Three treatises The pearle of the gospell, The pilgrims profession: and A glasse for gentlewomen to dress themselues by. To which is added A short introduction to the worthy receiuing of the Lords supper. By Thomas Taylor, Doctor of Diuinity, and late preacher of Aldermanbury Church in London. Taylor, Thomas, 1576-1632. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A13561 of text S113869 in the English Short Title Catalog (STC 23856). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 230 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 133 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A13561 STC 23856 ESTC S113869 99849098 99849098 14231 2264197682

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Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A13561) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 14231) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1475-1640 ; 1467:08) Three treatises The pearle of the gospell, The pilgrims profession: and A glasse for gentlewomen to dress themselues by. To which is added A short introduction to the worthy receiuing of the Lords supper. By Thomas Taylor, Doctor of Diuinity, and late preacher of Aldermanbury Church in London. Taylor, Thomas, 1576-1632. Taylor, Thomas, 1576-1632. Pearle of the gospell. aut Taylor, Thomas, 1576-1632. Pilgrims profession. aut Gunter, H. Taylor, Thomas, 1576-1632. Glasse for gentlewomen to dresse themselves by. aut Taylor, Thomas, 1576-1632. Short introduction to the worthy receiving of the Lords Supper. aut [12], 98; [6], 92, [2]; [2], 26; [2], 14 p. Printed by I. B[eale] for Iohn Bartlet, at the gilt Cup in Cheaq-side [sic], London : 1633. Printer's name from STC. "The pearle of the gospell", "The pilgrims profession" (which is signed "H.G." i.e. H. Gunter), "A glass for gentlewomen to dresse themselues by" and "A short introduction to the worthy receiuing of the Lords Supper" have separate dated title pages. Reproduction of the original in the Union Theological Seminary (New York, N.Y.). Library. eng eebo Three treatises: The pearle of the gospell, The pilgrims profession: and A glasse for gentlewomen to dresse themselues by. To which is added A short i Taylor, Thomas, 1633 266 43016 181 0 0 0 0 0 42.08 D The rate of 42.08 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the D category of texts with between 35 and 100 defects per 10,000 words. 2004-07 Assigned for keying and markup 2004-07 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2004-08 Sampled and proofread 2004-08 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2004-10 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

Three Treatises : THE PEARLE OF the GOSPELL , THE PILGRIMS PROFESSION : AND A Glasse for Gentlewomen to dresse themselues by . To which is added A short Introduction to the worthy receiuing of the Lords Supper .

By Thomas Taylor , Doctor in Diuinity , and late Preacher of Aldermanbury Church in London .

LONDON : Printed by I. B. for Iohn Bartlet , at the gilt Cup in Cheap-side . 1633.

THE PEARLE of the Gospell : OR , Jewell Euangelicall . 1 Diligently sought 2 Ioyfully found 3 Dearely bought by the wise Merchant .

Infolded in Christs Parable AND Unfolded by the Application of Thomas Taylor , Doctor in Diuinity , and late Preacher of Aldermanbury Church in London .

LONDON : Printed by I. B. for Iohn Bartlet , at the signe of the gilt Cup in Cheap-side . 1633.

TO THE RIGHT WORSHIPFVLL , Mistris Elizabeth Backus , Wife to Master Samuel Backus Esquire , and Justice of Peace : And to her three vertuous and religious daughters , Mris. Mary Standen , wife to Mr. Standen , Esquire , and Iustice of the Peace ; Mris. Flower Backus , wife of Mr. Iohn Backus , Esquire ; and Mris. Elizabeth Bellingham , wife to Mr. Richard Bellingham , Esquire ; Grace and Peace from the Fountaine . Right Worshipfull ,

PEarles are small in quantitie , but great in their quality , and smaller often in the weight than in their worth ▪ such an one is this which I haue presented vnto you as a token of my due respect and vnfained loue to your selfe , and the Church in your familie . Pearles from earth fit not common persons ; but this from heauen belongeth to al who meane to partake in the common saluation . As this Pearle is yours in the common right of Saints , so this offer of it is yours by a second and more peculiar right , as who first helped it out of the darke into this light . Your earnest and often desires of some of the written notes of this Treatise , drew from me a promise the thought of the paiment whereof , was my first thought of this publication . And now this Pearle being yours , weare it as your chiefe ornament , the price of which ra●seth your owne price and recko●ing in the eyes of God and good men , aboue the Carbuncles and Rubies . Pro. 30. 10 Other ornaments seuered from this , are but beautifull vanities . The largest reuenues , the richest estates , the most ample treasures , the costliest cabinets , filled with pearles and precious stones , sets the person wanting this pearle , in no higher reckoning than common flints , or other contemptible stones , with him to whom the Nations are but as the drop of a bucket , Isa. 40 ▪ 15 , or as the dust of a ballance . So of all naturall endowments , we may compare them ( as Salomon doth beantie ) to a ring of Gold , which outwardly commendeth the wearer ; But the iewell of this ring is this pearle of the Gospell , or the life of the Gospell , in the life of the Gospoller . Let this Iewell be lost once , or missing , the ring may be gilded and glistering without , but the touchstone and triall will finde that it was neuer gold . And because I know that you haue no greater ioy than to see your children walke in the truth , 3 Ihh. 4. I am assured , you will gladly afford them an equall share with you in this so precious a commodity , and therefore haue I taken them into this dedication . Blessed are you that haue your quiuer full of such louely arrowes . Psa. 127. 5. Of the vertuous woman is said , Pro. 31. 21. Her children praise her . Were this a verbal praise of the mouth , children might seeme testes e sinu , and the spreaders of the partiall praises of their mother ; but this is an astuall and solid commendation , and vnsuspected , when the shining vertues of the feare of God , sobrietie , and modest conuersation of children , proclaime the grace , pietie , and care of the mothers education . Among that rich store of earthly comforts , with which God hath beset you , you haue none co●parablie gracefull to this , if you except your sweet societie with your graue and religious husband .

And now to you three daughters , worthy of such a Mother : When I call to remembrance the vnfained faith , which dwelt , & yet dwelleth in your Grand-mother ( whose reuerend old age is crowned with an ancient and honorable profession and practice of holy Religion aboue any I know in these parts ) and in your deare mother ; and am assured it dwelleth in you also , I could not but put you in remembrance , to stirre vp the gift of God that is in you : And exhort you , as you haue happily begun , to hold on in the way of grace , and see that your workes be more at last than at first . God hath aduanced you into the fellowship of religious and compleat Gentlemen your husbands , to faire estates and portions in this world , but especially to a sure expectation hereafter , by meanes of your inseparable coniunction to your Head and Husband Iesus Christ . You must now aduance him who hath thus aduanced you , and love him for himselfe , who hath loued you in his Sonne : and hold euery new sense of mercy , a new spurre and prouocation vnto dutie . In the way and pace in which you goe , I must acknowledge I passe and slip an opportunitie , by passing ouer in silence so many commendable parts in you all , which make you worthy to be praised among women fearing God . Pro. 31. 30 But my praises can . lift you no higher than your owne vertues doe , whose diligent paines in gaining knowledge of holy things , conscionable practice of sound religion , charitable refreshing of the poore members of Christ , and whose humble , sober , wise , modest , and louely carriage , ( especially in these loose dayes ) are as so many tongues , and mouthes , and pens ( without mine ) to publish your due praises : and knowing that you will be better pleased , that I turne my praises into praiers , for your progresse and prosperitie in the good way , I shall endeuour to supplie that want this way , heartily commending you to the power of his grace , who onely can further inrich you with the Pearle of the Gospell : who also giue you with the new yeare , new supplies of all holy graces , till the new man bee compleat in Iesus Christ , in whom I rest

Your Worships to be vsed for your furtherance in the faith , THO. TAYLOR .
THE PEARLE OF the GOSPEL , MATTH. 13. 45.

The Kingdome of heauen is like vnto a Merchant man that seeketh good pearles .

Who hauing found a pearle of great price , went and sold all that he had , and bought it .

OVr Lord Iesus comming from the bosome of the Father , to reueale the mystery hid from the beginning of the world , spent the whole time of his ministerie in discouering to the Church , the excellency , the vtility , and the necessity of that blessed and sauing truth , the daughter of eternity , without which the whole world had lien in perpetual death and darknesse .

This parable among many , The scope of this Parable . and aboue many , manifests , that how base soeuer and vile the things of God seeme to naturall men , yet there is such worth , vertue , price and beauty in them , as the godly man , who onely can discerne them , will exchange all hee hath with them , yea and part with all the world before hee will par● with them .

In which Parable conside● foure things : Foure parts of the Text. 1. What is this kingdome 〈◊〉 heauen . 2. What is this Pearle , and th● goodnesse of it . 3. Who is this Merchant ma● 4. What are his actions , nam●ly , three . 1. He seeketh good pearles . 2. He findeth a pearle of great price . 3. He sold all to buy it . For the first .

By the kingdome of heauen , What the kingdome of heauen is not . is not meant the blessed estate of the Church triumphant in heaheauen : as in MATTH. 5. 10. Yours it the kingdome of heauen .

Nor the Church militant and visible : as in MATTH. 13. 47. which is like a net cast into the Sea .

Nor the time of grace vnder Christ exhibited to preach in his owne person : MATTH. 3. 3. For the kingdome is at hand .

Nor the estate of grace , wherin the elect bee iustified by faith , and are lead forward by grace , toward the kingdome of heauen : as MAT. 13. 51. The kingdome of heauen is like a graine of mustard-seed .

Nor the kingdome of power , by which God in heauen as a King gouerneth al the world , and euery particular creature in it .

But by it is meant the preaching and publishing of the Gospel , What it is , called here , 1. A Kingdome . 2. A Kingdome of Heauen .

A Kingdome , 1. Why a kingdome 3. Reasons for three reasons :

1. Because the doctrine of the Gospel bringeth vs to Christ , that hee as a King may reigne in vs : hence it is called , The Gospel of the kingdome , MAT. 4. 23.

2. Because it is a powerfull meanes ordained by God , to pull vs out of the kingdome of darknesse , and translate vs to the kingdome of his deare Sonne , Coloss 1. 13. and the Apostle calleth it , The power of God to saluation , Ro. 1. 16.

3. Because God hath set it apart , not onely to erect vp the kingdome of God within vs , which standeth in inward righteousnesse , peace of conscience , the ioy of the holy Ghost , ROM. 14. 17. but also to lead vs thorow to the participation of that kingdome of glory reserued in heauen for vs .

Secondly , Why of heauen . of heauen .

1. Because of Distinction from earthly kingdomes : it preacheth Christ a King ; but withall , that his kingdom is not of this world : hee ruleth not after a temporall manner , but sitteth as King in the spirits of his subiects , and ruleth the conscience , and holdeth vp this scepter of his kingdome in the hearts of men , so as this kingdome is heauenly and spirituall .

2. For Exaltation and aduancement , lifting it vp aboue all that earthly kingdomes can afford , for worth and excellency : and so to stirre vp our affections , and pull our eyes toward it ; the very name of it should rauish vs , and commend the priuileges of the Gospell vnto vs .

3. For Admonition and caution that the subiects of this kingdome should receiu● th●ir lawes from heauen , and cont●mning earth and ●arthly things , should aspire , meditate , & frame themselues to heauenly conuersation : this very title of the Gospell should bee of power to lift vs aboue the earth .

Now what is meant by this pearle ? By the pearle is meant , What is meant by the Pearle 1. The happy estate of grace here . 2. The happy estate of glory hereafter .

Of which latter , see REV. 21. 21. the foundations of the new Ierusalem were garnished with all manner of precious stones ; Iasper , Saphir , Chalcedon , and the twelue gates were twelue pearles , &c.

But here it signifieth the happy estate of grace , in which wee are still seeking , and purchasing the pearle , and the good things of the Gospell , as namely , the glad tidings of it ; the offer of Christ with his merits ; Good things of the Gospel resemble a Pearle in fiue things 1. In value and worth the gift gift of faith , iustification , sanctification ; and these are called a pearle for sundry reasons :

1. For the value and worth of them , which passe all other treasures in excellencie and estimation . As siluer is beyond brasse , and gold beyond siluer , so pearles are beyond gold , and the good things of the Gospell beyond the most precious pea●les : so saith SALOMON , PROV. 3. 14 , 15. The merchacaise of wisedome is better than the merchandise of siluer ; the reuenue of it is b●tter than that of gold ; it is more precious than pearles , and all thou canst desire are not comparable to it . What a world of wealth both spirituall and heauenly , is manifested by the Gospell , which exhibiteth Christ , in whom are all treasures of grace and glory ? What a rich store-house is Christ himselfe ? the least drop of whose bloud was more precious than all the world ? How preci●us are all his merits , and plentifull for redemption ? What a good thing , and precious grace is faith , which storeth a man with all the good things of heauen ? How precious is the doctrin of saluation , which must not bee cast to swine ; as MAT. 7. 6. Well doth our Sauiour therefore call this a pearle of Great price ; for the most precious pearles in regard of these good things of the Gospell , are but dust and clay .

2. For the rarenesse . 2. In rarenesse . Pearles are not so common as pibbles , nor in the hands of common and ordinary men ; but fit for Princes and great personages ; common men know them not , nor the price , nor the vse of them : euen so the good things of the Gospell are not knowne or obuious to euery one , but Hidden mysteries , vnknowne to the most part of the world , and a wisedome reuealed to Babes . And as Pearls are easily contemned of vnskilfull persons , who are ignorant of their price and vse : so the mysteries of the Gospell ; offer them to the Gentiles , they esteeme them Foolishnesse : 1 Cor. 1. 23 to the Iewes they are as a Scandall : Christ crucified , is the very scorne of the world ; onely a few beleeuers aduanced to bee Kings and Priests to God , know the price of this commodity , Reu. 1. 5. and lay out for it .

3. In regard of the hidden vertue and secret excellencie of them . 3 For hidden vertue ▪ The body and quantity of a Pearle is small , but the vertue and power of it great : so the Gospell seemeth small , and contemptible , but it is the Power of God to saluation : Rom. 1. 16. and faith in the Gospell draweth vertue from Christ to open blinde eyes ; to cure all spirituall diseases , to raise from death in sinne ; to driue away deuils , and breake the force of temptation : all the Pearles betwixt heauen and earth haue not such power ; onely faith as small as a graine of mustard-seed , draweth vertue from Christ : and grace , though it be neuer so little ( if sound ) it is of power to open blinde eyes , and to carry the Saints along vnto their saluation .

4. In regard of their excellent qualities , Foure qualities of a ric● Pearl ▪ as purity , 1. Brightnesse . and cleerenesse , 2. Firmnes ▪ and orient brightnesse : 3. Greatnesse . so The Law of the Lord is pure , 4. Roundnesse . PSAL. 19. The doctrine of grace , for the brightnesse and perspi●●ity of it , is as a resplendent gemme , which draweth all eyes to it . Secondly , in Pearles is Firmnesse and strength ; so hard and firme are some of them as fire consumeth them not , nor much strength can breake them : euen so firme and sure are the promises of the Gospell ; 2. Cor. 1 ▪ 2 all of them are Yea and Amen : fire no● water , prosperity nor aduersity can conquer them : so firme is sauing grace , 2 Tim 3. last . which can neuer be shaken out of the hart . Thirdly , their Magnitude and greatnesse ; so great is the mystery of godlinesse ; amongst all Gods secrets , there is none so great , as this of mans redemption : in the beholding of which , the Angels cannot yet satisfie themselues , 1 PET. 1. 12. Fourthly , Equality and roundnesse much commend pearles . The Gospell is offered to all alike , to beleeuers and vnbeleeuers ; to masters and servants , rich and poore : it is no fault of the Gospell , if thou beest not saued by it .

5. In regard of their effects : 5. For the effects , which are three . Pearles supply our needs at all seasons ; 1. To inrich . and therefore NONIVS a Senator of Rome , persecuted by M. ANTONIVS , prouided onely for himselfe an Vnion of inestimable price , to carry with him in his flight , by which alone he was rich enough : So the Gospell supplyeth all our wants ; Christ in the Gospell supplyeth vs all things , prouideth for vs bread of life , and water of life , and garments of his owne righteousnesse ; hee payeth all our debts , inricheth vs with inestimable treasures , and naked Christ is wealth enough .

Secondly , 2. To adorne . Pearles serue for ornament , and honour , and shew a man to bee in dignity : some hang them in their eares ; some hang them in golden chaines vpon their brests ; some set them in gold , and weare them on their fingers : So the Gospell is the honour and ornament of a Christian , and maketh vp all his indignities and wrongs : while he hangeth it on his eare , by diligent and carefull hearing : while he fastneth this Vnion , and Pearle , and maketh it shine by faith in his heart● and while hee weareth it as a ring on his finger , by conscionable practise of the commandements of the Gospell ; which is , to beleeue in the Sonne of God , and loue one another ; this man is honoured of God and all his Saints .

Thirdly , Thirdly ; to cure & comfort . many Pearles are of great vse , and effect , to preuent poyson , to preserue naturall strength , and recouer it decayed : many of them great Cordials , and others great comforters of the principall vitall parts of man .

So the Gospell and good of it preserue the soule from the poyson of sinne , preserueth supernaturall strength , restoreth and reneweth strength of grace decayed ; is the onely heauenly Cordiall to comfort the heart in gripes of temptation , and accusation : it is the comforter in all afflictions ; Psa. 119. 92 that a Christian may say of of it as Dauid of the Law , Had not my comfort beene in thy law , I had perished long agoe in my trouble .

Labour then to see the worth and price of the Gospell , Vse 1. that with Christ thou mayest preferre this Pearle of the Kingdome , aboue all Pearles and Kingdomes , and value this Pearle of grace aboue all naturall Pearles .

Our Sauiour would haue vs see how carnall wee are , while such supernaturall treasures are so slightly accounted , and at so little and low a rate with vs . How carnall is it to preferre other Pearles which are from earth , or sea , before this Pearle which only is from heauen ? How vnwise are wee , so highly to value the Pearles whose matter is dust and slime , and whose beauty is by the Sunne-beames included : and contemne the Pearle , the matter of which is the eternall loue of God by Iesus Christ : and the beauty , the light and grace of Christ the Sunne of righteousnesse , which for the orient brightnesse excelleth the Sunne shining in his strength .

Beside , neuer shall this Pearle be purchased before it be prized ; nor euer be of vse to vs vntill we haue purchased it : as a Pearle keepeth its shine , beauty , and vertue , wrapped vp in the darkenesse and bowels of the earth ; but no whit inricheth him that findeth it not .

Also let vs place our riches in the Gospell , Vse 2. which is so farre aboue Pearles , Place our riches in this Pearle as the substance is aboue the shadow : Pearles here doe but shadow forth the worth of grace , but there is no proportion betweene them in shining , vse , or beauty .

First , 1. The excellency of this Pearle aboue all other in fiue things because opinion setteth the price of the one ; but worth on the other : the true worth of the grace of the Gospell , heightneth it to him that can truly esteeme it .

Secondly , no Pearle can buy a graine of grace ; but grace may bring riches and Pearles ; hauing the promise of this life as well as of that which is to come .

Thirdly , no Pearle can auaile in the day of wrath : onely grace opposed to Gods displeasure stinteth it , PRO. 11. 4.

Fourthly , Pearles and treasures can no way further a mans saluation ; many wayes doe , and may hinder it : many for gaping after the world , lose their owne soules : but the wealth of the Gospell onely saueth soules , and there is no other meanes besides it .

Fiftly , Peales may make a man rich in this world , and adorne the outward man ; but not the inward : neither will they goe with vs hence to doe vs any good ; here we finde them , and here we leaue them . But the rich Pearle of the Gospell is indeed ours ; and maketh vs richest in heauen : Ioh. 6. 68. content thy selfe therefore with it as the blessed Disciple Peter , saying , Master , thou hast the words of eternall life , and whither shall we goe ? How haue the Saints esteemed and made grace their onely jewell and treasure ? Ps● . 119. 111. DAVID made the testimonie of God his Heritage , yea the ioy of his heart . EPH. 1. 7. The Apostle calleth it a Rich grace , and CHAP. 2. 7. The exceeding riches of his grace : and COL. 1. 17. which riches is Christ in you .

But men that seeke after grace are the poorest men , meane , and vnprosperous in the world .

No , they are the richest men , though neuer so meane in the world , they haue many wayes to bee rich , which the worldling wanteth . They haue a rich knowledge , 1 Cor. 1. 27. they haue faith a rich commodity , more precious than gold that perisheth , 1 Pet. 1 : 7. they haue Christ liuing in them and dwelling in them ; they haue prayer a Rich store-house ; they haue title , and are indeed heires of the Kingdome of Heauen . And suppose they bee afflicted , reiected , and scorned amongst men ; yet can they with MOSES , account the rebukes of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt , HEB. 11. 46. Oh what a world of sweet content lodgeth in the heart with Christ ? in want of all things he hath all things . If one aske a Christian , What is thy Country ? he may answer , Christ and his Countrey . What is thy kindred ? ANS. Christ is my kindred . MAT. 12. 50. Behold my mother , and my brethren , and my sisters . What is thy wealth and honour ? ANS. Gods Kingdome is mine , yea God himselfe : he is al things to me , here and hereafter .

Men cast vp their heads , and looke aloft , if they bee Lords of some small Manour , or possession : but to be a King or Prince of a peece of earth , lifteth them in their conceits aboue the tops of the clouds : But a poore Christian is better contented with poore and naked Christ , than with all such high and stately vanity .

We must also doe for the Gospell as men will doe for pearles and treasures , Vse 3. take paines to purcha●● and obtaine it . Do for the Gospell as men do for Peat●es .

1. What a deale of paines and travell doe men take to Faires and Markets , 1. Painfulnesse to procure it . in hope of a little profit , of which yet they may be disappointed : but refuse all cost , and trauell for the Gospell ? Oh that men would heare the call of the Gospell , and seeke for Faith above silver , and for Grace above fine gold ; happy is the man that findeth the merchandise of grace and the commodity of faith , which is above all commodities : alas , that such precious wares should lie neglected , and never asked after , nay refused and thrust off , when God maketh offer to thrust the same upon us ; while for every trifle we want , for every shoo-string , we can inquire , aske , and pray for : but content our selves with goods wanting goodnes , & with a full chest of siluer , or gold ; and a heart empty of God and his grace : woe to so rich a begger ; and vnhappy is that man that hath onely not purchased what was onely worth purchasing .

2. Locke vp the doctrine and promises of the Gospel in faithful hearts and memories . 2. Carfully locke it up in thy surest chest . A man that hath a Iewel of inestimable price will be sure to locke it vp in the surest chest he hath ; How carefull then should wee bee of safe keeping the instructions of Gods word ? which we can lightly reiect ; and will be more carefull to keep the least peece of siluer that euer we saw coined , than the most inualuable treasure of Gods word that euer we hard preached ? But Mar● pondred Christs words , and laid them vp in the closet of her heart .

Againe , Vse 4. this tends to comfort poore Christians . Comfort to poore Christians Thou art poore & despised in the world ; but God hath honored thee with a Pearle , worth al the Kings ransoms in the world . Thou art a loser in the world , the profits of it flye from thee , into other mens hands ; But 2 Cor. 6. 10. As poore , and yet making rich ; as hauing nothing , and yet possessing all things . Thou losest thy name , goods , and liberty ; but this Pearle remaineth with thee in al estates ; thou art neuer so poore as thou seemest , nor such a loser as the world takes thee for : DAVID found the word his comfort in trouble , & that kept him from perishing : yea , the statutes were his songs in the time of his pilgrimage , PSA. 119. 50. 54.

This of the second thing .

3 Who is the Merchant ?

Every Christian man and woman , who are in the way to heauen ; Who the Merchant is . and in respect of their Trade of Christianity , are compared to the Merchant , PRO. 3. 14. for the merchandise of wisedome is better than the merchandise of siluer , and the gaine thereof is better than gold . Luk. 19. 13. And he called his ten seruants , and deliuered them ten peeces of money , and said vnto them , Occupie this till I come . Christianity is a spirituall merchandising : Seuen differences betweene ciuill and spirituall merchandizing . I say Spirituall , to distinguish it from Ciuill ; neither is it altogether so like , but that there is much difference and dissimilitude betweene them : and the difference is in seuen things . 1. Persons :

1. In respect of persons : in ciuill society all must not be Merchants . The Politicians call Merchants , 〈…〉 that , is , the fect of the body politicke ; both to carry out needlesse commodities into forraine parts , and by exchange to bring in more and other necessaries for them : Now all the body must not bee a foot ; nor all the members of a naturall body haue the same function . But in this mysticall body it is farre otherwayes : for here euery Christian ought to bee a Merchant , LVK. 19. 13. seeing euery Christian man hath receiued some Talents of his Lord to traffique with ; and charge also to trade , and occupy with them till he come : And whereas in ciuill dealings , Ministers are excepted and prohibited , that they must neither make merchandise of the Word , nor intangle themselues with the affaires of this life ; 2 Tim. 2. 4. No man that warreth intangleth himselfe with the affaires of this life , because he should please him that hath chosen him to be a souldier ; These are in this supernaturall trading the chiefe Merchants , of whom men must expect , and inquire of these chiefe and heauenly commodities .

Secondly , in respect of the commodities ; Ciuill Merchants doe onely deale in profits from earth , and for earth : in earth are they gotten , and in the earth are they left ; but these spirituall Merchants deal● in commodities farther fetcht , namely from heauen , and for heauen ; not left by vs , nor leauing vs , till we get into heauen ; the Apostle calleth them , Heauenly things in Christ .

Thirdly , in regard of the manner of obtaining them , they doe much differ : these are often gotten by indirect meanes ; as by false weights , measures , counterfeit money , lyes , and oathes ; and this ciuill merchandising is one of the Arts , or Trades , that may bee well or ill vsed : But in spirituall and supernaturall trading , the Merchant aduanceth his estate by true and iust meanes onely : euery thing is weighed out , and taken in by the weights of the Sanctuary , sealed by God himselfe for true and iust ; they are people of a Pure language ; casting deceit out of their mouthes : here they are not crafty Merchants to deceiue their brethren , but true Nathaniels in whom there is no guile .

Fourthly , Fourthly , effects . in regard of the effects ; Ciuill trading oft times calleth men from the worship of God , and hindreth it : LVK. 14. 18 , 19. wee may read of three sorts that refused to come to the supper , two of them were Merchants ; the one had bought a Farme , and the other fiue yoake of oxen , and these must bee excused : But this euer furthereth it ; for no man can attaine to the meanes of saluation ( which is this supernaturall merchandising ) but by such parts of Gods worship and mans duty , as the Lord hath appointed in his word .

Fifthly , Fifthly , meanes . in respect of necessary meanes to vphold and driue the trade withall : In ciuill trading , money is necessarium subsidium ; for when men needed not the commodities exchangeable , mony was inuented to preserue contracts ; without which the Merchant cannot compasse his commodities . But in supernatural traffick , the Merchant ●yeth without mony or money worth . Esa. 55. 1. Hoe , euerie one that thirsteth , come yee to the waters , and ye that haue no Siluer , come buy and eat : come ( I say ) and buy wine and milke without Siluer and without monie : Not the least of these commodities are to be valued by money , gold , pearls , and the desirable things of this life , PROV , 3. 14 , 15. for the merchandise thereof is better than siluer , or whatsoeuer men can deuise or desire besides it .

Sixthly , 6 Circumstances . in regard of circumstances of time and place .

For the time : 1. Of time Ciuill merchandising is to bee exercised on the six dayes , not on the Sabbath day . 13. Neh. 19 , 20. And when the gats of Ierusalem began to be dark , before the Sabbath , I commanded to shut the gates , and charged , ●hat they should not be opened till after the Sabbath : and some of my seruants set I at the gates , that there should be no burden brought in on the Sabbath day : So the chapmen and Merchants of all merchandise remained once or twice without Ierusalem .

But for supernaturall and spirituall trading , as all the six dayes are fit ; so the seuenth especially is the Lords mart or market , to furnish all his people with prouision for the whole weeke following .

And for the place : All places are not fit for ciuill marts and merchants ; but the principall prohibited place is the Church , the house of God : Matth. 21. 12. Iesus went into the Temple of God , and cast out all them that bought & sold in the Temple , & ouerthrew the tables of the mony changers , & the seats of them that sold Doues : Christ would not endure his Fathers house of prayer to be made a house of merchandise . But in spirituall trading , for heauen , all places are fit for Christian Merchants , who should goe no where but still be trading for grace : and continually either bee doing of good , or taking of good : But especially the house of God is the most proper place appointed , for the inriching of the heart , and increasing of the stocke of faith and knowledge , and of all graces .

So much for the dissimilitude betweene them : The similitude and resemblance betweene earthly and heauenly trading , standeth in fiue things Now the similitude and reason of this resemblance standeth in fiue thing :

1. A Merchant man is a man that dealeth in great & precious commodities ; The Greeke word is 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , not 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , the Merchant is no Pedler , nor chapman of small wares , nor taken vp in selling pins , or points , and toyes for babes : but tradeth for great things , for great bulks , 1 In greatnesse of the commodities . and quantities , for great sums , and dealeth in most rich commodities .

So the Christian Merchant carefull for heauen , aymeth not at the base profits of this life ; as siluer , gold , & such corruptible things : for these things are but sinall in his eye and contemptible , in respect of the businesse of iustification , of holinesse , grace , and glory . These are that one thing needful , L●k . 10. 4● . and that better part that taketh vp his thoughts and desires : such a rich Merchant was Dauid , Psa. 4. 7. Thou hast giuen me more ioy of heart than they hau● had when their wheat and their oyle did abound . Let other men peddle and barter for corne , wine , and oyle , the Christian Merchant hath a commodity beyond all this , in his eye : Psal. 4. 6. Lord lift vpon mee the light of thy countenance ; Such a Merchant was Zacheus ; Luk. 18. 8. when saluation was come to his house ; he cast away these pedling profits , faster than he gat them ; halfe he gaue to the poore , and the rest he reserued to restore fourefold . Phil. 3. 8.

Such a on was Paul , who counted al things losse & dung in comparison of Christ ; & to know the vertue of his death and resurrection . Such rich Merchants were the Martyrs ; who hauing heauen in their eie , esteemed their goods libertie , yea life it self not worth hauing in comparison therof . For as a man if he were as high as the Moone , would see the earth but as a pricke ; so he whose thoughts are in heauen , and his eyes on things that are aboue , within the veile ; esteemeth the earth but small , and despicable . For euen as the great light drowneth the lesser ; so the bright shining of the Sunne of righteousnesse , drowneth all the lesser candles & comforts of this present world .

Secondly , 2 In the skill of the commodity . there is likenesse in the skill of the commoditie hee dealeth in : for as a Merchant greatly aduanceth his estate , if he haue skill , and insight , what commodities are like to bee of the quickest returne : if he know and lay out for the best conditioned commodities of euery kind : So the Christian Merchant labouring for skill , knowledge , and sound iudgement in the matter of Religion , whereby he may be able to iudge aright of Doctrines deliuered , shall grow rich in knowledge , and to a great measure of faith , and full of Christian wisedome ; whence the Apostle , ( Phil. 1. 10. ) prayeth , that they may abound in all knowledge and iudgement to discerne things that differ : and thus they shall bee rich , and filled with the fruits of righteousnes , ver. 11.

And contrariwise , for want of this skill , a Merchant dealing for great bulkes , soone falleth into great losses : But especially the Ieweller or Lapidary by ignorance may soone ouerthrow his whole estate , in respect of many cheaters and couseners , who can notably counterfeit Pearles , and make themseeme very orient by false arts , and so put away at a great price a peece of a fish bone or shell , or some peece of painted glasse for rich Pearls and precious stones .

Euen so , many spirituall Merchants decay , and break for want of this skil , by meanes of many imposters & deceiuers , heretiks , false teachers , Apostates , Libertine Preachers , and the Popish guides , furnished with all arts to deceiue , as with wit and speech , & other insinuatiue faculties , that make offer of pibbles for pearls , and thrust vpon men for the true Pearle of Gods word , the glassie , & brickle conceits of mans brains ; which because they haue made to glister , and haue set a good colour on them , they hold at as high a rate as any Pearl can be valued ; and now many inconsiderate persons are taken with the beauty , profit , or some seeming pleasure , and so robbed and gulled of their soundnesse , for the present ; an● of their expectations and hopes hereafter . Now that wee may not be thus abused , let vs listen to those Apostolicall precepts : EPHES. 4. 14. Not to bee children , wauering and carried about with euery wind of Doctrine , by the decei● of men , and craftinesse whereby they lye in wait to deceiue : and in 1 IOH. 4. 1. Beleeue not euery spirit , but try the spirits whether they are of God : and , 1 THESS. 5. 21. Trye all things , and keepe that which is good .

Thirdly , 3. In conferring of their commodities . the similitude is in their conuersing and conferring one with another : Euery Merchant will bee speaking of his commodities ; he will make offer of his Pearles and wares of price , that he may put them off into other mens hands for his owne aduantage . So the Christian Merchant will be talking and conferring of this Pearle of the Gospell ; as in CANT. 5. 6. The Spouse sp●ndeth her daies in breathing out the prayses of Christ . A faithfull Christian cannot hide grace in a napkin , nor hold it so close to himselfe , but hee must communicate it , and make offers of it to others : Such good Merchants were the two Disciples going to Emmaus , conferring of Christ , whom Christ ioyned himselfe with , LVK. 24. 19. Such an one was Paul , offering the Pearle to Agrippa , and wishing all the people were such as he was except his bonds , ACT. 26. 29. And the reason is , whatsoeuer hee can communicate to another , is his owne cleare gaine : For this is the difference betweene the secular riches and spirituall : A worldly rich man is rich for himselfe onely , and the more he imparteth to others , the lesse is left for himselfe ; But he that is rich in God , is not onely rich in and for himselfe ; but these riches doe more inrich him by inriching others , than holding them to himselfe : and the more he communicateth , the more remaineth ; as the oyle in the cruse , and the meale in the barrel were not wasted with spending , but rather increased .

Fourthly , 4. The earnest desire of increasing their estate of both . in the earnest desire and endeauour of increasing wealth , they may bee fitly compared . The Merchant refuseth no paines or perill , no labour or danger , no cost or charge , no hazard by Sea or Land to purchase such commodities , as may yeeld him returne of profit and aduantage : But especially Lapidaries and Merchants , for Pearles , toyle themselues by many weary iournies , and voyages , into all lands and countryes ; and haue their factors lying abroad euery where to meet with Pearles and precious stones which are of greatest gaine and aduantage .

So the Christian Merchant hath an insatiable thirst and hunger after the good things of the Gospell ; and with vnweariable study and desire hee trauelleth to euery Mart , where this Pearl may be met withall : he apprehendeth all opportunities , frequenteth euery Sermon , waiteth at the gates of wisdome : Pro. 8. 34. he swalloweth easily matter of labour and charge , to become owner of the Pearle ; and he is instant in this painfull endeuour : for here it is not as in ciuil trading , wherin many Merchants hauing gotten money enough , giue vp their trade , and take their ease in the Country : but so long as there is any good comming in , he will be ready for it : and as the labor of the body bringeth thirst , so the labour of the soule increaseth thirst after grace . Besides that , grace is so sweet to a godly heart , as a Christian Merchant can neuer be satisfied , nor euer giue vp as hauing enough ; and as hee knoweth the streame from whence he sucketh , can neuer be drawne dry : so himselfe is euer in want of some good things , or at the least of some measure of it ; and is euer seeking the supple of the same .

Fifthly , they agree in the care of preseruing , and safe keeping the Pearls , and wealth gotten : the Merchant doth know hee is in continuall danger of theeues and robbers ; and that the more precious the commodities bee , the more eagerly they are assaulted : and himselfe for them often set vpon ; sometimes with hazard , sometimes with losse of goods , and life it selfe : now hee is so much the more carefull and watchfull to barre , and locke vp in the surest and strongest places his richest commodities .

So the Christian Merchants are in continuall chase and pursuit by Satan ; seducers , hereticks , false teachers , tyrants , and al prophane ones in the world ; Besides their owne inbred rebellion and lusts , which fight against their owne soules .

Now then all these lye in wait so much more diligently , as the wealth is more precious than any other , to rob these Merchants , not of siluer or gold , but of faith and hope , and all their graces , the least of which is much more precious than gold , or the most precious pearles that euer lay hid in the bowels of the earth : Yea , themselues are so furiously assaulted , as hardly they may escape with goods or life , as we may see in Christ himselfe , and in the Martyrs , who for his sake were bereaued , and stripped of all outward comforts of life , and life it selfe .

Hence the wise Christian Merchant carefully fenceth himselfe with Gods feare : Secondly , standeth on his ground and guard of faith : Thirdly , lo●keth vp his graces and the Word in his heart : Fourthly , keepeth watches with God morning and euening in holy prayer and prayses : Fifthly , with Christian fortude and armour , he maintaineth the measure of grace receiued : By all which meanes he not only disappointeth the enemy of his prey , Non minor est virtus , quam quaerere , parta ●neri . but also sheweth his owne valour and vertue , which is no lesse in keeping and retaining the good things of the Gospell , than in getting and attaining them . Vse 1.

Now if Christians bee Merchants , then not Monks nor eremits ; Merchants and Monks very different . not a cloistred people who liue alone ; and not to any other . Ciuill Merchants must trade and conuerse together for the good one of another ; and Christian Merchants much more : I would these bellies had eares , and that these drones would consider ; First , Phlitic . 1. how vnnaturall this course of life is , condemned by the heathens themselues . Ossic. 1 : Non nobis nati sumus , sed partem patria , partem parentes , & ● . Aristotle could say , that Homo est natura animal gregabile , a man is naturally sociable : and Cicero , that no man is borne for himselfe , but his Country , kinred , & his neighbours , yea euery man hath a part in euery man . Secondly , what other more essentiall difference is there , betweene the life of man and brute beasts ; but the beasts life is a kinde of single life for it selfe : but mans life is a life communicatiue ? Thirdly , these droues of idle cattel are the vnprofitable burdens of the e●rth ; for , what gifts soeuer they haue , all is lost ; what profit is there in a hidden treasure ? Paulum sepultae distat inertiae Celata virtus . so wisdome & gifts denied to the Church & Common-wealth , to what are they vnprofitable ? God hath not giuen al gifts to one ; but variety of gifts to diuers : vt ego tuis , tu●me●s indigeris : God will haue men taught , edified , gouerned , by men , not by Angels : How then can he set vp the duties of piety , promote the good of his neighbour , o● edifie the Church by precept or example , which flyeth society , and imprisoneth himselfe in wilful seeters ; vnnaturally putting off manhood , and blessing himselfe in a fearefull curse , as any temporall almost can be ?

Let all of vs therefore carry our selues like wise Merchants . Vse 2.

1. Imitate wise Merchants in three things . A wise Merchant wil know what stock he putteth into trade ; so must we take notice what talent or talents we haue receiued of the Lord to trafficke withall ; what portion or proportion of gifts we haue in our hands : and esteem our selues worth so much as we haue receiued of grace , and no more .

Secondly , the Merchant wil not lay out his mony but for a hopeful bargaine . Esa. 55. 2. Wherefore do you lay out siluer , and not for bread , and your labor without being satisfyed ? Hearken diligently vnto me , & eat that which is good , and let your soule delight in fatnesse ; taxing the folly of such as labour and dearely buy externall food , & prouision ; with neglect of the wholesome bread and water of life .

So a wise Christian Merchant will spend his time and labour on that , which when he hath gotten will satisfie him ; which if he bestow in outward things , ( suppose he doth gaine them ) they cannot satisfie him . Eccl 5. 9. He that loueth Siluer shall not be satisfied , and he that loueth riches shall bee without the fruit thereof : And of all earthly things may be said that of Salomon , The eye is neuer satisfied with seeing , nor the eare with hearing : onely godlinesse bringeth with it contentment .

Thirdly , the Merchant will often cast his estate , his bookes , his shops , and his reckonings to see whether his stock increaseth or decayeth : If he finde himselfe a gainer , then he is glad ; if the contrary , he is heartlesse and sorrowfull .

So the Christian Merchant is much and often in trying his estate and standing in grace ; and is most glad when hee findeth in himself increase of grace , knowledge , humility , faith , loue , &c. but it is a death to him to goe backward , and to see his estate of grace rather to decrease than increase : hee hath no comfort in his present vnfruitfulnesse ; much lesse in Apostacy and backe-sliding : but his comfort and account to the Lord is onely when he can say , LVK. 19. 13. Lord , Vse 3. thy talent hath increased ten talents . The poorest Christian is a very rich Merchant .

Let this consideration also comfort godly poore men despised in the world : thou that art a poore Christian , in a low estate in the world , labor busily for grace : and thou maist be as rich a Merchant , haue as rich a stocke , and deale in as great and rich commodities ( if poore in spirit ) as the richest . Thou that hast no mony , and but little credit in the world , maist here make as good a bargaine and as gainfull returne for thy selfe , as he that hath thou sands of mony beyond thee . The poore receiue the Gospell , saith our Sauiour , that is , few but the poore in estate , none but the poor in spirit ; for this trading is without money , like the poore womans curing , who speut all her money on the Physitians , and yet was not cured ; but Christ commeth and cureth her freely . Againe , art thou a poore man , hast thou a great charge of children , and no meanes to put them forth to trades ? here is a rich trade : make Merchants of them , teach them and binde them to this trade of godlinesse : this is the way to make them prosperous in earth , and bring them happily towards heauen : Prou. 14. 26. The feare of the Lord is an assured strength , and his children shall haue hope .

Haue likewise a care , Vse 4. that hauing bought and purchased the Pearle , Part not from the pearl once gotten . thou dost not sel it againe . Pro. 23. 23. Buy the truth , but sell it not : likewise wisdome & instruction , & vnderstanding , for what we sel , we esteeme it lesse worth than that we sel it for : but we must value this Pearle aboue riches , glory , liberty , Pearls , and life it selfe : by no means part from wisdome , neither by our forgetfulnesse , security or ouer-sight any way : Besides , wee can sell it for nothing which is not vncertaine gaine , but this is most certaine and most lasting ; and therefore not to be exchanged with any other .

This of the third generall .

The Merchant mans actions are three : Three maine actions of a wise Merchant . 1 He seeketh a good Pearle . 2 Findeth an excellent one . 3 Selleth all he hath to buy it .

Euery man naturally will be seeking some thing to make him happy : the naturall man hath some naturall Pearle or other , on which hee setteth his affection , and in which he taketh greatest delight . Some Merchants esteem pleasure their best Pearle , some honour , some riches , and the most of the world seeking some perle , light vpon some counterfeit or other ; wherein they content themselues , and blind both themselues and others ; which made an ancient Father cry out , Foelix negotiator qui nouit quaerere non nociua vt ambitiosi , non inutilia vt curiosi , sed salubria , vt sancti . Happy is that Merchant that knoweth to seeke not hurtful things as the ambitious doe , nor vnprofitable things as the curious doe ; but the most wholesome things , as doe the Saints : but this a supernaturall both seeker and seeking and things sought ● The thing sought is the grace of the Gospell : a good Pearle indeed as before the seeker was , the wise Merchant .

But how can any man seeke grace , Quest. seeing Psal. 14. and Rom. 3. no man seeketh after God .

Answ. No man by nature can seeke after grace , Sol. nor of himselfe once aske after it , because hee is destitute of the spirit of God , no more than the lost groat can aske after her that lost it , or a wandring sheepe after the Shepherd , or a dead man after life : So as those places are meant of men before conuersion and calling : for the elect seeke not God till God first seeke them , and findeth them . But this is to be vnderstood of men called , conuerted , already found of God , and mooued by the Spirit of God : who mooued by God can now moue themselues , and sought by him now can eeke him . Which both setteth out our infinite misery , who of our selues neuer minde the meanes of happinesse : and also magnifieth Gods mercy which is infinite : who offering vnto vs a free grace , doth truly say , I was found of them that sought me not : and giueth him also the honour of goodnesse , and of our seeking of him . Doct.

Onely the godly and all they are seekers of the good Pearle : Onely the godly and all the yare seekers of the Pearle . they seeke after God in Christ , and the grace of the Gospel ; euery where the godly are called seekers of God , and seekers of wisedome , Prou. 2. and seekers of the kingdome , Mat. 6. 33. and wicked men are described to bee such as seeke not after God , Psalm . 14. 4. And why ?

1. These onely doe see their owne want and beggery , Reas. 1. which is implyed in seeking . No man seeketh that hee wanteth not , or that first findeth not in himselfe a want of grace . Dauid desired grace as the thirstie ground , Psal. 143. 6 and grace is not promised , nor giuen to any but the thirstie . Psa. 55. 1. Euery one that thirsteth , come yee to the waters . Psalm . 14. 2. First they must vnderstand ( namely , their estate ) and then seeke after God .

2. All these , and they alone doe see the excellency , Reas. 2. as well as the need of this Pearle , and God hath let them see , in some measure , the worth of it . Why are men so earnestly carried to seeke Pearles , farre and neere , swallowing insensibly all toiles , dangers , and charges , but because they know their worth and price , and that if they can light on them , they shall be wel paid for all their labour .

Euen so , such as to whom God hath made knowne in some mea sure , the worth of this inestimable Iewell , are quickned daily to the vnweariable inquisition after it . Paul knew that one graine of grace would weigh downe all world : and therefore would procure it through all perils and dangers , through good reports or euill , through wants and losses , euen of the dearest things , & most desirous in all the world ; whereas Ignoti nulla cupido , none will seeke that hee knoweth not , or not any goodnesse in it .

3 They onely know , Reas. 3. that without painfull seeking , they shall neuer attaine the Pearle : for as Pearles doe not lye on the face of the ground , but are hid in the bowels of the earth , or in the sands ; so the mysteries of the Kingdome lye not abroad for euery one to stumble vpon vnawares ; but they are a hidden treasure , not discerned by the naturall man ; nay , hated by the wisedome of the flesh , and scorned by the wisest of the world .

Besides , that this is the condition vpon which the Lord bestoweth his best blessings : if wee dig for wisdome as for treasures : Pro. 2. 4. which words imply , that it is not easie to come by ; hee knoweth our nature , that we lightly set by what we lightly come by : and if Pearles were as common as pibbles , we should as lightly set by them as we doe by the other .

4 The godly alone see , Reas. 4. that without the Pearle , they cannot by any thing else be satisfied : for so seeking , implieth a discontent in the want of the thing sought for . Common men , if they finde health , wealth , friends , pleasures , and the like outward things , are well contented ; corne , wine and oyle , to cheere their hearts : But these wise Merchants seeing grace , no other thing contenteth them but grace ; one glimpse of Gods countenance through Iesus Christ , is sweet aboue all . And as he that seeketh a Iewell , doth looke still after it , ( a thousand things come in his way and eye , but he passeth slightly ouer them , and seeth them not , nor seeketh he them ) euen so doth the Christian Merchant ; and as the ciuill Merchant attaining Pearles , doth rest ioyful in them as in such commodities as will helpe his happinesse in the world : So the godly Merchant finding this one Pearle of the Gospell , which is the grace of life , goeth away reioycing , and resteth well appaid for all his labours and sufferings . He was before he light vpon this Pearle , the most vnhappy man in the world ; but now he cannot hide his ioy : but as the poore widow , which called in her neighbors to reioice with her because she had found the lost groat , Luk. 15. 9. so can he neither wholly hide , nor yet expresse halfe the ioy he conceiueth in his new commodity and purchase .

But many seeke , Obiect . and that with tears , that faile of grace , as Esau , and many shal striue to enter ( saith Christ ) and shall not be able : and Ro. 9. 31 , 32. Israel sought righteousnesse , but obtained it not .

Ans. Many seeke , Sol. but amisse , and therefore faile : Fiue conditions of right seeking the Pearle . so Israel sought , but not by faith . Now the true condition of seeking as the wise Merchant , and as the Word directeth , standeth in fiue things :

1. With an earnest and true loue , 1 Affectionately . desire , and estimation of the thing sought ; this wilmake a man seeke diligently , and as a thirsty person , not coldly , carelesly , remisly . slightly , or negligently ; for such seeking shall neuer find : for why did the Church seek Christ so laboriously , till she found him , but because it was he whom her soule loued ? ●an . 3. 3. The watchmen that went about the City , found me , to whom I said , Haue yee seene him whom my soule loueth ? And why did Mary seeke Christ , hauing lost him three dayes ? Because shee loued him , and reioyced in his person and presence ; which made her heart so heauy in his absence , Luk. 2. 42. Behold , thy father and I haue sought thee with heauy hearts . The Merchant , because he loueth and esteemeth of siluer , doth seeke it carefully and earnestly , Pro. 2. 4. and the heauenly Merchant shall finde grace vndoubtedly , if he seeke it as the other doth siluer . Loue is laborious ; hee that loueth Christ and his grace , will neuer cease to seeke him , nor faile to finde him : See the promise in Jer. 29. 12 , 13 Then shall you cry vnto mee , and you shall goe and pray vnto mee , and I will heare you : and you shal seeke me and finde mee , because you shall seeke mee with all your heart . Who soeuer then euer meaneth to finde God and his saving grace , must vnfainedly and hartily seeke after him .

2. It must be sought in the likely place and meanes of finding : 2. Wisely in the likely place of finding . the ordinary place where this Pearl is to be found , is , the assemblies of the Saints : there God holdeth forth his scepter , and maketh offer of the grace of life . Where was the Church to finde Christ with his graces at noone , Cant. 1. 7. in her thirst , but in the steps of the shepherds ? And these assemblies are the suburbs of heauen , called therefore the Kingdome of grace : and he that refuseth the good offers of grace , in the word , sacraments , prayer , hearing , reading , conferring , and the like , shall neuer find it . No wise Merchant will slacke any good opportunity of aduancing his estate ; now the likely meanes in wise seeking are diligently to be vsed , as

1 To search the euidence of the Pearle , and this euidence is contained in the Scriptures , John 5. Search the Scriptures , for they witnessee of me .

Secondly , the grant of it is from heauen by prayer . Let vs therefore goe boldly to the Throne of grace , that we may find mercy and grace to helpe in time of need , HEB. 4. 16.

Thirdly , the couenant is by the application of these meanes singed , and deliuered , yea and witnessed by the blessed Spirit of God , by a blessed change in the beleeuing heart ; by mortification , and subduing the corruption of nature ; by heauenly motions , heauenly mindednesse , and gracious conuersation , standing not in a shell , a forme or shew , but in the kernill , power , and substance of sound godlinesse .

Thirdly , ● Princi●ally . it must be sought first and principally , yea onely sought and that for it selfe : it must bee sought first in time : As Psa. 63. 3. Early in the morning will I seeke thee . The Isralites must seeke Manna , the first thing they doe in the morning . Esau seeketh , but too late ; the foolish Virgins doe knock , but the doore is shut . 2. It must be sought in the first place . Mat. 6. 33. ●eeke ye first the kingdome of heauen , & the righteousnesse thereof : Seek neither other things before it , as worldlings , nor other things with it , as prophane Epicures , who would grasp heauen and earth together ; nor yet seeke it for other things , as Hypocrites , who professe the Gospell for fauour , credit , profit , or some other ( in respect of that ) base things . But seek it alone for it selfe , and in sincerity ; for only such seeking findeth it : Neuer will Christ be sought for loaues , nor can the same eye looke to heauen and earth together .

Fourthly , 4. Humbly it must be sought humbly , that is , first out of thy selfe : a man that wanteth water , wil goe to the fountaine ; the waters of grace must flow from the fountaine and wel-head , Christ Iesus : seek it therfore in him and from him . The eye of faith spyeth it in him , and the hand of faith doth take it vp from him .

Secondly , it must bee sought with godly sorrow & repentance for sin . Isa. 1. 16. Wash you , make you cleane , take away the euill of your works from before mine eies , cease to doe euill .

Thirdly , with reformation of heart and life . Ps. 14. 4. The workers of iniquity are vnfit and vnworthy seekers of grace . 5. Constantly .

Fifthly , it must be songht constantly : Mary and Joseph neuer gaue ouer seeking Christ , vntill they found him , nor the Church till she found him : neither must we giue ouer seeking , hauing sound grace , for it is not in this seeking , as in other things , where hauing found , we rest contented , and seeke no more : but here hauing found the thing we sought , we must seeke still : for a Christian is euer wanting of grace , if not in whole , yet in part ; if not in substance , yet in some degree and measure of it : and therefore this worke ( as the husband mans ) is neuer at an end .

This must needs condemne many of vs , Vse 1. of extreame folly and sinne : how few of vs haue sought after grace as after siluer ? for siluer we will take great paines , rise early , goe to bed late , and eat the bread of carefulnesse : but when doe we so for grace ? for siluer we will trauell many miles on horse , and foot , to a market or faire , if we can but gaine or returne halfe a handfull of siluer : but for grace we will hardly step out of doores , or bestow the least paines , to frequent the places of Gods Exchange . In seeking siluer , euery man will seeke a good penny-worth : he is carefull that none ouer-reach him : he parteth with his money as warily as may be : and will be ready to lay hold on a good bargaine , when it is offered . In the matter of grace , how fearefully doe many thrust it away with both hands , wilfully forsaking their owne mercy ? Jona . 2. 8. They that wait vpon lying vanities , forsake their owne mercy : that is , refuse the bargaine of eternall life offered , almost forced vpon them and others , that seemed to haue receiued a good summe of grace , foolishly depart with it , and fall away either quite or wholly , or else from their measure and their first loue , these men are farre from seeking grace , and farther from ●inding it .

This should stirre vp our thirst Vse 2 , 2 after grace , to expresse our selues wise Merchants seazed on the Pearle , which that we may earnestly seeke after , let vs consider these fiue motiues .

1. Christ seeketh vs , 5. Motiues to prouok vs earnestly to seeke after grace and desireth vs to seek him ; & shal Christ seeke thee for thy good , and not thou seeke him for thine owne good ? But Christ seeketh vs as a Hen that gathereth her chickins vnder her wings , MAT. 23. 37 ▪ and woe vnto vs if we remaine vngathered . The father of the prodigall , goeth out to meet his sonne returning home , to incourage vs to goe out of our selues to seeke him .

Secondly , the fearefull reuenge against such as seeke not , nor inquire after God , should moue vs to seeke him : as ZIPH . 1. 6. in the fourth verse , I will cut off the remnant of ●aal ; and in the sixt , And them that turne backe from the Lord , and those that haue not sought the Lord , and inquired for him . And if they vnder the Law were so reuenged , how much more shall we liuing vnder the Gospell , Heb. 2. 3. if wee neglect so great saluation ? If the Gospell be now hid , it is hid to them that perish , 2 Cor. 4. 3. Oh what a fearefull case is it , that the Gospell should serue for the conuiction of men , and not for their conuersion ? Oh thrice vnhappy man , that shall peruert this so aboundant grace to his owne destruction : and yet the plenty of Gods grace in the Gospel shal condemne thousands that neuer required or ●ought after it .

3. Thou shouldest seeke grace from God , but he seeketh to pin his grace on thy sleeue : God bringeth home the Gospell to thy house and doores ; hee sendeth forth his seruants , he continueth to seeke thee by continuing the meanes & the season of grace : he seeketh thee daily by his Word , his Ministers , his blessings , his corrections , by the motions of the spirit , by the checks of thine owne conscience , and wilt thou not seeke being sought vnto ? darest thou receiue such grace still in vaine ? 2 COR. 6. 5. or turne it to wantonnesse ? Jud. 3.

Fourthly , of this saluation the Prophets search diligently , 1 Pet. 1. 10. and shall wee to whom it more specially belongeth , not so much as aske or inquire after it ? or shall we thrust it away as the Iewes did , ACT. 13. 46. but not without the most fearefull reuenge that euer hapened to any nation vnder the heauens , vnder which they lye at this day ?

Fifthly , for a man to abide destitute of desire and endeuour after grace , sheweth that Satan , the God of the world , worketh mightily in such an one , and hath him in his power to hood-winke him , and hide from him the grace of the Gospell , that the brightnesse of this Pearle should neuer shine to him , lest he should conuert and be saued : See 2 Cor. 4. 3 , 4. This of the first action : Who hauing found a Pearle of great price .

The second action of the wise Merchant , is , he findeth an excellent Pearle ; Of the Pearle , and of the excellency we haue spoken : Now are we in this part onely to speake something of the finding of it . And by the Pearle , being meant the grace of the Gospell , as we haue heard , wee learne this Doctrine :

That seekers of grace shall find it ; Doct. 1. and onely they . Seekers of grace shal finde it . Psal. 118. 5. I called vpon the ●ord in trouble , and the ●ord heard mee , and set me at large : and Psalm . 138. 3. When I called , then thou heardest me , and hast increased strength in my soule : alomon seeketh wisedome and findeth it , LVK. 15. 9. MAT. 7. 8. The woman that sought the lost groat , found it : Whosoeuer asketh , receiueth , and hee that seeketh , findeth . Why ?

1. Faithfull seeking can neuer take God wanting or vnwilling to giue grace , Reas. 1. both because hee hath promised , and is able to p●rforme , aboue all we are able to aske or thinke : His power is sufficient to supply all our wants : and Isay 65. 1. I was found of them that sought mee not : and vers. 24. Yea , before they call I will answer , and while they speak , I will heare .

If earthly fathers that are euil , Mat. 7. 11. ( both in comparison of God , and in their owne inclination ) can giue good things to their children that aske , much more our heauenly Father can and will . How glad is an earthly father , when his children can seeke after that which is good for them ? and our heauenly Father much more : Besides , God who hath promised cannot lye , ●itus 1. 2. now he should deceiue his people , if they should not finde the grace they duly seek : but he hath said , Mat. 5. 6. that the hungring and thirsting soule shall be satisfied and supplyed .

2. The Lord will not so farre discourage his seruants , Rea. 2. and disharten them , as neuer to let them finde that they bestow so much true pains in seeking : but he vpholdeth them in seeking , by supplying , some way or other , some time or other , that they seek : his wisedome not onely feedeth his children with hopes of an haruest to come ; but affordeth them present food & finding , euen in this life , so far as will stand with hunger & thirst : by which he incourageth them in their prayers , teares , labours and sufferings , and without which finding for the present , impart , thesmoking wick should be quickly quenched , and all the beginning of grace easily lost : oyle is not more necessary to feed a lampe , than the supply of grace is to feed grace . Psal. 116. 1. I loue the Lord , because he hath heard my voyce and prayers : and Psal. 65. 2. Because thou hearest prayer , vnto thee shall all flesh come . Reas. 3.

3. The Lord will not so much withstand his owne glory , as not be found of true seekers , because his owne glory is the maine end of all his mercy . Psalm . 22. 26. They that seek after the Lord shal praise him : namely , in acknowledging him true in his promises and plentifull in his mercies .

But God is a free giuer of grace , Obiect . and before we can aske , we shall haue it without seeking : what need we then seek so diligently ?

ANS. 1. Gods grace is free in respect of Merits , Sol. not of Means : if God should not giue vs sauing grace before we aske it , we should neuer haue it ; and no man can seeke grace but by grace : yet God giueth not grace to idle or sleepy persons , but to the vigilant and watchfull : he is not so prodigall of so excellent a Pearle , as to bestow it for nothing : or vpon those , who ha●ing tasted the sweetnesse of it , will not bestirre themselues for more , that they may grow in grace .

2. Though God doth bestow on vs free saluation which costeth vs nothing , yet we must accept it in the meanes : which doe excite and exercise our graces , and suffer vs to be neither idle , nor vnfruitfull in the worke of the Lord .

But if we seeke , our seeking is a cause of finding , and so Gods grace shall not be free .

ANS. 1. Our seeking is no cause of finding , but a meanes or way in which we finde .

2. In seeking we doe our duty , but merit nothing by it ; for when wee haue done all we can , we are vnprofitable seruants .

3. The promise of finding is not made to the seeking , Note . but to the seeker , being in Christ : who findeth for Christs sake , not for his owne .

But I haue sought long , Obiect . and haue not found .

Ans. There is a twofold seeking : Sol. 1. 6. Sorts of seekers amisse : a seeking amisse , & then no maruel if thou findest not : Esau sought with teares , & findeth not : many shall seek and striue to enter , and shall not bee able ; and of these are six sorts ; 1. wicked men being destitute of the spirit of God , want their eyes cleared : and a blind man shall sooner find a Pearle lost , then they this .

2. Some seeke without light , as fond Familists and Anabaptists , who seeke grace in the dark corners of Enthusiasmes , and reuelations , scorning the light of the Scriptures & Ministery : in which the spirit onely and ordinarily offereth himselfe to be found .

3. Some seeke without the promise , and so without faith : Israel sought it by merits , Ro. 9. 31.

4. Some seeke without repentance . Isa. 1. 16. wash you , make you cleane , and then come and reason together .

5. Some seeke it vnseasonably , the doore being shut , so did Esau when the blessing was bestowed .

6. Some seeke without sincerity . Hypocrites seek a while but giue ouer , as weary of so much pains ; now the promise is made to none of these : the goale is not giuen but to such as striue lawfully .

A second Kind of seeking that is which faileth not , and that is in the true and lawful conditions of seeking , as by the supernaturall eye of faith , by the light of Gods Word , in the right veine of finding , and in the places where the Pearle lyeth , and in season of seeking , whilst the day lasteth & the light is with vs : hast thou thus sought , and art yet held off ? I say God must bee true Qu●rentibus recta & rectè , he that seeketh , quae oportet , & quomodo oportet , shall certainly find : and therefore I say to thee that seekest good things well : 1. Thou hast found grace sufficient , 2 Cer. 12. 7 as Paul did when he seemed to be denyed of the grace desired : thou hast found grace in some measure , at least insuch measure as may cause thee to hunger for more .

2. God may delay to giue thee a greater measure , and yet not deny thee ; it may be , that which thou seekest is worth more labour than yet thou hast bestowed : distinguish now betwixt Gods Delaies and Denials : hold on thy seeking , thou shalt find in good time .

Thirdly , The best seekers find but in small me●sure in 〈◊〉 life and why . the best and holiest seekers of all , find but for the estate of this life ; that is , in small measure , a taste , a first fruits , here is but a sowing in grace . God leaueth his children in many wants for the present , for diuers ends :

1. For their humiliation , as Paul had a pricke in the flesh left .

2. To maintaine hunger and thirst after more .

3. To long after the time of perfection , and full saciety , when they shall be fully conformed to the image of God .

Fourthly , thou hast found a promise of God to be fully satisfied at length , Mat. 5. 6. in the meane time esteeme thy seeking as a seed time , thy labour is sowen in heauen , thy seed is cast into the bosome of God : and if it presently returne not so much comfort , ioy , and increase as thou desirest ; it is laid vp , and will bring thee good store , and a happy crop for hereafter : therefore be not weary of well doing , for in due time thou shalt reape , if thou faint not .

If no man seeketh this Pearle aright , but findeth , see a difference betweene this commodity and all other . Seeke any other thing in the world , with thy best endeuor , and thou maist faile , and not finde , Eccles. 5 ▪ 9 ▪ He that seeketh siluer , shall not be satisfyed : Seeke wealth , pearles , honor , pleasuers , thou shalt often faile of them : but seeke the best thing , and alway speed . In all other things , many seeke one thing , but finde another : goe to the Physicians to seeke health , thou maist meet with death ; to the Lawyer , to seeke law and iustice , thou maist finde iniustice and oppression : at some friends hands thou maist seeke fauour and friendship , but finde hatred and enmity , as Joseph sought at his brethrens , but findes them foes and enemies .

But in matters of grace , thou shalt finde the same things thou lookest for : seekest thou the Pearle , thou findest the Pearle , as the Merchant did : nay , findest an excellent one , farre better than thou lookedst for ; the worth of which is not to be valued in this vale of darkenesse .

Here is also a difference betweene seeking things at Gods hands , and at mans : all that aske at mans hands speed not : though thou maist aske neuer so iustly , as in the example of the vniust Iudg. A poore man asketh at mans hands mercy , and misseth of it : knocke at mans doore , it is not alway , open : But the gate of grace is neuer shut ; Gods eare is alway open , & as a fauorite sitteth in the eare of the King , and speedeth in any suite , so doth the godly seeker speed with God .

This comforteth poore soules seeking and panting after grace ; Vse 2. so long as thou canst seeke , thou art sure to find , though the Lord hide his face for a time , and seem to locke vp his mercy from thee , yet vphold thy selfe in seeking , and thou shalt find in due season , Psal. 9. 9 , 10. The Lord also will be a refuge for the poore , a refuge in due time , euen in affliction . Wantest thou strength against temptations ? Seeke by prayer the grace of Christian fortitude : be strong in the cry of prayer ; and as a theefe will runne away when the true man maketh a noyse and out-cry , so will Satan vpon this noyse of feruent prayer cease his assault . Wantest thou peace of conscience , chearefulnesse in doing , or suffering ? wouldest thou see a sweet looke from God ? or needst thou any other blessing for life or godlinesse ? Seeke it with instance , doe as the woman of Canaan , who sought grace at the hands of Christ , and would not be repulsed , MAT. 15. 22. And the poore woman by her importunity preuailed in her suit with the vniust Iudge , Luk. 18. 5. And how much more shall faithfull importunity preuaile with the most righteous and faithful God ?

But my seeking is so weak and sinfull , Obiect . that I shall neuer finde : my sinne quite marreth my seeking , and hindereth my finding .

Is there more weakenesse in thy seeking , Sol. than in Jacobs secking the blessing ? yet his weake and faulty seeking found it .

O that I could finde any feeling or worke of grace , Obiect . but the strong heart of my corruptions is not yet broken : I haue lost all my labour , and found nothing but discomfort of it .

Let not thy soule prescribe and instruct the Lord , Sol. how , or what way , or when to doe thee good : but wait and striue , and finde and preuaile .

Secondly , seeke against sense and feeling , euen out of the belly of the whale of desperation it selfe , lay hold on the free grace of God , and thou shalt finde an issue , and his sweet loue dropping comfort , sweeter than honey combes to thy soule . Vse 3.

Thirdly , Grace not found b●cause not sought . see the reason why grace groweth so thinne euery where , euen because he that hath not attained grace , neuer sought it aright ; the want is not in God , nor in the meanes , but in thy selfe and manner of seeking : Non deficit dantis miscricordia . Non medicorum insufficientia , sed quaerentium negligentia culpanda : Blame thy selfe for not finding , who hast failed in the manner of thy seeking : for perhaps ,

Thou art full , and feelest not the need of grace , as the Church of Laodicea , Reu. 3. 17. 〈…〉 and then how canst thou seeke ? A beggar will not stirre abroad , so long as he hath any thing at home .

Or art prophane , and scornest the blessing , as Esau.

Or art a hater of it , and the seekers of it ; turnest their glory into shame , and art of the generation of them that hate them that seeke the Lord .

Or art idle , and seekest slightly , or formally ; and can God attend that praier , or request , which thou carelesly and formally castest out , and thy selfe attendest not ? And here numbers of men lye vnder iust reproofe ; as ,

1. Such as neuer spent so much labour in seeking grace , as Saul did in seeking his Fathers Asses , 1 Sam. 9. 4.

2. They that neuer spent so much time to find it , as they could for a handful of siluer , & yet hope they haue it , or shal haue it . When didst thou breake thy sleepe , disease thy selfe , put thy selfe into all weathers by night and by day , for the Word , as thou hast for wealth ? When wast thou so good and thrifty an husband for thy soule as for thy body ? Neuer look for grace before thou prizest it : and be sure thou hast it not , who so vnder-valuest it .

Thirdly , Vse 4. let vs examine our selues whether by all our seeking wee haue found the Pearle , and that by these rules : 5. Notes of one that by seeking hath found the Pea●●●

1. He hath found by seeking , who still seekes to find , for it is not here as in seeking other things : here the finder giueth not ouer seeking : but the more hee findeth , the more hee seeketh ; here is an vnsaciable couetousnesse , and a couetousnesse warrantable .

Secondly , much ioy and large affections to expresse the sense of so great a commodity : the testimony of Gods Spirit witnesseth our adoption ; once receiue it , and it refresheth the soule with ioy vnspeakeable and glorious , 1 Pet. 4. 5. and this ioy will not be hid , as in the woman finding the lost groat .

Thirdly , the Pearle once found , there followeth a contempt of the world , a killing of the cares of this life , a fencing from the loue of earthly things : there is no true content in anything else , he that hath found this Pearle , esteemeth all other things , euen the best of that the world so admireth , dung in comparison of Christ .

Fourthly , being so rich a commodity , it enableth to good workes and ( as no other Pearle can ) it worketh the will also to be abundant in good workes , abundant in the fruits of the spirit , in the fruits of Sanctity , and holinesse of life .

Fifthly , it is of so precious vertue , as it is in euery one that findeth it , an antidote against all the poyson of sinne , the grace of repentance presently expelleth it : the grace of patience is a salue for euery fore : the grace of faith is a most soueraigne Cordiall ; it is of vertue to renouate the whole man , and all the parts of the man : it cleareth his sight daily , it maketh him quicke of hearing , it sharpeneth all his senses in diuine things ; it preserueth his stomack and appetite to Gods word : it purgeth out his corruptions , reneweth his strength as the Eagle : All these and a thousand more vertues hath this Hearbe-Grace wrought in thee in some measure if thou hast found it , and so aboundantly recompenseth all thy labour .

He went and sold all that he had and bought it . ] The third action of the Merchant . Our Sauior continueth the allegory of the wise Merchant , 1. Vadit ad forum spiritualium per effectum . who 1. hath sought ; 2. Vend●t omnia per aff●ctum & contemptum terrenorum 2. found the Pearle , 3. Emit per conatum & desiderium aeternorum . and then sitteth not downe : but ( thirdly , ) maketh purchase . In the words are three things :

1. Hee goeth away , to the Mart and meanes where it is to be had .

2. He selleth all in affection to it , and contempt of earthly things .

3. He buyeth it by a carefull desire and endeuor after heauenly things .

For the meaning , 1. hee goeth away : ] Selfe-deniall is the first lesson in Christs schoole , Mat. 1● . 25 Whosoeuer will saue his life , shall lose it , and whosoeuer shal lose his life for my sake , shall find it ; he that forsaketh not his owne will , reason , affections , and euil habits , & doth not crosse his owne desires , shall neuer prize or purchase this perl .

2. And selleth all . ] That is , in comparison hee contemmeth all earthly things , and setteth them at a low rate & value in respect of the Pearle , & doth not care much who haue them , so he may enioy the Pearle : let others get the wealth of the world , he will be rich in grace ; let others get corn , wine , and oyle , if he can get naked Christ , he hath enough :

But is it necessary to sell all , Obiect . to haue eternall life ? It may seeme so : Mat. 9. 22. Iesus said vnto him , if thou wil● be perfect , go and sell all that thou hast , and giue it to the poore , and thou shalt haue treasure in heauen , and come and follow me .

Ans. The Papists build a state of perfection vpon voluntary pouerty : Sol. and hold it a counsell onely fit for perfect Christians , and farre more meritorious than the keeping of the whole Law .

But first to answer them , and then the question .

1. It is a friuolous conceit to thinke , that any man may come to an higher estate of happinesse , by some other meanes than by keeping the Law .

Secondly , it is absurd to think that any worke can be acceptably done toward saluation , which is without the walke & compasse of the law , which is so perfect , that cursed is he that doth dare to adde to it , or detract any thing from it .

3. Christ desired no more of the young man , than he did of his Disciples , who said , vers. 27. we haue left all to follow thee , and yet Peter had an house still , and John , to which he tooke the Virgin Mary .

And therefore Christ would hau● the young man to part with all , which he could not hold , with his loue and affection to Christ himselfe , and the Gospell .

Fourthly , that which Christ required of this Iusticiary , is not any deuised Euangelicall counsell aboue the law ; but a duty contained in the law : the summe of which , is , Thou shalt loue the Lord thy God with all thy heart : and whereas he had boasted , that he had kept all the law ; Christ doth send him backe againe to the law , to let him see his want of loue , both to God and his neighbour ; to God , if the loue of his friends hinder him from following him , whom hee confesseth a teacher from God : And want of loue to man , if at Christs word hee will not part with his mony , especially if not at Christ his especiall commandement .

So as this is not a counsell to some perfect recluses or orders of wilfull men ; but a commandement to all Christians , that must striue to perfection . 1 Cor. 2. 6. And we speake wisdome amongst them that are perfect : who must not onely leaue goods and lands , and houses for Christ , and the Gospell , but must hate father , mother , wife and children , brethren , sisters , and their owne life , if they cannot hold them with Christ .

So much to answer the Papists .

Now to the question .

1. Who can deny wealth to be the gift of God , if it beheld without couetousnesse , confidence , pride , and subordinate to heauen and heauenly things ? Or who can deny but riches may become helps to heauenly Tabernacles ? who can deny but good men may both haue them , and vse them ? Abraham was a man of great possessions , and Iob , and Dauid , men of most great wealth : and yet godly men , and poore of spirit ; goods therfore in themselues are not to be cast away : but first in comparison , Wealth in foure cases to be renounced . rather than wee will not attaine , and retaine the Pearle of the Gospell , we must abandon all we haue .

Secondly , when they proue an impediment to our calling , and holy profession , we must renounce them , Heb. 11. 25 as Moses in this case refused to be the sonne of Pharaohs daughter , and to suffer with Gods people : a traueller may carry a staffe to helpe him in his iourney , but not to ouer-load himselfe : and he may beare some mony in his purse for his charges , but not burthen himselfe with it .

Thirdly , in affection alwayes we must renounce them , and hold them retiredly and weignedly , vsing the world as not vsing it . 1 Cor 7. 3. Let them be in our hands , not in our hearts ; to lay downe , or lay out ; not to lay vp , or lay vp our hearts with them .

Fourthly , actually , but not vncalled ; we must leaue them , not of our owne accord , but called by God , non sponte sed vocati : let vs alwayes see wee haue a good ground , as if tyrants , or persecutors , keepe vs from inioying either Christ , or our owne estate ; then in this choyse , we must prefer a poore estate in Christ , before a rich estate in the world .

And buyeth it . ] Our Sauiour vseth this word buying , not to signifie , that we can make any recompence , paiment , or merit , to purchase eternall life : for , first , that is infinite , we finite , and betweene these is no proportion . Secondly , it is a free gift of God , Rom. 6. 23. Thirdly , it is a buying , but without money , Esa. 55. 1. and money worth . And the poore are called to buy it , who haue no money to layout for it . Fourthly , this Pearle is such a commodity , as neither men nor Angels can giue any due price for . Fiftly , we can giue God nothing but his owne .

But Christ here speaketh figuratiuely , namely , that this wife Merchant dealeth as a buyer ; The Christian man resembleth a buyer in 4 ▪ things . first he seeth the want of Gods grace and Christs merits : the thirsty are called to buy , Esay 55. 1.

Secondly , as a buyer , he periseth , valueth , and casteth the worth ▪ esteemeth Christ at the highest rate , and all things else in comparison of him , losse , and dung , Phil. 3. 13.

Thirdly , as a buyer he maketh an exchange ; not of money , nor money worth , but vseth all good indeuour , and labour , by prayer , and diligence , and the vse of all good meanes , to obtain the grace of the Gospell . Which price God doth set vpon grace , and on which condition , an exchange is made . The beleeuer putteth ouer his sinnes to Christ , and receiueth righteousnes from Christ . 2 Cor. 5. 21. For he hath made him to be sinne for vs that knew no sinne , that we should be made the righteousnes of God in him .

Fourthly , the bargaine made , is earnested ; so the beleeuer , able to giue nothing to God , taketh from God the earnest of his Spirit , in some sauing graces ; by which the whole bargain of eternall life is assured vnto him .

From this selling all , Doct. 1. and buying the Pearle , A wise Christian will part with al before hee part with Ch●ist . learne , That a wise Christian must , and will part with all he hath , before hee wi●l part with Christ . Prou. 4. 7. Aboue all thy possessions get wisdom and vnderstanding . The godly follow Christ out of Ierusalem , and out of the campe , Heb. 13. 13. they sold their liues , and loued them not to the death for Christ .

Pauls possessions and his life was nos deare , Acts 20. so he might finish his course with ioy . And why ?

1. Such sound iudgement is restored vnto euery sound Christian , Reas. 1. as he thinketh nothing so dear to him as Christ , and his grace : and doth suppose himselfe rich indeed , if he attain naked Christ ; and the dearest things are base in this comparison . The Church of Laodicea wil neuer buy gold and white raiment , so long as her iudgement is blinded , till she annoint her eyes with eye-salue to see ; and seeing once the worth , she is content to be at any paines for it . The text implieth , that no lesse paines be made for wisdome than that of most industrious Merchants , who take long and dangerous iournies , and voyages by Sea and land for Pearles , and swallow all paines and perils in hope of attaining them .

Secondly , the Christian knoweth that he shall be no loser by the bargaine ; other Merchants buying great commodities know not whether they shal be gainers or no : and many seeke Pearles with infinite losses & finde them not : But here is a certaine and an vndoubted gaine , for whosoeuer forsaketh house , wife , lands , liberty , childeren , and life for Christs sake and the Gospell , shall receiue an hundred-fold with tribulation , and in the world to come life euerlasting : here is vsury enough , not tenne in the hundred , but an hundred for tenne : haue this Pearle , and want nothing ; want this Pearle , and haue nothing .

Thirdly , this putteth a difference betweene soundnesse and hypocrisie ; the hypocrite can sell much for Gods fauour . Mic. 6. 6. they will giue thousands of rams , and ten thousands of riuers of oyle : and their first borne , but wil not part with their sinnes . Ananias and Saphira can part with three parts of their portion : but soundnesse esteemeth the Pearle better than the whole , were it the whole world .

Fourthly , because it seeth Christ forsaking all , liberty , life , wealth , heauen and happinesse for it ; in the way of thankfulnesse , grace in the heart doth hold it selfe bound to forsake all for Christ .

This condemneth foolish Merchants , Vse 1. who make a base reckoning of the Pearle : esteeming the Gospell worth nothing . The Gadarens accounted euery pig , and base profit better than Christ and his Sermons : Prophane Esau despised the blessing in respect of pottage : There are other scornfull Merchants , who scoffe at such simplicity , as to forgoe profits , and delights , for vaine conceits , as to strip ones selfe of the pleasures of life , to runne many miles to Sermons , where is none at home : Others would buy the Pearle , if by it they might gaine ease , reputation , and wealth , like the Swallowes that will take their Summer with vs , but in Winter take their leaue of vs : these measure Religion by their gettings , Mal. 3. 14. and say with the old Iews , Vse 2. What profit is there in seruing God ? Many who think they haue the Pearle , deceiued .

2. Wee may see it is not so easie a matter to haue part in the Gospell , as most men thinke : that vtterly deceiue themselues in this commodity : and this is the cause why so few respect it . 1. Some men thinke they haue it because they haue heard of it , but there is as much difference betweene finding and buying , as betweene calling and answering . 2. Some heare , and like , and wish and praise it ; but as in a faire they see many rich commodities , but they passe by them and bargaine for none : so many approue of Doctrines in generall , but lay out nothing , nor lay aside any lust : they can commend a good Sermon , but will be sure it shall doe them no good .

Thirdly , there are others that come neerer , cheapen , loue and bid somewhat ; but as hard chapmen nothing neere the matter : rich men can cast some of their superfluity sometimes to good vses ; but not as the widow that had but two mites and cast in all : this were too hard a bargaine .

Fourthly , some would exchange some of their sinnes , but not all : others will doe some duties , as come to the Church , hear , pray , sometimes read at home , and reproue sinne : but come to chargeable or dangerous duties , to shew loue to Christ in time of danger or disgrace , they are backward , and draw in the tender horne for feare they be losers by him .

Let vs therefore learne to hold Christ , Vse 3. and the Gospell as the onely iewell , or pearle worth hauing ; and to thinke our selues rich if we sel our selues out of all , to purchase the Pearle : let vs thus aduance our religion , and shut the mouthes of our aduersaries , that say we will leaue nothing for our religion , Obiect . while they giue all they haue to the Church and pious vses . 5. Notes of a man that hath purchased the Pearle .

How shall I know a man that purchaseth the Pearle ?

2. He changeth his owne merits , for Christs merits apprehended in the Gospell , and casteth them away like dung : and with Paul , who layeth his birth , kindred , righteousnesse , ciuill vertues , and good workes , and holinesse in the skale : but all is too light , and found losse weighed with Christ . So bring Wealth , liberty , friends , life it selfe , into the sight of a sound beleeuer : and if he must leaue these , or Christ and his Gospell , farewell they ; he soone maketh his choyce : As in the danger of life , Act. 27. 18. the Mariners cast out their wares with their owne hands , and the tacklings out of the ship : so wee must cast away all in comparison of Christ , our Lord and our life . Where note , that the Papist that cannot disclaime his owne merits , shall misse of Christs .

2. He goeth away reioycing , all his affections are on it ; his chiefe ioy is , that his Name is written in heauen , Luk. 10. 20. no affliction can remoue this ioy .

3. He desireth nothing in comparison , beyond , or besides it ; Simeon was content with Christ in his armes ; Iacob had enough , that Joseph liued : so the beleeuer hath enough , that Christ liueth in heauen , and in his owne heart .

4 He retaineth his confidence to it ; euery thing else challenging his confidence , is but a staffe of reed .

5. He will neuer sell his purchase at any rate . Prou. 23. 23. Buy the truth , but sell it not : Great Merchants , what they buy for great prizes , they will sell for greater : but nothing is sufficient to buy the grace of the Gospell out of our hands : what wee sell wee value vnder the price ; but we must redeeme it aboue much fine gold , ●sal. 119 yea , aboue all that in the world is counted precious .

This is also a comfort to poore ▪ men , who may here light on a good bargaine , and make a good purchase for themselues , although they haue no money : nothing is set for the price but paines , endeuour , godly desire and affection . Christ and his benefits freely passe to all , and are indifferently imparted to poore and rich ; nay , if either haue the aduantage , it is the poore man , for the poore receiue the Gospell , saith our Sauiour : whereas , Not many rich , not many noble , not many wise attaine to haue their share in it .

I haue now according to the measure of the gift giuen me , set forth the choycest and chiefest commodity in all the world , which no Faire or Mart can match , if into one Fayre all the treasures of the earth were brought to sale : say not now as the buyer vseth to doe , Th●se Sermons were preached on seueral Faire daies It is naught , it is naught .

I haue set an easie price vpon it , a little paines , a few good affections , an vpright endeuour , which is so low a price as your selues can wish . You need not disburse siluer , or gold , but may carry away this commodity in your hearts , and your money in your purses too : as Iosephs brethren carried from their brother , euery man his sacke of corne , and his money in his sacke too : hee that now seeth on the one hand his owne want , and on the other the worth of the Pearle , will come and cheapen , and buy , and purchase it at any rate , and will not leaue it behinde him . But he that still esteemeth the Pearle , but as a common pibble , will goe home without it , or tread it vnder his feet . Of this man saith Salomoa , Pro. 17. 16. Wherefore is there a price in the hand of a foole , and he wanteth heart ? And to this man I say , the day commeth , in which thou shalt say , thou once refusedst a good bargaine which was offered thee , and that was thine vnhappinesse : but now attended with a greater , that it shall neuer be offered thee any more ; Be wise in time , and couet after the most excellent gifts .

FINIS .

THE PILRIMS PROFESSION . OR , A SERMON PREAched at the Funerall of M rs . MARY GVNTER , by Mr. Thomas Taylor . To which ( by his consent ) also is added , A short Relation of the life and death of the said Gentlewoman , as a perpetuall Monument of her graces and vertues .

Omnis peregrina regio patria est eorum , Et omnis patria eorum est peregrina . Iustin Martyr . epist. ad Diognetum .

LONDON : Printed by I. B. for Iohn Bartlet , at the signe of the gilt Cup in Cheap-side . 1633.

TO THE RIGHT HONORABLE , THE Lady LEITICE , Countesse of Leicester , all encrease of Honour and Happinesse . MADAM :

HAuing importuned and prevailed with that Reuerend Preacher , who performed that last office for your LADISHIPS late Seruant , to afford mee a perfect Coppy of his Sermon , ( which for the fitnesse and worthinesse of the matter , I thought much pittie to be buryed with her , ) and purposing to adde a short Relation of the happie Life and Death of my deare Wife , both which I thought were very exemplary ; I emboldned my selfe , to present the same to your HONOVR not onely as a thankfull testification , of my humble dutie and seruice , for all those gracious endowment , which I so happily enioyed in her , ( of all which , vnder God , your Honour was a chiefe instrument ) but also because I know that your Honour , who gladly apprehended al the meanes of her comfort through her life , would as gladly receiue the true Narration of her assured Comforts and Conquest in h●r so Christian death and dissolution .

Neither is the Sermon vnfit for your Hunours perusall , whom God hath honoured with so many daies & yeares , & taught not to feare either the end of your Pilgrimage out of this strange Countrey , or the neere approach to your owne home .

Thus humbly praying your Honours acceptance of that which is most properly yours . I pray the Father of mercie , to adde to all your noble Vertues , the continuance of your true prosperitie .

Your HONOVRS in all humble seruice , H. G.
THE PILGRIMS PROFESSION . PSAL. 39. 12. I am a stranger with thee , and a soiourner , as all my Fathers .

THis holy Prophet being by great distresse of mind , and disease of bodie , brought very low , ( as appeareth in the whole Psalme ) and so low as he was ready to breake patience , and to offend with his tongne ; Verse 3. yet after a doubtfull combat betweene faith and frailty ; his Faith steps aboue flesh , and leads him out of himselfe , to wait vpon God with holy silence : Verse 7. and lifteth him vp to God in feruent and earnest Prayers , ( which are the breath of Faith ) both for pardon of sin , Verse 8. the cause , and for release from the affliction and plague , the effect of it . And because the sense of misery was deepe ; Verse 10. hee striues with God , with great , vehement , and earnestnesse of spirit , ingeminating his petition in this twelfth vers. Rising vp in his requests by degrees , as one that meaneth to preuaile with God ( as another Iacob ) and not let him goe till he haue blessed him ; and therefore first he desireth the Lord to heare his Prayer . But because the prayers of the Saints are often faint and feeble , and without any strong motion , he desires the Lord to hearken to his cry : the sense of his need vrged strong cryes , feruency , and importunity . And further , because euery strong cry is not heard , vnlesse it proceed from a broken and contrite spirit . He prayeth the LORD not to keepe silence at his teares : well hee knew that prayers of faith , watered with teares of godly sorrow , are eloquent perswaders , to dray a comfortable answer from God ; they cannot suffer him to sit silent long ; who hath prepared both a bottle to reserue them in , and an handkerchiefe to wipe them away from the eyes of his children . Try it after holy Dauid ; who will , or can , make euery day a spring to sowe● thy prayers in heauen ; and water them sometimes with an Aprill showre of mournfull teares for thy sinne , and misery , and ●hon hast preuailed aganist Gods silence ; thou shalt heare a sweete and comfortable ▪ Answere in due season .

Now the words read are a reason of his earnest request , drawne from the acknowledgement of the frailty , vanity , and breuity of his life , laid downe by a comparison taken from strangers or Pilgrims , of which number he professeth himselfe to be ; and may well be called , The Pilgrims profession .

In tying which words with the former , it may be asked , first , what force can there bee in this reason , to moue or incline God to mercy , because he was a stranger with him ; it might rather imply , that God should the more estrange himselfe from him , and stand further from his helpe . Quis dubi tat q●od hie psaltes posu 〈◊〉 gnimca , tecum , idem esse quod Liphneca , id est , ocrum te Buc●r .

I answer : 1. The Hebrew phrase I am a stranger with thee , signifieth as much as to say , I am a stranger before thee : or in thy sight . And not that he was a stranger in affection , or conuersation from God , as the wicked , who are said to be strange childred , Psal. 58. 3 and strangers from the wombe . For how could Dauid be such a stranger , who set the Lord euer before him , Psal. 16. 8. and at his right hand , that hee might not sinne against him ?

2. As it is a confession and testimony of his owne humility and sense of his misery , it is a motiue to mercy : as if he had said , I am a stranger and need helpe , because as a stranger , I lye open to many iniuries and inconueniences : but thou art the God of the abiect ; & thy property is as to cast down the proud , so to raise vp such deiected soules as I am , and therefore heare my prayers , cryes and teares .

3. As it ascribeth vnto the Lord the honour of mercy , it is a motiue to mercy ; for holy Dauid puts the Lord in mind of his own gracious inclination and affection to strangers ; Exo. 22. 11 for he hath commanded vs to be kinde to strangers ; Leui. 19. 33 and hath in speciall manner vndertaken the protection of strangers . Deu. 10. 19. Ps. 146. 6. The Lord keepeth the strangers : and therefore his faith binding God after a sort to his owne law and promise , assureth himselfe of Gods mercy , because he is a stranger .

4. As it is an acknowledgement of his own impotency , and the misery of his life , it pleadeth strongly for mercy : as if hee had said ; Thou knowest , Lord , that I am a stranger here , and so long as I am so , I cannot but carry a burden of flesh , and a body of sinne , and daily thereby deserue thy most heauy displeasure : and therefore I beseech thee , be not so extreame against me , as in iustice thou mayest ; but considering my frailty , mingle my corrections with mercy . And wheras I discerne also by my bodily weaknesse and infirmity , that I am a stranger here , and of short continuance , I pray thee remoue thy hand , and let not all my life be miserable , but stay thine anger from me , Verse 13. that I may recouer my strength , before I goe hence , and bee no more . And vpon the same ground , Iob makes the same request : Let him cease and leaue off from mee , Iob 10. 21. that I may take a little comfort , before I goe and shall not returne , &c.

Secondly , it may bee asked , How can Dauid vse this as a reason for his recouery , which hee vsed before , vers. 4. for the hastening of his death ; for because his life was short and miserable , therefore he desires he might die in all haste .

To which I snswer , That great difference there is between Dauid foiled by flesh , and Dauid supported by the Spirit , for wee haue in him lying vnder the temptation , an instance of our owne strong-hearted corruption ; which out of a good proposition , can draw most dangerous and wicked conclusions ; For , out of the consideration of the the shortnesse of his life , he could draw conclusions of murmuring , impatience , and almost of desperation . But now Dauid is another man , and the Spirit of grace hath conquered those assaults , & now he can out of the same premises , draw the cleane contrary conclusions , to support his faith , patience and dependance vpon God . For such is the wisedome of the Spirit , that he can draw holy , sweet , & comfortable conclusions from those principles and grounds , from which flesh and corruption vseth to sucke sinne and poyson ; and teacheth the Saints so to doe .

In the profession it selfe , Meaning . consider for the meaning 4. things : 1. What a stranger is . 1. What is this stranger . 2. Who is this stranger . 3. Where he is a stranger . 4. The community of this condition ; as all my Fathers were .

1. A stranger is he , that being absent from his owne Country , is trauelling homewards vnto it : for these two conditions are proper to a stranger : First , that he is absent from his natiue soyle , absent from his naturall friends , absent from his Fathers house , and absent from his owne home an● inheritance ; thus was Abraham a stranger in Canaan . Secondly , that he is trauelling home as a Pilgrim to his owne Country ; Thus was Iacob a stranger , whose whole life was a trauel in forrain Countries , out of any certaine and settled dwelling , as himselfe professeth , Gen. 47. 9. The whole time of my pilgrimage is an hundred and thirty yeeres .

2. Who is this stranger ? Dauid saith , I am a stranger , which may seemestrange , if we consider that Dauid was a King , and that in his own Country , and that the Country of Iudea ; in comparison of whose inhabitants all the world besides were strangers , as Mat. 27 7. 2 Sam 21. 23. For Dauid was not now in flight before Saul , as when hee plaid the foole in the Philistims Countrey before Achish to saue his life ; nor in likelihood , in chase before Absalom , as when being driuen from home , hee went vp to the mount of Oliues and wept . Neither vndertooke hee any meritorious iourney in a Pilgrims weed . For besides that , he was King of Ierusalem , and needed not make any tedious Pilgrimage thither . Popish Pilgrims were not borne some thousands of yeares after his Age. Peregrina ti●ad Imagines nulla funt ante 600. a●nos a Christo nato Perk. Prob. There was now no Sepulcher of our Lord to visit , nor no Image of our Lady , and yet hee professeth himselfe a stranger .

3. But where was Dauid a stranger ? Himselfe saith , Before thee : that is , wheresoeuer hee is before God , there he is a stranger : not in another mans kingdome or Countrey , as of Moabits or Philistims , but in his owne Country , in Canaan he is a stranger ; yea , at Bethlem in the City of Dauid , and in Sion , the Fort of Dauid , hee is a stranger . This hee expresseth , Psalme 119. 19. I am a stranger vpon earth : that is , in euery part of the earth , euen in mine owne house , in mine owne bed , in mine owne body and bosome I am a stranger with thee . Wherein the holy Prophet both acknowledgeth the Lord the proprietary , Leu 25. 23. of whom he held his Countrey and Kingdome . For it is as if he had said , I am a stranger in thy Countrey : my Countrey is thy Countrey , and thy Countrey is my Countrey : and now I doe but soiourne a while with thee in thy Countrey , till I returne home and dwell with thee in my Country . As also hee infoldeth a motiue , why the LORD should incline his eare to his Prayer , and shew him fauour , because hee is a stranger in the Lords Countrey : and therefore committing himselfe to the protection and safe conduct of the Lord of the country , he doubteth not , but to finde grace in his eyes , & by his means a comfortable passage , til he come happily to the end of his way . For who should heare the complaints of a soiourner , but he with whom he soiourneth ?

4. But is it otherwise with Dauid now , than with other men ? no surely , but he beareth part in the common condition of his fathers . Although he was deare to God , & the King of Gods people ; yet he is no better than his Fathers ; he is a stranger as all his Fathers were . He meaneth not the fathers of his flesh only , who were all dead , and gone to their iournies end , but the Fathers of his faith also ; these holy Patriarchs , Abraham , Isaac , Iacob , & their posterity , which were the holy seed ; who in their times accounted themselues strangers , Heb 11. 13 14 & declared themselues so to be , both in that they chused to dwell in tents , Heb. 11. 9. & not in houses or Cities , as the posterity of Cain did , for they held themselues strangers on earth , and expecting euery day the word of God to call them hither or thither , at his pleasure , they would not cumber themselues with buildings or purchases ; but betooke themselues to poore and portable tents , which were soone pitched vp , and as soone taken downe . As also in that they were contented to wander vp & down as Pilgrims ; restlesly from place to place , insomuch as the iourneyes and trauels of Abraham recorded in Stoty , amounts to 1794. miles ; Iacobs little lesse , whose posterity was a stranger in Egypt foure hundred yeeres ; & from thence were taken into the terrible Wildernesse ; where they wandred forty yeeres , and all the rest of them in the wide wildernes of this world and vale of Baca , onely passed thorow as Pilgrims vnto the hea●●●ly Canaan . All which our holy ●●●ophet reuoluing in his minde , subscribes the same schedule , that he is a stranger a●so as they were .

Hence we learne , Doct. 1. That all the Saints of God , & true beleeuers , are strangers vpon earth : for so was Dauid , and all his Fathers of his flesh , and of his faith , as himselfe not only here in sense of his affliction professeth , but elsewhere stirred vp by the sight and sense of Gods abundant mercy towards him , and in the 〈◊〉 of his solemne ioy & festiuity , vttereth the same words , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . 1 Chro. 29. 15. All things come of thee , and of thine owne hand wee haue giuen thee : for we are strangers before thee , & soiourners like all our Fathers . 2 Cor. 5. 6. while we are at home in the body , we are 〈◊〉 from the Lord . And indeed euery Christian is a Gershom : that is , a stranger , and in a strange land : in respect , first of the place , for they are absent from heauenly Canaan , their owne home and Countrey : here is not their Fathers house , nor their brethren and sisters , nor their treasure : they are Citizens with Saints , Ephe. 2. 19 & heauen their home , where our Lord Iesus is preparing Mansions for them , Joh. 14. Secondly , as for the world , it is but a way to their Cou●try , & as a wildernesse thorow which the Israel of God passe towards their Canaan . They are indeed in the world , but not of it : for they are called out of the world , 1. by Christs separation , Ioh. 15. 19. I haue chosen you out of the world . 2. Christ interdiction , 1 Joh. 2. 15. Loue not the world , nor the things of the world . 3. Christs operation , Commorandi deuers●rium , non habita● di Cicero do Senect . Gal. 6. 14. The world is crucified to me , and I vnto the world . The very light of nature saw and said , that nature hath afforded vs in this world only an Inne , and not a dwelling : and should not grace much more acquaint vs with Gods decree and ordinance , which is , that man should be a while in the world , as in a way to passe him vnto his finall estate elsewhere , or at most , but a traueller in an Inne , which hee is ready to leaue the next morrow .

Secondly , in their owne account and confession they are strangers , Heb. 11. 13. All these confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims vpon earth . And in the account of the world also they are strangers , which vseth them strangely & coursly , as Dauid was a stranger to his brethren , Ps. 69. 8. And wheras , were they of the world , it would know them , loue them , and hug them in their lap : they being strangers , it is another Egypt to Gods first borne , and knoweth them not but to vexe and oppresse them .

Thirdly , in respect of the short time of thier continuance , for as a stranger abides not in a strange place ( as the natiues do ) but hastneth through his way , and so with his time cutteth & shortneth his iourney ; so the godly haue here no abiding city , Heb. 13 14 neither is this their resting place . For this cause the whole militant Church is called a Tabernacle : & the Saints cal the time of their life for the shortnesse & discontinuance of it , Psal. 15● ▪ 1● but a being in this tabernacle , because first , 2 Pet. 1. 13 as a tabernacle is but a soiorning place , set vp for a shift to hide our selues for a small while , as the souldier hides himselfe in a sconce or tent onely for the time of a siege at the longest : so is it with the tabernacle of the body , set vp for a small time , not so much for it self as for the inmate , the soule which is contained in it . Secondly , as a tabernacle is a moueable tent , pitched for a day ; ouer night is set vp , and perhaps the next day the stakes are pulled vp , and the cords are slacked , and the conering is folded vp : no otherwise is it with the tabernacle of the body , which no man knoweth , whether it shall stand vnmoued till the next morrow , no , nor till the next houre .

Thirdly , as a Tabernacle is only a couering , but hath no foundation to settle vpon● so Iob speaketh of our bodies , as houses of clay , whose foundation is in the dust : Iob. 4. 19. that if God did not fasten the siluer cords of them to his appointed time , euery blast would ouerthrow them euery moment .

Fourthly , the godly are strangers here below in respect of their businesse , & imployment ; a stranger is vnacquainted with the affairs of the place where he takes vp his Inne , he meddles not with the gouernment , the offices , the passages of causes in the towne where he lyeth as a stranger ; but intendeth his iourney , & only careth how he may passe through : and if he haue any busines there , it is only to aduance his estate at home in his own country . And so it is with the godly ; they estrange themselues as much as may bee from the world , & the common courses of it : their callings they cast not off , because they are commanded to abide in them with moderate care , to prouide for themselues , and theirs . And for earthly things they cannot bee without them , while they haue a life to maintain by them ; but yet they meddle no more with them than needs must , and in the midst of their earthly businesse are not earthly minded . Col 3. 10. They are Burgesses of another Corporation , & all their trading and traffick here is to make themselues a rich and sure estate there . They haue a chiefe businesse to doe , which they principally intend , namely , to seeke the kingdome of God , and the righteousnes of it ; to repent of their sinnes , to beleeue in the Son of God , & to make their election sure : whereto they giue all diligence , as they are exhorted , 2 Pet. 1. 10.

Fiftly , the godly are strangers in respect of their affection : for , as strangers long after home , and where euer their bodies be , their hearts and mindes are not there , but at home where their deare friends and estates are : So is it with the Saints , whose mindes , and meditations , and conuersation are in heauen before-hand : for there is their Fathers house , and there is their inheritance , there is Iesus Christ their treasure , and no maruel if their hearts be there where their treasure is . The worldling hath his whole portion in this life , and therefore hee bestowes all his heart , his thoughts , his cares , his desires and indeuors vpon the world ; he runs after it with a full desire . But it cannot be so with the godly man who is minded as was good Nehemiah , 2. 3. Who although his person was in the King of Persia his Court , and was a neere attendant at the Kings Table , yet his heart was at Jerusalem . And as Daniel , who while he was in the land of his captiuity , yet he opened his windowes euery day towards Ierusalem .

Quest. But are not wicked men strangers here vpon earth , as well as the godly ?

Ans. Wicked men and worldlings are indeed strangers here , if we looke towards God , they are strangers with him , strangers from the Couenant of God ; and stranhers from the life and waies of God . Or if wee consider the time of their continuance here , they haue no more continuance here than others : they haue no Leases of their liues , nor no surer holds of their estates than others haue . The rich Glutton heard , Thou foole , this night shall they take away thy soule , and all . Or if we consider the place in which they liue , they are strangers ; for the East winde takes away and hurls them out of their place as easily as any other . Iob 27. 21 ▪ And the mighty dye suddenly , & are taken away without hand . Iob 33. 20. And their houses & possessions which knew them once , shall know them no more , but take in other strangers for a terme of dayes , as they took in them .

But wicked men are not strangers as the godly are , in 4 respects

1. In their owne account , or conceit ; for , though their estate be as vnstable as any others , yet haue they a strong conceit of continuance , and of taking their rest for many yeares . They are described to be such as put off the euill day , & make leagues with death , & are hardly brought to confesse themselues to bee pilgrims and strangers .

2. In the worlds account they be not strangers , but neighbors & Towne-dwellers . The world knowes them , & loueth them as her own : yea , ●ulleth them in her lap as her children , shee graceth them , enricheth them , & aduanceth them as men of best deserts . In a word , she thinketh nothing she hath too good for such fast friends , and diligent seruants .

3. In their owne affection they be no strangers ; for how can they considering they haue no other portion but here ? Ps. 17. 14. How can they but mind earthly things , Phil. 3. 19. to whom God hath shewed no better ? How can they but giue away their affections , & bury their hearts in earth , & drowne themselues in the delights of it , that haue no other God , no other heauen ? What man wil be willing to giue ouer a broken title , till he be assured and seated in a better ? which because they are not , like profane Esaus , they hunger after pottage , let the blessing goe where it will .

4. In their course and conuersation they doe not declare themselues to be strangers . Al their study , their paines , their sweat & indeuour , is to get a sure & contented estate in earth : they treasure all in earth ; If they can encrease their corn , their wine , their oyle , their coyne , their commodities , they rest as in a good portion ; seldome or neuer seeking in earnest that good part which should neuer be taken from them , nor they from it , if once they could attain it . Thus much of the Doctrine , & this question . The Vse followeth .

First , in that the godly man is a stranger and Pilgrim here , wee learne sundry duties . As first to practise Christian sobriety , in the affecting , Christian sob●iety in 1 ▪ affecting . enioying , and vsing the things of this life . For , 1. a stranger in his way affects not , desires not , lookes not for great things for himselfe in the City he trauelleth thorow ; hee lightly regardeth the honours , offices , reuenues , and priuileges of it : his chiefe desires and affections are elsewhere : all the priuilege hee expecteth there , is how to passe quietly and safely through : Enen so ought the Christian Pilgrim by the weaned carriage of himselfe towards things below , Heb. 11. 14 declare plainly ( as the Patriarchs did ) that he seeketh a Countrey .

Seekest thou great things for thy selfe ( saith the Lord to Baruk ) seeke them not . Ier. 45. 5. And why must he not ? because he was but a stranger in that Land , now presently to bee giuen ouer into the hands of strangers .

Secondly , 2. Enioying . A stranger enioyes the things of a strange place as a stranger : hee vseth other mens goods for a night , but hee setteth not his heart on them , nor taketh much delight in them , because he knoweth hee must leaue them next morning , and may take none away with him : Euen so a Christian stranger taketh but a little delight in his iourney , because he thinks not himselfe at home , neither doth he enioy things here as his portion , nor as his own , because he is to be countable for them : and because he wel knoweth , that too much delight in fleshly and worldly pleasures giueth life to corruption , & weakneth grace in him , he attendeth that wholsome Apostolical exhortation , 1 Pet. 2. 11. Dearely beloued , as strangers & Pilgrims abstaine from fleshly lusts , which fight against the soule . Thirdly , 3. Vsing the world . a stranger vseth the necessary comforts hee meeteth with in his way as a stranger ; hee vseth them rather for necessity than for satiety , onely for present occasion , & that with moderation and sobriety : Euen so a Christian Pilgrim must learne to vse the world as not vsing it : 1 Cor. 7. 31 and in the midst of his wealth & abundance , in the f●●ition of his greatest delights and pleasures , to take his mind off them , and to lift vp his thoughts to heauen , the place of his abode . Which duty the Apostle strongly enforceth , Phil. 3. 20. Carnall men mind earthly things , and forgetting both heauen , and the God of heauen , Make their belly their God ; that is , drowne themselues in the pond & puddle of sensuality . But farre be it from vs , who professe the teaching of grace , so to doe ; Our conuersation is in heauen , from whence wee looke for a Sauiour ; they haue their portion in this life , Psal. 17. 14 but our portion is in another , and contrary courses beseeme men of contrary Countries .

Secondly , In that we are strangers here , we learn another duty , which is , the exercise of Christian patience and contentment in all estates , be it sicknesse , pouerty , reproches , abuses or wrongs in any kind : a stranger is contented to endure the wrongs that meet him in his way ; he digesteth , and putteth vp all patiently ; he complaineth not , and much lesse seeketh reuenge : for he knowes he shall haue little rest or redresse till he come home : Euen so the Christian Pilgrim must learne patiently to endure the afflictions , and course and crosse vsages of this strange Country , 2 Cor. 4. last verse , the blessed Apostle was contented to endure all indignities and wrongs : because he was of another country , the high priuileges & excellencies whereof , Eye hath neuer seen , not care hath euer heard , nor euer entred into the heart of man . ●oh. 14. 4. When the Disciples of our Sauior tooke it heauily that Christ said he must leaue them : for now what could they expect but to be exposed and laid open to all the worlds malignity , destitute of their Lords presence and protection ? he comforteth them by the same argument , That this is not their place of rest , but hee goeth to prepare a place for them . Heb. 11. 26. Moses chused to suffer afflictions with Gods , people , because he was a stranger here , and looked for a recomp●nce of reward hereafter . A cloud of Martyrs as witnesse seale this truth , who were slaine , hewen a sunder , wandred vp and downe in sheeps skinnes , in goats skinnes , being destitute , afflicted , and tormented ; Veis . 35. and would not bee deliuered , ( namely , vpon vnequall conditions ) because they saw that God had prepared better things for them .

A stranger turnes not against euery Dog that barketh at him : let Doeg accuse , & Shimei reuile , let Curs barke , there is no hope to still them , the best way is to contemne them , and attend and ride on thy way . A stranger shrinkes not for euery showre of raine , nor is disheartned with the roughnesse , Nu●ee●'a est transibis : and foulnesse of the way , but hee will through thicke and thin , through drops and drout and all because he is going home . Neither must thou that art a Christian Pilgrim , shrinke for the stormes of the world , nor the asperousnesse of the way , which is all strewed with crosses ; but hearten thy selfe as the passenger , who vsually saith , it is neuer an ill day that hath a good night ; & though many bitter pils of harsh and strange vsages must be swallowed by these strangers , yet the consideration of home is as sugar in their pockets to sweeten them all .

A stranger measures not his owne worth , nor thinketh worse of himselfe for things befalling him in the way ; but esteemeth & valueth himselfe , according to his estate at home : So must the Christian stranger , liue by faith , looke vpon things not seene . Let the world vnder-value thee , content thy selfe , that thou hast credit , & reputation at home , where thou art knowne , and thy worth is known , which by no disparagement in the way can be obscured or diminished .

Thirdly , a third duty hence , that we are strangers here , is to learne to estrange our selues from the world , and courses of worldly men . A stranger when euer hee trauels , retaineth the manners , fashions , and customes of his own countrey ; a Christian stranger although he be in the world , yet he is not of the world , hee is of another corporation , and therefore though he walke in the flesh , 2 Cor 10 ▪ 3 ▪ 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 . yet hee must not warre according to the flesh . He carrieth this body of flesh about him as others doe , but he must fight against flesh and the lusts of it , contrary to the Patrons and defenders of the corruptions that are in the world through lust . The world may and must enioy our presence for a time , but must at no time gaine our conformity to it , Rom. 12. 2. Fashion not your selues according to this world ; that is , the customes and guizes of it ; because it lyeth in wickednesse , and the Christian is cast into another forme of doctrine and conuersation . Art thou now sollicited to follow the lusts and fashions of this world ? thinke with thy selfe , that thou art a stranger here , and of another countrey : thou liuest vnder other lawes : thou maist not cast in thy lot with the wicked of the world , nor giue voyce or suffrage in their meetings , but be as Lot , who though he were in Sodom , was not of Sodom , but was perpetually vexed with the vncleane conuersation of those wicked men . Art thou prouoked to sweare , to drinke excessiuely , to lye for aduantage , to breake the Sabbath for gaine , to vncleannesse , or any other soule lust ? Now say to thy selfe , I am of the kingdome of light , but this is a worke of darknesse ; this is an vnlawfull act in my Countrey , and why should I practise it here ? seeing my Lord and King must needs know it : if I commit treason here against my King and Countrey ; my King hath informers enow , and I shall lose my whole estate there , and bee banished out of my Countrey for euer . Shall I , ( saith Joseph ) commit this sinne against my God , against my Master ? Seeing my Master hath kept nothing from me but sinne , I will not doe this thing , I will not sinne , and commit this high wickednesse .

Fourthly , A fourth duty is , that seeing we are strangers here , to learne to affect our own countrey , and highly to esteeme it . Euery man by nature loueth his natiue country best , neither thinketh himselfe so well in any forraine land : and strangers , especially hauing parents , kindred , and great reuenues in their natiue soyle , and being hardly intreated where they so●ourne , would be glad to returne home , and enioy the sight of those whomu they haue long longed to see : Euen so the Christian Pilgrim . Neuer did Israel more affect and extol their owne countrey in their banishment from it , and captiuity in Babylon , than the Christian stranger doth affectedly desire , and prefer his heauenly Countrey aboue this strange land , the Countrey of his captiuity : For , he discerneth that this is not his Country : first , That is a mans Country where he was borne & brought vp ; but whence taketh a Christian his spirituall birth , or where is he brought vp but in the Church and kingdome of Christ ? Earth giueth him a birth and being as he is man , but as a Christian he is borne of God . Secondly , againe , that is a man● countrey where his parents , his ancestors , & deare kindred dwell and inhabit . Now where dwelleth a Christian mans Father , but in heauen ? Where is his elder brother but there ? Where are all his brethren and sisters , sons and daughters of the same parents , but there ? and therefore heauen is his Country . Thirdly , further , that is a mans Countrey where his principall estate , and goods are , where his patrimony and inheritance lyeth ; and where is the chiefe portion , the treasure , the immortall inheri●ance of the Christian , but in heauen ? And where else is his Countrey ? Now then , a Christian considering on the one hand , that he is in a strange Countrey , and how hardly he hath bin intreated in it , and so likely to be still ; and on the other hand , that he hath a home and a father there that loueth him dearely ; and that his elder brother Iesus Christ , and all his spiritual kindred , the Saints of God are there : And besides that , he hath a rich portion and a large patrimony , euen an immortall inheritance in heauen ; how can he choose but to be reared in his affections , yea , rauished to be there ? desiring nothing in the world more than to be dissolued hence , & to be with Christ , which is best of all . A Traueller hath his minde and thoughts still vpon home , and saith with himselfe , Home is homely . And the Marriner , or Sea-faring man in a storme , or rough Sea , hath his desires on the Shore , and his minde is not where his ●ody is . So is it with the Christian Passenger , his minde is not where his body is : and if he cannot get home in the body as soone as he desireth , yet in his spirit , he will mind heauen , and heauenly things : he will get as neere home as he can : if hee cannot get into the heart of the city , hee will be sure to get into the sub●bs , the Church of God . If hee cannot get suddenly into that Jerusalem which is aboue , R●u. 21. 2. he will get into the Ierusalem which is from aboue : and where his person cannot bee for the time , his conuersation and meditation shal be in heauen ; Mat. 6. 21. for , where his treasure is , there will his heart be also .

Vse 2. In that wee are strangers with God , we learne diuers things :

1. The soueraignty and power of God , who is the great owner and ruler of the whole earth . Zach. 4. 14. Kings , themselues , who are the highest earthly Lords , and commanders , are but strangers with God , Psal. 24. 1. for the earth is the Lords , and all that therein is : And no man sitteth in his owne , but are Tenants at will vndre this great Land-Lord . The greatest of men , yea , of Kings , are but as Dauid was , soiourners in his sight , Leuit. 15. 23. The Land is his , and we are but strangers and soiourners with him .

2. We must hence gather out our owne duty towards God , in whose Countrey we soiourne ; and our duty is manifold :

1. To aske leaue of God , to passe through his Countrey ; so did Israel of Edom , a wicked Prince and people , Numb . 20. I pray thee that we may passe thorow thy country , &c. It is fit to ask leaue where no right is . Besides , that by daily prayer for Gods leaue , and fauourable loue in our way , we both ascribe vnto God the honour of soueraignty and bounty ; as also sweeten his mercies which he giueth vs leaue to enioy , 1 Tim. 4. 5 all which are sanctified to vs by the word and by prayer .

2 Binde thy selfe from trespassing in the way and Countrey through which thou passest : So did Israel vnto Edom , We will not goe through the fields , Num. 20. 17 nor the vinyards : neitheir will we drinke of the water of the wels : we will goe by the Kings way , and neither turn to the right hand , nor left , til we be past thy borders . So must the Christian be carefull he transgresse not the lawes of the Countrey in which he soiournes , to sturre vp against himselfe the wrath and reuenge of the Lord in whose Country he soiourneth ; bu● frame himselfe to please him , by whose leaue he trauelleth through his Countrey . How carefull and digent were Josephs brethren to please their vnknowne brother , Gen. 44. the Lord of that strange Countrey ? Much more ought we to please our brother Jesus Christ , the Lord of this strange countrey , through which we passe to our owne Canaan .

3 Cast thy care vpon God , and I depend vpon him for al needfull supplies ; so did holy Dauid here , because he was stranger in Gods Countrey , he therefore casteth his burden vpon the Lord , desiring him to heare his prayer , and to hearken to his cry , and not to be silent at his teares . A stranger ouer-loadeth nor himselfe with cares , and carriages ; but carrying a competent viaunce with him , dependeth for all necessaries vpon them where he soiourneth ; so a Christian stranger need be in nothing carefull , Phil ▪ 4. 6. but in all things let his request be shwed vnto God ( the King of the Countrey ) in prayer . All 〈…〉 exexcessiue carefulnesse is to bee auoyded of a Christian , yea , suppose the care bee about things lawfull , if it be excessiue , it is sinfull , and vnseemely in a Christian Pilgrim . Psal. 37. 5. Let thy chiefe care be , to commit thy way unto the Lord , 1 Pet. 5. 7. and trust in him , and he shal bring it to passe . Psal. 55. 22. Cast thy care vpon the Lord , and hee shall nourish thee .

4. Bee much in thankfulnesse vnto God for all the comfortable blessings thou receiuest in thy Pilgrimage : a stranger thankfully accepteth all the fauors shewed him in a strange Countrey : and so did holy Dauid , when God had enabled him to prepare abundantly for the building of the Temple , breake out into abundant praises ; 1 Chro. 29 , 13 , 14. We thanke thee our God , and prayse thy glorious name . But who am I ? or what is my people , that we should offer vnto thee ? for all is thine , and of thine owne haue we giuen thee ; for , wee are strangers before thee , and soiourners , as all our Fathers were . And surely , it well beseemeth the iust to be thankfull , seeing they are strangers in the Lords land , and all the comforts they enioy , are his by right and possession , and theirs onely by leaue , and thankfull acceptation .

5. Be contented and patient , if this great Lord deny thee any thing thou wouldst haue whilest thou passest through his Countrey ; Num. 20. 21 so was Israel when Edom out of a churlish and hurtfull mind , denied them peaceable passage . But the Lord of this Countrey knoweth what is fit for vs , and neuer denieth any thing out of a churlish minde , neither can deny any thing good in it selfe , and good to vs ; and if he withhold any hurtfull things , we must be not only patient but thankfull .

Vse 3. In that we are strangers , and trauelling to our country , as all our Fathers haue done before vs , it appeareth that our wisedome will be to resolue of paines and trauell all the daies of our life , and not to expect rest till the night of death come , when dying in the Lord we shall rest from our labours : and because this is not our rest , we must arise and depart hence . Mica . 2 : 20 And seeing we can no more auoid this weary iourney , than any of our Fathers could do ; we must rather bestow wise and carefull thoughts , in fitting our selues to our iourney , and in behauing our selues through our way , than to expect to auoid the tediousnesse and difficulties of it .

Quest. How may we fit our selues for our iourney home into our owne Countrey ?

Ans. A traueller fitteth himselfe to his iourney two 〈◊〉 specially :

1. By casting off 〈…〉 behinde him 〈…〉 burden or 〈…〉 2. By prouiding for himselfe things fit for his iourney .

Of the former sort there be three especiall encumbrances that the Christian Pilgrim must lighten himselfe of . The first of them is sinne , which as an intollerable burden presseth vs downe , and hangeth fast on : and therefore the Apostle counselleth to cast it off , Heb. 13. 2. if we meane to run the race before vs . Now the way to lighten our selues of this weight , is to exercise eueryday the grace of repentance and mortification , and daily to take some sinne or other in hand , and at least to slake and abate the power of it , that if we cannot be rid of the sinne in respect of the presence of it , yet we may be rid of the reigne and command of it .

The second , are earthly cares , profits and pleasures , which are as heauie stones tyed vnto vs , and pressing vs from heauen to earth , making heauie and sadde the soule , and vnweldy in her motions . The way for vs to lighten our selues of these encumbrances , is daily and continually to eleuate , & raise our thoughts homeward , and heauenward , and exercise our selues in holy meditations , praiers , and praises , sundry times through the day .

For as he that would keepe a Clocke in true motion , must euery day sundry times windevp the plummets , which are still drawing downward ; euen so must we doe with our hearts ; the cares and pleasures of the world are as plummets of Lead , pressing down the soule incessantly , in her motion towards heauen ; and he that would continue his motion must daily winde vp his heart towards God : and by maine strength of grace fetch it vp from earth , that it may be firmly setled on heauenly things , delighting it selfe with the riches of heauen , and with contemplation of those pleasures , that are at the right hand of God for euermore .

The third encumbrance , is the feare of death , which presseth vs all our life ; and the Christian must lighten himselfe of this burden by looking beyond it to his owne home ; by longing after the liuing God , whom none can see in the body and liue ; by considering that the neerer he is to death , he is so much neerer home : and what stranger feareth to goe home ; or is sorry when after a long absence , he is entring into his owne Citie ?

Secondly , A wise Christian will furnish and prouide himself with necessaries , and needfull supplies , to helpe him through his iournie .

There be fiue things especially which a traueller must fit himselfe withal , that his iourney may be lesse tedious , and more prosperous to himselfe .

1. The knowledge of the direct way . Now whereas no man knowes the way to the heauenly countrey , without Gods teaching , euery one must go to God himselfe first , and then to such as God hath appointed to be the directors , and instructors in this way . The former we see in holy Dauid , Psalme 119. 19. I am a stranger vpon earth , therefore hide not thy Commandements from me . He knew well how hardly a blinde man could performe a farre and dangerous iourney , and thus it is onely th● Commandement that shews the way to this heauenly Countrie . Why ? was Dauid a blinde man , or did he not know the ten Commandements ? Euen Dauid who was not stone blinde , but much enlightned , was blinde in part , and still earnest , that the LORD would further open his eyes , Ps. 119. 18 ▪ 34 ▪ 35. to see the way more plainly and clearely than yet he did : And though he knew the words , and true sence of the ten Commandements , yet he desireth still to be led further into the particular vse , application , direction , and obedience of them , and of all other parts of the Word , Vers. 96. which he saith , is exceeding large . And for the latter ; As a stranger in an vnknowne Country , and way , wil euer be asking the way of euery one neuer so simple , who knoweth the way better than himselfe ; and will obserue the senerall markes , and statues , by which he may know , whether he be right or no : So must euery Christian Pilgrim be inquisitiue of his way ; for which purpose he must frequent the ministry of the word diligently , which God hath erected to be as A light in a darke plabe ; as the Pillar of the Cloude and fire by night and by day , to direct vs through this dry and desart wildernesse ; as Ariadnes threede to helpe vs through this troublesome Maze and Labyrinth ; and as a voyce behinde vs , saying , This is the way , walke in it . An inquisitiue Christian will be still consulting with Gods Ministers about the way of God : and conferring with priuate Christians , be they neuer so meane in place or appearance , concerning their great iourney betweene heauen and earth ; and will take speciall notice of the markes of their way , as whether it be the narrow way , or the broad way ; whether it be strewed with crosses , or pleasant to the flesh ; whether it be a cleane way , or a foule , dirty , and miry way of lusts ; whether it be an old beaten way by the feet of ancient beleeuers , the Prophets , the Apostles , and holy men , yea , of Iesus Christ himselfe ; or a new broken and deuised way , vnknowne vnto them , and the Scriptures ; whether it be a right way , Hos. 14. 9. or a crooked path of by-lanes , & turnings to the right hand or to the left ; whether it be a lightsome , or a darke way , and the like . Pro. 4. 19. Thus inquisitîue and carefull will a Christian Pilgrim be of the best directions he can get ; as the poore iaylor will know of Paul his prisoner , what he may doe to be saued ; and it is none of the lightest plagues of God , to haue an heart vnwilling to aske about the way of heauen .

A second comfortable helpe in an vnknowne way , is a good guide . The Christian stranger hath need of a guide , and the best guide is God himselfe , yea , and more , God is the onely guide . In any other way or iourney , the natiues or inhabitants can guide a stranger from place to place , but here none but God can be our guide , Psalm . 25. 9. He will guide in Judgement , and teach the humble his way .

Quest. But how then may a m●an get God to be his guide ?

Answer . By two speciall meanes : ▪

1. By earnest Prayer : Dauid knowing that none but GOD could guide him , prayeth , Psal. 143. 8. Shew mee the way that I shall goe . And verse 10. Let thy good Spirit lead me vnto the land of righteousnesse .

2. By constant subiection to Gods word ; for GOD goeth before vs by his word , as he did before Israel in the Pillar of the Cloud and fire , and willing obedience to Gods word , maketh God our guide .

Thirdly , A stranger in his way needeth his viance , or prouision for his expence . The word of God is the Christians viaticum , and supplieth all his needs , it offoords him food in his hunger , being the bread of life , and the Mannah that came down from heauen ; it yeeldeth him drink in his thirst , being water of life , & whosoeuer thirsteth , is called to thes sweet waters of consolation , drawne out of the wells of saluation ; it affoords him Physicke in his soules sicknesse ; strength in his weakenesse , and neuer leaueth him that learneth vpon it , without sufficient means to helpe him through his iourney .

Fourthly , a traueller hath need of a weapon to defend himselfe , and to wound or keepe off his enemies . The same word of God is a speciall part of our spirituall armour ; it is the sword of the Spirit . And as Dauid said of Goliahs sword , Oh , there is none to that , giue me that ; so there is no sword to this for the repulse of all spiriall enemies , and for the sure defence of him that shall buckle it close vnto him . Besides that , it directs him to obtaine and fasten vnto him all the other peeces of Cstristian armour , so as in no part he lye open or naked to danger .

Fifthly , A Treueller hath need of good company , which is pro vehiculo , as good as a Waggon or Coach , to carry him with the more ease through the tediousnesse of the way . The same testimonies of God are sweet companions , and helpe to deceiue , and pas●e ouer our time comfortably ; if wee can talke of them in the way , and in the house , and in the field ; and if we can whet them vpon our selues and others , if wee make them The man of our counsell , and meditate on them night and day : hee is neuer alone that hath God and Christ conferring , counselling , and directing him in the Scriptures : neither is hee alone , who when hee is most alone , is in Soliloquie with God : this man wanteth neither company nor comfort .

Now how happily shall this man compasse his iourney , and goe singing through the most tedious wayes of his Pilgrimage , Ps. 119. 14. that hath thus fu●nished himselfe with the vnderstanding of his way , with a faithfull and vnerring guide , with sufficient prouision for his expence , with a seruiceable weapon , and with a sweet and chearfull Companion ?

Vse 4. In that we are Pilgrims in the way to our Countrey : In this way we must learne to demeane our selues as way-faring men , and imitate the Pilgrim in these particulars .

1. To be stirring early for our iourney , and take the day before vs , that we may dispatch our iourney before we be benighted . It is our Lords counsell to worke while the day lasteth , because the night commeth wherein none can worke , Joh. 11. 9. And his owne practise propounded for our imitation , John 9. 4. and imitated by the Saints , whose praises are in the Scriptures . Holy Dauid serued out his time according to the counsell of God ; that is , while he liued he was a seruant of God , for the good of the age in which he liued . 1 Pet. 4. 2. And the Apostle Peter exhorteth , that henceforth so much time as remaineth in the flesh , wee spend according to the will of God ▪ Wel did the holy men consider , what an aduantage it is to set out in the way of God early , euen in the morning of the life : What a sweet comfort it is to be early graced ; that we haue but a short day passed away in a few houres to trauell in ; that this day stayeth not , but hasteneth from vs ; that this day is the onely time to walke in ; and that this day being shut in , there is no more time to worke or walke in , and therefore did bestirre themselues lest they should fall short of their intended iourney .

2. As a man in his iourney , will be glad of any good company that will goe but part of his way with him : So must the Christian in his iourney , be glad of company in his way to heauen ; and heartily embrace the fellowship and society of the Saints , which meane to goe through with him . Indeed if a man would choose to sort himselfe with euill men , he might get more company , but they goe the contrary way ; but a wise traueller will rather chuse to goe with one , or two , yea or alone in his right way , than goe a cleane contrary way for company . Let vs be glad to meet our countrey-men in this through-fare , be kinde to them for the same Countrey sake ; and as we shall easily know them by their language , habit , and conuersation , so let vs heartily affect them , and vndiuidedly cleaue vnto them .

3. In this way be glad ( as a stranger in a strange Country ) to s●nd home vpon euery occasion offering it selfe : send home thy prayers , thy daily desires , thy thoughts , thy meditations , thy praises , thy sacrifices , thy loue-tokens . And because some thing is to be done for thee at home now in thine absence , beseech Christ thy best friend , to set forward thy businesse there , and to looke to thine occasions , lest all goe to wracke , by preparing a mansion for thee ; by making intercession for thee ; by sending out his Spirit for thy direction and comfort , till thou returnest home vnto him ; eternall praises and thankes for such great fauours , so freely conferred vpon thee .

4. In this way be content if sometimes thou art weary , as one that goeth vp a steepe hill : if sometimes thou sighest and pantest in thy painefull travell , through a foule way , and stormie weather : Let the tediousnesse of the way make thee desire the wayes end , and to couet to be at home with Christ , which is best of all . But be sure in thy wearinesse thou sit not downe , much lesse looke backe with Lots wi●e ; Phil. 3. 13. but presse hard forward to the make , as one resolued to goe through and perseuere to the end : considering that after an hill commeth a valley , after foule way commeth faire , and after a storme a faire shine and gleame againe : Psal. 30. Heauinesse may endure for a night , but ioy returneth in the morning . Heb. 10. 36 If wee haue neede of patience for a while , it is but to enioy the promises . 2. Cor. 1. If the sufferings for Christ encrease , Psal. 31. so shall also the comforts . And many are the troubles of the righteous , but the Lord deliuereth them out of all . The end which crowneth all thy labour is worth all thy paines and patience .

Vse 5. Seeing all the Saints are strangers here as all our Fathers haue beene : Here are sundry grounds of comfort arising hence to beleeuers .

1. Against the disgraces and open iniuries they perpetually sustaine from the hands of euill men , and the small fauour they finde in the world : for what can they looke for other , being strangers , but strange vsages and entertainments from the world ? If they were of the world , the world would loue them as her owne . Euery Corporation preferreth into offices her owne free men , and inhabitants ; and it were folly for a stranger passing but through , ●o expect those places , and preferments : he must rather cast to endure wrongs , where his worth is vnknowne , and expect no remedy or release at any of their hands ; but herein comfort himselfe that he hath credit , and can haue right in his owne countrey ; and if he were once at home , he should put vp no such wrongs and indignities .

2. Against the troubles and oppressions of the Saints of God in these heauie times of warres and bloudie persecutions ; in which the Captaines of Antichrist chase the godly from their seates , houses , estates , and countries , not suffering the Doue of Christ a rest for the sole of her foot . Here is a ground of comfort :

1. That all the furie of the enemies , exiling and banishing the godly , can but make them strangers , and so were they before , wheresoeuer they dwelt in any place of the earth . It is no great addition of misery to banish him , that was in banishment before ; or to driue a man out of one strange place into another : He that is already a stranger vpon earth in affection , can easily become actually a stranger , if God call him vnto it .

2. When the enemies haue exercised all their rage , they cannot banish them out of GODS Countrey ; but they are strangers before GOD , who is equally present with them in one corner of the earth as well as in another , to protect them , to prouide for them , to pittie them , and guide them home to their owne Countrey .

3. Although the enemies would be endlesse in their rage against the Saints : and were they to liue euer , they would euer nou●ish and exercise an immorttall wrath against the people of God , yet can they not inflict so much mischiefe on them as they desire : For besides that themselues are mortall , and besides the justice of God breaking quickly to peeces the roddes of his wrath , and casting them into the fire : the godly themselues are but strangers here , and of short continuance : so as , suppose their sufferings be sharpe , yet they be but short . The roddes of the wicked shall not alwayes lye vpon the lot of the righteous ( as they desire they should ) seeing the godly are strangers as well in time as in place , and themselues not continuing , their misery cannot be continuall .

3. In the many losses of these worldly and corruptible things , which take them to their wings , and flye from one master to another , aey meanes of warre , mortality , and many ? casualties : a Christian hath comfort , that he being a stranger here , he hath no great estate to loose : some Moueables , such as he carryeth along with him in his iourney , he may loose by the way , but his estate and inheritance is safe enough at home . Nay , in that great and finall destruction of the whole world by the dreadfull fire of the last day ; When the heauens shall passe away with a noise , 1 Pet. 3. 10 and the elements shal melt with heat , and the earth , with the workes that are ▪ therein shall be burnt vp . When all other men shall be loosers of all their whole estates , onely the godly ( because they are Strangers here ) they shall escape all these things , and be no loosers at all .

If some whole Citie should be consumed by fire , when the whole multitude of Inhabitants sustaine losse , and beggerie , by 〈◊〉 Accident ; a stranger 〈…〉 but passing through the 〈…〉 and hath his estate and 〈…〉 elsewhere , he 〈…〉 at all : So the 〈…〉 in that day , 〈…〉 nor 〈…〉 who had no other portion but in this life .

4. As his estate is safe , so likewise is the person of the godly Pilgrim : For he not being of the world , he shall not perish wi●h the world . It was happie for Lot that hee was a stranger , Gen. 19. 9 and scorned as a stranger by the Sodomites ; for when all they were scalded with a shower of fire and Brimstone , the Lord being mercifull vnto him , his person was in safetie . Seuer thy selfe from the condition of sinfull men ; estrange thy selfe from the condition of sinnefull men : estrange thy selfe from their courses , walke as one deliuered from this euill world , if not yet in respect of place , yet in respect of new qualities ▪ thou shalt haue GODS protection , and see the sa●uation of the LORD , when all the wicked Inhabitants of the earth shal● call for the hils to couer them , and the mountaines to fall vpon them , Reu. 6. 16 , 17. to hide them from the wrath of the Lambe : for the great day of his wrath is come , and who can stand ?

FINIS .
A PROFITABLE MEMORIALL OF the Conuersion , Life , and Death of Mistris MARIE GVNTER , set vp as a Monument to be looked vpon both by Protestants and Papists .

I Could not better spend some part of the dais of my mourning for the losse of my deare Wife , then in setting downe briefly some Passages of her course and Pilgrimage , that the happy memory of her graces and vertuous life might euer liue with me , both for incitation and imitation . And if my desires were strong to make them more publike for the direction of some others , I hope it will rather be charitably ascribed to the working and stirring of my affection towards her Ashes , than to any vanitie of minde , or ostentation in her . Besides , I am sure , that if a Protestant had beene seduced from vs ( as shee was called out of Popery ) and had liued and dyed so zealous in that Religion , as shee did in this , the aduersaries would haue made their aduantage of it , and published the same as one of the miracles of their Church . And I see not but it may be as lawfull for me , as it may proue profitable for others , to set downe the known Truth concerning her ; that as shee was in her life , so also she may happily continue now after her death , an happy instrument of Gods glory in earth , as I am assured shee is a vessell before him filled with his glory of heauen .

THis gracious Woman was for birth a Gentlewoman , Her birth . but descended of Popish Parents , who dying in her infancy , shee was committed vnto the tuition of an old Lady , Popish education . honourable for her place , but a strong Papist , who nousled and mis-led this Orphan in Popery , till shee came about foureteene yeeres of age ; at which time this Lady died . Upon which occasion , God ( hauing a mercifull purpose towards her conuersion ) by his good Prouidence , brought her to the seruice of that Religious and truly honourable Lady , the Countesse of Leicester , who entertained her with more than ordinary respect , both because of her young yeares , as also because shee was allied to Sir Christopher Blunt , then husband to the honourable Countesse ; at whose request his Lady had taken her into her care .

To this Honourable Countesse shee came a most zealous Papist , and resolute , as soone as possibly shee could apprehend a fit opportunity , to conuey her selfe beyond the Seas , and become a Nunne ; for she then thought that that was the surest and likeliest way to get Heauen : This religious care of the honourable Countesse as she did all her life thankfully acknowledge it , so it is very obseruable both for the high commendation of her honor and for the imitation of others of her honourable ranke . which as shee had an earnest desire to attaine , so would shee take the nearest way which shee thought would bring her thither . But shee could not so closely carry her secret deuotions and intentions , but that by the carefull eye of her Honourable Lady , they were soone discouered , and not sooner discouered then wisely preuented ; for presently her Lady tooke from her all her Popish bookes , Beades and Images , and all such trumpery , and set a narrow watch ouer her , that shee might bee kept from her Popish Prayers , and not absent her selfe from the daily Prayers of the Family , which were religiously obserued : further , requiring her to reade those Prayers that her honour daily vsed to have in her private chamber with her women .

Her Ladiship also carefully preuented her from her Popish company and counsel by word or writing , for neither might shee write nor receive any letter without the view and consent of her Honour .

Shee also constrained her to be countable for the Sermons which shee heard in the house , which were constantly two euery Sabbath day , ( for the increase of the sound knowledge of God , which is the onely Hammer of Popery . ) And hereby shee in short time obtayned great ability to communicate to others the substance of those Sermons which shee heard , the rather because it was constantly obserued by all the women in that honourable Family , to come together after the last Sermon , and make repetition of both .

And this shee did as yet for feare , but still with this reseruation , that shee would keepe her heart for Popery ; and trusted that God would bee merciful vnto her ( as Naaman ) in this which shee did onely through feare and constraint . But God ( who in his owne time worketh in his owne meanes ) beganne to worke in her first a staggering in her old way ; For , when she saw the holy conuersation of that Reverend Preacher , Master I. W. who was then Chaplin to the Countesse , shee began to perswade her selfe , that surely this mans godlinesse must needs bring him to Heaven . And then the reverend respect of the man made her begin to give some better eare to his Doctrine , to examine his proofes , and to reverence his Ministry ; whereby in short time , it pleased God that shee was won to beleeve the Truth , Her new birth . and renounce her former superstition and ignorance . And as it is the property of a true Convert , being converted her selfe , Io● . 1. 45. she endeuoured the conversion of others , and was a great helpe and furtherance to the publique Ministery that way : For this was a thing which that honourable Familie tooke speciall knowledge of ; and there were many that had great cause to blesse God for her in that respect .

Now presently Satan ( that Dragon that watcheth to deuoure every man-child which shall be borne unto God ) begins to rage , Reu. 1● . and reach at her with strong and violent temptations : Her long & strong temptations . and first hee terrified her in that shee had sinned the sinne against the holy Ghost , for shee had played the deepe dissembler ; and being in heart a Papist , yet joyned with the Protestants whom shee held for Heretickes , and all this against her knowledge ▪ and conscience , and so fiercely and incessantly hee followed this temptation , as that shee was perswaded it was impossible that euer this sinne should or could be pardoned . And this temptation was pointed and sharpened with that dreadfull and foule suggestion of selfe murder , as if the remedy of the sin against the holy Ghost , were to destroy ones selfe . While shee was thus long tossed & tumbled in these waues and billowes of Satanicall suggestions , wherein she was so low cast and dejected ( still concealing her griefe ) as shee almost despaired of recovery ; It pleased God to direct that Reverend Preacher ( who was her Father in Christ , & whom shee ever after embraced with the most entire love of the most naturall Childe ) to entreat of this sinne , and to shew what it was , and by whom and in what manner it was committed . To which Doctrine shee diligently harkening , and by examination of it , and her selfe , finding that shee had not so sinned after illumination , nor with obstinate malice against God or his Truth , ( which when shee was most superstitiously devoted , shee desired to finde out ) it pleased God to quiet her mind for that ; and so led her ouer that temptation .

But Satan that departed from our head , Jesus Christ , onely for a seaon , was not long away from the molestation of this his member , but returned and brought seuen worse spirits ( were it possible ) than before , and now his name may be Legion ; for now hee would confound and oppresse her with multitudes of blasphemous thoughts , and doubts . Now must shee beleeve there is no God : That the Scriptures are not his Word , but a Pollicie : or if it were his Word , who must interpret it ? or how could shee a silly woman get the vnderstanding of such deepe mysteries as are contained in the same ? Besides , as shee was of mind that she was gotten out of one error , so she knew nothing but that shee was mis-led into another ; for , how could shee be sure that this was the truth which she now professed , seeing there are as many , or more learned men of the one opinion as of the other , and all of them maintaine their opinions by the Scriptures . Thus was shee vexed and exercised with Armies of roving and unsetled conceits for five or six yeares together , till God , ( whom shee often sollicited for direction and assistance in the combat ) brought her to this resolution , that she would hold these conclusions , whatsoever disputes Satan might weary her withall : That there was not onely a God in himselfe , but a God that was her God : and whatsoever opinions there were in the world , that there was but one Truth , and that was to bee learned out of the Scriptures ; and though there were much in the Bible which shee did not understand , yet shee was perswaded , that if shee would diligently read and search the Scriptures , with earnest prayer to God for a good understanding in them , shee should attaine thence a measure of knowledge , s●fficient to bring her to heaven ; and holding strongly these grounds , shee found the temptations waste away by degrees , and her selfe daily more strongly setled upon the foundation .

Neither was shee onely by the grace of God a Conquerour in these temptations , but I may say with the Apostle , in a manner more than a Conquerour by them ; for , God ( who bringeth light out of darkenesse ) made these temptations a sweet seasoning of her whole life . By occasion of which , shee tyed her selfe to a strict course of godlinesse , and a constant practice of Christian Duties , which shee religiously observed even till her dying day .

For first , Her religious life . that shee might be stablished in the Truth , and confirmed against those former waverings and weakenesses , shee vowed , that God assisting her , shee would every yeare read over the whole Bible in an ordinary course , Extraordinary diligence in the Scriptures which course shee constantly observed for the space of fifteene yeares together , beginning her taske upon her birth-day , and reading every day so many Chapters as to bring it about iust with the yeare . By which exercise shee gained a great increase of knowledge , and no lesse strengthening of her faith ; for she did not read carelesly or negligently , but alwayes kept a note of what places she did not vnderstand , and would still bee inquiring the meaning of them , as shee met either with Ministers , or such as she thought were able to informe her in the same . And her custome was euer before shee opened her Bible , to send vp a short prayer vnto God , for the opening of her blinde eyes , to the vnderstanding of those sacred mysteries , that so they might bee as a Lanthorne to guide her feet in the wayes of holinesse , vntill shee had attained her desired happinesse .

And not herewith contented , as a good Mary , she pondered the Word of God in her heart ; for by her great industry in the Scriptures , shee had gotten by heart many select Chapters , and speciall Psalmes ; and of euery Booke of the Scripture one choyce verse : all which shee weekly repeated in an order which shee propounded to her selfe : and being asked why shee was so laborious in getting and retaining those Scriptures in memory ? Her answer was , that shee knew not what daies of triall or persecution might come , wherein shee might be depriued of her Bible , and other good bookes and helpes ; but so much of the Scriptures as she could get into her heart shee knew no Tyrants or Enemies could bereaue or rob her of . ( God make thee that readest , and me that writeth this , so Christianly prouident , as in these dayes of plenty to lay vp somewhat for the dayes of straitnesse and famine . ) Secondly , Her instance in her priuat Prayers . from that time of her trouble shee resolued vpon Daniels practice , wherein shee was also constant ; namely , besides the family duties , which were twice a day performed by the Chaplin in that Religious house in which shee liued till within one yeere of her death ; And besides the priuate Prayers that shee daily read in her Ladies Bed-chamber , shee was thrice every day on her knees before God in secret , like a true worshipper , whose delight was to bee in Gods presence . By meanes of which daily exercise , besides all other comfortable fruits , shee attained a singular sweet gift in prayer , whereby she could both strongly wrastle , and happily prevaile with God , whose grace suffereth himselfe to be ouercome with the prayers of his weake servants .

And because she knew that Religious fasting is the whet-stone of Prayer , shee tyed her selfe to set apart six dayes in every yeare , wherein shee was extraordinarily humbled in fasting and prayer , for her owne sinnes , and the sinnes of the times . At all which times shee was in speciall manner earnest with the Lord , that he would bee pleased further to reveale vnto her his whole Truth , needfull for her salvation , and keepe her constant in the obedience thereof vnto the end .

And because shee knew that the right and worthy Receiuing of the Sacraments affordeth a Christian speciall strength , and much stabilitie in the course of godlinesse : as shee diligently apprehended that comfort when shee could conueniently receiue that Sacrament ; so for many yeares shee had laid a band vpon her selfe , neuer to receiue it , but the day before to fit , and examine her selfe seriously , deeply humbling her selfe before the Lord in fasting and prayer all the day long .

Thirdly , The tendernesse of her conscience . the trouble of her conscience , made her ever of a tender conscience : fearefull shee was of offending God and her owne conscience ; and watched her selfe narrowly ; and to keepe her selfe in awe ; for the space of fiue yeares before her death , shee kept a Catalogue of her daily slips , and set downe euen the naughty thoughts which shee obserued in her selfe , that one day in euery weeke shee might extraordinarily humble her selfe for all the failings of that weeke , and this with such moderate abstinence as might best fit her weake body to humble and feruent prayer . And all these priuate Religious duties , she performed so secretly , that none but her bosome friend knew of their performance . As shee was thus fearefull of sinnes present , and to come , so her conscience was tender in respect of sinnes past , as may appeare by this memorable instance ; Whilest shee was a childe bred vp in the chamber of that old Lady , shee was entised by lewd servants who fed her with figges , and other such toyes , fit to please children withall , to steale money out of the Ladies Cabinet which often stood open in her Chamber , and which they knew shee had the fittest opportunity to doe of all other : whereunto her childishnesse giving way , shee found it not missed , and so continued it for seven yeares or thereabouts , without any great checke of Conscience . But when the light of God came in , and made a priuy search in the heart ; and made her able to take her selfe with the fact ; now shee was ashamed and confounded in her selfe , and her stirred conscience gaue her no rest , nor could shee conceiue any hope of quiet , because shee saw shee had done that which shee could no way vndoe . If shee looked at the summe of mony taken and giuen away , she conceiued that by continuing in that course seuen yeares together , shee might haue wronged that Lady thirty or forty pound . If she thought of restitution , she was no way able . Thus shee carried the burthen of this sinne a long time , easing it as wel as she could with a resolute purpose , if ever God pleased to make her able , to make restitution to the heires of the deceased Lady . And accordingly so she did . For when that honourable , and bountifull Lady , whom shee long serued , gave her a large portion when shee bestowed her in marriage , she forthwith made choyce of a Reverend Minister , whom shee employed therein ( enjoyning him secrecie ) and because shee would be sure to make full restitution , shee delivered him sixty pounds , to tender vnto this Ladies heire , as from a concealed servant of the Ladies , who had vniustly taken it away from her . And when the Gentleman returned tenne pounds of it againe , such was the tendernesse of her conscience , that she would receive none of it to her owne vse ; but gave it away to poore and pious persons and vses . And this childish errour , God turned to her good ; for in all the two and twenty yeares of her service unto that honourable Lady , she never durst make vse of any thing that was vnder her charge , were it small or great , but set it downe in writing , and once every yeare did make it good , either in the kinde , or in some other thing which she bought for her Ladiships vse .

Fourthly , Her hari●able d●sposi●ion the sense of her owne weaknesses and wants made her of a pittifull and charitable disposition towards the wants and miseries of others . Shee had ever a large heart to the poore , especially the godly poore ; shee neuer did see or heare of any that were in want , but her heart did mourne if shee had not to releeve them , neither was her hand shut , for she did yearely lay aside a portion of money to the vttermost of her ability ( if not beyond ) for their releefe . Thus she lived holily , happily , and desiredly : Neither could so gracious a life be shut vp but by an answerable , that is , an happy death and dissolution , whereof I will adde but a few words , and so leaue her to her happinesse til we meet happily againe .

True it is , that the life of a Christian should be a continuall meditation of death , Her lingring sicknesse . as it is a continuall motion to death : and such was the latter part especially of the life of this Christian woman , who was of weake and sickly constitution many yeares before her death , which made her so much the more prepared for her last combat and sicknesse , which lasted ten weekes ; in all which time she certainely apprehended and expected her dissolution , it being the principall , and almost onely subject of her discourse , sixe moneths before it came . But thirty dayes before her departure , she finding her paines increasing , and growing very sharpe and tedious , shee spent an houres talke with me concerning her desire for the things of this life ; and hauing said what she purposed , shee thus concluded her speech : Now , sweet Heart , no more words betweene you and me of any worldly thing , onely let me earnestly request , and charge you , that as you see my weaknesse increase , you will not faile to assist me , and call on me to follow the Lord with prayer and patience ; For , now I know , that Satan will shew all his malice , because his time is but short against me , and hee will easily espy my weaknesse , and make his aduantage of it , and therefore now especially help me with your counsell , comfort , and prayers .

In all the time of her sickenesse , our gracious God who as a fast friend standeth closest to his servants , when they haue most need of him , shewed his gracious presence with her , as in all other comfortable supplies answerable to that depth of distresse , so especially in hearing and answering her prayers , and desires of her heart .

There were foure requests which we observed shee especially preferred vnto God in her sicknesse , Foure requests especially she made to God in her sicknesse , and heard 〈◊〉 them all . and in none of them was denied .

The first , that she might be armed with strength against Satans assaults , which she expected would bee fierce and frequent ; from whom shee was mercifully freed ; for onely three dayes before her death , she began to be dejected in the sense of her owne dulnesse , and thereby began to call in question Gods love towards her , and the truth of Gods grace in her ; for said shee , were I the Lords , why should not I lift vp my head now , seeing the time of my dissolution draweth on so neare ? But these complaints continued not above six houres , but she had much chearefulnesse and comfort againe , which she expressed , both in earnest and excellent Prayers , ( wherein her gift was more then ordinary for her sexe ) as also in many chearefull thankes and prayses to God for his great mercy , for that he had now so chained Satan at this time of her great weaknesse , that having beene formerly molested , and daily vexed with his assaults , for the space of above six yeares together , now he would not suffer him to rest on her with his malice above six houres .

Her second request was , that the Lord would strengthen her with patience to endure all her paines to the end ; and herein she was as graciously heard as in the former , for although she was full of paines , and assaulted with many strong fits , in which no part was exempt from deadly paynes , and every of these fits of many houres continuance , yet was she never heard to vtter any word of impatience in her selfe , or discontent to any that were about her , and much lesse to charge God foolishly , in whose hands she was as the clay in the hand of the Potter .

Her third request to God , was , that she might in all her sorrowes be still supported with some sense of his love ; and with the assurance of the pardon of all her sinnes . And that God was comfortably found of her in this request , was very apparant in her joyfull expectation of death ; the time whereof she truly foretold five dayes before it came ; and as this time approached , her joy increased ; so as she was able to comfort her mournfull husband and friends , saying ; Mourne not for me , but for your selues , for I shall very shortly be more happy than the wishes of your hearts can make me , and therefore cease your mourning , and helpe me thither by your prayers as fast as you can .

Her fourth request was , that she might have her memory continued unto the last ▪ that so by no idle , or light speech , she might dishonour God , or bring scandall o● her profession ; for she said , If I through paine or want of sleepe ( which she much wanted ) should haue any foolish or idletalke , I know what the speech of the world vseth to be ; This is the end of all your precise folke , they die mad , or not themselues , &c.

And as she prayed , God gaue her her memory to the last gaspe , Her happy departure that she dyed praying ; for a little before her departure , she called vs that were about her , and hasted to Prayer , for now ( said she ) I shall be gone presently : ( which words we then beleeued not ) but Prayer being ended , she said with more strength than she had spoken any thing foure houres before , Amen , amen . Into thy hands , O Lord , I commend my spirit . Lord Jesus haue mercy on me , and receiue my soule . And thus with her last breath and words , her soule was carried into Abrahams bosome in the Heavens , to which her eyes and hands were lifted . This was the life and death of this sweet Saint , as it was observed and now faithfully witnessed by her mournfull husband , who wisheth both his life and latter end like vnto hers .

FINIS .

A GLASSE for Gentlewomen to dresse themselues by .

By THOMAS TAYLOR , Doctor in Diuinity , and late Preacher of Aldermanberry in London .

LONDON : Printed by I. B. for Iohn Bartlet , at the signe of the gilt Cup in Cheap-side . 1633.

A GLASSE for Gentlewomen to dresse themselues by .

BEcause I know that sundry women fearing God faile in the matter of their attire and ornament , because they want direction ▪ which might lead their consciences in stead of the common errour of riotous times : And because it is requisite that all that professe the Name of God , should bee more carefull of adorning their profession , than their persons : I haue here set downe a few briefe directions in generall for their helpe that are willing to be ruled by God and his Word ; and are more desirous to approue themselues vnto him , than to please themselues , or others , with his high displeasure .

I.

First then , such must know , that the practice of godlinesse depriueth no person of the good creatures of God , neither for the necessary , nor delightfull fruition of them , ( for , it onely giueth right , and liberty in them ) but it ordereth the vse of them , and the vsers of them ; and setteth them in the due place of their goodnesse , wherein onely they are beautifull and lawful . Rebecca , Gen. 24. 30 and 41. 42 ▪ a woman fearing God , wore ornaments . So Ioseph and Mordecay , Ester 8. 2. and Daniel 5. 29.

II.

Know , that we are not at our owne hand in the vse of outward ornaments , but vnder rule and appointment . God prescribes women how to dresse their heads , 1 Pet. 3. 3. and taketh order for the habit of the body , and findeth fault with the dressings of the daughters of Sion , Isay 3. And threatning the Princes and Kings children cloathed with strange apparell , Zeph. 1. 8. speaketh to our Gallants that build towers vpon their heads , or erect them as with large hornes , or any way take vp an vnlimited liberty in their dresses , with some speciall vanity , and offence , For such dressing of the haire , the Lord threatneth the dainty women with baldnesse and shame , Isa. 3.

III.

Such must know , that as the kingdome of God standeth not in any of these outward things , 1 Cor. 88. so they must not bee suffered to hinder the kingdome of God in our selues or others : And though they being things so indifferent in themselues , as they commend vs not to God ; yet in the vse of them all , wee must exercise certaine vertues in which wee must be acceptable to God ; and auoyd such vices in the abusing of them , as will else discommend vs before him . For suppose they be things in their nature neither good nor euill , neither commanded nor forbidden ; as , Whether I should weare cloth or leather , whether a plaine band or a ruffe , whether single or double , whether white or yellow ; yet in the vse of any of these outward and indifferent things , my action is either good or euill , according to my exercise of vertue or vice in it . How indifferent things become euill to vs . Neither can any thing be so indifferent in it selfe , but it may become euill and sinne in me many wayes : as ,

1. By my election and choyce of it without assurance of my liberty in Christ , or with doubting whether I doe well in vsing it , or no.

2. By my intention , which may be corrupt and vicious in my selfe , and preiudiciall to others .

3. By many accidentary euents : as , if others bee by my vse of lawfull and outward liberties occasioned to sinne , or thrust forward in carnal licentiousnesse . All which I rather propound to be wisely considered for the remouing of that common obiection and conceit , That the things are not great , and God cares not so much for the dressing of the body , so I keepe my heart to him and giue him content in my soule . As if these persons conceiued , that the body is not the Lords as well as the soule , or that that soule can bee Gods , when the diuell hath the dressing of the body .

IV.

We must know , that although the Word of God af●ord not particular directions for euery particular habit and artire , yet we may not thinke it a defectiue rule , or short and wanting to guide vs euen in the least or lowest action of our liues : because it supplyeth vs with many generall rul●s , to all which wee must reduce euery particular action of common life , for the allowance or refusall of it . And therefore for the help of such as are teachable , I thought it might be profitable to apply vnto those generals , and bring to their triall , this particular of habits , and attires ; vnto which , while they are squared , none haue so much right to vse them as women fearing God : but if they depart from those rules , they are not so vnseemely in any , as in them .

The generall Rules are these , reduced to foure heads .

1. Some concerne God : 2. Some our selues : 3. Some our brethren : 4. Some the ornament it selfe . For vnto all these wee must haue respect euen in our Attires and Ornaments .

I. In respect of God , we must attend three rules :

1. The first concerneth our warrant , and is this : No ornament must be vsed , but by warrant and leaue from God . Our warrant is from the Word ; our loaue is by prayer : the rule for both is expresse , 1 Tim. 4. 5. Euery creature of God is good , sanctified by the word of God and prayer . Whence it followeth , that whatsoeuer ornament , attire , or fashion , is not warranted to the heart by some part of the Word , the ground of faith , or for which it cannot send vp a prayer of faith for Gods blessing vpon it : that cannot be warrantable to a godly heart . Which of our Gallants , in their strange fashions , ponder that of the Apostle , Whatsoeuer ye doe in word or deed , Col. 3. 17. doe all in the name of Christ : that is ,

1. By the warrant of his Word .

2. With inuocation of God in the name of Christ .

2. The second rule concerning God must looke to the right end , namely ,

No ornament or attire of any fashion or colour may bee vsed till the heart be assured that this be the proper end , That in adorning the body , it honour God . 1 Cor. 10. 31. Whether yee eat or drinke , or whatsoeuer ye doe , doe all to the glory of God . The word whatsoeuer , being a word of vniuersality , fetcheth in the smallest action of life , in which we are bound chi●fly and principally to intend , and set vp the glory of God , for which end hee created not our selues onely , but all his workes , first to himselfe , and then for vs . Whence it followeth , that whatsoeuer fashion , attire , or ornament doth spot or staine the glory of God , the Gospell of God , or our holy profession , that is vnwarrantable and vnlawfull .

3. The third rule concerning God , is , That

No ornament may be vsed to correct Gods workemanship , which euen a skilfull Artificer would take il at any mans hands . It is true , a woman may nourish her haire , for it is her glory ; and may seemely adorne her selfe with her owne , for so was the Church in Christs eyes ; yea , and in want of their owne , if for seemelinesse they borrow of oothers , Cant. 4. 3. it may be excused ( so modesty be not exceeded : ) but of very wantonnesse or pride to dislike their owne , or to affect such ornament of strange haire as their naturall and proper haire will not reach vnto , argueth vanity and discontentment with the worke of God , saying vnto God , Why hast thou made me thus , or why hast thou made my haire of this colour , and not of that ?

And much more to grow out of liking with Gods workmanship on their faces , and by painting to refine them to their own fancies , is an immodest sinne condemned in whorish Iezabel . 2 Kin. 9. 30 ▪ We deny not but it is lawfull to couer a blemish , or hide an hurt or deformity in seemly manner : but by defacing Gods workmanship , and by stamping pride on their faces by painting and colours , can by no colour be warranted . Say not , It is custome ; for all custome must bee ruled by the word of Christ , who said , I am Truth ; and not , I am Custome . Nor say , I must bee handsome and comely , and therefore I may ; for this is but to couer pride vnder this pretence . Neither say , I am young , and may take liberty ; Tit. 2. 4. 6. for young men and women must be sober as well as other . Nor say , I must please my husband . True ; but it must bee in the Lord , and in things honest and lawfull . Or can it please any husband , to come before him in a visard , a borrowed and adulterate face and fashion ?

II. The second sort of rules respecting our selues , are fiue .

1. No ornament or attire may be worne , till the heart be resolued that it will bee fitting and pleasing to the holy Ghost , whose Temple the body of euery beleeuer is . 1 Cor. 6. 19. Know yee not that your bodies are the Temples of the holy Ghost ? Now because this holy Spirit cannot take pleasure in any ornament but such as becommeth holinesse , neither indeed can any other beseeme this Temple ; therefore all good Christians will make conscience of what they offer to adorne this Temple withall , and be sure it be no light , strange , odde , or swaggering fashion or attire , taken from light and wanton persons , that they present the blessed Spirit of God with , for the beautifying of his temple .

And besides , seeing euery beleeuer hath put on Christ as a garment , Rom. 13 , 14. it will be the wisedome of euery Christian to see that his ornament be sutable to his apparell , that neither his ornament shame his suit , nor his suit disgrace his ornament . Euery thing in a Christian , from a Christian , on a Christian , or about him , should sauour of Christ , and expresse him . Be sure that thy ornament suit with the same minde that was in Iesus Christ . Phil. 2. 5.

2. No Ornament may be vsed with affection , or affectation . 1 Pet. 3. 3. the Apostle forbiddeth broydred haire : and 1 Tim. 2. 9. he forbiddeth not that only , but gold , and pearles , and costly apparell . Which wee must not vnderstand as if hee simply and absolutely did forbid and condemne the wearing of gold , or chaines , rings , bracelets , billimen●s , spangles , and the like : but the thing forbidden , is the affecting and study of these things .

When women ( for to those he writeth in both places , as being more impotently carried away with this vanity than the other sexe ) not onely take pleasure in outward ornament , but study brauerie , and striue to be as braue , or beyond others , at least not behinde them in vaine and new-come fashions , which is a signe of a sluggish and delicate minde , giuen vp to the delights of the flesh , and farre from mortification .

Our Lord , in Matth. 6. 28. allowes not Christians to bestow their thoughts on apparel which is more needfull than ornament . And his Apostle commands vs to vse the most necessary things as not vsing them , 1 Cor. 7. 31. Then must wee restraine our selues euen in lawfull liberties , when wee finde our selues prone to bee brought vnder the power of any of them , as 1 Cor. 6. 12.

3. No ornament or habit may be worne against shamefastnestnesse and modesty . 1 Tim. 2. 9. The women must array themselues in comely apparell , with shamefastnesse and modesty . We know , that since the fall , nakednesse is a shamefull thing , and sinne hath cast shame on euery part , and calleth for a couer ouer al but for necessity ; and garments were ordained to hide nakednesse , not to display or discouer it . And me thinks it cannot stand either with religion , or modesty , or with the shamefastnesse of that sex , so to attire themselues , as to display their naked breasts , and some somewhat lower ; or bare their armes beyond that which is fit for euery one to behold . I cannot enter into the heart to iudge any : but I much feare whether they are , or haue euer beene deiected with a deepe sense of their soules nakednesse , and therewith ashamed and confounded before God , that are not ashamed to vncouer their bodily nakednesse ( beyond that which is comely ) before men .

4. No ornament or attire may be vsed to the impeachment of our good name , which is better than the most precious oyntment , Eccel. 7. 3. or ornament ▪ as if it carry a brand of pride , wantonnesse , lightnesse , or inconstancy , or a note to bee an inuenter or follower of new and strange fashions : whereas the Apostle would haue the outward habit and attire expresse the feare of God which they professe , 1 Tim. 2. 10. and would haue women to bewray the hidden man of the heart in all their outward attires , 1 Pet. 3. that is , the new creature , and diuine nature , which is hid and seated within , but shewed forth in vertuous behauiour , and sober carriage . But alas , how doe they prouide for their reputation , that ( as Chrysostome complaineth of some women in his time ) so lightly and wantonly tire themselues , that when they come into the Church or Oratory , they seeme rather to come into dance than to pray . And the euill is greater , that the hurt falleth not onely on their owne names , but on the name of God also .

5. No ornament or attire may bee vsed to the wasting of our outward estate , or the abuse of Gods blessing in riot or prodigalitie , or the disabling vs from being helpfull to others . The reason is , because wee sit not in our owne , but are stewards of these things , and must bee countable how we expend them . The godly heart must bee sure therefore to lay out nothing for attires , or fashions , but that which it may comfortably bring in accounts vnto God .

Besides , the word of God layeth necessary iniunctions vpon vs to doe good , and distribute to the necessities of the Saints ; to be rich in good workes , thereby both to testifie the truth of our faith , as also to be furthering our owne reckoning . Now what an vnanswerable ouersight were it , by excesse and superfluity in things ( comparatiuely ) vnnecessary , to disable our selues for so necessary duties , and preuent our selues of so large and comfortable retribution ,

III. Now follow the rules concerning our brethren .

1 , No ornament or fashion may be vsed to offend our Christian brother . Rom. 14. 21. It is not good to doe any thing ( suppose it more necessary than attires ) with offending the weake brother . If the heart suspect or discerne , that this or that attire may or doe offend any Christian ; if the iust cause of the offence rise not out of the thing which may be allowable enough , but out of his weaknesse that takes the offence , the precept of the Apostle bindeth it , to tender the weaknesse of his brother , and now to forbeare his or her lawfull libertie ; and vpon very good and grounded reason . 1. Because charitie is better than outward ornament . 2. The nourishing of our brothers faith , is farre more precious than the nourishing of out owne flesh . 3. The edification of our brother is to be preferred before our owne pleasure . So , as a conscience well informed will bee very tender to offend a weake brother by vndue and vntimely vse of his liberty , although himselfe bee perswaded well of it .

2. No ornament , atire , habit , or fashion , may bee vsed to the strengthning of any vaine minds in their new-fangled and strange guizes . Rom. 12. 2. And fashion not your selues to this world . A godly minde may not like , or be like vaine-minded persons i● their fashions , forme , and courses ; no not so much as enter into their way , Prou. 4. 17. nor bee companions with them in any of their works of darknesse , Eph. 5. 7. Now as it will bee a sorry plea for thyselfe in thine account to say , I thought I might doe this or that , because I saw some before me whom I thought well of ; so will it iustly increase thy iudgement , that thou hast by thy practise strengthned the hand of sinners , and harde●ed them in their sinne , whom by thy sober and seemely carriage thou shouldest haue actually and really reproued ▪ Yea , and in that rule of the Apostle , 1 Cor. 14. 26. Lot all things be done to edification , thou art cast as guiltie , who hast destroyed him by thy example , whom thou shouldest haue edified .

3. No ornament or attire may be vsed , which may become either a share to our selues or others . There are some habits framed to draw ▪ yes , to get louers , and to occasion vnlawfull desires . The daughters of Sarah detest such whorish habits , and are carefull that by nothing about them any eye or heart may bee entangled . Their endeuour is not to auoyd onely apparent euils , but appearances of euill . To discouer by our habits some naked parts , 1 Thes. 5. as many doe , is a danger of temptation to many beholders . And as in the Law , hee that digged a pit and left it vncouered , must answer for the oxe , or asse , or beast that fell into it : so here ; although they are beasts that fall into the pit of lust vpon such spectacles , yet are they not free , that couered not the pit . Neither will it excuse , Veneni poculum porrexit aspicientibus , et si nullas fit ●nuentus qui ●iberet , Chrysost , in Matth. to say , But I intend no such thing by my habit ; for if thou knowest it may bee an occasion of mouing euill lusts , and doest not preuent the occasion , thou art blame-worthy as the first in that sinne . Thou hast filled a cup of poyson to the beholder , although there be none to drinke it , saith Chrysostome .

IV. Now followes the last ranke of rules , concerning the ornaments or attires themselues .

1. No outward ornameut or habit may be vsed vpon the bodie , which is seuered from the inward ornament of grace vpon the soule . The Apostles no where mention this argument , but they commend this to the chiefe care of Christian women , to bee more sollicitous and curious in adorning the soule with grace , than the body with gay clothing : and plainly teach that the true ornament of a Christian woman , 1 Pet. 3. 3. is her sanctification , Prou. 1. 9. which beautifieth the hidden man before God . This is the ornament for her head , and chaynes for her necke . This is the borders of gold , and studs of siluer , which make her comely in the eye of Christ , Cant. 1. 10 , 11. Yea , this is her grace among men , Pro. 31. 25. And when savour shall proue deceitfull , Vers. 30. aad beauty to be vanity , then shal a woman fearing the Lord , be praysed . All ornaments of nature , all artificiall colours and couers are but filthinesse , where this is wanting . See Prou. 11. 12. A iewell of gold in a swines snout , is a beautifull woman without inward comelinesse . Seuer this from outward ornament ; and though shee may please her selfe a time in her conceit of brauery ; I shall assure her , shee shall haue no reioycing in heart , no hope in death , no ioy in God , no boldnesse in iudgement . Take the counsell of Christ in time , Reu. 3. 18. I counsel thee to buy of me white garments , &c.

2. No ornament or attire must be worne against the iudgment and example of the modest , frugall , and graue persons of our owne ranke . Phil. 49 , Wee must thinke and doe whatsoeuer things pertaine to good report , and whatsoeuer things haue any vertue or praise in them . Now to imitate the most modest , sober , and vertuous of our ranke , is vertuous , and prayse-worthy , and of good report : whereas to inuentors of euill fashions , or imitators of light , wanton , garish , or proud persons , in their proud or fantasticall fashions , brings a iust blot vpon the person , and a gash into the name and repu●ation , which will no● easily bee healed . And how iust is it , that such as will pride themselues , and glory in themselues , against the glory of Iesus Christ , and the Gospell of Christ which they professe , should meet with shame and contempt amongst men of sound iudgement , and be sent away with a little contemptuous flattery onely of such wantons as themselues ?

3. No ornament must be vsed which is not as well expedient as lawfull . 1 Cor. 10. 23. All things ( meaning things indifferent ) are lawfull for mee , but all things are not expedient . Euen such things as are lawfull , may be inexpedient for a meane estate and condition , whether it bee in degree , or in ability .

What an inconuenient excesse is it , to weare gold for ornament , when they want siluer for necessaries : now to weare iewels for pride , and then pawne them for need ; to rufflle it in silkes , when they can scarce pay for cloth ; to make an idle shew and ostentation of abundance , when indeed they are in great wants ? Is it fit for such to follow fashions ? No , but as we must eat according to that with which the Lord hath blessed vs ; so must we also in our attire and habits . The Lord hath called such persons to fr●gality and thriftinesse , and to suit their cloathes and ornrments to their present estate . Euen a ciuill wise man will fit his minde to his estate , if his estate be not fitted to his mind .

Besides , costly ornaments fit not euery degree that are able . As it was a disorder for Nabal to keep ● feast like a Kings , 1 Sam. ●5 . ( although he was able ) so in attires and ornaments , for meane persons to suit themselues with great personages , breeds a great deformity , and lets in a confusion in degrees , and a neglect of distinction of persons , offices , and dignities , which the God of order hath set amongst men .

Adde hereunto , that such things as are lawfull , may be iuconuenient at some times . It was noted riotous in the glutton , that hee went in purple , and fared deliciously ●uery day . Luk. 16. There bee wedding garments for times of ioy and feasting ; but some times are mournfull , and call for mouruing garments , Iohn 3. and Dan. 9. 3. It is more than inconuenient to be in pompe , excesse , and delicacie , when there should be weeping , humility , fasting , and renting of hearts and garments . I trust godly women will be content by looking vpon the afflicted estate of the Church of God euery where at this day , to restraine themselues in their excesses in their lawfull liberties , and follow the Lord calling them to consider the afflictions of Ioseph .

FINIS .

A SHORT INTRODVCTION to the worthy receiuing of the Sacrament of the Lords Supper .

By THOMAS TAYLOR , Doctor in Diuinity , and late Preacher in Aldermanbury Church , London .

LONDON : Printed by I. B. for Iohn Bartlet , at the signe of the gilt Cup in Cheap-side . 1633.

A short Introduction to the Sacrament of the Lords Supper .

Question .

WHy are you called a Christian ?

Ans. I am so called of Christ , Act. 11. 26. to whom I am knit as a member of his body .

Q. What is the means of this vnion betweene Christ and the Christian ?

A. The meanes is twofold .

1. On Gods part , Ioh. 1. 13. the blessed Spirit of God . Rom. 8. 9.

2. On mans part , 1 Cor. 6. 17. the excellent gift of sauing Faith , Ioh. 6. 35.

Q. How is this Faith wr●ught in vs ?

A. By the ordinary way of preaching the Word . Rom. 10. 14.

Q Gal. 3. 2. How is it strengthened ?

A. Both by the same word preached , and by the worthy receiuing of the Sacraments .

Q. What is a Sacrament ?

A. An ordinance of God , Gen. 12. 9. by which Christ and his sauing graces are by certaine eternall rites signed , Rom. 4. ●1 . sealed , and exhibited to beleeuers .

Q. How many Sacraments bee there ?

A. Two , Baptisme and the Lords Supper .

Q. Must none receiue the Sacrament of the Supper but Baptized persons ?

A. No ; because ,

1. The same couenant is solemnly renewed and ratifi●d in the Supper which was made in Baptisme .

2. None can grow vp into the Church that are not borne into it .

3. No vncircumcised person might bee admitted to the Passeouer . Exo. 12. 48

Q. In the Supper of the Lord , what must you specially consider ?

A. Two things :

1. The signes or outward Elements .

2. The signs by them signified , which are , Inward , Spirituall .

Q. What are the signes or elements ?

A. Bread and Wine .

Q. Why did Christ make choyce of both these ?

A. To shew , Ps. 194. 15. that in himselfe is all sufficiency of grace and spirituall nourishment : for bread strengthens the heart , and wine makes the countenance glad .

Q. What are the things signified by them ?

A. The body & blood of Christ , Ioh. 6. 55. the true & only food of the soule .

Q. Is the Bread and Wine turned into the very body & blood of Christ ?

A. No , for then the Signs were abolished , & so no Sacrament remained .

Q. But are they the ●ame they were ?

A. They are changed , but ●o● in substance , but onely in end & vse .

Q. But doe these Elements make a Sacrament ?

A. No , vnlesse they be administred and receiued according to Christs institution .

Q. When are they vsed according to Christs institution ?

A. This vse standeth ,

1. In the obseruation of the requisite actions about them .

2. In application of them according to their proper significations .

Q. What be the requisite actions about the Elements ?

A. They be either the actions of the Minister or Receiuer .

Q. Which be the actions of the Minister ?

A. The same which our Lord obserued in the first institution ; and they be ●oure , and all of signification .

Q. What is the first ?

A. Separation or taking the Bread and Wine .

Q. What doth this action signifie ?

A ▪ An action of God the Father , whereby he hath from all eternity seperated & taken from the common masse of mankinde , Psal 2. 7. Iesus Christ , Ioh. ● . 27. to the high office of mediation .

Q. What is the second action of the Minister ?

A. Sanctification or blessing of the Elements : as Christ , when he had taken them , gaue thankes , or blessed them .

Q. What is it to blesse the Elements ?

A. To consecrate the Bread & Wine for this spirituall banquet .

Q. How are they sanctified ?

A. Euery creature of God is sanctified by Word and Prayer . 1 Tim. 4 , 5 ▪

Q , What word is this ?

A. The word of institution , declaring the will of God touching those signes , as also of commandement so to vse them .

Q. What is this prayer ?

A. It is both petition for blessing of these signs in this holy vse , as also thankesgiuing for Gods vnspeakable loue in ordaining his deare Sonne to bee a sacrifice for our sinne .

Q. What doth this action signifie ?

A. Another solemne action of God the Father , whereby he actually sent in fulnesse of time his beloued Sonne , with fulnesse of gifts aboue all measure to worke the great worke of our redemption .

Q. What is the third action of the Minister ?

A. To breake the Bread , and poure out the Wine .

Q. What doth it signifie ?

A. The breaking of his blessed Body , and the shedding of his precious Bloud , which is the most bitter passion and death of Christ .

Q. What is the fourth action of the Minister ?

A. The distribution and deliuery of both Bread and Wine .

Q. What doth that signifie ?

A. A solemne action of God , whereby he offereth Iesus Christ vnto all , and giueth him and all his benefits vnto beleeuers .

Q. Now tell me what are the requisite actions of receiuers ?

A. The same which the Disciples obserued in the first institution .

Q. Which were they ?

A. They were two :

1. The taking of Bread and Wine .

2. The eating and drinking of them .

Q. What doth the taking of them signifie ?

A. An inward action of the soule , whereby the faith of our hearts , as the hand of our soules , apprehendeth and receiueth Christ for our spirituall food and nourishment .

Q. What doth the other action of eating and drinking signifie ?

A. Our neere vnion with Christ , when by the faith of our soules we apply him so straightly to our selues , that we become flesh of his flesh , and bone of his bone , euen as the bread and wine become one with our substance .

Q. You said that all these actions must not onely be duly obserued , but applied also according to their significations .

A. Yea , and this must hold the mind intent through the whole action of receiuing the Sacrament , in vniting of the signes & actions , with the things signified by them .

Q. How may we doe this ?

A. In all the actions of the Minister ▪ I must conceiue the actions of God mentioned before ; and in my owne actions receiuing , I must conceiue the inward actions of my owne faith .

Q. This indeed seemes most necessary in the act of receiuing , and therefore explaine it first in the actions of the Minister .

A. 1. When I see the Minister take the Bread and Wine , I must conceiue an action of God , taking & setting apart his Son from the masse of mankinde , to be the Redeemer & Sauior of the world , and my selfe in particular .

2. When I heare him blesse the Bread and Wine , I must conceiue God the Father sanctifying his Son with all gifts and graces , aboue all men and Angels , needfull for the greet worke of redemption of sinners , and of my selfe in speciall the chiefest of them .

3. When I see him breake the bread and powre out the wine , I must conceiue that action of God , breaking his Sonne to peeces , with the infinite weight of wrath and curse due to my sinnes as well as any others .

4. When I see him distribute these signes ; I must conceiue that action of God , offering Christ and saluation to euery one , vpon condition of faith and repentance ; and exhibiting and giuing him to the saith of my owne heart .

Q. And what must you conceiue in the actions of beleeuing ?

A. 1. In taking of the bread and wine , I must conceiue the hand of my faith now reaching out it selfe to apprehend Christ and all his benefits to my selfe in particular .

2. In my eating and drinking , I must striue to feele the power of my vnion with Christ , strengthening and renewing my soule with new life of grace , & power of godlinesse , as the food doth , applied to an healthfull body .

Q. What must euery Receiuer doe before the Sacrament ?

A. Eueryone must prepare himselfe .

Q. Why must euery one prepare himselfe ?

A. 1. In obedience to Gods commandements , 2 Cor. 11. 8.

2. To auoid the danger of being guilty of the body and blood of Christ , as the vnworthy receiuer is , ve. 19.

3. We must not be hasty with our feet here , no more than in the hearing of the Word , seeing Christ is here more fully offered , and to moe senses , Eccles. 4. 7.

4. By the example of the Saints . Psal. 26. I will wash my hands in innocency , and so compasse thy Altar . Also according to their ordinary preparation before the Pasteouer , 2 Chron. 35. 6.

Q. How must euery one prepare himselfe ?

A , By examining himselfe in his 1. Knowledge . 2. Faith . 3. Repentance . 4. Charity .

Q. Why must euery one examine his knowledge ?

A. 1. Because without knowledge the mind is not good , Pro. 19. 2.

2. The setting of a seale argueth the agreement and entrance into a couenant formerly made and vnderstood .

3. Monuments to helpe the memory imply knowledge , for memory is onely of things knowne .

Q. How must he examine his knowledge ?

A. Whether he haue a competent measure of knowledge , both

1. In generall , concerning God , in his nature & persons ; and concerning himselfe , both as he was in the state of disobedience , and as now he is in the couenant of grace

2. In special , concerning the matter , vse , & fruit of this Sacaament .

Q. Why must euery one try his faith ▪

A. 1. Because without f●ith there is no pleasing of God in any thing , Heb. 11. 2.

2. As the word audible , so this visible word is vnprofitable , vnlesse it be mingled with faith : Heb. 4. 2.

3. Christ is receiued only by the hand of faith , Ioh. 1. 12. and a man receiues no more than he beleeues

Q. How may he try his faith ?

A. 1. Whether he beleeue saluation in Christ alone & no other , and whether he rest himself wholly vpon the free mercy of God , & ful merits of Christ , disclaiming all that is in himselfe or any other .

2. If he haue peace of conscience by the testimony of the Spirit , that his sins are pardoned , Rom. 5. 1.

3. If he haue hungri● & striuing , without security or ●esumption , for a further sense 〈◊〉 measure of faith : for the least degree of sound faith longeth for more .

Q. Why must euery man examine his repentance ?

A. 1. Because as the Passe-ouer was eaten with sowre hearbs , so must our new Passe-ouer with godly sorrow , Exod. 12. 8.

2. In the Sacrament of the Supper we come to look vpon him whom we haue pierced , & must therfore mourne , Zach. 12. 10.

3. The renuing of our Couenant in this Sacrament is nothing but a returning vnto God againe , from whom wee haue departed by our sinnes .

Q. How may a man examine his repentance ?

A. 1. Whether he be rightly affected to his sin , & be wrought to a

1. Knowledge and acknowledgment of his sin and misery .

2. Sensible sorrow and deepe griefe for 〈◊〉 according to God .

3. Dete●●ion of all former sinnes , espec●●lly those that haue beene most famili●r and delightful vnto him .

2. Whether he finde a thorow purpose of change of life , and the beginning of new obedience .

Q. What are the signes of this new obedience ?

A. They be foure : 1. Sound obedience is free , not forced .

2. T is sincere , not fained .

3. It is vniuersall to the whole law of God , not partiall to some few commandements .

4 ▪ It is constant and perpetuall , not temporary or by starts .

Q. Why must euery man examine his charity ?

A. 1. Because faith , which is here specially required , worketh by loue , Gal. 5. 7.

2. Christ commandeth to leaue the gift at the Altar , and be first reconciled to our brother , Mat. 5. 23

3. This Sacrament signifieth not onely our vnion with Christ our head by faith : but our communion also with the members by loue . As many graines make but one bread , and many grapes one vine ; so many beleeuers eat but one bread , and drinke but one cup , to signifie the strait vnion among themselus , 1 Cor. 10. 17.

Q. How may a man examine his charity ?

A. 1. Whether he loue all , and malice none .

2. Whether he seek peace with all , and study to keepe the bond of loue .

3. Whether he forgiue his enemies , as God in Christ hath forgiuen him .

4. Whether in his heart he loue the Church of God , and testifie it to his power .

Q. Now what must a man do after the Sacrament ?

A : He must , 1. Thankfully shew forth the Lords death , & walk worthy of Christ . 2. Obserue himselfe whether he haue receiued increase of grace , and strength against sin , and whether he haue added any thing to his repentance & obedience .

Q. What if he finde he haue not so done ?

A. 1. He must examine his examination , and suspect his vnpreparednes , weaknes of faith , security .

2. Seeke out and hunt out some secret lusts which resist Gods ordinance , bewaile and confesse his sin , and hartily desire forgiuenesse .

3 Pray earnestly to find the sweet fruit of the Sacrament , euen the strength & confort which attendeth the worthy receiuing the Sacrament

Q. What if a man find he hath receiued this comfort from the Sacrament ?

A. He must , 1. Be the more thankfull to God . 2. Loue God so much the more . 3. Frequent the Sacrament more often , & more cheerefully .

FINIS .
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