None but Christ, none but Christ Intimating, that in Him, who is the Lord of Lords, and Prince onely, is to be found, the full and absolute cure of mans misery.

None but CHRIST , NONE BVT CHRIST .

Intimating , THAT IN HIM , WHO is the Lord of Lords , and Prince onely , is to be found , the full and absolute cure of Mans misery .

The fifth Edition , with some new Additions .

Acts 4.12 . Neither is there saluation in any other : for among men there is giuen none other Name vnder heauen , whereby we must be saued .

LONDON Printed by Io. Beale for Na. Newbery , and are to be sold at the Star in Popes head Alley . 1629.

TO THE RIGHT HONORABEL , ALLEN COTTON , Lord Maior of the City of London , all comfort in Christ . Right Honourable :

AS Christ is said to bee the Author and finisher of our Heb. 12.2 . faith , so is he the proper cause of all spirituall ioy and reioycing , Ioh. 8 , 5.6 . Luk. 1.44 . Christ alwayes brings with him all true health and happinesse . Ma● . 4. ● . By Christ , Gods iustice is satisfied , Ephes. 5.2 . his wrath appeased , 1 The. 1.10 . the curse of the Law abolished , Gal. 3.13 Sin , 1 Cor. 15.55 , 56 , 57. Death , and Hell , vanquished , the Deuill subdued , Heb. 2.14 . and our selues , and soules , onely by Christ eternally saued . 2 Tim. 1.10 . Seeing Christ then is not ashamed to own vs , Heb. 2.11 . wee should not bee ashamed to owne him , no not if neede be , Mar. 8.38 . before an adulterous and sinfull generation . But as in heart to beleeue in him , Rom. 10.10 . so with mouth and tongue to confesse him : with our soule to magnifie him , Luke 1.46.47 . and with our spirit within vs euermore to be vttering foorth of his most worthy praises . To this end , I presumed some yeers since , with the poore widdow , to cast into the Lords Treasurie , this small Mite , called None but Christ : the which howsoeuer it hath beene often imprinted , yet hitherto dedicated to none but vnto your Honourable Selfe . The causes moouing me hereunto , are not a few . Especially when I call to remembrance that vnfained loue , which at the first sprang towards mee , from your deare Brethren , and my faithfull and worshipfull good friends , Mr William and Master Roger Cotton ( both well reported of for good workes ) and euer since their decease , hath been most freely and firmely rooted and settled toward mee in your worthie selfe . And not onely so , but for many yeeres really expressed ; to the no little comfort of mee and mine . In lieu whereof , Right Honorable , Lo here , by way of gratitude , and thankefulnesse , a little Balme , Gen. 43.11 a little Honey , a little spices , Myrrh , &c. of each ( I say ) a little , which out of my extreme pouertie , 2 Cor. 8.2 . I doe most willingly , ioyfully , and cheerefully present your Honour withall , at your first initiation into your so great and weighty a calling : wherein , that as another happie Boaz you may carry your selfe worthily in Ephratah , and bee famous in this our * * London , a plentifull store-house , as of corporall , so of spirituall bread . Bethelem , there shall not bee wanting his poore prayers , who euer rests

Your Honors humbly at commandement , CLEMENT COTTON .

TO THE READER .

AMongst the many miseries that haue light vpon vs by the fall of our first parents , those of the soule are chiefest ; and amongst them , this is not the least , that though we be conuinced by the Word and Spirit , to be forlorne creatures , yet we naturally shun to take any knowledge thereof .

No man is rocked so fast asleepe in the cradle of securitie , but at one time or another , this alarum rings in his eares : Rom. 3.19 , 2● . Eccle 11 9. & 12.14 . Thou hast sinned , and therefore must come to iudgement . But who trembleth in himselfe at the sound thereof , that he might finde rest in the day of trouble ? Hab. 3.16 .

It cannot bee , but these troubled thoughts will now and then fasten vpon the most hard-hearted and impenitent sinner ; Dan 5.6 . Act. 24.26 . surely all things are not wel betweene God and me ; and , what will become of me another day ? 1 Pet. 4.10 . And yet where is he for all that , who will presently fall to searching & iudging of himselfe , Lam. 3.40 . 1 Cor. 11.3 . that he might not be iudged of the Lord ? No , the heart of man is naturally swolne with such a diuellish pride , Rom. 8.7 , 8. Isai , 65.2 . that though hee know God is , and will bee , his Iudge , Rom. 2.16 . yet will hee not make supplication to his Iudge . Iob 9.15 . 1 Pet. 5.5 , 6 And albeit we know that GOD resisteth the proud , and hath decreed in himselfe to staine all the glory thereof ; Isa. 23.9 . Dan. 4.34 . yet walke we on still in our pride , against him . But who was euer fierce against him and prospered ? 1 Cor. 10.22 . Iob 9.4 .

Thou then that art as yet in thy naturall estate , I wish thee in the name of GOD , speedily to examine thy selfe vpon thy bed : Psal. 6.4 . Zeph. 2.1 . and betweene the Lord and thee , propound these questions to thy soule ; Soule , what saist thou to the guilt of Adams sinne ? Rom. 5.12 . It is imputed to thee , I pray thee how shall wee answer it ? Thou knowest that this guilt binds vs ouer to eternal death , Rom. 5.16 . & 6.23 . Psal. 139.7 . 2. Cor. 5.10 . there is no fleeing for vs , from the face of the Iudge , what shall become of thee and me , Act. 17.31 . in the day of the Lords wrath ? Thou knowest , that all our righteousnes is but as filthy clouts , Isai. 64.6 . Iob 14.4 . Psal. 67.7 . & how shall wee be able to stand before the Lords pure eyes , Hab. 1.13 . which can behold no impurity ? Thou knowest also that our sinnes are aboue measure sinfull , yea , Ezra 9.6 . farre exceeding the sands of the sea , Rom 7.13 . both for weight and number ; Psal. 40.11 . Psal. 38.4 . must they not needs then sinke vs to hell , without recouery ? For Gods sake ( O my soule ) let vs looke about vs , & whilst space , Reuel. 221. place , and meanes are allotted vs , Isai. 55.6 . ponder wee seriously these things in time . Let vs , I pray thee , take vnto vs words , and now , Hos. 14.2 . euen now turne againe vnto the LORD , from whom wee haue too too long , Isa. 53.6 . most wofully erred : Beseech we him , that he would take away all iniquity and receiue vs graciously , that wee may eu●r hereafter render him the calues of our lips .

Thus or in the like manner , should euery one that meane to escape the iudgement of GOD , Rom 2.30 and the iust damnation of hell , Mat. 23.33 . question and reason with his owne soule . For it is not the guiltlesse , Luk. 15.18 , 19. & 18.13 . but the guiltie , that prizeth a pardon ; it is not the whole , but the sicke , Mat 9.2 . that is glad of the Physician : So , if sin make thee not sicke at the very heart , Act. 2.37.4.38 . thou wilt not esteeme of Christ , nor of the saluation which hee hath brought for all broken-hearted sinners , Luk. 4.18 . no more than of a rush . Math. 22.5 .

A little to helpe thee then , that hast not yet felt th● spirituall sicknesse ( and also somewhat to refresh the memory of th●se who haue ) here is in a short summe discouered vnto thee , some of the maladies of thy soule , shewing thee how Christ is both the Physician , and medicine of them seuerally , as the title giuen to the Booke , None but Christ , none but Christ , giues thee to vnderstand .

Touching the which , if thou wouldest I should yeeld thee a reason ; then know , that I tooke it not vp at randome ; but as I found them the words , and those the last words of a constant Martyr of Christ , Iohn Lambert by name ; which ( as I conceiue ) beeing vttered by him , as the triumphant voice of faith , after that hee had , through the power of Christ , put to flight the feare of Hell , Sinne , and Death , &c. ( as by doubling of them may appeare ) So by way of imitation , I thinke them ( not tying any to sillables ) well beseeming the thoughts , and speeches also of euery Christian , vpon safe and sure grounds , as in their dayly , so euen in their last conflicts to be taken vp and vsed . Not as if heereby it were my meaning to exclude , See Ioh. 3.16 . Titus 3.5 . or shut out either the Father , or the holy Ghost , from hauing an hand in the worke of our saluation , as well as Christ : but attributing the same to him onely , Rom. 8.34 as to the sole meritorious cause thereof : And so I bid thee heartily farewell .

Thine in Christ , C.C.

NONE BVT CHRIST .

1 Fall .

I Am fallen in a a Rom. 5.12 . Amos 7.2.5 Adam , I am falne , I am fallen , Oh! who shall raise mee ?

None but Christ , who as hee is set for thy vprising , Lke 2.34 . so is hee b b Heb. 7.25 perfectly able to c c Ioh. 10.28 , 29. keep thee , that thou fall not againe , from thine owne stedfastnesse , Iud. 24.

2 Guilt .

By my fall I haue offended au d d Ier. 23.24 . Psa. 139.7 . infinite Maiestie : and who shall plead for mee ? 1 Samuel 2.25 .

None but Christ , who beeing also an e e Isai. 63.1 . Act. ●0 . 28 . Isai. 53.5 , 6 infinite Maiesty , Rom. 9.5 . hath by his owne bloud , fully satisfied the iustice of his Father for thy offence this way committed against him , 1 Pet. 2.24 . Ephesians 5.2 . f f Iam. 4.3 . Rom. 5.10 . & 8.7 .

3 Enmity .

This offence hath bred enmitie betweene God and me , Col. 1.20 , 21. who is meete to reconcile vs ?

None but Christ , 2 Cor 5.19 . who by his g g Rom. 3.25 . Col. 1.20.21 . blood hath not onely made perfect peace betweene God and thee , but hath so ratified and confirmed the same , Ephes 2. ●6 , 17. that nothing shall bee euer able to disolue it .

4 Strangenesse .

This enmity hath bred h h Eph. 4.18 . strangenesse betweene God and mee , Coloss. 1.21 and who shall bring me into fellowship with him again ? i i Ioh. 1.3 , 5 , ● , 7.

k k 1 Cor. 1.9 . 1 Pet. 3.18 . None but Christ , hath who suffered for sinnes , the iust for the uniust , not onely that hee might bring thee to God , but hath also so l l Rom. 5.2 . setled this fellowship betweene him and thee , ( who art by faith ingrafted into him ) that none shall bee euer able to breake it off againe , Ioh. 1.12 . Gal. 3.26 , 27. Ier. 32.40 . Rom 8.35 .

5 Filth .

But alas , m m Iob 15.16 . Leu. 13.45 . Psal. 51.5 . I am vncleane , I am vncleane . For behold , I was borne in iniquitie , and in sinne hath my mother conceiued mee , and who now shall cleanse mee ? Iob 14.4 .

n n Zac. 13.1 . None but Christ , who not onely is that Lambe of God , who taketh away the o o Signifying that original sinne , which is the fountaine of all . sinne . See Luke 2.23 . sinne or the world , Ioh. 1.29 . but was also borne holy , and conceiued by the p p And thus we find in our nature that holinesse which by nature we want . holy Ghost , Luke 1.35 . to couer the impurity of thy conception and birth , Heb. 2.10 .

6 Darknesse .

And thus as a woefull wight , Isai. 60.2 . Mat. 4.16 . Ioh. 1.5 . 1 Ioh. 5.19 . sit I in double darknesse , hauing iustly lost by this my sorrowfull downefall with the q q 2 Cor. 44. Deu. 29 20 light of Gods Image , Eph. 4.18 . the light of Gods countenance ; and who now shall bee a light vnto mee .

r r Luk. 1.79 None but Christ , who is come a light into this world , to the end that whosoeuer beleeueth in him , should not onely not abide in darknesse , Ioh. 12.46 . but might also haue the light of life , Ioh. 8.12 .

7 Dead .

Not onely am I s s Ioh. 1.5.8 . Ephes. 5.8 . drenched in this wofull darkenesse , but therein by nature I lie t t Ephe. 2.5 . Mat. 4.16 . starke dead in trespasses and sinnes , who shall now quicken me ?

u u Ioh. 5.25 . None but Christ , who is not onely come , that thou mightest haue life , 2 Tim. 1.1 . & that also in abundance , Ioh. 10.10 . but so to confirm thee in this life , ( if thou beleeue in him ) that thou shalt neuer dye , Ioh. 11.25 . & 14 , 19. Beleeuest thou this ?

8 Corrupt .

But I sensibly feele ( to my vtter vndoing I feare ) that the diuell hath shed in to my whole man , Rom. 6.6 . Col. 2.11 . the venome and poison of his cursed nature , Ioh , 8.44 . Rom. 7.24 . who shall cure me of it ?

None but Christ , who came not onely to lose the workes of the diuell , in thee , 1 Ioh 3.8 . but which more is , to make thee partaker of the diuine x x Not of the substance , but of the diuine qualities . nature , 2. Pet. 1.4 . Heb. 12.10 .

9 Bondage .

And to this vile corruption , am I by nature a seruant and z z Ioh. 8.34 . wretched bond-man , who shall free mee from so wofull a slauery .

Rom. 7.15 . None but Christ , who came not onely to preach deliuerance to such miserable captiues as thou art , Luke 4.18 . but that in setting thee free , thou mightest be a a That is , that we might haue not a fained , ●●t a true liberty and freedom from all infernall foes . free indeed , Ioh. 8.36 .

10 Penury .

A man may haue light , life , and liberty , and yet perish for lacke of foode , who shall furnish my poore b b Psa 106.15 . affammished soule with that ? Reuel. 3.17 .

None but Christ , who first ( if thou beest athirst ) bids thee come to him and drinke of the water of life , Ioh. 7.37 . and that c c Isa. 55.1 . Reu. 22.17 . freely , not for a while to quench thy thirst ; but that in drinking of the water which hee shall giue thee , thou mightest d d That is , such shal never be so thirsty , but the spirit of grace , ( as an euerliuing fountaine ) will be at hand to satisfie their thirst , See Ioh. 7.38 . neuer be more athirst , seeing it shall be in thee a well of water springing vp into euerlasting life , Ioh. 4.13.14 . & 7.38 .

And hee also is that bread of life , which came downe from heauen , Ioh. 6.48 , 51. of which , if by faith thou spiritually eatest , it shall not only preserue thy soule from famishing and death , but shall cause it to liue for euer , Ioh. 6.50 . Ioh. 6.51 .

11 Naked .

But yet my e e Isai. 64.6 . Gen. 3.7 . Reu. 3.17.18 . filthy nakednesse will appeare , who shall couer that ?

None but Christ , f f Reu. 3.17 whose white raiment shall not onely g g Rom. 4.6 , 7. couer the shame of thy nakednesse , that the h h Hab. 1.13 pure eyes of God shall not i i Num 23 21. behold it , Reu. 3.17 , 18. but therein also ( hee hauing granted thee to be arrayed therewith ) will present thee therein glorious to himselfe without Reu. 19.8 . Iude 24. spot or wrinckle , or any such thing , Col. ● . 22 . Ephes. 5.27 .

11 Curse .

Me thinkes I k k Hab. 3.16 . tremble and quake for feare , in my selfe , when I heare that terrible thunderbolt of the Law , Cursed is l l Gal. 3.10 . euery man that continueth not in m m Deut. 27.26 . & 29.21 all things which are written in the booke of the Law to doe them . Who shall free me from it ?

n n Isai. 53.4 , 5 , 6. None but Christ , who hath not onely redeemed thee from the curse of the Law , Gal. 3.13 . being made a curse for thee , but hath brought thee also within compasse of that promised true o o Ephes. 1.3 blessednesse , made to faithful Abraham , Gal. 3.9.14 .

13 Terror .

Now whilest I remaine thus held ( as it were at Gods suite ) vnder this terrible arest , Cursed is euery one , &c. mee thinkes I see how all the creatures in heauen and earth , Gen. 7.11 . stand ready armed at his onely becke to reuenge the quarrell of his couenant vpon mee , Leu. 26.25 . Psal. 76.7 . who is there in heauen or earth , that can set them againe at one with mee ?

None but Christ , who hauing by his owne blood reconciled God himselfe ( who is the Lord of Hosts , Col. 1.20 . Rom. 3.25 . and so of all creatures ) vnto thee hee hath much more reconciled euery creature in heauen and earth vnto thee . Isai. 11.6 . Hose. 2.18.19.20 .

14 Losse .

Moreouer , whilest in this case , a dayly , Pro. 16.26 . and ( in a manner ) hourely necessitie lies vpon mee to vse the benefit of foode , rayment , recreation , sleepe , &c. yea of breathing in the very ayre , I am often thus secretly checked in conscience for the same , as if the Lord should on this wise speake vnto mee ; Hos. 2.8 , 9. Mal. 2.2 . Friend , who gaue you leaue and liberty to vse these my benefits , or by what right or title doe you enioy them , seeing you haue by your disobedience forfeited backe againe to me the true and lawfull vse I once gaue you of them ? Deut. 28. from 15. to 20. Gen. 1.29 , 30. In whom now , or by whom may I recouer the free , and so a comfortable vse of them againe ?

By none , but in , and by Christ , who beeing come a second Adam and the very true , 1 Cor. 15.47 . and lawfull heyre of all things , Hab. 1.2 . & 2.8 . hath by the merit of his sufferings and obedience , Rom. 5.19 . recouered vnto thee ( being once a member of his mysticall body ) a iust right and title as to God himselfe , Rom. 8.16 , 17. Ioh. 20.17 . who is the Lord of all creatures , 1 Cor. 3.22 1 Tim 4.4 . Tit. 1 . 1● . so a lawfull and sanctified vse of the creatures themselues : Reade Hosea 2. from vers. 18. to 23.

15 Wrath to come .

But it much astonisheth mee , when I reade what p p Isi . 30.27.28 . fearefull attributes are giuen vnto God ; as that hee is called a consuming fire , Heb. 12.29 . Euerlasting burnings , Isai. 33.14 . and that when fire is kindled in his wrath , it shall burne to the bottome of hell , Deut. 32.22 . Alas , if his wrath be kindled but a litile , Psal. 2.12 . q q Psa. 76.7 . who shall fence me from it ?

r r Heb. 5.7 . Mat. 26.38 None but Christ , who not only saueth and deliuereth thee from the wrath to come , 1 The. 1.10 . Rom. 5.9 . but more then that , giues thee eternall life . Ioh. 10.20 .

16 Deaths sting .

Yet death hath a s s 1 Cor. 15.56 . deadly sting wherewith to stab mee to the heart , which is sinne ; who shall free mee from deaths t t Reu. 21.8 deadly blow ? Rom. 6.23 .

u u Re. 20 14. None but Christ , in whom thou hast not only conquest ouer sinne and death , 1 Cor. 15.57 hee hauing through death , x x Heb. 2.14 . destroyed him that had the power of death , which is the diuell ; bu● hath now brought imm●●tality and life ( for thee ) to light by the Gospell . 2 Tim. 1.10

17 Vnbeleefe .

Besides all this , my conscience conuinceth me of sin , Ioh. 16.8.9 . in that I beleeue not in Christ : Oh for one graine of that precious faith ! Luk. 17.6 . that faith of of Gods elect ; who shall worke it in me ?

None but Christ , who is therefore said to be both the Author and finisher Heb. 12.2 . of our faith . As also it is hee by whom wee beleeue in God , 1 Pet. 1.21 . who raised him from the dead .

18 Impenitency .

But I haue an heart ( the Lord knowes ) which cannot repent . Rom. 2.5 . Who shall giue mee that repentance vnto saluation , 2 Cor. 7.11 . neuer to bee repented of ?

None but Christ , for to this end hath God exalted him a prince and a Sauiour , Act. 5.31 . to giue repentance to Israell , and forgiuenesse of sinnes . See 2 Tim. 2.25 .

19 Hardnesse of heart .

Zach. 7.12 . Oh but I haue an heart hard as the adamant stone : who can soften it ?

None but Christ , Ezek. 11.19 & chap. 36.26 . in whom this faithfull promise shall euer be yea , & Amen , namely , that God will take away thy stony heart out of thy flesh , and in stead thereof will giue thee an hart of flesh . Soake thy hart thorowly in this free and precious promise , and expect the fruit with patience .

20 Infirmity .

Much corruption will cleaue still euen to my best actions : * * Rom. 7.21 . In whom may I find the remedy of this ?

* * 1 Tim. 2.5 1 Ioh. 2.2 . In none but in Christ , who not onely reconciles the iniquitie euen of thy holy offerings , Exo. 28.38 . Leu. 16.33 . but hath ( for thee ) brought in also a a To make both thy person & Actions for euer acceptable before God . euerlasting righteousnes , Dan. 9.24 . See 1 Cor. 1.30 . 2 Cor. 5.21 .

21 Doubtings .

But b b Ps. 88 15 Iam. 1.2 . new feares and doubtings through diuers temptations , arising through c c Iob. 2.3 . Sathans malice , shall neuer bee wanting d d Iob 7.13.15 . daily to vex and e e Psal. 42.5.11 . disquiet me : alas who shall support mee vnder so manifold and different trials ?

None but Christ , who in that he suffered and Heb. 2.18 . & 4.15.16 . & ● . 25 . was tempted , not onely is able sufficiently to succour thee in all thy temptations , Heb. 2.18 . ch. 4.15.16 Psa. 34.19 . but in the end also to free thee out of them all , 2 Pet. 2.9 .

22 Accesse .

Oftentimes when I pray , it seemes that God shuts his Mercy-gate both against mee and my prayers ; Lam. 3.8 . who shall giue me accesse to the throne of Grace ?

None but Christ thy onely mediator , 1 Ioh. 2.2 . 1 Tim. 2.5 . who by the vaile of his flesh , hauing made thee a new and liuing way into the holy place , Heb. 1● . 19 , 20. sits at the right hand of God the Rom. 8.34 . Father , Rom. 8.24 . making request for thee , so as in stead of fearing to haue free accesse ; thou maiest with reuerence be bold to goe to the Throne of grace , Heb 4.16 . with confidence to haue all thy lawfull suits granted , Heb. 10 19. for thy Mediators sake , 1 Ioh. 5.14 . Ioh. 14.13 .

23 Conscience .

But for all this , I yet feele secret griping of conscience , continually affrighting me with a world of accusing thoughts : Rom. 2.15 who now shal , be as able , so willingly , to appease and quiet them ?

None but Christ , who being stiled the Prince of Isai. 9.6 . peace , and therefore our peace-maker in heauen and in earth ; Luk. 19.38 . and 2.14 . became first in his own person a preacher and publisher of peace both to them that were affarre off : Act. 10.36 . Ephe. 2.13.14 . and to them that were neer , yea and as if that had beene to little ; did at the last by the blood of his Crosse purchase for thee that peace of conscience which passeth all vnderstanding , Col. 1.20.2 Act. 20.28 . of which that none might depriue or strip thee off : Ioh. 14.27 & 16.33 . Looke into his last Will and Testament , where thou hast this legacy by himselfe bequeathed thee to haue and to hold as thine owne for euer . Therefore now comfort thy selfe with these words .

Here the afflicted began a little to pause : and hauing receiued much refreshing , and good satisfaction from those seuerall answers which a good conscience hitherto framed to his seuerall demands and doubtings : ● Pet. 3.21 . ceased from further obiectings : and began thus to be a little cheared and reuiued .

Well , then I finde and feele , to my no litle ioy , and contentment , that there is None indeed but Christ ( in heauen or earth ) according as thou ( O good conscience hast still affirmed ) that can fully set mee ( a poore captiue ) free from my fearefull downfall and misery , Mat. 1.21 . Psal. 73.25 . 1 Pet. 3.21 Luk. 4.18 . 1 Tim. 1.15 .

And then , after some further pantings , and breathings ( faith hauing put , as it were , a new life into him ) he brake foorth into this passion , 2 Cor. 4.13 . of admiration and thankfulnesse .

And it is true indeed , O thou louer of men ! Pro. 8.31 . Iob. 7.20 . O thou preseruer of men ! ●●b 7.20 that thou hast set thine eyes , and thy heart vpon such an one ?

Iob. 14.3 . & 7.17 . Was thy loue to mee so ardent , and thy compassion so exceeding abundant , that from thy seat of Maiesty and glory , ●oh. 17.5 . Pro. 8.22 . thou wouldest for my sake , bow the heauens , yea , ( after a sort ) euen thence , Isai. 64.1 . break thorow ( the fulnesse of time being come ) in thine owne person to visit me ; Gal. 4.4 . Luk 1.78 . and to expose thine holy selfe to shame , Isai 50.6 . Luk. 22. ●4 . Ioh. 19.34 and spitting , to sweating , blee●ing ; and last of all to dying , that thou mightest preserue such an one as I , from euerlastingly perishing ? Ioh. 3.14 , 15. Lord , Psal. 116.1 . that I knew what ( by way way of thankefulnesse ) now to render thee !

Thou farre excellest aboue all the praise , Nehe. 9.5 . Psal. 106.2 . that a poore creature on earth can giue thee . And yet , for as much as thou hast said , that who so offereth thee praise , glorifieth thee . Psal. 50.23

O let my poore soule , ( which from deadly thrall thou hast redeemed ) magnifie thee . Luke 1.46 , 47. Psal. 103.5 .

Let my spirit also ( which by the sauour of thy good oitnments thou hast so cheered and reuiued ) reioyce , Cant. 1.2 . Isa. 61.10 . and alwaies make her songs of thee . Let my tongue , mouth , Isai. 45.23 . and vncircumcised lips confesse thee .

Sweetly ( O Lord Iesus ) hast thou , Cant. 1. ● . with the kisses of thy mouth kissed me ; therefore shall my knees euer bee bowed vnto thee . Phil 2.9.10 .

Psal. 119.106 . Tit. 2.14 . Rom. 12.1 . 2 Cor. 7.1 . Yet I haue sworne , and will also performe it , that my selfe , soule , body , life , liberty , &c. and all , shall ( thy grace assisting ) be● vowed and consecrated to thy honor and glory , 1 Cor. 10.31 . For thou Lord art holy , Isai. 57.15 . & inhabitest the eternity ; and yet dwellest with the contrite and humble spirit , and with such an one as trembleth at thy word . So as in mee ( sweet Lord ) is now fulfilled the saying that is written , the sacrifices of a contrite spirit and a broken heart thou neither hast nor neuer wilt despise . Psal. 51.17 .

Well may I now say , that thy name to mee ( a desolate wretch ) hath beene as an ointment poured out ; Cant. 1.3 . and therefore hath thy seruant out of the abundance of his heart , found in his heart ; after this sort , 2 Sam. 7.27 . to expresse and poure forth the loue and thankefulnesse of his soule , Luk. 7.47 . vnto thee .

To thee therefore O Father of mercies , and God of all comfort and consolation , 2 Cor. 1.3 . who hast so loued mee vnworthy , Ioh. 3.16 . & 1.18 . as out of thine owne bosome to send thy onely begotten Sonne , for mee and all mankinde lost , into the world , Gal. 4.4 . made of a woman , that thus hee might become our true and very Immanuel , Mat. 1.23 .

And to thee O Lord Iesus Christ , Ioh. 10.18 . who voluntatily laidest downe thy life for mee to preserue mee from eternall death .

And to thee also O holy Spirit , by whose diuine light my blinde eyes haue beene illuminated to see ( as by the Law , Eph. 1.17 , 18. Rom. 3.23 . 1 Ioh. 3.1 . Ephes. 2.4 . & 3.19 . my wofull misery ) so comfortably by the Gospell , to behold this superexcellent , and surpassing loue and mercie of the Father , and the Sonne ; and thereto hast wrought that wonderfull grace of Faith in my heart , Rom. 10.17 to beleeue that all this loue is and hath bin extended to me as wel as to any other , Gal. 2.20 . yea that it hath bin by thee , O blessed Spirit shed abroad abundantly in my heart , Rom. 5.5 . and hast so sealed mee vp to the day of redemption , that I shall not so vncomfortably , Ephe. 1.13 . & 4.30 . as formerly I haue done , call into question the certainty and assurance of my free adoption . Gal. 4.6 .

To Father , Sonne , and holy Ghost ( I say ) one diuine Essence , three distinct persons , be ascribed in heauen and earth , by Angels and men , as is most due , all wisedome . power , praise , and glory , eternally , Amen , and Amen .

A NECESSARIE aduertisement to the Reader .

AS it is an infallible truth , that neither a mans person , Gen 4.4 . Rom 8.8 . Heb. 11.4 . Ioh. 14.6 . nor actions , can please God , till himselfe be in Christ ; so it is as true , 2 Cor. 3.5 . that a man hath neither ability of himselfe to doe good , or abstaine from euill aright , vnlesse hee be assisted by the power of Christ : and this appeareth , both by the testimony of Christ himself , Ioh. 15.5 . For without me● yee can doe nothing ; ( as also by the testimony of Paul , who saith , that by the power of Christ , he was able to doe all things , Phil 4.13 . Implying ( according to that place of Iohn ) that without Christs power , Ioh. 15.5 . he could doe nothing .

Doth the power and strength of corruption then any way annoy thee , Rom. 7.23 . and wouldest thou faine get the masterie ouer the same ? flie then foorthwith out of thy selfe , and get thee directly vnto Christ , Rom. 7.24 , 25. and say thus vnto him ; Lord , thou biddest mee mortifie al inordinate lusts and affections , as wrath , Col. 3.5 . vncleannes , couetousnesse , &c. But thou knowest there is no strength in me to mortifie these , nor any corruption of nature besides , See 2 C●● . 20.12 . further foorth than I haue assistance from thee : Phil. 4.13 . & 2.13 . Rom. 6.6 . apply therefore to this viciousnesse of my sinfull nature , the vertue of thy precious death and buriall , by the worke of thy holy spirit , Rom. 8.13 . which alone is able to kill sinne in me , that sin and corruption ( of what nature soeuer ) may not as heeretofore rule nor raigne ouer me , Rom. 6.12 . but that wageing battaile still by thy strength ther-against , I may yet therein haue peace , 1 Ioh. 5. ● . 5 and expect the full victory , in the time thou hast appointed .

Also , wouldest thou heare , reade , meditate , or pray profitably ; thinke how insufficient thou art , 2 Cor. 3.5 . as of thy selfe , to performe these holy exercises , or any the like , with out a a Whose power , in this case , must be perfected in thy weaknesse , or it will not be . 2 Cor. 12.9 . Christ ; but hasten immediately to him , and say , It is meet ( Lord ) that I doe these duties at thy command , Isai. 55 3. Reu. 1.3 . 1 The. 5.17 for in mercy thou hast appointed them for my good : but without thee , Ioh. 15.5 thou knowest I can doe nothing : Oh let me therefore feele power and vertue ( by the worke of thy spirit ) as from thy death to mortifie and kill all sinne in me , Rom 6.5.6 Col. 2 12. so from thy resurrection , both to quicken and enable mee aright to performe all such duties as thou requirest of mee , that the power of effecting all good , may alwaies be of thee , and not from mee , 2 Cor. 4.7 .

And yet euen in this regard thou requirest of mee as in other things , that as a poore fraile vesssell I should put foorth all the powers of body and soule , Eccle. 9.10 2 Cor. 7.1 . 2 Pet. 1.2.10 . Mat. 25 14. 10 30. wherewith thou hast endowed me ; the better heereby to serue thy diuine prouidence . Phil. 2.12 , 13.

Now ( good Reader ) if thou approuest of this aduertisement in thy iudgement , I pray thee giue thy diligence to bring it by degrees but vnto a daily practise ( for thou shalt haue need of it daily ) and by goo● experience , thou shalt in the end finde , I hope , that the gaine will counteruaile the paine . 1 Cor. 15.58 . Gal. 6.9 .

HEREVNTO IS added , three steps to sound conuersion .

Act. 26.17.18 . FIrst , God by his word and spirit , enlighteneth the vnderstanding of a sinner truely to conceiue the doctrine of mans misery , and of his full recouery by Christ .

Secondly , by the same meanes he workes in his heart both such sound sorrow for his misery , and feruent desire after Christ the remedy , Act. 2. ●7 . that hee can neuer be at quiet , till hee enioy Christ .

Thirdly , GOD so manifesteth his loue in freely offering Christ with all his benefits , Ioh. 3.16 . vnto him a poore sinner lost , that thereby hee drawes him in such wise to giue credit vnto God heerein , that hee gladly accepts of Christ offered vnto him .

These three workes of God , whosoeuer finds to haue bin truly wrought in himselfe ; may thereby know certainly , 1 Ioh. 5.10 that hee hath true faith , Act. 15.9 . and therefore sound conuersion .

Now hauing obtained this mercy at the hands of Almighty God for the merit of Christ ; Col. 1.12 . Ephes. ● . 5 . Luke 1.74 . hee ought in thankefulnesse to him therefore endeauour daily euer after , Tit. 2.11 , 12. in his whole conuersation , to expresse and shew forth the vertues of him that hath thus called him out of darknesse , 2 Pet. 2.9 . into his maruellous light .

THE SECOND PART : CONTAINING A PASSIONATE Prayer to Christ : With his gracious answer thereto . ISAI. 65.24 .

Before they call , I will answere .

O Christ , who art my Lord , and my God : Ioh. 20.28 . thou who art the promised seed , Gen. 3.15 . Gen. 22.18 in whom all the Nations of the earth should be blessed : Mich. 5.2 thou , whose goings forth haue beene of old from euerlasting : Ier. 23.6 . Thou , who art called the Lord our righteousnesse , and Sonne of righteousnesse , Mal. 4.2 . and art worthily stiled . Wonderful , Isai 9.6 . Counsellor , The mighty God , the euerlasting Father , the Prince of Peace . Thou in whom the Father is well pleased : Mat. 3.17 . and in whom his soule delighteth : Isai. 42.1 . Thou who art the blessed , ● Tim. 6.15 . and only Potentate , the King of Kings , & Lord of Lords , Thou who art the Prince of life , Act. 3.15 . 1 Cor 2.8 . and Lord of Glory : who art saued thy selfe , Zache . 9.9 . and art mighty to saue . Isai. 63.1 . O thou who , who art white and ruddie , Cant. 5.10 . the fairest among ten thousand : who art that Immanuel , euen God with vs , Isai. 7.14 . who art giuen to mee , Isai. 9.6 . wert borne for me : who hast loued mee , Gal 1 20. and giuen thy selfe for me . Oh when wilt thou draw mee , Cant. 1.4 . that I may runne after thee ? When shall I see thee ? Isai 64.1 . Ioh. 14.23 . Oh when wilt thou come vnto mee ; abide , Ver. 21. and shew thine owne selfe vnto mee ? When O good Christ , wilt thou giue mee an heart to know thee ? Ier. 24.17 . Oh that thou wouldest once circumcise mine heart to loue thee , Deut. 30.6 . that in loue it might euer and in all things , 1 The. 5.18 be praising of thee ! When shall I feele thee , Col. 3.11 . to bee all in all vnto mee ? my Husband , Hosea . 2.19 . my Head , Ephes. 5.23 . my Surety , Heb. 7.22 . my Sauiour , Luke 1.47 . my light , Iohn 8.12 . and my life ? Col. 3.4 . Shall I neuer haue an heart to beleeue in thee , Ro. 10.10 . and as to loue , 2 Tim. 4.8 . so to looke and long for thy blessed appearing ? 2 Pet. 3.12 . Col. 2.3 . In thee , Lord , are hid , all the treasures of wisedome , and knowledge . When shall I feele thee to be to mee , as thou art to all thine , 1 Cor. 1.30 my wisedome , righteousnesse , sanctification and redemption ? It pleased the Father , that in thee , Col. 1.19 . my Lord and my God , should all fulnesse dwell : Oh when wilt thou then , fill me with all ioy and peace in beleeuing ? Rom. 15.13 Thou rellest mee Lord , that all power is giuen thee in heauen and in earth . Mat. 8.18 . Oh that thou then wouldest giue mee such a powerfull faith , 2 Thes. 1.11 as by deriuing and drawing vertue from thee , might bee of power to purifie my heart to worke by loue , Act. 15.9 . Gal. 5.6 . and to ouercome the world , 1 Ioh. 5.4 . When shall I feele thee my Lord and my God ; dwelling in my heart by faith ? Ephes. 3.17 . Then should I hate the euill and loue the good . Amos 5.15 . Then should I feare thee for thy goodnesse , Hos. 3.5 . and sing aloud of thy righteousnesse . Psal. 145.7 . Then should I not suffer sinne so to raigne in my mortall body , Rom. 6.12 . that at any time I should obey it in the lusts thereof . Then should I lament , that I can lament no more the selfe-loue , diffidence , Ier. 31.18 . and impenitency , of my self-louing , vnbeleeuing , Heb. 3.12 . and impenitent heart , Rom. 2.5 . Thou Lord hast done , Isai. 26.12 . and yet doest all my workes in mee , and for me . Giue me then , Rom. 8.26 . the spirit of Prayer , of power , of loue , 2 Tim 1.1.7 and of a sound minde : Euen the Spirit of Adoption , Rom. 8.15 . by which I may cry Father , Gal. 4 6. Ephe. 4.30 . and so be sealed vp vnto the day of redemption . Thy pure and precious blood , O blessed Lord Iesus , once shed , hath a iustifying , Rom. 5.9 . a purifying , Heb. 9.14 . and sanctifying vertue , Heb. 12.12 . By the merit therof then , 1 Thes. ● . 10 . sweet Lord , doe thou saue mee from the wrath to come . Through it purge my conscience defiled , Heb. 9.4 . from dead works to serue thee the liuing and the True God : and through it , so consecrate and set me apart as a vessell vnto honour sanctified , 1 Tim. 2.21 . that it may be meet for thee my Lord and Masters vse , as also ready and prepared vnto euery good worke . Tit: 3.1 . Giue me to be wise vnto that which is good , Rom. 16.19 and simple concerning euill . 1 Cor. 14.20 . In malice giue me to be child-like ; but in vnderstanding to bee of a ripe age . And now , my Lord and my God , Isai. 66 8. who is like vnto thee forgiuing iniquity , transgression , and sinne , Exod. 34.7 . And therefore my soule panteth after thee ; Psal. 42.2 . my soule thirsteth for thee : and 63 1. and flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land , where no water is . Psal. 101.2 Psal. 73.25 . Oh when , when wilt thou come vnto me ? I haue none in heauen but thee , & there is none vpon earth that I desire besides thee . Psal. 13.1 . Wilt thou , O Lord , forget mee for euer ? And wilt thou hence forth shew mee no more fauour ? Psal. 77.7 . Psal. 89.47 Oh remember how short my time is . Thou wilt at length , I know , return and reuiue me ; Psal. 71.20 thou wilt come again , Psal. 138.7 . and bring me from the depth of the earth . O Lambe of God , Ioh. 1.29 . Sonne of God , Ioh. 3. 18. O my Mercy seat , Exod. 25.17 . my Mediator , 1 Tim 2.5 . and Aduocate , 1 Ioh. 2.1 . When shall I with the residue of thy louers , possesse and inioy thee ? How long , Lord , shall it bee , before with thine elected & betrothed Spouse I shall bee able to say , 1 Pet. 2. ● . Hos. 2. ●9 . that thou my beloued art mine , and I thine . Cant. ●● . ● . Then , then shouldst thou as a bundle of sweete smelling Myrrh , Cant. 1.13 lie euen al the night long betweene my brests , and dwel between my shoulders , Deuteronom. 32.12 . Thou camest into the world , 1 Tim 1.15 Lord , to saue sinners : And wilt not thou saue me ? 1 Ioh. 3.5 . Thou wast made manifest , that thou mightest take away sins : And wilt not thou , O Lambe of God , take away mine ? Thou wert manifest to that end , 1 Iohn 3.8 . that thou mightest destroy the works of the Diuell : And wilt not thou Lord , now destroy all his workes in mee ? Thou didst in the dayes of thy flesh once suffer for sins , 1 Pet. 3.18 that thou mightest bring mankind lost vnto God : And wilt not thou , my deare Christ , bring mee now to thy heauenly Father washed , Reu. 1.5 . iustified , Rom. 5.1 . reconciled , 1 Ioh. 4.10 . sanctified , 1 Corinth. 6.11 . and eternally saued ? Heb. 5.9 . Yes , Lord , I beleeue it . Mar. 9.24 . But Lord helpe thou mine vnbeliefe . I reade in the Euangelists how often thy compassions were mooued , Mat. 9.30.14.14 . and 15.32 . Mar. 1.41 . and 5.19 . Luk. 7.13 . ouer the miseries of men and women . Are they not the same now , they were then ? Hadst thou compassions for them , & hast thou none for me ? was thy soule troubled for them , Ioh. 12.27 . and not likewise for mee ? was thy so●● exceeding sorrowful 〈◊〉 to death for them , Mar. 14.34 Mat. 4.5 . & wa● it not so for mee ? Didst thou fast , Luk. 21 4● Heb. ●5 . 7 . swear , weepe , cry , and pray ? and were not all these thy p●ssio● for me ? Oh thou that a●● holy , harmlesse , vndefiled , Heb. 7.25 , 26. separate from sinners , and made highe● then the heauens ; who art able to saue to the vttermost all them that come vnto God by thee how long , oh how long shall it be , yer I feele and finde in my selfe the vertue and efficacie ( from the throne of grace ) of Heb. 4.14 , 15 , 16. thine intercess on for me ! Which though for the present , I beleeue not as I should , yet Lord , giue mee to beleeue it when thou wilt . Psal. 34 5. Who euer trusted in thee , and was ashamed ? Psal. 22.5 . who euer hoped in thee , and was confounded ?

No , no , Psal. 22.3 . thou inhabitest the praises of Israel . It is thou , Lord , Psal. 65.2 . that hearest prayer , vnto thee therefore shall all flesh come . Diddest not thou , my Lord and my God , in the dayes of thy flesh , testifie , that if thou wert lifted vp from the earth , Ioh. 12.32 , 33 thou wouldest draw a● men vnto thee . Oh cause the coards and bands of this thy infinite and surpassing loue in dying for mee , Hos. 11.4 . effectually to draw my whole soule and affections vnto thee . Oh when shal I be with thee wher thou art , Ioh. 17.24 . that I ma● see that thy glory . In the mean while , Cant. 2.5 , 6 O my deare heauenly husband , stay mee with flagons , comfort me with apples , for I am sicke of loue . Le● thy left hand bee vnder my head , and let thy right hand imbrace mee : Cant. 1.3 . kisse thou mee , O my Christ , with the kisses of my mouth , for thy loues are better then wine .

1 CHRIST his gracious Answere .

Pro. 8.17 . I Loue them that loue mee , and those that seeke me early , shall find : whoso findeth mee , Vers. 35. findeth life , and shall obtaine fauor of the Lord . Bee of good cheere then , thou fainting soule , for I haue heard thee , Hos. 14.8 . and obserued thee . And though I bee the high and loftie one , Isai. 57.15 . that inhabiteth the eternity , whose Name is Holy , dwelling in the high and holy place , yet doe I also dwell with them that are of a contrite and humble spirit , to reuiue the spirit of the humble , and to reuiue the heart of the contrite ones . Isai. 30 . 1● I will be gracious vnto thee at the voice of thy cry , I haue heard thee , and will answer thee . Because thou hast set thy loue vpon me , Psal. 98.14 . therefore I will deliuer thee , I will set thee on high , because thou hast knowne my Name . Yea , hee that loueth mee , Ioh. 14.21 . shall bee also loued of my Father , and I , according to thy request , will manifest mine owne selfe vnto thee : very meet it is that all men should honour the Son , Isai. 49.14 . euen as they honour the Father ; for hee that honoureth not the Sonne , honoureth not the Faeher which sent him , Iohn 5.23 . And though to thy seeming , thou art now and then neglected of mee ; yet can I not forget thee ouer-long , Isai. 54.7 . it is but for a moment ; for , for a small moment haue I forsaken thee , but with euerlasting compassions will I haue mercy vpon thee , saith the Lord thy Redeemer . Psal. 84.11 . I wil be both Sunne and shield vnto thee , I will giue grace and glory ; nor shall any good thing at any time bee wanting at all vnto thee : 1 Pet. 1.13 . onely hope to the end , for that grace which is brought vnto thee . Humble thy selfe daily to walke in all the exercises of piety and true charity . Mich. 6.8 . Take vp the crosse cheerefully which I shall ( it may bee ) daily lay vpon thee . Luk. 9.13 . And when thou art ready to sinke , come vnto me : Mat. 14.30 . For I will assure thee on my faith full word , they sh●ll not for euer bee ashamed , Is●i. 49 ●4 . who haue the grace to wait for mee . Cast not away then thy confidence which hath promise of great reward . Heb. 10.35 . Poor soul , wherefore diddest thou doubt ? Mat. 14.31 . But I see thou hast neede of patience , Heb. 10.36 that after thou hast endeuoured to doe my will heere on earth , thou mightest receiue the promise . Luk. 21.2 . By patience therefore possesse thy soule . I will stand by thee , I will neither leaue thee , nor forsake thee , Hebrewes 13.5 . Thou art as deare vnto mee , Zech. 2.8 . as the apple of mine eye . Thou shalt bee couered in the shadow of mine hand . Mine Angels shall attend thee , Psalm . 91.11 . Isai. 51.16 . my grace shall bee sufficient for thee , my presence shall go with thee , Exo. 33.14 neither shall my Spirit nor Word depart away from thee , Isaiah 59.21 . When thou art tempted , I will succour thee , Hebrew . 2.18 . Isai. 40.29 . when thou faintest , I will sustaine thee . If thou offend against my heauenly Father , 1 Ioh. 2.1 . Rom. 8.34 . the merit of my satisfaction , and intercession shall euermore pleade thy cause at the throne of grace for thee . I am returned vnto thee , Zech. 8.3 . I will no more be terrible vnto thee , Ier. 17.17 . Isai. 57.16 . for so the Spirit should faile before me , and the soule which I haue made . Wherefore comfort thy selfe with these words : 1 Thes 4.19 . Goe eat thy bread with ioy , and drinke thy wine with a merry heart , Eccles. 9.7 for God now accepteth thy workes . Nor shall it bee long yer thou ( with the residue of those who loue and long for my appearing ) enter into thy Masters ioy , Mat. 25.21 . where is fulnesse of ioy , and life for euermore . So saith Amen , Reu. 3 14. the faithfull and true witnesse , Amen and Amen .

FINIS .

THE SICKE MANS A B C.

In Questions and Answers .

Written purposely for such as long after a sanctified vse of Gods Fatherly corrections .

With a short admonition touching the heart .

PSAL. 94.12 .

Blessed is the man whom thou chastisest . O Lord , and teachest him in thy Law .

LONDON Printed by Io. Beale for Na. Newbery , and are to be sold at the Star in Popes head Alley . 1629.

To the Christian Reader .

THe hand of the Lord hath been long stretched out against vs in this Citie , by sending sundry sorts of diseases and sicknesses amongst vs , where of my selfe of late haue had some experience . To ma●y , these haue prooued mortall and deadly : and this it is that hath moued mee to pen these few lines following . I grant they are appropriated especiall● to the person of the sicke ▪ yet so , that the whole should not be excluded from reaping benefit thereby , which if by Gods grace they attaine ; th●n haue I the end of my labour . And so I euer rest ,

Thy faithfull welwiller in Christ , C. C.

The Sicke Mans A B C.

Q. WHat art thou by nature ?

A. Oh Sir , a a a Rom. 5 12 sinner , a b b Psal. 51.5 sinner ; a c c Iob 40.4 . vile and an abominable sinner , Iob 1● . 6 .

Q The soule that sinneth , must d d Ezek. 18.20 . die . Thou knowest there is no escaping for thee .

A. I will not hide my sinne as e e Iob 31.33 Adam did , but with Dauid I will f f Psal. 32.5 . confesse it ; and with Iob , I wil repent in dust and ashes for it . Iob 42.6 .

Q. Say thou doe so , thou art not ignorant , that sinne and death will still be dogging of thee at the heeles ?

A. I doe not greatly feare what sinne and death can doe against me . Heb. 2.14 , 15.

Q. Why , I pray thee ?

A. Because I haue to deale with a gracious God .

Q. Who told thee that ?

Exod. 34.6 A. Euen his owne selfe .

Q. Hee is also a deuouring fier . Isai. 33.14 .

Heb. 10 27 A. Hee is so , but it is to his enemies , and to them that perish .

Q. Mayst thou not also perish ?

A No , I cannot beleeue it .

Q. Wherefore ?

A. Because Iesus Christ by his bloud , hath k k Rom. 3.25 . pacified Gods anger toward mee .

Q. How could the blood of Christ effect it ?

A. Because hee was l l Act. 20 2● God that shed it .

Q. But hee shed it not for thee ?

A. Oh , yes , yes . 1 Tim. 1.15

Q. Why for thee ?

A. Because Sir , I do from the very hart root , m m Psa. 51.2 Luk. 18.13 . long after the sauing and healing vertue of it , Eph. 1.7 . 1 Iohn 1.7 .

Luke 8.13 . Q. Possible this thy longing will not be lasting ?

A. Yes , by Gods grace , Phil. 3.12 . whilest I haue any breathing .

Q. Well , I must needs thus farre ( for thy comfort ) yeeld vnto thee , that Christ , by his death , hath giuen sinne and death their doome ; so as resting vpon that thou hast professed , they cannot hurt thee . But yet thou art not restored ( for all that ) into Gods fauour , wherein alone consisteth life , and true happinesse , Psal. 30.5 .

A. I expect and looke for that , onely by his o o 2 Cor. 5.21 . Rom. 8.33 . and 10.4 . imputing vnto me , Christs perfect righteousnesse .

Q. Thou talkest of great matters ; hadst thou faith to beleeue it ?

A. p p Mar. 9 . 2● I beleeue : Now , Lord , helpe my vnbeliefe .

Q. I blame thee not in seeking thy Iustification from Christ but may not an hypocrite doe this as well as thou ?

A. I doe from my soule , as earnestly long to haue him made vnto me , q q 1 Cor. 1.30 . Sanctification also . See Psal. 51.10 .

Q. How expectest thou sanctification from Christ ?

A. By the worke of his Spirit , 1 Cor. 6.11 .

Q. How doth the Spirit effect it ?

A. By applying vnto my whole man , the power of his death and resurrection , Rom. 6.5 , 6. by the one killing by degrees all sinne in me ; Col. 2.11 , 12 , 13. by the other , quickning me vnto new obedience .

Q. It seemes then , thou not onely beleeuest , that Christ will saue thee from the guilt and condemnation of sinne , but will also r r Tit. 2.14 . deliuer thee from the power and bondage of sinne .

A. That is my beliefe indeed , 1 Pet. 2.9 .

Q. Thou beleeuest truly : for what God hath coupled together , that ought no man to put asunder , 1 Cor. 1.30 . But couldest thou not bee content onely to haue sanctification in thy toung , that thou mightest be able freely to talke of religion ? 1 Iohn 3.18 .

A. No , not so : let it be s s 1 Thes. 5.23 . thorowout , or not at all , 2 Cor. 7.1 . 1 Cor. 6.20 .

Q. Sanctification is a long way to walke in , many difficulties accompanying it . Rom. 7. May not the tediousnesse of the way cause thee in the end to breake off thy course , and finally to giue it ouer ?

A. I confesse , I finde in my selfe but too muc● weakenesse this way ; yet my sure hope is , that he who hath begun a good worke in mee , 1 Thes. 5.23 , 24. will not now leaue it vnperfected , Phil. 1.6 .

Q. Some hauing made a long progresse in profession , haue growne at the length to loath those 2 Tim. 4.10 . meanes of saluation , which once they seemed to loue ; and so haue separated the meanes from the end .

A. But God by his Word and Spirit , Psal 8.4.1 , 2.3 , 4. hath taught mee otherwise , Psalme 27.4 . that is , not to expect for Saluation from Him , as the end ; without a constant endeuouring to vse all those helpes , Psal. 26.8 . 2 Pet. ● . 5 . & vers 10. which he hath sanctified , to leade me thereunto .

Q. I am glad it hath been my hap , to heare these good things from thee ; I wish thee therefore to be of good comfort in the Lord : for , for ought I yet see , thou art in the way to bee saued . Onely a word or two , concerning thy present condition . How takest thou this thy visitation ?

A. I take it as sent vnto mee , from the hand of a very gracious and louing Father . Heb. 12.5 .

Q. But commonly calamities in this kinde , are tokens of Gods displeasure , Lam. 3.39 . Leuit. 26.15 .

A. In themselues they are so , lighting vpon the wicked : but I beleeue they are sent vnto mee in fauour , and for my good .

Q. What is the ground of this thy perswasion ?

A. Onely the t t Rom. 8.18 . word of truth , which assures my conscience through the holy Ghost that it is so , Reu. 3.19 . Heb. 12.5 , 6.

Q. And yet it may be long , Psal. 13.1 , 2. ere God send deliuerance .

A. Be it so , Psal. 62.1 , 5. yet I haue determined , that my soule shall waite on God , in hope and silence , till his appoynted time come : yea , so I may come better out of this affliction , than I went into it , Iob 23.10 . u u Isai. 28.16 . I shall not much hasten to bee freed out of it .

Psal. 86.17 Q. But if God should shew a token of his goodnesse vpon thee , and presently turne thy sickenesse into health ?

A. If he should do so , my greatest feare is , lest I should prooue vnthankfull , 2 Chron. 32.25 .

Q. On the other side , what if this sicknesse should be vnto death , that is , to the separating of the soule from the body ?

A x x Psal. 23.4 Though I should walk through the valley of the shaddow of death , yet would I feare none euill : See Reuel. 14.13 .

Q. Doest thou not apprehend the Graue ( into which thou must descend ) to be an y y Ps. 49.14 yrkesome and loathsome prison ?

A. Yes , considered out of Christ : The graue ( saith one ) shall not grieue me , because it was my Lords bed . Mr. H.S. Pr. but looking vpon it through his buriall ( whereby he hath perfumed it for me ) it shall bee much sweeter to me , than a bed of Roses , Isai. 57.1 , 2.

Q. Thy flesh , it may be , shall lye rotting a long time in the graue ?

A. And yet , euen there shall my flesh z z Ps● . 16. rest in hope .

Q. Thy dead bones ( seeming to be neglected of God , and therefore neglected of men ) must ( as thou knowest ) be regardlesly tumbled hither and thither , Psal. 141.7 . as if they were no better than vnprofitable rubbish ?

Psa. 139.14 15 , 16. A. My God that kept a register of them , before they were , wil much more be carefull of them , Psal. 34.20 . Iob 19 26 , 27. now they are , so that at the last day , not the smallest shank-bone , or piece of a shiuer thereof , no not the least pick of dust shall bee wanting , Ezech. 37.7 .

Q. What thinkest thou shall become of thy dead body in the end ?

A. My Lord Iesus Christ ( who is the resurrection Ioh. 11.25 . and the life ) will ( according to his faithfull word ) raise it vp at the last day , Iohn 6.54 .

Q. Shall thy dead body then be onely raised vp at the last day . See Mat. 27 , 52 , 53. Act. 3.21 . See Beza Ser. vpon Mat. 27.52 , 53.

A. No , I verily beleeue , that though this body bee turned into dust , yet it shall be reunited againe to this soule , which now inhabiteth in it .

Q. And shall this be all ? Iob 19.27 .

A Not so : for being thus really vnited by the vnspeakeable power of God , Rom. 8.23 . 1 Ioh. 3.2 . Col. 3.3 , 4. I shal see Christ comming in the clouds for my full redemption out of all miseries , and woe ; and no sooner shall I get a sight of him , but I shall forthwith be changed in a moment , 1 Cor. 15.52 . and in the twinckling of an eye ; after which , being ( with the rest of the Saints ) caught vp in the clouds to meete the Lord in the ayre , 1 The. 4.17 I shall thenceforth bee euer with the Lord , in whose presence is the fulnesse of ioy , Psal. 16.11 . and at whose right hand are pleasures for euermore .

Conclusion .

BEe it vnto thee as thou hast said : and seeing we looke for such things as these , 1 Ioh. 3.3 . the Lord giue thee and mee grace to bee diligent , 2 Pet. 3.14 . that we may be found of him in peace , without spot , and blamelesse before him at his comming , Amen , Amen .

FINIS .

A SHORT ADMONITION touching the heart .

Ier. 32.41 . WHatsoeuer good thing GOD bestowes vpon vs , hee doeth it with his whole soule and heart : therefore , if thou giue any thing to God , Pro. 23.26 giue him thine heart .

If thou doe any thing for God , ● Ch●●n . ● 21. doe it with all thine heart .

Beleeue in him also with all thy heart . A● 〈…〉 .

Loue him with all thy heart . Gen 10 1● .

Obey him from thy heart . 〈…〉 17.

Feare him with thy heart . Ier 3● . 40 .

Seeke him with all thy heart . 〈◊〉 . 29.13 .

Turne to him with all thine heart . 〈◊〉 2 . 1● .

Reioyce in him with thine heart . Zach. 10.7 .

Pray to him with thy heart . Psalm . 119.145 .

And praise him with thy heart . Psal. 119.7 .

If thou lay vp Gods Word in any place , Luke 2.51 . lay it vp in thy heart .

Prou. 8.23 . If thou bee ●●●●efull keeper of any thing , let it bee of thine heart .

Say not but thou hast had warning .

FINIS .