The Christians tryumph, manifested by the certitude of saluation deliuered in a sermon at Pauls-Crosse on Trinity Sunday, the 15 of Iune, 1617 / by Nathanael Delaune ...

A SERMON , Preached at Pauls-Crosse on Trinity Sunday , the 15. day of Iune . 1617. MATH. 14.31 .

〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 ; O thou of little faith , wherefore didst thou doubt ?

Preface .

I RIght Honorable , Right Worshipfull , and welbeloued in our Lord and Sauiour Iesus Christ . The Souldier is trained vp at home , for warre abroad : The Marriner prouideth his Bisket , ere he strike vp saile : The Merchant assureth his wealth , and euery Noble man his lands in the best fashion they can : And it is counted wisedome in all these to settle their temporall estate for the encrease of their ioy and happinesse in this life .

It is no lesse wisdome ( beloued ) in a Christian in time of peace to foresee the calamities of warre ; during Health to preuent Sicknesse ; during Life to bee armed against Death : that so assuring our spiritual estate before God , wee may with greater courage fight the Lords battailes ; with greater boldnesse saile on this Ocean : with greater ioye embrace the riches of Gods mercies , pledges of that eternall inheritance reserued for his Saints in the Land of the liuing .

To this end haue I made choice of this Text , where Christ reproouing Peter for his wauering , shall teach vs to assure our selues foreuer , saying , O man of little faith , wherfore didst thou doubt ?

II. Most glorious things are reported of thee O Citie of the liuing God , and what wonderfull things doe wee heare of thee , O Christian faith ? Thou art the Soule of our soules , for the iust shall liue by faith a a Abbac . 2 . Thou clothest vs with righteousnesse before God and man ; before God , for the righteousnesse of God is reuealed in the Gospell from faith to faith b b Rom. 1.17 . . Before man , for thou art a mother-vertue , faith working by charity c c Gal. 5. . By thee Christ dwelleth in our hearts d d Eph. 3. Rom. 3. . By thee we are reconciled to God , and iustified before him . By thee we are sanctified , and our hearts are purified e e Act. 15. . By thee wee are saued f f Eph. 2. . Without thee whatsoeuer is done , is a sinne g g Rom. 14. . Without thee none can please God h h Heb. 11. . None can pray aright i i Rom. 10 . None can hope for any good thing k k Iam. 1. . If wee fight against sinne and Satan , the Spirit and the Word must bee our swords , but wee must take vp the shield of faith to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked l l Eph. 6. . If wee conquer , it must bee by thy meanes , for this is our victorie , that ouercommeth the world namely our faith . m m 1. Ioh. 5

So that without faith , wee are dead in sinne , polluted in iniquity , odious to God and man . Wee lie open to all the wiles of Satan , and the world , and to all the iudgements of God , temporall and eternall .

III. And yet against this liuely and iustifying faith , the Church of Rome armes her selfe , troubles her braines , spends her wealth , wastes her strength , musters her men , gathers her forces , reares her battlements , as if there were no greater glorie in the house of faith , then to bee faithlesse , in the Temple of the LORD , then to bee against the Lord , in the Land of peace , then to bee in continuall warre .

Therefore to discouer the miserable condition of that Church , and our happy estate by reason of the Gospell , I haue fixed my meditatiohs on this verse I haue read vnto you . Where Peters slidings , shall make vs stand fast , his sinking shall teach vs to swimme , and his doubting shall so confirme vs , that willingly none of vs will euer be guilty of this reproofe . O man of little faith , wherefore didst thou doubt ? And so I come to my Text.

Coherence .

IIII. After the miracle of 500. men fed with fiue loues , and two fishes .

Christ constrained his disciples to get into a ship , Vers. 22. and to goe before him vnto the other side , while hee sent the multitude away . That don , 23. he went into a mountaine to pray . But in the euening the ship being in the midst of the sea , 24. tossed with waues , because the winde was contrarie . Vers 25. In the fourth watch of the night , Iesus went vnto them walking on the sea . 26. The disciples seeing this were troubled , and said . It is a spirit , so they cried out for feare . But Christ assuring them , 27. And Peter for greater proofe desiring to goe vnto him on the waters . 28 It was granted , and performed . 30 But the wind being great , Peter feared , and so sinking cried . Lord saue mee . 31 And immediately Christ stretched forth his hand , and caught him , and said vnto him . O thou of little faith , wherefore didst thou doubt ?

And when he was come into the ship , 32 the winde ceased . Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him , 33 saying , Of a truth thou art the Sonne of God .

This is the Coherence , and issue of the Historie . So that Christ gaue vnto Peter a sufficient proofe of his humane and Diuine nature . Of his humane nature , by walking on the waters : for it was not a spirit . Peter knew that by his owne experience , as Hierome obserueth against Marcion .

Of his Diuine nature , making the waters stiffe as a pauement to walke vpon .

Thus Peter beleeuing both , began well , but continuing not in the like zeale , nay , fearing more the windes and waues , then hee trusted Christs power , and word , so hee sinkes . But Christ in mercie saues him , yet in wisdome checkes him , that all men might know this perill of drowning , proceeded not from want of good will , and power in Christ ; but from want of faith in Peter . And therefore hee said , O man of little faith , &c.

The Question is .

V. Diuerse kindes of faith . Of what faith Christ speaketh , Diuines distinguish faith with the Schooles into fides quam , & fides qua credimus , a faith which , and an other wherewith wee doe beleeue . That is the Obiect and is in Scripture . This is the habite , or guift of Gods Spirit , and is wrought in man .

Againe this faith , qua credimus , wherewith wee beleeue , is Common , or proper . Common to good and bad , Elect , and Reprobate , as the Historicall faith , the Temporarie and Miraculous faith . The one Extraordinarie , as the faith of miracles . The other two Ordinary .

That which is proper to the Elect , is the iustifying faith .

They differ in their Obiect , and Subiect . In their Obiect , namely the Word , for if the word be but a narration , then faith beleeuing it to bee true , is but Historicall . If the word containe a promise and guift of grace in Christ , then the vnderstanding apprehending it as a truth , and that with some ioy , makes a temporarie faith . But applying it to the heart by the spirit of Adoption , creates a iustifying faith . And if the promise bee to shew forth Gods will and power , then it is a faith of miracles .

In their Subiect , for the one is in the vnderstanding onely , the other in the braine and heart ; Nay it possesseth the whole soule , and comprehends all the other kindes of faith , as being the most perfect , I meane this iustifying , liuely , and sauing faith , which receiueth Christ , and maketh vs the children of God a a Ioh. 1.1 . .

Now Christ speakes heere of a faith of Miracles , which againe is two-fold , Actiue , or passiue , Actiue , when a man by Christs word and power is able to worke a miracle , of the which Paul speakes b b 1. Cor. 13. . If I had all faith , and were able to transport mountaines , If I had not Charity , I were nothing .

Passiue . Paul seeing that man of Lystra had faith to be healed , hee said vnto him , Stand vpright on thy feete c c Act. 14. . Thus Peters faith was passiue , for hee beleeued Christ had power to make him walke on the waters , and to saue him when he did sinke . It was Actiue in Christ , Passiue in Peter , but fainting he is rebuked . O thou of little faith , &c.

The Doctrine .

Thesis . VI. Where Christ teacheth vs , that it is with the soule , as with the body , both haue their quames , and diseases . Therefore wee read of a great faith , O woman thy faith is great d d Mat. 15 , I haue not found so great a faith no not in Israel e e Mat. 8 . There is also a little faith , as in the Disciples . f f Mat. 8.26 Why are you fearefull , O yee of little fath ? and here in Peter . O man of little faith g g Mat. 14. .

There is also a slow faith . O fooles slow of heart to beleeue all that was foretold by Moses and the Prophets h h Luk. 24. .

But howsoeuer , Let vs discourse of what faith wee will , doubting is an enemie vnto it , and therefore it is condemned in Moses , and Aaron i i Numb. 20. , & in the disciples k k Mat 8. , and here in Peter l l & 14. , as you see , for this Doctrine will alwayes hold true .

That faith casteth out doubts , it being of the nature and essentiall property of faith to assure the conscience .

To beleeue and doubt , is as fire , and water , light , and darkenesse , the spirit and the flesh , sworne enemies . And this is the scope I aymed at , namely to treate of the nature of faith , and specially of iustifying faith , which is the principall .

And it is defined to be : Definit . a certaine knowledge , and confidence of Gods good will towards vs in Christ , reuealed in the Gospell , and wrought by the Spirit .

The parts are two . First , Diuision . Knowledge with the assent of the minde . Secondly , Confidence with the consent of the will and heart .

Obiect . The Obiect is God in Christ reconciling the world vnto him , by this faith grounded on the Gospell .

Property . The Property is Certiude , referred to both , knowledge , and confidence .

Against Papists .

VII . Romish abuse . And this is it I intend to proue against the Church of Rome , which erreth in both , as namely . In the genus , knowledge , by commending the blinde deuotion of implicite faith . And in the forme , or difference , sc: confidence of the heart , by condemning it as presumption , & recommending doubts , as Catholike humility .

And thus shee hath obscured the counsell of the Lord , and falls into that curse , Woe bee to him that calleth good euill , and euill good : light darkenesse , and darkenesse light , sweete bitter , and bitter sweete m m Esa. 5. . For thus shee establisheth the kingdome of Satan , and vnder shew of godlinesse ouerthroweth the Gospell of Christ , the Kingdome of Righteousnesse . Shee is therefore an enemie to true iustifying faith , without which there is no Church , no Christ , no saluation .

Romish policie . Nay her Obstinacie in defending this doctrine of doubts , sheweth shee hath a further reach , sc: a Politicall plot to scrape vp wealth .

For knowing this great Babell of workes and merits would , fall to the ground , this masse of errour in the Masse , would bee dispersed , these lucratiue Indulgences , and cunning Alchimistrie , in changing lead into gold , would be lost as well art the art of Demetrius in making Temples for Diana n n Act. 16. . And withall , that this fire of Purgatorie would be soone extinguished , if this Doctrine take place in mens hearts . That a man through faith in Christ alone , may bee assured of his saluation .

Therefore shee striueth with might , and maine to strenthen this contrarie aphorisme of doubts , that it may be a spur to hasten Pilgrims to Rome , a mill to grinde their wheare , and a bellowes to blow their coales , that the Ecclesiastical Order being built vpon the backes and bellies of the Laickes , those may sing whilst these weepe , those laugh , when these lament , those fatten , when the faces of these are grinded through miserie . In breefe , that they may bee assured of temporalities , whilst these doubt of spiritualities : that they may possesse the earth , whilst they set others a working to seeke the way to heauen . Heere is a wicked craft , to make Religion a baud for the diuells pleasures , to make doubts a running streame to refresh Auarice and Ambition .

Therefore the Church of Rome is so diligent and earnest in decking , and setting forth this Helena , that she feareth not to say , If a man rest in the remission of his sinnes by faith in Christ alone , etiam ideo non remittuntur : that therefore they are not remitted ; as if death could bee found in life , and hell in heauen .

Nay shee knoweth that Certitude of saluation cannot agree with iustification by workes , and therefore being fully resolued to maintaine that former Doctrine for her gaine and greatnesse , shee will bend her selfe against this latter as her deadly enemie , and raise the Doctrine of doubts against this certitude of faith , as the Popes stirred vp new Emperous against the olde , that whilst they fight it out in a doubtfull field , he may settle his Chaire at Rome , and gaine by other mens losses .

And therefore this Church is not ashamed to confesse , that the Romish Religion cannot giue content to the conscience in life nor death . O iayle of conscience ! O sinke of miserie ! Let him bee of that Religion , who is an enemie to his owne soule , and whose minde the God of this world hath blinded , Lest the light of the glorious Gospell of Christ , who is the image of God , should shine vpon him o o 2. Cor. 4 4. .

As for vs , knowing the Iesuiticall plots , that trouble all the world to build their owne house . Let vs take vp the shield of faith , whereby wee may quench all the firie darts of Satan , and bee able to stand in the euill day p p Eph. 6. .

The Originall .

VIII . This doctrine of doubts was oft mooued by hereticks , When doubts first established . and answered by the fathers . But of late publikely confirmed by the Chapter of Trent , where ex profess● , Italy and Spaine met to establish all the Popes errours , that they may not seeme any way to be instructed by Lutherans , and Protestants . This therefore amongst other Errours , was approoued by them , though contrarie to Scripture , to the fathers , and to some of their owne writers , as Ambrosius Catharenus who then writ for the certitude of faith against Dom. a Soto , and Antonius Marinarius , then preached openly , Wee wholy draw our mindes from any confidence in our owne workes , and repose our trust in the louing kindnesse and good will of our heauenly Father foreuer . They erre not in the maze of mistrust , who haue obtained righteousnesse through Christ , but they dare boldly say in the security of minde , peace of conscience , ioy of heart . Abba , Father , and therefore , though heauen should passe , the earth consume to nothing , and the whole world should bee dissolued , I shall erect my selfe towards him . And though an Angell from heauen should goe about to perswade mee otherwise , I should call him accursed . O the happy assurance of a Christian soule !

Nay the Dominicans to this day are at variance with the Iesuites vpon this ground : so that wee might well be dispenst to deale with them in this question , till they be agreed amongst themselues . But seeing the Iesuiticall opinion of doubts getteth ground of the others , and like a wild-fire is blowen abroad with the winde of Ambition and Auarice to consume our houses , and trouble our consciences ; It is necessarie euery one should bring his bucket from the well of waters to quench this fire , and to blow his Trumpet , that this wall of Ierico may fall before him .

And this will I labour to effect by Gods grace , and your Christian attention , after I haue layed open the state of the question .

State of the Question . IX . Which is this . The Church of Rome teacheth : That though a man apprehend Christs merits by a liuely faith in the Gospell , yet hee may not bee perswaded that his sins are forgiuen him . He may hope the best of Gods mercies , but hee must stand in doubt of the fruition of them , quia fidei potest subesse falsum , there may some errour lurke vnder faith , & spes potest fallere , hope may deceiue : So then they account this doubting a vertue in faith , & no infirmitie of the flesh , without which ornament faith is hereticall , and because they see , that faith and doubting are contraries , they faine a generall faith which doth certainely beleeue whatsoeuer the Gospel reuealeth of Christ , and the Sacraments doe seale vnto the beleeuer .

But for the particular application to euery conscience , that , they hold to bee hereticall , that cannot bee , say they , without some particular reuelation .

So that in effect you see , their iustifying faith is nothing else but Historicall , such as the Diuels haue , fluttering in the ayre , and swimming in the braine , without sinking into the heart : Being then of the same nature , that those Vniuersals , Reals , Nominals , in the Schooles , and those Platonicall Ideas amongst the Achademikes , they would turne Christian faith into a meere contemplation , or in steed of Christians make vs turne Sceptickes .

Wee must then oppose against this Doctrine of doubts , for the glorie of God , the comfort of our consciences , & the preuenting of the Romish yoake , Let vs therefore take notice of this double errour . First , of the minde . Secondly , of the will , for we confesse , that there is in euery one of vs liuing in this militant Church , an implicite faith , and ignorance of particulars , & also too many doubts , distrusting Gods promises , but God forbid wee should allow of them , or hold them for vertues in our Religion . They are the fruits of the flesh , against which euery Christian must fight , till hee bee finally conquerour with Christ in the heauens .

And that this is so , we prooue it Diuision . 1. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . 2. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 .

That is first affirmatiuely , confirming the truth , then negatiuely refuting whatsoeuer our aduersaries can say against it . And first of the former .

Part. 1. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 .

X. The argument whereby I prooue that a Christian ought to assure his vnderstanding by knowledge , and his heart by confidence in Gods mercies towards him in Christ , is taken . First , from the prohibition of doubts . Secondly , the nature of faith . Mat. 8. & 14. & 21.21 .

First doubts are condemned , Mat. 8. in the disciples , Mat. 14. in Peter , and Mat. 21.21 . If yee haue faith and doubt not . Rom. 4. Abraham commended for not doubting . Hee doubted not of the promise of God through vnbeleefe , but was strengthned in faith . The words in the Originall are emphatical . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 a a Mat. 14. , signifies to be driuen heere and there in our affections , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 b b Rom. 4. Iam. 1. Mar. 11. , is opposed to faith , and signifies to dispute with our selues . Luke c c Luk. 12. insteed of 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 a little faith , vseth the word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , that is , to hang in suspence , as a leafe that is driuen with euery winde . And therefore that which the Chapter of Trent , Dubitante conscientia laudat , tanque virtutem fidei , commends in a doubting conscience as a vertue of faith , that Saint Paul makes a sinne d d Rom. 14 , and therefore concludes that whatsoeuer is without faith is a sinne .

In the second place , Scripture expressing the nature of faith , vseth these words , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , &c. All which intimates vnto vs a certitude , for Example e e Heb. 11. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . . Faith is a substance of things hoped for , and an euidence of things not seene saith Paul . And f f Rom. 8. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . I am perswaded , that neither death nor life nor Angels , &c. can seperate vs &c. For I know whom I haue beleeued , and I am perswaded that hee is able to keepe that which I haue committed to him against that day g g 2. Tim. 1.12 . . Let vs therefore goe boldly vnto the throne of grace h h Heb. 4.16 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . . Let vs draw neere with a true heart in full assurance of faith i i Heb. 10.22 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . . In whom wee haue boldnesse , and accesse with confidence by faith of him k k Eph. 3.12 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . .

Thus Abraham being fully perswaded l l Rom. 4. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . , that what God had promised , he was able to performe , &c. And hauing receiued the spirit of Adoption , wee crie Abba , Father m m Rom. 8. Gal 4. . All this continued stile of Scripture teacheth that the nature of faith is to assure the heart , and cast out doubtings .

Wherefore Saint Iohn saith often , n n 1. Ioh. 3. Wee know that wee are the children of God . That wee are translated from death to life . By this wee know wee loue him , when we keepe his commandements . By this wee know that hee dwelleth in vs , by his spirit which hee hath giuen vs . Therefore haue I written vnto you , that you may knew you haue life euerlasting , &c.

These places are stones as the fathers speake , quibus lapidantetur heretici , wherewith heretiques are stoned . They are as many smooth stones taken from the brooke of Scriptures to strike this Goliath of Romish doubts in the forhead , and lay it groueling in the dust , to the great reioycing of the LORDS hoast .

Againe , to what ende is it said that faith bringeth Peace o o Rom. 5.1.5 . , and Ioy p p & 14 Act. 8. & 10. Luk. 10. , for being iustified wee haue peace with God and reioyce in afflictions .

The kingdome of God , is Righteousnesse , Peace and Ioy in the holy Ghost . The Eunuke reioyced , and so did the Centurion after they had beleeued , and Christ said to his disciples reioyce , that your names are written in heauen , &c. To what end I say , all this Peace , and Ioy ? but to insinuate that faith assureth the conscience , and expelleth feare : and doubts : for where doubts raigne , there is neither Peace , nor Ioy , no sound comfort nor rest , and therefore Christ reprooueth Peter , sc: O man of little faith wherefore didst thou doubt ?

Ob. XI . I denie not , but that euery beleeuer is subiect to doubts , nay I adde more : where no doubts are , there is no true faith , as long as wee carry about vs this body of death a a Rom. 7. .

Ans. But this is it , I vrge vpon your faith , that these doubts are infirmities of the flesh , and not vertues of the spirit , and therefore wee are to pray , and fight against them all the dayes of our liues .

Amplified . When the eye of faith is dimme , the eye of the flesh is too much opened , Ob. when wee feele our miseries , more then Gods mercies : when the Lord seemes to stand a farre off , to hide his face , and hold his hand in his bosome , and to be deaf at our cries . Then the Saints of GOD power out these dolefull songs , My God , my God , why hast thou forsaken mee b b Psal. 22 ? Will the Lord absent himselfe for euer ? will hee shew no more fauour ? Is his mercie cleane gone for euer ? doth his promise faile for euermore ? Hath God forgotten to bee gratious ? doth hee shut vp his mercies in displeasure ? c c Psal. 77 Lord how long wilt thou hide thy selfe , and shall thy wrath burne like fire ?

The arrows of the Almighty are within me , the poyson wherof drinketh vp my spirit . The terrors of God doe set themselues in array of battell against mee d d Iob. 6.4 . Hee teareth mee in his wrath , who hateth mee , hee gnasheth vpon me with his teeth , mine enemie sharpeneth his eyes vpon mee e e Iob. 16.9 , strange words , not farre from despaire .

Ans. But these are the conflicts , which the Captaines of the Lords armies , & the most chosen children of his right hand sometimes endure , the Lyons themselues sometimes roare with such passions ; how , shall not the lambs tremble ? If the soules of the perfit , which haue beene fed with the marrow of fatnesse , and haue drunke of the fulnesse of Gods cup haue thus fainted for want of releefe ? much more the vnperfet and weake consciences , which scarse haue tasted how good the Lord is .

All this is true , and cannot bee gaine-said . But after a time the faithfull gather strength againe , and are heated at the Sunne-shine of Gods mercies . They enter into the Sanctuarie of the Lord , and there behold their infirmities with griefe , and reprooue themselues , because their feete was almost gone , and howsoeuer they say in their haste , that all men are liars , yet by leasure they repent of it : and so Iob after his doubts , is strengthned by faith , and faith , I know that my Redeemer liueth . Though hee kill mee , yet will I trust in him f f Iob. 15. & 19. . And Dauid checks his soule , Why art thou disquieted within mee ? hope thou in God g g Ps. 42.11 .

The Apostle pithily expresseth our meaning , haesitantes , sed non prorsus haerentes , staggering , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . but not wholy sticking h h 2. Cor. 4 . So that at last faith doth ouercome these doubts , and triumpheth euer ouer death , saying , O death where is thy sting , O graue where is this victorie i i 1. Cor. 15 ?

Nay vnder the thickest clouds , shee beholdeth some beames of Gods mercies , in the shaddow of death , shee embraceth life , in the pit of despaire shee casteth the anchor of her hope in the bowels of Gods compassions , and being cast downe by the flesh , shee is raised by the spirit , that shee may say with Paul , Who shall seperate vs from the loue of Christ k k Rom. 8 ?

For as the springs are dried vp in a hot Summer , Simile . and the trees are without leaues in a cold winter . As the Sunne is hidden with a cloude : the Starres with the Sunne , and the Fire with the ashes . As in a Sound the actions of life appeare not . So in the heate of Gods wrath the cooling waters of his grace are dried vp : In the winter of our afflictions , our faith lieth hid in the ground without leaues , flower or fruit . The cloudes of Gods indignation doe hide the beautie of his face , whereby wee should bee comforted . The brightnesse of his Maiestie obscureth the lights of our persons , & the sparkes of grace lie hid vnder the ashes of our crosses : Being in this sound , and sleepe , wee are liker dead , then liuing men . But waite a while , then comfort will come againe , and faith will conquer , and bud foorth , repentance will yeeld her fruits , and charity will shine bright to our comfort , and Gods glorie . For in a moment haue I hid my face from thee , but in great mercies will I gather thee . The mountaines shall depart , and the hills bee remooued , but my kindnesse shall not depart from thee , neither shall the couenant of my peace be remooued , saith the Lord , that hath mercie one thee l l Esa. 54. .

Nay euen against sense and reason faith layeth hold on Gods mercies , as Christ did , saying , My God , my God , &c.

And when the Diuell tempteth , the world allureth , the flesh yeeldeth , then faith resisteth . And if our faith were perfit , wee should not doubt at all . And without this certitude , faith is but a maske , and the beleeuer but an hypocrite : and therfore , Christ saith to Peter . O man of little faith , &c.

The Grounds .

XII . The Grounds Grounds . of this certitude are not our merits or works . For what can wee merit of God , that cannot challendge a pecce of bread as our owne without Gods grace and guift ? and to whom God saith in his law , that hee sheweth mercie to a thousand generations , euen then when wee loue him , and keepe his commaundements ? This sandy ground of workes , is it whereon the foolish Romanists haue built the houses of their consciences , and therefore when the winds of Gods wrath doe blow , or the waues of temptations beate against them , they cannot stand as they confesse it . Their houses fall , and the ruine is great , so that their Religion cannot afford them any sound comfort in life nor death .

But wee like wise men ( so called by our Sauiour , Mat. 7. Math. 7. ) haue built our house vpon a Rocke , that cannot be mooued , nor sapped , namely , the Rocke , of 1. Gods mercies , 2. Diuis . Christs merits , and efficacie , 3. The Word and Sacraments , 4. The testimonie of Gods Spirit , and ours .

Part 1 XIII . For when wee endeauor to settle our consciences , Mercie . and assure our saluation , wee goe out of our selues , knowing that in our flesh their dwelleth no good thing b b Rom. 7. . And we doe fixe our faith in the bowels of Gods mercies , from whence the day starre from one high hath visited vs c c Luk. 1. . And so anchoring our hope within the vaile , where Christ is , wee say vnto God in our Prayers .

Behold we are miserable sinners , and who more miserable then wee , we are miserie it selfe : and thou art merciful , & who more merciful then thee , thou art mercie it selfe . Doe then thine office , O Father of mercies , and take away my miseries , for thine owne names sake . Thou hast done it to others . To Dauid a murtherour , Salomon an idolatour , Manasses a sorcerer : To Peter that denied thee , Paul that persecuted thee , and to many of the Iewes that crucified thee ; why then doe it vnto me , who am a man , as they , a sinner as they , thine enemie , as they were . For thou art alwaies the same d d Ps. 102 : Thou art the Lord , and art not changed .

If Satan obiect , Ob. knowest thou not that God is iust , and that f f Exod. 34. & 20. He will not hold the guilty , as not guilty , but will punish the iniquity of the fathers vpon the children , to the third , and forth generation , thinkest thou that God can denie himselfe ?

Answ. No Satan , I doe not thinke so , I doe not thinke so : But rather I acknowledge that God in his wisdome hath so tempered iustice and mercie , in Christ , that both haue their full accomplishment to Gods glorie and our saluation in him .

And this is the second ground of my confidence .

Part. 2 XIIII . Namely Christs merits , For God hath made him , Merits . that knew no sinne , to be sinne for vs , that wee may be the righteousnesse of God in him a a 2. Cor. 5. . For he hath borne our sorrowes , and through his stripes , wee are healed b b Esa. 53.3 . . Hee died for our sinnes , and rose for our iustification c c Rom. 4.25 . . Hee hath freed vs from the curse of the Law , being made a curse for vs d d Gal. 3. . And so hee hath redeemed vs by his bloud out of euery tribe , and tongue and nation e e Reu. 5 9 .

Ob. And you neede not say , This is true in generall , but may not be applied in particular .

Ans. For whatsoeuer Christ did , hee did it for vs . And without this particular faith , Christs merits would bee no more beneficiall to mee , Simile . then a feast to him that cannot enioy it , then a potion to the sicke , and a salue to the wounded being not applied .

To vs a childe was borne , to vs a Son was giuen f f Esa 9.5 Luke 2. . Hee was our Emanuel g g Esa. 7. . God with vs : And was made of God his Father , our wisdome , iustification , sanctification , and redemption h h 1. Cor 1. . Ours I say , seeing we are his people , for hee was called Iesus , that hee might saue his people from his sinnes i i Mat. 1.2 .

He saued Vs , I say , seeing wee are penitent sinners , for this word is certaine , and worthy to bee receiued , that Christ came into the world to saue sinners k k 1. Tim. 1 . Vs I say , seeing we groane vnder the burden of our sinnes . For hee crieth , Come vnto me all you that are loaden , and I will refresh you l l Mat. 11. .

You , saith Christ , that are my sheepe , for my sheepe heare my voice and follow mee , and I will giue them eternall life m m Ioh. 16 .

And I may not doubt of Christs Merits , seeing they are sufficient . Nor of his efficacie in applying them by this Spirit , seeing all power is giuen him in heauen and in earth . Nay hee maketh Intercession for vs , and wee know that his Father heareth him alwaies n n Ioh. 11 Heb. 4. . Seeing then wee haue such a high Priest Iesus the Sonne of God , who hath peirced the heauens in our name , and there prepareth vs a place , hauing accomplished on earth all his fathers will concerning our saluation . Let vs hold fast our profession , and let vs goe with assurance of faith to the throne of grace , that wee may obtaine mercie , and finde grace to helpe in time of need .

If any one yet doubt , may wee not rebuke him as Christ did Peter , saying , O man of little faith , &c.

Now whatsoeuer hath beene deliuered touching Gods mercies , and Christs merits , that is , of Gods good will towards vs in Christ , wee haue learned it out of Gods Word , which is the externall obiect of our faith .

XV. Word and Sacrament . And this is the third ground of our assurance , namely the Word of God : Not the Law , but the Gospell , to speake properly . The promises reuealing Gods will in Christ : Therefore not Legall , but Euangelicall .

The Gospell speakes but in generall , Ob. therefore your faith can bee but generall , and you haue neede of a particular reuelation to assure your conscience by a particular faith .

Answ. I answere , that as a a Rom. 4 Abraham , b b Ioh. 20 Thomas , c c Gal. 2 Paul , d d 1. Ioh. 3 Iohn , did applie vnto themselues the promises of God by a particular faith ; so ought we to doe .

1. For what they did , was not by a speciall reuelation , but by the Spirit of Adoption , and the nature of a true iustifying faith common to all the Elect. And therefore they speake in the plurall number in the places alleadged . And Paul saith , of Abraham , Rom. 4.23.24 . That it was not written for him alone , but for vs also , to whom faith shal be imputed for righteousnesse .

And Christ said of Thomas , Ioh. 20. Because thou hast seene thou hast beleeued , blessed are they that haue not seene , and yet haue beleeued . Whence appeares that neither Abraham , nor Thomas , nor Paul , nor Iohn , in assuring themselues , & applying Gods promises to their consciences , did any thing extraordinarie , but that which is required of euery beleeuer to bee saued : for wee haue the same spirit they had e e 2. Cor. 4 , though not in the same measure .

2 Againe . Though Christ in his Word speake not to euerie one of vs , in particular , as he did to the sick of the palsey . Cofide fili ; bee of good cheere my sonne , thy sinnes are forgiuen thee f f Mat. 9 . And to the woman , Thy faith hath saued thee , goe in peace g g Luk. 7 . Yet the indefinite propositions of Scripture are equiualent with a thousand particulars .

1 Therefore when wee heare , That hee which beleeueth , shall not perish h h Ioh. 3 . That hee which calleth vpon the name of God shal be saued i i Ioel. 2 . That Christ came to saue sinners k k 1. Tim. 1 , to heale the sicke l l Mat. 9 , free the captiues m m Esa. 61 , refresh the wearie n n Mat. 11. , satisfie the hungrie o o Math. 5 Iohn 6. , To quicken the dead p p Eph. 2. , saue what was lost , To saue his people q q Mat. 1. , his sheepe r r Ioh. 10. , those that were giuen him s s Ioh. 6. ; that morne t t Esa. 61. , in Sion , & are of a contrite u u Ps. 51. , poore x x Mat. 5. , and humble y y Esa. 57. spirit . And many such like comfortable sentences in Scripture .

2 The sanctified conscience will draw the Assumption . I know I am such , I feele it , as well as I can feele , I liue , see and walke : for nature is not more powerfull to perswade me that I liue as a man , then grace can be to assure me that I liue as a Christian .

3 Therefore faith will make the conclusion of this Demonstration , and say , I shall not perish , but I shall liue for euer , for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it . Heauen and earth shall passe , but one iote of Gods word shall not passe without his full accomplishment z z Mat. 5. Luk. 21. .

And to what end else all our Christian meetings ? Doth not the Minister stand in Christs roome ; threatning and promising , instructing and rebuking , planting , and rooting out , building and destroying , loosening and binding , opening and shutting , as hauing the keyes of heauen . Doth not hee speake sometimes in generall . Beleeue , and repent , and you shal be saued , but sometimes in particular , as Paul to the Centurion , Act. 10. and Nathan to Dauid . Tu es homo , Thou art the man , and Christ to Peter . Simon dormis ? Peter sleepest thou ? Mar. 14.

And therefore saluation is of faith , that the promise may bee sure to the whole seed a a Rom. 4. . Not sure in generall , but to the seed in particular applied .

Sacraments . And to what other end , the administration of the Sacraments ? doth not the Pastor applie the signes of Baptisme , and the Lords Supper , and euery child , or beleeuer receiue the same signes , with this vse and relation , that as truely as they are made partakers of the one , so truly they receiue the other to the encrease of faith , and assurance of saluation ? And therefore .

Circumcision is called the seale of the righteousnesse of faith b b Rom. 4. . And those that are baptised haue put on Christ c c Gal. 3. . And Christ saith to his disciples . Take , eate , this is my body , which is giuen for you d d Mat. 26. . The name of the thing signified is attributed to the externall signe , to assure vs , that in beleeuing wee shal be as certainely made partakers of all Christs merits ; as by taking with the hand , and eating with the mouth wee enioy the terrestriall elements for the preseruation of this temporall life .

Now euery Christian knoweth hee doth beleeue , by the roote , groath , and fruits of his faith .

By the roote , because it proceedeth from the spirit crying in the heart , Abba Father , and is grounded vpon the pure word of God .

By the groath , because it is nurrished by the same meanes , it was conceiued in our mindes and hearts , as the childe is nursed with the same bloud hee was first conceiued .

By the fruits . For his heart is towards God as the drie land e e Psal. 143 . As the heart panteth after the water brookes , so panteth his soule after his God f f Psal. 42. .

O when ( saith hee ) shall I enter , and present me before thy glorious face , euen in that house , whereof thou art the Maister builder , and not man ? O who shall deliuer me out of this body of death g g Rom. 7. ! I desire to be dissolued , and to be with Christ h h Phil. 1. . O when shall I say with Simeon . Now lettest thou thy seruant depart in peace i i Luk. 2. . And yet , nec pudet viuere , nec piget mori . I am neither a shamed to liue , nor grieued to die .

If it be thy will , O Lord , I should liue to serue thee , thy will bee done . If thou sayest to my heart , seeke my face , I wil answer , I will seeke thy face , O my God k k Ps. 27.8 . .

If thou sayest , Do my wil , I will answer , Here I am come , I take a delight to doe thy will , O my God . Thy lawes are written within mee l l Ps. 40.7 . . My heart is disposed , O my God , my heart is disposed , I will sing , and giue praise . Awake vp my glorie , awake Psalterie and Harpe , I will praise thee amongst the people , I will sing vnto thee amongst the Nations m m Ps. 57.8 . .

Thus the roote , groath , and fruits . The disposition of the heart , the obedience of life , the petition of the lips , with the desire of death to glorifie God , are euidences of my faith , and that in truth I haue applied the Gospell to my saluation . And therefore the mercies of God , the merits of Christ , and the truth of the Gospell shal be sure grounds for my faith to build vpon . And if any yet doubt , wee may say vnto him , as Christ to Peter . O man of little faith , &c.

But in comes Bellarmin with his . Ob. Bell: de Iustif: : l. 3. cap. 8. Nemo tenetur , nec potest , nec expedit ; No man ought , or can , or may so assure himselfe .

Ans. ( Beloued ) hold this for one of the greatest lies , that euer came from Rome . What ? that no man is bound to haue that which God commandeth ? That none can haue , that which God promiseth ? that none may haue that which hee giueth ? who will not hold him for a liar , that publisheth such vntruths ?

1 As oft as God cammands vs to beleeue in the Gospell a a Mark . 1. . To aske in faith b b Iam. 1. , And condemneth doubtings c c Mat. 21. : so oft doth hee command vs to applie in particular the remission of our sinnes . For , I doe proue that the faith required in the Gospell is a particular , not a generall faith , a iustifying , not an hystoricall faith .

2 Againe , as oft as God promiseth to heare such prayers , so oft hee promiseth to graunt vs this particular remission of sinnes .

3 And lastly , as oft as the Gospell is preached , so oft this particular faith , and remission of sinnes is graunted vnto the Elect. This being the difference betweene the Law , and the Gospell . That the Law commandeth and sheweth our dutie , but giueth not power to performe it . The Gospell in commanding giueth the hability , power , and effect , to beleeue and obey , whereupon it is called the Ministery of the spirit d d 2. Cor. 3 .

Therefore I conclude , that either a man may be assured of his saluation resting vpon these fore-named grounds , or else Gods mercies are changeable : Christs merits and power in-sufficient ; The Word is a fable . The Sacraments are false seales : But cursed be hee that saith and beleeueth this . Therefore Anathema , Anathema , to the Church of Rome , that saith a man ought not , nor cannot , nor may not , assure himselfe in particular of the remission of his sinnes , and of life euerlasting .

XVI . Part. 4. Gods Spirit and ours . The last ground for the assurance of our saluation , is the testimonie of the spirit of God , and of our spirit . The holy Ghost witnessing to our spirits that we are the adopted sonnes of God a a Rom. 8. . And that after this manner .

Because wee are sonnes , God the Father hath sent the Spirit of his Sonne in our hearts crying . Abba Father b b Gal. 4.4 . . Thence we conclude , that wee are the sonnes of God , and therefore heires of God , and coheires with Christ c c Rom. 8. . Because our hearts are mooued to crie with confidence vnto God , as vnto a Father , and this spirit of prayer , and of faith , is giuen onely to the sonnes of God .

2 Now when our spirits being sanctified , are enlightned with this faith , and our consciences purified from dead workes , then euen our spirits can witnesse with the spirit of God within vs , that wee are the children of God , and therefore shall not perish , because this faith , and repentance bringing forth good fruits are giuen only to the elect , to Gods chosen sonnes and daughters .

Hence the Holy Ghost is called a seale d d Eph. 1.13 . & 4.30 . . Yea were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise , which is the earnest of our inheritance . Greeue not the Holy Spirit of God , whereby yee are sealed vnto the day of redemption .

It is also called , A pledge , an earnest penny . For God who hath sealed vs , hath giuen vs the earnest of his spirit in our hearts e e 2 Cor. 1.2 . .

This seale , this earnest penny are notes of the assurance of our hearts , where the Holy Ghost dwelleth as in his Temple .

And now if our Conscience naturally is instar mille testium , as good as a thousand witnesses : how much stronger is it to perswade vs , being sanctified by the spirit of truth f f Ioh 14. and 36. .

And thus in the Law , vnder the witnesse of two or three , euery thing was confirmed , and ratified . Now wee haue foure witnesses vnreproouable : two externall , the Word and Sacraments : two internall , the Spirit of God , with our spirits .

Therefore either my conclusion is true , That a man may assure himselfe of his saluation , or else the premises are false .

But cursed be hee that saith , God is not constant in mercie : Christ is not of sufficient will and power to saue ; The Word and Sacraments , are false badges . The Spirit of God , and our spirit are false witnesses .

Therefore Anathema , Anathema , to the Church of Rome , that teacheth a man may not be assured of his saluation .

Of perseuerance .

XVII . But the Romanists say , Though now you may bee assured of Gods fauour , Of our perseuerence . and of your saluation , yet you cannot bee assured to continue to the end : For the way to heauen is long , tedious , very hard to keepe . Multa cadunt inter calicen supremaque labra . Many things fall betweene the lip and the cup , and therefore you cannot bee assured of your saluation .

I answere , Ans. Hee that giueth this good beginning for his owne names sake , will perfit the workemanship of his fingers , for his glory sake .

The plant which the Father hath not planted shal be rooted out a a Mat. 15. Therefore that which hee hath planted shall neuer bee rooted out . That which hee builds shall neuer bee throwne downe : Therefore the iust is like the tree planted by riuers of waters b b Psal. 1. . Like the greene Olius tree in the house of the Lord c c Psal. 52. . Like the Palme tree , or like the Cedars of Lebanon d d Psal. 92. , and like vnto the mount Sion , that cannot bee mooued e e Ps. 125. , and therefore hee is perswaded f f Rom. 8. , that neither high nor low , things present , nor things to come , can seperate him from the loue God beareth vnto him in Christ .

The Grounds .

XVIII . The Grounds . And the grounds of this perseuerance , are not our merits or workes : for that is the reddiest way to assure our damnation . If wee should any wayes trust in our selues , wee could not stand one moment . Thus wee should fall away totaly , and finally , as all hypocrites doe .

But the foundation of our perseuerance , is God , the Father the Son , and the Holy Ghost .

Part. 1 The Fathers , 1. loue . 2. decree , 3. promise .

1 His loue , for saith he , I haue loued thee with an eternall loue . Therefore haue I prolonged my kindnesse vnto thee a a Ier. 31.3 . .

Loue I say so great : That he hath giuen vs his onely Sonne , b b Ioh. 3. &c. and therefore hee will not deny all other things with him c c Rom. 8. .

Ob. If wee be surprised in some fault , He will visit our tansgressions , and chastice vs with stripes ; Answ. but he will not take away his louing kindnesse from vs for euer d d Psal. 89. Nay , hee will rather send vs a Nathan to reprooue vs , as hee did to Dauid e e 2. Sam. 12. . Or looke vpon f f Luk. 22.6 vs , as Christ did one Peter . And though we fall , yet shall we not be vtterly cast downe , for the Lord vpholdeth vs with his hand g g Psal. 37. .

Otherwise hee were not a true , and heauenly Father : seeing hee hath the will and power to make vs such as is fitting , by taking away our stony hearts h h Ezech. 36. .

2 And it must be so , because of Gods decree . His knowledge is certaine , his will is iust , & power infinite . Therefore the foundation of the Lord is sure , hauing this seale , GOD knoweth who are his i i 2. Tim. 2. .

Therefore the false Prophets , and false Christs with their lying miracles would seduce euen the Elect , if it were possible k k Mat. 24. Though Marie Magdalin haue seuen diuels . Peter denie Christ ; Paul persecute him . Yet not one of them shall perish , because those that he hath predestinated , he hath called ; and those that hee hath called , hee hath iustified ; and those that he hath iustified , he hath glorified l l Rom. 8. . The future glorie of the Elect , is as certaine , as if it were past . And hence ariseth this confidence .

Hee that hath begunne this worke in vs , will perfit it , till the day of the Lord Iesus m m Phil. 1.9 . And thus the doctrine of predestination is so farre from shaking the faith and hope of our saluation , as that rather it doth confirme it , as the principall ground thereof .

3 Now God will bee iustified in all his workes , and therefore hee will performe whatsoeuer hath proceeded out of his lippes . God is not a man , that he should lie , neither the Sonne of man that hee should repent : hath he said , and shall he not doe it ? Or hath he spoken , and shall hee not make it good n n Numb. 23. ? I will ( saith hee ) giue them one heart , and one way , that they may feare me for euer : I will make an eternall conuenant with them , that I will not turne away from them to doe them good , but I will put my feare in their hearts that they shall not depart from me o o Ier. 32. .

And this promise of the new Couenant is not conditionall , for so none should bee saued , if GOD should waite for our faith , and perseuerance , but it is absolute , proceeding from his free grace .

Part. 2 Againe , this perseuerance is grounded on Christs merits , and power . And therefore ( saith hee ) whatsoeuer my Father giueth mee commeth vnto me , and I will not cast him out , but I will raise him againe , and giue him eternall life a a Ioh. 6. .

No man shall take my sheepe out of my hands , for my Father which gaue them me , is stronger then all , and no man can take them out of his hands b b Ioh. 10. . To this end hee Prayed for Peter c c Luk. 22. , and for Vs d d Ioh. 17. , and was heard e e Ioh. 11. . And who would suffer one of his members to be cut off , if he could otherwise preuent it ? And hath not Christ bought vs at a high rate , with his pretious bloud f f 1. Pet. 1. ? And thinke you hee will loose , that which hath cost him so deere ?

Part. 3 Last of all : This perseuerance is grounded on Gods spirit : for ( saith Christ ) hee shall dwell with you for euer g g Ioh. 14. . And hee shal be the earnest of your inheritance , vntill the redemption of the purchased possession h h Eph. 1. . Hence it is compared to a spring of water i i Ioh. 4. . And as you haue heard , to a seale , or earnest penny . And all this in truth k k Ioh. 16. , for hee cannot , and will not deceiue vs .

Therefore , either this Conclusion is true . That we may be assured of our perseuerance in faith , and loue , vnto the end of our full redemption , or else these premises are false .

But cursed be he that saith , God is no sure ground for vs to trust vpon . His loue is variable , his will changeable , his promise deceitfull . Christs merits are made voide by our sinnes , his arme is too short to deliuer vs , and his prayers are neglected . The Holy Ghost is a false messenger , a counterfet seale , and a troublesome host : for if this were so , the Bible were but a fable , the Gospell a ridle , and Religion but a tricke of wit and policie .

Therefore , Anathema , nay Maranatha , is denounced and decreed in the Counsell of Heauen , against the Chapter of Trent , for teaching that a man may not bee assured of his saluation . If therefore any one of you ( beloued ) laying hold one these hookes , and building vpon such a rocke , doth neuerthelesse wauer in his heart , wee may reprooue him , as Christ did Peter , saying . O man of little faith wherefore didst thou doubt ?

And thus much for the first part , sc: The confirmation of the Truth .

Part. 2. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 .

1 Now it is high time for vs to examine our Aduersaries Obiect : It may be , I haue wearied the patience of some , in this first part . But they who know the weight of this Controuersie , know , that a building which must reach to heauen , ought to haue a deepe foundation . The taller Oke , and the higher Ceder ; the more compasse the roote requires vnder earth . And those who are exercised in this spirituall building , or planting , know I haue omitted of set purpose many ornaments from the Fathers , and others , euen from our Aduersaries store-house , to beautifie this worke .

But the desire I haue to finish it , and to giue it his full proportion in all points necessarie , I haue contented my selfe hetherto with Christ the corner-stone , and with the testimonie of Scripture , the onely rule for Articles of faith , and saluation .

Behold then the suttlety , and diligence of Satan to trouble , and destroy . The Romanists alledge out of Scripture . Diuision . First , Testimonies . Secondly , Examples . Thirdly , Reasons , to prooue that faith cannot be a certaine particular perswasion , & much lesse assure vs of our perseuerance till wee come to perfection .

Obiections agains Certitude of faith .

Ob. 1 1 The Testimonies are drawne from the Old , and New Testament .

From the Old Testament . As ,

Who can say I haue cleansed my heart . Prou. 20.8

Men know neither loue nor hatred by all that is before them . Eccles. 9.1

Who knoweth whether the Lord will returne , and leaue meate offerings , & c ? Ioel. 2.14 .

From the New Testament . As ,

I finde my selfe guilty of nothing , 1. Cor. 4.4 . yet am not I iustified thereby .

Worke out your saluation with feare , Phil. 2. &c.

Be not high minded , but feare . Rom. 11.

Blessed is he that feareth alwayes . Prou. 28.

I answere . Answ.

1 To the Prou. 20.

1 It is true , no man can say hee hath purged himselfe , that commeth from God .

2 No man is throughly cleansed in this life .

2 To that of Eccles. 9.

1 The Text alledged by the Romanists is corrupt .

2 True , none can know by our externall estate the condition of the Elect , or Reprobate , because God maketh his sun to shine vpon good and bad . Mat. 5. Otherwise , by internall , and externall tokens ( as we shewed before ) Paul , Iohn , Abraham knew they were loued of God , and so all beleeuers know .

3 To that of Ionas , and Ioel , wee answere .

1 Who knoweth ? intimateth the difficulty to haue such hainous sins pardoned , to rouse them to a serious repentance .

2 Or else he speaketh of temporall blessings , which being asked with condition , wee depend on Gods will , as Mat. 8. If thou wilt thou canst heale me .

4 To that of Paul . 1. Cor. 4.4 . I answer . True , Paul was not iustified by his workes , though innocent in his Ministerie .

5 But the last testimony of Feare , seemes to crosse the assurance of faith diametrially : therefore more labor is here required . And if we breake this speare or staffe , they haue nothing left to runne against vs , or to leane vpon , with any hope of victory .

This will giue Bellarmine the lie , & stop with a wisp Stapletons crowing throate , that they shal be able to finde nothing henceforth to insult against the Gospell . Feare 4.

Consider then foure kindes of feare . 1. Natural . 2. Of distrust . 3. Seruile . 4. Filiall .

1 The Naturall feare , is an infirmitie , but no sinne , and therefore was found in a a Heb. 5.7 Christ .

2 That of diffidence , is a hainous crime , when we feare man more then God , or trust man , more then God , and Christ . And this is oft ioyned with a seruile feare .

3 The Seruile , and Filiall feare wherof is spoken Rom. 8. Differ thus .

1 In Subiect : for that is in the Reprobate this in the Elect : that in a polluted , this a sanctified conscience .

2 In the Obiect . For that looketh to the punishment , this to the sinne : that commeth after , this goeth before sinne : If the wicked feared not Hell , he would harden his heart , and sell himselfe to doe euill in Gods sight : but though there were neither Heauen nor Hell , the righteous would not sinne , because it is euill in his owne nature , and offendeth the Maiestie of so good a Father .

3 In Effects . For that is full of anguish and dispaire ; And therefore it maketh Adam to flie , Cain to forsake Gods seruice , and Iudas to hang himselfe . Whereas the other , begets in vs a great care not to sin , and a ioy , that we cannot perish .

Simile . As he that from the steeple lookes downe-wards , and trembles ; but considering how hee is fenced , and mured in with battlements , reioyceth in his assurance , & layeth hold on them with greater care . Whereupon the Psalmist saith , Serue the Lord with feare , and reioyce with trembling a a Psal. 2. There feare and ioy , assurance and trembling are ioyned together .

4 They differ in the End : for seruile feare deserueth death b b Reue. 21.8 . . But this filial feare maketh a man happy c c Prou. 28. . Feare then is so farre from shaking my former foundation of confidence , as that it doth rather establish it . According to the prouerbe . Timere qui scit , scit tuto aggredi . He that can feare , will make sure worke .

Now this feare of distrust , or seruile feare is alwaies condemned in Scripture . Feare not , O house of Israel , for I am with thee ; be not dismayed , for I am thy God , I haue redeemed thee , and called thee by thy name , thou art mine d d Esa. 41. .

And this feare God takes away from beleeuers , That being freed from the hands of all our enemies , wee may serue him without feare , in holinesse and righteousnes , all the dayes of our liues e e Luk. 1. . For wee haue not receiued the spirit of bondage to be againe in feare , but wee haue receiued the spirit of adoption , by the which we crie , Abba , Father f f Rom. 8. . And therefore Christ said to his disciples , g g Luk. 12. feare not little flocke . And he rebuketh them for this feare h h Mat. 8. . As hee doth here Peter , sc: O man of little faith , &c.

Now compare these prohibitions with the Romish iniunctions , and they agree as fire and water .

And yet this doth not exclude that filiall feare , wee owe vnto so good a Father : that feare I say , which proceedeth from loue , and agreeth with Christian humility , or modestie , grounded vpon our owne weakenesse , and Gods Maiestie .

Therefore Paul exhorts vs to worke out our saluation with feare and trembling i i Phil. 2. , because God worketh in vs the will and the deed according to his good pleasure , we are able to doe nothing of our selues .

And hee perswadeth the Romans not to be high-minded but feare k k Rom. 11 , because of Gods iudgements hee had sent vpon the Iewes , who were Examples l l 1. Cor. 10 for vs , that we should stand by faith , and feare lest we fall m m 1. Cor. 10. , by presumption as the Iewes had done .

And the more wee feare thus in humility in modestie , the more wee are assured of Gods protection , for this is the head of wisdome n n Prou. 1. , and the whole of man o o Eccles. 12. .

And thus wee haue broken our enemies speare to the gantlet , and haue wringed the staffe out of their hands . And if neuerthelesse they will perfeuer in their feares and doubts ; wee may iustly reprooue them , as Christ doth Peter . O man of little faith , wherefore didst thou doubt ?

And thus much against the certainty of faith .

Obiection against perseuerance .

Ob. 2 III. Now they Obiect against Perseuerance , after this manner .

When the righteous shall forsake his righteousnesse &c a a Ezech. 18. . The parable of the seed b b Luk. 8. &c. Hee shal be cut off , c c Ioh. 15.3 &c. Charity shall waxe cold , d d Mat. 24. &c. Many shall depart from the faith , e e 1. Tim. 41. &c. Some haue made shipwrake of faith f f 1. Tim. 1.19 . . It is vnpossible that those if they fall , should be renewed vnto repentance g g Heb. 6.4 . .

Examples . 1. The Diuels . 2. Adam . 3. Saul , Dauid , Salomon , Peter , Paul , Iudas , Simon Magus , &c. All fell from grace , therefore there is no assurance for our perseuerance .

Answ. I answere by distinguishing . 1. The righteous . 2. Faith .

Part. 1 1 There are two kinds of righteous , the one in their owne opinion , or the Churches , and such may deceiue , and be deceiued ; they may fall finally , & totaly , as Saul , Iudas , Simon Magus , &c. and of such Christ said , I came not to call the righteous , h h Mat. 9. &c. Such as the proud Pharisie i i Luk. 18. . And of such Ezechiel speaketh . The other are righteous in truth , before God , and such if they fall , they shall not vtterly be cast away , for the Lord vpholdeth them with his right hand k k Psal. 37. And of such , if you vnderstand the Prophet Ezechiel . The condition if , implies not a possibility on Gods part , that he will forsake them so farre , as to suffer them to walke in all the waies of the wicked to the end .

2 Faith is two-fold , as you haue heard , quam , & qua credimus : The which , and with the which wee beleeue . This is common , as the Extraordinary and miraculous , or Ordinarie , as the historicall , and Temporarie faith . The other is proper to the Elect , as the iustifying faith .

Many haue forsaken true Religion , and the profession of faith . Nay , they are fallen away from a miraculous , temporarie , and historicall faith , totaly and finally , as all the hypocrites , and reprobates . But though the Saints haue felt their iustifying faith much decayed in temptations , yet it was neuer rooted out of their hearts , and these quames endured not to the end , as you see in Dauid , Peter , Paul and others .

3 The Hypocrites may bee thought in the iudgement of the Church , and in their owne conscience to bee members of Christ , and of his Church . But when the Lord of the Vineyard shall begin to prune his vine , and take in hand the sickle of iustice , he will then cut off these dead branches that seemed to bee grafted in the Vine , and cast them into the fire . For they were in the Church as vermin in a mans head , or as a woodden leg tyed to the body , but drawes not a drop of bloud from thence , and therefore being cut downe , the Church is rather eased , then diminished by their losse .

4 And as for those that sinne against the Holy Ghost , it is impossible they should bee renewed vnto repentance . So that all these former testimonies fight not against the nature of iustifying faith , and the perseuerance of the Saints whereof is our question .

Part. 2 And as little doe the Examples preuaile against it . Example .

For they alledge the Examples of euill Angels , and we speake of men .

They of Adam in his Creation , we of man redeemed in Christ , who knowes not that their conditions are farre different ? And yet Adam fell not finally , but was restored by grace , Gen. 3. And therefore our doctrine is confirmed by this example . As for Saul , Achitophel , Iudas , Simon Magus ; They were hypocrites , and we speake of the righteous . As for Dauid , Salomon , Peter , Paul . They fell grieuously , but neither totally , nor finally , as appeareth by their repentance , and Salomons Ecclesiastes , and Peters bitter Teares , and Pauls Conuersion .

And thus though our aduersaries mingled examples of diuers natures , and conditions , the wicked with the iust , the chaffe with the corne , to delude our eyes , yet you see how little they haue preuailed . And therefore I come to my former Conclusion , that the righteous are assured of perseuerance , and who doubteth , is guilty of this censure . O man of little faith , &c.

Part. 3 Reason . Now I come to their Reasons : And they are foure .

Reas. 1 1 This particular faith is not comprehended in the Creed , and therefore it is not to be allowed say they amongst Christians .

Answ. Bellarmin thou neuer knewest the true meaning of the Christian Creed , though thou takest vpon thee to be a chiefe Rabbi in Israel . For why doe I confesse , that I do beleeue , but to note my particular faith , hauing God for mine Obiect ? The Father , and here note his will and power , both pillars of my faith .

The Sonne : where obserue , his person , and offices , with his estate of humiliation , and exaltation , the speciall obiect of my faith . And then the Holy Ghost , the efficient cause of faith . Then proceed to the Catholike Church , of the which I beleeue , I am a true member ; and therefore that here I receiue the remission of sinnes , and hereafter I shall rise in the flesh to meete Christ in the aire , and so be made partaker of eternall life in him . Take away this application , and you drie vp the verie fountaines of true Christian confort .

Reas. 2 But why then , saith Bellarmine , do you aske for that you are assured of ? Your prayers for remission of sins , and for saluation are in vaine .

Ans. No Bellarmin they are not in vaine , but rather meanes , to receiue the blessings contained in the promises . Dauid beleeued the promise , that his throne should bee established for euer , and yet he prayeth for it a a 2. Sam. 7 , Elias beleeued God would send raine according to his word , and yet he prayed on the mount for raine b b 1. King . 18. .

Daniel , was assured God would deliuer his people out of Babylon , the captiuity of 70. yeares being expired , and yet he prayed for it c c Dan. 9. . Christ knew he should bee glorified , and those his father had giuen him , and yet hee prayeth his Father to performe it d d Ioh. 17. . Paul , knew that one of the ship should perish , and yet hee would not suffer the Mariners to ship away , & forsake their labour e e Act. 27. . Ezechias had a grant of 15. yeares longer to liue , yet must hee vse a plaster of drie figges for his soare f f 2. King . 18. . Wee know GOD hath a care of vs , and will giue vs our dayly bread , and yet we must labour , and pray daily for it .

This is Gods wisdome , to make our prayers meet with his blessings . Thus mercie and iustice doe kisse each other . If faith and obedience doe ascend to glorifie God ; grace and peace , shal descend to saue man .

Reas. 3 Many doe perswade themselues they shal be saued , but are deceiued , for there are many presumptuous hypocrites , and Atheists . No man can know certitudine fidei , that hee hath faith and repentance , and shall be saued . All the promises of God to this purpose are but conditionall , if you beleeue , and perseuer : therefore none can be assured of saluation .

Answ. 1 If wee should reply the like vpon Bellarmine , I know he would not be well pleased . There are some Fooles , Hypocrites , and Atheists at Rome , therefore Bellarmin is one of them There haue beene Popes Sorcerers and Atheists , therefore Paulus 5. is one . Who knoweth not , that from a particular to a generall affirmatiuely the conclusion followes not ? There were fiue foolish Virgins , but there were also fiue wise . Some presumptuous hypocrites do deceiue themselues , being drunke with their owne conceite ; but others , who haue the spirit of truth , which is not deafe , dumb , nor dead , but quicke , and burning like fire in their bowels , know of a certainty that God is their Father , and will so continue in Christ for euer , and therefore they are bold to crie vnto him , Abba , Father .

2 All the promises of God are not conditionall . Those that are essentiall to the Gospell are absolute , depending of Gods free and effectuall grace . For though hee require faith and repentance as conditions to be saued , yet by his Gospell he conferreth to his Elect these graces effectually , and powerfully in his due time : that the glorie may be wholy his .

3 Faith and workes are required , not as merits , but as the way to saluation , sunt via regni , non causa regnandi . They are the way to the Kingdome of Heauen , not the cause why we raigne .

4 We need not certitudinem fidei , a certitude of faith to beleeue the remission of sins , but only sense & feeling . As wee need not an other soule to perswade vs wee haue a soule , but onely let vs consult our reason and sense , wee shall be fully perswaded that we are men , & liue . And so by the roote , groath , and effects of a true iustifying faith , wee know that we beleeue , that we are iustified , and shal be saued .

Thus the Patriarks , Prophets , & Apostles knew in whom they had beleeued , and reioyced that their names were written in heauen . And we haue the same spirit of faith that they had , and therefore we are bound to the same duties to glorifie God our Father with our faith . For wee haue receiued the spirit that is of God , that we may know the things that are of God a a 1. Cor. 2. . And I pray you , is not faith on of the principall . Therfore he exhorteth vs , saying . Proue your selues whether you be in the faith , or no , and if Christ in you , vnlesse you be reprobates b b 2. Cor. 13.5 . . Where you may obserue these 3. things . 1. That wee may know we doe beleeue . 2. That by faith Christ dwelleth in our hearts . 3. That he which feeleth not this , is a reprobate .

The heart of man is deceitfull aboue all things , and who can know it c c Ier. 17. . It is true of an vnregenerate heart , but not of the renued heart , which is single , simple , pure , vpright , perfect , and hath ( as you haue heard ) receiued the spirit of God to know the things that are of God .

Reas. 4 But carnal men , cal this presumption , and doubts , they esteeme as the vertue of humility & perfection of faith .

Answ. 1 Bellarmin , your too great conceit of your selfe , hath put you beside the truth : you reele like a drunkard , and take white for black , light , for darkenesse .

Will you know what presumption , and arrogancie is ? and doe you hate these vices ? forsake then your merits , and workes of supererogation , your counsels of perfection , & such like .

2 If you account this presumption to beleeue in the Gospell , and obey Gods commandements , which wee esteeme Christian humility and modestie , we may then say with Augustin . Bona praesumptio est . Wee will bee thus presumptuous still , with the Patriarks , Prophets , Apostles , and Saints of God , that our Father may bee honored by our humility , wee may be eternally blessed in his welbeloued .

3 But you that make the Diuell a Saint that you may worship him without remorse . Obserue here the difference betwixt a carnall , and spirituall security , betwixt presumption , & the confidence of a true Christian .

1 That is in the reprobrate , and is a vice : this is in the elect , and is a vertue , that comes from the flesh , this from the spirit .

2 That resteth one it selfe , this one God : that one surmises , this one the Word .

3 That despiseth the meanes , and yet will enioy the benefit : this vseth all good means , & by faith depends one Gods prouidence for the issue .

4 That comes one a suddaine , as a passion or a flash of fire : this groweth vp by degrees , & that very slowly .

5 That is rash , & impudent , this is humble , modest , but very iealous .

6 That is licentious , and troublesome , this is pure and quiet . That is oft drousie , & a sleepe , the Diuell keeping his hold : this is oft assaulted by Satan , but the issue of this warre is peace .

7 That is bold in prosperity , and forsakes in aduersity , as wee see in Balthasar , Dan. 5.9 . But this is carefull in prosperity , and valiant in aduersity till shee ouercome . As the Palme tree she reares herselfe vp the more she is oppressed , as Christ did , who fled vnto his Father a a Mat. 26. . The disciples to their Maister b b Mat. 8. , and Peter to his Sauiour c c Mat. 14. , so faith neuer ceaseth giuing and receiuing woonds , till shee obtaine the victorie through Christ , that strengtheneth her d d Phil. 4. Conclusion . .

Thus hauing stripped our aduersaries of all their weapons , and hunted them out of their lurking holes . Let vs returne to our fortresse : And with a garland of bayes on our foreheads , and a palme in our hands , let vs sing praises vnto our Michael for this glorious victorie ouer the Dragon and his angels , and let vs bee ashamed of our manifold infirmities and doubts , whereby God is dishonored , Christ denied , and our consciences troubled : and let this reproch euer ring in our eares to quicken vs ; O man of little faith , &c.

Vsus .

Vse . IIII. ( Right honorable , Right worshipfull , and welbeloued ) I haue by Gods grace , 1. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Reproofe . and your honorable patience , layed open the error of the Romish Church in this one article of the assurance of our Christian faith , Iudge you of their obstinacie , and you shall conceiue of their malice , as was specified at the beginning of this Controuersie . The summe of all , will shadow out vnto your vnderstandings , the power & malice of Satan , with the miserie of Romish Catholikes a a Eph. 2. , the children of disobedience , who haue loued darkenesse better then light b b Ioh. 3. . Then compare their Clergie with ours , you wil cry out . Twice & thrice happy England , by reason of the Gospell . For heere euery soule submits her selfe to higher powers c c Rom. 13. , according to the Word , Rom. 13.1 . The reuerend fathers of this Church waste themselues as candles to giue light vnto others : the inferour Ministers labour to settle your consciences in the peace of God , though many wage warre against them for their paines . This Gospell of saluation brings peace to your consciences , ioy to your families , wealth to your cities , and glory to this nation . Take notice of this blessing , and giue God the praise .

Those that assure you in your temporalities , require a duetie at your hands , and that with good reason : But for my part , hauing assured your spirituall estate before God , all the acknowledgement I desire is , that you would honour my Ministerie this day with obedience to this Gospell , that through my perswasion , you would hold doubts , as fruits of the flesh , and no part of faith , worthy of this censure . O man of little faith wherefore didst thou doubt ?

And if any in this noble company hath heretofore graced the Romish Religion with their approbations , let them distast it hence-forth , knowing it is not able by their owne confession to giue any sound comfort to a Christian conscience . And if it maintained no other error , this were sufficient in Luthers iudgement a a Luth. in Gen. 41. , to withdraw our selues from it . For euery Religion hath some doubts , but to command ignorance and distrust as vertues , this is to liue vnder a perpetuall curse b b Esa. 5. ● . . Therfore you that are yet intangled in the snares of superstition , and in Gods election are the people of the Lord , come out of Babylon c c Reu. 18. . Saue your selues from that wicked generation d d Act. 2. : And be not partakers of other mens sins . e e 1. Tim. 5.2 . 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 Correction . But whilst I labour to roote out heresie out of the hearts of obstinate Papists . The presumptuous hypocrite , had almost escaped my censure . Come hither thou dissembling Protestant , and close Atheist , stay & take thy lesson with thee . Much hath beene said of the nature of faith , but thou hast no part , nor lot in this businesse , vnlesse thou repent , for thou art captiue in the snares of Satan , and in gaule of bitternesse f f Act. 8. .

Thou saist thou beleeuest , that thy heart is assured , that thou fearest no man , no not the Diuell , that thou didst neuer doubt of thy saluation . Hypocrite thy heart is not right before God . It cannot indite a good word g g Ps. 45.1 . , and thy workes are for the diuell . Thou approchest to GOD with thy lips , but thy heart is farre from him h h Esa. 49. . Thy peace is a carnall security ; The diuell rockes thee a sleepe , that thou maist not auoide the perill . If thou neuer hast any doubts , thou neuer knewest what faith ment , and the combat of the flesh with the spirit . Thou knowest neither thy selfe , nor thine enemies .

Let my aduise please you at this houre . Pray God , that if it be possible this wickednesse may be pardoned k k Act. 8. . Did you neuer heare of Peters presumption ? Or to come nerer vnto you . Looke vnto Saul , Achitophell , Iudas , Simon Magus , and by their falls labour to stand ; by their finall destruction , striue to saue thy soule . And therefore vnto you I say ; Behold the seuerity , and goodnesse of God . His seuerity on them that are fallen , his goodnesse towards thee if thou perseuerest in his goodnesse , otherwise thou shalt also be cut off . Therefore be not high-minded , but feare l l Rom. 11. .

3. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Comfort . But whilst I reason with the hypocrite to snatch him as a fire-brand out of the fire m m Iud. 6. . I see the weake Christian inclyning to dispaire . To applie then this balme of Gilead to the soares of Gods people for whom it was prepared . Let mee talke with thee a while .

Deare brother , what fearest thou ? that Gods mercies are shut vp in displeasure n n Psal. 77. ? Harken what the Lord saith o o Esa. 54.7.8 . . I haue forsaken thee for a moment , but with great mercies will I gather you . A little while haue I hid my face from thee in the time of my displeasure , but with euerlasting kindnesse will I returne vnto thee , saith the Lord , who hath mercie on thee . What fearest thou ? That thou art not worthy of Gods fauours ? If thou wert worthy , grace should not be grace : But harken : I , euen I , am he that blotteth out thy sinnes for mine owne names sake p p Esa. 43. . What fearest thou then ? that thy sinnes are infinite ? Know that where sinne aboundeth , there grace doth sur-abound p. q q Rom. 5. What fearest thou yet ? that God hath forgotten thee ? Behold , though a mother should forget the fruit of her wombe , yet I will not forget thee , O Sion , saith the Lord r r Esa. 49.14 . . What fearest thou ? that God hath altered his affection ? The mountaines passe , and the hills are remooued , but my kindnesse shall not passe , nor the Couenant of my peace bee remooued , saith the Lord , that hath compassion one thee s s Esa 54.10 . . But yet thou shakest more then before . What fearest thou ? That God is iust ! know that God hath made him which knew no sinne , to be sinne for vs , that we might be the righteousnesse of God in him t t 2. Cor. 5. . But Christ died not for me . Art thou not a sinner ? nay loaden with the burden of sin ? then hearken , This word is certaine , and worthy to be receiued , that Christ came into the world to saue sinners , u u 1. Tim. 1.5 . I am not come to call the righteous , but sinners to repentance x x Mat. 9. . Come vnto me all yee that are heauy loaden , & I will ease you y y Mat. 11. . Either then thou art partaker of Christs merits , and in him assured of thy saluation . Or Christ is not a perfect Iesus , and the Gospell is a fable . Therefore be of good courage deare brother , gather thy spirits againe , returne to the battel . O man of little faith , wherfore &c.

But yet my thinks thy face is cast downe , more then before , what fearest thou ? that thy faith and repentance are but fained ? Hearken , thy heart is brused , thy spirit humbled , thy lips confesse , thy desire aspireth to God-wards , & wouldst not commit the least sinne for a thousand worlds : then be of good cheere : thy faith is true , thy repentance sound , thy sinnes are forgiuen the , thy faith hath saued thee , goe in peace a a Luk. 7. . What fearest thou yet ? that thou hast lost this faith ? It may be decayed , but not finally lost : For such guifts of God are without repentance b b Rom. 11. . But why doth thy heart melt within thee , why is thy countenance cast downe without ? Feelest thou no comfort from God , seest thou no fruit of thy faith ? Thy temptation is great , Heb. 6. deare brother , yet hold fast the Anchor of thy hope . Thou art in a sound , but not dead . The seed of grace c c 1. Ioh. 3. is within you , though the fruit appeare not as yet . Similie . Thou art in the winter of thine affliction , stay till thy spring returne , and then thou shalt see the greene blade push out of the earth , and shalt enioy the fruit of thy heart . The heate of Gods wroth hath dried vp the waters of comfort , but let hot Summer passe , then the liuing waters of Gods spirit shall refresh thy soule , and spring vp to life euerlasting d d Ioh. 4. . The sparkes of repentance are hid vnder the ashes of temptation , the winde of Gods spirit will blow ouer the ashes , & quicken the coales of zeale in his due time . The beames of Gods fauour are hindred by the cloud of thy sins , and he hath wrapped himselfe vp in a cloud e e Lam. 3. , that thy prayers should not passe . But waight a while . The Lord is faithfull , who hath promised , He will come , and will not tarry f f Abbac . 2 . Beleeue against sense and reason as Abraham did g g Rom. 4. , for faith is an euidence of things not seene h h Heb. 11.1 . , know that thy saluation consists more in Gods apprehention then in thinef. i i Phil 3. In that God knowes thee k k Tim: 2. , then in thy knowledge of God , for alas this is vnperfect , but that is perfect l l Cor. 13. , though all sense of grace faile on thy side , yet thinke not that your vnbeleefe can make the faith of God without effect m m Rom. 3.3 . . Looke on the Example of the Saints as Iob , Dauid , &c. who haue bin in the like temptations , and yet haue bin deliuered in an acceptable time . Consider thy wayes of olde , the dayes of solace wherein thou tookest thy delight , & remember that sauing grace cannot finally be lost , Bee not faithlesse then , but beleeue n n Ioh. 20. . O sweete words ! O how beautifull vpon the mountaines are the feete of those that bring good tidings o o Esa. 50. My heart is reuiued , & my spirits cheered , blessed be the Lord , who hath sent his Messenger to speake a word in season to the distressed conscience . Hence-forth I will sing vnto the God of my saluation . O man of little faith , wherefore did I doubt ? But yet , lend mee thy hand againe , for my faith is weake . Behold , the mercies of the Lord are infinite . He will not bruse the broken reed , nor quench the smoaking flaxe p p Mat. 12. . If onely thou canst , hunger , and thurst after righteousnesse thou shalt be satisfied q q Mat. 5. . And if thy faith bee but as a graine of mustard seed r r Mat. 17. for quantity , yet it shal be of such vertue for quality , that it may say to the mountaines of thy sins , cast thee into the sea of Gods free grace , and they shal appeare no more before God to oppresse thee .

And so I leaue thee , deare brother , recouering thy spirits . They say Diseases come a horse-backe , but goe away a foote . Finde it not strange then , if thou pausest a while in thy weakenesse . Simile . Hee that commeth out of a dungeon , cannot so soone behold the Sunne . Hee that is new come a land , thinkes for a while that the earth shaketh . After a tempest , the waues are not so soone setled . Therefore walke one in your weakenesse , and you shall grow vp from strength to strength s s Psal. 84. , til you come to the perfect stature t t Eph. 4. , of Christ in heauen .

4. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 . Exhort . And now to conclude with you ( right Honorable , Right worshipfull and welbeloued ) who stand by faith , who are fed with stronger meates , whose hearts are replenished with the fatnesse and marrow of Gods house ; whose spirits are wedded vnto the Lord , and who meditate in his Law day and night .

Goe on , goe on in this Christian course . Be sure and stedfast , abounding alwaies in the workes of the Lord , knowing that your labour is not vaine in the Lord u u 1. Cor. 15. You doe honor God with your faith , for you seale his truth , & acknowledge him to bee the true God , infinite in wisdome , iustice , mercie , and power . Be assured hee will honor you , for saith the Lord. Them that honour me , will I honor , and they that despise me , shal be lightly esteemed x x 1. Sam 2.30 . . And thus will he honor you . He will come and dwell with you y y Ioh. 14. . Hee will sup with you , and you with him z z Reu. 3. . And loe , hee will not come with an empty hand , but as Christ brought saluation to Zacheus his house ; so will hee bring peace to your soules , and ioy in the Holy Ghost a a Rom. 14 , which passeth all vnderstanding b b Phil. 4. . And so he will leaue peace in your families , prosperity in your Pallaces , and blessings in the Church . And hauing fought the good fight , finished your course , and kept this faith , the crowne of righteousnesse shal be giuen you in that day by the iust Iudge c c 2. Tim. 4. , and at your departure out of this world , you shall say ; Now lettest thou thy seruant depart in peace according to thy word d d Luk. 2. , and GOD will answere you as Christ did to the theefe one the crosse ; This day thou shalt be with me in Paradise e e Luk. 24. .

Grant this O Lord for thy Sonnes sake . Amen .