame , Did chaunt a song , in honour of Gods name . 181. Secondly , for benefits and ble●…ings receaued . For blessings and Gods benefits receau'd , Good men and women , holy songs oft fram'd : More then they all ( if I be not deceau'd ) We finde in that good King , but lately nam'd : 2. Sam. 23. Of Israel , sweet singer might hee bee , None sang so much , nor yet so sweet as hee , 182. 1. Sam. 1. Hannah . When barren Hannah had a sonne obtayn'd , ( Oft vexed with her Riualls iniurie ) For whom shee pray'd , and wept with teares vnfayn'd : To render God her best gratuitie , A song shee fram'd with gracefull melodie , Full fraught with flowr's of heauenly poesie . 183. Thirdly , songs of spirituall loue , betwixt Christ and his Church . Reade all Solomons Canticles . Of loue chaste , holy , spirituall and diuine , A Song of Songs King Solomon indited : Looke on the in-side , not the outward rine , Thy heart with heauenly mirth will be delighted : To see the enterchange of mutuall loue , Betwixt Christ and the Church , his gentle Doue . 184. How shee her selfe before him doth abase , Vnworthy to be matcht with such a mate : Deformitures in feature , and in face Acknowledgeth : And at how lowe a rate , Her selfe and all her parts , shee doth esteeme , That in his loue , more happy shee might seeme . 185. How he againe , her beautie doth admire , And limns it with a grace vnimitable : Embraceth her with loue all set on fire , Makes her by his rich gifts , more amiable . With wordes and art , meerly poeticall , And emphasis super-celestiall . 186. Fourthly songs for remembr●cers , and admon●uon . Deut. 31. 19. & 32. 1. When Moses was to take his last farewell , And seize Mount Nebo for his sepulture : Fore-seeing that back-sliding Israel , Sound in Gods seruice , would not longendure , But bow to Idolls of all bord'ring Nations , And sute their manners , to those Heath'nish fashions . 187. To testifie against such haynous crimes , And make them heedfull of this prophecie : That they might call to minde the ancient times , Ere they declyn'd to grosse Idolatrie : By Gods expresse command , a song he wrote , For them and theirs to know , and learne by rote . 188. Fiftly , songs for spirituall comfort , deuonon and edification . Colos. 3. 16. & Eph●s . 5. 19. Some vses more of Songs , and Hymnes , and Psalmes , In sacred Writ expressed doe I finde : They serue to wounded soules , for precious balmes , To ease the heart , and to reioyce the minde . Fit meanes they are , to stirre vp true deuotion , Proceeding euer from an holy motion . 189. 1. Chron. 16. & 25. The care King Dauid had in this respect , To beautifie Gods seruice in those dayes : May warrant vs , not wholly to reiect , That thing which he ordayned to Gods prayse . Though God seeke inward worship of the heart , Fit outward helpes must not be laid apart . 190. When Christians in their Temples doe assemble , In holy Hymnes , with heart and voyce agree : The glorious Quire of Angels they resemble , And pierce the heauens with their melodie . Herein the Church while shee is militant , Participateth with the Church triumphant . 191. See before Magnificat , the Angels song , Benedictus , and Nunc dimittis . The choisest songs to Christ his birth addrest , Alreadie haue beene offered to your view : You see what in the old-writ was exprest , Is likewise vs'd , and taught vs in the new . Condemne not that , which rightly may be vs'd , But onely see , the same be not abus'd . 192. That Christ our Lord did laugh , I neuer read , There 's no such mention in the Historie : Mar. 14. 26 : A Psalme or Hymne he sang , so is it said . His sole example serues the turne , say I. " Each Act of his ( as may be prou'd b'induction . ) " Is written , and doth serue for our instruction . 193. Saint Athanasius his profound Cr●de , cal●d Quicunq . vult . And Saint Ambrose his diuine ●… Deum , &c. Haue not some godly Fathers in their time , Made songs : wherein our faiths deepe mysteries , Are chaunted out in soule-delighting rime , No good men grudging at those melodies ? If such high points are sung without offence , Why may not others , with like reuerence ? 194. All Ages such examples doe afford , To iustifie this gracefull exercise , In poetizing on the Sacred Word . One sample will I set before your eyes : Of late-ones he shall serue for all the rest , Mong sacred Poets , held to be the best . 195. Du 〈◊〉 his diuine Weeks . He that by weekes and dayes his worke diuides , First on the worlds-creation poetizeth : Then forwards to succeeding Ages slides , The choisest matters in his Verse compriseth , Of elder Text : so sweetly beautify'de , As , with instruction , yeilds content beside . 196. " What brings delight , and profit both together , " That more in reason ought we to respect : " Then it , which singlely produceth either . " This is of poesie the true effect , " To make those pathes soft , easie , smooth and plaine , " Which in themselues are rough , and full of paine . 197. Of poesie in numbred wordes , and measure , And sweet-concluding-clozes I intend : ( I know , a Poets pen can range at pleasure , Prose-poetrie it 's easie to defend ) That charming Verse , which endeth in a rime , The thing by some , much scorned in this time . 198. Ios. lib. 1. de Ant. Iud. cap. 7. saith , that Moses after their deliuerie from the Egyptians , made an Ode or long in hexameter verse . See also l. 4. c. 8. I dare not say , the ancient Hebrewes songs , Ran all in rime : it goes beyond my skill . To greater Clerkes , such knowledge deepe belongs : Yet as I said before , so say I still ; They kept both order , number , time , and measure : It stood so with deuotion , and with pleasure . 199. " These Rimes which to the matter doe no wrong , " Yet by the eare , breede in the heart delight : " Ought not be lashed with a lauish tongue , " Giue them , as vnto looser lines , their right . If th' onely Rime offend , the wordes transmute , It will be Prose , and with your fancie sute . 200. Conclusion of the de●ence of Poesie . Thankes to the soueraigne Iudge with reuerence : Next , to the Court , where Iustice holds her seate , For granting pris'ners this faire audience . No further fauour need I to entreate . I ghesse , the Verdict must be speciall , A Terme or two , will shew what shall befall . 201. But thou my Muse , who with thy oaten quill , Presum'st to pipe these homely rustick Layes : Whilst some with siluer-sounding trumpets shrill , Transcend Olympus , grac't with wreathes of Bayes : Confesse thy slender skill in poesie , Though thou the Art it selfe doe iustifie . 202. Suffice it thee , that on these sacred Theames , Thou tell thy minde in Meeter smooth , and plaine ▪ Let others follow phantasies , and dreames , Speake thou the truth , regard no fables vaine . What some affect , for idle ostentation , Doe thou reiect , and choose humiliation . 203. Let tongue-prooffe armour , gentle patience , Make thee secure : thereon set vp thy rest . A wall of brasse , to wit cleere conscience Keepes thee , and this thy Embrion in rest . As thou and it , shall faire acceptance finde , So straine thy selfe to finish what 's behinde . 204. If thy great Patron , Muses chiefe Protector , ( He of the Muses most againe belou'd . ) Hest. 5. 2. Vouchsafe to hold thee out his golden Scepter , And giue thee life , vntill thy faith be prou'd : Thou needest feare no enuious Agagite , By his defence , thou shalt be sure of right . 205. Perhaps when I , the Pen-man of thy wit , Shall sleepe forgotten , rotten in my graue : Among those Sacred-Singers thou may'st fit , This Motto for thy comfort shalt thou haue : Though I sit lowest in this heauenly Quier , My note is Cela : None hath strayn'd a higher . The end of the second Classis .

DIVINE POEMS . The third Classis . THE ARGVMENT . Christs Miracles on Lazars , Lepers , Blinde , Dumbe , Deafe , Dead , wretched men possest with Deuills ▪ Th' Apostles no lesse powrefull in that kinde , By his commission vanquish all those euills . The strange encrease of pious Christianisme , The vnlike growth of hell-bred Mah'metisme . A comparison vsed by the Author ere hee begin to treat of any the Acts of Christ that Messias , and King of Kings . WHo pennes the storie of an earthly King , Whose deeds aske folio-Volumes large & thick : Ere of his Acts and Gests he fall to sing , Or come to touch the Matter to the quick : To times , and things preceding must looke back , Else shall his writings grace and lustre lacke . 2. Of all the Kings that euer Scepter sway'd , Gen. 10. Since Nimrod first that Title did attaine : If all their doings were together layd , And Kingdomes ioyn'd , wherein they all did raigne : Their states and stories no wayes might compare With Israels King , nor clayme therein a share . 3. My Muse ( like Dogges that running lap and taste . Of Nilus streames , to quench their raging thirst ) Some passages hath posted o're in haste From Eden , where shee set her foot at first , Through hills , and dales , and woods , & champion fields , Which endlesse matter of discoursing yeilds . 4. Yet shee , too weake for such a worke of wonder , ( What Atlas can so huge a weight sustaine ! ) Resolu'd , part of that burthen to goe-vnder , Which though it put her to no little paine : Her zeale to doe that King true vassallage , Makes it seeme but an easie carriage . 5. The Author prayeth for diuine a●…istance . Dread soueraigne King of Kings , stretch forth thy hand , To stay thy feeble seruant least he fall : Enlighten him , that he may vnderstand , Those secrets of thy Court he deales withall : Not prie into thy inner Cabinet , But walke within the bounds which thou hast set 6. The Sea is deepe , no bottome to be found , Where thou thy greatest mysteries hast hid : Yet may we wade , whilst we can touch the ground , Keepe by the shore , not venter to the mid . Here little Lambes may sip , and quench their thirst , Stout Elephants swill deepe , vntill they burst . 7. From prophesies of Messias , promises and figures of the old Law : And other testimonies in and at his birth , and insancie : With whom predictions of the Prophets old , Nor types and figures , better things resembling ; Nor Gods sure promises fairely enroll'd By faithfull Scribes , that neuer vs'd dissembling : Nor witnesses 'boue all exceptions iust , Can worke beliefe , and driue away distrust : 8. For such , some easier arguments there bee , A pasta●e to the Acts of Christ himselfe . Heb. 1. ( The future subiect of my plaine-tune-song ) By which the simplest sort may cleerly see ; The things that were fore-spoken off so long ; And get soule-sauing faith , that 's neuer idle , A spurre to Vertue giues , to Vice a bridle . 9. A Simile . Like one , who in a spacious garden set , With flowers , and fruits of sundrie sorts repleat : Hath libertie without controll or let , To take his choise for sauour , or for meat : Lookes oft about , not knowing where begin , All is so faire in shew , so sweet within . 10. So I , amid a Sea and World of matter , Exposed to my choise whereon to sing : Where no man need to gloze , much lesse to flatter , But smoothly say the truth in euery thing : Confounded with my Theames varietie , Stand doubtfull where begin my poesie . 11. First , of his Miracles . Thus wondring at this wondrous affluence , As I my pen vnto my paper set : It seem'd some hid celestiall influence My wau'ring hand , and purpose did abet , And mou'd me first dispose my selfe to treat , Christs Miracles , and workes of wonder great . 12. Christs d●ctrine at first required Miracles . 'T was meet that he who brought new Doctrine in , Put end vnto old Iewish ceremonies , With Miracles and wonders should begin : Ioh. 5. 36. & 10. 37. Such wondrous workes perform'd before mens eyes , Confirm'd his Doctrine with strong euidence , As none thereat could iustly take offence . 13. His profound● arguing with Docto●s , at twelue yeeres old , was wonderfull : if not precisely a miracle . Luk. 2. 49. The first , is one among them not the least , That he , a childe of young and tender yeeres , Eu'n in the Temple , at a solemne feast , Appos'd profoundest Doctors of the Chaires : His knowledge and his answeres were so rare , As all men wondred , who then present were . 14. Yet , by degrees he grew vnto perfection , Vers. 40. In grace and wisedome daily did encrease : As man , we reade he liu'd in some subiection To passions : Onely sinne could not him seaze . His God-head in his wonders did appeare ; So , of his Man-hood he left tokens cleare . 15. His turning water into wine . Ioh. 2. In Galile ( next ) at a marriage feast , His mother and disciples comming thither , Himselfe likewise a solemne bidden ghest , And many more assembling there together : He gaue a probat of his pow'r diuine , By turning Water into perfect Wine . 16. Gen. 〈◊〉 2● . When Adam stood in state of innocence , In Paradise God knit that sacred band , With breach whereof no mortall may dispence , He brought the Woman to the husbands hand . A mysterie , more to be had in honour , Sith of the first Wife , God himselfe was donour . 17. Perhaps from truth I shall not goe astray , Nor wrong the holy Text by misconstruction : If , as I thinke , so I presume to say , That Christ herein respected our instruction : This was properly , precisely and punctually his first miracle . By his first miracle at a marriage-dinner , To grace that Rite , whereof God was beginner . 18. He left a patterne of ciuilitie , To such as should his holy Faith embrace : To shun all churlish harsh rusticitie , And frame themselues to persons , time , and place : Rom. 12. 15. To feast sometimes with friends , at seasons fit ; And sometimes weepe , with such as mourning sit . 19. " No men on earth haue Angell-like perfection , " Whilst we are clothed with mortalitie , " To humane passions we liue in subiection , " None is exempt from mutabilitie . " We laugh , we weepe , are sick , recouer health , " From pouertie , sometimes rise vp to wealth . 20. His miraculous fasting fortie dayes . Matth. 4. As Christ made merrie with his friends at feasting , It 's likewise in the holy Storie noted : He soone retyr'd , and gaue himselfe to fasting , A worke whereto he chiefly was deuoted . The Deuill then beginneth him to trie , And takes aduantage of necessitie . 21. Full fortie dayes he spent in meditation , ( He was not idle in the Wildernesse ) In which he tooke no food for sustentation : This worke , his God-head makes vs to confesse . His hunger after that , doth testifie , And giue sure proofe of his Humanitie . 22. The Deuils first temptation on our Sauiour . Hence that Old Serpent , subtle sophister , Begins to argue thus : Bread here is none : That ( as thou know'st ) is lifes chiefe nourisher : Loe , here is matter , Take to thee this stone , If thou wilt proue thy selfe to be Gods sonne , Command it to be bread , and 't will be done . 23. He had not yet forgot , how simple Eue By faire pretence , was foully circumuented : So hoped he our Sauiour to deceaue , And make him yeild assoone as he was tempted . His wiles in tempting Christ , were farre more slie , They made no shew of grosse impietie . 24. The woman did what flatly was forbidden , From due obedience to rebellion slided : Foule gluttonie within her brest lay hidden , By sight , and taste her appetite shee guided . Gen. 3. 6. Because the fruit was pleasant to the eye . And good to eate , shee tooke it instantly . 25. One motiue , worse then th' other two beside , Preuaill'd with her . A rash , and damn'd desire Of knowledge like to God . Loe , here was pride , A sinne that still sets all the world on fire . By pride , rebellion , sensualitie , The Tempter gat on her the victorie . 26. With Christ , more warely he goes to worke . To turne a stone into a piece of bread , A man would thinke no treason here could lurke , And yet our Lord , withstood him to his head : Tells him , that God by 's word , and prouidence , Not by sole bread , procures our liues defence . 27. Th' audacious boldnesse of the wicked fiend Sets out it selfe , that being once repell'd , He durst his wit against our Sauiour bend : The more he was kept downe , the more he swell'd . For , hauing failed in his first assay , He leaues not so , buttries another way . 28. The Deuils second temptation . He lifts him vp vpon the Temples top , A place of danger , rashly to descend : A non perswades him , boldly thence to hop , On confidence that God would him defend : Matth. 4. 6. And for assurance , Scripture he produceth , Though ( like himselfe ) the Text there he abuseth . 29. " The Deuill , when he leades a man to sinne , " Seekes not t' obtayne his full designe at first : " With slender slips , and errors hee'l● beginne , " Then drawes him on , ●o actions more accurst . " For , he tha● to his first assault giues way , " At next will be more readie to obay . 30. The third temptation . One other gilded bait this Tempter sets , ( With such too many in these dayes are caught ) Him to a huge high Mountaynes top he gets , Thence shewes ●im all the world with glorie fraught , And offers all , so he might be ador'd : But then he was rebuked by our Lord . 31. Note the manner of Christs answers to the Tempter . Marke well , to euery point of this temptation , How Christ still answered with a scriptum est : The Deuill once spake so in altercation , Of him his Schollers learne the Text to wrest : Christ teacheth vs whereon our faith to ground , And how all deuillish wranglers to confound . 32. The oddes betweene the fasts of Moses and Eliah , and th●rof Christ . E. od. 34. 28. Cap. 24. 16 , 17 , 18. Though Moses did endure so long a fast , While in the holy Mount he did abide : Gods presence was to him a full repast , He needed not some sustenance beside . Eu'n in the clowd that time with God he dwelt , No touch of humane frailtie there he felt . 33. 1. King . 19. 6 , 7 , 〈◊〉 . Eliah tasted of a heauenly meate , Ordayned for the nonce to giue him strength : An Angell set it downe , and bid him eate , For-cause he had a iourney of great length : Th●s was a meane of good Eltahs fasting , The Angels foode had such a force of lasting . 34. Gen. 3. 22. And why not so ? Farre stranger was that tree , Whose fruit once eaten , had so strong a force ; The Eater , from diseases had beene free , His body neuer should beene made a coarse . Then maruaile not , if for some fortie dayes , One Angell-meale the Prophets stomack stayes . 35. Of Christ his fast , no meane at all I see , But onely that he did performe the deed ; His Manhood strengthned by his Deitie , Of secundarie causes had no need . 'T was God that fasted : so communitie Of properties , that speech doth iustifie . 36. Matth. 4. 23. In Galile where he began his preaching , His miracles aboundantly he wrought : By them he wan assent vnto his teaching , More Auditors to him thereby were brought . All people that were any wayes diseased , He made them sound , and left them wholly eased . 37. No sore , no sicknesse came to him amisse , He healed all , and euery kinde of griefe : A leprosie ( what spot more loathsome is ? ) His curing a leprosie . Matth. 8. 2. He cured with his word : 't was short and briefe . Be cleane , such is my will thou shouldest bee ; The griefe departed , and the man was free . 38. His cure of palseyes . Matth. 8. 2. & 9. 1. Two more he cur'd , with palsies much tormented , His word alone he vsed for their ayde : The one , before him neuer was conuented , Onely on his behalfe his Master pray'd : Goe home ( saith Christ ) thy seruant shall doe well , If thou beleeue : and iust so it befell . 39. Curing a feuer . Matth. 8. 14. Vers . 25. A feuer by a touch he did expell , Rebukes the windes , they instantly obay'd ; Becalmes the Seas which mightily did swell , Whereat his faint Disciples were dismay'd . Be still ( said he ) 't was calme eu'n as he spake ; Mar. 4. 41. They all with feare , and wonder 'gan to quake . 40. " He onely is the Lord of Sea and Land , " He holds the windes fast closed in his fist : " He hath both waues , and blasts at his command , " He makes them stirre , and stayes them when he list . " Of him they stand in awe , and feare his check , " When most thy striue , he stills them with a beck . 41. He walketh on the sea . Matth. 14. To him the Sea is as the firmest ground , Thereon he walkes , makes Peter doe likewise : Who waxed faint , and feared to be drown'd , When he perceau'd a tempest to arise . " Needs must they sinke , whom Christ doth not sustaine , " The helpe of others , we implore in vaine . 42. His healing the blinde . Matth. 9. 27. Two men , who were depriued of their sight , ( When of their faith they first had made confession ) He toucht their eyes , that they mought see the light , Yet 't was to take effect vpon condition , So their beliefe were heartie , and vnfayn'd : Which soone appear'd , in that their sight they gayn'd . 43. Io● . 9. readeall this Chapter● . Another , noted to be blinde by birth , 'Bout whom the Iewes vs'd many captious questions : He spat , and made a temper of the earth , 'Mongst them it caused many nice suggestions : They labour'd much this wonder to deface , Their stirring gate to Christ and it , more grace . 44. A Simile . As one , who seekes to quench a fire begun , Bestirres himselfe with what comes next to hand : Then to some vessell hastily doth run , Takes vp a pot of oile which there did stand , Throwes it thereon , in hope the flame to smother , But then each little flame , begets three other : 45. So they halfe mad ; that wonder to disgrace , ( At least , thereof to stop the spreading fame ) Run vp and downe , and walke from place to place , One while the man , then they his parents blame : Vers. 34. The Deed at length confirm'd , and clear'd from doubt , They curse the late-blinde man , and cast him out . 46. Deafe and dumbe cured . Matth 9. 32. and Mark 7. 32. and 3. The deafe and dumbe , he made to heare and speake , Limmes withred vp , to strength he did restore : By meanes in seeming simple , feeble , weake , Which caus'd all men thereat to wonder more . What euer meanes he pleased to apply , His will alone , was th' onely remedy . 47. A creeple of thirtie eight yeeres , healed . Io● . 5. One creeple noted more then all the rest , Poore impotent , full thirtie yeeres and eight ; His strength regayned when he hoped least , At that strange Poole , where he so long did wait : That helpe which by the Poole he could not haue , Christ with his onely word vnto him gaue . 48. His miraculous feeding 5000. m●n with eight loaues , and two fishes . Iob. 6. Who euer with such slender store of bread , As fiue poore barley loaues , and two small fishes : Hath read , or heard fiue thousand men full fed , Whose stomacks might haue askt a thousand dishes ? They all were fill'd , and after meale left more , Then what to them presented was before . 49. 4000. men , besides women and children , fed with seuen loaues . Matth. 15. One other meale , much like vnto the last , To men , their wiues and children did he make : With little food , he gaue them large repast . Then they who sawe these workes , precisely spake That this was he , expected for so long ; ( Diuine-sweet subiect of my simple song . ) 50. Herein was neere resemblance with Creation , No man did so in former time , nor since : Admit therein but multiplication , It giues full proofe of his Omnipotence . To make huge matter out of little store , All 's one , as if there had beene none afore . 51. These workes were strange ; Farre stranger rest vntold , The like were neuer since , nor yet before : Matth. 〈◊〉 . 20. & Mar. 5. 25. Consuming griefes , long-lingering and old , By touching of his garment , and no more . To vanish in a moment , and depart , Not eas'd , but waxing worse by physicks art . 52. His reuiuing the dead . Yet , all diseases , griefes , and maladies Exceeding physicks skill , and surgerie , May not be thought so farre past remedies As death , attendant on mortalitie . When once the thred of life is cut in twaine , God , and no Man , can fasten it againe . 53. This Sonne of God , both God and Man together , Like pow'r had ouer death , as on diseases : He conquer'd th' one , aswell as cur'd the other , With 's Word , or lesse then that , doth what him pleases . He could assoone make any dead man liue , As health vnto diseased persons giue . 54. Iareus his daughter . Marc. 5. When first he came vnto the Rulers daughter , ( Her fathers humble suit him thither led ) The people there began to raise a laughter , In that they knew , the Maide was fully dead . He takes her by the hand , bids her arise , Shee walks , and eateth meat before their eyes . 55. The widdowes sonne at Naim . Luk. 7. 11. Like deed at Naim , wrought he on another ; A dead man carried out vpon a Beere , Who was the onely sonne vnto his mother A widdow , weeping shew'd shee lou'd him deere : Christ tooke compassion , will'd her not to weepe , Then rowz'd her sonne from death , as from a sleepe . 56. These two were strangers , both to him vnknowne , ( Respecting passions of humanitie ) Lazarus . Ioh. 11. A friend and deare acquaintance of his owne , Who dwelt within the towne of Bethanie , Giues greater cause to manifest Gods glorie , Vers. 3. As is obserued in the sacred Storie . 57. No miracle in all the holy Booke , So fully is describ'd in euery part : I wish my Reader on that Text to looke , Vers. 45. That deed alone did many Iewes conuert : And he who reading it , rests vn-conuerted , Then any stubborne Iew , is more hard-hearted . 58. Here are cleere signes of Christs humanitie , His loue , his sorrow , witnessed by weeping : Mayne arguments of his Diuinitie , A waking one , who mortally was sleeping . By natures course , the corps began to stinke , Vers. 39. And so his friends that lou'd him best , did thinke . 59. What though his flesh had beene to dust consum'd , And all his limmes disioynted cleane asunder ? His former state he should haue re-assum'd , Had Christ beene pleas'd to shew so rare a wonder . He cry'd alowd , and call'd him by his name , The dead man rose , out of his tombe he came . 60. Why should that Article of our Christen Creed , Which doth assure vs of the Resurrection , ( Though Reasons reach in sort it doth exceed ) Against beliefe be held a strong obiection ? This one example makes the matter plaine , That dead men may rise vp , and liue againe . 61. This deed was done neere to Ierusalem , A great recourse of Iewes then in the place : It shewes , our Lord was willing to win them , At least wise such , in whom was sparke of grace . Great numbers did beleeue ; some went their wayes , And told the matter to the Phariseis . 62. Vers. 47. Such publ●ke notice of this Act was taken , That all the Citie there with gan be troubled , The Priests and Pharisees with feare were shaken : Ch. 12. 9 , 10 , 11. Their malice and their furie both redoubled , Sith Lazarus caus'd many to belieue , Who knew he had beene dead , and sawe him liue . 63. A zealous prayer of the Author . O faithlesse Iewes , most vnbeleeuing Nation , What madnesse did your crazie braines possesse ! Hard-hearted , stubborne , froward Generation , Who seeing such great workes , would not confesse ! The gangren of your incredulitie , Infecteth yet your whole posteritie . 64. Thou soules and bodies Surgeon and Physition , Haue pitie on this braine-sick , frantick crue : Prepare some strong-soule-curing composition , Vouchsafe their drowsie spirits to renewe : Turne them at last , that they and we together , May knowledge thee coequall with thy Father : 65. And by the working of thy holy Spirit , One God that makes the Glorious Trinitie : Thy heauenly Kingdome we may all inherit , Knit here below in perfect vnitie , In vertue striuing each to passe the other , True Children of thy holy Church , our Mother . 66. Deuills cast out , proue and confesse his Diuinitie . Another proofe of Christs Diuinitie , His greatest foe , the Deuill shall auow : Though wicked men all bent to blasphemie , Him and his workes disgrac't , they car'd not how . Mar. 3. 22. When he the Deuills , by his pow'r o're-came , They said he did it in the Deuills name . 67. Matth. 12. 24. Damn'd blasphemie ! Repugnant to all reason , That Satan should against himselfe rebell : Nay , 'mongst those cursed fiends there 's no such treason , To mischieue vs , they all agree too well : Their concord ( such as 't is ) maintaynes their state , We lose our selues by strife , and mutuall hate . 68. Mar. 9. 25. Sometimes he checks the Deuills with his Word , Commands them to come out , and is obay'd : Luk. 4. 33. Sometimes at very presence of our Lord , Before he speakes , they crie and are afray'd . Matth. 8. 28. They begge his leaue to enter into Swine ; What stronger probat of his pow'r diuine ? 69. The Syrophenicians daughter . Mar. 7. 25. To Iewes and Gentiles he was kind alike , Lord of them both , in mercy rich to all : One woman who by Nation was a Greeke , Before his feet , most humbly downe did fall : Her daughter from a Deuill he set free , Yet came not neere , nor euer did her see . 70. If all the workes of wonder had beene penn'd , By which our Lord prou'd his Diuinitie : Io● . 20. 30. & 21. 25. The pen-men hardly could haue found an end , They mounted neere vp to infinitie . These were , and are enough to gender faith ; So I beleeue , for so the Gospell saith . 71. Some circumstances rest worth obseruation , Whereof my Muse desires a note to warble : The Theame yeilds her such inward contentation , Shee holds it fitter to be grau'n in marble , Then rudely scribb'ld with her ragged quill , Yet hopes , the best may like of her good will . 72. Amplification of Christs powerfull Omnipotency : In that he gaue like power to others , to doe such miracles , as himselfe had done . Act. 4. 13. In giuing pow'r to simple Fishermen , That they like workes should doe , as he had wrought : Most of them wanting skill to hold a pen , Who neuer in their youth to schoole were brought : This was a wonder much admired at , The learned Iewes tooke speciall note of that . 73. Christ , bodies Surgeon , and the soules Physition , Great Lord and King of both by lawfull right : Matth. 10. 1. 8. To his Apostles gaue a large Commission , Against all griefes , and euery vncleane sprite . He bids them heale the sick , make lepers cleane , Cast out the Deuils , raise the dead againe . 74. Much v●like him of whom it is writen , Vendere iure potest , ●merat ●lle prius . Act 3. 6. & 8. 18 , 19 , 20. Freely they had this gift , payd nothing for it , As freely they bestow'd the same on others . Money or bribes to take , they did abhorre it , But gaue to strangers , as vnto their brothers . This law and practise is grow'n obsolet , Now men must pay , if ought they meane to get . 75. A Simile , While Phoebus shewes his face , it shines so bright , The Moone and lesser Lamps yeild not a sparke : There 's no apparance of their borrowed light , Till he withdraw , and it begin grow darke : Then , all such force as he to them doth lend , To serue the vse of man , they freely spend . 76. Another Simile , or Comparison . A King , whilst he is present in the place , And deignes himselfe a bus'nesse to effect : For subiects then to wait , it 's no disgrace , Till he be pleas'd , some specially t'elect , And giue them pow'r in those affaires to deale , To trie them trustie , and himselfe to speale , 77. Our Lord , long time in persion did attend His Church-affaires , himselfe tooke all the care : He trayn'd some neere about him , to this end When he sawe time , the burthen they might share , And by Commission ample , full and large , Performe what he to them should giue in charge . 78. The Apostles miracles , were arguments of Christ , diuinitie , by whose power they did them . Th' Apostles were no slack Commissioners , But roundly let themselues vnto their taske : All people of the world were their Parishioners , They gaue to all , that came to them to aske . By vertue of Christs pow'r to them diriu'd , What e●e they tooke in hand , prou'd well , and thriu'd . 79. Speaking all languages . Iob. 14. 16. & Act. 2. And first , t' assure them of his powerfull aide , To warrant them in that so high a function : T' accomplish what not long before he saide , On them he did bestow a sp●rituall vnction . They with the holy Ghost were wholly fill'd , In euery language on a sodaine skill'd . 80. Saint Peter . most diuine sermon . Vers. 11. This strange beginning had a faire successe , Though some forbare not , foully to blaspheme Three thousand soules were gayned , and no lesse By Peters Sermon , grounded on that Theame . 41. Hereby Christs God-head was aswell made knowne , As by the greatest wonders of his owne . 81. What miracles were by th' Apostles showne , Act. 3. 11 , 12. and 14. 14. Though all the people offred them the honour : Yet they surrendred it to him alone , Who of their large Commission was the Donour . " The Authour of each worke deserues the prayse , " More then the Instrument , which him obayes . 82. So , what they did as seruants to their Lord , Whence they deriued their authoritie : Among those Acts I iustly may record , Which giue vs proofe of his Diuinitie . Act. 3. 6. and 4. 10. 30. By him , and in his Name , their deedes were wrought ; Confest , that of themselues they could doe nought . 83. Healing a ●…ple . Act. 3. As when they set the creeple on his feet , Who from his birth before could neuer stand , Vntill that Peter friendly did him greet , And gently taking him by his right hand , Bid him rise vp , and walke in Iesus Name : Which said , the creeple was no longer lame . 84. The Iewish Rulers , madded with this deed , And more , in that they did the people teach : Laid hands on them . But marke how it did speed , The Doctrine was so sweet which they did preach , Act. 4. ● . So well confirmed , that siue thousand more , Were ioyn'd to them , which did beleeue before . 85. Me thinkes , it was a miracle to see , How these hard-hearted Rulers beat their braine : To compasse , that the deed conceal'd might bee , Which was so open , manifest , and plaine . Themselues blind-foulded , would haue other men , Seeme not to see , what cleerly they did ken . 86. A Simile . Like children when they hide their eyes , or winke , While they themselues see not the face of others : That no man else sees them ( poore soules ) they thinke , Thus please their fancie , and delight their mothers . Such was the childish folly of those people , About the bus'nesse of that cnred creple . 87. Here Peters loue vnto his Lord appear'd , Iob. 2● . 15. Whereof not long before he made profession : The threatnings of the Iewes , he no whit fear'd , Act. 4. 8. But boldly made a most diuine confession : Proues , they had-cast aside that Corner-stone , Which all the faithfull should be built vpon . 88. When he and other of his fellowes met , Recounting how the Rulers had them threat'ned : Themselues to pray with one accord they set , Desiring God they might by him be heart'ned , Boldly to preach : a●d that in Iesus Name , They might worke wonders , so to spread his same . 89. The strange mouing of the place where they prayed . Vers. 3● . No sooner had they ended their denotion , But instantly the place wherein they sat , Was strangely shaken with a heauenly motion : They courage tooke , and waxed bold thereat , Inspired from aboue , they all agree , Their hearts and soules fast knit in charitie . 90. A Comparison . A King , that seekes his Empire to enlarge , Winnes strangers to acknowledge him their Lord : As well of th' one , as th' other sort takes charge , Like Iustice to them all , he doth afford . One sharpe example shew'd on his owne Nation , Makes strangers loue : and feare like castigation . 91. Some one , who in the Churches bosome lurkes , Who of Religion makes a faire pretence : Corrupts his fellowes with his wicked workes , To Infidels giues scandall , and offence . By cutting off so bad a rotten limme , The body is preserued cleane , and trimme . 92. Another Comparison . A scabbed sheepe that would the whole insect , Good Shepherds vse to draw-out from the rest : The flock , more then one culling , they respect . Th' Apostles , Pastors of all else , the best , With their new-chosen sheepe doe so begin , Thereby more loue , and credit did they win . 93. The miracle done by Peter on An●…tas and his wise . Act. 5. What sinne more haynous in the Church of God . Then Sacriledge ? Of all thefts , that 's the worst : Such theeues aske scourging with an Iron rod. Of all Church-robbers , he who was the first 'Mong men professing Christ , death was his hire : The manner strange , as did the fact require . 94. The man who did commit that robberie , Though 't were most close , and secret in his heart : No sooner came in Peters companie , But he perceau'd his falshood , and his art : Rebuk't him sharply for his foule dissembling , Downe dead he fell , eu'n at his feet with trembling 95. His wife , partaker in the trecherie , Not knowing what her husband did betyde : Presents her selfe with like impietie , But instantly at Peters word , shee dy'de . These rare examples strake a sodaine feare , In all beleeuers , who thereof did heare . 96. Simon the sorcerer . Act. 8. A crime there is , neere kin vnto the other , Which from the Authour doth deriue its name : 'T is Simonie , to Sacriledge next brother , A Sorcerer he was who broacht the same : Yet , by the wonders which Saint Philip wrought , Within the Churches verge he had beene brought . 97. He thought Gods gifts with money might be gayn'd , Saint Peter checks him sharpely for his fault , Exhorts him to repent with zeale vnfayn'd : Perhaps the man did so as he was taught . Himselfe he humbled , seemed penitent , I find no mention of his punishment . 98. " That argues not , the fault t' haue beene the lesse , " God strikes , and spares whom to him seemeth good : " A late example makes vs so confesse , Luk. 13. 4. " Like Siloes Tower rightly vnderstood . ) " Those faults are both of them so neere of kinne , " I wot not which to call the greater sinne . 99. The Church hath long beene pesterd with those crimes , ( Th' are deeply mor'd , 't is hard to weed them out ) If holy Peter liu'd in these our times , 'T would cause him rowze himselfe , and looke about , And strike some dead , to make the others feare . " Examples moue , wordes onely beat the aire . 100. As Peter , Ananias and his wife R●uiuing Tabitha . Act. 9. For their offences , with a word did slay : So , good Tabitha he restores to life , When kneeling by her carkasse , he did pray . Onely he bid her rise , then vp shee sat , Many beleeu'd , and wondred much thereat . 101. Cornelius and th● Gentiles conu●rt●d . Act. 10. & 11 How much did he amaze the faithfull Iewes , In shewing them the Gentiles strange conuersion ? At first they were offended with the newes , And rashly laid on him a foule aspersion : But when he plainely told them all the storie , They held their peace , and gaue to God the glorie . 102. Other great wonders done by the Apostles . Act. 5. 12. Strange wonders more were by th' Apostles wrought , As if their Lord himselfe had beene in place : The sick in couches , and in beds were brought , No kinde of griefe made difference in the case : All coming to them , whole and sound were made , Saint Peter● shadow . Yea some , obtayning onely Peters shade . 103. Saint Paul● Napk●… . Act. 19. 12. Not much vnlike it 's noted of Saint Paul , The linnen clothes that from his person came , Draue-out foule spirits , and cur'd diseases all : Done by Christs helpe and onely in his Name . He that to mortall men such pow'r could giue , Him to be more then man , we must belieue . 104. Act. 5. 19. Strong prison doores flue-ope , to let them out , So did an Iron gate , though surely warded : Act. 12. 7. 10. & 16. 26. They shakt off chaines , and fetters like a clout , And past through all such watches as them guarded : Till their Commission they had fully ended , Their Master from all Tyrants , them defended . 105. Saint Pauls wonderfull conuersion . Act. 9. When Saul against the faithfull tyranniz'd , With bonds and torments threatning them to punish : In wondrous manner sodenly surpriz'd , A light from heauen did him so astonish , That tumbling downe he fell , and lost his sight , The vision which appeared was so bright . 106. To him our Lord himselfe distinctly spake , Recall'd him from the error he was in : Vers. 20. He readily obey'd , and nothing slacke , To preach and teach did presently begin : And plainly prou'd , that Christ in deed was hee , By God ordayn'd , worlds Sauiour to bee . 107. Now shall you heare how persecuting Saul , Conuerted by so strange an apparition : Became a most religious preaching Paul , Act. 18. 9. and 22. 17. 1. Cor. 15. 10. Rom. 15. 19. Receau'd from Christ himselfe a new Commission : Wherein he labour'd more then all the rest , His labours with a faire successe were blest . 108. Act. 11. 6. The first name of Christians , was at Antioch . At Antioch , a Citie of renowne , The faith of Christ he so diuinely taught : As first the name of Christians in that Towne , Was giu'n to all , who to the Faith were brought . ( O , as we doe retayne that glorious Name , So would we doe such workes , as fit the same ! ) 109. Elimas the sorcerer stricken blinde by Paul . Act. 13. As to darke men they oft restored sight , So with a word they would strike others blinde . A Sorcerer resisting Paul with might , The force of his commanding word did finde : That act made Sergius Paulus yeild assent To Christian faith , with great astonishment . 110. A most diuine and pythie exhortation , Act. 2. ( Like Peters sermon at Ierusalem ) Paul boldly spake to that vntoward Nation , Act. 13. 16. Yet little good his preaching did to them : The Gentiles gladly did the Truth embrace , And were accepted in the others place . 111. How comes it , that the Word diuinely taught , Makes some more stubborne then they were before ? When other-some therewith are sweetly caught , With grace replenisht daily more and more ? " What 's antidote to one , another kills , " What saues the sonnes life , oft the fathers spills . 112. A Comparison . The fires warmth , and heat of shining Sunne , A roll of waxe doth gently mollifie : On dirt and clay the contrarie is done , These more obdurate grow , and hard thereby . Some men haue hearts of waxe , and some of clay , In Sunne or Fire the fault we must not lay . 113. This great Apostle neuer sate him downe , But still attending on his holy Function , He trauail'd day and night , from towne to towne : Some , moued in their hearts with true compunction , Were won to Christ : Some others stirr'd vp strife , And some laid plots , to take away his life . 114. A creeple healed by Saint Paul at Lystra . Act. 14. At Lystra lay a creeple impotent , Who neuer vs'd his legs since he was bore : Stand vp , quoth Paul ; he leapt incontinent , Then they who long had knowne the man before , Would needes haue done vnto him sacrifice , And hardly were restrayned with his cries . 115. A Simile , or Comparison . Eu'n as a grand Commander in the field , Who ouer many thousands hath the charge : Walks oft about his campe , and resteth seild , Suruayes it round ( although in compasse large ) Where he perceaues his men stand most in need , There he runnes in , and succours them with speed : 116. So this grand Captayne of the Christian bands , Who fought against a strong and subtill foe : Act. 16. & 17. & 18. Reviewes his Souldiers in remotest lands , New-heartens those he had , still takes vp moe : His foe-mans Souldiers runne to him amayne , With such good pay , he did them entertayne . 117. He casteth out a spirit of diuination . Act. 16. 14. In Macedon where Lydia was conuerted , A Maide which had a sprite of diuination : To Paul and Silas who with him consorted , Great trouble bred , and cruell castigation . When he the Deuill by his word expell'd , Some much incenst with rage against him swell'd . 118. That sooth-saying Damsell brought her Master gayne , Who when he saw the hope thereof was gone : He cryes out to the Magistrates amayne , Implores their ayde , else they were quite vndone . These Iewes ( saith he ) doe trouble all our Towne : So were they whipt , and to the Iayle cast downe . 119. How loath are worldly men to beare a crosse ? Such as be rich , haue all things at the full , Act 18. 2● . They 'll follow Christ , so 't be not to their losse : You prick their hearts , if once their fleece yee pull . Act. 19. Demetrius gayning by Dianaes shrines , With all the craftsmen 'gainst Saint Paul combines . 120. Being in prison , by a wonderfull earthquake the Iayler is conuerted . Act. 16. Silas and he were fast set in the stocks , They pray'd all night , and Psalmes to God did sing : The prison strangely shakt , off flue the locks , The ●ayler all amazed at the thing . Admires the men : He with his familie Baptiz'd , were turn'd to Christianitie . 121. A Comparison . A Traytor who vnto a Crowne aspires , Deuiseth how to climbe vp to the Throne : The better to accomplish his desires , And gayne the Honour due to Kings alone : Prepares himselfe by apish imitation , Ere he presume to broach his innouation . 122. Like Perki● in ● . 7. First frames a count'nance fit for Maiestie , Then counterfeits , iust like a King to talke : He learnes the way to speake Imperiously , Next tries how Prince-like he in state can walke : Thus when he thinkes himselfe shap't fit for action , He makes some vse of Partners in his faction . 123. His Warrants and Commissions flie about , As if he were a King in veritie : His Officers , among the simpler rout , Make shew of iustice , and sinceritie : But , as in their mayne-warrant there is fault , So all their deeds are counterfeit , and naught . 124. The Deuill a Traytor to God , doth what he can to counterfeit Gods miracles . The Deuill is to heauens King a traytor , Vsurps Gods lawfull iurisdiction : He drawes vnto him many a gracelesse wayter , Some he beguileth with his subtill fiction : By sleights he makes his Vassals to belieue , That he like powre , as God himselfe , can giue . 125. Exod. 7. When Moses by Commission from his God , First to King Pharo did himselfe present : He rayz'd a liuing Serpent of his Rod , To make it knowne , that he from God was sent . This deed ( in reason ) might haue mou'd the King , But that the Deuill closely crost the thing . 126. False Sorcerers ( the Deuills Iourney-men , That long had beene Apprentice to the Trade ) By their enchauntments did the like agen , I thinke , not so in substance , but in shade . For Moses Serpent truly being so , Deuoured theirs , which were but such in show . 127. Exod. 8. 18. The vilest vermine rays'd from Egypts dust , Compell'd th' Inchaunters to confesse Gods hand : Small reason had they in their Art to trust , Exod. 9 11. Sith they in Moses presence could not stand : But all as much with botches were opprest , As other men , the cattle and the beast . 128. Iewish Exorcists beaten by the Deuill . Act. 19. 13. Among the Iewes , while Paul true wonders wrought , The Deuill had Commissioners abroad : These , not Gods glorie , but their Masters sought , Abus'd the Name of Iesus to their fraud : As though bare naming Iesus , and Saint Paul , Without true faith , could worke those wonders all . 129. These Exorcists were quickly taught to know , Their fault in vsing counterfeit Commission : The Deuill made the men themselues beshrew , For as they vs'd their skill without suspition , The man whom they ( being seuen ) had coniur'd , Doth wound them all , and sends them to be cur'd . 130. The Deuill doth seduce his Vassals , to hurt and destroy them . Behold the common tricks of that Seducer , Good Angels shape in shew he doth assume : Of all that come to him , he is th' abuser , When most vpon his fauour they presume , He quits their seruice with a wofull hire , Prouides them lodging in a flame of fire . 131. Meane while ( perhaps ) till he of them be sure , With vaine and short delights giues them content ▪ Then hauing trayn'd them readie to his lure , Prepares himselfe vnto their punishment . Hee 'll take a limme or ioynt , in part of pay , T' assure him of the whole another day . 132. These Exorcists , sore wounded for their paines , With shame and sorrow , tooke them to their heeles : The man possest , no helpe by them regaines , Nor casement of his former torment feeles . " All deuillish Artists finde the like successe : " Small good they doe themselues , to others lesse . 133. But they to whom Christ did that powre impart , To worke great wonders , calling on his Name : To men opprest brought ease , and ioy of heart , To them and to their doctrine , prayse and fame . Beleeuers , in their faith were faster grounded , Oppugners of the Truth , thereby confounded . 134. Paul r●st●rech dead ●utichus to life . Act. 20. While Paul at Troas preacht till mid of night , Intending his departure on the morrow : A chance befell that did them much affright , Possest his hearers hearts with griefe and sorrow . A sleeping youth fell downe three stories hie , And with the fall , departed instantlie . 135. Some friends ( it 's like ) were there , who for him grieu'd , Discomfort to the rest the chance did breede , Sith he was of the faithfull , and belieu'd : But Paul , who neuer fail'd his friends at need , When he had stretcht himselfe vpon the Lad , Reuiued him , and made th' assembly glad . 136. " For one good faithfull man , of God belou'd , " A multitude oft doe his fauour finde : Act. 27. By Pauls example that was fully prou'd , When in a ship tost with tempestuous winde , Two hundred seuentie fiue God to him gaue , And for his sake the liues of all did saue . 137. As he not long before to them had told , When sad despaire possessed all their hearts : He comforts them , perswades them to be bold , ( So they would ply themselues to doe their parts , For why , fit meanes might not be cast aside : ) No losse of one mans life should them betide . 138. It so fell out . A matter seldome seene , Where seas so swell'd , and tempests were so strong : No trauailer who in like case had beene , So tost with waues , and toyll'd with labours long , Would thinke in such a wreck , neere fourteene score , Not one man lost , should all come safe to shore . 139. When Paul had past the danger of the Seas , And safely landed in Melita's Ile : He rested not , nor idly tooke his ●ase , Intending his Commission all the while . Diseased people flockt to him amayne , He cured all , and rid them of their payne 140. Among the rest , the Ruler of that place , A noble Romane , shew'd him curtesie : Whom Paul requited with a worke of grace , The Rulers father sicke , and like to die , In perfect health he setled by his prayer , And many moe , that did to him repayre . 141. That great Physitian of our soules and bodies , Who cured all diseases with a word . Could not escape the taunts of simple noddies , Luk. 4. 23. ( Whereof in holy Writ I finde record ) But some durst say , if thou haue pow'r at will , Physitian heale thy selfe , and shew thy skill . 142. Act. 28. ● . I reade how Paul was once put to that push , Vpon himselfe his pow'rfull art to proue : The triall would haue made a stout man blush , But he assured of his Masters loue , Those dangers which did other men appall ; Esteemed light , and reck'ned them but small . 143. No sooner was he free on shore from drowning , His nummed lims refreshing by a fire : As if both sea and land lookt on him frowning , And creatures all against him did conspire : A worme whose biting present death would bring , Doth seize his hand , and closely to it cling . 144. This hap , the standers by did much affright , Who knew the Vipers venom was so strong : That none whom they should happen once to bite , V●… 4. From swelling , or from death could hold out long , A murtherer they iudg'd him to haue beene , This plague laid on him , for that horrid sinne . 145. He soone shooke-off the beast into the flame , Not mou'd , nor feeling any harme at all : The people then began t' extoll his name , They change their mindes , and him a God they call . Poore fooles , they might haue said , and spoken right , That none could so haue done , but by Gods might . 146. Now put together since the worlds creation , All workes of wonder done in any time , Which might deserue or challenge admiration , In any Countrey , Region , or Clime : ( Except what Moses and Gods Prophets wrought ) Compar'd with these , they 'll seeme as things of nought . 147. Here could I lose my selfe with wonderment , Amid this forest of such rarities : My soule is stricken with astonishment , And most at Iewish incredulities , To thinke how such a Sauiour they could scorne , Who of their bloud , and for their good was borne . 148. An Atheistical ob●…ction . An Atheist , or a selfe-wise polititian , Presuming on the finenesse of his wit : Will rayse a doubt ( much like a Matchiuellian ) And sweare , there 's no Diuine can answere it . Such Apes there be that hugge their own brain-broods , Deeme all men , but themselues , of muddie moods . 149. If these Apostles could such wonders worke , Make sicke men whole , restore the dead to life , Giue blinde men sight , strike some sharpe-sighted darke ; Resolue me of one doubt , to end the strife . Why could they not haue mast'red all their foes , Who slaught'red them , and bred them many woes ? 150. That ( thinke these men ) had beene the onely way , Their doctrine and themselues so to haue grac't , As all men would them readily obay , No ●yrant , such examples , had out fac●t . But sith themselues they were not able saue , We doubt how they such helpe to others gaue . 151. Matth. 27. 39. So said the Iewes when they our Lord reuil'd , From them these Wizards this obiection borrow : The Scribes and Priests spake scoffingly , and smil'd , ( What time his suffrings might haue mou'd their sorrow : ) Come downe now from the Crosse , so wee 'll belieue , Else , to thy Doctrine we no credit giue . 152. Though he had Angell-legions at his becke , Matth. 26. 53. Whereby his foe-men all he could haue slaine : Though he could soone haue giu'n them such a checke , As all their banding 'gainst him , had beene vaine : Yet , to another purpose was he bore ; T' accomplish things , long prophecy'de before . 153. Answere to the obiection . How then should Scriptures be fulfill'd ? ( said hee ) That answere may suffice vs in this case : From Masters state , the seruants were not free , Most willingly the Crosse they did embrace . " So , all that purpose to be Christ his schollers , " In patient suff'ring they must be his followers . 154. Sundrie Similes . " Gold 's not refin'd , but if it feele the fire ; " Wheat not well cleans'd , but by the winde or fan : " Who can expect a worthy Souldiers hire , " Vnlesse he fight , and quit him like a man ? " We are Gods men of warre , his gold , his wheat ; " We must be cleans'd , refin'd , with labours sweat . 155. The workes by Christ , and his Apostles done , Might well suffice their Doctrine to auerre : To get beliefe in such as would be wonne , Confound all those , that wilfully would erre . Of greater workes then those there was no need , Men must be pleas'd , with what God hath decreed . 156. Luk. 16. 27. The Glutton sought a messenger from heauen , ( When he in hell , for sinnes fore-past did burne : ) Who might relate a message to his brethren , And moue them from their wicked deeds to turne . Gods written warnings which they had afore , Were left vnto them : they could get no more . 157. A Comparison . Is' t meet a Vassall should prescribe his Liege , The way how he his people ought to rule ? Or that a priuate Souldier at a siege , Command the breach to enter , or recule ? If no , lesse reason hath a mortall wight , Direct his God the way to rule aright . 158. One worke of wonder resteth to be told , The wonderfull and miraculous encrease of Christen faith . Though some ( perhaps ) will not confesse so much : As Maxim , not as Paradox I hold , It iustly merits to be termed such : That Christen faith should grow so fast , and flourish , E're King , or State endeuour'd it to nourish . 159. Psal. 2. and Act. 4. 25. The Gentiles furiously together rag'd , Their Kings and Princes banding did vnite : 'Gainst th' Infant-Church they wholly were engag'd , To roote it out they bent their wit , and might . Both Iewes and Gentiles therein did agree , To stop the growth of Christianitie . 160. Maugre Heathen Rom. Emperors , in the highest of their power When Romane Empire flourisht in her prime , Had all the world subiected to her yoke : Whose lawes to breake , was held a haynous crime , A sacriledge their Idolls to prouoke . New legionarie Souldiers then arose , Th' old Emperors had neuer none like those . 161. By meanes in ●eeming weake and feeble . Grey-headed Fathers marcht in foremost ranke , Graue Matrones boldly did those Leaders second : Young striplings of their bloud and life were franke , And tender Virgins follow'd them as jocond . Weake troupes ( a man would thinke ) to win a field , Get ground vpon their foes , and make them yeild . 162. Such were those noble Christen Martyrs old , That first enlarg'd the bounds of Christs Dominions : No Heathen worthies euer were so bold , So constantly maintayned their Opinions . By their example Nations were conuerted , And Heath'nish-Idoll-Altars all subuerted . 163. Pious principles of Christianitie . Their Precepts tended not to vaine delights , Nor loos'd the reynes to lustfull libertie : Not smoothly soothed carnall-minded wights , Nor sau'ring ought of sensualitie . But teaching men , worlds pleasures to despise , Set onely heauens ioyes before their eyes . 164. Humilitie and Meeknesse to professe , To offer no man wrong , but suffer rather : To succour widdowes , and the fatherlesse , No goods , but onely by good meanes , to gather : To feede the hungrie with their bread and meate , With clothes the naked keepe from cold , and heate . 165. Chastely to liue , and shunne Incontinence , Th' vnruly flesh with often fasts to tame : To liue vprightly , giue no man offence , Of vice and lewdnesse onely to take shame . To doe in all things vnto other men , As we wish others doe to vs agen . 166. Say , was not this a worke of wonderment ? Rom. 1. 21. That men who knew not God , but seru'd the Deuill ; The way which Nature led them , therein went ; Whose thoughts were fleshly , all their actions euill : Their liues in sports , and pleasures vaine did spend , Suppos'd they were created to that end ? 167. That such men freely should the world forsake , Bid vaine delights , and vanities adue : Themselues to rigid rules of life betake , Renounce old errors : like Babes borne of new , Suck the sweet milke of pious Christen Doctrine , Gladly endure the yoke of Church-discipline ? 168. Compare these times with theirs , it will appeare , Such alteration was a matter strange : Sith men 'mongst whom Christs doctrin now shines cleare , From vertue vnto vice profanely range : Now most professing Christ , like Heathens liue , And by their deeds , denie what they belieue . 169. A wonder 't is , in either of the twaine , Or vs , or them : ( aduize vpon the oddes ) It 's fear'd least Paganisme returne againe , And Heath'nish manners , bring in Heathen gods . Among the Iewes , iust so it came to passe , Our state is seene in theirs , as in a glasse . 170. Mahometisme how it first beganne . Not so , as did the Christian faith first rise , That worlds-great-damn'd Seducer did begin : By other meanes his foule impieties Antithesis betwixt it , and Christianisme . Were set abroach , and did their credit win . The Romaine Empire growing to decay , To that false prophets doctrine make a way . 171. 'Mongst men of nature fierce , of weake beliefe , Of manners lewd , of dissolute conditions , That false Seducer he became the chiefe , So pleasingly set forth his propositions ; With cunning art , and subtle stratagemes , He first divulg'd his gracelesse theoremes . 172. Halfe-Iew , halfe-Christian he makes shew to bee , Takes some thing from them both , as likes him best : What tends to pleasure , wealth , and libertie , That he cull●-out , and ouer-slips the rest : So make a medley of religions both , Which then had in the world the chiefest growth . 173. A Simile though simple● yet not vnseemely , for the thing assinulated . Not much vnlike a palat-pleasing Cooke , That dights some luscious dish to feed a Glutton : On sundrie sorts of Cates at hand doth looke , Takes one choise morsell from a well-fed mutton One bit he borrowes of a fatted Capon , Layes in a little piece of sweet new Bacon . 174. From fat-beeues bones drawes halfe a pound of marrow , Of Kid hee 'll haue a part , and so of Veale : For birds-flesh minceth out the Larke , and Sparrow , Addes Spices , Sugar , Sack a pretie deale . Thus makes a Hotch-potch fit to feede a Gull , Who chops it vp , till he be gorged full . 175. So , that religion-monger Mohomet , To feede the fancies of vnstable braines : From all religions doth such Maxims get , As best might sooth mens humours , fit their vaines . No meruaile if a doctrine so all-pleasing , Tooke roote , assisted by his fraud and leasing . 176. " Force ioyn'd with fraud and cunning , may doe much , " It's hard those sleights , and engins to withstand : That Sect began , and is vp-held by such , Not with the touch , whereby the Truth is scan'd . The meanes that rays'd our faith , first made it flourish , Are best the same to foster , feede and nourish . 177. Gods hand 's not short'ned , but that still he can , And doth somewhile worke wonders in this Age : Yet they are needlesse to a Christen man , Whose faith is founded on a former gage . Whom Christs old wonders cannot satisfie , An Infidell he liues , and so hee 'll die . 178. The Authour endeth this Classis with a deuout prayer . Oh might I liue some miracles to see , ( Then die the death that righteous men desire : ) Our pride , conuerted to humilitie : Our cold deuotion , to loue-kindling fire : Our auarice , to liberalitie : Our luxurie , to stayd sobrietie : 179. Our cancred hatred , turn'd to charitie : Our captious questions in Theologie , ( Foule enemies of fairest Vnitie ! ) To simple Truths sincere Apologie . Our swords diuerted from our fellowes hearts , Against that foe , which worketh all our smarts . 180. This worke thou , onely thou canst bring to passe , Whose admirable acts my Muse doth tell : Thy pow'r is now as great as e're it was , But we of thee doe not deserue as well . The lesser our desert , the more 's thy grace : Wayuing the first , the later we embrace . 181. Great Lord of Hosts , and gracious God of Peace , ( These Titles both , to thee of due belong . ) Thou makest warres , and causest them to cease , Defendest right , hast no delight in wrong . Though horse and charet be prepar'd to fight , Yet victorie consists not in their might . 182. Shew forth thy pow'r , as thou hast done of yore , Bow downe the backs of Nimrodizing men : Now make them feele thy hand , as heretofore , Let hundreds of them , turne their backs to ten . Let windes , and seas , and skies at thy drad beck , Fight for thy chosen , giue their foes a check . 183. Let King and Prince be vnder thy protection , As they thy Truth , and people doe protect : Let Subiects yeild to them all due subiection , So , let their fauours back on them reflect . Let Vnitie vs in one bundle binde , That all may be of one heart , and one minde . 184. A worke of wonder : yet , so well begunne , As cheeres vp good mens hearts to see 't perfected : Let them that with faire meanes could not be wonne , Repent for peacefull passages reiected . When Sion ioyes in this felicitie , Then with old Simeon I desire to die . The end of the third Classis .

DIVINE POEMS . The fourth Classis . THE ARGVMENT . The Christen Doctrines true , on Scriptures grounded , With Moses morall written Lawes agree : The Decalogue for proofe , plainely expounded ; 'Twixt Christs and Moses Hests , true sympathie . We for our triall , sticke to both the Tables : But Iewes and Turkes build vp their faith on fables . A Simile , or Comparison , shewing the excellency of Christian Doctrine , abou● all other . THe surest way to know a perfect gem , " To trie true mettle from the counterfet , " Is held to be by close comparing them : " For Truth and Falsehood both together set , " That , beareth in it such a perfect grace , " As doth the others bastard-worth-deface . 2. Though man by nature be enclin'd to ill , Depriu'd of pow'r to doe , or thinke aright : Rather to Vice , then Vertue hath a will , Pursues the way of errour with his might : Vntill he be enlightned from aboue , And thereby vnto goodnesse take a loue . 3. Rom. 1. 20. & 2. 14. Yet is he not so brutishly all-blinded , His reason and his iudgement made so weake : ( Though all-deprau'd , and wholly fleshly-minded . ) But that he heares the Creatures lowdly speake , Informe his conscience to see the oddes , 'Twixt good and ill , the Deuills wayes and Gods . 4. Else , were 't not so , Men might be held excuseable , Had they no meanes to know the ill from good : The way of vice should not be held so damnable , If vertue from 't , might not be vnderstood : But , when man knowes what 's good , yet chooseth th' euill , He runnes from God , and posteth to the Deuill . 5. The Authour prayeth for true vnderstanding in Christen precepts of pietie : And for grace to liue accordingly . Thou God of Truth , with whom no errour dwells , Who wouldest not that men should goe astray : Who warnest him that 'gainst the Truth rebells , Who leadest wandring folke into the way : Whose precepts are so holy , iust , and right , That men ( not hood-winkt ) may walke in their light . 6. Send downe thy Spirit of Truth into our heart , Teach vs to know the way that leades to thee : Poore simple erring soules vouchsafe conuert , Ope thou their eyes that they may cleerly see , The path , which all thy seruants ought to trace , Whereby to come into thy resting place . 7. To me , thy most vnworthy Suppliant , ( Who venter of this loftie Theame to sing , With humble heart . ) Diuine assistance grant : That as my pen thy prayses forth shall ring , My selfe may doe , as others I direct ; Not scribble of thy Lawes , and them neglect . 8. Looke here for no deepe disputable doctrines . To treat of Doctrines full of deepe dispute , I neuer had the purpose , nor the will : Great Doctors , erring Doctors must confute , That subiect sutes not with my oaten quill . I 'll pipe of Precepts teaching pietie , Confine my Muse to Countrey Diuinitie . 9. Such rules as Christ vnto his hearers gaue , Of duties first to God , and next to Men : The choise of these in meeter shall yee haue , All grounded on those heauenly Precepts ten . For , what to life and manners doth pertaine , Is all compris'd within the Tables twaine . 10. Matth. 5. 17. This Law , our Lord came wholly to fulfill , Not to destroy : ( as some conceau'd amisse . ) His errand was , to doe his Fathers will , His Doctrine and his Precepts aym'd at this . And all that will his true Disciples bee , With him in Life , and Doctrine must agree ▪ 11. 1. and 2. Precepts : God only to be adored ; and serued with diuine and religious worship . Matth. 4. 8. Let Satan vse the vtmost of his skill , Lay baites of worldly Empire , wealth and glorie , To force , or leade vs to his cursed will : Doe we , as Christ did in the holy Storie , Defie the fiend , and tell him to his head , That God alone is to be worshipped . 12. Exod. 19. 18. When on the holy Mount he did descend , With fearefull lightnings , smoake , and dreadfull thunder ▪ To giue the Law which his owne finger penn'd , When Sinai shooke , as it would rend asunder : Deut. 4. 11. Similitude or likenesse they sawe none , A voyce from-out the fire , was heard alone . 13. Ioh. 4. 24. To teach them how their God , who is a Spright , Requires the inward seruice of the heart : And that the way to worship him aright , Is not left free to mans owne will , or art : But plainely chalkt-out in the holy Writ , Each person strictly bound to walke in it . 14. Deut. 4. 24. Similes , shewing that God will haue no Partners in his worship ; neither Angels , nor Saints . Hee 's like a husband , jealous of his phere ; A King , admits no Partners in his Crowne : His Saints and Seruants whom he holds most deere , Want not their due , of honour and renowne . The state of heauen is meere Monarchicall , Where one holds souereigne honour ouer all . 15. Yet is he not without societie , Eu'n such as sorteth with equalitie : Three persons are there in the Deitie , All Three , make but one perfect Vnitie . Here Trinitie in Vnitie doth meet , We must beleeue 't , although we cannot see 't ▪ 16. Similes , too simple to illustrate the thing that may not be assimiled . Doth not a Fount , a running streame beget , From both of which proceedes a standing Poole ? 'T is all one water : like in nature , wet , Like sweet , like fresh , like vertue hath to coole . A poore compare : yet , to our shallow wit , Points to the thing , and giues a glance at it . 17. The Sunne , from-out it selfe engendreth light , All-fostring heat and warmth , proceedeth thence : It's one selfe thing the Sunne , the heat , the light . Th' example fitteth our intelligence : That Mysterie the great'st of Mysteries , May not be seene , but onely with faiths eyes . 18. Rom. 1. 22. Old worldly wizards prou'd themselues meere fooles , By forming God to their imaginations : Of whom they taught such lessons in their schooles , As sorted with grosse carnall cogitations . So farre were they become infatuated , T' adore things made , for him who them created . 19. Who taught the Gentiles , Idols to derest ? One God , th' All-Maker , onely to adore ? ( A truth wherewith Iewes solely were possest , And none but they , instruct therein before . ) At Christs b●rth , all O●acles cea●… . 'T was he , whose comming strake the Deuills dumbe : Turn'd all their sooth-sayes to a wordlesse mum . 20. Giue him the glorie of this gracious worke , He led the World from darknesse , into light : Not that false prophet honour'd by the Turke , Who claymes th' aduantage of anothers right . Mohometisme began 600. yeeres after Christ . His pusnie temps , must yeild t' our primer feisin : His late reuolt , conuinceth him of treason . 21. 3. Precept . Of oathes , and swearing . Deut. 6. 13. I●r. 5. 7. A branch of worship due to God alone , In holy Scriptures often is recorded , To sweare by his great Name , and else by none : To creatures no such honour is affoorded . He knowes who rightly sweares , and who amisse : False-swearers plagues , Truth-tellers crowns with blisse . 22. The lawfull vse of oathes , taken by a Magistrate . When Magistrates for triall of mens right , For putting lawfull end to doubtfull pleas , For branding falshood , bringing Truth to light , For short'ning long demurrs , and fond delayes , Call men to speake their knowledge on their oath . They ought to doe it , be they ne're so loth . 23. Who this wise swearing , iustifies a truth , This man takes not in vaine Gods holy Name : Sith thereby glorie to heauens King ensu'th , The iust man credit gets , the lyer shame . Heb. 6. ●6 . By this sole meane , all strife 'mongst men is ended , As proofe falls out , not as the man is friended . 24. Anabaptists allow no oath , in that they disallow all Magistrates , who alone haue power to minister an oath . Matth. 5. 34. Some , seeming pious more then other men , Pretending care , Gods Name be not profan'd , Allow no oath by any meanes : not then When King , or Iudges vnder him command . The Truth ( say they ) forbids vs sweare at all : Let Yea , and Nay suffice : with vs it shall . 25. 'T is spoken well , if well it be apply'de . Vers. 37. In common talke , and free communication , An oath in no wise can be iustify'de : But such Disputers vse preuarication . Pretending the defence of pietie , They proue bold patrones of impietie . 26. They 'll not endure a ciuill Magistrate , Who mought exact an oath on good occasion : Haile fellowes all ( with them ) no King , but Mate ; Equalitie's their ayme . So here 's th' euasion , Excluding all degrees of Dignitie , They leaue no meanes , an oath to iustifie . 27. Whence learn'd these Doctors this diuinitie ? Not from the sacred Volumes old , nor new : Not from chiefe Teachers of humanitie , Not from the Christian Doctors , nor the Iew : Examples , Reason , Scriptures them confute . What need we more then those , to strike them mute ? 28. " Each vertue bounded sits 'twixt two extreames , " Truth 's doggu'd by Error close on either side : " As some teach doctrines , so some vent their dreames , " One falshood from the other starteth wide . The case now in dispute doth make it cleere , Obserue the lesson next ensuing heere . 29. Machiavel allowes periurie , and fake-swearing : for policie . In Com. & lib. de prin. passim . One Scribbler , Authour of a spreading Sect , Stands not so much on point of conscience . He bids his Schollers sweare without respect , As frankly with their oathes he doth dispence . Keepe faith , and oathes ? ( quoth he . ) Why that 's for fooles : No such disciples enter in my Schooles . 30. Prouided alwayes , that your periurie Breed your aduantage , worke your foes annoy : It makes no matter , so you gaine thereby , Religion in this case is but a toy . These be the precepts of that shamelesse clarke . Did euer three-tongu'd-hell-hound-curre so barke ! 31. A damned doctrine , hatched first in hell , The hatefull haggish Furies brought it thence : The foster-father was cus't Machiauel , He plac't it chiefe in grace about his Prince . A true resemblance of Don Plutoes court , Where such accursed courtiers doe resort . 32. Some allow breach of oath vpon pretence of aduancing Gods cause , and for pietie , Yet some there be , that out of holy zeale , Pretending true Religion to promote , To benefit the Christian Common-weale , To set the ship of Christ beneapt , a-flote : To cut-off scabbed sheepe , not to be cur'd : To root-out errors , not to be endur'd : 33. As Vladislaus King of Hungarie did w●…h Amurath , before the vnfortunate battell of Varna . Thinke no offence their oath to falsifie , But rather hold it for a pious worke : As those , who ( to all Christians infamie ) Periuriously made warre vpon the Turke : Where it appeared by the foule successe , How well our Lord such periuries doth blesse . 34. 2. Sam. 21. Saul . Saul burnt in zeale for Israel , Gods chosen , Crackt oath , to worke the Gibeonites confusion : Better that firie frenzie had beene frozen , His Progenie so found it in conclusion . Some Sauls now , making shew of pure deuotion , With fire and sword , set Europe in commotion . 35. Let great-ones sweare , and vn-sweare at their will , Make zeale a cloake , ambitious thoughts to hide : Small hope haue they to rest vpon Gods hill , Psal. 15. 3. 5. For there plaine-dealing men are sure t' abide : Such men as keepe their oathes religiously , Though they be most assur'd to lose thereby . 36. All rash and idle swearing I disproue , Sith common swearers seldome speake the truth : Yet once I 'll venter sweare by him aboue , It 's damn'd impietie to breake an oath . Such men make God a witnesse to their lie : Shall they escape for this impietie ? 37. Zech. 5. 4. and Ec●lus . 23. 9. The plague shall haunt them , and their habitations , Consume the timber with the very stones : Leaue them no issue 'mong the Generations , Fret-out their flesh , and eate their very bones . Leuit. 24. 16. For , such as dare blaspheme Gods holy Name , Shall loathed liue , and lastly die with shame . 38. A Comparison . Suppose a Schoole-boy should be taken tripping , Among his fellowes facing-out vntruth : Say , were he not well worthy of a whipping , If standing to it like a gracelesse youth , He vouch his Master to auerre the lie , Yet knowing that his tongue runnes all awrie ? 39. How then can they escape the hand of God , Who make him partner in their falsities ? They must be scourged with an Iron rod , And feele the smart of their impieties . " True lawfull oathes , vnto his prayse redound ; " All idle and false-swearers , hee 'll confound . 40. " An oath by torture wrested , or by terror , " Where humane frailtie leades men to transgresse , " Leaues place for pardon : ( though a grieuous error . ) " By circumstances crimes grow more , or lesse . " For , wilfull sinnes presumptuously committed , " Offend God most , and hardly are remitted . 41. 4 Precept . The Sabbath to bee sanctified . When God had brought his six-dayes-worke to end , And saw that all was purely perfect good : A day of Rest he to himselfe did lend , ( The sense must warely be vnderstood ) For , though his labour put him to no paine , Yet when his worke is done , he rests againe . 42. Gen. 2. 2. 3● That day wherein hee 's said t' haue tanc his rest , To please himselfe in 's workes rare perfection : He hallow'd it , and caus'd it to be blest , Respecting chiefly therein , our direction : Sabbath dayes workes for Christians . That we might haue one speciall day 'mong seuen , To leaue worlds toyles , and meditate on heauen . 43. To lift our mindes from rest that 's corporall , From signe , to substance : shadowes , vnto things : Our soules to rayse-vp to the Rest eternall , By mounting thither on faiths nimble wings . That day to chew the cud , as cleane beasts did , All others , Moses in the Law forbid . 44. Exod. 20. and 23. 12. That Seruants , sweating for their Masters gayne , Might be allow'd their wearied limmes to ease : The Oxe and Asse from trauaile might refrayne , ( For God approues not crueltie to these . ) That all , aswell of high degree as lowe , Might learne their Maker , and his Lawes to know . 45. Works for the six dayes . Six dayes we haue in which we ought apply , Such workes as to our calling doe pertaine : The Prince with iustice , truth and equitie To rule his people . They must striue againe Obediently to serue , his Lawes obay , Fight for him at his need , and for him pray . 46. Man was not made to liue idly . God made not Man that he should idle liue , Not him , who Edens garden did possesse : When first his Lord did seisin to him giue , Gen. 2. 15. 'T was to the end , he should it keepe and dresse . He mought haue done 't , with pleasure and delight , Had he perform'd his Makers will aright . 47. Now we vnto a harder taske are bound , The fruits of Eden serue vs not for meate : Gen. 3. 17. 23. For Adams sinne accursed was the ground , It yeilds vs poore reliefe , vnlesse we sweate . We sowe and reape , we set , we graffe , we plant , All scarfe sufficeth to supply our want . 48. Yet the great King of Heau'n , and Lord of Earth , Hath stuft the Land and Sea with viands store : Inough to keepe off penurie and dearth , To please the rich , and to content the poore , Did not Excesse and Riot spend too fast ; Idlers , the fruit of poore mens labours wast . 49. Sundrie Sl● . ●les and Comparisons , dehor●in● from ri● . and idlenesse . The Oxe and Asse once hauing fed their fill , Forbeare more food , till they begin to hunger : All Neat and Sheepe in valley , or on hill , When nature's well suffic'd , they 'll eate no longer : The earth that 's drie , receauing wet due store , Shuts vp her clefts , and taketh in no more . 50. Then is 't not strange , that man whose soule 's diuine , Who all the Creatures doth command and rule : From Natures lawes should lawlessely decline , Be more disordered , then the Horse , or Mule ? To gorge himselfe till he be readie burst ? Not ceasse to drinke , when well hath quencht his thirst ? 51. Pro. 6. 6. and 30. 25. The Ant. How comes it , that the pretie painfull Ant , By wise fore-cast prouides her store in season : Makes Summers plentie serue the Winters want ? When some men , shewing slender vse of reason , In Haruest fold their hands , sit still and sleepe . Till winters cold , and hunger make them weepe . 52. The Bee . The little busie Bee doth teach men skill , They liue as in a firme-well-ordred state : A King they haue , and they obey his will , Each one is readie still to helpe his Mate . They 'll ioyne together all , to kill the Drone , No honie shall he eate , sith he makes none . 53. The Squirrell . Oft haue I found a nimble Squirrels neast , So fully furnisht with ripe hasell nuts : As made me maruaile at the pretie beast , How he prouides to fill his emptie guts , By sparing when with riot he might feed , And laying vp , against the time of need . 54. Such diligence much more befitteth men , Who are not borne vnto themselues alone : What frugally they spare , the same agen They must disperse 'mongst others , that haue none . 2. Cor. 8. Our plentie should our neighbours wants supply , Such is the rule of Christian charitie . 55. Sundrie sorts of degrees and conditions of men in a Common wealth , all of them vsefull . " That man which laboureth not in some vocation , " Straynes not the pow'rs of bodie , nor of minde , " Growes dull'd with ease , and lazie recreation , " Eates till he sweat , and drinkes himselfe halfe blinde : " Well may he haue of man the outward shape , " Yet is he like condition'd to an Ape . 56. The painfull plow-man , stores the Land with bread , Another spends his dayes ' bour Calues and Kine : A Grasier keepes his Bullocks to be fed , One gets his liuing by the pleasant Vine : The flocks of gentle Sheepe is this mans charge , That makes his dwelling in his Boat , or Barge . 57. Some shew their skill in rearing fruitfull Trees , By Orcharding and Gardning they get money : Some busily intend their stocks of Bees , Pick pence out of the wax , and from the honey . The Merchant brings rich wares from Countries farre , The Souldier serues his Prince , and State i' th warre . 58. Of Mechanicks there 's such varietie , 'T would fill a pamphlet to recite them all : Each of these by their art and industrie , Helpe hold-vp States , which otherwise would fall . Pro. 14. 28. Th' encrease of people , strength and honour bring , ( As saith the Wise-man ) to an earthly King . 59. Eccles. 38. 3● . 33 , 34. The Smith , the Mason , and the Carpenter , The Potter with such like of meane condition , Albe't ne're called to the Councell-chamber : Yet take this for a grounded Proposition , Without their helpe a Citie neuer stands , But as mans bodie wanting both the hands . 60. Great Counsellors , graue Iudges , Aduocates , Next place to them allow vnto Ciuillians : Then Galenists : all these are props of States . ( Some men ascribe no lesse to Paracelsians . ) Aboue them all , the reuerend good Diuine , In most mens iudgements sits : and so in mine . 61. Though 'mongst these members some the rest excell , Yet sith they haue one head , one bodie make : The high'st may not against the lowest swell . 1. Cor. 12. For if the foot , or little finger ake , The head and heart , are partners in the paine : So , one rejoysing , all rejoyse againe . 62. 5. Prec●p● . Ho●our parents . Before th' aspiring nephew of curst Cham , Encroacht vpon the freedome of his brothers : Boyes onely fear'd their Father , and their Dam , Acknowledg'd no subiection vnto others . So , rule and pow'r paternall had the prime Of Magistracies all , in th' elder time . 63. Mans duties to his God are first set downe , By him who was the maker of the Lawe : The Matter , and the Method were his owne . Of Parents next he wills vs stand in awe . That Law he grafted in the hearts of men , Ere any Precepts written were with pen. 64. No Childe , if he haue any sparke of grace , Or ( lesse then that ) touch of humanitie : But when he lookes his parents in the face , Beholds therein a kinde of sou'raigntie , Which strikes in him a reuerence and a feare , And makes him to their lessons , lend his eare . 65. Ephes. 6. A promise to this Precept God annext , Long life and dayes repleat with happinesse : You plainly finde it in the holy Text , Our heauenly Father so was pleas'd to blesse Exod. 21. 15. Deut. 27. 16. Matth. 15. Obedient sonnes : to lay a curse on others , That disobey their Fathers , or their Mothers . 66. Yet , parents some what to their children owe : Psal. 78. 4 , 5 , &c. They are oblig'd , of them to haue a care : To teach them how they ought their Maker knowe , To giue them nurture , traine them vp in feare , Heb. 12. 7. Colos. 3. 21. Correct with reason : not with too much rigour , So leaue them heartlesse , sprightlesse , without vigour . 67. 1. Sam. 2. Nor like old Ely , on their persons dote , Winke at their faults , vphold them in their errour : What he and his by such fond cock'ring got , I read it oft , but neuer without terrour . Vers. 29. Who so his children honours , more then God ; Both he and they shall feele his heauie rod. 68. Magistrates comprehended vnder the name of parents . L●uit . 19. 15. By Parents likewise Magistrates are meant , The Fathers of the Kingdome , and the State : King , Iudges , Rulers who by him are sent , Mens causes , rights , and titles to debate . Iustly to deale with rich , and poore alike , Sheild innocents from wrong , offenders strike . 69. Matth. 17. 27. To these , our Lord himselfe a tribute payd , By his example shewes what should be done : Rom. 13. and 1. Pet. 2. 13. Th' Apostles from his Doctrine neuer stray'd , But taught vs follow him , as he begun . Matth. 22. 20. Render to God , what doth to God belong : Let Cesar haue his due , doe him no wrong . 70. Ephes. 6. 5. Eye-pleasing seruice , that is not the thing , ( If well we note the Sense , and not the Letter . ) Which seruants , Masters owe : subiects , their King : The holy Writings , they instruct vs better . Eccles. 8. and 10. 20. It must be heartie : thoughts , wordes , deeds agreeing , As done in sight of him who is all-seeing . 71. With this prouiso , that our heauenly Father Be first obey'd , when diff'rence doth arise : What he commands , we must performe that rather Then it , which earthly parents warantize . Hee 's Father , of our fathers : King , of our Kings : All reuerence due to these , from him first springs . 72. Against Anabaptists , Familists , and all that rabble . What giddinesse possesseth some mens braines , Who frame themselues a bodie , lacking head ? To lewd licentiousnesse they loose reynes , As in authentike storie oft I read : Iudg. 21. 25. When Is'rel had no King to rule the rest , Then each man did , what to him seemed best . 73. Sundrie Similes and Comparisons , shewing the absolute necessitie of Magistracie among men . Can ships without a Pilot at the helme , Attayne the Harbour whither they are bound ? But that the waues soone would them ouer-whelme , Or furious tempests split them on the ground ? Can Coach or Charret passe without a guide , If Coach-man keepe not Steeds from running wide ? 74. Did euer Armie march into the field , Without a chiefe Commander of the Host ▪ Doth not each familie obeysance yeild , To one , aboue them all respected most ? As is the Sunne , amid the firmament : So is the King , in ciuill gouernment . 75. Three old receaued formes of gouernment . Among the triple formes of policie , By Sages first for Regiment deuis'd : The chiefe and worthiest is A Monarchie , Democracie long since hath beene despis'd : That State wherein the best beare rule , and few : Is not so sound in proofe , as faire in shew . 76. On old examples I 'll not much insist , But rather looke on things more neere at hand : A Monarchie the best , and most absolute of them all . The States that haue beene , most of them are mist , And in their fall , the Mona●chie doth stand . As Nature aymes at all her workes perfection , So man , in things left free to his election . 77. The prototype of Sway and Soueraigntie , Directs vs wholly to the rule of one : One God , one King , it holds Analogie ; This , vnder him : Hee , of himselfe alone . The Heauens , with our inferiour massie ball , Make but one Kingdome , to the Lord of all . 78. The lesser Kings , that rule by his Commission , Haue lesser worlds assign'd to them in charge : As that Great Monarch pleaseth make diuision , Which sometimes at his will he doth enlarge ; Then subdiuides , of one such world , makes twaine ; Ere long , ioynes two or three in one againe . 79. Eccles. 1. " For , vnder Sunne there 's nothing permanent , " Great bodies suffer change aswell as small : " This , best is seene in formes of gouernment , " The one is raysed by the others fall . " Where many ioyntly sway soueraignitie , " Restlesse ambition sweates for primacie . 80. Succession far better then election . So is it where the Crowne lyes on election , Where each mans worth , giues hope to his desires : Where great-men haue the choise to trie their faction , And he that 's best befriended , most aspires : Distracted Commons houer in suspence , Their hearts not settled on the doubtfull Prince . 81. Pro. 19. 10. & 30. 22. and Eccles. 10. 7. Well 't was obserued by a great wise King , When seruants sit on seates , and Princes stand : That 's a most loathsom and vnpleasant thing , Procureth much disquiet in the Land . How can a sonne , whose father wore a crowne , See's seruant in the Throne , and he kept downe ? 82. " A free-borne Prince beares Maiestie in 's face , " Gaynes greater lustre by a long discent : " Faire branches springing from a Royall race , " Breede loyall Subiects comfort , and content . We need no samples from a forrein Land , None better then the neerest to our hand . 83. Where can we finde ( bee 't spoken in Gods feare , Without offence , much lesse to fawne , or flatter . ) Of Royall Sire and Sonne so rare a paire , So fit to cleere , and iustifie this matter ? Records of Time , true Chronicles , proue part , The rest reade in each faithfull subiects heart . 84. A short prayer of the Author , for the King . Blest little world , Great Britaines famous Ile , From all the world besides , strongly diuided : May heau'ns great King vouchsafe on thee to smile , So guide those heads by whom thy selfe art guided : That truly seruing him who rules aboue , They may be seru'd of vs with feare , and loue . 85. Psal. 118. 6 , 7. and Rom. 8. 31. Then need we doubt no foe-men to affright vs , Our foes may rather stand of vs in feare : Whil'st Pietie and Concord doe vnite vs , Our God will be our buckler , shield and speare . If he be on our side , doe we our best , He of his goodnesse will supply the rest . 86. Church men also haue right of priuiledge in this precept . To Prelates , Pastors , Preachers of Gods Word , As to our Parents , filiall feare we owe : Th●se , combat for our soules with sp'rituall Sword , In honouring them , we must not be too slowe . 1 , Tim. 5. 17. If well they rule the Church , and teach withall ; A double honour to their lot doth fall . 87. Not in such sense , as some men doe imply Luk. 22. 38. Heb. 4 12. By those Two Swords , whereof the Text doth tell : One sharpe two-edged sword best fits the Clergie , And serues their turne , if they can vse it well . 2. Cor. 10. 4. It cuts downe all that lifts it selfe on hie , Brings hearts and thoughts into captiuitie . 88. Ephes. 6. 13. So long as with this Sword our Church-men fight , Fit Armour of defence thereto apply'de : They need not feare the force of mortall wight , The Hoast of heauen standeth on their side : The Saints on earth likewise are readie prest , To follow them , as Leaders of the rest . 89. Matth. 26. 52. Such as to other weapons them betake , Which their Grand-Captayne charg'd them to forbeare : Christs Souldiers , those Instructers may forsake , Against such doctrine closely stop their eare . 1. Tim. 3. Tit. 1 7. Iam. 3. 17. and 1. Pet. 3. 8. 6. Precept . Murther forbidden . Th' Apostles who knew best their Masters will , Forbad to striue , contend ; or fight and kill . 90. All Precepts of this Table which ensue , Are negatiues : forbidding sinfull deedes . Foule Murther's first : among the damned crue , In Beati pacifici , at large , Stan. 272. Well knowne : the filthiest of peace-choaking weedes . My Muse sang lately on this Theame so much , That in this place shee 'll onely giue 't a touch . 91. Degrees and Stayres be many in this sinne , All that step on them , tread the path to hell : Yet some are deepe , and plunge men sooner in , Some slayers are lesse deuillish , some more fell . What erst I writ , that to repeat were vaine , Crambe bis ●…cta , nocet . Twice sodden Cole-worts , breede the stomack paine . 92. The subiect 's large , and yeilds new matter store , Wherein my slender talent will I spend , And treat of what I handled not afore : When as I misse , I shall be glad to mend . For though the Inke be black , where with I write : The Pen , the Paper , and the Heart are white . 93. An allegoricall description of mur●her . The Roote from whence this lothsome weede doth sprout , Curst Malice hight , in Witches gardens growes : The drops that water it , Enuie spues-out , The fostring warmth , from suming choller flowes . When by these meanes it's ripe , then comes the Fiend , His venom , to perfect it , he doth spend . 94. Th' all-seeing Iudge , who kenns each inward thought , He lookes not onely on the outward act : Intent and Purpose shall not passe for nought , With him they are adiudged as the fact . 〈◊〉 . Ioh. 3. 15. " In heart he kills a man , that doth him hate ; " Though not so censur'd by the Magistrate . 95. " Yet plots , and proiects 'gainst a sou'raigne Prince , " Amount as high , as doe the acts of Treason : " The Person wrong'd , doth aggrauate th' offence , " That Law is grounded on the Base of Reason . " Sith Kings and Princes haue the style of Gods , " 'Twixt thoughts & deeds 'gainst them , there is no ods . 96. Admit ( in any common persons case ) A Caytife giue his Mate a poys'ned draught , In hope to leaue him dead vpon the place : Albe't the wretch be frustrate of his thought , And strength of nature driue the venom out : To call him Murtherer , who would make a doubt ? 97. A tedious thing is forc't prolixitie , I like't worse in my selfe , then in another : Yet on this point pow'rfull necessitie , Constraines my Muse a little whiles to houer . To begge a pardon , ere a man beginne , All 's one as craue a license for to sinne . 98. A Simile . I 'll rather venter , like a trewant Lad , That takes a time to play , ere it be granted : A pardon comming after , makes him glad , Reuines his spirits formerly halfe danted . Dispence with faults , when once you reade it o're ; If 't like you not , then neede you reade no more . 99. This Law forbidding one thing , bids another : The Rule of contraries doth so require : 〈◊〉 . 〈◊〉 . 43. Kill not : inferres , hurt not : nor hate thy brother : But loue him as thy selfe , thy sonne , thy sire . How euer Iewes , and Turkes that precept take , True Christians all , doe this construction make 100. How comes it then , that in these euill dayes , Some men who make most shew of Christen faith : Though Meeknesse , Loue , and Charitie they prayse , Scarse one of them doth practise what he saith ? Nay , Church-men stick not Princes to incense , To kill , and slay , and sweare 't is no offence . 101. While thus we from our Masters pathes decline , Teach doctrines to his Gospell cleane contrarie : Yet would we be accounted men diuine , Make some beleeue , from truth we doe not varie . Pretending holy zeale , and pietie , Against the rules of Christian charitie . 102. A Simile . When Galley-slaues sit ●ugging at an Oare , To force their Boat from Land into the Mayne : Their faces still are bent vpon the Shoare , Their backs to Sea-ward . Iust such is the vaine Of some , who gazing all at holinesse , Runne backwards to the gulfe of wickednesse . 103. Ioh. 18. 31. The Iewes cry'de out , it lay not in their pow'rs To put our Lord to death : yet instantly , Within the space of some few after-how'rs , Ioh. 19. 7. They found a Law of theirs to cause him die . " Who bend their minds on slaughter , wounds & bloud , " Will finde a colour , how to make 't seeme good . 104. 'T is shame to see a Christian whet his knife , To stab , or else to cut his fellowes throat : One Christian seekes another Christians life , The colour is , Religion to promote . That was no Christen Doctrine in old dayes , Our Christian Faith , encreast by other wayes . 105. 2. King . 2. What though Elisha , holy Man of God , Spar'd not those gracelesse boyes that on him rayll'd ? 2. King . 1. What though his Master with a firie rod , Consum'd twice fiftie men who him assayll'd ? These are examples , not for imitation , Rather to make vs feare Gods indignation . 106. Luk. 9. 54. Christ his Disciples milder Doctrine taught , When they vpon reuenge were wholly bent : Rebuking them , he said their thoughts were naught , And that Gods Spirit , no such motion sent . He came to saue mens liues , and not to spill : So his must win mens soules , not bodies kill . 107. 1. C●r . 13. Oh , had I skill to speake with Angels tongue , To worke in stubborne hearts some true remorse : To make them listen to my gentle song , That wordes of peace might haue with them some force , That such as long haue vs'd their hands to slaughter , Might once wash cleane , and neuer foule them after , 108. Kings may lawfully make wa●re , vpon iust occasions . Gen. 14. Deut. 20. Luk. 14. Not that I hold with those who doe debarre , The Magistrate of his authentike right : As if he mought not lawfully make warre , Nor arme his subiects in his cause to fight . That Paradox , new Doctors lately broacht , And falsely on the Princes pow'r encroacht . 109. As they are priuiledg'd to giue an oath , So are they to draw out , and vse the sword : To sweare and fight , good subiects ought doe both , When Kings command them by their pow'rfull word . The Royall dignitie robb'd of this right , Is like mans bodie lacking soule , and spright . 110. Their care should be , to see the quarrell iust , Th' intent indeed religious , not in show : The Lord of Hosts likes not ambitious lust , The thoughts , though ne're so hidden , he doth know . Kings christ'ned , with their brothers need no brangling , To please the humours of Schoole-Doctors wrangling . 111. Is charitie 'mong Christians cleane forgot , The ancient badge of our diuine profession : Is Loue growne cold , and Hatred waxt so hot , Hath Malice in our hearts tane such possession , That no meane may be found to reconcile vs , Though Iewes , and Turks , and Pagans for't , reuile vs ! 112. Doth not the common Foe behold our folly , Laugh in his sleeue to see vs play the fooles : That making shew to be deuout and holy , Against our selues we blunt our sharpned tooles ? Meanewhile , our brawles prepare a way for him , Who hates vs all , into our seates to clim . 113. So gat he first the Empire of the East , Made slaues of those , who erst proud Scepters swayd : So hath he shrewdly shakt , and spoyl'd the West , Yea , had not God his furious madnesse stayd , The little left vs , should beene made his prey , And all constrayn'd his Scepter to obey . 114. A comparison of Esopes . Like Esops Frog and Mouse that stroue for place , Whereas for both there was enough , and spare : Though simple be the sample , it 's our case , When 't is too late , what boots it then beware ? The Kite swept both those combatants away , Whil'st each of them , the other sought to slay . 115. This Vultures wings , vnlesse they had beene clipt , His talants par'd , his rau'nous beake well copt : Long since by him we had beene soundly gript , Our tallest spreading Cedars had beene lopt . Thanks to heau'ns King , who sent them orphan Lords , And caus'd them 'gainst themselues imploy their swords . 116. As they are sinking , sooner may we rise , A Simile . Like Buckets in a Well : one goes downe emptie , Whilst it lowe logging in the water lies , It helps the other to come vp with plentie . By that meanes first their Bucket they did fill , So mought we ours , would we concurre in will . 117. He prayeth for vn●tie among Christian Princes . Pro. 21. 1. Thou , in whose Hand are held the hearts of Kings , ( Thy Substitutes , who rule by thy Commission ) Thou turnest them like as the water-springs , Thou mak'st the people yeild to them submission : Encline their hearts to vnitie at length , That miscreants may feele their coupled strength . 118. What though my Muse cannot her wish obtaine ? Yet while shee breathes , shee 'll neuer cease so wishing . What , though it seeme her hopes are meerly vaine ? As patient Anglers that delight in fishing , When fishes will not bite , they rest content , And thinke their time in angling not mis-spent . 119. 7. Pr●cept . Adulterie forbidden . The sinne which here in order next ensu'th , All out of order spreading farre and wide : Some call 't the proper vice of frolike youth , Yet old-age oft retaynes it by her side . Ecclu● . 25. 〈◊〉 . " More hatefull 't is , and lothsome to behold , " When sinne of youth , surpriseth persons old . 120. This Precept curbeth young and old alike , Not them alone whom holy Rites haue bound : On these the Rod more heauily doth strike , Deut. 27. 26. Deut. 22. 28. The rest who faultie 'gainst this Law are found , Incurre like guilt , though not like penaltie : L●u . 20. 10. For , th' one must beare a mulct , the other die . 121. God well foresaw Man could not liue alone , All Creatures else had diff'rent sex in kind : Gen. 3. 21● An helpe he made him of his flesh and bone , In sacred Wedlock-bands he did them bind : That th' one of them might cleaue vnto the other , More then adhere to father , or to mother . 122. 1. Cor. 7. Though single life be held a blessed state , In such as haue the gift of Continence : Yet euery Man is free to take his Mate , So may each Woman doe without offence . To shunne the sinne of filthy Fornication , God knit that bond of Marriage-copulation . 123. A Comparison . The greater shame 't is for a man of wealth , Whose fields are stor'd with herds , his chests with coyne : To spare his owne , supply himselfe by stealth , To rob his neighbours : shift , filch , and purloyne . 2. Sam. 〈◊〉 . A righteous King , such one to death did doome , Not knowing that himselfe supply'd the roome . 124. All Acts and Deeds of Lust are flat forbidden , So be the Thoughts that tend to wanton folly : For why , from God nor hearts , nor thoughts are hidden , 〈◊〉 . Pet. 1. 15. As he is , so his seruants must be holy : Not to the flesh , and sinfull pleasures prone , Like those who neuer had their Maker knowne . 125. Ecclus. 23. 17. Pro. 3. Yet Wantons sweare , that stollen bread is sweet , Strange Womens lips , to honey they compare : The path to Hell they trample with their feet , Like Wood-cocks thrust their necks into a snare : Consume themselues in body , and in purse , Draw downe vpon their soules a heauie curse . 126. Mat. 5. 27. Our Master checkt the glancing of an eye , To stop this tainting poyson from the heart : A lustfull looke mounts to Adulterie , The Tempter vseth it as for his dart . So doth he garish toyes , and sugred baits , For hee 's a close crafts-master in deceits . 127. A Comparison setting out the Diuells craf● in alluring vs ●o●ollie . An expert Captaine layes an ambuscado , His heedlesse foe the sooner to ensnare : Sends out some nimble troupes as in brauado , Who giue those fresh-men ground , till vnaware They fall within the circuit of the traine , Then all are captiues made , or downe-right slaine . 128. Thus fights th' old-Serpent 'gainst the soules of men , Giues Wantons leaue to frolike at their pleasure : So traynes them in , that hardly one of ten , Escapes the danger of his deadly seisure . No Vice so vastly in this Age doth swell , Nor sweepes so many multitudes to hell . 129. Sine Cere●… & Baccho frig●… Venus . " Th' allurements are , excesse in clothes and diet : " Th' one feedes the eye , the other fills the panch ▪ " For Luxurie goes hand in hand with Riot , " And he that cannot keepe his body stanch , " But eates and drinkes profusely of the best , " Is apt to harbour Venus in his brest . 130. Ecclus. 31. 12. Rom 13 13. Why be the workes of Abstinence so prays'd , As fasts , and slender food , the flesh to tame ? But that thereby the soule is sweetly rays'd , From carnall thoughts , and deeds producing shame , To motions holy , sacred and diuine , Which our depraued nature doe refine . 131. The Author taxeth the va nitie of lasciuious and wanton Poe●… : Say ( gentle Muse ) what makes thee hang thy head , To close thine eyes from looking on the Light : To taint thy cheekes with an vn wonted red , To loath bright day , wish for the sable night ; As if some deed of darknesse soyl'd thy name , And caus'd thee turne aside thy face for shame ? 132. Shame 't is in deed that makes me looke awrie : How can I with a modest view behold , The grosse abuse of gracefull Poetrie , In which all sacred Mysteries of old Were first divulg'd : God and good men extold , Each Vertue prays'd , and euery Vice controld ? 133. The true subiect of ancient Poesie . Heroike deeds , high acts of Chiualrie , Exploits of noble Captaynes , and their Bands , Skie-knowledge course of Starres , Astronomie , Reports of dangers past by Seas and Lands : These were choise subiects in the elder times , Of Poets songs , and well-composed Rimes . 134. Now finest wits , enricht vpon Pernassus , Refresht with our sweet streames of Helicon : Reject our Maiden-precepts , and disgrace vs , They chose them wanton Theames to sing vpon : Wasting their braines about some idle toy , Of Citharea and her blinded boy . 135. A Simile . Sweet sounds the pipe whereon the Fowler playes , By which the Birds are trayned to his lure : Such is th' attractiue pow'r of Poets Layes , A gentle heart cannot th' assaults endure : The poyson slides so swift into each veine , As wounds to death , before one feele the paine . 136. This fuell feedes the soule-deuouring flame Of goatish lust , drawes tender youth to folly : For , what ●ewd sonets teach , these thinke no shame When they haue learn'd , to act it free and boldly . " No maruaile is 't , for well we be instructed , " That by ill wordes , good manners are corrupted . 137. Sith then our sacred skill is thus profan'd , Our modest learning made a bawd to Vice : Our shame thereby in open streets proclaym'd , Our antique Vertue , valewed at no price : I 'd rather blushing hide my Maiden face , Then bluntly to behold this ●oule disgrace 138. Forbeare ( my Muse ) take not this thing to heart , Be not distraught for others so offending : Be chaste thy selfe , vse modest-virgin-art , So mayst thou be a meane of their amending . If one be won by imitating thee , Such one may after him draw two , or three . 139. Admit , some learn'd in Canon Lawes , or Ciuill , Or some professing Galens vsefull art : Say , some Diuines ( whose bookes teach them no euill ) Abuse their learning , play the lawd-mens part : Shall Physick , Lawes , sacred Theologie Lack their defence , and iust Apologie ? 140. Reade Cluss . 2. Stan. 15 8. in defence of Poes●… . Not so . Nor may the sacred sisters nine , So highly honour'd in all former ages : Whose off spring and whose learning is diuine , So much esteem'd by Greeke , and Latine Sages : Be scorned for a few loose poetasters , Whose songs breed to their hearers some disasters . 141. You gentle wits deuoted to Apoll● , Whose purer spirits doe most partake of fire : Shun subiects base , Celestiall still follow ; Striue with the towring Larke , to mount vp higher : So bind your Muses to a modest song , That Enuie't selfe may blush to doe them wrong . 142. Chase Venus and her sonne from out your Court , Take Vesta and her Virgins in their stead : Tell Wantons , here 's no place for their lewd sport , Chaste Maides and Matrones , they alone must read Your hallowed spells ; and men reclaym'd from folly , Vow'd in their liues and doctrines , to be holy . 143. Then Libertines ; and men of brutish liues , That make a jest this Precept to transgresse , Corrupt young Virgins , tempt the sob'rest Wiues , Consume their precious time , in foule excesse , Thinke heau'n is onely in their Mistres armes , Detest ( as hell ) all sacred Doctors charmes : 144. Such men ( I say ) shall not approach your Cell , Their lips impure , shall not defile your name : They 'll not ascend the Mount whereon you dwell , Nor haunt the Groues , wherein you walke , for shame . Your ancient glorie thus you shall attaine , Your Schollers grow in good mens grace againe . 145. 8. Precept . Forbid●ing theft . Well doth the holy Text connect together , Those sinnes , which in this Table are forbid : The murth'rer , lecher , thiefe , false-witnesse-bearer , ( Night-brats , who feare the light , wish to lie hid . ) These doggue each other closely at the heele , As linkes in chaine , or spokes doe in a wheele . 146. That sacred Psalmist , of all Singers sweetest , Worthiest of Kings , mong Prophets the profoundest : Who knew what method in his Psalmes was meetest , Whose iudgement was in spirituall knowledge foundest : Psal. 56. 18 , 19 , 20. He ranked these as birds all of a feather , For commonly most of them flock together . 147. Next shedding bloud , and foule adulterie , The Law prescribes a strict restraint of theft : All things were neuer held in common , except by Adam and Eue : who may rather be said to haue had proprietie in all and ●o , no ( for●… ) communi●… warranted since the creation . Gen 4. 2. What euery man holds in proprietie , That to the rightfull owner must be left . A tortious act it is , and open wrong , To take that which to others doth belong . 148. Promiscuous vse of euery thing in common , Which idle Iacks tumultuously doe craue : None euer had , since that first Man and Woman , To whom this Earth , and all therein , God gaue . For Abel had his stock , distinct from Caine : Communitie was not betwixt them twaine . 149. Then , that which Moses long time after wrote , Gods people practis'd since the first creation : Yet , to th' intent it might not be forgot , But left to each succeeding Generation , That holy man first writ it in a booke , And charg'd Gods people oft thereon to looke . 150. This Precept doth au●…re meum & tuum . Steale not , saith God , which plainely doth inferre , That things possest by thee , are iustly thine : Then Familists , and those false Bretheren erre , Who thinke all I haue , 's theirs aswell as mine . Those merrie Mates , if apprehended stealing ; Say , they take but their owne , and that 's plaine dealing . 151. Differences and degrees in theft . Of theeues and robbers sundrie sorts there bee , Though all transgressors 'gainst this Law diuine : Yet some runne further to impietie , Some from the precept barely doe decline . The punishments are diff'rently exprest , Which proues some worse offendors , then the rest . 152. First , Church-robberie or ●acriledge is the worst theft . Mal 3. 8. When God is robb'd , can any sinne be greater ? Such theeues in elder times there haue beene found . It 's strange to thinke that any mortall creature , Who sucks the aire , or sets his foot on ground , Should dare 'gainst God commit a robberie , And hope to doe it with impunitie . 153. Amos 4. 6. One certaine plague alotted to such theeues , Is , curses on their Land , and its encrease : To righteous men God store and plentie giues , Their Barnes are full , they sowe and reape in peace . Who knowes himselfe delinquent in this sinne , Should retribute , and fall no more therein . 154. To spoile the Church , or Church-men of their right , That 's sacriledge , God thereby suffers wrong : Though done in secret , once 't will come to light , Th' offendors seldome prosper with it long . My friend that in this case hath done amisse , I wish make God amends , and get his blisse . 155. Some Clergie-men , worse then the Laitie , Are said to rob the Church , mens soules to kill : Scarse fit for one , hold soule-cures two , or three , With wooll their backs doe cloth , their bellies fill With sheepes sweet milke : their flocks the whiles vnfed . If some such bad men liue , 't is time th' were men-ded . 156. Secondly , Tyrants that oppresse and rob the world . Some Tyrants great in pow'r by Sea and Land , Rest vnsuffic'd with that which God hath lent them : Though many Kingdomes lie at their command , There 's nought but all the world can content them : Like Macedonian Philips stirring sonne , Who wept sith yet one world he had not wonne . 157. These be great theeues that rob the vniuerse , Suppose this All was for themselues created : Grow proud , cause after-ages shall rehearse , How many Lands , and Kings they ruinated . Or these men breake this Law forbidding theft , Or of my iudgement I am cleane bereft . 158. I iudge those Monarks blest in their estates , ( And sure I am herein my iudgement 's right . ) Who giue no cause of quarrels and debates , For iust and lawfull causes onely fight : Till wrong be offred them , doe not begin : Stick closely to their taske , when once they 're in . 159. An Apostrophe to the K●ngs Maiestie . Dread Lord , vouchsafe to heare a lowly Swaine , Whose Muse ( presuming on your former grace ) First humbly prayes ▪ you long in peace may raigne , And leaue it firme vnto your Royall race . All let 's remou'd that to a breach doe tend , Each enemie of yours , turn'd trustie friend . 160. Next vote of mine depends vpon condition , Deut. 20. 10. ( I take it from a holy man of God ) If Peace into their hearts get no admission , By whom your children vnder foot are trod ; The fault is theirs , strayne curt'sie then no longer , Your quarrell being iust , you are the stronger . 161. Psal. 55. 22 More smooth then supplest oile haue beene their wordes , What time sterne Mars did harbour in their hearts : Seeming to heale ( as balme ) they cut like swordes , Wounding farre deeper then the sharpest darts . Accept a subiects vote , though bluntly spoken ; Psal. 141. 5. Let not your head , with their sweet balmes be broken . 162. Psalm . 141. 5. Prou. 28. 6. It 's better from our friend to beare a stroake , Take wordes that to the eare may sound vnpleasing : Then kisses from our foes : whereby they cloake . Disguise their falshood , trecherie , and leasing . Two great wise Kings who found this true by proofe , Haue writ it in their bookes for our behoofe . 163. Take graciously , what loyally is meant , ( I onely wish , too weake to giue aduise ) My pen sets freely downe my hearts intent , Act. 26. 26. I know the King , to whom I speake , is wise . Graunts pardon to ingenuous libertie , When dutie bounds it with humilitie . 164. 3. Robbing a Realme , or Common-wealth , To rob the Kingdome , or the Common-wealth , Wherein one had his birth , and hath his being : This seemes to me a most accursed stealth , Some know 't , yet winke as if they wanted seeing . If any such there be within this Land , I wish they were vpon the mending hand . 165. By indirect deceauing their Prince . If any by close tricks abuse their Prince , Through faire pretence of doing him good seruice : If they his treasure , and reuenewes mince , Whereby themselues to great estates doe rise , Without desert to King , or Common-weale : What if one aske you , whether such men steale ? 166. By bribery and Extortion . If Magistrates , and Officers extort , Take Gifts and Bribes , which blinde eu'n wise mens eyes : Exod. 23. 8. Mal. 3. 5. It 's like at length they may be plagued for 't , Sith God doth heare oppressed poore mens cryes : Ier. 22. 13. For such misdeedes roots-out the Generation Of wicked men : and oft subuerts a Nation . 167. By defrauding Orphanes , Widowes , and poore of their right . If men ( for friends and wealth ) of mickle might , ( Whose conscience is as large as Friars sleeues ) Rob Orphanes , Widdowes , poore men of their right , And vnder shew of Iustice , play the theeues . This Precept strikes at them , as at the others , They may shake hands , and passe for sworne-brothers . 168. By betraying poore Clients Causes . If Aduocates receaue poore Sutors fees , Giue wrong aduise , make Causes bad , seeme best : Regard not whether Clients winne , or leese , So they grow rich , and feather well their nest : A sinne it is against this Law , I take it : If any haue so done , let them forsake it . 169. Restitution ordayned for theft , by Moses . Exod. 22. Pro. 6. 31. 〈◊〉 Moses Law , Theeues were but to restore , For Chattle-theft no man was iudg'd to die , But onely render fow'r for one , or more : All Nations now haue chang'd that penaltie . I 'll not dispute the Cause that mou'd them to it , Th' effect appeares : for euery where they doe it . 170. The Trade of Theft , and Robbing is so rife , 'Gainst Nations lawes , and Mans societie , They 'll venter on 't , with hazard of their life : Worke ? Fie vpon 't , they rather choose to die . Such as be trayn'd vp idly in their youth , Will sooner hang , then sweat and liue by truth . 171. They onely thinke on bodies punishment , Feare but the mulct , and outward penaltie : Consider not , how when the bodie 's spent , The Soule , assenting to the felonie , Before another Iudge must take her triall , Confesse the fault , for there bootes no deniall . 172. Theft by false play ; and cheating . Those subtle Theeues , more cunning then the rest , Which rob by shifts , false play , and craftie cheating : Hold fast in earnest what they get in jest , Scape scot-free without hanging , either beating : Are but repriued to a further day , To beare a heauier check for their soule-play . 173. Christs doctrine is so full of pietie , So pearcing to the heart , and inward thought , So set on Iustice , Truth , and Charitie , From fau'ring , farre : or cloaking , what is naught : 1. Thos . 4. ● . Luk. 12. 33. and 18. ●2 . That it forbids all fraud , deceipt , and guile , Bids giue our goods , though lackt our selues , somewhile . 174. A rich man that doth not almes-deeds , robs the poore . It 's not enough t'abstayne from open stealing , Liue on thy owne , for beare to filch from others : Thou must giue Almes , vse liberall and free dealing , If thou haue store , releeue thy needie brothers . Ecclus 4 1. For , he that 's rich , and doth not helpe the poore , Detraudes them of their due . I vrge no more . 175. Suffice it what hath on this Theame beene said , A further search remaynes for greater Clarkes : Perhaps , if Towne and Countrie were suruey'd , True men from Theeues , distinguisht by these markes : A young Arithmeticians braynes 't would cumber , To tell in haste , which were the greater number . 176. 9. Precept . Against false witnesse . You neuer knew a Thiefe , but was a Lyar , Twins laughing still , and weeping both together : The smoke clings not more closely to the fier , Beware them both alike , put trust in neither . Theeues preying on our goods , lesse hurtfull are , Then Witnesses that lye , and falsely sweare . 178. The Precepts ten , so firmely are connext , That breaking one , we faile in all the rest : Iam. 2. 10. So I haue learned in the holy Text , Gods curse is got , by sinning in the least : Yet ( well conceau'd ) it may be rightly spoken , One hurts more , then another , being broken . 178. The heynousnesse of false Testimonie ; To God , and Men. A Witnesse speaking falsly on his oath , Assumes in vaine Gods great and fearefull Name : Of life and liuelyhood he robs vs both , Oft-times bereaues vs of our honest fame . Pro. 6. 19. Such false Truth-wresters , Breeders of debate , Are they whom God especially doth hate . 179. Their punishment iust Moses doth appoint , When Iudges hap their falshood to discouer : Deut. 19. 16. Life must be had for life , and ioynt for ioynt , Doe to him , as he would haue done to th' other . Dan. 13. Susannaes false accusers had such hire , As they to lay vpon her , did conspire . 180. 1. King . 21. Naboth was charg'd to haue blasphem'd the King , Two sonnes of Belial wickedly bely'de him : He neuer thought , nor dreamt of such a thing , Yet of his life , and land , false oathes depriu'd him . Matth. 26. 59. By such a trick , our Lord was circumuented , The Priests themselues that treacherie inuented . 181. The great Law-giuer wisely did foresee , What danger periur'd witnesses might breed : Deut. 19. 15. He therefore wrote , that two at least , or three Must proue , before a matter be decreed . One , was too few : and many , hard to get : Two at the least , or three , were fitly set . 182. And yet , th' old Serpent , father of all lyes , To whom the naked Truth is most displeasing : By many shifts and glozes doth deuize , To set vp falshood , periurie , and leazing . With sundrie men , he worketh sundrie wayes , As each one is enclin'd , his bait he layes . 183. Enuie , Malice , Hatred , are strong passions inciting to false wi●nesse . 'Mong passions all , that draw a man to sinne , Hate , Malice , Enuie beare the greatest sway : Who to his heart , once lets these Monsters in , They leade him downe to hell the readie way . In their designes , they are so fierce and strong , They 'll haue their purpose , bee 't by right , or wrong . 184. Saint Steuens false accusers . Act. 6. 13. The men who with Saint Steuen did dispute , Vnable to resist his Arguments , The Spirit by which he spake , stroke them all mute : For spite whereof their heart insunder rents . False witnesses suborned , doe accuse him , So by their hate , and malice they abuse him . 185. Act. 7. 60. They charge this holy man with blasphemie , ( An odious crime in sight of God , and Men ) Then martyr him : who full of charitie Kneeles downe , and most deuoutly prayes for them . Thus Testmonie , meant for furth'ring right , The wicked doe peruert , to wreake their spite . 186. A Simile . The Leuell , and the Square , fram'd for a guide , Whereby each skilfull Builder leades his worke : Once set awrie , then th' architect goes wide , In fine is carried cleane beside the marke . So Witnesse , whereon Iudgements should be grounded , If false , all right is thereby quite confounded . 187. Feare & fauour of great persons . Some , are so fearefull of a great-mans frowne , So glad to wind themselues into his grace : Their soules at stake they wilfully lay downe , To get the smiling aspect of his face . 1. King . 21. Those elders swayd by Iesabels damn'd letter , Were such lewd Mates . I cannot terme them better . 188. Lands , dignities , and prom●tions . 2. Sam. 16. 4. Lands , Offices , and Dignities doe much , The hope of these doth many moe entice : Mephiboshets false seruitour was such , A slander 'gainst his Lord he did deuise : So got possession of his whole estate . Let all men blesse themselues from such a Mate . 189. Money the common corrupter of witnesles . What is 't , that money cannot bring to passe ? " Makes crooked things seeme straight , turnes blacke to white : This may wee see as cleere as in a glasse : Matth. 28. 12. The Souldiers sware , that while they slept by night , Our Lords Disciples stole him from his Tombe : 'T was money made them speake , else they 'd bin dumbe . 190. A Simile . Who hunts , an old and craftie Fox to catch , Goes warily to worke ere he can get him : On all sides of the wood , leaues some to watch , When out he runnes , there roundly doth beset him , Not leauing him a hole wherein to hide , His wiles then faile him , in the Champion wide . 191. So , reuerend Iudges deale with cunning Mates , Suspected to relye on subornation : Dan. ●3 . 48. Note what each Witnesse seuerally relates , Marke circumstances breeding alteration : A Truth cannot so closely be deny'de , Nor Falshood voucht , but 't is by them descry'de . 192. 2. Sam. 14. 20. and 19. 27. For they ( on earth ) are Gods , whose seat they hold , A Truth from Falshood quickly they espie : Let no false-witnesse-bearer be so bold , As hope he may out-face them with a lie . Nay , God in heau'n , and Gods on earth agree , Both here and there , to punish periurie . 193. 10. Precept . Couet nothing of thy Neighbour●… Matth. 22. 37. Rom. 13. 9. The Law , though branching into many parts , Is briefly couched in a word or twaine : First , to loue God sincerely with our hearts ; Then , Neighbours as our selues . ( Cold loue is vaine . ) Giue freely all to God , that 's to him due : Wish nought from Neighbours , that 'longs not to you . 194. The lesson's short , soone learned out of booke , And may be all obseru'd : ( as some haue thought . ) Matth. 19. 20. Pro 20 9. and 1. Ioh. 1. 8. Gen. 6. 5. and Iob 4. 18. That young man in the Gospell much mistooke , We otherwise in holy Writ are taught . No thoughts are so vpright , no heart so pure , That can the censure of this Law endure . 195. The least desire , or ●oue●ing from o thers , makes vs guiltie of the whole Law . This Precept , shutting vp the Second Table , Requires such cleannesse in the heart of man : Presumption 't were to thinke a mortall able To keepe it strictly , doe what ere he can . The best who shunne grosse sinnes ( be sure of this ) Cannot but wish oft-times , and thinke amisse . 196. To loue thy friend of whom thou art belou'd , Doe good to him , who doth as much for thee : True charitie is thereby faintly prou'd , Matth. 5. 44. For wicked men so far●e in loue agree . But we must loue our foes , that most defie vs : Wish well to those , who slander and belie vs . 197. Matth. 19. 18. Rom. 13. 9. Herein the six last Precepts are obay'd , If , as our selues , so we our neighbour loue . This is the summe of all that can be said , Examine well thy selfe thereby to proue , If thoughts , and deedes walke not sometimes awrie , So learne to know thy owne infirmitie . 198. Sundrie Simile● , shewing the good vse of the Law , albeit we cannot fulfill it . He that with in ward sicknesse is surpriz'd , Whose griefe growes closely on him vndescri'de , Scarse feeles his paine : that man is m●saduiz'd , No greater danger can such one betide . To goe astray , and thinke thou walkest right , All 's one , as take the Darknesse for the Light . 199. The wound that 's deepe , yet taken as a scarre , Endangers most the body that endures it : That Feed-man oft his Clients cause doth marre . Who ere he fully knowes , rashly assures it . 〈…〉 . The Pharise , selfe-soothed holy man , Came short in goodnesse of the Publican . 200. The Law layes ope our sicknesse , and our sore , Instructs vs where , and when we goe astray : Declares our case as 't is , nor lesse , nor more , Our faults vnmaskt , before vs it doth lay . So when wee see our wretchednesse , and errour , It strikes into our hearts a holy terrour . 201. This terrour doth our in-bred pride abate , Leades to repentance , and humilitie : Makes vs renounce our selues , our sinnes to hate , Driues all to haue recourse for remedie , Gal. 3. Esay 53. By him who kept the Law in euery ●ot , Yet suffred death , which he deserued not : 202. To quit that debt which we should haue discharg'd , Or lyen in Iayle , till th' vtmost farthing payd : From prison by his gift we were enlarg'd , Not one mite left , that on vs could be layd . Each one who humbly sues for his acquittance , Is well-com'd in , and findes a free admittance . 203. Thus doe good Christians Moses Law expound , ( The rule of Iustice , and of Righteousnesse ) We build our Doctrine on no other ground , ●…m . 2. 2● . Though Iewes , and Turkes pretend to doe no lesse : Yet they stick onely to the outward Letter , We ioyne thereto the Spirit : and that is better . 204. My Muse craues further time to end this song , That sacred Theame requires more meditation : The Parts alreadie sung , haue held her long . Here tenders shee her humble Supplication ; Sir , begs your pardon for all faults , and slips ; Your Princely hand , to grace her Virgin-lips . The end of the fourth Classis .

DIVINE POEMS . The fift Classis . THE ARGVMENT . Our Sauiours method most diuine in teaching . Repentance first : Beatitudes and Woes : Loue , Almes , Fasts , Prayer , subiects of his preaching : His perfect forme of prayer for a cloze . In Parables our lessons he doth reade vs , His Flesh and Bloud made speciall foode to feede vs . THe prouerb tells what proofe confirmes for true , Some marre good matters , handling of them ill : Some by their cunning vent old stuffe for new , Make blacke seeme white . ( There 's falshood in that skill . ) A worthy subiect handled in it's kinde , Approues it selfe to euery honest minde . 2. I find not that Moses writ ought , before he receaued the Tables written by G●d in the Mount . Deut. 5. 22. The first who fully writ of things diuine , At Gods owne hand receau'd it readie penn'd : He from that modell neuer did decline , Propos'd vnto himselfe no other end . That compasse was his guide to saile aright , Taught him whereof , and in what stile to write . 3. Yet after him among the Iewish Tribes , Succeeded some who on his chaire did sit : Matth. 16. 6. 12. and 26. 57. & Mar. 14. 64. Proud Pharizees , selfe-wise-conceited Scribes , Abus'd the Law , and mis-expounded it . True Doctrine they accus'd as blasphemie , Against the Law , adiudg'd The Iust to die . 4. Matth. 23. 2 , 3. When to the people they sound lessons taught , ( As listning to their charge , most-times they did . ) Then commonly their liues were loose and naught , Hypocrisie within their hearts lay hid . " What boots it , of Gods vpright Law to talke . " And in the Deuils crooked wayes to walke ? 5. Moses a type of Christ . A perfect patterne of sinceritie In life and doctrine , Moses shadow'd out : My humble Muse deuotes her ingenie To trace them both . ( Well may shee bring 't about ) A weightie load , too great for her to beare ; Yet light , if he vouchsafe the burthen share . 6. A prayer for as●stance in this diuine ●aske . Then thou , whose tongue spake neuer but the troth , Whose actions all , were rules of pietie ; Direct my hand and heart to treat of both , ( Instructed by the Sacred Historie ) In modest meeter , that the grau'st Diuine , May say , the Sprite , that rul'd the pen , was thine . 7. 〈◊〉 . 1. ●… For , euery worke that any good hath in it , Proceedes from thee , the God of Truth and Light ; Thy Spirit helps to end , and to begin it , All glorie vnto thee belongs of right . The good that 's here , and worthy prayse , 't is thine ; The faults and errours , I confesse , be mine . 8. The ground of Doctrines lately hath beene laid , The roote and branches both describ●d at full ; Of circumstances much rests to be said , That grace and pow●r of speech , whereby the dull Hard hearted Iew , the Gentile-Idoll-monger , Were forc●t to yeild to him , as to the stronger . 9. Iob. 7. 3● When Officers were sent abroad to watch him , The Priests enjoyning it by strict command : Though some of them were fully bent to catch him , Vers. 44. 45 , 46. Yet none had pow●r to lay on him a hand . Their answere was ( when they were checkt therefore ) Like vnto him , neuer spake man before . 10. Iuk. 4. 16. Is' t not obserued in the holy Booke , At Nazareth , when first he 'gan to preach , How stedfastly all people on him looke , Matth. 7. 28. Mar. 1. 22. Wonder to heare how sweetly he doth teach ? Vnlike the Scribes , whose wordes had no such force . To worke in th' hearers pitie , or remorse . 11. Act. 24. Tertellus trusting to his Oratorie , Suppos'd to daunt poore Paul , and strike him mute , In his affected stile he tooke a glorie ; The pris'ner doth this Orator confute . Vers. 25. Bribe-louing - Felix could not so dissemble , But that Pauls peircing speeches made him tremble 12. Mar. 13. 11. and Luke . 21. 14. He from his Lord receau'd such forcefull pow'r , Who left this comfort to his Schollers all : That when they needed most , eu'n in that how'r , No Tyrants furie might their hearts appall ; His Sprite would teach them speake with such a grace , As should confound their foe-men in the place . 13. 〈◊〉 . ● . Confound their foes , confirme the faith of others , ( Two strange effects proceeding from one breath ) Make reprobates of some , of some make brothers ; To these giue life ; to those bring shame and death . That Word alone so sharpe and peircing is , Of th' end to which it aymes , doth neuer misse . 14. My silly Muse , how darst thou soare so high , Neglecting danger of a dreadfull fall ? How may thy flaggie wings beare thee so nigh That glorious Sunne , whose brightnesse dazels all ? " Dispose thy selfe vnto some lower pitch , " Mounting too high , makes some lye in the ditch . 15. " Yet humble men that downwards cast their eyes , " All-dis-esteeme themselues , confesse their vildnesse , " Thinke th' are vnworthy to behold the skyes : " Recounting their Redeemers grace and mildnesse , " May fix their towring thoughts on his high Palace , " Scorne earthly , and in heauenly things take solace . 16. Matth. 11. 25. " Things vndiscouer'd to the worldly-wise , " To Babes and Children God oft-times reueales ; Ioh. 12. ●0 . " He shuts the ones , sets ope the others eyes , " Expounds to some , from other some conceales : Matth. 7. 7. " Instructing vs to aske , to seeke , to knocke , " That we may haue , and he the doore vnlocke . 17. Now giue me Lord , what faithfully I aske ; Guide me to finde the Treasure that I seeke : The skill to handle well this heauenly taske , Which none can doe , but humble men , and meeke . " For pride strikes her possessors all so blinde , Similes or Comparisons , expre●sing the care and diligence of our Sauiour in his teaching , to heale soules●…ke men , and leade them to heauen . " The path that leades to blisse , they neuer finde . 18. A good Physitian caring for the sick , Of whom he once doth vndertake the cure ; Casts not how he his Patients purse may pick , Or lingring make him longer paine endure . But bends his wits to know the maladie , Then by his Art , prouides a remedie . 19. A faithfull Pilot hauing tane the charge , To passe Sea-faring men to their owne Land ; The Passangers once shipped in his Barge , Their goods and liues deliuered to his hand ; Aduizing of the trust to him committed , Takes care that for the voyage all be fitted . 20. An Aduocate to whose fidelitie , Poore Clients causes wholly are commended , When liues and liuel'hood stand in ieopardie ; Till those great causes thoroughly be ended , Giues not himselfe to idlenesse and pleasure , But in that bus'nesse spends his how'rs of leasure . 21. Our best Physician , Pilot , Aduocate , Who freely vndertooke to heale each griefe ; To bring home wandring soules , to heau'ns straight gate ; Vn-feed , to pleade for euery man's reliefe : Neglects no time , le ts no occasion slide , Fit slaues for euery sore he doth prouide . 22. Strong purges , bitter pills , sharpe corrasiues , To some he giues as sicknesses require : To some sweet Iulips , sound restoratiues , Expecting neither fee , reward , nor hire . He offers helpe to all , if all would take it ; Most see not their owne want , and so forsake it : 23. Repentance the fi●st Doct●…e ●h●… Christ & his Harb●…g●r Io●… Ba●…st ●…gh● . Matth. 3. 2 , and 4 17 , 〈◊〉 One ground-worke for all sick-soule-cure he laid , His Harbinger before him had beene sent , To worke on that : for so 't is plainly said , They both began with one selfe word , Repent . " Who thinks he 's sound enough , and no help needeth . " Must die of that disease , whose roote he feedeth . 24. Matth. 9. and Mar. 2. 17. To righteous men ( that to themselues so seeme , And so by others falsely iudg'd to bee , Such as did thinke they had no lack of him ) To call these men , I am not sent , saith hee . They must both know , and knowledge their owne need , That would b' assured of my helpe to speed . 25. " Doubtlesse there is no other way to heale , " When men are deadly sick , and will not see 't ; " But cause them tell their griefe which they conceale ▪ " Disclose't to him , who knowes what helpe is meet . Our Medic thus his practice did begin The cure failes none , that rightly enter in . 26. No wit , nor art of man ( say I ) is able , ( Though all their art and wits were ioyn'd together ) So pithily as he in one Parable , By speech or writing to perswade the Hearer , To turne from folly , and returne to God , When he reclaymes vs with his gentle rod. 27. The most excellent pithy parable of the prodigall sonne . Luk. 15. 11. to the end of the chapter . That sonne which wilfully forsooke his father , Consum'd his goods with luxurie and riot , When all was gone , no meanes left more to gather , Swine-offals fayling him ( a wretched diet ) To fill his panch , the hunger was so great , Fayne would he beene suffic'd with such course meat . 28. What doth he then ? begins to change his minde , Thinks on the plentie , at his fathers table : In hope to haue him pittifull and kinde , Once more will gayne his grace , if he be able ; Confesse his fault , vnworthy name of sonne , Craue but a seruants place : so home doth runne . 29. No sooner homeward turneth he his face , The father hast'ning , meets him halfe the way , Embraceth him , receaues him into grace , With shooes , and ring , and robe , doth him array : A fatted Calfe he kills , and makes a feast , With mirth and minstrelsie to please this Ghest . 30. Nay more , when th' elder brother'gan repine , To see this vnthrist Lad so entertayn'd , The father prayes him to come in and dine , For why ? My sonne was lost and is regayn'd . I thought he had beene dead , but since hee 's liuing , We must reioyce , and cheere our hearts from grieuing . 31. A short discourse it is , yet most diuine , Most full of grace , most pithy to perswade ; Displayes our wretched state before our eyne , Points out the way by which our peace is made : Our heauenly father's pronesse to forgiue , Ezech. 33. 11. Would no mans death , but that he turne and liue . 32. The same by two like samples he auerreth . Luk. 15. Among an hundred sheepe if one be lost , Or one poore groat 'mong ten : the loser stirreth , The fields are searcht , the stuffe i'th'house is tost : That lost-sheepe found , giues th' owner more content , Then all the rest that straying neuer went . 33. The Angels all , for ioy in heauen showt , To see a man whose steps to hell-ward tended , Reclayme himselfe , his course turn'd cleane about , His faults forsaken , and his life amended . There 's naught ( me thinks ) can cause that man be sad , Which walkes the way , that makes good Angels glad . 34. Can any gracelesse trewant be so mad , Though once he plaid the foole to goe astray ; Being well assur'd his pardon may be had , His welcome more , then ere he went away , As not returne to rest , and liue with store , But begge , or steale , and lastly hang therefore ? 35. If such there be ( too many sure there are ) That loue to feed on huskes , and liue with Hogs : Within the Citie gates , they get no share , Reuel. 22. 15. Matth. 25. 10. But out they must abide among the Dogs . " When doores be shut once , there 's no comming in " It 's best while men haue time , in time begin . 36. Christs heauenly Sermon in the Mount . Matth. 5. His hearers thus prepar'd to lend their eare , A sermon he begins ; wherein each line Is full of weight ; excites to loue , and feare , To knowledge him a Preacher most diuine . Great Doctors on that Theame , great Books may write , My Muse briefe Poems onely must indite . 37. A Simile . ( Like Bee among the flowr's about shee goes , The Wax and Honey labours how to finde : Though venom'd herbe none in this Garden growes , Yet Spiders are so spitefull by their kinde , The wholsom'st herb , and sweetest flow'r in fields , Some poyson to their cancred nature yeilds . ) 38. The eight Beatitu●…es . ●…t●h . 5. He teacheth first what sort of men be blest , The fruit to euery blessing is annext ; Eight in their rankes distinctly are exprest , So shall you finde them in the sacred Text ; And noting well the opposites to those , Discerne who are accurst , and see their woes . 39. 1. Poore in Spirit . Blest ( in the fore-ranke ) be the poore in Spirit , He meanes not all that liue in beggerie : For rich as well as poore may heau'n inherit , So they be fraught with sp'rituall pouertie . Ecclus. 25. 2. " A poore man may be prowd , of God detested : " Then blisse in all poore men is not inuested . 40. Reuel. 3. 17. and 18. 7. Some beggar-bare , soule-decking riches wanting , Perswade themselues to haue enough , and spare ; Such , of their sp'rituall wealth are euer vaunting , These men had need prouide them better ware : Least being found their wedding garment lacking They be thrust out of doores , and hunted packing . 41. Reuel. 2. 9. Some others truly rich , yet make no shew , Their treasures lie close hidden in their heart : These be the better sort , though they be few , In this Beatitude they haue their part . Are poore in spirit blest ? heau'ns ioyes obtaine ? Then sp'rituall prowd , in hell must suffer paine . 42. Such be those men ( to make the matter cleerer , Sith contraries set one by th 'others side , Doe best appeare when they are ioyn'd the neerer . ) Luk. 18. Who in their gifts and graces take a pride , Extoll themselues as men of much perfection , And thinke all others owe to them subiection . 43. 2. Mourners . 2. Sam. 14. 2. &c Next blessednesse , to Mourners is allotted : Not such as walke in black for friends departed , Whose inner vest'ments oft-times are bespotted , Their garments sad , themselues not heauie hearted . Such kind of mourning , cannot make men blest ; To take it so , were th' holy Sense to wrest . 44. True mourning , whereby blessednesse is gayned , Hath other ground , aymes at a better end : It must be from the heart , and not be seyned , Arise from euill deeds , that God offend : Psal. 119. 53. 158. Like his , who mourn'd and grieued at the heart , When wicked men from Gods Law did depart . 45. Psal. 38. & 51. and full thoroughout his P●almes . So when himselfe through frailtie did amisse , When Church , or Common-wealth endur'd affliction ; He prayes and mournes , and rents his heart for this . Herein he shared in this benediction . For such occasions , after he had mourned , His heauinesse to mirth , and ioy were turned . 46. What shall we thinke ( on th' other side ) of those , That laugh and jest , when godly men are mourning ? It 's like in time their mirth may turne to woes , When th' other are at rest , these may be burning . Luk. 16. The Glutton glutted late with wine , soone after Begg'd hard , and mist to get one drop of water . 47. 3. Meeke . Now come yee meeke , and humble men of heart , You gentle harmelesse soules , by worldings scorn'd ; Among the Blessed you must haue your part , Your lowlinesse , shall highly be adorn'd . Psal. 37. 11. The Earth to you is giu'n , and to your seed , Take that as part , and portion of your meed . 48. With rest and peace your dwellings shall abound , Your selues delighted in that happy state ; Fierce-firie-sprighted men God will confou●d , That stirring race of people he doth hate . 'Mong Beares , and Woolues , in some poore Hermits cell I 'd rather liue , then neare such Furies dwell . 49. 4. Hunger and thirst for Righteousnesse . A man with thirst , and hunger hardly prest , His belly euer thinkes his throat is cut : He neuer sleepes , nor walkes , nor sits in rest , Till meat and drinke be got , to fill his gut . That being had , affoords him more content , Then richest pearles from farthest Orient . 50. Some thirst for gold , as others doe for drinke ; They hunger after wealth , no lesse then meat ; Such thirst and hunger , here you may not thinke Are vnderstood , nor belly-cheere to eat . To hunger much and thirst for righteousnesse , Is that for which Our Sauiour here doth blesse . 51. " A blessed thirst indeed , and yet a feast ; " A holy hunger , 'mid great store of cates ; " Well is the man that sits here as a ghest , " Blest he that at this banquet drinkes , and eates . " This hunger , and this thirst , the Soule so feedeth ; " The more 's her appetite , the lesse needeth . 52. " Here , food and feeding both are sp'rituall , " An earnest longing of the Soule and Heart , " To doe the workes of Iustice vnto all , " Lewd liuers from their follies to conuert ; " To helpe the poore oppressed , to their right ; " Defend the feeble from a man of might . 53. Who thus-wise hunger , either thirst endureth , Shall haue his fill of that for which he longeth ; The Text each faithfull man thereof assureth , And who so doubts of that , the Preacher wrongeth . Such as to Iustice haue no appetite , Their state 's the worse , they get no blessing by 't . 54. 5. Mercifull . The workes of Mercy highly are commended , And their reward ( in sort ) exceedes the rest : For by the scope of Scripture 't is intended Without Gods mercy , no man can be blest . Rom. 6. 23. " Not merit , but his mercy freely giuen , " To true belecuers , opes the gates of heauen . 55. This sauing-mercy those alone shall find , That cheerfully shew mercy vnto other ; Who can expect his father should be kind To him , which deales vnkindly with his brother ? Pro. 21. 13. " The mercifull like mercy shall obtaine , " Men mercilesle , shall looke for it in vaine . 56. Matth. 18. 23. That gracelesse seruant fully cleeres the case , Who ow'd his Lord an endlesse masse of debt : And hauing nought to pay , yet out of grace , Vpon request , at libertie was set . He should haue done , as he was done vnto , But soone forgot , what he was bound to doe . 57. He takes his fellow-seruant by the throat , For such a pelting debt , as ( to his owne ) Deseru'd not to be valued at a groat : This dealing to his master being knowne , He bids the laylors take him to their charge , To pay each farthing , ere he goe at large . 58. Mongst workes of Mercy there be many more : To visit sick , giue ayde to men distressed , To clothe the naked , to releeue the poore , For these , and such like workes , we shall be blessed . Matth. 25. 41. These duties , he that wilfully neglects , A curse vpon himselfe , and his reflects . 59. 6. Pure in heart . Pro. 30. 12. Blest be the Pure . Not such as seeming so , Are full of spots , and filthinesse within : Not such as make of puritie a show , Math. 23. 25. Iob. 4. 24. Yet loosely liue , lye wallowing in their sin . 'T is puritie in heart that God desires , Pro. 23. 26. Our heart 's the thing , that he of vs requires . 60. Iob. 15. 14. Pro. 20. 9. Can any man pronounce , My heart is cleane , Sith heauens in his sight appeare impure ? Psal. 51. & Act. 15. 9. Yes , those which by his bloud haue washed beene , Whom faith hath purged . Such be clensed sure : 2. Pet. 2. 22. Who with the Sow , returne not to the mire , But to liue cleanly afterwards , desire . 61. To these the promise in the Text is giuen , To see their God , aye to behold his face , To passe from darknesse to the light of heauen , Ps. 24. 4. T'as●end Gods Hill , rest in his holy place . Where shall th' impure , and cancr●d-hearted dwell ? I know no Mansion for them but in Hell . 62. 7. Peace makers . Beati Pacisici , soe there at large . Peace-Makers likewise are pronounced blest , ( Of these my Muse hath sung with some delight ) The priuiledge they haue , is not the least , Gods children they be styl'd : it is their ●ight . The Deuils brats needes must those others bee , That wilfully breake peace , and vnitie . 63. 8. P●rsecution for Christs sake Blest be all those that Persecution suffer For Righteousnesse and Truth , and for Ch●ists sake : When men reuile vs , raile , all wrongs doe offer , And we with patience gladly doe it take . Here , heau'n's not barely promis't for reward , But great encrease of blisse in that regard . 64. " All-suffring is not priuiledg'd with blessing , " The paine makes not a Martyr , but the Cause : 1. Pet. 2. 20. and 4. 15. In sundrie places we be taught this lesson , When malefactors suffer by the Lawes : Such suffring is not truly Persecution , But rather termed Legall execution . 65. Matth. 10. 33. On th' other side , when we are put to triall , Religion , Faith , and Conscience laid at stake : If feare , or ought else force vs to deniall , Our faith renounce , our Sauiour to forsake : At latter day hee 'll say to vs , be gone ; Denie vs , as we erst by him had done . 66. The Philosoph●rs folly in the search of Fe●…e , or blessednesse . Loe here , eight easie steps to blessed state , Fram'd by a perfect Architect indeed : Philosophers were readie fall to bate , All searcht to find the thing , but could not see 't . One said'twas this , another said'twas that , Some lost themselues , and said they knew not what . 67. A Comparison . Like Fooles shut vp in a Dedalian maze , A spacious one , with roome enough to wander : Well might they runne , or walke , or stand and gaze , No sooner find th' way out , then could a Gander . This laborinth constrayn'd them all to dote , To speake their mindes , and tell their tales by rote . 68. Another Simile or Comparison . What maruaile , if a man depriu'd of sight , Set in a Wildernesse , or Forest wide , Where thousands are of wayes : yet but one right , And all the rest diuerting him aside : If he ( I say ) 'mong thousands , misse that one , Though he should walke there , till the day of doome ? 69. " Oureyes brooke not the brightnesse of the Sunne , " Celestiall things surmount our reasons reach : " Beatitude by other meanes is wonne , " Then such as Heathen-men were able teach . The man from whom these lessons we receau'd , Was God and Man , and could not be deceau'd . 70. Here for a Corollarie it would fit well , Deut. 11. 29. From Gerizim , Mount Ebal to ascend : Of woes likewise in number eight , to tell , Whereon our Lord was pleas'd some wordes to spend : But first our Preachers foot-steps must be trac't , The rest pursu'de , as in the Text it 's plac't . 71. The prime part of this heau'nly Sermon ended , Beatitudes to pious workes assign'd : More precepts to his hearers he commended , By which their liues and manners were refin'd . The Scribes delighted of the Law to talke , But made no conscience after it to walke . 72. The dutie of Preachers and Pastors . Th' Apostles , and all Preachers of the Word . He shewes what manner men they ought to bee : Their liues should with their doctrine well accord , In vertue they must shine ; that men may see , And seeing render glorie to his Name , Who giues them grace , and pow're to doe the same . 73. He came not to destroy , but to fulfill ; Not to obscure the Law , but to explaine : See before in Class . 4. St. 〈◊〉 . &c. He taught them truly what it was to kill , Breake wedlock , take the name of God in vaine . Each other Precept rightly he expounded , Which Scribes by their false glosses had confounded . 74. As it was with Moses . Psal . 78. Two things true Doctrine strongly doe approue , Great miracles in which Gods hand appeares : Strange signes and wonders shew'd downe from aboue , Which tell the eyes , as wordes doe to the eares . Iob. 6. 30. The Iewes requir'd that he a signe would giue , To th' end they might behold it , and beleeue . 75. Of these they had so great , and so great store , In Class. 3. all throughout . ( Whereof at large I haue alreadie spoken ) That Moses neuer gaue their fathers more , Yet they regarded neither signe , nor token . They madly did ( vnto their owne confusion ) The premisses confest , denie conclusion . 76. Good life likewise is needfull in a Preacher . Matth. 7. For , iust as by the fruit , the tree is knowne , So , wicked life not onely shames the Teacher , But makes the seed to wither , as 't is sowne . The good tree seldome failes to beare good fruit , So life and doctrine must together suit . 77. Moses that man of God , a type of Christ , By whom the Law was giuen to the Iewe : In doctrines and in deedes came to him nigh'st , The one were holy , and the other true . He was a man , and had his imperfection , Some times he faulted , wanting Gods direction . 78. But he that was both God and Man together , His life and doctrine each approu'd the other : He erred not , nor faulted once in either , He liued euer spotlesse from his Mother . His foes that neer'st into his life did prie , One blemish in his actions could not spie . 79. Some hole they sought to finde out in his coat , Matth. 22. 15. Laid wait ( at least ) to catch him in his talke , They would haue seene in 's eye the smallest moat : He so vprightly did both speake , and walke , Vers. 22. As what they plotted for his hurt and shame , Redounded more to glorifie his Name . 80. Matth. 11. 18. From sland'rous tongues he stood not wholly free , ( His Harbinger and he were in one case ) Sith he sometimes frequented companie , At feasts and friendly meetings had a place : They say he eates and drinketh more then measure , Among such men as liu'd in sinfull pleasure . 81. If he whose life was meere integritie , A paterne of perfection to all others : In whom was neither guile , nor flatterie , Did good to all , as they had beene his brothers : Despiced riches , honors , worldly pleasure , Sought after no thing else but heauenly treasure . 82. If he could not escape enuenom'd tongues , Nor finde protection in his innocence : But was content to beare , and put vp wrongs , And take his patience for his best defence : Then let all those who glorie in his Name , Learne what he did , and striue to doe the same . 83. That Harbinger of his , in life austere , Whose foode and diet were both meane and slender : A shamelesse false report of him they reare , ( The conscience of back-biters is not tender . ) That sure he was a wicked man , and euill , A Saint in shew , but inwardly a Deuill . 84. Prowd Pharisees , chiefe Rulers , captious Scribes , Were they that still oppugn'd , and wrong'd our Lord : The multitude , most part , of all the Tribes Gaue witnesse on his side , with one accord : Iob. 7. 48 & 10 21. 41. Mar. 7. 37. Those damn'd his deeds , as if they came from hell : These truly said , he had done all things well . 85. Reuenge forbidden . For trespasses , for iniuries and wrongs , By Moses Law men might require amends : Luk. 18. 9. & Rom. 13. ( What right to God and Magistrates belongs , All that the Gospell charily defends . ) Matth. 5. 38. Yet Christ sayes , Suffer wrong , and seeke no righting , Resist not , neither turne thy cheeke from smiting . 86. To loue our Enemies . The Scribes suppos'd , so they their knowne-friends lou'd , Of enemies there needed no respect . Our charitie by better markes is prou'd , On friends and foes alike , it must reflect . God makes his Sunne on good and bad to shine , His loue extends to all : and so must thine . 87. Luk. 10. The sample of that good Samaritan , Shewes vs the way in which we ought to goe : As he was kind vnto the wounded man , Whom he ne're saw before , nor did him knowe : So all that need our helpe , for Christ his sake , As our good friends and neighbours we must take . 88. Almes . Matth. 6. 1. Almes deeds are workes in which God takes delight , Rewards them franke , and freely of his grace : They must be closely done , as in his sight , Hee 'll quit them openly , 'fore all mens face : But hypocrites that vainely seeke for prayse , Haue none at all with God , so Scripture sayes . 89. 1. Sam. 16. 7. Hee sees the heart , and thoughts that lie most hidden , Th' intent , eu'n as the act when it is done : If we conceaue a thing that is forbidden , 'T is cleere to him , as is to vs the Sunne . Marc. 12. 41. 2. Cor. 9. 6. Bee 't much or little , let thy Almes be franke , Done with a cheerfull heart , thou shalt haue thanke . 90. Prayer . Matth. 7. 7. Who liues on earth , that needs not helpe from heauen ? Who , knowing he may haue it for the asking , Will not pursue the readie way , and eeuen , But gad about , as in darke night , a-masking ? The way to haue our wants supply'de with store , Is zealous heartie prayer , and no more . 91. Seuerall parables expressing the efficacie of feruen● prayer . Luk. 18. The wicked Iudge , whom that poore widow hanted , Though he of God , ne man had no regard : By importunitie her suit he granted . Sure , of the righteous Iudge we shall be heard , If daily to him we deuoutly crie , What e're we seeke that 's fit , hee 'll not denie . 92. What man , though closely couched in his bed , His doores fast shut , and he laid downe to rest : Would not rise vp to giue his friend some bread , If with long suit , and praying he be prest ? Though law of friendship could not force him to it , Yet crying importunely makes him doe it . 93. Is any carnall father so vnkind , Whose sonne begs of him bread , or else a fish : That can conceaue such rancour in his mind , As lay a stone , or Serpent in his dish ? If Mortalls on their sonnes , good gifts bestow , Much more will God , from whom all good doth flow . 94. ●am. 1. 6. " There 's nothing of more force then feruent prayer , " Proceeding from the heart with true deuotion : " 'T is not the idle beating of the ayre , " Much lesse is 't hypocriticall lip-motion . " On faith it must be grounded : feare and doubt " In prayer , euer makes vs goe without . 95. Iam. 5. 15. Eliah had ( like vs ) infirmities , Yet so much by his prayer he obtayn'd , As to command the Meteors , and Skies , That in three yeeres and halfe it neuer rayn'd . ● . King . 18. And when he pray'd on th' other side againe , Thick clowdes congealing , powred downe great raine . 96. In sacred Writ , examples there bestore , Of Patriarkes , of Prophets , and of Kings , Of holy men and women many more , Whose prayers brought to passe most wondrous things . Ioh. 14. 13. What need more ? all that 's asked in his Name , We haue a promise to receaue the same . 97. A Simile . What greater sauour can a subiect craue , Whose Sou'raigne of his bountie giues him leaue , Into his presence free accesse to haue , His iust requests assured to receaue ? With God ( by prayer ) this is each mans case , To talke as with a friend , eu'n face to face . 98. In priuate prayer , secrecie doth best 'Twixt God and thee , thy closet doore made fast : The Pharisees fond praying was a jest , By mumbling in the streets where all men past . That Pharisaicall fashion , though worne-out , Some ( yet ) affect it as they walke about . 99. Church-seruices where Christians vse assembling , With vniforme consent of heart and voice To pray , and prayse their God : that 's no dissembling , Matth. 18. 19. For of such seruice God himselfe makes choise . There many members , one whole body make , 'T is one request wherein they all partake . 100. Much babling , vaine and idle repetitions , Was vs'd by Heathen people when they prayd : Sooner they hop't to speed in their Petitions , As if God knew no more , but what they sayd : Whereas ere we begin , he knowes our needes , And seruent faithfull prayer , euer speedes . 101. Luk. 11. 1. Th' Apostles ( yet ) not growne-vp to perfection , Finding how needfull thing it was to pray : Not trusting wholly to their owne election , Besought their Lord to set them in the way . It seemes he did their motion well allow , And instantly began to teach them how . 102. Hee needes not greatly on the matter pawse , Whose learning is not got by institution : Christ was not bound to humane rules and lawes , Gal. 1. 11. Who gaue perfection t' others by infusion : A perfect forme of prayer then he gaue them , With some instructions else , how to behaue them . 103. The Lords prayer . And first a preamble , or procm . Our father . What sweeter comfort to a man that prayes , Then that he makes his suit to his owne father ? The father seldome childrens suites denayes , Hence full assurance euery man may gather , All that he iustly seeketh to obtaine : And not present his Orisons in vaine . 104. With reuerent respect and filiall feare , ( Such as good children owe vnto their father ) Men must prepare themselues ere they come neare , For that 's the way to make them speed the rather . Not seruilely affraide , as slaues are wont , When sharpe correcting masters them confront . 105. Which art in heauen . When to an earthly Sire we make petition , Had he the will to grant what we require : He may perhaps be of such weake condition , As failes in pow'r , though not in his desire . This father's Lord of heauen , sea and land , These are ( and all in them ) at his command . 106. As he is pow'rfull , so hee 's all as readie Psal 50. 15. & 145. 18. and Jer. 29. 11. To heare , and grant : his promise thereto tyes him . He in his promise euermore is steadie , Who this denyes blasphemously belyes him . Thus hauing will and might , how can it faile , But in our lawfull suites we must preuaile ? 107. Sith he to whom our prayers we present , Aboue in th' heauens hath his habitation : Our cheifest scope therefore , and may ne intent , Must be when we preferre our Supplication , To ayme at heauenly obiects , and celestiall , Not fix our thoughts on things base , and terrestriall . 108. 1. Petition . Hallowed bee thy Name . First we desire , Gods Name be sanctifi'de . By worship , and religious inuocation ; That nothing but himselfe be Deifi'de , His Truth be spread abroad to euery Nation : His Name not vs'd in charmes , or coniuration . Nor in vaine oathes : all these cause profanation . 109. So men professing God , and his Religion , If they liue loosely in licenciousnesse , Make their profession fall into dirision , And scandalize that Faith which they professe : 2. Sam. 12 14. Rom. 2. 29. This is Vnhallowing of Gods holy Name , Breeds the Professors , and their Doctrine , shame . 110. 2. Petition . Thy Kingdome come . As thou art Lord of Lords , and King of Kings , So we entreat thee , let thy Kingdome come : As thou hast made , and gouernest all things , So those whom thou hast chosen , call them home : Enlarge thy Kingdome by thy pow'rfull Word , That Nations all , may knowledge thee their Lord . 111. Who so against thy Church lifts vp his hand , Who seekes to stop the passage of thy Word , Who doth thy Gospell impiously withstand , Cut them off with thy sharpe two-edged sword : That all the world may knowledge thee their King , Es. 49. 18. Their Sonnes and Daughters to thy Temple bring . 112. The Kingdome of the Dragon , and the Beast Beat downe , and bring them shortly to confusion : Reu●… . 19. 17. Let fowles of th' ayre be called to the feast , Lord bring this battle to a short conclusion . Let Michael and his Angels ouer-come , That we may say ( not pray ) thy Kingdome 's come . 113. 3. Petition . Thy will ●edone in earth , as it is in heauen , Matth. 6. 39. The Sonne of God , though he were sinlesse man , Yet to his Fathers will subiects his owne : Then we which how'rly sinne , and nought else can , Should by our daily prayers make it knowne ; That we desire his holy Will be done , And not our wills , which wilfull courses runne . 114. All that thou , in thy wisedome hast decreed , Which ( vnreucal'd ) is knowne to thee alone : Accomplish it ( if 't be thy Will ) with speed , Let Men , and Angels , all agree in one : That like as they aboue , so we belowe , May striue thy Will to doe , as well as knowe . 115. An idle cauill auoyded . These three requests to God himselfe pertaine , His glorie and his honour they concerne . Some may obiect , we pray for them in vaine , Sith of this lesson no man is to learne , Psal. 99. That what God will , shall be : that hee 'll be King , Though all the Earth storme , and oppose the thing . 116. A Simile . Is not a father pleased with his sonne , For begging that , which he intends to giue him ? Iob. 17. I reade that so 't was by our Sauiour done , So here he teacheth , if we will beleeue him . 2 S●m 7. 25. 1. King . 8. 25. That God would keepe his promise , good men pray'd : Who of non-keeping it , were not affrayd . 117. 4. Petition . Giue vs this day , our daily bread . Matth. 6. 25. no●e the place . Next for such things whereof we stand in need , This heau'nly Doctor teacheth vs to pray : He meanes by Bread ( whereon we daily feed ) Meat , drinke , and clothes the body to array . For as the bellies food we cannot lack : No more some needfull clothing to the back . 118. Gen. 3. 17. to 21. When Adam had his doome , and th' earth accurst , That fruitlesse Thornes , and Th●stles it should yeild : God for his needfull food takes order first , Commands him eate the herbes that grow in feild . Then brought him clothes , for him and for his wife , As things thought needfull , to sustayne their life . 119. Wee may not pray for superfluitie , Nor begge aboundance to maintayne excesse : But onely to supply necessitie , Our daily wants , we daily must expr●sse . To pray at some few times , for all the yeere , That 's not the way , prescribed to vs heere . 120. No man , but needeth something euery day , The greatest Monarch reigning on the earth : This may enforce vs daily thus to pray , At least though w● feele neither want nor dearth , We pray not barely for our selues alone , But for our fellow-members all in one . 121. 5. Petition . Forgiue vs our debts , as wee forgiue our debtors . Two things in briefe are learn'd by this Petition That all haue need for pardon to entreat : And sith the suit is made vpon condition , The sutor here by no meanes must forget , To plead condition really performed , Else out of Cou●t his suit and he are turned . 122. This point more fully afterward is clear'd , In playner termes expressed for our learning : Gods sight may not with counter●eit be blear'd , And the efore is subioyn'd a gentle warning , That none shall haue of God his debts forgiuen , Till first with his owne debtors he make euen . 123. Aduize in what a desp'rate case he stands , A Simile , or Parable . Who begging pardon from a mightie King , For endlesse debts on forfeiture of bands : The King seekes nought in lieu , but one small thing , Which if not granted freely without faultring , He takes his whole d●bt , to the vtmost sarthing . 124. 6. Petition . Leade vs not into temptation . This last Petition more then all the rest , Requires our care to vnderstand it right : Temptations to distinguish first 't is best , Thereby to giue this place the better light . For in that word there lyes a double sense , Which may distract our weake intelligence . 125. Iam. 1. 2. One parcell of the Text Canonicall , Beginneth with a speciall consolation , Exciting to reioyce when as we fall , Into a Christian triall , or temptation : A triall of true Faith , whence patience springs , Which all her workes vnto perfection brings . 126. Such as be tempted thus , he calls them blest , If constancie accompanie their triall : The end of all their labours shall be rest , A crowne of lasting life without deniall . Reuel. 2. 10. Thus God hath promis't those that doe him loue , So they endure when gently he doth proue . 127. Such triall or temptation as this , Proceedes from God , and for his chosens good : 1. Cor. 4. 17. and 10. 13. To whom it breedes a great encrease of blisse , And so by constant Christians vnderstood . Heb. 11. This tempting is a token of Gods fauour , The faithfull euer found therein sweet sauour . 128. But men are tempted oft by in-bred lust , By fleshly motions pricking them to sinne : This tempting's not of God , for he is iust , And to such By-pathes neuer leades vs in . The Fiend obserues these sparkes of fire beginning , Then blowes the coles , and sets vs on to sinning . 129. When thus through humane frailtie we be tempted , Vnable of our selues to make resistance : By thy good grace ( Lord ) let vs be exempted , Then grant to vs thy holy Sprites assistance : Though strong temptations happen to distresse vs : Yet , of thy mercy , let them not oppresse vs . 130. Lord into this temptation leade vs not , Assist vs with thy ayde , and heau'nly grace : ● . Cor. 3. 5. Within vs there 's no powre , the smallest jot To helpe our selues : Oh hide not thou thy face , Draw not thy mercy from vs in our need , Least Sinne and Satan in their purpose speed . 131. But deliuer vs from euill . But free vs from all kind of sinne and euill , Which hinders vs from cleauing vnto thee : Defend vs from our chiefest foe the Deuill , Who enuies most at mans felicitie : That rid from these , we may intend the rather , To serue and wait on thee our heau'nly Father . 132. The Epilogue . For ●hine us the Kingdome , the power and the gl●rie for euer . We knowledge thee a King by lawfull right , In pow'r and glorie all Kings farre transcending : For they be all as nothing in thy sight , Their Kingdomes faile , thine neuer shall haue ending . Thus end our prayers , with thy prayse : and then , Amen . To shew our hearts consent , we say Amen . 133. Here 's that briefe-worded , richly furnisht prayer , All heau'nly and diuine : ( as is the Maker ) W●ll doth the Church obserue this custome fayre , ( Though some vnto ward sonnes therein forsake her ) To begge all boones of God in Iesus Name , And shut vp all our prayers with this same . 134. Fasting . The perfect forme of prayer fully ended , Fit rules for Christian fasting he prescribes : Displayes abuses first to be amended . Hypocrisie , with Pharisees and Scribes A common fault , he warneth his to shunne , Then in few wordes sets downe what 's to be done . 135. Scribes and Pharisees . Those Hypocrites , men-pleasers , fasting oft , Deuiz'd how they might make it so appeare : The onely thing which by their fasts they sought , Was prayse of men . ( Their guerdon they had here . ) Luk. 18. 12. So fasted that prowd Pharisaike man , Who lifts himselfe aboue the Publican . 136. Matth. 6. 1. 5. He teacheth vs to fast , and not be seene , ( As he had done in prayer , and almes-deed . ) Anoint thy head , thy countenance keepe cleane , That in thy face , thy fasting be not read : Then God which sees thy workes in secrecy . Will of his grace reward thee openly . 137. Here fast and pray are fitly knit together , This simply in it selfe of greatest worth : That secondarily , as tending hither ; For , zeale to pray , by fasting is set forth . " The soule then talkes to God at greatest pleasure , " When as the bodie 's fed in sparing measure . 138. Some kinde of fasts not om●endable . Yet all mens fasts are not to be commended . Some pinch their panch , thereby to spare their purse : These Euclioes are to be reprehended . Some fast , to eate the faster : those are worse . They 'll fast a day or two before a feast , Then eate as much as two or three at least . 139. All times likewise for fasting are not fit . ( Though praying no day falleth out of season . ) Matth. 9. 14. The day wherein ones marriage bands be knit , May free that man from fasting , with good reason . To fast that day , were peeuishnesse , and folly , A trick to proue one sullen , more then holy . 140. " Fasts fitly walke with crosses , and affliction . " When Church or Common-weale are in distresse . " The Prince , or Pastors lay an interdiction " From sustenance , not barely from excesse : " And to this Act is ioyn'd the proper end , " That all to pray , the better may intend . 141. If one would cite Examples in this kind , The sacred Bookes abound with so great store : That entring in , 't were hard an end to find , The Church obserues it now , and heretofore , Though not so rightly as was done at first : Compare all times , the latest still g●ow worst . 142. Ecc●us . 34. 26. To fast , and yet runne on in doing ill , This fasting profits not the man that prayeth : Zech. 7. 9. But workes of mercy who so doth fulfill , Nor from the perfect rule of Iustice strayeth , The widow , poore and fatherlesse defends ; Such fast , his prayers vp to heauen sends . 143. Of sundrie fasts the Scripture maketh mention , Watching . Vigilate & Orate . watching and fasting , are in themselues indifferent . All commonly accompanyed with prayer : So Watching serueth for the same intention , Both , in themselues , things me●…●…ndiff'rent are . Fasts , watchings , praying ioy 〈◊〉 with deuotion , Make way to heauen with a ni●…e motion . 144. To fastings , some exceptions haue beene taken : The like of watchings may be verifi'de . By watchfull theeues a purse oft-times is taken , And many other mischieues done beside . Pro. 23. 29. and 7. The letchers , and wine-bibbers watch whole nights , With more excesse to follow vaine delights . 145. Then Watching ( simply ) is no pious deed . The watchings which our Lord so oft commends . Matth. 24. 42. and 25. 1. and Luk. 21. 34. In liuely samples left for vs to read , They serue , and were laid downe to better ends : To rowze vs from our grosse securitie , And cause vs on his comming cast our eye . 146. His comming will be sodaine like a thiefe , In dead of night , when men doe least suspect . This apprehended with a firme beliefe , We would no oportunitie neglect , For feare he come vnwares , and find vs sleeping , Then cast vs to the pit of endlesse weeping . 147. So were those foolish Virgins taken napping , Vnfurnisht when the Bridegroome entred in : The gate once shut , in vaine they fell to rapping , When 't was too late , then they to crie begin . For lack of watching well , they were excluded , And euer after , all their hopes deluded . 148. Riches perillous to their possessors . Among much riches , many snares are found . First , those that doe possesse them by discent , In pride , excesse , and riot oft abound , Then lauishly too frequently they 're spent . And such as first acquire them ( for most part ) Vse violence , or some deceitfull art . 149. The parable of the vn●u●… Steward . Luk. ●6 . The wicked Steward , poore ( it seemes ) by birth , Liu'd brauely on the substance of his Master , His time he spent in jollitie and mirth : Found-out at last to be a lauish waster , His subtle wit suggest to him a shift , To helpe at need : though 't were a knauish drift . 150. The parable of the rich Gl●…●on . The great rich Glutton wallowing in his wealth , Costly array , and in his sumptuous fare : He came not to them ( that I read ) by stealth , Yet as he tooke them , they became a snare , To traine his soule and body into Hell , Because he had no care to vse them well . 151. 'T was not enough for him to fill his belly With food for health , his hunger to expell : But dainties must be had , as pamp'ring gelly . And powring in , till he begun to swell . Wines of all sorts , full Bolls of sugred Sacco . If all this within the parenthesis seem vnfit to any man ; he may grant so much to poetike libertie : yet leaue it out if he lift , the sense not interrupted . ( Yet durst I sweare he neuer dranke Tabacco , 152. That smoake at those times was not in request , But for this doting age reseru'd in store : Now 't is an after-course at euery feast , To some it may doe good , but hurt to more . Some fellowship is in 't : for few or none , Without a fellow drinke of it alone . 153. The Glutton wanted that good propertie , Which might haue made his other faults the lesse . But hee had rather see the poore man die , Then feed him with the scraps of his excesse . They be no niggards of their costly smoake , It flies so thick , that some are readie choake . ) 154. Worldly cares prohibited : by similitudes , or comparisons . To hoard-vp treasures in a Boothe , or Tent , And in a desart , where 's no long abiding : Where th' house by Theeues may easily be ●ent , The owner shortly must be there-hence riding : Be wrayes him for a mad man , or a foole , In Bedlam well he may be put to schoole . 155. To hide much stuffe , or furniture , or cloth . Lay Brasse , or Tin , or Iron in the dust : Where those will soone be eaten vp with moth , These halfe consum'd with canker , and with rust : Seemes not the part of him that 's well aduiz'd , But of such one , whom folly hath surpriz'd . 156. L●k. 12. 13. Remember him whose grounds brought such encrease , His houses would not serue to hold his store : Then to his soule he vainly promis't peace , And built his Barnes farre bigger then before : But in that very right grim Death arrests him , Of goods , and lands , and life at once deuests him , 157. Many such be that hunt for worldly wealth , Make it the chiefest comfort of their life : Which shortly they must leaue , or lose by stealth , By toyling gotten , kept with stirre and strife . True treasure , worth the getting , they despise : Some mist of darknesse sur●…y dims their eyes . 158. " The Store-house of true treasures all indeed , " Is that where blessed Angels keepe the keyes : " Where th' owner shall be sure to serue his need , " Where safely 't is laid vp out of theeues wayes : Luk. 12. 34. " Our treasure lying there , our heart will thither ! " For that , and this , goe commonly together . 159. Make choise , you worldly men , which likes you best , Of Masters twaine , to serue or t 'one , or t'other : You must resolue , and thereon set your rest , To leaue the one , and cleaue vnto the other : For God with Mammon will not take a part , He will haue all , or no peece of your heart . 160. Meat , drinke , and clothes for which we daily pray By name of Bread ( as formerly is told ) Acquire , yet not with too much carke we may ; On Prouidence we chiefly must lay hold . For he that giues vs life , will giue vs meate , And clothes to keepe our corps from cold , and heate . 161. An Argument from birds , and flowers . The birds sowe not , nor reape , nor keepe in store , Yet God prouides them food to serue their trunes : If so for them , for you hee 'll doe much more . The grasse , which quickly in the Ouen burnes , Is cloth'd so gaily while in field it growes , That Solomon in state no brauer showes . 162. And why should men , whom God for sonnes doth take , Misdoubt the goodnesse of so kind a father ? Why should they feare least he will them forsake , And not rest full assured of his fauour : Sith herbs , and birds he in their kinds preserueth , Both which to vs for vse , and pleasure serueth ? 163. Querite primum regnum Dei . The way to heauen first we must seeke out , Desire and loue the things conducing thither : For earthly things then need we make no doubt , They shall be heaped on vs all together . But Heathens onely scrape for things below , Celestials they haue no lust to know . 164. O heau'nly Preacher ! Sermon most diuine ! Like Sermon neuer preached was before : 〈◊〉 . 10. 23. Bl●st were your eares , and blessed were your eyne , That heard and saw these things , and many more . Great Kings and Prophets wisht to see , and heare them , Yet onely by faiths eyes , could they come neere them . 165. L●…ke b●cke at S●an . 38. The blessings on Mount Gerizim all ended , From Ebal woes and curses are denounced , Against some men that would not be amended With wondrous works , nor heauenly words pronounced . Eight wofull Woes he threatneth them withall , Sinnes crying for them , on their heads to fall . 166. 1. Woe . Matth. 23. Woe to you Scribes and Pharisees , hypocrites : Most wilfully yee shut the gate of heauen , Your selues will not come in , when Christ inuites : And ( like mad men , of reason cleane bereauen , To fill vp full the measure of your sinne ) You hinder others that would enter in . 167. Act. 4. 18. and ● . 40. 〈◊〉 . 5. 43. Here 's Stubbornnesse and Malice met together , Two damned sinnes , too common 'mongst that crue : So not with Christ , they runne they care not whither , The prouerb in these men was proued true : A dogge i'th'manger , though hee 'll eate no hay , The Oxe that would , by snarling driues away . 168. ● . Woe . Woe to you rau'nous greedie Cormorants , The Widdowes houses closely yee deuoure : Among such simple folke yee haue your hants , Feed on the fat , and eate the finest flowre : Pretending prayers for their soules saluation , The greater therefore shall be your damnation . 169. 3. Woe . Description of a Iewish pro●elite . Woe to you Scribes that compasse Sea and Land , To win a Heathen man from Gentilisme : And hauing brought him readie to your hand , Instructed newly in your Iudaisme ; You make him wiser then he was before , As wicked as your selues , and twofold more . 170. Some rags he keepes of old Idolatries , Wherein by heath'nish teachers he was trayn'd . These , patching with your Iewish ceremonies , A sweet religion ( doubtlesse ) he hath gayn'd . With one sure knot , him to your selues yee tie , To crosse and hinder Christianitie . 171. Here 's the description of a Proselite , The new disciple of those boasting Iewes : A worke of theirs proceeding most of spite , Christs Doctrine to oppose , his Name abuse . Woe to such damned Doctors , and their Schollers , With all that in like practise are their followers , 172. 4. Woe . Woe to you Scribes , yee foolish guides , and blind , Who teach a superstitious kind of swearing : Instilling vaine precepts into the mind , Which rightly pondred , are not with the hearing . You would be thought deepe Doctors of the Law , Whereas your Doctrine is not worth a straw . 173. A man ( say you ) that by the Temple sweares , Or by the Altar : 't is no sinne at all : If by the Gold , or Gift : his sinne he beares . A doctrine fond , and hypocriticall . The Temple ( sooles ) its gold doth sanctifie , So doth the Altar , gifts that on it lie . 174. The Temple then , is greater then its gold ; The Altar , better then the gift thereon : Who sweares by either of them both ( be bold ) He sweares by all therein , and thereupon . As he that sweares by Heauen , Gods high Throne , By him sweares also , not by it alone . 175. 5. Woe . Woe to you Scribes , full of hypocrisie ; ( Which in this one point , grossely doth appeare ) You striue for things that of small moment bee , As tithing Cummin , Mint , and such like geare : For matters of great weight , you take no thought , If to your profit they auaile not ought . 176. You labour not in iudgement to doe right , You pitie not the poore in his distresse , Faith is not much esteemed in your sight : You should haue ioyn'd these greater , with those lesse . But hypocrites in trifles place deuotion , For breach of those they stirre vp foule commotion . 177. 6. Woe . What greater marke of grosse hypocrisie , Then washing out-sides of the cups , and platters , Though fill'd within with cates for luxurie ; Drinkes for excesse , and such like filthy matters ? Blind Pharisee , first make the in-side cleane , The out-side after that clense thou againe . 178. Pharisaicall traditions . M●… . 7. These hypocrites , all bent on superstitions , With Scripture-learning not well satisfi'de , Ioyne thereunto an heape of their traditions , To walke by Moses , and the Prophets side : That helps to further vertue they might seeme , And taken so , be held in more esteeme . 179. 1. King . 13. As that Seducer strictly charg'd his sonnes , ( Seeming to doe the man of God a fauour ) In one selfe-tombe by him to lay his bones , And made a shew of other kind behau'our : Ios. dè Antiq. lud . lib. 8. cap. ● . It was ( in truth ) to doe himselfe a grace , As one great Scholler notes vpon this place . 180. Iust so in following ages it fell out . 2. King . 23. ●5 . When other graues were ript-vp , and defac't , The bones on that base Altar burnt about : That tombe wherein the man of God was plac't , Remayn'd vntoucht : the bones in it , were spar'd : Therein the bad man , with the good one shar'd . 181. The Pharisees , our Lords Disciples blame , Traditions of the Elders not respecting : Not washing hands when to their meales they came , And some like obseruations else neglecting . But he reproues such holy-seeming rites , And to Gods seruice seekes their hearts , and sprites . 182. These outward things doe not a man defile , What enters by the mouth , and serues for meate , It stayes within the belly but a while : Ill thoughts that hold within the heart their seate , From whence proceed theft , murthers , blasphemies , These stayne men both in soules , and in their bodies . 183. 7. Woe . Woe to all such as righteous seeme in showe , Like Tombes set forth in honour of the dead : Bedeckt with gilded Puppets on a rowe , With wreathes and crownets to adorne the head , When all within is filth , and rotton bones . False hypocrites , all of you are such ones . 184. 3. Woe . Woe to you , for your close dissimulation , Your false pretence of zeale , and pietie : Your shadow of religious veneration To Prophets , and their blessed memorie , By building of their tombes , and monuments , And trimming them with curious ornaments . 185. For murth'ring them , your fathers you betwit ; These you condemne , your selues you iustifie : You say , you would not haue partak't in it . Yes sure , you passe them in impietie . You brood of Vipers , thinke vpon it well : How meane you to escape the pit of hell ? 186. As did your fathers , so and worse , will yee . I 'll send you Prophets for your admonition : You 'll scourge and kill them , 'cause they come from mee : That all the righteous bloud ( by iust permission ) Which from the first , vnto the last is shead , May all together light vpon your head . 187. Ierusalem , that Citie so renown'd , The Glorie ( once ) of all the world beside : Shall shortly be laid euen with the ground , All ruinated for her childrens pride : For killing Prophets , stoning of the iust , Shee shall lye waste , and scatt'red in the dust . 188. Her children vnder couen of my wing , As Henns doe Chicken , so should I haue hid : Yet they would not , but prowdly scorn'd the thing , At length they will repent for what they did . The time shall come ( though long ) when they will say , ( Turn'd once to me ) Blest be that happy day . 189. A happy day , and ioyfull to behold , To all that loue the comming of our Lord : Ioh. 10. Es. 40. 11. and 27. 12. When both the flocks shall fall into one fold , As sacred Writers often doe record . When that Great Shepherd , owner of the sheepe , From Woolues and Hirelings safely shall them keepe . 190. 'T is time this Shepherd set his helping hand , To seeke such wandring sheepe as goe astray : Psal. 23. 4 , To rule and shield them with his shepherds wand , ( For now to rau'nous beasts they be a prey . ) To cure some griefes where with they 're so opprest , That 'mong themselues they cannot liue in rest . 191. A short digression of the nature of sheepe : seruing for instruction . Aboue all beasts , and euery brutish creature , The Sheepe for sundrie reasons I commend : Most harmelesse , and most gentle is his nature , The pasture where he feedes , he most doth mend : He yeilds vs food , and clothes for back , and bed , Great profit we haue by him liue , and dead . 192. A simple beast , none else he doth offend , Not Fox-like craftie , others to deceaue , Himselfe he knowes not well how to defend : If to himselfe , the shepherd doe him leaue , He keepes no Bounds , but strayes on euery Hill , Where Woolfe or Curre that meets him , may him kill . 193. And albeit he be by kind a Ranger , Yet will he listen to his Keepers call : But not endure the whistle of a stranger , Regard his voyce , or follow him at all . Poore sheepe ! let none accompt it for a shame , To be euti●led by so good a name . 194. Then with deepe iudgement dothe the holy Writ , Compare Gods people to a flock of sheepe : Th' Analogie betwixt them is so fit , A man that is not drowsie , or a-sleepe , May reade and aptly make an application , Without a glosse to helpe th' interpretation . 195. An obseruation touching the biting of mad sheepe . No c. It 's strange in this most gentle natur'd beast , If one of them doe happen to fall mad , ( As oft it doth ) that runnes , and bites the rest , No cure for such their biting can be had . There 's helpe for dogs that bite , when they be wood : For mad sheepes biting , I know nothing good . 196. Some madnesse lately Christ his sheepe hath seaz'd , Th' one hunt 's and bites the other in such rage , Their furie by no meanes can be appeaz'd , The Pastors faile their furie to asswage . A heauie case : when Woolues are cloy'd with biting , To see one sheepe , against another fighting . 197. A prayer to the great Shepherd . Great Shepherd , 't is thy flock which thou hast bought , With things of higher price then purest gold : Forsake them not , nor sell thou them for nought , But fetch them home , and bring them to thy fold : Ordayne some curing salue , or wholsome drench , The fell infection of their bloud to stanch . 198. This wooluish humour out of them expell , In such whose nature is not wholly tainted ; That sheepe , like sheepe in meeknesse may excell , And be no more with rau'nous beasts acquainted : That all which to thy Fold doe appertaine , May come to thee , and make one flock of twaine . 199. The Iewes . Some sheepe thou hast , yet of another leare , That long haue strayd , and will come home in fine : Then haue beene often call'd , but would not heare , Thou onely knowest which of them be thine . Me thinkes I see one lett of their conuersion , Yet on no Man , or State I cast aspersion . 200. An obseruation touching the Iewes and their slowe conuersion . De facto , or De jure I may erre , Faine would I learne , take sober satisfaction . Somewhere I read , and some I heare auerre , As if by rigour , and extreame coaction , They were kept back from Christianitie , If so , the greater is their miserie . 201. Into the Church they cannot get admission , Nor haue lauacre in the sacred Font , But onely vpon this extreame condition , Their wealth , and liuelihood must lye vpon 't : Their goods all to a groat , they must forsake What others please to giue , that onely take . 202. The case seemes hard . ( I thinke 't is theirs aright . ) Though all ( compar'd to Christ ) should be neglected , Life , lands , and goods we must esteeme but light , If keeping them , our faith must be reiected . But here ( for my part ) I see no such cause , If 't were not for the rigour of the Lawes . 203. A woe was laid vpon their p●…decessors , S●an . 165. ( The first of eight , whereon I late insisted ) For hind'ring some that would haue beene possessors Of heau'n ; but that their entrance they resisted . Their children now find some such opposition , That stops into the Church their free admission . 204. In this my speech , I would not be mistaken , The case ( I know ) a diff'rence doth admit . The Scribes would haue Christ way to be forsaken , And hindred men from entring into it . All are inuited now into the way : Yet tell me , why they should so dearely pay ? 205. The Gentiles are not fully yet come in , Rom. 11. Vntill that time , their Calling is deferr'd : They 'll come apace , when once they doe begin , And loue the Truth at length , that long haue err'd ▪ All signes but that , are come to passe ( some say ) Which before-runners of the latter day . 206. More lessons yet recorded doe I find , Which our great Doctor to his Schollers taught . Rash iudgement forbidden . Matth. 7. Rash iudgement is a weaknesse of the mind , The practise of it , altogether naught . " Prie not into the faults of other men , " Least others doe the like to thee agen . 207. " A beame ( most times ) abideth in his owne , " That soonest spies a moat in 's neighbours eye : " The faults behind the back , are hardly knowne , " In that end of the Wallet ours doelye . Each man first mend himselfe ere he beginne , To check another rashly for his sinne . 208. Holy things not to be giuen to dogs . Things that be holy , giue not vnto Dogs , To men prophane , that be of currish kind : Nor cast your rich pearles vnto filthy Hogs , To men in shape , but of a beastly mind . You get no thankes of them , nor will they mend : But scorne your Lore , and raile at you in th' end . 209. The narrow gate , and the broad way . Two wayes there be , wherein men vse to walke , Two places whereunto those wayes doe leade : The one is narrow , rough , and hard to stalke , Facilis discensus ●uerni . The other broad , faire , smooth , and soft to treade . Few walke in that , yet tends it vnto blisse : The later leades to hell , most run in this . 210. Good fellowes haue a by-word in their lips , The more , the merrier . Goe where yee will , to Heauen or to Hell , Still companie is good . The Deuill skips At such fine jests : the saying likes him well . The fewer the better cheere . I rather hold , as I haue learned heere , Where fewest be , there is the better cheere . 211. Beware of false prophets . He warneth vs , false prophets to beware , A sort of men not lightly to be knowne : Some notes he giues to finde out who they are , They take a shape vpon them , not their owne . By outward shew , you thinke them to be sheepe , Their wooluish nature inwardly they keepe . 212. As fruit declares the vertue of the tree , Whereby men iudge it either good , or bad : So by their workes , these men proue what they bee , A better proofe then that , cannot be had . Their fruits are wicked doctrines , vices store , Of teachers such as these , were neuer more . 213. A parable of the house built vpon the sand . Like one that builds his house vpon the sand , When raine , and stormes , and tempests on it beat ; Foundation being weake , it cannot stand , But downe it falls , the fall thereof is great : So 's he that heares the Word , and thereof talketh , Yet as the same commands him , neuer walketh . 214. The house vpon the rock . But he that heares , learnes , and thereafter liues , Is like a man that builds vpon a Rock : Let stormes and tempests rage , it neuer giues , But still vnmou'd abides the hardest shock . Wise builders thus , from foolish we discerne : And doers , from those that doe nought but learne . 215. Sundrie parables . First of the Sower , and the S●ed . Matth. 13. Of hearers , sundrie diff'rent sorts there bee : Some onely take the sound in at the eare , The heart doth neuer thereunto agree , The Deuill takes the seed that 's sowen there . Seed by the wayes side . And this is it which on the wayes side fell : To heare nothing at all , would doe as well . 216. Seed in stonie ground . Some ( little better ) heare and vnderstand , And cheerfully true doctrine doe embrace : But lacking root , when troubles are at hand , They fall away , and dare not shew their face . " Prosperitie gets friends ( such as they bee ) " True friendship 's tri'de best in aduersitie . 217. Seed among Thornes . In some ( and sure that number is not small ) The care of wealth , and other worldly things , So choakes the fruit , it thriueth not at all , The Thornes together with the Seede vp-springs : By all these meanes , much seed is shed in vaine , The Sower loseth labour , and his graine . 218. Seed in good ground . Good seed , when in good ground it haps to fall , To th' husband-man yeilds wonderfull encrease : It thriues apace , yet not alike with all , Those thirtie , sixtie those , an hundred these For one doe make returne , as God doth blesse , Ones glorie shall be great , one others lesse . 219. The parable of the Tares . A fruitfull field , when seed therein is cast , The ground and graine both , being good and pure : How is it that it doth not alwayes last , And perfect in its prime estate endure ? The reason of this change , faine would I learne , For how it comes , I cannot yet discerne . 202. Whilst Doctors of the Church securely sleepe , The Deuill sowes his Tares among the Wheat : - Good watch therefore the Pastors ought to keepe , For if these weedes , once root and moring get , They 'll not be weeded cleanly from the graine , But 'mong it till the haruest must remaine . 221. Of the net cast ●…to the sea . Such is the meaning of that fishing Net , Wherein were catched fish of euery kind : The fisher-men all vp on shore doe get , Not leauing any , good nor bad behind . The best then into vessells doe they lay , The bad they set aside , and cast away . 222. Of the mustard seed . The Church ( which is Gods Kingdome here on earth , Whereof great things in holy Writ are told ) As is a mustard seed , small in her birth , So shee : yet growing vp , and waxing old , 'T is strange to see her wonderfull encrease , In greatnesse , glorie , riches , state and peace . 223. Three other short parables , all tending to one end . By three short pithy parables beside , The vertue , worth , and value of his Word He represents : it cannot be deny'de , But each of them instruction doth afford . For , things whose vse and worth be knowne aright , Are more esteem'd , and held with more delight . 224. Of the leauen . Good leauen worketh in a heape of meale , And makes it sau'rie bread to strength the heart : So sound and sau'rie doctrine taught with zeale , Soule-feeding viands doth to man impart . Matth. 16. 6. But Pharisaicall leauen is so ill , A little of it , all the lump doth spill . 225. Of the hid treasure , and the pearle . As treasure closely hid within the ground , Or Orien● pearles of price inestimable : When once a thriftie Merchant hath them found , And knowes them to be things vnvaluable : Sells all he hath eu'n to the vtmost mite , And in those iewels gets himselfe a right . 226. The Word of God . The value of this pearle vnvaluable , Was neuer better knowne then in these dayes : Neuer so much proclaym'd incomparable , Neuer in any age found greater prayse . Yet presse vs with our wordly wealth to buy it , Wee 'll rather keepe those trifles , and denie it . 227. Matth. 19. 20. Like that young man who vaunts himselfe too boldly , That all the Law he carefully had kept : Toucht in his goods , tooke that receipt so coldly , As hanging downe his head , aside he stept . See , too much loue of riches is a let , That th' Owners vp to heauen hardly get . 228. Our trading is not ( chiefly ) for that coast , Where this rich pearle , and treasure 's to be got : Some feare with windes , and tempests to be tost , Some find the way too cold , and some too hot . Best things indeed are hard'st to be obtayn'd , Toyes little worth with lesse adoe are gayn'd . 229. When all these heau'nly Doctrines he had ended , He turn'd him home to preach among his kinred , M●… . 13. ●4 . But these men at his person were offended : ( Though hearing him , they stood amaz'd , and wondred ) They twit him with his parentage , and breeding , And muz'd from whence his learning had proce●ding . 230. Such was their wilfull incredulitie , He had no long abiding in that place : They scorn'd him for his great humilitie , Requit his loue and labour with disgrace . No Prophet esteemed in his owne Countrey The old saw touching Prophets , held in him , The neerer home , the further from esteem . 231. The fleshly sonnes of blessed Abraham , Rom 3. 1. Rom. 9. Though therein they had some preheminence : Yet were not they made blessed by the same , No more were Christ his kin , who tooke offence At him , and at his Doctrine most diuine , Whereat through vnbeliefe they did repine . 232. When he began his miracles and teaching , And chose the twelue , whom he Apostles nam'd , Who after might succeed him by their preaching Ma●. 3. 21. His kinsmen hearing it , were not asham'd To wish him bound , as if he had beene mad , When with his presence all men else were glad . 233. Men linkt to him in sp'rituall alliance , Apostles and Disciples , with some other Who heard him gladly , put in him affiance , Matth. 12. 46. Those he esteem'd his brethren , and his mother . What comfort to all Christians should this bee , To hold with Christ so neere affinitie ? 234. Humilitie comm●nded . Matth. 18. and ●0 . 20. Though his Disciples long had heard him preaching , And might by him haue learn'd humilitie : It seemes yet they had need of further teaching To keepe them from ambitious primacie . They aske him , who in heau'n shall be the great'st ? He wills them suit themselues vnto the least . 235. Then for example sets a little child Amid them all , and bids them looke on him : As he is , so be you meeke , humble , mild , By these three steps to heauen must you clim . This is the readie way to bring you thither , And straying hence , you walke you know not whither . 236. The parable of lab●urers in the Vineyar● , elegantly s●…tin● o● seu●rall Christi●n Doct●ines . Ioh 11. ●0 . and 1. C●r. 10. 12. To Princes , and the ciuill Magistrate , Gods deputies ; dominion doth pertaine : You may not their example imitate , Your office is to teach , and not to reigne . The great'st 'mong you , let him be as the least : And he that 's chiefe , doe seruice to the rest . 237. You call me Master , therein yee say true , I am content to wash and wipe your feet ▪ Doe each to other , as I did to you , By my example that you learne , it 's meet . The seruant who takes scorne his Lord to follow ; His heart vnto his Master is but hollow . 238. To come to God , 't is best begin by time , Each man when he is called , must attend : Yet not presume himselfe to be the prime , Or that the Lord , his wages ought to mend . Nor enuie others of a later calling , But looke well to himselfe , for feare of falling . 239. That labourer which worketh but one howre , Call'd to the Vineyard when the daye 's neere spent : His hire may hap to be as good , and more Then some , which thither in the morning went . The first , be last : the last , somewhiles be first : And of such as be call'd , some may be curst . 240. The parable o● the ●a●age of the Kings 〈◊〉 . Matth. ●2 . And other Scripture fully proues the same . The storie of that royall marriage feast , Where euery sort of people called , came : One was excluded like a sawcie ghest . A maxim ladi , that 'mong men call'd , of those The Lord some few , as pleaseth him , doth chose . 241. The parable of the grea● supper . Luk. 14. Some being called to this sumptuous feast , Come not at all , though louingly requested : The number of such men is not the least , They haue excuses formally digested . Their worldly bus'nesse pleades excuse for some , But wiued men say flat , they cannot come . 242. Conclusion of this fift Clas●is , with that most heauenly doctrine of our Sauiour . Ioh cap. 6. The Isra'lites with Manna long were fed , Whereof their children afterwards did boast : They laboured for body-filling bread , ( And so 't is now the practise of the most ) They had the shadow : Christ at length doth bring That which by it was meant , the very thing . 243. Here 's the true bread of life that came from heauen , The man that eates thereof , shall neuer die : 1. Cor. 5. 8. Here must be ioyn'd no mixture of old Leauen , The fruits of malice , and impietie . Who comes to him and in him doth beleeue , Nor thirst , nor hunger euer shall him grieue . 244. What kind of food is this , that euer lasteth ? Gen. 3. 1. King . 17. A Tree of life like that in Paradise ? As th' widowes oile and meale that neuer wasteth ? No meate like it , nor of so high a price . Ioh. 6. 34. Th● Iewes desired of our Lord that food , Ere they the nature of it vnderstood . 245. J●b . 4 15 , Their sense was like the Womans at the Well , Grosse Capernaites , thought on their belly-cheare : For when they fail'd of that , away they fell , Of sp'rituall eating , had no lust to heare . Because they ate the loaues , and had their fill , Chap. 6. 26. They followed , looking for such feeding still . 246. Why carke yee for the meat that soone doth perish , That s●rues the turne but whil'st it is in chewing ? Seeke that , which had the hungrie soule doth cherish , The eater with spirituall grace endewing . This is the food ( saith he ) which I will giue To euery one that doth on me belieue . 247. My Flesh and Bloud are meat and drinke indeed , Who eateth not thereof , must die for euer : But he that faithfully thereon doth feed , Dwells so in me , that no thing shall vs seuer . I dwell likewise in him , and as I liue , So life eternall to him will I giue . 248. Here 's a true feast , not parabolicall , Deuiz'd to shadow out another thing : A feast indeed super-celestiall , Made for all commers by an heauenly King . A●g . Crede , & 〈◊〉 . Vers . 35 47. Beleeue and thou hast eaten , saith one Father : From Christs owne wordes , that sentence he might gather . 249. Matth. 11. 28. Come all that vnder heauie burthens groane , The weight whereof you are not able beare : I 'll take them from your shoulders on my owne , Come rest your selues with me , and doe not feare . Ioh. 3. 14 , 15 , 16 Beleeue , and liue : I came not to condemne But those , who offred grace prowdly contemne . 250. He had himselfe a speciall kind of meate , Ioh. 4. 34. To worke and doe his heauenly Fathers will : So , by beleeuing truly , we doe eate , There is no feeding else , the soule to fill . To eate , beleeue , and come to him expresse Here , one selfe thing ; and neither more , nor lesse . 251. The Sacrament was not yet instituted , No Sacramentall bread is mention'd here , The wordes of this place * * In the institution of the Sacrament . after be transmuted : Yet all which at that time beleeuers were , Did eate and feede on him to soules saluation , Vneating vnbeleeuers found damnation . 252. This Doctrine of all others most diuine , Th' Epitome of th' Euang●like writ : At preaching caused many to repine , To leaue their Lord , and take offence at it . Th' Apostles , by their mouth who for them spake , Confession of their faith more cleerly make . 253. They knowledge him that Christ , the Sonne alone Dan. 15. 5 , 6. Of God ; the true God , and the euer-liuing : Another Lord or Sauiour they knew none , From him they hope for helpe through their beleeuing : Forsaking Lords , and Masters all beside , Consent with him for euer to abide . 254. Here , gentle Muse , repose thy selfe a while , A sweeter place of rest thou canst not find : Let thought of this , all other thoughts beguile , And make thee apter for the taske behind : That singing on a Theame so farre aboue thee , Good men for thy endeuour may approue thee . The end of the fift Classis .

DIVINE POEMS . The sixt Classis . THE ARGVMENT . Th' Apostles warn'd , and arm'd'gainst Persecution : Strange newes to them who saw Mount Tabors vision . The Cities , Temples , Worlds last dissolution , Sweet Comforts mixt oft , by our soules Phisition . The Passion , with all circumstances traced : Christs blessed Bodie in his Tombe left placed . THe meanes I haue obseru'd in euery storie , Which treats of famous Captaines , and their Acts ; Whereby themselues attayn'd the height of glorie , Their Armies honouring them with due respects : Were not to all , nor at all times , the same , It askes more skill to play so hard a game . 2. Our Cheiftayne prest vnto this sp'rituall warre , ( A conflict of much perill , and much paine ) Meant not to gaze vpon the fight from farre , His men to 'bide the brunt , he take the gaine : But puts his person foremost at the breach . ( The brauest way , young men at armes to teach ! ) 3. By compari●on with w●rlike Captaines , here is s●t forth the wi●…dome and v●lour of our great Generall in the spirituall warfa●… . He failes not oft withall to vse perswasion , With wordes of grace , and reasons full of weight ; So takes from coward mates all iust euasion , Commands them tread the narrow way , and streight : Propounds rewards to all that stoutly fight , Casts shame on such as yeild , or turne to flight . 4. When he enroll'd them first in 's muster booke , With title of his Souldiers once endew'd : For heart'ning them , a skilfull course he tooke , 'Gainst all assaults that afterwards ensu'de . Their faith by signes and wonders he makes sure , Hard-after-trials better to endure . 5. Doubtlesse at first it seemed strange to them , To heare of persecutions and affliction , Whose eyes were fixt on faire Ierusalem , Where they expected temp'rall iurisdiction . Matth. 27. 42. ●o● . 6. 15. The Priests and Elders dreamt of such a thing , That Christ must be a potent earthly King . 6. ●…y 9. 7. What Prophets of his sp'rituall Kingdome spake , Expressing state , and great magnificence ; A wrong construction thereof they did make , According to their grosse intelligence . Their children yet are blinded with that error , Of stubborne vnbeliefe a wondrous mirror . 7. So much they doted on this idle dreame T was hard to draw them from that poore conceit : He therefore preacht vpon another Theame , Taught what great troubles they were to await : To looke for triall , combates , heauie crosses , No gaine of worlddly treasure , but all losses . 8. A Simile . Vnlookt for 'larams , Souldiers most affright , Amaze and quickly put them to a rout : But chiefly if they happen in the night , When men lye sleeping void of feare and doubt . Great armies by these meanes are oft defeated , With stratagems ( force failing ) they be cheated . 9. Our Leader in his wisedome this foresawe , Instructs his Souldiers what they must except : He b●ds them neither faint , nor stand in awe , Their troubles would produce a good effect : Such momentanie suffrings should procure , A crowne of glorie euer to endure . 10. Yet marke the time ( for well 't is worth the noting ) Matth. 16. 15. When first this point of Doctrine he divulged : Not whil'st they hou'red in opinions floting , ( By such a storme , as then , they might beene bulged . ) But when in points of faith they were well grounded , Then doctrines of afflictions he propounded . 11. By questioning he sounded their beliefe , Demands them all , whom take you mee to bee ? One answer'd for the rest ( as being chiefe ) Thou art that Christ , the sonne of God , saith hee . Their faith exprest by this diuine confession , Prou'd them good Christians in a faire progression . 12. They thus assur'd of his Diuinitie , Of pow're enough all foemen to subdue , And sith his loue to them they daily see ; What danger could be doubted to ensue ? Where will to doe them good , concurres with might ; In confidence they may expect for right . 13. Now thought th' Apostles they stood most secure , In easie state , seruing so great a Master : But that perswasion did not long endure , For soone he told them of a strange disaster ; A case that made the greatest of them shrinke , And on some cunning remedie to thinke . 14. The Apostles forewarned , and armed against persecutions . He shew'd them what great crosses he must suffer By Elders , Priests , and Rulers of the Iewes : What iniuries and wrongs they would him offer , His Person with indignities abuse : And lastly cause him die with bitter paine . But in three dayes ( saith he ) I 'll rise againe . 15. Which latest wordes if they had noted well , Such speciall ioy and comfort did containe , As seru'd all care and sorrow to expell , And leaue them no occasion to complaine : Matth. 17. 9 , 10. Luk. 18. 34 But they ( as then ) perceau'd not what it meant , Their thoughts , and hearts another way were bent . 16. The man ( it seemes ) who lou'd his Master best , ( His Lord as dearely louing him againe . ) Was bold aside to take him from the rest , ( Amazed much to thinke he should be slaine . ) Perswades him not to yeild vnto their will , Who bent themselues his guiltlesse bloud to spill . 17. Thus ran he side-long led by a wrong byas , Deceaued with a false imagination , Not knowing yet the office of Messias , But doting on an earthly domination : He hop't to see him in a royall Throne , A thing that all the Iewes rely'de vpon . 18. But Christ was borne vnto another end , To conquer Satan , Hell , and Death by dying : What Adam had deprau'd , that to amend , Not to resist , nor saue his life by flying . Matth. 16. 23. So checks his seruant for his misse-aduise , Who to the World , but not to God , was wise . 19. No , no , saith he to his Disciples all , If you will be my men , and follow mee : You must resolue to come when I doe call , To beare my crosse , much lesse from crosses flee . Who for my sake is bold his life to venter , Into a better life shall surely enter . 20. There is a death of deaths , that dyeth neuer ; The thought whereof makes wicked men agast . This is a life of liues that lasteth euer , The life we leade here , is to it a blast . Some of you die not , till thereof you tast , And find the full fruition of 't at last . 21. To gaine the world , with all the wealth therein , And lose this blessed life whereof I tell : What case , I pray , were such a winner in , That for exchange of Heauen , getteth Hell ? That for some pelfe , and transitorie pleasure , Doth damne his soule , exceeding all earths treasure . 22. Here 's a cooling card for men delitious , A bastinado to bumbast a coward : A counterbuffe for Christians ambitious , A spur to prick snaile-pasing souldiers forward . A Simile . Schoole-boyes are led with gifts , or forc't with rods ; 'Twixt men and boyes ( herein ) there 's little ods . 23. Another Simile , or Comparison . Physicians next to pills , and bitter potions , Giue comfortable broths , or pleasing drinke , Our Lord soone after those heart-griping motions , Which brought them neere the pit , eu'n to the brinke : To giue new heart , and to refresh their spright , Was pleas'd to let them see a glorious sight . 24. Such visions God at other times reueal'd To holy men , wherein they did behold High things , from others meet to be conceal'd . Exod. 33. 12. This may we reade in sacred writings old , So much of God as mans sight could abide , He from his seruant Moses did not hide . 25. That great Apostle , Gentiles Doctor Paul , ( Though called last , and least in his owne sight ) Who 'mongst his fellowes labour'd more then all , Act. 9. and 18. and 22. And 2. Cor. 12. Had seuerall visions passing cleare and bright . Once taken vp to heauen , he saw and heard , What to no mortall man might be declar'd . 26. Rare mysteries , and visions most diuine , Saint Ioh● in the Reuelation . Saw that belou'd Disciple of our Lord : The host of heauen set before his eyne , The King himselfe , whom humbly all ador'd . So they who Christ transfigur'd here beheld , With ioyes of heauen for the time were fill'd . 27. The transfiguration of Christ . Matth. 17. Vp to Mount Tabor three of them he leades , To see and take a taste of heau'nly pleasure : A wondrous clowd the Mountaine ouer-spreades , His shining glorie they beheld at leasure . Two Saints appeare , that in them they might see , The blessed state of such as Sainted bee . 28. Then from that shining clowd they heare a voyce , 〈◊〉 . 16. 10. & 〈…〉 . ( The God head , as of old , therein abiding . ) The wordes were such as made them all reioyce , Though to the ground they-fell , their faces hiding . The Father of his Sonne did witnesse beare , Commanding them precisely him to heare . 29. This vision for their faith and comfort showne , His Person and his Godhead cleerly proued : Yet charg'd he them in no wise to make knowne ; Till he againe were risen from the dead . Loe of his death he once more here makes mention , To th' end they might obserue it with attention . 30. This doctrine could not sinke into their braine , Though oft it had beene beate into their eares : A question thereupon they moue againe , ( Me thinkes I see them hang 'twixt hope and feares . ) Matth. 17. 10. Why say the Scribes Elias must come first ? Hee 's come , and they to him haue done their worst 31. And as they did to him , they 'll doe to mee : His person they despis'd and set at naught , Though all his life were full of sanctitie , The doctrine sound and holy which he taught : That could not sheild him from their slanderous tongues . Such recompence from them to me belongs . 32. Matth. 21. 33. These be those husband-men all void of grace , That to their Lord his lawfull fruits deni'de ; That beate his men , left some dead on the place , That did him many spitefull wrongs beside ; That kill'd his sonne , th'in heritance to get . On such a mischiefe , Iewish priests be set . 33. Arguments and exhortations to pacience and suffring with Christ . Matth. 10. 28. From these bloud-suckers what can you expect When Mee your Master they will not forbeare ▪ It's like to you they 'll carry small respect , Yet haue you no great cause their force to feare : The Soule they cannot touch , nor doe it hurt ▪ The bodie 's but a clot of clay , or durt . 34. Before the ciuill Iudges they will cite you , As euill doers that transgresse their Lawes : Of capitall offences they 'll endite you , And though you giue none , they will find a cause . Luke 21. 17. All men shall hate you for your loue to mee , Your neer'st in bloud , and consanguinitie . 35. The sonnes and fathers shall betray each others , All linkes and bonds of nature broken quite : Men shall not spare to persecute their brothers , Iohn 16. 1. Thinking thereby they doe to God his right . Church-rulers they will anathematize you , 1. Cor. 4. And as vild out-casts of the world despise you . 36. This is your state , this must be your condition , Peace with this world I am not come to make : They bend themselues to quarrels and sedition , Against the Truth ; the Deuils part they take . 2. King . 9. 22. What peace with such should my Disciples hold , Who to all sinne and vice themselues haue sold ? 37. Your life must be a warfare vnder mee , As well my foes with courage to withstand ; As patiently to beare their tyrannie , When I permit you fall into their hand . A little triall will augment your glorie , These suffrings past , you shall no more be sorie . 38. Reward there 's none to them which faint , or flie . All that with me in triumph will ascend , Must be resolu'd to ouercome or die , And perseuere my Souldiers to the end . Finis Coronat opus . The end is it that euery worke doth crowne , Halfe deeds deserue nor honour , nor renowne . 39. Two apt Similies . Luke 14. 28. What man attempts the building of a Towre , That doth not first account vpon the cost ? Least hauing once begun , it passe his powre , So shame is gotten , and his labour lost . Then all beholders thus at him will flout , This man began , but could not bring 't about . 40. Or who so foolish to begin a warre , ( A businesse that doth great fore-sight require ) But first whilst yet his foe remaines afarre , Consulteth of his force ere he draw nigher ? And if he finde himselfe the weaker partie , By Embassies entreats a friendly parley . 41. A Comparison . Should any Captaine ( bent to giue a charge ) With wordes and arguments of halfe this weight , Exhort and animate his men at large , To march with cheere and on their Leader wait : Were't notfoule shame for Souldiers there to faint , Their memories with cowardize to taint ? 42. This Captaine after seated in a Throne , His faithfull , hardie Souldiers well rewarded : Shares with the good , those bad-ones should get none , Not come within his Court , nor be rewarded . Who him forsakes , of him shall be forsaken : This Caueat may faint-hearted Christians waken . 43. Thus his belou'd Disciples he enformes , Their Masters office rightly t' vnderstand : Thus heartens them against all future stormes : A Simile . As Nurses leade young Children by the hand , Till they get strength , and wit to walke alone Yet fall they often , when the Nurse is gone . 44. Great need they had to be so well fore-warn'd , Sith hard encounters they were to sustaine : ( A man that 's warn'd , is said to be halfe arm'd , Sodaine surprisalls , strongest places gaine : ) Their Lord abus'd , scourg'd , nayled to a Tree . What greater griefe then such a sight to see ? 45. Themselues who building on their Masters powre , Fram'd Castles in the aire , dreamt of high things : Each of them hoping for some Princely towre , All making full accompt to raigne as Kings : 'T was doubtfull when their hopes herein did faile them , Least sad dispaire , through sorrow , should assaile them . 46. A Simile . As often it befalls to worldly men , Who missing hop't-for honors , wealth and treasure ; Most commonly not one of them 'mongst ten , Ioyes afterwards , or feeles true heartie pleasure . To keepe his seruants from such deepe dispaire , Instructions he them giues , and warnings faire . 47. Of no one point so frequently he talked , When he and his Disciples were alone ; When companie remou'd they solely walked , This peece of Text , most commonly , was one . Matth. 16. M●rke 10. Luke 18. Iohn 12. Th' Euangelists doe all of them record it , Th' Apostles when they heard thereof , abhor'd it . 48. Once walking fairely to Ierusalem , ( The place that for his suffring was appointed ) Marke 10. 32. As of his Passion he discours't to them . Like men amaz'd , their members halfe disioynted ; They stood as if they knew not where they were , With terror much affrighted , and with feare . 49. Their Lord who knew their harts , which way they bended , How much the name of Crosses them afflicted ; How at his Passion they would be offended , How with their owne hard trialls , more deiected : Oft comforts them with greatnesse of the pay , To his true Souldiers at the later day . 50. Palme-sunday . Now Isr'els King is on his sacred march , A solemne feast-day 't was among the Iewes : Es. 62. 11. Zech. 9. 9. The Prophets tell you , if yee please to search , An Asses colt to ride on , he would choose : Thereby is noted his humilitie , Yet here be further signes of Maiestie . 51. The people entertayne him as a King . Some strawe the way with branches from the trees , Some with their clothes : and all Hosanna sing , Flocking about him like a swarme of Bees . Thus to the Towne in triumph he was brought , Which in the Citie much amazement wrought . 52. Matth. 21. The time vnto his Passion drawing neere , He leaues some markes of his Diuinitie : The Temple from profaners he doth cleere , Then heales the lame , and makes the blinde to see . The children crie Hosanna here againe , Whereat the Priests offended doe complaine . 53. Tokens of the Temples and the Cities destruction , with the end of the world intermixed . Matth. 24. The Temples and the Cities ouerthrow , ( A newes at first strange-sounding in their eares ) As farre as he saw fit for them to know , By certaine signes and tokens he declares : To lift their mindes from base imaginations , And fix them all on heauenly cogitions . 54. He tells them of a dreadfull time of horror . False prophets , yea false christs there will arise , Fierce warres betwixt all Nations bringing terror , Plagues , famine , earthquakes causing wofull cries : Yet this of sorrowes is but the beginning , A finer thread of mischeiues will be spinning . 55. Vext shall you be , and killed for my sake , By brothers , and by neerest kin betraide : Iniquitie shall such free passage make , As all the heate of loue will be allaide . Yet feare you not , be constant to the end , The rich reward shall all defaults amend . 56. Know this , though raging Tyrants Truth assaile , In hope the Gosples shining light to darken : Their tyrannie therein shall not preuaile , All Nations on the earth to it shall hearken . It must be for a witnesse to them all , To comfort such as come when I doe call . 57. The Sunne and Moone shall lose their wonted light , The Starres fall downe from-out the firmament , The powres of Heauen shall be shaken quite , It is probable the signe of the Crosse to be here meant ( without tach of superstition . ) And then My Signe afore me shall be sent , That wicked men beholding it may crie , Because my selfe in glorie am so nie . 58. Then shall my Angels swiftly flie about , With trumpets sound , much lowder then the thunder : My chosen seruants they shall single-out , And from the wicked seuer them a-sunder . The heau'n and earth must fade without all cure , The wordes I speake , shall certainly endure . 59. Against all crosses here 's a consolation , A compleat armour persecution-proofe ; Not forg'd by spels , or planet-constellation , But by the Sonne of God for our behoofe . Ephes. 〈◊〉 Let 's put on this , and all the powres of Hell Cannot so harme vs , but we shall doe well . 60. A Simil● When friends that long haue lou'd , and liu'd together , By chance or choise a-sunder must depart , Where parting is a cutting griefe to either : To hold each others memorie in heart , Some friendly token left by one behind , Makes th' other alwayes keepe his friend in mind . 61. Our Lord , the truest friend that euer lou'd , ( Lord , Master , Friend , and Brother all in one . ) Though sundrie wayes he carefully had prou'd , To cause vs thinke on him when he was gone : Yet left he to his louers such a pledge , As giues the bluntest heart , a sharper edge . 62. The pledge he left was not a peece of gold , Nor ( as most louers vse ) a pretie ring ; A jewell 't is , not to be bought , nor sold , Himselfe ( in truth ) it is no worser thing . He parting left ( in sort ) himselfe behinde : True faith must search this mysterie to finde . 63. Matth. 26. The Pascall supper he ordaynes to eate , That Lambe , was of himselfe a perfect type : His precious Bodie was ( indeed ) the meate , Which with our faith , not with our teeth , we gripe . The legall Supper ended , his beginnes : Which faithfull eaters clenseth from their sinnes . 64. Th' Apostles twelue fate with him at the boord , Amongst those twelue one Iudas there was found , Who lou'd his money better then his Lord : He with the Priests for siluer did compound , To doe a Trayt'rous deed so full of shame , That Traytors euer since , doe beare his name . 65. Ioh. 6. 70. The treason he could not so closely worke , But that his Master long before descri'd it : He knew what mischiefe in his heart did lurke , The Traytor with his cunning could not hide it . But when he found his falshood was bewrai'd , Out of their presence he himselfe conuaid . 66. Mary Magdalen . Matth. 26. Against this wretched man we may oppose , A woman famous for her pietie : Shee that a box of precious ointment chose , T' anoint our Lord there with before he die , Washing his feet in it , mixt with her teares , Luk. 7. And often kissing wip't them with her haires . 67. The mention of this worthy pious deed , My sacred Muse by no meanes would omit : That all who doe these hallowed verses reade , May note what honour shee attayn'd by it . Her memorie eternized thereby , Matth. 26. 13. ' Mongst all professing Christianitie . 68. The Traytor greatly grudged at this cost , Pretending care and loue vnto the poore : As now it is bestow'd , he counts it lost , Then presently he gets him out of doore , And sells his Master to recouer that , Which in his greedie thought he gaped at . 69. Was euer such a wicked wretch as hee ? Was euer yet so foule a treason plotted ? If any such false Iudasses there bee , A Iudas death to them were well allotted . But leaue we these , and turning to the Text , The circumstances note ensuing next . 70. A sacred supper , banquet most diuine , He institutes , wherein himselfe is eaten By faithfull feeders on the bread and wine : 1. Cor. 11. 27. ( Vn worthy eaters shrewdly shall be beaten . ) He bids vs eate his Body , drinke his Blood : A blessed myst'rie , rightly vnderstood . 71. Modo sacramentali & in effabilè percipimus Christ●… . Hoc fides credat , intelligentia non requirat , ne non inuentum putetur in credibile , aut repertum putetur non singulare . Presentiam credo , modum nescio . Ioh. 6. 52. Note here the most diuine comfortable conference of Christ with his Apostles , immediately after his last holy supper : And in his iourney to the Garden . Ioh. chap. 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17. Here is that pledge whereof before I spake , No figure bare . ( Such phantasies I loth . ) His Body and his Bloud he wills vs take , We must beleeue he truly offers both . Be sure 't is so , for Christ vs'd no deceits : Yet aske not how , so did the Capernaits . 72. As often as this Supper we partake , Our Sauiours goodnesse we must call to mind ; Remembring what he suffred for our sake , Each other loue , as he to vs was kind . How can those men , which feast thus oft together , Liue out of loue , or one oppresse the other ? 73. The Iewish supper , and the Christian ended ; Before the acting of this tragedie , Some passages deserue to be intended , Diuinely written in the historie . More choise then here ( if I be not mistooke ) You shall not find in all the holy booke . 74. No sooner was the traytor gone abroade , To worke that deed of darknes in the night ; But Christ vnto the rest a lecture rode , To strengthen them against the future fight . First as for him , they should not be offended ; His death vnto his greater glorie tended . 75. ( Humbling himselfe to dye vpon the crosse , In sight of men a shamefull ignominie , He gat encrease of honour , and no losse ; For God the Father lifted him on hie , Where in such glorie hee is seated now , Phil. 2. 9. All knees should at the name of Iesus bowe . ) 76. You , for a time , shall find of me the lacke , Where I am going , yet you cannot come : Meane while in Loue see that you bee not slacke , Doe mutually , as I to you haue done . Herein you shall expresse your loue to mee , If constant 'mong your selues in loue you bee . 77. Io● . 14. At my departure ought you not to grieue , 'T is for your good , if you perceiu'd the case : As in my Father , so in mee belieue , My going is to get for you a place , And though I goe , I 'll shortly come againe , That you with mee , for euer may remaine . 78. I am my selfe , the Way , the Truth , the Life , No man comes to the Father but by mee : Thomas and Philip. Heere some of them were at a little strife , Not vnderstanding what the sense might bee . With words of comfort hee resolues them both , Then forward in his gracious speeches go'th . 79. In seeing mee you all haue scene my Father , I dwell in him he likewise dwells in mee : For my great workes you ought beleeue the rather ; So , greater workes by you perform'd shall bee . And what you aske the Father in my Name , Doubt not of speeding ; I will doe the same . 80. Another cause of comfort doth ensue , A promise of the Comforter : euen hee The Spirit of Truth , that shall abide in you , Sent by the Father , comes also from mee . I will not leaue you comfortlesse , be sure ; If for a while you patiently endure . 81. Who doth as I command , he loues me well , This is the triall of a trusty friend : With such my Father and my selfe will dwell , And make abode with him vnto the end . But he which to my precepts giues no eare , That man to me no loue at all doth beare . 82. Though I depart , I 'll leaue my peace behind , Not worldly peace , which hath no comfort in it : My peace rests in your heart , and in your mind , Striue to attaine this inward peace , and winne it . My absence you the better may abide , If my true peace doe in your hearts reside . 83. Lastly my parting should not make you sad , For passing to my Fathers companie : You ought reioyce hereat , and be more glad , For hee , I tell you , greater is then I. These speeches ended from the boord he rose , Then foorth vpon his latest iourney goes . 84. The neerer to this conflict he approacheth , Ioh. 15. Full well discerning their infirmitie : New comfortable doctrines hee still broacheth , T' encourage them against aduersitie . A parable hee sets before their eyne , Of quicke , and witherd branches of a vine . 85. A parable of the vine and branches . The branches wither , cut once from the tree , They serue to no vse else , but for the fire : Dead branches y' are , except ye bide in mee , Men cast you out , and burning is your hire , Abide in mee , continue fruit to beare , So shall you grow more fruitfull then yee were . 86. You are my friends , if you my words fulfill , No more by name of seruants I you call : The seruant knoweth not his masters will , But I haue shew'd you , from my father all . And I haue chosen you vnto this end , That , being fruitfull , I might be your frend . 87. The world will hate you , as it hated me , It loueth only such as bee his owne : Now from the world sith I haue set you free , Loue at the worldlings hands , you shall find none . Expect not to scape better then your Master , You must drinke after me , I am your taster . 88. Least at my crosse you all should be offended , Ioh. 16● Forsake the truth , for feare of persecution : My speach vpon this point so long is bended , To make you firme , and constant in conclusion . I say againe you must endure affliction , If you will get the heauenly benediction . 89. The Priests will bolt-out Excommunication , And banish you from all their holy rites , They 'l reckon you as vessels of damnation : That done , to execute their further spites , Your liues they 'l shorten with the ciuill rod , And thinke they doe good seruice vnto God . 90. Remember well , when these things take effect , How I forewarn'd you of them long before : These words ( I see ) your spirits doe deiect , Whereas in truth your ioy should be the more . That Comforter , else to you will not come , But I will send him after I am gone . 91. He in the way of truth will you conduct . The Oracles of God to you reueale , In many things to come , will you instruct , No needfull point of knowledge hee 'l conceale . He shall receiue of mine , and giue to you : For , all the Father hath , is mine by due , 92. The time is short I haue with you to stay . Yet shortly I will come to you againe : Vp to the Father I must leade the way , My absence will procure you griefe and paine . The world will liue in mirth , whilst you doe mourne But soone your sorrowes into ioy shall turne . 93. A Comparison . As women when their trauaile first drawes-on , With feare and anguish sorely be opprest : The Child once borne , and their hard throwes all gone , Then ioy of Child-birth sets their hearts at rest . So will I come and rid you of your paine , That neuer after shall you grieue againe . 94. Then in my Name ye shall not need aske ought , The Father holds you deare in his owne sight , And knowes your wants ●re you of them haue thought ; He loues you , cause in my loue you delight . Into the world I from my Father came , Now from the world , returne I to the same . 95. Say , was not this sweet after-suppers talke : A daintie later-course to such a feast ? Could euer Man be wearie so to walke ? Who would not here haue gladly beene a ghest ? The number of the ghests that time was small , But now this feast is open vnto all . 96. Iohn 17. Those exhortations and instructions past , To comfort them who stood thereof in need : Hee giues himselfe to prayer at the last , In reading it , to euery word take heed . My hand oft shakes in scribling of this song , For feare to doe the Sacred Myst'ries wrong . 97. The Author prayeth briefly ( My Lord , here taught by thee , I turne to pray . I walke a pilgrime to the Land of rest ; Vouchsafe to set and guide mee in the way , To thee alone my humble suit 's addrest . Psalme 45. My heart of heau'nly matters doth endite , Oh teach my pen , how readily to write , 98. Not Sonnet-wise , Nor in heroicke verse With stile affected , praise of men to gaine : But modestly deepe myst'ries to rehearse ; In meeter tuned to a lowly straine : True Soule-delighting , not eare-tickling layes , That may my readers hearts to heauen raise . ) 99. Our Sauiours most sweet and louing prayer before he entred into the garden . Iohn 17. My heau'nly Father , now the houre is come , ( Hee speakes with eyes right lifted vp to heauen . ) By thee ordain'd to glorifie thy Sonne , That thou by him be glorifide agen . My glorie to thy owne so sure is knit , No power is able once to seuer it . 100. 1. He prayeth for himselfe . All flesh thou hast subiected to his power , For all the race of men he is to die : Yet those that come to him they bee the fewer , Certes themselues are in the fault , not I. For none haue life but such as knowing thee To be true God , doe learne the same of mee . 101. By me on earth thou hast beene glorifi'de , All thou commanded'st me , that haue I done : Now with thy selfe let mee bee dignifi'de , In that full height , as ere the world begun , I did enioy the same in Vnitie , The second person in the Trinitie . 102. Herein by mee thy glory hath beene sought , In that through my great miracles and teaching ; To knowledge thee all nations haue beene brought , And train'd to vertuous liuing by my preaching . Those whom thou gauest mee , they were thy owne , And by my meanes , thou art to them made knowne . 103. The word I taught them , that they soundly keepe , Not flitting in the grounds of their beliefe : From mee they haue receiu'd thy secrets deepe , They surely hold this point which is the chiefe . That I came downe from thee with full commission , To giue repentant sinners whole remission . 104. 2. For the Apostles in particular . I pray for them ( precisely ) in this place , Whom thou hast geu'n mee by a speciall choice : For worldly men which feele not of thy grace , I doe not pray : They will not heare my voyce . But these are thine , by thy owne free election ; And mine , by truly yeelding mee subiection . 105. Now need they most thy fatherly defence , Sith in the world they yet haue their abiding : I come to thee and am departing hence , Therefore ( good Father ) keepe thou them from sliding Keepe them in concord , loue and vnitie , That they may all bee one , like thee and mee . 106. Whilst here with them I had my conuersation , I kept them in thy truth without suspition : All that thou gauest mee shall get saluation , Saue only that lost child , Sonne of perdition , Psal. 69. 129. To whom it fell as Scriptures had forespoken , Of which one title neuer can be broken . 107. Now must I leaue the world , and come to thee ; My pers'nall presence they can haue no longer ; Which makes mee pray for them thus hartely , That by thy ayde , they may be made the stronger : Till they in spirituall knowledge bee well skill'd , To see and feele my ioy in them fulfill'd . 108. Thy word and truth to them I haue declar'd , Whereto with full assent they did obaye : And cause with worldly men they haue not shar'd In vnbeliefe , nor walked in their way ; The world alike doth hate both them , and mee : For light and darknesse neuer will agree . 109. Out of the world I would not haue them taken , But pray thee keepe them euermore from euill ; That in their faith they neuer may be shaken , Nor ouercome by falshood of the Deuill . Thy Word and Truth so sanctifie their harts , That in their calling they may doe their parts . 110. As thou thy Sonne into the world didst send , To teach thy Truth : ( They hate me for my paine ) So sent I them vnto that very end . ( Like thankes as had their Master , they shall gaine . ) The more they need thy fatherly assistance , Since in the world they shall find great resistance . 111. 'T is for their sakes my selfe I sanctifie , A sacrifice to clense them from their sinne : I freely offer vp my selfe to die , That they eternall life thereby may winne . I pray thee therefore ( Father ) them preserue , That from thy Truth , and Faith they neuer swerue . 112. 3. Thirdly 〈◊〉 prayeth for all the faithfull in generall , to the worlds end . I make not my request for these alone , But for Beleeuers all that e're will be : That in true faith and loue they may be one , As I in thee , and thou likewise in me . To th' end all people of the world may see , And surely know that I came out from thee . 113. The glorie which on me thou hast bestow'd , To turne the world from darknesse , vnto light : By preaching and by wonders : that hath flow'd From me , on them who doe beleeue aright . To proue that as thou loued'st me thy sonne , So lou'st thou those , which to my faith are wonne . 114. My Father , this is also my desire , That mine may euer in my presence dwell : There to behold my glorie , and admire How much all Kings in glorie I excell . Nor barely to behold , but to partake , So much , as shall them also glorious make . 115. ● . Cor. ● . The worldly-wise were meerely ignorant , Of Ghostly things pertaining vnto thee : Of fruitlesse idle knowledge they could vaunt , But I haue knowne , and mine haue learn'd of mee : Yea in true knowledge they shall still proceed , Vntill they know as much as serues their need . 116. A prayer of all prayers most diuine , Where true-loue-passions sweetly are exprest ; In which our Sauiours Loue doth cleerely shine , On all that in his Churches bosome rest : A Christian man who reades it with deuotion , Must needs feele in his heart some heau'nly motion . 117. What greater comfort can beleeuers haue , Then know the Sonne of God to be their friend ? That of his Father he for them doth craue , And will not faile of speeding in the end ? The man which of this comfort hath no feeling , His zeale is like a toole that lacke●h steeling . 118. A Comparison . Who so presents his suit vnto a King , And hath his onely Sonne for intercessor : If he petition for a lawfull thing , Hee 's very like to be thereof possessor . Christus cum patre , particeps ●st imperii . Christ is in th' Empire partner with his Father , His fauourites are sure to speed the rather . 119. Of old constant Martyrs . What mou'd our Lord so often to repeate , And vrge this point , of suffring for his sake ? Whence comes it that so long , and with such heate , This prayer to his Father he did make ? By greatnesse of th' approaching persecution , He knew his men had need of resolution . 120. Nero the Tyran● . To him that bloudie Tyrants heart was seene , Who turning Natures course cleane vp side-downe His mothers wombe ript-vp with Razor keene , Who made a bone-fire of th' Emperiall towne , Then on the Christians laid that imputation , Thereby to make them odious to the Nation . 121. Peter and Paul . Who with the prime Apostles first began , In one houres space made riddance of them twaine , Then wreakes his wrath on woman , childe , and man , Takes great delight to see them put to paine , Thus to his Idols sacrific'de the Saints , And beastly pleas'd himselfe with their complaints . 122. The rest of those accursed persecutors , Which had their seat within that fatall Citie , Our Lord foresawe with all their coadiutors , Who on tormented Martyrs tooke no pitie : But of their grieuous tortures made a sport , In Theaters for people to resort . 123. An ordinarie death seru'd not the turne , Strange kinde of executions are inuented : Some softly fri'de that they might slowly burne , Some cut with Sawes as if they were indented : Some rent with Beares , wilde Bulls , and hungrie Dogs , And other some , de●our'd by filthy Hogs . 124. Had not these Martyrs need of Christ his ayde , To make them patient in so great afflictions ? Would not meere flesh and bloud haue beene affrayde , Against fierce Tyrants threatning interdictions , To hold their Creed , and constantly confesse it , When they by rigour labour'd to represse it ? 125. Christs , prayer had efficacy in all Confessors and Mar●yrs and euer will haue . With helpe from heau'n ( no doubt ) they were relieu'd , The efficacie of Christs intercession , Instills new comfort when they most are grieu'd , Confirmes beliefe , emboldens to confession . Weake in our selues , through him we are made strong , Bold for his cause , to suffer any wrong . 126. I take this prayer of so strange effect , So pow'rfull to obtaine what it requires : That God the Father beares it such respect , If we , for whom't was made , ioyne our desires : The vertue of it to vs now extendeth , And so will doe vntill the world endeth . 127. These were the preparations to the fight , Then our Great Champion comes within the lists : Matth. 26. 31. First he foretells his Souldiers of their flight , ( Though one more forward then the rest , resists ) As when the Shepherd is beat off , and smitten , The Sheepe are scatterd , catcht by Woolues , and bitten , 128. Here Peter speakes for one before them all ; ( As vsually he did at other place ) Though euery man besides doe from thee fall , Yet I will be exempted in this case . Ioh. 33. 37. Bee sure of mee ( my Lord ) I for thy sake , Am full resolu'd , to lay my life at stake . 129. Doubtlesse he spake no more then what he meant , He lou'd too well , to make a shew with glozing : His heart was good , and so was his intent , ( Of what we purpose God hath the disposing . ) The man too much on his owne strength depended , And for his rashnesse soone was reprehended . 130. Wilt thou ( saith Christ ) lay downe thy life for mee ? 'T is faire and friendly spoken with a trice , Thy heart will faile : marke what I say to thee , The Cock crowes not , till thou denie me thrice . A rare example of mans imperfection , When God once leaues him , to his owne direction . 131. The beginning of his Palsion , with his agonie and bloudy sweat in the garden , at Mount Oliuet . Now enters he into Mount Oliuet , Wherein the Garden was , or very neere it : His Passions-first-encounters here he met , So strong they were , that he confest to feare it . With griefe and sorrow he was so opprest , His Soule within him could not be at rest . 132. Antithesis betwixt the ' vision on Mount Tabor , and the agonie on Mount Oliuet . Looke Stan. 23. Three of his choise Disciples him attended , The same who on Mount Tabor sawe the vision : They were well pleased there , but here offended , This agonie , vnlike that apparition : That place they wished for their habitation , Here they were drowzie , void of consolation . 133. He in his wonted manner falls to pray , Commanding them with him awhile to watch : And parting therehence but a little way , They slumbering , a nap begin to fetch : Whilst he lyes prostrate flat vpon his face , And humbly to his God commends his case . 134. He prayed with his face flat on the ground . His agonie we may conceaue was great , Exprest by prayers threefold repetition : By humble gesture , and by bloudie sweat , By sticking to it without intermission : Onely for his Disciples , care he takes , From sleepe , with admonitions , them awakes . 135. He prayes his Father take from him this Cup , The Crosse , which he perceau'd so neere at hand : Entreateth that he may not drinke it vp , Yet gladly doth to this condition stand . If it accord so with his Fathers will , Which for his part hee 's readie to fulfill . 136. A lesson for all Christen men to learne , R●m. 8. 26. Because we know not how aright to pray , What 's fit , what not , vnable to discerne , By ignorance doe often walke astray : Whensoeuer to our God we make petition , Let it be done vpon the same condition . 137. Iudas with his traine , Now comes the Traytor with his Iudas kisse , ( The reading of it makes me feare , and blush . ) His troupe a rablement of rake-hells is , The signe once giu'n , vpon our Lord they rush . Sent by the Priests . With swords and staues , as 't were to take a Thiefe ; These acted , yet the Priests and Scribes were chiefe . 138. Peter strikes with his sword ; Heere Peter his late promise to make good , ( Like him that meant not bulged ) drawes out his sword : He strikes at one who 'mongst that Rabble stood Cut off his eare , which Christ heal'd with a word : Rebuked him for zeale vs'd out of season , Proues that his doing wanted ground of reason . 139. Reprehended for so doing . Thou need'st not draw thy sword in my defence , Were I dispos'd to rid me of their hand : Most speedily I could conuey me hence , Passe through the midst of them as heere they stand . Eu'n with a word I can them all confound , And lay them prostrate flat vpon the ground . 140. Ioh. 18. 6. 9. Hast thou forgot , when they came first to take me , My voyce no sooner sounded in their eare : But they fell backwards readie to forsake me , All daunted and astonished with feare : Till by my second speech I shew'd assent , They might performe the deed 'bout which they went . 141. Or thinkest thou , were I dispos'd to fight , I stand in need of Iron , or of Steele ? No : Legions wait on me of Angels bright , One of them could make all this troupe to reele : But sith the Scriptures say , Thus it must be , I am content they haue their will on mee . 142. He. and all the rest of the Apostles flie . Then all th' Apostles turne their backes , and flye : He ( with the rest ) who lately 'gan to fight , Few houres before , who vow'd with Christ to die : ( Too much it seemes they trusted their owne might . ) Both he and they prou'd constant afterwards , And of their suffrings , now enioy rewards . 143. Nor fled they till their Lord forbid them fighting , So long as they expected his assistance , They knew his pow'r , and liu'd in hope of righting : But when they saw he would vse no resistance , Then euery man begins to shift for one , And left their Master with his foes alone . 144. Christ led bound to Caiphas . As yet they had not vsed violence , His Person seized on , he straight is bound , Hence forth begins their rage and insolence : First , search is made what witnesse may be found , Some false were had , but they appeared such , As disagreeing him they would not touch . 145. False witnesses suborned . At last came two , who vnder shew of troth , Misconstruing words which long before he spake , Auouch't alie , and made it good by oath , That he the Temple could destroy and make An other in three dayes as good as that : The Counsell seem'd well satisfied thereat . 146. Simple proofe to condemne one to death . The Priest layes hold on this poore allegation , As of a point that toucht him somewhat what nie , Whereon he grounds a fresh'examination : But Christ to it vouchsaft not a replie . Had it beene so iust as the witnesse spake , An vpright Iudge thereof could nothing make . 147. Like Iudge , like Witnesse . But Iudge and Witnesse here were much alike . What hope of Iustice in so bad a Court ? They iudge , accuse , and for false witnesse seeke , Proofe or no proofe , Christ needes must suffer for 't . Ioh. 11. 50. The Priest vnweeting did so prophecie , That he of force must for the people die . 148. They condemne him vpon his owne wordes , for speaking the truth . Yet Caiphas casts about another way , Those proofes of men suborn'd , fell out but od : He chargeth Christ in briefe the truth to say , There to adiures him by the liuing God , To tell him whether he be very Christ , The true Messias , Sonne vnto the high'st . 149. Matth. 26. 64. He wayues it not , but doth the thing auerre , And thereto addes a fearfull commination , Which might them from their wickednesse deterre : You shall ( saith he ) once see strange alteration , Mee comming in the cloudes with maiestie , And all the powers of the Deitie . 150. They iudge him a blasphemer , and worthy to die . Now from this time the scene begins grow hot . Those wordes put Caiphas halfe out of his wits , He rents his clothes , and does he knowes not what , But like a Bedlam taken in his fits , Cryes out , This man hath spoken blasphemie , What thinke yee of 't ? They say , hee 's fit to die . 151. They spit on him , beat and abuse him . Then in his face they all begin to spit , ( A fashion onely fitting for a Iew ) Some with their fists , some with their rods him smit , And thus our Lord among this cursed crew , Was vs'd with all the vilde indignities , That wit and malice 'gainst him could deuize . 152. The Traytor seeing how the cause succeeded , Christ thus condemned through his trecherie : His heart with shame , and horror freshly bleeded , Repents himselfe , though but dispayringly ; Brought back the money to the Priests , and sayd , In sinning I haue guiltlesse bloud betrayd . 153. The wretch , in this hard state of desperation , Repaires to those who set him on to doe it , Hoping to finde with them some consolation : What 's that to vs ( quoth they ) looke thou vnto it . This harsh reply his conscience so intangled , That prest with shame and griefe , himselfe he strangled . 154. The passages about Peters deniall . 'T is said , how Peter followed Christ afarre , His purpose was to see , and note the end : Not thinking to haue found so hot a warre , The issue doth his vertue more commend . All 's well , that ends well . True it is indeed : As Peter sped , I wish we all may speed . 155. Note yet the frailtie of this holy Saint , 'Mong all his fellowes taken for the chiefe : What small occasions moued him to faint , Denie his Lord , and fayle in his beliefe . Two seely wenches made him say and sweare , He knew him not . ( A matter strange to heare . ) 156. Anon againe , a little further prest , By men who gaue some tokens to discrie him : With othes and curses , worse then all the rest , He faceth out , that they doe all belye him . So crowes the cocke , Christ backe on him doth looke , To bitter teares then he himselfe betooke . 157. We fall from Christ , though not by flat deniall , By slips that differ little in effect : And like it is , if most were put to triall , In constancie there would be found defect . Yet if for faults with Peter we would weepe , The wounds will soone be cur'd , though they be deepe . 158. Bare weeping in this case sufficeth not , 1. Cor. 7. Heb. 12. 17. All sorrow makes not truely penitent : The sorrow which our sinnes doth cleanly blot , Is ioyn'd with faith , and liues amendement . The Traitor sorrowing , had nor faith , nor hope , But in despaire prouides himselfe a rope . 159. The paterne of a true penitent , in the person of Saint Pete 〈◊〉 The blest Apostle hastens from the Hall , Forsakes the concourse of that hellish crue : Retir'd alone , downe on his knees doth fall , Thrice knockes his brest , salt teares his cheekes bedewe , With sighes and sobs his heart begins to swell , His soule so vext , as if'twere then in hell . 160. His eyes and hands he vp to heauen doth hold , But shame forth with constraines him cast them downe : As fearing least therein hee were too bold , And thinkes the God of hea 〈◊〉 ' n doth on him frowne : Till mindfull of his Masters gratious glaunce , Begins with hope his hanging head t' aduaunce . 161. Then thus hee sayes : vnhappie wretched man , No sooner were his lips set ope to speake , In vaine he striues : For doe what e're hee can , With throbbings fresh , his heart is readie breake . New showres of teares descended downe so fast , They brought him neere the point to breathe his last . 162. A Comparison . Much like a gentle Virgin , tender hearted , Linkt to a noble pheere in true affection ; If by some sad disaster they bee parted , The doubting of her modest loues reiection , Liues onely by the hope of reobtayning Her honour'd mate , all comfort else refraying . 163. This holy man , thus passionate a while , Recounting with himselfe his great offence , In hope his iniur'd Lord to reconcile , Resolues to wayue all colour of defence , And meekely prostrate at his Throne of Grace , Repenting sues for pardon in that place . 164. First here my fault I humbly doe confesse , A fault for which thou iustly may st reiect mee , Doome mee to hell , ( Sith I deserue no lesse ) Yet in thy mercie ( gentle Lord ) respect mee : Restore mee to thy fauour as afore , Vp-hold me with thy Grace , from falling more , 165. Too much I trusted late to my owne strength , Presum'd no persecutions blasts should ouer-blow me From thy sweet side : But I haue prou'd at length , That puffes of maydens mouthes did ouerthrow me : It rents my heart to thinke so weake a triall , Should force thy seruant to so strong deniall . 166. I see , when man vnto himselfe is left , No powre he hath to keepe himselfe from sliding : The great'st and best , Once of thy grace berest , Can find no place of rest , or sure abiding : Those onely stand , whom thou by grace dost stay , Without thy sauing Grace , they fall away . 167. What dost thou ( Lord ) of sinfull men require , But from hearts-bottome , true vnfeyn'd confession ? Loe , I confessing , pardon doe desire , My heart , thou knowest , is humbled with contrition : To satisfie the Iustice , I 'm not able : With mercie wash me white , now wholly sable . 168. My fall shall be a warning vnto others , Not in their might , but in thy aide to trust : Not to thinke of themselues aboue their brothers : Sith all offenders are , thou onely iust . From Iustice to thy mercie I appeale , Giue balme of grace , my wounded Soule to heale . 169. Then in thy sauing health I shall reioyce , Endeauour still thy holy Lawes to keepe : To yeeld thee praise and thankes , with heart and voice , And follow thee my Pastour , I thy sheepe : Confirming others , when I am made strong , And die a Martyr ( through thy grace ) ere long . 170. Oftrue and false repentance here we find , Two rare examples , written for our learning : They both repented in a different kind , From th' one comes comfort , from the other warning . The one repenting gat encrease of grace , Acts 1. 20 ; The other lost his office , and his place . 171. Returne wee to our blessed Sauiours storie , To note the passages anent his passion : Weeleft him in the 〈◊〉 ewish Consistorie , Where th 〈◊〉 y g 〈◊〉 ue 〈◊〉 entence for his condemnation . The cause with them long hangs not in debate , Iob. 11. 50. They doom'd him dead ere they in iudgement sate . 172. They bring Christ bound to Pilas : Earely next morne with speed they led him bound , Before the ciuill Romane Magistrate : The Priests and Elders stood in compasse round , To worke the surer on him with their hate : As men resolu'd by malice , or by might , To g 〈◊〉 t him nayled on the Crosse ere night , 173. Two heads I note of Iewish accusation , From whence they seeke to hasten his destruction : First 'gainst the Law of God , and of their Nation , His blasphemie : ( made so by their construction . ) Vpon this point , They for their parts decreed , Ther 's no release , but he must die with speed . 174. The next is affectation of the Crowne , Wherein they hoped of the Romans ayde : Iob. 19. 12. And that was it in fine which bare him downe , When Pilat to condemne him , stood afraid . Hee treated with the Iewes for his discharge , And gladly would haue let him goe at large . 175. Pilats wiues dreame . His wife affrights him with this allegation , The man and cause are iust , pray deale not in it , I know it by a kind of Diuination . For this last night I in my dreame haue seene it . So thought hee of a way to let him loose , But left it to the Priests and Scribes to choose . 176. They chose Bara●a● . 'T was vsed in this feast , That by their choyce , One Pris ' nor should bee set at libertie : Of Christ and Barabas hee askes their voyce , The Priests , and People ( mou'd by them ) all crye , Let Barabas the thiefe come on our side , And as for Christ , let him be crucifide , 177. Monsters of men ! What Canibals were here , Or rather Diuells in a humane shape ! An innocent to quell , a thiefe to cleere , Condemne the Iust , and let a Murth'rer scape ! Though Pilat did condemne him , yet he acknowledged him to be innocent . They cry three times , Crucifige Whom Iudas , Pilat , and his Wife acquited , Against their conscience , falsely they indited . 178. Once Crucifige could not so preuaile , But that the Iudge perswades them to relent : The second time more hotly they assaile , On Crucifige all their breath is spent : Luke 23. 22. Thirdly with voyces strayn'd more lowd they crie , Whereon the Iudge gaue sentence he should die . 179. Pilars hypocrisie in washing his hands . This wrongfull sentence fearefully pronounc't , Before he mou'd out of the Iudgement Hall : Hee seemes as if the doing hee renounc't , And washeth cleane his hands before them all . This man ( sayes he ) was Iust , and I am free From guiltlesse bloud : Therefore to it * * So said they before to Iudas see yee , 180. One dreadfull Iudgement resteth yet behind , That curse , Or rather cursed execration , Which to this day the Iewish people find , Full heauily it hangs vpon their Nation : Sanguis eius super nos , & super filios nostros . His bloud on vs , and on our children bee . They had their wish , as all the world may see . 181. A race of people runnagates on earth , A man may say , a nationlesse Nation : Some place they find ( as casuall ) for their birth , No certaine country for their habitation , That guiltlesse bloud as yet for vengeance cries , And as their fathers pray'd , vpon them lies , 182. In euill howr's some vse themselues to curse , 'T is strange a man should take therein delight : Though all in doing so seeme not the worse , I wish my friend to doe himselfe more right , To curse no other man , himselfe much lesse . I would aduise him rather , both to blesse . 183. Streight after iudgement followes execution . First then the thiefe and murth'rer is enlarg'd , To freedome he obtayneth restitution ; Our Lord committed to the Souldiers charge , The Gouernour commands him to bee whipt , In scorne the Souldiers cause him to be stript . 184. The Romane Souldiers deride and mock Christ . The whole pretorian band together flocke To Pil●tes house , within the common Hall , To sport themselues , and make of Christ a mocke , Like flies about him they begin to fall : Or purple . A scarlet Robe , such as by Kings are worne , They put vpon him , for the greater scorne . 185. And more to make him counterfeit a King , A crowne of thornes they set vpon his head : For Scepter , they a reede vnto him bring ; Thus King-like when they haue him furnished , With bended knee , this taunting speech they vse , All Haile to thee thou Christ King of the Iewes . 186. As did the Iewes before , some on him spit , Some from his hand the reeden scepter take , Therewith vpon the head they doe him hit , And thus of him a ieasting-stocke they make . Disrobing him , with his owne clothes they dresse him , Then to the place of execution presse him . 187. An Amplification by way of Comparison , expressing the perfection of Christs passion . The Chartre-Pardon granted long agoe , To him who first rebell'd against heau'ns King : Hath euer since beene tossed to and fro , Ere to the Great-seale sutors could it bring : * * Types , Ceremonies and Sacrifices . Some priuie seales , and signets set vnto it , Yet wanting force effectually to doe it . 188. Gen. 3. By paroll past this grant in Paradise , To our great-grandsire Adam and his Wife : Whom that Arch-Traitor slilie did entice , To breed betwixt their Lord and them a strife . It hath beene long engrossing , now at length 'T is perfected , and fully hath its strength , 189. Gods Sonne and Heyre apparant to the Crowne , Who onely had the pow're to make it good : To perfect it , from heau'n , descended downe , And for our sakes hath seal'd it with his bloud . To this Free-pardon euery man hath right , That sues it out . ( The charges is but light . ) 190. He by his latest Will and Testament , Bequeathes to all the Largis of this pardon : His comming hither was to that intent , To giue all true belieuers that rich guerdon . It 's had of course , in forma pauperis , You pay no gold , nor siluer see for this . 191. Loe , now the Lord of life is come to die , They crucisie him . To ' byde the paines that we should haue endur'd : From blessed state to feele all miserie , By Satan and his instruments procur'd . His willingnesse excuseth not their fault , Though he did well , their purposes were naught . 192. Sundry circumstances aggrauating the Passion , and iustifying the storie . To circumstances all as they ensue , With care and heed my reader must attend : Some doe conuince the storie to be true , Some are recorded to an other end ; To aggrauate the greatnesse of the Passion , Endur'd in such an ignominious fashion . 193. The place of dead mens skuls . 'Mong heapes of dead mens skulls , and scattred bones , ( To strike more terrour by that vncouth sight ) The crosse was set , it seemeth for the nonce , The Iewes did all they could to shew their spite . They know not what they doe ( saith he ) O Father , Therefore I pray thee pardon them the rather . 194. ( So prayd Saint Steuen for his persecutors , A faire example for our imitation , Matth. 5. 44. A speciall lesson 't was of this great Tutors , Who taught no cursing , neither execration . 1. Sam. 17. 43. The prowd Philistin fell to curse , and ban , What time he should haue shew'd himselfe a man . ) 195. They hang him betweene two The●ues . They hang'd him vp betweene two Malefactors , Still seeking how to make him more despis'd : As if in thef● they had beene all ioynt Actors . Say , was not this maliciously deuiz'd ? They giue him vineger and gall . For drinke they gaue him Vineger and Gall. Cold charitie to comfort one withall . 196. They part his garments . His garments into quarters they diuide , ‛ Monst foure of them , each man a part doth take : Cast lots for his ●…at . For th' vnseam'd coat they otherwayes prouide , To trie for that , a lotterie they make . These things long time before were prophecy'de , And vnawares by them here verify'de . 197. The superscription , vpon his Cro●…e . Vpon his Crosse is writ a superscription , In Hebrew letters , Latine , and in Greeke . Of Him and of his Cause a short description , That all might reade , and know 't , if they would seeke . To all the world that Title told the newes , Matth. 27. 37. That This is Iesus the King of the Iewes . 198. Wherein appeared the● hand of God . In this , Gods finger pow'refully was seene ; The Priests were much displeased with the writing , And wisht that somewhat altred it had beene : But God led Pilates hand in that inditing . By accident here nothing came to passe , B●… as in heau'n before decreed it was . 199. " A hatred more then deadly , men call that " Which ouer-liues the death of him that 's hated . In Iewish hearts such endlesse malice sat , As by our Sauiours death was not abated . Some Heathens pitied him , whilst Iewes reuil'd ; The greater were his paines , the more they smil'd . 200. The Iewes reuile and raile at him euen as he was dying . Some , wagging heads in scoffing wise did crie , Thou that the Temple threatnedst to destroy , And in three dayes to reare it vp as hie , Now saue thy selfe , defend thee from annoy . Descend downe from the Crosse , if thou be able , Then will we hold thy Doctrine for no fable . 201. The Priests , the Scribes and Elders thus him taunted : Others he sau'd , himselfe let him reprieue , If he be Isr'els King as earst he vaunted , Let him come from the Crosse , so wee 'll belieue . He put his trust in God : if God will haue him , ( Whose Sonne he said I am ) let God now saue him . 202. Note the odd● betwixt the two Theeues . One of the Theeues likewise began to raile , His Mate thus roundly checks him for his error : Cannot the feare of God with thee preuaile , Nor thy iust iudgement strike in thee a terror ? For our ill deeds we rightly suffer this , But he hath wrong , who did nothing amisse . 203. Then with a faith neuer enough admir'd , Directs his speech vnto our blessed Sauiour : A boone of him he heartily desir'd , His faith encourag'd him to that behauiour : Lord , to thy Kingdome when thou com'st , said hee , Though wretched I bee here , remember mee . 204. A Simile : or rather a dissimile . Hee sped not like a Sutor in some Court , Who happ'ning well to put in his petition , Expecting answere wayteth so long for 't , ( Lacking the meanes to pay for expedition ) As in the end he sweareth by his gaynes , And onely gets his labour for his paynes . 205. But this Petitioner had a quick dispatch , A word of comfort to his full content : For thy preferment long thou shalt not watch , Before this very day be fully spent , Thy state shall be transmuted in such wise , As thou shalt rest with me in Paradise . 206. " Sweet solace ! Not for that good man alone , " But for all such as doe him imitate : " Th' example s●rues for all , though prou'd by one , " For , true repentance neuer comes too late , Matth. 20. " Much lesse too soone : when God each man doth call , " Eu'n then to come , is fittest time for all . 207. Wonders and miracles at the death of Christ . Great darkenesse . From twelue a clocke till three at after-noone , A strange eclipse appear'd where they did stand : The Sunne gaue not his light , nor neuer shoone , But darknesse ouer-shadow'd all the Land . The Lord of Life , then at the point to die , To God allowd with strayned voyce did crie . 208. His Spirit to his Father he commends , Act. 7. ( Did not the Protomartyr doe like wise ? ) With Consummatum est his life he ends ; Then fully ended all the prophecies , The office of Messias was perfected , All types and figures after that reiected . 209. The Temple cleaues in two . At his departure wonders strange appear'd . From top to foot the Temple cleaues in twayne , ( To shew that we from Iewish Rites were clear'd . ) The Rocks are rent . The Rocks are rent , the Earth doth quake amayne : Yet Iewes were mou'd therewith no more then stocks , Their hearts were harder then the flintie Rocks . 210. The Graues doe open . The Graues and Tombes of Saints long dead , flew open : The Bodies rose , that many yeeres lay sleeping : Saints long agone dead arise and appeare . The Resurrection this did well betoken , That soule and body both are in Gods keeping . And cause no doubt thereof should rest in any , Within the Citie they were seene of many . 211. It makes me halfe forget my selfe with wonder , To thinke how much those stubborn Iewes were blinded : What held their hearts from bursting quite asunder , What passion made the men so grossely minded , That these great signes and tokens neuer mou'd them , Where senselesse things , & Heathen men reprou'd them . 212. The Centurions conuersion , and confe●sion : with his souldiers . The Captaine or Centurion of the band , With Souldiers for the watch attending there : At those strange sights did all amazed stand , Extreamly moued in their hearts with feare : Confest that this was certenly Gods Sonne , For whom so many miracles were done . 213. See before at Stan. 161. These were the men that some few howres before , Derided , scoft , and scorn'd him in the Hall : It seemeth now they were agrieu'd therefore , By this confession which they here let fall . Matth. 21. 11. It 's like that diuers of them were conuerted , Though some by Iewish Rulers were peruerted . 214. Holy women . Of holy Iewish Women not a few , ( Some nam'd in honour of their memorie ) Attended thereabouts in modest shew , To doe their duties at his obsequie . Luke 23. 56. Of Spice and Ointments they prepared store , T'embalme that body which they lou'd before , 215. To bring him to the graue in decent-wise , As well beseem'd a man of no meane place , According to his natiue countrey guise : Ioseph of Arimathea , and Nicodemus . Ioh. 19. 38. Two men of speciall note did him that grace . Yet , ere his body taken from the tree , One thing deserueth well obseru'd to bee . 216. Not a bone of him broken , but his side pierced . Of both the Theeues wee read the legs were broken , Onely his side they pierced with a speare : By holy Prophets so it was fore-spoken , The prophecies were full accomplisht here . Thus wrapt in Spice , and rowll'd in linnen clothes , Vnto the Tombe that Sacred bodie goes . 217. His new tombe What kind of Tombe ? not dig'd in sand or clay , But neat and cleanly , hew'ne out of a rocke : The Tombe was new , wherein no man ere lay ; To take from Priests and Scribes all cause of mocke , That some good man interred there of yore , And not our Lord , to life God did restore . 218. A Comparison . His bodie comming from a Virgins wombe , Wherein no bodie euer came , but it : Was aptly buried in a Mayden-tombe , Th' analogie therein doth finely fit . Here leaue wee this blest bodie , for three dayes : Then sing how God to life the same did rayse . The end of the sixt Classis .

DIVINE POEMS . The seuenth Classis . THE ARGVMENT . Iewes Priests decyphred by a short digressing . The storie of Christs glorious Resurrection , Each circumstance the veritie expressing , 'Gainst Sadduces and Epicures suggestion . Th' Ascension prou'd : Doomes-day laid ope to view ▪ The Blisse of Saints ; Woes of the damned crew . Christs body l●y intombed from the euening on friday to Sunday morning : viz part of two dayes , and one whole Sabbath . MVse , stop the source of thy diuine narration , Whilst that our Lord within his Tombe lyes sleeping : Betake thee to some holy Meditation , Spend one whole Sabbath in laments , and weeping . A solemne Iewish feast , and Sabbath day , In which that Sacred Body sprightlesse lay . 2. A Sabbath , yet in truth no day of rest : A day in name , more properly a night : Dispaire and feare the faithfull hearts possest , Their Sunne eclipst , imparts to them no light . Blinde Iewish Rulers , of their damn'd deed vaunted , When Christs Disciples wofully were daunted . 3. Me thinkes I see , as pictur'd in a Table , ( That day in which the Lord of Life lay dead . ) A crue of Rabbins seeming venerable , Walke arme in arme , each one the other led : Ioyous they seem'd , for what they late had done , In killing Christ the Carpenters poore Sonne . 4. Iewish Priests decyphered , insulting ouer Christ crucified . How did the man ( quoth one ) our state abuse , So poore in port , so meane in his condition : To claime this Royall Stile , King of the Iewes , A testimonie of his vaine ambition ! Well are wee now from that poore King set free , For our Messias must a Conqueror bee . 5. The famous Prophet Moses long agoe , Foretold our Fathers , such a one as hee God would raise vp , to saue vs from our foe , And crowne vs with perpetuall victorie . As for this Christ , he had no heart to fight , But rather suffer wrong and lose his right . 6. The simple people thickly to him flockt , To see some workes of his , and heare him preach : Their ignorance he much abus'd , and mockt , The depth of his deceits they could not reach : Our learned Priests , and Rulers found him out , None claue to him , but of the vulgar rout . 7. With Publicanes and Sinners he conuerst , Did many workes vpon the Sabbath dayes : The Law of Moses he would haue reuerst , And led our Tribes into his crooked wayes : Though thus he did , yet some so sottish were , As to his new-found doctrine lend their eare . 8. It 's true , he wrought some wonders now and then , That might be wrought by fauour of the Deuill : As curing lunatikes , and such like men Possest by spirits wicked , foule and euill . A holy man of God he could not bee , Whom he prouokt with open blasphemie , 9. Vaunting himselfe to be Gods onely Sonne , A fellow-partner in the Deitie , Equall with God : None since the world begun , Assum'd it to himselfe , but onely hee . Say , was not this a cursed childe of Cham , That lift himselfe 'boue father Abraham ? 10. We saw him gasping yeild his latest breath , Others he holpe , himselfe he could not saue : His God-head like a man endured death , Now lyes his body senselesse in the graue . Then let vs see if he will rise to morrow , And rid his poore Disciples from their sorrow . 11. They mought ( perhaps ) by night haue stolne him thence , So drawne the people to a further error : But we haue set a watch for our defence , A guard to vs , and vnto them a terror . Let others talke their pleasure for a spurt , Dead men ( say I ) will neuer doe vs hurt . 12. Did we not well in dooming him to die , Who being poore , aspir'd vnto the Crowne ? A mortall man , challeng'd diuinitie ? 'T was more then time to pull this fellow downe , Thus in the Temple as they walke , and jet , Each one the others saying doth abet . 13. These and such like discourses there they held , In triumph sang before the victorie : In malice swim'd , in pride lift-vp they swell'd , The end turn'd to their shame , and infamie . " So men that in their neighbours fall doe glorie , " Shall see him glad , when they themselues be sorie . 14. The heauinesse and mourning of the Disciples and other Belieuers . Meanewhile , the sad Disciples of our Lord , And holie Women , such as lou'd him liuing , Assembling in one place with ioynt accord , Consume their eyes with teares , their hearts with grieuing : They hang their heads , sighing one with another , As tender children robbed of their mother . 15. A Sabbath day 't was , and a solemne feast , But all their mirth was turned into mourning : Their restlesse sorrowes yeilded them no rest , Cold feare seaz'd some , with zeale some harts were burning . All comfortlesse , none comforted his mate , Like men aston'd by Basiliskes they sate . 16. Some , first their owne faint-heartednesse accuse , Some , Pilat and the Romanes doe condemne : All ioyntly blame the Rulers of the Iewes , For murthring him who did no hurt to them . Not one remembred what Christ oft had said , To comfort them when they were most dismaid . 17. How hee was borne to suffer griefe and paine , As in the Psalmes and Prophets it is writ : To suffer death , yet soone to rise againe , Then mount to heau'n , and their in glorie sit . This lesson often taught them , they forgot , Or scarce belieu'd , or vnderstood it not . 18. Marke 16. 10. Thus that whole day , and all the night they spent , As mourners vse , for dearest friends departed : The men their clothes , their hayre the women rent , Sad in their faces , yet more sable-hearted . Early next morne before the breake of day , Some holy women hye themselues away . 19. Their errand was , the Sepulchre to see , The place , for loue of him that in it lay : To doe on Christ a worke of pietie , Their latest dutie to the dead to pay . Of sweet and costly spices they brought store , To doe 't well once , which could be done no more . 20. Here was that blessed Mary Magdalen , Which in his life time did on him such cost : As made the Traitor Iudas to repine , And wretchedly complaine , that all was lost . Once more this holy Woman doth her best , To shew her zeale to Christ among the rest . 21. This was indeed a holy Pilgrimage , A pious Christian worke of pure deuotion : If all the Pilgrimes in this later age , Did ground their iournies on so good a motion : With slender errours men might well dispence , Nor at the ciuill custome take offence . 22. The Author prayeth briefly Here my deuotions , Lord I humbly tender , Vpon the Altar of a contrite heart : A sacrifice I offer , poore and slender , Yet such as thou acceptest in good part : Hos. 14. 2. The calues of lips prepared thee to praise , For thy great Grace , and mercies many waies . 23. But chiefly for thy precious Death and Passion , The meanes that frees vs from the Diuells thrall : Consummate by thy strange Resuscitation , 1. Pet. 1. 3. The root of liuely hope in Christians all . So make vs die to sinne , and liue to thee , That to good workes disposed we may bee . 24. Now marke the storie of the Resurrection , Each circumstance deserueth deepe attention : Let eares , and hearts with reuerent subiection , Yeild full assent . ( it is no feyn'd inuention . ) The truth in euery point appeares so plaine , To amplifie vpon it , were but vaine . 25. The womens comming to the Sepulchre . Matth. 28. When first the women came vnto the place , What formerly befell , the Text doth showe : Aglorious Angell with bright-shining face , His garments whiter then the driuen snowe , Descending strangely made the earth to quake , For feare of whom , the armed watch-men shake . 26. A band of Romane souldiers well prouided , Were set to keepe the bodie from surprising : Their pollicies the Lord of Hosts derided , This guard confirmes our Sauiours powr'full rising . In their owne craft Iew-Statists were ' ore-reach't , Christs godhead more confirm'd , which they impeacht . 27. A Simile or Comparison . " Ther 's no disaster like i'th'warres to that , " As when a Chiefetaine , trusting by his wit , " To cheat his foe-man with a cunning plat , " Is catch't himselfe , and sowley foyl'd in it . So here this subtle Iewish stratagem , Made more for Christ , and quite confounded them . 28. The watch amazed with that glorious vision , Dead stricken in a swound vpon the place , Reuiuing with some little intermission , Aduisedly bethinke them on the case : The fact was cleere , and not to be conceal'd , By vs ( said they ) 't were best to be reueal'd . 29. Classis . 6. St. 189. It 's like enough , as lately at the Passion , The miracles there done , conuerted some : So , things here hap'ning in so strange a fashion , Caus'd many to the Christian Faith to come . Onely some of them posted to the Iewes , And freely op'ned to them all the newes . 30. Perhaps they told it to asayre intent , Prick't in their hearts with such an heau'nly sight , Not well fore-casting what might be th' euent , Nor that the Priests informed of the right , Would offer to oppose a truth so cleere , But feele remorse when they thereof did heare . 31. Yet who could hope for any true compunction , I'th'hearts of Iewish Priests , in whom Christs warkes , When 'mongst them he discharg'd his holy function , Could not beget the smallest firie sparkes Of burning zeale to Truth , by him affirm'd , And fully out of holy writ confirm'd . 32. The Priests corrupt the souldiers with money . No , no : Those ghostly fathers soone assemble , With Elders , Scribes , and others of that rable : Against their knowledge falsely they dissemble , To blurre the truth , deuise an idle fable , That Christs Disciples closely thither crept , And stole him thence , the whilst the watchmen slept . 33. To gaine some credit to this truthlesse tale , The souldiers were entic't , and wonne with bribes , To set their faith and honestie at sale : ( A shamelesse pranke of Priests , and learned Scribes ) Those men of warre with large rewards thus hir'd , Consent to say as th' Elders had conspir'd . 34. Auarice . 1. Tim. 6. " Oh what a cursed crime is Auarice ? " The root from whence springs many a damned deed : " A couetous man hath share in euery vice , " His money he adoreth in Gods stead . " His soule for money he consents to sell , " His Counting-house , is heau'n : the Church , his hell , 35. T was money first made Iudas to deuize , Against his Lord , that plot of treacherie : T was money made the Souldiers bolster lyes , Against the truth , and knowen veritie : The Deuill taught those Iewish Priests the skill , For crossing Christ , to worke their wretched will . 36. Strange was the cancred malice of these Iewes , Who rather then confesse their fault , and mend : Would yeild , themselues thus grossely to abuse , With all their race , eu'n to the later end . For as the Fathers taught the watch to say , So doe their children prattle at this day . 37. What hapned to the Women at the Scpulere . But note what to those holy Women fell . The watchmen maz'd , halfe frighted of their wits : The Angell cheer'd , and vs'd the women well , Vpon the Tombe dore-stone he sweetly sits : Plucke vp your hearts , ( saith he ) he not afraid , Come see the place whereas the Lord was laid . 38. Hee 's risen from the dead , as oft he told you , With speed to his Disciples make it knowne : Be strong in Faith , let no suspition hold you , Himselfe ere long in person will be showne : Him , you and they in Galile shall see , Loe what I speake , will sure fulfilled bee . 39. In feare and ioy they parted thence apace , To make relation of the Angels errant : Ere farre they were remoued from the place , ( Their faith to strengthen by a further warrant ) Vpon the way , their Lord directly meetes them , And with a gratious salutation greetes them . 40. Assoone as they beheld him with their eyes , Amazed at the strangenesse of the thing : To free their hearts from doubt of phantasies , Straight with their hands to feele him they begin : Yet humbly as for such a Lord was meet , Matth. 28. 9● Pressing to touch him onely by the feet . 41. Those feet , for which a Bath as salt as bryne , Blest Magdalen prepared at a dinner , With teares distilling from her blubbred eyne : Luke 7. 39. ( Now holy Woman , Once a noted sinner . ) Kissing them with her lips incessantly , And wip't them with her haire , till they were dry . 42. Those feete , which lately nayled to the tree , Gaue drops of bloud , all pretious baulmes excelling To cure the wounded soules of thee and mee , And purchase pardon for our foule rebelling Against heau'ns King : which none else could haue done . But onely hee , Gods sole begotten Sonne . 43. With reuerence they coupled adoration , Now well assur'd of his diuinitie : On him they fixe the hope of their saluation , Who ouer death and hell , gat victorie . Blest Women Saints , selected first to see Their Sauiour , in his state of Maiestie . 44. Hath not God chosen things of small esteeme , ● . Cor. 1. 27. And foolish in appearance , to confound Such as in th' eyes of worldlings glorious seeme ? Examples daily prouing this , abound . Christs birth to simple shepheards first made knowne , His Resurrection first to women showne . 45. He comforts them , as th' Angell late had done : Take courage now , there is no cause of feare : ●ob . 20. 17. Vnto my brethren ( O sweet words ! ) goe runne , Tell them the truth of all that 's hap'ned here . Command them hasten into Galilee , For there my selfe in person shall they see . 46. Ioh. 20. Next witnesses are Peter , and Saint Iohn , Who prickt with zeale vpon the first relation , With all their might vnto the place they ran . To testifie their holy emulation . Shrowd-clothes within the Sepulchre they find , The bodie gone , those onely left behind . 47. Verse 10. The sight whereof begets in them beliefe , Remembring then what Scriptures did containe : That he must suffer death , opprest with griefe , Yet triumph ouer death , and rise againe . Thus setled in their faith , home they returne Repleat with ioy , and cease thenceforth to mourne , 48. Luke 24. 13. and Mar. 16. 12 Twice more he shew'd himselfe that very day , Desirous soone to put them out of feare . As two of them to Emaus held their way , In shape ( at first ) vnknowne he did appeare . By Scriptures prouing how it ought to bee , And breaking bread , They saw that it was hee , 49. Whereas before they rested in dispaire , Luk. 24. 21. Note it . ( Their wordes to Christ himselfe imply no lesse ) Ere he was dead ( forsooth ) their hopes were faire He should haue saued them : ( so they confesse ) Inferring thus , since he was dead and slaine , That now their further hope in him was vaine . 50. " An error deeply rooted in the heart , " Requires great paine and skill to moue it thence . Christ to his Schollers often did impart , A doctrine whereat still they tooke offence : He preacht of suffrings , persecutions , crosses , Yet they corrupt the Text with carnall glosses . 51. Their Christ must be a pow'rfull earthly King , The Priests and Scribes therein at first misse-led them : We find them alwayes harping on that string , With such grosse food their fleshly motions fed them : But when he rose from death , and shew'd his glorie , Then they beleeu'd aright the sacred storie . 52. Thus yeildeth he to their infirmities , Nor leaues them till in faith he makes them sound : To all their senses he himselfe applyes , That in the end with him they might be crown'd , 1. Pet. 1. 9. And of their precious faith receaue the pay , Their soules saluation at the later day . 53. That euening when they altogether met , For feare of Iewes within a priuate place : Eu'n in the midst of them where they were set , When doores were shut , he stands before their face : Salutes them , shewes his hands , and pierced side , Wherewith all present there were satisfi'de . 54. That day , three times , at Morning , Noone , and Euen , Himselfe he offred to be seene , and felt . Could any fairer proofe then this be giuen ? For our behoofe the Lord thus freely dealt . And so he made his deare Disciples glad , Who euer since his Passion had beene sad . 55. Th' Apostle Thomas absent in that season , Informed by his fellowes of the troth , Would not beleeue a thing so farre past reason , Vnlesse by seeing , and by feeling both The nayled hands , and gored feet and side , With fingers thrust therein , it might be tride . 56. Hereby the Truth receau'd more confirmation , Christ yeilding to our imbecilitie : Ioh. 20. 26. Some eight dayes after in the selfe same fashion , ( Thomas then sitting in their companie ) Comes in among them , bids him see , and feele him : Who forthwith for his Lord and God doth style him . 57. No sooner had Saint Thomas so confest , The Lord his faiths confession did accept : Yet with more emphasis pronounc't them blest , In whom true faith should worke as full effect , Though him in person they had neuer seene , Nor euer with him conuersant had beene . 58. A gracious , sweet , and heau'nly consolation , To all who firmely with a stedfast faith , Embrace The Word which guides vs to saluation , And freely yeild assent to what Christ saith . Rom. 10. Our faith by hearing comes , and not by sight ; Is fruitfull in good workes , if it be right . 59. More signes and tokens yet then these , were wrought , For full assurance of the Resurrection : To write them all , it was not needfull thought , Th' Euangelists had not their owne election , But wholly guided by the holy Sprite , As much as was expedient , did write . 60. It 's written , how he asked of them meate , They gaue him honey-combe , and broyled fish : Then in their presence he thereof did eate , And forthwith quits them with a better dish ; A heauenly food , their hungrie soules to cherish ; Who soundly feedes thereon , shall neuer perish . 61. The wordes which he before his Passion told them , He freshly calls vnto their memorie : That fast in minde they afterwards might hold them , The substance of the sacred Historie Concerning Him , his Passion , and his Rising , To cause them stand on Faith , not on surmizing . 62. Their wits were dull , and slow of apprehension , Which he vouchsaft by grace so to enlighten , As that to th' holy Text they gaue attention , And so their former errors all , doe righten ; Fully confirm'd in this point of their Creed , Their mindes from doubts and scruples wholly freed , 63. Most grosse had beene their incredulitie , If seeing proofes farre cleerer then the Sunne , All jumping with the sacred Historie , With vnbeleeuing Rabbins they had runne , Shutting their eyes through malice , or of spite , And louing darknesse rather then the light . 64. Yet for their better satisfaction , 1. Cor. 15. Fiue hundred men and more in open viewe , All at one time were witnesse to the action : What needed more to proue the storie true ? Where two or three confirme a thing by oath , 'Mongst honest men it 's taken for a troth . 65. Let Infidels blasphemously deride , And scorne this doctrine of the Resurrection ; The storie here so cleerly iustifi'de , Affoords to all , but Atheists , satisfaction : " Yet faith , though furthred by such helps as these , " Is Gods free gift , bestow'd where he doth please . 66. The ' article of our Creede touching the Resurrection , by Christ proued ; and Sadduces consuted . Matth. 22. The Sadduces , in sooth meere Epicures , Who in this life plac't all felicitie , Deuoted wholly to their worldly pleasures , Suppos'd the soule did with the body die : They prest our Sauiour with a weake obiection , Intending to confute the Resurrection . 67. Of all the cauills vs'd against our Lord , By Iewes or Gentiles to oppose the Truth , ( Whereof the sacred Writers make record ) There 's none so fond as this which here ensu'th : By grosse conceiting in that blessed life , A carnall coupling of the Man , and Wife . 68. In Socrates , or Platoes heathen schooles , Had these men such a sottish question mou'd , I ghesse they had beene hissed out for fooles , No answere to so fond a iost behou'd . Vers. 33. 34. Yet he by Scriptures doth them so confute , That others wonder , and themselues stand mute . 69. You erre ( saith he ) through Scriptures ignorance : ( Of errors all in faith , the chiefest ground . ) For , Saints possessing heauens inheritance , To marriage Rites and duties are not bound : But Angell-like doe liue in full perfection , To carnall Lawes no longer in subiection . 70. Of Abr'ham , Isak , and of Israel I am the God . ( Saith God who liues for aye . ) Is he a God of dead , or liuing ? Tell. The men were dumbe , and had no more to say . A shallow question answer'd most profoundly , The Resurrection thence confirmed soundly . 71. The generall resurrection further proued and described out of Scriptures . Psal. 16. 2. Hos. 6. 2. 1. Cor. 15. 20. By sundrie places of the elder Writ , The Resurrection plainly taught wee see : Dauid the King directly points at it , So doe some Prophets else aswell as hee . These properly relate to Christ our Head , Whom Scriptures call , the first fruits of the dead . 72. As hee is first , and sanctifies the rest , So shall the members with their head partake : If Christ his resurrection bee confest , For rising of our bodies , it doth make . We must acknowledge both , or both denie : For Scriptures both alike doe iustifie . 73. Good Iob , a righteous man of speciall note , Iob 19. 25. Most cleerly of this point did prophecie : His Creed in this behalfe he plainly wrote , That in his flesh , and with that very eye , He should see God , through his Almightie powre , Though wormes his earthly carkasse did deuowre . 74. 2. Mac. 7. Such was the hope of those renowned Iewes , Whose constancie deserueth admiration , Whom shamefully Antiochus did vse , And vrge them to haue done abomination : Vers. 9. With ioy they suffred death in bitter paine , Assur'd that God would rayse them vp againe . 75. What giues men courage in a cause that 's good , Expose their persons freely to all dangers : For King and Countries sake to spend their bloud , Vpon this earth accompt themselues as strangers : Heb. 11. But full assurance of those future ioyes , Whereto all earths delights compar'd , are toyes ? 76. Yea some , in life and manners most prophane , Who seeme to care for neither God , nor Deuils : With sodaine terrors often-times are tane , Their conscience them accusing of their euils : Confounded in their hearts , are forc't to tremble , Vnable longer closely to dissemble . 77. Eze. 37. Marke how an heape of bones dry'de-vp , and withred , With flesh and sinewes clothed were of new : In troupe like armed men on sodaine gathred , To shadow-out what lastly shall ensue , When as th' Arch-Angels trumpet shrill will sound , Reuel. 20. 13. The Sea yeild vp her dead , and so the ground . 78. 3. Esd. 2. 42. A noble Iewish Scribe , a man of fame , Belou'd of God , of Kings a fauorite : Reueal'd to him in vision sawe the same ; And for our comfort in his Booke doth write , The Resurrection full of state , and glorie , Obserue that parcell of his worthy storie . 79. A people numberlesse stood on Mount Sion , Praysing the Lord of heau'n in Psalmes , and Hymnes : One taller then the rest ( as 't were a Lion 'Mong lesser beasts ) much fairer in his limmes , Put crownes vpon their heads , palmes in their hands , Whereat this holy man amazed stands . 80. An Angell tells him , these men mortall were , Now are they cloth'd with immortalitie : The Sonne of God is he whom thou seest there , Which giues them crownes , and palmes for victorie : Sith they his name once manfully confest , Now in his Kingdome he esteemes them blest . 81. Chap. 14. 34. So in another place he giues vs warning , Our hearts and vnderstanding to reforme : ( A godly lesson , short , and worth the learning ) That after death we may escape the storme , Which downe to hell all wicked men will driue : For good and bad , must after death reuiue . 82. Esay 26. 19. The Sonne of Amos , Prophet most diuine , None spake of things to come more plaine then hee , As if they had beene set before his eyne : Hee sayes , that dead to life restor'd shall bee . A wake yee that in dust now lye , and sing : For as the watred herb , so shall you spring . 83. To thee sweet louely Daniel was reueal'd This mysterie , most needfull to be knowne : Thou laidst ope that , when others close were seal'd , Dan. 12. 2. This doctrine in our eares by thee is blowne : That such as sleepe in dust , shall yet awake , Some in great glorie , some in shame partake . 84. Note the vanitie of worldlings and E. pi●ur●s described . Wisd. 2. Well doth the wise King , wicked men vpbrayd , Their sottishnesse and foolerie deride : Who with the shortnesse of this life dismayd , And thinking on none other like beside ; Exhort each other here whilst they haue leasure , To spend their dayes in vanitie , and pleasure . 85. Edamus & Bibamus , cras moriemur . 1. Car. 15. Our time ( say they ) is short , and full of care , There 's no returning back ward from the graue : Our breath is as a smoke , or subtle aire , A small assurance of our life we haue : Our bodies breathlesse made , will soone be rotten , We and our names be sodenly forgotten . 86. Come on , let vs enioy the present time , Let 's frolike freely in our ages spring : Anoint our selues with costly oile , quaffe wine , Refresh our hearts with each delightfull thing . Let 's leaue some tokens to posteritie , Of our voluptuous sports , and jollitie . 87. Let 's grinde the poore , widdow , and the iust , Our will ( when we haue pow'r ) esteeme for Law : Looze all the reynes of libertie t' our lust : What need we of our Elders stand in awe ? From mirth and pleasures they seeke to restraine vs , In crabbed wayes of vertue they would traine vs . 88. Their ends to ours are meerly opposite , The wayes which we walke in , to them are grieuous : They thinke we all run wrong , themselues goe right , Of youthfull sports they studie to bereaue vs : They call themselues Gods children : let vs proue , What good in fine betides them by his loue . 89. These be the doctrines of the damned crew , Whom scornefully the Wise-man reprehendeth : From Epicures those principles they drew , Their life and precepts hereto solely tendeth , The Resurrection flatly to denie , Thinke soules and bodies both together die . 90. wisd. 5. But when in Hell these wretches feele their torment , Feare and amazement will their soules oppresse : Then all too late they shall begin repent , Their former error , vrg'd with griefe , confesse . Beholding blessed Saints , whom once they scorn'd , Sitting on seates , with glorious crownes adorn'd . 91. Loe , these be they whom whilom we derided , Their vertuous life , we reck'ned to be madnesse : Now God for them hath graciously prouided , Conuerted all their mourning into gladnesse . Woe worth the time , when we so grossely err'd , And our amendment totally deferr'd . 92. Would cursed Atheists , and loose Libertines ( Of whom so many in these dayes abound ) Oft ruminate and thinke on this by times , If in this point of Creed , their faith were sound , That soules and bodies in the Iudgement day , Shall both be ioyn'd , and ioyntly haue their pay : 93. A Simile . ( As friends or linked mates that mischiefe plot , In felonie , or treason doe conspire ; Conuicted of the crime , haue both one lot , Offending both alike , receaue like hire : Like fault , like forfeit Iustice doth decree , Shee 's blinde , and neuer can the parties see . ) 94. Then would not vice and lewdnesse be so rife , Nor plaine and honest dealing laid aside : More faith and loue would be t'wixt man and wife , Lesse surfetting in riot , and lesse pride . For either hope of heau'n , or feare of hell , Would force such as beleeue them , to liue well . 95. More proofes of the resurrection . By Christ , and his Apostles , and others . This Article ought not so strange to seeme , If former things with future we compare : Wee reade , some dead restor'd to life haue beene , Admit examples in this case be rare ; Yet if some haue beene so , why may not more ? And all in th' end , as well as few before ? 96. 3. Cor. 15. 19. If good men in this life alone haue hope , Aboue all else most wretched were their state : Gods Iustice therefore seemes to haue this scope , Both good and bad , once to remunerate . Luke 16. 25. Some here , with all delights haue full refection , Some others find it in the resurrection . 97. No man confessing God , doubts of his pow're . As all things by his Word , of nought were made ; So all againe in minute of an hou're , At will he can consume , and cause them fade : That thing which once was , he can soone restore , As well as make it , when 't was not afore . 98. The seed which plow'men burie in the earth , As doe our bodies in the graue , so dyes it : But dying , it receiues an other birth , Which death adornes it more , and dignifies it . So shall our bodies rise the very same , But much more glorious , and with greater fame . 99. Not as at first , their substance corruptible , But in a perfect state of incorruption : Not as at first , vile , base , and contemptible , But qualifi'de to honour , and promotion : Not weake , nor out ward helpes ( as lately ) needing , But sprit-like , wanting neither clothes , nor feeding . 100. Had Adam in his innocence remain'd , He should haue lacked much of that perfection ; Which God out of his goodnesse hath ordain'd , For Saints made glorious in the Resurrection : Though Epicures and damned Atheists scoffe it . Men fearing God , are most assured of it . 101. The members shall be like vnto their head , Phil. 3. 21● Our bodies chang'd , and fashion'd like to his : Not to returne againe where they were bred , But ioyn'd vnto their soules , to liue in blisse . As he vp to the heauens did ascend , All that be his , with him must thither wend. 102. A Comparison . What bootes it him , who combats for a crowne , His Riuall slaine , himselfe to lie in durance ? If hauing wonne the field , hee 's still kept downe , Of state and life eniouing small assurance ? Our Combatant o'recomming , takes the Crowne : Enioyes the Kingdome solely as his owne . 103. By rising from the dead , he death subdude , Else by his Passion nothing could we gaine : Yf still in graue his body had beene mew'd , Our faith and hope in him , had all beene vaine . Es. 25. 8. But death he swallow'd vp in victorie , As was foreshew'd vs by sure prophecie . 104. Act. 1. 3. Luke 24. 50. His resurrection prou'd so many wayes , By signes and tokens not to be denide , He liu'd among th' Apostles fortie dayes , Then taking them to Bethanie aside , He there bestow'd his blessing on th' eleuen , The Ascension of our Sauiour . And in their sight was carried vp to heauen . 105. A Simile . As when a father tendring in his heart , His children bred-vp euer in his sight : Enforc't from them in th' instant to depart , Bequeathes them for a all his right In what he hath , which may be for their good ; Iust so the case with Christs Apostles stood . 106. So they like Orphanes of a louing Sire , By some surprisall sodenly bereft . To manifest their loue and hearts desire , Stand gazing all amaz'd , as if by theft They had beene robd : Their eyes full fixtare are bent , The way through which that pretious bootie went . 107. Two holy Angels sodenly appeare Attir'd in white ; ( a badge of innocence ) Ye men ( quoth they ) why stand you gazing here ? This Iesus who from you is taken hence , In sort as you haue seene him vp ascend , So shall he come againe in the worlds end . 108. Ps. 68. and Eph. 4 And thus trimphant mounting vp on hie , ( As long before the sacred Psalmist chaunted ) Captiue with him he led Captiuitie , His foe men all were put to flight , and daunted . The Deuill , Death and Hell with all their traines , Like captiues fettred fast in Iron chaines . 109. No Romane in the highest of their state , So iustly triumpht on their canqu'red foes . They eftsoones lost , what formerly they gate , What Christ once wonne , he neuer more can lose . His seruants from those Tyrants he set free , Restor'd them to perpetuall libertie . 110. Now sits he seated in his heauenly Throne , Millions of Angells waiting at his becke : His foes to punish , to protect his owne , To cherish these , but giue to those a checke . Matth. 28. 18. All pow're is his in earth , and so in heauen , Both in his right , and by his father giuen . 111. Exhortations to suffer afflictions with Christ . Reu. 2. 10. By lawfull conquest he this honour wonne , His life a warfare was , so should ours bee : His souldiers must go on , as he begonne , Perseuer to the death , and neuer flee . For those a Crowne of glorie he prepar'd ▪ Such seruitors are sure of their reward . 112. A Comparison . Christ as a King sits on a high Theater . His men of Warre march alwayes in his sight : To know their valours he needs no Relater , But sees who turnes his backe , and who doth fight . Perseuerance makes men with his accepted , Back-sliders from his presence are reiected . 113. Another Comparison● . Who can behold his Sou'raigne without blushing , That placed at a breach to make defence : When th' enemie runs fiercely thither rushing , Then he for feare of danger flyeth thence ? Rom. 8. 18. No place shall he haue in the Church Triumphant , That proues false hearted in the Militant . 114. Hath not our Chiefetaine brauely led the way ? His sole example may suffice to moue vs . Sith he commandeth ought not we obey ? It 's for our good that he is pleas'd to proue vs . His seruants whom he tries , he keepes from falling , 2. Cor. 12. 8. 9. His Grace confirmes them surer in their calling . 115. All suffrings in this life , and all oppressings , How great soe're they seeme to flesh and bloud : Are but flea-bitings to those great rich blessings , ( If they by vs were rightly vnderstood ) Which he hoords vp , and keepes for vs in store , So we walke on , as he hath done before . 116. A Simile . Who would not gladly with his Prince partake , In deepest dangers of the shapest warres : Expose himselfe to perills for his sake , His bodie load with wounds , his face with scarres : Assur'd in fine the victorie to gaine , Rom. 8. 17. And fellow-heire with him in state to raigne : 117. Heb. 12. " Those Sonnes whom Fathers loue , they most correct : " And chastic'd children loue their parents best : " Our sonnes whom least we loue , we most neglect , " Best Souldiers to the hard'st assaults are prest . " A Generall makes like account of dastards , " As most reputed fathers doe of bastards . 118. Act. 14 23. In at heau'ns Gate no entrance can be found , But onely thorow many tribulations : The Saints that now liue there in glorie crown'd , Good men , and vertuous in their generations , From trialls and afflictions were not free . And if not they , then tell me why should wee ? 119. Aimile . What man is he that combats for a Crowne , But bends his thoughts directly to the prize ? When in the lists he once hath set him downe , No dangers doe appeare before his eyes : All hazards seeme but strawes cast in his way , He neuer lookes on them , but at the prey . 120. Heb. 12. Looke to our Faiths first Author and Perfector : The hope of made him despise all shame , Endure the Crosse : ( therein hee 's our director . ) Wee must , as he did , striue for that best game . Matth. 16. 24. ( What gaines the man who all the world should win , And lose his soule to Satan by his sin ? ) 121. Examples each-where in Gods booke abound , With precepts many thereunto exciting : Heb. 11. and 12 Among the ancient Hebrewes may be found A Catalogue , against Affictions fighting : A cloud of Witnesses for imitation , To make vs partners with them in saluation . 122. With sundry sorts of torments they were frighted , To change their Faith , and alter their Profession : Chap 12. 35. In midst thereof , if seemes they were delighted , Refusing when 't was offered them , remission : Of bitter crosses making their election , In hope to find a better resurrection . 123. With scornefull taunts and ieastings some were mock't , Made gazing-stocks for men at them to wonder : Impris'ned , then their braines with stones out-knock't , And others in their middles saw'd asunder : With fire and sword were put to execution , By cursed Caitiffes full of all pollution . 124. Some walk't about in skins of goates and sheepe , Of worldly comfort wholly destitute : In mountaines , dennes , and hollow caues did keepe , Assur'd by faith , that God would retribute , Rewarding those who wrongfully did suffer , And plaguing them that iniuries doe offer . 125. Of Christian Martyrs stranger things are told , Whilst Romane heathnish Tyrants proudly swaid That crushing Scepter : Each sort young and old , The ancient Matrone , and the tender Maid , Endured all that tyrants could inuent , Yet taking comfort in their punishment . 126. Of Christs comming to Iudgement in his glorie . 2. Pet. 3. They knew their Lord in glorie would returne , That th' heau'ns which are ( like smoke ) should passe away : That th' earth with all the workes therein must burne , At his appearance in the later day : A better place for them was kept in store , Where they should taste of paine and griefe no more . 127. Mala. 4. That wicked men which did them vexe and trouble , Puft-vp in pride , against Gods people swelling : In that great Day shall be consum'd like stubble , And euermore in Hell to haue their dwelling : To weepe and gnash their teeth through cold and heat : To freeze , yet frying grieuously to sweat . 128. Reu. 6. and Math. 24. 36. That Day at vnawares shall ouer-take them , As in the time when Noah built the Arke : Then sodaine feare and dread shall sorely shake them , They 'll seeke to hide in caues , and corners darke ; Desire the rocks and mountaines them to couer . There from the Iudges face vnseene to houer . 129. But none out of his presence may abide Reu. 1. 7. All eyes must needes behold , and on him looke , Yea th' eyes of him who pierc't his pretious side : Each one shall haue his iudgement by a booke , His Conscience wherein his deeds are writ , The same must him condemne , or else acquit . 130. How can a worldling wallowing in his vice , Addicted all to sensualitie , Making this Earth his onely Paradise , Who neuer did one deed of pietie . Thinke on that day , and not resolue t' amend , Or in dispaire , his wretched life to end ? 131. Matth. 25. 41. Their wicked workes in order shall be cited , What ill they did , what good they left vndone : Thus standing of those crimes at barre indited , The sentence of the Iudge they 'll seeke to shunne : But proofes against them pregnant will appeare , So then their finall Iudgement they shall heare . 132. The heauy sentence against the damned , at the last Iudgement . Goe hence ye cursed to eternall fire , For damned diuells , and their Angels kindled : With them for euer to receaue your hyre . Thus in a moment out they shall be singled , Thrust downe into the pit of endlesse paine , From whence all hope of comming out is vaine . 133. A Comparison . Who hath beene present at Assize or Sessions , With heed vpon the pris'ners cast his eyes : Men charged with grosse crimes , and fowle oppressions , With treasons , murthers , thefts , and robberies : All capitall offences by iust rigour , If countries lawes be left to haue their vigour . 134. To one , the Prince himselfe a pardon brings , Leaues others to the Iustice of the Land : Note how that one cheeres vp himselfe and sings , The rest all heartlesse like dumbe Idols stand . Yet much more horrour shall possesse their heart , Who from that barre must downe to hell depart . 135. Ther Atheists with Idolaters shall meet . Loose Libertines and Epicures ioyne hands : Arch-heretickes each other sowrly greet , All linked fast in Iron chaines and bands : The thought whereof would driue to desperation , Men lacking helpes of ghostly consolation . 136. Ther 's then no time of pardon , or of grace , 'T wil be too late to thinke vpon repenting : Mercie is fled , and Iustice come in place , The Iudge implacable with out relenting . Fierce fiends , the Iaylers , 'pointed to torment , On rigour with extremitie all bent . 137. Atwo-fold punishment augments their anguish , Poena sensus . Poena damni . The sense of hellish paines , is but the least : Losse of heau'ns ioyes constraines them fret and languish , Hereby their torments chiefly are encreas't . Their enuie at the others blessed state , Makes them both God , and all his Saints to hate . 138. The ioyfull and comfortable speech of our Sauiour to the Elect , at that day . Then shall the godly triumph and reioyce , Beholding Christ their Lord in Maiestie : Encourag'd with that comfortable voyce , Where with lowd in their hearing he will cry , Come blessed Children of my heauenly father , All you into my Kingdome I will gather . 139. For you it was prepared longagoe , A gift of God , no purchase of your owne : Like gracious children you haue liued so , Such workes of mercie on my members showne , That now your vertuous deeds shal be rewarded , Your selues from Satans clawes securely guarded , 140. M●… . 9. 41. One cup of water for my sake bestow'd , ( A gift of slender value in its kind . ) If that from faith and charitie it flow'd , Shall neuer faile a recompenee to find . To clothe the naked , hungry folke to feed , Are workes for which the donour hath his meed . 141. Come fellow-heires , the Crowne with meinherit : ( For you with my heart-bloud I dearly bought it . ) Rom. 6. 23. Receaue it as my gift , not as your merit ; 'T was offred all , but godlesse men ne're sought it . Come you my Sheepe , here by my right side stand , Let Goates withdraw themselues to the left hand . 142. Matth. 25. You good and faithfull seruants enter in , Be partners with your Master in his pleasures : Sith you in smaller things haue trustie beene , I set before you all my heauenly treasures : Take euery one as much as may content you , Your fulnesse onely , nothing else , shall stint you . 143. Though some haue had siue talents , some but twaine , And like good Stewards frugally imploy'd them : Sith either sort haue vs'd them to my gaine , Not closely for their owne behoofe enioy'd them : Both haue their hire , yet not in equall ranke , Such as best doe , the better is their thanke . 144. Kings , Princes , Prophets , Prelates , Magistrates , Who had your places high aboue the rest : Chiefe men in Church , in Kingdomes , and in States , Who in your seu'rall callings did your best . More then the lesser Starres your light shall shine , Your seates be placed neerer vnto mine . 145. You nursing Fathers to the Church my Spowse , Her childrens Patrones , and he Faiths Defenders : You that ( when Tyrants rag'd , and bent their browes ) Maintayn'd her Rights against all false Pretenders : You must excell in her triumphant state , As in her militant you did of late . 146. The Authour to his Patrone . ( Loe you ( Great Prince ) ioynt with your Royall Sire , Partaker in these heau'nly benedictions , Ought boldly to goe on , and not retire : Though passing thorough manifold afflictions , Maintayne Gods Cause , then God will you defend , And richly recompence you in the end . ) 147. You painfull Pastors , Preachers of Gods Word , Who in my warfare stoutly did aduenter , Heb. 4 12. Reuel. 19. 15. Still fighting with that sharpe-two-edged Sword , Which through the soule and spright doth quickly enter , Whose chiefe endeuour was , mens soules to winne , To set vp vertue , and to beat downe sinne : 148. Whose liues and doctrine fairely did agree , Who practis'd that your selues , which you taught others : Whose faith brought forth good fruits aboundantly , Who liu'd in loue and concord with your brothers : Among the blessed Angels rest you heere , Belou'd of mee , and vnto them most deere . 149. Come all at once that did True Faith embrace , Matth. 5. 16. Whose shining workes redounded to my glorie : Now in my heau'nly Kingdome take your place , Where you shall ioy , and neuer more be sorie . 2. Tim. 4. 7. 8. The battell 's ended , all our foes cast downe , Of euerlasting life enioy the Crowne . 150. The Authour concludeth , and craueth pardon for his ' lowly stile , vpon so loftie a subiect . Thus on a loftie Theame in lowly straine , A silly Shepherd countrie Carolls sings : Asubiect fitter for a purer braine , Or for a Muse borne-vp with nimbler wings . Ours waxen beene : so fearing they would frie , Shee keepes below , and durst not soare too hie . 151. High mysteries ( whereof this Theame hath store ) With reuerence and silence shee omitteth : Singing of what shee knowes , and of no more , Her Rimes vnto her vnderstanding fitteth . Affects to be perspicuous and plaine , Shunning of purpose an heroike vaine .

FINIS . Soli Deo Trino & Vni , Omnis laus , honor , & gloria in aternum .